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Shadowy Solutions #1
Skeletons in the Closet
The last thing Diem Krause wanted to do was ask for Tallus’s help.
The too-hot-for-his-own-good records clerk was so far outside Diem’s league that he became tongue-tied in his presence. Six months ago, after an embarrassingly unimpressive exchange in the bedroom that accentuated Diem’s flaws, he swore never to go near the sultry man again.
When a new case lands on Diem’s desk, one involving a dead, allegedly unfaithful husband, Diem exhausts every means of investigation until he has no choice but to seek out the man he swore never to see again.
Tallus has skills Diem doesn’t. In addition to being confident and sociable, Tallus can act and help him get answers.
But inviting Tallus into his case means relinquishing control, and Diem hates not being in control. Not only is the Toronto Police Department’s records clerk fanatical about investigative work, but he also has a thing for making Diem uncomfortable and pushing his boundaries.
When the case takes a dark and dangerous turn, the two spend far too many long nights trying to puzzle things out. Tallus’s flirty, suggestive behavior is going to get them in trouble, and the last thing Diem wants is to end up in bed with him again. It was a disaster the first time, and Diem doesn’t want to revisit the shame.
Will Diem be able to resist Tallus’s charm?
Can the two work together to solve the unusual case without crossing lines?
Diem isn’t so sure. He doesn’t want a partner. He doesn’t need a lover.
But with Tallus Domingo, he somehow ends up with both.
The too-hot-for-his-own-good records clerk was so far outside Diem’s league that he became tongue-tied in his presence. Six months ago, after an embarrassingly unimpressive exchange in the bedroom that accentuated Diem’s flaws, he swore never to go near the sultry man again.
When a new case lands on Diem’s desk, one involving a dead, allegedly unfaithful husband, Diem exhausts every means of investigation until he has no choice but to seek out the man he swore never to see again.
Tallus has skills Diem doesn’t. In addition to being confident and sociable, Tallus can act and help him get answers.
But inviting Tallus into his case means relinquishing control, and Diem hates not being in control. Not only is the Toronto Police Department’s records clerk fanatical about investigative work, but he also has a thing for making Diem uncomfortable and pushing his boundaries.
When the case takes a dark and dangerous turn, the two spend far too many long nights trying to puzzle things out. Tallus’s flirty, suggestive behavior is going to get them in trouble, and the last thing Diem wants is to end up in bed with him again. It was a disaster the first time, and Diem doesn’t want to revisit the shame.
Will Diem be able to resist Tallus’s charm?
Can the two work together to solve the unusual case without crossing lines?
Diem isn’t so sure. He doesn’t want a partner. He doesn’t need a lover.
But with Tallus Domingo, he somehow ends up with both.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2024
About the author
Nicky James
79 books2,397 followersI live in the small town of Petrolia, Ontario, Canada and I am a mother to a wonderful teenage boy (didn't think those words could be typed together...surprise) and wife to a truly supportive and understanding husband, who thankfully doesn't think I'm crazy.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
June 3, 2024
4.5 stars
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I ended up loving this book, considering I didn't like the prequel. 🙈 When I turned the last page, I wished that the next book was already out because I just wanted to keep reading. And that's always a good sign.
I still don't find Diem appealing, just a personal preference, but I understand him a lot better and I do want to see him happy. I think that he and Tallus are really good for each other.
I also liked Tallus more. He is exactly what I expected him to be when I read the prequel – funny, endearing, a bit flirtatious and pushy, but not in an OTT way. I loved how considerate and understanding he is when it comes to Diem. It goes both ways, actually. I was very satisfied with how their relationship developed in this one.
I’ve skimmed through some short scenes with Baby. I totally forgot about her, to be honest. I understand, and appreciate, her significance in this story, but we’re still not on friendly terms. 😅
The case they were working on was so well thought out. Probably one of my favourite by this author. It kept me invested throughout the whole book and I loved seeing how everything connected in the end. Not sure how I feel about the resolution, but it makes sense.
I don’t even have to say how happy I was to be in the company of Valor, Doyle, Costa and Torin again. I hope we’ll see them regularly in this series!
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I ended up loving this book, considering I didn't like the prequel. 🙈 When I turned the last page, I wished that the next book was already out because I just wanted to keep reading. And that's always a good sign.
I still don't find Diem appealing, just a personal preference, but I understand him a lot better and I do want to see him happy. I think that he and Tallus are really good for each other.
I also liked Tallus more. He is exactly what I expected him to be when I read the prequel – funny, endearing, a bit flirtatious and pushy, but not in an OTT way. I loved how considerate and understanding he is when it comes to Diem. It goes both ways, actually. I was very satisfied with how their relationship developed in this one.
I’ve skimmed through some short scenes with Baby. I totally forgot about her, to be honest. I understand, and appreciate, her significance in this story, but we’re still not on friendly terms. 😅
The case they were working on was so well thought out. Probably one of my favourite by this author. It kept me invested throughout the whole book and I loved seeing how everything connected in the end. Not sure how I feel about the resolution, but it makes sense.
I don’t even have to say how happy I was to be in the company of Valor, Doyle, Costa and Torin again. I hope we’ll see them regularly in this series!
March 22, 2026
I'm in love with Diem. I really don't know what it is about him. He's not exactly nice, and he's not exactly hot or anything, but he's such a fascinating character. I'm just like Tallus—totally captivated by him.
On the other hand, I have a soft spot for scars, tattoos, and broken characters. Even though he’s so messed up that it’s hard to see how he could ever be even halfway okay to even consider a relationship with Tallus.
Oh, but I really hope he finds happiness. Tallus seems like the perfect match for him.
The plot—the case the two of them are working on—is pretty convoluted. I had my suspicions, which were confirmed, but it was still well done. It drags a bit, but the familiar characters loosen things up nicely...
On to the next installment, even though I don't really have time.
❝
She was the only friend I had. For anyone who thought snakes didn’t have personalities, they were dead wrong. Baby had all kinds, and she was about the only living thing I could tolerate—
❝
“That was a joke. I’m impressed. I didn’t think you were capable. I’m going to write that in my diary tonight. Dear Diary, Diem pretended to be funny today. It was a phenomenon. I called the press. Seemed unusual enough to warrant some attention.” 😂🖤😂
❝
I couldn’t look at him, but I sensed his happiness at being included, and for some fucked-up stupid reason, making Tallus happy made me feel like I’d done something right. 🫠🖤🫠
❝
Skin on fire, stomach muscles coiled so tight they hurt, I rounded the corner and found Tallus sitting on the edge of the bed, leaning back on his arms, legs spread enticingly, naked and waiting. His cock was hard. His lower lip was caught between his teeth. The only thing he had on was his dark-framed glasses, and fuck me… I couldn’t breathe. 😳🖤😳
On the other hand, I have a soft spot for scars, tattoos, and broken characters. Even though he’s so messed up that it’s hard to see how he could ever be even halfway okay to even consider a relationship with Tallus.
Oh, but I really hope he finds happiness. Tallus seems like the perfect match for him.
The plot—the case the two of them are working on—is pretty convoluted. I had my suspicions, which were confirmed, but it was still well done. It drags a bit, but the familiar characters loosen things up nicely...
On to the next installment, even though I don't really have time.
❝
She was the only friend I had. For anyone who thought snakes didn’t have personalities, they were dead wrong. Baby had all kinds, and she was about the only living thing I could tolerate—
❝
“That was a joke. I’m impressed. I didn’t think you were capable. I’m going to write that in my diary tonight. Dear Diary, Diem pretended to be funny today. It was a phenomenon. I called the press. Seemed unusual enough to warrant some attention.” 😂🖤😂
❝
I couldn’t look at him, but I sensed his happiness at being included, and for some fucked-up stupid reason, making Tallus happy made me feel like I’d done something right. 🫠🖤🫠
❝
Skin on fire, stomach muscles coiled so tight they hurt, I rounded the corner and found Tallus sitting on the edge of the bed, leaning back on his arms, legs spread enticingly, naked and waiting. His cock was hard. His lower lip was caught between his teeth. The only thing he had on was his dark-framed glasses, and fuck me… I couldn’t breathe. 😳🖤😳
June 12, 2024
✦ Diem is one complicated man. however, i love complicated characters. i can't wait to find out more about him and see how his relationship with Tallus develops in the later books.
✦ i just love how understanding and patient Tallus is with Diem. that cannot be easy since Diem basically has brick walls built around himself.
✦ i sadly didn't give care that much about the case. i just couldn't get invested at all, which definitely impacted my overall enjoyment of this book, hence only the three star rating.
✦ overall, i think this was a pretty good start to a new series. i am definitely excited to read the next book once it comes out.
✦ i just love how understanding and patient Tallus is with Diem. that cannot be easy since Diem basically has brick walls built around himself.
✦ i sadly didn't give care that much about the case. i just couldn't get invested at all, which definitely impacted my overall enjoyment of this book, hence only the three star rating.
✦ overall, i think this was a pretty good start to a new series. i am definitely excited to read the next book once it comes out.
June 1, 2024
How I wish all seven, or however many, Shadowy Solutions books were out already, so I could binge read them like I did with Valor & Doyle. The non-endings are frustrating, even though I know there's a pot of gold somewhen.
Diem is like a wounded animal, scared to touch and be touched. He has so much love to give, but he doesn't believe he deserves anything, or anyone, good.
Tallus is drawn to Diem. He talks enough for the both of them and preens under Diem's possessive gaze.
How does Diem stay in business when he can't communicate and seems to work one case at a time? Beats me. He's not exactly living the life of luxury, but still.
Tallus is equally broke, except he blows his money on clothes and pretty things, which is certainly not the case for Diem.
The scene where Tallus calls Baby (Diem's pet snake) ugly and terrifying? That broke my heart so hard. Diem is the poster child for trauma. Everyone has failed this man, even his beloved grandma and grandpa, who allowed the abuse to go on. No wonder Diem is angry at the world.
I was a little bored with the mystery until the very end. There were leads, followed by dead ends, followed by new connections. I didn't even try to puzzle it all out, just went along for the ride.
I don't know how I feel about seeing Aslan and Quaid again. I adore them obviously but find the cameos a little distracting. It's almost like Diem is their enemy, and I don't like that. Plus, why did Diem have to feed them clues? No one investigated the wife, really??
Nicky James better be glued to her computer because I need MORE and I need it NOW.
Diem is like a wounded animal, scared to touch and be touched. He has so much love to give, but he doesn't believe he deserves anything, or anyone, good.
Tallus is drawn to Diem. He talks enough for the both of them and preens under Diem's possessive gaze.
How does Diem stay in business when he can't communicate and seems to work one case at a time? Beats me. He's not exactly living the life of luxury, but still.
Tallus is equally broke, except he blows his money on clothes and pretty things, which is certainly not the case for Diem.
The scene where Tallus calls Baby (Diem's pet snake) ugly and terrifying? That broke my heart so hard. Diem is the poster child for trauma. Everyone has failed this man, even his beloved grandma and grandpa, who allowed the abuse to go on. No wonder Diem is angry at the world.
I was a little bored with the mystery until the very end. There were leads, followed by dead ends, followed by new connections. I didn't even try to puzzle it all out, just went along for the ride.
I don't know how I feel about seeing Aslan and Quaid again. I adore them obviously but find the cameos a little distracting. It's almost like Diem is their enemy, and I don't like that. Plus, why did Diem have to feed them clues? No one investigated the wife, really??
Nicky James better be glued to her computer because I need MORE and I need it NOW.
April 1, 2025
4.25****
Okay peeps, I’m super happy with how this series kicked off. Like, really. The mystery wasn’t too heavy but still intriguing enough to keep me interested. I loved the first good look into Diem’s background and inner workings and I loved the issue(s) Nicky built for Diem which have and will further affect the relationship between these potential lovers.
We don’t learn a lot about Tallus and his background in this one but there were hints and I think Nicky will get onto this while the series moves along. But I loved how Tallus was sensitive to Diem’s obvious discomfort and tried for him to let him in to soothe some of it.
Well, I at least can’t wait for the next book. I’m seriously hooked. Nick J. Russo did a fine job again with these characters and I enjoyed A LOT all the encounters with Az, Quaid, Ruiz and Foxxy.
*************
Shadowy Solutions Series
⇢ A Valor & Doyle spin-off
Prequel - Invisible Scars - 4.25 stars
Book 1 - Skeletons in the Closet - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Power of the Mind - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Reading Between the Lines - 4.5 stars
Book 4 - A Breath of Life - release 09/25
Okay peeps, I’m super happy with how this series kicked off. Like, really. The mystery wasn’t too heavy but still intriguing enough to keep me interested. I loved the first good look into Diem’s background and inner workings and I loved the issue(s) Nicky built for Diem which have and will further affect the relationship between these potential lovers.
“My nana wants me to grow my hair,” he said. “Boone never shaved his head, and half the time, she thinks I’m him, so it bothers her.”
“You’d be handsome either way.”
He huffed. It was more a noise of dejection than humor. “I’ll never be handsome.” I continued the massage for a minute, watching the complicated man as he suffered in silence.
We don’t learn a lot about Tallus and his background in this one but there were hints and I think Nicky will get onto this while the series moves along. But I loved how Tallus was sensitive to Diem’s obvious discomfort and tried for him to let him in to soothe some of it.
Well, I at least can’t wait for the next book. I’m seriously hooked. Nick J. Russo did a fine job again with these characters and I enjoyed A LOT all the encounters with Az, Quaid, Ruiz and Foxxy.
*************
Shadowy Solutions Series
⇢ A Valor & Doyle spin-off
Prequel - Invisible Scars - 4.25 stars
Book 1 - Skeletons in the Closet - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Power of the Mind - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Reading Between the Lines - 4.5 stars
Book 4 - A Breath of Life - release 09/25
May 31, 2024
*Audiobook listeners, guess what just dropped?
https://www.audible.com/pd/Skeletons-...
[4.25] OKAY, I YIELD. I’m in. I want the next book. I need more of Tallus chipping away at Diem’s thick and sturdy shell.
While in the same universe as the Valor and Doyle series, Nicky James did a great job giving us a completely fresh dynamic and feel with these two. I was admittedly wary at first because I struggled to believe Diem managed this long in the business while communicating almost solely in grunts and being as technologically unsavvy as he was (e.g. the email search function 😂). But once the pacing picked up speed, and the mystery began to unfold, and more backstories were revealed, I struggled to put the book down.
And you know me, I’m an absolute sucker for tender moments that have me making aww faces at the screen. Gruff Fort Knox characters just hit different in these scenes 😌
So if you have any trouble at the start, please try to stick it out - I guarantee the ride has many more exhilarating turns waiting for you to take!
Thank you to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book; this is my honest review :)
[4.25] OKAY, I YIELD. I’m in. I want the next book. I need more of Tallus chipping away at Diem’s thick and sturdy shell.
While in the same universe as the Valor and Doyle series, Nicky James did a great job giving us a completely fresh dynamic and feel with these two. I was admittedly wary at first because I struggled to believe Diem managed this long in the business while communicating almost solely in grunts and being as technologically unsavvy as he was (e.g. the email search function 😂). But once the pacing picked up speed, and the mystery began to unfold, and more backstories were revealed, I struggled to put the book down.
And you know me, I’m an absolute sucker for tender moments that have me making aww faces at the screen. Gruff Fort Knox characters just hit different in these scenes 😌
So if you have any trouble at the start, please try to stick it out - I guarantee the ride has many more exhilarating turns waiting for you to take!
Thank you to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book; this is my honest review :)
Did Not Finish
April 1, 2025DNF at 62 pages
I'm sorry but after almost a month of ignoring the book I have to put it down, at least for now. Hopefully, I'll return to it when I'm more tolerant of the repetitive writing full of Diem's grunting and Talus' strutting around. I'm sure it's a great book but right now even their breathing is grating on my nerves and that's no way to read a book.
Edit 4/25: dropped for good, I don't see myself returning to a book where both MCs grated on me. Diem with his grunting (though that's fault of the repetitive writing, not his character, I think), and Talus with his pushy personality, even thinking about him retrospectively makes me, as a person with many boundaries, VERY uncomfortable.
I'm sorry but after almost a month of ignoring the book I have to put it down, at least for now. Hopefully, I'll return to it when I'm more tolerant of the repetitive writing full of Diem's grunting and Talus' strutting around. I'm sure it's a great book but right now even their breathing is grating on my nerves and that's no way to read a book.
Edit 4/25: dropped for good, I don't see myself returning to a book where both MCs grated on me. Diem with his grunting (though that's fault of the repetitive writing, not his character, I think), and Talus with his pushy personality, even thinking about him retrospectively makes me, as a person with many boundaries, VERY uncomfortable.
March 4, 2026
OH MY GOD???? NICKY!!!! Oh my God… This was everything. EVERYTHINGGGGG. Nicky James is my most read author of all time and this reminds me why I keep coming back. The narrative is fraught with so much tension. Both with the mystery plot and budding working relationship between the two leads. Complex and deeply interesting lead characters that I just want to know more more more more more about. And their romantic connection is sooooo buzzy. For so many reasons. I WAS GIDDY!!! I’m already so attached to Diem and Tallus and feel so lucky I have a whole series with them.💛
July 13, 2026
⭐️ 5 stars ⭐️
♪ 𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝙼𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 — 𝙴𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚐𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚋𝚢 𝚂𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚃𝚘𝚔𝚎𝚗♪
// You might be the one to take away the pain and let my mind go quiet
And nothing else is quite the same as how I feel when I'm at your side //
Oh no, I’ve made a mistake and now I won’t be able to move on until I finish this series.
Skeletons in the Closet satisfied all the cravings I was having — mystery, thriller, complex characters, romance.
Excuse you, I feel extremely qualified with all the crime shows I’ve watched. But, I was so distracted by this delicious slow burn of a romance and the growly bear that is Diem, that the mystery actually managed to surprise me in the end there. And I did enjoy both sides of the story, the intrigue and the investigating along with the sweet slow romance that’s building up.
I love characters like Diem. Grumpy giants that are hiding so much hurt under those hard layers, who’ve never had a gentle touch, who don’t know how to smile. And I loved how patient Tallus was with him, the banter, the way he kept sneaking past Diem’s defenses.
Diem has a long way to go, and I can’t wait to discover more of his secret cuddle bear side.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Mentions of past child abuse
- Implied past self harm
- Abusive & alcoholic parent/parental neglect
- Gun violence
- Injury & hospitalization
- Mention of drug trafficking/murder/suicide
- Touch-averse MC
- MC w/ facial scars
- Colorblind MC
- Slow burn
- Top/bottom
♪ 𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝙼𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 — 𝙴𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚐𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚋𝚢 𝚂𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚃𝚘𝚔𝚎𝚗♪
// You might be the one to take away the pain and let my mind go quiet
And nothing else is quite the same as how I feel when I'm at your side //
“I work alone.”
“Is it because you’re afraid you won’t be able to keep your hands off me?”
Oh no, I’ve made a mistake and now I won’t be able to move on until I finish this series.
Skeletons in the Closet satisfied all the cravings I was having — mystery, thriller, complex characters, romance.
“I’m helping him with a case because he values my investigative skills.” Memphis snorted. “What investigative skills? Your obsession with CSI and Criminal Minds doesn’t qualify you.”
Excuse you, I feel extremely qualified with all the crime shows I’ve watched. But, I was so distracted by this delicious slow burn of a romance and the growly bear that is Diem, that the mystery actually managed to surprise me in the end there. And I did enjoy both sides of the story, the intrigue and the investigating along with the sweet slow romance that’s building up.
“That was a joke. I’m impressed. I didn’t think you were capable. I’m going to write that in my diary tonight. Dear Diary, Diem pretended to be funny today. It was a phenomenon. I called the press. Seemed unusual enough to warrant some attention.”
I love characters like Diem. Grumpy giants that are hiding so much hurt under those hard layers, who’ve never had a gentle touch, who don’t know how to smile. And I loved how patient Tallus was with him, the banter, the way he kept sneaking past Diem’s defenses.
Diem has a long way to go, and I can’t wait to discover more of his secret cuddle bear side.
“Kitty’s right. You’re a big ol’ cuddle bear inside.”
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Mentions of past child abuse
- Implied past self harm
- Abusive & alcoholic parent/parental neglect
- Gun violence
- Injury & hospitalization
- Mention of drug trafficking/murder/suicide
- Touch-averse MC
- MC w/ facial scars
- Colorblind MC
- Slow burn
- Top/bottom
May 30, 2024
Tallus and Diem are a fantastic duo who are fascinating to see together. They are both struggling with various personal demons that make for a compelling story as they investigate a mystery. Both Tallus and Diem have personal hardships that make their dynamic complicated. I enjoyed watching them navigate through their struggles, which makes for a fantastic story that I could not put down.
Tallus is a personable records clerk who assisted Diem on a case in the past and is helping him with his current one. Tallus brings a lightness to their dynamic even when his struggles complicate his life due to his health and familial issues. Diem is also struggling with mental health, substance abuse, and trauma.
Unpacking Diem's trauma is a slow process and I appreciate how patient and understanding Tallus is throughout this process. Also seeing Diem's protective instincts come through for Tallus is also amazing.
Diem is such a fascinating character. He keeps everyone at a distance, except Tallus. Watching Diem very slowly unravel parts of his shell is amazing to see. I look forward to watching him grow, change, and continue to build his relationship with Tallus.
Overall this is a great start to a new series, with a compelling story and fascinatingly complex characters that I cannot wait to see more of.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Tallus is a personable records clerk who assisted Diem on a case in the past and is helping him with his current one. Tallus brings a lightness to their dynamic even when his struggles complicate his life due to his health and familial issues. Diem is also struggling with mental health, substance abuse, and trauma.
Unpacking Diem's trauma is a slow process and I appreciate how patient and understanding Tallus is throughout this process. Also seeing Diem's protective instincts come through for Tallus is also amazing.
Diem is such a fascinating character. He keeps everyone at a distance, except Tallus. Watching Diem very slowly unravel parts of his shell is amazing to see. I look forward to watching him grow, change, and continue to build his relationship with Tallus.
Overall this is a great start to a new series, with a compelling story and fascinatingly complex characters that I cannot wait to see more of.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
June 10, 2024
Nobody is more surprised than me of how much I started to love Diem (and Tallus, but he’s easier to love)
After reading the prequel, I have to admit that I wasn’t sure if I was going to connect with Diem. I probably went in, expecting two characters similar to Valor and Doyle, who - while each dealing with their own issues - are much more relatable (and easier to like).
But Nicky James didn’t take the easy route, copying the recipe that worked so well before. Diem has Issues, with a capital I. He’s been severely abused by his father, and he’s deeply insecure, always afraid he might inadvertently hurt someone and behave like his brutish father. He can’t bear to touch people, or to be touched. The wall he built around himself is thicker than a medieval fortress.
Then there’s Tallus. Tallus works for the Toronto PD, and his biggest dream is to solve cases. Sadly, he couldn’t become a police detective because of his bad vision. And so he jumps at the opportunity to (again) help Diem, whom he hasn’t been in contact with for quite a while after than glorious hookup (yes, we start with a pairing that started off having really REALLY bad sex). Tallus - while having his own skeletons in the closet - is lighthearted, but very empathetic when it comes to Diem, seeing to know instinctively when to push, it when to give Diem space. He’s no doormat by any means, but he doesn’t take it personally when Diem pushes him away. He deals with him like you would with a scared kitten, which is cute, considering that Diem is the epitome of a growling giant, while Tallus is his complete opposite.
The criminal case is… interesting, as almost all of Nicky’s cases, but the true feat she accomplished is creating two very different characters, and setting them up to become another couple we’ll love watching falling in love.
And for all fans of Valor and Doyle (and Costa Ruiz): yes, we have cameos ❤️
And then there’s NJR. Thank God she kept the narrator, although the little ding at the start of each chapter annoyed me a bit 👿 but the voices he gave both Diem and Tallus fit the characters perfectly. There a reason he’s one of my favourite narrators out there.
I honestly can’t wait for the next book in this series!
After reading the prequel, I have to admit that I wasn’t sure if I was going to connect with Diem. I probably went in, expecting two characters similar to Valor and Doyle, who - while each dealing with their own issues - are much more relatable (and easier to like).
But Nicky James didn’t take the easy route, copying the recipe that worked so well before. Diem has Issues, with a capital I. He’s been severely abused by his father, and he’s deeply insecure, always afraid he might inadvertently hurt someone and behave like his brutish father. He can’t bear to touch people, or to be touched. The wall he built around himself is thicker than a medieval fortress.
Then there’s Tallus. Tallus works for the Toronto PD, and his biggest dream is to solve cases. Sadly, he couldn’t become a police detective because of his bad vision. And so he jumps at the opportunity to (again) help Diem, whom he hasn’t been in contact with for quite a while after than glorious hookup (yes, we start with a pairing that started off having really REALLY bad sex). Tallus - while having his own skeletons in the closet - is lighthearted, but very empathetic when it comes to Diem, seeing to know instinctively when to push, it when to give Diem space. He’s no doormat by any means, but he doesn’t take it personally when Diem pushes him away. He deals with him like you would with a scared kitten, which is cute, considering that Diem is the epitome of a growling giant, while Tallus is his complete opposite.
The criminal case is… interesting, as almost all of Nicky’s cases, but the true feat she accomplished is creating two very different characters, and setting them up to become another couple we’ll love watching falling in love.
And for all fans of Valor and Doyle (and Costa Ruiz): yes, we have cameos ❤️
And then there’s NJR. Thank God she kept the narrator, although the little ding at the start of each chapter annoyed me a bit 👿 but the voices he gave both Diem and Tallus fit the characters perfectly. There a reason he’s one of my favourite narrators out there.
I honestly can’t wait for the next book in this series!
May 31, 2024
DNF - 25% - RTC
I am in the shittiest book slump.
I am in the shittiest book slump.
May 31, 2024
I'm putting Diem in the protective bubble with Quaid.
Really enjoyed getting to know more about both Diem and Tallus. The case was interesting and I didn't have any suspicions for the longest time, so that made me happy because I hate when I figure it out too easily!
Loved the cameos from Quaid, Aslan and Costa too
Really enjoyed getting to know more about both Diem and Tallus. The case was interesting and I didn't have any suspicions for the longest time, so that made me happy because I hate when I figure it out too easily!
Loved the cameos from Quaid, Aslan and Costa too
June 15, 2024
There was something nagging me about this story, but I couldn't quite put my finger on it. Maybe it's my mood. I didn't really like some parts of it, but what I did like was enough to make me go on. I'll probably read the rest.
Diem is a PI with more problems than he can deal with. Growing up with abusive parents that are still like that makes him think he's not worthy of any form of attention. He is a big surly guy, but he does his best to appear small and invisible, lest everyone will get hurt. Tallus doesn't get the memo, though.
After a very awkward meet cute and a very awkward sex encounter, Tallus, the new records clerk is 'invited' by Diem for another case: a scorned woman who thinks she is being cheated on. Well, was being cheated on, because her husband decided to kill himself a few weeks prior, and she found some incriminating clues.
Now, Diem and Tallus have to investigate a very dead possible cheater, while navigating this tentative new... relationship? friendship? partnership? well, somethingship.
PS: I FOUND THE PRIVATE NOTES ON GR! I feel dumb now.
Diem is a PI with more problems than he can deal with. Growing up with abusive parents that are still like that makes him think he's not worthy of any form of attention. He is a big surly guy, but he does his best to appear small and invisible, lest everyone will get hurt. Tallus doesn't get the memo, though.
After a very awkward meet cute and a very awkward sex encounter, Tallus, the new records clerk is 'invited' by Diem for another case: a scorned woman who thinks she is being cheated on. Well, was being cheated on, because her husband decided to kill himself a few weeks prior, and she found some incriminating clues.
Now, Diem and Tallus have to investigate a very dead possible cheater, while navigating this tentative new... relationship? friendship? partnership? well, somethingship.
PS: I FOUND THE PRIVATE NOTES ON GR! I feel dumb now.
March 15, 2025
Wow! I did not expect this after reading the prequel. Exciting case, so many feelings. I love these two so much.
September 10, 2025
The case itself finally got better toward the end. But I never warmed up to either MC. And the sexy scenes were actually cringey because of the issues. No bueno.
Unfortunately, I can’t be bothered to continue this series.
Unfortunately, I can’t be bothered to continue this series.
June 1, 2024
3.5 stars
Diem is a hard character to like. He has been failed by those people who should have taken care of him. As an adult he struggles. He mostly grunts at people and speaks in half sentences. But then you have Tallus who is Diem's opposite. He is talkative and bright. Although, he has his own issues. The two are back together working on a case. How Diem gets work through grunting amazes me but in this book he does.
The book was a bit of a slow start for me but it does get better and the case gets interesting. I'm interested in where the series goes with the characters. Bring on book 2.
Diem is a hard character to like. He has been failed by those people who should have taken care of him. As an adult he struggles. He mostly grunts at people and speaks in half sentences. But then you have Tallus who is Diem's opposite. He is talkative and bright. Although, he has his own issues. The two are back together working on a case. How Diem gets work through grunting amazes me but in this book he does.
The book was a bit of a slow start for me but it does get better and the case gets interesting. I'm interested in where the series goes with the characters. Bring on book 2.
June 2, 2024
A definite improvement
Well I liked that better than the prequel and the case they were investigating was much more drawn out and had an interesting twist.
I had figured out who was involved with the latest crimes but found the historic element fascinating and definitely unexpected.
The 'relationship' between Diem and Tallus is still pretty much non-existent but there's a gradual lessening of hostilities and a slow burn very loose friendship is kinda making its way into the light.
I'm thinking it's going to be a very different feel to Quaid and Aslan's investigations, although we see more of both of them, and Torin and Costa, in this book.
Overall I think I'm optimistic that this will be another winner.
Well I liked that better than the prequel and the case they were investigating was much more drawn out and had an interesting twist.
I had figured out who was involved with the latest crimes but found the historic element fascinating and definitely unexpected.
The 'relationship' between Diem and Tallus is still pretty much non-existent but there's a gradual lessening of hostilities and a slow burn very loose friendship is kinda making its way into the light.
I'm thinking it's going to be a very different feel to Quaid and Aslan's investigations, although we see more of both of them, and Torin and Costa, in this book.
Overall I think I'm optimistic that this will be another winner.
June 3, 2024
I loved the book, was very invested in the plot and characters, and loved the cameo from Valor and Quaid.
I didn't like how it ended, but it did make me more curious about what's gonna happen next, I can't wait for the next book
I didn't like how it ended, but it did make me more curious about what's gonna happen next, I can't wait for the next book
June 3, 2024
i don’t have a conclusive thought. I liked it enough but I’m gonna have to read the next book to know if I gel with the main characters.
June 20, 2024
DNF at 62%. Tallus is a pushy guy to someone who clearly has boundaries. This book doesn’t promote asking to do things like touch someone who clearly has issues with contact. I’m sure the author is thinking he can’t ask because Diem would say no and the book wouldn’t go anywhere.
And I’ve read books with dub-con and they can be good but this book doesn’t market itself as that, doesn’t come across like they know they’re doing something they shouldn’t. I don’t like it. Nearly every POV from Tallus makes me hate him increasingly more as the book goes on. I don’t even care about the mystery anymore.
And I’ve read books with dub-con and they can be good but this book doesn’t market itself as that, doesn’t come across like they know they’re doing something they shouldn’t. I don’t like it. Nearly every POV from Tallus makes me hate him increasingly more as the book goes on. I don’t even care about the mystery anymore.
July 10, 2025
The last thing Diem Krause wanted to do was ask for Tallus’s help. The too-hot-for-his-own-good records clerk was so far outside Diem’s league that he became tongue-tied in his presence. Six months ago, after an embarrassingly unimpressive exchange in the bedroom that accentuated Diem’s flaws, he swore never to go near the sultry man again.
Diem has found himself at an impasse while investigating an unusual case. Tallas is the one and only person that Diem would trust to help him, but considering how badly things ended between them before, Diem wonders if Tallus will even speak to him, much less want to work with him.
Tallus is still irritated when Diem approaches him. After their exasperating parting six months ago, he figured he would never hear from the man again. Tallus is curious and oddly attracted to the idea of helping Diem with the investigation, so he decides it won't hurt to listen to what he has to say. After hearing Diem's explanation, Tallus tells him he's in....but just because he can...he makes him wait until the following evening. This time, Tallus is determined to get Diem to open up to him. He continues to push Diem to share what happened and why he's struggling so much. Tallus is determined to learn what had caused Diem's current overly distressed state, no matter how long or what it takes.
A lot of M/M romance books have a slight mystery element in the story, but mostly they are about the guys getting together, and that's perfectly okay...that's 99% of what we readers read them for...but I was pleasantly surprised to find that Nicky James had given us an actual and really good mystery here....one that we can root for the two guys to solve. The entire book is a fast-paced, and action-packed story of intrigue and deceit.
Through the majority of the story Diem and Talus's relationship is as frustrating as it is intense. I adored Tallus from the start... Diem was a little more difficult to like, but I was very sympathetic to him and liked him a whole lot more after learning about his past and meeting his sorry excuse for a father. Thank you, Nicky, for another realistic portrayal of how life, unfortunately, sometimes is...and how love can always make it better.
Diem has found himself at an impasse while investigating an unusual case. Tallas is the one and only person that Diem would trust to help him, but considering how badly things ended between them before, Diem wonders if Tallus will even speak to him, much less want to work with him.
Tallus is still irritated when Diem approaches him. After their exasperating parting six months ago, he figured he would never hear from the man again. Tallus is curious and oddly attracted to the idea of helping Diem with the investigation, so he decides it won't hurt to listen to what he has to say. After hearing Diem's explanation, Tallus tells him he's in....but just because he can...he makes him wait until the following evening. This time, Tallus is determined to get Diem to open up to him. He continues to push Diem to share what happened and why he's struggling so much. Tallus is determined to learn what had caused Diem's current overly distressed state, no matter how long or what it takes.
A lot of M/M romance books have a slight mystery element in the story, but mostly they are about the guys getting together, and that's perfectly okay...that's 99% of what we readers read them for...but I was pleasantly surprised to find that Nicky James had given us an actual and really good mystery here....one that we can root for the two guys to solve. The entire book is a fast-paced, and action-packed story of intrigue and deceit.
Through the majority of the story Diem and Talus's relationship is as frustrating as it is intense. I adored Tallus from the start... Diem was a little more difficult to like, but I was very sympathetic to him and liked him a whole lot more after learning about his past and meeting his sorry excuse for a father. Thank you, Nicky, for another realistic portrayal of how life, unfortunately, sometimes is...and how love can always make it better.
January 10, 2026
3.5 had a hard time liking both characters 🤨
June 6, 2024
A slow start, but a strong finish that made me optimistic about this series. My heart hurt so much for Diem throughout this entire book. He reminded me of the scared animals in those SPCA commercials, shaking and cowering in the corner of a cage because they'd only ever known fear and neglect and abuse. The amount of trauma he has endured and the physical and mental scars it left behind mean the relationship development between him and Tallus will need to move at a snail's pace to make any sense, and so far that's exactly what it's doing. I'll admit that right now a love story feels close to impossible, but this author is so good at writing about mental health and healing that I have faith she will do Diem and Tallus justice.
While the mystery didn't keep me on the edge of my seat, it was layered enough to keep me guessing and intrigued. I thought the ending was exactly what it needed to be at this point and am looking forward to whatever comes next.
While the mystery didn't keep me on the edge of my seat, it was layered enough to keep me guessing and intrigued. I thought the ending was exactly what it needed to be at this point and am looking forward to whatever comes next.
June 4, 2024
I loved this! The mystery was ok but when it is combined with the growing relationship between Tallus and Diem it made the book much more interesting.
I know Diem has so much baggage and Tallus is so good with him. He makes mistakes because he doesn’t know everything that is going on with Diem but he has a ton of patience. Diem is so hurt from his past and we’ve only skimmed the surface. I cannot wait to find out more and see him accept his feelings for Tallus.
I know Diem has so much baggage and Tallus is so good with him. He makes mistakes because he doesn’t know everything that is going on with Diem but he has a ton of patience. Diem is so hurt from his past and we’ve only skimmed the surface. I cannot wait to find out more and see him accept his feelings for Tallus.
June 7, 2024
I loved every interaction Tallus & diem had and the slow burn of getting Diem to open up intimately. There honestly wasn’t enough development .
Unfortunately i couldnt care less about the case they were on and i felt it took up so much of the story i didnt like it as much as i could have
Unfortunately i couldnt care less about the case they were on and i felt it took up so much of the story i didnt like it as much as i could have
June 9, 2024
Diem keeps me interested but man… I just want them to connect already! The mystery is whatever… Thankfully it’s on KU so I didn’t have to pay extra for it.
July 9, 2024
4 loved it stars!! 😍 The mystery plot was complicated and the ending was a little underwhelming. However the character development for both the MCs was very insightful. I understood Diem a little more and his struggles. Tallus was a breath of fresh air and I really loved his sunshiny personality and positivity.. 💕
Overall it was entertaining and pleasantly surprising. I’m looking forward to their next adventure and more growth for Diem. 👍🏻👍🏻
Overall it was entertaining and pleasantly surprising. I’m looking forward to their next adventure and more growth for Diem. 👍🏻👍🏻
October 5, 2024
Freaking fantastic.
Such damaged men, twisty crimes,
slow burn, awful sex.
Such damaged men, twisty crimes,
slow burn, awful sex.
July 5, 2024
I've given this an A- at AAR
Skeletons in the Closet gets Nicky James’ new romantic suspense Shadowy Solutions series off to a great start. It’s a spin-off of her popular Valor and Doyle stories in which the author continues her winning combination of intriguing, twisty suspense and sexy, emotionally satisfying romance with a new and compelling central couple, one of whom we’ve met before, the other appearing for the first time in the prequel novella, Invisible Scars , which I strongly recommend reading before jumping into this.
Tallus Domingo – whom we first met in Matrimonial Merriment – is the cousin of IT guru, Costa Ruiz, and recently joined the Toronto PD as a records clerk. He meets hard-boiled PI Diem Krause (and yes, the author is continuing with her penchant for unusual names!) under somewhat embarassing circumstances (as detailed in Invisible Scars), and despite Diem’s objections, they team up to investigate a case. The two of them couldn’t be more different; Tallus is good-looking, funny, charming and confident, everything the big, gruff, awkward Krause - a veritable mountain of a man whose imposing exterior hides a deeply wounded soul – is not.
It’s been six months since Tallus fell (literally) into Diem’s life and Diem has deliberately been avoiding him. But now, he needs help only Tallus can provide – or rather, Tallus is the only person he can ask for help because Diem doesn’t have friends or colleagues he can turn to. His current client is a bereaved wife who is convinced her recently deceased husband was cheating on her. Her husband had become edgy and short-tempered after a visit by a woman she doesn’t know, and then moreso after the police came calling a couple of weeks later. His wife doesn’t know what the visit was about, but two weeks later, she found her husband dead on the couch, surrounded by empty booze and pill bottles. His death was ruled a suicide, but she’s not convinced – and she also suspects her husband was having multiple affairs. She’s hired Diem to uncover her late husband’s secrets.
The mystery woman who came calling is Olivia Lansky, CEO of a fashion company. Diem has been able to find out very little about her and the suspected affair so far because she’s surrounded by bodyguards 24/7, which has made surveillance very difficult. Getting into her house to snoop around is impossible, so Diem’s best bet is to get into her office to access her computer or phone. There’s a big gala taking place there at the weekend, and having so many people milling around will provide a good opportunity for Diem to sneak in – but therein lies the problem. Diem’s physicality makes ‘sneaking’ anywhere difficult and as people-ing is not at all in his skill set, he needs help to get past the front door… which is where Tallus comes in.
Tallus, who has tried not to allow Diem to take up too much real estate in his brain since they last met, is both annoyed and eager at the approach. Annoyed because, after six months of nothing, Diem has left it until the last minute to ask (and he knows that’s because Diem really doesn’t want to ask); because last time, Diem basically fucked and ran (and I applaud the author for writing underwhelming sex in the prequel – it’s rare, in romance, to read sex scenes that aren’t all wild abandon and mindblowing orgasms), but eager because he wants to do more than shuffle papers and input data for a job (and because he's secretly thrilled Diem has come to him for help).
Of course Tallus agrees – although he makes Diem work for it, insisting he actually talks to him instead of communicating in cavemannish grunts. He already knows that there’s much more to Diem than meets the eye, that he’s been badly hurt and that he’s used to being alone with no-one on his side or in his corner. Tallus longs to know what happened to make Diem the way he is, and he knows Diem is strongly attracted to him, despite not wanting to be, but Tallus doesn’t push; or at least he doesn’t push Diem to talk about his past, but he does encourage him to use his words and share his thoughts about the case.
The story is written in alternating first person PoV, and in Diem’s chapters we get to learn more of his background and what makes him tick; about his constant battles with anxiety and negativity, how scared he is of messing things up, how little he thinks of himself, and just how difficult he finds it to interact with people in general, let alone someone he finds attractive. He’s damaged inside and out – his body and psyche are badly scarred – and Tallus is gorgeous and can have anyone he wants. Why on earth would that be someone like Diem, who struggles with anything approaching intimacy or affection and avoids physical contact?
Nicky James has a real talent for creating damaged yet loveable characters, and Diem will break your heart. That’s not to say Tallus doesn’t have demons of his own, because he clearly does – his colour-blindness barred him from the career he wanted in law enforcement, his father disowned him when he came out as a teen, and he has money worries - but he doesn’t let that stop him from being himself and living life on his own terms.
Tallus and Diem may be a classic ‘odd couple’, but their differences not only complement each other - Tallus’ energy and confidence a strong counterpoint to Diem’s more reserved nature – they turn out to be a winning combination as far as the case is concerned. And as they spend time together on stake outs and elaborate schemes to access the information they need, they start to take some baby steps forward in their personal relationship as well. Diem very obviously has a looooong way to go if he’s to overcome at least some of his inner demons and move towards having a healthy relationship with someone, but what comes through very strongly here is just how hard he’s trying, for Tallus’ sake. Every little moment of humour and/or understanding they share means so much because of just how difficult it is for Diem to let his guard down, even a little – and I loved that Tallus recognises and appreciates the effort behind it.
I enjoyed the cameo appearances from Valor, Doyle and Fox here – I always like getting to see beloved characters through someone else’s eyes, and I rather enjoyed the different perspective. Diem (an ex-cop) clearly has history with them and they’re not exactly besties; they’re suspicious of each other and territorial about their cases. This also highlights the different way Diem has to work because he doesn’t have the same resources available to him as they do.
It must be somewhat nerve-wracking for the author of a successful series to embark on a new one featuring new characters, but Nicky James does a great job of bringing us something different while also retaining the things that have made Valor and Doyle so beloved. Tallus and Diem are very different individuals – their dynamic is different, their situations are different and their personalities are different – but the clever plotting, the humour and the insightful characterisation that are hallmarks of that series are still very much in evidence.
At the end of Skeletons in the Closet, we leave Tallus and Diem in a slightly better place than at the end of Invisible Scars, although with no real indication that they’ll see each other again. They will, of course, and I’m really looking forward to finding out how Tallus is going to finagle his way into Diem’s next case (and further under his skin) in Power of the Mind, due out in September 2024.
Skeletons in the Closet gets Nicky James’ new romantic suspense Shadowy Solutions series off to a great start. It’s a spin-off of her popular Valor and Doyle stories in which the author continues her winning combination of intriguing, twisty suspense and sexy, emotionally satisfying romance with a new and compelling central couple, one of whom we’ve met before, the other appearing for the first time in the prequel novella, Invisible Scars , which I strongly recommend reading before jumping into this.
Tallus Domingo – whom we first met in Matrimonial Merriment – is the cousin of IT guru, Costa Ruiz, and recently joined the Toronto PD as a records clerk. He meets hard-boiled PI Diem Krause (and yes, the author is continuing with her penchant for unusual names!) under somewhat embarassing circumstances (as detailed in Invisible Scars), and despite Diem’s objections, they team up to investigate a case. The two of them couldn’t be more different; Tallus is good-looking, funny, charming and confident, everything the big, gruff, awkward Krause - a veritable mountain of a man whose imposing exterior hides a deeply wounded soul – is not.
It’s been six months since Tallus fell (literally) into Diem’s life and Diem has deliberately been avoiding him. But now, he needs help only Tallus can provide – or rather, Tallus is the only person he can ask for help because Diem doesn’t have friends or colleagues he can turn to. His current client is a bereaved wife who is convinced her recently deceased husband was cheating on her. Her husband had become edgy and short-tempered after a visit by a woman she doesn’t know, and then moreso after the police came calling a couple of weeks later. His wife doesn’t know what the visit was about, but two weeks later, she found her husband dead on the couch, surrounded by empty booze and pill bottles. His death was ruled a suicide, but she’s not convinced – and she also suspects her husband was having multiple affairs. She’s hired Diem to uncover her late husband’s secrets.
The mystery woman who came calling is Olivia Lansky, CEO of a fashion company. Diem has been able to find out very little about her and the suspected affair so far because she’s surrounded by bodyguards 24/7, which has made surveillance very difficult. Getting into her house to snoop around is impossible, so Diem’s best bet is to get into her office to access her computer or phone. There’s a big gala taking place there at the weekend, and having so many people milling around will provide a good opportunity for Diem to sneak in – but therein lies the problem. Diem’s physicality makes ‘sneaking’ anywhere difficult and as people-ing is not at all in his skill set, he needs help to get past the front door… which is where Tallus comes in.
Tallus, who has tried not to allow Diem to take up too much real estate in his brain since they last met, is both annoyed and eager at the approach. Annoyed because, after six months of nothing, Diem has left it until the last minute to ask (and he knows that’s because Diem really doesn’t want to ask); because last time, Diem basically fucked and ran (and I applaud the author for writing underwhelming sex in the prequel – it’s rare, in romance, to read sex scenes that aren’t all wild abandon and mindblowing orgasms), but eager because he wants to do more than shuffle papers and input data for a job (and because he's secretly thrilled Diem has come to him for help).
Of course Tallus agrees – although he makes Diem work for it, insisting he actually talks to him instead of communicating in cavemannish grunts. He already knows that there’s much more to Diem than meets the eye, that he’s been badly hurt and that he’s used to being alone with no-one on his side or in his corner. Tallus longs to know what happened to make Diem the way he is, and he knows Diem is strongly attracted to him, despite not wanting to be, but Tallus doesn’t push; or at least he doesn’t push Diem to talk about his past, but he does encourage him to use his words and share his thoughts about the case.
The story is written in alternating first person PoV, and in Diem’s chapters we get to learn more of his background and what makes him tick; about his constant battles with anxiety and negativity, how scared he is of messing things up, how little he thinks of himself, and just how difficult he finds it to interact with people in general, let alone someone he finds attractive. He’s damaged inside and out – his body and psyche are badly scarred – and Tallus is gorgeous and can have anyone he wants. Why on earth would that be someone like Diem, who struggles with anything approaching intimacy or affection and avoids physical contact?
Nicky James has a real talent for creating damaged yet loveable characters, and Diem will break your heart. That’s not to say Tallus doesn’t have demons of his own, because he clearly does – his colour-blindness barred him from the career he wanted in law enforcement, his father disowned him when he came out as a teen, and he has money worries - but he doesn’t let that stop him from being himself and living life on his own terms.
Tallus and Diem may be a classic ‘odd couple’, but their differences not only complement each other - Tallus’ energy and confidence a strong counterpoint to Diem’s more reserved nature – they turn out to be a winning combination as far as the case is concerned. And as they spend time together on stake outs and elaborate schemes to access the information they need, they start to take some baby steps forward in their personal relationship as well. Diem very obviously has a looooong way to go if he’s to overcome at least some of his inner demons and move towards having a healthy relationship with someone, but what comes through very strongly here is just how hard he’s trying, for Tallus’ sake. Every little moment of humour and/or understanding they share means so much because of just how difficult it is for Diem to let his guard down, even a little – and I loved that Tallus recognises and appreciates the effort behind it.
I enjoyed the cameo appearances from Valor, Doyle and Fox here – I always like getting to see beloved characters through someone else’s eyes, and I rather enjoyed the different perspective. Diem (an ex-cop) clearly has history with them and they’re not exactly besties; they’re suspicious of each other and territorial about their cases. This also highlights the different way Diem has to work because he doesn’t have the same resources available to him as they do.
It must be somewhat nerve-wracking for the author of a successful series to embark on a new one featuring new characters, but Nicky James does a great job of bringing us something different while also retaining the things that have made Valor and Doyle so beloved. Tallus and Diem are very different individuals – their dynamic is different, their situations are different and their personalities are different – but the clever plotting, the humour and the insightful characterisation that are hallmarks of that series are still very much in evidence.
At the end of Skeletons in the Closet, we leave Tallus and Diem in a slightly better place than at the end of Invisible Scars, although with no real indication that they’ll see each other again. They will, of course, and I’m really looking forward to finding out how Tallus is going to finagle his way into Diem’s next case (and further under his skin) in Power of the Mind, due out in September 2024.
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