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Shadow #4
In the Shadow of Victory: Shadow Series, Book 4
Victory isn’t always the end of the story.
Paris, 1944.
As OSS agents Kathryn Hammond and Jenny Ryan navigate the dangerous world of espionage, they are faced with the ultimate test of love and loyalty. Can their love overcome the obstacles in their path, or have time and the shadows of the past cost them a second chance at happiness?
Join Kathryn and Jenny on their journey of forgiveness, healing, and devotion, as they discover the strength of their love in the thrilling conclusion to the sapphic noir Shadow series.
This is the fourth and final book in the Shadow series. Listening to the books in order is highly recommended.
Paris, 1944.
As OSS agents Kathryn Hammond and Jenny Ryan navigate the dangerous world of espionage, they are faced with the ultimate test of love and loyalty. Can their love overcome the obstacles in their path, or have time and the shadows of the past cost them a second chance at happiness?
Join Kathryn and Jenny on their journey of forgiveness, healing, and devotion, as they discover the strength of their love in the thrilling conclusion to the sapphic noir Shadow series.
This is the fourth and final book in the Shadow series. Listening to the books in order is highly recommended.
Audible Audio
Published March 19, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
February 4, 2025
4.5 stars!
An impressive, heartfelt at times and engaging finale of the 'Shadow' series.
A highly recommended book and series!
An impressive, heartfelt at times and engaging finale of the 'Shadow' series.
A highly recommended book and series!
February 11, 2025
Update after audiobook listen: PERFECTION. This book was already one of the best conclusions of a series I have ever read, but the performance of the work by the phenomenal Abby Craden made it even better. This book and series in on my all-time favorites list. Just amazing.
Original review:
This final installment of J E Leak’s terrific Shadow series is an absolutely masterful work!
Leak had her work cut out for her in wrapping up this series, after undercover agent Kathryn Hammond's astounding decisions and actions in book three. In my review of The Shadow of Truth, I lamented that Leak was going to have to work really hard to redeem Kathryn Hammond in my eyes, who in spite of her flaws and some choices, remains one of my favorite characters in sapphic fiction. A brave, fierce, sexy, intelligent chanteuse, Kathryn can be ruthless in her single-mindedness. Assist with the war effort at all costs - even to her own detriment and those closest to her. Even Jenny Ryan, the woman she loves the most.
While I can’t go into any detail that would spoil these books for those who haven’t read them, Leak more than succeeded in bringing this series to an immensely satisfying conclusion. I finished this book all in one sitting because I couldn't put it down and was so pumped up afterwards I couldn't sleep for hours!
If you’re on the fence about trying historical fiction, I urge you to give this series a try. While I can’t promise you won’t be in for a very bumpy ride - even wanting to metaphorically throw a book at times - it’s absolutely worth it. I guarantee they're as good as you can find through any mainstream publisher.
And while this final installment isn't available on audio yet, Abby Craden’s performance on the first three is spectacular - especially her take on Kathryn. *swoon* So you'll have a chance to enjoy the first three until this one comes out. I'll be first in line when that is released!
I'm actually frustrated that these books aren't priced higher - because they absolutely should be. They are a master class in how a series should be done!
Original review:
This final installment of J E Leak’s terrific Shadow series is an absolutely masterful work!
Leak had her work cut out for her in wrapping up this series, after undercover agent Kathryn Hammond's astounding decisions and actions in book three. In my review of The Shadow of Truth, I lamented that Leak was going to have to work really hard to redeem Kathryn Hammond in my eyes, who in spite of her flaws and some choices, remains one of my favorite characters in sapphic fiction. A brave, fierce, sexy, intelligent chanteuse, Kathryn can be ruthless in her single-mindedness. Assist with the war effort at all costs - even to her own detriment and those closest to her. Even Jenny Ryan, the woman she loves the most.
While I can’t go into any detail that would spoil these books for those who haven’t read them, Leak more than succeeded in bringing this series to an immensely satisfying conclusion. I finished this book all in one sitting because I couldn't put it down and was so pumped up afterwards I couldn't sleep for hours!
If you’re on the fence about trying historical fiction, I urge you to give this series a try. While I can’t promise you won’t be in for a very bumpy ride - even wanting to metaphorically throw a book at times - it’s absolutely worth it. I guarantee they're as good as you can find through any mainstream publisher.
And while this final installment isn't available on audio yet, Abby Craden’s performance on the first three is spectacular - especially her take on Kathryn. *swoon* So you'll have a chance to enjoy the first three until this one comes out. I'll be first in line when that is released!
I'm actually frustrated that these books aren't priced higher - because they absolutely should be. They are a master class in how a series should be done!
April 30, 2024
Edit: April 30th, 2024, audiobook review
It wasn’t that long ago that I read this book and thought it was a very fitting ending for this captivating series. Getting to experience it again through Abby Craden’s narration was a real joy, even though the story isn’t easy. Kat and Jenny have gone through a lot over the course of this four book series and they more than deserve their happy ending.
I don’t have much to add to my original review, except that Abby Craden made me love this book and the entire series even more. Scenes that I wasn’t sure were necessary made a lot more sense to me in audio, for some reason. Maybe because I already knew the story, or thanks to the narrator’s excellent performance. Either way, I enjoyed In the Shadow of Victory very much and feel like the ending did the series justice.
I may not have loved each book in the same way, and I know I rated some higher than others, but as a whole, the series is a must-listen. Review maths follows different rules than regular maths and while I didn’t rate any of the individual books 5⭐️, the series, especially in audiobook, gets all the stars from me.
------------------------------------------------
When you love a series, seeing it end is always a little sad. Bittersweet. I’ve been looking forward to the next Shadow book between each and while I’ll miss these characters and their adventures, J.E. Leak gave them the ending they deserved.
In the Shadow of Victory picks up in January 1944, in Paris. From the very first book, one of my favourite things about this series has been the atmosphere. Leak nails the noir mood, fraught with danger, betrayal, and forbidden love. Her characters are multidimensional, flawed in ways that sometimes feel they won’t be able to come back from, and yet there’s always hope because there’s always love. In times of war, when you can only trust a handful of people, if even that, love may be the only thing you can hold on to.
To be completely honest, my main issue with this series is that the third book, In the Shadow of Truth, was, in my eyes, unnecessarily convoluted, which in turns makes this book longer, as all the loose ends need to be tied. Many reviewers, however, seem to have enjoyed the flurry of twists, so I recommend you decide for yourself. I could also have done with a little less of Kat with Bouchaule in this fourth and final book, and while I like Smitty a lot, I didn’t expect him to take centre stage, even for a few scenes. Kat and Jenny are who I read this series for and when the focus isn’t on them, my attention comes and goes. And yet it all made sense in the end and that’s probably what I’ll remember.
Beyond the atmosphere, my favourite thing about this book is the evolution of the relationship between the two main characters, and the character growth both of them go through. Jenny is a lot more mature and even stronger than she’s appeared in previous books. Faced with incredibly hard choices, she doesn’t falter. Kathryn, on the other hand, is at her most vulnerable, and the change in dynamics is fascinating. If you like redemption arcs, Kathryn’s journey alone would make the four books worth reading. Leak sends her to hell and back without ever making the reader wonder why Jenny keeps loving her. Because that’s who Kathryn is and that’s who Jenny is. I’ll miss both of them, I’ll probably miss Smitty too, and I’m grateful to J.E. Leak not only for this series but for the way she ends it. And there’s always the audiobook to look forward to…
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read all my reviews on my blog (and please buy from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars
It wasn’t that long ago that I read this book and thought it was a very fitting ending for this captivating series. Getting to experience it again through Abby Craden’s narration was a real joy, even though the story isn’t easy. Kat and Jenny have gone through a lot over the course of this four book series and they more than deserve their happy ending.
I don’t have much to add to my original review, except that Abby Craden made me love this book and the entire series even more. Scenes that I wasn’t sure were necessary made a lot more sense to me in audio, for some reason. Maybe because I already knew the story, or thanks to the narrator’s excellent performance. Either way, I enjoyed In the Shadow of Victory very much and feel like the ending did the series justice.
I may not have loved each book in the same way, and I know I rated some higher than others, but as a whole, the series is a must-listen. Review maths follows different rules than regular maths and while I didn’t rate any of the individual books 5⭐️, the series, especially in audiobook, gets all the stars from me.
------------------------------------------------
When you love a series, seeing it end is always a little sad. Bittersweet. I’ve been looking forward to the next Shadow book between each and while I’ll miss these characters and their adventures, J.E. Leak gave them the ending they deserved.
In the Shadow of Victory picks up in January 1944, in Paris. From the very first book, one of my favourite things about this series has been the atmosphere. Leak nails the noir mood, fraught with danger, betrayal, and forbidden love. Her characters are multidimensional, flawed in ways that sometimes feel they won’t be able to come back from, and yet there’s always hope because there’s always love. In times of war, when you can only trust a handful of people, if even that, love may be the only thing you can hold on to.
To be completely honest, my main issue with this series is that the third book, In the Shadow of Truth, was, in my eyes, unnecessarily convoluted, which in turns makes this book longer, as all the loose ends need to be tied. Many reviewers, however, seem to have enjoyed the flurry of twists, so I recommend you decide for yourself. I could also have done with a little less of Kat with Bouchaule in this fourth and final book, and while I like Smitty a lot, I didn’t expect him to take centre stage, even for a few scenes. Kat and Jenny are who I read this series for and when the focus isn’t on them, my attention comes and goes. And yet it all made sense in the end and that’s probably what I’ll remember.
Beyond the atmosphere, my favourite thing about this book is the evolution of the relationship between the two main characters, and the character growth both of them go through. Jenny is a lot more mature and even stronger than she’s appeared in previous books. Faced with incredibly hard choices, she doesn’t falter. Kathryn, on the other hand, is at her most vulnerable, and the change in dynamics is fascinating. If you like redemption arcs, Kathryn’s journey alone would make the four books worth reading. Leak sends her to hell and back without ever making the reader wonder why Jenny keeps loving her. Because that’s who Kathryn is and that’s who Jenny is. I’ll miss both of them, I’ll probably miss Smitty too, and I’m grateful to J.E. Leak not only for this series but for the way she ends it. And there’s always the audiobook to look forward to…
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read all my reviews on my blog (and please buy from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars
March 14, 2024
absolutely loved every minute of this series! brilliant writing. it’s so very atmospheric while also providing such a sensitively intricate histofic account of this era. just stunning
December 26, 2023
5 Stars!!!
A great way to end the most tumultuous relationship in bookdom!!!
It goes without saying, to enjoy, to REALLY savour the bittersweet everything Kathrine and Jenny's almost dysfunctional connection to each other, one must endure the rollercoaster pain and trauma of the past 3 books. In my opinion, it's all worth it, although agonising, hot damn I love In the Shadow of Victory!
Character development wise, Katherine's growth is the most significant based on the 4th book. I was in disbelief reading some of Katherine's thoughts thinking, is this really Katherine? Is she actually trying to be a better person instead of wallowing in her decaying mental health and rapidly deteriorating self-worth? The shift was so profound and I was so happy for her blossoming evolution.
Jenny is, well, Jenny. Ever so optimistic and she's built more resilience since the last book. She has grown more callus and maturity in this book and it suits her well. I envisioned a chihuahua ready to take on foes bigger than her.
In total, I took 5 breaks from reading the book to steady my emotions before continuing. But once I was over the rough patch I couldn't stop devouring the book.
A great way to end the most tumultuous relationship in bookdom!!!
It goes without saying, to enjoy, to REALLY savour the bittersweet everything Kathrine and Jenny's almost dysfunctional connection to each other, one must endure the rollercoaster pain and trauma of the past 3 books. In my opinion, it's all worth it, although agonising, hot damn I love In the Shadow of Victory!
Character development wise, Katherine's growth is the most significant based on the 4th book. I was in disbelief reading some of Katherine's thoughts thinking, is this really Katherine? Is she actually trying to be a better person instead of wallowing in her decaying mental health and rapidly deteriorating self-worth? The shift was so profound and I was so happy for her blossoming evolution.
Jenny is, well, Jenny. Ever so optimistic and she's built more resilience since the last book. She has grown more callus and maturity in this book and it suits her well. I envisioned a chihuahua ready to take on foes bigger than her.
In total, I took 5 breaks from reading the book to steady my emotions before continuing. But once I was over the rough patch I couldn't stop devouring the book.
July 15, 2025
Beautiful ending to the series. After the horrors of war and the tragedy of losing loved ones, the author expressed the right mix of despair and hope. Kat and Jenny get their HEA and it’s an absolute joy to read because of what they’ve gone through to get there. Abby Craden is amazing throughout the entire series. The Shadow books will go down as some of my favorites because of the volatile but enduring love story, the 1940’s setting, as well as the action and suspense. I’m sure I’ll listen again to the series down the road mostly because Kat and Jenny are hard to leave behind.
May 26, 2025
4.5 rounded up.
For me, this is hands down the best sapphic series I’ve ever read. All four books completely hooked me—I tore through them because I simply couldn’t put them down. This final installment carries forward everything I loved: the angst, the espionage, and the desperate fight to hold onto love when the odds are brutally stacked against you.
While a few moments felt slightly repetitive—mainly Kat and Jenny’s ongoing concerns about the strength and future of their relationship—I think that’s more a result of me binge-reading all four books back to back in such quick succession.
That said, this last book gave me everything I hoped for. True to form, Kat and Jenny’s journey was anything but easy, but the growth they showed, both individually and together, was so rewarding to witness. Watching how far they’ve come was genuinely heartwarming.
I already know this series is going to leave me with a massive book hangover. And honestly? I’m heading straight to the bookstore to grab a physical copy so I can keep it on my shelf forever.
For me, this is hands down the best sapphic series I’ve ever read. All four books completely hooked me—I tore through them because I simply couldn’t put them down. This final installment carries forward everything I loved: the angst, the espionage, and the desperate fight to hold onto love when the odds are brutally stacked against you.
While a few moments felt slightly repetitive—mainly Kat and Jenny’s ongoing concerns about the strength and future of their relationship—I think that’s more a result of me binge-reading all four books back to back in such quick succession.
That said, this last book gave me everything I hoped for. True to form, Kat and Jenny’s journey was anything but easy, but the growth they showed, both individually and together, was so rewarding to witness. Watching how far they’ve come was genuinely heartwarming.
I already know this series is going to leave me with a massive book hangover. And honestly? I’m heading straight to the bookstore to grab a physical copy so I can keep it on my shelf forever.
November 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)
In the Shadow of Victory is such a wonderful and amazing story with a truly satisfying ending. I adored the characters soo much, Jenny and Kathryn have completely won my heart and will stay in my mind forever.
The fourth book maintains the great pacing of the series, keeping me on edge the entire time. The story takes you on an emotional rollercoaster. I couldn’t put the book down because I needed to know what happened next. There were so many moments that shocked, scared, or devastated me that I craved the happy times even more.
When those moments came, they felt like a true climax and a deserving conclusion. This book delivers a full spectrum of emotion, and I would gladly ride this rollercoaster again and again.
5 stars
In the Shadow of Victory is such a wonderful and amazing story with a truly satisfying ending. I adored the characters soo much, Jenny and Kathryn have completely won my heart and will stay in my mind forever.
The fourth book maintains the great pacing of the series, keeping me on edge the entire time. The story takes you on an emotional rollercoaster. I couldn’t put the book down because I needed to know what happened next. There were so many moments that shocked, scared, or devastated me that I craved the happy times even more.
When those moments came, they felt like a true climax and a deserving conclusion. This book delivers a full spectrum of emotion, and I would gladly ride this rollercoaster again and again.
5 stars
December 26, 2023
I'm crying. It was a real emotional rollercoaster. Thanks for creating such wonderful book.
April 19, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Enjoyable ending to this four part series. I liked the beginning of this last book best. Plot line and characters are great. IMO the writing could be better to draw me more into the characters, especially Jenny she was not as fully developed as Kathryn.
Enjoyable ending to this four part series. I liked the beginning of this last book best. Plot line and characters are great. IMO the writing could be better to draw me more into the characters, especially Jenny she was not as fully developed as Kathryn.
December 16, 2023
This final chapter in the Shadow Series consumed me. All four books were outstanding, but this one completely exceeded my expectations. I’m still filled with the emotions for how beautifully it was written. The author made the book human. It’s a true gift to make a reader be able to feel the pains, emotions, but also the love and devotion. This book was packed with drama as well as light, humorous and romantic joys.
I also want to note how J.E. Leak did such a great job of conveying the harsh feelings the French countrymen had for the invading Nazis. I’ve read a lot of historical fiction and have especially loved stories involving the French underground movement. This one was special because of the inclusion of female romance!
The book portrayed a lot of moments of fear, betrayal, cruelty, brutality, but also of acts of kindness. Kathryn was shown to have a moral obligation to help, and her kind ways of displaying her sympathies were obvious.
We, the readers, were taken on a roller coaster as we tried to navigate the ride Kathryn played with Dr. Bouchaule and the Nazi, Vogel. (There’s a lot more there that I’m not going to mention.)
Kathryn and Jenny had, among other things, the OSS and the SOE to deal with. Hard decisions to make. Who to trust and believe? Questions of who someone claimed to be and who they really were. As I mentioned in my review of book three, how many times would Kathryn’s life be spared?! Some of it was difficult, but necessary to read. Did she and Jenny even question each other’s role?
Jenny?! Oh my! We’ve already read in the earlier books about how she was wanted by many sources for something connected to her father’s search for a vaccine. I’ll leave it at that, but there were some very interesting things included about that in the story.
BTW, this isn’t a spoiler, but it is a HEA for Kathryn and Jenny, and you still need to experience the actual ride yourself. Enjoy! I know you’ll love it, too!
My thanks to J.E. Leak for the privilege of reading this ARC copy. You are a magnificent writer. I look forward to more from you and, hopefully, for another audiobook narration by Abby Craden.
I also want to note how J.E. Leak did such a great job of conveying the harsh feelings the French countrymen had for the invading Nazis. I’ve read a lot of historical fiction and have especially loved stories involving the French underground movement. This one was special because of the inclusion of female romance!
The book portrayed a lot of moments of fear, betrayal, cruelty, brutality, but also of acts of kindness. Kathryn was shown to have a moral obligation to help, and her kind ways of displaying her sympathies were obvious.
We, the readers, were taken on a roller coaster as we tried to navigate the ride Kathryn played with Dr. Bouchaule and the Nazi, Vogel. (There’s a lot more there that I’m not going to mention.)
Kathryn and Jenny had, among other things, the OSS and the SOE to deal with. Hard decisions to make. Who to trust and believe? Questions of who someone claimed to be and who they really were. As I mentioned in my review of book three, how many times would Kathryn’s life be spared?! Some of it was difficult, but necessary to read. Did she and Jenny even question each other’s role?
Jenny?! Oh my! We’ve already read in the earlier books about how she was wanted by many sources for something connected to her father’s search for a vaccine. I’ll leave it at that, but there were some very interesting things included about that in the story.
BTW, this isn’t a spoiler, but it is a HEA for Kathryn and Jenny, and you still need to experience the actual ride yourself. Enjoy! I know you’ll love it, too!
My thanks to J.E. Leak for the privilege of reading this ARC copy. You are a magnificent writer. I look forward to more from you and, hopefully, for another audiobook narration by Abby Craden.
March 30, 2024
ok... i've got rlly mixed feelings, here.
i think i'll start with THIS book, in particular, and then kinda the series as a whole lower down, bc these last two books HAVE affected how i think abt the series, a little. there WILL be spoilers, but i'll try to keep most of them under tags/semi vague.
this one had a LOT of work to do in order to get me back on its side and rooting for kathryn and jenny, bc my enjoyment of book 3 went lower and lower the longer it went on, and was SUCH a departure from how i felt abt books 1 & 2 (which i rlly loved!!!). for me, it didn't pull me back in the way it seems to have for others, which is SUCH A BUMMER for me. bc I WANTED to like it. i wanted to love it!!! for me, there was still too much of kathryn/thierry. the choice to start the book off with them, and to stay there for a decent chuck early on soured me right away. i also found kathryn with thierry unbelievably annoying on every level. there was way too much of him in this book for me, even tho he didn't end up being in more than maybe ?? 30ish% of it. to add on to, men who annoyed me, so much focus mid-way on smitty and his love story was DEEPLY ANNOYING for me, personally. i have never liked him. i find his hanger-on bs with kathryn beyond irritating and have done since book 1. vivienne was a character that i initially liked, but i think she deserved better than chasing after a man while he is still actively, delusionally, in love with another woman and whining abt it when she asks him to fucking maybe, finally, give her some space, pls. (also... not a single sex scene between kat/jenny, but a near one with smitty/vivienne and some veering towards it early kat/theirry interactions was... a choice).
i think i also like... the back and forth of jenny and kat being constantly separated throughout the novel got on my nerves. (this is veering more towards complaints for the series as a whole, so i'm trying to stick to this book, but it felt like we got them together, then separated a few times that just... idk). i also don't think kathryn being tortured by the nazis AGAIN was necessary?? it felt like more torture for torture (and plot stuff, that i wasn't vibing with) sake to further push her 'redemption' and it bothered me. so, cw for a long drawn out semi/fairly graphic? torture scene. i got very scared partway through that it was also going to include rape, but thankfully, it does not. part of the problem for me is that i was just... not that into the war/jenny has this special blood/virus thing aspect of this story as a whole. and that took a larger stage in this one to wrap up things from the series as a whole. but, it also felt like it was left like... not actually wrapped up??? speaking of the longer separation near the end (but trying to keep it vague) i wanted to see more of kathryn with clay and nan and stephanie!!! we got one good scene with her and nan, but only mentions/glossing over the rest, and i would have actually rather SEEN that. take out the long drawn out smitty/vivienne nonsense and give us that, instead.
i just felt like we never got to see them HAPPY for a decent chunk of time. it didn't come together in the end, for me. abby craden was great as always, and tho i bought the ebook the day it came out, i started it, realized it was kat/thierry to start with, and noped out and ended up waiting for the audio. i'm glad that i did, bc that's how i read the whole rest of the series, and abby's performance enhanced my experience.
i think that ultimately, the series veered a little off of a little from what i enjoyed abt it and what wanted it to be. books 1 & 2 felt more intruiging to me as a whole. i liked jenny being on the outside of the spy game more. i liked her as a journalist. i wasn't very into the war aspect (i'm just never going to be). the forester stuff while annoying, at least you KNEW that kathryn didn't like him/was working a job and we didn't get long drawn out sex scenes with him. it felt like replacing him with theirry was so much worse, and (for me) unecessary. it started to lose it for me when it focused more on bigger war/spy plot aspects. books 3 & 4 felt too long and convoluted, and there was so much back and forth of jenny and kathryn being together, then fighting, and seprating, and that's just... not my personal preference. i'd always rather a longer slow burn, and then a decent chuck of seeing the couple together. i'm not saying that we can't have conflict, but plot stuff constantly keeping the characters that i want together, apart, (and having to see them be with other ppl SO MUCH in the meantime) is never something that i'm going to be into. i don't feel like kathryn's 'redemption' was earned. she was just... tortured and then that took up everything. and i didn't like the direction it took.
i don't want to harp on it. bc i did rlly enjoy the first 2, and i will still check out what else j.e leak does next, and i don't think it was terrible, but it ended up not quite being for me/what i wanted it to be, and that's a huge bummer.
i think i'll start with THIS book, in particular, and then kinda the series as a whole lower down, bc these last two books HAVE affected how i think abt the series, a little. there WILL be spoilers, but i'll try to keep most of them under tags/semi vague.
this one had a LOT of work to do in order to get me back on its side and rooting for kathryn and jenny, bc my enjoyment of book 3 went lower and lower the longer it went on, and was SUCH a departure from how i felt abt books 1 & 2 (which i rlly loved!!!). for me, it didn't pull me back in the way it seems to have for others, which is SUCH A BUMMER for me. bc I WANTED to like it. i wanted to love it!!! for me, there was still too much of kathryn/thierry. the choice to start the book off with them, and to stay there for a decent chuck early on soured me right away. i also found kathryn with thierry unbelievably annoying on every level. there was way too much of him in this book for me, even tho he didn't end up being in more than maybe ?? 30ish% of it. to add on to, men who annoyed me, so much focus mid-way on smitty and his love story was DEEPLY ANNOYING for me, personally. i have never liked him. i find his hanger-on bs with kathryn beyond irritating and have done since book 1. vivienne was a character that i initially liked, but i think she deserved better than chasing after a man while he is still actively, delusionally, in love with another woman and whining abt it when she asks him to fucking maybe, finally, give her some space, pls. (also... not a single sex scene between kat/jenny, but a near one with smitty/vivienne and some veering towards it early kat/theirry interactions was... a choice).
i think i also like... the back and forth of jenny and kat being constantly separated throughout the novel got on my nerves. (this is veering more towards complaints for the series as a whole, so i'm trying to stick to this book, but it felt like we got them together, then separated a few times that just... idk). i also don't think kathryn being tortured by the nazis AGAIN was necessary?? it felt like more torture for torture (and plot stuff, that i wasn't vibing with) sake to further push her 'redemption' and it bothered me. so, cw for a long drawn out semi/fairly graphic? torture scene. i got very scared partway through that it was also going to include rape, but thankfully, it does not. part of the problem for me is that i was just... not that into the war/jenny has this special blood/virus thing aspect of this story as a whole. and that took a larger stage in this one to wrap up things from the series as a whole. but, it also felt like it was left like... not actually wrapped up??? speaking of the longer separation near the end (but trying to keep it vague) i wanted to see more of kathryn with clay and nan and stephanie!!! we got one good scene with her and nan, but only mentions/glossing over the rest, and i would have actually rather SEEN that. take out the long drawn out smitty/vivienne nonsense and give us that, instead.
i just felt like we never got to see them HAPPY for a decent chunk of time. it didn't come together in the end, for me. abby craden was great as always, and tho i bought the ebook the day it came out, i started it, realized it was kat/thierry to start with, and noped out and ended up waiting for the audio. i'm glad that i did, bc that's how i read the whole rest of the series, and abby's performance enhanced my experience.
i think that ultimately, the series veered a little off of a little from what i enjoyed abt it and what wanted it to be. books 1 & 2 felt more intruiging to me as a whole. i liked jenny being on the outside of the spy game more. i liked her as a journalist. i wasn't very into the war aspect (i'm just never going to be). the forester stuff while annoying, at least you KNEW that kathryn didn't like him/was working a job and we didn't get long drawn out sex scenes with him. it felt like replacing him with theirry was so much worse, and (for me) unecessary. it started to lose it for me when it focused more on bigger war/spy plot aspects. books 3 & 4 felt too long and convoluted, and there was so much back and forth of jenny and kathryn being together, then fighting, and seprating, and that's just... not my personal preference. i'd always rather a longer slow burn, and then a decent chuck of seeing the couple together. i'm not saying that we can't have conflict, but plot stuff constantly keeping the characters that i want together, apart, (and having to see them be with other ppl SO MUCH in the meantime) is never something that i'm going to be into. i don't feel like kathryn's 'redemption' was earned. she was just... tortured and then that took up everything. and i didn't like the direction it took.
i don't want to harp on it. bc i did rlly enjoy the first 2, and i will still check out what else j.e leak does next, and i don't think it was terrible, but it ended up not quite being for me/what i wanted it to be, and that's a huge bummer.
July 1, 2024
I think it’s safe to say that J.E. Leak has written one of the best sapphic series of all time with her four Shadow books. The final, Shadow of Victory, was bittersweet for me. I couldn’t wait to read/listen to this final instalment, but at the same time, I wasn’t in a hurry because I knew that this would wrap up Katherine and Jenny’s story.
Following on from book three, Kat and Jenny have lost touch, but neither have forgotten or moved on from the other. Responsibilities and other peoples’ agendas continue to interrupt and push them into fighting for the survival of their love and their lives.
J.E. Leak writes this noir style story with such clarity and intensity that it’s impossible not to become emotionally invested with all of her characters. The ones we are meant to like anyway. And every emotion Katherine and Jenny feel, the reader feels right there with them. The heartbreak and utter devastation, as once again their love is tested, but then the relief and tenderness that comes after.
I listened to the audio version, with Abby Craden narrating. Not much can beat Abby bringing to life two characters as well thought out and developed as Kat and Jenny. Listening to the brilliance of this story in audio format makes it incredibly easy to imagine how amazing a film version could be. If only!
Following on from book three, Kat and Jenny have lost touch, but neither have forgotten or moved on from the other. Responsibilities and other peoples’ agendas continue to interrupt and push them into fighting for the survival of their love and their lives.
J.E. Leak writes this noir style story with such clarity and intensity that it’s impossible not to become emotionally invested with all of her characters. The ones we are meant to like anyway. And every emotion Katherine and Jenny feel, the reader feels right there with them. The heartbreak and utter devastation, as once again their love is tested, but then the relief and tenderness that comes after.
I listened to the audio version, with Abby Craden narrating. Not much can beat Abby bringing to life two characters as well thought out and developed as Kat and Jenny. Listening to the brilliance of this story in audio format makes it incredibly easy to imagine how amazing a film version could be. If only!
December 13, 2023
Absolutely Wonderful!
An utterly brilliant conclusion to this incredible series. Transported instantly to the drop off point of ‘In The Shadow of Truth’, the claws of World War 2, espionage and Kathryn’s plight, sink in and do not let go until the very last word.
When I say I experienced every spectre of emotion reading this final chapter in Kathryn and Jenny’s story, I am not exaggerating. The excitement, the drama, suspense, adventure, turmoil and love all coalesce into a beautifully contrived world where the reader is not just an onlooker but a participant. Just as you feel it is safe to take a deep breath, it is pulled from you, taking you on another ride that’s impossible to get off, even if you wanted to.
It is rare, near impossible, to complete a series (that already has exactingly high standards) without being trite or unsatisfactory but J.E.Leak has not only dispelled that theory, she’s blown it out of the water! Her writing is like opening a window, you simply step through it to be surrounded by the characters we have grown to love and yearn for.
I already have a book hangover, sad but vindicated by the resolution and cannot wait to see where she takes us next. Thank you!
An utterly brilliant conclusion to this incredible series. Transported instantly to the drop off point of ‘In The Shadow of Truth’, the claws of World War 2, espionage and Kathryn’s plight, sink in and do not let go until the very last word.
When I say I experienced every spectre of emotion reading this final chapter in Kathryn and Jenny’s story, I am not exaggerating. The excitement, the drama, suspense, adventure, turmoil and love all coalesce into a beautifully contrived world where the reader is not just an onlooker but a participant. Just as you feel it is safe to take a deep breath, it is pulled from you, taking you on another ride that’s impossible to get off, even if you wanted to.
It is rare, near impossible, to complete a series (that already has exactingly high standards) without being trite or unsatisfactory but J.E.Leak has not only dispelled that theory, she’s blown it out of the water! Her writing is like opening a window, you simply step through it to be surrounded by the characters we have grown to love and yearn for.
I already have a book hangover, sad but vindicated by the resolution and cannot wait to see where she takes us next. Thank you!
November 9, 2024
Gosh this is one of best book series I have ever listened!! I’m struggling to understand why it’s so underrated! Although I know from experience that the best ones usually are! This is the ultimate love story of sacrifice!
After book 3 I was definitely holding out for an happy ending, it’s no surprise to me that we got there, but the road to that happy ending was still filled with angst (and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
I loved the development of Jenny character in this book, and Catherine to me still remains one of my favourite female protagonist in a long while! She is a badass with a traumatic past and I was rooting for both main characters in the last book of this series!
Bravao J E Laak for creating this unforgettable book series, one that I definitely will be visiting again! Can’t end this review without another massive shout out to Abbey Craden for her excellent narration, she elevates every single book that she narrates!
After book 3 I was definitely holding out for an happy ending, it’s no surprise to me that we got there, but the road to that happy ending was still filled with angst (and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
I loved the development of Jenny character in this book, and Catherine to me still remains one of my favourite female protagonist in a long while! She is a badass with a traumatic past and I was rooting for both main characters in the last book of this series!
Bravao J E Laak for creating this unforgettable book series, one that I definitely will be visiting again! Can’t end this review without another massive shout out to Abbey Craden for her excellent narration, she elevates every single book that she narrates!
December 30, 2023
I anxiously awaited the release of the fourth book, my heart still reverberating from the profound emotions evoked by the poignant conclusion of the third book. J.E. Leak not only met expectations but also surpassed them. Within the pages of the book, a tapestry of emotions unfolded, weaving together the delicate threads of romance, the heart-pounding tendrils of suspense, and the enigmatic shadows of mystery. Jenny and Kathryn showed remarkable growth and maturity. At the end, their love served as an anchor, a steadfast and unyielding force that held them together. Through the trials and tribulations, their hearts remained intertwined, refusing to succumb to the turbulent storms that threatened to tear them apart.
I would highly recommend the book and the series.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I would highly recommend the book and the series.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2024
Exceptional series, incredible narration. I'm on overdose here. So so recommended that it's not ever funny. Twists and turns in every book of the series, some will render you speechless and some are angsty indeed. I loved every minute of this whole thing that J.E. Leak created.
June 3, 2025
What a ride the Shadow Series gives you! I'm in love with Kathryn and want to be best friends with Jenny! What these two women went through for their country would destroy any regular person, but these two women have a resilience and love for one another that is everlasting. As with the first three books of the series, I give this more than 5 stars! A FAVORITE!!
January 9, 2024
"In the Shadow of Victory" serves as the poignant, climactic conclusion to a gripping sapphic noir series set against the evocative backdrop of the 1940s. As WWII draws to a close, Kathryn and Jenny, the series' central figures, navigate a culmination of challenges, love, and personal growth that has spanned the previous installments.
Leak masterfully weaves together the threads of mystery, romance, and historical intrigue, crafting a narrative that keeps readers on the edge while delving into the emotional depth of the characters. In this final installment, Kathryn and Jenny's long-standing struggles and obstacles are confronted head-on, leading to a satisfying resolution that readers have yearned for since the series' inception.
The character arcs in "In the Shadow of Victory" are particularly striking. Kathryn's transformative journey, marked by resilience and a confrontation with her past, is both beautiful and compelling. One of the most poignant parts of the book is Kat's newly forged relationship with her sister-in-law. Her evolution from a woman haunted by her history to one who embraces the promise of the future is portrayed with sensitivity and depth.
Moreover, Jenny's newfound passion for scientific research adds a layer to her character, illustrating her growth and independence outside the confines of their romantic entanglement. The balance between their personal development and the captivating backdrop of the post-WWII era is deftly maintained, creating a narrative that feels both intimate and historically significant.
The romance between Kathryn and Jenny serves as the beating heart of the series, and in this final installment, it reaches a crescendo. Their journey, filled with heartwarming moments and genuine connection, culminates in a satisfying and uplifting conclusion that will leave readers with a warm glow long after turning the final page.
Ultimately, "In the Shadow of Victory" is a testament to the author's skill in storytelling, character development, and evocative world-building. It provides a fitting and fulfilling end to a beloved series, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of its readers. Fans of sapphic romance, historical fiction, and compelling character-driven narratives will find this finale a deeply satisfying and inspiring read.
Leak masterfully weaves together the threads of mystery, romance, and historical intrigue, crafting a narrative that keeps readers on the edge while delving into the emotional depth of the characters. In this final installment, Kathryn and Jenny's long-standing struggles and obstacles are confronted head-on, leading to a satisfying resolution that readers have yearned for since the series' inception.
The character arcs in "In the Shadow of Victory" are particularly striking. Kathryn's transformative journey, marked by resilience and a confrontation with her past, is both beautiful and compelling. One of the most poignant parts of the book is Kat's newly forged relationship with her sister-in-law. Her evolution from a woman haunted by her history to one who embraces the promise of the future is portrayed with sensitivity and depth.
Moreover, Jenny's newfound passion for scientific research adds a layer to her character, illustrating her growth and independence outside the confines of their romantic entanglement. The balance between their personal development and the captivating backdrop of the post-WWII era is deftly maintained, creating a narrative that feels both intimate and historically significant.
The romance between Kathryn and Jenny serves as the beating heart of the series, and in this final installment, it reaches a crescendo. Their journey, filled with heartwarming moments and genuine connection, culminates in a satisfying and uplifting conclusion that will leave readers with a warm glow long after turning the final page.
Ultimately, "In the Shadow of Victory" is a testament to the author's skill in storytelling, character development, and evocative world-building. It provides a fitting and fulfilling end to a beloved series, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of its readers. Fans of sapphic romance, historical fiction, and compelling character-driven narratives will find this finale a deeply satisfying and inspiring read.
January 1, 2024
Kathryn and Jenny will always live in my heart.
Can't wait to read other books from the same author!
Can't wait to read other books from the same author!
November 30, 2025
Hands down the best sapphic series I read in my whole life, good job author you did a masterpiece i am in love with your work and kat and jenny. This progressed perfectly, I love how it started with them fighting off their attraction for each other but couldn't stay away. I hated what kat did but it was her job and she was damn good at it. I loved their dynamic where kat is cold and jenny was warm, it was the sunshine to her grumpy, the golden retriever to her black cat literally. I love the friendships within these books, especially Smitty and Bernie and I love the character development esp that of kat, she worked on herself so much throughout their journey together. Both her and jenny matured, they both sacrificed so much for each other. Despite it all they kept their love and I am so in love with that. I admire how jenny stayed there for kat despite her flaws, her insecurities and her ugly actions. They drove me insane esp the ending of book three i was so flabbergasted but book 4 made up for it and didn't disappoint so we move on. This is the kind of series where it keeps you on a chokehold and into a high and when you finish, its an emotional rollercoaster of what am I gonna do with my life now and when is it my turn??? I love them so deeply brb sobbing
they're forever gonna be engraved in my heart♡
they're forever gonna be engraved in my heart♡
May 7, 2025
Oh, what a journey! Going into this series I had high expectations and I'm happy they were mostly met. It's well written, the characters felt real, and the events of the book were horrifyingly realistic. All in all, a good read truly.
I will say book 3 threw me for a loop and left me REELING, but I'd like to think books that get you rattled even in ways you don't appreciate are masterpieces. More so if by the end of the story you're fairly satisfied with how it plays out in the end. And book 4 wraps up things quite well in my opinion.
I will say book 3 threw me for a loop and left me REELING, but I'd like to think books that get you rattled even in ways you don't appreciate are masterpieces. More so if by the end of the story you're fairly satisfied with how it plays out in the end. And book 4 wraps up things quite well in my opinion.
February 4, 2024
3.5
like i said jenny is a better woman than me because kathryn would have been left for dead after she did what she did in that last book
like i said jenny is a better woman than me because kathryn would have been left for dead after she did what she did in that last book
June 30, 2025
4.5⭐️ , that was beautiful🤧
December 20, 2023
The fourth (and sadly final - to my knowledge) instalment of J.E Leak’s In The Shadow series brings together all the key players in an explosive ending that will have your heart in your throat.
Just when you thought Kathryn and Jenny would forever be apart, they find themselves inexplicably and irrevocably drawn back together as the culmination of every decision either woman has made since their very first meeting finally comes ahead.
And to have witnessed this epic journey has been nothing short of a true honour - every word has had me glued to the page, every chapter has built up to a heart aching crescendo in a way that few writers have ever accomplished.
J.E has written this series with her very heart and soul and you can feel that in every page, in every choice Kathryn made, in every way Jenny refused to surrender. In ‘In the Shadows of the Past’ we were introduced to the byline ‘She fell for the wrong woman… now it’s going to cost her’ and we have watched this adage unfold in unimaginable ways and yet never once was hope entirely lost - it wavered, it seemed lost, but it never truly was. It came ahead in ‘Victory’ when I realised (perhaps belatedly!) that it was never about Jenny falling for Kathryn, but the reverse. And we watch Kathryn fight through the darkest of her demons to claw her way to that love, to Jenny.
There is no other series like In The Shadows and you’d be remiss to skip this wonderfully crafted epic. Kathryn and Jenny share a love that nothing - not even they themselves - can ever truly break.
Just when you thought Kathryn and Jenny would forever be apart, they find themselves inexplicably and irrevocably drawn back together as the culmination of every decision either woman has made since their very first meeting finally comes ahead.
And to have witnessed this epic journey has been nothing short of a true honour - every word has had me glued to the page, every chapter has built up to a heart aching crescendo in a way that few writers have ever accomplished.
J.E has written this series with her very heart and soul and you can feel that in every page, in every choice Kathryn made, in every way Jenny refused to surrender. In ‘In the Shadows of the Past’ we were introduced to the byline ‘She fell for the wrong woman… now it’s going to cost her’ and we have watched this adage unfold in unimaginable ways and yet never once was hope entirely lost - it wavered, it seemed lost, but it never truly was. It came ahead in ‘Victory’ when I realised (perhaps belatedly!) that it was never about Jenny falling for Kathryn, but the reverse. And we watch Kathryn fight through the darkest of her demons to claw her way to that love, to Jenny.
There is no other series like In The Shadows and you’d be remiss to skip this wonderfully crafted epic. Kathryn and Jenny share a love that nothing - not even they themselves - can ever truly break.
April 27, 2024
I was heartbroken and whole again and again throughout the Shadows series and oh my God, I loved it! The setting, the plot, the characters, the beautiful love, everything transported me in those times, I felt part of the story. This last book of the 4 was what it should have been: the raw emotion of going back to oneself, to make peace with a tumultuous past, with the reality of a war that took a lot from them, but one thing: their love. It’s hard to take sides, but I think I am a fan of Jenny, of her journey from an innocent, impulsive and oh so sweet girl to an accomplished, wise, patient and deep woman, that went through an emotional roller coaster, but never ever has she stopped loving Kat. And Kat, she’s been so close to my heart and even though sometimes her actions broke my heart, I knew she will conquer her demons in the end.
I’d like to read a story, if not a book about Smithy and Vivienne’s story and a compilation of Jenny’s and Kat’s letters to each other while they were apart.
I love the playlist J.E. Leak created and that you can find on her website, it complements the books and make the experience even better.
It wouldn’t be fair not to say that for me, Abby Craden’s narration was half of the experience! There is no better voice that could have taken me back then!
I’d like to read a story, if not a book about Smithy and Vivienne’s story and a compilation of Jenny’s and Kat’s letters to each other while they were apart.
I love the playlist J.E. Leak created and that you can find on her website, it complements the books and make the experience even better.
It wouldn’t be fair not to say that for me, Abby Craden’s narration was half of the experience! There is no better voice that could have taken me back then!
December 16, 2023
In this 4th and final book in the series, Katherine is back in France with the the scientist doctor, Thierry. It's not clear if she's pretending to be in love with him or if she does indeed have feelings. But the two glide through the social scene of occupied Paris with Thierry working for the Nazis but always appearing to be unaligned. Jenny meanwhile has rejoined OSS and is in Toronto being trained in the type of science her father researched. She is then assigned to France with the intent to kill Thierry who she is convinced murdered her father. It's in France where the two women reconnect until Katherine is again captured by the Nazis and Jenny is determined to find her.
All of this takes place in less than the first half of the book. It's all very intense. But the main theme of the book is the recovery that each woman must go through for the couple to get their happy ending. So with so much action in the first half, the second half is more interior.
This is a strong final book. Readers of the series will not be disappointed.
Highly recommend.
All of this takes place in less than the first half of the book. It's all very intense. But the main theme of the book is the recovery that each woman must go through for the couple to get their happy ending. So with so much action in the first half, the second half is more interior.
This is a strong final book. Readers of the series will not be disappointed.
Highly recommend.
August 25, 2025
Loved this whole series. Also, because I can't comment on other people's reviews (I get an error msg) or even change my own damned profile info (it sends me into circular sign-in hell), I want to take this opportunity to reprimand someone who rated this book 2 stars because she just didn't "feel it" regarding Kat and Jenny's relationship, BUT...she didn't read the first THREE books of the series (over a thousand pages!). She basically started a book a thousand pages in and just wasn't vibin' with it. 🤦🏻♀️ What a terrible thing to do to an author.
Just checked and two people rated it two stars who hadn't read the first three books. C'mon.
Just checked and two people rated it two stars who hadn't read the first three books. C'mon.
December 26, 2023
enthralling read
The books kept me on a rollercoaster ride. All I could think about is when will these two beautiful women get time to be together. Im always interested in the WW2 era and adding a love story only made it better. Converting this story into a movie would be phenomenal. I wish I had the money to make it happen. Hmmm who to cast as Kat and Jenny ;)
Loved every minute, thank you!!!
The books kept me on a rollercoaster ride. All I could think about is when will these two beautiful women get time to be together. Im always interested in the WW2 era and adding a love story only made it better. Converting this story into a movie would be phenomenal. I wish I had the money to make it happen. Hmmm who to cast as Kat and Jenny ;)
Loved every minute, thank you!!!
April 22, 2024
I've read 35% of this book and I seriously can't more.I can't believe I've gone from loving those characters to hating them.
I can't recognize them,they're so different since the beginning, it feels like they downgraded instead of having a development .There was no love between them that is worth saving,and no matter what will happen they will never have the same relationship they had in the earlier books,I'm grieving that.
I can't recognize them,they're so different since the beginning, it feels like they downgraded instead of having a development .There was no love between them that is worth saving,and no matter what will happen they will never have the same relationship they had in the earlier books,I'm grieving that.
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