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Of Shadows and Secrets #7
Icelock
In the frozen silence of the Swiss Alps, loyalty will be tested—and love will be the only warmth that remains.
American agents Will Shaw and Thomas Jacobs have stolen a rare moment of peace in their modest Parisian flat, where the aroma of French onion soup mingles with the quiet intimacy of two men who've loved each other through war, bullets, and impossible odds.
But when Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg appears at their door—the formidable Swiss spymaster who once saved their lives—Will and Thomas know their peaceful evening is about to end.
The Baroness is running scared. And the Baroness is never scared.
Someone is orchestrating a coup at the heart of Europe's most secretive nation, and the trail leads to an ancient order of fanatics that Will and Thomas thought they'd destroyed.
With their own government ordering them to stand down and Soviet intelligence pulling strings in the shadows, Will and Thomas must make an impossible choice—follow orders or follow their conscience into the frozen heart of a conspiracy that could destroy them both and reshape the Cold War itself.
From the snow-swept streets of Bern to fortresses hidden in the Swiss Alps, Icelock plunges readers into a white-knuckle game of deception where allies become enemies, every shadow hides a blade, and the only people Will and Thomas can truly trust are each other.
For readers who Cold War intrigue, slow-burn MM romance, found family, and heroes who fight for love as fiercely as they fight for survival.
Perfect entry point for new readers—or continue the heart-pounding adventures of Will and Thomas as they face their most dangerous mission yet.
The shadows are watching & the clock is ticking.
American agents Will Shaw and Thomas Jacobs have stolen a rare moment of peace in their modest Parisian flat, where the aroma of French onion soup mingles with the quiet intimacy of two men who've loved each other through war, bullets, and impossible odds.
But when Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg appears at their door—the formidable Swiss spymaster who once saved their lives—Will and Thomas know their peaceful evening is about to end.
The Baroness is running scared. And the Baroness is never scared.
Someone is orchestrating a coup at the heart of Europe's most secretive nation, and the trail leads to an ancient order of fanatics that Will and Thomas thought they'd destroyed.
With their own government ordering them to stand down and Soviet intelligence pulling strings in the shadows, Will and Thomas must make an impossible choice—follow orders or follow their conscience into the frozen heart of a conspiracy that could destroy them both and reshape the Cold War itself.
From the snow-swept streets of Bern to fortresses hidden in the Swiss Alps, Icelock plunges readers into a white-knuckle game of deception where allies become enemies, every shadow hides a blade, and the only people Will and Thomas can truly trust are each other.
For readers who Cold War intrigue, slow-burn MM romance, found family, and heroes who fight for love as fiercely as they fight for survival.
Perfect entry point for new readers—or continue the heart-pounding adventures of Will and Thomas as they face their most dangerous mission yet.
The shadows are watching & the clock is ticking.
- GenresThriller
430 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 26, 2026
About the author
Casey Morales
55 books462 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 31 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Just don't get shot again!"
Here we go with book #7 in Casey's OF SHADOWS & SECRETS series featuring Will & Thomas, 2 CIA operatives based in Paris during the early stages of the Cold War. We are now in the first half of 1952 and the guys are in domestic mode whipping-up some French Onion Soup in their flat when they get an unexpected knock on their door. It's non other than the Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg, the formidable head of Swiss Intelligence who once saved their lives. She's escaped to Paris from her base in Bern because operatives in her network are getting bumped-off and she's scared for her own safety. Her instincts are also telling her that this scenario is playing out on an international scale that threatens the very existence of her home country. She ends up spending the night on our boy's couch and has some hilarious comments about their decorating skills.
Will & Thomas check in with Manakin, their handler back in Washington and bring him up to speed on the situation. They get direct orders to stand-down and stay out of this one. So they face a dilema - follow orders, or follow their conscience and travel back to Bern with the Baroness and her posse to sort this one out. Do you need any hints on what their decision was? Of course you don't!
From the snowy streets of Bern to enemy fortresses in the Swiss Alps, Casey takes us on a wild ride of deception. Friends become enemies, there is danger around every corner, and everything any character trusts has to be questioned. There is a point in the story where Will & Thomas conclude that the only folks they can completely trust are each other. My heart ended up in my throat when I realized there is a very real possibility we might lose one of our boys this time.
Loved this book for many reasons. Elevating the Baroness to a main character is awesome. Will & Thomas's fight for their love in addition to their own survival is heart-warming. And the Cold War intrigue is bang-on. Ultimately we get the HEA we need to close the loop - but Casey leaves a lot of unanswered questions including an Epilogue focused on Stalin and his next moves to elevate Soviet dominance in the world order. Casey has set us up for a great sequel and i can't wait to see where these guys go next! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Here we go with book #7 in Casey's OF SHADOWS & SECRETS series featuring Will & Thomas, 2 CIA operatives based in Paris during the early stages of the Cold War. We are now in the first half of 1952 and the guys are in domestic mode whipping-up some French Onion Soup in their flat when they get an unexpected knock on their door. It's non other than the Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg, the formidable head of Swiss Intelligence who once saved their lives. She's escaped to Paris from her base in Bern because operatives in her network are getting bumped-off and she's scared for her own safety. Her instincts are also telling her that this scenario is playing out on an international scale that threatens the very existence of her home country. She ends up spending the night on our boy's couch and has some hilarious comments about their decorating skills.
Will & Thomas check in with Manakin, their handler back in Washington and bring him up to speed on the situation. They get direct orders to stand-down and stay out of this one. So they face a dilema - follow orders, or follow their conscience and travel back to Bern with the Baroness and her posse to sort this one out. Do you need any hints on what their decision was? Of course you don't!
From the snowy streets of Bern to enemy fortresses in the Swiss Alps, Casey takes us on a wild ride of deception. Friends become enemies, there is danger around every corner, and everything any character trusts has to be questioned. There is a point in the story where Will & Thomas conclude that the only folks they can completely trust are each other. My heart ended up in my throat when I realized there is a very real possibility we might lose one of our boys this time.
Loved this book for many reasons. Elevating the Baroness to a main character is awesome. Will & Thomas's fight for their love in addition to their own survival is heart-warming. And the Cold War intrigue is bang-on. Ultimately we get the HEA we need to close the loop - but Casey leaves a lot of unanswered questions including an Epilogue focused on Stalin and his next moves to elevate Soviet dominance in the world order. Casey has set us up for a great sequel and i can't wait to see where these guys go next! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 31, 2026
“Our first rule is that you don’t get to die before me. That’s always been non-negotiable. I’ve already decided that I’m going to be the one who goes first because I’m older and wiser and because I couldn’t bear to live in a world where you don’t exist.”
Icelock by Casey Morales is the seventh book in the Of Shadows and Secrets. I didn’t expect this book to hit me as hard as it did, but wow. From the first page I was completely hooked. There’s this low, constant tension that just keeps building, and I was getting nervous as I kept reading, waiting to see what would happen and worrying that something bad might happen to them, because when you think things might calm down a bit… nope, something happens and you’re back on edge.
This time the story moves to Bern, Switzerland, where Will and Thomas head after leaving Paris, and not following Manakin’s orders, but to help a friend. The Baroness, Isabella von Hohenberg, is in serious danger. She asks them for help because she doesn’t know who to trust. And, of course, they’re not going to ignore that. The plot keeps you glued to every little detail. You really have to pay attention, because if you zone out for a second, you might miss something important. There’s a conspiracy brewing in the heart of Europe, with strings being pulled from the East, ready to shake everything apart.
“Come back to me,” he said against my mouth.
“I will if you will.”
“Deal.”
But the heart of this story is Will and Thomas. Their love and loyalty to each other make all the danger feel so personal. And those quiet, tender moments? Just as powerful as the action scenes. And the Baroness? Absolute legend. She’s strong and sharp but also vulnerable in ways that make her role even more impactful. By the end, I was emotionally wrung out (anxious, teary, and already waiting for the next book).
“I had learned, in the years since we’d found each other, to treasure these moments. They weren’t grand gestures or dramatic declarations—Will wasn’t built for those, and neither was I, really—but small intimacies.”
I highly recommend this book.
Thank you, Casey Morales for the free eARC. This is my honest review and recommendation.
Review of advance copy
“Icelock” is a layered historical espionage thriller that weaves Cold War intrigue, religious extremism, and political conspiracy with a poignant love story at its core. As the third installment in the Of Shadows & Secrets (OSS) series, it enriches Casey Morales's world and elevates the emotional stakes for its characters.
The novel opens chillingly at the Abbey of St. Gallen, where Brother Aldric—formerly of the sinister Order of Saint Longinus—is murdered while trying to alert a powerful ally about the Order's resurgence. This atmosphere of snow and silence sets the stage for a conspiracy that blends ancient secrets with modern threats.
The narrative alternates between Will and Thomas, whose romantic and professional partnership provides emotional grounding amidst rising political dangers. Their domestic scenes, like cooking French onion soup, contrast wonderfully with the escalating tension, emphasizing that love makes the danger matter.
Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg adds depth by revealing her connections to Aldric and the potential ties between the Order and Soviet interests. The geopolitical aspects are skillfully woven in, exploring themes of Nazi financial remnants and ideological extremism.
Morales builds tension deliberately, relying on investigation and dialogue rather than action sequences alone. The Swiss settings contrast beauty with institutional rot, reinforcing the theme that appearances can conceal deeper power struggles.
The prose is polished and atmospheric, with sharp, authentic dialogue between Will and Thomas providing warmth. The Order of Saint Longinus is depicted with moral complexity, illustrating the uncomfortable alliance between zealotry and political opportunism.
While the intricate political threads may demand close attention, “Icelock” is a rich, character-driven espionage story that explores themes of trust, loyalty, and the intersections of personal and political worlds. It serves as a compelling continuation of the series and a thoughtful addition to the genre.
Worth a try.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The novel opens chillingly at the Abbey of St. Gallen, where Brother Aldric—formerly of the sinister Order of Saint Longinus—is murdered while trying to alert a powerful ally about the Order's resurgence. This atmosphere of snow and silence sets the stage for a conspiracy that blends ancient secrets with modern threats.
The narrative alternates between Will and Thomas, whose romantic and professional partnership provides emotional grounding amidst rising political dangers. Their domestic scenes, like cooking French onion soup, contrast wonderfully with the escalating tension, emphasizing that love makes the danger matter.
Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg adds depth by revealing her connections to Aldric and the potential ties between the Order and Soviet interests. The geopolitical aspects are skillfully woven in, exploring themes of Nazi financial remnants and ideological extremism.
Morales builds tension deliberately, relying on investigation and dialogue rather than action sequences alone. The Swiss settings contrast beauty with institutional rot, reinforcing the theme that appearances can conceal deeper power struggles.
The prose is polished and atmospheric, with sharp, authentic dialogue between Will and Thomas providing warmth. The Order of Saint Longinus is depicted with moral complexity, illustrating the uncomfortable alliance between zealotry and political opportunism.
While the intricate political threads may demand close attention, “Icelock” is a rich, character-driven espionage story that explores themes of trust, loyalty, and the intersections of personal and political worlds. It serves as a compelling continuation of the series and a thoughtful addition to the genre.
Worth a try.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
This story is one of the best in the Thomas and Will series.
The Baroness appears several times in their various missions, and I loved seeing this character, this force of nature, take center stage in one of Will and Thomas's missions.
The plot was captivating; we are completely caught up in the anxiety of the mission, the time running out, the betrayals, the twists and turns.
And Thomas and Will remain true to themselves, loyal and in love as ever. We fear with them, we cry with them...
And the Baroness is just perfect. We come away from this book with our hearts broken by the events, and the desire for a sequel, because this is just one battle that hides an iceberg.
If you like historical spy stories... Jump on this magnificent series
----
Cette histoire est l'une des meilleurs de la série de Thomas et Will.
La baronne apparaît à plusieurs reprises dans leurs leurs différentes missions, j'ai adoré voir ce personnage, cette force de la nature, avoir sa place au coeur d'une mission de Will et Thomas.
L'intrigue était captivante, on est totalement pris dans l'angoisse de la mission, le temps qui file et qui manque, les trahisons, les retournements de situation.
Et Thomas et Will restent fidèles à eux-mêmes, loyaux et amoureux comme jamais. On a peur avec eux, on pleure avec eux...
Et la baronne est juste parfaite. Et on sort de ce livre, avec leur coeur brisée par les évènements, et l'envie d'avoir une suite que ça ne s'arrête pas là où ce n'est qu'une bataille qui dissimule un iceberg.
Si vous avez les histoires d'espionages historiques... Sautez sur cette magnifique série !
The Baroness appears several times in their various missions, and I loved seeing this character, this force of nature, take center stage in one of Will and Thomas's missions.
The plot was captivating; we are completely caught up in the anxiety of the mission, the time running out, the betrayals, the twists and turns.
And Thomas and Will remain true to themselves, loyal and in love as ever. We fear with them, we cry with them...
And the Baroness is just perfect. We come away from this book with our hearts broken by the events, and the desire for a sequel, because this is just one battle that hides an iceberg.
If you like historical spy stories... Jump on this magnificent series
----
Cette histoire est l'une des meilleurs de la série de Thomas et Will.
La baronne apparaît à plusieurs reprises dans leurs leurs différentes missions, j'ai adoré voir ce personnage, cette force de la nature, avoir sa place au coeur d'une mission de Will et Thomas.
L'intrigue était captivante, on est totalement pris dans l'angoisse de la mission, le temps qui file et qui manque, les trahisons, les retournements de situation.
Et Thomas et Will restent fidèles à eux-mêmes, loyaux et amoureux comme jamais. On a peur avec eux, on pleure avec eux...
Et la baronne est juste parfaite. Et on sort de ce livre, avec leur coeur brisée par les évènements, et l'envie d'avoir une suite que ça ne s'arrête pas là où ce n'est qu'une bataille qui dissimule un iceberg.
Si vous avez les histoires d'espionages historiques... Sautez sur cette magnifique série !
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again, we see our favorite gay spies, Will and Thomas, diving headfirst into dangerous adventures. In their seventh installment of the popular series Of Shadows & Secrets, they explore uncharted territory, not on CIA orders, but for a far more personal reason.
This time, Will and Thomas are driven by a deep sense of duty to protect a close friend who has stood by them through everything. The stakes are higher than ever as the duo faces former enemies who have returned with a vengeance, eager to destabilize the Swiss banking system. Their determination to take control is unstoppable, with violence and deception close behind.
As Will and Thomas navigate the dark world of growing threats, murder, and betrayal, their mission is imperiled. They must depend on their intelligence, skills, and strong bond to stop the malicious plans of these old foes. The tension is rising, and the stakes are increasing, showing that this is not just a fight for their lives but also a battle for justice and the integrity of an entire system.
Join the exciting journey of Will and Thomas as they once again face dangerous enemies in this thrilling chapter of their story. Prepare for a tale full of suspense, loyalty, and unshakeable courage!
This time, Will and Thomas are driven by a deep sense of duty to protect a close friend who has stood by them through everything. The stakes are higher than ever as the duo faces former enemies who have returned with a vengeance, eager to destabilize the Swiss banking system. Their determination to take control is unstoppable, with violence and deception close behind.
As Will and Thomas navigate the dark world of growing threats, murder, and betrayal, their mission is imperiled. They must depend on their intelligence, skills, and strong bond to stop the malicious plans of these old foes. The tension is rising, and the stakes are increasing, showing that this is not just a fight for their lives but also a battle for justice and the integrity of an entire system.
Join the exciting journey of Will and Thomas as they once again face dangerous enemies in this thrilling chapter of their story. Prepare for a tale full of suspense, loyalty, and unshakeable courage!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another rousing adventure with international spies extraordinaire, Will and Thomas. This time they are pulled away from their comfortable domestic life in Paris by the request of their friend the Baroness. Her intelligence network and country are under attack from an unknown foe. Given that it's 1952, the most likely culprits are the Soviets and they are not above death and destruction to get the results they want. Will and Thomas jump in to help despite going rogue from the CIA in order to do so. I always enjoy the thriller aspect of these stories, I'm on the edge of my seat for most of the story hoping that our boys can pull through together. I really enjoy the various spies and operatives that join them on their missions too. And then there are Will and Thomas. Their relationship has grown and deepened over the series. It's quiet despite the chaos and danger that they're often surrounded by. They are solid. The spice level is fairly low, but the passion and love is great. Of course we are left with a cliff hanger in the overall larger story about post-war Europe, so I'm anxiously awaiting the next installment.
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.
February 27, 2026
Home of cuckoo clocks, Swiss cheese, a mask of neutrality and my favourite Baroness
Yet again, Will and Thomas' home life in Paris is interrupted by a plea from their old friend, Baroness Isabella, for help when she doesn't know who to trust or where to turn in her own country.
Casey is skilled in setting the atmosphere of the time period, evoking WWII in the first books, morphing into peacetime, then the Cold War. The settings play as much a part of the stories as the characters do. Will and Thomas are, by now, very familiar with numerous European countries and their spycraft is second to none.
The Baroness is a fascinating character, a strong and formidable woman with power in a time when that wasn't the norm. Her sense of duty and integrity equals that of her friends and together, the three of them (Will and Thomas going rogue) set out to unveil the conspiracy at great danger to themselves.
As always, the intimate moments between Will and Thomas contrast sharply with the danger that always underwrites both their personal and professional lives. The quiet times are beautiful and are the payoff for all the drama and danger that they inevitably find themselves in.
I can't wait to see what Casey has in store for them next.
Yet again, Will and Thomas' home life in Paris is interrupted by a plea from their old friend, Baroness Isabella, for help when she doesn't know who to trust or where to turn in her own country.
Casey is skilled in setting the atmosphere of the time period, evoking WWII in the first books, morphing into peacetime, then the Cold War. The settings play as much a part of the stories as the characters do. Will and Thomas are, by now, very familiar with numerous European countries and their spycraft is second to none.
The Baroness is a fascinating character, a strong and formidable woman with power in a time when that wasn't the norm. Her sense of duty and integrity equals that of her friends and together, the three of them (Will and Thomas going rogue) set out to unveil the conspiracy at great danger to themselves.
As always, the intimate moments between Will and Thomas contrast sharply with the danger that always underwrites both their personal and professional lives. The quiet times are beautiful and are the payoff for all the drama and danger that they inevitably find themselves in.
I can't wait to see what Casey has in store for them next.
Read
February 5, 2026Will Shaw and Thomas Jacobs met a Harvard when the University grounds were put to use as a training facility for Military officers before the US entered WWII. Lt. Jacobs was Naval Intelligence and Shaw enlisted on the eve of Pearl Harbor, sparking something in the eyes of those who would be putting together the first days of the OSS. Now seasoned CIA operatives and life partners, their 1952 peaceful evening at their Paris flat was upended by the arrival of the Baroness. Head of Swiss Intelligence for decades she had saved Thomas and Wills lives more than once so when she was frantic and desperate for help they didn’t hesitate to disobey orders and follow her back to Bern.
This is book 7 of the Shadows and Secrets series and the finest one yet. Lot of action and intrigue with the risk to two men who loved each other when it was still a crime running in the background. I adore this series and would give it lots more stars if I could. I hope from the ending that another book is in the works.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book 7 of the Shadows and Secrets series and the finest one yet. Lot of action and intrigue with the risk to two men who loved each other when it was still a crime running in the background. I adore this series and would give it lots more stars if I could. I hope from the ending that another book is in the works.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again, Casey has knocked it out of the park! When this book opens, Will and Thomas are enjoying an evening in their Paris flat, cooking dinner when The Baroness shows up. But instead of her usual confident self, she shook up, worried and even frightened. She asks for their help, people close to her are dying. Of course, these two men will help. And despite being told "no" by their handler, they can't abandon their friend. From there the story is filled with intrigue and danger and, of course, their love for one another.
Casey Morales has done such a great job that my heart sped up and I was holding my breath, afraid one of our boys would be caught or killed. And I melted at how tender they were with one another. This story was action packed and never dragged. If you like thrillers, or spy novels, this is a great story. And, while it technically can be read as standalone, you'll want to read the series in order.
Casey Morales has done such a great job that my heart sped up and I was holding my breath, afraid one of our boys would be caught or killed. And I melted at how tender they were with one another. This story was action packed and never dragged. If you like thrillers, or spy novels, this is a great story. And, while it technically can be read as standalone, you'll want to read the series in order.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I rate Icelock 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars. Will and Thomas are my favorite established couple in MM romance. What always speaks to me deeply about their scenes is their abiding, steadfast love, their soul-deep connection and enduring partnership. Will and Thomas are the beating heart of this series, and their portions of the story held true. Right from the first page the writing was taut and intelligent, as usual for this spy thriller series. For the first half of the book, the espionage aspects were engaging with the perfect amount of pacing and tension. But in the second half of the book, the story was bogged down by too much political discussion and explication. There were many chapters in the second half that I barely skimmed because I simply wasn't interested. Also, I noticed some continuity breaks related to dates referenced in certain documents that were crucial to the plot. I had expected more from this story, and I was disappointed.
May 7, 2026
This is the seventh book in the series featuring Will & Thomas, two CIA agents operating in Europe. Their relationship remains solid throughout the series.
This novel is set in the early 1950s. Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg (the head of Swiss Intelligence) asks for their help. In spite of CIA orders not to pursue this case, they move swiftly from Paris to Bern. As they investigate what is happening, the tension racks up. This thriller is very hard to put down!
Morales is very good at developing characters - for example, the Baroness in the novel. The author's research into post-WW2 Europe is meticulous.
I love this series, and I can’t wait until the next installment is released.
As a side note, I noticed that audiobooks have been released for the earlier books. I love Joel Leslie (the narrator) so I listened to Crimson, the first book in the series. I enjoyed it so much that I plan to listen to all the books on Hoopla.
This novel is set in the early 1950s. Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg (the head of Swiss Intelligence) asks for their help. In spite of CIA orders not to pursue this case, they move swiftly from Paris to Bern. As they investigate what is happening, the tension racks up. This thriller is very hard to put down!
Morales is very good at developing characters - for example, the Baroness in the novel. The author's research into post-WW2 Europe is meticulous.
I love this series, and I can’t wait until the next installment is released.
As a side note, I noticed that audiobooks have been released for the earlier books. I love Joel Leslie (the narrator) so I listened to Crimson, the first book in the series. I enjoyed it so much that I plan to listen to all the books on Hoopla.
Review of advance copy received from Author
In this next book, an old monk is killed for betraying the Order of Saint Loginus. In 1952, the Baroness seeks out Will and Thomas in Paris due to the " Restoration" and her Swiss government being compromised. Once again the two intrepid spies and lovers are in the thick of it in the post WWII Chaos. It's an adventure filled with intrigue, loyalty, friendship, danger and conspiracy, all the hallmarks of Casey's abilities to write a great spy novel. I'm not much of a history buff but his books make me fascinated with this time period and his cleverness in inserting this wonderful, intelligent, brave gay couple into a time period not known for it's openness to the LGBTQ community is entirely plausible. I thoroughly enjoyed this! I received a copy of this through BookSprout and this is my voluntary opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an exceptional series and this was another fantastic read. Literally on tenterhooks from the get go! The Cold War setting is beautifully realised, with a constant sense of danger that keeps the pressure high as the story moves from quiet domestic moments to life-or-death decisions.
What really stands out is the strength of Will and Thomas’s bond. Their loyalty to each other anchors the chaos around them, making every risk feel personal. The stakes are high, the twists are sharp, and the emotional fallout lingers long after the final page. A tense, atmospheric, and emotionally gripping addition to the series, which is a must for anyone who enjoys intelligent spy fiction with heart.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
What really stands out is the strength of Will and Thomas’s bond. Their loyalty to each other anchors the chaos around them, making every risk feel personal. The stakes are high, the twists are sharp, and the emotional fallout lingers long after the final page. A tense, atmospheric, and emotionally gripping addition to the series, which is a must for anyone who enjoys intelligent spy fiction with heart.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Review of advance copy
Outstanding! Will and Thomas, thought they were stealing a slice in time for peace and relaxation. Old enemies whom Will and Thomas thought they vanquished have returned and plan to wreak destructive havoc on global communities. Their Government gave them a stand down order. Their conscience and integrity refuse to let them listen. They are on their own fighting an enemy larger than they've ever experienced. Oh my stars! The adventure is amazing and tense and dangerous and exciting. Well done! Hard to put this story down. Good story, excellent characters, nice cover art! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was not prepared for how much I loved this book. The mission, the Baroness and of course Will and Thomas. The twists and turns, life and death decisions are gripping. This series has been 7 of the best books I have read. I think the love and devotion of Thomas and Will is one of the most beautiful aspects of this book. I can not begin to express how much I loved this book and series, this is an amazing addition to the series.
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.
Review of advance copy
Thomas and Will are summoned to Switzerland by their old friend Baroness von Hohenberg. When she arrives at their Paris apartment in fear of her life, Thomas and Will don't hesitate to offer their help despite the fact that it could cost them their careers and lives. The Baroness is convinced that someone is trying to undermine the Swiss government and people in her network are dying trying to find out who. Another thrilling installment in the series from the cold war.
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.
March 18, 2026
An intense and gripping book
I have never read a book that has gripped me so hard from the first page.
Will and Thomas back with the Baroness again, trying to help her and her country survive the manipulation of Stalin.
This has to be one of the best stories I have ever read from Casey Morales... I've held my breath, almost cried, and also smiled all the way through. This is a must for anyone who loves historical thrillers... Oh and don't expect to get much sleep once you start it...
I have never read a book that has gripped me so hard from the first page.
Will and Thomas back with the Baroness again, trying to help her and her country survive the manipulation of Stalin.
This has to be one of the best stories I have ever read from Casey Morales... I've held my breath, almost cried, and also smiled all the way through. This is a must for anyone who loves historical thrillers... Oh and don't expect to get much sleep once you start it...
June 12, 2026
As goodbadnitbgets
Wow! What a story Casey Morales has given us a well crafted story filled with tension. What at first seems like a straight forward spy thriller has enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing until the end. Our.boys, Will and Thomas once again find themselves facing steep odds as they once again face old and new enemies with the indomitable Baroness.
Morales has matured the boys relationship and while there are still spicy moments, their emotional connection takes center stage as they hurtle themselves through another crisis.
Wow! What a story Casey Morales has given us a well crafted story filled with tension. What at first seems like a straight forward spy thriller has enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing until the end. Our.boys, Will and Thomas once again find themselves facing steep odds as they once again face old and new enemies with the indomitable Baroness.
Morales has matured the boys relationship and while there are still spicy moments, their emotional connection takes center stage as they hurtle themselves through another crisis.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion:
This was an excellent read! It’s expertly researched and the author is able to bring the international setting to life with wonderfully vivid detail. I love seeing Will and Thomas working and living together and the balance between romance and espionage is just right. I also love that we get the Baroness back, she is fabulous. Absolutely gripping!
This was an excellent read! It’s expertly researched and the author is able to bring the international setting to life with wonderfully vivid detail. I love seeing Will and Thomas working and living together and the balance between romance and espionage is just right. I also love that we get the Baroness back, she is fabulous. Absolutely gripping!
March 13, 2026
A Remarkable Story
The “Shadows & Secrets” is a tour de force. At the heart of this thriller is profound love between two amazing men. In “Icelock” their solidity remains supported by the sense of lust that crackles between them, mediated by mature commitment to a greater cause. Together with the excitement and danger of challenging an attempt to destroy Swiss democracy and neutrality, it makes for what is probably Casey’s best book yet.
The “Shadows & Secrets” is a tour de force. At the heart of this thriller is profound love between two amazing men. In “Icelock” their solidity remains supported by the sense of lust that crackles between them, mediated by mature commitment to a greater cause. Together with the excitement and danger of challenging an attempt to destroy Swiss democracy and neutrality, it makes for what is probably Casey’s best book yet.
April 9, 2026
This is the caper to end all capers, Casey. I'm going to use code names for our two heroes - Condor and Emu - CIA operatives who find themselves in Switzerland in the early 1950s working with the Baroness to try to stop a Russian takeover of the neutral country. They do with the help of other American spies, and the two Swiss councilmen who tried to help the Russians have been charged with treason. Casey, you have QUITE an imaginative operation going here.
June 7, 2026
Just when Thomas and Will thought life could be a little easier the storms of war begin again. Being spies is not an easy life to begin with but finding love during a war and trying to keep it is even harder.
The characters are done very well and the world building will drag you into their world, not letting you go until the very end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters are done very well and the world building will drag you into their world, not letting you go until the very end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 30, 2026
Will & Thomas are on an unsanctioned mission to help the Baroness save her home country. The Baroness contacts Will & Thomas when one of the operatives in her network is murdered. She finds out through clues left it's an old "cult" surfacing again. There's plenty of action, murder, espionage & of course Will & Thomas keeping the love & each other alive. Another great addition & history lesson to the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 19, 2026
I Love Will & Thomas!
First of all, thank you again to author Casey Morales for a wonderful heart stopping read. Will and Thomas are two of my most favorite book characters. The humor and love between the two is addictive. The stories are scary, funny and very well written as usual. Read and enjoy!
First of all, thank you again to author Casey Morales for a wonderful heart stopping read. Will and Thomas are two of my most favorite book characters. The humor and love between the two is addictive. The stories are scary, funny and very well written as usual. Read and enjoy!
June 3, 2026
A fast paced, thrilling read as Will and Thomas return to help a scared Baroness help stop a coup in Switzerland involving the Soviets in the early 50s. The tension was high, the action intense. The bond between Will and Thomas was as strong and beautiful as ever. A gripping story in a wonderful series.
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.
August 20, 2026
This series keeps getting better and better. In this book, Will and Thomas are off to save the Baroness and along the way have to save Switzerland and the world. The plot is layered and complex with dangers lurking everywhere. And of course there's the relationship/love of Will and Thomas.
I hope the next in the series comes out soon.
I hope the next in the series comes out soon.
Review of advance copy
Will and Thomas are finally back! I love the intrigue in this series. These boys are always finding themselves in chaotic situations. I love a good spy thrillers. Even better when there is a little romance. This was so good!.
April 7, 2026
I loved reading about two people in love during chaos and always choosing each other. There was so much going on around them but I could just feel that deep connection between them. This was amazing.
July 14, 2026
A perfect combination of thriller and romance.
I’ve loved every novel in the Of Shadows and Secrets series, and Icelock maintains the same level of excellence: Wonderful character development and thrilling, believable suspense, based on well-researched details.
I’ve loved every novel in the Of Shadows and Secrets series, and Icelock maintains the same level of excellence: Wonderful character development and thrilling, believable suspense, based on well-researched details.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely beautifully written in a way only Casey has seemed to master from recent authors. Weaving a tail of mystery and intrigue that keeps the reader asking for more even once the book is done.
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