{Sequel to Shades Darker} When Cole Sterling moved from Alabama all he wanted was a fresh start, a new life. Introduced as cheeky and sensitive Cole has earned the hearts of everyone around him. However, not many people can say that they truly know who Cole is, not even Kendra. Cole never mentions his life before his move to town, his own family, he won't even invite people over to his house. While Cole might be all heart and soul that doesn't stop the nightmares from coming in the dead of night. The dark traumatic memories of his past life that plague his very thoughts. No one truly knows that Cole suffers behind closed doors. When Kendra discovers Cole's darkroom part of Cole's insecurities and secrets are exposed. Now Cole must save the life that he's created but also confront the person who is responsible for his paralyzing trauma.

After a brutal act of police brutality, the most important figure in Kendra Lyon's life is ripped away from her. Consumed by grief Kendra has channeled all of her anger towards her peers not trusting those who don't look like her. She's built up a strong wall of emotions against them in order to protect herself that no one can seem to tear down. That is until she meets the one boy who could possibly see her beyond her rage. He's willing to endure her smart remarks and sassy attitude just to catch a glimpse of the real Kendra Lyon. Kendra vows to never fall for him because after all he's just another white boy and to her, that's an insult to her father's memory.