Dreaming In Books

I always have trouble classifying a paranormal book, even having written one. I’ve always considered myself a fantasy writer. In fantasy, there are paranormal characters too, most of the time, so where does the line between the two genres sit? I know vampire, angel, and werewolf tales are usually classified as paranormals, and apparently, shape shifters like selkies? But if we include angels, we’d then include demons. What about a satyr and fairies? Do they have to have special skills? Be immortal?

Rather than try to define the lines between two genres, I’ll give you my top four paranormal novels, bearing in mind my admission above. Some of these will be well known to everyone, while others are published by small houses. Heck, one may not have released yet, but I sometimes get my hands on advanced copies to read. :)

1. THE GLASS MAN by Jocelyn Adams

Why: The main character, Lila Gray -- a seelie fey who doesn’t realize it yet -- just plain kicks ass. She is blunt, tough and sometimes a bit “in your face”. I just love her. Jocelyn Adams’ imagination knows no bounds and her gift for unfettered description is something I aspire to. I’m anxiously awaiting SHADOWBORN, the sequel to this one (due to release in Sept., I think)

 2. INTERVIEW WITH A VAMPIRE by Anne Rice

Why: Duh! Think about it. The book is always better than the movie. Nuff said.

3. CRUX by Julie Reece

Why: This is another one where the main character sold me from the jump. Birdie Odin is another kick-ass female lead. This one is YA, but the street smarts and sarcastic “Birdie” really had me rooting for her and admiring her spunk. While not exactly “paranormal” she does have some serious gifts and skills, so I will stick this one in here. Crux is the debut novel for Julie Reece, ( and the one I don’t think has released quite yet), but she is one I am definitely keeping an eye out for.

 4. THE BLOOD THAT BONDS by Christopher Buecheler (check spelling)

Why: I just read this one recently, and I really enjoyed the ride. It renewed my faith in vampire stories, frankly. Well, one part didn’t sit well with me, but it had nothing at all to do with how the story was written, just what they did to one of the main characters. Anyway, while a vampire story, it felt a bit darker to me, grittier than I’ve read in a while. I found it refreshing.

 I tried to keep the “fantasy” tales out of it, but it wouldn’t be fair if I didn’t at least mention my favorites: ALICE IN WONDERLAND, THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA, and LORD OF THE RINGS.

 Have you read any of the books on the list? What did you think of them? Any favorites you suggest I check out? ~Rebecca