Skeletons in the Closet (Shadowy Solutions Book 1) by Nicky James

 

Skeletons In The Closet is a new series by Nicky James with a new and unusual investigative duo. Private investigator Diem doesn't want to ask the gorgeous records clerk for help, but he can't seem to stay away and Tallus doesn't want to let him go.


From the blurb:

The last thing Diem Krause wanted to do was ask for Tallus’s help.   

The too-hot-for-his-own-good records clerk was so far outside Diem’s league that he became tongue-tied in his presence. Six months ago, after an embarrassingly unimpressive exchange in the bedroom that accentuated Diem’s flaws, he swore never to go near the sultry man again.

When a new case lands on Diem’s desk, one involving a dead, allegedly unfaithful husband, Diem exhausts every means of investigation until he has no choice but to seek out the man he swore never to see again.

Tallus has skills Diem doesn’t. In addition to being confident and sociable, Tallus can act and help him get answers.

But inviting Tallus into his case means relinquishing control, and Diem hates not being in control. Not only is the Toronto Police Department’s records clerk fanatical about investigative work, but he also has a thing for making Diem uncomfortable and pushing his boundaries.

When the case takes a dark and dangerous turn, the two spend far too many long nights trying to puzzle things out. Tallus’s flirty, suggestive behavior is going to get them in trouble, and the last thing Diem wants is to end up in bed with him again. It was a disaster the first time, and Diem doesn’t want to revisit the shame.

Will Diem be able to resist Tallus’s charm?

Can the two work together to solve the unusual case without crossing lines?

Diem isn’t so sure. He doesn’t want a partner. He doesn’t need a lover.

But with Tallus Domingo, he somehow ends up with both.


SNiK's Review:

First in series (Shadowy Solutions), best if read after the prequel (Invisible Scars). Mystery. Hurt/comfort. Grumpy/sunshine. Opposites attract. Slow burn. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.

Tallus is bored being a police records clerk, so when he gets an opportunity to help private investigator Diem with another case he jumps in with both feet. But Diem doesn’t want or need a partner, especially not one that ties him up in emotional and lust filled knots, and Diem definitely doesn’t feel worthy of Tallus’ attention. Both Diem and Tallus have difficult backgrounds and disappointments in life, but Tallus is purposeful in living his best life possible where Diem struggles with any kind of interactions that might make him feel happy.

Tallus’ willingness to constantly put effort into working and socializing with Diem is admirable, and the peeks we get into Diem’s past makes him an empathetic character perhaps worthy of someone giving a damn. Every moment with them on page together was entertaining, with meaningful conversations, and heartfelt little steps that hopefully will lead them to something special. And let’s not forget the fun mystery with a twist and some cute cameos from the author’s other most recent detective duo. I can’t wait for more in this series.

Skeletons In The Closet is currently available as an e-book and paperback and can be read as part of your Kindle Unlimited Subscription