Rating: 
Summary: Dark and brooding
Review: We last saw Connor McCloud in Shannon McKenna's sensational debut Behind Closed Doors rushing to save Erin from the grasp of one of his nemesis Kurt Novak's henchman Georg. Standing in the Shadows continues from the prequel, focusing on the romance between ex-FBI agent Connor and Erin Riggs.McKenna's protagonists are as usual brooding and tortured. Connor nearly died from a fatal explosion masterminded by his nemesis Novak; he is betrayed by his corrupted boss Ed Riggs who is now put behind bars when Connor testified against him. He feels guilt towards Riggs' daughter Erin and dare not find her despite his deep-seated crush for her. Erin is scandalized by her father's misdeed and is saddled with unemployment. Her mother Barbara is afflicted with depression while her sister Cindy is led astray by new-found lover Billy. When Novak escapes from jail, all hell breaks loose. Connor is determined to protect Erin and emotions run high. Erin and Connor are forced to acknowledge their passion but with Connor's scarred childhood and regimental father - Erin is not sure whether Connor's fierce protection and jealousy stems from his past history of mental depression. Erin learns from his colleague Nick that Connor is afflicted with paranoia. Frustration also comes in when Connor hinders her job as a curator for Celtic-antique owner Mueller. McKenna's sophomore effort pulsates with sizzling tension and passion but her debut was more focused. The exquisite emotional intimacy found in Behind Closed Door is sorely missed. Behind Closed Door was shorter but was leaner and held much more impact in its balance of romance and thriller. Despite this, Standing in the Shadows isn't a disappointment. It is enriched by McKenna's blisteringly intense hero who gives the tale a tantalizingly dark, shadowy edge.
Rating: 
Summary: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Review: WHAT A GREAT FOLLOW-UP TO BEHIND CLOSED DOORS. Connor was a great alpha male, strong in his devotion to Erin. The heroine was annoying in her lack of loyalty to the hero but as the story unfolded, her actions were understandable. LOVED the relationship Connor has with his brothers Davy, Sean and best friend Seth. Additional secondary characters were wonderful especially Tamara and Barbara Riggs. All in all a wonderful read and I hope Davy and Sean will have their stories told.
Rating:
Summary: Intense, riveting, loving... very good read
Review: WOW. This book was intense--it was scary, sexy, creepy, loving, etc. I felt all of the above and more. It was a great followup to behind closed doors. Hopefully she will write stories on the other two brothers....quickly. :)
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