Chasing Shadows in the Wild

The Reviews Are In!

“Chasing Shadows feels like a vintage legal thriller in the best way. As a teenager, I loved the 90s writing of Scott Turow, John Grisham and Mary Higgins Clark, and Chasing Shadows is very much of this vintage – with some updates for the era. In the heyday of these books, the hero would have been a young prosecutor instead of a young public defender, but the book makes some really essential points about the difficulty of public defenders, who are often maintaining huge caseloads defending people who need social workers as much as an attorney, and are often mistreated by the system. The book feels incredibly topical with the recent shooting of a healthcare CEO, and the twists and turns are very conscious of social justice issues. The one thing I would say is that the book does feel very pre #metoo with an early reveal that our main character, Annie, had a one night stand with a stranger. The men in her office are incredibly judgemental in a way that feels a bit more reminiscient of a 90s feminist backlash than a time when Tinder is widespread. I would have loved the book to go into the culture of that decision, rather than just observing it. Is there a particularly sexist culture in this public defender’s office? Is St Louis a particularly regressive place? As someone who works in legal aid, I have found it to be a bit more liberal than most corporate firms and I wanted to get a better sense of Annie’s office. If you love your romance with a thriller edge, or if you loved vintage legal thrillers, this one is for you.” — Amazon Review

There was a lot to enjoy about this read. There’s this swirl of mystery, a bit of suspense that kept me guessing, and characters that I loved getting to know. Annie is interesting, she has a very negative view on the rich, which keeps her a little on edge at times. But as the story flows forward we get deeper into her story, her history, and there are some moments that absolutely twisted my heart. Now, Michael, he’s confident, yet cautious with his feelings. These two have a ton of heat, some ups and downs, and everything else you need from a story to completely pull you in. There were a lot of strong characters that added to the story. — Goodreads Review

“Oh LaLa!! I don’t often write reviews for things I buy unless I really, really love it. And boy, did I love this book. First of all, SPICE alert! The sparks between Mick and Annie practically fly off the page, and I adored every minute of their will they/won’t they/turbulent interactions. I laughed out loud several times throughout. I also loved how Annie fought for justice for her client; if ever I get arrested, I want Annie as my lawyer. But honestly, Annie’s grandmother was my favorite character. I see where Annie gets every bit of her fire, and I was hoping to see more of them clashing with one another. The book kept me up way too late because I wanted to know how it would end, and I was not disappointed. I really hope this is the beginning of a series. I want more Annie O’Toole!” — Amazon Review

“A really great book. I was sucked in from the very beginning. I loved the characters, and all the twists and turns they’re put through. With a deep mystery and steamy scenes between the two characters, I couldn’t wait to read more. If you’re into romance with a big mystery and a strong female lead, this might be something you want to check out for yourself. I know I loved it.” — Mutated Library Review

“Great natural dialogue, engaging characters, really loving it. (I knew I shouldn’t start it because I wouldn’t be able to put it down. Finally caved …and was thoroughly irritated to be interrupted to participate in life things!)” — Facebook Review

“Started reading and can’t put it down! Also, rawr! Very spicy!” — Facebook Review

“Chasing Shadows has been my week-long nightly read before bedtime. It’s sassy with unexpected twists and some very naughty spicy bits – if you enjoy a simmering romantic suspense novel then this is definitely for you.” — Amazon Review