Donna Lea Simpson, Awaiting the Night

Awaiting the Night

Donna Lea Simpson

Berkley, November 2006, $6.99

ISBN: 0425212858

Frightened Melisande Daviodvich hid behind the walls of Wolfram Castle, a virtual prisoner of her fears. For two years she found sanctuary there, but now the howling has begun. Melisande knows this is an omen that her safety will soon be no more.

Count Kazimir Vasilov and Count Gavril Sevasjan arrive, insisting her father the thief stole a legendary chalice that contains the elixir to cure an enigmatic illness. They demand she hand it over, but she believes her father when he insists he never took this priceless artifact. At least initially she accepts her dad's word, but as she finds herself attracted to the strange Kazimir and him to her, Melisande begins to doubt her relative, as she starts to look deeper into Wolfram werewolf rumors. The danger towards her suddenly mounts, but she wonders by whom.

AWAITING THE NIGHT, the sequel to AWAITING THE MOON, uses paranormal elements to add a unique delightful flavor to a fabulous Gothic romance. The action-packed storyline is fast-paced, but the relationship between Kazimir and Melisande makes the tale, as she is not sure whether he wants her dead or in his bed. Donna Lea Simpson provides her growing fandom with a wonderful historical that is a one sitting read.