Kiss of the Vampire

An inventive spin on supernatural mythos draws readers into this fast-paced paranormal series launch. Every 73 years, a rift opens between dimensions, allowing supernatural creatures—mostly criminals, à la Botany Bay—to cross over into our world and possess humans. Half-demon Nix de la Fuente is a liaison between human law enforcement and the Council for Preternaturals. Assigned to investigate a series of grisly vampire slayings, she reunites with her ex-lover, vampire Tobias Crane. He misses her, but his vampire nature brings out her demon side, and his desire to protect her outweighs his longing for her love. When the investigation intensifies, so does the passion between Nix and Tobias. Garner (a pen name for Sherrill Quinn) shows promise with great characters, constant action, and steamy sex. Agent: Susan Ginsburg, Writers House. (Feb.)