Shattered Darkness” is a Paranormal Romance that drags one right in, headfirst, into urban fantasy and forbidden desires. Shadow City is an unknown metropolis ruled by shifters and vampires, forbidding the human race. This story unfolds with Livia, a businesswoman who has get-up-and-go running in her blood, wanting to be able to prove herself. Then there is Gavin, an introverted wolf shifter with the feet of escape on his mind.

A Gripping Introduction: The action gets going right from the start, dropping Livia into danger and leaving her with no one else to turn to but enigmatic Gavin. This provides a fast-paced opening that carries right on through the setup at the beginning of this book into the subsequent action.

A World Shrouded in Mystery: Generally, “Shattered Darkness” exudes extraordinary world-building, especially in regard to its dark past and power play between the shifter and vampire factions. Shadow City itself seems to suckle in danger and mystery, furthering curiosity greatly.

An Independent Heroine to the Rescue: Refreshingly, Livia takes much away from the damsel-in-distress theme. Resourceful and independent, she stands up for herself in hostile surroundings. This journey is basically self-discovery combined with class struggle to survive in a dangerous city.

A Stoic Hero with a Hidden Agenda: Gavin, the wolf shifter, is an enigmatic character. Add to this the depth which comes from inner turmoil—duty fighting desire.

A Sizzling but Brief Romance: Livia and Gavin shared undeniable chemistry that fortunately assisted in giving their forbidden attraction a simmer throughout the story.

This one was the perfect introduction to the series: “Shattered Darkness” is a fast read, with great groundwork laid for the “Wolves of Shadows” series. In itself, it’s pretty interesting, having a really cool female lead and some simmering romance that hints toward what is to come.

Recommendation This novella hit the spot when I was in the mood to zip through a sexy paranormal romance with an urban fantasy bend. Readers who are fans of Lara Adrian or Kresley Cole will easily get caught up in Shadow City and all its characters. Any reader looking for more depth in world or character development might find themselves hungering for a little more.