Book Review: Twisted Miracles by A.J. Larrieu

Twisted Miracles (Shadowminds #1)
A.J. Larrieu
Urban Fantasy
Published: April 2014

Goodreads

I used to read more Urban Fantasy than I do now, though I do occasionally pick them up if the book is well recommended, or it seems to have a new angle off the vampire/werewolf stuff (though I recently read the very engaging The Trouble with Fate by Leigh Evans which involves werewolves and is fantastic (it also has a sentient amulet as a legit side character.)).

In Twisted Miracles, Cassandra is traumatized by her telekinectic gift which led to a classmate's death when she was newly experiencing her powers. Now, years later, she's summoned back home to New Orleans after her best friend turns up missing. Cass and her ex Shane, who is her best friend's brother, use their powers to search the underbelly of New Orleans, and discover the kidnapper is targeting those who have abilities.

The New Orleans setting really comes alive, where unique elements of the bayou and the French quarter add flavor to the story. This is also a world that feels fully realized. First books in a series have a lot of work to do, and this one does well at introducing elements as they're necessary, all while keeping the story moving along.

And I have to say this. The tension between Cass and Shane is really well done. Because they have a history, their past hurts color everything they say or do around each other. Their relationship is difficult and messy, and it's interesting to see how they need each other and at the same time, what they refuse to admit. As "heat levels" go with romance, this climbs up there at times. And it's amazing how the telekinesis and mind powers became sensual between Cass and Shane--some truly inventive writing that impressed me.