Date: 12 April 2011, 04:04
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The first entry, "The Countess's Pleasure", by Emma Holly, is a wonderful world combining British Victorian India and the paranormal. Emma Holly cheerfully introduces her tale with the words, "Everyone said what happened in Bhamjran stayed in Bhamjran." A recent widow, Georgiana DuBarry, Countess of Ware, decides to indulge in the pleasures the city has to offer. After witnessing a floor show, Georgiana contracts a liaison with the performer, Iyan Sawai. The author describes what's brought these two unlikely people together and handles what could be a tawdry situation with real sensitivity. The story perfectly fits the short format, but I acknowledge that I was sorry it ended; I wanted more. For those readers who haven't had the opportunity to read "The Demon's Daughter", this story is set in the same creative world. The second, modern tale is Lora Leigh's "The Breed Next Door". It stands alone, but the story is part of a series called the Feline Breeds. The hero, Tarek Joran, is genetically engineered. He and those like him suffered considerably in the process of being "developed". After fighting for their freedom, the breeds resolve to make a place for themselves in this world. Tarek is a sort of bountry hunter, and he's drawn to his neighbor, Lyra Mason. Tarek's enemies attack Lyra in an effort to get to him. The story crackles with sexual tension. Although it may not be as satisfying as her longer novels, it's a great introduction into Miss Leigh's inspired series. The third story, "Falling for Anthony" by Meljean Brook, is ambitious in scope. It's a complicated combination with quasi-angels, vampires, and a quest. Anthony, who has always loved Emily, is brought back from the dead to protect her and her brother. There's a lovely story here, but it clamors for a longer format. Shiloh Walker's vampires and werewolves are favorites of mine. "The Blood Kiss", like others in the anthology, is a stand alone although part of her larger "The Hunters" series. Julianna is the daughter of an evil vampire. She is kidnapped by Roman Montgomery, king of the werewolves. They fall in love and must fight the efforts of her father's minions to recapture her. Mikhail, the father's second in command, plays a small but significant role here. He's a recurring character in Walker's paranormal universe. I'll confess that I wanted more of this story too.
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