What do you think?
Rate this book
Shadows in the Water #2
Under the Bones
Enemies make the best allies.
Louie Thorne is good at one thing: killing. She knows peace only when she kills and this relentless thirst drives her to hunt the world's worst crime lords. But when her cancer-stricken aunt makes a dying wish, Louie is torn between her own dark nature and a promise made to the only family she has left.
Enter Konstantine, illegitimate son of the crime lord who killed Louie's family, and now the leader of the Ravengers—a ruthless crime faction from Florence's underworld. He didn't rise to power without making enemies and now one of those enemies has made Konstantine the most hunted man alive.
Konstantine's only hope of reclaiming his throne is to trust the woman who wants him dead...
Under the Bones is the second novel in the Louie Thorne / Shadows in the Water series. You do not have to read them in order to enjoy them, but it is recommended.
Louie Thorne is good at one thing: killing. She knows peace only when she kills and this relentless thirst drives her to hunt the world's worst crime lords. But when her cancer-stricken aunt makes a dying wish, Louie is torn between her own dark nature and a promise made to the only family she has left.
Enter Konstantine, illegitimate son of the crime lord who killed Louie's family, and now the leader of the Ravengers—a ruthless crime faction from Florence's underworld. He didn't rise to power without making enemies and now one of those enemies has made Konstantine the most hunted man alive.
Konstantine's only hope of reclaiming his throne is to trust the woman who wants him dead...
Under the Bones is the second novel in the Louie Thorne / Shadows in the Water series. You do not have to read them in order to enjoy them, but it is recommended.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 12, 2018
121 people are currently reading
601 people want to read
About the author
Kory M. Shrum
53 books647 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Kory M. Shrum has published more than thirty books, including the bestselling Shadows in the Water series.
She hosts two podcasts—Who Killed My Mother?, a true-crime podcast about her mother’s tragic death, and A Well Cared For Human, focused on practical strategies for wellbeing and personal transformation.
She also publishes poetry under the name K.B. Marie.
When not writing, speaking, or pursuing one of her 300 hobbies, she can usually be found under thick blankets with snacks. The kettle is almost always on.
She lives in Michigan with her equally bookish wife, Kim, and their rescue dog, Max.
She hosts two podcasts—Who Killed My Mother?, a true-crime podcast about her mother’s tragic death, and A Well Cared For Human, focused on practical strategies for wellbeing and personal transformation.
She also publishes poetry under the name K.B. Marie.
When not writing, speaking, or pursuing one of her 300 hobbies, she can usually be found under thick blankets with snacks. The kettle is almost always on.
She lives in Michigan with her equally bookish wife, Kim, and their rescue dog, Max.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 29, 2021
Under the Bones
(Shadows in the Water #2)
by Kory M. Shrum
Lou is a gal that can slide through shadows and travel that way. She can also visit a shore where creatures lurk. Ones that she has come to befriend. She brings the creature bodies of drug runners and drug lords, murderers and other human monsters to feast on.
But she has a strange relationship with one of the bosses, Konstantine.
Her aunt is dying too. Life is getting complicated.
This is so good! Not as good as book one but still pretty darn good!
(Shadows in the Water #2)
by Kory M. Shrum
Lou is a gal that can slide through shadows and travel that way. She can also visit a shore where creatures lurk. Ones that she has come to befriend. She brings the creature bodies of drug runners and drug lords, murderers and other human monsters to feast on.
But she has a strange relationship with one of the bosses, Konstantine.
Her aunt is dying too. Life is getting complicated.
This is so good! Not as good as book one but still pretty darn good!
June 15, 2018
Really enjoyed it. Was fast passed for the most part especially at the end. Loving the plots, surprises and the way the characters are developing. I like that it's not all given to you straight up. Skipped some though. I prefer less description and less repeat from the earlier book
February 25, 2024
Under the Bones - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Following in the intrepid footsteps of her late father, Lou Thorne is a paranormally-powered vigilante, with an arsenal of weapons and the ability to 'slip' through space and rematerialise where she desires without being seen to do so, in this new psychological thriller from Queen of the
Night-world, Kory M Shrum.
Though only killing evil-doers when necessary, Lou gives the benefit of the doubt (and medical assistance) to the wounded villain Konstantine, who's the favored 'son' of Mob capo 'The Padre', which drives his actual son Nico into a murderous rage.
A many-threaded literary tapestry is skillfully woven in Under the Bones and the conclusion will both thrill and enchant the reader. Not to be missed!
Following in the intrepid footsteps of her late father, Lou Thorne is a paranormally-powered vigilante, with an arsenal of weapons and the ability to 'slip' through space and rematerialise where she desires without being seen to do so, in this new psychological thriller from Queen of the
Night-world, Kory M Shrum.
Though only killing evil-doers when necessary, Lou gives the benefit of the doubt (and medical assistance) to the wounded villain Konstantine, who's the favored 'son' of Mob capo 'The Padre', which drives his actual son Nico into a murderous rage.
A many-threaded literary tapestry is skillfully woven in Under the Bones and the conclusion will both thrill and enchant the reader. Not to be missed!
June 15, 2018
Great Read!
Get comfortable before you begin because you won't put this book down until the end. Lou is such an enigma and can even appear ruthless in her interactions with others but she draws you in. You'll find yourself cheering her on all the while wanting to know more about who she is and what makes her tick. I'm already anticipating the next book in this series.
Get comfortable before you begin because you won't put this book down until the end. Lou is such an enigma and can even appear ruthless in her interactions with others but she draws you in. You'll find yourself cheering her on all the while wanting to know more about who she is and what makes her tick. I'm already anticipating the next book in this series.
June 16, 2018
Enjoyable
Looking forward to what happens next. Especially the relationship between Lou and Konstantine. An original idea that is so well done. Lots of typos at the end of this one though.
Looking forward to what happens next. Especially the relationship between Lou and Konstantine. An original idea that is so well done. Lots of typos at the end of this one though.
June 12, 2018
So I have always enjoyed all of the books Kory has written. She has become one of my favorite authors. When I started this book for whatever reason I was having a hard time with it. I'm not sure what it was about it but I couldn't get into the story like normal. Of course being a book by Kory I continued it and am so glad I did. Once I got through the first several chapters I was once again pulled into the book and completely enjoyed it. Like all of her books I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good action story.
June 15, 2018
Great
Even. Better than than the first book I couldn't put it down.. Can't wait to start the next book .
Even. Better than than the first book I couldn't put it down.. Can't wait to start the next book .
June 13, 2018
That was just incredible! Kory Shrum knows how to write! I loved this book even more than the first one and I can’t wait to see what she offers us next!
August 30, 2018
She has quickly become a favorite author. Clever,interesting books with wit and adventure.
September 12, 2024
5 Stars
Under the Bones is the second book in the Shadows in the Water series by my new favourite author, Kory M. Shrum. I have come to the conclusion that Bookbub has a lot to answer for, on one hand it is a fantastic way to ‘find’ new books/authors to read- but on the other hand I end up spending my entire yearly book budget in a matter of a few months lol. But if it weren’t for Bookbub, I would never have found Ms. Shrum’s books, which would have been a real tragedy, because she really knows how to weave a riveting tale.
This is an awesome urban fantasy with so much going on- in a fantastic way. With plenty of action, adventure, mystery, danger, a different realm aspect, suspense, tension, intrigue, drama, the mafia, serial killers, agendas, ‘hunting’, team work, friendship, family, investigation, time factors, gripping scenes, intense developments, twists, romance, and so, so, so much more- you really need to read it to fully appreciate this gem of a series as I doubt my words can really do this series the justice that it deserves.
Louie Thorne is the daughter of assassinated DEA agent, Jack Thorne. He, along with her mother, were murdered by a drug cartel when she was just a young child- his death scarred her, in more ways than one. She has bided her time honing her skills, becoming a force to be reckoned with- one so powerful that the ‘bad guys’ will never see her coming. In the process of wreaking revenge, she builds a terrifying reputation that will strike fear into the hearts of her enemies- and it’s her secret ‘ability’ that gives her the upper hand- and gives this whole series a completely unique and addictive quality. So much action. With a lot of violence. And a huge helping of adventure. Resulting in a serious book addiction- while also set this book/series apart from others, and this is a book ‘high’ that will be hard to beat.
I developed this addiction to Ms. Shrum’s stories when I stumbled on the Shadows in the Water series -> picking up one book, which then led to two, which then had me devouring the whole series, back-to-back (11 books) in a matter of days. Now I am on tenterhooks, excitedly anticipating the release of Book #12, which can’t come quickly enough for my liking lol.
Each book in this series follows on from the previous one – with each instalment having its own ‘story’, but also adding to what has come before, thereby building a much bigger picture along the way- so the series really needs to be read in the correct sequence, to fully appreciate it- and prevent any kind of confusion. The books are available individually if you wish, as well as in Boxed Sets- which, again, is really great value for money.
The Series consists of:
-Shadows in the Water (Book #1)
-Under the Bones (Book #2)
-Danse Macabre (Book #3)
-Carnival (Book #4)
-Devil’s Luck (Book #5)
-What Comes Around (Book #6)
-Overkill (Book #7)
-Silver Bullet (Book #8)
-Hell House (Book #9)
-One Foot in the Grave (Book #10)
-Blood Rain (Book #11)
-First Light (Book #12 -> coming soon)
If you love highly original urban fantasies with plenty of action and adventure- then this is definitely a series you will want to sink your teeth into- but be prepared to develop a (Kory M.) Shrum addiction!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kory M. Shrum!
Under the Bones is the second book in the Shadows in the Water series by my new favourite author, Kory M. Shrum. I have come to the conclusion that Bookbub has a lot to answer for, on one hand it is a fantastic way to ‘find’ new books/authors to read- but on the other hand I end up spending my entire yearly book budget in a matter of a few months lol. But if it weren’t for Bookbub, I would never have found Ms. Shrum’s books, which would have been a real tragedy, because she really knows how to weave a riveting tale.
This is an awesome urban fantasy with so much going on- in a fantastic way. With plenty of action, adventure, mystery, danger, a different realm aspect, suspense, tension, intrigue, drama, the mafia, serial killers, agendas, ‘hunting’, team work, friendship, family, investigation, time factors, gripping scenes, intense developments, twists, romance, and so, so, so much more- you really need to read it to fully appreciate this gem of a series as I doubt my words can really do this series the justice that it deserves.
Louie Thorne is the daughter of assassinated DEA agent, Jack Thorne. He, along with her mother, were murdered by a drug cartel when she was just a young child- his death scarred her, in more ways than one. She has bided her time honing her skills, becoming a force to be reckoned with- one so powerful that the ‘bad guys’ will never see her coming. In the process of wreaking revenge, she builds a terrifying reputation that will strike fear into the hearts of her enemies- and it’s her secret ‘ability’ that gives her the upper hand- and gives this whole series a completely unique and addictive quality. So much action. With a lot of violence. And a huge helping of adventure. Resulting in a serious book addiction- while also set this book/series apart from others, and this is a book ‘high’ that will be hard to beat.
I developed this addiction to Ms. Shrum’s stories when I stumbled on the Shadows in the Water series -> picking up one book, which then led to two, which then had me devouring the whole series, back-to-back (11 books) in a matter of days. Now I am on tenterhooks, excitedly anticipating the release of Book #12, which can’t come quickly enough for my liking lol.
Each book in this series follows on from the previous one – with each instalment having its own ‘story’, but also adding to what has come before, thereby building a much bigger picture along the way- so the series really needs to be read in the correct sequence, to fully appreciate it- and prevent any kind of confusion. The books are available individually if you wish, as well as in Boxed Sets- which, again, is really great value for money.
The Series consists of:
-Shadows in the Water (Book #1)
-Under the Bones (Book #2)
-Danse Macabre (Book #3)
-Carnival (Book #4)
-Devil’s Luck (Book #5)
-What Comes Around (Book #6)
-Overkill (Book #7)
-Silver Bullet (Book #8)
-Hell House (Book #9)
-One Foot in the Grave (Book #10)
-Blood Rain (Book #11)
-First Light (Book #12 -> coming soon)
If you love highly original urban fantasies with plenty of action and adventure- then this is definitely a series you will want to sink your teeth into- but be prepared to develop a (Kory M.) Shrum addiction!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kory M. Shrum!
June 22, 2018
This is the second book in the series of Lou Thorne Thrillers (Shadows in the Water) and follows Louie Thorne (goes by Lou) as she stays in the darkness or even water to hunt down her prey. If you have read book one, you would know that her parents were killed and she is seeking revenge against those on the list of people and their associates that had anything to do with their deaths.
She is really good at killing and hunts down only those that deserve it. But now she has the problem of her only family member, an Aunt Lucy, dying from cancer. She is the aunt who brought her up after her parent’s murder and taught her about her gift. She has am almost magical skill to go where she needs in an instant, but I don’t want to ruin what she can actually do and where she ends up with her kills – that’s for readers to discover – but it brings a great twist of magic, sci-fi and even fantasy creatures to the story.
The only visitor to her aunt is Robert King, an old love interest and former DEA colleague of Lucy’s dead husband Jack. Lou finds it hard to visit the hospital due to all the fake light flooding everywhere. So avoids it as much as possible. Lou’s dying aunt Lucy makes a dying wish she wants Lou to keep. This makes her have to decide which to follow, her main desire to kill bad guys or a promise to her aunt, who won’t be around for much longer.
Then she feels a call to an enemy of hers, Konstantine, the illegitimate son of the crime lord who killed her parents. He belongs to a gang called Ravengers, who run crime in Florence and further and has taken over after his ‘father’ died, leaving the former crime lords legitimate son, Nico, who was passed over by his own father and exiled, as an enemy for life. For Konstantine to stay alive then he has to place his trust in Lou, who has already tried to kill him in the past.
A great read, which brings in a phenomenon called ‘slipping’, which I shall leave you to find out about, but gives a nice trait to the main character and her main line of work, as she would call it. Lou has to deal with difficult and emotional pressures in this book and this adds some extra depth to her character. You just keep on reading as you wait to see what will happen next and who is going to be the next in danger and who will be actually willing to help Lou in her quest.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and have most recently read their book, Welcome to Castle Cove which was another fantastic book to read, with lots of twists and surprises to keep your attention. An author who knows how to keep readers interested and always wanting to come back for more. I can’t wait for their next book. I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
She is really good at killing and hunts down only those that deserve it. But now she has the problem of her only family member, an Aunt Lucy, dying from cancer. She is the aunt who brought her up after her parent’s murder and taught her about her gift. She has am almost magical skill to go where she needs in an instant, but I don’t want to ruin what she can actually do and where she ends up with her kills – that’s for readers to discover – but it brings a great twist of magic, sci-fi and even fantasy creatures to the story.
The only visitor to her aunt is Robert King, an old love interest and former DEA colleague of Lucy’s dead husband Jack. Lou finds it hard to visit the hospital due to all the fake light flooding everywhere. So avoids it as much as possible. Lou’s dying aunt Lucy makes a dying wish she wants Lou to keep. This makes her have to decide which to follow, her main desire to kill bad guys or a promise to her aunt, who won’t be around for much longer.
Then she feels a call to an enemy of hers, Konstantine, the illegitimate son of the crime lord who killed her parents. He belongs to a gang called Ravengers, who run crime in Florence and further and has taken over after his ‘father’ died, leaving the former crime lords legitimate son, Nico, who was passed over by his own father and exiled, as an enemy for life. For Konstantine to stay alive then he has to place his trust in Lou, who has already tried to kill him in the past.
A great read, which brings in a phenomenon called ‘slipping’, which I shall leave you to find out about, but gives a nice trait to the main character and her main line of work, as she would call it. Lou has to deal with difficult and emotional pressures in this book and this adds some extra depth to her character. You just keep on reading as you wait to see what will happen next and who is going to be the next in danger and who will be actually willing to help Lou in her quest.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and have most recently read their book, Welcome to Castle Cove which was another fantastic book to read, with lots of twists and surprises to keep your attention. An author who knows how to keep readers interested and always wanting to come back for more. I can’t wait for their next book. I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
January 8, 2019
Kory Shrum toys with the senses, every one. She flicks colors, sounds, textures at you like sun glinting through shattered cathedral windows.
I read her Shadows in the Water last year; loved it. She writes with incredible beauty and grace in an awesomely dark place. Characters so real you're sucking the beignet's sugar from your thumb before the first chapter's done.
Under the Bones follows hard on Shadows. It sings like a dark hymn. One chapter reads like a love match between scorpions. As with Shadows, Bones returns to La Loon with shady characters in tow while Lou deals with her inner monsters.
The writing is so good I'm writing this down while in the middle of the book. At this point I don't care how it ends; the journey is worth the price. Maybe I'll update when I'm finished.
[Update: Late in the book, now.]
Without reservation, I absolutely do not want to finish this book. There are few things I want less than to see it end.
Every book is written a thousand times, every year. At some moment they all fall into patter and cliche. Gang brutality. Death of a loved one. The hesitance of giving. Fast women, hot cars ...
This book is a "thriller". It says so on the Kindle page: "A Lou Thorne Thriller". Few books are so chock-a-block abrim with formula as the thriller. Every thriller's title gives away its salient points, while the cover picture yields all the needed details. Words are embellishment.
None of that is true in Under the Bones, this thriller. Here, characters and situations are so rich and wonderful they bring laughs and tears at the same time. Epiphanic at times. Shallow cliche? Not even in the shadows.
As I said, I'm not yet done with this book. I will try to make it last, but that hope is fast evaporating.
[Update: the ending]
Sadly, the book gave me no peace but accelerated to an explosive ending. One of the surprising attributes of both books is that each one is complete and satisfying while holding its well-defined position within the series.
A third book, Danse Macabre, is in preparation.
I read her Shadows in the Water last year; loved it. She writes with incredible beauty and grace in an awesomely dark place. Characters so real you're sucking the beignet's sugar from your thumb before the first chapter's done.
Under the Bones follows hard on Shadows. It sings like a dark hymn. One chapter reads like a love match between scorpions. As with Shadows, Bones returns to La Loon with shady characters in tow while Lou deals with her inner monsters.
The writing is so good I'm writing this down while in the middle of the book. At this point I don't care how it ends; the journey is worth the price. Maybe I'll update when I'm finished.
[Update: Late in the book, now.]
Without reservation, I absolutely do not want to finish this book. There are few things I want less than to see it end.
Every book is written a thousand times, every year. At some moment they all fall into patter and cliche. Gang brutality. Death of a loved one. The hesitance of giving. Fast women, hot cars ...
This book is a "thriller". It says so on the Kindle page: "A Lou Thorne Thriller". Few books are so chock-a-block abrim with formula as the thriller. Every thriller's title gives away its salient points, while the cover picture yields all the needed details. Words are embellishment.
None of that is true in Under the Bones, this thriller. Here, characters and situations are so rich and wonderful they bring laughs and tears at the same time. Epiphanic at times. Shallow cliche? Not even in the shadows.
As I said, I'm not yet done with this book. I will try to make it last, but that hope is fast evaporating.
[Update: the ending]
Sadly, the book gave me no peace but accelerated to an explosive ending. One of the surprising attributes of both books is that each one is complete and satisfying while holding its well-defined position within the series.
A third book, Danse Macabre, is in preparation.
November 12, 2019
This is a series that needs to be read in order, yes there are flashbacks to help a reader new to this world out but they don't start until halfway through the book and may leave you a bit confused if you haven't read the first one. Be warned though, this second book really isn't a patch on the first one.
By now I think we understand that when Lou moves in to a dark area she can transport herself to anywhere in the world she wants - and even to another world. At least once every chapter told from Lou's perspective we get retold this bit of information and it started to really, really irritate me. There is also little to nothing in the way of character progression in this book. Lou starts the book as a murderous machine and ends it as a murderous machine that may be about to acknowledge she has feelings for more than just her Aunt. King is an alcoholic ex-cop who is really put through the emotional wringer in this novel, unfortunately he comes out the other side as an alcoholic ex-cop. Konstantine might be the kingpin of a well organised cadre of thieves, murderers and drug dealers but he is at least in touch with his emotions; sadly this doesn't give you much room for manoeuver with his character. There are then a few supporting artistes thrown in to the mix that have one character trait that defines them and that is it, all she wrote, so they feel cartoonish.
Whilst the ending is explosive and has a few surprises in it, I couldn't help but be reminded of the end of Scarface and it did have a set piece feel to it rather than a natural conclusion to this particular thread. There is a plenty of action and some touching downtime spent with Lucy but, on the whole I found it rather a frustrating read and was more than happy to just dip in and out of it.
By now I think we understand that when Lou moves in to a dark area she can transport herself to anywhere in the world she wants - and even to another world. At least once every chapter told from Lou's perspective we get retold this bit of information and it started to really, really irritate me. There is also little to nothing in the way of character progression in this book. Lou starts the book as a murderous machine and ends it as a murderous machine that may be about to acknowledge she has feelings for more than just her Aunt. King is an alcoholic ex-cop who is really put through the emotional wringer in this novel, unfortunately he comes out the other side as an alcoholic ex-cop. Konstantine might be the kingpin of a well organised cadre of thieves, murderers and drug dealers but he is at least in touch with his emotions; sadly this doesn't give you much room for manoeuver with his character. There are then a few supporting artistes thrown in to the mix that have one character trait that defines them and that is it, all she wrote, so they feel cartoonish.
Whilst the ending is explosive and has a few surprises in it, I couldn't help but be reminded of the end of Scarface and it did have a set piece feel to it rather than a natural conclusion to this particular thread. There is a plenty of action and some touching downtime spent with Lucy but, on the whole I found it rather a frustrating read and was more than happy to just dip in and out of it.
December 25, 2018
I loved this book even more than I loved #1. It was fast paced, had a great human element, and did I mention Jabbers becomes a little more likeable? Kory layers even more of Louie's motivation and backstory into this novel, as well as her current...alliance (?) with Konstantine. There is action here, and a lot of it. There is justice, vengeance and near-perfect justice. This book, this series, is unlike anything else I have ever read. And in my 50 years of life, I've read a lot more than I've listed on Goodreads.
This series is listed as paranormal because of Louie's gift. It is listed as action (or should be) because of Louie's brand of justice. It should be considered a classic because of Kory's ability to suck her readers in and not let go until the very end. To say her characters are realistic and well-drawn isn't the whole truth. They are so real you feel like you could sit down and have coffee with them. Well...maybe not Louie. She's not the type to sit down and swap gossip over a cup. You'd be best not to get her angry at you. Each important character in the Louie-verse, as I call it, has so much depth and so many nuances that you can't help but form some sort of connection with them. Even Konstantine.
This book, this series, is multi-faceted, unforgettable and exquisite in its grip.
If you enjoy paranormal, YOU SHOULD READ THIS SERIES!
This series is listed as paranormal because of Louie's gift. It is listed as action (or should be) because of Louie's brand of justice. It should be considered a classic because of Kory's ability to suck her readers in and not let go until the very end. To say her characters are realistic and well-drawn isn't the whole truth. They are so real you feel like you could sit down and have coffee with them. Well...maybe not Louie. She's not the type to sit down and swap gossip over a cup. You'd be best not to get her angry at you. Each important character in the Louie-verse, as I call it, has so much depth and so many nuances that you can't help but form some sort of connection with them. Even Konstantine.
This book, this series, is multi-faceted, unforgettable and exquisite in its grip.
If you enjoy paranormal, YOU SHOULD READ THIS SERIES!
October 4, 2020
4.5 Stars
Book 2 in this series was just as good as book 1. I'm beginning to worry a little about myself because I find that I am really rooting for a woman who is definitely quite a killer. She really is quite good at it and doesn't seem to have much in the way of a conscience. But, that's the thing. I think she is much more than what we have seen so far and I like the way the author is unpeeling her little by little. (and by that, I mean that at this rate, this is going to be a long process!) We see just a smidge with the situation with Lucy. Also, King is the character that I think we see the most growth in during this book.
There is a little - and I do mean little - bit of progress between Konstantine and Lou but not nearly enough for my liking. I wonder how long we are going to have to wait to see what does or does not develop between the two. My heart just melts with the effort he goes to to help her, without trying to let her know. He is so afraid of doing anything to scare her off - what an unusual dynamic.
Anyway - there is lots and lots of action. Many, many deaths, and an interesting storyline underneath it all. This only gets me excited to continue onward to the next book in the series.
Book 2 in this series was just as good as book 1. I'm beginning to worry a little about myself because I find that I am really rooting for a woman who is definitely quite a killer. She really is quite good at it and doesn't seem to have much in the way of a conscience. But, that's the thing. I think she is much more than what we have seen so far and I like the way the author is unpeeling her little by little. (and by that, I mean that at this rate, this is going to be a long process!) We see just a smidge with the situation with Lucy. Also, King is the character that I think we see the most growth in during this book.
There is a little - and I do mean little - bit of progress between Konstantine and Lou but not nearly enough for my liking. I wonder how long we are going to have to wait to see what does or does not develop between the two. My heart just melts with the effort he goes to to help her, without trying to let her know. He is so afraid of doing anything to scare her off - what an unusual dynamic.
Anyway - there is lots and lots of action. Many, many deaths, and an interesting storyline underneath it all. This only gets me excited to continue onward to the next book in the series.
November 28, 2023
I have a preference for a single viewpoint. My enthusiasm for this series was rooted in my admiration for Lou. She's an unapologetic force, tackling the worst offenders.
Upon perusing the book synopsis, I anticipated a narrative primarily centered around two individuals: Lou and Konstantine. However, this expectation fell short, leaving me irked, as no other focal points were indicated.
I had hoped for an action-packed read, and while there were indeed action sequences, a significant portion of the narrative delved into the lives of the older adults in Lou's circle. The story took on more of a dramatic tone, grappling with themes of loss, resulting in multiple points of view.
This doesn't align with what I expected from a "Lou" book. Instead, it becomes a narrative about individuals connected to Lou, each receiving a comparable amount of page time. This book deviated from my expectations and didn't follow the same vein as the first installment.
Upon perusing the book synopsis, I anticipated a narrative primarily centered around two individuals: Lou and Konstantine. However, this expectation fell short, leaving me irked, as no other focal points were indicated.
I had hoped for an action-packed read, and while there were indeed action sequences, a significant portion of the narrative delved into the lives of the older adults in Lou's circle. The story took on more of a dramatic tone, grappling with themes of loss, resulting in multiple points of view.
This doesn't align with what I expected from a "Lou" book. Instead, it becomes a narrative about individuals connected to Lou, each receiving a comparable amount of page time. This book deviated from my expectations and didn't follow the same vein as the first installment.
June 19, 2018
TAPPING OUT!!!
This is one suspense filled, action packed, thrilling, page turning read that hooks you from the start and reels you in for the duration. It takes you from one adventure to another with a strong female lead thats as bad a** as she is dangerous. The characters are intriguing, complex and realistic. The two main characters has an undeniable attraction to one another but the female fights it. A great balance of personalities that fit with their roles seemlessly. The scenes were so vividly detailed and descriptive that it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Twists and turns abound with nerve racking fervor and unquenchable blood lust. Kory draws you into his imagination and weaves a world around you until everything else ceases to exist. Awesome job Kory, thanks for sharing this remarkable read with us.
This is one suspense filled, action packed, thrilling, page turning read that hooks you from the start and reels you in for the duration. It takes you from one adventure to another with a strong female lead thats as bad a** as she is dangerous. The characters are intriguing, complex and realistic. The two main characters has an undeniable attraction to one another but the female fights it. A great balance of personalities that fit with their roles seemlessly. The scenes were so vividly detailed and descriptive that it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Twists and turns abound with nerve racking fervor and unquenchable blood lust. Kory draws you into his imagination and weaves a world around you until everything else ceases to exist. Awesome job Kory, thanks for sharing this remarkable read with us.
October 11, 2018
Loved this book just as much as the first! Felt it was complete enough also, with room for more in future books. Lou is a complicated character with a complicated life and some uncertain feelings. She also is BAD ASS! The supporting cast of characters for her are all lovable and described in great detail. This book should be read second as the character plots are built upon, but not absolutely necessary for total enjoyment. As unusual as it is for me, I just finished re-reading both the books in this series because I love the drama, characters, and story so much. The bit of sci-fi might not have been what I first seek out, but here is totally works. Just let the imagination go and enjoy! Kory keeps knocking it out of the park!
December 29, 2018
Read "Shadows in the Water" first. The sequel starts soon after the first book, with Lucy dying of cancer, King by her side. Lou rescues Konstantine from a hostile takeover led by Nico, leaving many of Nico's men dead. She ends up bringing Konstantine back to heal his multiple wounds instead of killing him. Lou's feelings toward Konstantine remain ambiguous. Later, Lou returns from a mission almost dead, and Konstantine helps her regain her strength. Regrets for lost time and opportunities wrack King. Lou has trouble deciding whether Konstantine is a friend or enemy. The book ends with the final showdown between Konstantine and Nico, a bloody massacre with plenty of violence, blood, gore and in-the-nick-of-time rescues (so there will be a sequel: "Danse Macabre").
May 23, 2021
While Kory Shrum's first entry into this series is absolutely brilliant, her second, Under the Bones, is even better, IMHO. These supernatural suspense thrillers are not stand alone novels, so it's best if you read them in order.
I know that the 6th book of this series has just been released, so you'll have hours and hours of non-stop action as Louie Thorne and friends apply their own brand of justice to known criminals, most of whom have escaped prison because of bribes and high connections within the criminal justice system.
You don't have enough money to buy off Louie once she has you on her elimination list!
I know that the 6th book of this series has just been released, so you'll have hours and hours of non-stop action as Louie Thorne and friends apply their own brand of justice to known criminals, most of whom have escaped prison because of bribes and high connections within the criminal justice system.
You don't have enough money to buy off Louie once she has you on her elimination list!
December 2, 2019
Compelling
This is the second book in a series about a woman (Lou) born with a unique “gift” that she uses with a vengeance to fight drug lords. It is a graphic, violent and compelling read. As the author reveals glimpses into Lou’s traumatic past, readers are also given a peek into a very mysterious supernatural world that she is able to access through her talent. There are many avenues and interesting characters for future books in this series.
Heads up: There is a lot of graphic language, violence and death.
This is the second book in a series about a woman (Lou) born with a unique “gift” that she uses with a vengeance to fight drug lords. It is a graphic, violent and compelling read. As the author reveals glimpses into Lou’s traumatic past, readers are also given a peek into a very mysterious supernatural world that she is able to access through her talent. There are many avenues and interesting characters for future books in this series.
Heads up: There is a lot of graphic language, violence and death.
February 7, 2020
Under the Bones is my first read by this author and it won’t be my last. This book is fast paced, action packed with strong characters and incorporates most of the things I enjoy in a book and kept me guessing.
This book is different than anything I’ve read and kept me on the edge of my seat and
I wish I would of read Shadows in the Water first. Regardless love the dynamic between Lou and Robert King
I loved what Lou did for Robert and and Lucy and wonder about the true connection between Lou and Konstantine
A great read aside from the typos but didn’t deter form the storyline.
This book is different than anything I’ve read and kept me on the edge of my seat and
I wish I would of read Shadows in the Water first. Regardless love the dynamic between Lou and Robert King
I loved what Lou did for Robert and and Lucy and wonder about the true connection between Lou and Konstantine
A great read aside from the typos but didn’t deter form the storyline.
November 11, 2024
Fast paced and we'll written.
Totally loving this series. I think I may have written that before in a review, lol.
Thing's are happening in Lou's life, most not for the good.
Her aunt Lucy has finally succumbed to her father and is in hospital. Her time is short and Lou is trying to ignore it by staying away.
Her inner compass swoops in on Konstantine, as his adopted 'brother' tries to kill him and take over his right, the thing his father gave to Konstantine.
What will happen, to many lives will be lost?
Fab writing and characters worth reading about.
Totally loving this series. I think I may have written that before in a review, lol.
Thing's are happening in Lou's life, most not for the good.
Her aunt Lucy has finally succumbed to her father and is in hospital. Her time is short and Lou is trying to ignore it by staying away.
Her inner compass swoops in on Konstantine, as his adopted 'brother' tries to kill him and take over his right, the thing his father gave to Konstantine.
What will happen, to many lives will be lost?
Fab writing and characters worth reading about.
July 2, 2018
Excellent thriller & fantasy novel with unique main characters, crime, action, and pathos. The second novel of a series, it should be read in order to get the full enjoyment from the book as it builds on the characters and action of the first novel. Although the story lines are resolved, I am so fascinated by the characters in this series that I would love more books from this world to see what happens in Lou’s life.
July 26, 2018
Italian mafia story meets american heroine...
Kory M. Shrum knows how to write a good story. Thats for sure. Under the bones is the second book about Lou Thorne a dangerous heroine that is on a vendetta to clean up thia world... In very morally questionable ways..
The story is a very entertaining mix of action, humor, life, love and grotesque way of cleaning the world of bad influences. A solid 5 from Denmark to Kory.
Kory M. Shrum knows how to write a good story. Thats for sure. Under the bones is the second book about Lou Thorne a dangerous heroine that is on a vendetta to clean up thia world... In very morally questionable ways..
The story is a very entertaining mix of action, humor, life, love and grotesque way of cleaning the world of bad influences. A solid 5 from Denmark to Kory.
September 10, 2018
Lou seems like she should be an unlikable character, with her cold, ruthless, killer tendencies--but I can't help but love her to pieces. There's a tenderness in her memories and family connections, and a dark humor to her severity that tickles me. "Do you know how many dead bodies have been in that tub?" Konstantine has really grown on me, too. Of course, King and Lucy make this read bittersweet.
January 21, 2019
Great Book better than the first one!!!
I like how he built the relationship between the two main characters. Both are great characters and he carefully built the suspense between them. This is a great series getting ready to read the third in series!! I'm hoping he continues with this character as she is unique.
I like how he built the relationship between the two main characters. Both are great characters and he carefully built the suspense between them. This is a great series getting ready to read the third in series!! I'm hoping he continues with this character as she is unique.
May 8, 2020
I read this book 2 years ago but listening to the audio book is a different experience. A thriller from start to finish - Lou and King get injured as Konstantine almost gets killed, but, strangely, Lou is the one nursing him back to health. Throw in a power struggle between 2 mobsters complete with a shoot out, then a pinch of sex and the death of Lucy (Lou's aunt) and you have a wonderful read.
May 6, 2022
I am burning through these books too fast. I love the gritty, sarcastic writing. This is a must read series for urban fantasy readers who love the developing character relationships and being fed just enough of the fantasy element to want to keep learning more. Well written, well paced fun reads.
August 24, 2024
This continues the story of Lou Thorne, who only seems to find peace when she's killing the men responsible for her father's death. We learn more about Konstantin as well. Lou doesn't seem to like him, but she's strangely drawn to him. When she uses her ability to save his life, it seems to be a bit of a turning point for them both. Can't wait to read more of this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews