Rob Thurman introduced us to the brothers Niko and Cal (Caliban) in 2006. Cal finally met his father and learned just what his true heritage was. Unfortunately, Cal was possessed by evil and nearly lost everything he held dear.

Moonshine nearly takes up where Nightlife left off. Niko and Cal are a little better situated now. They have a real apartment in New York City and both young men are enrolled in college courses.

But, they've got to do something to keep the money coming in, so they're acting as private investigators and exterminators in partnership with the vampire Promise and, of course, Robin Goodfellow, the infamous Puck. Their first job is ridding a carnival of bodachs -- which are Scottish evil spirits who've dressed up as clowns.

Next, they've got to run with the wolves. Literally. The "Kin" is the appellation Thurman gives to the Werewolf Mafia. When they are contacted by one mob boss to spy on another to determine whether they really are in allegiance, the $50,000 offered for a few hours' work seems too good to pass up.

They should have, though. As a result of that first night, the psychic Georgina is captured and events are set into motion that pit the whole team against serious odds with very little time to get Georgina back.

Thurman writes engaging, real and interesting characters. She imbeds hooks sharp as cats' claws into the reader and keeps them reading -- and guessing -- all the way through.

You don't have to read Nightlife to enjoy Moonshine, but I think you will definitely want to. Thurman's writing was good for her initial offering, but has only improved with the second book. Can't wait for the third!