This fast-paced series opener spins off from Caine's Weather Warden series (Gale Force
, etc.), with plenty of excitement to draw in new readers. Cassiel, a newly exiled djinn, is perplexed and uncomfortable with mortality. The Wardens find her and place her under the care and supervision of Manny Rocha, an Earth Warden who supplies Cassiel's aetheric and worldly needs. In exchange, she helps him with his cases. Just as she gets acclimated and starts trading smoldering glances with Manny's brother, Luis, Cassiel comes under attack by unknown forces, with deadly consequences for fighting back. Cassiel's struggle with her humanity adds depth while opening doors for more character development as the series progresses, and a cliffhanger ending will keep fans eager for the next installment. (Feb.)
