Hidden Shadows by Lauren Hope
The Wild Rose Press, Crimson Rose
Contemporary Romance, Suspense/Mystery
Full length, Sensual
Review by Camellia

But in the shadows of Jenna’s past lay deep secrets. And there, a mad woman lurks in the darkness, ready to ruin all Jenna holds dear. As life as Jenna knows it begins to unravel, she finds herself in a tangled web of lies, suspicion, and murder. She must look deep inside herself to find the courage for forgiveness, trust, and self-acceptance. Only then will she discover love, redemption, and ultimately, survival.

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Jenna Gregor, NP, CEA, has a rewarding career, and two great children, Jacy and Dawson, but is divorced with no significant male companionship until she meets Ben Aston. He is Dawson’s volunteer karate instructor who is a professional landscaper and SO good looking.

Lauren Hope keeps the reader waiting at times as she shifts the story’s point of view from Jenna’s, to Desiree’s, to Ben’s. This style is something like plaiting hair as the three parts come together to make a smooth read about how Jenna’s, Desiree’s and Ben’s lives are entwined and how love can grow even in an environment that is beset with problems.

While Jenna’s ex-husband and his new wife Susan are a thorn in the flesh for Jenna, other people seem to be super supportive. Katie is the faithful, well-loved baby sitter; Molly is Jenna’s secretary at work; Robin and Erick are longtime friends; plus, Ben Aston and his family rally to her support when they get to know her. Sadly, among these seemingly very supportive friends lurks the enemy.

As Hidden Shadows unfolds, the reader finds clues to the mystery and has a front row seat to the harassing incidents that endanger the lives of Jenna and her children. There are some breath-holding moments as the dangers close in. Nevertheless, love wiggles its way into the hearts of Ben and Jenna regardless of their misgivings from past experiences and the terrifying events that plague Jenna.

The reader wonders how a happily-ever-after ending can come out of this story with murder, blood, threats, property damage and terror, but Lauren Hope skillfully creates a beautiful romance and a touching love story that leaves no doubt that Jenna and Ben, along with the adorable Jacy and Dawson will truly have that happy-ever-after. Good Reading!