4.5 out of 5 stars
Darker Than Desire
by Shiloh Walker is the
exciting conclusion to the stark and compelling 'Secrets & Shadows'
series which has centered around the evil that permeates the small town
of Madison. The ongoing investigation into murders past and recent is
complicated by the continued reticence of those who were severely
damaged by the actions of those they should have been able to trust.
The man who is at the heart of the initial investigation may have been
irrevocably injured, but his belief that he is unable and unworthy of
emotional ties is challenged as he continues to lose those few who have
found a way past the walls he has erected to protect his damaged psyche.The body count continues to rise and the eerie occurrences taking place ratchet up the tension in the town and provides fodder for both malicious gossips and those investigating the various crimes. The physical and emotional scars borne by all too many of those touched by the heinous Cronus web are coped with in a variety of ways and every attempt to move forward seems destined to be countered by something that drags the players backward. The passion and acceptance provided by the woman who accepts her lover's faults may not be enough to offset the damage he has sustained, particularly if the ongoing murders continue to cast suspicion on him, but he will have to learn that he is not the only one who will have a say in his future.
This definitely dark and erotic romantic suspense tale has been unfolding with unexpected twists throughout the entire series and this particular tale definitely provides even more shocking revelations as it progresses. I love the combination of pathos and heat that characterizes the interactions of the main couple and the fact that there is some closure finally achieved for some of those we have come to know over the course of the series. There are fascinating interactions between those who have had their lives disrupted by all of the events, hidden or not, that have shaped the town and its inhabitants. This is an excellent end to a mesmerizing and sometimes uncomfortable series that explores the permutations of evil, revenge, justice and healing. It would be better to read all of the books in the series to particularly appreciate the events described but one could probably still enjoy this as a gripping standalone story.
© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.
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