Sung in the Shadows - by Crystal Caudill (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

No one can know Nora Davis's true identity as the daughter of the famed opera singer Constanza Brisbane. After Nora escaped a kidnapping as a child, the Brisbanes slipped into the shadows and changed their identities to avoid the still-prowling captors. But after Constanza's paranoia caught up to her, she landed in Longview Asylum. It's here that Nora engages in secret singing lessons with her mother and avoids Ezekiel Beaumont.

Employed by Pike's Opera House, Ezekiel visits his suicidal ma in the asylum every week. As Nora's and Ezekiel's weekly visits align, he begins to wonder whether Nora's ma is really the famed Constanza Brisbane who went missing mid-performance. And he's determined to find out.

When Nora is forced to make Ezekiel's acquaintance, the singing world becomes a little too close for comfort, but she's drawn to Ezekiel all the same. While Nora and Ezekiel grow closer, Nora begins to fear that she, too, is losing her mind when she suspects she's being watched. Will Ezekiel be able to protect his mother from suspected danger, along with the woman he's falling for?

With an intricately designed plot, Crystal Caudill lures readers into Nora's dangerous secret identity and chance for love in the world of music.

Review Quotes

Sung in the Shadows is a gripping tale of love and revenge worthy of a standing ovation! With echoes of the classic film Gaslight, this historical romance blends a found sisterhood, heartrending emotion, page-turning suspense, and a backstage glimpse into the world of opera during the Gilded Age. Fans of The Lost Melody by Joanna Davidson Politano will appreciate the story's thoughtful mental illness representation, depiction of a nineteenth-century asylum, and poignant spiritual themes. If you're in the mood for a novel teeming with drama, danger, and depth, reserve your front row seat for Sung in the Shadows!--Angela Bell, author of A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure (10/27/2025 12:00:00 AM)

A dangerous past crescendos into present peril as the curtain begins to close on the future happiness of a persistent hero and a courageous heroine. Crystal Caudill once again masterfully creates chilling suspense alongside tender romance, witty humor, enduring friendships, and faith-filled wisdom. Her gently authentic portrayals of mental illness and the God who never forsakes us, even in the darkness, will linger long in my heart. Another entertaining, riveting, and uplifting story from a supreme talent!--Carrie Schmidt, owner and founder of Reading Is My SuperPower (10/27/2025 12:00:00 AM)

A historical romance by turns witty, charming, heart-pumping, and sigh-worthy, Sung in the Shadows takes readers into the world of the opera with family drama and a dangerous enemy. I found myself chuckling one moment and wanting to shout a warning the next. I'm eagerly awaiting the next installment to see what the Guardians find themselves engaged in next!--Roseanna M. White, best-selling and award-winning author (10/27/2025 12:00:00 AM)

From the first note to the final crescendo, Cystal Caudill's latest Gilded Age suspense will captivate readers with its stunning blend of intricately drawn characters, elegant prose, and romantic tension. Set against a backdrop of resplendent opera houses and the shadowed halls of an asylum, Sung in the Shadows sings with atmosphere and emotional depth, reminding readers that redemption can be found even in the darkest places.--Kelly J. Goshorn, best-selling author of The Undercover Heiress of Brockton (10/27/2025 12:00:00 AM)

From the haunting halls of Longview Asylum to the dangerous secrets of Nora's past, Sung in the Shadows delivers a riveting blend of romance, mystery, and redemption. Crystal Caudill has woven a story of shadows and light that will resonate deep in your soul. A beautifully inspiring tale!--Misty M. Beller, USA TODAY best-selling auhtor of the Sisters of the Rockies series (10/27/2025 12:00:00 AM)

Thought-provoking and deeply engaging, Sung in the Shadows immerses readers in the haunting beauty of the Gilded Age opera. Crystal Caudill weaves tender romance, gripping mystery, and faith that whispers through the darkness. Her richly layered characters wrestle with fear and hope while truth and love rise to conquer the shadows. This story is a stunning harmony of suspense and devotion that lingers long after the final note fades.--Sara R. Turnquist, author of the Cripple Creek series (10/27/2025 12:00:00 AM)

Twists, turns, love, deception, faith, and redemption--they are all there in Sung in the Shadows. I was hooked from the first notes. To capture the vulnerability of those institutionalized and the families who love them takes tenderness and a dedication to dogged compassion. Crystal Caudill didn't just capture Nora and Ezekiel's complex story, she captured mine. One that honestly cries out, 'I don't understand. I'm afraid to ask for help. Where are you, God?' and commits to live by faith, not fear.--Karisa Moore, author of Turn the Page: Devotions to Help the Griever Hope (10/27/2025 12:00:00 AM)

With taut suspense and thoughtfully curated historical detail, Sung in the Shadows pulls readers into the hidden world of nineteenth-century asylums, where fear and hope walk hand in hand. This novel captures not only the imminent danger the heroine faces but also the stigma and tender ache of families navigating mental illness. A haunting, heart-stirring tale that lingers long after the final page.--Amanda Cox, best-selling author of The Bitter End Birding Society (10/27/2025 12:00:00 AM)