Shadow of Night (All Souls Trilogy #2)

I’m a big fan of DISCOVERY OF WITCHES and was excited to get a copy of the sequel to review. Fans of YA will enjoy the crossover appeal of this magical paranormal tale that is much more than just a vampire story.

First off, Matthew and Diana are two great characters. Matthew is not the stereotypical vampire. No, he’s also a biochemist based in Oxford. Diana is a tenured professor who also happens to be a witch. They ‘stumble’ across each other as they search for the manuscript Ashmole 782. Even though vampires and witches are sworn enemies, Matthew and Diana are drawn to each other. Love the chemistry between these two that reminds me of Diana Gabaldon’s Jaime and Clair. Diana is a strong protagonist and shatters the whole TWILIGHT Bella image. She doesn't wait around but rather goes after what she needs and wants.

In this sequel, the couple goes back to 1590 Elizabethan London. They are looking for a witch to tutor Diana in learning what her ability is. Also they are looking for that elusive Ashmole 782 which they feel will reveal the secret behind how creature like Matthew and Diana came to be.

One huge plus of this novel has to be the little details of the time period which include the clothing, norms, and hatred directed towards certain groups like witches and Jews. All these strengthen this paranormal tale along with the humor and romance of the time.

What I did have a hard time with had to be the very beginning when they finally do come to 1590. The dialogue got confusing at times. I wondered if it was just too many characters showing up. But later, once I got into the court intrigue and other revelations, I was hooked.

There are some big surprises which include what the Ashmole 782 is made out of( I admit I squirmed a little) and also a big reveal on Diana’s own family. Seems she’s not the only timewalker.

Lush backdrop of 1590 London and Prague add richness to this tale that’s much more than just a vampire story. The whole twist on Queen Elizabeth ‘knowing’ about vampires and witches works. I love how she has her own pet name for Matthew and how her personality is shown in her reaction to news of his wedding.

There’s some graphic images but nothing over the top other than the way vampires become intimate with their companions. And that’s not really that much.

Action, suspense, and forbidden love combine to make this one magical tale.