Michael Stein arrives at the Schechter Institute for Judaic Studies battered and broken, blaming himself for the tragic accident that took his boyfriend's life. He is haunted by his guilt and grief, but is determined to repent by completing his boyfriend's research into demonic entities.

But instead of being welcomed by the archivist, Michael is met by Jacob Schechter-the archivist's enigmatic, brooding grandson, who has inherited the Institute after his grandfather's death. As Michael explores the archive, delving into cryptic texts and whispered histories, shadows from the past begin to seep into the present. Tormented by demons both real and imagined, Michael's grief warps into something far darker-an intoxicating, yet increasingly toxic obsession with Jacob, whose own secrets threaten to destroy them both.

Now, Michael must confront the terrible truth behind his boyfriend's death-and his obsession with Jacob-before the darkness they awaken in each other claims more than just their love, and consumes them entirely.

The Way it Haunted Him by Laura R. Samotin is dark and loving. While you might think that combination is a paradox, let me assure you that this novel manages that balance. While exploring Michael's secrets and the darkness of his past that haunts him, the relationship with Jacob manages to be loving and beautiful, even though Jacob holds his own darkness and secrets.

What I really like about the novel is the subtle sense of the truth about Michael's relationship that you can tell just from reading his narrative about Nate and his past. It tackles controlling and abusive relationships with finesse. When Michael and Jacob's truths emerge, it is handled in a loving and thoughtful way. I love the haunting and dark story.

If you like dark stories and don't mind romances that also address abuse and controlling past behavior I would recommend this novel. It also has some intriguing fantasy elements, hidden secrets and a beautiful romance between Michael and Jacob. The story is dark and loving, especially the end.

Rating: 5 out of 5 demon traps ~~ Andrea Rittschof

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