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Shadowy Solutions #3
Reading Between the Lines
One case to save my career.
One headstrong boyfriend I can’t function without.
I’m doomed.
Without solving a peculiar out-of-town case, Diem’s career is over. He can’t afford to live, let alone pay bills and run the business.
The case involves a mostly dead teen and a small-town police department who are convinced the boy suffered an accident.
All hope lies on the hunch of a grieving mother.
Unable to handle such a delicate situation on his own and unwilling to go bust, Diem invites his boyfriend/almost-partner along to make sure his rough edges don’t cost them a payday.
What he didn’t expect was a high school full of secrets and suspects, a bed-and-breakfast from hell with only one m*#@er f*#@ing bed, and danger around every corner because someone doesn’t want the truth to be unveiled.
Diem can handle threats. Risking life and limb to get answers is part of the game. But as the mystery unfolds, he realizes there is one thing not worth jeopardizing for a case: Tallus.
One headstrong boyfriend I can’t function without.
I’m doomed.
Without solving a peculiar out-of-town case, Diem’s career is over. He can’t afford to live, let alone pay bills and run the business.
The case involves a mostly dead teen and a small-town police department who are convinced the boy suffered an accident.
All hope lies on the hunch of a grieving mother.
Unable to handle such a delicate situation on his own and unwilling to go bust, Diem invites his boyfriend/almost-partner along to make sure his rough edges don’t cost them a payday.
What he didn’t expect was a high school full of secrets and suspects, a bed-and-breakfast from hell with only one m*#@er f*#@ing bed, and danger around every corner because someone doesn’t want the truth to be unveiled.
Diem can handle threats. Risking life and limb to get answers is part of the game. But as the mystery unfolds, he realizes there is one thing not worth jeopardizing for a case: Tallus.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2025
121 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
Nicky James
74 books2,211 followersI live in the small town of Petrolia, Ontario, Canada and I am a mother to a wonderful teenage boy (didn't think those words could be typed together...surprise) and wife to a truly supportive and understanding husband, who thankfully doesn't think I'm crazy.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
March 10, 2025
My favourite in the series so far. My favourite case and the best relationship development.
I found the mystery that Diem and Tallus are working on in this one gripping and suspensful from the start. While I had my vague suspicions, I could never predict the details revealed and how everything would unfold throughout the story. It was so well done and thought out. It’s also the most emotional case for me so far, and really sad.
Luckily, it was well balanced out with some humor and romance. The Bed and Breakfast they were staying at was ridiculous. I don’t think I would last there as long as Diem did. 😅 The romance is so lovely and emotional, too. But in a good way. I don’t want to reveal too much. I think it’s best experienced on one’s own.
I enjoyed the cameos from Doyle and Ruiz. Always happy to see the characters from the original series. I loved the introduction to the new character, Echo. I absolutely loved the connection between him and Diem. So precious. 🥰
I found the mystery that Diem and Tallus are working on in this one gripping and suspensful from the start. While I had my vague suspicions, I could never predict the details revealed and how everything would unfold throughout the story. It was so well done and thought out. It’s also the most emotional case for me so far, and really sad.
Luckily, it was well balanced out with some humor and romance. The Bed and Breakfast they were staying at was ridiculous. I don’t think I would last there as long as Diem did. 😅 The romance is so lovely and emotional, too. But in a good way. I don’t want to reveal too much. I think it’s best experienced on one’s own.
I enjoyed the cameos from Doyle and Ruiz. Always happy to see the characters from the original series. I loved the introduction to the new character, Echo. I absolutely loved the connection between him and Diem. So precious. 🥰
April 1, 2025
4.5***** stars
Great and engaging mystery plot; I enjoyed it a lot. Another great leap romance-wise for these two; so intense on the feels. Diem has been so brave and Tallus so patient.
And they finally said the L-word!!! 😭
*************
Shadowy Solutions Series
⇢ A Valor & Doyle spin-off
Prequel - Invisible Scars - 4.25 stars
Book 1 - Skeletons in the Closet - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Power of the Mind - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Reading Between the Lines - 4.5 stars
Book 4 - A Breath of Life - release 09/25
Great and engaging mystery plot; I enjoyed it a lot. Another great leap romance-wise for these two; so intense on the feels. Diem has been so brave and Tallus so patient.
Before he could move to put them on, I dragged him into the bathroom. “Tallus—”
“We’re having a tubbie. Get over it.”
“I don’t bathe,” he said through clenched teeth.
“I’ll teach you. It’s fun and super relaxing.” […]
“I don’t need to relax.” His jaw was so tense the words came out garbled. Every muscle in his body screamed with tension.
“Guns, you’re ten seconds away from needing dental surgery. Now, arms up.”
And they finally said the L-word!!! 😭
*************
Shadowy Solutions Series
⇢ A Valor & Doyle spin-off
Prequel - Invisible Scars - 4.25 stars
Book 1 - Skeletons in the Closet - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Power of the Mind - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Reading Between the Lines - 4.5 stars
Book 4 - A Breath of Life - release 09/25
March 10, 2025
~3.5~
Reading Between the Lines is a blend of mystery and romance, sweet and spicy, guarded and vulnerable.
We as readers are drawn into the investigation. We don't know what's going on, but neither do Tallus and Diem. It's a slow discovery, and there are many potential suspects.
Danger, love, falling branches, arson, deranged B&B with hundreds of ticking clocks - hey, no one said being a PI was easy.
Valor & Doyle will always have my heart, but I'm leaning into Diem and Tallus. Echo is a great addition to the team!
However, I felt the suspense component needed more closure. Everything is wrapped up too quickly and easily, despite the complexity of the case (hello, serial killer). The mystery has more holes than Swiss cheese, and we never find out exactly what happened to Weston.
The victim's parents, especially his mom, who hired Shadowy Solutions, accept the discovery at face value. Where was the shock? The grief? The murder was kind of dismissed, which didn't sit right with me.
Some of the dynamics between Diem and Tallus were also troubling. Diem is verbally abusive. I can't be the only one who sees it, right? I mean, would you be okay with your partner screaming at you and telling you to "shut the fuck up"? I wouldn't.
And Tallus just puts up with it because Diem is sexy? I get that Diem had a horrific upbringing and, yes, he's trying, but let's not pretend any of that is endearing.
What sets this book apart is the complexity of the characters, the excellent pacing, and the true-to-life dialogue. Nicky James is the real deal.
Reading Between the Lines is a blend of mystery and romance, sweet and spicy, guarded and vulnerable.
We as readers are drawn into the investigation. We don't know what's going on, but neither do Tallus and Diem. It's a slow discovery, and there are many potential suspects.
Danger, love, falling branches, arson, deranged B&B with hundreds of ticking clocks - hey, no one said being a PI was easy.
Valor & Doyle will always have my heart, but I'm leaning into Diem and Tallus. Echo is a great addition to the team!
However, I felt the suspense component needed more closure. Everything is wrapped up too quickly and easily, despite the complexity of the case (hello, serial killer). The mystery has more holes than Swiss cheese, and we never find out exactly what happened to Weston.
The victim's parents, especially his mom, who hired Shadowy Solutions, accept the discovery at face value. Where was the shock? The grief? The murder was kind of dismissed, which didn't sit right with me.
Some of the dynamics between Diem and Tallus were also troubling. Diem is verbally abusive. I can't be the only one who sees it, right? I mean, would you be okay with your partner screaming at you and telling you to "shut the fuck up"? I wouldn't.
And Tallus just puts up with it because Diem is sexy? I get that Diem had a horrific upbringing and, yes, he's trying, but let's not pretend any of that is endearing.
What sets this book apart is the complexity of the characters, the excellent pacing, and the true-to-life dialogue. Nicky James is the real deal.
March 4, 2025
Tallus and Diem have another fantastic mystery to solve in their ongoing adventures. I loved every moment of this story and appreciated the character development of both Tallus and Diem. Diem has always been a complex character, and witnessing his growth throughout these tales, especially as he progresses in his first official relationship, is truly amazing.
Tallus is an ever-patient and kind partner and a great detective alongside Diem. They offer a great balance, and watching them unravel this mystery was entertaining and exciting.
Overall, I love this series. I love these two characters and the great little cameos of other characters. I can't wait for the next entry to see what next these characters get involved in.
** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Tallus is an ever-patient and kind partner and a great detective alongside Diem. They offer a great balance, and watching them unravel this mystery was entertaining and exciting.
Overall, I love this series. I love these two characters and the great little cameos of other characters. I can't wait for the next entry to see what next these characters get involved in.
** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
April 5, 2025
Here it comes: my first almost-full-5-stars in this series 💗
Let me start by raving about the audio version: I’m so happy I waited and didn’t give in to temptation and “only” read it when it came out. I mean… NJR is one of the best narrators out there, we all know that. But on this series???? No idea how ANYONE could have done it better. The emotions, Diem’s grit and struggles to voice his emotions, his anguish when he thought Tallus is in danger, his tentative playfulness. My heart goes out to him, who would have thought he’ll become one of my favorite characters ever written - and I’m sure that NJRs voice for him played a huge role in it.
Then we have snarky, enthusiastic, good natured Tallus, whom I wanted to shake at at one point (those of you who’ve read the book will probably guess the exact moment…). His voice is so different from Diem’s, as different as his character and temperament.
And yet, together, they’re perfect.
The mystery in this book kept me on my toes: they’re called in by a grieving mother, who doesn’t believe that her son is in a coma due to an accident. It’s though for me to read about parents losing their children, so I struggled a bit at the beginning, but I tried heeding Kati’s advice and not think about my own (real life) kids. I’m proud to say I figured it out at 69% (WAY ahead of Tallus and Diem) and I kept SCREAMING internally at them up until they FINALLY came to the same conclusion at around 90%:
“Holy fuck. Oh my god. It’s right there in front of us. Black-and-white. On the page.” He clutched his chest. “I think I’m having a heart attack from shock. It makes so much sense. Sort of. Oh, wow. D, I can’t breathe.”
Yes, Tallus, I know the feeling.
THAT’S WHAT I’VE BEEN TELLING YOU FOR 21% OF THE BOOK!!!!!
Apart from that, I loved the love to detail this author has- it all made it so much more real in my head. Special shoutout to the B&B from hell - managed by an elderly lady named Ivory Lace and her zombie husband, full of dried flowers and rose blankets. Oh, and 13466 watches, all going off at precisely 7 am. I actually stayed in a similar place once, only with dolls instead of watches. And yes, it was creepy 😂
Wrapped in a fluffier than fluffy, pinker than pink towel, sitting on the edge of the frillier than frilly bed with its rufflier than ruffly quilt, I watched Diem cross the room again. Back and forth. One side to the other. Twice, he kicked the blanket-wrapped mountain of clocks in the corner, telling it to shut the fuck up. The room really was an attack on the senses.
Oh and Tallus: I feel you. I’m like this every morning:
“I would kill for a coffee right now.” Hearing my words, I held up my hands in defense. “Not that I would murder anyone. I like coffee, don’t get me wrong, but I’m not homicidal over it. I mean, I can be in the morning if I don’t get enough sleep, which is often, but for the most part, I have perfectly regular coffee urges. Although I had a rough morning. I was almost eaten by a dog. My coffee urges are teetering close to desperate, but I don’t think we’re quite in the homicidal zone. Not yet.” I cleared my throat. “Cream and sugar, please.”
The officer blinked a few times and slowly shifted his gaze to Diem.
“And you?”
“I’m homicidal all the time. The only thing keeping me grounded is this one.” He thumbed at me. “And without coffee, he’s pretty much useless.”
More blinking.
“Okay. One coffee, coming up.”
The only thing that’s keeping me from giving it full 5 stars (instead of 4.5): I felt like the showdown was a bit rushed. But that’s probably because - in reality - the book is basically Diem is telling the entire story to his Nana, and he probably didn’t want to upset her.
Can’t wait to read more about them, especially now that Echo the Service Dog entered the chat ❤️ (and did I mention how adorable Diem is with Echo? 🫠)
Let me start by raving about the audio version: I’m so happy I waited and didn’t give in to temptation and “only” read it when it came out. I mean… NJR is one of the best narrators out there, we all know that. But on this series???? No idea how ANYONE could have done it better. The emotions, Diem’s grit and struggles to voice his emotions, his anguish when he thought Tallus is in danger, his tentative playfulness. My heart goes out to him, who would have thought he’ll become one of my favorite characters ever written - and I’m sure that NJRs voice for him played a huge role in it.
Then we have snarky, enthusiastic, good natured Tallus, whom I wanted to shake at at one point (those of you who’ve read the book will probably guess the exact moment…). His voice is so different from Diem’s, as different as his character and temperament.
And yet, together, they’re perfect.
The mystery in this book kept me on my toes: they’re called in by a grieving mother, who doesn’t believe that her son is in a coma due to an accident. It’s though for me to read about parents losing their children, so I struggled a bit at the beginning, but I tried heeding Kati’s advice and not think about my own (real life) kids. I’m proud to say I figured it out at 69% (WAY ahead of Tallus and Diem) and I kept SCREAMING internally at them up until they FINALLY came to the same conclusion at around 90%:
“Holy fuck. Oh my god. It’s right there in front of us. Black-and-white. On the page.” He clutched his chest. “I think I’m having a heart attack from shock. It makes so much sense. Sort of. Oh, wow. D, I can’t breathe.”
Yes, Tallus, I know the feeling.
THAT’S WHAT I’VE BEEN TELLING YOU FOR 21% OF THE BOOK!!!!!
Apart from that, I loved the love to detail this author has- it all made it so much more real in my head. Special shoutout to the B&B from hell - managed by an elderly lady named Ivory Lace and her zombie husband, full of dried flowers and rose blankets. Oh, and 13466 watches, all going off at precisely 7 am. I actually stayed in a similar place once, only with dolls instead of watches. And yes, it was creepy 😂
Wrapped in a fluffier than fluffy, pinker than pink towel, sitting on the edge of the frillier than frilly bed with its rufflier than ruffly quilt, I watched Diem cross the room again. Back and forth. One side to the other. Twice, he kicked the blanket-wrapped mountain of clocks in the corner, telling it to shut the fuck up. The room really was an attack on the senses.
Oh and Tallus: I feel you. I’m like this every morning:
“I would kill for a coffee right now.” Hearing my words, I held up my hands in defense. “Not that I would murder anyone. I like coffee, don’t get me wrong, but I’m not homicidal over it. I mean, I can be in the morning if I don’t get enough sleep, which is often, but for the most part, I have perfectly regular coffee urges. Although I had a rough morning. I was almost eaten by a dog. My coffee urges are teetering close to desperate, but I don’t think we’re quite in the homicidal zone. Not yet.” I cleared my throat. “Cream and sugar, please.”
The officer blinked a few times and slowly shifted his gaze to Diem.
“And you?”
“I’m homicidal all the time. The only thing keeping me grounded is this one.” He thumbed at me. “And without coffee, he’s pretty much useless.”
More blinking.
“Okay. One coffee, coming up.”
The only thing that’s keeping me from giving it full 5 stars (instead of 4.5): I felt like the showdown was a bit rushed. But that’s probably because - in reality - the book is basically Diem is telling the entire story to his Nana, and he probably didn’t want to upset her.
Can’t wait to read more about them, especially now that Echo the Service Dog entered the chat ❤️ (and did I mention how adorable Diem is with Echo? 🫠)
Read
November 22, 2024Signal the horns: more Tallus and Diem coming March 6, 2025!!! 🥳
June 21, 2025
Good lawd that was good!
The plotline is very clever, no spoilers here but I only really began to clue into what was going on at the same time as Tallus worked things out!
Also working things out is Diem, as his big feelings for the snarky records clerk come trainee PI get a little bit overwhelming.
There's some real relationship development here, even if Diem's childhood experiences, his PTSD and his anxieties sometimes conspire against what he really wants to do.
It's so heartening to see him trying his hardest to become a better person not only to improve his own mental wellbeing, but also to be a better partner for Tallus.
Loved the guest appearances from Costa and Doyle too!
I'd read unlimited books set in this universe.
The plotline is very clever, no spoilers here but I only really began to clue into what was going on at the same time as Tallus worked things out!
Also working things out is Diem, as his big feelings for the snarky records clerk come trainee PI get a little bit overwhelming.
There's some real relationship development here, even if Diem's childhood experiences, his PTSD and his anxieties sometimes conspire against what he really wants to do.
It's so heartening to see him trying his hardest to become a better person not only to improve his own mental wellbeing, but also to be a better partner for Tallus.
Loved the guest appearances from Costa and Doyle too!
I'd read unlimited books set in this universe.
May 9, 2025
Gripping mystery
and overwhelming trauma.
Series weirdly works.
This is a really strange series. Diem's trauma is ... overwhelming. He's barely functional as a detective, business owner, friend, boyfriend, human. It seems like he's the character who is the most mentally unstable. And yet... Tallus can't finish the detective course, has zero impulse control, won't eat healthfully or manage his finances. I fear we're moving toward Quaid and Valor territory, where the fucked up one is actually getting his shit together and the supposedly sane one is just a bundle of untreated mental illness. And, for the record, I had to stop reading that series because I couldn't bear how everyone overlooked Quaid's crazy.
That said, I loved this book. I loved that (until the last 10%), it was just Tallus and Diem, figuring out the case and relationship without Q&V, Costa, Kitty, Memphis, or Toronto encroaching on the story. I loved the small and believable breakthroughs Diem made. I loved Echo the support dog--that's an intervention that shows a lot of promise--I'm totally on board with that helping him in untold ways. I loved that it took me nearly as long as it took our heroes to figure out the mystery. (I didn't love the OTT B&B or the 11th hour financial rescue.) I think it's my favorite of the series.
I was happy through 5 Q&V books--I wonder how far I'll get with T&D before the glaring inconsistencies in mental illness treatment and recovery become too much to bear?
and overwhelming trauma.
Series weirdly works.
This is a really strange series. Diem's trauma is ... overwhelming. He's barely functional as a detective, business owner, friend, boyfriend, human. It seems like he's the character who is the most mentally unstable. And yet... Tallus can't finish the detective course, has zero impulse control, won't eat healthfully or manage his finances. I fear we're moving toward Quaid and Valor territory, where the fucked up one is actually getting his shit together and the supposedly sane one is just a bundle of untreated mental illness. And, for the record, I had to stop reading that series because I couldn't bear how everyone overlooked Quaid's crazy.
That said, I loved this book. I loved that (until the last 10%), it was just Tallus and Diem, figuring out the case and relationship without Q&V, Costa, Kitty, Memphis, or Toronto encroaching on the story. I loved the small and believable breakthroughs Diem made. I loved Echo the support dog--that's an intervention that shows a lot of promise--I'm totally on board with that helping him in untold ways. I loved that it took me nearly as long as it took our heroes to figure out the mystery. (I didn't love the OTT B&B or the 11th hour financial rescue.) I think it's my favorite of the series.
I was happy through 5 Q&V books--I wonder how far I'll get with T&D before the glaring inconsistencies in mental illness treatment and recovery become too much to bear?
March 30, 2025
This took me ten entire days to read. I loved the mystery, although very predictable, but I enjoyed reading about it and enjoyed the various characters.
What didn’t work for me was the relationship. There was a lot of off page development between the previous book and this, and it just didn’t work for me. Diem seemed like a completely different person. Tallus was dumb and annoying. Their relationship lost its uniqueness. And I just got bored.
I think it’s a me problem, everybody else seemed to love it. And I should know that 4 books with the same couple (counting the prequel) is just too much for me and I lose interest. 😬🤷♀️
What didn’t work for me was the relationship. There was a lot of off page development between the previous book and this, and it just didn’t work for me. Diem seemed like a completely different person. Tallus was dumb and annoying. Their relationship lost its uniqueness. And I just got bored.
I think it’s a me problem, everybody else seemed to love it. And I should know that 4 books with the same couple (counting the prequel) is just too much for me and I lose interest. 😬🤷♀️
October 22, 2025
4.5 stars
Easily the best in the series so far. I am finally getting my reward for sticking through the pain! Nearly all aspects of the previous books were improved on in this. The length was much more reasonable and there wasn't a ton of extraneous information or back and forth, which greatly improved the pacing. And, because this investigation took place outside of Toronto, there were very limited cameos from the Valor and Doyle group (which, again, maybe if I'd read those I'd be into it but I haven't so...) and I appreciated not having the extra characters around.
The investigation itself was my favorite of the series. I realize all mysteries/thrillers/police procedurals lean OTT, and I just need to go with it, but I still hadn't enjoyed that facet of these books very much up to this point. Things were still OTT and far outside the realm of real life here but I was more invested for some reason. I think things felt a little more straightforward and I was super into the writing/murder club idea. I wish it had been expanded on a little more because the concept was cool to me. Hopefully the mysteries will continue to hit better for me as we go.
The relationship between Diem and Tallus is FINALLY hitting its' stride and I could not be more happy. The balance between them felt so much better to me. I don't know why, but in the previous books it always felt like Tallus had way more control (since Diem is a mess) while simultaneously being less emotionally invested (even though he's the one who'd been pushing for more). It would take too many words for me to try to explain but, suffice it to say that wasn't the case in this one. Diem had a lot of success working on his intimacy and communication issues and it was so fucking nice to see. There was a lot more affection and levity between the two and we got our first proper sex scene where no negative emotions were involved - it was flat out lovemaking, folks. Even though a lot had changed by the end of the book, it felt like a natural progression and, of course, things aren't perfect. But I loved where these two ended up at and cannot wait to see it get even better.
Random last thoughts: I enjoyed the structure of this one - I couldn't figure out at first why it was written the way it was (with the "now" and "then") since the others weren't like that but it kind of reflected the whole "storytelling" aspect which was cool (and I can't say I didn't appreciate starting off knowing that we were going to end up in such a good place). Shout out to Echo the service dog - can't wait to see her in the future. A little niggle I had was that, at one point Tallus mentions Diem's thigh tattoos and says one of them is a lion but I'm pretty sure it was a wolf in the last book. Since the tattoos have meaning it seemed sloppy to not have that continuity, but, it was super minor so I guess who cares.
I honestly don't know how many books are in this series and now I'm scared to look because I don't usually start unfinished series. I know there's one more out and I'm kind of hoping it'll be the last one so that I don't have to wait for more!
Nicknames: Guns, D
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: None!!! Yay!!! We're all done with random hookups for both and there were no exes or anything of that nature. Just our boys only with each other!
Easily the best in the series so far. I am finally getting my reward for sticking through the pain! Nearly all aspects of the previous books were improved on in this. The length was much more reasonable and there wasn't a ton of extraneous information or back and forth, which greatly improved the pacing. And, because this investigation took place outside of Toronto, there were very limited cameos from the Valor and Doyle group (which, again, maybe if I'd read those I'd be into it but I haven't so...) and I appreciated not having the extra characters around.
The investigation itself was my favorite of the series. I realize all mysteries/thrillers/police procedurals lean OTT, and I just need to go with it, but I still hadn't enjoyed that facet of these books very much up to this point. Things were still OTT and far outside the realm of real life here but I was more invested for some reason. I think things felt a little more straightforward and I was super into the writing/murder club idea. I wish it had been expanded on a little more because the concept was cool to me. Hopefully the mysteries will continue to hit better for me as we go.
The relationship between Diem and Tallus is FINALLY hitting its' stride and I could not be more happy. The balance between them felt so much better to me. I don't know why, but in the previous books it always felt like Tallus had way more control (since Diem is a mess) while simultaneously being less emotionally invested (even though he's the one who'd been pushing for more). It would take too many words for me to try to explain but, suffice it to say that wasn't the case in this one. Diem had a lot of success working on his intimacy and communication issues and it was so fucking nice to see. There was a lot more affection and levity between the two and we got our first proper sex scene where no negative emotions were involved - it was flat out lovemaking, folks. Even though a lot had changed by the end of the book, it felt like a natural progression and, of course, things aren't perfect. But I loved where these two ended up at and cannot wait to see it get even better.
Random last thoughts: I enjoyed the structure of this one - I couldn't figure out at first why it was written the way it was (with the "now" and "then") since the others weren't like that but it kind of reflected the whole "storytelling" aspect which was cool (and I can't say I didn't appreciate starting off knowing that we were going to end up in such a good place). Shout out to Echo the service dog - can't wait to see her in the future. A little niggle I had was that, at one point Tallus mentions Diem's thigh tattoos and says one of them is a lion but I'm pretty sure it was a wolf in the last book. Since the tattoos have meaning it seemed sloppy to not have that continuity, but, it was super minor so I guess who cares.
I honestly don't know how many books are in this series and now I'm scared to look because I don't usually start unfinished series. I know there's one more out and I'm kind of hoping it'll be the last one so that I don't have to wait for more!
Nicknames: Guns, D
“Diem, if I didn’t think you’d run for the hills, I would use the L word right now.
I wanted to say Please lie down with me. Please push my limits. Please cross all the lines. Don’t let me get away with this. But, tongue-tied as usual, all I managed to croak was, “Stay.”
“You’re safe. I will tear this world apart before I let anyone hurt you. You hear me?
“It’s getting easier to make you laugh. I like it.” I liked it too.
My bubble had been invaded simultaneously by both a dog and a boyfriend. Before I could object to so much contact, Nicholas returned. He did not save me from the dog’s affection, and no one could save me from Tallus’s.
“Aww, babe, are you having feelings again?” “Shut up, Tallus.”
“You make me forget to be miserable.”
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*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: None!!! Yay!!! We're all done with random hookups for both and there were no exes or anything of that nature. Just our boys only with each other!
April 14, 2025
A- / 4.5 stars rounded up
This is book three in a same-couple series, so readers should begin with book one, Skeletons in the Closet. Please note that there are spoilers for previous books in this review.
Nicky James’ Reading Between the Lines rings some big changes into the lives of our two protagonists, PI Diem Krause and Toronto PD records clerk Tallus Domingo. After months spent dancing around – and, in Diem’s case, fighting against - their intense mutual attraction, the pair are now dating, and Tallus is close to finishing his online training course so he can obtain his private investigator’s license and work alongside Diem officially. But even though Diem has finally admitted that he wants Tallus in his life, it doesn’t mean there are no more obstacles to overcome; intimacy doesn’t come at all easily for him but he’s trying hard to be the kind of boyfriend he believes Tallus deserves.
The mystery plotline kicks off when Diem is offered a very large sum of money to investigate what appears to be the accidental drowning of a teenager in the small town of Port Hope. The boy’s mother is convinced that what happened to her son was no accident and hires Diem to prove it, and although Diem thinks her suspicions are almost certainly the delusions of a grieving parent, the hefty fee is something he can’t afford to turn down. Shadowy Solutions is close to bankruptcy and he needs a fast injection of cash to keep it going. Diem is good at what he does and gets results, but his gruffness, his lack of empathy and his intimidating manner haven’t won him many clients over the years, so he badly needs this job, no matter how wild the goose chase.
The client – Delaney Mandel – has asked Diem to come to Port Hope so he can hear her side of the story and decide if there’s anything to her theory that her son – who is in ICU on life support – was murdered. Figuring he might well need Tallus along in order to grease the social wheels, the pair head up to Port Hope and to the accommodation arranged for them – a quaint, froofy little B&B that never met a pink frill it didn’t like and which houses the owners’ huge collection of old-fashioned, wind-up clocks. It’s so absolutely not Diem’s style, it’s not even funny – and discovering that the room reserved for him has Only One Bed is almost enough to have him running for the hills. He and Tallus have not, so far, spent a night together; Diem is slowly overcoming some of his fears around touch and intimacy, but sharing a bed with someone is way outside his comfort zone and not a line he’s yet been able to cross.
After an awkward night and an extremely rude awakening courtesy of every clock in the house chiming at 7am, Diem and Tallus make their way to meet with Mrs. Delaney to find out exactly why she’s so sure her son Weston was murdered. Weston was a straight-A student who was planning a career in journalism and was one of the main contributors to the weekly school newspaper. On the day he died, he was supposed to have been at the library meeting with the other members of the group to finalise that week’s edition – but he didn’t show up, and didn’t go home that night. The next morning, Weston was found, barely alive and unconscious, draped over a rock in the river running through the woods – woods where he had absolutely no reason to be. The police investigation determined that where Weston ended up was nowhere near when he went into the water, and they decided he must have slipped on the bank and fallen in a few hundred yards down river. None of this gives Diem and Tallus any idea why Mrs. Delaney suspects foul play – but then she produces some pages that were tucked inside one of Weston’s writing journals, and things become clear. Because what they’re reading is a heavily annotated short story that depicts, word-for-word, the murder of Weston Delaney.
As Tallus and Diem start working to find out more about Weston Delaney – talking to his friends, his teachers and the townsfolk – they begin to realise that there’s something very sinister going on that likely tracks back to one of the writing groups he belonged to, one whose members focused on mystery writing who called themselves The Whodunnits. And the closer they get to the truth, the more apparent it becomes that there is someone out there prepared to go to any lengths to stop them.
Nicky James once again does an excellent job of crafting an intriguing mystery full of unexpected twists and turns while also continuing the forward momentum of the romance between our very odd-couple. It’s clear that Diem has been working really hard to overcome some of the challenges he faces surrounding intimacy, affection and self-esteem, and while he still finds certain situations quite challenging, it’s a measure of how far he’s come that he’s now open to trying new things, such as sharing a bath or sleeping in the same bed as Tallus, and that he’s learning to allow himself the joy that Tallus brings to his life. Casual intimacy is still not easy for him, but he now admits to himself that sometimes he needs Tallus to push at his boundaries as he works on how not to let his fears completely overtake him and learns to communicate better. And I was pleased to see Tallus, who, in the last book, seemed sometimes to be just a bit too pushy and manipulative, being more understanding of both his own behaviour and Diem’s; it feels as though he’s grown up a little, too. He’s a self-confessed fashionista who would rather eat Ramen for a month than go without his Versace loafers and insists (sometimes to his cost) on putting practicality before style, but he’s charming, insightful and sympathetic, always very mindful of the challenges Diem is facing given his troubled past, and he shows a real depth of understanding and patience. I was also pleased at the way he’s developing as an investigator and enjoyed watching him and Diem working together, their very different but complementary styles making for a vibrant and entertaining dynamic.
The main storyline is framed by Diem visiting his beloved grandmother and telling her about the Weston Delaney case. She’s the only person in his life who has ever really loved him but he’s slowly losing her to dementia, and as she lives with his abusive father, it’s been difficult for him to visit her as often as he’d like. But the novel ends on a positive note all-round; not only has Diem been able to save Shadowy Solutions, he’s now able to pay for his Nana to move into a nice, quiet nursing home, so he’ll be able to worry less and visit her more. Best of all, he and Tallus are in a really good place and looking forward to building a future together. I don’t know if the author plans more books featuring Tallus and Diem, but if this is the last one, then I’m happy with the way she’s left things.
ETA: since writing this review, the author has announced the series will be continuing.
Clever, funny, sexy and emotionally satisfying, Reading Between the Lines is a terrific addition to the Shadowy Solutions series and is highly recommended.
This is book three in a same-couple series, so readers should begin with book one, Skeletons in the Closet. Please note that there are spoilers for previous books in this review.
Nicky James’ Reading Between the Lines rings some big changes into the lives of our two protagonists, PI Diem Krause and Toronto PD records clerk Tallus Domingo. After months spent dancing around – and, in Diem’s case, fighting against - their intense mutual attraction, the pair are now dating, and Tallus is close to finishing his online training course so he can obtain his private investigator’s license and work alongside Diem officially. But even though Diem has finally admitted that he wants Tallus in his life, it doesn’t mean there are no more obstacles to overcome; intimacy doesn’t come at all easily for him but he’s trying hard to be the kind of boyfriend he believes Tallus deserves.
The mystery plotline kicks off when Diem is offered a very large sum of money to investigate what appears to be the accidental drowning of a teenager in the small town of Port Hope. The boy’s mother is convinced that what happened to her son was no accident and hires Diem to prove it, and although Diem thinks her suspicions are almost certainly the delusions of a grieving parent, the hefty fee is something he can’t afford to turn down. Shadowy Solutions is close to bankruptcy and he needs a fast injection of cash to keep it going. Diem is good at what he does and gets results, but his gruffness, his lack of empathy and his intimidating manner haven’t won him many clients over the years, so he badly needs this job, no matter how wild the goose chase.
The client – Delaney Mandel – has asked Diem to come to Port Hope so he can hear her side of the story and decide if there’s anything to her theory that her son – who is in ICU on life support – was murdered. Figuring he might well need Tallus along in order to grease the social wheels, the pair head up to Port Hope and to the accommodation arranged for them – a quaint, froofy little B&B that never met a pink frill it didn’t like and which houses the owners’ huge collection of old-fashioned, wind-up clocks. It’s so absolutely not Diem’s style, it’s not even funny – and discovering that the room reserved for him has Only One Bed is almost enough to have him running for the hills. He and Tallus have not, so far, spent a night together; Diem is slowly overcoming some of his fears around touch and intimacy, but sharing a bed with someone is way outside his comfort zone and not a line he’s yet been able to cross.
After an awkward night and an extremely rude awakening courtesy of every clock in the house chiming at 7am, Diem and Tallus make their way to meet with Mrs. Delaney to find out exactly why she’s so sure her son Weston was murdered. Weston was a straight-A student who was planning a career in journalism and was one of the main contributors to the weekly school newspaper. On the day he died, he was supposed to have been at the library meeting with the other members of the group to finalise that week’s edition – but he didn’t show up, and didn’t go home that night. The next morning, Weston was found, barely alive and unconscious, draped over a rock in the river running through the woods – woods where he had absolutely no reason to be. The police investigation determined that where Weston ended up was nowhere near when he went into the water, and they decided he must have slipped on the bank and fallen in a few hundred yards down river. None of this gives Diem and Tallus any idea why Mrs. Delaney suspects foul play – but then she produces some pages that were tucked inside one of Weston’s writing journals, and things become clear. Because what they’re reading is a heavily annotated short story that depicts, word-for-word, the murder of Weston Delaney.
As Tallus and Diem start working to find out more about Weston Delaney – talking to his friends, his teachers and the townsfolk – they begin to realise that there’s something very sinister going on that likely tracks back to one of the writing groups he belonged to, one whose members focused on mystery writing who called themselves The Whodunnits. And the closer they get to the truth, the more apparent it becomes that there is someone out there prepared to go to any lengths to stop them.
Nicky James once again does an excellent job of crafting an intriguing mystery full of unexpected twists and turns while also continuing the forward momentum of the romance between our very odd-couple. It’s clear that Diem has been working really hard to overcome some of the challenges he faces surrounding intimacy, affection and self-esteem, and while he still finds certain situations quite challenging, it’s a measure of how far he’s come that he’s now open to trying new things, such as sharing a bath or sleeping in the same bed as Tallus, and that he’s learning to allow himself the joy that Tallus brings to his life. Casual intimacy is still not easy for him, but he now admits to himself that sometimes he needs Tallus to push at his boundaries as he works on how not to let his fears completely overtake him and learns to communicate better. And I was pleased to see Tallus, who, in the last book, seemed sometimes to be just a bit too pushy and manipulative, being more understanding of both his own behaviour and Diem’s; it feels as though he’s grown up a little, too. He’s a self-confessed fashionista who would rather eat Ramen for a month than go without his Versace loafers and insists (sometimes to his cost) on putting practicality before style, but he’s charming, insightful and sympathetic, always very mindful of the challenges Diem is facing given his troubled past, and he shows a real depth of understanding and patience. I was also pleased at the way he’s developing as an investigator and enjoyed watching him and Diem working together, their very different but complementary styles making for a vibrant and entertaining dynamic.
The main storyline is framed by Diem visiting his beloved grandmother and telling her about the Weston Delaney case. She’s the only person in his life who has ever really loved him but he’s slowly losing her to dementia, and as she lives with his abusive father, it’s been difficult for him to visit her as often as he’d like. But the novel ends on a positive note all-round; not only has Diem been able to save Shadowy Solutions, he’s now able to pay for his Nana to move into a nice, quiet nursing home, so he’ll be able to worry less and visit her more. Best of all, he and Tallus are in a really good place and looking forward to building a future together. I don’t know if the author plans more books featuring Tallus and Diem, but if this is the last one, then I’m happy with the way she’s left things.
ETA: since writing this review, the author has announced the series will be continuing.
Clever, funny, sexy and emotionally satisfying, Reading Between the Lines is a terrific addition to the Shadowy Solutions series and is highly recommended.
April 11, 2025
4.5 stars
March 17, 2025
I really wasn't sure on the formatting of this book. It starts after the events of the book have happened, but I'm still recovering from the worst cold I have ever had so I was super confused and thought I'd missed an entire book!
Once you get past the prologue though it made so much more sense. I actually really enjoyed this case that Diem and Tallus were working. There were a lot of red herrings and intricate relationship ties and I kept going back and forth between two character's that I thought were responsible and in the end I was right either way, so that was nice!
The relationship progression with Tallus and Diem is also really fun to see. Diem has a lot of issues stemming from an extremely abusive childhood and I love how he's working with his therapist and with Tallus to take baby steps forward because he's so certain he wants their relationship to work. I'm enjoying seeing Diem change as the series goes on, and Tallus is also becoming slightly less of a brat too. I always enjoy a long running story more when both character's are going through changes rather than just one of them because then it feels like the other MC is essentially perfect and the other isn't 'enough' as they are.
Hopefully I'm more in the mood for a crime mystery when the next book comes out because my brain fog is driving me nuts when it comes to more plot heavy books!
Once you get past the prologue though it made so much more sense. I actually really enjoyed this case that Diem and Tallus were working. There were a lot of red herrings and intricate relationship ties and I kept going back and forth between two character's that I thought were responsible and in the end I was right either way, so that was nice!
The relationship progression with Tallus and Diem is also really fun to see. Diem has a lot of issues stemming from an extremely abusive childhood and I love how he's working with his therapist and with Tallus to take baby steps forward because he's so certain he wants their relationship to work. I'm enjoying seeing Diem change as the series goes on, and Tallus is also becoming slightly less of a brat too. I always enjoy a long running story more when both character's are going through changes rather than just one of them because then it feels like the other MC is essentially perfect and the other isn't 'enough' as they are.
Hopefully I'm more in the mood for a crime mystery when the next book comes out because my brain fog is driving me nuts when it comes to more plot heavy books!
March 10, 2025
Another pretty good installment in the series.
I started thinking this series might not be for me, but now after 3 books I think I actually like it more than Valor & Doyle's (don't shoot me!).
I am still not giving it the highest marks because there were a few things that niggled at me too much. Tallus still behaves TSTL. I know it's for the needed drama and to move the plot along but that man is not that young and should know better. Also, after how traumatised he was with the dog encounter and after what happened to Diem, I don't believe for a second that he would go back there, especially as it was getting dark. Also, enough with breaking/losing glasses. It was funny the first few times but now I just roll my eyes.
The mystery was good enough though. I am not usually keen on teenagers in this type of books but the plot here worked, even if it was nothing new.
It's nice to see Diem start to come out of his shell more though. His character has lots of potential and I can't wait so see where it goes. But please don't let the fact that he can't really sleep become similar to Quaid's food issue which got on my nerves after book two.
I started thinking this series might not be for me, but now after 3 books I think I actually like it more than Valor & Doyle's (don't shoot me!).
I am still not giving it the highest marks because there were a few things that niggled at me too much. Tallus still behaves TSTL. I know it's for the needed drama and to move the plot along but that man is not that young and should know better. Also, after how traumatised he was with the dog encounter and after what happened to Diem, I don't believe for a second that he would go back there, especially as it was getting dark. Also, enough with breaking/losing glasses. It was funny the first few times but now I just roll my eyes.
The mystery was good enough though. I am not usually keen on teenagers in this type of books but the plot here worked, even if it was nothing new.
It's nice to see Diem start to come out of his shell more though. His character has lots of potential and I can't wait so see where it goes. But please don't let the fact that he can't really sleep become similar to Quaid's food issue which got on my nerves after book two.
March 10, 2025
This was such a great story! Diem, while still rough around the edges, has come so far. He has opened himself up to Tallus in so many ways and is finally accepting that he deserves love. I could never be as patient as Tallus is but I adore how he handles Diem.
This mystery was the best one in the series so far. There were more suspects and even though it wasn’t a surprise I was kept intrigued throughout.
The emotion in this is off the charts. There was a lot of opening up and Diem letting Tallus in to completely take over his heart. These men are such a great pair. I am excited for their next book. I hope that things don’t go in reverse for these two since they’ve gone so far.
This mystery was the best one in the series so far. There were more suspects and even though it wasn’t a surprise I was kept intrigued throughout.
The emotion in this is off the charts. There was a lot of opening up and Diem letting Tallus in to completely take over his heart. These men are such a great pair. I am excited for their next book. I hope that things don’t go in reverse for these two since they’ve gone so far.
April 5, 2025
5 stars for the narration; 4.5 stars for the story
My review of the ebook edition is HERE
Here's the truncated version of that review I posted at Audible for the audiobook version:
By the time this third Shadowy Solutions book opens, Diem Krause and Tallus Domingo have been officially in a relationship for six weeks, and Tallus is almost finished with his PI certification. The story proper begins when Diem is offered a very large sum of money to investigate what appears to be the accidental drowning of a teenager in the small town of Port Hope. The boy’s mother is convinced that what happened to her son was no accident and hires Diem to prove it, and although Diem thinks her suspicions are almost certainly the delusions of a grieving parent, the hefty fee is something he can’t afford to turn down. Shadowy Solutions is close to bankruptcy and he needs a fast injection of cash to keep it going. Diem is good at what he does and gets results, but his gruffness, his lack of empathy and his intimidating manner haven’t won him many clients over the years, so he badly needs this job, no matter how wild the goose chase.
Nicky James once again does an excellent job of crafting an intriguing mystery full of unexpected twists and turns while also continuing the forward momentum of the romance between our very odd-couple. It’s clear that Diem has been working really hard to overcome some of the challenges he faces, and while he still finds certain situations quite challenging, it’s a measure of how far he’s come that he’s now open to trying new things and that he’s learning to allow himself the joy that Tallus brings to his life. And I was pleased to see Tallus, who, in the last book, seemed sometimes to be just a bit too pushy and manipulative, being more understanding of both his own behaviour and Diem’s; it feels as though he’s grown up a little, too.
Nick J. Russo delivers another incredible performance that perfectly captures all the complex emotions that are present in the story. The deep, growly tones he adopts to portray Diem work so well to depict this big, imposing man with a temper he sometimes can barely leash – and while there has always been a sense of Diem’s underlying vulnerability close to the surface, in this story, that vulnerability breaks through and Mr. Russo does an outstanding job in those scenes of deep and powerful emotion where Diem’s control is at breaking point. His portrayal of Tallus, too, is extremely good, expertly conveying the character’s warmth, good nature and humour, while also not being afraid to let go in those really intense moments where Tallus is shaken and overwhelmed. It’s a flawless performance – from the pacing to the variety of vocal characterisations to the differentation to the acting – and Mr. Russo shows yet again that he’s one of the best narrators in the genre.
Reading Between the Lines ends on a positive note all-round and with Diem and Tallus in a really good place and looking forward to a future together. I’m really looking forward to the next instalment in this terrific series.
My review of the ebook edition is HERE
Here's the truncated version of that review I posted at Audible for the audiobook version:
By the time this third Shadowy Solutions book opens, Diem Krause and Tallus Domingo have been officially in a relationship for six weeks, and Tallus is almost finished with his PI certification. The story proper begins when Diem is offered a very large sum of money to investigate what appears to be the accidental drowning of a teenager in the small town of Port Hope. The boy’s mother is convinced that what happened to her son was no accident and hires Diem to prove it, and although Diem thinks her suspicions are almost certainly the delusions of a grieving parent, the hefty fee is something he can’t afford to turn down. Shadowy Solutions is close to bankruptcy and he needs a fast injection of cash to keep it going. Diem is good at what he does and gets results, but his gruffness, his lack of empathy and his intimidating manner haven’t won him many clients over the years, so he badly needs this job, no matter how wild the goose chase.
Nicky James once again does an excellent job of crafting an intriguing mystery full of unexpected twists and turns while also continuing the forward momentum of the romance between our very odd-couple. It’s clear that Diem has been working really hard to overcome some of the challenges he faces, and while he still finds certain situations quite challenging, it’s a measure of how far he’s come that he’s now open to trying new things and that he’s learning to allow himself the joy that Tallus brings to his life. And I was pleased to see Tallus, who, in the last book, seemed sometimes to be just a bit too pushy and manipulative, being more understanding of both his own behaviour and Diem’s; it feels as though he’s grown up a little, too.
Nick J. Russo delivers another incredible performance that perfectly captures all the complex emotions that are present in the story. The deep, growly tones he adopts to portray Diem work so well to depict this big, imposing man with a temper he sometimes can barely leash – and while there has always been a sense of Diem’s underlying vulnerability close to the surface, in this story, that vulnerability breaks through and Mr. Russo does an outstanding job in those scenes of deep and powerful emotion where Diem’s control is at breaking point. His portrayal of Tallus, too, is extremely good, expertly conveying the character’s warmth, good nature and humour, while also not being afraid to let go in those really intense moments where Tallus is shaken and overwhelmed. It’s a flawless performance – from the pacing to the variety of vocal characterisations to the differentation to the acting – and Mr. Russo shows yet again that he’s one of the best narrators in the genre.
Reading Between the Lines ends on a positive note all-round and with Diem and Tallus in a really good place and looking forward to a future together. I’m really looking forward to the next instalment in this terrific series.
October 4, 2025
One case to save my career. One headstrong boyfriend I can’t function without. I’m doomed. Without solving a peculiar out-of-town case, Diem’s career is over. He can’t afford to live, let alone pay bills and run the business. The case involves a mostly dead teen and a small-town police department who are convinced the boy suffered an accident. All hope lies on the hunch of a grieving mother.
I really like Tallus and Diem together. Tallus is now in PI training, and their dynamics have shifted some, but they still complement each other well. Tallus is absolutely charming, and he’s done a lot to help Diem come out of his shell and deal with all his past trauma. Their relationship, while not yet exactly perfect, really works. It was great how much Diem now trusts Tallus.
The mystery, as always, was top-notch. The fact that it’s part of a story that Diem is telling his sick grandma, just made it even more poignant.
All in all, it was a fantastic continuation to the Shadowy Solutions series! Tallus and Diem's interactions together, both on and off the job is guaranteed to make your heart happy seeing them finally together. We also had a Costa cameo...another great addition to the story. The mystery was also intriguing and had me guessing throughout the book who the bad guy was.
I own almost all this author's books, and I have never read a bad one or even a mediocre one...so yes...I would highly recommend this series or any of the others.
I really like Tallus and Diem together. Tallus is now in PI training, and their dynamics have shifted some, but they still complement each other well. Tallus is absolutely charming, and he’s done a lot to help Diem come out of his shell and deal with all his past trauma. Their relationship, while not yet exactly perfect, really works. It was great how much Diem now trusts Tallus.
The mystery, as always, was top-notch. The fact that it’s part of a story that Diem is telling his sick grandma, just made it even more poignant.
All in all, it was a fantastic continuation to the Shadowy Solutions series! Tallus and Diem's interactions together, both on and off the job is guaranteed to make your heart happy seeing them finally together. We also had a Costa cameo...another great addition to the story. The mystery was also intriguing and had me guessing throughout the book who the bad guy was.
I own almost all this author's books, and I have never read a bad one or even a mediocre one...so yes...I would highly recommend this series or any of the others.
March 31, 2025
I started reading this newest installment featuring my two favorite PI's and missed Diem's growling voice fiercely (listened to the audios before).
I decided to wait for the audio, but kept continuing to read a page here and there.
And of course the story sucked me right in and I finished the rest in one go.
The mystery was so good it kept me glued to my e-reader.
I had a hunch about the culprit but the events kept steamrolling me-especially in the end.
I loved how Diem was able to overcome some obstacles and their budding relationship is heartwarming. Diem is so precious 💔 and Tallus' patience and how he just gets Diem is remarkable.
Can't wait to get my hands on the next book 😊
I decided to wait for the audio, but kept continuing to read a page here and there.
And of course the story sucked me right in and I finished the rest in one go.
The mystery was so good it kept me glued to my e-reader.
I had a hunch about the culprit but the events kept steamrolling me-especially in the end.
I loved how Diem was able to overcome some obstacles and their budding relationship is heartwarming. Diem is so precious 💔 and Tallus' patience and how he just gets Diem is remarkable.
Can't wait to get my hands on the next book 😊
March 30, 2025
“You’re my light, Tallus. I don’t know what I did to deserve you.”
reading between the lines was a solid installment in the shadowy solutions series. while Tallus and Diem still aren't my favorite Nicky James couple, i feel like i'm finally beginning to warm up to them.
plus i, along with everybody else, am beyond excited about the newest edition to the team… Echo the golden retriever <3 <3 <3
April 19, 2025
I love Diem. I just do. The mystery wasn’t as predictable as usual. Nice little twists.
But really, I just read this for Diem.
Not a fan of the cover.
But really, I just read this for Diem.
Not a fan of the cover.
May 24, 2025
The mysteries are getting better and better. This time we have a child on life support, brain dead according to his doctors after a fall into a river, but the mum doesn't believe this was a simple accident. The criminals are getting more sinister and I love it.
Diem makes so much progress in this book which makes me so happy. I'm in love with this series and this couple and counting the days until book 4 is released.
Diem makes so much progress in this book which makes me so happy. I'm in love with this series and this couple and counting the days until book 4 is released.
March 30, 2025
As I started the book I was very worried if Granny would die by the end.
She doesn’t!
I want to put that here, because I recently lost my Grandpa and I now can understand more to get triggered by something and the beginning made me really anxious.
I don’t think I’m going to warm up to Tallus anymore.
His and mine personality clash just too much.
Diem accepts a case out of town because he struggles with money and fears to be evicted from his office/home.
He tells Tallus that he needs this job to pay rent and such. Not in all the details at first, but enough that he should heed it a bit.
And Tallus whines about his expensive I-forgot-the-brand shoes.
I mean to wear designer shoes while walking through a forest is stupid in itself.
I still love Diem though.
He worked a lot on himself through this book. I’m not a fan of the way things got handled at times. He struggled so much mentally and Tallus kind of forced him to do things.
I mean in the end it works, it helps him get better. And maybe all the pushing is a bit something that Diem needs. But it sometimes feels a bit wrong.
But it might be a me-thing as I don’t connect with Tallus that much.
Through all the hard exterior it gets more and more clear how soft and needy Diem is.
He just doesn’t know how to be and how to handle it.
For his sake I really like that their relationship took such big steps in the book and that there’ll be even bigger ones to come.
The mystery was very interesting. I had a few guesses throughout the book, so it stayed quite exciting!
It was a bit strange how the police worked, but my only knowledge about it is mostly through books and TV, and even that is probably entirely fiction. So it was plausible but I was a bit sceptical if they actually would do or wouldn’t do things.
I was very pleasantly surprised at the end that there’ll be a fourth book and I’m looking forward to that!
She doesn’t!
I want to put that here, because I recently lost my Grandpa and I now can understand more to get triggered by something and the beginning made me really anxious.
I don’t think I’m going to warm up to Tallus anymore.
His and mine personality clash just too much.
Diem accepts a case out of town because he struggles with money and fears to be evicted from his office/home.
He tells Tallus that he needs this job to pay rent and such. Not in all the details at first, but enough that he should heed it a bit.
And Tallus whines about his expensive I-forgot-the-brand shoes.
I mean to wear designer shoes while walking through a forest is stupid in itself.
I still love Diem though.
He worked a lot on himself through this book. I’m not a fan of the way things got handled at times. He struggled so much mentally and Tallus kind of forced him to do things.
I mean in the end it works, it helps him get better. And maybe all the pushing is a bit something that Diem needs. But it sometimes feels a bit wrong.
But it might be a me-thing as I don’t connect with Tallus that much.
Through all the hard exterior it gets more and more clear how soft and needy Diem is.
He just doesn’t know how to be and how to handle it.
For his sake I really like that their relationship took such big steps in the book and that there’ll be even bigger ones to come.
The mystery was very interesting. I had a few guesses throughout the book, so it stayed quite exciting!
It was a bit strange how the police worked, but my only knowledge about it is mostly through books and TV, and even that is probably entirely fiction. So it was plausible but I was a bit sceptical if they actually would do or wouldn’t do things.
I was very pleasantly surprised at the end that there’ll be a fourth book and I’m looking forward to that!
April 5, 2025
Story: 4 stars
Audiobook : 5 stars- Nick Russo does an impeccable job .
The series has improved quite a bit since the previous book. Good thing I gave it another chance. Both the case and the relationship between the mc's as well as Tallus' behavior has improved quite a bit.
Diem has financial problems, he is falling behind with the rent and bills, so when he is hired to investigate the case of a boy who, in theory, has suffered an accident and is in the hospital with no chance of recovery, he accepts immediately. Tallus accompanies him, as he is taking a course to become a private detective, as a junior assistant and as a boyfriend.
We are unraveling the case at the same time as the main characters. To be honest, I didn't expect that resolution.
Diem evolves as a character in this book.
I look forward to the next book.
Audiobook : 5 stars- Nick Russo does an impeccable job .
The series has improved quite a bit since the previous book. Good thing I gave it another chance. Both the case and the relationship between the mc's as well as Tallus' behavior has improved quite a bit.
Diem has financial problems, he is falling behind with the rent and bills, so when he is hired to investigate the case of a boy who, in theory, has suffered an accident and is in the hospital with no chance of recovery, he accepts immediately. Tallus accompanies him, as he is taking a course to become a private detective, as a junior assistant and as a boyfriend.
We are unraveling the case at the same time as the main characters. To be honest, I didn't expect that resolution.
Diem evolves as a character in this book.
I look forward to the next book.
March 17, 2025
Awesome couple. I love this series.
September 22, 2025
Audiobook
I struggled with this one. Diem’s psychological issues are really affecting him and I almost gave up on the book and the series. His anger outbursts and the way he lost his temper not only with Tallus but with whoever was in the vicinity really made it difficult to empathise with him. I began to really question how he had ever been accepted into the police with how emotionally dysregulated he became. I also questioned whether Tallus was caught up in an abusive relationship. Tallus seemed unaffected by Diem’s anger and was able to diffuse situations easily. He obviously loves Diem very much and was willing to put up with his moods. Perhaps listening rather than reading this story was a bad choice. Diem’s angry voice, yelling, and general assholery at times made him so hard to like. The only thing keeping me going was knowing that there would be a HEA and the hope that by the end of this story, some of the issues Diem dealt with might be more manageable. There was indeed a HEA and I will continue with the series but I am taking a break.
The narration was great and I enjoyed the case in this one more than the first two books. But I am really hoping the fourth book brings a little more levity and a happier Diem because the out of control angry bear routine is getting old and tiresome.
I struggled with this one. Diem’s psychological issues are really affecting him and I almost gave up on the book and the series. His anger outbursts and the way he lost his temper not only with Tallus but with whoever was in the vicinity really made it difficult to empathise with him. I began to really question how he had ever been accepted into the police with how emotionally dysregulated he became. I also questioned whether Tallus was caught up in an abusive relationship. Tallus seemed unaffected by Diem’s anger and was able to diffuse situations easily. He obviously loves Diem very much and was willing to put up with his moods. Perhaps listening rather than reading this story was a bad choice. Diem’s angry voice, yelling, and general assholery at times made him so hard to like. The only thing keeping me going was knowing that there would be a HEA and the hope that by the end of this story, some of the issues Diem dealt with might be more manageable. There was indeed a HEA and I will continue with the series but I am taking a break.
The narration was great and I enjoyed the case in this one more than the first two books. But I am really hoping the fourth book brings a little more levity and a happier Diem because the out of control angry bear routine is getting old and tiresome.
April 25, 2025
A gripping mystery with emotional depth, where storytelling turns deadly—and love finds its voice in the quiet spaces between the lines.
Audiobook Review – 4.5 Stars
Narrated by Nick J. Russo
This story had such a unique and compelling setup — a group of students in a writing class who meet outside of school to craft murder mysteries… only to find themselves at the center of a real one. The plot follows two detectives, Diem and Tallus, as they try to unravel the truth behind a student left on life support, with a mother who refuses to believe it was an accident. The mystery was layered, engaging, and so well constructed — I was hooked the whole way through.
But what truly elevated it for me was the relationship between Diem and Tallus. Watching Diem slowly peel back his layers and begin to trust, while Tallus — patient, kind, and quietly breaking down his own walls — was just beautiful. There’s a subtle emotional intensity between them that Nick J. Russo captures perfectly. His narration brought so much warmth and nuance; I was hooked from start to finish.
Highly recommend for fans of romance with emotional depth and an excellently plotted mystery.
Audiobook Review – 4.5 Stars
Narrated by Nick J. Russo
This story had such a unique and compelling setup — a group of students in a writing class who meet outside of school to craft murder mysteries… only to find themselves at the center of a real one. The plot follows two detectives, Diem and Tallus, as they try to unravel the truth behind a student left on life support, with a mother who refuses to believe it was an accident. The mystery was layered, engaging, and so well constructed — I was hooked the whole way through.
But what truly elevated it for me was the relationship between Diem and Tallus. Watching Diem slowly peel back his layers and begin to trust, while Tallus — patient, kind, and quietly breaking down his own walls — was just beautiful. There’s a subtle emotional intensity between them that Nick J. Russo captures perfectly. His narration brought so much warmth and nuance; I was hooked from start to finish.
Highly recommend for fans of romance with emotional depth and an excellently plotted mystery.
April 19, 2025
I am weirdly lukewarm about it, after really looking forward to it (I listened to the audiobook, which was IMO a flawless read, as usual).
Tallus and Diem progress their relationship a bit, but there are all these other layers of a lot of mystery around, and it's ambitious and well done but somehow, this is me and not any execution flaw, it was not so complex or thrilling to be a thriller, and I am just reading this for the romance (rather than say a mystery genre novel) and romance to mystery plot was a bit frustrating. As was, because I am rooting for the characters to have character growth them having some issues (like Tallus' s spending) which do not progress on their own while we focus on something external and kind of get solved deus ex machina by a generous client.. It felt more tedious and anxious than expected, but I am still in for the rest of the books.
Tallus and Diem progress their relationship a bit, but there are all these other layers of a lot of mystery around, and it's ambitious and well done but somehow, this is me and not any execution flaw, it was not so complex or thrilling to be a thriller, and I am just reading this for the romance (rather than say a mystery genre novel) and romance to mystery plot was a bit frustrating. As was, because I am rooting for the characters to have character growth them having some issues (like Tallus' s spending) which do not progress on their own while we focus on something external and kind of get solved deus ex machina by a generous client.. It felt more tedious and anxious than expected, but I am still in for the rest of the books.
April 7, 2025
I loved just about everything: how the relationship between Diem and Tallus evolved, the storyline, the angst, that the story isn't predictable, but best of all is the narration.
The two characters are so different in their voices that you have no problem in recognizing which POV is just speaking. Diem the gruff voice, always more thoughtful in his voice. Tallus the faster and much lighter voice who is often rambling and whose thoughts are racing.
My only critique is that I don’t like how their living and working situation was summarized at the end of the book. You get a small glimpse in the first chapter and I was very curious how this would evolve,and then it was just "told" in a few sentences on the last pages.
The two characters are so different in their voices that you have no problem in recognizing which POV is just speaking. Diem the gruff voice, always more thoughtful in his voice. Tallus the faster and much lighter voice who is often rambling and whose thoughts are racing.
My only critique is that I don’t like how their living and working situation was summarized at the end of the book. You get a small glimpse in the first chapter and I was very curious how this would evolve,and then it was just "told" in a few sentences on the last pages.
March 28, 2025
Progress! So much progress! My heart is happy!
My heart was also very anxious because of their case. It was frustrating, all the people not cooperating. How hard is to be truthful? Then again that made me doubt so many more people so I think that was the goal. I didn't get the killer but I still had fun going along those two lovebirds during the investigation.
There were so many feelings!! And that ending! Loved it!
My heart was also very anxious because of their case. It was frustrating, all the people not cooperating. How hard is to be truthful? Then again that made me doubt so many more people so I think that was the goal. I didn't get the killer but I still had fun going along those two lovebirds during the investigation.
There were so many feelings!! And that ending! Loved it!
June 1, 2025
Diem and Tallus forever! Who would have guessed I’d end up loving this series and these two so much?!
I was struggling a bit with the first book because their relationship was a bit…questionable? But look how far they’ve come and I am shipping them so hard now!
Tallus is cute and hilarious, Diem is growing and actually developing a sense of humour!
This case was craaaazy and I loved it.
I am HOOKED! Give me more!
I was struggling a bit with the first book because their relationship was a bit…questionable? But look how far they’ve come and I am shipping them so hard now!
Tallus is cute and hilarious, Diem is growing and actually developing a sense of humour!
This case was craaaazy and I loved it.
I am HOOKED! Give me more!
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