A Reflection of Shadows

A Reflection of Shadows is another exciting adventure set in Ms. Renwick’s clever steampunk historical London. Building on the foundation set in The Iron Fin, the story further explores the idea of humans exhibiting animal-like traits. This time around Colleen, with her golden eyes and increased dexterity like a cat, uses her unique features as a thief of goodwill. In her journeys and among her society engagements, she’s befriended the handsome Nicholas Torrington, an agent of the queen, with ties to organizations and characters explored in previous titles.

As an agent of the queen Nick has seen it all, but when he hears of an experimental device that may save his dying sister’s weak heart, his missions become personal. Seizing the opportunity to express his admiration to Colleen and win her over by making her his partner, Nick proposes marriage as a matter of convenience, but intends to make Colleen his bride. The pair work to discover the truth behind layers of subterfuge and hope to save Anne in the process.

While I found the opening of A Reflection of Shadows a bit confusing as I tried to piece together the separate yet intertwining stories behind Nick and Colleen, the story soon picked up pace and was gripping until the very end. I love watching the pair work as truly equal partners. Nick trusts Colleen completely and respects her intellect and decision-making. He knows the way to her heart isn’t through flowers and dances, but secretive roof-top missions and clandestine rendez-vous. He is her perfect partner, and I loved watching him pursue her affection.

Colleen loves her life and isn’t certain she wants to give up anything for a man, so it’s with true admiration and a bit of relief that she finds herself falling for Nick. While always attracted to the man, she is cautious with her heart and is rewarded with her perfect match in Nick. What happens to Colleen in the name of furthering medical science is horrifying, and the author doesn’t let the pair come together easily. The traitorous villains surround the couple and nearly finish their romance before it truly has time to bloom.

A Reflection of Shadows is filled with exciting adventure, surprising twists, and a lovely, sexy romance. I adore Colleen and Nick. Their story is an excellent addition to the Elemental Web Chronicle world.

My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
Review copy provided by author

Lady Colleen Stewart is a sneak thief, not your ordinary one she only takes cases to help those who have gotten into situations that need discretion to resolve. Her 25th birthday approaches and she’s ready to retire and return to her ancestral home in Scotland which she was forced to leave when placed under guardianship when her parents were murdered. On her last job she runs into Nicholas Torrington a Queen’s agent and scientist who is the only man who’s made her reconsider her stance on refusing to marry. The two of them through a rather amusing and strange set of circumstances end up engaged and on a mission. What starts out as an unusual courtship turns sinister and the two find themselves in the midst of something far larger in scope than anticipated. Now they must negotiate a marriage contract, find a missing max scientist and discover what is really at the heart of all the strange occurrences. A spy and a thief are their skills enough to solve the case?
Tons of action in this steampunk romance. I absolutely love Colleen and her spunk refusing to buckle to societal norms, instead staying true to her heart and as such getting everything she desired and more. A bit campy but in the best possible interpretation of that word. Villains are over the top and the good guys and gals ride horses albeit steam powered rather than white steeds. Transported into a fantastical world from the start you’re taken on a wild and romantic adventure. A delightful read.
I received an ARC from the author this is my honest review.

This is a fun book to read loved the story