Now that the devil has been punished and the five-thousand year curse has ended, Mordecai isn't sure what to do with himself. After spending so many years in hell, literally and figuratively, he still feels the strain. He can only imagine what the other warriors might be thinking of him. Then again maybe not because everyone is very busy ... Roric has his lady Aimee, Marko has his Kellsie, Leander has Ariminta and Arand has Sabrina. The only bright spot in Mordecai's life is Jessica and she is much too good to be given the HEART OF THE SERPENT.

Jessica Miller had spent years knowing that her life would be a short one but that it would be a sacrifice that would save the world. She was really surprised to still be alive and wished for the easy camaraderie that she and Mordecai had shared at first. Lately he has become distant ... though he denies that there is a problem, she can't seem to break through the wall he is slowly building against her.

Hades has been released back into hell but he is still angry that he was thwarted in his quest and has plans for revenge. He might not be able to harm the warriors or their mates ... he can still take revenge on Mordecai. The warrior spent years with him in hell supposedly doing his bidding but he was only fooling him. Mordecai must pay. How? Simple ... go for the heart. Mordecai doesn't realize what Hades already knows ... the woman is the weakness that can hurt him.

HEART OF THE SERPENT is the amazing, thrilling addition to the Hades Carnival series! When I first heard that author N.J. Walters was continuing this series I was thrilled and just a little worried. Throughout the other books I developed a soft spot for Mordecai, as I saw hints of good in him and just couldn't believe he was totally in league with the devil. If you've read the series then you know all about Jessica. She is exactly what Mordecai needs; she's a strong, loving woman who finds herself in a fight for her life as well as her love. Mordecai comes to the realization that even if he feels he's not good enough, it doesn't matter, he is his heart... and he will fight hell for her. I also relieved that when his shifter side is described it is that of a dragon not a snake ... sorry but the word serpent always brings icky snakes to mind. All the past characters are back and they now realize that though the worst might be over, they must still be prepared for whatever hell sends their way. Can't wait for the next installation of Hades Carnival! HEART OF THE SERPENT is on my TRA shelf as are all Ms. Walters' books with room for more.