Strong revisits her postapocalyptic version of Oakland, a city torn between a supernatural-fearing church and powerful vice lords, in this intensely erotic sequel to 2009’s Ghostland
. Arana, a thief who can change the threads of people’s lives, is shocked to find that Tir, a shackled immortal, is immune to her magic. Tir is just as surprised that a human woman can inflame his passion. Together they struggle to understand her gifts and learn how to unlock his collar and his memories. Arana’s acceptance of Tir’s dominance in bed jars with her otherwise preternatural competence, and the rich setting and evocative writing fail to carry along the convoluted plot or unsurprising protagonists. Those who like urban fantasy may find the sex out of place, especially given the extremely strong language, and those who like erotica may find too much else going on. (Aug.)
