Stiletto

While not nearly the gleeful surprise that was The Rook, this sequel is still a ton of fun with all the requisite ass-kicking ladies, supernatural beings and dry wit with a side of the Belgian Wetenschappeljik Broederschap van Natuurkundigen. Myfawny Thomas is determined to bring about peace between the two warring factions and has assembled the heads of each at a fragile peace accord in London. We follow alongside Grafter Odette Leliefeld and Pawn Felicity Clements of the Checquy who find themselves getting involved in no shortage of shenanigans. Meanwhile a mysterious third party is decimated lives on both sides and seems determined to undermine Rook Thomas' efforts.

Daniel O'Malley could have benefited from a stern editorial hand that might have trimmed a bit of the flab off this book. But it still manages to maintain all the suspense with a hint of fun like a pulpy Sunday matinee. A perfect summer distraction.