The Shape of Desire

Starred review from January 23, 2012
Loving a shape-shifter requires a life full of lies in this touching domestic fantasy by Shinn (Troubled Waters). Maria has known, and kept, her lover’s secret since they were in college together. Dante is only human a few days a month, and he cannot control when he shifts or what he shifts into. Maria has lied about him to her family and friends for almost half of her life. But when Maria suspects that a shape-shifter is behind recent murders in local parks, she begins to fear that, whether or not Dante is innocent, their lives will irrevocably change. The tale of their relationship meanders like a stream, with strong characterizations and poetic prose polishing the story until it shines. Shinn’s frequent comparisons of humans and animals are subtle, quietly building the question of whether the true monsters are those who change shape or humans with the capacity to hurt those they love. Agent: Ethan Ellenberg, the Ethan Ellenberg Literary Agency.

February 1, 2012

Maria has been madly in love with Dante for years but hides their relationship because Dante is a shape-shifter. Increasingly he spends time as an animal, cutting short the precious days they can spend together as people. The tumultuous ups and downs of this love affair make it impossible for Maria to have a normal life, and her dream of having children seems forever out of reach. A series of ferocious murders forces her to confront the truth of what Dante is capable of doing while he's an animal. VERDICT Shinn (Troubled Waters) is unmatched when it comes to creating believable fantasy worlds, so setting this novel in the mostly real world doesn't play to her strengths. Nevertheless, she has written an enthralling mystery with compelling, gritty characters. A sequel is in the works. The novel should appeal to fans of paranormal and urban fantasy, especially those who prefer a more serious tone.--Laurel Bliss, San Diego State Univ. Lib.

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