Dela Reese is in China for a visit when she picks up a strange riddle box at the Dirt Market. Soon afterwards a strange man who Dela mistrusts instantly tries to take it from her, but she escapes. Later when she opens the box Hari appears and tells her that he has been cursed to be the slave of whoever opens the box for 2000 years, and expects her to issue a command. Added to this is the fact that more than one person wants to kill Dela but she does not know who or why. And on top of THAT are Dela's pyschic abilities, Hari's shapeshifting abilities and Dela's crimefighting pyschic family of misfits. A little cheesy-romancey (i make up words) on the descriptions of these two falling in love, but I generally do not read pure romance novels so that is a matter of what I like. I did like the concept that Marjorie Liu created in this series and there are plenty of interesting satellite characters surrounding Dela and Hari who will probably get their own stories told. Definately recommended if you are in the mood for a romance and like paranormal romances. Its not hard to find yourself halfway through the book the first time you pick it up.

Liu became one of my favorite authors as soon as I began reading I read Tiger Eye, her first novel. She is a relatively new author, all of whose books so far involve characters who work for Dirk & Steele, an undercover paranormal organization / detective agency. Primary characters in this book will turn up in supporting roles in subsequent books and vice versa. One reviewer didn't like that. I had no problem with it. It was nice to learn more about the other characters in subsequent books. Most of the paranormals are shape changers and Liu throws in a bit of her own variety of magic, more in this book than in some of her later ones.

This book, which is the first in a series and the first I've ever read by Liu, is surprisingly enjoyable. It is the tale of a shape-shifter named Hari who has been trapped in a sort of genie-in-a-box situation as a slave for two thousand years. He falls into the hands of Dela, a woman of unusual psychic talents. Naturally, romance ensues. But Dela is a marked woman, having been targeted by mob members seeking revenge for a crime she had little to do with, and it falls to Hari to help protect her.

What I enjoyed about this book was the fast paced plot--I was never bored or tempted to skim. I also found the cast of characters to be extremely amusing.

The only flaw as far as I'm concern was that the main villain, the Magi, was a bit hokey. I just didn't understand his reasons or motivations. However, I don't feel this detracts significantly from the quality of the story.

I loved this book. What a great start to a new series (for me)! Liu pulled me in from the first page. I'm now reading the 5th book in this series, and I'm so happy with the character development. I like how each book focuses on one Dirk and Steele member, but also brings in familiar characters from previous books. This firs book sets this up so nicely. The writing is well developed and hot. Dialogue is believable and supports and pushes the story line. If you like Sherrilyn Kenyon, Christine Feehan, Lara Adrian, and/or Keri Arthur, you'll love Majorie M. Liu!

This was an excellent book! It was the first time I read Marjorie M Liu. I did not want it to end. I especially enjoyed the interesting group of characters; each with their own special "gift" which is represented in the story line. I will definitely be looking for all her other books in this series (Dirk & Steele).

This was the first Marjorie Liu book I read, and I loved it. I'm a big paranormal romance fan, and if you one too, you'll want to read this book.

Terrific book. Great imagination! Shape-shifters, magi, and x-men like talents. I really enjoyed the story line and just ordered the 2nd book, that I hadn't even realized followed this one, today. Hope Liu writes another good one!!

*re*

Read All Book Reviews of "Tiger Eye Dirk Steele Bk 1"

great book

Interesting start to this series. A nice way to spend some reading time!

An interesting, imaginative, solid romance.

Very interesting concept. I look forward to reading more of Ms Liu's books.
*****

Very well written - the story moves along well.

This is my first book with this author. I loved it. I am trying to get more of her books.
Maureen

Really enjoyed this book!

Best one in the series.

beginning of series about detective agency with unusual abilities

From back of book: Hers to command. He looked completely out of place in Dela Reese's Beijing hotel room-like he belonged to a myth, was the tragic hero of some epic tale, exotic and poignant. He was like nother from her world, neither his variegated hair nor his feline yellow eyes. Yet Dela had danced through the echo of his soul, and she knew this seven-foot warrior would obey.

Read All Book Reviews of "Tiger Eye Dirk Steele Bk 1"