Hot Howard was working it in this book! It wasn't until I read other people's reviews that it dawned on me that this was a filler book. There was NO discussion about the Vamps vs Malcontants in this book at all. But it seeing how I was so wrapped up in Howard's story it obviously wasn't that big of a deal to me. After finding Howard's secret tapes under his bed, Shanna decides to play match maker and contacts Howards celebrity crush. Elsa is a 6'2 amazon of a woman and she and Howard are destined to cross paths. I really liked the history and folklare in this story. Howard became a whole different man in this book then ever before. I know some people said it was difficult to see him as sexy and aggresive when he was normally light hearted and quit but I found this change refreshing. I dont' think Howard was ever Shy I think he was just a very private observer. His interaction with Elsa fun and sexy and had me cheering him on. And even though there was no Malcontant info in this book, we were given a look at how Roman and Shanna are adjusting to their new circumstances. For me it's nice to see how big the kids are getting and to see their different personalities. My only complaint is why all the pregnant wives?? I understand that having a baby for some is like making their family complete but I'd like to see someone get married and travel with their signifficant other. These weres and vamps have really long lives. What's the rush??