A dead body is found in a subway station with a note specifically for Larkin. When he begins investigating, he finds it ties back to one of his more emotional cold cases. As clues in the form of photographs start piling up, Larkin reaches out to Doyle for his expertise. Working together once again, their intimacy grows as they try to sort out their burgeoning relationship and stop the murderer from striking again. 

The slow burn is still slow burning with these two, but there's definitely a lot of character development happening. Having Doyle in his life has shown Larkin the toxicity of his marriage, and now he's in the process of trying to move on from the dark place he's found himself. He is still struggling with the effects of his HSAM, but knowing he has the support of Ira gives him that boost he's needed. It's slow goings, but he's standing up for himself and becoming more aware of how he can be a better partner in return for Ira. Ira is kind, respectful, and knows exactly how to help Larkin while not making him feel useless. He couldn't be a more perfect partner for Larkin. He also has a bit of a mysterious past himself. We know a little of Abigail, but now we also learn about his rough childhood. He seems like he could be such an intriguing character, and I just want a bit more of him. 

What stops these books from being closer to 5 stars is the lack of connection between the characters and Doyle falling a bit flat at times (though this could just be my increased reliance of dual povs). Something about how their relationship is moving forward just doesn't seem as authentic to me. I can't make the jump from the endearing moments they share to the deep feelings. There's definitely something there, but I'm just missing the big spark of chemistry. 

I felt this was a bit more case heavy, but in a good way because the mystery was interesting. I like how it tied back into something Larkin was struggling with in this first book and how he was able to find justice for these victims. There is definitely nothing slow about these books and I love that it feels like every chapter has another turn in the case (probably not very realistic but makes for a good read). Yet again I couldn't even guess who the killer was, but loved how it all played out. 

•spoilers below• 

One very specific thing that bugged me was Larkin saying Hernadez's claim he got an anonymous letter about where the find the killer was bogus, because hello? Larkin, you're also finding anonymous letters. How is this any different? I wonder if that's just me overthinking or if it'll come back somehow. I think the whole letter part was overlooked as we got closer to the end and finding out who the killer was, and while I realize that's a mystery for another time it felt like it maybe should've been more relevant than it was. 

•end of spoilers• 

In all, another solid story! I'm really enjoying the mystery and plot of these books. While I do love the characters I wish we got a bit more from their relationship development. I'm really curious about the letters and notes that Larkin has been receiving, and can't wait to try to figure out the next case and how it all ties together. 

Read if you like:
• opposites attract
• romantic suspense
• slow burn 

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For my Gregory Ashe fans, I do feel like Larkin and Doyle are a bit of an AU Hazard and Somers. Slightly neurotic detective with tragic ex lover and past, and charismatic, beautiful detective who can charm that pants off anyone with his own tragedy. Maybe that's a reach and I've just read so much Gregory Ashe recently I'm drawing my own conclusions, but it's interesting food for thought!