Dead Heat

Briggs%E2%80%99s Alpha & Omega novels are more episodic than those in the Mercy Thompson series, allowing for a more intimate focus. In her new A&O book, werewolves Charles and Anna Cornick investigate a gruesome supernatural mystery, visit a terminally ill old friend at his Arizona horse farm, and mostly avoid discussing Anna%E2%80%99s desire to have children. Their planned quiet trip to Arizona is anything but; they must break a spell that nearly results in the murder-suicide of a mother and her children, and when a little girl literally dissolves before their eyes, the twosome realize they are fighting a very dangerous fae. Charles and Anna%E2%80%99s lively interactions with helpful federal law enforcement add some spark. Anna%E2%80%99s Omega %E2%80%9Cwolf whisperer%E2%80%9D qualities shine, and the couple%E2%80%99s scenes with the dying man are hauntingly beautiful. The Cornicks work seamlessly together but sweep their interpersonal messiness under the rug, even though Briggs shows those around them tackling their issues head-on. Agent: Lynn Prentis, Lynn Prentis Literary. (Mar.)