In "Scandalous," the third installment of L.J. Shen's gripping "Sinners of Saint" series, readers are thrust back into the seductive world of Todos Santos where secrets are plentiful and passions run high. This novel follows the enigmatic and brooding Trent Rexroth, a character previously glimpsed in the earlier books, whose cold exterior masks a fiercely protective and passionate heart. Shen successfully crafts a novel that is not only steamy and filled with the raw emotional angst typical of the series but also steeped in a complex narrative that challenges the characters’ deepest fears and desires.

Trent Rexroth, the hero of this tale, is markedly different from the typical romantic protagonist. Known as "The Mute" for his stoic silence, Trent's intensity is not just a facade but a necessary armor in a world full of treachery and manipulation. His life is complicated further when he becomes irrevocably entangled with Edie Van Der Zee, the daughter of his archenemy. Edie is not your typical heroine either; she is a paradoxical blend of vulnerability and strength, fighting her own battles and secrets while simultaneously standing up to the challenges that come with being connected to Trent. Their romance, fraught with animosity and forbidden allure, is the pulsating heart of this novel.

L.J. Shen has a unique ability to weave complex characters into an intricate plot without losing the emotional essence of the story. "Scandalous" is no exception. The dual perspective helps in fleshing out both Trent and Edie, offering insights into their turbulent thoughts and the turbulent world they inhabit. As the story progresses, their backstories unfold, revealing the scars that shape their present, making them characters that are not only relatable but also ones that you root for despite their many flaws.

The supporting characters are just as well-crafted. Whether it's the return of familiar faces from the previous books or the introduction of new ones, they add layers to the story, contributing to the main plot while also enriching the reader’s understanding of the main characters. This depth ensures that Todos Santos feels like a living, breathing entity, packed with alliances, betrayals, and masks that everyone seems to wear.

The writing style of Shen is, as always, direct and impactful. With her sharp dialogue, steamy scenes, and the ability to convey profound emotions with simple words, she has a knack for pulling the reader into the story. The romance between Trent and Edie sizzles right from their first encounter, marked by sharp banter and an undeniable pull towards each other. However, it is their slow-building trust and eventual raw, emotional connection that truly dominates the narrative. Shen doesn’t just write scenes; she crafts experiences that envelop the reader, making every fear, kiss, and heartbreak palpably felt.

On a thematic level, "Scandalous" delves into issues of trust, redemption, and the impact of the past on one’s present and future. It raises questions about the nature of power—both personal and professional—and how it shapes relationships. These themes are explored not in a preachy manner but as an undercurrent to the personal dramas that the characters live through. This melding of personal emotion with broader themes is deftly done and is one of the strengths of Shen’s writing.

However, no book is without its complications. Some readers might find the initial antagonism between the leads too intense, potentially overshadowing the development of their romantic relationship. Additionally, the plot relies significantly on coincidences that may stretch the believability for some. But these are minor quibbles in what is overall a compelling narrative.

Overall, "Scandalous" by L.J. Shen is a tantalizing tale that entangles sin, salvation, and sensuality in a way that is entirely unique to the world of Todos Santos. With complex characters, an intensively engaging plot, and emotionally charged writing, Shen continues to prove her prowess in writing romance that not only entertains but resonates on a deeper level. For fans of the series or readers looking for a romance that bravely tackles darker themes with heart and heat, "Scandalous" promises a read that’s both provocative and profound.