“Hidden in the Shadows” is a dark thriller, weaving together threads of trauma, secrecy, and the unwavering pursuit of justice.

Evie Day's return to Woodsville for her grandfather's funeral is the catalyst for a descent into a labyrinth of long-buried secrets. A haunting photograph, unearthed from family photos, and a woman who keeps appearing, sparks an investigation that quickly escalates from a personal quest to a confrontation with the town's chilling past. The author utilizes the setting, juxtaposing the present-day tranquility of Woodsville with the sinister echoes of its 1930s history. This historical backdrop, coupled with the contemporary investigation, creates a palpable sense of dread.

As the plot unfolds, Evie's journey is fraught with danger, and has a compelling complexity as she encounters individuals determined to protect the town's dark secrets at any cost. The rising action builds tension with each clue Evie uncovers. The psychological depth of the characters is notable, particularly Evie's internal struggle as she confronts her own past and the reasons she fled Woodsville.

Meanwhile, Charlie Baker’s counseling session serendipitously unveils the depths of his deeply troubled past during his time in foster care. The session triggers the resurfacing of his buried past, a collection of fragmented memories involving satanic rituals, child trafficking, and sexual abuse. His connection to the dark undercurrents of the town, particularly his link to the foster care system that ties into the main investigation, makes him a pivotal, if unsettling, character in "Hidden in the Shadows."

Charlie's repressed memories of abuse and trauma connect to the horrific events Evie is uncovering. The narrative's bleak scenes involving Charlie are intensely evocative, filled with implied violence, some of which involves children. Vancise's skillful writing allows the most graphic sequences to resonate without resorting to excessive detail.

The climax delivers a satisfying resolution, exposing the town's horrific past and bringing a measure of justice to the long-suffering victims. While the scars of the past may linger, the revelations are cathartic. The resolution also offers a poignant personal journey for Evie, as she confronts her own trauma and reason to embrace a new beginning.

“Hidden in the Shadows” exploration of trauma, secrecy, and the pursuit of justice resonates, and the author's ability to blend elements of thriller and horror leaves readers both satisfied and haunted.