Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Quincie Morris' life is full of the supernatural. Her best friend (and long-time love) is a hybrid-werewolf and she and her uncle are about to launch a vampire-themed restaurant. Just before the launch of the restaurant, the chef is brutally murdered in what appears to be a werewolve attack. Now Quincie has to face another devastating loss and at the same time move forward with the restaurant's redesign. Quincie now has to create a Master Vampire look for the new chef, Brad, who is more than he seems to be. Quincie is more confused than ever, especially as Brad begins to make advances and Kieran prepares to leave and join a werewolf pack.

Cynthia Leitich Smith has crafted a vampire mystery that will appeal to those teens who like darker vampire novels. The intriguing cover and interesting premise will attract teen readers. The story is full of action and moves at a brisk pace, keeping readers involved and guessing throughout. Tantalize lacks the polish and secondary character development of the Twilight series, however, and though the story moves at a fast-pace, its abrupt conclusion leaves many unanswered questions.