Penny for Your Thoughts

Shadowy Solutions, Book 5

Diem never thought he would have a steady boyfriend and enough cases to keep his business in the green. He never thought his nana would live to be ninety-three. Life is, dare he say, good? He could do to drink less, and he still needs to quit smoking, but he’s getting there. He’s happy. In love. If he could manage his stress, life might even turn out to be… great?

But then Tallus arranges dinner with his parents, where Diem faces questions about commitment and weddings and a weekend bonding trip with a stepfather he doesn’t know.

And a resident of Nana’s nursing home ends up involved in a twisted version of a grandparent scheme, so Diem agrees to investigate. The police clearly aren’t doing their job.

It’s all downhill from there.

The case somehow leads to Diem figuratively adopting the most obnoxious teenager imaginable. A boy whose troubled life reflects Diem’s past. A boy who is deeply entwined in a con far more complex than he realizes.

One misstep tips their hand. The hunter becomes the hunted. Diem and Tallus—and their unfortunate sidekick—are in a race against the clock, desperate to nail the person responsible before he skips the country… or seeks revenge. So much for reducing stress.

©2026 Nicky James (P)2026 Nicky James

Obsessed!!!

Absolutely love this entire series. Nick J Russo does an amazing job bringing Diem and Tallus to life!

I just love them!!!!!

The fact that I have to wait for the next book is CRIMINAL!!! lol I absolutely love these and we have Darcy now and eco? I’m excited for the planning.

Penny ... here are my thoughts

Book:
I really love this series. It's an investment to get to book 5 of a series, but each book brings a new mystery and builds on the overall arch. Tallus and Diem continue to bumble their way through the events and now they have a new add to deal with. And the maturity they have gained on their relationship. I loved every minute of this story. And I hope for many more to come. (Don't forget to sign up for the newsletter to get the special add on - so worth it!)

Audio:
Nick Russo's voice of Diem is perfect. He provides the right gruffness for the character. I love how he narrates and brings these characters to life. I could listen to them over and over!

LOVE!!

Nicky James does it again! Another amazing mystery with Diem and Tallus as well as them growing into more than they ever thought possible! I LOVED every minute of this book. The story was so captivating and the narration was fantastic! Nick J Russo brings everything to the next level, so freaking good! I can't recommend this book/series enough!

Not ready to let them go!

This final installment delivers both an engaging case and a deeply emotional character journey, but what truly stands out is the performance by Nick J. Russo.

He brings a distinct voice and emotional weight to each character, especially Diem and Tallus. Diem’s guarded personality and gradual vulnerability come through with subtle shifts that feel incredibly authentic, while Tallus’s warmth and emotional depth are equally well captured.

The pacing, tone, and delivery work seamlessly with the story’s mix of suspense and emotional intensity, making it easy to stay fully immersed from start to finish.

A fitting and heartfelt conclusion to the series, elevated by a performance that feels both grounded and deeply connected to the characters.