When Jules finds out his Maker is alive, living and killing in Baltimore, the bloodlust he keeps suppressed surges up, demanding vengeance, for his turning was not one he consented to, nor was it painless. But in seeking vengeance, Jules would be breaking the Guardian’s creed and dooming himself to exile from those he respects the most. When he sets off, he does so with the intention of never returning and facing his mission alone. Then Hannah Moore catches up to him.

Hannah hates feeling helpless. She has done everything in her power to ensure she has the ability to defend herself. Then she found out that vampires do exist and no weapon in her arsenal is enough to protect herself from them, should she need to. The only reason she has agreed to follow and look out for Jules is because of her friendship with Carolyn, mate to one of the Guardian’s of the Night, protectors of humankind. But whilst Hannah feels nothing but dislike and hatred of vampires, she finds herself increasingly drawn to Jules – as Jules finds himself becoming more protective of Hannah. Will Jules’s mission be seen through to the end? Does Hannah protect Jules or do they protect one another?

Secrets in the Shadows is the second in Jenna Black’s new series, Guardians of the Night. This tale is very definitely a dark romance: dark because some of the characters contained herein are pure evil, with their misdeeds presented to the reader in all their horrid glory. Jenna Black has done a remarkable job of taking an old myth – vampires – and spinning it into a fabulous new world, at once good and evil. The uniqueness and engagement of the reader by the plot by far makes up for any stomach lurches the reader may experience at certain times in the reading of this tale, though these scenes are still fascinating in their own way. Our hero is a classic: tormented, vengeful and chivalrous. Our heroine is very modern: a PI who is successful and strong in many ways, though she is not without her vulnerabilities. Together, they are an intriguing pair, well developed both apart and as a unit. There is chemistry between them from the beginning; their attempts to resist are futile. There is some sex in the tale and it is described in detail. There isn’t anything particularly offensive, though Jules does come on very strong and domineering. I love Secrets in the Shadows and want to get my hands on the rest of this exceptional series!

Reviewed by: Elizabeth