Rating: 
Summary: A Highly Enjoyable Anthology!
Review: "Out of This World" contains four short stories by four unique and talented authors. I read the reviewer warnings which stated that if the reader has not read any of the previous books by three of these authors, that the corresponding stories will not make sense. I decided to give it a try anyway and I truly enjoyed every single one, never once feeling confused or lost!I bought this book for the J.D. Robb story, as I am completely addicted to her "In Death" series. "Interlude in Death" is a fantastic read. We meet up with Lieutenant Eve Dallas and her billionaire husband Roarke at an off-planet police and security conference. After a brutal murder occurs, Eve finds herself trying to track down a rogue ex-cop, before he can get his way and destroy Roarke! The passion between Eve and Roarke is intense and steamy as always, and the suspense builds effectively, even in such a short piece. Fans of Robb and first time readers alike will be completely captivated by this story. Upon reaching the end, readers will surely want to see more of Eve and Roarke! The second story in the book, "Kinsman" by Susan Krinard is a great read. I was completely absorbed into the world of shauuri, kinsmen, and humans. At times the story was bogged down by having to explain this complex new world, but for the most part it was well-written and enjoyable. The main characters, Kori Galetéa Challinor and Jonas Kane VelArhan, are both telepaths, who join forces to search for a lost ship. They uncover a terrible conspiracy and vow to stop those responsible. Jonas and Kori have a very special connection, and the love that they share will be put to the ultimate test in their fight for justice! Third is Maggie Shayne's "Immortality", which is excellent. We meet Puabi, a Dark Immortal High Witch on the verge of death. Matthew finds her floating in the ocean and saves her life, bringing her back to his island. Puabi, who has spent 4000 years using her evil ways, finds something changing inside of her. Matthew is also getting over his own tragedy, and these two begin to heal each other. Puabi puzzles over the strange and tender new emotions she is feeling, and her romance with Matthew is fresh and passionate. But things are not as they seem, and a dark force is looming close, waiting to destroy them. Now Puabi and Matthew must pull together and fight for their newfound love! I really enjoyed this story, and never once felt confused, even though it is the first piece by Shayne I have ever read. Finally is Laurell Hamilton's "Magic Like Heat Across My Skin", which is merely an excerpt from her newest book. I think I enjoyed this the least. I really liked Anita Blake, the necromancer, and her lovers Jean-Claude, the Master Vampire, and Richard the Alpha Werewolf. I thought the dynamics between these three were great and that the magic of "merging auras" was fascinating. However, at times Hamilton seemed to be more interested in describing the dominance and submission, sadism and masochism than in telling the story. Perhaps this is supposed to be an important part of vampire/shape-shifter culture, and since I haven't read any of her books, I can't be sure, but it seemed excessive. I was also highly frustrated by the way the story ended, with no resolution at all. But then, I suppose that was the point, hoping that we will rush out and buy "Narcissus in Chains". Overall, the characters were interesting and well-written, and I found them very compelling, but I was irritated by the story's lack of resolution and its emphasis on disturbing sexual practices. All-in-all, I really enjoyed "Out of This World". Robb's story was my favourite, and Krinard's and Shayne's stories really caught my interest. Hamilton's 'excerpt' had some intriguing aspects, and though I will not buy "Narcissus...", I may have a look at some of her earlier works, which are reputed to be much better. Of course, my opinions won't be shared by all, due to the diverse range of genres included in this anthology. This book provides a wonderful opportunity for readers to sample new authors, and I believe it is most definitely worth the read!
Rating: 
Summary: Great Marketing Ploy
Review: "Out of This World" is a series of four vignettes whose only connection is that they each have a futuristic theme. The four are very cleverly packaged by the publisher: J.D. Robb (aka Nora Roberts) guarantees instant sales, as Eve and Roarke fanatics like me are severely addicted and cannot pass up ANY new book that offers more of these characters. Therefore, hers is the first story in the book. "Interlude in Death" is a quick hit of Robb's futuristic world of murder, mystery, on-the-edge business dealings, and the always intriguing, always sensual marriage of hardboiled cop Eve Dallas and equally hardboiled (and gorgeous) billionaire businessman Roarke. There is method to the publisher's madness, and Robb's as well. For hard-core fans, Robb offers an intriguing, heretofore unmentioned secret from Roarke's past. For Eve-and-Roarke newbies, there is enough standard fare to lead them straight to Robb's "In-Death" series.
"Kinsman," by Susan Krinard, is an equally brief but interesting tale about telepaths in a very structured futuristic society. Because I do not read many novels in this genre, I was amazed by the attention to detail, and the author's ability to bring the reader easily and deeply into the world of Kinsmen, shaauri, and humans. The story itself, which involves a deception that threatens the entire society, was a bit slow, but the glimpse into the author's imagination was fascinating. "Kinsman" did not hook me into reading more Krinard, because the slowness of her style would not suit this impatient reader. Nevertheless, it was fun to sample her work. "Immortality," by Maggie Shayne, is a quick read with a pat and improbable ending, again, entertaining but not a grabber. It's the story of an ancient witch whose human form is that of a beautiful and sexy young woman. The story features a fire, a drowning, a hurricane and more--all in this brief novelette. One can hardly, therefore, call the story slow or boring, but--I didn't like the witch. When Nora Roberts writes about witches, I am completely absorbed into their worlds. I believe every word, every spell, every bit of magic. With Shayne, I was well aware that I was reading a creative piece of fluff. I was never engaged. That's OK, however, because OH MY the Laurell K. Hamilton vignette was worth the price of the book and then some. I had never heard of Ms. Hamilton before a few weeks ago. Now I am a fanatic. She drew me effortlessly into the world of vampire hunter Anita Blake. "Magic Like Heat Across My Skin" is a dark, dangerous, deeply erotic tale of vampires, werewolves, wereLEOPARDS (an idea of which I heartily approve)--and in this story, a werehyena or two. Reading this small Hamilton offering is like dressing in black velvet and drinking a smoky dark wine. It feels dangerous. It definitely stirs one's senses. And...it does exactly what it is supposed to do, it makes one want more. I gave "Out of This World" 3 stars because of the two middle stories; otherwise, I would have given Robb a 4 and Hamilton a 20! What? Only 5 starts maximum? That positively ruptures my aura, as Blake says.
Rating:
Summary: Be warned, not for everyone
Review: (...)I would like to add a huge WARNING though. For 3 out of the 4 books, if you have never read the books in the series preceding this anthology, you will probably not enjoy these stories. I have read all of the authors and thought this a pretty good book, thus the 4 stars, but if this is your first experience with Hamilton, Shayne or Robb, move ahead cautiously. J D Robb's (aka Nora Roberts) story was a good short story keeping in line with her ...In Death series. The characters are mostly all there and the plot is a good one. I suppose if you have never read her books, you could enjoy this story, but there is so much previous baggage from the relationships that it would seem to me that coming in on this story would be like watching the Return of the Jedi without watching Star Wars or The Empire Strikes Back first. I could not even begin to imagine following Maggie Shanye's novel if I had not read at least Destiny, and probably Infinity and Eternity as well. Puabi was so evil in Destiny that it was quite hard for me to get into this book. If I had no previous knowledge of her earlier history, this book would not make much sense. So much revolves on how utterly evil she was and the lengths and time she spent trying to get her way. I felt VERY cheated with Laurell Hamilton's portion of the book. As stated elsewhere, this is just a segment of Narcissus in Chains. I am a huge fan and would have bought her book anyway. I wanted something different, why pay for this if I am going to pay for the whole book anyway? VERY bad judgment call, whoever made it, the author or the publisher. If I had never read the Anita Blake series, this is not the way to be introduced into it. SO much has happened before this point (what 9 or 10 books worth?) that I do not think someone new to Ms. Hamilton would enjoy this story (or part of the story). The fact that this is just a few chapters with no beginning and no end, no real purpose besides sensual images, bothered me too. I liked Susan Krinard's book very, very much. Maybe not quite as sensual at the other stories, but the ONLY story that was a stand-alone. I like Ms. Krinard's older books, and the imagination in this story reminds me of the originality found in them. We had the development of both a relationship and a fictional world that was done without relying on previous books. Kudos Ms. Krinard!
Rating: 
Summary: Out Of This World!!!
Review: (Paperback review)
Out Of This World!!! No other way to put it! I've read all of the "In Death" Series by Robb(Aka Roberts) and enjoyed everyone. This one "Interlude..." did not disappoint. Excellent as always! I liked the fact it was short (89 pages). Told the story and got to the conclusion, left you wanting for more of Eve & Roarke. I was however a disappointed w/Maggie Shayne's "Immortality"...Story done over and over in various venues of sci-fi/mystery. Bad turns good, dark witch finds love becomes white witch... it's not much more than a romance novel... Found it rather HO-HUM.... Laurell K Hamilton's "Magic...." made me want to read more, I'll pick up "Narcissus in Chains" first chance I get. I read a review that said 'Buffy (the Vampire Slayer) look out for Anita'.... I have to agree! Anita, Jean-Claude and Richard were a very good mix. The one that truly surprised me was Susan Krinard. I've read a couple of her "Wolf" stories and expected more of that series. THIS WAS GREAT!! Great isn't good enough, "KINSMAN" WAS EXCELLENT WRITING. Although you didn't know the species, in a short 87 pages, you were able to pick up on the character traits, even visualize the way they looked. I'm hooked and want more. A very pleasant surprise deviation from her past theme, shows she is a creative, gifted writer. Are there more stories of Jonas Kane VelArhan out there that I haven't yet discovered?? (If so, please!, someone send me the names of these books!) This is steps way beyond Startrek or Starwars! Ms. Krinard give us more please!!!!
Rating:
Summary: A wonderful blend
Review: A new In Death novella, a sci-fi meeting of minds, a witch who would not die, and love triangle between a vampire, were-wolf and a necromancer--four novellas with totally different tones, but all equally engaging reads!
Rating:
Summary: These stories are Out of This World
Review: All of these stories are written well, but I especially love J.D. Robb's Interlude In Death. I have been reading the In Death series for many years and continue to love them.
Rating:
Summary: Worth the Wait!
Review: Being a huge fan of both J.D. Robb and Laurell K. Hamilton, I couldn't WAIT for this collection of tales to be released. Fans of both authors will not be disappointed. I did not sleep last night until I had concluded both stories from those authors (I have yet to read the ones by the other 2 authors). J.D. Robb once again delivers a quick and entertaining read about Eve and Roarke. Everything fans love about these characters shines in this short story--from Eve's tough warnings to Roarke's classic confidence to Peabody's own humorous mutterings. The mystery itself is very quick and keeps one interested. There's also a very shocking and surprising secret revealed about family trees in this story. The selection by Laurell K. Hamilton was even better. Personally, I missed Jean-Claude and Richard just as much as Anita has. While Obsidian Butterfly disappointed me because of their absence, this selection (which is in reality the beginning part of LKH's next release *Narcissus in Chains*) was incredibly satisfying! Jean-Claude is hotter than ever (yes, it's possible) and Richard is as well. It was wonderful to read about them all being together again--and fans know what happens when the three of them are together again: the thrill of passion and the roll of power! Jason and Asher are back as well as other characters, and we have some really new threats in this one as well. It's so interesting to see Anita change and evolve through these novels. I can't wait for more...I guess I'll just have to re-read these until the next ones arrive. Enjoy!
Rating:
Summary: JD Robb story worth it
Review: Being both a JD Robb and Laurel Hamilton fan, I purchased this book happily. The Robb story didn't fail to please, it was great. I was very disappointed in the Hamilton story, it was the opening scenes of her last book Narcissus in Chains! The other stories in the book were boring.
If your a Robb fan, its worth it. If not, I'd pass.
Rating:
Summary: JD Robb story worth it
Review: Being both a JD Robb and Laurel Hamilton fan, I purchased this book happily. The Robb story didn't fail to please, it was great. I was very disappointed in the Hamilton story, it was the opening scenes of her last book Narcissus in Chains! The other stories in the book were boring.
If your a Robb fan, its worth it. If not, I'd pass.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent anthology!
Review: Excellent!
This is 4 pieces of fiction by the top names in paranormal romance fiction! The J.D. Robb is a fun Eve Dallas short novella, Susan Krinard gets a new take on her werewolves, the Maggie Shayne offering is part 4 to her Witches trilogy Eternity, Infinity and Destiny, and the Laurel Hamillton is just plain Anita Blake brand of fun! This is not a themed collection so much as a treat for fans of all 4 authors- and a chance to get to know these series in short form. One of the best! I have read this several times and wish it was available in a hardcover ( not large print) to go on my keeper shelf - my paperback is worn out! Also recommended: Maggie Shayne Immortal Witch series: Eternity, Infinity, Destiny, Anne Rice The Mayfair Witches series, Karen Harbaugh The Vampire Viscount and watch her new vampire books! They are hot!
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