In Ward’s new Black Dagger Brotherhood novel, a secondary storyline overshadows the primary romance between a vampire and her human doctor. The long-suffering Payne, brought into the corporeal world after years of imprisonment in Lover Mine, now faces possible paralysis. Her twin brother, Vishous, will do anything to save his recently discovered sister, allowing his wife Jane to involve her human former boss, Dr. Manny Manello, in Payne’s recovery. Though the doctor and Payne’s love affair should remain the focus, V’s rocky relationship with Jane offers more intensity because of the pleasure, pain, and healing elements involved. Ward’s world works better when the hero is a Brother—vampirism, kink, and “scary dude” go hand-in-hand. Readers will connect the dots between the twins and the move from Europe to the Brother’s stronghold in Caldwell by Xcor, a vampire with vengeance on his mind. On the other hand, Qhuinn’s growing despondence over his secret love for Blay is little more than a place mark for a future book. (Apr.)