Let me start by saying this is a GREAT story. It follows Zane Burns, aka Gunz, an average guy who works for the FBI as a consultant. He just happens to be assigned to a supernatural task force as more and more things are happening in Florida that can’t be explained. When I say he’s an average guy, I mean that he’s of medium height and build with nothing exceptional about him. Apart from the fact that he’s a Fire Salamander — which is very rare and unusual even in the supernatural world.
When several people die from seemingly natural causes, but unusual circumstances, Gunz is asked to investigate using his magical abilities. This brings him into contact with a young woman, Tessa, who is only just starting to realize she’s not quite as normal as she’d always thought she was. For a start, she can talk to dead people. Things quickly escalate and it’s not long before Gunz finds himself embroiled with the Russian Mob, a martial arts teacher who is definitely not plain old human and an evil force they’ve only just begun to realise is the cause of a lot of the supernatural incidents occurring in their neighbourhood. Joining forces with new acquaintances seems to be the only way to defeat the evil but can Gunz trust those he’s been told to work with? Or do they pose a danger to both him and the humans around them?
This is a very cleverly written book which weaves together folklore and fantasy in a very intriguing little package. I loved the intricate story, and the character building is spot on. Why wouldn’t you believe there’s a Fire Salamander hiding inside an average looking guy you might pass on the street? In N.M Thorn’s world it seems perfectly reasonable and I would love to be his friend.
This urban fantasy pulls you in and won’t let go until you’ve finished the whole story, and as there are two more in the series I am now off to download them and get stuck in, as I can’t wait to read more of Zane Burns’ trials and tribulations. Average guy? Not a chance.