Dancing with the Devil

Nikki and Michael: 1

ISBN: 1-893896-59-5 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com

A tense, vampiric romance, with mildly intriguing characters, but with sadly predictable plot elements.

Reviewed by David on September 16, 2002

Genre: Fantasy (Vampires, Romance, Suspense, Private Investigator)

Synopsis: Nikki James is a private investigator. She's lived through some tough times after her parents' death, which makes her very determined to do her best for her clients. Tracing Monica, a teenager from a rich family apparently going bad, reminds Nikki of her own grim years on the street.

However, Monica's new friends are no gang. Something a lot more vicious, and less explainable, seems to hold Monica's affection now. And Nikki's uncanny talents are little help against the evil that stalks the town.

Nikki's only helper in this dangerous, irrational fight is an attractive, enigmatic Michael. But is he any less dangerous than Monica's friends?

Full Review: The books is filled with suspense; with frequent episodes of desperate fight for survival, and dark misgivings that turn out to be right. Nikki and her friends are in deadly danger; and Nikki's life and sanity are under attack. Despite the likable characters, the book lacks some excitement due to predictable elements. Nikki is scarred by her painful past, and is terrified of trust or love. Her romantic interest is a strong, dedicated character who doesn't want emotional involvement and can't afford bystanders interfere with his mission. Alas, the character's frustrations are frequently echoed by the reader's.

While pleasant and filled with some appealing characters, the predictability of conflicts detracts from enjoyment of this book, leaving it only mildly satisfying.

Overall: 5.5; Plot: 5; Characters: 5.5; Style: 5; World-building: 5; Originality: 5;

ISBN: 1-893896-59-5 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com