3 Stars

Edited by Martin H. Greenberg and Brittany A. Koren

SINGLE WHITE VAMPIRE SEEKS SAME

DAW

ISBN 0-88677-922-7

2001

Despite the title, this is not exclusively a vampire anthology. Werewolves, jinn, and less classifiable creatures also stalk its pages, all seeking love (or other goals) in the personal ads. The book does contain several vampire pieces, including a new "Henry Fitzroy" tale from Tanya Huff. The tone of the stories in SINGLE WHITE VAMPIRE ranges from humorous to poignant, with an occasional hint of the sinister. Though most have happy endings, some end sadly or ironically.

No horror, no explicit erotica; this anthology focuses on the difficulties and hazards of finding and maintaining relationships. Aside from Tanya Huff's story, my personal favorites are the wickedly funny "Werotica," by reliably entertaining Esther Friesner; "Folk Lure," by Kristine Kathryn Rusch, which introduces a unique predator; and Charles de Lint's suspenseful, yet amusing and tender werewolf story, "Trading Hearts at the Half Kaffe Cafe." This book is sure to contain something to appeal to every reader who enjoys meeting the creatures of the night.

Reviewed by Margaret L. Carter