Black Moon

September 1, 2014
A dark, realistic and intriguing story that evades the second-book slump. Willa and Simon, now members of the Covenant, are both dealing with PTSD resulting from the events that closed Blood Moon (2013). But as dangerous, unexpected and unexplainable occurrences begin, the pair wonder if joining the Covenant was the right choice; moreover, Simon fears his powers-which continue increasing-make him a danger. Their story alternates with Archard's, the villain of the last book, believed consumed by his own flames. Using long-banished dark magic and the power of the new moon, Archard heals and pursues arcane knowledge to exact revenge on the Covenant. Also interspersed are stories of a witch from the 1930s, as well as scenes from the life of Bartholomew the Dark, a legendary witch of the ancient past. Through these stories-as well as Willa's dreams of Bartholomew's life-readers learn that though supposedly long dead, Bartholomew had plans in which even Archard is a pawn. Willa and Simon's relationship manages to be both intense and romantic and refreshingly realistic: Though they are still very much in love-soul mates-their relationship suffers from the distance created by Simon's unwillingness to open up. The book's closing revelation is so disturbing and alluring that even astute readers who saw it coming will anticipate the final installment.Unusual and absorbing. (Fantasy. 14 & up)

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