Review - From Fear to Eternity

I reviewed the first book in this series, Blood, Bath and Beyond (click here) and the second book: Bled and Breakfast (click here), plus we were fortunate that author Michelle Rowan gave us an interview (click here).  Today I review the newest release in this unique series. 

Author: Michelle Rowen

Copyright: July 2014 (Penguin Group) 334 pgs

Series: 3rd in Immortality Bites Mystery series

Sensuality: n/a

Mystery Sub-genre: Paranormal Amateur Sleuth

Main Characters: Sarah Dearly, newbie vampire and recently married to a master vampire 

Setting: Modern day, Beverly Hills Mansion

Obtained Through: Publisher for an honest review

Sarah and her husband Thierry attend an auction run by an unidentified vampire, with the hint that the Jacquerra Amulet containing a genie is up for bid.  There have been murders of key leaders of the Ring, a powerful and shadowy Vampire council, and suspicion is running high.  Thierry is asked by some Ring leadership members to secure the Amulet and keep even the head of Ring from getting hold of it for possible murderous intents. What should have been a few hours of work turns into a long night full of vengeance, evil magic, and several dead bodies.  In the midst of this, Sarah and Thierry's trust is tested more than ever before.  Can they survive the night alive...and still together? 

Sarah Dearly is still a bit impulsive and tenacious, but her loyalty to Thierry will be tested in this adventure with political landmines and a dangerous spell.  Thierry de Bennicoeur, the 600 year old master vampire has to face his past come back to hunt him and Sarah seeing a less pleasant side to him.  Veronique, Thierry's ex-wife, is bold, condescending, and a thorn in Sarah's life.  Sebastian, the long missing vampire Thierry sired, shows up to complicate everything.  The troublesome genie of the coveted amulet is a surprise character...that is all I can say without any spoilers.

The Beverly Hills mansion is vast and has great gothic suspense touches, making it feel like a medieval castle.  It was not only a creepy setting, but added to the sense of being trapped.  The mansion was utilized so well that the pacing kept going in-spite of the entire book occurring in one location.  The plot was deftly handled with some good twists and plenty of shadowy motives.  The climax was icing, delivering some good suspense.  The wrap-up left me wanting more. 

This series doesn't disappoint, with another exciting addition and it keeps getting better.  The characters are developing, the plots are meaty, and the action is hair-raising. I love this light urban fantasy that supplies just enough "grit" while keeping upbeat touches.

Near Perfect - Buy two copies: one for you and one for a friend.