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Shadow & Poison: The Dark Guard Book 1

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When monsters stalk the darkness of Prohibition era Chicago, it takes a special kind of hero to kill them.

Private detective Mark Van Ryn’s supernatural power over shadow has made him an outcast his whole life. When a mutated creature starts eating Chicago’s gangsters from the inside out, Mark is the only man in the city who can hunt it down and destroy it. But a dangerous lady has a job for Mark too, one that might cost him more than his life.

Gifted perfumer Eliza Karlova needs a man. The most evil man Chicago’s got. And she needs Mark to find him for her. Because Eliza has a deadly power of her own and a family legacy she’s doomed to keep. But when forbidden passion flames up between Eliza and the angelically handsome detective, she has to decide between her destiny, and the man she loves.

War brews in the city as the Century of Progress World’s Fair draws near, and Mark and Eliza must find a way to trust each other if their love, and Chicago, are to survive.

472 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 26, 2021

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About the author

J.B. Curry

5 books36 followers
J.B. Curry is an artist and writer. She has traveled to every corner of the United States, but currently lives in beautiful New England with her family and her vast collection of houseplants. Follow her on Facebook, Amazon, Goodreads, and Bookbub.

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5 stars
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9 (32%)
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2 (7%)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Payal Sinha.
Author 7 books24 followers
April 25, 2021
Shadow & Poison as the name suggests is about two gifts to two striking individuals who meet up to save the city and protect people from a deadly monster. The book is a hearty romance with strong elements of suspense, supernatural, and superpowers. It is intense and deeply emotional and weaves an exotic enriched atmosphere with dilapidated castles, blood-thirsty gangsters, and bad tycoons. It is also about being different and having unnatural powers that act as curses but end up being a blessing. The book is thoroughly enjoyable and it would be hard to keep it down once you start reading it.
Want to Read
February 9, 2021
Blurb:
When monsters stalk the darkness of Prohibition era Chicago, it takes a special kind of hero to kill them.

Private detective Mark Van Ryn’s supernatural power over shadow has made him an outcast his whole life. When a mutated creature starts eating Chicago’s gangsters from the inside out, Mark is the only man in the city who can hunt it down and destroy it. But a dangerous lady has a job for Mark too, one that might cost him more than his life.

Gifted perfumer Eliza Karlova needs a man. The most evil man Chicago’s got. And she needs Mark to find him for her. Because Eliza has a deadly power of her own and a family legacy she’s doomed to keep. But when forbidden passion flames up between Eliza and the angelically handsome detective, she has to decide between her destiny, and the man she loves.

War brews in the city as the Century of Progress World’s Fair draws near, and Mark and Eliza must find a way to trust each other if their love, and Chicago, are to survive.


I'm really intrigued!!!!
*takes aim*
*tosses to TBR tower*

Profile Image for Melissa Hernandez-Alvarez.
412 reviews18 followers
April 30, 2021
I was very much surprised that I enjoyed this story. I don't really read detective-esque stories, so I wasn't sure what I was getting myself into here. I loved the way the story plays out. I thought it was done very well. The balance with the romance, each of the characters stories, and their story together was great. You could definitely feel the tension between them, so kudos to Curry for nailing that so so well. When it finally paid off? *chefs kiss* Seeing them come together to solve the mystery was fun. I can only hope we get to see more of their adventures again.
2,035 reviews20 followers
January 25, 2021
I am a sucker for star-crossed lovers and for outliers who try to protect the world from everything including themselves. This novel combines both to great effect. Setting this during Prohibition in Chicago just made this more fun to read. I keep wondering if this author discussed any of this with Dan Willis or Gail Z. Martin - Mark is a lot like Alex Lockerby and Joe Mack and Eliza bears more than a little resemblance to Sorcha Kincaid. What's not to like?

I received an ARC from Hidden Gems and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for S. Jeyran  Main.
1,652 reviews136 followers
May 4, 2021
Shadow and Poison is a religious science fiction story filled with horror anthologies and historical fantasy elements. I was fascinated with this novel. The author truly manages to maneuver so many genres in one storyline. I enjoyed the complexity of the storyline. The work was written well and had a nice flow to it. What stood out for me in this book was its characters and their personalities. They indeed took the storyline to another level. I recommend this book to anyone who likes to read sci-fi fantasy books.
Profile Image for Julia Gabriel.
Author 40 books164 followers
January 26, 2021
This book had me at "She looked like a long, black calligraphy stroke painted on the air." Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Prohibition-era Chicago, Mark and Eliza must use their secret powers to stop a mutating monster -- navigating the forces of good and evil while also navigating the complicated attraction building between them. Original, action-packed, deliciously romantic, and extremely well-written! Looking forward to more books by this author.
Profile Image for Patty.
241 reviews
February 9, 2021
This book was set in the 1930s wich I loved. Its a story about Mark a paranormal investigators with his own secrets. Along comes Eliza, hiring Mark to investigate potential husbands for her. The chemistry between them was hot hot hot. The pace was good and fast. The villain was pretty different than what Im used to, so that was great! Look forward to more from this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Grady.
Author 51 books1,839 followers
April 24, 2021
‘Not once had a woman looked at him that way, without a hint of wariness or repulsion’

New England author JB Curry is both an artist and a writer. Her debut novel was BAD KEYS (PIANOS WILD series Book 1) and now she offers SHADOW AND POISON (The Dark Guard Series Book 1).

The marriage of visual arts with written arts is a strong asset for JB Curry. Her choice of placing her fantasy novel in the1930s gets a fine lift off from her choice of cover image (the interstices of that image gradually surface as the novel progresses). And to initiate the dark drama she lists a FBI memo May 17, 1933:” Confidential sources in Chicago inform me that one of our assets is experimenting with a covert weapon. To protect the nation at home and abroad, I have sent agents to take control of the project by any means necessary.’

And with that little ‘a-ha’ moment, Curry moves into character definition – ‘She looked like a long, black calligraphy stroke painted on the air. She was wearing a black mink coat, a black hat with a little brim over her bobbed black curls, black gloves. Only the ivory of her face broke the inky line she made. And what a face. Sculpted cheekbones, elegant nose, full, red mouth. Deep brown eyes with a catlike tilt. Exotic, gorgeous, and dangerous. He smiled. He could use a little danger.’ That degree of attention to detail makes this fantasy fiction special.

Curry weaves her intense story as follows: ‘When monsters stalk the darkness of Prohibition era Chicago, it takes a special kind of hero to kill them. Private detective Mark Van Ryn’s supernatural power over shadow has made him an outcast his whole life. When a mutated creature starts eating Chicago’s gangsters from the inside out, Mark is the only man in the city who can hunt it down and destroy it. But a dangerous lady has a job for Mark too, one that might cost him more than his life. Gifted perfumer Eliza Karlova needs a man. The most evil man in Chicago. And she needs Mark to find him for her. Because Eliza has a deadly power of her own and a family curse she’s doomed to keep. But when forbidden passion flames up between Eliza and the angelically handsome detective, she has to decide between her destiny, and the man she loves. War brews in the city as the Century of Progress World’s Fair draws near, and Mark and Eliza must find a way to trust each other if their love, and Chicago, are to survive.’

The primary response after completing this strange fantasy is ‘When will Book 2 be ready?” This little epic is a dazzler! Very highly recommended.
285 reviews7 followers
March 5, 2021
I am voluntarily reviewing this book after having received a free copy.
Actual rating: 4.5 stars

This was a fun read! I love the setting/time period, and felt the author exercised it well, including a lot of the prejudices certain groups faced at that time. The main characters' powers were unique and inventive. The prose was very beautiful and vivid, and really added to the sexual tension between the two leads. It absolutely pours off the pages at times, and was overall just really well done. The characters were three-dimensional and likable, especially Eliza, I felt for her and her supposed fate (a loveless marriage to an evil but rich man, to uphold her family's legacy, vs what she really wants to do, which is become a perfumer). The background characters were able to hold their own, too, and I especially liked that we got to see a black scientist in the mix.

The pacing was a bit bumpy at times (there's a climax of sorts, but then the book goes on for another 80 pages or so and we get another, which felt weird, especially since the characters finally get together in between the two, which took away a lot of the tension), and unfortunately I found the actual erotic scenes a bit lacking. It's hard to place, but something about them just seemed a little too...forceful? More for Mark's benefit than Eliza's, at times? I'm not sure, they just felt a bit weak given all the lead-up (and there was a /lot/ of lead-up, it was very good). The epilogue also felt a little silly and contrived (a bit too sugary sweet for my taste) but your mileage may vary.

Overall, though, if you want a steamy fantasy story in a delicious setting, you'll be pleased with this read. I would definitely continue the series.
Profile Image for Teresa.
238 reviews1 follower
January 31, 2021
Shadow & Poison: The Dark Guard Book 1 by J.B.Curry is a 1930’s story about Mark, a beautiful man on the inside, but unusual looking on the outside and Eliza, a gorgeous woman on the outside, but deadly to adult men on the inside. These two people come together when Eliza solicits Mark, a rarely seen ( I mean this literally) Chicago detective to investigate a list of wealthy men, Eliza can choose to marry. Eliza’s agenda is clear to the reader; she wants a morally bankrupt individual with lots of cash so when (not if) he croaks she won’t feel guilty about his horrible death.
Mark however becomes more intrigued with Eliza than the actual case and takes it on despite his better judgment. In the meanwhile, he also gets hired by Chicago’s premier gangster to help him solve the murders of his men and associates by a mysterious entity that can’t be killed by conventional methods.
I was hooked and loved everything about the book. I adored Mark because despite all his heartaches he never gives in to the dark. He is an underdog. He is suave and sophisticated; a true aristocrat without a cent to his name.
Eliza is a woman who is valued because of how she looks and never mind if she has a brain. This is every man’s mistake when they meet her. It has dire consequences which could cost them their lives. Mark however is different and proves he is stronger then this. His prime objective is to see if Eliza is as dangerous as she says. The book is a page turner. With more stories like this from the author, it could be in the same league as Jim Butcher’s “The Dresden Files”. I can’t wait for the next read. I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
Profile Image for Darryl Terry.
Author 6 books11 followers
May 6, 2021
Dark shadows and poison in a compelling mixture of supernatural terror set in Chicago.

In this dark fantasy set in Chicago during 1933, private detective Mark Van Ryn is approached by a mysterious young woman to investigate her suitors to enable her to make an informed choice of who to marry. However, her decision is based on some unusual prerequisites, and Mark is intrigued by her as he senses, that like himself, she is also cursed or gifted with a supernatural power. During his investigations, he discovers shocking evidence of other evil machinations connected to the underworld and the powerful industrialist who she has chosen to marry. Drawn into a shadowy maelstrom of violence and terror, they are irresistibly attracted to each other when they both have to use their powers to save Chicago and themselves from criminals linked to officials at the highest level who are prepared to unleash supernatural forces to achieve their aims. Darkness and poisonous terror pervade in this book with compellingly different characters whose sensuously erotic encounters add some explicit adult content to an action packed plot.
Profile Image for Pegboard.
1,834 reviews9 followers
April 24, 2021
Shadow & Poison by J.B. Curry raises the standards for historical fiction. Mark Van Ryn is a private investigator in Chicago during 1933. Two characteristics make him unique; first, he is an albino and a very handsome one at that. Next, he not only fades into the shadows, but he can travel along with shadows, unseen. Mark has two pressing jobs that seem to be connected. He is to find who is killing off gang members of the current mobster. He also has to hunt down the vilest man for the beautiful Elizaveta Karlova to marry. She is looking for a powerful and rich man she can inherit from.

This novel has the complexity, danger, and passion that is rarely seen in novels, it is the whole package. J.B. Curry takes everything to the highest level, seizing your attention with it all. I could see there is one to follow as the author leaves us with just a hint of more from this couple or others like them.
Profile Image for Jessica.
2,338 reviews23 followers
April 25, 2021
Prohibition era Chicago has had many novels set in that timeline, however here the author set this time and place among monsters and creatures of the night. When something begins eating its way through Chicago’s gangsters, Private Detective Mark Van Ryn is called upon to investigate. His powers and control of the shadows will be needed if he wants to solve the case before more people are killed. He is also called upon by a Mrs. Karlova, a perfumist who need Van Ryn to find a dangerous man for her. The ensuing feelings between these two have the power to derail not just her search, but also the detective’s own investigations and possibly pout the safety of all of Chicago at risk.
History and Paranormal fiction fans will rejoice at the blending of these two genres’ in this book. While the pacing might need some improvement in a few areas, the overall impression is of an excellent start to a new series.
Profile Image for Pearl.
537 reviews7 followers
April 25, 2021
I loved the air of mystery in this book. This was simply irresistible in so many ways! Shadow & Poison: The Dark Guard, a mysterious fantasy book and the first of the series written by J.B. Curry stunned from start to finish. It's a story centered around the main character Mark Van Ryn, a private detective with a supernatural power that is very useful against monsters. In this book we also meet another character called Eliza Karlova, a skilled performer whose very mysterious.

The story was a roller coaster as it offered different scenarios and series of events. It was like something that I see in thriller movies. But this book, it has a modern twist of fantasy which is the reason why I enjoyed it quite a lot! I found myself getting excited as well with the action scenes. Readers who love the same genre as this will surely enjoy this tale!
Profile Image for Karyn H.
568 reviews10 followers
May 16, 2021
What an alluring dangerous mixture!!

PD Mark Van Ryn has supernatural powers in this novel. The sudden disappearance of gangsters of the streets of Chicago by a mutant brings much concern to the main character MVR. MNR is determined to kill all these mutants with his supernatural powers. Though an outcast all his life the city must depend on him since he is the only person that can hunt and kill these creatures.
Mark met a sexy, but a dark, mysterious, and dangerous lady with a family history that is vicious. She needs MVR help. The novel is filled with, passion, death, fear, and mystery, As war stirs within the city and as the fair is almost here MVR and Eliza have a lot to do to survive.
An amazing read! Deserving of a 5 star.
74 reviews2 followers
May 3, 2021
The novel Shadow & Poison by JB Curry is about two blessings to two outstanding people who meet up to protect the city and guard people from a ruthless monster. The author blends powerful elements of suspense, superpowers, and supernatural events with a hearty romance. The storyline is deep and profoundly touching and forms an exotic embellished atmosphere with blood-thirsty gangsters, dilapidated castles, and evil tycoons.
The storyline also covers diverse supernatural powers that act as curses and evils but end up being miracle blessings. The Shadow & Poison is a wholly delightful saga for romantic and dark fiction readers.
Profile Image for Ashley.
150 reviews
May 5, 2021
There is a lot of mystery and intrigue when it comes to this book. You will find yourself entranced by the mysterious detective and the dangerous Eliza. Both have secrets and need something from the other person. It is a fun ride to see how they must work together and what they are trying to accomplish. This book feels dangerous and is also fun to get into.

If you are a fan of mysteries that have a great setting and overall mood, this is just the type of book for you. It is written well, has characters that are multi-faceted, and the story keeps giving. These aspects come together to make something special.
Profile Image for Chelseyam.
203 reviews
May 7, 2021
Growing up as a big X-Men fan, I find it hard to pass up anything that seems to be similar to the mutant theme. Although I don't really get X-men vibes from this book, I did get to enjoy a really great story! There are people with mutations or superpowers in the book and their abilities are incredibly cool and make you want to know more about the individual's backstory and more. However, I think the thing I enjoyed most about this story is the mystery element as I've never read anything that combines the mutant theme with a mystery. Other than that, the characters were really enjoyable, the Prohibition period came to life, and the dialogue and descriptions were top of the line.
Profile Image for Victoria Hanlen.
Author 2 books123 followers
March 5, 2021
J.B. Curry keeps getting better and better, this time treating us to a noir style tale set in 1930’s Chicago.
While romance sizzles, her unique heroes battle it out with gangsters, an evil chemical manufacturer, a mad scientist, a monster, and the Feds. The story has plenty of twists, turns, and surprises to keep you guessing, and unrepentant secondary characters to make you smile. If you are a fan of superheroes, stylized detective stories, and sumptuous writing, you will love this book.
Highly recommended!
Profile Image for rann_ssy.
28 reviews
April 23, 2021
Shadow & Poison, the first installment in The Dark Guard series is such a flavorful and fiery story that you will certainly get hypnotized in. You get pulled into the world of romance fantasy fiction of Private detective Mark Van Ryn who is hunting down a mutated creature spreading fear in Chicago, and along the way, he falls for Eliza Karlova and gets entangled in forbidden passion. The setting might look cliche to some, but trust me, the story was an absolute masterpiece. It is not only because of its amazing set of characters, but the story flow and pacing are truly a satisfaction.
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.4k reviews8 followers
February 1, 2021
The first book in the The Dark Guard series a well written story with a very good storyline. I enjoyed reading Gifted perfumer Eliza Karlova and Private detective Mark Van Ryn’s story of suspense, drama, danger, villains, supernatural power, and romance. I want to read the next book in this series. This is a new Author to me. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Dee Ray.
66 reviews
February 4, 2021
I loved this book. It was so different from what I have become used to lately. Loved the time period and the descriptive writing, as well as all of the mysteries at every turn. I gobbled this book up and will most likely read it again, albeit a little slower than the first time. Beautiful, thank you for such a unique read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tegan Brinkman.
347 reviews
September 15, 2022
I barely got into the first chapter before wondering if I accidentally picked up a film noir script of some sex starved detective with a dictionary.
Shelved it soon after because overly wordy is not for me.

Irrespective of my preferences the writing tho needing some work was good the story seemed like an movie adaptable one even if I shelved it early.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Crystal Denny.
335 reviews60 followers
December 31, 2021
This was a great story!!! I love the era and the author is so awesome at writing that I had such a clear picture of how the characters and the world around them looked. The story was pretty long but the drama and mystery kept me thoroughly entertained! The paranormal romance element was on par. Mark and Eliza are so interesting and complex! I’ll definitely be looking forward to continuing their story!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews