Paul Féval's Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille continues its thrilling adventure in this second volume. Picking up where the first book left off, the stakes are immediately higher and the danger more personal.

The Story

The core group of friends—Roland, Fabien, and the others—are fully committed to their secret mission as the 'Angels of the Family.' Their goal is to safeguard the Penhoël family and their rightful inheritance from the clutches of the sinister Keramikael. This villain is no cartoonish foe; he's cunning, ruthless, and always seems one step ahead. The plot revolves around his escalating schemes to completely ruin the Penhoëls, while our heroes race against time to uncover his secrets, protect the innocent, and pull off daring rescues. It's a cat-and-mouse game filled with disguises, midnight meetings, and moments where everything hangs in the balance.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book so much fun is the sheer momentum. Féval doesn't let up. Just when you think the heroes are safe, another trap is sprung. I found myself genuinely worried for them! Beyond the adventure, there's a strong, beating heart here. The loyalty between the friends is the story's true anchor. They’re not perfect—they make mistakes and act on emotion—but their dedication to each other and their cause is compelling. It’s a great reminder that classic stories can be just as tense and character-driven as modern ones.

Final Verdict

This is perfect for anyone who enjoys historical fiction but wishes it had more pace and punch. If you like the camaraderie of The Three Musketeers or the suspense of a good Gothic novel (but without the overly dense prose), you'll feel right at home. It's a fantastic, plot-driven escape. You'll need to read the first volume to understand all the relationships, but if you're already invested, this second book delivers on every promise and sets up a finale I'm already desperate to read.