The second in this series – a modern reworking of Frankenstein and his Creations – sees human detectives O'Connor and Maddison (aided by Deucalion, Frankenstein's first creation) pursuing an increasingly isolated investigation into the creatures of Victor Helios (né Frankenstein), and the extent Helios has them into the power structure of New Orleans and Louisiana - planning eventually for his new race to take over and rule the world with him as their King.

Helios has spent the two hundred years of his life developing biological technology, extending his own life and creating the New Race, with the eventual intention of replacing the Human Race. But Frankenstein's plans may be falling apart, as his creatures are becoming unstable, with the serial killer in the first book just the start, and Helios's butler chewing off his fingers one after another just one example you will find in this book.

I was a little concerned when I picked up this book, for having read an enjoyed the first book in this series, I was about to read the second and the author has changed. Kevin J. Anderson happens to be one of my favourite, currently writing, authors and although I have read one of Ed Gorman's books some time ago (it was good I seem to remember) he is not an author I make time to read whenever possible - Anderson is fast getting to that level.

So does this hold up to the standards of book one? Well, the simple answer is yes – it does. After just a few pages of this book I was back into this world – in a pre-Katrina New Orleans, and immersed in this conspiracy. And thankfully the suspense level from the first book is maintained, this is as fast paced and intriguing as book one, and the characters consistent with book one – thankfully so, as I thought Carson O'Connor was a wonderful character, and I am glad to see her back in all her glory.

There's a great deal to recommend this book. The writing style is comfortable, easy to read. This is a book that would be a wonderful relief after a heavy read. Now I just have to wait until book three comes out...