CRESCENDO

The forbidden romance between Nora Grey and fallen angel Patch that began in Hush, Hush (2009) remains off-limits in this predictable, repetitive sequel as Patch, now Nora’s guardian angel, is warned by the archangels to keep his distance from his charge. Prompted by Patch’s furtiveness and recent detachment and fueled by his involvement with Nora’s longtime rival, Marcie Millar, their steamy relationship becomes a jealous push-pull for the upper hand. When a former classmate and fallen-angel vassal, known as a Nephilim, returns to Delphic Beach, Maine, and she begins seeing visions of her deceased father, Nora’s obsession with Patch turns to finding out more about a secret Nephilim blood society, its Black Hand leader, their possible connection to her father’s death and their threat to all of humanity. As in the first novel, Nora is continuously placed or places herself in dangerous situations that leave her vulnerable to physically powerful men and that require being saved. Just as the drawn-out plot answers Nora’s lingering questions, it introduces a new dilemma and opener for another sequel. (Supernatural thriller. YA)