Der Reizen

Herta Tanner, a young Canadian woman, inherits a cottage in Bavaria, Germany, as well as an unusual job. She believes she must be a pimp for vampires. Herta's main goal is to 'get her life together' and she needs to overcome the insecurities of a nasty divorce. A friend or two wouldn't come amiss either. The folks of the nearby town of Kochberg hate her either for her family connections or because they know what she represents. Her biggest stumbling block is more than one set of cultural differences. Can Herta keep her temper during all of this?

Herta Tanner is back and taking lessons in Tiel mind self-control from a former teacher of Turan’s. At least, she does until she’s accused of murder, smuggling and kidnapping. With the help of two Tiel apprentices and a former love interest, Herta must work to find the mastermind of the smugglers before the Gates between the worlds are closed forever. Aside from putting her out of a job, this would mean the death of many Tiel. Turan, meanwhile, is under house arrest as a co-conspirator of Herta’s and has to deal with Dekalar’s illness and treachery from within his own ranks.

Herta Tanner moves in with Krista Zwitzer, who is still on sick leave. She also agrees to help Priscilla St. John with the latter’s garden. Reikert is banished from Tielen for life while Danarius gets a banishment of ten Tiel years. A new head of house, Turan, will be appointed at the next Mabon meeting. Herta finds a contractor, Walther Greig, who is willing to put a rush on building her a new house. Reikert is settled with Priscilla and Herr Stude has rescued the boxes of histories from the University of Munich and John.

Herta’s sister has arrived for an indefinite stay, causing Herta no end of difficulties. Herta’s arrest by the BKA pits Turan and Dekalar against the Minister of the Interior. With all the stress in her life, Herta loses her temper. The Gates between the worlds are locked, putting Herta out of a job. Will she ever see Turan again? If not, will she be allowed to carry on as Der Reizen?

Someone is getting more serious about Herta's death. She discovers the history some Tiel don't want to see the light of day. Can she trust even her husband? As Herta and her friends race to discover the truth, events keep the group from trusting anyone but themselves. Two attacks and a disastrous wedding reception keep Herta angry enough to want to find the culprits.