Review: Secrets and Shadows (13 to Life #2) by Shannon Delany

Nothing’s simple when you run with werewolves. Jess Gillmansen thinks she’s seen it all but her eyes are about to be opened to even more danger and a reality far more paranormal than she’s suspected. With Jess’s realization that the Rusakovas’ mother is still alive and imprisoned, the group’s choices become harder and trust more important. Lines are drawn and relationships change as the broken Rusakova family struggles to reunite long enough to free their mother and people who Jess always just took to be normal people show themselves to be much, much more.

When I won a signed copy of Secrets and Shadows from the author, I was incredibly excited. I read the first book in this series, 13 to Life, back in early August and couldn't wait to find out what happened next. Once again, Shannon Delany has delivered a thrilling sequel in this werewolf-centered series.

Jessica Gillmansen's relationship with the previously enigmatic Pietr Rusakova was finally starting to blossom until one fateful night in Junction. A mission to find the Rusakovas' mother turns awry, with Jess nearly being shot before Pietr comes to her rescue. After that, Pietr keeps his distance from Jessica and forms a closer bond with Sarah, one of Jessica's enemies-turned-friend after losing her memory of the accident in which Jessica's mother was killed. Jess responds by turning to her lifelong crush, Derek, who has been expressing interest in her ever since Pietr came along. However, Derek is not who he claims to be, and soon Jessica finds herself in a situation beyond anything she has already seen.

Just when I thought this story couldn't get any more complex, Shannon Delany added a whole new aspect of the paranormal. I loved the twists and turns, complete unpredictability, and extraordinary depth to the characters' personalities. Jess kept herself together, Pietr frustrated the crap out of me (but I still adore him!), Max was a total charmer, and Cat remained the logical one. On top of that, though I can't stand Derek, his expanded role captured my interest and added a fresh take on the plot.

I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of Bargains and Betrayals. Werewolf/paranormal romance lovers, if you haven't already checked out this series, I highly recommend it!

Rating: 4.5/5 stars