Cursed

Alex has spent a while staying out of sight. His second sight made him infamous for defeating powerful dark mages, and he would rather not attract more attention. Then he learns that a forbidden ritual is back in use.

Someone is draining the life-force of magical creatures, and the creatures do not survive it. Humans are the intended next victims. Alex is hired to investigate.

The job turns awkward fast. Not everyone on the Council wants him digging further, and he has trouble telling his allies from his enemies. Some of the people now targeting him are willing to risk their own sanity to gain power.

This is urban fantasy in a modern London setting, and it is the second Alex Verus book, following Fated. Expect gunplay and spellcraft alongside questions of loyalty, with Alex's relationship with Luna and his standing among London's magical circles under pressure as the case closes in on him.