Review: Third Grimm novella
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 09 23, 2012
"Crazed Hearts" by Shiloh Walker is the third story in her Grimm series and tells the tale of Ren as he meets Aileas. Their meeting is tarnished by the horrific transition of his trainee Mandy to Grimm status and complicated by Aileas' possession of an evil book. Ren has had his share of abuse as he was growing up due to his incredible powers of empathy and his talents as a Grimm are enhanced by his ability to communicate with animals. Aileas has had her own share of pain in her life and she's unsure where the voice whispering in her mind is coming from. Her encounter with Ren does little to convince her that she's not going crazy but the attractive male seems to understand more than she ever would have dreamed. Now, if only they both can stay alive long enough to develop a rapport and see where it leads.This was another of those interesting twists on a traditional tale about a well-known character and is just as intriguing as the others in the series. I am fascinated by the author's ability to craft a tale that is gripping and poignant while she explores a reluctant relationship between two damaged souls who find solace with each other. There is a fair amount of darkness and violence in this tale which is not quite to my tastes but it is somewhat offset by the sensual connection that forms between the main characters. The flashbacks are a bit disconcerting as they seem to be a bit erratic but the tale itself is interesting as always. A nice addition to the series. Night Owl ReviewsI received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.