Book Review: Shadow Touched (A Touch of Vampire Book 1) by Becky Moynihan
As someone who has always had a soft spot for the alluring mix of romance and supernatural intrigue, I was immediately drawn to Shadow Touched. The tagline “Perfect for fans of Twilight and The Vampire Diaries” felt promising, but as is often the case, I approached with cautious optimism. What I found, however, was a captivating tale that blends classic tropes with fresh twists, leaving me eager for more.
At the heart of Shadow Touched is McKenna, a nearly eighteen-year-old girl whose life is filled with secrets, shadows, and a looming sense of disconnect from the world around her. Moving to Rosewood, Maine, she hopes for a taste of normalcy, only to find herself stalked by a mysterious figure with red eyes and complicated feelings for two boys at her new high school, Lochlan and Kade. Here, the author deftly explores themes of identity, belonging, and the hunger for connection—a narrative thread that resonated with me deeply. McKenna’s constant pursuit of stability in her tumultuous existence felt palpable, drawing readers into her emotional whirlwind.
Moynihan’s writing style is engaging and immersive. I particularly appreciated how she unfolded McKenna’s world, balancing dialogue with inner monologues that allowed us a peek into her confused thoughts. While some may find moments slow, I felt that each layer of mystery unraveled perfectly, preventing the story from rushing too quickly past its poignant moments. The pace felt measured, building suspense while developing character relationships in a way that had me rooting for McKenna—and her choices—at every turn.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the dynamic between McKenna and Lochlan. The brooding antihero is a trope not uncommon in this genre, but Moynihan gives him depth and complexity that makes their interactions electric. Their chemistry crackles with unspoken tension, and the hints of fated love had me flipping pages late into the night. I was particularly charmed by the moments when McKenna faced her fears and insecurities, revealing her strength as a character who is determined to understand her place in a world teeming with supernatural beings.
In the spirit of true cliffhanger fashion, Shadow Touched leaves us at a precipice, gifting readers a heart-wrenching ending that stirs urgency and anticipation for the next installment, Curse Touched. With several unresolved mysteries—along with McKenna’s budding powers and relationships—I found myself yearning for answers, but also grateful for the rich world Moynihan has crafted.
This book is perfect for those who enjoy rich character development, a dash of romance, and thrilling twists that keep you guessing. If you’re a fan of urban fantasy or just someone in search of a gripping story filled with emotional depth, Shadow Touched will not disappoint. It struck a personal chord with me, reminding me why I fell in love with paranormal romances in the first place.
So, if you’re ready to dive into a world of mystery, danger, and forbidden love, grab a copy of Shadow Touched, and allow yourself to be swept away into the enchanting yet treacherous tides of Kenna’s journey. Trust me; you won’t want to be the last to uncover the secrets lurking in the shadows.
You can find Shadow Touched (A Touch of Vampire Book 1) here >>