The Harlequin
(Author) Laurell K. HamiltonMalcolm, the priggish head of the Church of the Eternal Life (the vampire church), is so desperate for help in dealing with the Harlequin, a troop of vampire enforcers and spies so feared vampires are forbidden to speak its name, he turns to those he considers sinful and corrupt--Anita and her sweetie, Jean-Claude, St. Louis's Master of the City. The Harlequin may have targeted Anita and the powerful triumvirate she has forged with Jean-Claude and Richard Zeeman (aka Ulfric of the werewolves). According to the rules, the Harlequin must make contact through delivery of a mask--white to indicate they are watching, red for pain, black for death. Anita receives a white mask, but the members of the Harlequin aren't playing by the rules.
Laurell K. Hamilton
Laurell K. Hamilton is a best-selling American author known for her Anita Blake and Merry Gentry series, which blend elements of fantasy, mystery, and erotica. Her works have redefined the urban fantasy genre, featuring strong female protagonists and complex supernatural worlds. Hamilton's intricate storytelling and vivid character development have captivated readers worldwide.