Gaele Hi
AudioBook Review: Stars: Overall 4 Narration: 4 Story 4 Daisy is recently widowed and reveling in the fact that she can now live her own best life. She’s had a bit of rough go, but her sister Miranda has always been her cheerleader, but she’s got secrets too. But after suffering six years at the hands and will of her abusive husband, she’s determined to never be cowed again, and to protect her heart at all costs. After all – who could want her? But, it isn’t long before a series of murders all seem to lead to her (or threaten her) in some way, and she’s got to get over wanting to take care of herself and ask for help. Ian is the Marquis of Northrup, and has managed to not reveal his own secrets to London society, for to do so would be devastating. But, there is a killer who now threatens his secret, and has embroiled the lovely (and now free from encumbrance) Daisy with the repeated murder victims. Ian knows that he can and should investigate, and he also is aware that he should protect and watch over Daisy – so perhaps they can combine the two? There is a ton of emotion and newness here: the world-building and legend of the lycans is unique and clever, other paranormal creatures that I’ve never before seen, from separating werewolves from lycan and twisting up ghosts with her own version of a ‘gim’ or ghost in the machine. When you add in the multiple red-herrings to the mystery, the palpable sexual tension between Ian and Daisy, and the rather sweetly developing romance between them as they come together in very ‘sherlock-like” interactions over the investigations, to the far more charged personal moments as their pasions build, the story just keeps on giving more surprises and moments of delight. Clearly adding to the world in Firelight, the story works alone but taking these two in order does help to build the reader’s impression and understanding of the world of Darkest London. Narration for this story is again provided by Moira Quirk, and she presents a cast of characters that are distinct, unique, and above all, clearly available throughout the story. From tone and delivery changes, to small pauses, emotional moments and carrying the sense of attraction between Daisy and Ian, the story is engaging and hard to put down. I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Hachette Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.