I didn't expect anything from this book, thought it's just another novel to pass the time and I'm surprised by how much I liked it. This is a new paranormal series I would be reading straight in the next few days because of the fresh story line, the convincing world of shapeshifters, the modern-day setting, and lovable characters.

The Varinskis have a dreaded reputation for centuries, until one defied everything. Konstantine married Zorana, a Gypsy; moved to America, and had a family like a normal man would. He sired 4 children, Jasha, Rurik, Arik, and the first Varinski female in their history, Firebird, whom he calls his miracle.

We get a glimpse of the heroin, Ann Smith, the ever dependable assistant, who's been in love with Jasha for years. It's amusing how much back up she had from her coworkers especially Celia, to just go for it and damn the consequences. Things didn't go the way she planned, but she still got what she wanted, with a twist.

Jasha was really protective of her after claiming her, but the best part about her is she's no damsel in distress. She's as strong as ever, not one to rely on others, except the time when they camped. The sex scenes sizzled the pages and there's a fair amount of them in the story. At least the love was requited and the passions unleashed from both of them.

The humor was remarkable, there was excellent character development, the author really built up the mystery about Ann, and the ending was anti-climactic. It ended in the falling action, and there's foreshadowing so we'll all know Rurik's story is the next.