"A Stroke of Midnight" is the fourth novel in the "Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter" series by Laurell K. Hamilton. The story continues to follow Anita Blake, a skilled animator and vampire hunter, as she grapples with her complex relationships among supernatural beings. In this installment, Anita faces growing tensions in her life, particularly concerning her interactions with various factions within the vampire community. The plot thickens as Anita is drawn into a web of political intrigue and power struggles, with threats emerging from both familiar and unexpected sources. Her role as a protector and enforcer becomes increasingly perilous, testing her abilities and resolve. The themes of loyalty and betrayal come to the forefront as Anita encounters challenges that question her alliances and convictions.