I’m a sucker for books about strong, but initially unequipped, heroines who battle supernatural forces—usually with a dose of humor, maybe some romance, perhaps a little mystery thrown into the mix. I found another new (to me) author to try this week.
Sophie Lawson lives in a world where magic and supernatural creatures exist, though most humans aren’t aware of it. She’s unusual because she is a “breather,” but is also immune to magic. She can’t get charmed by the fairies, cursed by the witches, glamored by the vampires… which makes her perfect for her administrative job working for the UDA (Underworld Detection Agency). The UDA keeps track of all the supernaturals, finds them jobs, helps them with benefits—sort of a DMV, Social Services, Employment Agency rolled into one.
After a typical day on the job—Sophie had to calm down a fire-breathing dragon—human Detective Parker Hayes enters the office needing to speak to her werewolf boss. Sophie finds Detective Hayes tongue-tyingly attractive. Hayes needs help with some unusual murders that seem to point to the supernatural. Sophie offers to help with the cases, and because of her knowledge of both the magic and nonmagic worlds, Hayes reluctantly agrees.
The mystery is interesting, though not profound or overly graphic. There is quite a large cast of supernatural characters in the book. A variety of creatures make brief appearances, many with a humorous slant, but not even her vampire roommate plays a large role in solving the whodunit. Sophie doesn’t come into magical powers or realize she has a hidden talent for weapons—she stays pretty average the whole time—which in a way was refreshingly original. And of course, the attraction between Detective Hayes and Sophie adds another level of enjoyment to the story.
Under Wraps is Hannah Jayne’s first in the “Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles.” I’m interested to see how Sophie’s character develops as the series continues—and if Detective Hayes continues to play a role in her life.
Check the WRL catalog for Under Wraps
