Don't Bite the Messenger by Regan Summers

Title: Don't Bite the Messenger
Author: Regan Summers
Genre: Paranormal (Vampire) Romance [novella]
Publisher: Carina Press (January 16, 2011)
Available: $3.19 at Amazon
Rating: 5 stars
Rater: Lauri


Plot summary: Syd - "Mary" - works as a messenger. For vamps. In the Anchorage, Alaska darkness. And she takes her life into her hands every time she does. To avoid being bespelled, tracked, trapped, and claimed, Syd must change her appearance and mask her personal scent every day, and she, as smart messengers do, has to avoid traveling the same routes and becoming too comfortable with anything. One crazy night Syd meets Malcolm, a far too handsome dude who lends her a very serious helping hand - er - lip. Sparks fly, but Syd can't let lust complicate her life. Unfortunately, life has other ideas.

The good: I read this story in one sitting. From the first page, I found myself engrossed. Ms. Summers' descriptions are exceptionally well written without being overdone. The action is well balanced with the character development. None of the elements are neglected. I laughed when funny things happened, and ached for that second kiss.

What needs work: Far too many sentences start with pronouns, but it doesn't take a significant chunk away from the story. It annoyed me because I also write, I think, and non-writers may not notice it.

It isn't often that I come across a book this - well - good. It may sound trite, but this is most definitely a must-read if your interests lie in pararomance or modern vampire romance.