Jace Valchek figures she's pretty much gotten a hang of this whole being-in-a-parallel universe thing, until she has to battle a recent werewolf bite with vampirism in order to keep from losing herself. Not only does she have to focus on doing her job while trying to keep everything from erupting in gang warfare, she also gets to learn how her situation and choices affect those to whom she's closest.

The Bloodhound Files is a great series, and BETTER OFF UNDEAD is extremely satisfying for long-time fans. It can stand alone because of great exposition, but the end is more meaningful if you have read the prior books in the series. I devoured each page because the characterization and fast- paced action doesn't miss a trick. In addition, Barant's work often takes intriguing twists that surpass most other urban fantasy works.