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The Devil's Claw #2

Into the Night

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Griffin's looking for a fresh start. After a chance encounter with a stranger who knew about who or what he is than Griffin did, he moves to Sutton to find out more about the beast inside him. The last thing he expects or wants is to meet another like him, one that threatens to bring out the monster within he's kept locked up for so long. When Kali disappears from her home while recovering from a vicious attack, nobody knows where she's gone or who's taken her. A rarity among her shifter community, and shunned because of the prophecy around her, there are plenty that would be happier if she was never found. If Kali's going to escape, she's going to have to do it alone. Griffin didn't grow up around here. Raised as a human, he knows nothing of curses, but he does know how he reacts whenever Kali is near. She's his, even the beast he keeps locked inside him agrees on that one. He'll will move heaven and earth to get Kali back to her family, even if it kills him.

Dark monster romance with some primal play. Dual POV with lots of heat.

296 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 14, 2024

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About the author

Reece Barden

34 books642 followers
Reece is a steamy paranormal romance author writing wickedly wild romance. She is currently working on the shifter romance series, The Shifters of Grey Ridge and the Steel Pack Alphas.

She loves creating steamy stories about hot, growly alpha men and the women who love and torment them.

She writes for people just like her who love a little light-hearted fun with their naughty heroes and edge-of-your-seat storylines.

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5 stars
360 (48%)
4 stars
219 (29%)
3 stars
131 (17%)
2 stars
24 (3%)
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6 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️.
3,284 reviews2,766 followers
August 7, 2025
Feral, Flirty, and Full of Secrets



The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💚💜🤎❤️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: ☺️🙁😍🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Duet Narration

🧍🏻‍♀️ The Heroine: Kali

Kali’s arrival in Sutton marks a desperate bid for autonomy. Fleeing the oppressive atmosphere of Zora Hills, where she’s been harassed and ostracized, Kali seeks refuge with her cousin Evan, owner of The Devil’s Claw bar. Her persecution stems from a chilling prophecy: her future children are foretold to bring ruin to her people—shifters who teeter on the edge of losing control to their beasts. The narrative uses Kali’s pale hair and outsider status to symbolize her role as both scapegoat and potential catalyst for change. Her father’s quiet support underscores the town’s rigid power dynamics, especially the looming influence of Jed, a wealthy antagonist whose unchecked cruelty reflects the community’s moral decay.

🧍🏽 The Hero: Griffin

Griffin’s arc is a study in suppressed rage and identity fragmentation. Haunted by escalating volatility, he’s nudged toward self-exile by a mysterious forest ranger named John. The suggestion to abandon his life and retreat into the wilderness foreshadows Griffin’s latent shifter nature—something he himself is unaware of. His internal struggle is visceral, with anger described as clawing at his insides, hinting at the beast within. Griffin’s journey is less about discovery and more about surrender: to instinct, to transformation, and ultimately to the primal bond he forms with Kali.

📖 Plot Snapshot

The plot intertwines two arrivals—Kali’s escape to Sutton and Griffin’s relocation to the forest—both driven by trauma and the need for reinvention. When Griffin wakes up covered in blood after a violent incident involving his apartment manager, the ranger service offers him a lifeline: a job and a place to disappear. Meanwhile, Kali begins working at The Devil’s Claw, unknowingly stepping into Griffin’s orbit. Their convergence is inevitable, and the tension between their human selves and beastly instincts drives the narrative’s emotional core.

👍 Narrative Strengths

• Shifter Lore & Identity Conflict: Kali’s awareness of her shifter nature contrasts sharply with Griffin’s ignorance, creating a compelling dynamic. Her recognition of his beast before he does adds layers of tension and intimacy.
• Erotic Intensity: The intimate scenes are unapologetically raw and steamy, amplifying the primal energy between the leads. Griffin’s possessiveness borders on feral, and the moment his beast kidnaps Kali—without his conscious knowledge—underscores the loss of control that defines his arc.
• Beast vs. Man: Griffin’s duality is portrayed with nuance. His beast is not just a metaphor for rage but a separate entity with its own desires and secrets, including hiding Kali from Griffin himself.


👎 Narrative Weaknesses

• Series Continuity Overlap: The subplot involving missing girls from Book 1 bleeds into this installment, occasionally muddying the pacing and focus. While it adds continuity, it may distract from the central relationship and character development in Book 2.


🎙️ Narration Analysis

The audiobook employs duet narration, enhancing immersion through alternating perspectives.

• Michael Rutland delivers Griffin’s chapters with a deep, velvety tone that balances menace and vulnerability. His expressiveness adds emotional weight to Griffin’s internal conflict.
• Macie Miller brings Kali to life with a soft yet assertive voice, capturing both her fragility and resilience.
Together, their performances elevate the tension and intimacy, making the duet format particularly effective for a story rooted in duality and transformation.

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Profile Image for Bookomaniac.
460 reviews44 followers
July 15, 2024
3.75 stars

I definitely recommend reading Book 1 first. Book 2 assumes that you already have. Otherwise certain scenes really don't make sense. Not a true standalone.

Good beginning, lots of sexy times, suspenseful final battle at the end- but the middle was confusing. I think it relied on scenes from the first book to fill in missing pieces of the story. It made more sense as you read along. The final chapters were sex sex knotting and more sex. And the set-up for the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Tori.
313 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2024
Great Plot

The plot was amazing and it is an easy read. There were some inconsistencies that made it slightly confusing, but in general I really enjoyed it. Griffin is amazing and I really liked his character. I can't wait for Ben's book.
103 reviews1 follower
May 27, 2026
Oh how much I loved Griffin and Kali's story. Both of them a little bit broken but they fit together so good!
I really enjoyed the narrators who really gave life to the story and had me hooked right from the get go!
So much action in this story and we get more information from the previous book.
But be aware that it ends on a cliffhanger, so I need to dive into the next book. Can't wait to have some really big questions answered!
31 reviews1 follower
January 20, 2025
Be aware, this is not truly a standalone book! Many things won't make sense without reading the first book. (And you should read it anyway because it's fantastic.)

I did not love the "secret kidnapping" and how okay she was with it. It definitely seemed like she hadn't processed that trauma, and that was also explicitly stated to her in the book. I also felt the two characters were a teeny bit toxic together?

But did I read this whole book in 12 hours, starting 10 minutes after finishing the first book? Yes. Did I then finish it and immediately pre-order the third book of the series? Also yes. 4.5/5 stars.
721 reviews4 followers
July 29, 2024
Another hit

I loved the first book in this series and was eager to dive into this one so much so that I finished it within hours and now I’m sad I have to wait for the next book 🤣

I love the ease of these books, the plot is intriguing and captivating without being drawn out. The characters are intriguing and likeable and the writing is fast paced without feeling rushed or full of filler!

The FMC Kali is tired of everyone in her hometown treating her like a walking curse, so when she moves to be closer to her cousins and their protection not only does she start finding a life and people who treat her like a person but she stumbles upon someone whose even more confused than she is and she didn’t think that was possible.

The MMC Griffin is losing control, he doesn’t know what is happening to him but he knows he’s a danger and if he doesn’t move away from civilisation and fast, he’s worried what he might do. The small town he has a new job at is perfectly hidden in the mountains, so when he bumps into a woman his body can’t seem to pull away from he has no idea what he’s let himself in for or the life lessons he’s about to learn.

Loved that Kali was the one teaching Griffin about himself for a change, that although she might have technically been a damsel in distress after kicking ass and saving her cousins mate the MMC was just as vulnerable in trying to learn about who he really was, it was a great dynamic to read!

Really loving this series and highly recommend.

5⭐️2🌶️
1,804 reviews16 followers
July 23, 2024
The books in the Devil’s Claw series doesn’t have to be read in order but, it will help as this book overlaps will have more meaning if you read “Into the Dark” first.
I am so pleased that we get to read Kali’s story as she was such an interesting and fiery character from the first book. It’s quite funny to read that she projects far more confidence than she feels. Since she is treated so badly by others, this makes her exceptionally understanding so, when she meets Griffin she wants to help him. Griffin is lost and alone. He feels unwanted and that he cannot be trusted.
Griffin is just as interesting as Kali. I thought that both characters were handled supremely well and developed so much throughout the story. By being together, it gave both the confidence to succeed and find happiness.
This is a very well written book. It has all aspects from action, suspense, romance, sensual scenes and true love.
This is a good 5 star read!
Profile Image for Hollyhocks.
435 reviews24 followers
April 29, 2026
Was a bit shocked by the immediate hot sex between Kali and Griffin.
The storyline of Griffin not understanding there were more like him and starting to understand why John wanted him to come to town kept the interesting.
I was pretty sure the wolf was Griffin. And crazy that he was blacking out and not knowing he took her there. His wolf taking over, not wanting to share her and even seducing her in human form. That was a twist.
Jed and that clan are disgusting.
I liked Maisey's character even more in this book. And the addition of Jack was great.
The author referred to Scott's sister as Serena and Selena - that was aggrivating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Nicole  Henderson.
1,600 reviews24 followers
July 17, 2024
Great follow-up to the first book in this series. This book gives readers more insight into Kali, Ben and Evan’s cousin. We go back to when she first came into town. Readers find out the hows and whys. This story got complex quick. Readers will fly through this book wanting to know what happens to Kali. As you know, the last book ended with her missing.

Griffin, the new ranger, is in town. He is staying at Maisy’s until the cabin is ready. This book gives readers information that we didn’t get in the first book. We get to see the same circumstances from a different point of view. This book gives readers another mystery to solve. Who has Kali? Someone has to be taking care of her. She was not well enough to take care of herself. The town is in turmoil. Will this Griffin guy be a good fit? Things are changing. Hopefully for the better.
Profile Image for Jessica Steed.
142 reviews9 followers
July 15, 2024
4 🌟 3.5🌶
You definitely need to read the first book of this series because this one just jumps right in. You finally get to learn what was going on with Kali. Which thank goodness 'cause I been waiting. And the spice be spicy 🥵
I did enjoy this one but I wish it had been a bit longer. I still have unanswered questions. Hopefully some of those will be answered in book 3!
There were a couple times in the middle that I got a little confused but it all got cleared up.
Overall If the idea of a spicy dark shifter romance intrigues you- then you should check this out 😘
73 reviews
April 7, 2026
fantastic

I really liked the first one, but I think this one was better. I love Griffin, and Kali was already a favorite from the first book. I struggled a little trying to overlay the beginning of this book on the timeline from the original book (things that were mentioned as one day here I thought took longer before, but I think that was just in my mind where there were so many events/ things happening, that I stretched it out to more than a day.)

I can’t wait for the next one.
457 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2024
Thank goodness we’re out of the dark into the night! This wonderful book is a perfect example of the dichotomy caused when a human and his beast are not in sync! Thoughtful writing brought this book to live! I’m ever thankful the author doesn’t use fu€k to describe the sex/love act when the characters talk to each other, even in lust, they talk lovingly! And thank you, dear author, for having the beast express his love by using the human body he shares Griffin. I’m finally Out of the Dark!
Profile Image for Melissa.
1,091 reviews4 followers
July 15, 2026
I loved this book but I also felt really bad for Griffin. He was just left in the dark and thought he was horrible when that wasn't the case. He had to work his way through everything on his own since no one seemed to truly realize he had zero idea and I think he actually did pretty admirably, though I'm still confused how he didn't know what his monster did and the timeline didn't really add up multiple times.
200 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2026
Love Into the Night!!

I love a series that grows in intensity as the books go along and this one did just that. The characters and the town are trying to make sense of disappearing residents and keep everyone else calm. I’m definitely going into the third book as there’s still so much to learn about what’s going on.
13 reviews
July 17, 2024
love this series!

I can’t wait 8 months for Ben’s story into the dawn…I’ll go into withdrawal 😭😭😂😂…but it’s going to be worth the wait. Reece is an amazing writer and everything I’ve read is so amazing. 🤩
Profile Image for Lisa.
586 reviews16 followers
July 19, 2024
This was a great read would read more from this author her writing style is amazing she seemed to capture the characters perfectly
Profile Image for Lisa Sanderson.
666 reviews2 followers
September 12, 2024
On the fence hope there’s another book at least to answer the questions that are left
3 reviews
January 14, 2025
Griffin

Loved this second installment can't wait to read the next and catch up on the goings on with the residents of Sutton.
Profile Image for ꧁Brutally Honest꧂.
992 reviews31 followers
April 4, 2025
Wait huh? Callie was injured about to die then the next chapter we are in Griffins POV and now they’re saying she’s…. Kidnapped? Huh?! When did that happen??? I’m so confused.
9 reviews
September 14, 2025
So good!!

Can't wait to read the next one!!! I love her books!! Highly captivating stories and then some!!! Do yourself a favor!!
Profile Image for Tiffany.
296 reviews
January 25, 2026
2.5 rounded up. Our mmc is a punk but his beast is a savage. So there’s that 🤷🏽‍♀️
Profile Image for Aimie.
Author 17 books148 followers
March 30, 2026
This was a really good story, I loved Griffin and Kali. I‘m intrigued to read the next story to see what is happening with Ben, and hopefully we get to the bottom of the John mystery.
7 reviews
May 7, 2026
Fated Mates

Griffin and Kali were exactly what each other needed. I wish they would have had cubs, but it wasnt meant to be.
Profile Image for She Dreams In Books.
584 reviews10 followers
July 28, 2024
I could not wait for this to come out. Love Reece Barden's style of writing. Read this in one hit. After being introduced to Griffin and Kali in Into the Night, we finally get to read their story. Absolutely love these two. Griffin is all growly goodness. Get ready for some great spice! Can not wait for Into the Dawn to come out. Looking forward to diving into Ben's story.
16 reviews
February 12, 2025
Loved this book
Loved this book. I can’t wait for the rest of the series to be released. I definitely would recommend it.
1,804 reviews16 followers
July 23, 2024
The books in the Devil’s Claw series doesn’t have to be read in order but, it will help as this book overlaps will have more meaning if you read “Into the Dark” first.
I am so pleased that we get to read Kali’s story as she was such an interesting and fiery character from the first book. It’s quite funny to read that she projects far more confidence than she feels. Since she is treated so badly by others, this makes her exceptionally understanding so, when she meets Griffin she wants to help him. Griffin is lost and alone. He feels unwanted and that he cannot be trusted.
Griffin is just as interesting as Kali. I thought that both characters were handled supremely well and developed so much throughout the story. By being together, it gave both the confidence to succeed and find happiness.
This is a very well written book. It has all aspects from action, suspense, romance, sensual scenes and true love.
This is a good 5 star read!
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
405 reviews7 followers
August 9, 2024
Oh boys and their Beasts! Kali is one tough cookie who gets some rough days and some hot nights. A great new book in the series!
Profile Image for Kelly  - Kelly's Book Blog.
515 reviews27 followers
July 25, 2024
Werewolf romance / shifter romance

Please read book one, Into the Dark, first!

Wow. Did I just inhale this shifter romance in a couple of hours!? Absolutely.

This book was dark, delicious and emotional and I loved every second! Without giving too much away, you get the sassy female main character and the protective, loyal yet mysterious male main character...together they bring the heat!

Besides the amazing steaminess and spicy, this book has an intriguing fast paced plot that kept me on the edge of my seat. There was also one big plot twist that made me gasp out loud. SO GOOD!

I love the way that Reece starts a story off with easing into the paranormal aspect becuase it gives the world a "real feel" and the intertwines in the magic and mayhem.

I can't wait for book three!
Profile Image for Samantha Brown.
807 reviews2 followers
July 29, 2024
Dang this shifter romance hits every spot. Griffin and kali are absolouty amazing characters you can not help but love them. I love a sassy FMC and a male with Alpha vibes. The plot is fast paced and the spice is delicious chefs kiss to the author. Side note they can be read as stand alone but read in order if possible
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews