Hit List is the 21st installment in author Laurell K. Hamilton’s long running series featuring Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter. This latest in the popular series is an interesting combo of paranormal, thriller, mystery and layered character study. Fans of Hamilton’s Vampire Hunter novels know that our heroine, U.S. Marshal Anita Blake, has evolved into a powerful, experienced solver of crimes. But this time out, she has to deal with not just one, but two serial killers. Amazingly, one is a member of the group that her partner, Edward, has brought in to provide backup during a particularly deadly and dangerous case. The other is the leader of the criminals she and fellow Marshal Edward are hunting.
The deadly group known as the Harlequins are "the vampire equivalent of police, spies, judge, jury and executioner. They were also some of the greatest warriors to ever live, or unlive." And the female vampire leading them wants Anita taken alive—because the Mother of All Darkness wants to take over Anita’s body.
It’s the worst of all possible situations for Anita. With a new boss who’s determined to prove she’s unworthy of her solid crime-solving reputation, and too many rookies involved in the case, things go from bad to worse. Too many people are injured or dying—and the killer is still free. Even with the aid of her partner Edward, whose powers and ability to outthink and outmaneuver the bad guys has helped keep them alive through countless, seemingly impossible assignments, Anita isn’t convinced either of them will survive this time. In the final confrontation, she must gamble all of their lives on the paranormal powers of her friends and lovers—or watch them all die.
Hit List is filled with heart-stopping danger, intriguing character connections, brilliant police work, and a plot with surprising twists. There’s little doubt the novel will land Hamilton on bestseller lists once again. If you like tales of thrilling adventure with a paranormal twist, this book’s for you.
Lois Dyer writes from Port Orchard, Washington.
