Smolder

Hamilton keeps her signature blend of supernatural action and erotically charged soap opera drama on simmer in the 29th installment of her Anita Blake series (after Rafael). Necromancer Anita continues to plan her long-awaited wedding to vampire king Jean-Claude while simultaneously attempting to maintain a delicate balance between her myriad lovers and the feuding supernatural factions of her world. An ancient evil has come to St. Louis hoping to exploit Jean-Claude’s mystic connection to every vampire in America to seize power. The only way to repel this insidious attack is for Anita, Jean-Claude, and werewolf leader Richard to work together as a true triumvirate, but Richard’s uncertain role within Anita’s greater polyamorous relationship makes this a tricky proposition. There’s only incremental progression to the series plot, with baby steps toward Anita’s wedding, the introduction of a new antagonist, and a heavy focus on the evolving nature of her romantic and sexual relationships. A bloated cast, clunky language, and a glacial story line combine to make this feel like self-indulgent fan service suited only for Hamilton’s most devoted readers. Agent: Merrilee Heifetz, Writers House. (Mar.)