The Hounds delegation arrives for Helena Drake’s coronation lead by Isabeau St. Croix, a young vampire with a tragic history. Isabeau survived the French Revolution, only to be turned into a vampire and buried for centuries. She seeks revenge against the vampire who turned her, a lieutenant of Montemartre called Grayhaven. What she doesn’t count on finding, is the young roguishly handsome Logan Drake, who will do anything to protect his family, and now Isabeau, from the scheming of Montemartre.

This second adventure in the Drake Chronicles takes off at breakneck pace. Like the first, this book has action, vampires, magic, and romance. The story is told from the point of view of the two main characters in alternating chapters. Isabeau’s character is convincingly developed and believable. Flashbacks provide insight into her past, and outline her motivations for finding Grayhaven. Logan’s character is much better developed in this second book, and we begin to see how loyal he is to his family.

With this second volume, I got what I needed so badly in the first, a family tree! I am finally able to keep better track of who is who in the drake clan. Like the first though, this book is a fun easy read with likable characters who you just want to root for. I also think this second volume shows an improvement in Harvey’s writing. These characters, especially Isabeau, are so much better developed than the characters of the first book, and I really enjoyed the rich descriptions of Isabeau’s past. Logan’s character, while better developed in this book, remains a little flat and predictable, but still extremely likable.

Overall, this book is a wonderful continuation of what promises to be a great series. Like the first book, this vampire book is safe for sensitive readers as there is no sex and only mild language. It does contain violence, and some gore, but considering it is a vampire book that is only to be expected. Harvey is a talented author, and I find myself looking forward to the next installment in this great series. This series is like candy—you can’t get enough.