Shattering Dawn

Shattering Dawn concludes The Lost Night Files trilogy. However, you categorize it, urban fantasy, paranormal romantic suspense, or private investigation with a paranormal twist, this one has it all. Thrills, chills, action, suspicion, and an unsettling investigation rapidly pull readers into the story line.

Amelia Rivers is a member of the Lost Night Files podcast team. She hires private investigator Gideon Sweetwater to catch the person who has been stalking her. Amelia suspects the stalker may be connected to the organization responsible for the night she and her two friends lost to amnesia. That night changed their lives and left them with paranormal talents. Gideon isn’t sure if Amelia is a paranoid or a con artist, but he takes the case despite his skepticism. Both are wary of the chemistry between them and unsure of the other. However, when someone attempts to kidnap Amelia, they must learn to trust each other.

Amelia isn’t an overachiever like the rest of her family. She barely getting by doing photography. However, she has determination, is somewhat lonely, and is subject to anxiety attacks. Additionally, she tends to be afraid of the dark and her new paranormal talent works best at night. Gideon is lonely, curious, focused, and has good intuition. He also has trouble sleeping. Both characters have depth and are dynamic.

The novel is set in contemporary times and mainly in San Diego, California with some scenes in Lucent Springs in the desert two hours away. It’s a riveting story with protagonists that I liked and cheered on as they investigated who was stalking Amelia and how or if it relates to the night she can’t remember.

This story captivated me in the first chapter and gained momentum as the twists and turns unfolded. It’s also well-plotted with characters that had flaws, but who worked to overcome them. There are some surprising moments in the plot that added to enjoyment and the world-building is well-done. Full of action, investigation, paranormal experiences, and more, this book was hard to put down. My main quibble was that the romance part happened rather quickly. Other threads woven into the story include focus, control, trust, lack of trust, and much more.

Overall, it was suspenseful, full of danger, and action-packed. This story comes to a satisfying conclusion. However, I can see where a spin-off series or trilogy could go and hope that it happens. This story comes to a satisfying conclusion. However, I can see where a spin-off series or trilogy could go and hope that it happens. If you enjoy thrilling paranormal romantic suspense novels or urban fantasy, then I recommend you check out this trilogy.

Berkley Publishing Group and Jayne Ann Krentz provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 07, 2025.