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In the Shadow of Darkness
One seemingly ordinary evening, Angeline Vallencourt is ripped from life as she knows it and thrust into a world she doesn’t understand. As a newly turned vampire, the only one she can turn to for help is the vampire who becomes her worst nightmare.
Meghan Denham is in the wrong place at the wrong time. After ending up the victim of a robbery-gone-wrong, her life is turned upside down by the strange and beautiful Angeline. If Angeline is telling the truth about who she is, then everything Megan believes about the world is a lie. If Angeline is lying, then she will have to walk away from the first person to set her heart on fire.
When suspicious deaths begin to occur in their small town of Fog Hollow, Angeline and Megan find themselves as unlikely allies, with an even more unlikely attraction.
Cover Artist: Tammy Seidick
Genres: Paranormal & Urban Fantasy / Romance
Meghan Denham is in the wrong place at the wrong time. After ending up the victim of a robbery-gone-wrong, her life is turned upside down by the strange and beautiful Angeline. If Angeline is telling the truth about who she is, then everything Megan believes about the world is a lie. If Angeline is lying, then she will have to walk away from the first person to set her heart on fire.
When suspicious deaths begin to occur in their small town of Fog Hollow, Angeline and Megan find themselves as unlikely allies, with an even more unlikely attraction.
Cover Artist: Tammy Seidick
Genres: Paranormal & Urban Fantasy / Romance
240 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2020
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448 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
February 12, 2020
3.50 Stars. This was a fun and entertaining paranormal romance. This is the second book Stiling has written. While I liked her debut a little bit better, this was a very solid sophomore installment. If Stiling can just use a tiny more show and a little less tell -I’m sure the more she writes the more that will improve- I could see her becoming an automatic read author for a lot of people. She has some really good potential with two good first books.
If you have been reading my reviews for any length of time, I make it pretty obvious how much I love paranormal anything. But my absolute favorite of all supernatural creatures has to be vampires. I was really excited to get my hands on this vampire romance book especially with all the really good early reviews. I thought this was good and solid, but I was hoping I would have loved it instead. I’ve talked about it before but I think I’m picker on paranormal books because I love the genre so much and have read so many. I think my pickiness should be kept in mind when reading the rest of my review.
When it came to the actual romance itself I liked it quite a bit. I did want to be shown more how the characters felt about each other instead of being told, but I did enjoy the romance. The main characters are very likeable and the secondary characters were pretty well done too. The closer the mains got the more I was rooting for them. The chemistry is not off the wall but it was there enough to make them believable.
The main issue I had and why I can’t rate this more than 3.50 stars are the paranormal aspects. This book was extremely predictable. The main storyline about a crappy maker (I’m leaving this vague here) is one of the most recycled vampire romance storylines I’ve read. I knew all the big plot points to come and how the book would end by the time I was just one third of the way through. I know it’s hard to think of new things with vamps. I’m not looking for new mythology or anything drastic like that, I just wish I would not have been able to guess what happened at every turn.
On the good side most of the book was well written. It had a good flow and pace that I enjoyed. This book had flashbacks which I am never a fan of, but this was the perfect example of how flashbacks are supposed to be written and when to use them. They didn’t bother me in the least and instead they added to the story so I have to give Stiling big props for that.
While this was a very predictable story for me, I was still entertained. If you don’t read a ton of paranormal -especially vamp books- chances are you might enjoy this even more since the storyline might be new for you. Stiling writes well and I think she will just keep getting better. Also, the way the story ended this could be a start to a series. It looks like it could turn into a paranormal crime/mystery romance series which would make me very happy. It would also open this world up for lot of new ideas that Stiling could play with. Her debut book was a crime/mystery so we know Stiling can write in that genre already. So I will be keeping my fingers crossed but I will absolutely read anything new that Stiling puts out next.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
If you have been reading my reviews for any length of time, I make it pretty obvious how much I love paranormal anything. But my absolute favorite of all supernatural creatures has to be vampires. I was really excited to get my hands on this vampire romance book especially with all the really good early reviews. I thought this was good and solid, but I was hoping I would have loved it instead. I’ve talked about it before but I think I’m picker on paranormal books because I love the genre so much and have read so many. I think my pickiness should be kept in mind when reading the rest of my review.
When it came to the actual romance itself I liked it quite a bit. I did want to be shown more how the characters felt about each other instead of being told, but I did enjoy the romance. The main characters are very likeable and the secondary characters were pretty well done too. The closer the mains got the more I was rooting for them. The chemistry is not off the wall but it was there enough to make them believable.
The main issue I had and why I can’t rate this more than 3.50 stars are the paranormal aspects. This book was extremely predictable. The main storyline about a crappy maker (I’m leaving this vague here) is one of the most recycled vampire romance storylines I’ve read. I knew all the big plot points to come and how the book would end by the time I was just one third of the way through. I know it’s hard to think of new things with vamps. I’m not looking for new mythology or anything drastic like that, I just wish I would not have been able to guess what happened at every turn.
On the good side most of the book was well written. It had a good flow and pace that I enjoyed. This book had flashbacks which I am never a fan of, but this was the perfect example of how flashbacks are supposed to be written and when to use them. They didn’t bother me in the least and instead they added to the story so I have to give Stiling big props for that.
While this was a very predictable story for me, I was still entertained. If you don’t read a ton of paranormal -especially vamp books- chances are you might enjoy this even more since the storyline might be new for you. Stiling writes well and I think she will just keep getting better. Also, the way the story ended this could be a start to a series. It looks like it could turn into a paranormal crime/mystery romance series which would make me very happy. It would also open this world up for lot of new ideas that Stiling could play with. Her debut book was a crime/mystery so we know Stiling can write in that genre already. So I will be keeping my fingers crossed but I will absolutely read anything new that Stiling puts out next.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
January 26, 2020
Blood Disease.
It's 1926. Angeline is walking home from work and meets Kathryn, a beautiful red headed predator who attacks. Fast forward to present day and Meghan finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time at the local Gas 'N' Eats. She wakes up in a parking lot and finds Angeline, a beautiful brunette predator who saves.
This book alternates between past and present as we learn about how Angeline has been shaped into the person she is today. I liked the mystery and how things were uncovered a little bit with each progressing chapter.
Lately I have been reading books that are outside of my usual genre and have been rewarded for stepping outside of my comfort zone. This book is no exception. What I appreciate about this story is that it is very modernized. When I think of vampires, what comes to mind are caskets, castles, crosses, bodices, garlic, stakes through the heart, etc. This one sort of pokes fun at those things as just being silly stories told over time.
There was a bit of sarcasm and humor as Meghan tries to wrap her mind around the idea of vampires. And even more as she finds herself becoming invested in Angeline's welfare and trying to decide if one should get involved with a creature of the night.
So people in this small town are suddenly being drained of their blood and Angeline and Meghan try to find out who is doing the killing.
I felt like there was an opportunity to create more suspicion as to who was doing the killing. There were certainly some side characters that we could have been a red herring. And the romance was a little bit too insta love for my preference.
Overall it was a very entertaining read. I liked the interactions between Angeline and Meghan.
I recommend this to those who like to read about romance, murder, mystery, suspense, loyalty, loss, letting go, accepting love, and rare blood diseases.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
It's 1926. Angeline is walking home from work and meets Kathryn, a beautiful red headed predator who attacks. Fast forward to present day and Meghan finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time at the local Gas 'N' Eats. She wakes up in a parking lot and finds Angeline, a beautiful brunette predator who saves.
This book alternates between past and present as we learn about how Angeline has been shaped into the person she is today. I liked the mystery and how things were uncovered a little bit with each progressing chapter.
Lately I have been reading books that are outside of my usual genre and have been rewarded for stepping outside of my comfort zone. This book is no exception. What I appreciate about this story is that it is very modernized. When I think of vampires, what comes to mind are caskets, castles, crosses, bodices, garlic, stakes through the heart, etc. This one sort of pokes fun at those things as just being silly stories told over time.
There was a bit of sarcasm and humor as Meghan tries to wrap her mind around the idea of vampires. And even more as she finds herself becoming invested in Angeline's welfare and trying to decide if one should get involved with a creature of the night.
So people in this small town are suddenly being drained of their blood and Angeline and Meghan try to find out who is doing the killing.
I felt like there was an opportunity to create more suspicion as to who was doing the killing. There were certainly some side characters that we could have been a red herring. And the romance was a little bit too insta love for my preference.
Overall it was a very entertaining read. I liked the interactions between Angeline and Meghan.
I recommend this to those who like to read about romance, murder, mystery, suspense, loyalty, loss, letting go, accepting love, and rare blood diseases.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
January 29, 2020
4.5*
In 1926, Angeline Vallencourt was turned without her consent by Kathryn, a much too nonchalant vampire in search of a friend to roam the world with. Now herself a reluctant vampire, she tried to resist her new nature, to no avail. In today’s world, Angeline works at the Fog Hollow Animal Hospital and leads a quiet and discrete life, until she saves Megan Denham from a gunshot wound. She feeds her too much of her own blood and ends up bonded to her, albeit temporarily. When the police investigation into the violent death of the armed robber who shot her comes too close, Megan finds herself protecting her mysterious saviour.
I enjoyed reading this book a whole lot. It’s fun and clever, and well-written. When I reviewed Nicole Stiling’s debut novel last year, I wrote that I was looking forward to her next book, and I’m happy to say she didn’t disappoint. I tend to forget stories and only remember impressions and feelings and what I remember from Secrets in a Small Town is the atmosphere Stiling created. In this new book, she again sets an interesting atmosphere, but there’s a lot more too. There’s wit and humour, and just enough tragedy to take this novel to the next level. The relationship between Angeline and Megan is unusual and the complete opposite of her relationship with Kathryn, which borders on abusive. It’s a testament to Stiling’s talent that I never questioned the reality of either the chemistry between Angeline and Megan or their feelings, much less the existence of vampires.
The book I read before this one felt like a complete waste of my time, but In the Shadow of Darkness saved my day. Yet another reason to recommend it to anyone looking for a not-too-heavy not-too-fluffy romance.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
In 1926, Angeline Vallencourt was turned without her consent by Kathryn, a much too nonchalant vampire in search of a friend to roam the world with. Now herself a reluctant vampire, she tried to resist her new nature, to no avail. In today’s world, Angeline works at the Fog Hollow Animal Hospital and leads a quiet and discrete life, until she saves Megan Denham from a gunshot wound. She feeds her too much of her own blood and ends up bonded to her, albeit temporarily. When the police investigation into the violent death of the armed robber who shot her comes too close, Megan finds herself protecting her mysterious saviour.
I enjoyed reading this book a whole lot. It’s fun and clever, and well-written. When I reviewed Nicole Stiling’s debut novel last year, I wrote that I was looking forward to her next book, and I’m happy to say she didn’t disappoint. I tend to forget stories and only remember impressions and feelings and what I remember from Secrets in a Small Town is the atmosphere Stiling created. In this new book, she again sets an interesting atmosphere, but there’s a lot more too. There’s wit and humour, and just enough tragedy to take this novel to the next level. The relationship between Angeline and Megan is unusual and the complete opposite of her relationship with Kathryn, which borders on abusive. It’s a testament to Stiling’s talent that I never questioned the reality of either the chemistry between Angeline and Megan or their feelings, much less the existence of vampires.
The book I read before this one felt like a complete waste of my time, but In the Shadow of Darkness saved my day. Yet another reason to recommend it to anyone looking for a not-too-heavy not-too-fluffy romance.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 29, 2020
I like it when a novel takes on a paranormal theme and then normalises it to contemporary life. I also like stories with a dual time line. The book opens with Angeline Miles being turned into a vampire by a lonely vampire in the 1920s. In the present day, Megan Denham gets caught at a gas station at the wrong time and really has a hard time explaining her injuries and the woman who saved her.
Megan is an interesting character who lives a normal life with a cat and normal friends. She’s balanced and sensible so even when she explains things to the police she has a hard time believing the events herself. I wish there had been a little more to Angeline. I didn’t really get the full sense of what she had been through from the 1920s to present day. I think there was more room to explore who she was and her unhappiness.
It was a quick, light read and perfect for someone who isn’t a fan of heavy paranormal but wants to venture into the world of speculative fiction without being mired in constructs and terminology. Three and a half stars rounded up.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Megan is an interesting character who lives a normal life with a cat and normal friends. She’s balanced and sensible so even when she explains things to the police she has a hard time believing the events herself. I wish there had been a little more to Angeline. I didn’t really get the full sense of what she had been through from the 1920s to present day. I think there was more room to explore who she was and her unhappiness.
It was a quick, light read and perfect for someone who isn’t a fan of heavy paranormal but wants to venture into the world of speculative fiction without being mired in constructs and terminology. Three and a half stars rounded up.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
January 21, 2020
OMG, I might be doing a bit of fang-girling right now. I mean fangirling. Bloody, frickin' brilliant. Full review to follow once I come back down.
This ^^^ this book. Loved. It.
Review - I don't tend to read a lot of vampire books because I find they are either hit or miss for me. Thankfully, this one was a totally hit.
I loved the author's take on vampires. My heart broke for Angeline, and I was rooting for her all the way. Her Maker was a despicable woman that I only wanted bad things for.
The budding relationship between Angeline and Megan was a delight to read. There's some heat, nothing over the top, but what there is compliments the story.
The story is told in third person and has a shifting timeline which also worked well for me.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley.
This ^^^ this book. Loved. It.
Review - I don't tend to read a lot of vampire books because I find they are either hit or miss for me. Thankfully, this one was a totally hit.
I loved the author's take on vampires. My heart broke for Angeline, and I was rooting for her all the way. Her Maker was a despicable woman that I only wanted bad things for.
The budding relationship between Angeline and Megan was a delight to read. There's some heat, nothing over the top, but what there is compliments the story.
The story is told in third person and has a shifting timeline which also worked well for me.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley.
February 22, 2020
In the Shadow of Darkness by Nicole Stiling is not your average vampire novel. Stiling takes a detour from conventional lore so don’t expect the Van Helsing route of crosses, holy water and garlic. It is actually quite sober and watered down to a rare blood disorder (at least that’s how Angeline explains it).
Angeline Vallencourt is turned in the 1920s in a drive-by grab-and-bite by vampire Kathryn. The fact that she was rudely snatched out of her life (and against her will) leaves Angeline bitter and brooding for decades. Kathryn is not a barrel of laughs either, but rather a selfish sociopath who doesn’t really give very good guidance to her companion.
Meghan Denham (say that fast 10 times in a row) is in the wrong place at the wrong time when she meets a bullet in a botched robbery at a gas station. She gets rescued by a mysterious woman (present day Angeline) and from then on the two share a blood bond. The facts around the case baffle the local constabulary and they keep bringing poor Meghan in for questioning. Meghan has a tough time explaining something she doesn’t understand either.
As her attraction to Angeline grows, new bodies turn up. Oh dear.
I liked my first Nicole Stiling, she had an interesting view on the vampire lore but didn’t make it very sexy (I am more partial to the Gothic type of bloodsucker). It had some good moments and was entertaining enough. Not that I was clutching my pearls at any moment, I missed a real connection for that. Stiling’s writing style keeps you at an emotional distance.
We get to know about Angeline’s story through flashbacks. The romance part was a bit meager, I didn’t feel the real heat between Angeline and Meghan and it reflects in the one semi-explicit love scene. But like I said, there were plenty of good parts in the book so all in all an entertaining read.
f/f
Themes: sleepy Fog Hollow suddenly sees plenty of action, blood disease, Kathryn is a selfish bitch with a cruel streak, the night shift, vampires are few and far between, Merlin the cat, Meghan decides to take a walk on the wild side.
3.5 Stars
* A free copy was provided by Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Angeline Vallencourt is turned in the 1920s in a drive-by grab-and-bite by vampire Kathryn. The fact that she was rudely snatched out of her life (and against her will) leaves Angeline bitter and brooding for decades. Kathryn is not a barrel of laughs either, but rather a selfish sociopath who doesn’t really give very good guidance to her companion.
Meghan Denham (say that fast 10 times in a row) is in the wrong place at the wrong time when she meets a bullet in a botched robbery at a gas station. She gets rescued by a mysterious woman (present day Angeline) and from then on the two share a blood bond. The facts around the case baffle the local constabulary and they keep bringing poor Meghan in for questioning. Meghan has a tough time explaining something she doesn’t understand either.
As her attraction to Angeline grows, new bodies turn up. Oh dear.
I liked my first Nicole Stiling, she had an interesting view on the vampire lore but didn’t make it very sexy (I am more partial to the Gothic type of bloodsucker). It had some good moments and was entertaining enough. Not that I was clutching my pearls at any moment, I missed a real connection for that. Stiling’s writing style keeps you at an emotional distance.
We get to know about Angeline’s story through flashbacks. The romance part was a bit meager, I didn’t feel the real heat between Angeline and Meghan and it reflects in the one semi-explicit love scene. But like I said, there were plenty of good parts in the book so all in all an entertaining read.
f/f
Themes: sleepy Fog Hollow suddenly sees plenty of action, blood disease, Kathryn is a selfish bitch with a cruel streak, the night shift, vampires are few and far between, Merlin the cat, Meghan decides to take a walk on the wild side.
3.5 Stars
* A free copy was provided by Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
January 19, 2020
This is by far one of my new favorite vampire novels! I enjoyed the lore as well as Angeline’s journey. The chemistry between the two leads was palpable. It was sexy and angsty with the right amount of humor to balance it out. I’m hoping for a sequel! Definite five stars.
December 30, 2020
I'm getting more into vampires lately, it's not something I was ever overly interested in (other than my young teenage years of Buffy). But it's a nice change.
I overall enjoyed the story of Angeline the vampire, and sweet but goofy Megan the human trying to come to terms with vampirism.
The heartbreaking history of Angeline and her 'maker' was equally enthralling.
However I did find the story a little bit formulaic and predictable, which I felt the same about Stiling's previous book Secrets in a Small Town but I thoroughly enjoyed both! So I really cannot complain.
They are just good solid entertaining reads that leave you satisfied. I look forward to Nicole Stiling's other works in the future.
I overall enjoyed the story of Angeline the vampire, and sweet but goofy Megan the human trying to come to terms with vampirism.
The heartbreaking history of Angeline and her 'maker' was equally enthralling.
However I did find the story a little bit formulaic and predictable, which I felt the same about Stiling's previous book Secrets in a Small Town but I thoroughly enjoyed both! So I really cannot complain.
They are just good solid entertaining reads that leave you satisfied. I look forward to Nicole Stiling's other works in the future.
July 26, 2020
Liked it, but didn't looooove it. I felt this read more like a YA with the exception of one fairly hot sex scene. I thought the dialogue was a little immature (ie: do you hang upside down? do you shrivel from garlic? But that happens on Twilight! kind of conversations), and for some reason a lot of repetition about MC Megan's young adult life... As in, late 90s early 2000s. Which, at 32, I assume this book was set in 2012. I wonder why the author chose that as "present day" when the book was published in 2020. No matter.
I did like the flashbacks to MC Angeline's past through the decades, and found her a lot more interesting than Megan. Not totally sure where the attraction came from to Megan, who was a little flat, but there it was. The story lacked depth of emotions and I didn't find the main couple very believable. Anyway, in a nutshell: vampires, predictable storyline that has been done many times before, blood sucking, an obligatory scene at a lesbian bar, cabin in the woods and a dense detective that just wouldn't go away. Ms. Stiling can write, I will keep an eye on other reads by her, and the book did keep me entertained but had some rather large holes. Sticking to my 3/5.
I did like the flashbacks to MC Angeline's past through the decades, and found her a lot more interesting than Megan. Not totally sure where the attraction came from to Megan, who was a little flat, but there it was. The story lacked depth of emotions and I didn't find the main couple very believable. Anyway, in a nutshell: vampires, predictable storyline that has been done many times before, blood sucking, an obligatory scene at a lesbian bar, cabin in the woods and a dense detective that just wouldn't go away. Ms. Stiling can write, I will keep an eye on other reads by her, and the book did keep me entertained but had some rather large holes. Sticking to my 3/5.
January 25, 2020
This was a good read. Great second novel from this author.
Angeline is walking home when she snatch by a vampire named Kathryn who decide to turn her instead of killing her because she wants a companion to travel with.
Angeline is distraught that she won't be able to see her family or husband again even though she didn't ask for this it gives her freedom to realize that although she loved her husband Ben she realize women is where her heart is at.
Angeline goes into hiding after Kathyrn does something unforgettable when she decide to interfere when an arm robbery at gas station leaves a woman dying.
Megan who was at gas station at the wrong time get shot and survive when Angeline gives her blood. When she comes too she can't believe what happen neither does the officer Nolan who is investigating what happen. Things starts to get worst when bodies start piling up.
I like the romance between Angeline and Megan as they try to find out what going on. I did like Megan friends Stacy and Kristen and how they accept Angeline for who she was. Kathryn was a piece of work on how she treated Angeline.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Angeline is walking home when she snatch by a vampire named Kathryn who decide to turn her instead of killing her because she wants a companion to travel with.
Angeline is distraught that she won't be able to see her family or husband again even though she didn't ask for this it gives her freedom to realize that although she loved her husband Ben she realize women is where her heart is at.
Angeline goes into hiding after Kathyrn does something unforgettable when she decide to interfere when an arm robbery at gas station leaves a woman dying.
Megan who was at gas station at the wrong time get shot and survive when Angeline gives her blood. When she comes too she can't believe what happen neither does the officer Nolan who is investigating what happen. Things starts to get worst when bodies start piling up.
I like the romance between Angeline and Megan as they try to find out what going on. I did like Megan friends Stacy and Kristen and how they accept Angeline for who she was. Kathryn was a piece of work on how she treated Angeline.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
February 8, 2020
I love reading vampire stories, but this is a different kind than I'm used to reading. For starters, the world is not full of vampires lurking in the shadows. Also, the love interest of the vampire in this story is not turned. Very refreshing!
This book is set in the present and past. It starts in Angelina's past in 1926. It is an exciting read and pulled me in from the first moment. In the second chapter were taken to present day and we meet Megan while fueling up her car. This scene also makes the beginning of the book an exciting read.
Stiling did a great job alternating between the past and present. The build-up in the past makes you understand the choices Angelina's making in the present and are delivered at the exact right time in the book. Also, it gives you a real insight into how Angelina experiences being immortal and have to live forever.
The main characters are both likeable and - apart from one being a vampire (duh) - realistic. I think, for me, the romance qualifies as a slow burn. There is not a lot of suspense in the book but the sexy scenes were well written and gave some nice tingles.
I would definitely recommend this book to people liking a vampire romance. If you don't necessarily like the heavy sex you mostly find in those novels, you may find just the right book here. I enjoyed reading it.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is set in the present and past. It starts in Angelina's past in 1926. It is an exciting read and pulled me in from the first moment. In the second chapter were taken to present day and we meet Megan while fueling up her car. This scene also makes the beginning of the book an exciting read.
Stiling did a great job alternating between the past and present. The build-up in the past makes you understand the choices Angelina's making in the present and are delivered at the exact right time in the book. Also, it gives you a real insight into how Angelina experiences being immortal and have to live forever.
The main characters are both likeable and - apart from one being a vampire (duh) - realistic. I think, for me, the romance qualifies as a slow burn. There is not a lot of suspense in the book but the sexy scenes were well written and gave some nice tingles.
I would definitely recommend this book to people liking a vampire romance. If you don't necessarily like the heavy sex you mostly find in those novels, you may find just the right book here. I enjoyed reading it.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2020
'In The Shadow Of Darkness’ by Nicole Stiling got my attention straight away – because who doesn’t love vampires, right? As a newly turned vampire Angeline Vallencourt, has to leave behind everything she knows and those she loves. Her life may now be long-lived, but without someone to love, it’s not all its cracked up to be. She has no choice but to spend time with the vampire who turned her – but is that really the best option for her?
Megan Denham meets Angeline under very strange circumstances. She can’t quite believe what has happened or the story Angeline tells her. But when people start dying in their small town, Megan has to decide who she trusts, and whether her feelings for Angeline are enough.
I really enjoyed this story as it had excitement, romance and characters I could really feel something for. Angeline’s story is told both in the past and present day, so we got to know how she became the woman/vampire she is now. She had to do things she wasn’t proud of and make the best of her situation. I liked her a lot the more I got to know her. Megan was braver and more determined that she gave herself credit for. She was a loyal friend and open-minded. Angeline deserved to be with someone like her. This was a love story, but it was also edge-of-the-seat stuff too. It had me hooked and I couldn’t put it down. A great, well-written story.
I was given this ARC for review.
Megan Denham meets Angeline under very strange circumstances. She can’t quite believe what has happened or the story Angeline tells her. But when people start dying in their small town, Megan has to decide who she trusts, and whether her feelings for Angeline are enough.
I really enjoyed this story as it had excitement, romance and characters I could really feel something for. Angeline’s story is told both in the past and present day, so we got to know how she became the woman/vampire she is now. She had to do things she wasn’t proud of and make the best of her situation. I liked her a lot the more I got to know her. Megan was braver and more determined that she gave herself credit for. She was a loyal friend and open-minded. Angeline deserved to be with someone like her. This was a love story, but it was also edge-of-the-seat stuff too. It had me hooked and I couldn’t put it down. A great, well-written story.
I was given this ARC for review.
January 3, 2023
This is my first book by Stiling, but I am picking up her first novel because I enjoyed this one so much. It has been a while since I read a vampire novel I really enjoyed. I often think it is difficult to humanize vampires, make them seem/appear human and loving, while also admitting they have/sometimes kill. If an author can humanize them it is so much easier to believe in the relationships presented in a novel. This is especially true in a romance novel. Stiling did an amazing job with Angeline. Angeline may be in my top 5 vampires, and I hope we get to see more of her.
I would say give this one a go even if vampire novels are not your thing, I think you may be surprised. Going on my favorites list and will be rereading again very soon.
I would say give this one a go even if vampire novels are not your thing, I think you may be surprised. Going on my favorites list and will be rereading again very soon.
February 12, 2020
I'm pretty new to lesfic in general, but this book prompted me to actually write a review. I thought it was A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. It all worked for me, from the beginning of Angeline's story all the way to the end. I loved Megan, hated Kathryn, loved Kristin, liked the detective.
I've read my fair share of vampire stories over the years, and while this one has elements of other stories, I enjoyed this version of the vampire world. Angeline was basically a person that had a few...differences from everyone else. This was an interesting take on what it would be like to be alone. Like alone-alone.
Netgalley is my new favorite thing in life.
I've read my fair share of vampire stories over the years, and while this one has elements of other stories, I enjoyed this version of the vampire world. Angeline was basically a person that had a few...differences from everyone else. This was an interesting take on what it would be like to be alone. Like alone-alone.
Netgalley is my new favorite thing in life.
February 1, 2020
I’m not usually a paranormal person, but the blurb on this one intrigued me. I actually loved it! It wasn’t too paranormal that it felt like science fiction, and the romance was sweet. I enjoyed the flipping back and forth between timelines. I really felt like I was in the 20’s along with Angeline. Megan was fun and her friends were real characters. After this one, I think I’d be willing to give vamps another chance! Five stars for this arc.
February 7, 2020
I have to say this is first book I ever read by Nicole and loved it! The vampire setting is awesome!
I saw this story from different point than usual stories I read so far and I think it fits. Keeps you interested and into the story from beginning to the end. I loved both characters. Their decisions, reactions to each other and the calm setting around them.
I honestly have nothing bad to say about this one. I really wish I could meet vampire in my lifetime!
I saw this story from different point than usual stories I read so far and I think it fits. Keeps you interested and into the story from beginning to the end. I loved both characters. Their decisions, reactions to each other and the calm setting around them.
I honestly have nothing bad to say about this one. I really wish I could meet vampire in my lifetime!
February 24, 2020
I am such a crazy fool for good vampire stories and this book sounded oh so promising.
And I really enjoyed this turn on the classical trope. I really liked the different times and how they're presented in this book. I really felt like I was living in the 20's alongside Angeline. We really get to know her and her backstory which is good and suits the story.
The romance is believeable and I enjoyed it too. It's not the great and action packed novel someone might want but it's written really good and I felt entertained while reading.
I recommend this book to vampire lovers. It's great.
And I really enjoyed this turn on the classical trope. I really liked the different times and how they're presented in this book. I really felt like I was living in the 20's alongside Angeline. We really get to know her and her backstory which is good and suits the story.
The romance is believeable and I enjoyed it too. It's not the great and action packed novel someone might want but it's written really good and I felt entertained while reading.
I recommend this book to vampire lovers. It's great.
February 29, 2024
This is an amazing supernatural thriller with romance action and tragedy.
I love the way this story is told. Angeline's past runs parallel with Megan’s present. Each of Angeline’s chapters gives more insight to her character and tragic back story. I loved the back and forth like reading two stories simultaneously.
Megan and Angeline have great bond. Even with a rocky first interaction they connect so well and so sweetly. Their scenes together were my favorite part of the story. The sex scenes were well written and spicy. They had amazing chemistry and I really hope Stiling has plans for a sequel because I would love to see more of them together.
Megan's friends are amazing characters and I loved how caring and sweet they both are and they are so casual and supportive about the supernatural aspect of the story.
The Villain of the story is the best type of Villain. A delusional sociopath that believes that are in the right and can’t understand that they are the bad guy. A total hypocrite that is easy to hate and only garners slight sympathy only to dash it away almost immediately.
This is a fun read even with all of the tragic elements and I really hope it’s not a stand alone because there is so much potential for future stories.
I love the way this story is told. Angeline's past runs parallel with Megan’s present. Each of Angeline’s chapters gives more insight to her character and tragic back story. I loved the back and forth like reading two stories simultaneously.
Megan and Angeline have great bond. Even with a rocky first interaction they connect so well and so sweetly. Their scenes together were my favorite part of the story. The sex scenes were well written and spicy. They had amazing chemistry and I really hope Stiling has plans for a sequel because I would love to see more of them together.
Megan's friends are amazing characters and I loved how caring and sweet they both are and they are so casual and supportive about the supernatural aspect of the story.
The Villain of the story is the best type of Villain. A delusional sociopath that believes that are in the right and can’t understand that they are the bad guy. A total hypocrite that is easy to hate and only garners slight sympathy only to dash it away almost immediately.
This is a fun read even with all of the tragic elements and I really hope it’s not a stand alone because there is so much potential for future stories.
February 29, 2020
Heck yeah, Angeline kicking arse and slicing heads!
I loved the characters in the book... both mains grabbed my attention and the secondary characters in Megan's friends, Nolan... Charlotte and Kathryn just completes the book perfectly.
This was so different to Stiling's first book but still as entertaining.
I loved the characters in the book... both mains grabbed my attention and the secondary characters in Megan's friends, Nolan... Charlotte and Kathryn just completes the book perfectly.
This was so different to Stiling's first book but still as entertaining.
April 3, 2020
Light hearted vampire story that doesn’t dredge overly into the dilemma of turning lovers into the same species. I like the way the author writes, I will look out works by her in future.
January 19, 2020
I enjoyed this book by Nicole Stiling. It was nice to read a vampire story where the vampires were pretty much ‘normal’. I don’t like all that OTT sparkling, face morphing melodrama. So, Megan, a realtor in her 30s becomes fascinated by Angeline, a mysterious woman who saves her life during a robbery at a gas station. The only thing is, Angeline saved her life in the most dramatic fashion possible - healing her of a fatal gunshot wound to the abdomen leaving no trace of the wound except a blood soaked sweater and the bullet lodged in Megan’s pelvis. Colour Megan intrigued after a medical examination and questions by the police she has a hard time answering.
We slowly learn more about Angeline and her 90 year history as a vampire through flashbacks and interactions with her maker, Kathryn, a woman who essentially created her because she was lonely. Angeline is used and abused by Kathryn until she eventually breaks away from the toxic relationship in spectacular fashion but with tragic consequences.
We also learn of the growing attraction between Angeline and Megan, and it’s not just because of the blood bond used to save Megan’s life. There is something more going on here, especially as the police have Megan as their only link to a series of bizarre deaths. Just when it seems that Megan and Angeline might have a chance, Angeline’s past comes back to haunt her.
The story was quite action packed and I laughed a few times at the interactions between Megan and Angeline, but there were a few things I picked up on that pulled me from the story. One was a fact checking issue - We are in Angeline’s POV in 1926 and something is described as looking like a hologram. Holograms were not invented until 1962 although holography was theorised about since the 1940s. Either way, there were no holograms around in 1926 for things to look like them. There was a continuity issue towards the end of the novel where at one point a katana sword is described as being stuck in the wooden floor.The next line, it falls to the ground with a shattering clang. Still on the katana, at one point the hilt is described as slippery with blood and Kathryn couldn’t get a grip on it. We were told previously the sword came from Japan, so it wasn’t some cheap knock off. Katanas are traditionally made with rough skin, like ray skin and the handle wrap done in such a manner to provide grip, so it wouldn’t slip out of the hand if ever covered in blood. That might be me being picky, but it didn’t ring true, and I’m sure I’m not the only reader who reads with a critical eye for detail.
Sometimes it felt like the author was trying too hard. When we meet Phil in the 1950s, his use of slang is overdone a bit, every sentence peppered with it. I realised it was used to set the time frame, but sometimes less is more. It made it sound a little cheesy IMO.
I would have liked to have been shown a little more of the emotion in the story rather than being told so and so felt this or so and so felt that. I think it would have drawn me in more and made the characters more relatable, so when things happened to them I would have been more emotionally invested.
Overall this was an entertaining story. I like the fact it is left open for what sounds like a potential paranormal investigative series. That would be a fun read. I’ll keep an eye out for more from this author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this novel for an honest review.
We slowly learn more about Angeline and her 90 year history as a vampire through flashbacks and interactions with her maker, Kathryn, a woman who essentially created her because she was lonely. Angeline is used and abused by Kathryn until she eventually breaks away from the toxic relationship in spectacular fashion but with tragic consequences.
We also learn of the growing attraction between Angeline and Megan, and it’s not just because of the blood bond used to save Megan’s life. There is something more going on here, especially as the police have Megan as their only link to a series of bizarre deaths. Just when it seems that Megan and Angeline might have a chance, Angeline’s past comes back to haunt her.
The story was quite action packed and I laughed a few times at the interactions between Megan and Angeline, but there were a few things I picked up on that pulled me from the story. One was a fact checking issue - We are in Angeline’s POV in 1926 and something is described as looking like a hologram. Holograms were not invented until 1962 although holography was theorised about since the 1940s. Either way, there were no holograms around in 1926 for things to look like them. There was a continuity issue towards the end of the novel where at one point a katana sword is described as being stuck in the wooden floor.The next line, it falls to the ground with a shattering clang. Still on the katana, at one point the hilt is described as slippery with blood and Kathryn couldn’t get a grip on it. We were told previously the sword came from Japan, so it wasn’t some cheap knock off. Katanas are traditionally made with rough skin, like ray skin and the handle wrap done in such a manner to provide grip, so it wouldn’t slip out of the hand if ever covered in blood. That might be me being picky, but it didn’t ring true, and I’m sure I’m not the only reader who reads with a critical eye for detail.
Sometimes it felt like the author was trying too hard. When we meet Phil in the 1950s, his use of slang is overdone a bit, every sentence peppered with it. I realised it was used to set the time frame, but sometimes less is more. It made it sound a little cheesy IMO.
I would have liked to have been shown a little more of the emotion in the story rather than being told so and so felt this or so and so felt that. I think it would have drawn me in more and made the characters more relatable, so when things happened to them I would have been more emotionally invested.
Overall this was an entertaining story. I like the fact it is left open for what sounds like a potential paranormal investigative series. That would be a fun read. I’ll keep an eye out for more from this author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of this novel for an honest review.
January 29, 2020
I really enjoyed this paranormal romance novel. Note: while one of the leads is a vampire - thus paranormal - this is a very non-paranormal paranormal book - if that can be a thing.
Megan's life is cruising along - nothing fancy but it works. Until the night when she walks in on a gas-station robbery, gets shot, and wakes up a mile away with a woman standing above her having given Megan her blood to survive the gunshot wound.
Angeline has a blood disorder that makes her extremely photosensitive and basically immortal - okay she's a vampire. But all she wants to do after years and heartbreak is live a low-key life. She an overnight veterinary technician and likes it just fine. Until she saves Megan, and her carefully-crafted, below-the-radar life starts to get immensely more complicated.
Now tied together by a blood bond - and the fact that they genuinely like eachother, Megan and Angeline must decide if they can try to make a relationship work and figure out how to avoid the complications of Angeline's past.
Megan's life is cruising along - nothing fancy but it works. Until the night when she walks in on a gas-station robbery, gets shot, and wakes up a mile away with a woman standing above her having given Megan her blood to survive the gunshot wound.
Angeline has a blood disorder that makes her extremely photosensitive and basically immortal - okay she's a vampire. But all she wants to do after years and heartbreak is live a low-key life. She an overnight veterinary technician and likes it just fine. Until she saves Megan, and her carefully-crafted, below-the-radar life starts to get immensely more complicated.
Now tied together by a blood bond - and the fact that they genuinely like eachother, Megan and Angeline must decide if they can try to make a relationship work and figure out how to avoid the complications of Angeline's past.
March 1, 2020
AWESOME
I love paranormal romance. This book wasn’t too over the top and almost believable! The chemistry between the characters was hot too!!
I love paranormal romance. This book wasn’t too over the top and almost believable! The chemistry between the characters was hot too!!
March 16, 2021
I usually don't like to go for paranormal romances especially in LGBT+ fiction because it usually is just fantasy/ paranormal lite and doesn't focus much past 'sexy, brooding paranormal being falls for feisty human'. So, I only picked this up on a whim because of the reviews. I am glad I did, this was a perfect pick me up after having moved across country and being too stressed out to really read anything for a while.
While vampire Angeline is a bit morose at times, she is actually well adjusted after living under the whims of a capricious master and experiencing her casual cruelty for nearly a century. I love that she is secretive but not really patronizing towards Megan Denham, the woman she saves after Megan is shot during a robbery. Megan knows something is with her life being saved, and rightfully gets frustrated with Angeline when she is evasive. I also love that vampire tropes are played around with, like vampiric bonding, but doesn't get overly creepy. It is made clear that Angeline doesn't wait around for Megan to jump in when the bond asserts itself. And while Angeline fits into the horrific and cruel nature of a vampire, Angeline is more cut off. She doesn't brood, but does have a form of PTSD from a sort of surprisingly brutal moment in her life. She also is the night vet in Megan's town, and seems to have an affinity with animals, simply because she likes them.
This is a slightly darker take on a paranormal romance, but doesn't fall into the psuedo-non consensual tropes that some of these darker romances can get into. Instead, Megan and Angeline have to learn to work with each other, and through that is where the romance develops. It grounds the plot, especially once the paranormal stuff hits in full force. It even finds time to poke fun at its own premise with Megan's friends having no problems with the new undead lady in Megan's life - in fact going so far to encourage the relationship. Its a running joke throughout the book, and it never not made me laugh.
I really enjoyed this book, and is one of the better vampire lesfic romance books out there for me. I love me a paranormal romance that treats is paranormal elements as seriously as its romantic ones. Sadly, it doesn't often go that way, but this one hits all the marks for me. I only had a few small complaints, but this is about as awesome as it can get.
While vampire Angeline is a bit morose at times, she is actually well adjusted after living under the whims of a capricious master and experiencing her casual cruelty for nearly a century. I love that she is secretive but not really patronizing towards Megan Denham, the woman she saves after Megan is shot during a robbery. Megan knows something is with her life being saved, and rightfully gets frustrated with Angeline when she is evasive. I also love that vampire tropes are played around with, like vampiric bonding, but doesn't get overly creepy. It is made clear that Angeline doesn't wait around for Megan to jump in when the bond asserts itself. And while Angeline fits into the horrific and cruel nature of a vampire, Angeline is more cut off. She doesn't brood, but does have a form of PTSD from a sort of surprisingly brutal moment in her life. She also is the night vet in Megan's town, and seems to have an affinity with animals, simply because she likes them.
This is a slightly darker take on a paranormal romance, but doesn't fall into the psuedo-non consensual tropes that some of these darker romances can get into. Instead, Megan and Angeline have to learn to work with each other, and through that is where the romance develops. It grounds the plot, especially once the paranormal stuff hits in full force. It even finds time to poke fun at its own premise with Megan's friends having no problems with the new undead lady in Megan's life - in fact going so far to encourage the relationship. Its a running joke throughout the book, and it never not made me laugh.
I really enjoyed this book, and is one of the better vampire lesfic romance books out there for me. I love me a paranormal romance that treats is paranormal elements as seriously as its romantic ones. Sadly, it doesn't often go that way, but this one hits all the marks for me. I only had a few small complaints, but this is about as awesome as it can get.
March 16, 2023
This is a vampire story that is less on gore and more on the humane side of it.
A woman is saved by a Vamp and from there the story vacillates from present to past until we get to a present that justifies the background of the past stories.
It was a nice sweet read just not exciting enough for those looking for paranormal gore.
A woman is saved by a Vamp and from there the story vacillates from present to past until we get to a present that justifies the background of the past stories.
It was a nice sweet read just not exciting enough for those looking for paranormal gore.
February 1, 2020
I received this ARC from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
In the Shadow of Darkness by Nicole Stiling is an urban paranormal romance. We get a split view of Angeline Vallencourt's life - when she was first turned by Kathryn and their time together, as well as present-day and her relationship with a totally boring normal human, Megan.
Overall, I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. The early chapters with Kathryn and Angeline feel a bit dry and the dialogue can be cringe at times, but once you meet Megan the story begins to unfold and flow a lot easier. The plot is secondary to the characters and their interactions with each other, think of it as a slice of life vampire story. I love the almost complete lack of men, and how very gay the majority of the characters are.
The only thing I wish the writer had done differently was to leave out references that would date this novella in a few years. There was an off-hand remark about "Alexa" which could be confusing to people not familiar with the digital assistant or anyone reading it outside of this generation. Things like this should either be explained briefly or left vague and unbranded.
If there was a spin-off detective series with Angeline and Nolan, I would definitely read it!
In the Shadow of Darkness by Nicole Stiling is an urban paranormal romance. We get a split view of Angeline Vallencourt's life - when she was first turned by Kathryn and their time together, as well as present-day and her relationship with a totally boring normal human, Megan.
Overall, I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. The early chapters with Kathryn and Angeline feel a bit dry and the dialogue can be cringe at times, but once you meet Megan the story begins to unfold and flow a lot easier. The plot is secondary to the characters and their interactions with each other, think of it as a slice of life vampire story. I love the almost complete lack of men, and how very gay the majority of the characters are.
The only thing I wish the writer had done differently was to leave out references that would date this novella in a few years. There was an off-hand remark about "Alexa" which could be confusing to people not familiar with the digital assistant or anyone reading it outside of this generation. Things like this should either be explained briefly or left vague and unbranded.
If there was a spin-off detective series with Angeline and Nolan, I would definitely read it!
May 17, 2020
In the Shadow of Darkness was really a joy to read.
Stiling’s pace and plot are superb and all around great. In the Shadow of Darkness is light when meant to be, dark when the turns happen and engaging always. I want to be friends with each and every character in this book (minus you know who, but even she was sometimes hilarious and real).
Sometimes I take issue with a back and forth timeline story, but each flashback served a purpose and was done very deliberately. I found myself looking forward to the flashback cuts to learn a little more about the character.
Let’s also take a moment to appreciate many gay characters that didn’t have their coming out happen on page, nothing wrong with that but it’s always a bit overdone when it happens. These were well adjusted girls whom happened to be gay.
Many of these reviews compare this read to her first book. Some saying her debut was more enjoyable. I have never read anything from this author and I really loved this one so it’s hard to see how it could be better!
I would be a fan of this world for a long time if we were permitted more books in this realm from Stiling, and I sincerely hope we are.
Stiling’s pace and plot are superb and all around great. In the Shadow of Darkness is light when meant to be, dark when the turns happen and engaging always. I want to be friends with each and every character in this book (minus you know who, but even she was sometimes hilarious and real).
Sometimes I take issue with a back and forth timeline story, but each flashback served a purpose and was done very deliberately. I found myself looking forward to the flashback cuts to learn a little more about the character.
Let’s also take a moment to appreciate many gay characters that didn’t have their coming out happen on page, nothing wrong with that but it’s always a bit overdone when it happens. These were well adjusted girls whom happened to be gay.
Many of these reviews compare this read to her first book. Some saying her debut was more enjoyable. I have never read anything from this author and I really loved this one so it’s hard to see how it could be better!
I would be a fan of this world for a long time if we were permitted more books in this realm from Stiling, and I sincerely hope we are.
January 26, 2025
Just read it
This book is brilliant. It took me all of 2 says to devour, reading around work and life and it is simply breath taking. There was something almost Bridget Jones like about Megan and her friends, and Angeline, well, read it and you decide, but I think so far, she is the best vampire I have come across. It is a really interesting take on the whole 'vampire' way of life, good and almost believable. The love story that underpins this is exquisite. I don't think my review does it justice... Just read it, you want be sorry.
This book is brilliant. It took me all of 2 says to devour, reading around work and life and it is simply breath taking. There was something almost Bridget Jones like about Megan and her friends, and Angeline, well, read it and you decide, but I think so far, she is the best vampire I have come across. It is a really interesting take on the whole 'vampire' way of life, good and almost believable. The love story that underpins this is exquisite. I don't think my review does it justice... Just read it, you want be sorry.
July 6, 2025
2.75 ⭐
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