“His eyes were an intense gold and utterly piercing, the rest of his features all kinds of intimidating. Hopefully, the first book in the spin-off will provide some closure.

In sum, this is a disappointing end to the series as the romance is lackluster and the ongoing story arcs remain unresolved. There is no real build up of suspense and the resolution is rushed and anti-climactic. This would be not be a problem if the investigation wasn't underdeveloped and slipshod. The plot diverges from the Schön Queen storyline in the last few installments and returns to the alien sex trafficking arc from the first couple of books. It is difficult to take characters seriously when they speak and behave like overgrown teenagers at a frat party. Speaking of the snark, it is excessive, overdone and ridiculous. This is exacerbated by her lack of self-confidence, which her snarky façade never manages to entirely mask. Moreover, his fear that his ability will harm or kill Noelle is understandable, but his repeated rejections, both physical and emotional, undermine the romance as Noelle's determination to have him makes her appear weak and spineless. To begin with, the exact nature and origin of Hector power is never explained. However, the spin-off, Otherworld Assassin, is set in the same world and apparently continue the storylines. Series note: This is the final book in Showalter's Alien Huntress series. But when Noelle and Hector are partnered on a case, there will be no escaping the smoldering passion between them.

Unfortunately, Hector is determined to keep Noelle at arms length, literally, as he is unable to control his deadly ability to kill with touch. … Read moreĪIR agent in training, Noelle Tremain has her libido and heart set on her instructor, Hector Dean. Yet neither Hector nor Noelle knows what to fear more-the killer case, or their own lethal desires. When a wealthy businessman is murdered in New Chicago’s seediest district, the two are partnered, and there’s no escaping what they both want: each other. But to be with her, he risks destroying her. For the first time, his stone-cold resistance is tested. She is beautiful and rich, with a party girl smile that hides a shocking vulnerability, and from the beginning his sizzling attraction to her is undeniable. But Noelle Tremain is a temptation like no other. Little wonder he’s determined to remain on his own. He is a walking weapon, capable of killing with a single brush of his fingertips. Hector Dean is shaved, tattooed, and totally ripped-and he has a deadly secret. With one caress, he can give unforgettable pleasure … or unending pain. New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter captivates with a dark, tantalizing world of humans, otherworlders, and a powerful AIR agent consumed by his desire for a woman he can never have.

Dark Taste of Rapture by Gena Showalter