Darkness Dawns

Duvall's enthusiastic debut paranormal employs capable writing and well-executed world-building punctuated by awkward beginner missteps. An as-yet-incurable virus turns some humans into insane, blood-addicted vampires (who, in a refreshing twist, are never presented as lust objects) and others into benign immortals, who make it their mission to protect humanity. Very human music professor Sarah Bingham finds herself thrust into this war when she saves the immortal Roland Warbrook from a vicious attack. The predictable sparks between them turn to flames as the plot inches toward the inevitable question of whether Sarah will become an immortal herself. The immortal society is intriguing and fairly original. While this freshman effort doesn't shine, it does well enough to invite hope that the next series installment will be more tightly written. (Feb.)