Secrets and Shadows 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. (courtesy of Amazon)


Book 2 in the 13 to Life series


What can I say - - other than young adult needs a new breakout genre - - this book had me on the edge of my seat.  


Tension mounts as Delany does it again!  I want happiness for Jess, but I don't want the stories to end.  So as soon as you think things are falling into place, Delany hits you in a spiral.  


Jess is getting walked on, over and stomped...but she keeps rolling on.  Her character grows a bit stronger throughout the book, maybe not stronger pursa, but more with it and able to react quicker.  There were a few spots in the book that I felt a little over done, but overall - since I read it in 1 day - I'd say it's a praiseworthy read!


Teen drama with grown up twists, as this bunch tries to free their mother.  There's secrets (and people hanging in the shadows, hence the name) but there is also loyalty.  I enjoy when authors take the 'teen' realm and show that not all lives are rosy - there's parent substance abuse, tragedy, physical abuse - that is battled every day.  It gives the story a realistic edge.  As Jess finds her friends and they all make choices the story is not lost.  How can it be when the Russian Mafia and CIA are involved?


Delany snaps that ending into place and leaves you burning for the next.   


5 slices