What do harispray, rock-n-roll, boiling water, and a Monte Blanc pen have in common? They're all deadly weapons in the hands of marketing manager turned alien exterminator, Katherine 'Kitty' Katt.

Heroes named Kitty Katt and Jeff Martini had me wondering what I might be in for, but Ms. Koch put my fears to rest within the first couple of pages. The story is written in a way that makes it both lighthearted and fun while maintaining a tone that's serious enough and detailed enough to get you interested in the characters.

Kitty is a self-confirmed comics-geek who loves her rock-n-roll, but don't make the mistake of thinking she's some shallow airhead who can't think on her feet. She's a fast-thinking, and fast talking, woman of action who won't back down from a good fight...and she has just about everything she needs to win that fight in her purse. Her snappy comments and sometimes humorous narrative of what's going on makes her a likable character who will charm her way into your heart.

Jeff Martini is everything a woman could want in an extra-terrestrial. He's handsome, smart, funny, strong, fast, and almost always impeccably dressed in Armani. He's also a high-powered empath who can sense the emotions of those around him, which can come in handy whether you're trying to tell if a girl really likes you or if you suspect a parasitic super-being might be in the area.

Martini isn't alone when it comes to sharp dressing and other-worldly talents. Ms. Koch has populated the story with a whole cast of supporting characters; each one given their own identity and sense of depth. You won't get bored or be tempted to skim, no matter who the story is focused on at any particular time.

The story moves at a brisk pace, and while maintaining a light tone, TBAA also manages to touch on some weighty issues...mostly in regards as to why Martini and gang end up as Earth's protectors. The story does have it's serious side. There are various conflicts brewing at various times, and a hint of realism creeps into this fantasy story because a war is going on, and the good guys don't always win...or survive....or stay on the side of good.

Don't let that deter you from giving this fun read a try, though. Even under dire straits, Kitty manages to keep things light and Ms. Koch keeps the story flowing in an easy-to-read manner...and if you like your action delivered with a little romance and erotica then you get an extra bonus. I'm not talking Harlequin-style "throbbing manhood" erotica, but the author isn't shy about giving a little non-graphic detail when it comes to Kitty and her main man sharing some passionate moments together.

If some tongue-in-cheek humor isn't appealing to you then this might not be for you, but if you're looking for a story that's fun, in addition to being good, then you should definitely be Touched By An Alien.