SHELTERED is a standalone contemporary romance by Alexa Riley. This is the first book I've read by Alexa Riley, but it has made me a fan. There are many things to love about this book. I would consider SHELTERED a contemporary gothic romance. With a hint of suspense, and the way Riley keeps the reader and the heroine off-kilter, SHELTERED is Hitchcock-esque at times. The reader's first glimpse of the hero in SHELTERED is of having a voyeuristic POV and leaves the reader uncertain of his position and motives. In the hands of another writer, this story could have easily imploded. Thankfully, Alexa Riley skillfully writes about passion, possession, and protective heroes.

At the start of SHELTERED, Blair Rosewood is starting a new job and feeling a bit insecure about a few things -- her humble roots, her aloof boyfriend, and her overall capability. Blair is a realistically flawed young woman. Over the course of SHELTERED, including the epilogues, Blair transforms into a more confident and secure woman. Ryker basically kidnaps Blair to keep her from being used in a scheme by some villains. After reading SHELTERED, I found myself wishing I was Ryker's captive. I'm glad that Alex Riley can establish a mutual attraction and tentative trust between Ryker and Blair early on, rather than have Blair constantly fearful and trying to escape. Ryker is strong, sensitive, and totally focused on Blair and seeing to her every need, while they explore their desires. The secondary story in SHELTERED is about family and betrayal, but the deeply erotic romance remains front and center.

SHELTERED is a sensual tour de force. This is a story that is great for romance fans who adore erotic fantasy done right. I like how Alexa Riley provides multiple epilogues to show how the characters develop over the years. I eagerly await Alexa Riley's next naughty romance.