Nightshifted

April 9, 2012
Medical drama and vampire cold wars intersect in this solid urban fantasy debut. Edie Spence takes a job as a nurse on County Hospital’s Y4 floor, which caters to paranormal patients. Introduced to a world of vampires, werecreatures, shape-shifters, and zombies, Edie takes it all in stride until she accidentally causes the death of one of her charges. She’s determined to carry out his final wishes—rescuing a girl named Anna—to make amends, which embroils her in a conflict between two vampire Thrones. When the vampires declare her a murderer, it may take more than a vampire lawyer, a zombie boyfriend, and a ghost-possessed CD player to save her. Alexander’s zombies are particularly well designed, and the hospital environment adds an intriguing additional dimension. Edie’s life is full of hard knocks, and though it’s hard to like a heroine who constantly pushes people away, her gradual development into a person who can allow others to care for her is satisfying. Agent: Michelle Brower, Folio Literary Management.

September 15, 2012

This debut novel from author and registered nurse Alexander is the first title in a light urban fantasy trilogy. Edie Spence works the night shift in Y4, the county hospital's paranormal wing, in return for aid for her drug-addicted brother. The tale is gritty and dark, with a compelling and fast-paced plot, but the story suffers from choppiness and a lack of explanation about some of the supernatural aspects. Stage/screen actress and audiobook narrator Tai Sammons provides a straightforward delivery and tone. VERDICT Fans of urban and paranormal fantasy might forgive the shortfalls and get hooked on the series. ["Alexander's first novel launches a new series that should appeal to fans of medical thrillers as well as urban fantasy," read the review of the St. Martin's pb, LJ 6/15/12.--Ed.]--Denise A. Garofalo, Mount Saint Mary Coll. Lib., Newburgh, NY

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