A Journey of Black and Red Series by Álex Gilbert

Ariane has found refuge in Illinois, and now plans her rightful return to vampire society. She must stay in control while hiding in nature, while foes old and new converge on her territory.

After three decades of hiding, Ariane is ready to take her place as a respected member of the American vampire society, or so she hopes. The aristocracy of the night enjoys games. Schemes already abound from enemies old and new, but Ariane is not alone and she is not the naive girl she once was.

As a young, up and coming apex predator of the night, Ariane needs the minions, a territory, dubious allies with unknown agendas... From Alexandria to the frozen north, opportunities and danger abound. Fortunately, Ariane has many tools at her disposal and if everything fails, there is always black powder.

Life as an apex predator of the night provides many diversions, such as rescuing relatives from The Mexican-American war, attending auctions, and eating the occasional mortal. Ariane cannot forget that a shadow extends over her budding empire, however, that of her ancient madman of a sire. There will be a reckoning, and she will be ready, even if she has to scour the world from the shores of Texas to the Mediterranean sea... moreLife as an apex predator of the night provides many diversions, such as rescuing relatives from The Mexican-American war, attending auctions, and eating the occasional mortal. Ariane cannot forget that a shadow extends over her budding empire, however, that of her ancient madman of a sire. There will be a reckoning, and she will be ready, even if she has to scour the world from the shores of Texas to the Mediterranean sea. To slay the unkillable, one must be prepared to shed some blood, including one's own. less