Wicked Bite, by Jeaniene Frost, is the second novel in the Night Rebel series. The story picks up shortly right after the ending in the previous book. Ian and Veritas are no longer together. Veritas made a deal with the keeper of the Underworld: to erase Ian's memories of that epic battle with a powerful ancient demon. In return, she loses her immortality in the process. Nonetheless, she is committed to searching all the lost souls that escaped in order to save Ian. But there is one major problem. Ian does remember his final moments with her--even if those memories are fragmented. He does not want to let Veritas go. After all, the promiscuous playboy is married! And he likes being married.
Ian begins immediately looking for Veritas. He summons the vampire Law Guardian Council, which requires Veritas to appear before Ian. She is unhappy with this latest development, but she cannot deny the burning passion she feels for Ian and how much she missed him. Meanwhile, Ian isn't about to be left behind by the woman who entranced him, bound herself to him, and then disappeared mysteriously. The two eventually find themselves traveling around the world (and uncovering major surprises along the way) to track down the ancient demon and his allies. But time is running out, and the stakes are high. If Veritas' true identity is revealed, she could lose her job as a Law Guardian.
This book exceeded my expectations. Veritas experienced the most change in character development. Readers get to learn more about her lineage and better understanding of her worldview. She transformed from a dedicated Law Guardian to a feisty demi-goddess. The plot delved on the theme of otherness and living as an outcast in the supernatural community. Because mixed-race species are frowned upon (and killed) in their society, it was impossible for Veritas to be herself and live freely. So, she repressed her power which led to unresolved emotional issues. Nonetheless, the turn of events compels Veritas to confront her own fears and embrace her "other" power in the final chapters.
As for Ian, his personality has evolved tremendously since his introduction in One Foot in the Grave. Ian is full of surprises as he gradually reveals his real personality. Surprisingly, Ian acts charming and protective around Veritas. But his cunning combat skills also illustrated why enemies continue to underestimate him. In addition to being a master vampire who dabbled with forbidden magic, Ian has demon abilities that surprise even his companions. It was also ironic that he, like Bones did for Cat, is looking for the love of his life. I didn't think it was possible, but I am starting to like Ian and Veritas' backstory. Frost provided a convincing reason to look forward to more of their adventures.
Overall this was a fun ride and a great addition to the series. Frost's writing was totally engaging and captivating. Readers will be pleased to get a little humor from the other major characters: Cat and Bones, Mencheres, Vlad and Leila. Make sure that you read the first novel and previous novels in the Night Huntress Universe. Stay tuned for the next novel in the Night Rebel series, Wicked All Night.
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