In the Dark of Dreams

Starred review from October 11, 2010
Liu's powerful 10th Dirk & Steele paranormal romance (after 2009's The Fire King) is a satisfying adventure of intense emotion and compelling characters. After a chance beach meeting, young Jenny Jameson and merboy Perrin meet in dreams for years until they find each other in the flesh as adults. Together, they attempt to solve the mystery of a murdered mermaid Guardian and save the world from monsters who wake underneath the sea. Liu provides a delicious treat for those who like their romance based on love, connection, and shared adventures rather than raw lust and conflict. Tension comes from external dangers, and kissing, handholding, and magical dreams overshadow sex. Recurring characters keep this installment connected to the series, but new readers will be able to dive easily into Liu's world of supernatural researchers and explorers.