ABOUT THE BOOK
I ruined a man’s life because I trusted the wrong person. That mistake turned my name radioactive.
Vegas forgives risk, not failure—and I learned fast that loyalty only goes one way when you’re the daughter no one ever wanted. Rosebud Investigations kept me alive, off-grid, and untouchable…
Until the Shadow Brides called with a contract I couldn’t refuse. One year. One groom.
Dante Valera—owner of Obsidian, king of Vegas, and the man who hates me most. He needs me to save his empire. I need him to help destroy my mother.
Attraction doesn’t make us allies. Danger doesn’t make us enemies. Marriage doesn’t make us safer. It makes us lethal.
He might own the city. But I own the game.
I’m Opal Greer. And when I gamble, I never fold.
MY REVIEW
Book 2 of the Shadow Brides series is about Opal and Dante, and OMG their story oozes with seduction. The dukes are up, and it’s intriguing to find out who comes out on top… innuendo intended.
I can’t tell you how much I adore Opal Greer Valera. She’s badass. She’s wicked smart. And she has unflinching confidence and acumen. She is the CEO of Rosebud Investigations, an all-women tech investigation firm, and she didn’t get there by bending to her client’s will, even if he is her temporary husband. Her arranged marriage to the infuriating Dante Valera is to discover who is trying to ruin him and his business. She’s in it for the money and for the hunt. She trusts no one since her mother screwed her over, and she is dangerous if provoked. We see that when her family is threatened, and her revenge is sweet.
He asked for a fix to his problems, and they gave him Opal Greer. Dante Valera is the owner of Obsidian, a prestigious nightclub with high-profile clientele, and someone wants to take him down. He’s a loner. He hates his new wife with a passion. And he adores a challenge, but doesn’t like to lose. I admired how Dante’s self-assuredness takes a hit when he meets the unflappable Opal, and then learns to respect her professional insight and her hint of vulnerability.
Opal and Dante take control when they enter a room together. Their chemistry is irresistible from the start, and I couldn’t wait for them to hook up. It’s fun to watch them slowly and unknowingly fall in love while fighting tooth and nail at every turn. But let’s not forget someone is trying to ruin Dante’s reputation, which he took years to build, and Opal is willing to remove them by any means necessary, including death.
Ms. McClaflin writes with passion, tenacity, and some technical terms that are beyond me, but it’s a fascinating premise that had me enthralled from beginning to end.
As for secondary characters, there are loyal friends who forgive and stand behind the protagonists, and there are backstabbing, evil enemies who get what they deserve.
If you like a great romance filled with seduction and angst, give this book a try, but I suggest you read Book 1 first to get a bigger picture of how Opal rises from the ashes.
Thank you to Ms. McClaflin for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
The Shadow Brides Series
- Veil of Fire (2025)
- The Damaged Bride (2026)
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sara McClaflin, a dedicated author of romance, crafts tales that are not only heart-melting but also delve into the delicate facets of humanity. Having spent the past few years as an avid reader, Sara transitioned from writing book reviews to creating her own narratives. Her passion for romance, in all its diverse forms, shines through as she weaves stories that resonate with readers.
Residing on the vibrant west coast with her husband and beloved dog, Sara McClaflin is surrounded by the inspiration of nature and the love of her family. In her world, there is no such thing as too many books or an overfilled “want to read” list, as each story unfolds new possibilities and adventures.
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