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Of Shadows and Secrets #5
Shadowfox
Two spies. One mission. No way out.
Budapest, 1948. The Soviet stranglehold on Eastern Europe tightens as paranoia and fear sweep the streets. When seasoned operatives Will Shaw and Thomas Jacobs are sent to extract a brilliant Hungarian cryptographer, they expect a dangerous but routine mission. What they don’t expect is that the man refuses to defect without his kidnapped daughter.
With time running out and Soviet forces closing in, Will and Thomas must navigate a city where every shadow hides an enemy, every whispered word is a betrayal, and no one can be trusted. Their only chance at escape is a last, desperate train ride toward the Austrian border, but even that is a trap waiting to be sprung. The KGB’s most ruthless officer is watching their every move, and one wrong step could mean a bullet in the back—or a one-way trip to a Siberian prison camp.
As the stakes rise and the mission spirals out of control, Will and Thomas find themselves fighting not just for survival, but for each other. Their love has endured war, secrets, and impossible odds, but this time, even their unbreakable bond may not be enough.
For readers who
Explosive MM romanceA devoted, long-term couple forced to put everything on the lineTense, high-stakes actionA deadly game of cat and mouseThis series is perfect for fans of Tal Bauer, Jack L. Pyke and Gregory Ashe.
While this book is a continuation of the Of Shadows & Secrets series, and readers will better enjoy the context by reading in series order, it may be read as a standalone.
Budapest, 1948. The Soviet stranglehold on Eastern Europe tightens as paranoia and fear sweep the streets. When seasoned operatives Will Shaw and Thomas Jacobs are sent to extract a brilliant Hungarian cryptographer, they expect a dangerous but routine mission. What they don’t expect is that the man refuses to defect without his kidnapped daughter.
With time running out and Soviet forces closing in, Will and Thomas must navigate a city where every shadow hides an enemy, every whispered word is a betrayal, and no one can be trusted. Their only chance at escape is a last, desperate train ride toward the Austrian border, but even that is a trap waiting to be sprung. The KGB’s most ruthless officer is watching their every move, and one wrong step could mean a bullet in the back—or a one-way trip to a Siberian prison camp.
As the stakes rise and the mission spirals out of control, Will and Thomas find themselves fighting not just for survival, but for each other. Their love has endured war, secrets, and impossible odds, but this time, even their unbreakable bond may not be enough.
For readers who
Explosive MM romanceA devoted, long-term couple forced to put everything on the lineTense, high-stakes actionA deadly game of cat and mouseThis series is perfect for fans of Tal Bauer, Jack L. Pyke and Gregory Ashe.
While this book is a continuation of the Of Shadows & Secrets series, and readers will better enjoy the context by reading in series order, it may be read as a standalone.
503 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 27, 2025
55 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
Casey Morales
52 books411 followersCasey Morales is an LGBT storyteller and the author of multiple bestselling MM romance novels. Born in the Southern United States, Casey is an avid tennis player, aspiring chef, dog lover, and ravenous consumer of gummy bears.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 28, 2025
Can I have this made into a movie? Please? Well, all of them! I read them out of order, because I saw the ARC, and I am leaving my voluntary review for a very good book, and let me tell you, these books are amazing! All of them! Or maybe it’s just the author being incredible and I think all the books I’ve read from him are great. Or maybe it’s because this is such an immersive story, it sucks you in, and you’re right there with them, fighting for what’s right, fleeing from danger, hoping against hope that things will turn alright, and sometimes, you’ll cheat and read ahead because the action is getting to you and you want them to be alright.
May 21, 2025
Shadowfox is book #5 in this series. It could be read as a standalone, but it's a lot more compelling if you read the series in order. It's now 1948 and our heroes Will & Thomas are living in post-war Paris. They are firmly entrenched in the embryonic stages of the CIA as field operatives, living a quiet public life as friends/roomies, but lovers behind closed doors. Remember, this is still the era when same-sex activity could get you imprisoned or worse, and Casey stays true to that narrative. There is plenty of intimacy here, but it's not the steamiest book Casey has ever written!
Big boss Madigan contacts the guys with their next assignment. When they meet, Arty is back with lots of new spy gear & gadgets, but the best surprise is that Will & Thomas are again paired-up with Sparrow & Egret for this gig. They are headed to Soviet-occupied Hungary to attempt to rescue a brilliant cryptographer who has invented a machine that will decode any set of messages in any global language virtually instantly. Stalin and the Reds in Moscow want it for nefarious reasons and it's up to Emu, Condor, Sparrow and Egret to make sure that doesn't happen. So they're off to Budapest by train with fake identities as energy professionals consulting to rebuild Europe's post-war power grid.
The mission is difficult for multiple reasons. Soviet occupation has the public on edge. It's impossible to determine who to trust, so nobody trusts anyone. When they make clandestine contact with their target, he refuses their offer to escape to the West unless his 13-year old daughter comes too. They are a package deal, which wasn't in the original manifest and causes additional angst when the Soviets kidnap her. Also, the machine itself is just too big for them to sneak out with. So they have to figure out how to disable it so the Soviet's can't use it to take over the world.
Casey takes us on a wild ride that will keep you turning the pages! I read this 400-pager in two sittings. Eventually everything gets resolved, but not necessarily to the original plan. So it begs the question of how do you define success? Different characters in the book have different definitions of it, so us readers have our own definitions challenged. Eventually a great Epilogue sorts things somewhat and we realize being true to yourself and your own personal definition of success is the right approach. I love this Series and this particular book is a great addition to it. Can't wait to see what Will & Thomas get up to next! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Big boss Madigan contacts the guys with their next assignment. When they meet, Arty is back with lots of new spy gear & gadgets, but the best surprise is that Will & Thomas are again paired-up with Sparrow & Egret for this gig. They are headed to Soviet-occupied Hungary to attempt to rescue a brilliant cryptographer who has invented a machine that will decode any set of messages in any global language virtually instantly. Stalin and the Reds in Moscow want it for nefarious reasons and it's up to Emu, Condor, Sparrow and Egret to make sure that doesn't happen. So they're off to Budapest by train with fake identities as energy professionals consulting to rebuild Europe's post-war power grid.
The mission is difficult for multiple reasons. Soviet occupation has the public on edge. It's impossible to determine who to trust, so nobody trusts anyone. When they make clandestine contact with their target, he refuses their offer to escape to the West unless his 13-year old daughter comes too. They are a package deal, which wasn't in the original manifest and causes additional angst when the Soviets kidnap her. Also, the machine itself is just too big for them to sneak out with. So they have to figure out how to disable it so the Soviet's can't use it to take over the world.
Casey takes us on a wild ride that will keep you turning the pages! I read this 400-pager in two sittings. Eventually everything gets resolved, but not necessarily to the original plan. So it begs the question of how do you define success? Different characters in the book have different definitions of it, so us readers have our own definitions challenged. Eventually a great Epilogue sorts things somewhat and we realize being true to yourself and your own personal definition of success is the right approach. I love this Series and this particular book is a great addition to it. Can't wait to see what Will & Thomas get up to next! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 30, 2025
Oh boy I really love returning to the world of international espionage with Will and Thomas. The couple has been living in Paris after the events of the last book. They are happy and more in love than ever, but the growing cold war leaves no time for spies to have comfortable lives. Joined once again on this mission by Egret and Sparrow, our boys are tasked with an almost impossible assignment. They must enter Soviet occupied Hungary, rescue a crytographic genius, and make sure the machine the man has built stays out of enemy hands. And failing that, they are charged with killing the man and destroying the machine. When they get there the added wrinkle of a 13 year old daughter that has to come too adds so much more danger to all of it.
Casey Morales once again does a fantastic job of melding the espionage and romance pieces together. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time because of the effective atmosphere that Morales has written. Spies around every corner and always seconds away from complete disaster. I appreciate that these books are not about conflict between Will and Thomas, they are so solid and keep getting better with each book. While I suppose you could read these as stand alones, it's really so much better read in order. While I want there to be more episodes in the lives of Will and Thomas, I also just want to think of them spending the rest of the 50s living their best lives in Paris.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Casey Morales once again does a fantastic job of melding the espionage and romance pieces together. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time because of the effective atmosphere that Morales has written. Spies around every corner and always seconds away from complete disaster. I appreciate that these books are not about conflict between Will and Thomas, they are so solid and keep getting better with each book. While I suppose you could read these as stand alones, it's really so much better read in order. While I want there to be more episodes in the lives of Will and Thomas, I also just want to think of them spending the rest of the 50s living their best lives in Paris.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2025
“Shadowfox,” the fifth thrilling installment in the “Of Shadows & Secrets” series, whisks readers away to the war-torn streets of Budapest, where intrigue and danger lurk around every corner. Join our heroes, Will and Thomas, as they embark on yet another daring mission, this time with even higher stakes than before.
This adventure revolves around the urgent rescue of a brilliant scientist and his spirited daughter, both held captive by shadowy Russian forces. While “Shadowfox” may dial back the frenetic pace compared to its action-packed predecessor, it compensates with rich storytelling and a deeper exploration of courage and loyalty. The atmospheric setting of Budapest—its historic architecture, winding alleys, and culture—serves as the perfect backdrop for this suspenseful rescue mission.
As Will and Thomas navigate a web of secrets and deception, along with their cohorts Sparrow and Egret, the journey reveals the strength of their friendships and the moral complexities of their mission. The stakes are high, and the tension builds as they uncover hidden truths, testing their resolve and ingenuity.
“Shadowfox” invites readers to think critically about bravery and sacrifice, all while keeping them on the edge of their seats. Perfect for fans of adventure and intrigue, this latest chapter in the series promises to be a memorable experience that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next thrilling escapade.
This adventure revolves around the urgent rescue of a brilliant scientist and his spirited daughter, both held captive by shadowy Russian forces. While “Shadowfox” may dial back the frenetic pace compared to its action-packed predecessor, it compensates with rich storytelling and a deeper exploration of courage and loyalty. The atmospheric setting of Budapest—its historic architecture, winding alleys, and culture—serves as the perfect backdrop for this suspenseful rescue mission.
As Will and Thomas navigate a web of secrets and deception, along with their cohorts Sparrow and Egret, the journey reveals the strength of their friendships and the moral complexities of their mission. The stakes are high, and the tension builds as they uncover hidden truths, testing their resolve and ingenuity.
“Shadowfox” invites readers to think critically about bravery and sacrifice, all while keeping them on the edge of their seats. Perfect for fans of adventure and intrigue, this latest chapter in the series promises to be a memorable experience that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next thrilling escapade.
May 28, 2025
Shadowfox is an absolute triumph—a tightly woven tale of espionage, loyalty, and heart-pounding stakes that still finds room to be unexpectedly witty and emotionally resonant. From the first page, Casey Morales proves not only a firm grasp of historical intrigue, but also a remarkable gift for pacing and voice. The writing strikes a rare balance: clever without being showy, emotionally grounded without slowing the plot. Every scene pulls you forward, making it nearly impossible to put the book down (I tried. I failed.).
The cast is where this story shines brightest. Will and Thomas bring a deep emotional core to the chaos, their relationship both a steady anchor and a source of gentle humor. Egret, Sparrow, Arty—each character is vivid, distinct, and unforgettable. Casey Morales doesn’t just give us spies; he gives us layered, flawed people whose personal histories bleed into every mission and misstep. And the tension? As sharp as a poisoned cufflink ;)
What Casey Morales has created is more than just a spy novel—it’s a richly crafted world full of warmth, danger, and a surprising amount of charm. The storytelling is bold and confident, and the prose practically dances off the page. For readers who crave sharp dialogue, immersive settings, and characters you’ll want to follow into the fire, Shadowfox delivers on every front. Casey Morales has written a truly special series.
The cast is where this story shines brightest. Will and Thomas bring a deep emotional core to the chaos, their relationship both a steady anchor and a source of gentle humor. Egret, Sparrow, Arty—each character is vivid, distinct, and unforgettable. Casey Morales doesn’t just give us spies; he gives us layered, flawed people whose personal histories bleed into every mission and misstep. And the tension? As sharp as a poisoned cufflink ;)
What Casey Morales has created is more than just a spy novel—it’s a richly crafted world full of warmth, danger, and a surprising amount of charm. The storytelling is bold and confident, and the prose practically dances off the page. For readers who crave sharp dialogue, immersive settings, and characters you’ll want to follow into the fire, Shadowfox delivers on every front. Casey Morales has written a truly special series.
May 27, 2025
I was delighted to find Will and Thomas, as well as Sparrow and Egret, on this new mission, in the middle of the Cold War, in a Hungary ravaged by war and oppressed by the occupation of their “saviors”.
A dangerous mission, with little hope of success, in a more than hostile environment and two spies in love: all the ingredients for a thrilling book that keeps you on the edge.
Casey's writing perfectly describes the cold, unwelcoming atmosphere of post-war Hungary, reflecting the season in which the events take place. Like Will and Thomas, we feel constantly spied on, no movement unmonitored, the enemy everywhere, maintaining constant pressure.
A new tome in this OSS series, which keeps its promise of suspense, romance and immersion!
----
Je retrouve avec plaisir Will et Thomas, mais également Sparrow et Egret dans cette nouvelle mission, en pleine guerre froide, dans une Hongrie ravagée par la guerre et opprimée par l'occupation de leurs "sauveurs".
Une mission dangereuse, avec un espoir de réussite faible, dans un environnement plus qu'hostile et deux espions amoureux : tous les ingrédients pour un livre passionnant, qui tient en haleine et fait frissonner.
L'écriture de Casey décrit à merveille l'ambiance froide et peu accueillante de la Hongrie d'après guerre et qui reflète la saison qui accueille les évènements. On se sent comme Will et Thomas toujours épié, pas un mouvement n'est pas surveillé, l'ennemi est partout maintenant une pression constante.
Un nouveau tome dans cette série OSS, qui tient ses promesses de suspens, de romance et d'immersion !
A dangerous mission, with little hope of success, in a more than hostile environment and two spies in love: all the ingredients for a thrilling book that keeps you on the edge.
Casey's writing perfectly describes the cold, unwelcoming atmosphere of post-war Hungary, reflecting the season in which the events take place. Like Will and Thomas, we feel constantly spied on, no movement unmonitored, the enemy everywhere, maintaining constant pressure.
A new tome in this OSS series, which keeps its promise of suspense, romance and immersion!
----
Je retrouve avec plaisir Will et Thomas, mais également Sparrow et Egret dans cette nouvelle mission, en pleine guerre froide, dans une Hongrie ravagée par la guerre et opprimée par l'occupation de leurs "sauveurs".
Une mission dangereuse, avec un espoir de réussite faible, dans un environnement plus qu'hostile et deux espions amoureux : tous les ingrédients pour un livre passionnant, qui tient en haleine et fait frissonner.
L'écriture de Casey décrit à merveille l'ambiance froide et peu accueillante de la Hongrie d'après guerre et qui reflète la saison qui accueille les évènements. On se sent comme Will et Thomas toujours épié, pas un mouvement n'est pas surveillé, l'ennemi est partout maintenant une pression constante.
Un nouveau tome dans cette série OSS, qui tient ses promesses de suspens, de romance et d'immersion !
June 10, 2025
“You two just lurk in the shadows, saving the world, then go home and make dinner together like some happily married couple.”
It’s now 1948; Thomas and Will are joined by Egret and Sparrow for an assignment in Soviet-occupied Hungary. Their goal is to retrieve a decoding machine and its inventor to the West. The stakes are high because if all else fails, they must destoy the the machine and murder the man.
The assignment seems impossible.There are Soviets lurking in the shadows and following the Western spies. It’s set during the winter which adds to the Cold War vibes. The cryptographer refuses to leave without his teenage daughter, who has been kidnapped by the Soviets. I didn’t get much sleep as I raced through the book until the satisfying ending.
This is a historical spy thriller with a sprinkle of MM romance. Thomas and Will’s relationship is now established, and the tenderness and love is demonstrated through touches, looks, and dialogue.
Shadowfox is a standalone novel but I recommend reading each book in the series sequentially. You’ll get more out of it. I really hope that the author writes more novels in this series!
✅ Page turner
✅ An unexpected ending
✅ Lovable characters
✅ Soviets lurking everywhere
It’s now 1948; Thomas and Will are joined by Egret and Sparrow for an assignment in Soviet-occupied Hungary. Their goal is to retrieve a decoding machine and its inventor to the West. The stakes are high because if all else fails, they must destoy the the machine and murder the man.
The assignment seems impossible.There are Soviets lurking in the shadows and following the Western spies. It’s set during the winter which adds to the Cold War vibes. The cryptographer refuses to leave without his teenage daughter, who has been kidnapped by the Soviets. I didn’t get much sleep as I raced through the book until the satisfying ending.
This is a historical spy thriller with a sprinkle of MM romance. Thomas and Will’s relationship is now established, and the tenderness and love is demonstrated through touches, looks, and dialogue.
Shadowfox is a standalone novel but I recommend reading each book in the series sequentially. You’ll get more out of it. I really hope that the author writes more novels in this series!
✅ Page turner
✅ An unexpected ending
✅ Lovable characters
✅ Soviets lurking everywhere
May 21, 2025
OMG Casey just blows me away with this series. I love Emu (why a flightless bird!) and Condor, both as characters and a couple. True to the times they are friends in public, and Casey discreetly allows them their privacy when alone.
Now to the nitty gritty. Our heroes, along with Sparrow and Egret, are dispatched to post war Hungary. Their mission, to recover a machine that's greater than Enigma and return with its creator Shadowfox. How anyone thought they could smuggle a machine the size of a desk out of a Soviet controlled area without a system in place I don't know. Their second problem is Shadowfox refuses to leave without his daughter, who has been kidnapped by the Soviets. It's a case of trust no one. Their only dubious contact is Lark who acts as a go between our boys and Shadowfox. Nonstop intrigue evading their followers without attracting attention, evading the armed guards, and dealing with someone that may not being honest with them. The biggest what is Eszter working on now.
Now to the nitty gritty. Our heroes, along with Sparrow and Egret, are dispatched to post war Hungary. Their mission, to recover a machine that's greater than Enigma and return with its creator Shadowfox. How anyone thought they could smuggle a machine the size of a desk out of a Soviet controlled area without a system in place I don't know. Their second problem is Shadowfox refuses to leave without his daughter, who has been kidnapped by the Soviets. It's a case of trust no one. Their only dubious contact is Lark who acts as a go between our boys and Shadowfox. Nonstop intrigue evading their followers without attracting attention, evading the armed guards, and dealing with someone that may not being honest with them. The biggest what is Eszter working on now.
May 20, 2025
I have not read the first four books in this series, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I was blown away in the best possible way. Right from the first page the writing was taut and intelligent. The author cast a spell with his words, and I was utterly entranced. The espionage aspects of the book were engaging with the perfect amount of pacing and tension. Many phrases were lovely and evocative, to the point where I highlighted a significant portion of the book. But what spoke to me on a deep, visceral level was the abiding, steadfast love between Thomas and Will. In their world, a brush of a finger or a stolen glance contained more intimacy than an entire open-door spicy scene. I was captivated and swept up in their all-encompassing love amid the life-or-death stakes. I simply cannot recommend this book highly enough; it may be my favorite by this author so far. Bravo, Casey Morales, bravo.
May 31, 2025
Once again we are inserted into post WWII with Will and Thomas in a secret mission for the US. Together with Sparrow and Egret, they are to extract a Hungarian cryptographer Dr. Laszlo Farkas and his daughter. Laszlo has invented the "Iron Cipher", a machine that breaks encryptions and makes Alan Turning's look like a toy. It's off to Soviet controlled Hungary with no help in a page turning, espionage Thriller reminiscent of Alastair MacLean, an adventure to rescue an asset by the skin of their teeth. Casey puts you right smack dab in the middle of the time period fraught with danger. Though I love all of Casey's books, he really shines in this series, packed with danger, thrills and terror. I do so love Will and Thomas, two hopeless romantics trapped in an era of non-support but loving each other despite the obstacles and grabbing life by the hands. I received a copy of this through BookSprout and this is my voluntary opinion.
June 4, 2025
Shadowfox is the fifth espionage thriller in the Of Shadows & Secrets series. Will and Thomas are in Budapest on a mission to extract a Hungarian cryptographer from under the Soviet’s noses. They had a plan, and a back up plan, for the mission, but neither of them included the cryptographers kidnapped daughter. Instead of leaving her behind, they are determined to find a way to get all of them out alive. They may be in more danger now than ever before. Will they be able to survive this mission or will it turn deadly?
I have enjoyed the books I have read in this series and was glad to jump back into it again. I wasn’t disappointed with this latest thriller and was pulled into this mission instantly. This book is part of a bigger series, but it can easily be read as a stand alone. I love the reoccurring characters in this series and how they all work together to complete their mission. This was an engaging espionage read and I can’t wait to see if anything else comes for this series.
I have enjoyed the books I have read in this series and was glad to jump back into it again. I wasn’t disappointed with this latest thriller and was pulled into this mission instantly. This book is part of a bigger series, but it can easily be read as a stand alone. I love the reoccurring characters in this series and how they all work together to complete their mission. This was an engaging espionage read and I can’t wait to see if anything else comes for this series.
Read
August 11, 2025Will and Thomas find themselves and two other colleagues in post war Hungary. They have been tasked with locating and extracting a brilliant cryptographer and not allowing his machine to fall into Soviet hands. The Soviets hold an unexpected card, the man's daughter. There's plenty of intrigue as they're never sure who they can trust while avoiding detection of their real objective. Through all of this the two find time for their love and the love developing between their colleagues. Rescuing the girl and escaping hostile territory is fraught with danger. It's great that this is as much about the espionage in the post war period as it is about the relationship between two spies. The love between Will and Thomas is a part of who they are rather than the sole focus. In this way they are more real, just two men doing their jobs.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 1, 2025
Another tense mission for Will and Thomas
This states it can be read as a standalone but you'd get far more enjoyment out of it if you've read the the first four books.
Will and Thomas are sent on a rescue mission in Hungary that turns out to be even more complicated than expected. There's as much tension as usual, though the pace is a little slower, but it's very atmospheric in the historic city of Budapest with shadows, secrets and trouble at every corner. The occupying Soviets are also making their lives even more difficult.
There's always time for a quiet moment together, just the two of them, making the most of the love they have to hide behind closed doors.
Will and Thomas are also aided by old friends, which was perhaps my favourite thing about this book. I love the dynamics between them and Egret, Sparrow and Arty.
The next book looks like another trek across Europe for our heroes, with different ports of call and plenty of mysteries to solve.
This states it can be read as a standalone but you'd get far more enjoyment out of it if you've read the the first four books.
Will and Thomas are sent on a rescue mission in Hungary that turns out to be even more complicated than expected. There's as much tension as usual, though the pace is a little slower, but it's very atmospheric in the historic city of Budapest with shadows, secrets and trouble at every corner. The occupying Soviets are also making their lives even more difficult.
There's always time for a quiet moment together, just the two of them, making the most of the love they have to hide behind closed doors.
Will and Thomas are also aided by old friends, which was perhaps my favourite thing about this book. I love the dynamics between them and Egret, Sparrow and Arty.
The next book looks like another trek across Europe for our heroes, with different ports of call and plenty of mysteries to solve.
May 20, 2025
Not the usual Casey Morales story but well worth reading as it is about twice the normal length of his stories. Will and Thomas are US spies and work with two others at times. They are a couple and insist on working together. The four spies are sent to Hungary to extract a cryptologist and his machine, or destroy the machine but get the man out. Things don't go to plan as they find he won't leave without his daughter, it is set post-war but before 1953 as Stalin is in power. Do not expect a lot of sex in this as it is written true to the era where gay men are imprisoned but this truly is a must-read. The love between Will and Thomas shines through with the barest touch and words. The story is well-written and the way they lose tails and meet contacts is great.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2025
It's 1948, and Will and Thomas are living in Paris. The Soviets are taking over parts of Europe and there's a buzz about something being built in Hungary that could be a game changer. The U. S. can't let them get this, so Will, Thomas, Sparrow and Egret are sent to Budapest to extract the scientist who's building it. But he won't leave without his daughter.
This book had me at the edge of my seat, heart pounding, as the four of them raced against time to get the scientist and his daughter out of the country. And amid the intrigue, there is always the sweet and tender love between our guys, as well as a budding romance between Egret and Sparrow.
Once again, author Casey Morales has done and awesome job of bringing these characters to life. And making this story believable.
This book had me at the edge of my seat, heart pounding, as the four of them raced against time to get the scientist and his daughter out of the country. And amid the intrigue, there is always the sweet and tender love between our guys, as well as a budding romance between Egret and Sparrow.
Once again, author Casey Morales has done and awesome job of bringing these characters to life. And making this story believable.
December 21, 2025
A most satisfying thriller!
Thomas and Will do it again. Along the way, Morales raises questions of morality about international politics which relate to today, even though the Cold War is the time period referred to in the novel. Post WWII was a dangerous time, echoes of which ring in modern day Russia.
The spycraft detailed in this novel is extensive and difficult to carry out. Sparrow and Egret are also pros at the game, where mistakes can be painful and costly. Kudos to the method of escape from Hungary, which called on all their collective skills.
And, the solid and satisfying relationship between Will and Thomas is beautiful and deepens with each story in the series.
Thomas and Will do it again. Along the way, Morales raises questions of morality about international politics which relate to today, even though the Cold War is the time period referred to in the novel. Post WWII was a dangerous time, echoes of which ring in modern day Russia.
The spycraft detailed in this novel is extensive and difficult to carry out. Sparrow and Egret are also pros at the game, where mistakes can be painful and costly. Kudos to the method of escape from Hungary, which called on all their collective skills.
And, the solid and satisfying relationship between Will and Thomas is beautiful and deepens with each story in the series.
June 1, 2025
Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion:
I really enjoyed the post war setting, the lingering dangers and the seeing the beginnings of the CIA. Will and Thomas are back, and I loved getting to see Will, Thomas, Sparrow, and Egret’s working a mission together. These author, throughout the series, has created such an authentic sense of time and place and post war tension is excellent. I loved the twist here of a mission going off plan when their target refuses to comply without his daughter. This was a fun ride, definitely a page turner and I especially loved getting time with Will and Thomas together- romance or espionage, those parts are always the highlights for me.
I really enjoyed the post war setting, the lingering dangers and the seeing the beginnings of the CIA. Will and Thomas are back, and I loved getting to see Will, Thomas, Sparrow, and Egret’s working a mission together. These author, throughout the series, has created such an authentic sense of time and place and post war tension is excellent. I loved the twist here of a mission going off plan when their target refuses to comply without his daughter. This was a fun ride, definitely a page turner and I especially loved getting time with Will and Thomas together- romance or espionage, those parts are always the highlights for me.
June 3, 2025
Satisfyingly intense! Will and Thomas, get the danger and excitement they're used to, but the betrayals add intensity to their activities. Their work is a constant challenge to stay alive while accomplishing their missions. The work, the intrigue, the nuances, the shadows the subtle tones all combined to make the mission tense and enthrall the reader. Casey, is so descriptive, you can hear, smell and feel the smothering weight of the intensity of facing the enemy. Will and Thomas balance their work and their romance, but what happens when the balance is skewed? Absolutely exciting adventure. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2025
Of Shadows & Secrets #5 continues Will and Thomas's Story. 1948 Post World War Three Where the team is a sent to Budapest to extract a Scientist and his daughter before he finishes his new creation that will help the Soviets secretly take over the world. The story is much more intense with the unknown, being shadowed constantly by the Soviets. Although primarily an espionage post world war 3 story, we get to see a softer side and moments in their hidden romance. I thouroughly enjoyed the book.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy.
May 31, 2025
Not only is this a fantastic continuation of the Of Shadows & Secrets series it can also be read as a standalone, though i highly recommend you read previous books! A captivating plot set in the past with plenty of intriguing moments, action and espionage! So many brilliant characters whose journey i was completely invested in. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2025
Will & Thomas are taking it easy in Paris. Their last mission is over & hoping to have some rest. Unfortunately for them, the government has other plans. Will & Thomas are again paired-up with Sparrow & Egret and headed to Soviet-occupied Hungary to attempt to rescue a scientist who has invented a machine that will allow the owner to overhear other countries secrets & in the wrong hands could cause mass chaos. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 28, 2025
I love WW2 stuff so much. I'm weird I know. I really wanted to see how this story played out in WW2. I loved it. I was blown away. I do have to say, read them in order. I have not and I need to go rectify that...quickly. BUT It's was still a great story to read. I absolutely love Will and Thomas. Highly recommend but go read them in order!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2025
Set in postwar Budapest, Shadowfox delivers a tense blend of espionage, danger, and forbidden love. Spies Will and Thomas must extract a cryptographer who won’t leave without his daughter—forcing them into a high-stakes rescue and sparking an unexpected bond along the way. Gripping, emotional, and fast-paced.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2025
The best so far!
I’ve read all the books in the series and this is the best so far. Post-WW2 Budapest is a lurking character throughout, adding to the depth of the story. Apart from the interesting tradecraft, the team reaches a potentially crushing dilemma and moves through it, reaching their objective and more.
I’ve read all the books in the series and this is the best so far. Post-WW2 Budapest is a lurking character throughout, adding to the depth of the story. Apart from the interesting tradecraft, the team reaches a potentially crushing dilemma and moves through it, reaching their objective and more.
July 16, 2025
Great series!!
I absolutely loved this series!! Telling stories of a spy found family during WW2 and the beginning of the Cold War. I love the main characters and their relationships! Exhilarating at times, heartfelt at others, and even spicy at times! Definitely would recommend for anyone interested in M&M romance and thrillers!
I absolutely loved this series!! Telling stories of a spy found family during WW2 and the beginning of the Cold War. I love the main characters and their relationships! Exhilarating at times, heartfelt at others, and even spicy at times! Definitely would recommend for anyone interested in M&M romance and thrillers!
July 26, 2025
Love this series!
Read In Order!!!!! A Must for best enjoyment!
The characters seem so alive. I feel that I am there with them. I feel their love for each other and the bonding between the four of these operatives. This book kept me on edge. Once my breathing settles down, I will.move.on.to.the next one in.the series.
Read In Order!!!!! A Must for best enjoyment!
The characters seem so alive. I feel that I am there with them. I feel their love for each other and the bonding between the four of these operatives. This book kept me on edge. Once my breathing settles down, I will.move.on.to.the next one in.the series.
Read
November 6, 2025This story really immersed me in the time and place of late 1940s Budapest. I loved the characters, they were distinct and quirky. The settings were brilliantly described. I could almost smell and feel them.
Definitely a great addition to the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Definitely a great addition to the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 28, 2025
It was a great story from the start to the end! Emu, Condor, Sparrow and Egret were all at the top of their game and we learned new personal things about each of them.
Highly recommend this book to everyone!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Highly recommend this book to everyone!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2025
Casey Morales has done it again! Will and Thomas back in action again and they did not disappoint. This book had me on edge, smiling, back on edge, laughing and left me feeling devastated that I had finished reading it! Can't wait for their next mission xxx
June 1, 2025
I thought that this book was a great read I couldn't put it down. It was well written and I can't wait to read more from Casey Morales. I recommend the read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews