Coral Alejandra Moore's Hers to Claim is a tantalizing journey into the heart of Las Vegas, where the glitz and glamour of the city are juxtaposed against the dark, mysterious undercurrents of the paranormal world. As the second installment in a series that delves into the lives of supernatural beings in Sin City, this book offers a unique blend of romance, danger, and self-discovery.

At the heart of the narrative is Mari, a complex and compelling protagonist who is grappling with the legacy of her father's criminal empire. Her journey is not just about taking control of this empire but also about understanding her own powers and desires. The book opens with Mari in a precarious position, having to navigate the aftermath of her father's death at the hands of her gargoyle crush. This sets the stage for a story that is as much about personal growth as it is about external conflict.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Hers to Claim is the way it explores the theme of power. Mari is a character who is constantly negotiating her own power dynamics—both in her relationships and in her role as a leader. The presence of a mysterious, ancient creature lurking beneath Las Vegas adds another layer to this theme. This creature, whom Mari has unknowingly been feeding with her magic, represents a darker side of power that is both alluring and dangerous. The tension between Mari's attraction to this creature and her fear of becoming like her father is a central conflict that drives the narrative forward.

The character development in this book is particularly noteworthy. Mari is a sassy, strong-willed heroine who is not afraid to embrace her sexuality and desires. Her relationships with her monster boyfriends are depicted with a refreshing openness and honesty, highlighting themes of polyamory and shared love. These relationships are not just about physical attraction but also about emotional connection and mutual respect. Moore does an excellent job of portraying the complexities of these relationships, making them feel authentic and relatable.

In addition to Mari, the supporting characters are well-developed and add depth to the story. Each of her lovers brings something unique to the table, and their interactions with Mari are filled with chemistry and tension. The gargoyle, in particular, is a fascinating character who embodies both strength and vulnerability. His relationship with Mari is one of the highlights of the book, providing moments of tenderness and passion that are beautifully written.

Moore's writing style is engaging and vivid, capturing the essence of Las Vegas as a city of contrasts. The action scenes are well-paced and exciting, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. At the same time, the more intimate moments are handled with sensitivity and care, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

One of the strengths of Hers to Claim is its ability to balance different genres. It is a romance novel at its core, but it also incorporates elements of fantasy, action, and suspense. This makes it a versatile read that will appeal to fans of various genres. The book's exploration of darker themes, such as the seductive nature of power and the fear of becoming like one's parents, adds a layer of complexity that elevates it beyond a typical romance novel.

Comparatively, Hers to Claim shares similarities with other paranormal romance series, such as J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood or Nalini Singh's Psy-Changeling series. Like these works, Moore's book features a strong female protagonist, a richly imagined world, and a focus on the dynamics of power and desire. However, Moore's unique voice and the setting of Las Vegas give Hers to Claim a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from other books in the genre.

Overall, Hers to Claim is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. Its exploration of power, desire, and self-discovery is both thought-provoking and entertaining. Coral Alejandra Moore has crafted a story that is as much about the supernatural as it is about the human experience, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a book that is both spicy and substantial.

For those interested in diving into the world of Mari and her monster boyfriends, Hers to Claim is available on Amazon and Goodreads.