Thalassa (the Bargainer series) immerses readers in a world of witches, werewolves, and magic in this addictive fantasy romance, the first in a new series. Twenty-year-old witch Selene Bowers is desperate to get a handle on her newly awakened magic, which erases part of her memories every time she casts a spell. To learn to master her magic, she must win acceptance to Henbane Coven, an academy for young witches, and as part of her application she must demonstrate a connection to her powers through a magical quest. Unfortunately, an evil force derails her plans as the powerful pull of dark magic leads her to the imprisoned ancient sorcerer, Memnon the Cursed. Selene accidentally awakens the gorgeous, powerful, and deadly Memnon, who claims that she is his “est amage,” his immortal ancient queen and soul mate—and that she betrayed him. Selene, who has no idea what he’s talking about, narrowly escapes him, which gains her acceptance to Henbane. When her classmates start dying around her, however, Selene worries that she’s not as free from Memnon as she thought. Or is there some other monster lurking in the shadows? The erotically charged cat and mouse dynamic between Selene and Memnon keeps the pages flying. Readers will be riveted. Agent: Kimberly Brower, Brower Literary. (Apr.)