Jalie is an immortal from the stars who has come to find peace on Earth in the remnants of Europe. She longs for death to end her endless, lonely existence.  The innkeeper warns her not to go walking along the Mediterranean Sea alone.  A hungry vampire prowls every Midsummer Eve seeking victims.  Jalie sees the vampire, Rone, as the answer to her despair; an immortal who can end her immortality. 

There’s darkness and light within Heat Stroke: Night Heat that weaves a sinisterly romantic thread throughout the narrative.  The sensual expressiveness is alluring, and you’re never allowed to escape the otherworldliness.   Jalie’s and Rone’s encounter oftentimes feels like a dream.  After reading this, I’d swear I drifted off on a lawn chair near the sea and dreamed of this meeting between these wandering souls who share an erotic moment that’s mystical.  The imagery and descriptions are so picturesque and appealing, I could feel the wet sand, smell the salty brine and the warm breezes.  The best kinds of stories, such as this one, offer escape in more than one way.