I am not judgmental, and respect everyone's right to do what ever they wish with another consenting adult human. Kinsale had some other reason for this change. I'm not sure if this form of lovemaking was chosen because everyone seems to be jumping on the '50 shades' band wagon, or if Ms. I had to take one star off due to the heavy S&M. I have consistently given 5 stars to all of the previous books, and in all fairness I must admit this story did not disappoint as an absolutely wonderful story. Her writing style is unlike any other's I've read. I have eagerly awaited every book by Laura Kinsale. I know I've said it before but Nicholas Boulton is one of the best narrators on Audible!! He makes good books even better! If you enjoy the deeper darker side of Kinsale books you will love this. This story is mysterious, intense, sensual and has a love and redemption aspect that I found touching and endearing. The erotic love scenes (s&m) were intense and sometimes difficult to listen to but their relationship does have an unusual sense of balance. Together they have a strange and unusual relationship. In this book she has become a young woman of 17. We met Elena is the first book as a young 6 year old girl. I realize this book isn't going to be everyone's 'cup of tea' but if you've read 'For my lady's heart' you'll gain more understanding as to why Allegreto has become so ruthless and thinks that he is beyond redemption. The medieval world comes alive with power struggles between families and the corrupt Catholic Church. Once again, Laura Kinsale has delivered a detailed story with an arduous subject for that time period.

Shadowheart by laura kinsale