Review: The Marquis (The 13th Floor)
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 02 25, 2013
Marc, a demon known as the Grand Marquis in Hell, is living the quiet life of retirement as a handyman in an apartment building. He also serves as protector for his fellow tenets of the 13th floor. His greatest pleasure now is a cup of coffee from his favorite café around the corner owned by Mae Hopkins. "The dame has a lovely smile, but it's her heart and soul that shine bright."When a trickster demon named Vetis shows up in Carmine all hell breaks loose when he vows to take Marc, or just his head if he does not come willingly, back to their master. Marc must decide whether to surrender to Vetis to save his town and Mae or let hate and anger fuel him to become the fearsome beast he so loathes, The Marquis, and possibly lose his soul forever.In this novella Marc was once a powerful demon, but lately seems to have grown old and weak living in Carmine. Heaven refuses to grant him absolution and he refuses to go back to Hell. He seems to have just enough power to protect his town from lesser demons, and offer protection to other paranormals on the 13th floor in the apartment building where he works as a handyman.  Mae is determined to figure this secretive man out; she gets to know her customers and makes sure the girls who walk the street have hot coffee and enough food to survive. Marc secretly loves her from afar, knowing he does not deserve her, but will do anything to protect her.Marc, Vetis, and Mae are the main characters in this story and they are well drawn. The story moves fast and furious once Vetis mounts his attack. There were a couple of times I wanted to slap Mae because every time she distracted Marc it gave Vetis a chance to regroup and come back stronger. What can I say; some demons are worth rooting for. Ultimately Marc had to face his own worst fears to find the best in himself. I enjoyed his journey. Christine Rains can certainly tell some interesting stories.This book contains adult language and there are a few F bombs dropped.I found no errors or issues.**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **  Thursday, February 21, 2013