Diabolical

In this fourth entry, angel Zachary and wolf-boy Kieren join forces with an eclectic group of students at Scholomance Academy to face down their demonic instructor and the very hounds of hell. Smith recalls her entire cast of uniquely imagined supernaturals and expertly weaves their stories into this installment, incorporating just enough details from previous books to bring readers up to speed.

It's a considerable challenge for a series not to lose steam by the fourth book, but this one runs full force on the fires of hell and the sword power of heaven. Glorious, golden guardian angel Zachary teams up with sexy wolf-boy Kieren to make a daring rescue at the mysterious Scholomance Academy. Finding themselves locked in, Zachary and Kieren join forces with an eclectic group of students to face down their demonic instructor, an axe-wielding caretaker, and the very hounds of hell. The ultimate showdown is a Harry Potter-worthy battle between good and evil -- but with a welcome dose of devilish humor. Zachary's beloved Miranda, the first wholly redeemed vampire, watches helplessly from heaven's way station. She intercedes in the only way possible -- by filing the appropriate form lifted from the office of Archangel Michael. Smith recalls her entire cast of uniquely imagined supernaturals and expertly weaves their stories into this fourth book. This installment is a model for incorporating just enough details from previous books to bring readers up to speed, but those already invested in the characters will be the most satisfied. Demonically inspired by Stoker's Dracula and divinely imagined into the present day, the series blends supernatural adventure with real adolescent preoccupations, from homework to hormones. No spoilers here...but happily ever after was never so literal. lauren adams