Lance, by Kathi S. Barton, is the fifth book in the 'Nicklaus Dynasty and His Panther' series, which dives into the intricate world of fantasy with an engaging blend of paranormal elements and romance. This edition continues the tradition of exploring the supernatural powers and romantic escapades of its protagonist, further enriching the series' complex universe with new layers and character development.

The story revolves around Lance Nicklaus, a fascinating character blessed with the ability to shift into a panther. He is not only dealing with the burden of his supernatural abilities but also the complexities of his family dynamics and his role within the magical community. The narrative opens with Lance encountering Sarah Harden, a strong-willed and independent woman who possesses her own set of powers, which she herself is only beginning to understand.

As expected from Barton's novels, the romance between Lance and Sarah is passionate and filled with tumultuous developments. Their relationship is not a simple, straight path but one fraught with obstacles, misunderstandings, and external threats, making their journey together all the more intense and engaging. Barton excels in portraying emotion and tension, which keeps readers invested in the couple’s fate.

One of the most commendable aspects of Lance is how Barton seamlessly weaves family and loyalty themes into the fabric of the romantic and supernatural narrative. The Nicklaus family, with its rich history and powerful legacy, plays a significant role throughout the story. The family dynamics are portrayed with realism and depth; each member has a distinct personality and contributes uniquely to the storyline. This novel delves deep into these relationships, demonstrating how they evolve and react under pressure, thereby enriching the primary narrative of romance and personal growth.

The development of secondary characters is another area where Barton shows her narrative prowess. Characters from previous books make appearances, tying the series together and providing continuity that fans will appreciate. Furthermore, these characters support the protagonist's growth and the advancement of the plot. By integrating these elements, Barton ensures that the world she has created is vibrant and dynamic, extending beyond the simplistic dual focus on the hero and heroine.

However, no book is without its flaws. At times, the dialogue in Lance can feel somewhat forced and unnatural, which slightly mars the believability of the characters' interactions. Additionally, the editing could have been tighter in certain sections where the pacing slows down markedly, particularly in the middle parts of the book where the descriptive passages occasionally stall the momentum of the narrative.

Despite these minor criticisms, the fantasy elements of the book are well-executed. Barton’s descriptions of magical powers and otherworldly scenarios are vivid and imaginative, effectively drawing readers into a world that is markedly different yet strangely familiar. The integration of action scenes with these fantasy elements adds a thrilling dimension to the story, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat with well-timed suspense and climax.

Moreover, the thematic depth of the novel adds a layer of complexity that sets it apart from typical entries in the genre. Through Lance’s experiences and struggles, Barton explores themes of identity, power, and the responsibility that comes with it. This philosophical exploration raises questions about free will and destiny, enriching the reader’s experience and providing fodder for deeper reflection.

In conclusion, Kathi S. Barton's Lance is a solid addition to her ongoing series, packed with all the elements that fans of paranormal romance have come to expect: passion, intrigue, loyalty, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. Despite some hiccups in pacing and dialogue, the novel is a commendable work that not only advances the overarching series plot but also stands strong on its own merits. Readers new to Barton’s world might find themselves a tad overwhelmed by the backstories and interrelationships if they start with this book, so it is advisable to start from the beginning of the series. For regular followers of the Nicklaus Dynasty, Lance offers a gratifying continuation of a much-loved saga.