This was the first romance I'd read in 10 years. So I missed a lot of the build up to the paranormal trend. But I'm glad this was my introduction. These characters, while stereotypical, are not cookie-cutter and actually draw you into their plight(s).The series in general is well-rounded with a fine basis in mythology. This book in particular had me hooked, trying to figure out what the exact governing laws were, and hoping that everyone would get together for their happily ever after. I could definitely see making a tradition of re-reading the entire series whenever a new one is released.