Übermensch feature quite heavily this time around, and in greater depth. One such creature, Hoffman the undercover Russian posing as Himmler's right-hand man, plays a major part. Through him we learn that it's possible to have Übermensch invulnerability yet still resist the mental influence of the Vril. Others who are infected prove not so adept, which leads to cat and mouse encounters, some of which involve a version of Aleister Crowley that is almost as creepy as the spider-like Vril themselves. Continuing the frantic pacing and edge of the seat style plot employed to such good effect in the first book, this is another highly readable tale. Justin Richards increases his cast of credible characters making incredible escapes, yet doing so with such aplomb that only the harshest of critics would find fault. The ideas and sheer fun triumph over awkward technicalities and the occasional plot liberty. Having said that, The Blood Red City stays meticulously within its time period, and makes good use of characters groping for understanding, before the dawn of the digital age. Indeed, the communication methods of the Vril defy 1940's science, and have more in common with what Crowley and his devotees think of as black magic.

Cleverly, the author makes subtle use of writing in an age where his readers are aware. Not only of how technology actually advanced post-WWII, but also of the fact that superpowers can and sometimes do lose to those they outgun. However, at no point does the story fall out of step with characters and the limitations of their world. Nor does spreading the action further and wider dilute the impact, rather it increases interest and anticipation. As the series progresses, I would hope to see more delving into the actual technology of the Vril, and humanity realising that continuing to fight each other spells doom. But even if Justin Richards has entirely different plans, I'm confident that whatever comes next will be more top notch entertainment.