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Sebastian St. Cyr #6
Where Shadows Dance
How do you set about solving a murder no one can reveal has been committed?
Regency London, July 1812.
That's the challenge confronting C.S. Harris's aristocratic soldier-turned-sleuth Sebastian St. Cyr when his friend, surgeon and "anatomist" Paul Gibson, illegally buys the cadaver of a young man from London's infamous body snatchers. A rising star at the Foreign Office, Mr. Alexander Ross was reported to have died of a weak heart. But when Gibson discovers a stiletto wound at the base of Ross's skull, he can turn only to Sebastian for help in catching the killer.
Described by all who knew him as an amiable young man, Ross at first seems an unlikely candidate for murder. But as Sebastian's search takes him from the Queen's drawing rooms in St. James's Palace to the embassies of Russia, the United States, and the Turkish Empire, he plunges into a dangerous shadow land of diplomatic maneuvering and international intrigue, where truth is an elusive commodity and nothing is as it seems.
Meanwhile, Sebastian must confront the turmoil of his personal life. Hero Jarvis, daughter of his powerful nemesis Lord Jarvis, finally agrees to become his wife. But as their wedding approaches, Sebastian can't escape the growing realization that not only Lord Jarvis but Hero herself knows far more about the events surrounding Ross's death than they would have him believe.
Then a second body is found, badly decomposed but bearing the same fatal stiletto wound. And Sebastian must race to unmask a ruthless killer who is now threatening the life of his reluctant bride and their unborn child.
Regency London, July 1812.
That's the challenge confronting C.S. Harris's aristocratic soldier-turned-sleuth Sebastian St. Cyr when his friend, surgeon and "anatomist" Paul Gibson, illegally buys the cadaver of a young man from London's infamous body snatchers. A rising star at the Foreign Office, Mr. Alexander Ross was reported to have died of a weak heart. But when Gibson discovers a stiletto wound at the base of Ross's skull, he can turn only to Sebastian for help in catching the killer.
Described by all who knew him as an amiable young man, Ross at first seems an unlikely candidate for murder. But as Sebastian's search takes him from the Queen's drawing rooms in St. James's Palace to the embassies of Russia, the United States, and the Turkish Empire, he plunges into a dangerous shadow land of diplomatic maneuvering and international intrigue, where truth is an elusive commodity and nothing is as it seems.
Meanwhile, Sebastian must confront the turmoil of his personal life. Hero Jarvis, daughter of his powerful nemesis Lord Jarvis, finally agrees to become his wife. But as their wedding approaches, Sebastian can't escape the growing realization that not only Lord Jarvis but Hero herself knows far more about the events surrounding Ross's death than they would have him believe.
Then a second body is found, badly decomposed but bearing the same fatal stiletto wound. And Sebastian must race to unmask a ruthless killer who is now threatening the life of his reluctant bride and their unborn child.
342 pages, Hardcover
First published March 1, 2011
333 people are currently reading
2687 people want to read
About the author
C.S. Harris
23 books3,013 followersCandice Proctor, aka C.S. Harris and C.S. Graham, is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than a dozen novels including the Sebastian St. Cyr Regency mystery series written under the name C.S. Harris, the new C.S. Graham thriller series co-written with Steven Harris, and seven historical romances. She is also the author of a nonfiction historical study of the French Revolution. Her books are available worldwide and have been translated into over twenty different languages.
Candice graduated Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude with a degree in Classics before going on to earn an MA and Ph.D. in history. A former academic, she has taught at the University of Idaho and Midwestern State University in Texas. She also worked as an archaeologist on a variety of sites including a Hudson's Bay Company Fort in San Juan Island, a Cherokee village in Tennessee, a prehistoric kill site in Victoria, Australia, and a Roman cemetery and medieval manor house in Winchester, England. Most recently, she spent many years as a partner in an international business consulting firm.
The daughter of a career Air Force officer and university professor, Proctor loves to travel and has spent much of her life abroad. She has lived in Spain, Greece, England, France, Jordan, and Australia. She now makes her home in New Orleans, Louisiana, with her husband, retired Army officer Steve Harris, her two daughters, and an ever-expanding number of cats.
Candice graduated Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude with a degree in Classics before going on to earn an MA and Ph.D. in history. A former academic, she has taught at the University of Idaho and Midwestern State University in Texas. She also worked as an archaeologist on a variety of sites including a Hudson's Bay Company Fort in San Juan Island, a Cherokee village in Tennessee, a prehistoric kill site in Victoria, Australia, and a Roman cemetery and medieval manor house in Winchester, England. Most recently, she spent many years as a partner in an international business consulting firm.
The daughter of a career Air Force officer and university professor, Proctor loves to travel and has spent much of her life abroad. She has lived in Spain, Greece, England, France, Jordan, and Australia. She now makes her home in New Orleans, Louisiana, with her husband, retired Army officer Steve Harris, her two daughters, and an ever-expanding number of cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 683 reviews
January 19, 2020
4.5 stars rounded down to 4. This is an excellent historical fiction mystery series, set in 1812 London. I won a Goodreads giveaway of book 10 in the series 3 years ago and enjoyed it so much that I decided to read the rest of the series. I have been borrowing the books from the library.
Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin, is a wealthy heir who has developed a reputation for solving murders, sometimes at the request of a local magistrate, Sir Henry Lovejoy, and sometimes at the request of friends/relatives.
One of the people who assists him in his investigations is Paul Gibson, a surgeon friend of Devlin's from their time in the British army. Gibson pays grave robbers to dig up bodies so he can dissect them and learn more about the causes of death. But he comes to Devlin with a problem. He has a body of a young rising star at the Foreign Office in his mortuary, who was reported to have died of a heart attack. His examination of the body shows that Alexander Ross was murdered. He wants Devlin to find out who murdered him, even though it is not classified a murder by authorities.
Devlin agrees to help his friend and there are more deaths before the mystery is solved.
There is a side plot concerning Devlin's love life, which started in book 5 in the series.
I recommend that you start with book 1 and read them in order, as there are continuing plot elements throughout the series. I raced through this book in 2 days.
Two quotes:
Description of Ross "Alexander was a diplomat by profession. It can be a dangerous game, diplomacy. A dance of shadows in the darkness.".
Weather; "The day was sunny but not excessively hot, the sky arcing above the open fields a pale blue scattered with puffs of high white clouds."
Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin, is a wealthy heir who has developed a reputation for solving murders, sometimes at the request of a local magistrate, Sir Henry Lovejoy, and sometimes at the request of friends/relatives.
One of the people who assists him in his investigations is Paul Gibson, a surgeon friend of Devlin's from their time in the British army. Gibson pays grave robbers to dig up bodies so he can dissect them and learn more about the causes of death. But he comes to Devlin with a problem. He has a body of a young rising star at the Foreign Office in his mortuary, who was reported to have died of a heart attack. His examination of the body shows that Alexander Ross was murdered. He wants Devlin to find out who murdered him, even though it is not classified a murder by authorities.
Devlin agrees to help his friend and there are more deaths before the mystery is solved.
There is a side plot concerning Devlin's love life, which started in book 5 in the series.
I recommend that you start with book 1 and read them in order, as there are continuing plot elements throughout the series. I raced through this book in 2 days.
Two quotes:
Description of Ross "Alexander was a diplomat by profession. It can be a dangerous game, diplomacy. A dance of shadows in the darkness.".
Weather; "The day was sunny but not excessively hot, the sky arcing above the open fields a pale blue scattered with puffs of high white clouds."
June 2, 2016
This is such a good series and it just keeps getting better and better. As with the previous books this one is full to bursting with dead bodies, political intrigue, mystery and historical interest. All very good indeed.
However its main strength is in its wonderful characters and in particular of course, Sebastian and Hero. There is so much chemistry between the two of them and one day they are going to have to admit it to themselves.
Special note to Hero's big scene where she shows us exactly what she is made of, and then of course that last chapter was a delight in itself.
I am really looking forward to the next instalment:)
However its main strength is in its wonderful characters and in particular of course, Sebastian and Hero. There is so much chemistry between the two of them and one day they are going to have to admit it to themselves.
Special note to Hero's big scene where she shows us exactly what she is made of, and then of course that last chapter was a delight in itself.
I am really looking forward to the next instalment:)
April 12, 2023
5★
“ ‘You know,’ said Sebastian, rubbing his nose, ‘if you’d left the man in his grave where he belonged, you wouldn’t have a problem.’ ”
Rubbing his nose, indeed. Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Lord Devlin, is ‘visiting’ surgeon Paul Gibson, where a whiffy corpse is laid out on a slab. Gibson had just bought it from graverobbers, legal bodies being hard to come by for research. His problem is that he has discovered the young man didn’t die of heart failure, but was murdered.
Sebastian and Gibson have been friends since their military days, when Gibson lost a leg, leaving him with a wooden peg in its place. Sebastian has been responsible for solving several murders in the past, so who would be better to call for help?
The intrigue with this case involves the ongoing war with Napoleon (this is 1812), as well as the conflicts and alliances between Napoleon and other countries and between the other countries themselves. Several diplomats are involved, and as everyone knows, many of them have diplomatic immunity and can smuggle all kinds of documents and goods between countries.
The people who pass these to and from diplomats don’t have immunity, and that is the link that Sebastian sets out to find.
“ ‘You take an interest in diplomatic affairs.’
‘War tends to make us all students of diplomacy, does it not? There is a story that Napoléon once told the widow of the Marquis de Condorcet that he detested women who meddled in politics. Do you know her reply?’
Sebastian shook his head.
‘She said, “You are right, of course, General. But in a country where one cuts off women’s heads, it is natural that they should wish to know the reason why.” ”
England, France, Russia, Turkey, the Scandinavian countries – I’ve probably left some out, but all are involved in one way or another.
Meanwhile, the weak Prince Regent lets his cousin, Charles Lord Jarvis, run things as cleverly and ruthlessly as he likes. He is a dangerous opponent and an avowed enemy of Sebastian’s father, Lord Hendon.
A complication is that Sebastian and Lord Jarvis’s brilliant, free-thinking daughter got to know each other recently while solving crimes against prostitutes, a cause she is passionate about. In this story, Paul Gibson’s stolen corpse had been a handsome young man who was engaged to be married shortly.
The bride-to-have-been is bereft, of course. Hero can go places and speak to women who wouldn’t speak to Sebastian. They trust her. (They shouldn’t.)
“She swung back to face Hero. ‘You won’t tell anyone, will you?’
‘No, of course not,’ said Hero with earnest mendacity.”
Earnest mendacity. Perfect! The plot thickens as Hero takes an even more active part in this story, excelling herself at the end. I am perfectly happy to suspend disbelief and acknowledge her prowess. What a scene!
Sebastian’s personal life is bittersweet, an overused word but an apt one for his situation. And of course, the author leaves him (and us) with another small crumb of information about his background – just enough to keep us looking for the next book.
It’s a great series! Read them in order.
I’ve reviewed all of the previous books, if anyone is interested.
1. What Angels Fear
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
2. When Gods Die
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
3. Why Mermaids Sing
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
4. Where Serpents Sleep
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
5. What Remains of Heaven
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
“ ‘You know,’ said Sebastian, rubbing his nose, ‘if you’d left the man in his grave where he belonged, you wouldn’t have a problem.’ ”
Rubbing his nose, indeed. Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Lord Devlin, is ‘visiting’ surgeon Paul Gibson, where a whiffy corpse is laid out on a slab. Gibson had just bought it from graverobbers, legal bodies being hard to come by for research. His problem is that he has discovered the young man didn’t die of heart failure, but was murdered.
Sebastian and Gibson have been friends since their military days, when Gibson lost a leg, leaving him with a wooden peg in its place. Sebastian has been responsible for solving several murders in the past, so who would be better to call for help?
The intrigue with this case involves the ongoing war with Napoleon (this is 1812), as well as the conflicts and alliances between Napoleon and other countries and between the other countries themselves. Several diplomats are involved, and as everyone knows, many of them have diplomatic immunity and can smuggle all kinds of documents and goods between countries.
The people who pass these to and from diplomats don’t have immunity, and that is the link that Sebastian sets out to find.
“ ‘You take an interest in diplomatic affairs.’
‘War tends to make us all students of diplomacy, does it not? There is a story that Napoléon once told the widow of the Marquis de Condorcet that he detested women who meddled in politics. Do you know her reply?’
Sebastian shook his head.
‘She said, “You are right, of course, General. But in a country where one cuts off women’s heads, it is natural that they should wish to know the reason why.” ”
England, France, Russia, Turkey, the Scandinavian countries – I’ve probably left some out, but all are involved in one way or another.
Meanwhile, the weak Prince Regent lets his cousin, Charles Lord Jarvis, run things as cleverly and ruthlessly as he likes. He is a dangerous opponent and an avowed enemy of Sebastian’s father, Lord Hendon.
A complication is that Sebastian and Lord Jarvis’s brilliant, free-thinking daughter got to know each other recently while solving crimes against prostitutes, a cause she is passionate about. In this story, Paul Gibson’s stolen corpse had been a handsome young man who was engaged to be married shortly.
The bride-to-have-been is bereft, of course. Hero can go places and speak to women who wouldn’t speak to Sebastian. They trust her. (They shouldn’t.)
“She swung back to face Hero. ‘You won’t tell anyone, will you?’
‘No, of course not,’ said Hero with earnest mendacity.”
Earnest mendacity. Perfect! The plot thickens as Hero takes an even more active part in this story, excelling herself at the end. I am perfectly happy to suspend disbelief and acknowledge her prowess. What a scene!
Sebastian’s personal life is bittersweet, an overused word but an apt one for his situation. And of course, the author leaves him (and us) with another small crumb of information about his background – just enough to keep us looking for the next book.
It’s a great series! Read them in order.
I’ve reviewed all of the previous books, if anyone is interested.
1. What Angels Fear
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
2. When Gods Die
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
3. Why Mermaids Sing
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
4. Where Serpents Sleep
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
5. What Remains of Heaven
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 21, 2022
As with any really good mystery, I'm just along for the ride. Who did it? And why? I was completely clueless right to the end. I loved how the relationship between Hero and Sebastian is growing, even with the forced marriage and the specter of her father, Jarvis, haunting them every step of the way.
When Paul Gibson hears about a healthy young man that died of a heart attack, he wanted to acquire the body for study. What he finds is murder. He calls on his good friend, Sebastian, to find out the why. Alexander Ross is a member of the Foreign Office and involved with some sensitive diplomatic dealings at the time of his death. did these dealings get him killed or was it something else? By all accounts he was an honorable man, engaged to a beautiful girl. Now Sebastian has to find out who killed him and when he finds out that Honor Jarvis knows a lot about the players in this murder play, he is concerned for her safety because the bodies of his suspects just keep dropping.
When Paul Gibson hears about a healthy young man that died of a heart attack, he wanted to acquire the body for study. What he finds is murder. He calls on his good friend, Sebastian, to find out the why. Alexander Ross is a member of the Foreign Office and involved with some sensitive diplomatic dealings at the time of his death. did these dealings get him killed or was it something else? By all accounts he was an honorable man, engaged to a beautiful girl. Now Sebastian has to find out who killed him and when he finds out that Honor Jarvis knows a lot about the players in this murder play, he is concerned for her safety because the bodies of his suspects just keep dropping.
July 20, 2017
This is fast becoming my favourite series as each instalment gets better and better. I tried to read this slowly to prolong the enjoyment but ended up inhaling it as usual. Maybe this is one series I will have to re-read!
Sebastian St Cyr finds himself embroiled in another murder. But this time it's a murder the police do not know about. His friend, surgeon and anatomist Paul Gibson has discovered that one of the bodies provided to him by the body snatchers, did not die of a heart attack but of a wound to the back of his skull. Sebastian must tread quietly if he is to discover why this young man was killed so stealthily and who is behind it. What he finds is politically sensitive and involves the top echelons of government and diplomacy. This is awkward for Sebastian as he has just become engaged to Hero Jarvis, whose father Lord Jarvis is right hand man of his cousin the Regent, Prince George and enemy of Sebastian's father Lord Hendon.
While Hero and Sebastian see their marriage of one of convenience, they are clearly made for each other, but just haven't seen it yet. Hero is certainly a girl before her time, as her reaction to being abducted leaves no doubts. These two will definitely have a lively relationship and I'm looking forward to seeing more sparks fly.
Sebastian St Cyr finds himself embroiled in another murder. But this time it's a murder the police do not know about. His friend, surgeon and anatomist Paul Gibson has discovered that one of the bodies provided to him by the body snatchers, did not die of a heart attack but of a wound to the back of his skull. Sebastian must tread quietly if he is to discover why this young man was killed so stealthily and who is behind it. What he finds is politically sensitive and involves the top echelons of government and diplomacy. This is awkward for Sebastian as he has just become engaged to Hero Jarvis, whose father Lord Jarvis is right hand man of his cousin the Regent, Prince George and enemy of Sebastian's father Lord Hendon.
While Hero and Sebastian see their marriage of one of convenience, they are clearly made for each other, but just haven't seen it yet. Hero is certainly a girl before her time, as her reaction to being abducted leaves no doubts. These two will definitely have a lively relationship and I'm looking forward to seeing more sparks fly.
June 6, 2016
Sebastian St. Cyr finds himself in an unusual dilemma when his friend and surgeon, Paul Gibson, works on a resurrected body of a young man who reportedly died of heart failure but determines he was murdered. Sebastian must surreptitiously investigate without disclosing how he came to know of the true circumstances of Alexander Ross' death. In the meantime, he's also preparing for his marriage in less than a week.
This was SO good! Bodies piling up and the list of suspects longer than manageable, all with elusive motives. Sebastian and Hero's drama was almost palatable as they discover more about each other and contend with Jarvis in the background.
Everything about this story was well done. I hadn't a clue whodunit let alone why but the crazy ride was fun and the ending lived up to the building suspense. I'm just loving this series and can't wait for the next one.
This was SO good! Bodies piling up and the list of suspects longer than manageable, all with elusive motives. Sebastian and Hero's drama was almost palatable as they discover more about each other and contend with Jarvis in the background.
Everything about this story was well done. I hadn't a clue whodunit let alone why but the crazy ride was fun and the ending lived up to the building suspense. I'm just loving this series and can't wait for the next one.
October 1, 2016
Another excellent series. Its a great historical mystery.
January 20, 2018
It’s not going to be easy, investigating a murder no one knows occurred.
I decided to end a self-imposed moratorium on binge reading the series and once again plunge into fascinating and dangerous world of Sebastian St. Cyr.As with other instalments, the less is said about the plot the better. But let me assure you, it is un-put-downable as every chapter brings new turn and twist to the mystery while Sebastian navigates dangerous political waters and international intrigues to bring a murderer to justice. Ms. Harris seamlessly marries the plot with fascinating elements of history making the journey of solving mystery more enjoyable than the mystery itself.
I adore Sebastian. I adore his intelligence, his reserve, his honor, his unwavering dedication to seek the truth. He is an irresistibly sexy man. I’m glad with the direction Ms. Harris decided to go with Sebastian’s personal relationship. He depended too much on “the love of his life”, Kat, who seemed to drain him emotionally and physically. Hero, on the other hand, is so much better as his leading lady. She is the perfect partner for Sebastian – smart, independent, strong and admirable.
Hero and Sebastian's compatibility, whether they realize it yet, is quite obvious. The relationship between them is a subtle dance at this point. Ms. Harris shows that less is more in portraying the attraction between the two. The last chapter is especially lovely.
It could’ve been a 5-star book if for some moments in the plot that felt contrived and a certain scene where Hero quite aptly lives up to her name and does a few things that frankly, although very admirable in my eyes, were unrealistic.
I’m looking forward to the next installment.
November 9, 2018
Here the mystery is rather complicated because there’s not only one killer, but several!
Sebastian and Hero get involved in some unsavory happenings.
Some of them are hilarious:
… some of them heartbreaking …
… some highly dangerous
The story behind the killings is deeply rooted into politics. You don’t know who’s right and who’s wrong, but at the end you acknowledge that everybody is wrong. The villains were convinced that they were doing it for the glory of their respective countries, but I could feel Sebastian’s disgust in many cases, but also his compassion in some of them.
It’s a complicated case and I was left feeling that nobody won or got justice, except for the culprit for Heo’s abduction!
Sebastian and Hero get involved in some unsavory happenings.
Some of them are hilarious:
… some of them heartbreaking …
… some highly dangerous
The story behind the killings is deeply rooted into politics. You don’t know who’s right and who’s wrong, but at the end you acknowledge that everybody is wrong. The villains were convinced that they were doing it for the glory of their respective countries, but I could feel Sebastian’s disgust in many cases, but also his compassion in some of them.
It’s a complicated case and I was left feeling that nobody won or got justice, except for the culprit for Heo’s abduction!
”No one has immunity from Jarvis… or me.”
Sebastian stepped back. XXX’s dropped to his knees, his hands coming up to clutch his chest as he toppled forward.
“So much for your bloody immunity,” said Sebastian and swiped the dripping rain from his face.
June 5, 2018
Another fabulous instalment! In this one, apart from the progress in the relationship between Devlin and Hero, I learned a lot about international and diplomatic events during the period: that America wanted to seize Canada, that it took 6 weeks or more AFTER the event to learn that America had declared war on Britain; that Russia allied with Britain against Moscow ( when decades later we had the Crimean war); that Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland were also involved, bartering and negotiating over who ‘got to keep’ Finland (Russia) or Norway (Denmark). Britain was also paying Sweden large amounts of gold in the hope they would support the British.
The most interesting piece of information to me was the British navy ‘impressing’ American sailors.
The funniest part concerned the storage and exhumation of the first body that starts the book. As always, the role of the body snatchers and its interaction with the medical community, is endlessly fascinating!
I LOVE this series and wholeheartedly recommend it.
The most interesting piece of information to me was the British navy ‘impressing’ American sailors.
The funniest part concerned the storage and exhumation of the first body that starts the book. As always, the role of the body snatchers and its interaction with the medical community, is endlessly fascinating!
I LOVE this series and wholeheartedly recommend it.
December 9, 2019
My brain is leaking out of my ears after this mini (five books is mini considering the length of this series, okay) binge and my eyes are burning and I'm so late getting my arse to bed but I just wanted to say that the opening scene and the final scene.. five stars. Yes. I know you know what I'm talking about. I'm trash. I'm cool with it. But truly, any Hero scene? F i v e s t a r s.
That said, I hope we get more time of this new dynamic duo solving crimes and comparing notes. That's been such fun. But I am greedy and now expect more.
Couldn't give two figs about the mystery but like that's even a shock at this point.
That said, I hope we get more time of this new dynamic duo solving crimes and comparing notes. That's been such fun. But I am greedy and now expect more.
Couldn't give two figs about the mystery but like that's even a shock at this point.
March 24, 2011
I'd planned to take my time with this book. Planned to take my time and read it slowly because I know it's likely to be awhile before we get the next installment.
I started it last night at about 10:00 and finished it at about 3:00am.
So much for my big plans, huh?
Once I started reading, I literally could not force myself to stop. For me, though, it wasn't so much the mystery that kept me reading as it was for the interaction between Sebastian and Hero. While the mysteries themselves are always so well done, the main selling point for these books to me is the character interaction and development. Ms. Harris has crafted a wonderfully complex character in Sebastian St. Cyr, and Hero is proving to be the same.
(I'm putting the rest of this under a spoiler cut, though I'm not going into great detail, I do allude to some events that would be considered spoilers. Better safe than sorry, right?)
I started it last night at about 10:00 and finished it at about 3:00am.
So much for my big plans, huh?
Once I started reading, I literally could not force myself to stop. For me, though, it wasn't so much the mystery that kept me reading as it was for the interaction between Sebastian and Hero. While the mysteries themselves are always so well done, the main selling point for these books to me is the character interaction and development. Ms. Harris has crafted a wonderfully complex character in Sebastian St. Cyr, and Hero is proving to be the same.
(I'm putting the rest of this under a spoiler cut, though I'm not going into great detail, I do allude to some events that would be considered spoilers. Better safe than sorry, right?)
February 6, 2023
5 stars - Historical Mystery
I've listened to the audiobooks for the first six books in this series consecutively. The audiobook narrator, Davina Porter, is fantastic! Here's my ranking for the series, so far.
1st place/favorite -- Why Mermaids Sing, #3 -- 5+ stars
2nd place -- Where Serpents Sleep, #4 -- 5 stars
3rd place -- Where Shadows Dance, #6 5 stars
4th place -- What Angels Fear, #1 -- 5 stars
5th place -- When Gods Die, #2 -- 4 stars
6th place -- What Remains of Heaven, #5 -- 4 stars
Now on to the next book in the series!
I've listened to the audiobooks for the first six books in this series consecutively. The audiobook narrator, Davina Porter, is fantastic! Here's my ranking for the series, so far.
1st place/favorite -- Why Mermaids Sing, #3 -- 5+ stars
2nd place -- Where Serpents Sleep, #4 -- 5 stars
3rd place -- Where Shadows Dance, #6 5 stars
4th place -- What Angels Fear, #1 -- 5 stars
5th place -- When Gods Die, #2 -- 4 stars
6th place -- What Remains of Heaven, #5 -- 4 stars
Now on to the next book in the series!
October 12, 2016
Loving this series - the mysteries are well put-together and very topical for the time, and I am completely into the slowly unfolding romance.
March 21, 2011
I really wish that I could give this book more than three stars, because there are some really good things about it. The author clearly does research the period and it is interesting to have actual people and events woven into the narrative. I also like the two main characters, particularly Hero who is full of spunk.
However, Ms Harris' writing seems to bring out my inner pedant, which is something I find hugely frustrating when I read a novel. For example, a minor character towards the beginning of the novel is Astley Cooper, who was a prominent and influential surgeon of the period. In the novel, he is referred to as Dr Cooper. However, as a surgeon of that time, Cooper did not have a university degree. Surgery students were apprenticed to surgeons; medical students (who became physicians)went to university. Only physicians were accorded the title of "Doctor". Consequently, until relatively recently the correct title for a surgeon in Britain was "Mister" and not "Doctor". Another matter which brought out my inner pedant was the reference to a church as "St George's, Hanover", rather than "St George's, Hanover Square". (This was presumably an editing issue).
A further problem with Ms Harris' writing, in my opinion, is that it demonstrates a degree of laziness. There are times when I really wished she (or her editor) would make use of the thesaurus to which they no doubt have access. Some words are particularly overused. For example, in this novel, it was "hunkered". Sebastian did not crouch, bend down, bend over or kneel. He invariably "hunkered down" and the constant re-use of the same word was intrusive and irritating. Ms Harris also constantly re-uses the same descriptions: Hendon, for example, is hardly ever introduced into the narrative without his white hair and blue eyes being commented on.
In general terms the narrative also overuses the same plot points. Sebastian and Hero, either separately or together do very little investigation which does not involve going from one place to another in London and questioning their interlocateurs, who almost invariably answer all of their questions immediately (although not necessarily truthfully). This is interspersed with bouts of activitity in which they violently and efficiently dispose of their various assailants with no apparent repercussions.
I could go on about the problems I have with this novel, but I won't. Because for all my criticisms, I still enjoyed reading it and I will without doubt read the next instalment in the series. I guess this is because I like crime fiction and I love reading about the Regency period, so a series which combines both of those elements is pretty much a sure thing for me, even if the writing is not all I could hope for.
However, Ms Harris' writing seems to bring out my inner pedant, which is something I find hugely frustrating when I read a novel. For example, a minor character towards the beginning of the novel is Astley Cooper, who was a prominent and influential surgeon of the period. In the novel, he is referred to as Dr Cooper. However, as a surgeon of that time, Cooper did not have a university degree. Surgery students were apprenticed to surgeons; medical students (who became physicians)went to university. Only physicians were accorded the title of "Doctor". Consequently, until relatively recently the correct title for a surgeon in Britain was "Mister" and not "Doctor". Another matter which brought out my inner pedant was the reference to a church as "St George's, Hanover", rather than "St George's, Hanover Square". (This was presumably an editing issue).
A further problem with Ms Harris' writing, in my opinion, is that it demonstrates a degree of laziness. There are times when I really wished she (or her editor) would make use of the thesaurus to which they no doubt have access. Some words are particularly overused. For example, in this novel, it was "hunkered". Sebastian did not crouch, bend down, bend over or kneel. He invariably "hunkered down" and the constant re-use of the same word was intrusive and irritating. Ms Harris also constantly re-uses the same descriptions: Hendon, for example, is hardly ever introduced into the narrative without his white hair and blue eyes being commented on.
In general terms the narrative also overuses the same plot points. Sebastian and Hero, either separately or together do very little investigation which does not involve going from one place to another in London and questioning their interlocateurs, who almost invariably answer all of their questions immediately (although not necessarily truthfully). This is interspersed with bouts of activitity in which they violently and efficiently dispose of their various assailants with no apparent repercussions.
I could go on about the problems I have with this novel, but I won't. Because for all my criticisms, I still enjoyed reading it and I will without doubt read the next instalment in the series. I guess this is because I like crime fiction and I love reading about the Regency period, so a series which combines both of those elements is pretty much a sure thing for me, even if the writing is not all I could hope for.
September 29, 2018
Sebastian St. Cyr is having kind of a busy week: his bff Paul Gibson determined that one of his illegal cadavers was actually murdered; he's mad at the man he once knew as his father; another decomposed body is discovered with identical wounds to Gibson's cadaver; and Hero Jarvis has finally submitted to becoming his lawfully wedded (and already bedded OOPS) bride.
1. Anyone who claims Hero Jarvis isn't the star of this book is a LIAR. Her challenging Sebastian to ride the train! Her matter-of-fact announcement that she's changed her mind and will wed him "Preferably as soon as possible." Her own investigations into Ross's murder! Showing up at Sebastian's confrontation because she's figured out the other half of the case! AND THIS:
GET IT GIRL.
2. And then she fucking saves her own goddamned self because Hero Jarvis GETS SHIT DONE.
3. The case was: fine? I mean, obviously international relations are Important or so people tell me, but I do get a little ... bored by the ping-ponging narrative beats. Talk to A, who will send you to B, who will send you to C, who will send you on a dead end but not before mentioning something about A, who will send you to D, who will send you to B..." (Ultimately, C did it!!! C ALWAYS DID IT!!!)
Yes, I get that investigations aren't usually straight lines and this particular series likes to rely on the intricacies of human interaction rather than the "hard evidence" side of things, but maaaaan it gets to be tiring reading about Sebastian trekking up and down the country.
4. BUT HE LIKES HER OH MY GOD. I didn't even mind his goodbyes with Kat because it honestly felt like a real closure to their antics. Heaven knows if it'll stick, but I have hopes?
5. AND NOW THEY'RE MARRIED! MARRIED!!!
1. Anyone who claims Hero Jarvis isn't the star of this book is a LIAR. Her challenging Sebastian to ride the train! Her matter-of-fact announcement that she's changed her mind and will wed him "Preferably as soon as possible." Her own investigations into Ross's murder! Showing up at Sebastian's confrontation because she's figured out the other half of the case! AND THIS:
She watched him walk toward his waiting curricle, a tall, elegant figure with broad shoulders and a languid way of moving that for some reason brought to mind that fateful afternoon in the ruined gardens in Somerset House.
GET IT GIRL.
2. And then she fucking saves her own goddamned self because Hero Jarvis GETS SHIT DONE.
3. The case was: fine? I mean, obviously international relations are Important or so people tell me, but I do get a little ... bored by the ping-ponging narrative beats. Talk to A, who will send you to B, who will send you to C, who will send you on a dead end but not before mentioning something about A, who will send you to D, who will send you to B..." (Ultimately, C did it!!! C ALWAYS DID IT!!!)
Yes, I get that investigations aren't usually straight lines and this particular series likes to rely on the intricacies of human interaction rather than the "hard evidence" side of things, but maaaaan it gets to be tiring reading about Sebastian trekking up and down the country.
4. BUT HE LIKES HER OH MY GOD. I didn't even mind his goodbyes with Kat because it honestly felt like a real closure to their antics. Heaven knows if it'll stick, but I have hopes?
5. AND NOW THEY'RE MARRIED! MARRIED!!!
June 12, 2021
5 STARS
Loved this one! I am really enjoying how Hero's character is developing. She is the perfect companion for Sebastian. Even though he can be less than romantic at times.. she is completely unflappable. What a fantastic heroine she is shaping up to be.
I am fully engrossed in the series now. No way I can stop now. Of course there are repetitive elements, but honestly, they are becoming comforting to expect. And of course the bodies are piling up. Would someone please invent refrigeration, so Paul Gibson can at least put the corpses on ice!
On to Book 7!
“Lord love us, I need a drink,” said Calhoun, looking faintly green around the gills as he paused on the flagway in front of the chapel to draw in a deep breath of fresh air.
“I’ve dressed many a gentleman in my career—sober, drunk, and even dead. But I must say, this is the first time I’ve ever been called upon to dress one who was in bits.”
Loved this one! I am really enjoying how Hero's character is developing. She is the perfect companion for Sebastian. Even though he can be less than romantic at times.. she is completely unflappable. What a fantastic heroine she is shaping up to be.
I am fully engrossed in the series now. No way I can stop now. Of course there are repetitive elements, but honestly, they are becoming comforting to expect. And of course the bodies are piling up. Would someone please invent refrigeration, so Paul Gibson can at least put the corpses on ice!
On to Book 7!
July 21, 2024
4.3 stars
Book 6 and yes, this series is still delivering strong. The plot was smart and complex, with great twists and turns. I loved how Hero and Sebastian worked well together. The body count was quite high in this one, including these 'casual lives' taken by both Hero and Sebastian (what a woman Hero is!). But I have to say that with this book, Sebastian's personal incidental body tally is becoming consequent, along with his bodily injuries and the stress of always being targeted by the villains 😏. Thankfully, Bow Street does not seem to ask much questions on those incidents!
I am very happy with where the personal storyline is moving. I can't wait for more but I think for now, four St. Cyr books in a row is quite a good enough catch up session. I will certainly continue with more in the very near future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2020
Bravo! This is a great read! "Murder to the right 0f me, murder to the left of me, volley and thunder!🤔 Got to go get # 7 right now! Sebastian St. Cyr is one of my favorite sleuths and C. H. Harris, I consider a great writer. She adds wonderful bits of history to her period of this series and verifies them in her authors notes. She adds other timely customs and bits enhancing the storyline!👏
November 14, 2018
Four and a half stars
I may have a new favorite for the series here. Nope, no question about it, new favorite. Picking up roughly 2-3 weeks after the last book, we find that Gibson, Sebastian's anatomist/surgeon, friend has inadvertently stumbled upon the murder of a governmental official. Of course, Sebastian can't help but get involved. Now I'm not going to lie, this mystery left me a bit confused. There was too much political stuff going on for me to feel like I ever had a good grasp on things, what with Russian, French, and Turkish diplomats all being involved. Perhaps I'm showing my lack of prowess with world history but I freely admit that things got murky there for me for awhile. In the end though, I got it.
Along with his hunt for the murderer, Sebastian is also on a quest to do the honorable thing by Hero. Now, I should mention here that one of my favorite tropes is two people coming together in an arranged marriage or a marriage of convenience who eventually find real love with each other. If that's not your thing then fair warning because that's where I think things are headed with Sebastian and Hero. They are both naturally ambivalent about the future and given the animosity between their families, they have every right to be. But they also share a keen intelligence (and really, what is sexier than the brain?), a frankness, a sense of justice, and a dry sense of humor. Hero frequently provokes Sebastian to laughter when he least expects it and seeing him lighten up in those moments is a treat considering how serious the rest of his life is. And for his part, Sebastian can often tease a smile out of Hero despite her best efforts to keep an iron clamp on her emotions. The attraction continues to grow, as Sebastian often notes her smooth cheek, bare shoulders, lavender scent, and graceful neck. And when the collateral damage from Sebastian's investigation lands squarely at Hero's feet, she demonstrates yet again just why she is the perfect match for him. I just wanted to cheer for Hero in this one. I think it also served to show Sebastian just how much he may be starting to care.
With regards to other characters, I continue to enjoy Sebastian's friendship with Gibson. I still want more Aunt Henrietta but I'll happily take what I can get. I think we can all use someone like her in our lives. Sebastian's estrangement from his father makes me sad and I continue to hope for better things for them. I did really enjoy Hendon's moment with Hero however. Hopefully Sebastian comes around eventually but at least he made a significant gesture in this book.
As for the end, well.... *happy sigh*
Mystery...action...intrigue...drama...romance...it's all here.
I may have a new favorite for the series here. Nope, no question about it, new favorite. Picking up roughly 2-3 weeks after the last book, we find that Gibson, Sebastian's anatomist/surgeon, friend has inadvertently stumbled upon the murder of a governmental official. Of course, Sebastian can't help but get involved. Now I'm not going to lie, this mystery left me a bit confused. There was too much political stuff going on for me to feel like I ever had a good grasp on things, what with Russian, French, and Turkish diplomats all being involved. Perhaps I'm showing my lack of prowess with world history but I freely admit that things got murky there for me for awhile. In the end though, I got it.
Along with his hunt for the murderer, Sebastian is also on a quest to do the honorable thing by Hero. Now, I should mention here that one of my favorite tropes is two people coming together in an arranged marriage or a marriage of convenience who eventually find real love with each other. If that's not your thing then fair warning because that's where I think things are headed with Sebastian and Hero. They are both naturally ambivalent about the future and given the animosity between their families, they have every right to be. But they also share a keen intelligence (and really, what is sexier than the brain?), a frankness, a sense of justice, and a dry sense of humor. Hero frequently provokes Sebastian to laughter when he least expects it and seeing him lighten up in those moments is a treat considering how serious the rest of his life is. And for his part, Sebastian can often tease a smile out of Hero despite her best efforts to keep an iron clamp on her emotions. The attraction continues to grow, as Sebastian often notes her smooth cheek, bare shoulders, lavender scent, and graceful neck. And when the collateral damage from Sebastian's investigation lands squarely at Hero's feet, she demonstrates yet again just why she is the perfect match for him. I just wanted to cheer for Hero in this one. I think it also served to show Sebastian just how much he may be starting to care.
With regards to other characters, I continue to enjoy Sebastian's friendship with Gibson. I still want more Aunt Henrietta but I'll happily take what I can get. I think we can all use someone like her in our lives. Sebastian's estrangement from his father makes me sad and I continue to hope for better things for them. I did really enjoy Hendon's moment with Hero however. Hopefully Sebastian comes around eventually but at least he made a significant gesture in this book.
As for the end, well.... *happy sigh*
Mystery...action...intrigue...drama...romance...it's all here.
January 20, 2018
This sixth book in the Sebastian St. Cyr series is as solid as the previous mysteries. I don't think the mystery itself was my personal favorite, though I did quite enjoy it. But make no mistake, I loved this book because of Hero. Hero has appeared since What Angels Fear and in each subsequent book she is revealed to be complex and fascinating, though not always likeable in the way in which women are typically judged. She is often depicted as an androgynous character and she's the only character in the series with the ability to tame Lord Jarvis as well as intimidate Sebastian. On the other hand, she is vulnerable and compassionate as this book shows in a number of scenes. I have a bit of a girl crush on her and really want Sebastian to love her just as much.
In this book, Hero, after much vacillation in the previous book, has chosen what she calls "the most reasonable course of action" and decided to marry Sebastian and raise their child together. I loved her no-nonsense acceptance of his marriage proposal, but then again, every time Hero surprises Sebastian it is worth reading the book for that reason alone. Hero in the hands of her captors offers Sebastian his biggest moment of surprise yet, and if Hero-as-badass doesn't scare him off, nothing will.
Now affianced in this book, the couple do not though fall into pre-marital glee. On the contrary, Sebastian and Hero fret quite a bit about how their lives are going to change, and both seem very confident that life with the other is going to bring significant and unexpected changes. Not much time is spent on the draconian marriage laws in the UK but enough mention is made to alert readers that Sebastian is sensitive to Hero's concerns and intends to be a different kind of husband to her. The role of Hero in Sebastian's investigative life is one murky area where there will surely be contestation as both already have a history of hiding information from the other when it suits them. The role of wife in Sebastian's life is still open to speculation and one I am so looking forward to reading. Their attraction to each other is written so subtly and compelling though and I can well imagine their partnership taking time to develop. Nonetheless, progress is made here as both characters are forced to acknowledge their hidden attraction.
I have to give a nod too to Sebastian's own bad-ass qualities. He's increasingly a man willing to dispatch villains when necessary, but when Hero's life is on the line, he becomes more than willing. Can't wait for the next one!
In this book, Hero, after much vacillation in the previous book, has chosen what she calls "the most reasonable course of action" and decided to marry Sebastian and raise their child together. I loved her no-nonsense acceptance of his marriage proposal, but then again, every time Hero surprises Sebastian it is worth reading the book for that reason alone. Hero in the hands of her captors offers Sebastian his biggest moment of surprise yet, and if Hero-as-badass doesn't scare him off, nothing will.
Now affianced in this book, the couple do not though fall into pre-marital glee. On the contrary, Sebastian and Hero fret quite a bit about how their lives are going to change, and both seem very confident that life with the other is going to bring significant and unexpected changes. Not much time is spent on the draconian marriage laws in the UK but enough mention is made to alert readers that Sebastian is sensitive to Hero's concerns and intends to be a different kind of husband to her. The role of Hero in Sebastian's investigative life is one murky area where there will surely be contestation as both already have a history of hiding information from the other when it suits them. The role of wife in Sebastian's life is still open to speculation and one I am so looking forward to reading. Their attraction to each other is written so subtly and compelling though and I can well imagine their partnership taking time to develop. Nonetheless, progress is made here as both characters are forced to acknowledge their hidden attraction.
I have to give a nod too to Sebastian's own bad-ass qualities. He's increasingly a man willing to dispatch villains when necessary, but when Hero's life is on the line, he becomes more than willing. Can't wait for the next one!
June 25, 2020
What a great combination of history, murder mystery and slow burning romance.
I love the character of Hero Jarvis who doesn't wait for the hero to rescue her, but takes out three baddies who had the temerity to kidnap her in one foul swoop. I want to be her when I grow up, LOL.
4.5 stars
I love the character of Hero Jarvis who doesn't wait for the hero to rescue her, but takes out three baddies who had the temerity to kidnap her in one foul swoop. I want to be her when I grow up, LOL.
4.5 stars
October 18, 2020
You can’t help but love Sebastian St. Cyr. He is a likable and honorable man as well as an aristocratic sleuth. He’s a rebel to the Ton and yet is easily accepted in their orbit. Every branch of the ruling government asks for his help to solve these complicated murder cases. Ms. Harris has plenty of fodder for many, many future books…which is a good thing. We hope to see how he deals with his love for Kat and his attraction to Hero Jarvis who has just reluctantly become his wife for very noble reasons. We are also waiting to learn the identity of his real father and the whereabouts of his mother. It seems that each book in this series just gets better and better. Maybe it’s because the reader sees the characters continue to grow and change. The entire series thus far has been historical fiction at it’s very best.
Actual rating 4.5
Actual rating 4.5
October 28, 2020
2020
This continues to be one of my favourites in the series. I seriously enjoy how Hero and Sebastian learn to work together and share information in this one.
Also, I could have genuinely read another 100 pages of one or the other of them informing people they're about to get married. It never got old. Don't try and convince me with your logic that it isn't necessary, or that we'd quickly run out of characters.
I mean, there's also a mystery plot, but for me this novel is essentially Sebastian rocking up to someone he knows and going, "Oh, P.S. I'm getting married on Thursday. [Pause while the person recovers from that news] To Miss Hero Jarvis... Why yes her father has essentially tried to have me killed/incarcerated/publicly disgraced, and yes we met when I kidnapped her (and her maid). Does that mean you don't want to come?"
Add to that, they both shine in this one, and are equally well-matched. So enjoyable.
2018
Alright, this one is my favourite, I think. Maybe even more so than the last one. I just like when they solve crimes together. Particular favourite?
I just love how clearly well matched they are, and how interesting future books are going to be.
Also, I love how their interactions basically open with Sebastian going, "So, have you reconsidered my offer of marriage?" and Hero replying, "Yup. I'm accepting now."
And then he is all stunned. Then she pretends the train breaking down was thrilling so as to not ruin the inventor. Lady Hero Jarvis is awesome, is all I'm saying.
Also, the context of the war of 1812 was interesting. Usually these sorts of books gloss over that type of thing.
This continues to be one of my favourites in the series. I seriously enjoy how Hero and Sebastian learn to work together and share information in this one.
Also, I could have genuinely read another 100 pages of one or the other of them informing people they're about to get married. It never got old. Don't try and convince me with your logic that it isn't necessary, or that we'd quickly run out of characters.
I mean, there's also a mystery plot, but for me this novel is essentially Sebastian rocking up to someone he knows and going, "Oh, P.S. I'm getting married on Thursday. [Pause while the person recovers from that news] To Miss Hero Jarvis... Why yes her father has essentially tried to have me killed/incarcerated/publicly disgraced, and yes we met when I kidnapped her (and her maid). Does that mean you don't want to come?"
Add to that, they both shine in this one, and are equally well-matched. So enjoyable.
2018
Alright, this one is my favourite, I think. Maybe even more so than the last one. I just like when they solve crimes together. Particular favourite?
I just love how clearly well matched they are, and how interesting future books are going to be.
Also, I love how their interactions basically open with Sebastian going, "So, have you reconsidered my offer of marriage?" and Hero replying, "Yup. I'm accepting now."
And then he is all stunned. Then she pretends the train breaking down was thrilling so as to not ruin the inventor. Lady Hero Jarvis is awesome, is all I'm saying.
Also, the context of the war of 1812 was interesting. Usually these sorts of books gloss over that type of thing.
March 3, 2018
4.5 STARS
"No one has immunity from Jarvis...or me."
I'm six books in and these storylines just keep getting better! This installment had more political undertones than the last few books, but it was still entertaining. I haven't mentioned it, but I adore Paul and Tom. I can't wait to start book 7!
"No one has immunity from Jarvis...or me."
I'm six books in and these storylines just keep getting better! This installment had more political undertones than the last few books, but it was still entertaining. I haven't mentioned it, but I adore Paul and Tom. I can't wait to start book 7!
August 19, 2023
Probably my least favorite in the series thus far, but still enjoyed!
June 4, 2020
5+ Stars!!
(A Top 2020 Read)
Another favorite in this series. Although the mystery was at the forefront, I was fascinated by the subtle romance. I already knew how much I loved Sebastian St. Cyr, but over the course of the previous five books, I have slowly, but consistently become enamored with Hero Jarvis. I have loved watching her relationship with Sebastian evolve from mistrust and irritation to respect and fondness. Maybe, even some growing adoration. Seriously, one of the most romantic endings EVER! There was also an increase in wittiness throughout this book that tempered the grittiness of the murder mystery. Wit, romance, suspense...Perfection.
December 24, 2015
Rereading
January 13, 2020
Audio: 5 STARS!!
Story: 4.5 STARS!!
Story: 4.5 STARS!!
February 11, 2017
Where Shadows Dance
5 Stars
Sebastian St. Cyr comes to the aid of his friend, anatomist Paul Gibson, who has discovered that his newly acquired “speciman” is, in fact, a murder victim. As an employee of the Foreign Office, Alexander Ross’s death leads Sebastian to the upper echelons of the diplomatic corps with suspects from Turkey, Russia, Sweden, France and the United States. What would be important enough for these people to risk war in order to conceal?
The mystery returns once again to the political arena with numerous complex and crisscrossing clues that are difficult to follow at times, but ultimately lead to an exciting climax and a fairly cohesive resolution. Harris’s writing is immersive and her attention to historical detail draws the reader into the time period.
On the character front, it is Hero who grabs the reader’s attention. She is simply incredible - intelligent, witty and resilient. This woman can wield a pistol, a knife and a pot of scalding hot water like nobody's business. Do NOT get on her bad side :0)
Sebastian and Hero take their relationship to the next level and it is obvious that although they are more than compatible in the bedroom, there is still a long road ahead before they achieve the emotional attachment that is hinted at so subtly.
In sum, Where Shadows Dance is my favorite installment in the series so far and I am eager to find out what happens next with Sebastian, Hero and the rest of their friends and enemies.
5 Stars
Sebastian St. Cyr comes to the aid of his friend, anatomist Paul Gibson, who has discovered that his newly acquired “speciman” is, in fact, a murder victim. As an employee of the Foreign Office, Alexander Ross’s death leads Sebastian to the upper echelons of the diplomatic corps with suspects from Turkey, Russia, Sweden, France and the United States. What would be important enough for these people to risk war in order to conceal?
The mystery returns once again to the political arena with numerous complex and crisscrossing clues that are difficult to follow at times, but ultimately lead to an exciting climax and a fairly cohesive resolution. Harris’s writing is immersive and her attention to historical detail draws the reader into the time period.
On the character front, it is Hero who grabs the reader’s attention. She is simply incredible - intelligent, witty and resilient. This woman can wield a pistol, a knife and a pot of scalding hot water like nobody's business. Do NOT get on her bad side :0)
Sebastian and Hero take their relationship to the next level and it is obvious that although they are more than compatible in the bedroom, there is still a long road ahead before they achieve the emotional attachment that is hinted at so subtly.
In sum, Where Shadows Dance is my favorite installment in the series so far and I am eager to find out what happens next with Sebastian, Hero and the rest of their friends and enemies.
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