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CORE Shadow Trilogy #1
Shadow of Danger
Beware of what lurks in the shadows... Four women have been found dead in the outskirts of a small Wisconsin town. The only witness, clairvoyant Celeste Risinski, observes these brutal murders through violent nightmares and hellish visions. The local sheriff, who believes in Celeste’s abilities and wants to rid their peaceful community of a killer, enlists the help of an old friend, Ian Scott, owner of a private criminal investigation agency, CORE. Because of Ian’s dark history with Celeste’s family, a history she knows nothing about, he sends his top criminalist, former FBI agent John Kain to investigate. John doesn’t believe in Celeste’s mystic hocus-pocus, or in her visions of the murders. But just when he’s certain they’ve solved the crimes, with the use of science and evidence, more dead bodies are discovered. Could this somehow be the work of the same killer or were they dealing with a copycat? To catch a vicious murderer, the skeptical criminalist reluctantly turns to the sensual psychic for help. Yet with each step closer to finding the killer, John finds himself one step closer to losing his heart.
420 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2013
162 people are currently reading
905 people want to read
About the author
Kristine Mason
38books311followersKristine Mason is the bestselling author of the popular romantic suspense trilogies, C.O.R.E. Shadow and Ultimate C.O.R.E. She is currently working on her next series, C.O.R.E. Above the Law, along with more Psychic C.O.R.E. novels.
Although Kristine has published a few contemporary romance novels, she focuses most of her energy on her romantic suspense stories, which she loves for their blend of dark mystery/suspense and sexy romance. She is fascinated with what makes people afraid, and is famous for her depraved villains whose crimes present massive obstacles for her heroes and heroines to overcome.
Kristine has a degree in journalism from Ohio State University and lives in Northeast Ohio with her husband, four kids, and two dogs. If she’s not writing, she’s chauffeuring kids, gardening, or collecting gnomes. Oh, and she makes a mean chocolate chip cookie!
Connect with Kristine on Facebook, Twitter or ŷ. Or sign up for her newsletter at .
Although Kristine has published a few contemporary romance novels, she focuses most of her energy on her romantic suspense stories, which she loves for their blend of dark mystery/suspense and sexy romance. She is fascinated with what makes people afraid, and is famous for her depraved villains whose crimes present massive obstacles for her heroes and heroines to overcome.
Kristine has a degree in journalism from Ohio State University and lives in Northeast Ohio with her husband, four kids, and two dogs. If she’s not writing, she’s chauffeuring kids, gardening, or collecting gnomes. Oh, and she makes a mean chocolate chip cookie!
Connect with Kristine on Facebook, Twitter or ŷ. Or sign up for her newsletter at .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
February 28, 2014
What a wonderful surprise!
This book has everything I'm looking for in a book: a strong, consistent plot, a creepy murderer(s), an interesting hero and heroine, slight paranormal element, true love... What more would I want?
But what I liked the best is the behaviour of both John and Celeste!
Celeste accepts her gift and knows very well what it is but don't know how to control it and is not afraid of admitting it and asking for help. She's conscious that she is in danger and that she, with her untrained gift, is the danger to herself.
I plain loved her reasoning, her actions and her reactions. She's strong and absolutely not stupid. Everything she says and does is reasonable and undestandable. It's a joy to read about this kind of heroine!
The same can be said about John. At the beginning he's afraid of his feelings towards Celeste, but soon he realizes that it's a waste of time and effort trying to fight it. And he graciously fall in love. Wonderful!
There's absolutely no angst in their love story and I loved it! It's just natural and beautiful. Every reaction, even a bad one, is completly what I would have.
The villain(s) are truly horrific... I cringed everytime I read thei POV... I was asking myself if they can be real and unfortunately the answer is yes... Brrrr....
So, if you want a good thriller story with fenomenal main characters, absolutely you must read this book!!!!
This book has everything I'm looking for in a book: a strong, consistent plot, a creepy murderer(s), an interesting hero and heroine, slight paranormal element, true love... What more would I want?
But what I liked the best is the behaviour of both John and Celeste!
Celeste accepts her gift and knows very well what it is but don't know how to control it and is not afraid of admitting it and asking for help. She's conscious that she is in danger and that she, with her untrained gift, is the danger to herself.
I plain loved her reasoning, her actions and her reactions. She's strong and absolutely not stupid. Everything she says and does is reasonable and undestandable. It's a joy to read about this kind of heroine!
The same can be said about John. At the beginning he's afraid of his feelings towards Celeste, but soon he realizes that it's a waste of time and effort trying to fight it. And he graciously fall in love. Wonderful!
There's absolutely no angst in their love story and I loved it! It's just natural and beautiful. Every reaction, even a bad one, is completly what I would have.
The villain(s) are truly horrific... I cringed everytime I read thei POV... I was asking myself if they can be real and unfortunately the answer is yes... Brrrr....
So, if you want a good thriller story with fenomenal main characters, absolutely you must read this book!!!!
August 20, 2015
Убрать надоедливые повторы, добавить красок и сделать героев не такими помешанными на сексе - получился бы неплохой романтик саспенс с паранормалом в стиле Хупер.
А так я разочарована(( Эта недотра***ная (простите, иначе не скажешь) парочка меня достала. Мало того, что хочучка у них с первого взгляда, так герои еще и плоские что разделочные доски.
Когда героиню мучает маньяк, а тебе ее не жаль, это о многом говорит?
В общем, 1.5 звезды.
Пора переходить на детские книжки и радоваться жизни.
А так я разочарована(( Эта недотра***ная (простите, иначе не скажешь) парочка меня достала. Мало того, что хочучка у них с первого взгляда, так герои еще и плоские что разделочные доски.
Когда героиню мучает маньяк, а тебе ее не жаль, это о многом говорит?
В общем, 1.5 звезды.
Пора переходить на детские книжки и радоваться жизни.
October 12, 2016
Really couldn't finish this book. It started out great with a good premise. Murders happening and psychic is having visions of it. A non-believer gets assigned to the case and they are forced to work together. The first two chapters were great... then in chapter 3, the two characters meet and then every other paragraph was about them wanting to have sex and the main storyline gets pushed into the background. By chapter 7, I felt like a third wheel wanting to tell them to just get on with it so we can get back to the actual mystery at hand.
The non-believer proved that he really wasn't as set in his beliefs as the author wanted us to think as the moment he stated his beliefs, he immediately started regretting it all because he wanted to have sex with the psychic and internally whining about the fact that he shouldn't. After about 4 chapters of this, I simply grew bored and put the book down deciding to move on to something else.
The non-believer proved that he really wasn't as set in his beliefs as the author wanted us to think as the moment he stated his beliefs, he immediately started regretting it all because he wanted to have sex with the psychic and internally whining about the fact that he shouldn't. After about 4 chapters of this, I simply grew bored and put the book down deciding to move on to something else.
February 5, 2017
This had too much sex and not enough murder mystery for me and I could see by a lot of other reviews that I wasn't alone. I read all that sort of stuff a la Jacqueline Susann, Jackie Collins and Harold Robbins back in the day but grew out of them in the 80s.
It started with great promise but as soon as Celeste encountered John she turned into a dumb sex-obsessed idiot. She'd been a likeable character till then.
She lost the here-"I remind you all time"...but that was the only mistake I spotted which was good. Such a shame she chose to go with the sex as opposed to the murder mystery, though. Not for me.
It started with great promise but as soon as Celeste encountered John she turned into a dumb sex-obsessed idiot. She'd been a likeable character till then.
She lost the here-"I remind you all time"...but that was the only mistake I spotted which was good. Such a shame she chose to go with the sex as opposed to the murder mystery, though. Not for me.
December 26, 2016
4 Stars
Very good RomSusp book!
Very good RomSusp book!
September 19, 2017
2.5
I just couldn't get into the book. I couldn't relate or sympathize with the characters. I don't know if it's the writing style that couldn't keep my attention. I like the premise and did decide to finish it but it was a bit meh for me all in all
I just couldn't get into the book. I couldn't relate or sympathize with the characters. I don't know if it's the writing style that couldn't keep my attention. I like the premise and did decide to finish it but it was a bit meh for me all in all
September 1, 2020
Shadow of Danger
A drama filled suspenseful romance I had to read in one sitting. Celeste and John are fascinating to get to know. The story has evil that you can't wait to see defeated.
A drama filled suspenseful romance I had to read in one sitting. Celeste and John are fascinating to get to know. The story has evil that you can't wait to see defeated.
July 30, 2018
Reread
August 13, 2013
She awoke, fighting for her life and tears running down her face. She knew the woman was dead. This was not the first time she had felt the evil perpetrated on another as if it were happening to her. It wouldn't be the last either.
Four nights and four nightmares. Would it ever end?
Roy had four dead women on his hands and needed help. He put in a call to Ian, the head of CORE. Ian knew John Cain was the man for the job and sent him to Wissota Falls.
Celeste had come home to Wissota Falls to take care of her mother, who was dying of cancer, and never left. Wissota Falls is a small town, where everyone knows everyone's business. Could a serial killer be walking among them?
5 STARS - Would Buy It For Them (lol)
My two favorite things - murder and paranormal - and Kristine blended them into an excellent story. This is a long book and I knew I couldn't read it in one sitting, but I really wanted to. Hmmm. How much longer can I read before I have to get up and clean the kitchen so my hubby doesn't know I read all day. LOL
Are there two killers? The suspense of finding out who the killer is kept building. I figured it was between three people.........Could it be him, yes. Or him, yes. Or him, yes. I know it has to be one of them, I just can't figure out which one. I love not knowing and it was really hard to keep from skimming over parts to find the answer.
Celeste - she always put herself last. She was the type of person who would give you the shirt off her back. She had a gift, a paranormal gift that some might say was a curse.
John Cain - criminalist and former FBI agent, now working for CORE. John has a lot of personal baggage. I love a tarnished knight. It adds that little extra story line as they find their way out of the mess they are in.
CORE - Criminal Observance Resolution and Evidence. Ian Scott was the creator of the private agency formed to take down the bad guys.
Sherriff Roy Hauserman was like a father to Celeste. He had a healthy respect for her psychic gift. She knew she could always count on him. "Paul Bunyan without the ax and blue ox."
I loved when Celeste first met John in the diner - such sizzling hot thoughts. As a rule, I don't care much for sexually explicit books, but this book was so good it didn't matter to me and only seemed to add to the story.
When Celeste talks about why she started collecting Gnomes, I laughed out loud.
I love Kristine's ability to add humor to such a heavy and horrendous story. I know I keep saying I loved this and I loved that, but I did. I am so glad that I decided to participate in the tour for Shadow of Perception, Book II. Otherwise, I would have missed finding another fantastic author. Come back tomorrow for my review of Shadow of Perception and a guest post from the author, along with a Giveaway you don't want to miss.
I received this book as part of a tour for the second book, Shadow of Perception. This is an honest and unbiased review.
Quotes
"If you loose any more weight, you'll be nothing but walking boobs."
John "Please don't pout."
Celeste "I'm not pouting........Did you feel anything when you touched me at the diner?"
"...when you find that woman, no matter the odds, the end result is well worth it." "What's that?" "A woman you'd die for, or die without. Take your pick."
"....thinking of puppies, babies and a frickin' white picket fence."
Celeste "Why are you doing this?"
HIM "Because I can."
Four nights and four nightmares. Would it ever end?
Roy had four dead women on his hands and needed help. He put in a call to Ian, the head of CORE. Ian knew John Cain was the man for the job and sent him to Wissota Falls.
Celeste had come home to Wissota Falls to take care of her mother, who was dying of cancer, and never left. Wissota Falls is a small town, where everyone knows everyone's business. Could a serial killer be walking among them?
5 STARS - Would Buy It For Them (lol)
My two favorite things - murder and paranormal - and Kristine blended them into an excellent story. This is a long book and I knew I couldn't read it in one sitting, but I really wanted to. Hmmm. How much longer can I read before I have to get up and clean the kitchen so my hubby doesn't know I read all day. LOL
Are there two killers? The suspense of finding out who the killer is kept building. I figured it was between three people.........Could it be him, yes. Or him, yes. Or him, yes. I know it has to be one of them, I just can't figure out which one. I love not knowing and it was really hard to keep from skimming over parts to find the answer.
Celeste - she always put herself last. She was the type of person who would give you the shirt off her back. She had a gift, a paranormal gift that some might say was a curse.
John Cain - criminalist and former FBI agent, now working for CORE. John has a lot of personal baggage. I love a tarnished knight. It adds that little extra story line as they find their way out of the mess they are in.
CORE - Criminal Observance Resolution and Evidence. Ian Scott was the creator of the private agency formed to take down the bad guys.
Sherriff Roy Hauserman was like a father to Celeste. He had a healthy respect for her psychic gift. She knew she could always count on him. "Paul Bunyan without the ax and blue ox."
I loved when Celeste first met John in the diner - such sizzling hot thoughts. As a rule, I don't care much for sexually explicit books, but this book was so good it didn't matter to me and only seemed to add to the story.
When Celeste talks about why she started collecting Gnomes, I laughed out loud.
I love Kristine's ability to add humor to such a heavy and horrendous story. I know I keep saying I loved this and I loved that, but I did. I am so glad that I decided to participate in the tour for Shadow of Perception, Book II. Otherwise, I would have missed finding another fantastic author. Come back tomorrow for my review of Shadow of Perception and a guest post from the author, along with a Giveaway you don't want to miss.
I received this book as part of a tour for the second book, Shadow of Perception. This is an honest and unbiased review.
Quotes
"If you loose any more weight, you'll be nothing but walking boobs."
John "Please don't pout."
Celeste "I'm not pouting........Did you feel anything when you touched me at the diner?"
"...when you find that woman, no matter the odds, the end result is well worth it." "What's that?" "A woman you'd die for, or die without. Take your pick."
"....thinking of puppies, babies and a frickin' white picket fence."
Celeste "Why are you doing this?"
HIM "Because I can."
June 29, 2015
There’s nothing like a good suspense thriller to get the old endorphins pumping and Kristine delivers. I read this some time ago and recently realized I’d not written a review. I reread this in one night and it’s just as exciting the second time around.
Celeste Risinski is a clairvoyant. It’s not something she wants. It just is. She’d be perfectly happy to skip the horrific visions and nightmares that jolt her, screaming, from her sleep.
She senses something different about these dreams. A deeper, more personal connection.
The sheriff calls on an old friend from CORE, a private investigation agency, to assist and apprehend the killer before he kills again. Ian, as owner, distances himself from Celeste because of a mysterious family history, and sends John Kain, an FBI agent, to help with the investigation.
That’s about all I can tell you without spoilers.
Let’s get to the good stuff.
The characters. The two main ones are Celeste and John.
John is wounded and bitter. He needs this case to get him back in the game. What he doesn’t need is some chick who thinks she has visions.
Celeste is learning to better control her visions. To interpret and use them more efficiently. This also paints a target on her back. What she doesn’t need is some sexy know it all FBI guy scoffing at her. Brushing aside her visions as ridiculous.
So you see what’s coming, don’t ya? Yep. These two meet. Sparks ignite. Even though they don’t much care about each other when they first meet, the chemistry is firing on both burners.
I had as much fun following this reluctant yet burning romance as I did with the murder investigation.
About that. Kristine leaves a trail of breadcrumbs for you to follow. The opening scenes are about a murder. But that doesn’t reveal who’s doing it or why.
Trying to solve the crime is like following a trail. It moves forward, sidesteps, backtracks to cover it’s steps, and jumps forward again.
There are some strong secondary characters that I’m sure will have larger roles in other books in this series. And there are some surprises and a huge secret that will be revealed.
Looking for something to keep you up into the wee hours, reluctant to stop until you reach the end? This oughta do it!
I won this book in a giveaway. What a great way to discover this wonderful author and her exciting series.
Celeste Risinski is a clairvoyant. It’s not something she wants. It just is. She’d be perfectly happy to skip the horrific visions and nightmares that jolt her, screaming, from her sleep.
She senses something different about these dreams. A deeper, more personal connection.
The sheriff calls on an old friend from CORE, a private investigation agency, to assist and apprehend the killer before he kills again. Ian, as owner, distances himself from Celeste because of a mysterious family history, and sends John Kain, an FBI agent, to help with the investigation.
That’s about all I can tell you without spoilers.
Let’s get to the good stuff.
The characters. The two main ones are Celeste and John.
John is wounded and bitter. He needs this case to get him back in the game. What he doesn’t need is some chick who thinks she has visions.
Celeste is learning to better control her visions. To interpret and use them more efficiently. This also paints a target on her back. What she doesn’t need is some sexy know it all FBI guy scoffing at her. Brushing aside her visions as ridiculous.
So you see what’s coming, don’t ya? Yep. These two meet. Sparks ignite. Even though they don’t much care about each other when they first meet, the chemistry is firing on both burners.
I had as much fun following this reluctant yet burning romance as I did with the murder investigation.
About that. Kristine leaves a trail of breadcrumbs for you to follow. The opening scenes are about a murder. But that doesn’t reveal who’s doing it or why.
Trying to solve the crime is like following a trail. It moves forward, sidesteps, backtracks to cover it’s steps, and jumps forward again.
There are some strong secondary characters that I’m sure will have larger roles in other books in this series. And there are some surprises and a huge secret that will be revealed.
Looking for something to keep you up into the wee hours, reluctant to stop until you reach the end? This oughta do it!
I won this book in a giveaway. What a great way to discover this wonderful author and her exciting series.
March 24, 2018
I won this book in a giveaway a while ago. Kristine also sent me a gnome. You’ll learn his significance further into my review. He sits in my front garden protecting my home. He’s been joined by several others and I suspect I’ll be seeing more. Knowing how much I enjoy this genre and upon some trusted recommendations, I went ahead and grabbed the three book boxed set before I even began reading Shadow Of Danger. I’m now into the second book, Shadow Of Perception, which introduces some new character’s while some favorite ones from the first book make brief appearances.
Celeste is plagued by horrific nightmares and visions of torture and death. A clairvoyant, she sees four women brutally attacked and murdered.
The local sheriff believes in Celeste’s abilities and calls on a trusted friend from a private agency, CORE, to send assistance. The man he sends, John Kain, is having none of it. He’s a former FBI agent, relies on facts and the rest is just nonsense. But before long he witnesses one of Celeste’s trances. The information she provides is vital to the investigation and John comes to accept her abilities.
Reminiscent of shows like Criminal Minds, Kristine takes you on a dark journey into the mind of a killer. You get insight into what feeds the need for insatiable blood lust. Gruesome scenes provide a high level of suspense and create empathy for the victims and all of the character’s involved in the case. Kristine does this very well and it’s something I need in a suspense romance.
The suspense builds as the author drops in some twists about the killings and some intriguing side stories.
As for the romance. I had a lot of good times reading about Celeste and John and their instant attraction. It was very believable. Especially when the danger ramped up and the character’s emotions were heightened. And the author provided some much needed comic relief in the form of Celeste’s gnome collection. It started as just one gnome and quickly grew to dozens of them in all shapes and forms.
This book has it all. Suspense that keeps you glued to the book, anxious to see how it all plays out. Anxiety over whether more will die and if they’ll catch the killer or killers before they kill again. And excitement and amusement as Celeste and John fall hard for each other and work through the instant attraction and lusty thoughts.
Celeste is plagued by horrific nightmares and visions of torture and death. A clairvoyant, she sees four women brutally attacked and murdered.
The local sheriff believes in Celeste’s abilities and calls on a trusted friend from a private agency, CORE, to send assistance. The man he sends, John Kain, is having none of it. He’s a former FBI agent, relies on facts and the rest is just nonsense. But before long he witnesses one of Celeste’s trances. The information she provides is vital to the investigation and John comes to accept her abilities.
Reminiscent of shows like Criminal Minds, Kristine takes you on a dark journey into the mind of a killer. You get insight into what feeds the need for insatiable blood lust. Gruesome scenes provide a high level of suspense and create empathy for the victims and all of the character’s involved in the case. Kristine does this very well and it’s something I need in a suspense romance.
The suspense builds as the author drops in some twists about the killings and some intriguing side stories.
As for the romance. I had a lot of good times reading about Celeste and John and their instant attraction. It was very believable. Especially when the danger ramped up and the character’s emotions were heightened. And the author provided some much needed comic relief in the form of Celeste’s gnome collection. It started as just one gnome and quickly grew to dozens of them in all shapes and forms.
This book has it all. Suspense that keeps you glued to the book, anxious to see how it all plays out. Anxiety over whether more will die and if they’ll catch the killer or killers before they kill again. And excitement and amusement as Celeste and John fall hard for each other and work through the instant attraction and lusty thoughts.
July 26, 2016
This author can certainly write sick twisted killers.
In this introduction to the series a local sheriff calls Ian Scott who runs CORE, an agency who tracks down killers that elude the police when the bodies of 4 women are found. For years two depraved men have been murdering women. Sometimes together and sometimes on their own. When one decides to dump the bodies of his latest victims almost in plain site their secret killing spree is now brought out into the open.
Celeste Risinski is clairvoyant and saw the murders in her nightmares. She knows most of the town doesnt believe in that kind stuff but she feels she has to go to the sheriff with what she knows. Ian has a history with Celeste's family and he send former FBI agent John Kain to investigate and hopefully keep her out of danger. .
John is a typical skeptic about Celeste’s abilities. He knows its good old fashion police work via evidence that solves crimes. Boy is he shocked the first time Celeste goes into a trance and completly relives one of the murders right in front of him.
This was a good mystery even though we were in the head of one of the killers through out the whole book which was a sick place to be and Celeste was a very strong heroine that could take care of herself.. My only complaint about this book was it was too long.
I recommend this series to those that are not squeamish and like the more graphic side of thrillers.
In this introduction to the series a local sheriff calls Ian Scott who runs CORE, an agency who tracks down killers that elude the police when the bodies of 4 women are found. For years two depraved men have been murdering women. Sometimes together and sometimes on their own. When one decides to dump the bodies of his latest victims almost in plain site their secret killing spree is now brought out into the open.
Celeste Risinski is clairvoyant and saw the murders in her nightmares. She knows most of the town doesnt believe in that kind stuff but she feels she has to go to the sheriff with what she knows. Ian has a history with Celeste's family and he send former FBI agent John Kain to investigate and hopefully keep her out of danger. .
John is a typical skeptic about Celeste’s abilities. He knows its good old fashion police work via evidence that solves crimes. Boy is he shocked the first time Celeste goes into a trance and completly relives one of the murders right in front of him.
This was a good mystery even though we were in the head of one of the killers through out the whole book which was a sick place to be and Celeste was a very strong heroine that could take care of herself.. My only complaint about this book was it was too long.
I recommend this series to those that are not squeamish and like the more graphic side of thrillers.
July 21, 2016
A LITTLE REPETATIVE AT TIMES BUT A GOOD SOLID STORYLINE. THIS IS NOT FOR THE SQUIMISH OR FAINT-’O HEART. SO MANY RED HERRINGS IT WAS HARD TO FIGURE OUT JUST WHO WAS DOING WHAT. I THINK IT WAS A LITTLE TOO LONG IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A BETTER READ IF IT HAD BEEN SHORTER. BUT THE SEX SCENES WERE OFF THE FREAKING HOOK. OMG!! AFTER THE ONE SCENE I’LL NEVER LOOK AT CRANBERRIES QUITE THE SAME . . EVER. ‘D
September 18, 2016
A great read
This book was a pleasure to read but wish I had the rest of them also.
Check out the book
This book was a pleasure to read but wish I had the rest of them also.
Check out the book
July 19, 2019
Pretty decent. Standard insta-love conquers all, serial rapists be damned storyline. The best part of this book was the lack of ridiculous misunderstandings that could be resolved in 2.5 seconds if only they'd have a conversation. Oh, don't get me wrong, there was the requisite 375 "this isn't what it looks/sounds like" situations, but the girl didn't gather her skirts and flee the castle before it was sorted out, and the guy didn't go into a rage, with flying spittle and a 4 day beard. For that, I was grateful. Saves loads of time and eyerolls.
Sidenote, exactly no one was hanged in this book, so the cover makes no sense.
Sidenote, exactly no one was hanged in this book, so the cover makes no sense.
February 1, 2020
Great crime mystery but too much "romance"
This book has a really good story line but the romantic interest sub-plot takes over a bit much at times & turns into an erotica novel. Needs more proof reading for a few spelling /grammar mistakes but not bad.
First book in a trilogy but not a cliffhanger ending so can be read as a stand alone book. Worth getting book 2 if you like romance books as much as gruesome mysteries.
This book has a really good story line but the romantic interest sub-plot takes over a bit much at times & turns into an erotica novel. Needs more proof reading for a few spelling /grammar mistakes but not bad.
First book in a trilogy but not a cliffhanger ending so can be read as a stand alone book. Worth getting book 2 if you like romance books as much as gruesome mysteries.
June 19, 2018
Disgusting and gruesome.
I was captured from the first scene. I liked the gory details, the sick and twisted minds and the foul language. My only criticism was the love story portion. It got to be redundant and just too much. I'm probably the minority with that opinion but reading love ain't my thing.
I was captured from the first scene. I liked the gory details, the sick and twisted minds and the foul language. My only criticism was the love story portion. It got to be redundant and just too much. I'm probably the minority with that opinion but reading love ain't my thing.
January 8, 2018
Dnf. This book sounded so promising. But unfortunately the main focus was on the two leads just constantly wanting to have sex with each other as soon as they met. I’m fine with sex/sexual tension in books but this was so cliched and not well written that I couldn’t get past it. I need more substance.
July 17, 2022
This book was ok. I liked the story line and the twist was pretty good. The relationship was ridiculous though and the book could have been a lot shorter if there wasn't so much detailed sex. If I wanted porn I'd read a trashy romance novel. I don't need throbbing cock and dripping pussy in a thriller.
November 27, 2017
I won a signed copy of this book during an online giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it a local library.
September 9, 2018
Awesome mystery and the love story was great too!
Like all good mysteries, you have to wait for the twist at the end. There were minor typos after 50%, or it would have been 5 stars.
Like all good mysteries, you have to wait for the twist at the end. There were minor typos after 50%, or it would have been 5 stars.
December 24, 2018
A definite mystery
Right away the story line drew me in and the characters held my attention as the story unfolded interesting and surprising directions I want to read the next book in the series.
Right away the story line drew me in and the characters held my attention as the story unfolded interesting and surprising directions I want to read the next book in the series.
July 13, 2017
Really great read!
I love a good murder mystery mixed with new love and a psychic who had visions. Lots of twists and turns with two horrible murderers to be caught!
I love a good murder mystery mixed with new love and a psychic who had visions. Lots of twists and turns with two horrible murderers to be caught!
December 11, 2018
I could have done without the romance, however, it was needed to steer the plot and the characters on to what I imagine is another 2 books minimum.
I thought the rest of the book was good. Rather cheesey, nothing sophisticated. But it checked the boxes. Small town girl with big dreams, mysterious agent from out of state, not one but two serial killers on the loose... It was a fun book although the trances general psychic abilities were a little over the top.
I thought the rest of the book was good. Rather cheesey, nothing sophisticated. But it checked the boxes. Small town girl with big dreams, mysterious agent from out of state, not one but two serial killers on the loose... It was a fun book although the trances general psychic abilities were a little over the top.
October 21, 2015
An ok story..
You really had to be kind of thick skinned to listen to what these serial did for their sick pleasure. Also, you have to NOT be bothered by swearing. The F-BOMB was let lose 83 times, which doesn’t bother me but I know you puritans can’t abide it.
I did find myself skimming pages now and then, since 414 pages are a little much. It was like the author was looking to add more and more “stuff� just to make the book longer. Like the part with Ian and Celeste relationship. It was MADE part of the book when it really didn’t have to be there. It had nothing to do with the serial killers or her and John’s relationship, so it was NOT necessary to add all that. Any more than the story of Dr. Trumane had to be in the book. The book just went on and on. Between the parts that didn’t really have to be in the book and John’s heartburn and acid reflux (was it necessary to mention that 13 times?) and all the sexual thoughts and the “almost� sex, and the sex itself. I like sex in my books but I hate when the sex and thoughts of sex overpower the rest of the book. This could have been a perfectly good book with about 150 less pages to it. It became soooo repetitive.
SPOILERS*** MAYBE
So, John and Celeste admit to loving each other, after only 5 days of knowing each other, but when John comes over to her house and sees the outline of her and The Viking he thinks they are screwing. He’s just about to walk out when he realizes his mistake. Then, again, when Ian shows up at the diner he thinks the wrong thing again. They’ve told each other over and over again how the trust each other then he takes THIS attitude. AND Celeste tells him how she knows all about his trust issues because of Renee. Really? I thought they trusted each other! This author tried so hard to write this 400+ page book that made sense she can’t even keep track of her contradictions or her repetitiveness. I can’t see myself reading anything by this author. Her books are just toooo long and there’s no need for it.
END SPOILERS***
The best thing about this book was the lack of angst and misunderstandings. AND, of course, her battle in the forest with “toby.� That was awesome.
As to the narrator: The first thing I noticed as I listened to this book was the difference in sounds when someone was talking on a phone or on a police radio. It was a muffled sound just like you’d expect to hear. It was great hearing that, instead of hearing the normal sounds of reading. The narrator was good sometimes, but sometimes he sounded robotic then he would read with a little emotion, then no emotion. It always makes me wonder when the book says something about a whisper, or a laugh, or someone clearing their throat, or anything, but the reader does none of those things. He wasn't horrible, he was just ok.
You really had to be kind of thick skinned to listen to what these serial did for their sick pleasure. Also, you have to NOT be bothered by swearing. The F-BOMB was let lose 83 times, which doesn’t bother me but I know you puritans can’t abide it.
I did find myself skimming pages now and then, since 414 pages are a little much. It was like the author was looking to add more and more “stuff� just to make the book longer. Like the part with Ian and Celeste relationship. It was MADE part of the book when it really didn’t have to be there. It had nothing to do with the serial killers or her and John’s relationship, so it was NOT necessary to add all that. Any more than the story of Dr. Trumane had to be in the book. The book just went on and on. Between the parts that didn’t really have to be in the book and John’s heartburn and acid reflux (was it necessary to mention that 13 times?) and all the sexual thoughts and the “almost� sex, and the sex itself. I like sex in my books but I hate when the sex and thoughts of sex overpower the rest of the book. This could have been a perfectly good book with about 150 less pages to it. It became soooo repetitive.
SPOILERS*** MAYBE
So, John and Celeste admit to loving each other, after only 5 days of knowing each other, but when John comes over to her house and sees the outline of her and The Viking he thinks they are screwing. He’s just about to walk out when he realizes his mistake. Then, again, when Ian shows up at the diner he thinks the wrong thing again. They’ve told each other over and over again how the trust each other then he takes THIS attitude. AND Celeste tells him how she knows all about his trust issues because of Renee. Really? I thought they trusted each other! This author tried so hard to write this 400+ page book that made sense she can’t even keep track of her contradictions or her repetitiveness. I can’t see myself reading anything by this author. Her books are just toooo long and there’s no need for it.
END SPOILERS***
The best thing about this book was the lack of angst and misunderstandings. AND, of course, her battle in the forest with “toby.� That was awesome.
As to the narrator: The first thing I noticed as I listened to this book was the difference in sounds when someone was talking on a phone or on a police radio. It was a muffled sound just like you’d expect to hear. It was great hearing that, instead of hearing the normal sounds of reading. The narrator was good sometimes, but sometimes he sounded robotic then he would read with a little emotion, then no emotion. It always makes me wonder when the book says something about a whisper, or a laugh, or someone clearing their throat, or anything, but the reader does none of those things. He wasn't horrible, he was just ok.
April 7, 2015
I was intrigued by the synopsis of this book, but I have to be honest the content of the murders isn't a subject matter that I would normally read, and it's quite graphic from the first page. However, despite that I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's certainly not a book for the faint hearted, the murders are described in graphic detail, and the thoughts and feelings of the murderers as they commit the acts are nothing short of grotesque. Through Celeste we feel the terror and final moments of the victims and the finding of the bodies and their condition is described in very fine detail, but it all combines to make one very interesting, harrowing, thought provoking story. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters of John and Celeste, they couldn't have been more different in personalities and yet are immediately drawn to each other. The journey they travel on together brings out the best and worst in John, he has to face up to a past that is holding him back, and is forced to confront things that he never believed were possible. Witnessing what Celeste goes through brings out his protectiveness. Celeste is strong and has to endure things so terrible that it would break most people, but it's the people who surround her and care about her that have to witness her going through it that it has the most effect on. They instinctively want to help and protect her from it, but without her assistance and willingness to put herself through it the murders will continue. Not only were the characters deep, troubled and worth cheering for, but the storyline was gripping and phenomenal, and gratifyingly it made me guess all the way through. There were so many suspects that I didn't get it until the very end, which made the story even more enjoyable. I will certainly be reading more of Kristine Mason.
June 5, 2013
Celeste is a psychic who sees too much and what she sees, might just get her in trouble. Four women have died in the local area and Celeste has had visions of their deaths. The local sheriff believes her but John who belongs to a private investigative company who has been called in to help, does not. He wants hard evidence and facts. He refuses to believe her� at least until the evidence starts showing that there may be something to what she is seeing and saying. There is an instant attraction between John and Celeste. Celeste knows that it probably won’t go anywhere as John lives a long ways away. John is not about to get involved with a witness. He is still trying to get over the last relationship he had which was with his crooked partner who died by his gun.
But some things are meant to be overcome. The romance between John and Celeste is hot and heavy and like any new relationship there are misunderstandings. Will they be able to overcome their differences to solve the murders? Will they be able to overcome their mistrust? And will they do it in time? Note: there are some pretty graphic sex scenes.
Shadow of Danger is a good read. If you are into romance, romantic suspense, thriller, murder, mystery stories, then this is the book for you. You get a bit of all of it here. It’s an interesting novel that will keep you guessing as to who is behind the murders and will they discover the person in time.
But some things are meant to be overcome. The romance between John and Celeste is hot and heavy and like any new relationship there are misunderstandings. Will they be able to overcome their differences to solve the murders? Will they be able to overcome their mistrust? And will they do it in time? Note: there are some pretty graphic sex scenes.
Shadow of Danger is a good read. If you are into romance, romantic suspense, thriller, murder, mystery stories, then this is the book for you. You get a bit of all of it here. It’s an interesting novel that will keep you guessing as to who is behind the murders and will they discover the person in time.
October 28, 2013
Four women have been found dead in the outskirts of a small Wisconsin town. The only witness, clairvoyant Celeste Risinski, observes these brutal murders through violent nightmares and hellish visions. The local sheriff, who believes in Celeste’s abilities and wants to rid their peaceful community of a killer, enlists the help of an old friend, Ian Scott, owner of a private criminal investigation agency, CORE. Because of Ian’s dark history with Celeste’s family, a history she knows nothing about, he sends his top criminalist, former FBI agent John Kain to investigate.
All I can saw is wow! Im a big Karen Rose fan and didnt think anything could come close to beating her but I simply loved this story.. It was pretty gruesome at times and sex scenes were graphic but every page was a page turner.
I kind of guessed about her brother .. but not who the 2nd killer was..it really kept you guessing the whole way along.
The back stories of Celeste, John , Ian and even Rob were interesting ..and i actually laughed out loud at first time Celeste and John met in the diner.
Love suspense thriller then this def is book for you.. so looking forward to reading next two books now!
PS is it so wrong to say i wish we had had a power cut today with storms so i could hide under the candlelight and read more lol
All I can saw is wow! Im a big Karen Rose fan and didnt think anything could come close to beating her but I simply loved this story.. It was pretty gruesome at times and sex scenes were graphic but every page was a page turner.
I kind of guessed about her brother .. but not who the 2nd killer was..it really kept you guessing the whole way along.
The back stories of Celeste, John , Ian and even Rob were interesting ..and i actually laughed out loud at first time Celeste and John met in the diner.
Love suspense thriller then this def is book for you.. so looking forward to reading next two books now!
PS is it so wrong to say i wish we had had a power cut today with storms so i could hide under the candlelight and read more lol
Read
November 5, 2013This book has everything!!! Great characters, evil killers, psychic visions, romance, & surprises!!!
Celeste is living her life for others. After her mom died and her dad left her to run the Diner, she gave up her life to help out her family. Suddenly the shell of her safe, yet unfulfilling world starts to crash in on her, one nightmare at a time. But are the nightmares psychic visions or just the horrific imaginings her mind has created? As dead women start showing up, the police chief, a good ole boy with a heart of gold, calls in help from an old friend who has a private investigation firm called CORE. In comes John! Right away you can see the sparks fly and know that you are in for some fun bedroom scenes. But John doesn't believe in psychics, what's more unbelievable is his instant attraction to Celeste. As both of them battle their past, insecurities, and attraction, two killers are on the loose. Mason doesn't shy away from sexy bedroom scenes or horrific murders! The suspense will put u on edge through out the entire book and just as you expect certain twists and turns, you will be surprised and intrigued by how she gets there!!! There are something's u know right off the bat where Mason is headed, but she adds enough surprise and intrigue that it's still exciting!!! As soon as the book ends, you will be searching for more novels by her!! Enjoy!!!
Celeste is living her life for others. After her mom died and her dad left her to run the Diner, she gave up her life to help out her family. Suddenly the shell of her safe, yet unfulfilling world starts to crash in on her, one nightmare at a time. But are the nightmares psychic visions or just the horrific imaginings her mind has created? As dead women start showing up, the police chief, a good ole boy with a heart of gold, calls in help from an old friend who has a private investigation firm called CORE. In comes John! Right away you can see the sparks fly and know that you are in for some fun bedroom scenes. But John doesn't believe in psychics, what's more unbelievable is his instant attraction to Celeste. As both of them battle their past, insecurities, and attraction, two killers are on the loose. Mason doesn't shy away from sexy bedroom scenes or horrific murders! The suspense will put u on edge through out the entire book and just as you expect certain twists and turns, you will be surprised and intrigued by how she gets there!!! There are something's u know right off the bat where Mason is headed, but she adds enough surprise and intrigue that it's still exciting!!! As soon as the book ends, you will be searching for more novels by her!! Enjoy!!!
June 12, 2016
A compelling, dark, violent, romantic suspense page turner.
WARNING: From the first pages of the prologue, occurring 12yrs earlier, there is pure evil, violence, rape and murder.
In the present day the same theme continues with psychic, Celeste Risinki, having violent images/visions in her nightmares. Writing down her premonitions after becoming the victims in her sleep, she reports to her surrogate uncle/friend the sheriff. In turn, he then relays everything to the founder of C.O.R.E...Criminal Observance Resolution and Evidence, a private agency, who promptly sends his best agent.
Enter, John Kain, ex FBI and criminalist who works with hard evidence and is more than a little sceptic of her 'visions'. Their initial attraction is off the charts explosive and their chemistry thereafter is hot.
It's written in the third person, so, as gruesome as it sounds, the author takes you through the mind and eyes of a killer/killers. There's twists and turns and characters galore, with background stories within the story which leads to a very compelling, dark page turner.
This is the first book in the series but it is a standalone and complete. I believe forwarding books follow other agents through the agency, that's not to say Celeste and John aren't mentioned again!?
A great read but not for the faint hearted.
WARNING: From the first pages of the prologue, occurring 12yrs earlier, there is pure evil, violence, rape and murder.
In the present day the same theme continues with psychic, Celeste Risinki, having violent images/visions in her nightmares. Writing down her premonitions after becoming the victims in her sleep, she reports to her surrogate uncle/friend the sheriff. In turn, he then relays everything to the founder of C.O.R.E...Criminal Observance Resolution and Evidence, a private agency, who promptly sends his best agent.
Enter, John Kain, ex FBI and criminalist who works with hard evidence and is more than a little sceptic of her 'visions'. Their initial attraction is off the charts explosive and their chemistry thereafter is hot.
It's written in the third person, so, as gruesome as it sounds, the author takes you through the mind and eyes of a killer/killers. There's twists and turns and characters galore, with background stories within the story which leads to a very compelling, dark page turner.
This is the first book in the series but it is a standalone and complete. I believe forwarding books follow other agents through the agency, that's not to say Celeste and John aren't mentioned again!?
A great read but not for the faint hearted.
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