Katrina Michaels

The Preternatural Investigation Agency is back in their second paranormal mystery. This time, rather than the focus being mainly on Tara Daston, the young vampire, Katrina Michaels spotlights her ensemble of investigators, primarily Aidan the warlock, who is dealing with baggage from his past as a CSI. The story opens with a fraternity hazing that goes terribly wrong, ending in the death of pledge, Billy Marcum. But this isn’t the only element of mayhem in the novel. A museum curator, Dr. Dennis Hylar is about to launch an exhibit featuring Egyptian artifacts and a mummy at a local museum. An insurance investigator, Mr. Fuji calls upon Aidan to discover whether a necklace and the mummy itself are under a curse. If indeed there is a curse, the exhibit will not be insured and permitted to open. I won’t give more away of Michaels’ intricate plot and spoil the ride, because it’s an enjoyable one with lots of thrills and chills. Ms. Michaels cleverly intertwines forensic science and magical rituals in a fresh and interesting way. Lest Tara’s fans be disappointed that she isn’t the main focus, rest assured that Michaels has given her plenty of room to grow as a character as the fledgling prepares for her examinations to become a full-fledged agent. It’s fun to see Tara discovering the delights of her vampiric senses (in a somewhat innocent manner) when her romance with Marco, a mortal, begins to blossom. In fact, all of the characters grow and their relationships deepen in this outing. Max, the sassy pyrokinetic, teases her co-workers but shows a genuine concern for them. I found Rick the empath’s growing pains funny at times and touching at others. The conflict between Aidan and Charlie, the werewolf is especially compelling. Tom, the leader of the PIA, continues to try to come to terms with his vampirism, with some insight from Tara’s sire, Alexander. I can’t wait to see more of these characters.… (meer)

All Tara Daston wanted was a fun night out clubbing. But fun nights don't normally include dying and waking three days later as one of the undead. She tries to adapt but her adaptation is made difficult when a friend is killed by something neither vampire or lycan. More killings happen and Tara is drawn into the investigation where she meets vampire Tom Duncan and the rest of the preternatural investigation team. This was a good mystery/thriller and really didn't need the paranormal aspect. The vampire bits seemed just a little pasted on just to be trendy. The mystery was good. I'd read more by this author.… (meer)