Code Name: Hallum

Of Shadows and Secrets #3

by Casey Morales

Captured or Killed? Only the War knows.

Will Shaw and his friends are typical college students, enjoying dances and parties without much care for life beyond.

When Thomas, a handsome Naval officer and newly arrived student, nearly stumbles into Will and his friends, Will's heart spins, though he doesn't understand why. Sparks of something new burst within, opening his eyes to possibilities he'd never dreamed.

In the giddy fog of a forbidden courtship and the safety of the campus bubble, the world's troubles seem far away.

Until they aren't.

German tanks roll through Europe, while Japan attacks Pearl Harbor.

There's no safe place left to hide.

Compelled to do their part, young people enlist in record numbers. Will and his friends join the queue.

But instead of a bus headed to basic training, Will is thrust into the world of shadows and secrets.

Genres: Historical, M M Romance, Historical Fiction, Thriller

369 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2024

About the author

Casey Morales is an LGBT storyteller and the author of multiple bestselling MM romance novels. Born in the Southern United States, Casey is an avid tennis player, aspiring chef, dog lover, and ravenous consumer of gummy bears.

Reviews

[Shrike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy release day!

The third book "Of Shadows and Secrets" is, in my opinion, the best yet. As Will and Thomas grow and mature, so does Morales as a historical fiction writer. He doesn't shy away from the horrors of WWII and treats this sensitive subject with respect. He weaeves in plenty of levity and a touch of  spice to balance everything out. I really think he's found his niche with the historical romance genre.

Morales has been putting these books out with a surprisingly quick turnaround. I feel a bit spoiled! Here's to more adventures with Will and Thomas!

I received an advance copy for free. I am writing this review of my own accord.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through romance and covert ops in ‘Hallum’.

Meet Will and Thomas, the dynamic duo who found love at Harvard in ‘Crimson’ and developed a taste for danger in the wild world of wartime espionage in ‘Falkirk’.

Dropped into occupied Holland, these fresh-faced agents embark on a dangerous mission to retrieve their captured teammates. Brace yourself for twists, turns, and a dash of drama that will keep you hooked.

Casey masterfully crafts a story that transcends the traditional war novel, infusing it with a deep and authentic portrayal of the characters' emotional struggles, turning fictional beings into friends, and making us fall head over heels for this story. Will and Thomas are not just figments of Casey’s imagination; they're companions we grow to love, and can't help but cheer on, wipe away tears with, and share their triumphs and heartbreaks.

This book isn't just about secret missions; it's a page-turning celebration of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. A must-read for those who enjoy their romance with a side of espionage action and appreciate a good laugh along the way.

[Velvet Wrapped Smut · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I have been hanging out for what happens to my two favourite OS's agents and this instalment didn't disappoint. The spice was definitely more detailed in this book (definitely not complaining about that!) and the story continues to keep me hooked!

It was paced well, and continued to break my heart at the treatment queer people experienced in the past. But also I was able to smile at the people who did love Thomas and Will and embraced their love.

Although it looks like their time is done in WWII, I don't think this is the last we will see of Thomas and Will.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The thrilling conclusion to this trilogy starts out in the thick of WWII. An unknown man has been found injured with amnesia and is in hiding. In the horrors of war and excitement of espionage, Casey gives you thoughts and feels of memorable literature and movies about The 'War to end all Wars": "The Guns of Navarone", "Diary of Anne Frank", "Saving Private Ryan", in the works of Alistair MacLean and Robert Ludlum, the reality of Dachau and other prison camps, though fiction can never do the reality justice. Tales of daring and trickery, risking it all in heroism for their country and freedom, the heart pounding fear and holding your breath for someone's safety. My heart turns over in this conclusion as Will and Thomas must make a "Great Escape" from Germany saving lives as they risk their own and enfolding into their care, other groups persecuted then and now. This was a time of terrible atrocities so to weave seamlessly a forbidden love story into the fabric of this historic time, to make you care and love these two men takes talent, compassion and empathy. Well done, Casey, well done. I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Angel_2822 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hallum by Casey Morales is the third book in the Of Shadows and Secrets series. Like the previous books, it’s a captivating read, a riveting journey through love and undercover operations in a Europe immersed in WWII.

In this dazzling story, we reunite with Will and Thomas, who initially kindled their romance amidst the halls of Harvard in Crimson, and who defied the German in Falkirk. In Hallum, they find themselves in Holland, on a perilous rescue mission (continuing the plot of Falkirk).

The narrative is exhilarating, and as did the two previous books, Hallum skilfully combines elements of spying, suspense, and romance that make readers eagerly turn every page. This incredible journey during the turmoil of WWII mixes the intricacies of love with the secretive world of espionage, creating an exciting adventure.

Casey guides readers through an emotional rollercoaster that lingers throughout the whole book. He adeptly weaves a narrative that transcends typical war novels, delving into the emotional intricacies of his characters.

Casey has proved once again to be an awesome writer, committed to the story, the characters, and the readers. In Hallum he delivers a must-read for enthusiasts who crave a blend of romance and espionage.

I couldn’t put this book down. It grabbed my attention from start to finish (I was waiting for it after finishing reading Falkirk). Hallum had me totally enthralled.

I received an ARC from the author for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation. 

[Kiki Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve effusively gushed over the first two books in this series and guess what? That lovefest is not going to stop with Hallum.
Falkirk ended with a cliffhanger, but on a hopeful note. It helped knowing Will and Thomas would find their way back together. But how that happens is a vivid, harrowing journey.
Hallum begins with a young farm boy finding an injured Thomas and his family taking him in. But you slowly see how insidiously children were convinced it was their duty to inform on their parents, and once again Thomas is uncertain of his future. When Will learns Thomas is alive, he moves heaven and hell to be part of his rescue mission.
From a Bedfordshire safe-house, to a remote village in the Netherlands, hidden rooms, a Nazi jail, and an escape through salt caverns, this book is a thrilling adventure that doesn’t shy away from the horrors of war, but gives you hope through glimpses of humanity. There’s a moment in the chaos of their flight from Germany where you see how the bond between brothers is stronger than any rhetoric. I found this powerful and haunting.
“He never had to ask me to be his.
I always was.
I always would be.”
Did someone say swoon with a healthy bit of pining? These books are historical thrillers but the heart and soul of each one is the love Thomas and Will have for each other. Even though they don’t reunite until almost the 40% mark, this is their story. The action, intrigue, and raw emotion had me devouring this book. When they finally have their reunion- it was well worth the wait.
As always, the secondary characters are first rate, I truly want Holger and Joachim to have their HEA.
I want to write more, but don’t want to spoil the twists and unexpected turns this wonderful story took.
With the war finally over, I wonder what’s next for Will and Thomas as they head back home. I have no doubt it will be the start of another remarkable adventure.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The blurb isn’t much help in setting up this book, as it just repeats the blurb for book 1 and 2, Crimson and Falkirk. As soon as I started reading this one, I immediately remembered what had happened previously and where Falkirk had ended. Reading the two previous books helps this one make more sense, but it could probably be read as a standalone if desired.

After the raid to Emden, Sparrow (Sarah) and Emu (Will) returned to London, while Condor (Thomas), Egret (Charlie), and Adam were believed captured by the Germans or dead. When a message was received that at least one of the missing has been found, Sparrow and Emu head to the Netherlands to rescue whoever has been located.

Thomas was found and taken in by a Dutch family, but was soon discovered and taken into custody by the Danish police, soon to be turned over to the Germans.

Thus begins the mission to rescue Thomas and to discover, if possible, what has happened to Charlie and Adam. It is a harrowing adventure, full of danger, but also one helped along by many who resisted the Nazis in any way they could. There are laughter and tears, and places that just grab the heart as well as places that speed up the heart as the escape unfolds.

I found myself reading cover to cover without stopping, so engrossed in the story and affected by the more heart-breaking parts of the war on the population depicted as the team tries to get home. Seventy-five years after WWII, it still reminds us of things our countrymen (and women) did to help defeat the Nazis, the sacrifices they made, but even more the sacrifices of the untold millions affected in the occupied countries, and the hardships they endured.

A beautiful, moving, heartfelt book that made me think about the past and how it has parallels to us today. Well worth the read. Thank you, Casey.

I received an advance copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.

[Bol.D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tags: Compelling, immersive, action-packed, suspenseful, fast-paced, historical, multiple POV, satisfying HFN.
The novel is a testament to traumatic and challenging times during WW2, set in the Netherlands and Germany, full of action and intriguing characters.
The love and relationship between the main protagonists are secondary to the exciting, dynamic, and sometimes moving story about human resistance to oppression, resilience, sacrifice, and courage. The author gives a glimpse into life in an occupied Netherlands through several captivating characters related to the resistance movement. From the historical perspective, the story is as accurate a reflection of the times as possible.
Hallum is the third book in a series. Though it can be read as a standalone, reading previous books might enhance understanding of the main characters, their roles, and relationships. The vague explanation of Will and Thomas’s relationship in the book is enough to grasp the basics. However, a lack of context hampers a complete understanding of the characters, their emotions, and their relations.
As always, Casey Morales uses language as a tool to intrigue the reader and create a compelling and vivid world. The writing is excellent and the best feature of the book.
If you enjoy novels focusing on love, warm and fuzzy emotions, steamy scenes, and linear, predictable plots, this book might not be your cup of tea.
However, I highly recommend this book if you seek excellent eloquent writing, fast-paced action, suspense, love, and a broad spectrum of emotions.
I received this book as an ARC. The review reflects my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Precociousp · Rating 5 out of 5]

The final installment in Will and Thomas’ WWII saga is nothing short of gripping. Once again, Casey Morales delivers a fast-paced and emotionally charged adventure in Hallum. Picking up immediately after Falkirk, the story sweeps readers through daring rescue missions across Holland, France, Germany, and Switzerland. The covert operations and constant peril might seem implausible at first glance, but Morales grounds them in such vivid realism that every scene feels both tense and authentic. The brutal face of Nazi fascism is portrayed with unflinching honesty, reminding us just how high the stakes were during this era.

One of the novel’s strongest elements is its exploration of the devastating consequences of betrayal—whether casual or calculated. Morales masterfully conveys the ever-present dangers of occupied Europe, giving the story a deeply human dimension. This installment carries a darker tone than its predecessors, and for good reason. Losses are inevitable, and tears are shed for those who don’t survive. Yet, amid the heartbreak, the book offers glimmers of hope and an enduring message about the strength of love in the bleakest circumstances.

What stood out most for me was the unshakable bond between Will and Thomas, complemented by a remarkable supporting cast. Their courage, loyalty, and resilience make this story unforgettable. Hallum is a fitting and powerful conclusion to the series—one that left me deeply moved and eager for whatever Casey Morales writes next.

[Kurohagi · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this third volume, we are pleased to find Will and Thomas in this book which concludes their
adventures in the middle of the Second World War. This third part of the series is, like the previous ones, overflowing with suspense. We follow Will and Thomas in their quest to find themselves and their friends. We once again plunge into the heart of the atrocities of war, but even in the darkest hours of history, our heroes find allies, sometimes unexpected, and above all hope.
The writing is fair, the anxieties, the feelings, the emotions of the characters are very well described. We are afraid, we love and we want to scream with them when injustice hits them.
A must-read series!

Dans ce troisième tome, on retrouve avec plaisir Will et Thomas dans ce livre qui conclut leurs
aventures en pleine seconde guerre mondiale. Ce troisième volet de la série est tout comme les précédents débordant de suspens. On suit Will et Thomas dans leur quête de se retrouver et de retrouver leurs amis. On plonge encore une fois au cœur des atrocités de la guerre, mais même dans les heures les plus noires de l’histoire, nos héros trouvent des alliés, parfois imprévus, et surtout l’espoir.
L’écriture est juste, les angoisses, les sentiments, les émotions des personnages sont très bien décrites. On a peur, on aime et on a envie de hurler avec eux quand l’injustice les frappe.
Une série à lire absolument !

[Alias11 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came into this book not realizing it was the third in a series. It didn't matter. I didn't have the history of Will and Thomas, but there was enough background that I knew they were a couple and teammates. It was enough. The story itself, of the mission, Thomas' capture, and the daring rescue, started a little slow, but quickly picked up the pace. The story was riveting, suspenseful, and periodically tragic. There were surprises and unexpected twists that caught me by surprise as much as the book's characters. It read like a good World War II movie where the unlikely odds of success are overcome, although not without loss, through heroism, sacrifice, unlikely allies, and sheer determination. As far as content warnings, there are tense moments, fear, (mostly off-page) torture, and prisoner of war descriptions. Also guns, injuries, and violence, although not overly graphic or intense. If you are sensitive, take heed. I really enjoyed the book, and now I want to go back and read the two books that came before. I have read other books by this author, but this one was the most emotional and serious of the ones by him that I have read. I did have some questions about what became of the German prisoners and the policeman, and 'other' things (no spoilers). I hope maybe there will be some mention in a future Will and Thomas book. Overall, excellent read.

I received a free copy from StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The suspense flows from the first pages, as Will and Sarah (Sparrow) set out to find and rescue their colleagues. Casey can't resist a little fun, and I particularly enjoyed how she was much more adept at parachuting than he. But danger is everywhere as soon as they begin the actual mission. Just as it might have been then, one cannot immediately tell who can be trusted, yet they must trust so much on their contacts to get them to safety and help plan what to do next. I like that the story reminds us that most of the men and women in WWII were relatively young and left lovers, friends and families behind to take up this uncertain mission that changed the world. I loved the cast of characters who help and those who can't or won't help, as well as how well the war-weary on both sides were portrayed. Casey's writing has matured. Another scene I found wonderfully inventive was the portrayal of their slap-happy journey by car--they get so silly yet can snap back into their roles when required. I found the ending a bit abrupt, hoping for more follow-up on their lives after returning to the U.S. Maybe they can go to France after the war, where queerness is more accepted.

I received several copies of this book from the author and this one for free from BookSirens. I left this review voluntarily and happily. If you love this book, join Casey's Facebook group!

[Traci S · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another harrowing and exciting read, I’ve loved the previous two books but this one might be my favorite. The last book ended with a heartbreaking cliffhanger and Hallum gives us the epic mission to rescue Thomas. Casey executes all parts of this story flawlessly. It’s an exciting read, the sense of danger and intrigue is sky high. The plot is twisty and compelling, and the world building is exceptional. The history side is thoroughly researched, and the setting and characters feel so authentic. The highlight for me however is the evolution of Thomas and Will. They have grown so much since meeting at college and Hallum definitely deliverers on the romance. You can really feel Will’s desperation in the search for Thomas, and I was on the edge of my seat for much of their story. It is rare that I feel the tension in a story in a physical way. I really could feel my pulse racing reading this and hoping for a safe landing for Thomas, Will, and their crew. This is historical romance at its best, and Thomas and Will’s reunion did not disappoint. It’s beautifully written and filled with emotion, I absolutely loved it❤️.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

A testament to the human spirit

After everything Will and Thomas have been through in the first two books in the series and with the incredibly dangerous mission they were sent on culminating in the team being split up and some unaccounted for, Will and Thomas' love story continues while the war carries on a relentless pace. Even though neither knows what has become of the other, their love never wavers.
There's a lot of action on the continent this time, after the first book set at Harvard and the second in Scotland and England. Life in wartime Europe sees the continent under the thumb of German rule, nowhere safe if you're not German military or a sympathiser. The main characters of Hallum see a lot of action but also meet a lot of good people who help them along the way. I loved the resistance men and women who risked so much to offer shelter and a bed to sleep in, resources and transport to help them achieve their objectives. They made the story more human and it benefitted from that and, of course, these people really existed and were true heroes and heroines too, risking their lives every day.
This was the best of the series yet and now I've got Beehive to read, about their life after WWII ends but, from the blurb, there is still much for them to do.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hallum is the third book in the Of Shadows and Secrets series. Set in Europe during WWII, we follow Will and Thomas and their fellow teammates as they face atrocities in Germany. After a mission has gone wrong and a few of their members are captured, the others are forced to embark on a dangerous mission to rescue their own.

I have not read either of the first two books in this series, but I still thoroughly enjoyed this book. I definitely want to go back and see what I missed in the beginning of this series, but I don’t think my lack of knowledge took too much away from this book. I loved everything about this book. I don’t think I’ve ever read a WWII thriller, but this one definitely set the bar high. Casey Morales did a great job of recreating that dangerous time and weaving his characters and story into history. From the first page I was drawn in and invested in the story, finding it so hard to put this book down. The sweet MM romance intertwined in the story was the perfect balance to the heavy time this book is set in. I am so glad I found this series and can’t wait to go back and read the books I’ve missed and hope to see more coming from this series!

[Danielle Baxley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been thinking about this review and how I could write it to do this book justice. That doesn’t seem to be possible, it’s just so good and the words to express it don’t seem adequate. You usually have two kinds of series. First, you have the stories that start out just okay but have the potential to be great and do continue getting better. Or you have the first book in a series that was just wonderful but the following ones never really get back on track. Casey’s series isn’t like either of those scenarios. He has the rare gem where the first story and all others in the series are just completely epic.

The writing and plot development throughout this book kept me interested from beginning to end. Will and Thomas are all you could ask for in friends, lovers and agents. If you want a book filled with action, suspense and romance then this is a must read! I can’t get enough of these guys and am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.

I received an arc via booksirens, and this is my honest opinion.

[GB DiGregorio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing Finish!

Most series I’ve read have had a weak book or the author creates some plot development that lessens my interest. When that happens, I’ll often break up the series by reading a totally unrelated book or two before trying to get back into the series or just stop reading it all together.

This series IS NOT one of those series. I was just as riveted to the action and plot in this book as I was in Book 1 & 2. There is no let up in plot or action or the love of Will and Thomas. The only time I feel melancholy about the series are the reminders that they will always have to hide their love from others.

This book delivers the best of both worlds. World 1: an amazing finish to Will and Thomas’s WWII saga. World 2: finding out their story will continue in upcoming books! I’m looking forward to the day their next book comes out.

Until their next book comes out, I’ll be finding out what else this author has to offer.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this series very much. I got a history lesson & a romance novel in one.
Book 1: Will is a student in a prestigious college that is "lending" out their classrooms to the armed services. Thomas is a Navy man. Will decides during this time of need he joins the service & is now in classes with Thomas.
Book 2: They complete their training and go "across the pond" to help fight the war. This was a well written story about war time in 1941. It tells of their ventures of what was needed for them to do during this time in history.
Book 3: Will & Thomas are now in the thick of the war. Thomas is hurt & missing. Will & the rest of his entourage are searching high & low in the midst of the war. This was a well written story about war time in 1941. It tells of their ventures of what was needed for them to do during this time in history. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The adventures of our two men, Thomas and Will, continues. As with the first books in the series, there is adventure, intrigue and of course steam between our MC's. This series keeps getting better and better the deeper we get into their adventures. These are, of course, historical moments we are reading within the pages. The way Casey works his magic to capture our MC's and other characters in the time and happenings, it makes you believe that Will and Thomas are actually living within the war itself. If you have not read the first 2 books, you can still enjoy this book. I would tell you that you are missing out by not reading them. So go back and get the first 2 and read Hallum again. I promise, you will enjoy everything about it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this installment of Shadows and Secrets. This WW2 novel picks up immediately after Falkirk. It includes amnesia, capture, safe houses, spy tactics, and a whole lot more. It is obvious that the author has done his research and I appreciated the attention to little historical details. The pacing was fast with shortish chapters changing POVs.

I would say this novel has a perfect blend of character and plot. Morales really knows how to develop a character and a friendship very quickly.

There is one open-door sex scene (medium heat). If you’re not into reading this, it’s contained in a single chapter and easy to skip. I of course read it. LOL

The ending made me think that this is the last book in the series. I would happily read about Will and Thomas as spies during the Cold War. I will definitely read the next thing Morales publishes.

[Sharon Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from BookSirens in return for an honest review
This is the third book In the ‘Of Shadows and Secrets’ series and it can be read as a standalone. I know this because I have not read books 1 & 2 yet but I was able to follow the story without problems. I will be reading the first two books as quickly as possible.
Hallum is set during WW11 in Nazi occupied Europe. Thomas is injured In Holland and William is determined to find and rescue him once he knows that Thomas is alive. It becomes a game of cat and mouse as Thomas is moved by friends(?) to keep him safe and Will is quickly trained to go in and get him out.
The story is compelling and the writing is excellent. From page 1 I was on the edge of my seat as I waited to see who captured Thomas and if they were friends or foes.
Hallum is definitely worth reading.

[Lover&Hitwoman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh god, Caseyyyyyyy! I loved this sequel and getting more of Tom and Will. Casey does such a fabulous job with his side characters, especially brave and fierce female ones. The Baroness? She’s everything. She is an icon. She is my role model and my deity. I hope we see more of her and the others in future books (please write us two dozen more!) I hate that Will and Tom have to keep their love a secret from the world (although it’s understandable given the time period) but I’m so happy they have supporting and caring people in their lives who love them and help keep their secret safe. The end was so hard thinking Tom was dead but luckily we got word at the last possible second that he was alive! I knew Will and the team would rescue him in the best way possible in Hallum so my devastation went away 💜

[Daniel A. Barber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series, Shadows and Secrets, is one of my favorite. The character development is spot on. Will and Thomas along with the rest of their team have matured in ways that I feel like they are my best friends. The author, Casey Hallum, has kept the historical parts of WWII very accurate. The story just keeps getting better and better. I love the fact that Hallum has covered the sensitive subjects of Gay, Jewish and other oppressed innocent characters that either had their lives irrevocably changed/scarred or ended way before their time. There is humor and a great sense of compassion in this series...I'm just starting the 4th book in the series. (Beehive) I hate it to come to an end..I really connected with these characters. They will all be missed. Keep writing, Casey! You have me hooked!

[Shannon Janssen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title says “A historical mm romance spy thriller” and that is exactly what Casey Morales has delivered. “Hallum” is book three in Of Shadows and Secrets. All three of these books have been magnificent, I would recommend reading “Crimson” and “Falkirk” prior to reading this installment. The story is extremely well written and the suspense is top notch. Casey does a wonderful job with the historical elements of this story, as a reader I very much felt a part of the story. 1941 was a difficult time in history and it is written with authenticity and compassion. The intrigue and suspense with the interwoven romance have the pages practically turning themselves. I am looking forward to what is next from Casey Morales.

[Michael Gornish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Living up to [very high] expectations

Casey Morales finishes the Will and Thomas WWII period trilogy with a richly detailed, fast paced adventure. These two young men were introduced to us as college students during the early '40's. Their Odyssey through war torn Europe and struggle to keep their secret safe and serve the Allied cause includes aspects that are not fully known to most. Mr. Morales has a wonderful writing style. He knows how to get serious in an appropriate way as well as he has, in previous books, made MM romance comedies rollicking and engaging. Both main characters come alive fully as do the others who worked with them. I await their further adventures impatiently. Well done!

[Morris L Floyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is the best of the many, many MM romances I’ve read. Pulled into a relationship that seemed doomed from the beginning, the two men form an unbreakable bond that they maintain through the World War II years while working behind enemy lines to subvert Nazi plans. They are accompanied by a chosen family of fellow spies. Yes there are steamy scenes, but the books are unlike the many MM tales that you read, figuratively speaking, with one hand. The characters are fully realized and the thriller war story could hardly be more full of believable detail about their exploits. The first book, Crimson, takes place on the Harvard University campus and the series’s authenticity is enhanced by citations from actual campus announcements and from the student newspaper.

[Juniper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will and Thomas return here in a narrative that skillfully layers intrigue, historical context, the horrors and challenges of war, and a deeply human connection between characters whose care and love for each other deepens as everything around them is full of danger and turmoil. I won’t give away any plot twists, as those are worth experiencing on their own, but I will say that this is a solid installment in the overarching story of two deeply memorable characters– it’s worth starting with the first book to get to all the rewards this one has to offer, and I’d honestly love to see these characters again.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Thomas F. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Casey Morales has deeply mined records, books, maps and news accounts of World War II. All of this adds background and scenery to his "Of Shadows and Secrets." The one thing that jars us older readers is syntax errors committed when a character utters a word or sentence not in use at the time of the story. An example of this is the endearment term "babe" which didn't fall into general usage until the 1970's. There are also factual errors such as the mention in Book Two of the United Nations which didn't exist in 1943.
All of this may seem like nit picking but for those of us who lived back then (I'm 85) it's like running over a speed bump which halts the narrative.

[Sue Philips · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues with Will not knowing if Thomas is alive or dead. He's in a foreign country, pretending to be someone he's not. He's grieving for a love that means the world. Word comes through that the powers that be have located Thomas, now Will just has to get him back. But that isn't as easy as it would seem. Will the two of them ever get back what they had before they were thrust into the dangers of war?
Casey Morales has gone into a lot of research for this trilogy and he is to be commended on a job well done.

[Kathy Seabrease · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series was phenomenal! As with all books, the current couple are my favorite... but that could never ring more true than Thomas and Will. The bond they had from their "meet cute" til the end of Hallam was unshakable. They risked so much to be together with the backdrop of the war, woven so intricately by Casey.
His writing was so perfect, taking us on unexpected turns all along the way. His detail to history whenever he could made this journey so believable. I am so ready for beehive. I hate that it's so far away, but I know it will be worth it.