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Temptation in Shadows
Originally released as part of THE BODYGUARD anthology, fall under the spell of Gena Showalter's paranormal romantic suspense novella "Temptation in Shadows." Every day he puts his life on the line, what will happen when it's his heart in jeopardy?
Tall, lean, muscular—and definitely rough around the edges—Sean Walker is not your typical nightclub bodyguard. He’s a controller of shadows, able to wield darkness at will. But when a mysterious woman at the club turns out to have powers greater than his own, he has no choice but seduction…
Now exclusive as a standalone e-title, read the sexy story that captivate readers from New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter.
Tall, lean, muscular—and definitely rough around the edges—Sean Walker is not your typical nightclub bodyguard. He’s a controller of shadows, able to wield darkness at will. But when a mysterious woman at the club turns out to have powers greater than his own, he has no choice but seduction…
Now exclusive as a standalone e-title, read the sexy story that captivate readers from New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter.
83 pages, ebook
First published June 17, 2014
41 people are currently reading
1586 people want to read
About the author
Gena Showalter
262 books27.9k followersGena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of over seventy books, including the acclaimed Lords of the Underworld series, the Gods of War series, the White Rabbit Chronicles, and the Forest of Good and Evil series. She writes sizzling paranormal romance, heartwarming contemporary romance, and unputdownable young adult novels, and lives in Oklahoma City with her family and menagerie of dogs and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
June 6, 2016
3.5 - "You know those women who don't like to swallow a man? I'm not one of them." Stars!
Having read some of Gena's Lords of the Underworld books, I knew that I was likely to be given a sexy alpha male, and a kick-ass heroine when I picked up Temptation in the Shadows, and she didn't let me down.
Gabrielle Huit & Sean Walker, both have a little something special going on compared to normal humans, and as such are both extremely desirable commodities in certain circles.
He was hot, callused... a temptation she couldn't afford.
She was a job, not a possible date.
Gabby is a waitress & Sean a bouncer at Eye Candy Nightclub. The attraction is mutual, but the reasons to ignore it many. What Gabby doesn't know is that Sean and her boss Rowan Patrick are also agents for the Rose Briar Agency, and they have been looking for her...
There were secrets in his eyes... a darkness that should have frightened her.
I really enjoyed this novella, it offers a great little story, a shot of hot sexiness and a group of characters that definitely have potential for development. I hope that the Rose Briar Agency and it's not-quite-100%-human-agents get a series at some point in the future.
He wanted to take the darkness of her past and give her light for the future.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley in exchange for the above honest review.
Having read some of Gena's Lords of the Underworld books, I knew that I was likely to be given a sexy alpha male, and a kick-ass heroine when I picked up Temptation in the Shadows, and she didn't let me down.
Gabrielle Huit & Sean Walker, both have a little something special going on compared to normal humans, and as such are both extremely desirable commodities in certain circles.
He was hot, callused... a temptation she couldn't afford.
She was a job, not a possible date.
Gabby is a waitress & Sean a bouncer at Eye Candy Nightclub. The attraction is mutual, but the reasons to ignore it many. What Gabby doesn't know is that Sean and her boss Rowan Patrick are also agents for the Rose Briar Agency, and they have been looking for her...
There were secrets in his eyes... a darkness that should have frightened her.
I really enjoyed this novella, it offers a great little story, a shot of hot sexiness and a group of characters that definitely have potential for development. I hope that the Rose Briar Agency and it's not-quite-100%-human-agents get a series at some point in the future.
He wanted to take the darkness of her past and give her light for the future.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley in exchange for the above honest review.
July 5, 2014
*3.5 stars*
It is SO hard to make a novella feel complete and Gena Showalter nailed it with this one.
Confession: I've never read anything by this author before. I know she has an insanely popular series (Lords of The Underworld, beginning with The Darkest Night) but I've sort of bypassed her books. Until now. I'm going to get me some of her stuff because if she was this good with a novella, I think she would kill it with a full length book.
The characters in this book aren't your typical paranormal cast. They all have x-men type of powers; no vampire-ish stuff here! I loved the atypical abilities of these characters. It was so refreshing, such a nice change of pace. I think there could be a whole world here for the author to play in, should she choose to write more and create a series.
My one major gripe is that it bordered on insta-love for me. It is hard to get a slow burn romance in just 85 pages or so, but I didn't like the jump to love and forever talk. I'm a snob for a romance that takes its sweet time.
However, this was a very pleasant surprise and a very well done little book.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
It is SO hard to make a novella feel complete and Gena Showalter nailed it with this one.
Confession: I've never read anything by this author before. I know she has an insanely popular series (Lords of The Underworld, beginning with The Darkest Night) but I've sort of bypassed her books. Until now. I'm going to get me some of her stuff because if she was this good with a novella, I think she would kill it with a full length book.
The characters in this book aren't your typical paranormal cast. They all have x-men type of powers; no vampire-ish stuff here! I loved the atypical abilities of these characters. It was so refreshing, such a nice change of pace. I think there could be a whole world here for the author to play in, should she choose to write more and create a series.
My one major gripe is that it bordered on insta-love for me. It is hard to get a slow burn romance in just 85 pages or so, but I didn't like the jump to love and forever talk. I'm a snob for a romance that takes its sweet time.
However, this was a very pleasant surprise and a very well done little book.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
November 24, 2025
Temptation in Shadows was a totally unexpected standalone gem from Gena Showalter.
Sean has the ability to wield shadows. Gabby was surgically altered to interface with computers. Together they uncover plots and conspiracies that threaten both humans and the their kind. A unique respect for each other's abilities keeps the couple's interactions interesting, but the accelerating romantic tension between Gabby and Sean creates a bond of protectiveness between the couple that is extremely steamy.
Temptation in Shadows is a novella-length story that packs a punch. A great adventure, suspense-filled mystery, lots of action, and a strong sensual vibe grab your attention from start to finish. It is rare that an author balances the storytelling with the novella length, giving us a tale that feels complete, but Temptation in Shadows completely pulls it off. Although I would love to have more stories about the other members of the Rose Briar group and the missing implanted children/now adults. This is a tremendous, fast-paced paranormal short read.
I received this ARC copy of Temptation in Shadows from St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication on June 17, 2014.
Sean has the ability to wield shadows. Gabby was surgically altered to interface with computers. Together they uncover plots and conspiracies that threaten both humans and the their kind. A unique respect for each other's abilities keeps the couple's interactions interesting, but the accelerating romantic tension between Gabby and Sean creates a bond of protectiveness between the couple that is extremely steamy.
Temptation in Shadows is a novella-length story that packs a punch. A great adventure, suspense-filled mystery, lots of action, and a strong sensual vibe grab your attention from start to finish. It is rare that an author balances the storytelling with the novella length, giving us a tale that feels complete, but Temptation in Shadows completely pulls it off. Although I would love to have more stories about the other members of the Rose Briar group and the missing implanted children/now adults. This is a tremendous, fast-paced paranormal short read.
I received this ARC copy of Temptation in Shadows from St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication on June 17, 2014.
June 17, 2014
While this has previously been published as part of Gena's The Bodyguard anthology, it's being released by itself and is a very quick … tempting (hah) read. Sean Walker is a nightclub bodyguard who is also a controller of shadows and can harness the darkness. All it takes, though, is one woman (doesn't it always?) and Sean will never be the same. I can't say much about this novella's plot without giving it away, but I loved Gabby. She can interface with computers and has abilities out of this world. While I loved Gena's world building, the ending felt rushed (as is usual with most novellas) and I kinda want more! :-)
Head over to the HEA blog to see what Gena has to say about her hero, heroine and TiS!
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
Head over to the HEA blog to see what Gena has to say about her hero, heroine and TiS!
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
May 22, 2014
Didn’t seem like 83 pages. It was surprising how quickly I fell into story. The reader is thrust into the thick of it with these two. Sean Walker was supposed to be back up. Not the leading man in this op. But after he encounters the smart and feisty Gabby he won’t let anyone charm their way to her. She is his.
Both Sean and Gabby have talent that go beyond normal human capabilities. Sean was born with his. Gabby had hers violently thrust upon her. On the run and not knowing who to trust we follow along with these guys to find answers. It is a fun sexy ride filled with lots of action and suspense.
4 Stars
T~
www.ktbookreviews.com
*Given via Netgalley/St. Martins Press
Both Sean and Gabby have talent that go beyond normal human capabilities. Sean was born with his. Gabby had hers violently thrust upon her. On the run and not knowing who to trust we follow along with these guys to find answers. It is a fun sexy ride filled with lots of action and suspense.
4 Stars
T~
www.ktbookreviews.com
*Given via Netgalley/St. Martins Press
July 31, 2014
Okay...but just okay...I didn't get attached like I would have wanted.
April 18, 2018
Temptation in Shadows è un racconto breve che merita assolutamente di essere letto.
Gena Showalter riesce con la sua scrittura a far entrare subito nel vivo della storia, cosa fondamentale in una novella così corta.
La trama è interessante, ricca di azione, mistero e il protagonista maschile Sean è molto, molto sexy, con il suo modo di fare alquanto dominante e brutalmente diretto, ma è anche protettivo e leale, insomma il mio prototipo di eroe.
Il genere mette insieme sia il paranormal romance che quello che potrebbe essere considerato sci-fi, sotto alcuni aspetti.
Sean lavora sotto copertura per un’agenzia non governativa molto speciale, come lo sono tutti i suoi componenti. Infatti gli agenti che ne fanno parte hanno dei poteri particolari, e li utilizzano nelle loro missioni per proteggere altre persone come loro, o per tenerli sotto controllo ed eventualmente intervenire se si dovessero rivelare delle potenziali minacce per la sicurezza di tutti.
Gabby, l’eroina del racconto, è il suo nuovo incarico. La ragazza ha vissuto un’infanzia terribile durante la quale, ciliegina sulla torta, è stata rapita per essere usata come cavia da uno scienziato per fare esperimenti su di lei e altri soggetti.
Dopo essere riuscita a sfuggire al laboratorio, Gabby vive in fuga perenne da tutto e tutti, senza fidarsi di nessuno, perché a causa delle sue nuove abilità, è un bersaglio vivente per chi volesse usarla o sperimentare nuovamente su di lei.
Bella storia, ben scritta, sia per quanto riguarda il mistero legato a Gabby e Sean e ai loro poteri, che per chi sta tentando di dare la caccia alla ragazza; ma soprattutto molto molto intensa e palpabile l’attrazione che nasce Sean e Gabby. Gena Showalter è veramente una maestra nello scrivere questo genere di scene hot, hot, hot nei suoi libri.
Volendo il racconto conterrebbe il potenziale per far nascere una serie, prendendo come protagonisti i vari componenti dell’agenzia, ma credo invece che rimarrà solo una piccola chicca per gli amanti di questa scrittrice.
Gena Showalter riesce con la sua scrittura a far entrare subito nel vivo della storia, cosa fondamentale in una novella così corta.
La trama è interessante, ricca di azione, mistero e il protagonista maschile Sean è molto, molto sexy, con il suo modo di fare alquanto dominante e brutalmente diretto, ma è anche protettivo e leale, insomma il mio prototipo di eroe.
Il genere mette insieme sia il paranormal romance che quello che potrebbe essere considerato sci-fi, sotto alcuni aspetti.
Sean lavora sotto copertura per un’agenzia non governativa molto speciale, come lo sono tutti i suoi componenti. Infatti gli agenti che ne fanno parte hanno dei poteri particolari, e li utilizzano nelle loro missioni per proteggere altre persone come loro, o per tenerli sotto controllo ed eventualmente intervenire se si dovessero rivelare delle potenziali minacce per la sicurezza di tutti.
Gabby, l’eroina del racconto, è il suo nuovo incarico. La ragazza ha vissuto un’infanzia terribile durante la quale, ciliegina sulla torta, è stata rapita per essere usata come cavia da uno scienziato per fare esperimenti su di lei e altri soggetti.
Dopo essere riuscita a sfuggire al laboratorio, Gabby vive in fuga perenne da tutto e tutti, senza fidarsi di nessuno, perché a causa delle sue nuove abilità, è un bersaglio vivente per chi volesse usarla o sperimentare nuovamente su di lei.
Bella storia, ben scritta, sia per quanto riguarda il mistero legato a Gabby e Sean e ai loro poteri, che per chi sta tentando di dare la caccia alla ragazza; ma soprattutto molto molto intensa e palpabile l’attrazione che nasce Sean e Gabby. Gena Showalter è veramente una maestra nello scrivere questo genere di scene hot, hot, hot nei suoi libri.
Volendo il racconto conterrebbe il potenziale per far nascere una serie, prendendo come protagonisti i vari componenti dell’agenzia, ma credo invece che rimarrà solo una piccola chicca per gli amanti di questa scrittrice.
October 10, 2018
As usual, I couldn't put it down!
This book was a quick read and keeps you wanting more! I love that this time the man was spilling the beans and the woman was holding back, it was a good change of scenery!
This book was a quick read and keeps you wanting more! I love that this time the man was spilling the beans and the woman was holding back, it was a good change of scenery!
September 20, 2021
Short but gripping
Buckle up, because this novella is as gripping as they come, on top of being red hot and steamy. A quick, but suspenseful read from start to finish.
Buckle up, because this novella is as gripping as they come, on top of being red hot and steamy. A quick, but suspenseful read from start to finish.
June 26, 2014
My Rating: D, Not A Big Fan
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by NetGalley
*NOTE: Unfortunately when I saw the cover of this book, I made the assumption that it was a Lords of the Underworld novella. It is NOT. While it is paranormal romance in nature, it is completely unrelated to the LotU world.
Briar Rose is an independent agency with ties to government. It is full of agents with supernatural abilities. They are safe and accepted there.
Gabrielle Huit… is a loner. Kidnapped when living on the streets as a child, she was experimented on, and a crazy scientist turned her brain into a computer. Then, she was mysteriously let go. Gabrielle has tried to live a normal yet reclusive life, moving from place to place to keep any one from discovering who she is.
Sean Walker is an undercover agent for Briar Rose, working at the nightclub that employs Gabby. He needs to gain her trust and bring her in because all of the previous subjects of the mad doctor have died when they become extremely agitated.
Unfortunately, Temptation in Shadows was not the novella I was hoping for, especially since I mistakenly thought it was from the LotU series. However, even with that piece aside, it was not a very strong or enjoyable story. Sean Walker and his fellow agent, Rowan, do not seem to have enough practical intelligence to be “covert agents,” especially when their plan to earn Gabby’s trust is by kidnapping her and then saving her. I think I literally banged my head on my desk. Sean continues to make poor decisions throughout the novella (and what agent doesn’t care about leaving fingerprints behind?!), making it very hard to enjoy the story.
Gabby is not much better. I do find the science-fiction part of the story interesting. The concept that her brain was manipulated to create a computer and that the scientist just let her go, created a fascinating potential storyline; however it didn’t evolve much beyond that. Understandably, Gabby doesn’t trust anyone, especially since she has access into their computers and can see what they don’t want anyone else to know. Yet, she seems to have no problem going along with Sean and giving him her complete confidence.
Overall Temptation in Shadows is mediocre at best. The couple goes from nada to full on “I love you’s” in way too short of a time. Although their sex scene is hot, I never felt any emotional attachment to the pair. The overall story is weak and full of flaws that secret agents just wouldn’t make. I like the concept of what was done to heroine, but it wasn’t enough to save the entire story.
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by NetGalley
*NOTE: Unfortunately when I saw the cover of this book, I made the assumption that it was a Lords of the Underworld novella. It is NOT. While it is paranormal romance in nature, it is completely unrelated to the LotU world.
Briar Rose is an independent agency with ties to government. It is full of agents with supernatural abilities. They are safe and accepted there.
Gabrielle Huit… is a loner. Kidnapped when living on the streets as a child, she was experimented on, and a crazy scientist turned her brain into a computer. Then, she was mysteriously let go. Gabrielle has tried to live a normal yet reclusive life, moving from place to place to keep any one from discovering who she is.
Sean Walker is an undercover agent for Briar Rose, working at the nightclub that employs Gabby. He needs to gain her trust and bring her in because all of the previous subjects of the mad doctor have died when they become extremely agitated.
Unfortunately, Temptation in Shadows was not the novella I was hoping for, especially since I mistakenly thought it was from the LotU series. However, even with that piece aside, it was not a very strong or enjoyable story. Sean Walker and his fellow agent, Rowan, do not seem to have enough practical intelligence to be “covert agents,” especially when their plan to earn Gabby’s trust is by kidnapping her and then saving her. I think I literally banged my head on my desk. Sean continues to make poor decisions throughout the novella (and what agent doesn’t care about leaving fingerprints behind?!), making it very hard to enjoy the story.
Gabby is not much better. I do find the science-fiction part of the story interesting. The concept that her brain was manipulated to create a computer and that the scientist just let her go, created a fascinating potential storyline; however it didn’t evolve much beyond that. Understandably, Gabby doesn’t trust anyone, especially since she has access into their computers and can see what they don’t want anyone else to know. Yet, she seems to have no problem going along with Sean and giving him her complete confidence.
Overall Temptation in Shadows is mediocre at best. The couple goes from nada to full on “I love you’s” in way too short of a time. Although their sex scene is hot, I never felt any emotional attachment to the pair. The overall story is weak and full of flaws that secret agents just wouldn’t make. I like the concept of what was done to heroine, but it wasn’t enough to save the entire story.
June 4, 2014
Originally reviewed for Tea and Book
I really enjoy Gena Showalter's Lords of the Underworld Series so of course when I have a chance to read and review another of her books I am going to take it. Tempation in Shadows is not a Lord of the Underworld Book. It has a darker feel to it, more about dealing with the darkness than emerged humor like the LotU series. That is what makes it good. It shows a depth to Ms. Showalter's writing that I found intriguing.
Tempation is a novella and was originally published as part of the The Bodyguard Anthology.. so if you are looking for a tempting tease. A slip into the darkness so to speak, check it out.
How to hide, live on the run and still have a normal life? That is the question that Gabrielle Huit has had to live with for years. With the death of her parents she was sent to live with her aunt and "loving" uncle, too loving. Realizing there was no hope she ran. Once on the street she was kidnapped and some freaky mad scientist played with her brain. Now she can read what's on a computer, download everything on it without ever even touching it. Access untold information.. if she chose to she could be rich beyond her wildest means. But Gabby is an honest woman. So instead of living a life of crime she hides in the shadows. Trying to be decent and well, normal.
Sean Walker can speak to the shadows. He can call to them and wrap them around him. He can access them to help him hide and use them to be anywhere without being seen. As an agent of Rose Briar he has been assigned to figure out Gabby. As part of the team to bring her in. Only he is supposed to be the muscle not the leading man. But one look at the deceptively ordinary looking woman and Sean was lost.
Of course love is never that easy. A kidnapping, a murder and a fast escape leads Sean and Gabby further into danger and leaves them wondering just who they can trust, if they can trust anyone.
A great fast read! I completely enjoyed it.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Temtation in Shadows, provided by NetGalley and scheduled for release on June 17, 2014
I really enjoy Gena Showalter's Lords of the Underworld Series so of course when I have a chance to read and review another of her books I am going to take it. Tempation in Shadows is not a Lord of the Underworld Book. It has a darker feel to it, more about dealing with the darkness than emerged humor like the LotU series. That is what makes it good. It shows a depth to Ms. Showalter's writing that I found intriguing.
Tempation is a novella and was originally published as part of the The Bodyguard Anthology.. so if you are looking for a tempting tease. A slip into the darkness so to speak, check it out.
How to hide, live on the run and still have a normal life? That is the question that Gabrielle Huit has had to live with for years. With the death of her parents she was sent to live with her aunt and "loving" uncle, too loving. Realizing there was no hope she ran. Once on the street she was kidnapped and some freaky mad scientist played with her brain. Now she can read what's on a computer, download everything on it without ever even touching it. Access untold information.. if she chose to she could be rich beyond her wildest means. But Gabby is an honest woman. So instead of living a life of crime she hides in the shadows. Trying to be decent and well, normal.
Sean Walker can speak to the shadows. He can call to them and wrap them around him. He can access them to help him hide and use them to be anywhere without being seen. As an agent of Rose Briar he has been assigned to figure out Gabby. As part of the team to bring her in. Only he is supposed to be the muscle not the leading man. But one look at the deceptively ordinary looking woman and Sean was lost.
Of course love is never that easy. A kidnapping, a murder and a fast escape leads Sean and Gabby further into danger and leaves them wondering just who they can trust, if they can trust anyone.
A great fast read! I completely enjoyed it.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Temtation in Shadows, provided by NetGalley and scheduled for release on June 17, 2014
June 18, 2014
Sean Walker’s mission has turned from surveillance to seduction when his sexy little target proves to be more than just another assignment. Gabby can do things with computers the best hackers can only dream about and it’s made her a target. Now she must trust Sean, a stranger that brings out her secrets and makes her toes curl, or suffer the disastrous fate of others like her.
Sean and Gabby are interesting but not spectacular in any way. Sean can control shadows and works for a secret organization that wants to either hire Gabby for the way she can hack into any computer with her mind or destroy her so she doesn’t do something evil. Gabby has been on the run since she was kidnapped and experimented on as a child, when she got her special ability. Throw is some trust and commitment issues and that’s about all there is to both of them. Their physical relationship is hot but I wasn’t convinced it was true love when the moment came to reveal their feelings. They kept me engaged in the story yet I can’t say there’s anything that left a lasting impression.
Decent enough sums up what I thought of this novella. There’s a bit of action and suspense and a pretty good twist when the baddie and motives are revealed but like the characters, this story won’t stick with me a few books down the road and out of all the Gena Showalter stories I’ve read, this is my least favorite.
- Stephanie
Sean and Gabby are interesting but not spectacular in any way. Sean can control shadows and works for a secret organization that wants to either hire Gabby for the way she can hack into any computer with her mind or destroy her so she doesn’t do something evil. Gabby has been on the run since she was kidnapped and experimented on as a child, when she got her special ability. Throw is some trust and commitment issues and that’s about all there is to both of them. Their physical relationship is hot but I wasn’t convinced it was true love when the moment came to reveal their feelings. They kept me engaged in the story yet I can’t say there’s anything that left a lasting impression.
Decent enough sums up what I thought of this novella. There’s a bit of action and suspense and a pretty good twist when the baddie and motives are revealed but like the characters, this story won’t stick with me a few books down the road and out of all the Gena Showalter stories I’ve read, this is my least favorite.
- Stephanie
June 19, 2014
Sean Walker can control shadows. He is a member of Rose Briar, a group comprised of people with extraordinary abilities. His next assignment is to convince, Gabrielle Huit, a technopath, to join the organization. First, he’ll have to get her to trust him and prevent others from harming her.
I enjoyed Sean’s character. He is a dark and mysterious hero who refuses to get to close to others fearing his shadows will drive them insane.
Gabby has had a rough life and trust no one. She is amazing for everything she has been through.
The two are actually very similar and complement each other well. I love their dialog and banter.
Temptation in Shadows is a really great story. The technopath aspect is refreshing and new; the concept original and intriguing. The story moved quickly, and it was easy to read in one day.
As always, Gena Showalter is an excellent writer. Her stories are believable and exciting. If you enjoy paranormal romance with a thriller aspect, you should enjoy this book.
Complimentary copy provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed Sean’s character. He is a dark and mysterious hero who refuses to get to close to others fearing his shadows will drive them insane.
Gabby has had a rough life and trust no one. She is amazing for everything she has been through.
The two are actually very similar and complement each other well. I love their dialog and banter.
Temptation in Shadows is a really great story. The technopath aspect is refreshing and new; the concept original and intriguing. The story moved quickly, and it was easy to read in one day.
As always, Gena Showalter is an excellent writer. Her stories are believable and exciting. If you enjoy paranormal romance with a thriller aspect, you should enjoy this book.
Complimentary copy provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2014
This was a different kind of PNR from Gena Showalter. This one was about a scientific experiment on a group of children, turning their brains into human computers able to download and read anthing on anyone's computer that are nearby.
A group of people are trying to get one of the grown people into their custody by getting her to fall for one of them. They plan a kidnapping, but things go wrong.
I was kind of surprised at the turn of events. Who the villain was... and the change in their aim.
It was a good story and very light as far as comparison to her demon series. It was an "on the run & on the move constantly" book. I find these all very similar. Since it was Gena Showalter though I gave it more credit & I think I found it better because it was her vs someone else.
This was also considered a novella, but i would say it was more of a shorter read than normal, instead of a novella. 200 pages vs 300??? Not sure, because mine was an ebook.
One last note is that this was listed as a stand alone, but I think it would make a great series.
A group of people are trying to get one of the grown people into their custody by getting her to fall for one of them. They plan a kidnapping, but things go wrong.
I was kind of surprised at the turn of events. Who the villain was... and the change in their aim.
It was a good story and very light as far as comparison to her demon series. It was an "on the run & on the move constantly" book. I find these all very similar. Since it was Gena Showalter though I gave it more credit & I think I found it better because it was her vs someone else.
This was also considered a novella, but i would say it was more of a shorter read than normal, instead of a novella. 200 pages vs 300??? Not sure, because mine was an ebook.
One last note is that this was listed as a stand alone, but I think it would make a great series.
May 27, 2014
Didn't rock my world. The hero staged the heroine's abduction just to get her to trust him. They then turned fugitives together and things heated up between them. An OK read.
3 STARS for the sizzling sexual tensions in the beginning.
3 STARS for the sizzling sexual tensions in the beginning.
March 17, 2015
meh. standard showalter. could have done more with it.
A similar story was told by lynn viehl in master of shadows, also a novella. Told much better I have to admit.
A similar story was told by lynn viehl in master of shadows, also a novella. Told much better I have to admit.
January 16, 2018
Book Review- Temptation in Shadows by Gena Showalter
Gabby works in a night club and keeps to herself. She has a secret and is afraid of being captured by the wrong people. She can access any information from any computer with her brain. This is thanks to a crazy scientist who took her from the streets. The scientist let her go but warned her that she could be caught and used for her new ability.
The nightclub gains a new owner. One that seems to be having an interest in Gabby as he constantly asks her out which she tells him no each time. Her interest is in Sean. He was the new bodyguard that came with the new owner. He has also noticed her but it isn’t he assignment to get close to her. However that changes when her attention is more focused on him.
Someone knows her secret and is coming after her. They know when she is. Sean is trying to keep her safe and earn her trust. When his secret comes out that becomes harder to do but her life depends on it at least so he thinks.
I love this author and wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this story. It is completely different from what I usually read from her. I was not disappointed however. The paranormal aspect I love was throughout the story. The action was constant as was the intrigue. All characters have secrets that affected the storyline. They each have paranormal abilities which add to them but also cause them danger.
The author keeps you guessing at who the villains are and what the motive is there is definitely the obvious one but there may be more going on than you think. The author makes you question who the characters can trust.
It’s a great novella and a fast read. I liked the characters and the situations they found themselves. I give it a 4 out of 5.
Gabby works in a night club and keeps to herself. She has a secret and is afraid of being captured by the wrong people. She can access any information from any computer with her brain. This is thanks to a crazy scientist who took her from the streets. The scientist let her go but warned her that she could be caught and used for her new ability.
The nightclub gains a new owner. One that seems to be having an interest in Gabby as he constantly asks her out which she tells him no each time. Her interest is in Sean. He was the new bodyguard that came with the new owner. He has also noticed her but it isn’t he assignment to get close to her. However that changes when her attention is more focused on him.
Someone knows her secret and is coming after her. They know when she is. Sean is trying to keep her safe and earn her trust. When his secret comes out that becomes harder to do but her life depends on it at least so he thinks.
I love this author and wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this story. It is completely different from what I usually read from her. I was not disappointed however. The paranormal aspect I love was throughout the story. The action was constant as was the intrigue. All characters have secrets that affected the storyline. They each have paranormal abilities which add to them but also cause them danger.
The author keeps you guessing at who the villains are and what the motive is there is definitely the obvious one but there may be more going on than you think. The author makes you question who the characters can trust.
It’s a great novella and a fast read. I liked the characters and the situations they found themselves. I give it a 4 out of 5.
June 20, 2018
This was a great short novella. I realize that it was originally written as part of an anthology so maybe someday I will read the whole thing but for now this one was awesome. I wasn't sure what to expect with it being just one story in an anthology but Gena Showalter never disappoints. You are taken a quick ride that includes kidnapping, murder, and drug lords. All while a sexy supernatural keeps safe the heroine who just wants to be normal. If you need something to fill the time (especially before a new release) this is the novella to pick up.
September 20, 2019
Temptation in Shadows is an interesting concept. It's well paced and the characters are great.
Sean and Gabby are not looking for a permanent relationship, but when lightening strikes, it hits its mark.
The mystery kept me guessing and the revelation of the villain's identity came as a real surprise. It's a short, but engrossing read. Is it the beginning of a new series. It sure has the potential and I for one would like to see more.
Sean and Gabby are not looking for a permanent relationship, but when lightening strikes, it hits its mark.
The mystery kept me guessing and the revelation of the villain's identity came as a real surprise. It's a short, but engrossing read. Is it the beginning of a new series. It sure has the potential and I for one would like to see more.
December 30, 2019
I liked the premise of the story and I liked the main characters. It kind of reminded me a bit of her Tales of an Extordinary Girl books. It was a fast paced novella and the plot twist was quite a surprise. The novella did have a feel to it that made it seem like there were more books that linked to it, but it was still easy to follow. A story about Rowan would be amazing though; I did like his character a lot. Overall it was a quick and pleasant read.
June 2, 2017
Gabrielle Huit has a secret ability and two different organizations want her for it. Sean is a body guard at the club she works in. Sean works for one of the organizations and is instructed to bring Gabby in. He has abilities of his own but is afraid to reveal them to Gabby but that is the only way to protect her. Can he keep his dark shadows from driving her insane? I totally loved this book and the chemistry between Gabby and Sean.
May 28, 2018
Secrets, shadows and computers
A paranormal story with spies, men out to kill, a crazy scientist and some really cool powers. Lots of action and mystery. Who can she trust? Who knows her secrets? And why can’t she stop thinking about the handsome brute? And don’t forget the romance and some hot scenes.
A paranormal story with spies, men out to kill, a crazy scientist and some really cool powers. Lots of action and mystery. Who can she trust? Who knows her secrets? And why can’t she stop thinking about the handsome brute? And don’t forget the romance and some hot scenes.
August 9, 2018
This seemed a little short on story.
I realize it's a novella but this story missed the mark for me. It needed just a bit more story an character depth. That is what I have come to love about Gena Showalter, this one teased me but left me wanting more from the story.
I realize it's a novella but this story missed the mark for me. It needed just a bit more story an character depth. That is what I have come to love about Gena Showalter, this one teased me but left me wanting more from the story.
October 13, 2020
Enjoyable
Short and sweet. Very enjoyable and fast way to get my Showalter fix. Wish we could see these characters in another adventure.
Short and sweet. Very enjoyable and fast way to get my Showalter fix. Wish we could see these characters in another adventure.
January 5, 2021
VERY into this
November 27, 2022
Once again I have found a good book in this story. I found it hard to put it down until the end.
June 19, 2014
La recensione in lingua italiana di Temptation in Shadows la potete trovare pubblicata su Romanticamente Fantasy Sito, a questo link:
http://www.romanticamentefantasy.it/i...
Originally released as part of THE BODYGUARD anthology, fall under the spell of Gena Showalter's paranormal romantic suspense novella "Temptation in Shadows." Every day he puts his life on the line, what will happen when it's his heart in jeopardy?
Tall, lean, muscular—and definitely rough around the edges—Sean Walker is not your typical nightclub bodyguard. He’s a controller of shadows, able to wield darkness at will. But when a mysterious woman at the club turns out to have powers greater than his own, he has no choice but seduction…
Now exclusive as a standalone e-title, read the sexy story that captivate readers from New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter.
Temptation in Shadows is a short story that absolutely deserves to be read.
Gena Showalter manages with her writing to enter immediately into the heart of the story, an excellent thing for a novel so short.
The plot is interesting, full of action, mystery and the male protagonist Sean is very very sexy, with his way of doing quite dominant and brutally direct, but he is also protective and loyal, so my kind of hero.
The genre puts together both the paranormal romance, and what might be considered Sci-Fi, in some ways.
Sean works undercover for a very special non-governmental agency, as are all of its components. In fact, the agents, who are part of it, have their special powers and use them in their mission to protect other people like them or to keep them in check and, if necessary, intervene if they were revealing a potential threat to the security of all.
Gabby, the heroine of the story, is Sean's new mission. The girl lived a terrible childhood during which, cherry on the cake, has been kidnapped to be used as a Guinea pig by a scientist to do experiments on her and other subjects.
After she managed to escape from the lab, Gabby lives as avfugitive from everything and everyone, she trusts no one, because due to her new abilities, she is a living target for those wishing to use her or make new experiments back on her.
Great story, well written, as regards both the mystery linked to Gabby and Sean and their powers, and for those who are trying to hunt down the girl; but above all it's very very intense and palpable the attraction between Sean and Gabby, and Gena Showalter is truly a master in writing this kind of hot, hot, hot scenes in her books.
This novel would contain the potential to create a series, taking as protagonists the various components of the Agency, but I think instead that it will remain just a small treat for lovers of this writer.
Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the kind preview.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars
TITLE: Temptation in Shadows
AUTHOR: Gena Showalter
PUBLISHER: St. Martin's Press
http://www.romanticamentefantasy.it/i...
Originally released as part of THE BODYGUARD anthology, fall under the spell of Gena Showalter's paranormal romantic suspense novella "Temptation in Shadows." Every day he puts his life on the line, what will happen when it's his heart in jeopardy?
Tall, lean, muscular—and definitely rough around the edges—Sean Walker is not your typical nightclub bodyguard. He’s a controller of shadows, able to wield darkness at will. But when a mysterious woman at the club turns out to have powers greater than his own, he has no choice but seduction…
Now exclusive as a standalone e-title, read the sexy story that captivate readers from New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter.
Temptation in Shadows is a short story that absolutely deserves to be read.
Gena Showalter manages with her writing to enter immediately into the heart of the story, an excellent thing for a novel so short.
The plot is interesting, full of action, mystery and the male protagonist Sean is very very sexy, with his way of doing quite dominant and brutally direct, but he is also protective and loyal, so my kind of hero.
The genre puts together both the paranormal romance, and what might be considered Sci-Fi, in some ways.
Sean works undercover for a very special non-governmental agency, as are all of its components. In fact, the agents, who are part of it, have their special powers and use them in their mission to protect other people like them or to keep them in check and, if necessary, intervene if they were revealing a potential threat to the security of all.
Gabby, the heroine of the story, is Sean's new mission. The girl lived a terrible childhood during which, cherry on the cake, has been kidnapped to be used as a Guinea pig by a scientist to do experiments on her and other subjects.
After she managed to escape from the lab, Gabby lives as avfugitive from everything and everyone, she trusts no one, because due to her new abilities, she is a living target for those wishing to use her or make new experiments back on her.
Great story, well written, as regards both the mystery linked to Gabby and Sean and their powers, and for those who are trying to hunt down the girl; but above all it's very very intense and palpable the attraction between Sean and Gabby, and Gena Showalter is truly a master in writing this kind of hot, hot, hot scenes in her books.
This novel would contain the potential to create a series, taking as protagonists the various components of the Agency, but I think instead that it will remain just a small treat for lovers of this writer.
Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the kind preview.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars
TITLE: Temptation in Shadows
AUTHOR: Gena Showalter
PUBLISHER: St. Martin's Press
June 2, 2014
Overall Rating: 4 Rockin’ ★★★★
In a world of paranormal, Gena Showalter does it again with her newest anthology, Temptation in Shadows. This story embodies Gena's flare on the supernatural world.
Sean Walker, a superhuman with the ability to draw on the shadows and become almost invisible. He has always been the person to do whatever he needed in order to help other supernaturals, as well as humans in need. Working for Rose Briar, a classified independent firm who provided safety for those with extraordinary abilities; Sean is the "go to" agent and always gets his target. However, when the target becomes more personal, he will risk everything to save this woman...Gabby.
Gabrielle Huit is a young woman who has been on the run for most of her life because of what a psycho doctor did to her. She was turned into a technopath. When her path crosses with one extremely hot body guard, she questions everything she's every thought. Instant attraction, Gabby longs to stop running and grasp hold to the one man that makes her body sing...Sean.
I loved this book in every way! I was kept on the edge and felt so much a part of the story. I literally love how Gena portrays all her characters in such a compromising way that you feel like you know them or can relate in one way or the other. The characters in this story made me hurt for them as well as rally for their success. Of coarse the romance that she intertwined into the story, fueled my longing for this couple to triumph. So if you want to read a story that will take you to the edge, send you spiraling out of control, only to bring you back to a place of peace, hope and love, this is the book to read! Awesome job as always, Gena! Grēta
Hero - Sean Walker 4.0 stars
Heroine - Gabrielle Huit 4.0 stars
Steam Level: 4.0 stars
Plot: 4.0 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Would I recommend this book: Yes! Once again, Gena Showalter brings to life the supernatural and real life. This book will lift you up and keep you there for a while. I could so see this book being made into a series. Hint, hint!!
Would I read other books by this author: Yes! Gena Showalter is one of my favorite paranormal romance author's of all time. I love the way she creates her characters, even the most hated. She has a way that makes her characters come to life and seem so real that even a guy who can bend the shadows seems so normal and everyday.
***Received an ARC of this book from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review***
Temptation in Shadows
Gena Showalter
In a world of paranormal, Gena Showalter does it again with her newest anthology, Temptation in Shadows. This story embodies Gena's flare on the supernatural world.
Sean Walker, a superhuman with the ability to draw on the shadows and become almost invisible. He has always been the person to do whatever he needed in order to help other supernaturals, as well as humans in need. Working for Rose Briar, a classified independent firm who provided safety for those with extraordinary abilities; Sean is the "go to" agent and always gets his target. However, when the target becomes more personal, he will risk everything to save this woman...Gabby.
Gabrielle Huit is a young woman who has been on the run for most of her life because of what a psycho doctor did to her. She was turned into a technopath. When her path crosses with one extremely hot body guard, she questions everything she's every thought. Instant attraction, Gabby longs to stop running and grasp hold to the one man that makes her body sing...Sean.
I loved this book in every way! I was kept on the edge and felt so much a part of the story. I literally love how Gena portrays all her characters in such a compromising way that you feel like you know them or can relate in one way or the other. The characters in this story made me hurt for them as well as rally for their success. Of coarse the romance that she intertwined into the story, fueled my longing for this couple to triumph. So if you want to read a story that will take you to the edge, send you spiraling out of control, only to bring you back to a place of peace, hope and love, this is the book to read! Awesome job as always, Gena! Grēta
Hero - Sean Walker 4.0 stars
Heroine - Gabrielle Huit 4.0 stars
Steam Level: 4.0 stars
Plot: 4.0 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Would I recommend this book: Yes! Once again, Gena Showalter brings to life the supernatural and real life. This book will lift you up and keep you there for a while. I could so see this book being made into a series. Hint, hint!!
Would I read other books by this author: Yes! Gena Showalter is one of my favorite paranormal romance author's of all time. I love the way she creates her characters, even the most hated. She has a way that makes her characters come to life and seem so real that even a guy who can bend the shadows seems so normal and everyday.
***Received an ARC of this book from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review***
Temptation in Shadows
Gena Showalter
March 13, 2016
I acknowledge that the blurb doesn't say so much about the story and I would even say that it doesn't describe what it's in the novel. Still it's a Gena Showalter's book, as always it keeps its promises and we doesn't complain about it! This time the auteure manages to mix romantic suspense with paranormal and that gives a good performance full with rhythm, which holds us in breath to the last pages.
Gabrielle Huit, Gabby for her friends, is a secretive young woman, who cuts herself from the others and never sticks to anyone. She had a difficult life between her parents's death, to grow in the street and to be modified by an insane scientist. Because yeah, Gabby is not normal, she is an electropsychique. Approximately, she has a computer in the brain and she can reach all the machines having a printed circuit to withdraw informations from them. Because of all that crap, her life is on danger, a fugitive and she can trust nobody, until she meets Sean and fall for his beautiful blue eyes.
Sean is a supernatural being, he controls the shades, a power inherited and inculcated by his father. Tattooed on his temples, that prevented from being absorbed by the shadows. He works for an organization nonofficial including people out of commun and who searches the people like Gabby. Under his rough looks, being without feelings, he immediately lust and love the young woman, not being able to restrain himself when he's next to her. But like her, he does not bind to anybody, or almost anybody. He hardly trust. His mission was to recruit Gabby, then to seduce her, but quickly the things become quite personal.
It's short, it's simple, that goes right to the end and it's all that we ask. There is an intrigue which holds the road and which starts with a large flashback, which explains us how arrived everything to our adored protagonists. Nobody is really what he says or looks, there are layers and layers of secrecies, unvoiced comments and all that will create problems. It's not that bad, all these bounces gives action and make it possible to the couple to approach. The erotic scenes are always as well written, putting well ahead the powerful attraction that feels the characters.
This novel is really nice, although I acknowledge that I remain a little on my hunger, I would like to have the opportunity of re-examinate this couple and the supporting characters like Bentley or Rowan, which have a lot of potential. Suspense, love, action, improbabilities, all is joined together to pass a good reading, especially with these characters who don't fear anything. I recommend this story warmly!
Gabrielle Huit, Gabby for her friends, is a secretive young woman, who cuts herself from the others and never sticks to anyone. She had a difficult life between her parents's death, to grow in the street and to be modified by an insane scientist. Because yeah, Gabby is not normal, she is an electropsychique. Approximately, she has a computer in the brain and she can reach all the machines having a printed circuit to withdraw informations from them. Because of all that crap, her life is on danger, a fugitive and she can trust nobody, until she meets Sean and fall for his beautiful blue eyes.
Sean is a supernatural being, he controls the shades, a power inherited and inculcated by his father. Tattooed on his temples, that prevented from being absorbed by the shadows. He works for an organization nonofficial including people out of commun and who searches the people like Gabby. Under his rough looks, being without feelings, he immediately lust and love the young woman, not being able to restrain himself when he's next to her. But like her, he does not bind to anybody, or almost anybody. He hardly trust. His mission was to recruit Gabby, then to seduce her, but quickly the things become quite personal.
It's short, it's simple, that goes right to the end and it's all that we ask. There is an intrigue which holds the road and which starts with a large flashback, which explains us how arrived everything to our adored protagonists. Nobody is really what he says or looks, there are layers and layers of secrecies, unvoiced comments and all that will create problems. It's not that bad, all these bounces gives action and make it possible to the couple to approach. The erotic scenes are always as well written, putting well ahead the powerful attraction that feels the characters.
This novel is really nice, although I acknowledge that I remain a little on my hunger, I would like to have the opportunity of re-examinate this couple and the supporting characters like Bentley or Rowan, which have a lot of potential. Suspense, love, action, improbabilities, all is joined together to pass a good reading, especially with these characters who don't fear anything. I recommend this story warmly!
August 7, 2014
I can’t say that I enjoyed this novella as much as I like Gena Showalter’s full length novels. It does have some good things going for it. The world-building is intriguing and it has promise, though it’s shallow and needs more backstory. There’s some pretty good action; the characters have good chemistry and the sex is satisfying. But the story lacks depth and there is absolutely zero emotional resonance or believability in the relationship development.
This is a dual POV story told by both Sean and Gabrielle. Both are gifted with special abilities, but as the story begins, Gabby has no idea that Sean is anything more than a sexy bouncer at the bar where she works. She has been hiding her true self for years, but Sean not only knows her background, his job is to learn all of her secrets. You see, Sean works for a secret organization for folks with powers, and they want to recruit Gabrielle. So he and his partner go undercover to cozy up to her.
It doesn’t take long for the secrets to come out, but the deception is only one of the issues in their path. More importantly, there are killers on their trail. Someone seems to be trying to kidnap or eliminate Gabby. And protecting her quickly becomes more than a job. The story follows their time on the run, all while trying to figure out who is after them, and dealing with the blazing sexual attraction between them.
Like I said, the sex part is a win. Showalter knows how to write sexy times and she doesn’t hold back here. Unfortunately, these two are in love in no time flat and are talking about a permanent future after knowing each other only a couple of weeks. Why?? These are two people with a lifetime of trust issues. Yeah, they connect sexually, but there is absolutely nothing to sustain their grand proclamations of love. They simply aren’t together long enough.
Beyond that, neither character is sufficiently developed. There is no nuance. Gabby is an abused but tough chick who was mistreated in her childhood and now refuses to be a victim again. Sean is a man of shadows. He is physically strong but fears his dark gifts will infect anyone he gets close to, so he never gets close to anyone. Now you know as much about them as if you had read the entire story.
It’s not bad, but it’s not a romance you can sink your teeth into either.
Rating: C+
This is a dual POV story told by both Sean and Gabrielle. Both are gifted with special abilities, but as the story begins, Gabby has no idea that Sean is anything more than a sexy bouncer at the bar where she works. She has been hiding her true self for years, but Sean not only knows her background, his job is to learn all of her secrets. You see, Sean works for a secret organization for folks with powers, and they want to recruit Gabrielle. So he and his partner go undercover to cozy up to her.
It doesn’t take long for the secrets to come out, but the deception is only one of the issues in their path. More importantly, there are killers on their trail. Someone seems to be trying to kidnap or eliminate Gabby. And protecting her quickly becomes more than a job. The story follows their time on the run, all while trying to figure out who is after them, and dealing with the blazing sexual attraction between them.
Like I said, the sex part is a win. Showalter knows how to write sexy times and she doesn’t hold back here. Unfortunately, these two are in love in no time flat and are talking about a permanent future after knowing each other only a couple of weeks. Why?? These are two people with a lifetime of trust issues. Yeah, they connect sexually, but there is absolutely nothing to sustain their grand proclamations of love. They simply aren’t together long enough.
Beyond that, neither character is sufficiently developed. There is no nuance. Gabby is an abused but tough chick who was mistreated in her childhood and now refuses to be a victim again. Sean is a man of shadows. He is physically strong but fears his dark gifts will infect anyone he gets close to, so he never gets close to anyone. Now you know as much about them as if you had read the entire story.
It’s not bad, but it’s not a romance you can sink your teeth into either.
Rating: C+
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