The Eldritch Conspiracy (Blood Singer)
Celia Adams, bodyguard, part siren, and emphatically not fully vampire, is competent without being perfect; she’s still struggling with the balance between her supernatural abilities, human life, and a high-impact job. Celia is called upon by her aunt, who is the queen of the sirens, to act as her cousin Adriana’s bodyguard during Adriana’s wedding. Adriana is marrying the head of a small European country, there’s a conspiracy afoot, and Celia’s presence is necessary to get to the bottom of the matter—at least according to a prophetic vision. As part of the bridal party, she’s thrust into the whirlwind of royal socializing, and it’s entertaining to watch her learn to balance the expectations of a royal family and the rather-violent aspects of her job; Celia is refreshingly practical in the light of the pressures brought to bear on her. The book is a light, not-too-demanding thriller, with a few moments of nail-biting tension. The supporting cast is delightful as well, including Celia’s multitalented tailors. --Regina Schroeder