In the Shadow of Stone

by Rob Kaufman

What would you do if you discovered that the people you trust the most are liars? That’s what Jack Fontaine confronts in this gripping novel described as “amazingly suspenseful and romantic with something unexpected at every turn”. Jack Fontaine is summoned to the deathbed of his sister. She asks him to keep the DVD she's made for her only daughter, Jenna, safe and hidden until Jenna’s 18th birthday. Only then should she watch it – alone. Jack promises to fulfill her wish but is sidetracked when he is betrayed by his closest confidant. The DVD ends up in the hands of felons who reveal the secret it holds and jeopardize Jenna’s future and the promise Jack made to his sister. Unable to trust anyone, Jack knows he must make things right on his own… no matter who gets hurt or killed along the way. This psychological thriller includes the best of the many worlds of fiction – from suspense and mystery to continuous action and twisted romance, readers who enjoyed Kaufman’s One Last Lie will again be unable to put this book down until they find out what truly lurks in the shadow of stone.

Genres: Mystery Thriller

278 pages, Paperback

First published April 18, 2005

About the author

Rob Kaufman is a celebrated psychological thriller author, known for crafting emotionally intense stories that delve into the human psyche. With a degree in Psychology, he weaves his deep understanding of human behavior into gripping narratives filled with relatable characters and compelling twists.

Fascinated by what drives people toward darkness while seeking love and acceptance, Rob explores the fine line between good and evil. His novels aren’t just suspenseful—they unravel everyday events that spiral into extraordinary psychological dramas.

Readers become deeply invested in his characters, experiencing a range of emotions from laughter to heartbreak. His books have earned national and international acclaim for their unique, thought-provoking storylines and masterful plotting.

Beyond writing, Rob actively engages with readers, sharing insights into his creative process and the psychological depths of his characters. His commitment to authenticity and emotional resonance continues to captivate audiences, cementing his place as a compelling voice in psychological thrillers.

Reviews

[Ajax1978 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very enjoyable with some twists that were definitely unexpected and in one case, a little unwelcome. I had hopes that one character would get his redemption but turns out, maybe his redemption came in death? I will absolutely buy Kaufman's other book after reading this one, and hope that he writes more. Some authors seem to have a little factory, turning out book after (mediocre) book. Yet I come across a book I really enjoy and there's only one other by the author. Boo hiss!

[GymGuy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a rather well-constructed story. Lots of ins-and-outs. It just wasn't my kind of story. I'm rather down on stories that revolve around homophobia. I'm also kind of negative on stories that dwell on evil and/or weak people. While it was well written, it just wasn't my kind of read.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was excited to see another Kaufman book as I've read the other two and thoroughly enjoyed them! This one did not disappoint either as I had no idea where it was going! Jack is a young executive whose sister is dying and she gives him a DVD to show her 8-year-old daughter when she turns 18. Little does Jack know this will eventually put him in a predicament he could never have predicted! Added to this is the fact that he doesn't know his lover, Marc is in on a plot to displace him at his company--until of course Marc falls in love and is conflicted about what to do. And that's just the beginning folks...there are plenty of twists and turn that will make your head spin and have you thinking, "wait, what???" But its got plenty of action and Kaufman's did-not-see-that-coming signature moments! Enjoy!

[Karen Kilburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

I loved this book, I read it after reading Rob's next 2 books. He has a knack of hooking you into a story describing well all relationships in a very real and understanding way. In no time at all you are hooked! 2 very late nights and even sneakily reading this at work because i couldn't put it down. I dont like the sad bits but i suppose that's life....give it a go

[Hot Mess Sommelière ~ Caro · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first got acquainted with Rob Kaufman's work when I read his other novel, One Last Lie, which was brilliant and heartbreaking.
I wanted to wait with reading this book fr two reasons: the first was that I was afraid I wouldn't like In the Shadow of Stone nearly as much as One Last Lie and feel disappointed over it, and the second was that I didn't want the book to be equally great and thus sentence me to a long period of waiting till the next piece of work by Kaufman would be published. It turns out In the Shadow of Stone was nearly as good as One Last Lie, and equally hard-breaking.

In the Shadow of Stone tells the story of Jack, a higher up employee of a huge firm, who's in a relationship with his co-worker, Marc.
When Jack's sister Dana dies, she leaves him with a DVD meant for her daughter, Jenna. Jack doesn't know what's on the DVD, but promises to keep it safe until Jenna turns 18.

I don't want to give too much away about the story, but suffice it to say the book was brutal. It began as a harmless story about relationships and turned out to be a story that went into territories of the hman mind most would rather not read about.
Many passages made me cringe with sympathy or seethe with anger, while others made me smile fondly.

Kaufman's work isn't easy: both his books are well-thought out, and his characters are REAL.
His writing makes the reader feel with the characters and empathize with the storyline.

But I would lke to mention that Kaufman's work are always train-wrecks: he makes you unable to look away as the inevitable ending hits you in the face and all you can ask is why?

All in all, In the Shadow of Stone was a really good book, but it also left a few open questions and had a rather rushed ending. 4 Stars total.

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story!!! Totally unpredictable and like nothing else I've ever read. It's one of those books that keeps you turning the pages because you can't figure out what's going to happen next, but you NEED TO KNOW. Excellent read from this first time author. I read he's working on another one. Stay tuned!

[Andrea Foley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bad formatting on my kindle

It was an enjoyable story, but the way it was formatted on my kindle made it hard to read. Hard to decipher when one scene ended and another began. Hence only 3 stars.

[⚓Dan⚓ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Also available in Kindle format This is another great book by Rob Kaufman. Twists and turns, love and deception make it a book you won't want to put down.

[Chris Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I discovered this author quite by accident during a pre-Christmas 'fear-of-having-nothing-to-read' panic attack - a very real syndrome that many people will recognise.... However, I read Rob's other two books first - 'One Last Lie,' then 'Broken Reality' - both of which are superb reads. 'In the Shadow of Stone' is every bit as well written, but for me, the plot was at times a little too contrived. I get my 'fix' from that hair-raising feeling of knowing that this could actually happen.... and I didn't finish the book totally with that impression. That said, this is a first novel, and Rob Kaufman is a gifted writer. If I had read it before the other two, perhaps my 'bar' would have been lower! Can't wait for more from this splendid writer.

[Irene · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 as I read this last, instead of first

Having read Kaufman's other works, I could only give this a 3.5*. The theme is close to those in another book and the characters resemble his future characters. Having the primary characters make poor choices and placing relationship bonds às the reason to police the losses, makes me shake my head. What the author does bring is keeping the stories current with characters who could be in my inner circle. This is a story about work place romance jealously and family acceptance(& non acceptance) of LGBTQ+.
Good stories from an empathetic writer. Keep the stories coming.

[Marj Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read One Last Lie and A Broken Reality and thought they were both excellent. I was invited to read this book, the Author's first. It is every bit as good as the next two. Jack and Marc work together and are in a relationship. Marc is conned into helping do nasty things to people and destroys Jack’s trust. Things go horribly wrong. Many twists and turns which will have you reading past your bedtime. The ending is fabulous. This Author has talent. I wait with bated breath for Book 4.

[karin whitehead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book through an authors promotion in exchange for an honest review.
Jack and his lover Marc have a secret they are keeping from their employer. Rob writes with heart, honesty and ease. His characters are always well defined, the story twists enough to keep you reading well into the night. His endings are never what you expect. Very enjoyable read!

[Jeanne Garringer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner from Rob Kaufman! He has quite a talent for developing characters in his books! You get to really understand feelings and motivations behind their actions. And the characters are believable! I’ve read all of his other books except the new one that is coming out in the Justin Wright series. I can’t wait for that one! Rob Kaufman is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors!

[Diane Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book !

This book had real characters that were easy to like and some not to like. I really liked the story and wanted it to go on longer. Thank you Rob.... I’m on to your next book...

[karen noel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read , In the Shadow of Stone in one day

I felt such an attachment to Jack right away. It's wasn't all touchy, feely. Just a connection of how people treat others.I couldn't wait to see how it ends. While not wanting it to end.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kaufman just never seems to disappoint! Another exceptional well written book. Great twists and great back story 😊

[C.W. Conrad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Didn't like it as much as A Broken Reality and The Perfect Ending, but still a quality read. I felt like it got a little confusing. Too many characters perhaps. So if you read it pay attention.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it but did not love it as much as the other books by Mr. Kaufman. At times was a little confusing with the names all at one time being mentioned but it was worth the read.

[Lynn P · Rating 4 out of 5]

very good

Reading thrillers should make you feel the tension as the story evolves. This one does that. Very good. I have to read more books by this author.

[Susan Ney friedlander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent book from RK

I have now read all of his books and none of them disappointed. The story was fresh and the characters were likable. Very good story!!

[Vfields Don't touch my happy! · Rating 2 out of 5]

I can't figure out why but I did not like this book. It just rubbed me the wrong way.