What do you think?
Rate this book
Of Shadows and Secrets #2
Falkirk
(Alternate cover edition of ASIN B0CL9MWX5P.)
Two men. Their first mission. The fate of Europe hangs in the balance.
They met at Harvard and fell in love. Now, they are headed behind enemy lines.
Will and Thomas, freshly christened agents in America’s newly established Office of Strategic Services, are dropped into occupied France with one simple
Help the resistance and sabotage enemy supply lines.
But nothing in war is simple.
The constant fear of discovery tests the limits of Will and Thomas’s relationship. They’re in love, but in war, is love enough?
Then a member of their team overhears a Nazi officer and a scientist discussing an insidious new weapon that could tip the balance of the war, and everything changes.
Two men. Their first mission. The fate of Europe hangs in the balance.
They met at Harvard and fell in love. Now, they are headed behind enemy lines.
Will and Thomas, freshly christened agents in America’s newly established Office of Strategic Services, are dropped into occupied France with one simple
Help the resistance and sabotage enemy supply lines.
But nothing in war is simple.
The constant fear of discovery tests the limits of Will and Thomas’s relationship. They’re in love, but in war, is love enough?
Then a member of their team overhears a Nazi officer and a scientist discussing an insidious new weapon that could tip the balance of the war, and everything changes.
348 pages, ebook
Published October 17, 2023
111 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
Casey Morales
45 books391 followersCasey Morales is an LGBT storyteller and the author of multiple bestselling MM romance novels. Born in the Southern United States, Casey is an avid tennis player, aspiring chef, dog lover, and ravenous consumer of gummy bears.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
November 9, 2023
Morales turned up the tension - and not just the spicy kind!
While Crimson is a M/M romance with a historic setting... Falkirk is a historical fiction with a M/M romance. In my humble opinion, this genre needs a lot of love and Morales has come to its rescue. Will and Thomas, our boyish Harvard students, are uprooted and tossed headlong into war. Their biggest threat at Harvard was being outed as lovers and cast out of society. Now, they risk being outed as spies and killed by Nazis. I'm invested.
I did scratch my head at some of the spies' judgement calls. Despite being warned not to drop their covers even behind closed doors...they do it a few times. I was especially surprised when they used their real names during an intimate moment. What if the room was tapped or someone had an ear to their door?
I loved the references section at the end of the book. Morales does a great job of balancing entertainment, education, and respect.
Finally...In the separate collection of "spicy scenes," Morales addresses the questions I had in my review of Crimson. This is his way of appealing to a wider variety of readers and platforms without abandoning these scenes entirely. Plus, the scenes are all in a convenient single file this time! 😁
Thank you for the opportunity to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
While Crimson is a M/M romance with a historic setting... Falkirk is a historical fiction with a M/M romance. In my humble opinion, this genre needs a lot of love and Morales has come to its rescue. Will and Thomas, our boyish Harvard students, are uprooted and tossed headlong into war. Their biggest threat at Harvard was being outed as lovers and cast out of society. Now, they risk being outed as spies and killed by Nazis. I'm invested.
I did scratch my head at some of the spies' judgement calls. Despite being warned not to drop their covers even behind closed doors...they do it a few times. I was especially surprised when they used their real names during an intimate moment. What if the room was tapped or someone had an ear to their door?
I loved the references section at the end of the book. Morales does a great job of balancing entertainment, education, and respect.
Finally...In the separate collection of "spicy scenes," Morales addresses the questions I had in my review of Crimson. This is his way of appealing to a wider variety of readers and platforms without abandoning these scenes entirely. Plus, the scenes are all in a convenient single file this time! 😁
Thank you for the opportunity to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
September 11, 2025
I'm glad that we're no longer stuck at the school and we got a bit more action in the war and with the Nazis. Still a bit annoyed with how many people know about the MCs relationship, I need to feel the higher stakes with that and for things to be a bit darker. Everyone can 'just see it' and be accepting of it? It doesn't make sense to me in these circumstances.
But I enjoy Will and Thomas and their friends. I do hope this series becomes darker, I starting to feel a reluctance to read it. Glad we got some espionage in this one.
But I enjoy Will and Thomas and their friends. I do hope this series becomes darker, I starting to feel a reluctance to read it. Glad we got some espionage in this one.
October 19, 2023
This book takes you on a gripping journey through the tumultuous backdrop of World War II, blending the complexities of love and espionage into a heart-pounding adventure. Will and Thomas, two young lovers, are not your typical secret agents. Their mission: assist the resistance and undermine enemy supply lines. The stage is set, the stakes are high, and the fate of the world hangs in the balance.
As you follow their journey from Harvard sweethearts to undercover heroes, you'll be riveted by the constant danger and fear of discovery that tests the boundaries of their love. Can love survive the chaos of war?
But when they stumble upon a Nazi officer and a scientist conspiring on an insidious new weapon, the plot takes an exhilarating turn. Suddenly, it's not just about love – it's about saving the world.
"Falkirk" is a thrilling blend of romance, espionage, and suspense that will keep you turning the pages until the very end. Casey Morales will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and action, reminding us that in the darkest times, love can be a beacon of hope. Don't miss this heart-pounding adventure that will leave you on the edge of your seat!
I was utterly captivated by this book; it offered such an exhilarating journey that I found myself breathless long after turning the final page. I am eagerly waiting for the next volumes of this epic series.
As you follow their journey from Harvard sweethearts to undercover heroes, you'll be riveted by the constant danger and fear of discovery that tests the boundaries of their love. Can love survive the chaos of war?
But when they stumble upon a Nazi officer and a scientist conspiring on an insidious new weapon, the plot takes an exhilarating turn. Suddenly, it's not just about love – it's about saving the world.
"Falkirk" is a thrilling blend of romance, espionage, and suspense that will keep you turning the pages until the very end. Casey Morales will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and action, reminding us that in the darkest times, love can be a beacon of hope. Don't miss this heart-pounding adventure that will leave you on the edge of your seat!
I was utterly captivated by this book; it offered such an exhilarating journey that I found myself breathless long after turning the final page. I am eagerly waiting for the next volumes of this epic series.
October 20, 2023
Absolutely amazing, edge of the seat adventure with just the enough romance to keep you begging for more. And signing up for the newsletter to get the bonus spicy scenes.
This is the second book in Casey Morales new OSS Historical romance series. We left Will and Thomas as having just graduated from Harvard and discovering their first new mission in Crimson. Now we join them on their new overseas mission that is their first oh WWII.
What happens when what was supposed to be a simple mission turns into life and death across enemy lines? How do they keep their love for one another a secret while trying to make their country proud and save humanity? Do they both escape unscathed?
Guess you’ll have to read Code name: Falkirk to find out.
This is the second book in Casey Morales new OSS Historical romance series. We left Will and Thomas as having just graduated from Harvard and discovering their first new mission in Crimson. Now we join them on their new overseas mission that is their first oh WWII.
What happens when what was supposed to be a simple mission turns into life and death across enemy lines? How do they keep their love for one another a secret while trying to make their country proud and save humanity? Do they both escape unscathed?
Guess you’ll have to read Code name: Falkirk to find out.
June 28, 2025
Must Read More!
This series has everything. Excitement! Tenderness! Mystery! Sadness! Love! I must read on! These characters are so real that I forget that I am reading a story. These characters and their story will not let me go. I don't want to be let go. I must read on.
This series has everything. Excitement! Tenderness! Mystery! Sadness! Love! I must read on! These characters are so real that I forget that I am reading a story. These characters and their story will not let me go. I don't want to be let go. I must read on.
November 17, 2024
FIRST, IF YOU'RE GOING TO WRITE HISTORICAL FICTION, KNOW THE HISTORY!
After reading the first book in this series (Crimson), I was complimentary of Morales attempt to combine a love story, (albeit a "M/M" romance and we know what that means), between two men, Thomas and Will, soldiers, beginning in the lead up to and then continuing through the Second World War. I'm a retired history teacher, love reading historical fiction. I'm also a gay and a love story between to soldiers during this time in history seem to me the perfect combination for a great read.
I liked the first book well enough. The two men meet a Harvard, Will is a student, and Thomas is a naval officer placed there after Pearl Harbor along with a whole contingent of "squids" for enhanced training in preparation for the upcoming conflict. Morales, however, gets a few things wrong historically. He references an appeal made to the United Nations. It's 1942. The U.N. isn't created until 1946. Ooops. He may have been thinking of the U.N.'s predecessor, the League of Nations, a Woodrow Wilson creation following the First World War, but that fell apart in the 1930s after the Japanese invaded China and the West looked away. He also includes in his text "current" news articles, but his footnotes state these were published in January 1941 and in this story it's already 1942. O.K., these are small mistakes, perhaps, that I was willing to overlook.
However, his loose handling of historical fact gets so worse in this second book, I stopped being emersed in the story and just was scan-reading for other gross errors he makes in the historical record. These are the three biggest examples:
1. Will and Thomas are operatives, spies, sent into Berlin as a covert team sent to uncover information about a Nazi secret weapon. While this "mission" seems highly improbable, its because its believability is not sustained with enough subtext, I can let that slide. This is fiction after all. Morales, however, uses the largest "Catholic" Cathedral in the center of Berlin as a place of refuge for the team. Except it's not "Catholic." It's a protestant church. Before German unification, Prussia, it's capital in Berlin, was a fiercely protestant country. The southern German states were aligned with Vienna and the Hapsburgs and they're the Catholics... Hundred Years War and all between the two.
2. The team manages to get out of Berlin and flies to an English airfield some thirty miles north of London. There, according to Morales, they observe many British fighter "jets" (JETS!) parked on the tarmac. At the very end of the war, the Germans put up the first jet engine powered fighter planes, but it's way too little too late and they have no impact. The British never get jet fighters until right before the Korean Conflict in 1948. This error was actually a "LOL" for me and I could no longer take Morales's storytelling seriously.
3. At the end of the book, Will and Thomas are embedded with British marines on a submarine making its way toward the Dutch coast to execute a very dangerous mission. Thomas (or was it Will, doesn't matter?) looks out one of the "few windows" of the submarine, noticing shadows moving in the darkness which give him a sense of foreboding. Somebody should have told Morales (or better he should have asked), do military submarines have windows? No, they don't; never had "windows" then or now. Another "LOL" not quite on par with the jet engines, but it's close.
It's not just these glaring examples, I felt like Morales watched a lot of 1950s WWII films and reworked some of their scenes and dialog for his story. The plot isn't actually a terrible storyline really. It's just that Morales's execution never quite lands. It has moments, but overall, it seemed a "B" war move in book form. I couldn't get beyond the historical errors and began to feel angry I'd wasted my time.
O.K, this review is harsh I admit. Another criticism I reference in my review of the first novel which gets worse in this one is the explicit descriptions of sex. I get it. It's "M/M" fiction and this is expected. Still, there's only so many things two people can do when having sex unless you want to get way too kinky with it and Thomas and Will don't seem the type. Rather than describing the same explicit acts again and again (on a table, in a barn, against a wall, behind a tree, even a bed!), why not be more creative and suggestive and let us imagine the love making? Also occurring too much in the first book and then truly overboard in this one is the hyperbole Morales uses as Thomas and Will repeatedly express their love for one another and their worry that they will lose each another. Oh, the love that's "deeper than one hundred oceans," or how I fear we might die that might make my heart beat out right out of my chest as I stared deeply into the pool of light in his Safire blue eyes, feeling his hot breath on my face as I rested my chin on his chest, my favorite spot in the world! Blah, blah, blah, blah. I get they love one another; you don't have to tell me repeatedly. These frequent sections of the book got eye-rolling dull very quickly.
"So besides that, how did you like the play Mrs. Lincoln?" I just got the sense that Morales is a writer of M/M fiction and thought it would be a great idea to set one of his stories with World War II as a backdrop. As I said above, I generally embraced the concept. It's just Morales didn't execute it very well by doing his historical homework. There is at least one more book in this series, but I'm afraid I'm done. I assume Will and Thomas will make it out of World War II alive and have lots and lots of... you know... love... over and over again.
After reading the first book in this series (Crimson), I was complimentary of Morales attempt to combine a love story, (albeit a "M/M" romance and we know what that means), between two men, Thomas and Will, soldiers, beginning in the lead up to and then continuing through the Second World War. I'm a retired history teacher, love reading historical fiction. I'm also a gay and a love story between to soldiers during this time in history seem to me the perfect combination for a great read.
I liked the first book well enough. The two men meet a Harvard, Will is a student, and Thomas is a naval officer placed there after Pearl Harbor along with a whole contingent of "squids" for enhanced training in preparation for the upcoming conflict. Morales, however, gets a few things wrong historically. He references an appeal made to the United Nations. It's 1942. The U.N. isn't created until 1946. Ooops. He may have been thinking of the U.N.'s predecessor, the League of Nations, a Woodrow Wilson creation following the First World War, but that fell apart in the 1930s after the Japanese invaded China and the West looked away. He also includes in his text "current" news articles, but his footnotes state these were published in January 1941 and in this story it's already 1942. O.K., these are small mistakes, perhaps, that I was willing to overlook.
However, his loose handling of historical fact gets so worse in this second book, I stopped being emersed in the story and just was scan-reading for other gross errors he makes in the historical record. These are the three biggest examples:
1. Will and Thomas are operatives, spies, sent into Berlin as a covert team sent to uncover information about a Nazi secret weapon. While this "mission" seems highly improbable, its because its believability is not sustained with enough subtext, I can let that slide. This is fiction after all. Morales, however, uses the largest "Catholic" Cathedral in the center of Berlin as a place of refuge for the team. Except it's not "Catholic." It's a protestant church. Before German unification, Prussia, it's capital in Berlin, was a fiercely protestant country. The southern German states were aligned with Vienna and the Hapsburgs and they're the Catholics... Hundred Years War and all between the two.
2. The team manages to get out of Berlin and flies to an English airfield some thirty miles north of London. There, according to Morales, they observe many British fighter "jets" (JETS!) parked on the tarmac. At the very end of the war, the Germans put up the first jet engine powered fighter planes, but it's way too little too late and they have no impact. The British never get jet fighters until right before the Korean Conflict in 1948. This error was actually a "LOL" for me and I could no longer take Morales's storytelling seriously.
3. At the end of the book, Will and Thomas are embedded with British marines on a submarine making its way toward the Dutch coast to execute a very dangerous mission. Thomas (or was it Will, doesn't matter?) looks out one of the "few windows" of the submarine, noticing shadows moving in the darkness which give him a sense of foreboding. Somebody should have told Morales (or better he should have asked), do military submarines have windows? No, they don't; never had "windows" then or now. Another "LOL" not quite on par with the jet engines, but it's close.
It's not just these glaring examples, I felt like Morales watched a lot of 1950s WWII films and reworked some of their scenes and dialog for his story. The plot isn't actually a terrible storyline really. It's just that Morales's execution never quite lands. It has moments, but overall, it seemed a "B" war move in book form. I couldn't get beyond the historical errors and began to feel angry I'd wasted my time.
O.K, this review is harsh I admit. Another criticism I reference in my review of the first novel which gets worse in this one is the explicit descriptions of sex. I get it. It's "M/M" fiction and this is expected. Still, there's only so many things two people can do when having sex unless you want to get way too kinky with it and Thomas and Will don't seem the type. Rather than describing the same explicit acts again and again (on a table, in a barn, against a wall, behind a tree, even a bed!), why not be more creative and suggestive and let us imagine the love making? Also occurring too much in the first book and then truly overboard in this one is the hyperbole Morales uses as Thomas and Will repeatedly express their love for one another and their worry that they will lose each another. Oh, the love that's "deeper than one hundred oceans," or how I fear we might die that might make my heart beat out right out of my chest as I stared deeply into the pool of light in his Safire blue eyes, feeling his hot breath on my face as I rested my chin on his chest, my favorite spot in the world! Blah, blah, blah, blah. I get they love one another; you don't have to tell me repeatedly. These frequent sections of the book got eye-rolling dull very quickly.
"So besides that, how did you like the play Mrs. Lincoln?" I just got the sense that Morales is a writer of M/M fiction and thought it would be a great idea to set one of his stories with World War II as a backdrop. As I said above, I generally embraced the concept. It's just Morales didn't execute it very well by doing his historical homework. There is at least one more book in this series, but I'm afraid I'm done. I assume Will and Thomas will make it out of World War II alive and have lots and lots of... you know... love... over and over again.
December 18, 2023
I am providing my honest opinion after reading an ARC.
I am so glad I got to read the next instalment in this series. I am so wrapped up in their adventure, and love being immersed in WWII. The boys finally see the war, after spending the first book learning to be secret agents, and being able to see them navigate the challenges thrown their way had me on the edge of my seat.
There were some grammatical and continuity errors, but I am genuinely hooked and cannot wait for book 3.
I am so glad I got to read the next instalment in this series. I am so wrapped up in their adventure, and love being immersed in WWII. The boys finally see the war, after spending the first book learning to be secret agents, and being able to see them navigate the challenges thrown their way had me on the edge of my seat.
There were some grammatical and continuity errors, but I am genuinely hooked and cannot wait for book 3.
October 21, 2023
“Falkirk” is the second novel in Casey Morales’s new Of Shadows & Secrets series. If you have not already read the first book “Crimson” – DO IT! Yes, it is helpful in reading “Falkirk” but also, it is just a FANTASTIC read! For those familiar with Morales’s previous HAE MM Romance novels, this series is a bit of a departure. You will find the authors trademark well developed, witty, and captivating main characters, a supporting cast you adore, heartwarming romance, and a fully flushed-out, attention grabbing storyline, but all set in a wonderful historical fiction, suspense thriller trope. If you are new to Casey’s work, I hope you have your therapist on speed dial or know of a local 12-step program, because once you enter the pages of his books, you will experience the gambit of emotions, you will be emotionally wrecked in the best way, you will laugh, cry, smile, scream and curse…and quite possibly become addicted to his story telling.
I won’t give any spoilers away from the story, but “Falkirk” is set in the 1940’s Europe and revolves around 2 new spies Will and Thomas and a supporting cast of characters from the American Office of Strategic Services (precursor to the CIA), carrying out dangerous missions behind enemy lines. Chapter one grabs you immediately, and you experience the depth of emotions Morales so easily brings to his writing – there is anger, hate, joy, sadness, tears, and love all within the first pages of Chapter 1. Those emotions sink their nails into the reader, they tell you to buckle up for the ride that is about to come and leave you breathless to learn how this story will all unfold…all before you turn the page to chapter 2.
Will and Thomas begin their careers as spies, dropped off behind enemy lines in a small town outside of Paris, France. Their mission seems straight forward…track, monitor, report and disrupt Nazi movements. But life is anything but straight forward for these two. Missions take a turn, life gets very dangerous, actions have serious consequences. Morales doesn’t only weave a tale of romance, friendship, hardship, and hear-racing thrills, he portrays the reality of live in the European theater during WWII – the struggles, the terror, the atrocities caused by the Nazis. The historical context alone, accurate, chilling, vibrant can be enough to stir strong emotions and the realistically painted back drop of the war becomes an integral character in the story.
In “Falkirk”, Morales has created a story that is a fast paced, edge-of-your-seat spy thriller wrapped up in a MM romance that will leave readers’ heart racing, emotionally wrecked, in love with the characters, all while being transported through history – raw, real history. By the end you probably will be cursing Morales -for his masterful ability to illicit visceral responses to a heartwarming and gut-wrenching story, and for the constant stress of not knowing: will they? won’t they? can they survive? stay together? succeed? is the constant fear of death and separation too much? As a writer, Morales will play your emotions like a maestro – love, hate, passion, fear, joy, sadness, but also hope. Most important to me, something Morales is brilliant at while taking readers on a journey, is leaving them with hope.
“Falkirk” is a well written novel with characters you root for, cheer for, embrace, and a few you despise. A work of thoroughly researched historical events intertwined with an amazing fictional MM love story. (Note: Morales has cleverly created links for his over 18, non-PG13 scenes – allowing readers to decide how much spice they are looking for in their MM romance, and it allows for readers not interested in the spice to continue uninterrupted in their reading – opening the novel to a wider audience.) This novel would perfect for readers of any genre, be it historical fiction like “The Secret Stealers”, witty, heart-warming MM romance like “Red, White & Royal Blue”, or the suspense and thrills of the “Jack Ryan” series. I was completely absorbed in the story from beginning until the end…left wanting more. I mean really wanting more, the second book ends with a cliff hanger and I CANNOT WAIT for book 3.
I won’t give any spoilers away from the story, but “Falkirk” is set in the 1940’s Europe and revolves around 2 new spies Will and Thomas and a supporting cast of characters from the American Office of Strategic Services (precursor to the CIA), carrying out dangerous missions behind enemy lines. Chapter one grabs you immediately, and you experience the depth of emotions Morales so easily brings to his writing – there is anger, hate, joy, sadness, tears, and love all within the first pages of Chapter 1. Those emotions sink their nails into the reader, they tell you to buckle up for the ride that is about to come and leave you breathless to learn how this story will all unfold…all before you turn the page to chapter 2.
Will and Thomas begin their careers as spies, dropped off behind enemy lines in a small town outside of Paris, France. Their mission seems straight forward…track, monitor, report and disrupt Nazi movements. But life is anything but straight forward for these two. Missions take a turn, life gets very dangerous, actions have serious consequences. Morales doesn’t only weave a tale of romance, friendship, hardship, and hear-racing thrills, he portrays the reality of live in the European theater during WWII – the struggles, the terror, the atrocities caused by the Nazis. The historical context alone, accurate, chilling, vibrant can be enough to stir strong emotions and the realistically painted back drop of the war becomes an integral character in the story.
In “Falkirk”, Morales has created a story that is a fast paced, edge-of-your-seat spy thriller wrapped up in a MM romance that will leave readers’ heart racing, emotionally wrecked, in love with the characters, all while being transported through history – raw, real history. By the end you probably will be cursing Morales -for his masterful ability to illicit visceral responses to a heartwarming and gut-wrenching story, and for the constant stress of not knowing: will they? won’t they? can they survive? stay together? succeed? is the constant fear of death and separation too much? As a writer, Morales will play your emotions like a maestro – love, hate, passion, fear, joy, sadness, but also hope. Most important to me, something Morales is brilliant at while taking readers on a journey, is leaving them with hope.
“Falkirk” is a well written novel with characters you root for, cheer for, embrace, and a few you despise. A work of thoroughly researched historical events intertwined with an amazing fictional MM love story. (Note: Morales has cleverly created links for his over 18, non-PG13 scenes – allowing readers to decide how much spice they are looking for in their MM romance, and it allows for readers not interested in the spice to continue uninterrupted in their reading – opening the novel to a wider audience.) This novel would perfect for readers of any genre, be it historical fiction like “The Secret Stealers”, witty, heart-warming MM romance like “Red, White & Royal Blue”, or the suspense and thrills of the “Jack Ryan” series. I was completely absorbed in the story from beginning until the end…left wanting more. I mean really wanting more, the second book ends with a cliff hanger and I CANNOT WAIT for book 3.
November 22, 2023
I really, really, REEEALLY, don't know what to write or how to describe anymore what this man does with his stories. I mean, from his first steps with his "autobiographical" series (Raised by Wolves Complete Box Set, through his next series (Nashville Spicy Complete Series) until reaching this last one, each and every one of his books, written within the fresh and original style of him, have been unique. All of them have touched on one or more sensitive topics, some even quite hard to digest, and he has done it in an incredible way, which left me amazed from the first to the last.
Do you have any idea how hard it must be to write one book after another without falling back into the typical clichés, gifting the reader with original plots (I mean, real plots, people!), not just pages full of words only to fill a space? Well, this man is that talented. And with every book I read by him, I'm the one who feels speechless every time I have to write a review. Also, this time, I didn't even notice if there were any grammatical or continuity errors, because... WHO CARES??? Maybe when I re-read them, (yes, these is a must re-read series) I'll look them up, but in the meantime, I just want to enjoy the ride!
And since I don't want to make this much longer, I'm going to tell you this: Falkirk is the second book in the Of Shadows and Secrets series, and it continues the story of two men who meet at Harvard but meet again in the least expected place, who embark fully on a career where betrayals are the order of the day, in a time where not only a relationship between them would be almost impossible, but in a world where survival is more difficult every day. It is an exciting story, which constantly has you sitting on the edge of your seat, holding your breath and praying that Thomas and Will will achieve their goal, save the world and live their love.
Highly, highly recommended. Do yourself a favor, and read not only Crimson and Falkirk, but all the books that Casey has written so far, and you will realize what a beautiful gift it is to be able to read this author.
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
Do you have any idea how hard it must be to write one book after another without falling back into the typical clichés, gifting the reader with original plots (I mean, real plots, people!), not just pages full of words only to fill a space? Well, this man is that talented. And with every book I read by him, I'm the one who feels speechless every time I have to write a review. Also, this time, I didn't even notice if there were any grammatical or continuity errors, because... WHO CARES??? Maybe when I re-read them, (yes, these is a must re-read series) I'll look them up, but in the meantime, I just want to enjoy the ride!
And since I don't want to make this much longer, I'm going to tell you this: Falkirk is the second book in the Of Shadows and Secrets series, and it continues the story of two men who meet at Harvard but meet again in the least expected place, who embark fully on a career where betrayals are the order of the day, in a time where not only a relationship between them would be almost impossible, but in a world where survival is more difficult every day. It is an exciting story, which constantly has you sitting on the edge of your seat, holding your breath and praying that Thomas and Will will achieve their goal, save the world and live their love.
Highly, highly recommended. Do yourself a favor, and read not only Crimson and Falkirk, but all the books that Casey has written so far, and you will realize what a beautiful gift it is to be able to read this author.
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
October 22, 2023
Falkirk by Casey Morales is the second book in the Of Shadows and Secrets series, and it is an amazing addition to this literary journey. The story follows Will and Tom, a pair of young lovers whose initial encounter occurs in the halls of Harvard. Later they turn undercover heroes embarking on dangerous missions behind enemy lines during the tumultuous era of World War II.
The pages of this book are filled with a sense of imminent danger with the ever-present uncertainty of survival against the background of history. The story delves deep into this unrelenting danger, probing the emotional intensity and fear of being discovered that tests the strength of Will and Thomas' love. They and their team are tasked with offering essential assistance to the resistance forces and undermine the logistical operations of the Nazis.
Falkirk skilfully weaves together elements of espionage, suspense, and romance that compels readers to flip each page impatiently. This incredible journey during the turmoil of WWII blends the complexities of love and the cloak-and-dagger world of espionage, resulting into a thrilling adventure. Casey takes the reader into an emotional whirlwind that can be felt even after having finished the book.
This book captivated my full attention and kept me hooked the whole time while reading it. I was completely fascinated by Falkirk, and the exhilarating journey continued to echo within me long after I had turned the final page. I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book of this series.
With an ending that leaves you yearning for more, Falkirk is a thrilling, heart-pounding adventure that immerses you in the trials and tribulations of its characters. This book is a must-read for enthusiasts of historical fiction and romance.
I received an ARC from the author for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
The pages of this book are filled with a sense of imminent danger with the ever-present uncertainty of survival against the background of history. The story delves deep into this unrelenting danger, probing the emotional intensity and fear of being discovered that tests the strength of Will and Thomas' love. They and their team are tasked with offering essential assistance to the resistance forces and undermine the logistical operations of the Nazis.
Falkirk skilfully weaves together elements of espionage, suspense, and romance that compels readers to flip each page impatiently. This incredible journey during the turmoil of WWII blends the complexities of love and the cloak-and-dagger world of espionage, resulting into a thrilling adventure. Casey takes the reader into an emotional whirlwind that can be felt even after having finished the book.
This book captivated my full attention and kept me hooked the whole time while reading it. I was completely fascinated by Falkirk, and the exhilarating journey continued to echo within me long after I had turned the final page. I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book of this series.
With an ending that leaves you yearning for more, Falkirk is a thrilling, heart-pounding adventure that immerses you in the trials and tribulations of its characters. This book is a must-read for enthusiasts of historical fiction and romance.
I received an ARC from the author for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
October 22, 2023
I’ve said it before, but Casey Morales is one helluva storyteller! In the first book in the Of Secrets and Spies series, I was enthralled with the story of Will Shaw and Thomas Jacob as they navigated military training and falling in love as America is on the precipice of war.
In Code Name: Falkirk, they are leaving the safety of Harvard to travel overseas and begin their first mission as undercover operatives.
I loved a familiar face is their very own M - and code named Stork.
A secret mission that finds them moving across Europe, experiencing decadence and deprivation, honing their spy-craft with danger at every turn. Their sense of fear and uncertainty who to trust is palpable.
I loved the little moments Will and Thomas were able to steal, reaffirming their commitment to each other. Even pretending to be someone else, their love never wavers.
Everything about this book rings true, from the truly harrowing first chapter to the edge of your seat, heartbreaking climax.
Castles, eerie lochs, and Gothic churches all set atmospheric and unforgettable scenes.
Will and Thomas are a formidable team and I love both of them.
The book ends on a hopeful note, but, being a student of history I fear things will get worse for our flock before they get better. (I wait in hope for a post-war Thomas and Will enjoying life on a vast estate in the Scottish Highlands, free from prying eyes and judgment.)
I’m going to reiterate my plea for Netflix to turn these books into a series. The cinematic writing along with the crackling plot, action, and romance are just begging to be filmed.
Read. This. Book! And if you haven’t read Crimson (book one) yet, go back and read that one, too. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In Code Name: Falkirk, they are leaving the safety of Harvard to travel overseas and begin their first mission as undercover operatives.
I loved a familiar face is their very own M - and code named Stork.
A secret mission that finds them moving across Europe, experiencing decadence and deprivation, honing their spy-craft with danger at every turn. Their sense of fear and uncertainty who to trust is palpable.
I loved the little moments Will and Thomas were able to steal, reaffirming their commitment to each other. Even pretending to be someone else, their love never wavers.
Everything about this book rings true, from the truly harrowing first chapter to the edge of your seat, heartbreaking climax.
Castles, eerie lochs, and Gothic churches all set atmospheric and unforgettable scenes.
Will and Thomas are a formidable team and I love both of them.
The book ends on a hopeful note, but, being a student of history I fear things will get worse for our flock before they get better. (I wait in hope for a post-war Thomas and Will enjoying life on a vast estate in the Scottish Highlands, free from prying eyes and judgment.)
I’m going to reiterate my plea for Netflix to turn these books into a series. The cinematic writing along with the crackling plot, action, and romance are just begging to be filmed.
Read. This. Book! And if you haven’t read Crimson (book one) yet, go back and read that one, too. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 1, 2025
Casey Morales proves his mastery once again with Falkirk, the gripping second installment in the Of Shadows & Secrets series. Picking up after Will and Thomas’s graduation in the previous novel, the story catapults readers into their first overseas mission during World War II. What begins as a seemingly routine assignment quickly escalates into a harrowing odyssey of love, danger, and the fight for survival.
As in the first book, Morales’s writing shines, delivering a vivid and unflinching portrayal of Nazi-occupied Europe. Through expertly crafted prose, he immerses us in the horrors of war, making the protagonists' struggles feel immediate and visceral. The tension is relentless, and every moment feels high-stakes.
While Falkirk can technically be read as a standalone, I strongly advise against it. Much of its emotional depth comes from the ongoing development of both the main and supporting characters, particularly the tender yet resilient bond between Will and Thomas. One standout moment in Will’s arc is when he’s reminded that his love for Thomas is visible in his eyes. This realization forces him to confront the risks they face, shifting his perspective from that of a privileged, naive Harvard student to a man grappling with the deadly realities of their mission.
With its high-stakes adventure and tantalizing cliffhangers, Falkirk will leave readers eager for the next chapter, Hallum. Without spoiling too much, I can only urge others to embark on this thrilling espionage ride—you won’t want to miss the twists and turns ahead.
In short, Falkirk is a testament to Morales’s skill as a storyteller, delivering a heart-pounding blend of suspense, romance, and historical intrigue that will leave readers breathless until the very last page. I’ll also be updating this review with my thoughts on the audiobook once I’ve had the chance to listen, so stay tuned!
As in the first book, Morales’s writing shines, delivering a vivid and unflinching portrayal of Nazi-occupied Europe. Through expertly crafted prose, he immerses us in the horrors of war, making the protagonists' struggles feel immediate and visceral. The tension is relentless, and every moment feels high-stakes.
While Falkirk can technically be read as a standalone, I strongly advise against it. Much of its emotional depth comes from the ongoing development of both the main and supporting characters, particularly the tender yet resilient bond between Will and Thomas. One standout moment in Will’s arc is when he’s reminded that his love for Thomas is visible in his eyes. This realization forces him to confront the risks they face, shifting his perspective from that of a privileged, naive Harvard student to a man grappling with the deadly realities of their mission.
With its high-stakes adventure and tantalizing cliffhangers, Falkirk will leave readers eager for the next chapter, Hallum. Without spoiling too much, I can only urge others to embark on this thrilling espionage ride—you won’t want to miss the twists and turns ahead.
In short, Falkirk is a testament to Morales’s skill as a storyteller, delivering a heart-pounding blend of suspense, romance, and historical intrigue that will leave readers breathless until the very last page. I’ll also be updating this review with my thoughts on the audiobook once I’ve had the chance to listen, so stay tuned!
October 29, 2023
This is a WW2 espionage suspense thriller with a dash of M/M Romance. Honestly, it’s better to delve into this story without knowing more lot details. The first chapter provides a clue as to what their first mission will be. The plot was fast paced and I resumed reading every chance I got (and read within in 24 hours).
In the first book of this series (Crimson), the reader meets Thomas and Will, both being trained at Harvard for missions behind enemy lines in Europe. Love blossoms between the pair and they continue their secret relationship trying to avoid being caught. I couldn’t help but like the characters and hope that they manage to continue their happiness. There were a couple of links to sex scenes not included in the novel. I think this was a wise move in order to capture a wide readership. I do read smut scenes but was too absorbed in the story on my Kindle to bother going to another devise to click the links.
We briefly have a scene with Arty from the first book, and I honestly can’t remember if Janie appeared. We are introduced to new secondary characters, whom I enjoyed. I hope that we find out more about them in future books. With a few sentences, the local characters were well formed. I particularly liked Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg, and hope that she features in future books.
I absolutely will read another book in this series. It’s refreshing to discover LGBTQ characters in novels that aren’t solely in the romance or fantasy genders.
4.5 stars.
In the first book of this series (Crimson), the reader meets Thomas and Will, both being trained at Harvard for missions behind enemy lines in Europe. Love blossoms between the pair and they continue their secret relationship trying to avoid being caught. I couldn’t help but like the characters and hope that they manage to continue their happiness. There were a couple of links to sex scenes not included in the novel. I think this was a wise move in order to capture a wide readership. I do read smut scenes but was too absorbed in the story on my Kindle to bother going to another devise to click the links.
We briefly have a scene with Arty from the first book, and I honestly can’t remember if Janie appeared. We are introduced to new secondary characters, whom I enjoyed. I hope that we find out more about them in future books. With a few sentences, the local characters were well formed. I particularly liked Baroness Isabella von Hohenberg, and hope that she features in future books.
I absolutely will read another book in this series. It’s refreshing to discover LGBTQ characters in novels that aren’t solely in the romance or fantasy genders.
4.5 stars.
November 3, 2023
In this volume, we follow Will and Thomas on their first spy mission. They get to know their new teams and reach the heart of a war from which they were still far removed. Going undercover in a hostile land, not knowing who they can really trust, who will be the next to turn out to be a double agent? The tension keeps us on our toes from start to finish, and to survive this mission, their training will come in handy, but so will a good dose of luck.
As with the first novel, the book is well researched and well written. We discover new characters who are just as charming. We fear for them and with them.
And to avoid spoilers... I'll just conclude by saying that I can't wait for the sequel!
Dans ce tome, on suit Will et Thomas dans leur première mission d'espion. Ils vont découvrir leurs nouvelles équipes et rejoindre le coeur de cette guerre dont il restait encore éloigné. Naviguer sous couverture en terre hostile, ignorer à qui ils peuvent réellement faire confiance, qui sera le prochain à se révéler être un agent double ? La tension nous tient en haleine du début à la fin du livre, pour survivre à cette mission, leur entraînement va se réveler être utile, mais également une bonne dose de chance.
Comme pour le premier roman, le livre est bien documenté, et très bien écrit. On découvre de nouveaux personnages tout aussi charmants. On a peur pour eux et avec eux.
Et pour ne pas spoiler... je concluerai simplement sur le fait que je suis impatiente d'avoir la suite !
As with the first novel, the book is well researched and well written. We discover new characters who are just as charming. We fear for them and with them.
And to avoid spoilers... I'll just conclude by saying that I can't wait for the sequel!
Dans ce tome, on suit Will et Thomas dans leur première mission d'espion. Ils vont découvrir leurs nouvelles équipes et rejoindre le coeur de cette guerre dont il restait encore éloigné. Naviguer sous couverture en terre hostile, ignorer à qui ils peuvent réellement faire confiance, qui sera le prochain à se révéler être un agent double ? La tension nous tient en haleine du début à la fin du livre, pour survivre à cette mission, leur entraînement va se réveler être utile, mais également une bonne dose de chance.
Comme pour le premier roman, le livre est bien documenté, et très bien écrit. On découvre de nouveaux personnages tout aussi charmants. On a peur pour eux et avec eux.
Et pour ne pas spoiler... je concluerai simplement sur le fait que je suis impatiente d'avoir la suite !
November 16, 2023
4.5⭐️
I really loved the first book in this series. Now, Will and Thomas are done with college and working for the OSS, the war is in full swing, and the tension is rising. I don’t read a lot of period mm romance, it is hard to find balance between the history and the romance. Here, Casey Morales hits the right balance. I loved the detail and research the author clearly put into this book, you really feel part of the time and place. The danger of the times feels real, and the author doesn’t hold back on the terrors of war. The stakes are so high for Will and Thomas’s mission and with the discovery of a new terrifying Nazi weapon, the potential destruction of the world is a very real danger. I loved seeing how Will and Thomas have grown, how strong their love has become. The last few chapters had my heart in my throat, I can’t wait to read what comes next for Will and Thomas. Excellent, gripping read.
Note: My rating is based on the skill of the storytelling and the compelling characters, both are exceptional. While I get the reasons behind having the steamy scenes in a separate file to appeal to a wider audience, for me it interferes with the reading experience, takes me out of the book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I really loved the first book in this series. Now, Will and Thomas are done with college and working for the OSS, the war is in full swing, and the tension is rising. I don’t read a lot of period mm romance, it is hard to find balance between the history and the romance. Here, Casey Morales hits the right balance. I loved the detail and research the author clearly put into this book, you really feel part of the time and place. The danger of the times feels real, and the author doesn’t hold back on the terrors of war. The stakes are so high for Will and Thomas’s mission and with the discovery of a new terrifying Nazi weapon, the potential destruction of the world is a very real danger. I loved seeing how Will and Thomas have grown, how strong their love has become. The last few chapters had my heart in my throat, I can’t wait to read what comes next for Will and Thomas. Excellent, gripping read.
Note: My rating is based on the skill of the storytelling and the compelling characters, both are exceptional. While I get the reasons behind having the steamy scenes in a separate file to appeal to a wider audience, for me it interferes with the reading experience, takes me out of the book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 3, 2023
After having read Crimson, the first book in this series and which I highly recommend is read before this book, I was so happy that I had been given the opportunity to read Falkirk next.
This book continues straight on from the first book so very smoothly and I loved it.
This is a fast paced historical mm romance and I couldn't put it down.As with the first book Crimson, I couldn't guess what was going to happen next in this story either.
Will and Thomas, new secret agents for the newly formed OSS, are plunged head long into the frightening brutality of occupied France. Experiencing the constant fear of discovery, the uncertainty about who they are truly able to trust and we,as the readers, are right alongside them.
They are there,along with their team,to primarily,aid the resistance in their fight to disrupt the occupiers.By accident,they discover plans that set them onto a different extremely dangerous path.
At the end of this book there is a written piece giving historical facts upon which this book is based on/set around and I really liked that.
I don't want to say too much about this,although I really do,as I don't want to spoil this exciting historical espionage thriller for anyone.
I received an arc copy of this book from Book Sirens and this is my honest review.
This book continues straight on from the first book so very smoothly and I loved it.
This is a fast paced historical mm romance and I couldn't put it down.As with the first book Crimson, I couldn't guess what was going to happen next in this story either.
Will and Thomas, new secret agents for the newly formed OSS, are plunged head long into the frightening brutality of occupied France. Experiencing the constant fear of discovery, the uncertainty about who they are truly able to trust and we,as the readers, are right alongside them.
They are there,along with their team,to primarily,aid the resistance in their fight to disrupt the occupiers.By accident,they discover plans that set them onto a different extremely dangerous path.
At the end of this book there is a written piece giving historical facts upon which this book is based on/set around and I really liked that.
I don't want to say too much about this,although I really do,as I don't want to spoil this exciting historical espionage thriller for anyone.
I received an arc copy of this book from Book Sirens and this is my honest review.
January 29, 2024
A perfect blend of world history, mystery, and MM romance
Florida author Casey Morales continues to impress with this excellent second volume – FALKIRK – of his exciting new series ‘Of Shadows & Secrets.’ To his highly respected series of MM romance novels Casey now adds historical fiction (World War II) complete with espionage overtones to his palette and the result is not only an engrossing (and credible) story, but also an even higher plane of writing skill. The initial volume – CRIMSON – set the stage and now the mystery continues.
The primary characters – Will and Thomas – whom we met in volume one are now in the 1940’s Europe, serving as spies with the American Office of Strategic Services, carrying on involving and dangerous missions behind enemy lines. The admixture of world history, military tactics, and romance makes this novel one of Casey’s best.
For an even more keen involvement with this novel, read the initial episode first: this book stands alone, but getting to know Will and Thomas before departing for the war heightens the enjoyment. Highly recommended for all readers – with or without the steam of MM romance!
Florida author Casey Morales continues to impress with this excellent second volume – FALKIRK – of his exciting new series ‘Of Shadows & Secrets.’ To his highly respected series of MM romance novels Casey now adds historical fiction (World War II) complete with espionage overtones to his palette and the result is not only an engrossing (and credible) story, but also an even higher plane of writing skill. The initial volume – CRIMSON – set the stage and now the mystery continues.
The primary characters – Will and Thomas – whom we met in volume one are now in the 1940’s Europe, serving as spies with the American Office of Strategic Services, carrying on involving and dangerous missions behind enemy lines. The admixture of world history, military tactics, and romance makes this novel one of Casey’s best.
For an even more keen involvement with this novel, read the initial episode first: this book stands alone, but getting to know Will and Thomas before departing for the war heightens the enjoyment. Highly recommended for all readers – with or without the steam of MM romance!
October 19, 2023
In the continuation of "Crimson", Will and Thomas become part of a team going behind enemy lines during WWII. You must read the first in the series before this as you are immediately dropped into the action. The two men have only stolen moments in the midst of a breath holding mission. You are on the edge of your seat as you devour each page, so absorbed in this intense story. Will there be a betrayal? Will they survive? Will they be able to love each other again? In this gripping book, you are terrorized by the knowledge that these times and circumstances happened, that the general content is true, that people lived and suffered fighting Hitler and his atrocities and Casey places you right in the thick of it. Will and Thomas are constantly aware that death is imminent, only worsened by the fact that they could lose each other. With an ending that makes you beg for more, this book was enthralling from cover to cover, as much as "Crimson". I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
January 20, 2025
More action this time
I enjoyed Crimson, which was in essence a warm-up novel before the real action with Will and Thomas at Harvard, training for things so secret, even they don't know what awaits them in their futures.
Now, they are really catapulted into the deep end and the reality of war hits hard. There's less romance in this one, though they do still sigh and swoon like teenage girls a lot. There's a lot of travelling undercover across Europe, their mission evolving as they go. They had help along the way, and I loved the Baroness, a truly fascinating character.
While this is a novel and poetic licence has been taken, some things just jar as they're so obviously wrong, like windows in a submarine, and these simple mistakes pulled me out of the story. Using their real names sometimes, despite being admonished at every turn that you never know who is listening, was just plain stupid, not to mention dangerous.
Despite the above, I did enjoy the story and I'm on to the next one.
I enjoyed Crimson, which was in essence a warm-up novel before the real action with Will and Thomas at Harvard, training for things so secret, even they don't know what awaits them in their futures.
Now, they are really catapulted into the deep end and the reality of war hits hard. There's less romance in this one, though they do still sigh and swoon like teenage girls a lot. There's a lot of travelling undercover across Europe, their mission evolving as they go. They had help along the way, and I loved the Baroness, a truly fascinating character.
While this is a novel and poetic licence has been taken, some things just jar as they're so obviously wrong, like windows in a submarine, and these simple mistakes pulled me out of the story. Using their real names sometimes, despite being admonished at every turn that you never know who is listening, was just plain stupid, not to mention dangerous.
Despite the above, I did enjoy the story and I'm on to the next one.
October 25, 2023
This book puts us right into the action with Will and Thomas during WWII. They are given their assignments, which drops them and their team behind enemy lines. They not only have to keep their cover while trying to gather information but also still have to keep their relationship from their team and anyone else watching. I'm so glad that we get to continue to see their relationship grow as they fight to keep their team and themselves alive. This part of their journey is action-packed and kept me turning the page to find out what will happen next. I enjoyed the addition to the cast while being in the middle of war. Thomas has to deal with not only being their leader but also trying to keep the person he loves out of danger. This is not easy for him or Will having to deal with knowing that at any moment they could lose each other. The emotions definitely run high during this whole book.
I can wait to see what Casey has in store for us next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I can wait to see what Casey has in store for us next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2023
Completely compelling! Casey Morales takes a jog in his career to give us a lovely romance between two Harvard men who are sent on their first mission into occupied Europe during WWII. It helps to read the first book in the "Of Shadows and Secrets," Crimson, since it establishes the relationship between Will and Thomas and shows how they were trained for their work. This book is harrowing. Our hearts are in our throats as they face danger, unexpected problems, and ultimately, loss and dread. The book ends with a cliffhanger, so we just have to wait for the next book to get the next mission.
This is not a standard m/m romance, but there is some steam for those who want it. Casey has taken a chance that readers of suspense and history will follow and love our boys as well. We should appreciate how difficult gay life was in the past, especially how much Nazis hated gay people.
I received an ARC from Booksirens and from the author and left this review voluntarily.
This is not a standard m/m romance, but there is some steam for those who want it. Casey has taken a chance that readers of suspense and history will follow and love our boys as well. We should appreciate how difficult gay life was in the past, especially how much Nazis hated gay people.
I received an ARC from Booksirens and from the author and left this review voluntarily.
November 22, 2023
Will and Thomas have just been sent on their first mission after Will graduated. They are sent as part of a team of four into occupied France to gather intel about the Germans and contact the resistance. Their mission is harrowing from the beginning as they travel across parts of Europe to track down a new weapon. This is action packed with a bit of history thrown in, with the flavor of the times and the constant danger involved for agents behind enemy lines. The love between Will and Thomas is as strong as ever, and it can be a blessing and a curse in their situation. They are helped by strong, brave characters wherever they go, and you are kept on the edge of your seat for our two main characters, right up to the last page. There had better be a book 3, at least, to see what challenges our duo face next. I am ready for it now.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 5, 2024
AMAZING
This book is so much more than Will and Thomas's relationship. It is about espionage with so much suspense.
Will and Thomas met at Harvard. Will being a student and Thomas already being enlisted. Will enlisted so his friend, Arty, wouldn't join alone. Thomas, Will, and two others are now dropped into enemy territory with nothing but themselves.
I feel like I cried through the whole of chapter 2. Other times, I had to fight the lump. I'm just thinking of these young men getting ready to go to the unknown. Ugh, have tissues handy. I also experienced anger and had many WTH moments.
Casey has done it again with book 2. That ending.........
Talk about action packed and a page turner. This series is nothing like Casey has written in the past. He told an extraordinary story. I can't wait to dive I to book 3. In which I believe it is to be the final in this series. You must read these books in order. They are not standalones.
This book is so much more than Will and Thomas's relationship. It is about espionage with so much suspense.
Will and Thomas met at Harvard. Will being a student and Thomas already being enlisted. Will enlisted so his friend, Arty, wouldn't join alone. Thomas, Will, and two others are now dropped into enemy territory with nothing but themselves.
I feel like I cried through the whole of chapter 2. Other times, I had to fight the lump. I'm just thinking of these young men getting ready to go to the unknown. Ugh, have tissues handy. I also experienced anger and had many WTH moments.
Casey has done it again with book 2. That ending.........
Talk about action packed and a page turner. This series is nothing like Casey has written in the past. He told an extraordinary story. I can't wait to dive I to book 3. In which I believe it is to be the final in this series. You must read these books in order. They are not standalones.
June 27, 2024
This is the second book in this series and it is as good if not better than the first, which I didn’t think was possible. This series is a new standard for gay historical romantic thrillers.
I have fallen completely in love with both Will & Thomas. In the first book we were shown how they met, feel in love and trained together. This book puts all their intense training into action. It’s not easy for them to hide their love or watch each other go into dangerous situations but they find a way to make things work.
I read this in less than 24 hours because it was just too good to be away from for long. I’m looking forward to the next in the book. My only complaint is that I have heard that will be the last in the series! So hope that isn’t true.
I received an arc and this is my voluntary review.
I have fallen completely in love with both Will & Thomas. In the first book we were shown how they met, feel in love and trained together. This book puts all their intense training into action. It’s not easy for them to hide their love or watch each other go into dangerous situations but they find a way to make things work.
I read this in less than 24 hours because it was just too good to be away from for long. I’m looking forward to the next in the book. My only complaint is that I have heard that will be the last in the series! So hope that isn’t true.
I received an arc and this is my voluntary review.
October 19, 2023
This is the second book of the author's "Of Secrets and Shadows" series. And it did not disappoint! This book is set in the United Kingdom, France and Germany during WWII. Will and Thomas are out of training and now part of a four person team, sent to spy on the enemy. This book is fast paced and so action packed that at times I could barely breathe. It is a romance, but not your typical romance. This one is set in the backdrop of a time where Will's and Thomas's love was illegal in many places. Add in that they are now undercover in service to their country, and it takes on a whole new feel. Casey Morales has done a masterful job of making you feel you are right there! Now I can't wait for the next book! If you love history and romance, this book is for you!
November 1, 2023
Hands down, this is the BEST f’ing book I have EVER read and I have now read it twice, once (quite luckily), while it was being written and now, a second time through since it’s release.
I’ve enjoyed it EVEN more the second time through.
It’s the second in a series and though the first, “CRIMSON”, was incredible, this was THAT much better, (in ♠️).
I cannot wait until the third (which hasn’t even been started at the time of this review 😖), and possibly even more so, I wish to 🙏🏼 that somebody (Netflix, hint hint), would buy the flipping rights, have the author start writing the screenplays, AFTER he writes the DAMN 3rd installment for “F’s” sake…
EVERYONE: first 📖 “Crimson” (if you haven’t already) then make SURE to 📖 this 📕… ‼️
I’ve enjoyed it EVEN more the second time through.
It’s the second in a series and though the first, “CRIMSON”, was incredible, this was THAT much better, (in ♠️).
I cannot wait until the third (which hasn’t even been started at the time of this review 😖), and possibly even more so, I wish to 🙏🏼 that somebody (Netflix, hint hint), would buy the flipping rights, have the author start writing the screenplays, AFTER he writes the DAMN 3rd installment for “F’s” sake…
EVERYONE: first 📖 “Crimson” (if you haven’t already) then make SURE to 📖 this 📕… ‼️
Read
November 15, 2023With the second book in the new series by Casey Morales, it's important to have read the first book, 'Crimson,' before starting 'Falkirk.'
In Falkirk, Will and Thomas have become operational and sent on a mission together. Now, working behind enemy lines with the French resistance, they attempt to discover a new, terrible Nazi weapon that could affect the outcome of the war.
Morales has written a fast-paced and absorbing novel that will entertain readers. It makes a refreshing change to the usual M/M gay novels that I've read, and I'm happy to recommend it to any readers looking for something different.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In Falkirk, Will and Thomas have become operational and sent on a mission together. Now, working behind enemy lines with the French resistance, they attempt to discover a new, terrible Nazi weapon that could affect the outcome of the war.
Morales has written a fast-paced and absorbing novel that will entertain readers. It makes a refreshing change to the usual M/M gay novels that I've read, and I'm happy to recommend it to any readers looking for something different.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 26, 2024
Tom and Will forever!!! They are brilliant spies who are so dedicated (both to their jobs and each other, obvi). My heart raced so much during this book- both from the swoon worthy moments between Will and Tom and the rescue plans that the team comes up with. When the team plans a second jailbreak for another team member and they end up rescuing other queer men who are destined for the concentration camps? Jesus Bobby Christ it was so emotional and heartbreaking, but of course they were rescued because Tom and Will were the ones doing the saving. Casey knocks it out of the park once again. I loved this conclusion of their story but I truly hated that it was over. Imagine my delight when Casey announced that THE STORY CONTINUES!! Literally can’t wait to get the 4th book 💜
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2024
The boys are dropped in Europe and lose most of their equipment immediately facing them with a major dilemma. They have an important task to carry out. They are in enemy occupied territory and they are two men obviously so deeply in love they have as big a battle keeping their feelings hidden as they do trying to succeed in their given task.
They meet some amazing characters along the way and author Casey Morales manages to insert some of his witty humor into a story that would otherwise be very confronting. It's refreshing to see the characters joshing with each other, new friendships made and problems overcome.
A follow-on from Crimson this series is a must-read.
They meet some amazing characters along the way and author Casey Morales manages to insert some of his witty humor into a story that would otherwise be very confronting. It's refreshing to see the characters joshing with each other, new friendships made and problems overcome.
A follow-on from Crimson this series is a must-read.
October 22, 2023
This book offers a keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your-seat blend of intrigue and romance as it follows Will and Thomas through their first mission. The stakes are high, the historical backdrop is carefully drawn and vividly rendered, and the chemistry between the main characters is electric. 4.5 stars. As a final note, it’s definitely a good idea, if you haven’t already, to read the first book in the series, which sets the stage for the relationship and the context in which it takes shape.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews