Wednesday, January 30, 2019

A Long Night in ParisA Long Night in Paris by Dov Alfon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If it were the end of the year, I would be able to say that this is my absolute most loved book of the year. I can definitely say, it is the book that will stick with me. I do not recall how I found out about A Long Night in Paris, but, I was waiting for release day with so much excitement. Release day came and I immediately went to Amazon.com to purchase an electronic copy for my Kindle and to my utter dismay it was not available on Kindle in the U.S. I did the sad little trek to the bottom right of the page and clicked the link to say I would like to read this on Kindle. I went to the UK version and saw it was on Kindle there. Unfortunately, they will not allow us to purchase electronic books for our Kindles here in the U.S.. They deny us and force us back over to the U.S. site to wait and hope. I did the next best thing and searched for which bookseller could sell me a hard copy, soft copy, any kind of copy and get it to me as quickly as possible. Then I waited. It felt like weeks but was about 5 or so days. I dropped the book I was reading and tore into it. Unfortunately, I work approximately a gazillion hours a week so I found myself standing over the stove wishing I had a kindle so I could read while I cooked, or leaned against the counter, or had 5 minutes between meetings.

A Long Night in Paris is a bit of everything, a mystery, a thriller, and an espionage story. A murder happens in the first couple of pages right off of the plane in Paris and it is a whirlwind of events trying to find out what happened to the Israeli IT person 5 seconds off of the plane in Paris. It was the start of many murders and a night where the French police, one Israeli unit commander who "happened" to be in the same airport on his first day in his new position (with the help of his new unit back in Israel), and what appears to be Chinese gangsters of some sort.

One of the best parts of A Long Night in Paris was how the book got its name and I love how the reader catches it while reading. The only part that threw me was keeping track of the titles. Some were listed in the back of the book, but, I was a bit lost with the heads of the different units for the Israeli intelligence/military. I finished the book and immediately flipped to the front and said, no, not that guy. Please tell me it is not that guy. I tracked the title in the units and found it was, in fact, that guy. Wow! If ever I was tired of watching politics play out on the news, this book was like the car crash of political stories, both in Israel and Paris. You do not want to watch, but, you cannot look away. I wouldn't call it a slow-moving espionage story. I would call it a slow burn. It just kept building and building. I loved how it was told from three different points-of-view and each one was as interesting and exciting as the other. Of course, the Paris side of things was the most action-packed. I have to admit that Abadi and Oriana were my favorite characters. But, each character introduced in the book was well described and lived up to who you thought they would be. I have a feeling we might see more of these characters, or at least I am greatly hoping that is the case. Otherwise, I will have to wait a few months and hope for a Kindle edition and read it all over again. Even better would be an audiobook.

Tuesday, January 29, 2019


Do you have the courage to know your past and fight for your future? Contemporary Romance author Kate McBrien returns with the final installment in her steamy Indigo trilogy! On the beautiful Greek island of Santorini, Justin and Lucy seek answers. But without the Varangian Cross, the key to unlocking their story, they are forced to return to London and confront the challenges from which they fled. As the struggles from their previous lives continue to haunt them, Justin and Lucy must work together in order to put together the pieces of their past and uncover their epic love story.

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About Always With You:

Title: Always With You
Author: Kate McBrien
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Release Date: January 28, 2018
Publisher: Kate McBrien
Series: Indigo Trilogy #3
Format: Digital eBook / Print
Digital ISBN: 9781732223561
Print ISBN: 9781732223578

Synopsis:

Do you have the courage to know your past and fight for your future?

On the beautiful Greek island of Santorini, Justin and Lucy consult with Sophia, an elderly woman who is gifted in ways beyond the present and physical. What they learn is helpful but incomplete. The story of their past is hidden deeply within the Varangian Cross, and Sophia must have it to fully understand the connection that Justin and Lucy share. However, the cross is with its new owner in London and far too valuable to be loaned out for such an implausible tale.

Disappointed, they prepare to return to London and confront the challenges from which they fled, resigned to leave the past behind, but the struggles of the past seem determined to revisit them.

Justin and Lucy are meant to be together. They are meant to know their past. The cross is the key to unlocking their story, and the source of their eternal and unbreakable bond.

Join Justin and Lucy as they put together the pieces to uncover their epic love story in Always With You, the trilogy’s poignant and passionate conclusion.

Note to readers: This book contains scenes which may be triggering to survivors of sexual violence.

Add to your TBR list:  Goodreads

Available at:  Amazon  |  Barnes and Noble  |  Kobo  |  iTunes


Excerpt:
Copyright© 2019 Always With You
Kate McBrien

Although it wasn’t dark yet, Althea had already lit large candles inside lanterns that were placed around the edge of the infinity pool and on a few adjacent tables. Lucy stood near the low wall and gazed out at the vast sea. She would never get tired of this view. Whether it was sunrise or sunset, it was always spectacular. Tonight was no exception. The sun was just beginning to set, and the sky was ablaze with red at the horizon, shifting to orange above. The previously light blue sky was becoming a deeper blue. In the background, the Grateful Dead sang about standing on the moon, looking down at the earth. And that’s what it felt like. She smiled when the singer described one of the colors of the American flag as indigo. And there it was yet again, their connection to indigo blue. It was another tiny reference to the thread that connected her to Justin, but its meaning resonated with her. The name of his band, the shared color of their eyes, and the hue of the stone she had spent years studying.
There were a few clouds at the horizon, and Lucy gasped when light from the sun broke through the clouds in long beams of light. Where was Justin? He should be with her to watch this incredible sunset.
The Grateful Dead song ended and it was quiet for a few moments. Then the opening notes of the vocal standard, “The Very Thought of You” filled the air. Instead of the Billie Holiday version she was familiar with, she heard Elvis Costello crooning.
The sound of footsteps approaching made her smile, and a strong pair of arms slipped around her waist. She leaned her head back into Justin’s chest.
“You’re stunning,” Justin whispered into her ear as he placed soft kisses along the side of her neck. “Althea was just leaving when I came looking for you.” He took the wine glass from her hand and took a sip before setting it down.
“Hmm,” Lucy sighed, as the sunset became even more dramatic.
“What are you thinking, my love?”
“I was thinking how much I love being here. It’s unimaginably beautiful and special. We just arrived, and I never want to leave.”
“Turn around,” Justin said in a deep voice.
Lucy turned slowly in his arms.
“Aren’t you handsome tonight?” She took him in, dragging her eyes from head to toe.
“Just for you,” he said, his arms wide. He wore white linen trousers with a sky-blue, open-necked shirt. His skin glowed with a light tan from the afternoon by the pool, enhancing his indigo eyes. Justin held her gaze, and his expression became serious. “I feel the same about being here with you.” His voice was rough and full of emotion.


Other Books in the Indigo Trilogy:

Title: Discovering You
Author: Kate McBrien
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Date Released: July 7, 2018
Publisher: Kate McBrien
Series: Indigo Trilogy #1
Format: Digital eBook / Print
Digital ISBN: 9781732223516
Print ISBN: 9781732223509

For fans of Love on the Edge of Time and A Knight in Shining Armor comes an epic romance that proves true love can never die.

Do you believe in soulmates?

A shy art historian. A sexy rock star. A mysterious medieval cross that holds a secret.

Lucy Bianchi has a plan: finish her PhD in art history and land a coveted job at a prestigious Los Angeles museum. Then—maybe—she’ll find time to start dating. Her controlled and predictable world begins to unravel when she chases a runaway dog on the beach and meets a gorgeous stranger.

Justin Hamilton is the charismatic lead singer of the British band Indigo. Years of touring and partying have won him notoriety, and he can have any woman he wants, but who he really wants doesn’t seem to exist.

Until now.

From their first look—their first touch—Justin and Lucy have a connection that defies logic and deepens their desire for each other. When they see the Varangian Cross at a museum exhibit, they’re flooded with inexplicable shared memories that draw them even closer together.

Justin has to return to London just as a salacious scandal explodes that could tear them apart. Lucy must choose between the safe life she’s cultivated, or go to Justin and discover a never-ending love.

Discovering You is the first book of a contemporary romance trilogy.

Add to your TBR list:  Goodreads

Available at:  Amazon  |  Barnes and Noble  |  Kobo  |  iTunes


Praise for Discovering You:

“This was a very deep and beautiful love story. It was completely different from all love stories I’ve ever read.” - Tania, Goodreads, Amazon

“Discovering You by Kate McBrien is a steamy read. The heat rises slowly in this novel but once the switch is flipped, it boils over with passion.” - Up All Night Book Blogs, Goodreads

“Wow what a story. It’s fresh, original, and full of life.” - Lianne, Goodreads

“This book has it all. Romance, history, art, music, villains, and a mystical edge. I can’t wait to read the next in the series.” - Debbie, Goodreads

“You know you get one of those books that just builds and builds until you can’t put it down. This is one of those books.” – Love Reading, Goodreads review

“This is a fascinating premise. Nerd meets rocker and finds an instant connection. I love soulmates and was fascinated to see how things turn out, especially with Lucy's art history background. The meet-cute was delightful and I enjoyed the growing relationship between the two of them, fast-paced as it was. Both Lucy and Justin are fully fleshed out characters with their own full lives.” - Lauren, Goodreads review


Title: Waiting for You
Author: Kate McBrien
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: October 15, 2018
Publisher: Kate McBrien
Series: Indigo Trilogy #2
Format: Digital eBook / Print
Digital ISBN: 9781732223530
Print ISBN: 9781732223523

Synopsis:

Do you believe love can transcend time?

It's only been a week, but Justin is miserable waiting for Lucy to contact him. He's back in London for Indigo's concert series and needs to get his head in the game, but his heart is back in America.

Stuck hiding out at her parents' house in Los Angeles, Lucy is consumed with doubt and regret about her decision to stay behind.

When the Varangian Cross is sold to a private buyer in London, Lucy jumps at the chance to deliver the cross to the new owner and maybe reconnect with Justin.

Lucy arrives in London in time for another roadblock to their relationship: a serious allegation has been made against Justin, and the paparazzi are in overdrive, forcing Justin under cover just to make it through the concert series.

Finally reunited, their passion is renewed. But their nightmares have returned and are feeling more like memories than dreams. It’s time to find out the truth behind their connection.

Waiting for You is the second book of a contemporary romance trilogy.

Note to Readers: This book contains scenes which may be triggering to survivors of sexual violence.

Add to your TBR list:  Goodreads

Available at:  Amazon  |  Barnes and Noble  |  Kobo  |  iTunes


Praise for Waiting for You:

“This story is definitely unique when it comes to their connection. The twists had me turning the pages waiting for the next one to hit the page. I am pulling for this couple to make it through the fight.” Two Book Pushers

“I am in love with Justin and Lucy’s story because of their past-life connection. There aren’t enough words to describe how eager I am to have this story come to fruition, and hopefully, witness Justin and Lucy realizing who they are and what they meant to one another many lifetimes ago.”
“Romance lovers that like a touch of fantasy, this should be your next read.” Dandelions Inspired

“Kate McBrien's talented writing style has simply put, captivated me at this point, so that final book CANNOT COME OUT QUICKLY ENOUGH! And that's all from me, except HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMENDING TO ALL!” The Power of Three Readers

“Waiting for You is a great followup to Discovering You. Justin and Lucy's story is exciting and passionate, and the mystical/fantasy/paranormal aspect just adds another interesting layer to their already wonderful connection.” Live Through Books Blog

“Book two of the Indigo series is no less moving than the first one.  Kate amps up the romance and sex in this book over the first one. She also gives Lucy some backbone that was very troubling to me in book one…I personally can’t wait to see the finish of the story in the next book and like many of the character changes she shows in this one.” Wicked Cool Flight

“Waiting for You” is like an explosion of events and emotions in the Indigo series. There are so many things going on and there is a twist there that I would have never predicted. I was addicted to Lucy and Justin’s relationship and I read every chapter looking forward for the next! … Kate McBrien has done such a wonderful job with “Waiting for You.” It has a lot of action, it has love and passion and so many other emotions. I was reading and reading until the wee hours of the night and that says something about this author’s gifts.” Lilly’s Book Reviews


About Kate McBrien:

Kate has an MA in art history from San José State University and has taught art history at a local college. For many years, she has worked as a dental hygienist, courageously offering encouragement to her non-flossing patients.

She has always enjoyed writing but became more serious after being encouraged by a friend to participate in National Novel Writing Month. She began writing historical fiction but soon realized that the romance was taking over the history.

Kate is a Bay Area native who lives near the beach with her husband and Lola, their spoiled Labrador Retriever. When not writing, she enjoys cooking, music, movies, reading, and fangirling over Jamie Dornan.

Connect with Kate:  Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads  |  Amazon  |  BookBub


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Thursday, January 24, 2019


New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shannon Stacey kicks off the new year with this steamy must read addition to her Boston Fire series! Fireman Grant Cutter is debating on packing up his Jeep and leaving Boston Fire's Engine 59 to start a new life and nurse his shattered heart. But when a 911 call concerning her possessive ex-boyfriend brings Wren Everett back into his life, Grant knows he won't be able to leave her in his rearview mirror.

Rafflecopter for Flare Up Blog Tour Giveaway:

In celebration of the release of Shannon Stacey’s FLARE UP, Carina Press is offering ten (10) lucky winners their choice of a paperback copy of a backlist Boston Fire title! Applicable titles: include Heat Exchange, Controlled Burn, Fully Ignited, Hot Response, and Under Control. To enter, simply fill out the Rafflecopter below:


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About Flare Up:

Title: Flare Up
Author: Shannon Stacey
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: January 29, 2019
Publisher: Carina Press
Series: Boston Fire #6
Format: Print / Digital eBook
Print ISBN: 9781335924599
Digital ISBN: B07GBC1TP2

Synopsis:

Nursing a broken heart while everybody around him seems to be drowning in happiness has Grant Cutter wondering whether staying with Engine 59—or even Boston Fire—is in his future. It’s tempting as hell to pack up what fits in his Jeep and hit the road. But then a 911 call brings the woman who shattered his heart back into his life, and he knows he won’t ever be able to fully leave her in his rearview mirror.

For a few months, Wren Everett had thought the nightmare of her past was behind her and she might live happily ever after with Grant. Until she got the phone call letting her know the time her ex had spent in jail for assault hadn’t cooled his temper or determination that she belonged with him. Cutting ties with Grant was the hardest thing she’d ever had to do, but it was also the only way to keep him safe.

Now that Grant is back, he’s not letting Wren push him away again. And even with the trust issues between them, Wren dares to hope she and Grant might have a future together after all…if they’re willing to fight for it.

Add to your TBR list:  Goodreads

Available:  Amazon  |  Barnes and Noble  |  Kobo  |  iTunes


Excerpt:
Copyright © 2019 Flare Up
Shannon Stacey

The apartment was small—one room and probably barely legal—so it only took a few seconds to follow the coughing to the person on the floor near the window. While Aidan did a quick check of the bathroom and under the bed to make sure there was nobody else, Grant crouched down next to the person he was pretty sure was a woman, despite having a throw blanket over her head.
“Fire department,” he said. “Let’s get you out of here.”
Her cough was so weak and ineffectual, he didn’t bother asking if she could get up and walk. Instead he rolled her, intending to lift her and carry her out.
Then the throw blanket slipped away from a sleep-tangled mess of blonde curls, revealing dark blue eyes he saw in his dreams, and Grant’s world stopped.
“Wren.”
He hadn’t seen her in five months, since she’d told him on the phone she didn’t want to see him anymore and then ghosted. No explanation. No compromise. Nothing but five months of a broken heart that hadn’t even begun to heal yet.
What the hell was she doing in this place?
Grant. Her mouth formed his name, though no sound got through her constricted throat. The grayish cast of her skin and lips terrified him, and he started to hoist her up.
Aidan was at his side. “I’ll carry her out.”
“I’ve got her.” Despite the shock and pain from seeing her again, Grant wanted to hold her. He wanted to cradle her in his arms and feel that sense of contentment holding her had always brought him in the past.
There was no time for that. After draping her over his shoulder, he stood and headed for the door. It wouldn’t be a comfortable ride for her, but the only thing that mattered right now was getting her out of the building and to an ambulance, where they could give her oxygen. Her body had gone totally limp by the time he reached the stairs, but he refused to consider the possibility she’d need medical care beyond that.
They’d gotten there in time, and that’s all there was to it.
He heard voices in his radio and was aware Aidan stayed right behind him, but Grant didn’t stop moving until he hit the clear, frigid air.
He paused to get his bearings and then headed for the ambulances on standby. Some of those voices in his radio must have warned them he was coming, because Cait opened the back of her truck and waved at him.
Cait Tasker was not only an EMT, but she was engaged to Gavin Boudreau, who was Grant’s best friend and with the Ladder 37 crew. E-59 and L-37 were parked side-by-side in the firehouse and always rolled out together, so Gavin was on scene, too. And Cait knew Wren. The four of them had spent a lot of time together before Wren walked away from him and didn’t look back.
By the time he reached the ambulance doors, he could feel her stirring. Not a lot, but she had to be breathing in order to regain consciousness and that was enough for now.
Because it was so damn cold and she was small, they didn’t bother with the stretcher. He handed Wren up to Cait’s partner, Tony, who turned away with her.
“Oh my God, Grant.” Cait looked at him, her expression mirroring his thoughts. “What the hell was Wren doing living here?”
“I don’t know. She’ll be okay, right?”
“We’ll take care of her. Are you okay?”
He didn’t answer. As he watched Tony fit a mask over Wren’s face, her eyes met his and, no, he wasn’t okay.
Questions tumbled through his mind. Why was Wren living in this place? Why had she disappeared from his life so abruptly? How could she still be in the city and not miss him enough to at least send a text message?
Had she known he’d been days away from buying her a ring and asking her to spend the rest of her life with him?


About Shannon Stacey:

New York Times  and USA Today bestselling author Shannon Stacey lives with her husband and two sons in New England, where her two favorite activities are writing stories of happily ever after and off-roading with her friends and family. You can contact Shannon through her website, www.shannonstacey.com, as well as sign up for her newsletter.

Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads  |  Amazon  |  BookBub







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The Road to Murder by Camilla Trinchieri My rating: 5 of 5 stars Nico Doyle returns in the fourth book in the Tuscan Mystery series, The ...