In Stay Dark by Tess Manchester, Neve Traxon was transformed into a vampire while attending the Police Academy. As an unexpected outcome, she became a private investigator who operated only at night. With her newfound abilities, Neve could now hear through barriers, track individuals by their scent, and recognize people from afar. Using her talents, Neve managed to rescue humans from being attacked by other Dwellers. Later, Neve discovered that one of the humans she saved had turned into a serial killer, and she felt guilty about the women he murdered. Neve encountered Detective Marek Kaidan and collaborated with him to track down the serial killer. Together, they uncovered the Infinity faction, a group of vampires with secrets that could disrupt Neve’s life. From their very first meeting, Neve felt a connection with Marek, and for the first time, she wished to reveal her secret to someone.

The storyline of Stay Dark by Tess Manchester captivated me from the opening line to the conclusion. It was an exhilarating journey filled with secrets, intrigue, death, and survival. The plot was compelling, and I could not flip through the pages quickly enough. The writing style was engaging, and the descriptions of events were vivid. I easily lost myself in Neve’s nighttime existence. The characters, including both vampires and humans, were well-rounded, and their interactions felt authentic. The developing relationship between Neve and Marek was intriguing and seemed plausible. The story was skillfully woven together and included all the elements that make for a fantastic plot. I thoroughly enjoyed the read and would be eager to explore more of Neve and Marek’s adventures.

Stay Dark marks the beginning of Tess Manchester’s gripping Web of Dwellers series, drawing readers into a dark and suspenseful urban fantasy landscape. The narrative revolves around Neve Traxon, a private investigator in Los Angeles, who has a terrible secret—she is a vampire caught between the human and supernatural worlds. Neve's life takes an electrifying turn as she is caught up by a formidable vampire faction, a relentless detective, and a sly serial killer. The story is packed with tension, especially as Neve’s journey intertwines with that of the determined detective and the shadowy underground society of vampires known as the Infinity faction. Exploring themes of identity, morality, and survival, Stay Dark illuminates the struggles of living in the shadows while seeking justice in a world that often rejects those who are different. This high-stakes adventure sets the stage for an intense narrative, leaving readers eager for the next chapter in the series.

Stay Dark stands out as a captivating urban fantasy thriller, featuring an engaging plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes. Tess Manchester masterfully weaves together suspense, action, and emotional depth. Neve is a fierce and relatable character, with her challenges adding layers to the already compelling storyline. The chemistry between Neve and Detective Marek Kaidan introduces an element of romance that enriches the narrative without overshadowing its thrilling essence. The dialogue flows naturally, and the descriptions are vivid yet concise. The author skillfully employs sensory details, particularly scent, to pull the reader into Neve's immersive world. The pacing kept me glued to the pages, while the intrigue surrounding the Infinity faction provided an added layer of excitement. The action sequences are thrillingly crafted. The writing brilliantly captures the intensity and fluidity of the action, leaving both the characters and me astounded. Stay Dark is an exhilarating start to what promises to be a remarkable series. Tess Manchester has created a vibrant, imaginative universe that’s hard to put down, and I can’t wait to follow Neve’s journey in future installments.