Necking

Book publicist Salvatore skewers the publishing industry and recent trends in vampire fiction in this humorous debut. As if corralling supernatural-fiction authors and their overenthusiastic fans wasn't hard enough, publicist Gia Felice must keep secret that her authors are the real deal: vampires, werewolves and occasionally aliens. Her determination to remain mortal is challenged by Johnny, a vampire whose flirting is getting increasingly intense. While Gia and Johnny continue their macabre mating dance, she is enlisted by author Bella to track down Daniel, the vampire who changed her and who she suspects of murdering her husband. Salvatore demonstrates a thorough knowledge of New York City, the publishing world and the best ways to blend paranormal romance and chick lit. While Daniel never exudes any real menace, the relationship between Gia and Johnny is always enjoyable, making for a fun, fast-paced read. (Aug.)