This is the second of three installments in the Midnighters series. Now that Jessica Day has discovered her power, everyone feels safe again, but not all dangers come from the midnight hour. Suddenly, there are normal dangers, outsiders who may not be able to access midnight, but who have found a way to interact with the creatures who can. While the Midnighters explore the history of their world, they discover conspiracy, and their lives are once again threatened by the secrets they unearth.

I actually enjoyed this book more than the first one. I was more familiar with the world these guys lived in, and Westerfeld did a lot more character development, especially with some of the Midnighters that had less of a role last time. I particularly enjoyed the bizarre connection between Melissa and Rex. The plot was more intricate, and the twists more difficult to predict, but at the same time, the pace was just a little slower (which I appreciated) and there were more down-moments. I now can’t wait to read the last book in the trilogy. Westerfeld has not yet disappointed me.

Book 1: The Secret Hour