Dark Prince: Author's Cut Special Edition

First published in 1999, launching the author's number one bestselling Dark series about the Carpathians, a dying race of vampires, this special hardcover edition offers over 100 pages of new material. Now the Carpathians find new hope when their leader discovers that his life mate is a telepathic American woman visiting their remote mountain region. The paranormal romance's appeal stands the test of time, with its sensual and absorbing story of an independent beauty taming a terrifying but smitten beast, while his people face annihilation from vampire hunters, hidden enemies, and their own failure to procreate. At nearly 500 pages, however, the pacing often lags, with long scenes between hero and heroine that replay the same issues in repetitive detail. Still, fans will likely enjoy seeing the love story plumbed in every nuance, and there's enough power to draw new enthusiasts. Toward the end, Feehan creates a complex and compelling future hero in a secondary vampire leader, and her climax picks up much-needed steam. (Mar.)