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Veiled Intentions #2
Long Shadow
Niall’s never known anything but betrayal. All Mat wants is Niall’s heart. What will it take for him to coax Niall in from the cold?
Mat's connection with Niall is tenuous; one step forward, two steps back. Since that night on the beach Niall's been avoiding Mat like a bad case of the flu--which, ironically, most of his deputies have come down with. What will it take for Niall to truly believe Mat wants him for who he is?
Mat's overworked, Niall's unnerved, and then things really go sideways.
Will a killer destroy everything before Niall realizes they are stronger together than apart?
Long Shadow is a dual POV about a broody introvert and a somewhat patient Sheriff. Mat’s going to have to prove to Niall he's the man for him. The Veiled Intentions series follows the same couple as they find their way to their happily ever after.
Mat's connection with Niall is tenuous; one step forward, two steps back. Since that night on the beach Niall's been avoiding Mat like a bad case of the flu--which, ironically, most of his deputies have come down with. What will it take for Niall to truly believe Mat wants him for who he is?
Mat's overworked, Niall's unnerved, and then things really go sideways.
Will a killer destroy everything before Niall realizes they are stronger together than apart?
Long Shadow is a dual POV about a broody introvert and a somewhat patient Sheriff. Mat’s going to have to prove to Niall he's the man for him. The Veiled Intentions series follows the same couple as they find their way to their happily ever after.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2020
210 people are currently reading
281 people want to read
About the author
Elle Keaton
50 books548 followersElle Keaton is a writer, avid reader, and amateur cat-wrangler. Her love of romance novels has led her to a life of creating her own happy ever afters. She is the author of the best selling series' Shielded Hearts and Veiled Intentions. Keaton hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
May 29, 2020
I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed this book, not as much as book 1, but still a strong 4 star read for me. I loved the growth in Niall, in both is relationship with Mat, and a personal journey he was on. The way he learned to open his heart and trust, not only with Mat, but others too.
So why not a 5 stars? I struggled with the mystery part of the story, and the big reveal I did not see coming at all. I don’t want to give too much away, but it just fell off to me.
I loved the last chapter and the epilogue. I have a theory of what the epilogue revealed, but I’ll keep that to myself. Now I just have to wait.
So why not a 5 stars? I struggled with the mystery part of the story, and the big reveal I did not see coming at all. I don’t want to give too much away, but it just fell off to me.
I loved the last chapter and the epilogue. I have a theory of what the epilogue revealed, but I’ll keep that to myself. Now I just have to wait.
November 25, 2020
"Reread" November 2020: Audiobook = ***3.5 - 4 Stars***
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Original review April 2020:
❤❤❤❤
Loved it as much as the first book until... the ending happened.
To put it mildly: it felt a bit rushed...
To put it not so mildly: the time jump between the last chapter and the epilogue gave me whiplash...
Looking forward to book #3. 😊
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Original review April 2020:
❤❤❤❤
Loved it as much as the first book until... the ending happened.
To put it mildly: it felt a bit rushed...
To put it not so mildly: the time jump between the last chapter and the epilogue gave me whiplash...
Looking forward to book #3. 😊
June 11, 2020
2.5 stars
I still loved the setting and Fenrir and I was very interested in seeing where Niall’s character arc would go, but whereas I was hoping for some improvement on the issues I had with the writing in the first book, they were only amplified here.
The romance was a lot more tell than show than I would’ve liked, and I don’t mean it in the literal sense, when you don’t see things happening on page, I mean characters telling you what they feel or what they know the other characters feel and very little, if not nothing, found in the writing to support those claims.
I liked Niall’s character arc, but it was also one of the parts that disappointed me the most. The bones are all there and they are good, but the execution lacked depth, things were presented and solved maybe not always easily, but certainly very quickly, despite all the issues Niall has and all the talking about how messed up he is.
I was going to go with 3 full stars until the epilogue. Leaving aside the big issue of what could’ve been an important plotline for the development of Niall’s character being resolved almost as an afterthought, I really don’t appreciate the coloring-by-the-numbers approach this author seems to have to the relationship development.
I still loved the setting and Fenrir and I was very interested in seeing where Niall’s character arc would go, but whereas I was hoping for some improvement on the issues I had with the writing in the first book, they were only amplified here.
The romance was a lot more tell than show than I would’ve liked, and I don’t mean it in the literal sense, when you don’t see things happening on page, I mean characters telling you what they feel or what they know the other characters feel and very little, if not nothing, found in the writing to support those claims.
I liked Niall’s character arc, but it was also one of the parts that disappointed me the most. The bones are all there and they are good, but the execution lacked depth, things were presented and solved maybe not always easily, but certainly very quickly, despite all the issues Niall has and all the talking about how messed up he is.
I was going to go with 3 full stars until the epilogue. Leaving aside the big issue of what could’ve been an important plotline for the development of Niall’s character being resolved almost as an afterthought, I really don’t appreciate the coloring-by-the-numbers approach this author seems to have to the relationship development.
May 15, 2020
3,5 stars
I admit that after book one I probably expected something a bit ‘darker’.
The author made a lot of Niall’s past in the first part of the series (and I loved how broken and vulnerable he was!), so I kind of expected to hear more about this in book 2. This isn’t the case though –it seems most of Niall’s issues are forgotten or pushed under the carpet. At least for the moment.
To say that the relationship between Mat and Niall develops as fast as lightening is probably an understatement. Don’t get me wrong, I really like the MCs, but Niall seems to have gone from totally unapproachable in book 1 to mellow goo in the 31 chapters of Long Shadow.
I wanted more here, more problems, more discussions, and more depth, basically. Maybe that’s something the author is keeping for later books, though?
Considering where the two men are at the end of book 1 (and how long it takes them to even kiss) it’s certainly amazing where we end up at the end of book 2.
The mystery this time offers more drama than substance imo. I found it really very hard to believe who the perpetrator was and why that person was doing all these things.
As for the personal revelations for Niall at the end – wow, that came out of nowhere! Just a bit like the stuff happening in the epilogue!
I was really excited about Hamarsson and Dempsey after book 1, now I’m not so sure anymore. It is an enjoyable read, but no more than that.
I admit that after book one I probably expected something a bit ‘darker’.
The author made a lot of Niall’s past in the first part of the series (and I loved how broken and vulnerable he was!), so I kind of expected to hear more about this in book 2. This isn’t the case though –it seems most of Niall’s issues are forgotten or pushed under the carpet. At least for the moment.
To say that the relationship between Mat and Niall develops as fast as lightening is probably an understatement. Don’t get me wrong, I really like the MCs, but Niall seems to have gone from totally unapproachable in book 1 to mellow goo in the 31 chapters of Long Shadow.
I wanted more here, more problems, more discussions, and more depth, basically. Maybe that’s something the author is keeping for later books, though?
Considering where the two men are at the end of book 1 (and how long it takes them to even kiss) it’s certainly amazing where we end up at the end of book 2.
The mystery this time offers more drama than substance imo. I found it really very hard to believe who the perpetrator was and why that person was doing all these things.
As for the personal revelations for Niall at the end – wow, that came out of nowhere! Just a bit like the stuff happening in the epilogue!
I was really excited about Hamarsson and Dempsey after book 1, now I’m not so sure anymore. It is an enjoyable read, but no more than that.
June 29, 2020
3.5 stars.
June 30, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! We finally get some romance, and our grumpy Niall catches feelings. Looking forward to book 3!
dnf
July 1, 2020DNF 18%
No rating
I was really hoping the issues with the first book had been addressed and resolved. Unfortunately...no. At 18%, I’d had enough of far too much TELL and not nearly enough SHOW. AND I felt like I was headed into Melodrama Land. I was already frustrated. I loved the primary cast of characters in the first book, but I was becoming increasingly frustrated with this book’s execution. This author is definitely not my cuppa.
No rating
I was really hoping the issues with the first book had been addressed and resolved. Unfortunately...no. At 18%, I’d had enough of far too much TELL and not nearly enough SHOW. AND I felt like I was headed into Melodrama Land. I was already frustrated. I loved the primary cast of characters in the first book, but I was becoming increasingly frustrated with this book’s execution. This author is definitely not my cuppa.
April 8, 2024
3.5 stars
I’m giving 3 because of the ending. Very disappointed with the authors telling and not showing very important details.
This was another good mystery that I really enjoyed. The one thing I was disappointed about was that a bunch of things are just told to us at the end of the story. I was very let down that sone very important things were just wrapped up in a few sentences. That’s lazy story writing.
I’m giving 3 because of the ending. Very disappointed with the authors telling and not showing very important details.
This was another good mystery that I really enjoyed. The one thing I was disappointed about was that a bunch of things are just told to us at the end of the story. I was very let down that sone very important things were just wrapped up in a few sentences. That’s lazy story writing.
August 14, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2020/08/14/...
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews and Audible UK for giving me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews and Audible UK for giving me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read
September 5, 2022I liked this one but didn't love it, 3.5 rounded down. The MCs are starting their relationship for real in this one. I quite enjoyed it even though I felt it moved fast and could have been more in depth. Niall is also getting his life in order and this was nice to see but a bit too easy and straightforward for what the character went through (which we don't really learn more about, or Matt for that matter which really is a shame). The investigation or investigations are entertaining but not everything is resolved by the end (it's not a cliffhanger) and not all the threads came together. Which made sense to me. The revelation of the culprit came a bit out of nowhere but I could buy it. Not a bad read. Onto the next.
April 24, 2024
Awwwww I love when marriage proposals get fucked up 😍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2020
This is the 2nd piece of the story of Niall Hamarsson and Matt Dempsey, introduced with "Conspiracy Theory”. Not a standalone and it picks up a few weeks after where I left them.
Niall has decided to stay on the island and build a place on the burned property of his grandparents, and to resigned as a detective and find another job. As for Matt, he is still the sheriff, grieving the death of his brother, who caused great mayhem on the island, with his family and made it clear to Niall that he’s attracted to him and will patiently but steadily win him over.
I was totally in this story from the start and am still : love the characters, main (opposite characters : a nice button for me) or secondary (friends family, trusted colleagues : am all for that), enjoy the settings, love the relationship between Niall and Matt, with this time, Niall finally embracing his sentiments for Matt, enjoy the subplot with arsonists on the loose and Matt having to investigate, especially when he has to stop being the carer but having to be cared by Niall. Yes, the angst left place for the romance.
Granted, a fast ending with still many questions left about Niall’s past and what’s going on on the island. I need confirmation that Niall and Matt are finally fully settled and wouldn’t mind for more hotness in the next part, that I’m eagerly waiting for.
ARC of “Long Shadow” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Niall has decided to stay on the island and build a place on the burned property of his grandparents, and to resigned as a detective and find another job. As for Matt, he is still the sheriff, grieving the death of his brother, who caused great mayhem on the island, with his family and made it clear to Niall that he’s attracted to him and will patiently but steadily win him over.
I was totally in this story from the start and am still : love the characters, main (opposite characters : a nice button for me) or secondary (friends family, trusted colleagues : am all for that), enjoy the settings, love the relationship between Niall and Matt, with this time, Niall finally embracing his sentiments for Matt, enjoy the subplot with arsonists on the loose and Matt having to investigate, especially when he has to stop being the carer but having to be cared by Niall. Yes, the angst left place for the romance.
Granted, a fast ending with still many questions left about Niall’s past and what’s going on on the island. I need confirmation that Niall and Matt are finally fully settled and wouldn’t mind for more hotness in the next part, that I’m eagerly waiting for.
ARC of “Long Shadow” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2020
5 stars audio
3.75 stars story
3.75 stars story
April 25, 2021
Will review soon...
August 16, 2020
Audiobook reviewI few months ago I listened to the first book in this series and absolutely loved it. Since then I’ve been eagerly waiting for Long Shadow to be released so I could spend more time with Mat and Niall. This book is a continuation of the first book so I wouldn’t recommend reading or listening to them out of order. But I do recommend both of them. I listened to this book in one go. Nothing existed for me outside the book for the hours I spent listening to it and I didn't want it to end.
No one can argue that Mat doesn’t have his hands full trying to prevent and solve crimes on the island. In the first book there was the devastating fire that burned Niall’s home to the ground. They thought they caught, in a manner of speaking, the one responsible for it, but someone is still setting fires around the island and Mat is desperately trying to figure out who and why. He’s also trying to figure out some suspect and possible criminal behaviour from a colleague. All of this while juggling his new relationship with Niall.
Niall for his part isn’t idle, he’s dealing with the aftermath of his family home burning down and moving back to his home town. He might have left his detective life behind him when he moved back to the island, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t notice suspicious behaviours around town. Things that he feels obligated to investigate. The majority of this book deals with the mysteries and how they are all connected. I love mysteries, and I love procedurals so this is never a problem for me. And these mysteries were compelling and kept me interested and I kept moving the pieces around to make them fit.
Unlike the first book, we have an actual romance between Mat and Niall this time around. Tentative at first but then things really heat up between them. They both have issues, so the relationship isn’t without some hick-ups, but that’s also why it’s believable, make them believable. They fit together and they are both what the other needed to move forward.
The narration Michael Dean was great, I love listening to his deep voice and he takes you to Piedras Island. The voices he had for Niall and Mat were great and fit their personalities really well. It also makes it easy to follow conversations and keeping track of different characters. I really enjoyed the interactions with Mat’s niece, she was sweet and it was nice to see everyone melt around her.
I’ve had such a great time and I hope this won’t be the last book in the series. I’m just not ready to say goodbye to these guys.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
August 14, 2022
Niall has softened some in this one and I liked him much more because of it. I understood that he was afraid of showing too much of how he felt about Mat but he should have seen enough of Mat and his family to know he could risk it. This is not only an M/M romance, it's also a murder mystery, it has an arson case, and a whole train load of action. Niall is more committed to staying on Piedras except since his grandparent's cabin burned, he now doesn’t have a place to live. The hotel where he has a room is a far cry from the Hilton, but the owners don't care much for his wolf hound. Fenrir, who is without a doubt my favorite character in the entire series. The motel people are crazy to not like him since he is better behaved than most people's children. Of course, since he has fur and four legs, I'm a bit prejudice. In order to not miss too much and see how the relationship between Niall and Mat develops, the books should be read in order. Unfortunately, it seems there are only 3 of them, but I have found that the characters have a tendency to reappear in some of Elle Keaton's other books. Each book solves the current mystery while introducing the next book, so they keep you coming back for more.
May 6, 2020
The second book in the series starts about a week after the events in the first book ended. The pace is steady with medium level steam and angst, some family drama and new characters and plot twists added to the mix.
I like both Mat and Niall. They are exact opposites - Mat is patient, so full of love he wants to share with Niall, unafraid to put his heart of the line while Niall is still closed off, distrustful and guards his heart like the walls of Fort Knox. But as the story continues Mat slowly wears Niall's defenses down. I liked their small and shy overtures when it came to dating, flirting and getting to know each other. I liked that Niall finally decided to let Mat and his family in.
The mystery was good. There were several suspects that made figuring things out interesting. There were several characters introduced that I think will play an important role in some way in the next book. At least I hope so since this book left me with some unanswered questions about them. There was a bit of danger, a lot of brainstorming and strong men acknowledging their feelings. I loved Niall's way of expressing himself. For someone who claimed he was not good with all of this he did pretty well. Mat was an absolute darling and I really cheered for him in the end. I am glad how their relationship turned out and wonder what the author has in store for these men. Good story. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
I like both Mat and Niall. They are exact opposites - Mat is patient, so full of love he wants to share with Niall, unafraid to put his heart of the line while Niall is still closed off, distrustful and guards his heart like the walls of Fort Knox. But as the story continues Mat slowly wears Niall's defenses down. I liked their small and shy overtures when it came to dating, flirting and getting to know each other. I liked that Niall finally decided to let Mat and his family in.
The mystery was good. There were several suspects that made figuring things out interesting. There were several characters introduced that I think will play an important role in some way in the next book. At least I hope so since this book left me with some unanswered questions about them. There was a bit of danger, a lot of brainstorming and strong men acknowledging their feelings. I loved Niall's way of expressing himself. For someone who claimed he was not good with all of this he did pretty well. Mat was an absolute darling and I really cheered for him in the end. I am glad how their relationship turned out and wonder what the author has in store for these men. Good story. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
February 24, 2023
This was good for the most part. I really enjoyed the first book so I was curious to see where their relationship went. I do love how Fenrir is written in the book. He adds a good dynamic and helps to bring people together.
Niall is still working through trust issues. Mat is very patient with him. Neither really talk about their feelings much throughout the book. So when we get to the end, it seemed a little far-fetched. Then you add the stuff with Shay. I wish there would've been more with that storyline. It's like we just skipped over the majority of this and then all of a sudden the last chapter is cramming the storyline in.
I will read the next one to see if we get more and where their story goes.
Niall is still working through trust issues. Mat is very patient with him. Neither really talk about their feelings much throughout the book. So when we get to the end, it seemed a little far-fetched. Then you add the stuff with Shay. I wish there would've been more with that storyline. It's like we just skipped over the majority of this and then all of a sudden the last chapter is cramming the storyline in.
I will read the next one to see if we get more and where their story goes.
July 1, 2024
This one is a "I like it but don't love it". Invested enough to continue with the next in the series cause I want answers.
September 13, 2020
“Long Shadow” is the second book in new to me author Elle Keaton’s ‘Hamarsson & Dempsey’ series and in some ways I found it very different from the first one…mainly in that the story didn’t feel quite as dark as the first one but still it was every bit as interesting.
Here in ‘Long Shadow’ we get the answers to some of the events that transpired in the first story and we get some serious heat between Niall and Mat as these two men do their own romantic dance that neither of them seems to really know the steps to but Mats a patent man and he’s learning when to lead and when to let Naill have a turn…so there’s always hope.
When most of Mat’s deputies come down with the flu leaving Mat seriously overworked especially with the local arsonist turning up the heat then add to this the fact that Mat suddenly finds he’s sharing his childhood home with not just his mother…leaving both Mat and Niall to wonder now they’ll ever make things work.
It’s not until unforeseen events force Niall to examine what Mat really means to him that things truly begin to change and Niall is forced to examine his life choices, most importantly those surrounding his relationship with Mat. Leading him to the realization where Mat’s concerned it isn’t about what he deserves it’s about what he wants.
I was gifted with the first audiobook in this series a while ago and I loved it…start to finish it had me as a fan. So, when the chance to listen to and review the second book in this series present itself to me…well…that was a no brainer.
While the crime part of these stories felt solid and definitely helped to add interest. It was the interactions between Mat and Niall that held my interest and kept me wanting more and what comes next and oh please could we just get them on the same page…well, here in ‘Long Shadow’ we did or mostly they’re on the same page.
For as much as I liked this one between the end and the epilogue felt a bit short changed and I would have really liked a bit more filling in on some of the details that lead to the events of the epilogue. Was it crucial to the story? Probably not and I admit I don’t really feel like I was missing anything so much as greedy me just wanted a bit more of what I got.
We are once again given Michael Dean for the narrator. I enjoyed his efforts in the first book and found this one every bit as enjoyable maybe more so in that it’s always nice to have the consistency of characters maintaining the same voice as I’ve become use to from story to story. So needless to say I’m looking forward to the next book in this series in audio format of course and I’ve got fingers crossed that once again Michale Dean will be providing the voices of these two interesting men.
*************************
An audiobook of “Long Shadow” was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Here in ‘Long Shadow’ we get the answers to some of the events that transpired in the first story and we get some serious heat between Niall and Mat as these two men do their own romantic dance that neither of them seems to really know the steps to but Mats a patent man and he’s learning when to lead and when to let Naill have a turn…so there’s always hope.
When most of Mat’s deputies come down with the flu leaving Mat seriously overworked especially with the local arsonist turning up the heat then add to this the fact that Mat suddenly finds he’s sharing his childhood home with not just his mother…leaving both Mat and Niall to wonder now they’ll ever make things work.
It’s not until unforeseen events force Niall to examine what Mat really means to him that things truly begin to change and Niall is forced to examine his life choices, most importantly those surrounding his relationship with Mat. Leading him to the realization where Mat’s concerned it isn’t about what he deserves it’s about what he wants.
I was gifted with the first audiobook in this series a while ago and I loved it…start to finish it had me as a fan. So, when the chance to listen to and review the second book in this series present itself to me…well…that was a no brainer.
While the crime part of these stories felt solid and definitely helped to add interest. It was the interactions between Mat and Niall that held my interest and kept me wanting more and what comes next and oh please could we just get them on the same page…well, here in ‘Long Shadow’ we did or mostly they’re on the same page.
For as much as I liked this one between the end and the epilogue felt a bit short changed and I would have really liked a bit more filling in on some of the details that lead to the events of the epilogue. Was it crucial to the story? Probably not and I admit I don’t really feel like I was missing anything so much as greedy me just wanted a bit more of what I got.
We are once again given Michael Dean for the narrator. I enjoyed his efforts in the first book and found this one every bit as enjoyable maybe more so in that it’s always nice to have the consistency of characters maintaining the same voice as I’ve become use to from story to story. So needless to say I’m looking forward to the next book in this series in audio format of course and I’ve got fingers crossed that once again Michale Dean will be providing the voices of these two interesting men.
*************************
An audiobook of “Long Shadow” was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2020
I like this series!
There's so many things happening and everyone has a thing to solve. I like this! When you know something is connected to something else only to be something else entirely!
One thing I didn't like in this book. The epilogue.
You have Niall, who's been through a lot and has trouble getting close to people and the most important things happen in the epilogue, in just a few pages. I was like, what? These moments would need more than that. Niall needed time, we did too, to get to know him and see him grow. The epilogue was just too rushed. I needed more.
BUT, despite that, I liked it! I can't wait to read the next one! I have to wait for a whole year for that!! >.<
There's so many things happening and everyone has a thing to solve. I like this! When you know something is connected to something else only to be something else entirely!
One thing I didn't like in this book. The epilogue.
You have Niall, who's been through a lot and has trouble getting close to people and the most important things happen in the epilogue, in just a few pages. I was like, what? These moments would need more than that. Niall needed time, we did too, to get to know him and see him grow. The epilogue was just too rushed. I needed more.
BUT, despite that, I liked it! I can't wait to read the next one! I have to wait for a whole year for that!! >.<
April 21, 2024
Molto più carino del primo libro! Finalmente esploriamo in pieno la relazione tra Niall & Mat e si traducono in concreto tutte le potenzialità già espresse nel primo volume. Mi è piaciuta tanto la storia d’amore tra questi due ❤️
May 7, 2025
It keeps getting better and better!!
Loved the narrator, the mystery, the sloooooowly coming around. Can't wait for the next part!
Loved the narrator, the mystery, the sloooooowly coming around. Can't wait for the next part!
May 7, 2020
Nice slow burn with lots of mystery.
Long Shadow is book two in the Hamarsson and Dempsey series with the main couple continuing throughout the series. Book one had a very satisfying HFN and this one even more so. The author does a great job of giving us information from book one that we need to enjoy this story. So, I kind of think you could read this without having read Conspiracy Theory but then you'd be missing a great book.
There is a lot of mystery and intrigue going on in Long Shadow and it kept me on the edge of my seat in places. A couple of things happened that I didn't see coming which is always nice when reading romantic suspense. Mat and Niall's relationship moves along at a steady pace, with Niall pretty much fighting it at every turn until he finally gives in.
I'm a big fan of slow-burn romance and this is a great one. If you're looking for hot and spicy time being front and center this might not be the book for you. What it is though, is a wonderfully crafted story with interesting characters and enough suspense to keep you engaged until the end.
Some mysteries are solved in this book but there are still underlying issues that aren't resolved. I really wouldn't call this a cliffhanger because we definitely know that Mat and Niall are a couple and I didn't feel like I was left hanging so much that I'll die if I can't read the next one tomorrow.
Don't take that to mean that I didn't love this, or don't want the next one as soon as possible, because I do. But the story was complete enough to leave me very satisfied and not unhappy that I'll have to wait until next year to read it. There's also a nice teaser for the next book, Black Moon, which I enjoyed.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Long Shadow is book two in the Hamarsson and Dempsey series with the main couple continuing throughout the series. Book one had a very satisfying HFN and this one even more so. The author does a great job of giving us information from book one that we need to enjoy this story. So, I kind of think you could read this without having read Conspiracy Theory but then you'd be missing a great book.
There is a lot of mystery and intrigue going on in Long Shadow and it kept me on the edge of my seat in places. A couple of things happened that I didn't see coming which is always nice when reading romantic suspense. Mat and Niall's relationship moves along at a steady pace, with Niall pretty much fighting it at every turn until he finally gives in.
I'm a big fan of slow-burn romance and this is a great one. If you're looking for hot and spicy time being front and center this might not be the book for you. What it is though, is a wonderfully crafted story with interesting characters and enough suspense to keep you engaged until the end.
Some mysteries are solved in this book but there are still underlying issues that aren't resolved. I really wouldn't call this a cliffhanger because we definitely know that Mat and Niall are a couple and I didn't feel like I was left hanging so much that I'll die if I can't read the next one tomorrow.
Don't take that to mean that I didn't love this, or don't want the next one as soon as possible, because I do. But the story was complete enough to leave me very satisfied and not unhappy that I'll have to wait until next year to read it. There's also a nice teaser for the next book, Black Moon, which I enjoyed.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
December 14, 2020
Maybe more like 3.5...
May 7, 2020
Conspiracy Theory was the beginning for Mat Dempsey and Niall Hamarsson and Long Shadow by Elle Keaton lets them pick up where they left off, therefore Hamarsson & Dempsey is not a standalone series. Mat and Niall are still circling each other, with Mat afraid to spook Niall, and Niall too chickenshit and full of self-doubt for any type of a commitment. The extreme intensity continues between the small-town Cop and the Neanderthal ex-cop from Seattle.
For some the dance of a romance will plague the first part of the book but, for others like me, it has an intense will-they-or-won’t-they vibe. I thought I might go mad with the emotional up and down Niall goes through while silently hugging Mat and admiring his sheer determination and steadfast show of restraint as he allows Niall to slay his internal dragons.
The extreme intensity continues between the small-town Cop and the Neanderthal ex-cop from Seattle.
The connection and intense chemistry between Mat and Niall quickly return with an entertaining display of wit, banter, and squabbling. Their dual points of view allow us to witness the truth hidden behind the subtle nuances slung around. Unlike in Conspiracy Theory, Mat and Niall do hit the sheets this time around, but there isn’t a lot of on-page action between them. We are more drawn to their personality and how they interact with each other and those surrounding them.
Mat and Niall make a good pair working the continuing mystery of the fires into Long Shadow. Sharing ideas and theories, they display an easy comradery that removes the building personal tension between them. There aren’t a lot of clues to go on, so it is rather difficult for us as readers to solve the mystery for our subtly pining love birds.
A bit of Mat’s family drama is thrown in this time that makes Niall want to run for the hills at the same time he yearns for the closeness and comfort it offers. The Dempsey clan represent a family that he doesn’t think he deserves, nor does he want to become attached to in order to lose yet again.
The pace of the story leaps into overdrive when Mat is hurt by an unknown aslant. Niall is typically brisk by nature and his “Hulk Smash” emerges along with the crumbling of his last resolve, but is it too late? Did Niall hold onto the past too long instead of taking hold of the future that was right in front of him?
The extreme intensity continues between the small-town Cop and the Neanderthal ex-cop from Seattle.
Long Shadow is an impressive continuation for Mat and Niall, but their story isn’t close to being complete. Their relationship grows, solidifies and matures but it’s still in its infancy. Guess we just have to wait for the release of Black Moon, Hamarsson & Dempsey 3, to find out more about the intriguing duo.
For some the dance of a romance will plague the first part of the book but, for others like me, it has an intense will-they-or-won’t-they vibe. I thought I might go mad with the emotional up and down Niall goes through while silently hugging Mat and admiring his sheer determination and steadfast show of restraint as he allows Niall to slay his internal dragons.
The extreme intensity continues between the small-town Cop and the Neanderthal ex-cop from Seattle.
The connection and intense chemistry between Mat and Niall quickly return with an entertaining display of wit, banter, and squabbling. Their dual points of view allow us to witness the truth hidden behind the subtle nuances slung around. Unlike in Conspiracy Theory, Mat and Niall do hit the sheets this time around, but there isn’t a lot of on-page action between them. We are more drawn to their personality and how they interact with each other and those surrounding them.
Mat and Niall make a good pair working the continuing mystery of the fires into Long Shadow. Sharing ideas and theories, they display an easy comradery that removes the building personal tension between them. There aren’t a lot of clues to go on, so it is rather difficult for us as readers to solve the mystery for our subtly pining love birds.
A bit of Mat’s family drama is thrown in this time that makes Niall want to run for the hills at the same time he yearns for the closeness and comfort it offers. The Dempsey clan represent a family that he doesn’t think he deserves, nor does he want to become attached to in order to lose yet again.
The pace of the story leaps into overdrive when Mat is hurt by an unknown aslant. Niall is typically brisk by nature and his “Hulk Smash” emerges along with the crumbling of his last resolve, but is it too late? Did Niall hold onto the past too long instead of taking hold of the future that was right in front of him?
The extreme intensity continues between the small-town Cop and the Neanderthal ex-cop from Seattle.
Long Shadow is an impressive continuation for Mat and Niall, but their story isn’t close to being complete. Their relationship grows, solidifies and matures but it’s still in its infancy. Guess we just have to wait for the release of Black Moon, Hamarsson & Dempsey 3, to find out more about the intriguing duo.
May 8, 2020
Okay, this one took me a little bit to get into because I needed a refresher on book one and I honestly didn’t feel like I could handle the back and forth. I understand the one step forward, two steps back, especially after you get to know Niall, but it did take me a minute to get into because Matt was so endlessly patient and Niall was just prickly. I had forgotten that from last book so I had to go back and do a reread. Reading them together, I kind of fell in love with both of them.
They’re complete opposites in every way, the only thing they seem to have in common is law enforcement. Matt has a wonderful family and will do anything for his and Niall is very anti-family with none left. While Nial’s trying to work out what to do with his life now that he’s retired and tie up a few loose ends, he can’t keep his mind off of Matt. But seeing if he’s got what it takes to make something work with him is put on hold when an arsonist is busy at work on the island and most of Matt’s precinct is sick with the flu. It keeps him busy and distracted enough to give Nial the space he’s trying to give him as to not push him for anything he may not be able to give. With the history between them, he isn’t sure.
So the romance part takes a sideline to the mystery, but it’s always there, kinda smoldering in the background. While the guys’ are trying to find the source of all the chaos on the island, Niall opens himself up little bit by little bit, unable to keep Matt and his family at a distance because they’re all so open and accepting of him, even in his prickliness. I kinda loved them all.
With a lot of real-life situations, especially when you’re confused like Niall was, the thought of losing what you’re unsure about has a way of making up your mind. Once Niall thought he lost Mike, he realized how much he cared about him and how silly his doubts seemed. And that epilogue… I swooned!
I dunno what could possibly happen in book three but I’m bummed we have to wait until next year to see. I’m invested. I’d definitely recommend reading book one before jumping into this one, but if you like a broody hot cop and a sensitive family-oriented hot cop with some murder and mystery thrown in for good measure… you’ll love this one.
4 stars from me!
They’re complete opposites in every way, the only thing they seem to have in common is law enforcement. Matt has a wonderful family and will do anything for his and Niall is very anti-family with none left. While Nial’s trying to work out what to do with his life now that he’s retired and tie up a few loose ends, he can’t keep his mind off of Matt. But seeing if he’s got what it takes to make something work with him is put on hold when an arsonist is busy at work on the island and most of Matt’s precinct is sick with the flu. It keeps him busy and distracted enough to give Nial the space he’s trying to give him as to not push him for anything he may not be able to give. With the history between them, he isn’t sure.
So the romance part takes a sideline to the mystery, but it’s always there, kinda smoldering in the background. While the guys’ are trying to find the source of all the chaos on the island, Niall opens himself up little bit by little bit, unable to keep Matt and his family at a distance because they’re all so open and accepting of him, even in his prickliness. I kinda loved them all.
With a lot of real-life situations, especially when you’re confused like Niall was, the thought of losing what you’re unsure about has a way of making up your mind. Once Niall thought he lost Mike, he realized how much he cared about him and how silly his doubts seemed. And that epilogue… I swooned!
I dunno what could possibly happen in book three but I’m bummed we have to wait until next year to see. I’m invested. I’d definitely recommend reading book one before jumping into this one, but if you like a broody hot cop and a sensitive family-oriented hot cop with some murder and mystery thrown in for good measure… you’ll love this one.
4 stars from me!
May 5, 2020
4 Stars
Long Shadow is book two in the Harmarsson and Dempsey series and cannot he read as a stand-alone.
This installment picks up not long after the conclusion of book one, Conspiracy Theory, with Niall returning to the island of Piedras, after wrapping up his life in Seattle, to move back for good. As Niall returns, Mat inserts himself further into Niall’s life, romantically. Mat knows he’ll have to be patient, but he isn’t taking no for an answer.
Ms. Keaton manages to easily recapture the chemistry and connection between Niall and Mat that they shared in book one and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop further. I loved their back and forth banter and their bickering, as well as the tender and sweet moments between them. They fit together well and compliment one another. My one complaint about the romance, and it’s a personal preference, is I like sex in books and we waited so long for them to finally get together, and the sex was a bit glossed over. It’s on page, but it’s abbreviated and rushed. Like I said, it’s a personal preference, so take it with a grain of salt.
As for the mystery/suspense portion of the story, we see the fires that are being set across the island escalate further. I loved watching Niall and Mat work together and bounce ideas off one another. The story definitely had a couple of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I won’t say much more because I don’t want to spoil anything, but I know I’ll definitely be waiting (im)patiently for book three. Definitely recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Long Shadow is book two in the Harmarsson and Dempsey series and cannot he read as a stand-alone.
This installment picks up not long after the conclusion of book one, Conspiracy Theory, with Niall returning to the island of Piedras, after wrapping up his life in Seattle, to move back for good. As Niall returns, Mat inserts himself further into Niall’s life, romantically. Mat knows he’ll have to be patient, but he isn’t taking no for an answer.
Ms. Keaton manages to easily recapture the chemistry and connection between Niall and Mat that they shared in book one and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop further. I loved their back and forth banter and their bickering, as well as the tender and sweet moments between them. They fit together well and compliment one another. My one complaint about the romance, and it’s a personal preference, is I like sex in books and we waited so long for them to finally get together, and the sex was a bit glossed over. It’s on page, but it’s abbreviated and rushed. Like I said, it’s a personal preference, so take it with a grain of salt.
As for the mystery/suspense portion of the story, we see the fires that are being set across the island escalate further. I loved watching Niall and Mat work together and bounce ideas off one another. The story definitely had a couple of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I won’t say much more because I don’t want to spoil anything, but I know I’ll definitely be waiting (im)patiently for book three. Definitely recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
May 4, 2020
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Niall has put his Seattle apartment on the market and is planning to stay on Piedras Island and rebuilding on his grandparent's land. Mat is determined to let his gently budding romance with Niall unfold at Niall's pace, but it isn't easy.
Mat is stretched to the limit at work with sick deputies, someone setting fires around the island and suspicion that the guy running the marine rescue might be fiddling the books. Meanwhile, Niall needs to find somewhere new to live, he has received a mysterious package and he is a little obsessed by an RV he keeps seeing around the island.
The story is rolling along nicely and then one incident ratchets up the action and emotion. We are presented with several mysteries during this story and some are resolved but not all. I love they way the mysteries unfold because we learn what is happening as the characters do and it is not obvious at all who did it.
Long Shadow is outstanding. The mix of mystery, action and romance is just what I want and it was wonderful to be back with Niall and Mat - it made me happy. This is my ideal m/m romance. Beautiful understated romance between two strong imperfect men, combined with mystery and action in a small town setting. I feel like the story was written just for me and I love it.
Niall has put his Seattle apartment on the market and is planning to stay on Piedras Island and rebuilding on his grandparent's land. Mat is determined to let his gently budding romance with Niall unfold at Niall's pace, but it isn't easy.
Mat is stretched to the limit at work with sick deputies, someone setting fires around the island and suspicion that the guy running the marine rescue might be fiddling the books. Meanwhile, Niall needs to find somewhere new to live, he has received a mysterious package and he is a little obsessed by an RV he keeps seeing around the island.
The story is rolling along nicely and then one incident ratchets up the action and emotion. We are presented with several mysteries during this story and some are resolved but not all. I love they way the mysteries unfold because we learn what is happening as the characters do and it is not obvious at all who did it.
Long Shadow is outstanding. The mix of mystery, action and romance is just what I want and it was wonderful to be back with Niall and Mat - it made me happy. This is my ideal m/m romance. Beautiful understated romance between two strong imperfect men, combined with mystery and action in a small town setting. I feel like the story was written just for me and I love it.
October 18, 2021
The ending felt a bit rushed but this aside I greatly enjoyed reading this book. The mystery was interesting throughout the story and there's quite some development of Niall and Mat's relationship.
On to book 3! :)
On to book 3! :)
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