Saturday, January 31, 2009

Afraid-Jack Kilborn

Afraid
Jack Kilborn
Grand Central, Apr 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780446535939

Safe Haven, Wisconsin is a somewhat isolated town of under one thousand people with only one road in and out. Everyone knows everyone and law enforcement is handled by the Ashburn County Sheriff’s Office as needed.

Everything changes when a helicopter crashes in Safe Haven. Two of the occupants are dead, but not by the crash. The survivors leave on a Red Ops mission to find “Warren”. Bernie, Taylor, Santiago and Ajax are not just special ops soldiers; they are trained killers who enjoy torture. With a chip inside their respective heads to keep them focused and “Charge” to give them super skills, they begin destroying the idyllic pastoral town with the brutal murders. The town is cut off as firefighter Josh Van Camp calls Sheriff Arnold Streng about the helicopter crash. They are torturing and killing everyone they meet demanding information as to where is Warren until only Josh, Arnold, single mom Fran Stauffer with her young son Duncan and a runaway monkey stand in their way of finishing the mission with no witnesses left alive.

Although over the top (especially the latter half), fans will be hooked from the opening scene of this one sitting gory thriller. The action-packed story line starts off with blood and guts only to accelerate with more blood and guts flowing. The trained enhanced killers are sadistic and as nasty as one can imagine; they steal the show one intense bite at a time. Jack Kilburn provides a powerful exhilarating bloody thriller as a small town is being annihilated with sadistic military precision.

Harriet Klausner

Deadly Desire-Keri Arthur

Deadly Desire
Keri Arthur
Bantam, Mar 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780553591156

The supernaturals, especially the vampires and shapeshifters, have made themselves known to humans; and though they are not quite equal under human law, they have the Protectorate to police their kind especially if humans are in danger. Guardian Riley Jenson’s latest case involves finding a zombie killing people. She tracks the culprit to an abandoned overhang where it and two hellhounds are intently staring at a crow that is actually a shapeshifting sorceress.

While there she also meets werewolf bounty hunter Kye whose assignment is to kill the necromancer sorceress as a favor to a friend. During a fight, the crow escapes while the zombie and hellhounds are killed. Soon afterward several powerful ancient vampires are murdered with heads and feet severed; their safes are open and their contents missing. The girls they were with were killed by a zombie. Riley believes there is a link between the vampire executions and the dead girls and the sorceress. Rye stays at her side as they try to track down the crow; each step together enhances their attraction for one another. These unwanted feelings horrify both of them and distracts them enough for them to fall into a deadly trap.

Riley is a powerful hunter, but has met her equal in the as obstinate and ornery Kye. Her wolf might want him, but her heart belongs to the ancient vampire Quinn. The whodunit is cleverly developed to keep the audience guessing as to the crow’s prime identity and why zombies are killing vampires. Fans of this great urban romantic fantasy will appreciate the current tale and look forward to the next installment in Keri Arthur’s superb saga.

Harriet Klausner

Friday, January 30, 2009

Eon: Dragoneye Reborn-Allison Goodman

Eon: Dragoneye Reborn
Allison Goodman
Viking, Dec 2008, $19.99
ISBN: 9780670062270

Twelve years old Eon dreams of becoming one of the twelve apprentices Dragoneye, able to communicate with the energy dragons. He knows his chances are slim though he works harder than all his competitors. First he has limited sword capability due to a hand injury suffered years ago, which makes him fail at forms. Worse, he is not male. Females are forbidden from practicing Dragon magic. Twelve years old Eon has disguised herself as a lad as she is actually sixteen year old Eona.

To the shock of everyone attending the Rat Dragon competition, the Mirror Dragon, absent for over five centuries, shows up and stunningly picks the obvious least Eon. Still hiding her gender even from her close friends, Eona as Eon feels strongly she must save her nation. She has learned that a conspiracy of those who would dispose of the emperor for selfish gains exists; to prevent a calamitous change in leadership, Eon must learn how to use the power the Mirror Dragon has offered her as an apprentice.

Based on Chinese mythology, EON: DRAGONEYE REBORN is an exciting young teen fantasy thriller. Although the theme has been used often in books and movies, Eon is a terrific inspiring lead character who refuses to allow the handicap of a useless hand or a gender ban from keeping “him” from competing. However, Eon will learn that the biggest handicap is not physical, but the lack of knowledge as she as a he struggles to learn how to use the gift the Mirror Dragon gave. Fans of all ages will look forward to the concluding novel.

Harriet Klausner

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Zombie Queen of Newbury High-Amanda Ashby

Zombie Queen of Newbury High
Amanda Ashby
Speck, Mar 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780142412565

At Newberry High School, Mia Everett was on cloud nine as football star Rob Ziggerman had taken her out on a real date several times and asked her to go to the prom with him. However, lately she notices his attention has swung towards cheerleader Samantha Griffin who has made a play for her Rob. Samantha wants to be the Homecoming Queen and believes Rob is a sure shot as the King; thus he must be her date.

Mia panics that she is losing Rob so she turns to her hypochondriac best friend Candice Bailey who claims she has suffered from every disease no one heard of even leprosy from some remote part of the Amazonian Rainforest; she also knows where to find cures in Massachusetts. Candice takes Mia to her special “medical elixir store in a dark alley where they buy a love spell from five century old witch Algeria. Mia casts the spell and turns the student body into zombies who seem to worship her. However, Chase “New boy” Miller informs her that he works for the Department of Paranormal Containment and explains the student-zombies cherish her not to serve her but to serve her (nod to the Twilight Zone) as their first meal unless they can reverse her love spell.

ZOMBIE QUEEN OF NEWBURY HIGH is an engaging humorous middle school fantasy in which the story line never takes itself seriously to the delight of the young audience. The pre-zombie support cast is purposely hyperbole to exaggerate their personalities similar to the film Never Been Kissed. The heroic trio is fully developed with Mia as the affable unconfident teenager; Candice as the likable nutty sidekick; and Chase as the professional by the book zombie hunter. With a nod towards Buffy, fans will appreciate their breezy amusing tale of zombie homecoming king and queen.

Harriet Klausner

Bite Me-Parker Blue

Bite Me
Parker Blue
Bell Bridge, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0980245389

Val Shapiro is a teenager who is part succubus, but seven-eighth humans. All her life she has tried to suppress the demon she calls Lola as if it was a separate part of her. Two things appease Lola’s appetite: sex and the bloodlust of battle. Since she almost killed a boy she kissed, Val uses Lola’s bloodlust to fight vampires killing humans.

One night when she is fighting a vampire, she discovers her sister Jen has snuck in the back seat of her car. When they return home, their mother kicks Val out and forbids her any contact with Jen and her step-father agrees. Needing a job, Val obtains work with the Special Crimes Unit that deals with paranormal crime; executing vamps preying on humans. She is assisted by a sidekick dog who is a hell hound and who becomes her friend. She is partnered with Dan, a man she likes more than is safe for his well being due to Lola, but she is unable to dampen the sparks between them. They search for a vampire lair while the vampire Alejandro has started a movement to get humans to donate blood to a blood bank and they will be paid in cash or enthrallment. Val has to rescue Jen before she is turned and find her missing stepfather.

The heroine’s mom comes across like Cinderella’s stepmother, throwing out of her home the offspring she loathes to protect the daughter she loves. Jen’s father seduced her using his incubus powers and the woman has never forgiven him and struck back at him through a surrogate: his child. Teenagers will empathize with Val whose differences set her apart from her peers, but make her a strong SCU operative. Parker Blue provides an entertaining romantic supernatural thriller that fans of Stephanie Meyer will want to bite into the tale.

Harriet Klausner

Bite Me-Parker Blue

Bite Me
Parker Blue
Bell Bridge, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0980245389

Val Shapiro is a teenager who is part succubus, but seven-eighth humans. All her life she has tried to suppress the demon she calls Lola as if it was a separate part of her. Two things appease Lola’s appetite: sex and the bloodlust of battle. Since she almost killed a boy she kissed, Val uses Lola’s bloodlust to fight vampires killing humans.

One night when she is fighting a vampire, she discovers her sister Jen has snuck in the back seat of her car. When they return home, their mother kicks Val out and forbids her any contact with Jen and her step-father agrees. Needing a job, Val obtains work with the Special Crimes Unit that deals with paranormal crime; executing vamps preying on humans. She is assisted by a sidekick dog who is a hell hound and who becomes her friend. She is partnered with Dan, a man she likes more than is safe for his well being due to Lola, but she is unable to dampen the sparks between them. They search for a vampire lair while the vampire Alejandro has started a movement to get humans to donate blood to a blood bank and they will be paid in cash or enthrallment. Val has to rescue Jen before she is turned and find her missing stepfather.

The heroine’s mom comes across like Cinderella’s stepmother, throwing out of her home the offspring she loathes to protect the daughter she loves. Jen’s father seduced her using his incubus powers and the woman has never forgiven him and struck back at him through a surrogate: his child. Teenagers will empathize with Val whose differences set her apart from her peers, but make her a strong SCU operative. Parker Blue provides an entertaining romantic supernatural thriller that fans of Stephanie Meyer will want to bite into the tale.

Harriet Klausner

Bite Me-Parker Blue

Bite Me
Parker Blue
Bell Bridge, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0980245389

Val Shapiro is a teenager who is part succubus, but seven-eighth humans. All her life she has tried to suppress the demon she calls Lola as if it was a separate part of her. Two things appease Lola’s appetite: sex and the bloodlust of battle. Since she almost killed a boy she kissed, Val uses Lola’s bloodlust to fight vampires killing humans.

One night when she is fighting a vampire, she discovers her sister Jen has snuck in the back seat of her car. When they return home, their mother kicks Val out and forbids her any contact with Jen and her step-father agrees. Needing a job, Val obtains work with the Special Crimes Unit that deals with paranormal crime; executing vamps preying on humans. She is assisted by a sidekick dog who is a hell hound and who becomes her friend. She is partnered with Dan, a man she likes more than is safe for his well being due to Lola, but she is unable to dampen the sparks between them. They search for a vampire lair while the vampire Alejandro has started a movement to get humans to donate blood to a blood bank and they will be paid in cash or enthrallment. Val has to rescue Jen before she is turned and find her missing stepfather.

The heroine’s mom comes across like Cinderella’s stepmother, throwing out of her home the offspring she loathes to protect the daughter she loves. Jen’s father seduced her using his incubus powers and the woman has never forgiven him and struck back at him through a surrogate: his child. Teenagers will empathize with Val whose differences set her apart from her peers, but make her a strong SCU operative. Parker Blue provides an entertaining romantic supernatural thriller that fans of Stephanie Meyer will want to bite into the tale.

Harriet Klausner

Star Wars: Fate of the Jedi-Aaron Allston

Star Wars: Fate of the Jedi
Aaron Allston
Del Rey, Mar 24 2009, $27.00
ISBN: 9780345509062

The politicians are meeting in a summit on the planet Coruscant to discuss bringing the Imperial Remnant into the Galactic Alliance. Luke Skywalker is arrested at the instigation of Chief of Sate Natasi Dalaa for dereliction of duties. His protégé Jacen Solo turned to the dark side of the force and caused the Second Galactic Civil War when he became Darth Caedus. Dalaa wants to prosecute Luke for his failure to recognize Jacen’s turn to the dark because he believes Luke is accountable for the deaths caused by the war.

Luke pleads guilty because he knows the charges are true; he is excommunicated from every Jedi Temple and Coruscant for ten years. He will be pardoned if he can learn what turned Jacen. Jedi Knight Valin Horn has a psychic break that makes him believe everyone he knows is an imposter. The media captures his rampage and the public turns against the Jedi Order leading to restrictions on them. Han Solo, his wife Leia and their granddaughter go to the dying planet Kessel to find out why earthquakes are out of control; they find an underground tunnel complex filled with machines and energy forces that could destroy the orb. Luke and his son Jedi Knight Ben go to Dorin where Jacen studied the native use of the Force hoping to find a clue.

This is the opening act of a nine book saga in which the Jedi have fallen into disgrace as the government and the public believe they are not held accountable for their actions. There is plenty of action and the known characters stay true to their film personalities. Perhaps the only negative is eight books to go in this arc, but if they are anything like the first this will be one of the better Star War entries.

Harriet Klausner

Star Wars: Fate of the Jedi-Aaron Allston

Star Wars: Fate of the Jedi
Aaron Allston
Del Rey, Mar 24 2009, $27.00
ISBN: 9780345509062

The politicians are meeting in a summit on the planet Coruscant to discuss bringing the Imperial Remnant into the Galactic Alliance. Luke Skywalker is arrested at the instigation of Chief of Sate Natasi Dalaa for dereliction of duties. His protégé Jacen Solo turned to the dark side of the force and caused the Second Galactic Civil War when he became Darth Caedus. Dalaa wants to prosecute Luke for his failure to recognize Jacen’s turn to the dark because he believes Luke is accountable for the deaths caused by the war.

Luke pleads guilty because he knows the charges are true; he is excommunicated from every Jedi Temple and Coruscant for ten years. He will be pardoned if he can learn what turned Jacen. Jedi Knight Valin Horn has a psychic break that makes him believe everyone he knows is an imposter. The media captures his rampage and the public turns against the Jedi Order leading to restrictions on them. Han Solo, his wife Leia and their granddaughter go to the dying planet Kessel to find out why earthquakes are out of control; they find an underground tunnel complex filled with machines and energy forces that could destroy the orb. Luke and his son Jedi Knight Ben go to Dorin where Jacen studied the native use of the Force hoping to find a clue.

This is the opening act of a nine book saga in which the Jedi have fallen into disgrace as the government and the public believe they are not held accountable for their actions. There is plenty of action and the known characters stay true to their film personalities. Perhaps the only negative is eight books to go in this arc, but if they are anything like the first this will be one of the better Star War entries.

Harriet Klausner

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Moonstone-Marilee Brothers

Moonstone
Marilee Brothers
Bell Bridge Books, Aug 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 9780980245349

The daughter of Faye, an impoverished single mom, Allie is living in her uncle’s trailer. Allie Emerson knows she is a classic klutz. However even for her this latest fiasco could not have been more unlucky short of breaking a bone. Standing on a ten foot ladder she is fixing a TV antenna on the trailer’s roof when she falls touching an electric fence before landing face first into cow pie. Though the dive would have been scored a 10 for its perfect landing right into the bulls-eye, Allie Blue Note believes she has nothing but bad luck

However, something weird happens to Allie besides Child Services stalking her and her mom. She suddenly has developed paranormal powers. Her friend Kizzy the witch gives her a moonstone to help her focus. However, as is the case with Allie, her luck turns all bad. The Trimarks now know she is the Star Seeker and need her removed to complete their evil plan starting with stealing her Moonstone. Allie turns to student Junior Martinez, a retired gangbanger for help even as her unknown stalkers abduct her mom and then her.

The first Unbidden Magic teen fantasy is a wonderful tale due to Allie. She is a terrific protagonist who holds the story line together in an optimistic way in spite of her belief that she is jinxed. The support cast like her mom and the Trimarks is weak and underdeveloped except as a major cause of her bad luck. Still young adult fans will appreciate her efforts to learn to use her power reminiscent of the Greatest American hero’s early days while the Trimarks stalk her and her unique choice pf a hero as her sidekick is a former gangbanger.

Harriet Klausner

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Choices Meant for Kings-Sandy Lender

Choices Meant for Kings
Sandy Lender
ArcheBooks Publishing, 2008
ISBN: 9781595072191

Evil sorcerer Jamieson Drake has hunted geasa mage Amanda Chariss since she was a little girl; his intention is to possess her. The Wizard Hrazon has helped keep Amanda relatively safe, but she knows that someday soon she must either kill Drake or he will succeed; if he wins her people the Onweald are in danger.

Drake procures the service of a Dragon who is also the human Juliette. She has her own agenda in which she needs Drake’s help for now. However, she plans to eliminate him when he no longer is useful. Julette travels to Lorendell to visit with King Vrel Wendan to foster her scheme to conquer the north; she wants his armies to join that of the Dreorfahn forces that support her. She also pushes the marriage between Jake Taiman and Tiaha Wold so her powers grow to the point of destroying Drake. Chariss as the Master Protector learns of Julette’s quest so she knows she must prevent the dragon-Goddess from conquering Onweald.

The sequel to CHOICES MEANT FOR GODS is an exciting Machiavellian epic fantasy as everyone seems to have secret agendas in order to gain power. The story line stands alone as this reviewer did not read the previous tale, but had no problems diving into CHOICES MEANT FOR KINGS though this is apparently the middle book of a trilogy. Fans who relish complex action-packed fantasy thrillers in which no one is quite like they first appear will appreciate Sandy Lender’s superb tale.

Harriet Klausner

Myth-Chief- Robert Asprin and Jody Lynn Nye

Myth-Chief
Robert Asprin and Jody Lynn Nye
Ace, Jan 27 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780441016877

Skeeve has found he dislikes retirement so decides to return to work. He expects to get his old job as the head of M.Y.T.H. Inc. once he crosses the office threshold. Thus Skeeve is shocked when Aahz refuses to give up the top gun position he took over after Skeeve left.

Everyone including the two combatants agree that they should compete for the position of boss. Skeeve and Aahz will work diametrically opposite on whatever case walks through the door next. Their mutual friends and allies fear the end of a long friendship and legendary in several dimensions partnership as only one can be MYTH-CHIEF.

This is an engaging entry in the long running saga as fans will rejoice that Skeeve has returned to Myth Inc. after he personally walked away. The story line as always is filled with wit and amusing sidebars as Aahz and Skeeve trade barbs in a sort “Anything you can do, I can do better” duet. However, when Skeeve turns reflective, his musings lack the intelligent jocularity of his debates with Aahz . Still fans of the Asprin-Nye myth saga will welcome the hero’s return to the fold.

Harriet Klausner

Maximum Ride: Final Warning-James Patterson

Maximum Ride: Final Warning
James Patterson
Vision (Little, Brown), Sep 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780316002875

The Feds want to control the Flock, so they offer a devious deal. They will provide the six teens with wings shelter and an education if they cooperate with the authorities. Max, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gasman and Angel consider the offer, but prefer not to be placed under a microscope by adults, who tend to try to harm them.

They flee before the Feds turn their offer into a prison like sentence. The Flock head to Antarctica figuring the isolated frozen continent should prove safe. Environmental scientists studying global warming’s impact upon the ice cap welcome the runaway teens. However the evil Director has replaced his failed Erasers with invincible mechanized soldiers. His plan is to sell the Flock for billions each to the highest bidder. Antarctica is no problem for him and his mechanical horde.

The fourth Maximum Ride is an exhilarating 200 proof action-packed middle school thriller. However the plot feels much thinner than the previous entries and somewhat disconnected. Still the Flock remains cool (and not just because of the climate) especially Max who quips his way from one fire to another even in Antarctica as he and his best buddies must save the world while eluding the Director and the Feds who have plans for THE ANGEL EXPERIMENT participants.

Harriet Klausner

Storm From the Shadows-David Weber

Storm From the Shadows
David Weber
Baen, Mar 2009, $27.00
ISBN: 1416591478

The Republic of Haven and the Star Kingdom is at war and Rear Admiral Michelle Henke is in the middle of a pitched battle. On board her flagship the Ajax, Michele knows the Manticore Navy is losing the fight; she and others go to escape pods before blowing up her vessel so the technology does not fall into enemy hands. She wakes up in a Havenite medical facility before being sent to an island with other POWs. She is shocked to meet Haven President Eloise Pritchett.

Pritchett is willing to free Michelle if she agrees to no longer fight against them and if she passes on a message to Queen Elizabeth III for a summit meeting to discuss peace. After coming home, Michelle is sent to the Talbott Quadrant which is far from the war zone to patrol the newestt star systems of the Star Empire. On the planet Monica, Solarian ships were going to be used to remove Manticore from the new system, but a Manicoran captain destroyed their fleet. In the cluster New Tuscan which did not want to join the empire, they deliberately try to push the Manticorans into a war with the Solarian League. The peace talks end abruptly when the Havenites kill two high profile officials. No one understands that the Havenites, Manticorans, and the Soalarans are being cleverly maneuvered by a fourth party with plans to take over the stars once each group devastates one another.

Nobody writes better military outer space fiction starring heroic females than David Weber has consistently done for years. The protagonist is Michelle who is as honorable and courageous as Harrington is as her tale which fills in the blanks in the story arc and provides a differing perspective to AT ALL COSTS. Both are strong-willed and do what they believe is right regardless of what others might think. There is plenty of action and suspense leading up to the military engagements. Yet with so much going on, the cast is solid and most significant realistic as fans will consider whether the Weber mantle of greatness has moved the torch from Honor to Michelle proving there is life after a hero “falls”.

Harriet Klausner

Monday, January 26, 2009

Rolling Stones-Robert A. Heinlein

Rolling Stones
Robert A. Heinlein
Baen, Mar 2009, $14.00
ISBN: 9781416591498

The Stone family of seven consists of a grandma, two parents, three sons and one daughter living on the moon. The middle kids, teen twins Castor and Pollux, are tired of their bossy older sister and their nosy younger brother. They decide to make money as independent space traders by buying a vessel and flying to the Asteroids. Dad says no insisting they go to an earth bound school and get an education; but Grandma Hazel supports their daring scheme with one annoying (at least to the twins) modification; the magnificent seven band together on this solar system venture.

The entire family leaves their moon based home for Mars and beyond. The septet continually argues and has spats, but come together when emergencies arise. For instance the twins almost fail to leave Mars as they break the law angering the Martians when they tried to skip out on the import tax after selling bikes; Grandma Hazel saves their respective butts. When they reach the Asteroid Belt, Grandmother Hazel and the youngest Lowell vanish. The remaining Stones in a frenzy search for the missing pair.

This exciting middle school science fiction focuses on the family who fly the solar system together stay together. The seven Stones are each fully developed with unique characteristics. Their escapdes at their lunar home, on Mars, and the Asteroid Belt make for a fun trip through space. Young adult fans will get plenty of satisfaction from the reprint of Robert A. Heinlein’s ROLLING STONES.

Harriet Klausner

Sunday, January 25, 2009

The Best of Gene Wolfe: A Definitive Retrospective of His Finest Short Fiction

The Best of Gene Wolfe: A Definitive Retrospective of His Finest Short Fiction
Gene Wolfe
Tor, Mar 17 2009, $27.95
ISBN: 9780765321350

This superb anthology lets the 31 tales sell the talent of the author to science fiction and fantasy readers; as the compilation jumps right into the stories. There are 14 from the 1970s; 11 from the 1980s; and 6 from the 1990s. Many are award winners and have appeared in the best of the year anthologies like "The Fifth Head of Cerberus" and “Petting Zoo”. This reviewer’s favorite in this superb collection is the related threesome: "The Island of Doctor Death and Other Stories", "The Death of Dr. Island" and "Death of the Island Doctor"; my suggestion is skip around and read these three one after another. Fans will appreciate how wide Mr. Wolfe’s vision of a dark future is whether he writes a fantasy (see "A Cabin on the Coast") or a science fiction tale (see "The Fifth Head of Cerberus"); the road to hell can be “On the Train” or in a “Bed and Breakfast”. Regardless, the audience will quickly find out you can’t just read one (a night).

Harriet Klausner

A Magic of Nightfall-S. L. Farrell

A Magic of Nightfall
S. L. Farrell
Daw, Mar 2009, $24.95
ISBN: 9780756405397

Nessantico is the capital of the Holdings, but it is not as large as it once was. Firenzcia has broken away and other states followed forming the Coalition. Audric the ruler is two years away from his majority so continues to rule under the guidance of the Regent Serge Ca’Rudka. However, Audric is also falling into madness, as he imprisons the Regent while heeding the advice of an ancestor who the lad believes is giving him good counsel even though she is in a painting which he believes talks to him.

Sergei escapes heading to Firenzcia where Allesandra Ca’Vorl is manipulating events to enable her to achieve her goals. Allessandra was once a hostage is Nessantico because her father rejected her as his heir choosing her younger brother Fyyn. The lady has the assassin The White Stone carry out her plan for having the counsel place her son on the throne. The Westlanders in the Hellins were invaded by Nessantican forces; they push the outsiders from their country and invade the city. Alexandra wants her son to use his army to help Nessantico, but he has learned about her lies and murders so needs time to decide what to do.

The second Nessantico Cycle doesn’t suffer from the middle book syndrome as A MAGIC OF NIGHTFALL takes place twenty five years after the events of A MAGIC OF TWILIGHT. This gives the saga a feeling of freshness yet retains the innovative political intrigue. Each main character maintains their part of the story so that the audience sees a changing POV that makes for a fascinating read; for instance how different mother and son look at Nessantico. Based on a blending of medieval France, Florence, and Venice, this superb fantasy captures the betrayals even within families as Machiavelli would claim S. L. Farrell is more than just a great world-builder; he understand the essence of power is manipulating your opponents and allies to do your bidding.

Harriet Klausner

Saturday, January 24, 2009

City Without End-Kay Kenyon

City Without End
Kay Kenyon
PYR, Feb 2009, $25.00
ISBN: 1591026989

Earth agent Titus Quinn has arranged a shaky truce with the Tarig who still plot to destroy the Rose universe to strengthen their Entire universe. Both the Tarig Lords and Quinn are buying time as the former knows how deadly his nanotech weapons are and the latter knows how deadly the Entire universe is.

The Tarig believe they can use Quinn's estranged daughter Sydney known as Sen-Ni, born in their universe and whom he deserted years ago as their tool to get him out of the way; they fail to understand how deep Sydney’s hurt and anger towards her father is as she has her own scheme to get back at him. At the same time former earth agent Helice Maki has set in motion a seditious devious plan to rule the Entire by destroying her home planet’s universe the Rose. Desperately Quinn follows her across the Entire to thwart her ambition but is sidetracked when he finally meets his daughter.

The third Rose and Entire science fiction thriller contains a complex story line as so much is going on in the parallel universes (mostly in the Entire). The story line is action-packed as the players eventually converge in a supernova finish. Fans of the trilogy will appreciate this superb ending while newcomers need to start with a BRIGHT OF THE SKY followed by A WORLD TOO NEAR before CITY WITHOUT END; even those who read the previous entries will find the plot multifaceted and at times especially early on convoluted. This reviewer looks forward to the next book in the series.

Harriet Klausner

Blonde Roots-Bernardine Evaristo

Blonde Roots
Bernardine Evaristo
Riverhead, Jan 2009, $24.95
ISBN: 9781594488634

Doris, an English serf, had heard the horror tales of "Aphrikans" coming to the Gray Continent "Europa" to abduct people so she knows to be cautious though she also wonders if those tales are exaggerated. The daughter of generations of cabbage farmers soon learns the truth when Aphrikans arrive at the coast. They abduct numerous natives including Doris and take them across the vast ocean in substandard conditions to "Amarika." where they are sold into slavery.

Former slave runner, Chief Kaga Konata Katamba I buys Doris to work on his sugar plantation. No longer dirtying his hands, Bwana as he expects his property to call him has become part of the elite of polite society. Doris tries her best to avoid slave politics and obey her Bwana though she prays for a future as a free person. When an opportunity arises for her to escape bondage for freedom, Doris decides to take a chance though if caught the punishment is extremely severe as the normally jovial Bwana will not tolerate runaway property.

This is an intriguing thought provoking premise that turns history upside down though the theme has been used frequently in literature and movies for instance the film White Man’s Burden will hook fans from the onset. The profound story line compares the two lead characters to one another and though anecdotal leads to generalizing their traits as respective of their respective races. Can the seemingly dreary Doris survive outside of the protection of the Aphrikan’s burden while the witty seemingly intelligent Bwana relishes his responsibility as the “burden” keeper?

Harriet Klausner

Friday, January 23, 2009

Sundays at Tiffany's-James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet

Sundays at Tiffany's
James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet
Grand Central, Jan 2009, $13.99
ISBN: 9780446199445

Born to affluence and fame, Jane Margaux grew up lonely with one exception. While her famous producer mother Broadway creates musicals and her father preferred spending quality time with his second wife in Nantucket, her only friend and companion is Michael, who provided her solace even if he was only imaginary. However, when she turned eight, Michael informs her he will no longer be with her though he will always be her best friend.

Over two decades later, Jane remains lonely even with a boyfriend and neurotic though she works for her mother. No one would believe she is Vivienne’s daughter as she is treated scornfully and horrifically. As Jane produces her first play based on her childhood with Michael, he returns bringing light into Jane’s dark life. They fall in love as each find their groove with one another; but Michael fears he will not be allowed to stay with his beloved as adults are not supposed to remember imaginary friends while she has never forgotten him especially since he left her once before.

This contemporary romantic fantasy is an enchanting tale in which Jane breaks the rules of imaginary friends by somehow always remembering her Michael. The story line effortlessly switches from preadolescence in which he is a sort of guardian big brother to her to and adult love story. Although the standard operating procedures of what an imaginary friend does and does not do and the laws of physics that govern the relationship between a child and their buddy are lacking so that the audience cannot fully appreciate the heroine’s breaking the barrier, fans will enjoy it happened to Jane.

Harriet Klausner

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Duainfey-Sharon Lee and Steve Miller

Duainfey
Sharon Lee and Steve Miller
Baen, Mar 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 1416591672

Rebecca Beauvelley has little prospect for a good marriage ever since her arm was crippled in a phaeton accident in which the drunken young male driver died. In order for her younger sister to make a good marriage, Rebecca first must be wed. Shockingly, her father has arranges for her to marry some elderly rake. Though she would prefer not to, Rebecca has no say in the matter.

However Altimere the Fey crosses the thin divide to show Rebecca her mortal future of abuse from an uncaring spouse if she says I do or she can go with him and cross into his realm. She daringly chooses to accompany the charming Altimere. Once she enters the land of the Fey, she learns her host is using and abusing her as a degraded sexual pawn to gain political power.

At the Fey court, Meripen Vanglelauf awakens from his needed healing sleep after suffering torture at the hands of humans. He hates mankind who also killed his beloved after torturing her in their quest to control fey power. In spite of his dark feelings, his queen sends Meripen across the divide to the human side to learn what poison they are using to kill the woods.

This is an engaging erotic fantasy that fails to tie up any major thread even the anticipated meeting between the two flawed lead characters never occurs; the assumption is their encounter will happen in the sequel, LONGEYE. The story line is action-packed with both subplots fast-paced as the theme switches from a Regency romance to a dark horror fantasy. Radically different from the "Liaden Universe", DUAINFEY is a strong set up tale that will probably better serve the audience to read it just before LONGEYE.

Harriet Klausner

You’re the One That I Haunt-Terri Garey

You’re the One That I Haunt
Terri Garey
Avon, Mar 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061582035

In her twenties in Atlanta, Nikki Styx suffered heart failure. However instead of passing on, she is sent back to earth to help those dead unwilling to move on. She co-owns Handbags and Gladrags with Evan, who is despondent because his lover Butch is cheating. Nikki has had commitment phobia issues until she met Joe six months ago when she nearly died and he was her ER surgeon; Joe is also her sister’s ex husband.

At the Moon Beam Coffee Shop an angry ghost Crystal accuses Joe of killing her. Sammy the devil arrives to inform Nikki and Joe that Crystal is his apprentice unless Nikki wants the position as he wants her to go dark. Sammy has opened up an Indie music store Divinyls nearby. Crystal leaps inside Nikki taking control of her and shouting that Joe killed her; Sammy tapes her outcry. Nikki forces Crystal out of her body. Afterward, she asks her sister Kelly in Savannah for help. Kelly promises to research possession and their transvestite “grandma” Bijou heads to Atlanta with the Savannah Garden Club members. Meanwhile Crystal’s mother encouraged by Preacher Jimmy Boyd sues Joe and Columbia Memorial Hospital for wrongful death. As Crystal refuses to move on encouraged by Sammy, she possesses her again; Nikki realizes the dead woman cannot depart until she is assured that her twelve year old sister is safe, but to persuade the mom seems impossible.

The strong relationship between the lead couple is terrific as Crystal’s possession and a hospital lawyer causes problems for Nikki and Joe. The strong support cast enhances the plot especially the Savannah posse, Sammy, and Crystal. Although the plot is thin especially the climax, urban fantasy chick lit fans will enjoy Nikki’s latest caper (see A MATCH MADE IN HELL and DEAD GIRLS ARE EASY).

Harriet Klausner

Once Bitten-Kalayna Price

Once Bitten
Kalayna Price
Bell Bridge Books, Jan 2009, $14.95
ISBN: 9780980245394

Kita Nekai is the Dyre (heir) to become the Torin (ruler) of the Nekai clan in Firth; located in another dimension. Every full moon the gates open up and the shifters can travel to earth. Kita has just done that breaking her shifter’s world greatest taboo: no female shifters are supposed to be on the earth. For five years she has been on the run from Hunters who want to bring her back to face the Elders and whatever punishment they mete out.

After being drugged at a rave, she is attacked by a stray shifter and is near death. Nathanial the vampire turns her without the Council’s Permission. She must go before them to obtain feeding rights, but prior to her meeting The Judge, a mage, gives Kita a death sentence. He believes she turned a human into a rogue shifter and is ultimately responsible for his insane killing rampage. Shifter friend Bobby and Nathaniel plea for her life; the judge gives her forty-eight hours to bring the rogue to him or her and her friends forfeit their lives.

Urban fantasy readers who enjoy the works of Kelly Armstrong and V.K. Forrest will have a great time reading this exhilarating story. Kita is a fascinating lead character as she believes she cannot lead her clan because she shifts into a kitten and loathes the politics that go with being the Torin. Thus she remains in exile staying in kitten form so humans can adopt her until she feels she must move on to her next household. This is one fantasist who is worth the price of admission.

Harriet Klausner

Monday, January 19, 2009

Worlds-Eric Flint

Worlds
Eric Flint
Baen, Mar 2009, $25.00
ISBN: 1416591427

Highly regarded for his alternate history novels, especially the 1632 saga, this superb collection provides audience with a taste of “The Best of Eric Flint’s Short Fiction”. The anthology is divided into six series containing short stories, longer short stories, and novellas; all previously published though a few in this compilation have been rewritten. The Belisarius series (with David Drake) includes one superb rewritten novella “Islands”. The classic 1632 series includes one stand alone novella and three interconnected short stories starring Nurse Anne Jefferson. The Honor Harrington series (by David Weber) includes the novel From the Highlands which takes place after Honor “dies” in AT ALL COSTS by Mr. Weber, turning everything upside down . The Joe’s World series includes two short stories. The Rats, Bats & Vats series (with Dave Freer) includes the first tale, an eighty page novella “Genie Out of the Bottle” that showcases the insanity of that world. The Ranks of Bronze series includes one long short story (60 pages) Carthago Delenda Est” that takes place in David Drake’s titled universe. All are excellent entries that spotlight the vast talent of Mr. Flint to write entertaining tales (solo or in collaboration) in various sizes and formats occurring in differing ages and locations that will send newcomers seeking the back list and affirming what fans already know.

Harriet Klausner

From the Sea to the Stars-Andre Norton

From the Sea to the Stars
Andre Norton
Baen, Mar 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 1416591451

“Sea Siege”. As the Cold War seems on the brink of going nuclear thermo, something is killing life in the oceans. Widower Dr. Gunston brings his estranged teenage son Griff to live with him while he conducts research into what is happening in the sea using San Isadore in the West Indies as his base. Island Queen Captain Angus Murdock and his crew Chris Waite and Rob Fletcher deliver supplies; they befriend the angry Griff and inform him of strange phenomena at sea. As the world goes ballistic, those on San Isadore will survive the nuclear winter but might not live through the attack of sea monsters lead by a sentient being from the darkest deepest depth of the Pacific.

“Star Gate”. Almost five hundred years ago, the Star Lords fled their dying planet to colonize Gorth. The earthlings have a much greater life span than the native Gorth, but also breed few offspring and none purebred. The outsiders refuse to share their technology with the resentful natives; fearing what they did on Earth and want to avoid that on Gorth. Thus the expatriate earthlings move on to another Gorth in another dimension in which their counterparts enslaved the natives. The indigenous populace left behind on the first Gorth seem heading to clan war. To prevent it Kincar is exiled from the Holding. Kincar holds a special gem of power as he begins his adventures starting with meeting six travelers; three of each gender waiting for another. He joins the seven believing the last arrival is a Star Lord.

The reprint of two late 1950s science fiction thrillers is fun to read for differing reasons. SEA SIEGE feels like an entertaining 1950s B horror flick while “Star Gate” mixes science fiction with a fantasy sort of a precursor to the Witch World mixed with Crosstime. Both tales are enjoyable young adult thrillers.

Harriet Klausner

Whipping Star-Frank Herbert

Whipping Star
Frank Herbert
Tor, Jan 20 2009, $14.95
ISBN: 0765317753

In the future mankind has met several alien species; forging the ConSentiency alliance to govern interrelationships. However, to control the dictatorship of perfect democracy run by bureaucrats, a top secret agency was formed. The mission of the Bureau of Sabotage (BuSab) is to cause problems for the ConSentiency government and its bureaucracies to fumble in reaction to their tossed figurative hand grenades with exclusions granted to individuals and to those agencies considered critical to everyone’s well being.

Someone is whipping stars; killing them. Now this sadist is targeting a star whose death will have consequences throughout the galaxy and probably the universe. When a Caleban beach ball lands on a remote planet, BuSab sends its best troublemaker Agent Jorj X. McKie to communicate with the life essence living inside; no sentient race has been able to communicate with the Caleban. Likewise the Caleban have tried also. They need help to save the universe from a bad legally bound contract they signed with a human sadist Miss Abnethe. The Caleban have become her victims of pain and death based on the contract. They need McKie to find a way out of the binding contract before the universe is whipped to death by Miss Abnethe.

This is a reprint of a 1970 science fiction thriller that seems so timely with the economy freefall while extracting moral objectivism to the extreme. Amusing and satirical, fans will enjoy McKie’s efforts to save the universe in between his divorce proceedings while trying not to become a masochistic victim of the wealthy sadist destroying the universe one Caleban whip at a time.

Harriet Klausner

The Unincorporated Man-Dani Kollin and Eytan Kollin

The Unincorporated Man
Dani Kollin and Eytan Kollin
Tor, Mar 19 2009, $25.95
ISBN: 0765318997

In the early twenty-first century, multi-billionaire Justin Cord learns he suffers from an untreatable cancer; he will die soon. A battler all his life, Justin battles for his life; betting on the future. He has a cryogenic burial home built and has himself put on ice inside it.

A few centuries into the future, Justin’s frozen home is discovered. He is thawed out and his body healed. However, Justin learns that he is THE UNINCORPORATED MAN in a radically differing economic system than the one he made his fortune in. That collapsed in spite of humanity reaching as far away as the Oort Cloud, the outer rim of the sun’s gravitational pull. At birth, a person is incorporated; they spend years trying to buy controlling interest in his or her self. For Justin this means he is owned by a corporation and starting very late to buy himself. As he did with death he rejects the concept of he owning a limited share of himself while others own the majority share.

This is an intriguing science fiction thriller that extrapolates the current economic trends of free market and total privatization (Bush legacy meltdowns) into a future in which a person is owned like an indentured servant only by corporate shareholders. Thus the Kollin brothers shine a deep spotlight on a DNA like matrix interweaving acceptable societal norm with the economy. The story line is thought provoking on several fronts starting with the economy, the government and the technology that has taken mankind across the solar system. Justin is a throwback to an earlier age before the corporations bought power as he believes strongly in freedom, which he feels the shareholders thwart. Fans who enjoy an exciting twenty-forth century thriller with roots in today’s global economy will appreciate this deep tale.

Harriet Klausner

Black Blood-John Meaney

Black Blood
John Meaney
Bantam, Mar 2009, $24.00
ISBN: 9780553806717

Tristopolitan police lieutenant Donal Riordan saw Senator Blanz kill his beloved Laura with a shot to the head just before the legislative official murdered him. However, Donal awakes from death with Laura’s black zombie heart beating inside his chest; put there by paramedic mages. He returns to work with one goal in mind: a vendetta to take down anyone associated with Laura’s death to include the top secret invincible organization, the Black Circle.

There is trouble brewing in Tristopolitan as the powerful Unity Party incites normals to go after undead and inhumans including zombies and revenants. This group is infiltrating every level of power, private and government, in a campaign to disenfranchise the undead. As Donal investigates Laura’s death, he finds a connection to a foreign government with a diabolical plan to all non-human beings regardless of sentience. That nation is harboring Laura’s killers, which means if Donal is to enact vengeance, his only reason to live, he must travel to a place that might become his tomb.

This is a dark futuristic urban fantasy noir set in a world that uses bones as the prime energy source. Wraiths abound as the police solve paranormal murders and everyday people wear sunglasses inside while never venturing outside which is perpetually dark and dangerous. Zombies are citizens with the same rights as the normals, but the Unity Party wants that revoked while also pushing a final solution of extermination mindful of Hitler. With that background in a free society, readers can imagine what Donal will face if he follows the investigation to its foreign roots. As with BONE SONG, BLACK BLOOD is a compelling tale that places a gothic horror inside a police procedural fantasy.

Harriet Klausner

Sunday, January 18, 2009

The Last Paladin-Kathleen Bryan

The Last Paladin
Kathleen Bryan
Tor, Mar 2009, $15.95
ISBN: 0765313308

Averil has become the queen of the Kingdom of Lys with the death of her wicked uncle King Clodovec. However, the evil he did lives after him; there is no good interred with his bones as the sorcerers who used her odious relative continue their quest to bring forth the Serpent God of Chaos and their soulless armies continue to kill anyone in their path.

Averil knows she must confront the amoral sorcerers before the Serpent God arrives; if she fails to stop their incantations in time, Chaos will rule over Order. Her magecraft bondmate Squire Gereint reluctantly supports her quest to take the battle to the enemy, but her loyal subjects fear her death means the end of the Light. None can prevent the final war between Order and Chaos with the Serpent God apparently ready to lead Averill’s enemies.

The final War between Order and Chaos (see THE SERPENT AND THE ROSE and THE GOLDEN ROSE) is a great ending to a strong quest trilogy. The courageous Averil and her brave bondmate have gained wisdom as both sadly understand what she must do. However, it is the Serpent God who makes the tale as he also comprehends that even Chaos has a need of Order. Although the ending appears too formulaic for this extremely complex character driven fantasy saga, Kathleen Bryan’s fans will relish the final battle between the forces of Order and those of Chaos.

Harriet Klausner

Prophets-S. Andrew Swann

Prophets
S. Andrew Swann
Daw, Mar 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780756405410

By 2525, two centuries have past since the collapse of the Confederacy civilization. From those ruins two major rivals form: The Roman Catholic Church and the Eridani Caliphate compete for dominance on earth and on other planets in other solar systems. Both groups believe there are lost colonies in space who prefer not to belong to either power; instead they keep low profiles hoping nether empire find the needle in the haystack. However, a super intelligent AI who can pass as human has noticed an anomaly in the star Xi Virginis sector.

The AI Tjele Mosasa is headquartered on the planet Bakunin. Since an AI is banned in most places as are self-replicating nanotech and genetically engineered sentient beings, Masassa arranges to have mercenaries Nikolai the descendent of genetically engineered tigers and Julia Kugara, a genetically engineered human, as well as Father Francis Mallory join his expedition to Xi Virginis; there he plans to investigate the anomaly. When they arrive at their destination, they are greeted by the vanishing of the star and a saboteur’s explosion on board their ship cripples the vessel. The survivors make an emergency landing on the xenophobic planet Salmagundi.

The first book in the Apotheosis saga sets the slope for the next tale Heretics while containing an action-packed futuristic science fiction. The story line is told from many viewpoints so readers obtain a 360 degree perspective of what is happening though that somewhat subtracts from character development yet enables the audience to understand how different factions perceive reality. S. Andrew Swann provides an intriguing look into life a half millennium from now.

Harriet Klausner

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Palimpsest-Catherynne M. Valente

Palimpsest
Catherynne M. Valente
Bantam, Feb 24 2009, $14.00
ISBN: 9780553385762

Somewhere out there beyond the realm of the living or for that matter the dead is Palimpsest, a place you just don’t simply get to. First you must believe it exists; then you hope for a miracle, though some might insist a curse, must occur. You still might not get there as there are many strange places out there beyond life and death. To find this city beyond all, following a major loss usually of a loved one and during the deepest of natural sleep after sex like none before or any afterward, will appear a tattooed map on the skin that seems to have come from no known source.

Four strangers wake up to the map and a binding need to find each other as they begin their quest: In Tokyo is Amaya Sei: in California is November; in New York is Oleg; and in his books is Ludovico. They are heading to the ghost train that will take them to Palimpsest and a realm filled with wonder, awe and perhaps what each seeks: someone to fill the loss in their respective souls.

This is an intriguing Twilight Zone like quest fantasy, but the quest is not some prophecy artifact to save a world from evil; instead it is an individual search to find what death recently took away and left behind in its wake loneliness and sorrow warped in grief. The quartet seems genuine even when they confront creatures that logically could not exist. The support cast before the journey, during the travel, and in the city also comes across real enough to make the heroes seem more complete. Though as always is the case with a Catherynne M. Valente tale (see IN THE CITIES OF COIN AND SPICE and IN THE NIGHT GARDEN) this parable of seeking to belong to someone is complex, and convoluted making for a difficult but ultimately poignant read.

Harriet Klausner

Bone Crossed-Patricia Briggs

Bone Crossed
Patricia Briggs
Ace, Feb 2009, $24.95
ISBN: 9780441016761

In the Washington States Tri-Cities, auto mechanic Mercedes Thompson still heals physically from the brutal assault in which she killed her attacker. Mentally the Were-coyote Walker knows her soul remains battered and raped (see IRON KISSED). Still she the courageous Mercy carries on with a brave front as she prepares to marry alpha werewolf Adam Hauptman.

Her college roommate Amber reads about her in the newspaper and thinks back over a decade to when they were drunk and Mercy told her about meeting a ghost. She wrote it off then, but since the werewolves have come out of the woods into the open and Mercy is engaged to one, she reconsidered that tale. She comes from Spokane to ask Mercy to help her rid her house of a nasty ghost. Amber further explains her husband thinks she is crazy. Mercy knows this is a good time to leave town as irate vampire queen Marsilia wants to drain her blood after torturing her vampire friend Stefan for killing a monster. Mercy agrees to accompany Amber back to Spokane while Adam negotiates a settlement of sorts with Marsilia before a species war ignites. Mercy soon realizes Adam has the easier job.

Though a February release, the fourth Mercedes Thompson thriller (see BLOOD BOUND and MOON CALLED) will be on the short list of best urban fantasy for 2009 as the action never slows down for a paragraph. The deep look into the Briggs state of Washington is terrific as vampire customs and werewolf politics enhance a strong tale. In spite of her still healing Mercy remains a tough as ever as she sets out to prove she is a genuine ghostbuster.

Harriet Klausner

Hope’s Folly-Linnea Sinclair

Hope’s Folly
Linnea Sinclair
Bantam, Mar 3 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780553592184

Rya Bennton lives for vengeance; her sole reason for breathing is to kill the persons responsible for the death of her father. This is why she signs on the rebel vessel Hope’s Folly as she believes the junker will take her closer to achieving her goal. The only negative with a position on what was a fruit carrying cargo ship is her puppy love hero when she was a little girl Admiral Philip Guthrie who is in command.

Former Imperial Fleet Commander Admiral Guthrie hides some of his injuries still not healed (see SHADES OF DARK)and all of his concerns and doubts that his dilapidated converted vessel and motley crew are ready for combat against the overwhelming superior Imperial forces. Making matter complicated is someone with entrance to any part of the ship is sabotaging their preparation efforts. Even more complex to Guthrie is his adult feelings for Rya, whom he has known since she was a child as the daughter of his best friend who died under his command.

Although this terrific romantic military science fiction thriller can stand alone, fans will gain even more pleasure by reading the prequels GABRIEL’S GHOST and especially SHADES OF DARK (Guthrie is a hero in his ex wife’s tale). The story line is fast-paced from the onset as Guthrie struggles with a broken down ship and a crew not fit for war especially against a much more powerful foe. As he and Rya fall in love, he tries to keep his objectives in proper order as the safety of the crew and the mission come before his personal feelings while she struggles with love and his role in her dad’s death. Fans will appreciate their extraordinary escapdes in scintillating Sinclair space.

Harriet Klausner

And Don’t Forget to Rescue the Other Princesses-Marc Bilgrey

And Don’t Forget to Rescue the Other Princesses
Marc Bilgrey
Five Star, Mar 2009, $25.95
ISBN: 9781594147449

It has been a year since thirty-one year old Al Breen has had a visit from a talking cat, who yanked him into another dimension where the feline turned into a wizard. Master wizard Merv, the advisor to Castle Furley in the land of Flemp, explained to the bewildered out of work actor that he had been summoned as a great knight to travel to the kingdom of Mornnnnnnn to rescue the king’s kidnapped daughter Megan. After mission accomplished with the help of Sir Nigel the nervous, Al was sent home (see AND DON’T FORGET TO RESCUE THE PRINCESS).

However his idyll time of respite abruptly ends when Merv yanks him back to Flemp with the same choices of losing his head or rescuing Princess Deirdre. Once again with Nigel the Nervous as his sidekick, Al the mighty couch warrior journeys to the northern citadel atop of the treacherous mountains where the evil sorceress Sorchaaaaaaaa is hatching plans to conquer the lands making her ruler of the world. To begin her unholy quest, she must sacrifice Deirdre to the Dark Gods. After fighting off an ogre, wild boars, fighting to get out of a fairy ring, and taken prisoner by a giant, the reluctant heroes are taken to the leader of the resistance who escort them up the mountain where the real danger awaits them as Sorchaaaaaaaa looks forward to the encounter.

Readers who like the wackiness of the Xanth tales without any puns will enjoy this fun farcical fantasy starring an earthly couch potato turned reluctant Don Quixote saving a world filled with magic. His companion on the trek Sir Nigel the Nervous is constantly whining about everything and anything when they are not in a dire predicament which is rare; otherwise he is wisecracking about their dilemmas as a means to keep from losing his bladder. Fans will enjoy Marc Bilgrey’s tale of the absurd.

Harriet Klausner

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Revamped-J.F. Lewis

Revamped
J.F. Lewis
Pocket, Mar 2009, $15.00
ISBN 9781439102282

In Void City, vampire Eric Courtney struggles with his new existence. A few days ago his business partner at the Demon Heart Strip Club Roger blew up the place with Eric in it (see STAKED). Now Eric is a ghost, which makes taking a bite of blood a bit difficult.

His former fiancée Marilyn begins to fill in the details of his last living undead days in Void City, but before she can explain how he was betrayed, J'iliol'lth the demon takes her soul. Eric cuts a deal with J'iliol'lth. In exchange for him finding the Stone of Aeternemthe that raises the dead, the demon will grant him immortality and give him Marilyn's soul. All that seems simple enough, but he finds the hardest thing to accept is his Mustang has become a vampire and worse he must enter Vampire High Society with his almost girlfriend Tabitha if he is to complete his end of the Faustian deal.

Much more in your face (make that neck) humor than the biting jocularity of Eric’s first tale, REVAMPED is an entertaining bloody vampire thriller with the spin of the hero becoming a ghostly blood sucker. The story line is fast-paced as Eric is the Murphy of the supernatural world in J.F. Lewis' fine urban fantasy in which he learns that even being an undead dead does not prove any safer.

Harriet Klausner

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

New Blood-Gail Dayton

New Blood
Gail Dayton
Tor, Mar 2009, $6.99
ISBN 9780765362506

Women have been banned from practicing magic. In fact in 1636 the enforcers of the taboo, the Imperial Council of Magicians burned at the stake the last blood sorceress. For the next two centuries, the last witch’s loyal servant Jax, who watched horrifically the burning, has searched for the next female practitioner with no success until now.

In the Austrian Empire, Jax believes hedge witch Amanusa Whitcomb is the heir. He mentors a frightened Amanusa on the use of blood magic. However, when she uses her new skill on brutes, she comes to the attention of the Imperial Council of Magicians who sends enforcer Inquisitors to kill the miscreant. As they begin to fall in love, teacher and student flee for their lives heading to Paris but are forced to enter the “dead zones” where none live except those who have died and magic is impossible.

This is an engaging fantasy that takes a sharp turn in emphasis from a unique Europe to romance. Thus the story line loses some momentum with the detour as a fascinating world is overwhelmed by the romance between Jax and Amanusa. Still Gail Dayton writes an interesting tale in which love proves one of the strongest if not the most powerful magic of them all.

Harriet Klausner

The Shadow Queen-Anne Bishop

The Shadow Queen
Anne Bishop
Roc, Mar 2009, $24.95
ISBN 9780451462541

The deceitful Queens ignored the honorable Rules of the Blood; their mendacious rule ruined Dena Nehele leading to open revolt. At about the same time weak Queen Cassidy of Bhak became Lady Cassidy when her retinue deserted her to join the stronger court of much prettier and more powerful Queen Kermilla.

Following an uprising, one of the remaining Warlord Princes, Theran Grayhaven desperately needs a partner to help him re-establish his family's control. The High Prince of Hell introduces him to Lady Cassidy. He proposes a marriage of convenience, which the former queen, encouraged by her few loyal friends, accepts as the new Queen of Dena Nehele. However, though Theran and Cassidy seem an ideal match, they have relationship issues further exacerbated when she meets and is attracted to his cousin Gray the gardener, a Warlord Prince with body and brain damage caused by the Blood Queens.

The latest Black Jewels fantasy thriller is a strong character driven tale as Theran and Cassidy seem genuine as does the key support players Gray, Ranon, and several Queens. The royal pair needs to unite if they want power, but once they do the duo realizes how incompatible they are especially when they meet significant others. To fully appreciate the interwoven history of the Blood magic world new readers should peruse previous tales in the saga (see TANGLED WEB and DREAMS MADE FLESH, etc.), even as Anne Bishop provides a strong romantic fantasy that fans will relish.

Harriet Klausner

The Temporal Void-Peter F. Hamilton

The Temporal Void
Peter F. Hamilton
Del Rey, Mar 2009, $28.00
ISBN 9780345496553

The Void continues its non-stop expansion in all directions from the galactic core leaving the entire galaxy in peril. In fact psychic usage by Edeard the Waterwalker from within the Void against evil forces has had a consequence of geometrically accelerating the pace of expansion. Now, the multi billions of worshipers of the Living Dream cult plan to enter the Void.

However, the alien Raiel are using warships to keep sentient beings out of the Void and those already inside to remain there. At the same time the Ocisen Empire and its newest ally the Primes have sent a space armada to destroy the earth and its insane inhabitants before the Living Dream can enter the Void. Meanwhile the ANA cyberspace human minds running the Earth are in the midst of a civil war. The cyborg Aaron has detained the First Dreamer Inigo, but has failed to capture the Second Dreamer Araminta while rumors of a Third Dreamer abound.

With a zillion things going on, readers will be better off reading the superb DREAMING VOID recently as Peter F. Hamilton provides an excellent but multifaceted science fiction thriller filled with several major subplots that the author interweaves into a cohesive story line. The cast is fully developed in and out of the Void and whether they are human or alien while some characters go back quite a way in the Hamilton galaxy. Fans of epic science fiction thrillers will want to read the 700 plus page middle tome of the Void trilogy.

Harriet Klausner

Road Trip of the Living Dead-Mark Henry

Road Trip of the Living Dead
Mark Henry
Kensington, Mar 2009, $15.00
ISBN 9780758225245

In Seattle nightlife lover Amanda Feral wishes American had more of a fashions sense especially those people she dines on when she eats their brains; though if they understood fashion, she might not use them as dessert. The zombie fashion hound learns her abusive mother Ethel is dying so she decides to pay her respects to the wicked witch of the northwest. She persuades her friend zombie Wendy Miller to go with her to Rapid City, South Dakota, home of the fashion-challenged and mommy meanest.

The two zombiettes decide to stay in town for one more night before the trek to mommy meanest. However, their friend gay vampire Gil angers a strip club owner, making it imperative he leave town immediately. The trio flees as werewolves give chase while Amanda’s pickups seem to lose their heads, but their biggest fear is the shopping horde at Kmart.

This is a wild zany bawdy urban horror thriller (see Happy Hour of the Damned) starring no heroes. The story line is fast-paced with plenty of graphic blood, guts, and sh*t letting. The road warriors are a crude but fun bunch while the tale needs to carry two warnings: don’t eat while reading this novel and cover your genitals with armor at all times. Sort of placing Divine of Pink Flamingoes fame in a George Romero movie as Mark Henry is over the Rocky Mountains with this wild ROAD TRIP OF THE LIVING DEAD.

Harriet Klausner

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Elsewhere- William Peter Blatty

Elsewhere
William Peter Blatty
Cemetery Dance, Mar 2009, $25.00
ISBN 9781587670831

The old mansion Elsewhere in Craven’s Cove up the Hudson from NYC has a haunting reputation that makes it difficult to sell. Thus thirtyish Manhattan realtor Joan Freeboard hits on a unique idea to try to find a buyer for what has become a mausoleum. She persuades British psychic Anna Trawley, NYU parapsychologist Dr. Gabriel Case and renowned but currently wordless author Terrence Dare to accompany her inside of Elsewhere to prove there are no ghosts.

As the quartet settle inside of Elsewhere, a nasty storm strands them there. Meanwhile, each member of the team feels isolated from the others yet shares in common a growing sense of belonging to the mansion. As they learn the secret of the house, their personal secrets are exposed; each visitor has protected their egos with customized realisms.

In many ways this excellent haunted house tale is a psychological suspense thriller as much of the story line (except for the climax) follows the quartet as the house coaxes them to reveal their secrets. Illustrations by Alex McVey add depth to the atmosphere of pending doom. Fans of Peter Blatty will welcome his fresh approach of psychological paranormal paradigm twist to the haunted house horror sub-genre.

Harriet Klausner

Monday, January 12, 2009

Crime Spells-Edited by Martin H. Greenberg and Loren L. Coleman

Crime Spells
Edited by Martin H. Greenberg and Loren L. Coleman
Daw, Feb 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780756405380

These sixteen urban fantasy tales are whimsical and though this reviewer suggests spreading the entries over several days as the theme is somewhat limiting. Each contribution is well written and especially quirky like Mike Resnick’s sure bet “The Hex Is In”. Fans will enjoy the exploits of these heroes like the star of “Web Gin House” by Phaedra Weldon as she leaves her body to spy on others or the “Witness to the Fall” by Joseph E. Lake. No clinkers, this is a lighthearted romp as the authors seem to enjoy writing unusual “Eye Opening” (by Jason Schmetzer) short stories in which “The Wish of the Wish (by Robert T. Jeschonek) is for more CRIME SPELLS.

Harriet Klausner

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Contagious-Scott Sigler

Contagious
Scott Sigler
Crown, Dec 30 2009, $24.95
ISBN: 0307406318

The transition of power is ending with the inauguration of the new American president, but not long after taking his oath of office, John Gutierrez is briefed by CIA Deputy Director Murray Longworth about his biggest issue: alien parasites. John initially believes Murray is telling a sick joke, but quickly realizes that the top secret Project Tangram is his most important program. An alien virus has infected Americans causing blue triangular lesions to erupt on the skin; these intrusions are sentient, causing their host to go insane before they break out from the body turning into pyramid creatures that share a singular strategic goal of building a path to somewhere that is assumed dangerous to humanity.

It is Six weeks since the infection began and there is only one known survivor. Using a scissor former football player "Scary" Perry Dawsey surgically removed the triangle, but has traces left that enable him to detect human carriers. When he finds them he kills them over the chagrin of CIA agent Dew Phillips who needs living specimen for Doctor Margaret Montoya to conduct research on, but cannot alienate the only human capable of finding them. However, Perry is scared as he feels something voodoo like is occurring in Michigan.

This exciting sequel to INFECTED is an action-packed thriller reminiscent of the INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS. At a time of potential pandemic doom, the change in leadership is a refreshing spin as that adds vulnerability that seems eerily similar to the economic crisis although one would have thought the President elect would have been told several weeks earlier. Still this is a fast-paced horror thriller as the new PROTUS must decide what to do about the biggest terrorist threat to the nation.

Harriet Klausner

Maelstrom-Peter Watts

Maelstrom
Peter Watts
Tor, Jan 6 2009, $14.95
ISBN: 9780765320537

Although the deaths were expected to reach millions, the nuclear strike on the Pacific Ocean floor geothermal power plant Channer Vent was rationalized as the only way to save the surface population from the ancient microbe that threatened the planet (see STARFISH). The surface dwellers destroyed the vent, but as predicted the earthquake led to a tsunami that killed millions on the coasts and left parts of continents like west coast America underwater. Still world leaders insist the collateral damage was worth the cost as the microbe could have made life on the planet extinct and so are the infected crew and any sea life near the drop zone.

However, there is one problem that surfaces beyond the devastation. The Channer Vent supervisor, rifter Lenie Clark, survived the nuke and though her eyes are gone, she seeks vengeance on those who tried to bury her. Part human and part machine Lenie understands collateral damage and like world leaders does not care as her mission starts with killing her abusive father. The cyberspace MAELSTROM notices her advancement as does peacekeepers; both trying to reach her, but she keeps moving forward driven by her quest. However, what neither detects nor does her sudden human following is that she has brought something with her from the sea.

Although much less a cautionary tale than its superb predecessor STARFISH, the second Rifters tale is much faster and filled with more action. The story line grips the audience from the onset with the amount of collateral damage and destruction, but tightens the hold when Lenie walks out from the sea like a monstrous version of Ursula Andress as Honey Ryder from Dr. No. From there the action never slows, as the definition of collateral damage has been globalized.

Harriet Klausner

The Suicide Collectors-David Oppegaard

The Suicide Collectors
David Oppegaard
St. Martin’s, Dec 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780312381103

No one surviving understands much about the Despair plague, but in the five years since it first surfaced or at least was identified the pandemic destruction of the globe has left fewer than 10% of the population alive. Incredibly, in this relatively short time so many have committed suicide. Those left behind struggles with grief, survival guilt and despair over the future.

In Florida, Norman comes home to find his beloved wife dead, a victim of an overdose. When three Collectors arrive to take away the corpse, Norman refuses their entry. Instead he and his neighbor Pops fire at them; blowing away one of them. The remaining two leave with the corpse of their comrade while Norman and Pop discuss how the Collectors know when to come for a dead person like they did within a few hours for Norman’s wife. They also realize they cannot remain here as more Collectors will come so they discuss where to go before these ghoulish scavengers come back for them. They decide to cross the country to Seattle where rumors that a research scientist has found a cure to Despair. In Kansas, courageous but frightened eleven year old Zero joins the traveling Floridians, who have met death everywhere on their trek.

This well written haunting science fiction tale will grip the audience from the onset when Norman finds his wife dead in their bed and never slows down as he and Pops travel as bleak a landscape in recent memory. The story line is fast-paced but gloomy as Despair is the shroud that hovers across America. As in the Zager and Evans 1969 song In The Year 2525 states: “… For what he never knew now man's reign is through; but through the eternal night the twinkling of starlight”, a dash of hope mostly through the intrepid Zero who brings a reason to live to the adult Floridians.

Harriet Klausner

Death’s Daughter-Amber Benson

Death’s Daughter
Amber Benson
Ace, Mar 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780441016945

She works in a dead end job because her boss relies on her so much she refuses to promote Calliope Reaper-Jones. She lives in New York, which is in her blood as a fashionista, but has not had a real date in months. One day on her way to work, Calliope sees a dinosaur-dragon who guards her building’s door. At work, she goes to the bathroom where she meets a faun who breaks the forget-me spell leading to Calliope realizing who she is and what her family heritage is.

She is her daddy’s daughter so handles well the news from her father’s assistant the faun Jarvis that her sire, her sister Thalia and the rest of Death, Inc has been kidnapped. At her mother’s request, Calliope returns home to see Sea Verge. She learns her family will be evicted from their home if Callie fails to become the Grim Reaper. To make the conversion to CEO, she must perform three tasks to determine her worthiness. First she must capture one of Cerberus’ pups. Second she must find the Sea Foam from Indra a Hindu God who wants to kill the demon Vrita and find the Cup of Lamshid. Challenging her is Daniel who wants to be the next Death and Detective Davenport of the Psychic Bureau of Investigation who believes she was part of the kidnapping plot of her dad. If she succeeds and becomes Death, Callie knows this does not guarantee she will be able to rescue her father.

Leaving Buffy behind, Amber Benson writes an amusing action-packed chick lit urban fantasy loaded with more twists and curves than a twist-a-whirl. The heroine does not want to be the next Death as that might interfere with her nails and what she seeks on Craig’s List, but knows her choices are limited to either death or Death. Filled with humor and wit, this is a refreshing original thriller as double, triple, and nth crossings are the norm.

Harriet Klausner

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Mind Over Ship-David Marusek

Mind Over Ship
David Marusek
Tor, Feb 2009, $24.95
ISBN: 9780765317490

In 2034 the sabotaged rocket crash left financier Eleanor Starke dead while her adopted daughter Ellen’s life is saved when her preserved cryogenically frozen head was grafted on to the body of an infant (see COUNTING HEADS). Over the next year Ellen insists her mom is alive while everyone scoffs at her.

At the same time she demands control over the Starke business while other executives want her out of the way as the daughter may have been adopted but is a chip off the old block of her late mom with her desire to help those below the Boutique line. Instead her enemies are more interested in the bottom line even devastating a space colonization scheme to improve the life of the masses. Eleanor’s fanatic husband Sammy Harger, who pushed the failed plan to move some of the fifteen billion off a planet over-populated with clones and AIs too, wants a piece of his daughter’s head.

This sequel is a timely frightening futuristic science fiction thriller that extrapolates much of what is happening in technology, on Wall St and in DC to paint a dark nightmarish world that makes Malthus’ prediction look naively understated. Ninety-nine percent of the populace lives in poverty while the avaricious remainder manipulates events to obtain larger portions of the pie. Ellen is terific as she struggles to take control of her mom’s empire, but her adversaries are diabolical and sleazy as they control the convergence of science, money, and politics at the expense of the many. Though reading the first tale helps the audience understand what COUNTING HEADS is, this second act is a terrific thought provoking thriller that extrapolates the Bush years into the next century.

Harriet Klausner

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Jailbait Zombie-Mario Acevedo

Jailbait Zombie
Mario Acevedo
Eos, Mar 2009, $14.95
ISBN 9780061567148

His superiors at the worldwide vampiric association the Araneum send private investigator Felix Gomez to Denver. His assignment is two-fold. First the vampire is to destroy a zombie infestation in the Mile High City and suburbs like Aurora; and more important insure the maker is out of the reanimation business permanently.

Felix begins to follow the deadly Zombie path which leads him to teenage Phaedra Nardoni, who is dying from Huntington’s chorea. The sixteen years old sends Felix on a hallucinatory spin back to his days as a grunt in Iraq. She threatens to keep piling on the illusionary flashbacks until she dies unless he converts her to an undead. Before he can decide what to do, the zombie creator abducts Felix.

The fourth Gomez urban fantasy (and Ricky Mountains) Noir (see X-RATED BLOODSUCKERS, THE NYMPHOS OF ROCKY FLATS and THE UNDEAD KAMA SUTRA) is as zany as the private investigator’s previous cases. Besides dealing with zombies and their reanimator, Felix must cope with a brilliant, talented but dying teen that provides the “jailbait” aspects of the title. As always in this wacky but always entreating series filled with blood, gore and an over the top premise of the Rockies; this time even George Romero will take notice of controlling the world domination through zombies in space.

Harriet Klausner

Imager-L.E. Modesitt Jr.

Imager
L.E. Modesitt Jr.
Tor, Mar 2009, $25.95
ISBN 9780765320346

In the capital of Solidar, L'Excelsis, frustrated with his master Caliostrus and his teacher's nasty son, apprentice portrait artist Rhennthyl wishes the man would die. Immediately afterward an explosion followed by a fire occurs leaving his mentor and his toad of an offspring dead. Stunned with what he did though he had hints of magic skills, he had no idea he was an Imager. Since he knows no one will take him on as Imagers are feared and isolated, he wonders how he can make use of his ability to create objects from seemingly nothing and kill with a quick look, but knows his first stop must be the Collegium of Imagisle.

Master Dichartyn accepts Rhenn as an apprentice imager. The son of a merchant soon learns the limits of an imager as he must sleep in specially padded with lead rooms to insure he causes no harm while dreaming. Rhenn quickly performs like a seasoned veteran even as he finds himself attracted to second sight Seliora after watching her gracefully handle bullies. As assassins try to kill Rhenn though he has no idea why, Dichartyn assigns him a dangerous undercover task.

The opening act of the Imager Portfolio starts extremely slow as L.E. Modesitt Jr. establishes his new world order that as always is particularly complex especially between nations on the Terahnar and the personality quirks of his prime players especially the hero. The action is nonexistent for the most part until late into the fantasy as readers wonder along with Rhenn what the hidden agenda Master Dichartyn has for his newest operative. Still filled with surprisingly twists, IMAGER is a solid world builder that bodes for fans excellent novels to follow.

Harriet Klausner

Monday, January 5, 2009

Submission-Cherie Feather

Submission
Cherie Feather
Berkley, Feb 2009, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223680

Affluent artist Ethan Tierney is known in the art world for his outrageously wicked paintings that some have called pornographic. He seduces submissive art historian Kiki Dion with plans to enjoy her for no more than a couple of weeks in his stately house before he finds his next conquest.

However, Ethan is unaware that his home contains two residents who lived there almost a hundred years ago. Javier and Nicole are ghosts who enjoyed the same BDSM relationship that Ethan and Kiki relish when they lived in this home before dying there. Kiki wants to reunite the two star-crossed specters and persuades Ethan to help her by solving a mystery that will enable Javier and Nicole to obtain peace. However, Kiki is stunned when the ghosts not only possesses their respective bodies in sexual encounters but try to help her with Ethan whom she has fallen in love with though she expects he will end their tryst very shortly as no one remains with him beyond two weeks.

SUBMISSION is an interesting unique erotic romance with a fascinating supernatural spin. The two couples are fully developed so that the audience feels they know the desires of the humans and the ghosts. The well written BDSM scenes are heated and contain a nice touch of respect. Although the climax feels like premature ejaculation Cherie Feather provides a fresh look at BDSM; made better by the trust that comes with love.

Harriet Klausner

A Highlander of Her Own-Melissa Mayhue

A Highlander of Her Own
Melissa Mayhue
Pocket, Jan 27 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9781416572596

In 2008 in Prairieland, Texas, Ellie Denton finds her life reeling when Ray Stanton, the ex husband of her late mother, claims her family ranch as his; she is thankful he was not her dad. However, that proves a minor nuisance when compared with the mysterious mark on her chest; she is relieved to learn whatever it is it is non-cancerous. Meanwhile she feels like Eddie Murphy as animals speak to her. However, the strangest phenomenon occurs when Ellie wishes she had a man who loved her that she loved back. That odd mark quivers when she says her heart’s desire and before she knows what next she knows she is no longer in modern day Texas; in fact she is in 1304 Scotland.

Caden Macalister has vowed to never marry after his betrothal fell apart almost a decade ago. When he meets the strange Ellie, he assumes destiny has brought her for one of his siblings as he is not fated to be a spouse. His mother strongly disagrees as she insists fairy magic has transported Ellie to be with her beloved Caden. As the stock begins to suffer from a disease, her skill to talk to the animals comes in handy, but Caden remains obstinate that she is not his destiny although Ellie begs to differ.

This is an entertaining lighthearted time traveling frolic. The story line is brisk as Ellie feels she got her wish in a weird way; Caden’s mother agrees believing the Fae answered her wish; but stubborn Caden makes the tale with the refusal to believe his heart or the women in his life. Fans will enjoy the latest Daughters of the Glen time travel medieval romance (see THIRTY NIGHTS WITH A HIGHLAND HUSBAND) as Melissa Mayhue provides a winner with justice for all in two distinct centuries.

Harriet Klausner

Would Be Witch-Kimberly Frost

Would Be Witch
Kimberly Frost
Berkley, Feb 2009, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425225776

In Duval, Texas Tammy Jo Trask assumes the magical DNA that every member of her family possesses somehow went recessive in her case as her witch genes are dormant. Her only magic is talking with Edie the family ghost who lives inside her heirloom locket.

When her locket is stolen, a desperate Tammy Jo is beside herself as she misses the mouth of the south who was always putting her down. She vows to find her family heirloom so that Edie is back in her life verbally ripping skin off her back. She must retrieve this fast or something dire will happen. Knowing she needs help, she persuades her former husband Deputy Sheriff Zach who spent money on a shrink for her as he does not believe in ghosts and master mage Bryn Lyons although her family warned her even as a child to stay away from the Lyons as their roar is dangerous. Nothing goes right as werewolves stalk Tammy Jo while vampires try to take over the town and the magic-less people are conjuring up the dead.

This amusing urban fantasy is fast-paced from the opening cake sale and fender bender and never stops for a breather until the somewhat low-keyed climax. The ghost gossip grapevine is fun to follow as it makes blogging look obsolete. However, this tale belongs to the title character, terrific Tammy Jo as the only dormant witch in her family and still in love with her ex (at least for the sex) even though he believes she is a fruitcake. Fans will enjoy this humorous lighthearted chick lit fantasy as Tammy Jo finds her groove fighting vampires and reanimated dead.

Harriet Klausner

Kitty Raises Hell-Carrie Vaughn

Kitty Raises Hell
Carrie Vaughn
Grand Central, Mar 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780446199544

Everyone who goes to Vegas understands the mantra that what happens there stays there; everyone except Kitty Norville as a piece of the Neon City followed her home to Denver. She first realized what happened when the word Tiamat is burned into the door of her restaurant the New Moon. In Vegas (see KITTY AND THE DEAD MAN’S HAND), Kitty tangled with the Band of Tiamat, a lycan group led by a vampire who sacrificed other lycanthropes to the Babylonian Goddess they worshipped. Instead off her Bbeing sacrificed Kitty defeated them and apparently the survivors seek vengeance.

When Paradox PI, a reality TV show that investigates supernatural cases, enter an alleged haunted house; something destroys the trailer they are in and the smell of fire, brimstone, and sulfur permeates the atmosphere. That same odor arises when they conduct a séance at the New Moon; almost immediately the restaurant is on fire. The cameraman taped the incident and catches on the video a humanoid shape in the smoke. Kitty and her pack are magically protected, but the monster kills one of her people who didn’t use her potion and several innocents. Kitty has to find out what it is and how to contain it without help from Roman the new vampire in town or the city’s master vampire Rick because she deems the price of relying on either of them is too high.

Urban fantasy fans who like the works of Kelly Armstrong are going to relish the latest supernatural thriller. The protagonist is a kick butt heroine similar to Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake as both are the lead alpha of an extended family/pack. They each understand the responsibility of protecting their submissive loyal followers. Carrie Vaughn provides another enthralling and spellbinding Kitty tale although this time it pays to read KITTY AND THE DEAD MAN’S HAND first as this is a direct sequel.

Harriet Klausner

Kitty Raises Hell-Carrie Vaughn

Kitty Raises Hell
Carrie Vaughn
Grand Central, Mar 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780446199544

Everyone who goes to Vegas understands the mantra that what happens there stays there; everyone except Kitty Norville as a piece of the Neon City followed her home to Denver. She first realized what happened when the word Tiamat is burned into the door of her restaurant the New Moon. In Vegas (see KITTY AND THE DEAD MAN’S HAND), Kitty tangled with the Band of Tiamat, a lycan group led by a vampire who sacrificed other lycanthropes to the Babylonian Goddess they worshipped. Instead off her Bbeing sacrificed Kitty defeated them and apparently the survivors seek vengeance.

When Paradox PI, a reality TV show that investigates supernatural cases, enter an alleged haunted house; something destroys the trailer they are in and the smell of fire, brimstone, and sulfur permeates the atmosphere. That same odor arises when they conduct a séance at the New Moon; almost immediately the restaurant is on fire. The cameraman taped the incident and catches on the video a humanoid shape in the smoke. Kitty and her pack are magically protected, but the monster kills one of her people who didn’t use her potion and several innocents. Kitty has to find out what it is and how to contain it without help from Roman the new vampire in town or the city’s master vampire Rick because she deems the price of relying on either of them is too high.

Urban fantasy fans who like the works of Kelly Armstrong are going to relish the latest supernatural thriller. The protagonist is a kick butt heroine similar to Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake as both are the lead alpha of an extended family/pack. They each understand the responsibility of protecting their submissive loyal followers. Carrie Vaughn provides another enthralling and spellbinding Kitty tale although this time it pays to read KITTY AND THE DEAD MAN’S HAND first as this is a direct sequel.

Harriet Klausner

Sunday, January 4, 2009

Spell Games-T.A. Pratt

Spell Games
T.A. Pratt
Bantam, Mar 3 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780553591361

Jason Mason comes to the town of Felport where his sister Marla is the chief sorcerer. She has mixed feelings about her roguish sibling as she expects he will run a scam. He plans to pull a con on mega-billionaire Cam-Cam Compton, who believes in magic and wants to learn how to use it. Jason ask Marla what Cam-Cam would interest him that he would pay a fortune for and she says a vial of Borrichius spore that does not exist. A waiter overhearing them calls the sorceress Nicolette who thrives on chaos; she sends a courier to find the mycronancer Bulliard who should be interested in them. The courier finds his target only to find Bulliard in thrall to the Mycelium, an underground mushroom god. Nicolette knows that if Bulliard comes to Felport, chose will follow to her euphoria.

While coping poorly with her brother as she doubts she should trust him, Marla also works with apprentice Bradley Bowman, who she believes is a worthy successor to her. Jason ropes Marla’s consigliore into his con. Rondeau, who is a psychic parasite that took over the mind and body of the person he lives inside of, finds the graft an exciting experience. However when Bulliard and his cronies arrive, chaos ensues; leaving a heartbroken Marla to clean up the mess caused by those she loves who betrayed her.

The latest Mason urban fantasy affirms that in a relatively short time, T.A Pratt has become a sub-genre star. Fans will find it fascinating as Marla introduces Bradley to the top sorcerers in town; as each teaches him a little bit of magic. He is like a younger brother to her whom once he learns to control his power will be a perfect successor to her. Readers will admire the heroine, but adore her innocent apprentice while also hoping her sibling will mend their estranged relationship, which she tries to do by assisting him on his scam. Like its predecessors (see DEAD REIGN, BLOOD ENGINES and POISON SLEEP) SPELL GAMES casts a magical enchantment on the readers to finish it in one sitting

Harriet Klausner

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Living with Ghosts-Kari Sperring

Living with Ghosts
Kari Sperring
Daw, Mar 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780756405427

The Kingdom of Merafi was founded on blood between the elementals and the first ruler. Magic fails to work here for the most part and ghosts are stars of stories to scare children. Yet an aristocrat sees the ghost of his late brother-in-law and a foreigner has the ghost of the man who killed the relative constantly with him. The queen is dying and her heir prince is only twelve years old. She hopes to have a more stable relationship with the Tarnaroqui who would love to conquer Merafi.

Gracielis, an exiled Tarnaroqui, is bound to the sorceress Quenfrida; he spies for her on items she feels is significant. He is the first to notice the things in the mists that should not be there as they enter the borders of Merafi. Lunedith is a vassal state of Merafi and its Prince Kendan is in the royal city paying homage to the queen; he plans to free his nation from Merafi rule when the time is right, which he believes is soon. He allies himself with Quenfrida to break the pact with the ancient powers. Creatures rise from the mists harming people; the river rises over it embankment adding more death and disease and enabling the creatures to break free of the mists killing incessantly while plague spreads across the capital. Gracielis, who failed as an assassin, is helped by allies, as they try to bring the river under control before the realm turns into Quenfrida’s dark vision.

This is an enthralling fantasy that contains horror elements interwoven into the story line. Gracielis believes he is a weak loser, which is how Quenfrida sees him too; however, when the realm is in peril, he finds courage to make decisions that counter his master’s wishes as he sounds the alarm of what is inside the mists. He is a complex individual with a failed past; a conflicting present as a spy for the sorceress and an advisor to one of the queen’s spymasters. This reviewer predicts Kari Sperring will have quite a future as a renowned fantasist.

Harriet Klausner

Friday, January 2, 2009

White Witch, Black Curse-Kim Harrison

White Witch, Black Curse
Kim Harrison
Eos, Feb 24 2009, $24.95
ISBN: 9780061138010

Although she has nightmares over what she will ultimately learn, Rachel Morgan continues her inquiry into the murder of her vampire boyfriend Kisten (see FOR A FEW DEMONS MORE). As she remains resolute she knows much of her fear comes from not remembering what happened just before her significant other died. She is also frustrated as neither her mundane hunting skills nor her witchcraft abilities have enabled her to achieve her objective (see THE OUTLAW DEMON WAILS).

While the witch struggles with the lack of progress in her investigation, a banshee family assaults the Hollows. As always the bitterness and distrust between humans and Inderland lead to more hostility. However there is a rare but common agreement that Rachel and her demons are behind the troubles.

The superb seventh Rachel Morgan fantasy contains a radically different feel to the story line as there is less action than in previous tales, especially the last two, and more depth into the souls of what motivates key characters. The poignant look is not just with Rachel; though the audience understands her trepidations yet need to solve the whodunit. Filled with the profound reflective musings of the cast, this is a must read for fans of the Morgan saga as WHITE WITCH, BLACK CURSE resolves key threads especially the big one from the previous entries and begins a new major twist.

Harriet Klausner

The Swan Maiden-Jules Watson

The Swan Maiden
Jules Watson
Bantam, Feb 24 2009, $12.00
ISBN: 9780553384642

In Erin, Deirdre at her birth is blessed with a beauty that is legendary even as a newborn. However, she is also cursed that her beauty will lead to civil war and the destruction of the kingdom of Ulster and consequently the downfall of King Conor. Chief Druid Cathbad upon hearing of the prophesy pleads with his monarch to either kill the baby or exile her. Fascinated by what Deirdre will be, Conor hides her in a remote forest in the province of Ulaid; the child is raised by foster-parents Connacht and Mumu and taught by Druid Levarcham the art of magic and nature.

Years pass and Deidre has gown into the most beautiful woman in the kingdom; perhaps the world. Conor wants her, but she is the captive of three rebellious Red Branch sibling warriors. Naisi the eldest hates the aging monarch and to his chagrin falls in love with his captive. He wants to take her away from Ulaid as his wife, but his younger brothers Ardan and Ainnle disagree. Besides Deirdre may love him back but has doubts about leaving her druidic forest. The final stage of the prophecy of Deirdre has begun

This retelling of the Irish mythological equivalent of Helen of Troy is a terrific saga that brings to life the Ancient Celtic period. The cast is solid especially the king, Naisi, and the title character. Although the detail into Celtic Erin can slow down the story line and move it more to a historical than a mythos, readers will enjoy the Irish rendition of “the face that launched a thousand ships”.

Harriet Klausner

40 Years-Bernd Struben

40 Years
Bernd Struben
Srider Nolan, Dec 2008, $9.95
www. Sridernolanmedia.com
ISBN: 1932045023

They are born, raised and educated for war. Kept in stasis until a mission occurs, the Augmented Combat Personnel (ACP) genetically enhanced soldiers know they are awaken only for conquest. They are humanity’s advanced soldiers in the twelve-century old competition against the Pfrianx to dominate habitable planets not yet conquered by either. The ACP understands he will cleanse an orb of its opposition inhabitants killing millions for the greater good of mankind; they are humane compared to their rivals who simply eradicate entire worlds while the ACP transfer survivors to remote hostile sectors on the conquered planet.

ACP Captain Brink D’Mar awakens knowing instantly his mission is to subdue a planet; this time 40 years beyond the most outer human controlled rock, a military combat deployment mobilization outpost. D’Mar follows the standard operating rules of engagement by offering the local populace of New Columbus (as the humans call it) a chance to surrender. However the native Borell reject the concept as it has no connotation in their language. As the death toll mounts, D’Mar begins to consider adoption of the Pfrlanx ethnic cleansing methodology as he must complete the mission, but to his shock finds pandemic genocide abhoring, a thought not in his upbringing.

This is an intriguing military science fiction tale that looks closely at the ethics of war especially colonization through conquest. D’Mar and his peers face a moral quandary as the Borells seem easy to defeat, but they never give up; willing to die instead. Although he knows none of the brass is near enough to witness any atrocities, the hero struggles with the awakening of ethics as he either destroys the entire populace or what else can he do. Well written and fast-paced, fans will relish this fine outer space saga starring a genetically engineered person who does not blink at the death of a million people as his moral slate was kept shallow and limited to standard operating procedures until the conflict 40 years away from his superiors awaken his conscience.

Harriet Klausner