The scholarly atmosphere of the University of Toronto is the backdrop for this story and the protagonists are the enigmatic Dante specialist, Professor Gabriel Emerson and his graduate student, Julia Mitchell. Their first encounter with one another is nothing short of a disaster. Gabriel is rude, demeaning and a complete jerk to her, yet beneath that tough, icy exterior lies a vulnerable heart.

GABRIEL'S INFERNO explores the troubled past of Gabriel Emerson that is spotlighted through a hazy lens. Reynard's writing creates for a very intimate experience - flowing and eloquent, darkness interspersed with areas of light. Though the characters themselves are interesting, it is Reynard's writing style that makes this book feel romantic. He expertly weaves seduction into every page so that despite the fact that Gabriel and Julia are forbidden to act on their attraction, readers don't feel cheated in terms of the romance.

At over 500 pages, this book is a lesson in patience and determination. Some scenes drag on for far too long and don't necessarily push the plot forward yet there are also scenes that cause your chest to tighten with emotion. Midway through the progress that Gabriel and Julia have made begins to stall and made me wonder how a relationship like this could work. There is no natural progression for these two. Obstacles, both of the professional and emotional kind stand in their way. But it is their struggle with hope that I think readers will become entranced by, as they root for these two to prevail over their own personal demons.

GABRIEL'S INFERNO is a beautifully written, gut-wrenching story of two souls finding solace and hope in each other. Reynard keeps readers riveted to the pages!