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Cora Roberts #2
Shadows of the Soul
A terrifying entity stalks the small town of White Castle, leaving a blaze of blood and destruction in its wake. My home is ground zero for the malevolent power capable of corrupting a symbol of purity.
The supernatural factions are being manipulated by the devious head of The Order, and I am a pawn in their game. Working together with Hudson, the lord of shifters, we must fight against shadows to not only save my friends, but the entire town. Everything is on the line, my life, my secrets, and my heart. The problem is, this time we are taking on family. My family.
Blood is, after all, thicker than water.
The supernatural factions are being manipulated by the devious head of The Order, and I am a pawn in their game. Working together with Hudson, the lord of shifters, we must fight against shadows to not only save my friends, but the entire town. Everything is on the line, my life, my secrets, and my heart. The problem is, this time we are taking on family. My family.
Blood is, after all, thicker than water.
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2022
928 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
About the author
Adaline Winters
24 books696 followersAdaline Winters writes heroines who bite back and the alpha males who fall to their knees because of it. Known for weaving sizzling tension with deadly twists, she delights in leading readers through stories full of betrayal, desire, and the kind of cliffhangers that leave you cursing her name—and still begging for more. If there’s one promise she makes, it’s this: her heroines will never go quietly, and her heroes will never come out unscathed.
She lives in England’s Lake District, where the scenery is dramatic, the weather is stubbornly grey, and the dog in her house is somehow even more chaotic than her characters. Her husband and daughter are used to conversations being interrupted by sudden mutterings about plot twists or declarations like, “What if I just kill him instead?”
When she’s not plotting new ways to make her readers scream (and swoon), Adaline is probably crocheting blankets that never turn out quite square, or losing precious writing time to her daily Wordle obsession. She claims it’s brain training for crafting fiendish plot twists—but in truth, she just likes to win.
Romance novels are her first love, especially those where strong, sharp-tongued heroines drive alpha males to the brink of madness. That’s the energy she channels into every book she writes: sharp, sexy, a little ruthless, and completely addictive.
If you like your stories dangerous, your tension sizzling, and your heroes utterly undone by the women who refuse to bow… welcome to her worlds.
She lives in England’s Lake District, where the scenery is dramatic, the weather is stubbornly grey, and the dog in her house is somehow even more chaotic than her characters. Her husband and daughter are used to conversations being interrupted by sudden mutterings about plot twists or declarations like, “What if I just kill him instead?”
When she’s not plotting new ways to make her readers scream (and swoon), Adaline is probably crocheting blankets that never turn out quite square, or losing precious writing time to her daily Wordle obsession. She claims it’s brain training for crafting fiendish plot twists—but in truth, she just likes to win.
Romance novels are her first love, especially those where strong, sharp-tongued heroines drive alpha males to the brink of madness. That’s the energy she channels into every book she writes: sharp, sexy, a little ruthless, and completely addictive.
If you like your stories dangerous, your tension sizzling, and your heroes utterly undone by the women who refuse to bow… welcome to her worlds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
April 16, 2024
4 Stars…but I’m abandoning the series
I’m so mad! I was head over heels for this series. It was an absolute joy to read. It’s all action, and adventure, and fantasy. I love the intrigue. I adore Cora; she is like the coolest FMC. Honestly, she’s really similar to Kate Daniels. I was having a blast reading this story.
BUT THEN….
The author had to ruin everything, and I can’t get past it. This is an insurmountable barrier for me. I almost DNF’d this book on the spot, but I was so close to the end that I decided to finish it anyway. I was desperately hoping the author would salvage the disaster.
****SPOILERS*************SPOILERS**************SPOILERS*******
Hudson, our Alpha shifter MMC, has relentlessly pursued Cora (FMC) because she is his fated mate. Cora has a history of being seriously hurt in relationships. She was extremely hesitant to enter into a relationship at all. But Hudson wore her down with his sweet words and promises. He promises her over and over again that he won’t hurt her. He vows he will always catch her. Hudson swears that she can trust him with everything she has to give. And Cora believes him; they live happily ever after as true mates.
NOT!
Hudson realizes that being with Cora will cause him political problems, and he will lose political power. So he dumps her for political power. That’s the crappiest and most selfish reason I’ve ever heard for a shifter to reject his mate and break all his oaths.
Hudson tells Cora they can get back together later…once he’s not in the spotlight and politics have eased. Like the boss bitch that she is, Cora is not having it. She says, 'If you break up with me, then that’s it; it’s over forever!' And I respected that; you go, girl! Stand up for yourself and know your worth!
However, when Hudson regrets not having FMC around, Cora takes him back immediately. He doesn’t even apologize. NOTHING! All he gives are poor excuses. NO. I’ve lost all respect for Hudson now. No grovel. Not even one apology. No moment when he realizes his decisions were wrong and acknowledges how badly he screwed up. Nothing. Nada. He still believes his actions are justified. It’s disgusting.
I’m so disappointed we didn’t even get a half-assed ‘sorry’ anywhere. I’m incredibly upset that Cora caved for no reason other than Hudson yelling at her, “Haven’t you ever done anything you regretted?!?!“ Yep, you heard me right. Cora takes him back without an apology, and Hudson screaming at her, trying to make her feel guilty, like this is her fault. Wanker. I can’t read about Hudson anymore. He’s ruined for me. This book is ruined. This series is ruined.
Side note: I’m also really irritated with Hudson because (at the very end) he tells Cora’s dangerously life-threatening secrets to his friend. After he promises her that he won’t say anything. So, Hudson's promises and his oaths are worthless. His words are empty. His love is hollow. He is a useless hero.
I’m so mad! I was head over heels for this series. It was an absolute joy to read. It’s all action, and adventure, and fantasy. I love the intrigue. I adore Cora; she is like the coolest FMC. Honestly, she’s really similar to Kate Daniels. I was having a blast reading this story.
BUT THEN….
The author had to ruin everything, and I can’t get past it. This is an insurmountable barrier for me. I almost DNF’d this book on the spot, but I was so close to the end that I decided to finish it anyway. I was desperately hoping the author would salvage the disaster.
****SPOILERS*************SPOILERS**************SPOILERS*******
Hudson, our Alpha shifter MMC, has relentlessly pursued Cora (FMC) because she is his fated mate. Cora has a history of being seriously hurt in relationships. She was extremely hesitant to enter into a relationship at all. But Hudson wore her down with his sweet words and promises. He promises her over and over again that he won’t hurt her. He vows he will always catch her. Hudson swears that she can trust him with everything she has to give. And Cora believes him; they live happily ever after as true mates.
NOT!
Hudson realizes that being with Cora will cause him political problems, and he will lose political power. So he dumps her for political power. That’s the crappiest and most selfish reason I’ve ever heard for a shifter to reject his mate and break all his oaths.
Hudson tells Cora they can get back together later…once he’s not in the spotlight and politics have eased. Like the boss bitch that she is, Cora is not having it. She says, 'If you break up with me, then that’s it; it’s over forever!' And I respected that; you go, girl! Stand up for yourself and know your worth!
However, when Hudson regrets not having FMC around, Cora takes him back immediately. He doesn’t even apologize. NOTHING! All he gives are poor excuses. NO. I’ve lost all respect for Hudson now. No grovel. Not even one apology. No moment when he realizes his decisions were wrong and acknowledges how badly he screwed up. Nothing. Nada. He still believes his actions are justified. It’s disgusting.
I’m so disappointed we didn’t even get a half-assed ‘sorry’ anywhere. I’m incredibly upset that Cora caved for no reason other than Hudson yelling at her, “Haven’t you ever done anything you regretted?!?!“ Yep, you heard me right. Cora takes him back without an apology, and Hudson screaming at her, trying to make her feel guilty, like this is her fault. Wanker. I can’t read about Hudson anymore. He’s ruined for me. This book is ruined. This series is ruined.
Side note: I’m also really irritated with Hudson because (at the very end) he tells Cora’s dangerously life-threatening secrets to his friend. After he promises her that he won’t say anything. So, Hudson's promises and his oaths are worthless. His words are empty. His love is hollow. He is a useless hero.
October 4, 2023
This book series directly steals from at least 3Ilona Andrews series. After a similar copying drama with Amelia Hutchins I am starting to see a trend…
October 31, 2022
Omg, Omg! I’m on a Cora and Hudson High. I have been waiting for this book for a year, and somehow, I missed the release. Thank goodness I finally spotted it.
Hudson is determined for Cora to be his mate. Cora still keeps him at arm's length from him. Hiding all her secrets and hoping not to expose them; no one knows them but her, not even her family and close friends.
You got to love Hudson’s determination and his protectiveness for Cora. You will love him more than ever.
Of course, not is all ot seems and what is lurking in the dark is who and what is behind it all—so many different compartments to this storyline.
The writing is exceptional. The buildup and end are of epic proportion; I can’t wait to see what happens next.
August 25, 2022
This installment had sooo much going on. One of the things I loved about book one was how direct and focused it was and this one didn’t have that same quality. I still enjoyed it but it took a lot longer to read because I kept getting distracted because it was just so all over the place. I don’t love the direction the story has taken, I saw it coming but boooo lol. I wanted more ghost stuff and less of the *other* stuff. I really hope that were going to see Hudson grovel in book three. To me it seems like at the end of this they’re solid but nope, I’m going to need more. The h switches from “never again” to “mates forever” wayyyyyy too quickly. I need to see him prove himself.
October 22, 2023
Way too many direct parallels to Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews. Even an entire scene is nearly identical.
March 17, 2024
Actually, closer to 3.5 but I really am enjoying the stories. I really like Cora as a FMC, she exhibits just the right blend of strength and vulnerability, making her an admirable yet relatable characters. Verdict’s still out on Hudson. I think he needed to grovel much more than he did after his stupid reversal in this book (that’s one of the downsides for me).
The author mentions in her bio that she likes to spread breadcrumbs in the story that readers have to unravel. That’s good…. To a point. In this book, however, I don’t think there were enough to allow us to actually understand the nuances of what the heck is going on. Yes, there is Lucifer’s fight to get into heaven, but there is not enough underneath to actually understand the why’s and hows of Cora’s involvement. Even when everything is revealed, it was super surface only, leaving me with all kinds of questions and no real acceptance.
Still, I’m interested in what comes next and really do enjoy the world and the characters enough to happily keep reading.
The author mentions in her bio that she likes to spread breadcrumbs in the story that readers have to unravel. That’s good…. To a point. In this book, however, I don’t think there were enough to allow us to actually understand the nuances of what the heck is going on. Yes, there is Lucifer’s fight to get into heaven, but there is not enough underneath to actually understand the why’s and hows of Cora’s involvement. Even when everything is revealed, it was super surface only, leaving me with all kinds of questions and no real acceptance.
Still, I’m interested in what comes next and really do enjoy the world and the characters enough to happily keep reading.
March 3, 2024
Still enjoying this series, and the slow reveal of Cora's secrets. There was a weird kerfluffle in the relationship that seemed to come out of left field, but it ended up just being a bit of a blip, done pretty much immediately after it happened. So I'm just going to ignore it.
Really love Cora, and the secondary cast. And the MMC Hudson is growing on me, despite the blip.
Really love Cora, and the secondary cast. And the MMC Hudson is growing on me, despite the blip.
November 1, 2022
"I interrupted the wild monkey sex,” Dave said. “On account of the escalating murderous floral arrangements.”
"Not a sentence you hear every day,” Maggie said.
Hudson Abbott, you magnificent human. I love you.
That’s it. That’s the review.
I waited so long for this sequel and every second of agony of wait is so worth it! I expected I would love it but I didn’t know I would love it THIS MUCH. I think I am OBSESSED. No, I KNOW I am.
Adeline Winters gives the best swoon. The push and pull between Cora and Hudson was *chef’s kiss* The chemistry was over the roof and the banter was just… *dreamy sigh*
There were so many revelations in this installment. We get to know more about who Cora is and what she can really do. Although I feel like she still has so many secrets we need to uncover? She has not lost her sass and spark and I love that. I loved her in book one but I love her even more now!
I’m so happy to be reunited with this crew! I missed their shenanigans! Maggie, Rebecca, Cora’s aunts, Dangerous Dave, Sebastian and of course, Bella– they were all great!
The world of the Cora Roberts series is expanding in ways I didn’t expect and I can’t wait to know more! There’s so much more to explore and discover!
I’m not gonna lie though, I’m just a bit bothered by the similarities with Kate Daniels by Ilona Andrews. I’ve noticed it in book one but chose to ignore it… Anyone else or is it just me?
I’m so excited for what’s next! Book three, you better be coming! <3
I received an ARC from the author to read and review. Quoted excerpt/s may change in the final print.
"Not a sentence you hear every day,” Maggie said.
Hudson Abbott, you magnificent human. I love you.
That’s it. That’s the review.
I waited so long for this sequel and every second of agony of wait is so worth it! I expected I would love it but I didn’t know I would love it THIS MUCH. I think I am OBSESSED. No, I KNOW I am.
Adeline Winters gives the best swoon. The push and pull between Cora and Hudson was *chef’s kiss* The chemistry was over the roof and the banter was just… *dreamy sigh*
There were so many revelations in this installment. We get to know more about who Cora is and what she can really do. Although I feel like she still has so many secrets we need to uncover? She has not lost her sass and spark and I love that. I loved her in book one but I love her even more now!
I’m so happy to be reunited with this crew! I missed their shenanigans! Maggie, Rebecca, Cora’s aunts, Dangerous Dave, Sebastian and of course, Bella– they were all great!
The world of the Cora Roberts series is expanding in ways I didn’t expect and I can’t wait to know more! There’s so much more to explore and discover!
I’m not gonna lie though, I’m just a bit bothered by the similarities with Kate Daniels by Ilona Andrews. I’ve noticed it in book one but chose to ignore it… Anyone else or is it just me?
I’m so excited for what’s next! Book three, you better be coming! <3
I received an ARC from the author to read and review. Quoted excerpt/s may change in the final print.
August 23, 2022
Oh my word. This book. It was a long time coming but it was DEFINITELY worth the wait. I was given this book as an ARC and if I felt honoured before, I feel overwhelmingly grateful now. I adored the first book in Cora’s story but this one is just another level. Cora is such an amazing heroine with incredible backbone, courage, kindness and a whole lot of sass. Seeing her journey not only through finding love but in finding herself was amazing. Adaline is so good at world building and dragging you into the story that you forget you’re reading at all.
Hudson drives me crazy in all the best ways but man did I want to throttle him at some points. Don’t worry, I won’t give any spoilers.
Cora’s journey continues in this book with some familiar, and some new, faces. The twists and turns that take her through had me laughing, gasping and swearing out loud.
If you love adventure, romance, paranormal magnificence, a cocky hero and a sassy heroine, then you need to read this book. For reals.
Hudson drives me crazy in all the best ways but man did I want to throttle him at some points. Don’t worry, I won’t give any spoilers.
Cora’s journey continues in this book with some familiar, and some new, faces. The twists and turns that take her through had me laughing, gasping and swearing out loud.
If you love adventure, romance, paranormal magnificence, a cocky hero and a sassy heroine, then you need to read this book. For reals.
December 5, 2023
So much potential but so disappointing. The plot was interesting but the characters let the book down and characters are what readers are truly interested in. The MMC in particular fell completely flat, had no backbone and betrays the FMCs trust for inexcusable reasons with no apology. Blegh
June 2, 2024
Spoilers ahead, without Hudson's stupid decision this would've been 4 stars 🙄 3.5*
More secrets are revealed, Cora's grandmother is the leader of the Order
Her aunt is kidnapped and another is possessed as demons get into the fray
Cora's secret is revealed as we meet her dad who's the angel of death (I actually thought he'd be a demon)
Cora's beast is unleashed and claims Hudson as her mate
*** I did not get the breakup!!! If Hudson claims he knew who her grandmother was and that she'd asked Cora to spy/ influence his signing of the agreement then didn't he think through his mating of her???? For a man who'd tried so much to be exceptional and extraordinary for Cora and when shit hit the fan his idea was to put a pause on the relationship??? I call so much bs
I like dangerous Dave and the aunts and friends
This story was going so well but the breakup tarnished everything that happened after never mind the fact that Hudson never actually left her
Cora said she wouldn't take him back if he made his choice and her thoughts at that moment had me going yasssss sis give him hell....then she'd find him attractive and want him with another woman there!!!!!! Like he broke up with her they went their separate ways, she goes to him next morning and there's another woman there!!!!! Yes yes it wasn't what we thought but seriously wtf??? Are we creating drama for drama's sake? Why does this always have to happen??? Why can't the men just hold steadfast man?? Like is that too much to ask 🙄
Any who's deep breath
Cora's secrets are out, heaven is involved, demons have been banished....her grandmother has got some shit up her sleeve so moving on to the next
More secrets are revealed, Cora's grandmother is the leader of the Order
Her aunt is kidnapped and another is possessed as demons get into the fray
Cora's secret is revealed as we meet her dad who's the angel of death (I actually thought he'd be a demon)
Cora's beast is unleashed and claims Hudson as her mate
*** I did not get the breakup!!! If Hudson claims he knew who her grandmother was and that she'd asked Cora to spy/ influence his signing of the agreement then didn't he think through his mating of her???? For a man who'd tried so much to be exceptional and extraordinary for Cora and when shit hit the fan his idea was to put a pause on the relationship??? I call so much bs
I like dangerous Dave and the aunts and friends
This story was going so well but the breakup tarnished everything that happened after never mind the fact that Hudson never actually left her
Cora said she wouldn't take him back if he made his choice and her thoughts at that moment had me going yasssss sis give him hell....then she'd find him attractive and want him with another woman there!!!!!! Like he broke up with her they went their separate ways, she goes to him next morning and there's another woman there!!!!! Yes yes it wasn't what we thought but seriously wtf??? Are we creating drama for drama's sake? Why does this always have to happen??? Why can't the men just hold steadfast man?? Like is that too much to ask 🙄
Any who's deep breath
Cora's secrets are out, heaven is involved, demons have been banished....her grandmother has got some shit up her sleeve so moving on to the next
March 11, 2023
This truly is a hidden gem of an Urban Fantasy series! 100% recommend.
I'm just sad that there's only one more book left!
I'm just sad that there's only one more book left!
June 26, 2023
Yes! Still going S T R O N G!! It's been a while since I had so much fun with a book
January 14, 2024
This book took a weird turn and I'm not for it. It's trying to squeeze too many paranormal elements in the world-building and it's making it awkward.
January 24, 2023
This book took a wild turn I did not see coming! It was unexpected, exhilarating and spicy !!!!
This book takes off right where book 1 ended! Cora is determined as ever to keep to herself but she can’t help feeling weak in the knees in the presence of a certain Alpha shifter.
When Cora’s strange and unexpected “things” keep happening and growing more and more around her house, she is constantly trying to think of the next plan! When her Aunt is kidnapped - Cora is set on a new path that comes with a cost. Things heat up with Hudson, but with their different backgrounds and family history can they really make things work? Or will it all be doomed from the start?
When Cora gets closer and closer to figuring things out, unexpected family ties come out and we are overwhelmed with secrets we never saw coming!! It is the new beginning of Cora and certain people should be weary of what happens next!
A war is coming between the paranormal, humans and everyone below and above! Is Cora on the right side? Will Hudson be able to be the man she deserves or will he backtrack and become the man she is fearful of?
I loved this book so much! Once I started, I could not put it down!!! It took turns I did not see coming and I was so interested in what was happening between Cora and Hudson. Their back and forth banter was sexy and then furious at the same time. Mercy needs to go. I need her to have an epic failing just because. Lol. The ending really threw me as I totally expected something different!
We find out what Cora truly is and where she comes from. I hope Hudson really has the capacity to be the man she needs!!! I can’t wait for the next book!!!!
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 4/5
*Fast Burn
*First person POV (just Cora and 1 chp at the end of Hudson)
*Ends on cliffhanger
This book takes off right where book 1 ended! Cora is determined as ever to keep to herself but she can’t help feeling weak in the knees in the presence of a certain Alpha shifter.
When Cora’s strange and unexpected “things” keep happening and growing more and more around her house, she is constantly trying to think of the next plan! When her Aunt is kidnapped - Cora is set on a new path that comes with a cost. Things heat up with Hudson, but with their different backgrounds and family history can they really make things work? Or will it all be doomed from the start?
When Cora gets closer and closer to figuring things out, unexpected family ties come out and we are overwhelmed with secrets we never saw coming!! It is the new beginning of Cora and certain people should be weary of what happens next!
A war is coming between the paranormal, humans and everyone below and above! Is Cora on the right side? Will Hudson be able to be the man she deserves or will he backtrack and become the man she is fearful of?
I loved this book so much! Once I started, I could not put it down!!! It took turns I did not see coming and I was so interested in what was happening between Cora and Hudson. Their back and forth banter was sexy and then furious at the same time. Mercy needs to go. I need her to have an epic failing just because. Lol. The ending really threw me as I totally expected something different!
We find out what Cora truly is and where she comes from. I hope Hudson really has the capacity to be the man she needs!!! I can’t wait for the next book!!!!
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 4/5
*Fast Burn
*First person POV (just Cora and 1 chp at the end of Hudson)
*Ends on cliffhanger
January 27, 2024
What the heck.
This book was crazy. A full cast of nutty characters that I kind of liked, ridiculous over the top elements just piled together, so yeah it was readable but it was too over the top by the end. Start with vampires and elementals and shifters. Okay.. add ghosts and witchy stuff and blood magic and possession and demons and Lucifer and angels and politics and stupid angst and aunts and exes or other Women. There is no balance in the beats of this story. It’s like if a manic is trying to tell you all the most popular paranormal or urban fantasy plots at once . Ugh
But worst of all
The whole ‘misunderstanding’ between Cora and Hudson was idiotically handled. It made the whole story so much more juvenile and dumb. And she’s portrayed so strong and ‘it’s over’ and then she puts up with his crap and gives in. Whiplash from their dumb relationship.
And the Kate Daniels parallels were so dumb. Worst of all was him repairing her roof at the end. You have got to be kidding me.
Yeah I’m done
This book was crazy. A full cast of nutty characters that I kind of liked, ridiculous over the top elements just piled together, so yeah it was readable but it was too over the top by the end. Start with vampires and elementals and shifters. Okay.. add ghosts and witchy stuff and blood magic and possession and demons and Lucifer and angels and politics and stupid angst and aunts and exes or other Women. There is no balance in the beats of this story. It’s like if a manic is trying to tell you all the most popular paranormal or urban fantasy plots at once . Ugh
But worst of all
The whole ‘misunderstanding’ between Cora and Hudson was idiotically handled. It made the whole story so much more juvenile and dumb. And she’s portrayed so strong and ‘it’s over’ and then she puts up with his crap and gives in. Whiplash from their dumb relationship.
And the Kate Daniels parallels were so dumb. Worst of all was him repairing her roof at the end. You have got to be kidding me.
Yeah I’m done
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2023
Upon my 2nd read I'd mark this closer to 2 stars. The continuous foreshadowing of her species was somewhat irritating. The romance had a bit too much insta love for me. I'm still going to read the 3td book, so it wasn't terrible.
1st read:
I enjoyed the book. However, Hudson's turn about was awfully abrupt. I understand why but it seemed too fast. Cora had the right reaction to it, but went back on her decision too fast. I wish these emotions had played out longer. I haven't forgiven Hudson so I'm left dissatisfied that Cora has.
Still a good book that I'd recommend.
1st read:
I enjoyed the book. However, Hudson's turn about was awfully abrupt. I understand why but it seemed too fast. Cora had the right reaction to it, but went back on her decision too fast. I wish these emotions had played out longer. I haven't forgiven Hudson so I'm left dissatisfied that Cora has.
Still a good book that I'd recommend.
August 5, 2025
I keep waffling on whether or not I'm enjoying these books? I have some things that bother me enough that I struggle. spoilers ahead.
As I said for the review of the last book I'm used to a faster paced book and faster paced romance. I don't usually sign up for multiple books with one love interest either because if the same love interest is in book one the author has to be annoyingly dramatic to keep us interested and this book was no exception and the way it was handled in this book makes me unsure if I enjoyed this book, or if I'd rather not finish the series. This book starts off with them doing a back and forth dance of getting together, we get the forced proximity hook up, then mere what 30 minutes after he says he is in it 100 percent and wants to be with her....he breaks up with her.....for political reasons? Then the rest of the book the author spends with him in our faces like nothing changed trying to make us feel bad for their relationship etc. I will tell you right now, the second he broke up with her for the dumbest reason I literature I was peaking around corners looking for another love interest. Sir, you are. not interesting enough or sweet enough to bounce back from this. Then when they get together at the end of the boon with zero groveling or him doing anything different I just checked out and I am not sure I'll be picking up the next book.
As for plot. I mean. I sort of liked this one and the flow was good but like all books this style the nicely wrapped up bow at the end of the book and that nice transition into the next book just always feels like a let down. A big bad satanic priest ruins all these lives and we just move on to the roof? Dave tries to kill her, and barely apologized and he's just fine now and going to protect her? All of her aunts see all the crazy stuff happening and they are a "close" family yet all of them sprint back to their houses the second the demon leaves? No one stuck around to talk about her grandmother's plans? Then on top of all of that.....an angel is her dad, Lucifer just leaves without consequences and no one is asking any more questions?. The whole thing just feels unsatisfying and with the amount of recap paragraphs we got at the beginning of this book, I just don't want to move forward but I will still give this a three.
As I said for the review of the last book I'm used to a faster paced book and faster paced romance. I don't usually sign up for multiple books with one love interest either because if the same love interest is in book one the author has to be annoyingly dramatic to keep us interested and this book was no exception and the way it was handled in this book makes me unsure if I enjoyed this book, or if I'd rather not finish the series. This book starts off with them doing a back and forth dance of getting together, we get the forced proximity hook up, then mere what 30 minutes after he says he is in it 100 percent and wants to be with her....he breaks up with her.....for political reasons? Then the rest of the book the author spends with him in our faces like nothing changed trying to make us feel bad for their relationship etc. I will tell you right now, the second he broke up with her for the dumbest reason I literature I was peaking around corners looking for another love interest. Sir, you are. not interesting enough or sweet enough to bounce back from this. Then when they get together at the end of the boon with zero groveling or him doing anything different I just checked out and I am not sure I'll be picking up the next book.
As for plot. I mean. I sort of liked this one and the flow was good but like all books this style the nicely wrapped up bow at the end of the book and that nice transition into the next book just always feels like a let down. A big bad satanic priest ruins all these lives and we just move on to the roof? Dave tries to kill her, and barely apologized and he's just fine now and going to protect her? All of her aunts see all the crazy stuff happening and they are a "close" family yet all of them sprint back to their houses the second the demon leaves? No one stuck around to talk about her grandmother's plans? Then on top of all of that.....an angel is her dad, Lucifer just leaves without consequences and no one is asking any more questions?. The whole thing just feels unsatisfying and with the amount of recap paragraphs we got at the beginning of this book, I just don't want to move forward but I will still give this a three.
September 11, 2022
what a ride
So in Shadows of the Soul we learn more about Cora and Hudson. Their backstory and characters are more fleshed out. I definitely was on the edge of my seat for this book. So many surprises came out. Looking forward to more.
So in Shadows of the Soul we learn more about Cora and Hudson. Their backstory and characters are more fleshed out. I definitely was on the edge of my seat for this book. So many surprises came out. Looking forward to more.
June 6, 2025
4.5 Stars:)
March 23, 2023
I was not expecting this departure from book one! I was excited to be pulled back into the magic of Coral Roberts and her secrets, but I did not plan on the number of twists, the smoldering heat, and the drowning angst. That was a pleasant surprise and made me fall in love with the series even more.
I loved the unveiling of Cora’s secrets, watching her open up her heart to a relationship with Hudson (just to get hurt, like she predicted), and her unwavering devotion to those she calls family.
There is no doubt now that this is a MF romance as the relationship between Cora and Hudson has solidified. The steam remains on the lower end but smolders throughout.
I cannot wait to see what comes next for Cora in book three.
I loved the unveiling of Cora’s secrets, watching her open up her heart to a relationship with Hudson (just to get hurt, like she predicted), and her unwavering devotion to those she calls family.
There is no doubt now that this is a MF romance as the relationship between Cora and Hudson has solidified. The steam remains on the lower end but smolders throughout.
I cannot wait to see what comes next for Cora in book three.
October 5, 2023
To me it felt like it was slowly spinning out of control, and becoming increasingly farfetch. Too bad, since the first one was quite good.
Read
September 7, 2023Review for books 1 & 2.
Decent enough to read the 2nd after the 1st, but not good enough to continue after that.
Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but the main character and love interest are too close to Ilona Andrews's Kate Daniels for my liking. A shame, because the book has some unique other characters and setup. But a bit too formulaic for my tastes.
Probably will pass on this author in the future. Not terrible writing, but there's plenty I like better and limited reading time.
Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited.
Decent enough to read the 2nd after the 1st, but not good enough to continue after that.
Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but the main character and love interest are too close to Ilona Andrews's Kate Daniels for my liking. A shame, because the book has some unique other characters and setup. But a bit too formulaic for my tastes.
Probably will pass on this author in the future. Not terrible writing, but there's plenty I like better and limited reading time.
Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited.
September 28, 2023
Yeah, neither lead character is likable at this point, both went off the rails..Hudson is his weird excuse for a break up Cora and her insta take him back…and the storyline of her losing her elemental side and the perpetual “intrigue” of what her other half was…also the OW trope with Mercy…too many loose threads and drama for the sake of drama. But first book was ok…think this story got too OTT
May 17, 2024
Mediocre at best.
Hopefully I can manage this review without any spoilers. The author very obviously was channeling her inner Ilona Andrews with this series. The problem with taking someone else’s inspiration and attempting to make it your own is the inevitable failure to balance out any original content that is added to the narrative. This book had so many plot holes and inconsistencies it was hard to keep track of them all. The author attempted to weave together too many subplots and failed at making any of them interesting. Had she committed to shifters, vampires and elementals the story might have had a chance. Unfortunately Ms Winters decided to toss in Heaven and Hell, angels and demons, power hungry factions and their accompanying politics, a pseudo romance that never evolves past wishy washy and a pathetically weak heroine. The slow build up to a completely uninspired climax was rather painful. A mediocre read at best.
Hopefully I can manage this review without any spoilers. The author very obviously was channeling her inner Ilona Andrews with this series. The problem with taking someone else’s inspiration and attempting to make it your own is the inevitable failure to balance out any original content that is added to the narrative. This book had so many plot holes and inconsistencies it was hard to keep track of them all. The author attempted to weave together too many subplots and failed at making any of them interesting. Had she committed to shifters, vampires and elementals the story might have had a chance. Unfortunately Ms Winters decided to toss in Heaven and Hell, angels and demons, power hungry factions and their accompanying politics, a pseudo romance that never evolves past wishy washy and a pathetically weak heroine. The slow build up to a completely uninspired climax was rather painful. A mediocre read at best.
November 7, 2024
I seriously needed this book. The friction between Cora and Hudson is fire yet heart wrenching as we see how deep Cora's scars run. There are some beautiful, much needed reveals in this book and just when you think the story is ending... Bam! She sets us up for the next one. I just can't get enough. I thoroughly enjoyed the first one, but book 2 topped it.
Merged review:
I seriously needed this book. The friction between Cora and Hudson is fire yet heart wrenching as we see how deep Cora's scars run. There are some beautiful, much needed reveals in this book and just when you think the story is ending... Bam! She sets us up for the next one. I just can't get enough. I thoroughly enjoyed the first one, but book 2 topped it.
Merged review:
I seriously needed this book. The friction between Cora and Hudson is fire yet heart wrenching as we see how deep Cora's scars run. There are some beautiful, much needed reveals in this book and just when you think the story is ending... Bam! She sets us up for the next one. I just can't get enough. I thoroughly enjoyed the first one, but book 2 topped it.
January 2, 2024
Well, damn. This one lost a star because of some pretty shitty actions by Hudson. Still, this was read in one day and very entertaining. Secrets were revealed. I'm going to keep reading and hope that Hudson redeems himself. He's doing well so far, but after his previous actions, I'm not holding my breath.
There is a lot about this series to like. Yes, a lot of it has been seen in other series by other authors. But, Winters does try to make those similarities her own and, for the most part, she succeeds enough for me to let it go, relax and enjoy Cora's story. (✮✮✮½)
There is a lot about this series to like. Yes, a lot of it has been seen in other series by other authors. But, Winters does try to make those similarities her own and, for the most part, she succeeds enough for me to let it go, relax and enjoy Cora's story. (✮✮✮½)
August 28, 2022
This series just keeps getting better and better!!
I absolutely loved being back in Cora's world and the crazy characters that we have come to love.
Questions were answered, but more questions asked.
I just want more. Need more.
More from the characters.
More from this world.
Just more. I think I could live in this world and never get tired of it.
Adaline's ability to completely entrap you in to her words, and world is just brilliant and definitely an author to keep looking out for. I can't wait to see what other little beauties she gives us.
A definite must read book, series and author!!!
I absolutely loved being back in Cora's world and the crazy characters that we have come to love.
Questions were answered, but more questions asked.
I just want more. Need more.
More from the characters.
More from this world.
Just more. I think I could live in this world and never get tired of it.
Adaline's ability to completely entrap you in to her words, and world is just brilliant and definitely an author to keep looking out for. I can't wait to see what other little beauties she gives us.
A definite must read book, series and author!!!
November 11, 2023
The first half of the book was great then the second half happened. I feel like I was in a washing machine, going in every direction possible without knowing where is up and down. It was difficult to follow the story. The worst are the last chapters. I thought we were going somewhere then the story does a 90 degrees turn again and again and again. Sometimes, the solutions to the problem were unlogical or too over the top. I would have given a 4 stars for the first half of the book and a 1 star for the rest.
Oh yeah, there is also a scene heavily inspired (almost copied) by one of my favorite author. Stealing other's work is a big no no for me.
Oh yeah, there is also a scene heavily inspired (almost copied) by one of my favorite author. Stealing other's work is a big no no for me.
January 16, 2025
Wild storyline.
I listened to this book on audio, and it brings the story to life. The narration is done fantastic for single narrator. 4.75/5 overall
Just when I think I’m figuring Cora out, a new truth about her is dropped. Hudson (MMC) needs to be knocked down a peg or two, and Cora is just the Bestie to do it. Excited to see what comes next for this series. TW/18+ 4.25/stars
I listened to this book on audio, and it brings the story to life. The narration is done fantastic for single narrator. 4.75/5 overall
Just when I think I’m figuring Cora out, a new truth about her is dropped. Hudson (MMC) needs to be knocked down a peg or two, and Cora is just the Bestie to do it. Excited to see what comes next for this series. TW/18+ 4.25/stars
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