Witchful Thinking

Mallory’s third Jolie Wilkins paranormal (after the self-published Toil and Trouble and Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble) finds the hapless, wise-cracking, recently resurrected witch unwillingly named Queen of the Underworld. As a deadly race of monsters threatens her vampire, werewolf, fae, and witch subjects, and her advisers bicker. Jolie’s romantic life is also thrown into chaos. On a trip to 1878 England she almost killed Rand, her warlock love, and in the present day a sexy vampire who also has the hots for her has insinuated himself into her life. As dark and mysterious forces gather, Jolie realizes that she has to make choices not only about which man she prefers, but how she will rule her kingdom. Though predictable in places, Mallory’s strong-willed, sharp-tongued, and extremely fallible heroine; an unusual take on necromancy; and a surprising ending make this an enjoyable read. (Mar.)