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Shadows #1
Black Rose
Will the bayou with its mysteries protect them or pull them down into its depths?
Proprietress of the Rose Noire salon and New Orleans native Mia LeMay has secluded herself in the French Quarter—a place safe for those with secrets—for as long as she can remember. But when Mia is witness to a murder, fear and desire morph into one when agent Rick Ryder barges into her cloistered world.
With Mia as his guide they enter the glades of Louisiana looking for a killer, but find more mystery and specters in the swampland. The darkness is a lure to Mia and Rick as they discover attraction in the shadows that are a welcome cover for a killer. Together, as they start to fall in love, nothing is what it seems—least of all the ghosts of their pasts.
Proprietress of the Rose Noire salon and New Orleans native Mia LeMay has secluded herself in the French Quarter—a place safe for those with secrets—for as long as she can remember. But when Mia is witness to a murder, fear and desire morph into one when agent Rick Ryder barges into her cloistered world.
With Mia as his guide they enter the glades of Louisiana looking for a killer, but find more mystery and specters in the swampland. The darkness is a lure to Mia and Rick as they discover attraction in the shadows that are a welcome cover for a killer. Together, as they start to fall in love, nothing is what it seems—least of all the ghosts of their pasts.
- GenresRomance
145 pages, ebook
First published January 6, 2014
5 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Jenna Ryan
95 books128 followersJenna Ryan was born in Victoria, British Columbia. After long stints in different cities across Canada, she returned home to Vancouver Island where she has lived ever since. She has had thirty-one books published in the Harlequin Intrigue series. Her ideas come from real life, and she is helped in her writing by her sister Kathy.
She enjoys reading and is a big fan of women's fiction, psychological suspense and mystery novels. She also enjoys watching classic suspense movies. She loves strong heroines, heroes with character, romance stories and a good whodunit by the fire on a rainy night.
Her heritage is a blend of English and Irish — which is probably where the gift of blarney comes from. She is unmarried, but involved with a wonderful man. She also has a little white cat named Sheena.
Whenever she is not writing, she travels as much as time and finances will allow. After North America, Europe is her favorite continent to explore, because it was in those countries that many of the myths and legends she drew upon in her early years of writing were born.
Growing up, she considered various careers and dabbled in several of them, including, after university, the travel industry, tourism, sales and modeling. Work in the fashion industry in Toronto and Montreal gave her an interesting peek into various aspects of that world. She learned that where money, power and people come together, there will always be unpredictability — an element she feels is essential to a strong mystery. Add a healthy measure of personal conflict, an intriguing setting and a spicy romance into the mix, and you have the ingredients for what she believes to be the best of all possible stories — a great romantic suspense.
She enjoys reading and is a big fan of women's fiction, psychological suspense and mystery novels. She also enjoys watching classic suspense movies. She loves strong heroines, heroes with character, romance stories and a good whodunit by the fire on a rainy night.
Her heritage is a blend of English and Irish — which is probably where the gift of blarney comes from. She is unmarried, but involved with a wonderful man. She also has a little white cat named Sheena.
Whenever she is not writing, she travels as much as time and finances will allow. After North America, Europe is her favorite continent to explore, because it was in those countries that many of the myths and legends she drew upon in her early years of writing were born.
Growing up, she considered various careers and dabbled in several of them, including, after university, the travel industry, tourism, sales and modeling. Work in the fashion industry in Toronto and Montreal gave her an interesting peek into various aspects of that world. She learned that where money, power and people come together, there will always be unpredictability — an element she feels is essential to a strong mystery. Add a healthy measure of personal conflict, an intriguing setting and a spicy romance into the mix, and you have the ingredients for what she believes to be the best of all possible stories — a great romantic suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
April 9, 2014
A really great read full of hot humid settings and spooky characters. Mia is witness to a murder and needs to be under protection. Ryder turns up to take her deep into the Louisiana Bayou, but danger follows and Ryder has his own reasons for taking on the case.
With the murderer in pursuit of the couple they drive deep in to the bayou in an attempt to escape. There is voodoo, and tea leaf readings mixed with tradition, legend and a good dose of hot passion. I loved the swamp witch and Mad Mama's antiques, and of course the mysterious doll sent a good shiver down my back.
Really, really liked this book, well done.
With the murderer in pursuit of the couple they drive deep in to the bayou in an attempt to escape. There is voodoo, and tea leaf readings mixed with tradition, legend and a good dose of hot passion. I loved the swamp witch and Mad Mama's antiques, and of course the mysterious doll sent a good shiver down my back.
Really, really liked this book, well done.
December 9, 2015
Mia LeMay’s cloistered world shatters when she witness a murder and she’s forced to put her life in the hands of a man she’s never met in this thrilling paranormal romance.
Even as guilt twists like a knife in his gut, Agent Rick Ryder whisks Mia away and the reader can’t help but be drawn into the story as Rick and Mia try to stay one step ahead of an evil that is determined to make sure that Mia never sees the light of another day. The chemistry between Mia and Rick sizzles from every page but even as they fight for their lives they try to deny that growing passion with lots of heated encounters and snarky dialogue to spice things up. The characters are strong, compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning while the fast paced, smooth flowing plot thrills readers with lots of suspense, excitement and romance.
Pulse-pounding tension builds throughout the story with every attack bringing the killer closer to achieving his goal and expectation builds as it becomes obvious that Rick has a hidden agenda that could play right into the killer’s hands. The well written scenes and details capture the imagination, bringing the story to life while the intriguing events keep the readers glued to the pages.
I was completely engrossed in this story from the very beginning as the story is full of intrigue and unexpected twist with a touch of a gothic feel to it that just adds to the settings and the overall intensity of the dangers that the Mia and Rick face and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
Even as guilt twists like a knife in his gut, Agent Rick Ryder whisks Mia away and the reader can’t help but be drawn into the story as Rick and Mia try to stay one step ahead of an evil that is determined to make sure that Mia never sees the light of another day. The chemistry between Mia and Rick sizzles from every page but even as they fight for their lives they try to deny that growing passion with lots of heated encounters and snarky dialogue to spice things up. The characters are strong, compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning while the fast paced, smooth flowing plot thrills readers with lots of suspense, excitement and romance.
Pulse-pounding tension builds throughout the story with every attack bringing the killer closer to achieving his goal and expectation builds as it becomes obvious that Rick has a hidden agenda that could play right into the killer’s hands. The well written scenes and details capture the imagination, bringing the story to life while the intriguing events keep the readers glued to the pages.
I was completely engrossed in this story from the very beginning as the story is full of intrigue and unexpected twist with a touch of a gothic feel to it that just adds to the settings and the overall intensity of the dangers that the Mia and Rick face and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
August 28, 2016
"He knew she said something, but he couldn't hear her over the thunder. Or the jackhammer beat of his heart. The room went dark in stages, until all that remained were her mist-green eyes."
5 Creole stars!!! Hooked!
Wow, this book was so much better than I ever dreamed it could be!!! I don't normally read books like this but I was hooked the second I started reading it! I really felt like I was sitting on the edge of my seat as I read it. I was taken by the story, the characters and the detailed descriptions of everything as I read. You really start to feel like you are in Louisiana with Rick and Mia! Seriously, what a great book!!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
5 Creole stars!!! Hooked!
Wow, this book was so much better than I ever dreamed it could be!!! I don't normally read books like this but I was hooked the second I started reading it! I really felt like I was sitting on the edge of my seat as I read it. I was taken by the story, the characters and the detailed descriptions of everything as I read. You really start to feel like you are in Louisiana with Rick and Mia! Seriously, what a great book!!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
August 9, 2016
Was given this book with the promise of a honest review
Voodoo, ghosts and heroes, the Bayou New Orleans and one can only imagine where else this adventure took Mia. Lieutenant Ryder finagles his way to protect Mia, fighting an attraction both of them have to elude a killer in the swaps and hope to come out alive.
A wonderful story full of twist that really kept me engaged for hours and unable to put the book down. Jenna Ryan took me on a journey to places I would never venture. Look forward to reading more of her books.
Voodoo, ghosts and heroes, the Bayou New Orleans and one can only imagine where else this adventure took Mia. Lieutenant Ryder finagles his way to protect Mia, fighting an attraction both of them have to elude a killer in the swaps and hope to come out alive.
A wonderful story full of twist that really kept me engaged for hours and unable to put the book down. Jenna Ryan took me on a journey to places I would never venture. Look forward to reading more of her books.
April 30, 2015
The book was really good. The author sure knows how to make an eerie atmosphere.
November 28, 2015
Mia LeMay witnesses a murder outside of her club in New Orleans and the police are quick to converge on her place. This is the sixth murder to take place with the same calling card left at each scene. Mia is the first person to see the murderer and now everyone is concerned about her safety from the murder because he is very vicious and brutal in his murders. To keep her safe, they send in an extraordinary agent, Rogue, to protect her. Unbeknownst to her, Ryder, another agent, takes Rogue’s place and leads Mia deep into the bayou to try and keep her safe. While in there, many secrets come to light, many battles take place, and mysterious things happen. Will they get out alive? Will the murderer catch up to them? Or will their budding love be destroyed by secrets before it has a chance to bloom?
This review is of the e-book revised version coming out October 15, 2015. It was a very good book, with non-stop action, interesting characters, and steamy romance. The pacing was good and the resolution was satisfying. However, I was a little confused at a couple of points. I don’t want to give away too much, but I couldn’t understand how the killer always seemed to catch up to them with how he did (cryptic, I know, but I don’t want to add spoilers). He didn’t seem the type to be so prepared. Also, why was there a traitor and how was he connected to the killer? I was a little disappointed how the story just missed being eerie; it could have been so much more scary. So, don’t be taken in by the voodoo angle. There is a little, but it is mainly dismissed by everyone. Don’t take these “negative” things too seriously. It is a book that is well worth a read, and I would read the next one in the series, because it really is worth it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Samhain for the free book in exchange for an honest review.
This review is of the e-book revised version coming out October 15, 2015. It was a very good book, with non-stop action, interesting characters, and steamy romance. The pacing was good and the resolution was satisfying. However, I was a little confused at a couple of points. I don’t want to give away too much, but I couldn’t understand how the killer always seemed to catch up to them with how he did (cryptic, I know, but I don’t want to add spoilers). He didn’t seem the type to be so prepared. Also, why was there a traitor and how was he connected to the killer? I was a little disappointed how the story just missed being eerie; it could have been so much more scary. So, don’t be taken in by the voodoo angle. There is a little, but it is mainly dismissed by everyone. Don’t take these “negative” things too seriously. It is a book that is well worth a read, and I would read the next one in the series, because it really is worth it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Samhain for the free book in exchange for an honest review.
December 29, 2016
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Black Rose the first book in the Shadows series was a thrilling 4 star read.
Mia witnesses a murder and see’s the face of the killer. She has put herself in danger and is being put in protective custody. Detective Rick Ryder takes Mia and they go on the road. They travel into the swamplands where Mia grew up and Rick has some friends as well.
Were you born a pessimist, or does your line of work merely strip away all optimism?
As Rick and Mia spend time together they are becoming more attracted to each other. Their bickering at times was humorous, I had some LOL moments. The killer is right behind them every step of the way. What will happen when Mia learns Rick’s secret? Can Rick keep Mia safe from the killer?
We meet some very interesting secondary characters in Black Rose. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was next. Some secrets are revealed that helped me understand things better. I have to say that some things creeped me out, especially Billy the doll. Jenna Ryan does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. The ending is great and leads us into the next book in the series, Blood Orchid.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
Black Rose the first book in the Shadows series was a thrilling 4 star read.
Mia witnesses a murder and see’s the face of the killer. She has put herself in danger and is being put in protective custody. Detective Rick Ryder takes Mia and they go on the road. They travel into the swamplands where Mia grew up and Rick has some friends as well.
Were you born a pessimist, or does your line of work merely strip away all optimism?
As Rick and Mia spend time together they are becoming more attracted to each other. Their bickering at times was humorous, I had some LOL moments. The killer is right behind them every step of the way. What will happen when Mia learns Rick’s secret? Can Rick keep Mia safe from the killer?
We meet some very interesting secondary characters in Black Rose. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was next. Some secrets are revealed that helped me understand things better. I have to say that some things creeped me out, especially Billy the doll. Jenna Ryan does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. The ending is great and leads us into the next book in the series, Blood Orchid.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
October 11, 2015
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from Black Rose. As the description states, this is a previously published book and honestly, those can be hit or miss. I obviously didn’t pick it up the first time around, but when it was offered for review, it caught my attention. I love books with a touch of black magic and the Louisiana Bayou is the perfect setting. I’m happy to say, Black Rose did not disappoint.
Tension was the main theme of Black Rose. Magical tension, tension that was a product of the danger they were in, tension caused by Mia’s lack of trust where Ryder was concerned and of course, sexual tension. Mia and Ryder did their best to fight it, but of course giving into their feelings was a matter of fate. It was a nice diversion to the very real danger that they were both in and the mysterious magic that surrounded them, both good and evil.
I liked the little twists and getting to know who Ryder really was. Even though it seems as if Mia and Ryder’s story comes to an end, I’m hoping we see at least a little more of them as the series continues. Blood Orchid features a new couple in the Shadows series and is due to release in December 2015.
I received Black Rose in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Tension was the main theme of Black Rose. Magical tension, tension that was a product of the danger they were in, tension caused by Mia’s lack of trust where Ryder was concerned and of course, sexual tension. Mia and Ryder did their best to fight it, but of course giving into their feelings was a matter of fate. It was a nice diversion to the very real danger that they were both in and the mysterious magic that surrounded them, both good and evil.
I liked the little twists and getting to know who Ryder really was. Even though it seems as if Mia and Ryder’s story comes to an end, I’m hoping we see at least a little more of them as the series continues. Blood Orchid features a new couple in the Shadows series and is due to release in December 2015.
I received Black Rose in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 25, 2015
Murder, voodoo, and the bayou all factor into this story. Mia witnesses a murder being committed and needs to be put under protective custody. Enter Ryder – the man shows up and whisks her away for her safety. Or does he? He isn’t who he seems and Mia has no idea who to trust, who to be afraid of, and why she hears voices in her head telling her about her death that the man is a snake.
While I found this story interesting, I also found the changing POV from Mia to the killer to be confusing. I realize that I read an advanced copy, but there wasn’t a clear cut way to tell when the POV changed. The pace of the story is fast, but it still didn’t hold my attention long enough for me to want to continue on with reading it to the end. I did finish it, but did it reluctantly. With that said, the suspense and thriller part was very well done and kept me on the edge of my seat at that part. Overall, there are good parts of this book if you can get past the confusion.
*Copy was provided for review.
While I found this story interesting, I also found the changing POV from Mia to the killer to be confusing. I realize that I read an advanced copy, but there wasn’t a clear cut way to tell when the POV changed. The pace of the story is fast, but it still didn’t hold my attention long enough for me to want to continue on with reading it to the end. I did finish it, but did it reluctantly. With that said, the suspense and thriller part was very well done and kept me on the edge of my seat at that part. Overall, there are good parts of this book if you can get past the confusion.
*Copy was provided for review.
September 7, 2015
I received this ARC from Samhain Publishing and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
"The Louisiana bayou was her home. Nothing of New Orleans lived there. The city was a viper, a red-lipped lady of the night."
Mia LeMay is a born and bred bayou girl who had traded in the swamps for a tea room and club in the city. Her exciting but predictable life ends when she witnesses a brutal murder from her balcony. The killer wants her dead and the intriguing Ryder is tasked with protecting her. Between the things that literally go bump in the night, talk of voodoo and her questionable protector, Mia is in for it.
This was a quick, fun read. A bit of mystery, a dash of romance and of course a slightly spooky back-drop. I was able to sit down long enough to finish the last 60% on a work night which is saying something since I wrangle first graders all day.
Three Stars
Publication Date: October 13,2015
*This is a re-release with a new publisher*
"The Louisiana bayou was her home. Nothing of New Orleans lived there. The city was a viper, a red-lipped lady of the night."
Mia LeMay is a born and bred bayou girl who had traded in the swamps for a tea room and club in the city. Her exciting but predictable life ends when she witnesses a brutal murder from her balcony. The killer wants her dead and the intriguing Ryder is tasked with protecting her. Between the things that literally go bump in the night, talk of voodoo and her questionable protector, Mia is in for it.
This was a quick, fun read. A bit of mystery, a dash of romance and of course a slightly spooky back-drop. I was able to sit down long enough to finish the last 60% on a work night which is saying something since I wrangle first graders all day.
Three Stars
Publication Date: October 13,2015
*This is a re-release with a new publisher*
May 13, 2014
What an amazing ride. I love a good book set in the Bayou New Orleans with voodoo, dolls, and all that black magic thrown in. Mia saw the eyes of a murderer after he kills. Ryder steps in to look after her with his own agenda to go running into the bayou to elude a killer or so she thinks. Loved this book and that is all I am saying, with twist and turns and spooky stuff leaves one wondering and this is the first of six books.(I think) Well there is a few coming. Hold onto your seats and watch out for the swamp monsters and I'm not talking the two legged type though there a few of those as well. A must read in my books.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews