Holiday Treats for your Wish List!

The holidays inevitably find me in bookstores, shopping for gifts for my friends-and perhaps buying a few books for myself, too. Of course, creative giving means that you can buy books for others that you plan to borrow later. If you’re the sort of person who never drops a paperback in the bath, you can even read a book before wrapping it as a gift.

Here are a few new and upcoming books and DVDs that you may want to consider for fans of paranormal fiction.

The Devil Inside by Jenna Black: The first novel in the new Morgan Kingsley, Exorcist, series is rocketing up the charts and should provide some warm reading on a cold night. Keri Arthur describes the book as having a "sassy heroine who's not afraid to do what it takes to get the job done or to save a loved one’s life-this one is definitely a keeper." You can read an excerpt at FreshFiction.com.

Midnight Awakening by Lara Adrian: Fans of the Midnight Breed series will be happy to unwrap this gift! Fresh Fiction describes it as "one of the best paranormal romance series around...Compelling characters and good world building make this a must-read series." Visit Lara’s website to read an excerpt and sign up for her newsletter.

Holiday with a Vampire by Maureen Child and Caridad Piñeiro: This book answers the question, what do you give the immortal bloodsucker who’s got everything but a soul? Caridad has a video that gives you taste of the two novellas.

Another One Bites the Dust by Jennifer Rardin. Fresh Fiction describes the second book in the Jax Parks series a worthwhile read with "a quirky sense of humor," but recommends starting with Once Bitten, Twice Shy. Why not get both for a reader who would enjoy the mix of secret agents and vamp slayers?

Any Way You Want It by Kathy Love: Kathy’s new novel is set in the Big Easy, where a musical historian runs into a very hot, and supposedly dead musician.

Kitty and the Silver Bullet by Carrie Vaughn: Fans of Carrie’s intriguing werewolf series have been eagerly awaiting this new novel. Readers can keep up with this talented author on her new blog.

The Accidental Vampire by Lynsay Sands: In the seventh of the bestselling Argeneau Vampires series, we meet Elvi Black, the vampire victim of her neighbor’s well-intentioned matchmaking scheme. Readers can get a sample of the book from Lynsay’s website.

Happy Hour at Casa Dracula by, yes, me: This Fresh Pick was described by Fresh Fiction as an "hilarious vampire novel with a witty narrative." Best of all for those on a budget, a mass market paperback edition will be released in January. You can read an excerpt of this award-winning novel here.

What’s on my DVD wish list for Christmas?

"Forever Knight": The plot of a vampire detective trying to atone for his sins may sound familiar. But I’ve heard enough good things about this predecessor to "Angel" and "Moonlight" to be interested. (Don’t even get me started on the disappointment that is "Moonlight.")

"Doctor Who - The Complete Third Series": Although technically science fiction, the series has those cross-over elements that made "The X-Files" a must-see for me. There’s humor, action, mystery, and intriguing characters. I’m totally hooked on "Dr. Who."

"Hex - The Complete First Season": A very trustworthy friend assures me that this series is terrific. An English boarding school, witches, and dangerous supernatural forces - how can I resist?

"Dark Shadows: The Beginning": I missed this classic vampire soap opera, which ran from 1966-1971, but its cult following became the stuff of TV legends. Barnabas Collins, the elegant, self-hating vampire, won the hearts of viewers, and the show became a wild mix of paranormal creatures.

Be sure to check in at Vampire Wire for all the latest news in paranormal fiction, movies, and television shows - and other things on my wish list.

Happy holidays!
Marta