Shinn (Reader and Raelynx
), Johnson (The Master
), Berg (Flesh and Spirit
) and York (Moon Swept
) offer stories of air, fire, water and earth in a delicious smorgasbord of styles. Shinn’s “Bargain with the Wind” is a cautionary reminder about the dangers of making deals with capricious air demons, as exemplified when Lady Charis strikes a bargain to further her ambition of ruling the palatial estate of Grey Moraine. Johnson’s “Birthright” focuses on the earthy desires of twin princesses Kalasa and Arasa, who must determine which was born first in order to decide who will become empress. Berg’s “Unmasking” describes the truth-telling properties of water magic as young Joelle undergoes training to seek out souls possessed by demons. York’s “Huntress Moon” finds virginal slave Zarah, who can communicate via fire, falling in love with her master, Griffin, a werewolf who buys her without knowing she’s a spy. Erotic scenes from York and Johnson match the satisfying paranormal content. (Nov.)
