Josie Benson is a well-adjusted woman in her mid-twenties who runs a successful cybersecurity business and lives a very average life. She works primarily out of her peaceful home, which she shares with her cousin, Damien. True, she’s just coming off a break-up. And then there are the recurring nightmares that terrorize her sleep. But otherwise, her life is totally normal. After a relaxing afternoon with Damien, they return home to find a mysterious package left on the porch and addressed to Josie. The contents include an expensive necklace, an old music box, and a cryptic note referring to Josie as Celine with a plea to try to remember. Normalcy flies out the window as Josie discovers the source of the mystery gift. Fighting with her past, she struggles to come to grips with the unexpected source of her nightmares. Pulled in many directions, Josie will have to make some decisions that will end up hurting those most important to her.
Shadows of the Past is a riveting suspense novel led by a strong female protagonist. The overbearing ex-boyfriend is a nice contrast as Josie grapples with her emotions and even her sanity figuring things out. Damien, the introverted cousin, adds unanticipated warmth and depth, lending a pleasant tone to a borderline creepy story. The curious stranger that seems to be stalking Josie manifests himself in the most innocuous settings, adding to the air of intrigue. Nellie H. Steele displays excellent control in the pacing of the plot; each chapter delivers a new revelation or well-placed surprise, shaping the story in unpredictable ways. Fantasy daces with suspense in Shadows of the Past, a well-thought out and imaginative novel.
