This book deals with the new supernatural threat introduced in “A Family Visit” (in Black Dog Short Stories II). Ezekiel is abducted by an enemy no one properly understands and all three of the Toland siblings are included in the team sent to rescue him. This mission requires Dimilioc to work together with Special Forces, and becomes even more complicated when a politician gets involved.

This is tense and gripping... and one of the advantages of being several books into a series is that one can really appreciate the full significance of characters doing unexpected things. I love when stories make smaller details extra meaningful!

Another of the highlights of this book was Miguel Toland getting a chance to shine. Unlike his siblings, Miguel is totally human, but that turns out be very useful in a situation that requires working with other humans. Moreover, Miguel not only has an excellent understanding of people, black dogs, Pure Magic and his sister, he is able to make excellent use of what he knows.

(My only quibble with this book is that I couldn’t always decode the abbreviations and acronyms that Miguel uses in his text messages…)

Then, turning to Alejandro, Miguel added, “God, I need a bath. And a big cup of coffee.”
Alejandro frowned at him. “You need twelve hours’ sleep and the hearts of your enemies on a plate.”

I think “You need twelve hours’ sleep and the hearts of your enemies on a plate” must be black dog for telling your siblings you love them. ( )