Crooked Shadows

Picking up where *Rare Vigilance* left off, the second installment in MA Grant’s *Whitethorn Agency* series is yet again a fantastic read that I didn’t want to put down and wished continued on for another 300 pages. Building on the revelations of the previous book, we follow Cristian and Atlas as they flee the country in pursuit of answers to the horrifying creatures who are after them and Cristian’s family. The plot explodes outwards and we see new places and meet new characters, all who may or may not have their own agendas. Our heroes are tasked with piecing together the grim goings on in their surroundings that appear connected to their own circumstances. They must also confront their own feelings, a few unspoken truths between them all while Atlas is also brought to the very scene and events that haunt his literal nightmares.

I thoroughly enjoyed both the intrigue of the plot as it progressed as well as watching these two characters' relationship develop. One aspect about this series I really appreciate, particularly for a paranormal story like this, is that the power dynamics—both in and out of the bedroom—go against expectations in really beautiful and tender ways. This is not your everyday immortal and Atlas is certainly not the most typical human and watching them figure out how to compromise, be vulnerable with each other, all while avoiding the people who want to harm them made for a perfect read. The cliffhanger and revelation at the end of this book literally made me yell ‘WHAT’ and I am already impatient for the next book. An amazing 5 star read!

I loved the first book in this series, and I eagerly started the second one. Sometimes the sophomore book in a series can be a little weak, but this one was even better than the first. The author continues to expand the universe in this latest which takes place in Romania. While there, our heroes face many obstacles while circling each other’s attraction. I am amazed at how well the author can switch back and forth between the heart-pounding suspense of tracking down the stirgori, and the heart-pounding suspense of will-they-or-won’t-they without losing sight of either. This is turning into one of my all-time favorite series with its great writing, excellent characters, interesting plot, twists/turns I don’t see coming, and the way the author keeps me completely engaged through every single page. Highly recommend! I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

This was one hell of a great sequel to book one.

Fast paced, adrenaline-fueled, nonstop stealing your breath, fun and suspense. WOW!

Cristian and Atlas pick up right where they left off and the story just zooms. I can’t say much more because I’m afraid I’ll spoil it, but this left me beyond ready for book three!