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First Light: A Lou Thorne Thriller
In this 12th installment of the bestselling Shadows in the Water series, Louie Thorne is tested in ways she’s never been tested before.
Louie Thorne has always been a fighter, but on the brink of motherhood, her determination burns with a new intensity. When a vicious attack lands her in the hospital, Lou refuses to surrender—wounded, in labor, and armed, she is faced with a terrible choice.
Across the ocean, Ettore Celesti, Naples’ merciless crime lord has vowed to destroy Konstantine and the mysterious La Strega, the ghost of vengeance who haunts his every step. When the perfect moment to deliver his retribution presents itself, he doesn’t hesitate to strike.
In spite of their own personal challenges, Lou’s chosen family proves to be a powerful team of allies who share her grit and courage. They face the oncoming war even knowing that none of them will survive unscathed. As the danger escalates, and Lou’s supernatural abilities falter, Lou must confront her own fears and vulnerability. Only as an unshakeable team, can Lou and her friends tip the scales in a war where survival is anything but guaranteed…
Praise for Shadows in the Water
★★★★★ “An amazing book with a unique premise!”
★★★★★ “Dark and suspenseful, Shadows in the Water sends tingles down your spine!”
★★★★★ “The main character is a serial killer, but it's cool. She only kills the bad guys.”
★★★★★ “This book is well done. It grabs you and doesn't want to let go no matter how tired you are and need to sleep.”
★★★★ “Something really different in the supernatural/power type of story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book with plenty of suspense, well-drawn characters, and a really unusual premise.”
★★★★★ “Such a great book! I can't wait to read the next one!”
★★★★★ “Taut, well written, and absorbing!”
★★★★★ “One of the best supernatural thrillers.”
Louie Thorne has always been a fighter, but on the brink of motherhood, her determination burns with a new intensity. When a vicious attack lands her in the hospital, Lou refuses to surrender—wounded, in labor, and armed, she is faced with a terrible choice.
Across the ocean, Ettore Celesti, Naples’ merciless crime lord has vowed to destroy Konstantine and the mysterious La Strega, the ghost of vengeance who haunts his every step. When the perfect moment to deliver his retribution presents itself, he doesn’t hesitate to strike.
In spite of their own personal challenges, Lou’s chosen family proves to be a powerful team of allies who share her grit and courage. They face the oncoming war even knowing that none of them will survive unscathed. As the danger escalates, and Lou’s supernatural abilities falter, Lou must confront her own fears and vulnerability. Only as an unshakeable team, can Lou and her friends tip the scales in a war where survival is anything but guaranteed…
Praise for Shadows in the Water
★★★★★ “An amazing book with a unique premise!”
★★★★★ “Dark and suspenseful, Shadows in the Water sends tingles down your spine!”
★★★★★ “The main character is a serial killer, but it's cool. She only kills the bad guys.”
★★★★★ “This book is well done. It grabs you and doesn't want to let go no matter how tired you are and need to sleep.”
★★★★ “Something really different in the supernatural/power type of story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book with plenty of suspense, well-drawn characters, and a really unusual premise.”
★★★★★ “Such a great book! I can't wait to read the next one!”
★★★★★ “Taut, well written, and absorbing!”
★★★★★ “One of the best supernatural thrillers.”
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 17, 2024
23 people are currently reading
8 people want to read
About the author
Kory M. Shrum
53 books648 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Kory M. Shrum has published more than thirty books, including the bestselling Shadows in the Water series.
She hosts two podcasts—Who Killed My Mother?, a true-crime podcast about her mother’s tragic death, and A Well Cared For Human, focused on practical strategies for wellbeing and personal transformation.
She also publishes poetry under the name K.B. Marie.
When not writing, speaking, or pursuing one of her 300 hobbies, she can usually be found under thick blankets with snacks. The kettle is almost always on.
She lives in Michigan with her equally bookish wife, Kim, and their rescue dog, Max.
She hosts two podcasts—Who Killed My Mother?, a true-crime podcast about her mother’s tragic death, and A Well Cared For Human, focused on practical strategies for wellbeing and personal transformation.
She also publishes poetry under the name K.B. Marie.
When not writing, speaking, or pursuing one of her 300 hobbies, she can usually be found under thick blankets with snacks. The kettle is almost always on.
She lives in Michigan with her equally bookish wife, Kim, and their rescue dog, Max.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 17, 2024
I couldn’t put this book down! Dramatic opening. Plenty of action, heart thumping moments, and some tender scenes. Great collection of characters. Lou is a real superhero!
I received this book as an ARC and this review is voluntary.
I received this book as an ARC and this review is voluntary.
December 26, 2024
Omg this is a gr8 read. Action is nonstop and I just couldn’t put this book down. Read till 2:30am and had to go to sleep. First thing on the morning back at the book and finished it before noon. The story line is awesome. No spoilers from me the only advice I will give you is that if you don’t read this book you will miss a gr8 continuing series. I’m so excited now I get to read all 12 books again. Thanks Kory.
December 23, 2024
Wow. There is a whole bunch to unpack in this book. Sooooo much. I read it in one sitting because I Could. Not. Put. It. Down. Just phenomenal. I was so terrified for everyone throughout the entire book. Just another phenomenal book in a phenomenal series. Loved it!
February 1, 2025
5 Stars
First Light is the twelfth Lou Thorne Thriller (AKA Shadows in the Water) series by a favourite author of mine, Kory M. Shrum. I have been eagerly waiting for this book to release and jumped on it the moment it hit my Kindle. I hope this isn’t the end of the Louie Thorne stories though…. I really hope there are more instalments coming- but if this is the last book, then I am satisfied with how things have played out--- even if I still want more and have a few more questions…. Ms. Shrum didn’t disappoint- bringing all the tension, intrigue, action, and intensity that I love about this series.
I don’t want to give anything away and spoil it for you- especially if you are yet to read any of this series or are only part way through. But, as with the other books in the series, this is a brilliant urban fantasy with so much going on- in a really fantastic way. With plenty of action, adventure, mystery, danger, a different realm aspect, suspense, tension, intrigue, drama, the mafia, mafia politics/mafia power grabs, agendas, team work, friendship, family, investigation, a time factor, gripping scenes, jaw dropping developments, twists, romance, and so, so, so much more- you really need to read it to fully appreciate this gem of a series as words can’t really do this book/series the justice that it deserves.
Louie Thorne is the daughter of assassinated DEA agent, Jack Thorne. He, along with her mother, were murdered by a drug cartel when she was just a young child- his death scarred her, in more ways than one. She has bided her time honing her skills, becoming a force to be reckoned with- one so powerful that the ‘bad guys’ will never see her coming. In the process of wreaking revenge, she builds a terrifying reputation that will strike fear into the hearts of her enemies- and it’s her secret ‘ability’ that gives her the upper hand- and gives this whole series a completely unique and addictive quality. So much action. With a lot of violence. And a huge helping of adventure. Resulting in a serious book addiction- while also set this book/series apart from others, and this is a book ‘high’ that will be hard to beat.
I developed this addiction to Ms. Shrum’s stories when I stumbled on the Shadows in the Water series -> picking up one book, which then led to two, which then had me devouring the whole series, back-to-back (11 books) in a matter of days- then waiting on tenterhooks for the release of this epic instlament. And Ms. Shrum ups the ante, once again, putting her character/s through the wringer in more ways than one.
Each book in this series follows on from the previous one – with each instalment having its own ‘story’, but also adding to what has come before, thereby building a much bigger picture along the way- so the books aren’t meant to be read as standalones and the series really needs to be read in the correct sequence, to fully appreciate it. The books are available individually if you wish, as well as in Boxed Sets- which, again, is really great value for money.
The Series consists of:
-Shadows in the Water (Book #1)
-Under the Bones (Book #2)
-Danse Macabre (Book #3)
-Carnival (Book #4)
-Devil’s Luck (Book #5)
-What Comes Around (Book #6)
-Overkill (Book #7)
-Silver Bullet (Book #8)
-Hell House (Book #9)
-One Foot in the Grave (Book #10)
-Blood Rain (Book #11)
-First Light (Book #12)
If you love highly original urban fantasies with plenty of action and adventure- then this is definitely a series you will want to sink your teeth into- but be prepared to develop an addiction!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kory M. Shrum!
First Light is the twelfth Lou Thorne Thriller (AKA Shadows in the Water) series by a favourite author of mine, Kory M. Shrum. I have been eagerly waiting for this book to release and jumped on it the moment it hit my Kindle. I hope this isn’t the end of the Louie Thorne stories though…. I really hope there are more instalments coming- but if this is the last book, then I am satisfied with how things have played out--- even if I still want more and have a few more questions…. Ms. Shrum didn’t disappoint- bringing all the tension, intrigue, action, and intensity that I love about this series.
I don’t want to give anything away and spoil it for you- especially if you are yet to read any of this series or are only part way through. But, as with the other books in the series, this is a brilliant urban fantasy with so much going on- in a really fantastic way. With plenty of action, adventure, mystery, danger, a different realm aspect, suspense, tension, intrigue, drama, the mafia, mafia politics/mafia power grabs, agendas, team work, friendship, family, investigation, a time factor, gripping scenes, jaw dropping developments, twists, romance, and so, so, so much more- you really need to read it to fully appreciate this gem of a series as words can’t really do this book/series the justice that it deserves.
Louie Thorne is the daughter of assassinated DEA agent, Jack Thorne. He, along with her mother, were murdered by a drug cartel when she was just a young child- his death scarred her, in more ways than one. She has bided her time honing her skills, becoming a force to be reckoned with- one so powerful that the ‘bad guys’ will never see her coming. In the process of wreaking revenge, she builds a terrifying reputation that will strike fear into the hearts of her enemies- and it’s her secret ‘ability’ that gives her the upper hand- and gives this whole series a completely unique and addictive quality. So much action. With a lot of violence. And a huge helping of adventure. Resulting in a serious book addiction- while also set this book/series apart from others, and this is a book ‘high’ that will be hard to beat.
I developed this addiction to Ms. Shrum’s stories when I stumbled on the Shadows in the Water series -> picking up one book, which then led to two, which then had me devouring the whole series, back-to-back (11 books) in a matter of days- then waiting on tenterhooks for the release of this epic instlament. And Ms. Shrum ups the ante, once again, putting her character/s through the wringer in more ways than one.
Each book in this series follows on from the previous one – with each instalment having its own ‘story’, but also adding to what has come before, thereby building a much bigger picture along the way- so the books aren’t meant to be read as standalones and the series really needs to be read in the correct sequence, to fully appreciate it. The books are available individually if you wish, as well as in Boxed Sets- which, again, is really great value for money.
The Series consists of:
-Shadows in the Water (Book #1)
-Under the Bones (Book #2)
-Danse Macabre (Book #3)
-Carnival (Book #4)
-Devil’s Luck (Book #5)
-What Comes Around (Book #6)
-Overkill (Book #7)
-Silver Bullet (Book #8)
-Hell House (Book #9)
-One Foot in the Grave (Book #10)
-Blood Rain (Book #11)
-First Light (Book #12)
If you love highly original urban fantasies with plenty of action and adventure- then this is definitely a series you will want to sink your teeth into- but be prepared to develop an addiction!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kory M. Shrum!
January 19, 2025
The Darkness is Watching....and Judging. And just plain AWESOME! ❤️
This series is *always* on my "must buy" list + boy oh boy did this latest installment pay off in the best of ways 😍!!! Put aside any plans you may have had for the day....these characters + their story will keep you captured until the very last word! I could. Not. Put it down. These characters are colorful and multi layered to say the very least. I've been a fan since book one, and by now they all feel like dear friends. The suspense, danger + adrenaline levels were super high in this one, so be prepared. The stakes are the highest they've ever been for Louie + co. My goodness was it exciting! My emotions were all over the place 😉....the mark of a truly great read in my book. Louie has come such a long way since we were first introduced to her way back when, in the first of this series. This book seems like it's the *possible* start of a rebirth of sorts for Louie. Like the proverbial phoenix 🐦🔥, she may be morphing into something new...both in life as a mum, + with her powers. Any enemies had better R U N. I highly recommend this exciting read!!! You won't be disappointed by any means. This entire world is filled with suspense and intrigue, action, love, chosen family, friends, sacrifice, adrenaline, enemies, paranormal, a little mystery, and so much more...what's not to love 😉? Take a chance and dive on in.
This series is *always* on my "must buy" list + boy oh boy did this latest installment pay off in the best of ways 😍!!! Put aside any plans you may have had for the day....these characters + their story will keep you captured until the very last word! I could. Not. Put it down. These characters are colorful and multi layered to say the very least. I've been a fan since book one, and by now they all feel like dear friends. The suspense, danger + adrenaline levels were super high in this one, so be prepared. The stakes are the highest they've ever been for Louie + co. My goodness was it exciting! My emotions were all over the place 😉....the mark of a truly great read in my book. Louie has come such a long way since we were first introduced to her way back when, in the first of this series. This book seems like it's the *possible* start of a rebirth of sorts for Louie. Like the proverbial phoenix 🐦🔥, she may be morphing into something new...both in life as a mum, + with her powers. Any enemies had better R U N. I highly recommend this exciting read!!! You won't be disappointed by any means. This entire world is filled with suspense and intrigue, action, love, chosen family, friends, sacrifice, adrenaline, enemies, paranormal, a little mystery, and so much more...what's not to love 😉? Take a chance and dive on in.
January 5, 2025
This is the 12th book in the series, Shadows in the Water. I've been waiting quite a while for this book to drop, and although I finished it in a day, I was somewhat disappointed. Each of the first 11 books, got better and better, this one was good, but not great (for me). I feel like it was maybe rushed by the author. It was missing the deep connection between Louie and Konstantine, her trip to La Loon was super-fast and her interactions with the "monsters" were fleeting, Ettore Celesti was just a milquetoast bad guy, are among my chief critiques. Then there was the fact that Louie seemed to have little regard for being ready to deliver any day. Finally, the birth was "glossed" over and there was no effort to connect the reader to the child. Yes, we get to know her superpower, but how does Louie feel being a mom? How does it affect her and Konstantine's relationship? How do all of her friends connect with the baby?
It's still a fast paced, thrill ride of a book, but the connections between characters are sparse compared to her other books in the series, and those are more important to me personally. But if you are just looking for an action packed, quick read, it still works.
It's still a fast paced, thrill ride of a book, but the connections between characters are sparse compared to her other books in the series, and those are more important to me personally. But if you are just looking for an action packed, quick read, it still works.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2024
First Light - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
Kory M. Shrum's outstanding Lou Thorne Thriller series has always fascinated me, from Book 1 right up to this heart-stopping 12th novel.
Lou Thorne, (aka La Strega) is ready to give birth, but that only makes her more deadly as she and baby Elena's father, Konstantin, face their ultimate nemesis.
When her power of darkness becomes unpredictable, how will it change not only Lou's chances of survival, but also that of their friends, Mel, King, Piper and Stefano?
Read the heart-stopping, unputdownable First Light to find out...but be warned, Lou can be either your best friend - or your worst nightmare!
Kory M. Shrum's outstanding Lou Thorne Thriller series has always fascinated me, from Book 1 right up to this heart-stopping 12th novel.
Lou Thorne, (aka La Strega) is ready to give birth, but that only makes her more deadly as she and baby Elena's father, Konstantin, face their ultimate nemesis.
When her power of darkness becomes unpredictable, how will it change not only Lou's chances of survival, but also that of their friends, Mel, King, Piper and Stefano?
Read the heart-stopping, unputdownable First Light to find out...but be warned, Lou can be either your best friend - or your worst nightmare!
December 23, 2024
This book starts with some crazy action, so if you don't remember how the last book ended maybe do a refresh.....it took me a minute to get my head back into Lou's world. Once I did though I was fully in! It starts with the ending and then takes you back 10 days and moves you towards the big end. And it is a big amazing ending! If you're a fan of this series then this is a must read that leaves you excited to see what the next chapter in Lou's life will bring.
December 24, 2024
Lou Thorne meets an extremely difficult challenge as her adopted family is threatened by a mafia boss from Naples while she is expecting to give birth any moment. He wants possession not only of Konstantine’s territory, but of Lou herself. (spoiler alert) Fortunately, his expectations overreach his ability as Lou and her team finally, after pain and suffering by everyone, put him in his place on La Luna.
January 5, 2025
Another humdinger from Kory Shrum! I raced through this one caught in the tension and suspense and other stuff going on with the whole Lou Thorne crew of characters. Lou is ready to give birth, a bad guy starts a war with Konstantine and the Ravengers, and if that is not enough Lou's special abilities are glitching. At 12 books in the series I am not tired of it. Says a lot about Ms. Shrum's staying power to keep me that interested in a series.
January 16, 2025
I have read every book in this series and I have to say that First Light is the best. I think I said this about the Last book but Kory Shrum continues to surprise me. In this book Lou Thorne faces even more challenges than in the other books. Robert and Mel continue to do their thing. Piper makes a very big career decision and everyone is supported of it. This book grabs your attention from the very beginning and never lets up. I hope there is another book coming.
December 23, 2024
First Light. Kory M Shrum
Bang! Shock and awe, starts off the first chapter.
This roller coaster ride of a book never slows down.
Storyline continues the saga of vampires, werewolves, witches and more supernatural beings that are often both good and evil.
Totally captivating read. Warning- this storyline is extremely addictive.
I cannot get enough of this writer work!
Bang! Shock and awe, starts off the first chapter.
This roller coaster ride of a book never slows down.
Storyline continues the saga of vampires, werewolves, witches and more supernatural beings that are often both good and evil.
Totally captivating read. Warning- this storyline is extremely addictive.
I cannot get enough of this writer work!
December 27, 2024
Lou and Konstatine are in the middle of an escalating mafia war. This time though Lou is having to fight the fight on multiple fronts while extremely pregnant. Can she work through the pregnancy and it's complications to not only live to deliver her child but also save all her friends and family involved in the war?? This is a must read especially if you're a fan of Louie Thorne!!
January 3, 2025
A tense, exciting action packed read. With that start I was on the edge of my seat the whole way through, half expecting someone important to die (if not a main character, then one of the close secondary ones). The stakes were suitably high with Lou on the verge of giving birth & her powers on the fritz while the mob war escalated.
December 26, 2024
This phenomenal action adventure has drama, danger, suspense, threats, and love of family. The main characters are developed, loving, likable, and engaging. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 29, 2024
A fantastic read from start to finish. I absolutely love this series and can't get enough of it. Impatiently awaiting the next one, I received an ARC copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 31, 2024
This is an excellent book!! I love her writing style, and how she tells the story! There was so much character growth in this book! I can’t wait to see how Louie and Konstantine raise their special daughter!!
January 5, 2025
The latest Louie Thorne book starts with a bang-King and Mel being wheeled into hospital after being shot!!! Lou's power has become unreliable during one of the most important battles of her life. Get ready for another great ride.
January 7, 2025
Another unbelievable story that will keep you intrigued. Louie is facing motherhood and danger at the same time. After an attack, she’s determined to fight back. Will she be able to win this battle. Binge reading worthy, absolutely brilliant.
December 24, 2024
Starting off with loads of action, the saga of Lou and co. continues. It's an exciting thrill ride with action, twisty plots, and more.
December 31, 2024
What a wonderful segue in this series. The usual non-stop action, intrigue, throw in a bit of romance and you have a great read. Not to mention the introduction of a new member to the family.
January 5, 2025
The long wait was well worth it. I throughly enjoyed this book from start to finish giving nothing away chapter to chapter. Looking forward to the next in the series
January 13, 2025
I could not put this down. I love Lou Thorne, and I can't wait for the next book.
January 2, 2025
Well it started off with lots of action. Then we jumped backwards. Will they go to war with another enemy? If so who will survive? It’s very exciting what’s happening. More action and excitement! Another book you can’t put down but I really didn’t want it to end.
A great author with some great series. I love reading her books.
A great author with some great series. I love reading her books.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews