“This is why I have to keep my distance.” He pulled away and looked at me with tortured eyes. “No matter how hard I try or how much guilt I feel, I cannot help myself around you. You are an all-consuming fire, pulling all the oxygen and logical thought out of the room. I would let everything burn down for you, and it is not fair to any of us.”
Set in 18th century France, Isabella Dionadoirs has dedicated her life to unraveling the darkest corners of human nature. From facing accusations of witchcraft to confronting men who believe themselves to be monsters, she has seen it all and emerged hardened by the experience. But when she crosses paths with Jacques, a Royal Army Lieutenant turned Scholar, her world is turned upside down.
As a scholar of the unnatural, Jacques is no stranger to the darkness that lurks in the shadows. When a long-dormant evil resurfaces in the parish of Chanaleilles, he knows that he must seek out Isabella's expertise to solve the mystery. Together, they delve into the heart of the darkness, uncovering the parish's darkest secrets.
In a tale of danger, intrigue, and forbidden love, Isabella and Jacques must confront their own demons as they race against time to save the people of Chanaleilles from the insatiable beast that plagues it.
I would have enjoyed this book better if it weren’t for the love triangle aspect (though it was one sided), just not a fan of the drama and miscommunication that happens when that is introduced. However I loved the other themes of the book and the investigation aspect, and the ended was pretty good as well and definitely helped bump up the rating. I would give the second book a shot!