Plastic by Christopher Fowler

Plastic
By Christopher Fowler

A whole new crime is committed on 30 July (US & Can) and 1 August (UK)

£7.99 (UK) ISBN 978-1-78108-124-2
$7.99/$9.99 (US & CAN) ISBN 978-1-78108-125-9

Available in paperback and ebook


Death and shopping in a razor sharp new crime thriller

“The dark reverse of a personal growth novel, a hoot of a crime thriller.” – The Independent

“A breathtaking thriller set in the dark shadow of the everyday … a razor sharp parable of modern life” – Jake Arnott

Christopher Fowler, the writer behind the Bryant & May series, is returning to Solaris with a new horror crime thriller that slices through the facile world of modern consumerist urban life.

June Cryer is a shopaholic suburban housewife trapped in a lousy marriage. After losing her home, husband and credit rating, she flat-sits a friend’s spectacular London high-rise apartment and prepares to indulge herself amidst London’s wealth.

But when a terrified girl breaks into the flat, June makes the mistake of asking the neighbours for help and she finds herself embroiled in an escalating nightmare, trying to prove that a murderer exists. For the next 24 hours she must survive on the streets without friends or money and solve an impossible crime.

Fowler has produced a dark thriller that skewers the lives of the urban rich, cutting open dark fears and bringing forth a novel that reveals the flimsy insecurities of modern life.

About the Author

Born in London, Christopher Fowler has written for film, radio, television, graphic novels and for newspapers, including The London Times, for more than thirty years. He is a regular columnist for The Independent on Sunday. Fowler is the multi-award winning author of more than thirty novels, including the lauded Bryant & May mysteries. In the past year he has been nominated for eight national book awards.



Also by Christopher Fowler

Hell Train
by Christopher Fowler
£7.99 (UK) ISBN 978-9-07992-43-8
$8.99/$9.99 (US & CAN) ISBN 978-1-907992-44-5
Available as an ebook

Tanya Huff, J Barton Mitchell, and Sam Neace reviews

The Silvered
Tanya Huff
DAW, $24.95
ISBN: 9780756407438

The powerful Kresentian Empire invades the Aydori Kingdom with brutal force as they loathe their enemy’s ruling species, werewolves. The Aydori and its allies expect their were-prowess accentuated by the mages to defeat the invaders. Instead, the Kresentian military use silver weapons to kill the courageous werewolves.

With the Kingdom falling into chaos and a genocide campaign underway, the Kresentian know only one thing could defeat them based on the prophecy of an unborn child leading the counterattack. To prevent this from happening, they capture five high-ranking Aydori women including the wife of the Mage Pack leader. Untested were Tomas Hagen the leader’s younger brother and underachieving mage Mirian Maylin who begin a rescue mission inside the Kresentian Empire to rescue the females.

This is an exciting romantic quest fantasy starring two individuals in a coming of age entertaining storyline while the prophecy will remind readers of Moses. Though the impossible odds are so overwhelming against their success that Vegas would refuse to take bets, fans will enjoy the trek of the werewolf and the mage into the heart of the enemy. Harriet Klausner

Midnight City
J. Barton Mitchell
St. Martin's Griffin, $17.99
ISBN: 9781250009074

Eight years ago the Assembly arrived and abducted almost every American adult. The new world order has the aliens controlling most of the country while human teen outlaw bands prey on the struggling survivors, mostly young children.

In this nightmarish landscape, persistent bounty hunter Holt Hawkins and his partner Max the dog hunt fugitive Mira Toombs while eluding the Assembly patrols and the teen gangs. As the diligent pair locates Toombs, they become distracted with the need to rescue Zoey, who the Assembly covets for her magical skills. The unlikely quartet heads to Midnight City; seeking to find out who Zoey is and why the Assembly want her.

Midnight City is an enjoyable young adult post-apocalyptic thriller starring likable protagonists. The storyline is fast-paced, but goes down the anticipated path of the Tuckman's Model of Group Development, betrayals and hostile enemies everywhere in pursuit. Still this is a fun fast-paced novel. Harriet Klausner

Sugarland Melting
Sam Neace
BlackWyrm, $11.95
www.blackwyrm.com
ISBN: 9781613181072

In Eastern Kentucky ninety-nine years old multimillionaire RJ Rockhouse constructs Sugarland, a thirteen trailer park in the shape of a cross. He soon expands his original concept to fifty trailers. Rockhouse selects families living below the poverty line to reside in the trailers rent free.

The nearby townsfolk wonder why he used this form of philanthropy when the affluent Rockhouse could donate to causes that would help many more people. Five years ago, RJ’s beloved wife Lola died. At her funeral he apparently lost his mind. Now the townsfolk believe his latest action affirms his insanity. Instead, RJ, who believes in the magic of 100, has a plan to transfer his soul and that of Lola into the bodies of his Sugarland residents.

Sugarland Melting is an engaging thriller that keeps readers guessing whether the storyline is a necromancy horror or a psychological suspense. Once readers know the path the entertaining plot goes, the excitement ebbs. Still this is a strong character driven tale of a desperate person trying to regain paradise lost at any cost. Harriet Klausner

Urban Fantasy, Science Fiction and Alternate History

Warrior Prince
Nancy J Cohen
The Wild Rose Press (Faery Rose), $15.99
www.thewildrosepress,com
ISBN: 9781612173573

Nira Larsen arrives at Drift World on Orlando’s International Drive for a make-up job interview though she is confused as the theme park’s log cabin employment office seemed to materialize in the parking lot out of thin air. Algie Morar welcomes Nira and asks her to test her skills on odd looking Jek by making him appear more human. When Nira resists Algie’s mental Confounding commands, the Drift World employee needs to know how so he directs Jek to restrain her. Drift Lord Warriors led by Commander Zohar Thoral rescue Nira while Algie escapes.

Like Algie, Zohar wants to understand how Nira resisted the Confounding but does not imprison the bewildered human; instead they seek to learn who she truly is. As she begins learn the truth behind ancient mythology, Nira is falling in love with Zohar and while he feels the same way. However, a malevolent force invades the earth through a schism in the Bermuda Triangle, the Drift Lord and the human know they must team up to save the planet, but neither trusts the other with their respective life or heart.

The first Drift Lord romantic urban fantasy is a super thriller as Nancy J Cohen brings ancient mythology to a city known for modern day mythos. The Cohen world feels real due to the warriors, their adversaries like the Trollecks and the mystery of Nira. Readers will relish this engaging save the planet before the protagonists can consider love. Harriet Klausner

Ghost Planet
Sharon Lynn Fisher
Tor, $7.99
ISBN: 9780765368973

Environmentally compared to earth Ardagh-1 is Eden. However, there is one major problem with this otherwise idyllic world: a native species hooks onto a human by taking the form of a dead person the outside knew. The alien spirits are meek followers of their “host”. Psychologically the colonists struggle with a deceased loved one following them everywhere they go New Seattle Counseling center chief psychologist Dr. Grayson Murphy issues the “Ghost Protocol,” which bans the colonist from interacting with their ghosts.

Dr. Elizabeth Cole arrives on Ardagh-1 to help the unsettling humans with their mental traumas. She thinks the “Ghost Protocol” is a mistake. Additionally the new psychologist is attracted to her supervisor until she realizes that Dr. Elizabeth Cole died due to a malfunction upon landing in the ocean instead of a pad. Her host Dr. Grayson Murphy ignores her existence, but unlike her new docile peers she plans to learn what she has become.

Ghost Planet is a great romantic science fiction with a strong premise that Sharon Lynn Fisher executes perfectly. Elizabeth is a super protagonist even though we (and she) know she died by chapter 2 as she keeps the fascinating storyline focused. Character driven, readers will appreciate this engaging tale. Harriet Klausner

1635: The Papal Stakes
Eric Flint and Charles E. Gannon
Baen, $25.00
ISBN: 9781451638394

In 1635 Rome, Cardinal Borja y Velasco of Spain has taken control of the Vatican. However, he is upset that Pope Urban VIII escaped. United States of Europe (USE) Ambassador Sharon Nichols and her husband Ruy Sanchez provide sanctuary for the beleaguered Pope and his retinue near Padua while Borja sends assassins to kill the Pope so that he can replace him as His Holiness.

Sharon finds radio contact with Colonel North fails. At the same time among Borja’s prisoners are Frank and pregnant Giovanna Stone. North dispatches Commander Harry Lefferts and his Wrecking Crew on an extraction mission.

The latest 1630s Ring of Fire alternate history (see 1634: The Galileo Affair collaborated with Andrew Dennis) is an exhilarating entry with a strong Papal Stakes plot enhanced by a profound look at seventeenth century Catholicism. The storyline is extremely complex as theological debate and armed combat (including targeted assassinations) combine to a fabulous thriller as Eric Flint and Charles E. Gannon prove a deft pairing. Harriet Klausner

Fire Season, Revenant Eve and The Shattered Dark reviewed

Fire Season
David Weber and Jane Lindskold
Baen, $18.99
ISBN: 9781451638400

Teenager Stephanie Harrington was euphoric when she obtained an internship in the junior forestry program on Meyerdahl. However, she became depressed when her family including her relocated to Sphinx, which had no such program. The seventeen-month winter and her boring peers at the Two Forks School are uninterested in her passion xeno-biology which adds to her despondency. Stephanie investigated the stealing of celery. That led to her meeting and bonding with Climbs Quickly the treecat. The Chief Forester named her and her only human friend Karl Zivonik is a provisional forest ranger (see A Beautiful Friendship).

Stephanie persuades Karl to allow her to use his family's aircar to practice flying. As the provisional forest rangers and Climbs Quickly fly, the treecat smells smoke. They inspect the fire and rescue twin treecats Left-striped and Right-striped who they bring to her father, a veterinarian.

Xenoanthropologist Dr. Whittaker arrives from Urako with his team and his son Anders to study the treecats. He distrusts the government including the Sphinxian Forestry Service to put the interests of the native population above those of the humans. Thus he leads his unit on an exploration of an abandoned clan site only to have their air-vehicle sink into the ground leaving them stranded while struggling to survive as forest fires ignites.

The second Stephanie Harrington Star Kingdom young adult science fiction thriller is a superb prequel to the Honor Harrington saga. The key cast is fully developed regardless of species or national origin. The storyline is great when the focus is on the interactions between the two species or the exploration of the planet; however, the teen relationships seem stereotypical. Still fans will enjoy exploring Sphinx with Harrington as our guide. Harriet Klausner

Revenant Eve
Sherwood Smith
DAW, $25.95
ISBN: 9780756407445

Southern California Professor Kim Murray prepares for her marriage to the Statthalter Marius Ysvorod, who will soon be the Crown Prince of Dobrenica. Her ancestors come from the small European nation, which recently regained its independence from the Soviets.

However, her happiness runs out of time when Kim finds herself in 1795 France as the spirit guardian to hybrid Aurélie de Mascarenhas of Saint-Domingue. The twelve year old girl is the only person who sees Kim. The college teacher realizes the stakes are whether she, her parents and grandparents exist if she fails to escort her charge to Dobrenica. This means the child must travel across dangerous anarchistic post-Revolutionary France. However, Aurélie’s family has plans for her and the French demand she spy for them as her fulfilling her destiny seems unlikely while both grow close with a profound understanding of Vrajhus, the Blessing, and the Nasdrafus.

The exciting Revenant Eve works on two fronts: as a terrific time travel thriller and as a Dobrenica entry (see Coronets and Steel, and Blood Spirits). The mentor and the mentee are fully developed so that the trials and tribulations of both seem genuine especially in light of what is at stake within the deadly era. Fans will relish this exhilarating thriller while newcomers will find this a fine taste of Dobrenica. Harriet Klausner

The Shattered Dark
Sandy Williams
Ace, $7.99
ISBN: 9781937007812

McKenzie Lewis attended college but differed from the other students in that she is a shadow reader who can see the fae and their movements between earth and the Realm. Called insane, McKenzie became apprentice to fae sword master Kyol. Together they supported the fae king against the rebels. Fae rebel leader Aren kidnapped McKenzie and she learned the truth that the side she supported was brutal and oppressive. The king and his top general died, but the fae remain divided and the civil war continues.

Though she loves Aren and adores Kyol, McKenzie looks forward to a normal life. However, even that proves out of reach when her BFF Paige vanishes and McKenzie must save her but the cost could be those she risked her life to protect.

The second Shadow Reader urban fantasy is a superb thriller as both sides in the dispute recognize the significance of the heroine’s skill and will do anything including an abduction of an innocent to insure cooperation. McKenzie ponders whether she can trust anyone as betrayal haunts her every step. With a strong romantic triangle adding to her dilemmas, fans will appreciate McKenzie’s fast-paced odyssey. Harriet Klausner

Young Adult Reviews

The Lost Prince
Julie Kagawa
Harlequin Teen, $9.99
ISBN: 9780373210572

Meghan Chase’s younger brother Ethan strictly adheres to his survival technique of never looking at the fey that he can see. He knows he wants nothing to do with the Iron Realm where his sister and her Ice Prince rule the Nevernever after spending a horrible time in that abomination (see The Iron King).

Though several years have passed since his living nightmare when his sibling became The Iron Queen, Ethan has become an angry acrimonious teen as he blames the fairy for his obsession to never allow anyone to get close to him. However, his avoidance technique ends when he starts a new school and gets into trouble with Miss Singer within thirty minutes due to Kenzie St. James. This is followed by a fight with a jock and Todd the half-breed recognizing he can see his true nature and Them; Thistle knows who his sister is. After the first day is over Ethan soon realizes that exiled fey and half-breeds are vanishing though he prefers his tough guy isolation, but cannot remain reclusive.

The first three Iron Fey urban fantasies (see The Iron King, The Iron Queen and The Iron Daughter) focused on Meghan; the fourth entry centered on her beloved Ash; this exciting thriller places Ethan as the prime lead. Ethan is an angry teen wanting to be left alone but his reputation precedes him (think of the Heath Ledger character in 10 Things I Hate About You). Staring with Kenzie the school reporter, he seems to land in constant trouble until he and his sidekick find themselves in the Iron Realm. Fans will enjoy the escapades of this tough guy as Kenzie, the Fey, the half-breed and his DNA lead to unending danger. Harriet Klausner

Sacrifice
Cayla Kluver
Harlequin Teen, $9.99
ISBN: 9780373210442

Sixteen years after the Legacy of their previous war, the forces of the Cokyr Kingdom led by Commander Narian conquer their neighbor Hytanica. The new teenage Queen Alera knows she and her people must wait for the right time before throwing off the yoke of their more powerful invader. She shares her rule with Narian, who she loves but loathes for betraying their people when he chose his Allegiance to his evil guardian the Cokyr monarch and the malevolent mystical Overlord.

Shaselle does not have the chains of ruling to hold her back. She thirsts to avenge the murder of her father as she prowls the capital seeking to join the growing resistance. Rebellion is everywhere in the nation forcing Queen Alera and Commander Narian to choose between leading and following.

The third Legacy young adult romantic military fantasy is an enjoyable finish to a fabulous trilogy in which the aggressor nation supports women’s rights while the oppressed does not. Filled with political intrigue in a medieval setting, fans will enjoy this entry wondering whether Alera can reveal her love for Narian to her people and if they will accept him as her consort; that is if they can defeat the Cokyr invaders. Harriet Klausner

The Tangled Bridge
Rhodi Hawk
Tor, $14.99
ISBN: 9780765324979

Tulane University Professor Madeleine LeBlanc, a psychologist, researched her family heritage in an attempt to avoid the shortcomings caused by the unique ability to see things that others cannot. She fears joining the long list of members committing suicide like her brother did (see A Twisted Ladder).

Madeleine vow to never use her power ends when she learns that Zenon, her great-grandmother Chloe the Voodoo Queen and their demons hunt a little boy she obsesses over keeping safe though he is the one who destroys her and her family. She and her friend Tulane neurologist Ethan Manderleigh finds a corpse physically murdered by a tall big woman controlled by someone else probably Chloe. Madeline looks back to the 1930s in New Orleans for answers to how to defeat her relatives.

The second Madeleine LeBlanc exciting urban psychological suspense fantasy is a family good and evil affair. Maddy is a complex individual who fears her bloodlines (either inheriting the darkness of century plus old malevolent Chloe or the schizophrenia of her father). The leisurely-paced convoluted storyline is atmospherically driven giving the plot a modern day bayou gothic feel. Not for everyone, fans who appreciate something interesting but different will want to cross The Tangled Bridge where past and present converge. Harriet Klausner

Stephen Baxter, Jack McDevitt and Mike Resnick

Bronze Summer
Stephen Baxter
Roc, $26.95
ISBN: 9780451464798

Millennia have passed since the Year of the Great Sea led to teenagers Ana and Novu leading the construction of the Great Wall. By the Year of the Fire Mountain, Northland has become a prosperous pat of the continent rather than being under the North Sea or conquered by the kingdoms to the east. The impoverished Greeks look at Northland and its trading partner the thriving Hittites for conquest during devastating drought.

In the Northland capital Etxelur, the head of the ruling order dies in what appears to be an accident at a time her daughter Milaqa has failed to choose which Order to join. Milaqa’s Uncle Teel believes his sister was murdered and demands his grieving niece join him and the secret Order of the Crow in investigating the death. At the same time Qirum and dethroned queen Kilushepa team up to take advantage of the chaos engulfing much of the continent including Northland.

The second Northland alternate prehistoric thriller (see Stone Spring) has moved the people from a stone age into a bronze age at a time when an Icelandic volcanic eruption has led to climate change and famine. The action-filled storyline is filled with too much blood and gore distracting from the engaging political and social upheaval started by that volcano erupting; violence is a way of life in Stephen Baxter’s Bonze Age tale. Harriet Klausner

The Cassandra Project
Jack McDevitt and Mike Resnick
Ace, $25.95
ISBN: 9781937008710

In 2019, the United States remains in the throes of the Great Recession. Federal agencies are cut to the bone so that there is little strategic planning when surviving daily operations has become the norm. In that environs, NASA press director agent Jerry Culpepper is a long term thinker grounded in reality.

Jerry releases material from the 1960s Apollo mission that contains a shocking recording between Houston and Sydney Myshko, captain of the first test mission to circle the moon on which the astronaut says he is landing. In the second test mission, astronaut Aaron Walker wrote in his diary that he walked on the moon. Two now deceased men and apparently a few others claim to have taken that “… giant leap for mankind” before Armstrong did. Jerry seeks the truth while trying to contain what seems to be a scandalous cover-up that capitalist Bucky Blackstone plans to exploit for his private enterprise moon landings. President George Cunningham realizes he loses credibility no matter what happens.

This is a superb NASA thriller that works because the key players seem genuine especially in how they react to the information as it is found. With a nod to the movie Capricorn One but with realistic people and critically no odious villains, fans will want to know if Armstrong was fifth in the batting order and why the four astronauts to precede him were not acknowledged as walking on the moon.
Harriet Klausner

Home, The Walking Dead, and Halo

Home
Matthew Costello
Dunne, $25.99
ISBN: 9781250012739

After the assault by the feral cannibalistic Can Heads left his Brooklyn police bat partner dead and him injured, NYPD police officer Jack Murphy, accompanied by his wife Christie and their two kids (Kate and Simon) go on Vacation to the Upstate fortified Paterville Family Camp. There he and his family eat old fashion real food, drink pure water, and have fun until he sacrifices himself to keep his beloved family safe (see Vacation).

Christie, Kate and Simon are shocked by what happened to their dad, but have no time to grieve if Jack’s last actions are to be meaningful. They barely escape from the Paterville Family Camp, but fear there is no sanctuary anywhere in a world gone mad. Still, the trio struggles to survive from the nightmares they know exist and even more horrid beasts they will soon learn exist.

The second Murphy family post-apocalyptic horror tale is a gripping survivor thriller as three innocents struggle to stay alive. Their ordeal is fast-paced but at times lacks vividness due to the frantic speed of the plot. Still readers will want to travel the road with the Murphy family who believe in Schwartz’s Law as their namesake’s law proves too optimistic. Harriet Klausner

The Walking Dead: The Road to Woodbury
Robert Kirkman and Jay Bonansinga
Dunne, $24.99
ISBN: 9780312547745

In what was the Atlanta metropolitan area, the zombie plague continues to spread unabated. Those still human struggle to survive against The Walking Dead taking shelter wherever they can find temporary safety; these spots are dwindling. Frightened Lilly Caul seeks sanctuary as she flees from the undead horde, but rarely finds it and when she does it is temporary as the abominations never rest in their endless quest for live flesh.

Lily reaches the fortified town of Woodbury, Georgia; a haven for squatters to barter in relatively safety from the Walking Dead. In a previous life, he was known as Philip Blake, but now he is the Governor of Woodbury. After feeling safe for the first time since the plague began, Lily has a new fear as she observes how the Governor and his law enforcement rule the city with an iron fist. She and others rebel against his tyranny as Woodbury implodes from within.

The sequel to the Rise of the Governor is an exciting horror thriller based on the Benjamin Franklin premise that “Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.” Fast-paced, fans will enjoy this entry though they also will wonder how traumatized scared of shadows Lily suddenly turns into a ferocious freedom fighter. Harriet Klausner

Halo: The Thursday War
Karen Traviss
Tor, $15.99
ISBN: 9780765323941

In 2553, the Unified Earth’s Office of Naval Intelligence assigns psyops unit Kilo-Five to occupy the Sangheili Covenant by causing internal troubles so that the enemy loses sight of what earth is doing to insure their permanent defeat. To accomplish their mission, the black-ops squad first must prevent the Covenant’s former military leaders the Elites from regaining control and second foster a civil war.

On recently liberated Onyx, the ONI interrogates captured Elite Jun Mdama who has his own plans for the human enemies. Meanwhile all is going well in Sangheili until Captain Serine Osman reports back to headquarters in Sydney that she lost contact with her Sangheili language and cultural awareness expert Professor Evan Phillips. Besides never leaving behind anyone and in this case his knowledge is too valuable to ignore, Osman knows she needs to mount an extraction from Sangheili unaware the professor is knee deep in Forerunner technology.

This is an exciting fresh spin to the Halo universe as the second post-war military science fiction (see Glasslands) occurs after Halo 3 has several key players fascinatingly looking back at the moral decisions they made especially with deployment of the Spartans during the hostilities. The other major subplot is a deep look at the enemy’s civil war. Fans of the game will enjoy this tale though will need to adjust to the relatively minor role of the Spartans as they were created for war, so with a tentative peace their action is much less than it has been. Harriet Klausner

Young Adult Reviews

The Lost Prince
Julie Kagawa
Harlequin Teen, $9.99
ISBN: 9780373210572

Meghan Chase’s younger brother Ethan strictly adheres to his survival technique of never looking at the fey that he can see. He knows he wants nothing to do with the Iron Realm where his sister and her Ice Prince rule the Nevernever after spending a horrible time in that abomination (see The Iron King).

Though several years have passed since his living nightmare when his sibling became The Iron Queen, Ethan has become an angry acrimonious teen as he blames the fairy for his obsession to never allow anyone to get close to him. However, his avoidance technique ends when he starts a new school and gets into trouble with Miss Singer within thirty minutes due to Kenzie St. James. This is followed by a fight with a jock and Todd the half-breed recognizing he can see his true nature and Them; Thistle knows who his sister is. After the first day is over Ethan soon realizes that exiled fey and half-breeds are vanishing though he prefers his tough guy isolation, but cannot remain reclusive.

The first three Iron Fey urban fantasies (see The Iron King, The Iron Queen and The Iron Daughter) focused on Meghan; the fourth entry centered on her beloved Ash; this exciting thriller places Ethan as the prime lead. Ethan is an angry teen wanting to be left alone but his reputation precedes him (think of the Heath Ledger character in 10 Things I Hate About You). Staring with Kenzie the school reporter, he seems to land in constant trouble until he and his sidekick find themselves in the Iron Realm. Fans will enjoy the escapades of this tough guy as Kenzie, the Fey, the half-breed and his DNA lead to unending danger. Harriet Klausner

Sacrifice
Cayla Kluver
Harlequin Teen, $9.99
ISBN: 9780373210442

Sixteen years after the Legacy of their previous war, the forces of the Cokyr Kingdom led by Commander Narian conquer their neighbor Hytanica. The new teenage Queen Alera knows she and her people must wait for the right time before throwing off the yoke of their more powerful invader. She shares her rule with Narian, who she loves but loathes for betraying their people when he chose his Allegiance to his evil guardian the Cokyr monarch and the malevolent mystical Overlord.

Shaselle does not have the chains of ruling to hold her back. She thirsts to avenge the murder of her father as she prowls the capital seeking to join the growing resistance. Rebellion is everywhere in the nation forcing Queen Alera and Commander Narian to choose between leading and following.

The third Legacy young adult romantic military fantasy is an enjoyable finish to a fabulous trilogy in which the aggressor nation supports women’s rights while the oppressed does not. Filled with political intrigue in a medieval setting, fans will enjoy this entry wondering whether Alera can reveal her love for Narian to her people and if they will accept him as her consort; that is if they can defeat the Cokyr invaders. Harriet Klausner

The Tangled Bridge
Rhodi Hawk
Tor, $14.99
ISBN: 9780765324979

Tulane University Professor Madeleine LeBlanc, a psychologist, researched her family heritage in an attempt to avoid the shortcomings caused by the unique ability to see things that others cannot. She fears joining the long list of members committing suicide like her brother did (see A Twisted Ladder).

Madeleine vow to never use her power ends when she learns that Zenon, her great-grandmother Chloe the Voodoo Queen and their demons hunt a little boy she obsesses over keeping safe though he is the one who destroys her and her family. She and her friend Tulane neurologist Ethan Manderleigh finds a corpse physically murdered by a tall big woman controlled by someone else probably Chloe. Madeline looks back to the 1930s in New Orleans for answers to how to defeat her relatives.

The second Madeleine LeBlanc exciting urban psychological suspense fantasy is a family good and evil affair. Maddy is a complex individual who fears her bloodlines (either inheriting the darkness of century plus old malevolent Chloe or the schizophrenia of her father). The leisurely-paced convoluted storyline is atmospherically driven giving the plot a modern day bayou gothic feel. Not for everyone, fans who appreciate something interesting but different will want to cross The Tangled Bridge where past and present converge. Harriet Klausner

Romantic Fantasies

Edge of Oblivion
J.T. Geissinger
Montlake Romance, 12.95
ISBN: 9781612184197

The Ikati convict shapeshifter Morgan Montgomery of treason for her recent blunder (see Shadow’s Edge). Feeling guilty for what happened due to her colossal mistake, she knows and accepts that treason means automatic state execution.

Instead Ikati Queen Jenna gives her a last chance reprieve to prove her loyalty. She has two weeks to find and eliminate their enemy the Expurgari. Accompanying her is Xander Luna the loyal top assassin, whose assignment is to kill Morgan if she fails on her quest. On their dangerous journey, Xander and Morgan begin to fall in love, but she believes, as he should, that will not prevent him from executing Plan B if necessary.

The second Night Prowler romantic urban fantasy is an engaging suspense thriller with a similar underlying premise as in Shadow’s Edge with readers wondering whether Xander can execute his beloved. The affected dialect of the Ikati anchors the Geissinger mythos with a freshness that needs some adjustment to accept from the audience. The romance between the lead couple adds tension to an entertaining quest fantasy. Harriet Klausner

Forbidden
Jacquelyn Frank
Ballantine, $7.99
ISBN: 9780345517692

In Saugerties, New York, while talking to her brother Jackson, Docia Waverley walks across a bridge over where the Esopus River meets the Hudson. Suddenly a passenger in an SUV pushes her over the railing. An annoying voice in her head welcomes her to the Ether by giving her a choice between her death and returning to earth but sharing her body with the voice. Docia accepts the terms of her Egyptian hostess.

Simone wants Docia dead and that person sends killers to finish the job. A stranger Ram saves her life, but confuses her when he welcomes her as his returning Queen. However though sworn to protect her and his best friend the king, Ram’s two souls want Docia’s two souls even as an ancient war remains heated.

The first World of the Nightwalkers romantic urban fantasy is a terrific expansion of Jacquelyn Frank’s mythos with the introduction of a new species. The Bodywalkers forge beneficial partnerships with dying mortals that enable each to survive. The storyline is fast-paced from the moment the heroine is shoved from the bridge and never slows down as readers learn of the ancient hostilities and meet the Bodywalkers. Harriet Klausner


The Emperor's Soul
Brandon Sanderson
Tachyon Publications, $14.95
www.tachyonpublications.com
ISBN: 9781616960926

They capture Shai the Forger as she attempts to steal the emperor’s Moon Scepter by replacing it with a perfect replica that she created, which rewrites its history. Emperor Ashravan’s advisors like Councilor Gaotona and Frava the Arbiter debate what to do with the abomination they normally would execute for her thieving and her despicable magic. However, Frava persuades Gaotona they can use their prisoner in this time of crisis.

Gaotona and Frava know that once the hundred day mourning period for the deceased empress is done, either their ruler appears in public or the empire will implode into lethal chaos with the end of the Heritage Faction rule. They demand Shai forge a new history for Emperor Ashravan who is near death since an assassin removed his consciousness. If she refuses she dies so she buys time by acquiescing knowing she has never done anything like what her captures demand of her.

The Emperor’s Soul is an engaging leisurely paced fantasy in which Brandon Sanderson makes true believers of fans in the magic of forging though the dialogue between Shai and Gaotona. Told mostly by her viewpoint, Shai is an antihero who seeks opportunity in all her endeavors including her current incarceration gig. The other prime player Gaotona is not fully developed beyond how Shai sees him. Still fans will enjoy their battle over creating The Emperor's New Clothes. Harriet Klausner

Seven Forges by James A. Moore

SEVEN FORGES, James A. Moore, Angry Robot, forthcoming in October 2013, reviewed by Barry Hunter.

When I first heard James A. Moore was writing his first fantasy novel, there were three things I knew to expect. One – his characters would not be cookie cutter copies of Robert E. Howard’s Conan or Michael Moorcock’s Elric. Two – his characters would be interesting and different. Three – I was going to be in for a hell of a read. I was right on all three counts and I’m sure that everyone who picks up this title will agree.

Merros Dulver, a former captain in the emperor’s army, is leading an expedition to the Seven Forges – a group of mountains on the other side of the Blasted Lands. He was hired by the wizard, Desh Krohan, to visit and map the area of the Seven Forges. Along with his mercenary forces are his friend Hollis and three servants of the wizard – a beautiful trio of women, a blonde, a brunette and a redhead. For over a thousand years, since the First Kingdom, nothing has come out of the Blasted Lands except the Plague Winds, the Pra-Moresh and dust. No one who has gone to explore the Blasted Lands has ever returned.

The group is attacked by a herd of Pra-Moresh, an extremely large carnivore, and is joined in the battle by Drask Silver Hand of the Sa’ba Taaler, who has been sent by his god to find Merros.

Merros and his expedition are taken to the Seven Forges and treated as honored guests and given maps and information to return to Desh Krohan and the emperor. A group of the Sa’ba Taalor joins Merros on his return trip to prepare for the king’s visit to Fellein.

Add in some deadly palace intrigue, ten Sa’ba Taalor warriors taking on a thousand man invading force, how Drask received his silver hand, and why Merros Dulver is so important are some of the other events that transpire in this first volume of the Seven Forges Trilogy.

When I began the book, I did not know it was going to be a trilogy, but I am anxiously awaiting the release of THE CRUCIBLES OF THE SOUL and the concluding volume of this magnificent new creation from the very fertile mind of James A. Moore.

James A. Moore is well known for his horror works and has many readers waiting for his novels featuring Jonathan Crowley. I am positively sure those readers and some new ones as well will be looking forward to his fantasy novels as well.

Press Release

Solaris is delighted to announce that award-winning editor Jonathan Strahan is bringing his critically-acclaimed and award-winning The Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of the Year series of anthologies to the imprint.

Building on the extremely successful series of original anthologies that Strahan has commissioned in his Infinity and Fearsome Journeys titles for Solaris, Solaris has signed a two-book agreement for the world-renowned series, ensuring it has a long-term home.

The next volume in the series, The Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of the Year: Volume 8, will be published in April 2014.

Solaris is over the moon to provide a new home for the series, which was previously published by Night Shade Books.

The series has been a powerhouse in contemporary short fiction for many years, showcasing the biggest and brightest names in SF and Fantasy together in one collection. Previous volumes have included work from Neil Gaiman, Stephen Baxter, Elizabeth Bear, Stephen King, Cory Doctorow, Susan Palwick, Joe Abercrombie, Holly Black, and Charles Stross – to name but a few.

Jonathan Strahan said: “I am delighted that the Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of the Year series has found a new home at Solaris. We have already had a lot of success together publishing the award-winning Infinity anthology series, and I can’t imagine anyone doing a better job with these books. Solaris can provide the series with the worldwide audience I’ve always felt it needed, so this is particularly exciting for me. I’m already busy reading for the next volume in the series, and think we can make it something special.

Press Release

Acquisition announcement

Eternal youth … at a price

Ivo Stourton brings The Happier Dead to Solaris in 2014

Author, playwright and lawyer Ivo Stourton is bringing his first genre novel to Solaris in 2014.

Set in a London of the future, The Happier Dead sees a corrupted city dominated by a rejuvenating spa, the control over which gives Britain unparalleled global power. But the spa’s treatments, available only to those who can afford them, hide dark secrets that are set to unravel.

He has previously written The Night Climbers – a novel about a group of friends who get involved in art fraud – and last year’s The Book Lover's Tale, which deals with books as both interior design and a tool of seduction.

Solaris editor-in-chief, Jonathan Oliver said: “Ivo Stourton’s near future crime novel is an intelligent, moving and incredibly entertaining thriller. There are shades of Philip K. Dick and even The Prisoner here, but it’s Ivo’s distinctive voice that makes this such a compelling read.”

The Happier Dead will be published in February 2014 in both the UK and North America.

The Great Spa sits on the edge of London, a structure so huge as to be visible from space. The power of Britain on the world stage rests in its monopoly on "The Treatment", a medical procedure which can transform those rich and powerful enough to obtain a license into a state of permanent physical youth.

The Great Spa is the place where the newly young immortals go to revitalise their aged souls. In this most important and secure of facilities, a murder of one of the guests threatens to destabilise the new order, and DCI Oates of the Metrolpolitan police is called in to investigate.

In a single day Oates must unravel the secrets behind the Treatment, passing through a London riven with riots, disorder and corruption, moving towards a final climax which could lead to the destruction of the Great Spa, his own ruin, and the loss of everything he holds most dear.

Historical Romance, Death and Witches

A Lady Of Expectations And Other Stories
Stephanie Laurens, Nicola Cornick and Kasey Michaels
Harlequin HQN, $7.99
ISBN: 9780373777235

“A Lady of Expectations” by Stephanie Laurens. Considered a rake, Jack Lester wants a family but needs a wife who loves him. As such he conceals his wealth from the Ton. Jack believes Sophie Winterton is for him; but though she loves him, she rejects his courtship as she believes he needs to marry a wealthy heiress to save his estate.

“Secrets of a Courtesan” by Nicola Cornick. Eve Nightingale was once a mistress to the Duke of Welburn, but left him to settle as a respectable shopkeeper in Fortune's Folly. Five years after she vanished, Welburn arrives in the village.

“How to Woo a Spinster” by Kasey Michaels. Lady Emmaline Daughtry accepts her spinster status as a foregone conclusion. When Captain John Alistair tells her bad news, he admires her reaction. Obsessing over helping her, he remains nearby.

These reprints of three entertaining historical romances are fun reads that showcase the early talent of the authors though the plots are straightforward. The Nicola Cornick entry is part of her Brides of Fortune series (see The Confessions of a Duchess and The Undoing of a Lady) and the Kasey Michaels' contribution is a Daughtry family tale (see How To Tame A Lady). Harriet Klausner

Death's Apprentice
K. W. Jeterand and Gareth Jefferson Jones
Dunne, $24.99
ISBN: 9780312547714

The Devil created Grimm City on top of Hell as the center of his activity on earth. Many of his minions do business in the thriving metropolis; a place where mortal and supernatural can purchase almost anything for the right price.

Death and his young apprentice Nathaniel enter a club to take away a drug user’s soul. However, this time after a decade of assisting his mentor Nathaniel reacts differently as something unknown happens to him. At about the same time Blake the wraith kills skinheads who attacked the rag men and Hank the seven foot tall and seemingly as wide hit man destroys a crack house. Soon these two essences join Nathaniel in leading a revolt on several plains against the devil.

The first Grimm City horror thriller is a dark and grim with an incredibly detailed world in which the paranormal like witches soar. Built upon the collective works of the Brothers Grimm, this is a fabulous fast-paced, blood and gore tale. Readers will appreciate the epic odyssey of Death's Apprentice and his two partners as this improbable threesome take the final battle to the Devil with humanity at stake. Harriet Klausner

Angels at the Table
Debbie Macomber
Ballantine, $18.00
ISBN: 9780345528872

Three angelic amigas (Shirley, Goodness and Mercy) and their apprentice Will visit the in-spot Times Square on New Year’s Eve to enjoy the festivities. As the Big Apple countdown winds down, Will notices two lonely people. Though he knows rule number on in the guardian angel handbook states no interference with humans, Will feels these two are made for each other; so he cause a slight bumping between Lucie Farrara and Aren Fairchild. At midnight Lucie and Aren kiss stunning both of them. However, whether the time was wrong or some other reason, the wannabe chef and the food critic go their separate ways.

Months pass with the couple remembering that enchanted midnight moment but never expect lightning to strike twice. Meanwhile the three bungling matchmaking angels try to rectify the inept rookie’s mistake, but each effort they make to correct the problem only sends Lucie and Aren further apart; as a universal law they seem unable to overcome is that a chef and a critic are like oil and water even when love binds them.

The latest Shirley, Goodness and Mercy holiday romantic fantasy is an entertaining lighthearted Christmas tale. Filled with humor, fans will enjoy the wonderful Angels at the Table even if the thin storyline follows the narrow path of least resistance that readers anticipate. Harriet Klausner

Vampires, Witches, and Paranormals

Kissed By A Vampire
Caridad Pineiro
Harlequin Nocturne, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373885589

Two millennia ago, a betrayal by her beloved turned Stacia into a vampire who trusts no one so she roams the night alone. While on the prowl for chow in South beach, she finds a mortal near death. Though she cannot fathom why, instead of biting what was left of his life, Stacia saved him (see Death Calls).

In Miami, DEA agent Alex Garcia works a human trafficking case that targets young girls. When he runs into Stacia, Alex is stunned as he assumed the beautiful female haunting his dreams was a fantasy caused by his near death experience. Stacia realizes why she saved Alex’s life as she is attracted to him just like he is to her.

The latest action-packed Calling paranormal romance (see Fury Calls and Blood Calls) is a fast-paced romantic urban fantasy starring an elder vampire and a DEA human. Fans will enjoy their Miami joyride as they team up in love to rescue the girls and take down the vicious criminals. Harriet Klausner

The Witch’s Initiation
Elle James
Harlequin Nocturne, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373885572

While attending college in Chicago, Aurai Chattox vanishes without a trace. While her four older sisters come to the Windy City, CPD undercover operative Cal Black investigates the disappearance of the sorority sister. To Cal, the case is personal as he was once engaged to the victim’s sister Deme until she left him without a word one year ago.

Deme prefers Cal to leave the quest to her and her siblings. However, dedicate cop that he is, Cal refuses to abide by the wishes of the woman who broke his heart. As they work together over her objections, Cal begins to see impossible things occur and soon learns Deme dumped him for fear of how he would react to learn the Chattox sisters are witches. When they find the darkness, the cop and the witch, realizing they remain in love, also know their chances of survival are slim at best.

The Witch’s Initiation is an exciting fast-paced romantic urban fantasy that will have readers believing in the paranormal in Chicago. The lead couple is fabulous second chance at love (after mission accomplished, if they live long enough) pairing. Although the climax is abrupt, fans will appreciate touring Chicago with Deme and Cal as our guides. Harriet Klausner

After Moonrise
P.C. Cast and Gina Showalter
Harlequin HQN, $14.95
ISBN: 9780373776481

“Possessed” by P.C. Cast. Psychic detective Kent Raef uses negativity to catch murderers. Lauren Wilcox asks for his help to find her twin sister’s murderer so her sibling, who communicates with her, can move on.

“Haunted” by Gina Showalter. Artist Aurora Harper believes she witnessed a vicious murder that her conscious mind repressed while subconsciously she paints the deadly scene. She turns to Detective Levi Reid, who struggles with memory lapses of unaccountable time, for help in finding the victim and the killer.

These are two engaging paranormal romantic investigate thrillers starring strong characters and a firm belief that the otherworldly essences exist.Harriet Klausner

Nerve, Darkwater, and Deadtime Stories

Nerve
Jeanne Ryan
Dial, $17.99
ISBN: 9780803738324

High school junior “Little” Vee is the one who hides behind the curtain designing costumes and applying makeup to others. Matthew challenges her to audition at a prelim Dare for a spot on the popular Nerve reality show that fans pay a fee to watch. Deciding to enter, she pours cold water on her T-shirt; her friend Tommy sends her Dare to the show.

Now she, Ian and several other chosen ones team up and back stab as they begin taking on challenges with coveted customized prizes as their rewards. The stunts increasingly turn dangerous as each participant debases themselves in the not so friendly competition.

Nerve is an unnerving thriller as Jeanne Ryan asks readers how far someone will go for fame and fortune. The storyline is frantically-paced as Vee and the other contestants seemingly answer that question with anything though psychologically what motivates each of them is not very clear. With a nod to Chuck Barris’s Gong Show and Andy Warhol’s wry comment “In the future everyone will have their fifteen minutes of fame”, fans will relish this insightful look at the contestants inside the coliseum. Harriet Klausner

Darkwater
Catherine Fisher
Dial, $16.99
ISBN: 9780803738188

Trevelyan gambled away Darkwater Hall and lost all his money. He and his sixteen year old Sarah reside with their former servant Martha in her dilapidated cottage. Her dad remains domicile depressed even as the villagers scorn and humiliate Sarah; while her employer schoolmistress Mrs. Hubbard is even crueler. When Mrs. Hubbard canes Emmeline Rowney, Sarah intercedes; only losing her position. Observing her and seemingly impressed by her courage, Darkwater Hall owner Lord Azrael offers her a chance to regain her family home and atone for the hideous misdeeds of her ancestors. She accepts his demand of her soul, which he will collect in a century.

One-hundred years later, fifteen years old Tom and his mom live in Martha’s Cottage. His mother works as a cleaner at Darkwater Hall School. Tom wants to attend the school where his great-grandmother was once a student, but knows he has no chance. Professor Azrael offers him a deal that has Sarah trying to prevent from happening as she does not want the teen to make the same mistake she made when she sold her soul to Azrael.

This is a superb young adult Faustian thriller told in two parts: Victorian England and the late twentieth century. The storyline is fast-paced yet the key cast members are fully developed. With several stunning twist especially a great climatic spin, fans will root for brave Sarah to keep Tom safe and find a loophole in her damning contract with mysterious Azrael. Harriet Klausner

Invasion of the Appleheads: Deadtime Stories
Annette and Gina Cascone
Starscape/Tor, $14.99
ISBN: 9780765330680

The Lawrence family is divided by generation as to their feelings towards their new hometown Appleton. The parents love the time warp cozy village while the two children (Katie and Andy) are bored.

On Halloween minus one night, the adults take the kids on a haunted hayride at an apple orchard; once allegedly owned by a witch who created a potion to change the apples so that kids taking a bite would become zombies. Katie and Andy notice their peers acting weird as if they are zombies and also observe adults including their parents changing into applehead dolls. Frightened, the pair concludes witches have spiked the cider with an evil potion. They must save their parents and the townsfolk from the wicked witches of Appleton as time ticks away.

This Twisted Sisters’ Deadtime Stories provides a fast-paced scary tale that middle school readers will relish; especially the premise that adults are blind to the threat while kids must save the night. The siblings make a terrific team as they hold the storyline focused while preparing to combat evil. Horrifically vivid (to the delight of fans) the Cascone siblings entertain their audience with a taut horror thriller. Harriet Klausner

Demons, Angels and Magic

Wicked Whisper
Nina Bangs
Berkley, $15.0
ISBN: 9780425253137

At the Castle of Dark Dreams on Galveston Island, guest Murmer the demon informs his friend Bain that he needs to find an isolated place to release his music power before he harms someone when he loses control due to his ability if turning into an internal torture. On a beach with no one in sight, he begins his tune.

Newly hired personal assistant to Sparkle Stardust whom she has not yet met, Ivy Lowe is on the beach when she hears the music. She cannot stop herself from dancing until Murmer joins her before freeing her. Ivy dreams of Murmer in spite of her efforts to focus on the job only. Holgarth the Wizard warns her to stay away from the dangerous Murmer whose music leaves others dead. Neither the dark Underworld soulless one nor the innocent human can avoid their attraction. However, Bain needs Murmer’s talent and has plans for Ivy involving the rescue of his love trapped with the Slaugh Sidhe Unseelie horde.

The latest erotic Castle of Dark Dreams romantic urban fantasy (see Wicked Fantasy and My Wicked Vampire) is an enjoyable wicked entry tale starring an intriguing demon whose power leaves fear in just about everyone; yet this nonentity holds her own with him. Though the lead couple’s relationship seems similar to that between the virginal angel and the sinful demon, fans will enjoy this fast-paced star-crossed lovers’ thriller. Harriet Klausner

The Trial of Fallen Angels
James Kimmel, Jr.
Amy Einhorn Books/Putnam, $23.95
ISBN: 9780399159695

Brek Abigail Cuttler arrives at abandoned Shemaya Train Station bloody and is somewhat confused about how she got here and what her ten month old daughter Sarah looks like. Luas arrives to inform her that she died when she stopped to pick up milk. The lawyer thinks he is her first legal mentor the late Bill Gwynne. She rejects the notion that she is dead though she misses her child and her spouse Bo.

He escorts her to her to her beloved deceased Nana’s house to prepare her for her afterlife as a defense attorney for souls going before the all mighty Judge. Nana tells her granddaughter that the souls she meets will help her deal with what happened to her on the mortal plane and prepare her to continue her celestial journey. Brek begins her passionate defense of her clients but wonders whether one can receive a fair trial without a jury of your peers when God is sitting in judgment and oversees the procedures.

This exciting allegorical tale uses the Albert Brooks’ “Defending Your Life" premise enhanced by God sitting in judgment of the souls before the celestial bench. The storyline engages the reader while Brek keeps the plot focused as she raises questions of fair play, redemption and forgiveness. Although the key celestial cast is underdeveloped, fans will enjoy Brek’s look at most people who are saint and sinner as she appeals that the judgmental procedures are biased towards the wicked deeds superseding the good ones. Harriet Klausner

Angel’s Ink
Jocelynn Drake
Harper Voyager, $14.99
ISBN: 9780062117861

Those with innate magician abilities must reside in Ivory Towers as a witch or a warlock. No one dares defy the rule until Gage Powell. He has issues with his peers over the treatment of the masses as he sees them as individual humans while everyone else living in Ivory Towers looks at them as chattel. Gage does the unthinkable when he opts to leave, insulting his warlock mentor Simon. The Council grants him his freedom but warns him he is not to delve in magic except in self-defense.

In Low Town, Gage opens up Asylum Tattoo Parlor catering to customers who covet something special in their inking. Bronx the troll and Trixie the elf work for Gage. Dying from cancer, Tera asks Gage to tattoo her entire back so when she goes to hell she will be wearing his angel wings. She admits she cannot pay him his costs, but moved by her story he does as she asks, but adds a special to the mix. From that kindness, Gage learns the road to hell is inked with good intentions as everything goes wrong when Trixie’s secret past surfaces and Simon places a bounty on Gage’s head.

Though the premise of a renegade practitioner has been used in urban fantasies, Jocelynn Drake provides a brisk entry mostly because readers will believe in the magic of her realm as the caste system enhances the mythos. Gage is an endearing individual who care about others as he prefers to do no harm. His assistants are loyal to him and likewise him to them. However, Simon’s diabolical scheme makes for a fast-paced thriller that fans will relish. Harriet Klausner

Reviews from Harriet

Merge /Disciple: Two Short Novels from Crosstown to Oblivion
Walter Mosley
Tor, Oct 2 2012, $24.99
ISBN: 9780765330093

“Merge.” Lottery winner Raleigh Redman finds an alien in his home. He calls the ET Wood since the creature arrived on earth as a dead tree branch who, like others from their homeworld, needs to merge on earth to survive.

“Disciple.” Data entry minion Trent Tryman hates his tedious job. His life changes when he finds himself saving civilization.

The second double Crosstown to Oblivion novellas (see The Gift of Fire/On the Head of a Pin) contains two engaging science fiction tales though both themes have been used before. Harriet Klausner

Phantom Shadows
Dianne Duvall
Zebra, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420118636

Though he agreed to join the Immortal Guardians, Bastien Newcombe trusts no one especially his new teammates. For centuries, Bastien has always been a lone wolf and prefers living that way. His new warrior cronies treat him with wary disdain so the feelings are mutual.

Human Dr. Melanie Lipton seeks a cure to prevent the lethal insanity brought on by the vampire virus. Unlike everyone else who would like him gone preferably in a body bag, the medical researcher treats Bastien with respect as if he belongs here. Hell she even listens to his intelligent but differing ideas. As their admiration turns to attraction and love, a new threat, deadlier than the deposed Vampire King has surfaced.

The third Immortal Guardians romantic urban fantasy (see Darkness Dawns and Night Reigns) is a terrific action-packed thriller. Bastien brings the freshness to the mix as a lone ranger who has never felt a need to belong with anyone (the antithesis of the third step of Maslow’s Hierarchy) until Melanie. Readers will enjoy this enjoyable entry as love and a new danger keep Melanie, Bastien and fans hopping. Harriet Klausner

Little Magic Shop of Horrors: Deadtime Stories
Gina Cascone and Annette Cascone
Starscape/Tor, $14.99
ISBN: 9780765330758

The school hosts a talent contest with the prize being a twenty-one-speed mountain bike that student Peter Newman covets. Making matters worse is Mary Margaret looks like a sure shot winner. While the girl did her act during the preliminaries, Peter’s BFF Bo Olson sling shots an M&M causing a fiery debacle that Janitor Bob puts out. Janitor Bob tells the two boys that this is strike three.

Peter, accompanied by Bo, visits the Little Magic Shop of Horrors where he buys a $9.95 magic kit to include a special amulet. He changes from Peter Newman to "Peter the Great", who can perform magic that no master magician has ever done before. However, his tricks are real and as far as Peter knows from the fine print permanent. Still he enters and wins the contest with his incredible final curtain call, removing Bo's head.

The latest Twisted Sisters’ Deadtime Stories once again targets the middle school children with a fast-paced scary tale based on sometimes you get what you wished for. Peter is terrific as he holds the storyline focused while critiquing other acts, using magic, and finally wondering how to undo what he wrought. On the other Bo is obnoxious with his not so harmless pranks, which Peter condones by omission. Fans will answer the Lovin’ Spoonful question “Do You Believe In Magic?” with a yes when reading the Cascone siblings’ latest horror thriller. Harriet Klausner

R.L Stine, Terry Pratchett and Tina Connolly

Red Rain
R.L. Stine
Touchstone, $24.99
ISBN 9781451636123

Near Cape Hatteras National Seashore, vacationers avoid Cape Le Chat Noir as if the South Carolina barrier island is diseased though it is home to a small population. The place has a dark history so it is understand few outsiders venture there. Visiting the isle is travelogue blogger Lea Sutter when Hurricane Ernesto seemingly comes out of nowhere to destroy all buildings and seemingly kill the residents. Lea survives as do twin tweeners Daniel and Samuel.

Lea brings the pair home to her family to the chagrin of her children (Ira and Elena) and the joy of her spouse Mark the child psychologist whose theory is to allow children to thrive with limited controlling as their parents ought to be guides not cops. Lea ignores her family’s needs as she seems to care about the angelic twins she rescued from the storm while ignoring their wickedness.

Red Rain is an entertaining horror thriller that is fun to read though never veers from the anticipated path. The twins affirm the adage “never judge a book by its cover as they appear angelic but use paranormal skills maliciously. Though I doubt a rescuer albeit stranger would gain temporary custody of two traumatized kids, R.L. Stine provides an engaging extended family drama as the Sutter household learns the lesson of the Good Samaritan. Harriet Klausner

Dodger
Terry Pratchett
Harper Collins, $17.99
ISBN: 9780062009494

In London, two thugs beat up a young woman when Dodger the thieving tosher jumping out of a drain intervenes. She begs him to help her escape as her assaulters want to take her back to the monster she has run away from whose battering of her led to a miscarriage. As he lives up to his name with his snake like speed, Charlie Dickens the author and Henry Mayhew the social reformer arrive at the scene causing the brutes to flee. Charlie and Henry call Dodger Galahad.

Calling the mystery girl he rescued Simplicity, Dodger tries to help this woman he is attracted to; while also trying to prove he is worthy of her. Dodger soon meets Benjamin Disraeli, Queen Victoria and Sweeney Todd in his quest to live up to the reputation of Sir Galahad.

Dodger is an enjoyable historical fiction tale that brings to life Victorian England. The key to this entertaining thriller is Terry Pratchett capturing the vernacular of the era and the tone of several real historical personas though mostly through their interplay with the title character. Although the mystery of Simplicity is more a device to propel the plot forward and there is not a disc in sight, fans will feel they are touring London with Dodger as their guide. Harriet Klausner

Ironskin
Tina Connolly
Tor, $24.99
ISBN: 9780765330598

Several years ago, humans and the forest dwelling fey fought The Great War to end all wars. Now, everyone is trying to return to normal. A victim of a fey curse that forces her to wear an iron mask to prevent the scar on her face from causing others to go into a rage, Jane Eliot answers an ad for a governess in a “delicate situation."

The child's father Edward Rochart the enigmatic mask-maker hires Jane to work with his son Dorie, whose late mother was "taken over" by a fey while she carried the lad. Dorie possesses telekinetic powers that Jane hopes she can teach him to control. However, to her horror and fear, Jane concludes the hostility with the fey apparently is not over.

This is a super Victorian gothic fantasy that provides a paranormal take on Jane Eyre. Fast-paced with a growing sense of foreboding built on what has already happened to the lead triangle, fans will relish the survivors struggling, in a war ravaged alternate Victorian world, to cope with their personal cursed PTSD. Harriet Klausner

The Reluctant reaper

I’m thrilled to share news of THE RELUCTANT REAPER, the first in a hilarious and sexy paranormal trilogy from author Gina X. Grant!

The book features Kirsty d’Arc, a human enjoying everyday life until someone she trusts hijacks her soul in this first installment of The Reluctant Reaper

series. To escape Hell’s inferno and gain revenge, Kirsty must partner with the very Reaper who “scythed” her—the hunky dead poet Dante Alighieri.