Edwin (Eddie) Drood is a member of the Drood family, an ancient clan with the job of protecting humanity from supernatural threats (and sometimes even from itself). They work in secret, using amazing gadgetry, advanced intellect and skills honed over thousands of years. Eddie and his family fear little in this world. But when Doctor Delirium, a mad scientist with a craving for attention, gets his hands on the Apocalypse Door, which is rumored to open the gates of Hell, even the nearly omnipotent Droods feel a sense of danger and urgency. Especially when they discover that an equally old and powerful group called the Immortals is apparently working with the doctor toward its own goal: total control of humanity -- and as a side benefit, ridding the world of the humans' pesky protectors. To make matters worse, Eddie finds that not only is a rogue Drood working with the Immortals, but there is likely a traitor lurking within the family. But it's not until his girlfriend is caught in the crossfire that the mission becomes personal.

This new series from the author of the Nightside books (and others) shares the same twisted sense of humor and quirky characters, but this is an entirely different world; that is, our world, with a few modifications. The premise here is based more in science than magic, although the lines are definitely blurry. Let's just say that the Droods' technology makes James Bond's gadgets look like kids' toys.

Despite their noble cause and long history, the Drood clan squabbles like most others and has its share of eccentric and sometimes dangerous relatives. But there's a strong current of loyalty among them as well, particularly in Eddie, one of the family's leaders. Nearly unflappable, he is a tough, resourceful and likable hero. Some of the violence is pretty graphic, but hey -- he's trying to save the world here.

A side note: Although this is not the first book in the series, the backstory is so seamlessly woven in that I never felt lost -- however, I always recommend starting at the beginning of a series, if possible. I certainly plan to go back and pick up the first three books! If you like Green's Nightside series -- which is where I started -- you should enjoy the Secret Histories books.