A Kiss of Shadows was the first book I read by Laurell Hamilton. She had already written the first 2 and the 3 one was due out. I read all three and while waiting for 4 I began her Anita Blake series. I disagree with the reviewer who said that all the men in the Merry series were alike, but there are similarities between the two series. Also let it be known that Ms. Hamilton herself has said that she is still finding her way with Merry. That said, I enjoy BOTH series (putting me in the minority) and recommend them to anyone who enjoys adult fiction.