Best New Paranormal Romance
edited by Paula Guran
Reviewed by Barb Radmore
Editor Paula Guran begins this anthology with a look at the definition
of paranormal romance. It is a genre that is evolving over time, taking
bits of its parental genres with it- Romance mixed with sci fi, fantasy
and horror. Add a bit of suspense, maybe adventure and a dash of
mystery. Shaken, not stirred. It is not an easily defined
category as it can include happily ever after sex with a vampire as
well as love in a space ship. But it may not even involve the love or
sex or a happy ending. Best idea- ignore the need to
categorize and enjoy the stories in Best New Paranormal Romance from
Juno Publishing.
Best New Paranormal Romance is the first of a planned series by that
title. The twelve stories included cover a broad scope but adhere to
the basic recipe in the title.
Noteworthy for different reasons are
For sheer imagination and humor, Heather Shaw's Single White Farmhouse
is a stand out. It proves that everything has needs and meeting
your true love in a chat room is always risky.
For its current, political bent, John Grant's The Hard Stuff as the
story of a man who loses both hands in Iraq and the efforts of his wife
to save him from himself is hard hitting and forceful.
For depth and intelligence, Calypso in Berlin by Elizabeth Hand is the
book's stand out selection. Calypso is alive and smitten with her
modern day Odysseus. She again finds it hard to let go.
For fun and a chuckle, a brand new way to rid the property of dragons
is explored in the light hearted A Treatise on Fewmets by Sarah
Prineas.
Each story is a drink unto itself, best sipped slowly to enjoy the
levels of bouquet and aroma. The selection is varied enough to have
something to appeal to any reader who enjoys well written, carefully
selected short stories that each tell a unique tale on its own.