A gripping read that offers nonstop thrills and chills…
Set in the seedy streets of San Diego, Allen’s second installment in the NOCTURNAL series blends elements of urban fantasies, police procedurals, and horror. A twisted killer is hunting San Diego’s Vampire Goth club scene, prompting the newly promoted Reggie Downing to seek the Vampire’s help. Unbeknownst to them, a powerful entity from the Vampire’s past aims to eradicate his bloodline for eternity. To save his family, the Vampire must defeat the threat before time runs out and catch the vicious killer as well. Although it is not strictly necessary, readers may want to know more about Eddie’s past and the events of the previous book before beginning this one. Allen’s writing is gripping and the horror elements incorporated are quite spine-tingling. The novel has a fast-paced narrative, relentless tension, and a taut storyline that incorporates vampires, serial killers, murder, and even an unlikely romance. The evolving relationships between Eddie, Lottie, and Reggie shine, and themes of family, belonging, identity, understanding, and acceptance are well depicted. Eddie’s struggles with his vampire identity are portrayed with skill. This exhilarating story is told in alternating third-part omniscient narrative voice and journal entries in Eddie’s first-person voice (a narrative device that adds further levity to his individual turmoil) as Eddie moves through life, navigating the ups and downs of his curse. The ending solves the major plot conflict, while also leaving readers eager for the next one. A solid paranormal thriller that will hook readers with its gripping worldbuilding, taut pacing, and fantastic horror.
JUST BEFORE DAWN: a NOCTURNAL novel
Mark Allen
Pub date September 24, 2023
ISBN 979-8862379662
Price $15.99 (USD) Paperback, $0.00 Kindle Unlimited
