Twisted Shadows

In the spellbinding second Sugar and Vice fantasy romance, Therin builds on both the slow-burning tension between empath Reece Davis and empath-hunter Evan Grayson and the governmental corruption at the heart of their dystopian world. After the events of Liar City, Reece is now in a precarious and unprecedented position, hovering between remaining a pacifist—an empath’s natural state—and becoming fully corrupted, a dangerous state in which empaths become violent and take others in their “thrall.” Meanwhile, Grayson, also known as the “Dead Man” due to his unique immunity to empathic powers, tracks empath murders across the country while trying to ensure Reece’s safety. Therin keeps the romance at a tantalizing simmer, continuing to heighten anticipation for when the dam breaks between these two. Though the numerous abbreviated governmental organizations involved in the surveillance and control of empaths can become a bit difficult to track, the worldbuilding is laudably intricate and fascinating and returning readers should get back up to speed quickly. The result is an exciting, action-packed sequel that entirely lives up to the promise of the original. Agent: Laura Zats, Headwater Literary. (Dec.)