Into the Woods

Harrison's Hollows series remains one of the more solid and satisfying islands in the current sea of novels involving vampires, demons, and werewolves. Hollows fans will be enthralled by the first half of this short story collection, which offers glimpses of history and new insights into many familiar characters, including demon Algaliarept, vampire Ivy Tamwood, and Jenks the pixie; first-time readers will find the stories an accessible and intriguing introduction to the series. The second half of the book goes outside of the Hollows to introduce other fantasy creatures with Harrison's unique spin, such as the dryads who Will Temson inadvertently inherits in "Temson Estates" and the angry tree spirit with whom grandmother Emily, mother Meg, and child Lilly must come to terms in "Spider Silk." Harrison's talent for making supernaturals understandable, likable, and engaging is amply demonstrated in this strong collection. Agent: Richard Curtis, Richard Curtis Associates. (Oct.)