What do you think?
The Paris Secret
Less than 24 hours after arriving in Paris, librarian Maya Sinclair is the prime suspect in a brutal murder-and targeted by the real killer. When she's viciously attacked in the gardens of Versailles, Maya barely escapes with her life, thanks to sexy French journalist Simon Girard.Simon has been investigating the mysterious death of his brother, an art forger with ties to the woman Maya is suspected of killing. Still healing from a heartbreak of his own, Simon reluctantly joins forces with Maya, who has awakened feelings within him he thought long dead.Their search for answers uncovers the existence of a secret society, and puts them on a quest to find a missing crucifix rumored to hold the key to everlasting life. Together, Maya and Simon race through Paris one step ahead of a killer who will do anything to ensure some secrets remain buried forever....
296 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
About the author
Angela Henry
31 books361 followersAngela Henry is an Amazon Charts bestselling and award-winning author of twisty mysteries, thrillers, and urban fantasy. A retired library reference specialist, she’s the author of the Kendra Clayton mystery series and the Xavier Knight series, as well as the thrillers The Perfect Affair, Her Pretty Lies, The Family Lies, and The Paris Secret. She also writes middle-grade fiction as Angie Kelly. Angela lives in Ohio with her husband and their spoiled Chiweenie, Gidget.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 6, 2011
Maya Sinclair and her boyfriend Ben may be done but that does not mean that Maya is going to let the Paris trip they had planned to go together on go to waste. Besides Maya deserves the trip after putting up with Ben for a year only to have him go back to his ex-wife.
When Maya arrives at the hotel, there is a mix up. The hotel is booked and it seems that Dr. Juliet Rice was supposedly mistaken for Dr. Julius Price. Maya offers to share her room for the night as the hotel promised that another room would be open in the morning. Things quickly go downhill for Maya when Dr. Rice is found murdered in their room. Maya is the prime suspect.
A mysterious stranger by the name of Simon Girard offers Maya assistance. Maya soon finds herself caught in the cross fires of a dangerous game. Will Maya be leaving Paris in a body bag?
The Paris Secret is a roller coaster ride that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat! This book had elements of The Bourne books…mystery, intrigue, and romance. Simon was like Jason Bourne and Maya was the love interest. Together they worked well together. Simon had the brawn and Maya had the brains. Every new character that was introduced in this story added to the story. There were some twists and surprises along the way. If you want to know how it all ends than you will have to purchase a copy of The Paris Secret for yourself. I can not wait to see what author; Angela Henry has up her sleeves next.
When Maya arrives at the hotel, there is a mix up. The hotel is booked and it seems that Dr. Juliet Rice was supposedly mistaken for Dr. Julius Price. Maya offers to share her room for the night as the hotel promised that another room would be open in the morning. Things quickly go downhill for Maya when Dr. Rice is found murdered in their room. Maya is the prime suspect.
A mysterious stranger by the name of Simon Girard offers Maya assistance. Maya soon finds herself caught in the cross fires of a dangerous game. Will Maya be leaving Paris in a body bag?
The Paris Secret is a roller coaster ride that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat! This book had elements of The Bourne books…mystery, intrigue, and romance. Simon was like Jason Bourne and Maya was the love interest. Together they worked well together. Simon had the brawn and Maya had the brains. Every new character that was introduced in this story added to the story. There were some twists and surprises along the way. If you want to know how it all ends than you will have to purchase a copy of The Paris Secret for yourself. I can not wait to see what author; Angela Henry has up her sleeves next.
July 10, 2011
Originally reviewed by Romancing the Darkside:
http://romancingthedarkside.blogspot....
A top notch murder mystery that keeps you on the edge of danger!
After a brutal breakup with her long time boyfriend, Maya Sinclair decides to go solo on a trip to Paris, orginally planned for two. Her relaxing getaway soon turns into a nightmare when the woman she's sharing her hotel room with is murdered and she becomes the prime suspect. Soon after, Maya is followed and assaulted by the real murderer, barely escaping an attack on her life, thanks to a handsome stranger. This stranger is Simon, a journalist who is looking for answers regarding his brother's untimely death. To find the answers they seek, Maya and Simon join forces and will get more than they sought after when they enter a world of secret societies and treachery, discovering truths which will further endanger their lives.
This story is a non-stop thriller that begins with a vacation to the beautiful city of Paris and quickly turns into a Da Vinci Code-esque world where nothing is as it seems and each clue leads you to uncover centuries old mysteries. The author paints a beautiful portrait of the city, its architecture and history with great details, making you feel as if you were experiencing the scenery for yourself. There is a lot to take in while reading The Paris Secret, but Angela Henry's writing is so fluid you won't have any difficulty following the story line throughout the book.
Maya, the protagonist, is a strong, independent and extremely courageous young woman. I don't know many women that could be tossed into her shoes and be so calm and collective about the situation...I love her perseverance! Her character is relatable and I found her to be a real treat, she's a young, smart, accomplished woman who is confident and doesn't falter under pressure...you've got to admire that. Her love interest, Simon is talk, dark, sexy with a French accent...what more could you want in a hero? He's resourceful, charming and helps keep Maya grounded throughout the chaos that becomes their life. I was very surprised at the hot and sultry scenes these two shared and would love to thank the author for writing them in, the book would be just as good without them but the smut lover in me really appreciates a romance that delivers!
The Paris Secret is a thrilling adventure of murder, mystery, intrigue and romance. The Philosopher's Stone myth combined with historical facts adds a creative and fun twist to the story. There are also some great supporting characters that bring their own flair to the table and are quite entertaining. The writing is magnificent, the story draws you in right away and keeps you guessing until the very end. Giving you only small clues as to what's coming next, you never lose the element of surprise. Reading this book will have you wanting to run off to Paris and discover its secrets for yourself!
{ebook courtesy of author for Kismet Book Tour}
http://romancingthedarkside.blogspot....
A top notch murder mystery that keeps you on the edge of danger!
After a brutal breakup with her long time boyfriend, Maya Sinclair decides to go solo on a trip to Paris, orginally planned for two. Her relaxing getaway soon turns into a nightmare when the woman she's sharing her hotel room with is murdered and she becomes the prime suspect. Soon after, Maya is followed and assaulted by the real murderer, barely escaping an attack on her life, thanks to a handsome stranger. This stranger is Simon, a journalist who is looking for answers regarding his brother's untimely death. To find the answers they seek, Maya and Simon join forces and will get more than they sought after when they enter a world of secret societies and treachery, discovering truths which will further endanger their lives.
This story is a non-stop thriller that begins with a vacation to the beautiful city of Paris and quickly turns into a Da Vinci Code-esque world where nothing is as it seems and each clue leads you to uncover centuries old mysteries. The author paints a beautiful portrait of the city, its architecture and history with great details, making you feel as if you were experiencing the scenery for yourself. There is a lot to take in while reading The Paris Secret, but Angela Henry's writing is so fluid you won't have any difficulty following the story line throughout the book.
Maya, the protagonist, is a strong, independent and extremely courageous young woman. I don't know many women that could be tossed into her shoes and be so calm and collective about the situation...I love her perseverance! Her character is relatable and I found her to be a real treat, she's a young, smart, accomplished woman who is confident and doesn't falter under pressure...you've got to admire that. Her love interest, Simon is talk, dark, sexy with a French accent...what more could you want in a hero? He's resourceful, charming and helps keep Maya grounded throughout the chaos that becomes their life. I was very surprised at the hot and sultry scenes these two shared and would love to thank the author for writing them in, the book would be just as good without them but the smut lover in me really appreciates a romance that delivers!
The Paris Secret is a thrilling adventure of murder, mystery, intrigue and romance. The Philosopher's Stone myth combined with historical facts adds a creative and fun twist to the story. There are also some great supporting characters that bring their own flair to the table and are quite entertaining. The writing is magnificent, the story draws you in right away and keeps you guessing until the very end. Giving you only small clues as to what's coming next, you never lose the element of surprise. Reading this book will have you wanting to run off to Paris and discover its secrets for yourself!
{ebook courtesy of author for Kismet Book Tour}
July 17, 2011
This is originally posted on my blog http://bibliophilemystery.blogspot.com/
I read this book as a debt I had to Deea *lol*. Can you imagine this? I suggested her a series and she read is immediately, so I owed her one (as a matter of fact I owe her five, because the series had that many books).
In the beginning I wasn’t very excited, but after reading the first two chapters I realized I missed reading a story like this. It reminded me of The DaVinci Code which I read back in 2006 and of those awesome adventure video games I used to play in high school.
Meet Maya: half African American – the other half she doesn’t really know what it is herself – who grew up in foster care and never knew her real parents. When her stepmother dyed, her only chance to find out something about them dyed with her.
Maya is now a reference librarian at Capital College and newly dumped.
She embarks all alone on a trip to Paris , “The Town of Love”– one she must have shared with her 1 year boyfriend, before he left her to return to his ex-wife. Out of remorse, the guy attached the 2 tickets for the voyage to the break-up e-mail, already paid.
After weeping and feeling sorry for herself for two months, she decides to go to Paris after all and finds the strength to make fun of her situation: “And besides, who am I to stand in the way of two idiots in love? Heavy emphasis on the idiots part.”
Less than a day after arriving in Paris she is accused of a brutal murder, almost beaten to death by a psychopath in the Gardens of Versailles and saved by the hot, green eyed French journalist Simon Girard.
Simon spent the last two years in Hong Kong, recovering form his own heartbreak, but now he has to find out what happened to his brother, who was found dead in mysterious circumstances.
They decide to help each other, and in their search for answers, they find the existence of a secret society, hunt a missing crucifix that holds the key to eternal life and run one step ahead of a killer who’ll do anything to silence them both.
The book is beautifully written, it has many descriptions of Paris’ places and you’ll feel like you’re there as well. That’s how good they are!
I’d have loved to read more about Maya and Simon’s relationship and I felt that he confided too quickly in her…but this isn’t actually a romance novel, and the story is very fast paced. So this could not be a flaw after all, just my wish.
If you are a fan of adventure/mystery novels you'll love The Paris Secret.
I read this book as a debt I had to Deea *lol*. Can you imagine this? I suggested her a series and she read is immediately, so I owed her one (as a matter of fact I owe her five, because the series had that many books).
In the beginning I wasn’t very excited, but after reading the first two chapters I realized I missed reading a story like this. It reminded me of The DaVinci Code which I read back in 2006 and of those awesome adventure video games I used to play in high school.
Meet Maya: half African American – the other half she doesn’t really know what it is herself – who grew up in foster care and never knew her real parents. When her stepmother dyed, her only chance to find out something about them dyed with her.
Maya is now a reference librarian at Capital College and newly dumped.
She embarks all alone on a trip to Paris , “The Town of Love”– one she must have shared with her 1 year boyfriend, before he left her to return to his ex-wife. Out of remorse, the guy attached the 2 tickets for the voyage to the break-up e-mail, already paid.
After weeping and feeling sorry for herself for two months, she decides to go to Paris after all and finds the strength to make fun of her situation: “And besides, who am I to stand in the way of two idiots in love? Heavy emphasis on the idiots part.”
Less than a day after arriving in Paris she is accused of a brutal murder, almost beaten to death by a psychopath in the Gardens of Versailles and saved by the hot, green eyed French journalist Simon Girard.
Simon spent the last two years in Hong Kong, recovering form his own heartbreak, but now he has to find out what happened to his brother, who was found dead in mysterious circumstances.
They decide to help each other, and in their search for answers, they find the existence of a secret society, hunt a missing crucifix that holds the key to eternal life and run one step ahead of a killer who’ll do anything to silence them both.
The book is beautifully written, it has many descriptions of Paris’ places and you’ll feel like you’re there as well. That’s how good they are!
I’d have loved to read more about Maya and Simon’s relationship and I felt that he confided too quickly in her…but this isn’t actually a romance novel, and the story is very fast paced. So this could not be a flaw after all, just my wish.
If you are a fan of adventure/mystery novels you'll love The Paris Secret.
June 18, 2011
Maya is on a solo trip to Paris to mend her broken heart. But within the first few days she is accused of murdering someone, and is then violently attacked by the real killer. She is saved by a French journalist who was investigating the woman Maya is accused of killing. Together they must find the object the murderer is looking for, while surviving at the same time. Will they be able to do all this, and clear Maya's name?
This is The Da Vinci Code with a twist. Action packed mysteries, murders, a secret society, a legend about immortality, and a steamy romance. I flew through it, and never could guess what was going to be revealed next.
The scenery and locations were described quite elegantly. It was very easy to picture the locations and feel of the city. They do play an important part in the story, and it would be impossible to have it set anywhere else.
Maya and Simon were interesting, well developed characters. As were all the minor characters. Each one seemed to contribute something special to the story, and each one made their own impression. My favourite people were Brian and Jerrod, even though they had very minor roles.
A word of caution: the romance scenes get a bit graphic. They are very steamy and passionate, but there are only a few scattered into the story.
Overall, a very exciting read with a unique twist. I would definitely recommend this to fans of Paris, The Da Vinci Code, or a good romance story.
This is The Da Vinci Code with a twist. Action packed mysteries, murders, a secret society, a legend about immortality, and a steamy romance. I flew through it, and never could guess what was going to be revealed next.
The scenery and locations were described quite elegantly. It was very easy to picture the locations and feel of the city. They do play an important part in the story, and it would be impossible to have it set anywhere else.
Maya and Simon were interesting, well developed characters. As were all the minor characters. Each one seemed to contribute something special to the story, and each one made their own impression. My favourite people were Brian and Jerrod, even though they had very minor roles.
A word of caution: the romance scenes get a bit graphic. They are very steamy and passionate, but there are only a few scattered into the story.
Overall, a very exciting read with a unique twist. I would definitely recommend this to fans of Paris, The Da Vinci Code, or a good romance story.
February 18, 2011
What started out as a "my fiance cheated on/dumped me and now I'm off to find myself in an exotic city" chiclit turned seamlessly into an Indiana Jones/DaVinci Code hybrid with just a pinch of the movie "Sister Act" tossed in. Odd combo, yes, but it works. A lot of stuff is thrown at you in this book, but it is all introduced in a way that you aren't lost at all. It is easy to follow and very exciting. I am really really good at predicting twist endings, and I didn't totally predict how this book played out, so kudos to Angela Henry. I also think Angela Henry did a great job of creating a wonderful setting and mood. I have to say, Paris has never been a place I've ever really been interested in visiting. I don't know why, but it just doesn't float my boat like say maybe London or Venice. But the sights, sounds and smells of Paris in The Paris Secret have most definitely piqued my interest in The City of Love...
To read the full review over at The Book Buff, click here: http://thebookbuff.blogspot.com/2011/...
-Kate the Book Buff
To read the full review over at The Book Buff, click here: http://thebookbuff.blogspot.com/2011/...
-Kate the Book Buff
March 15, 2011
This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic.
This fast-paced read had everything: murder, secret societies, government corruption, and of course, a nice dose of steamy romance.
As far as I know (and someone please feel free to correct me if I am mistaken), this is a standalone novel. However, it read as though it were the debut of a series. I admit, I am sincerely hoping there are future books planned to expand on this one, because there were quite a few loose ends that I would love to see tied up.
That said, I did enjoy it. The romance was wonderfully hot, the fast-paced action kept me on the edge of my seat, and the whodunit kept me guessing until the end. A solid 4/5 Stars
This fast-paced read had everything: murder, secret societies, government corruption, and of course, a nice dose of steamy romance.
As far as I know (and someone please feel free to correct me if I am mistaken), this is a standalone novel. However, it read as though it were the debut of a series. I admit, I am sincerely hoping there are future books planned to expand on this one, because there were quite a few loose ends that I would love to see tied up.
That said, I did enjoy it. The romance was wonderfully hot, the fast-paced action kept me on the edge of my seat, and the whodunit kept me guessing until the end. A solid 4/5 Stars
February 2, 2011
The Paris Secret unfolds with the visual impact of a French action film. The history is fascinating, the characters engaging, and the journey thrilling.
June 23, 2011
Loved it! Review coming soon....
Read
January 22, 2015couldn't finish this book
January 12, 2021
Started out OK. But then it got to Dan Brown-y, esp. at the very end. It was like the author was trying to make up for not putting that nonsense in at the beginning and middle of the book.
A few grammatical errors (missing words) that I noticed.
This was touted as a cozy mystery, but this isn't that.
A few grammatical errors (missing words) that I noticed.
This was touted as a cozy mystery, but this isn't that.
June 19, 2017
A quick entertaining murder mystery. Great summer reading & I love Paris!
February 26, 2011
4.5 stars review posted initially on my blog:
The Paris Secret was a fantastic book that I devoured in just a few hours. The writing style was very beautiful and compelling, so I was sucked into the story from the very first pages and I loved it more and more with every turn of the page. This is definitely an unputdownable book!
After being dumped by her boyfriend, Maya flies to Paris to get over the painful break up (yes, you read that right: our main character goes in the City of Love all alone, to recover from a broken heart! How’s that for irony?) And she does that all right – but not before getting into a lot of trouble and even facing death a few times. Because as if her situation wasn’t bad enough, in just a few hours after arriving in Paris, she gets involved in a mysterious murder - for which she becomes a suspect - and gets dragged into a story full of conspiracies, history, codes and symbols and secret societies.
Everything happens because of a missing crucifix. Dangerous people are after Maya because apparently that crucifix is very important and they think she has it and the only way to get them out of her back is to actually find it. In searching for it, Maya meets Simon Girard, a hot Frenchman with green eyes and a good heart. He helps her find out more about this Moret Crucifix and the Moret Society, and travel all around Paris looking for clues and people who might know more about it. We get to meet new characters who share their amazing stories related to the mysterious society. This is one of the things I loved most about this book: the Da Vinci Code feeling, the mystery, the history of the crucifix and of all those people… The history lover in me was fascinated by all these elements and always wanted to know more! The Paris setting was wonderful! All the places Maya and Simon visited were so nicely described and vivid, that I felt like I was walking around the museums or streets along with the characters. It’s all so beautiful!
As for the love story, I liked it, but I felt like things happened a bit too quickly, like there was yet more to discover about it. I would have liked to get to know more about Simon and to see more about the development of his relationship with Maya. Then again, with all the things going on in this book, with all the action and the investigations, a very complicated and twisted love story would have been too much. But I really liked Maya as a character; it was easy to relate to her and to care about her.
While reading this book, I felt like I was walking through a magical maze, and each turn, each new 'wall' was revealing another thrilling story and though I had no idea where was the end of it, I was in no hurry to reach it, because I just wanted to see more, to learn more, to discover a new special place, a new story, a new character... The plot was so well thought out and full of history, mystery, suspense, twists and turns… Simply amazing! I can only imagine the amount of research that went into writing this book! All the details are so well crafted and all the tiny pieces so perfectly put together! It was like all the puzzle parts were revealed bit by bit, at the right time, right place.
All in all, The Paris Secret is an engaging story, beautifully written, that draws the reader in a suspenseful, exciting and very interesting journey through Paris; the romance combined with intrigues, mystery and history elements in a The Da Vinci Code style promises to keep the reader captivated until the very last page. I would love to see this book made into a movie!
The Paris Secret was a fantastic book that I devoured in just a few hours. The writing style was very beautiful and compelling, so I was sucked into the story from the very first pages and I loved it more and more with every turn of the page. This is definitely an unputdownable book!
After being dumped by her boyfriend, Maya flies to Paris to get over the painful break up (yes, you read that right: our main character goes in the City of Love all alone, to recover from a broken heart! How’s that for irony?) And she does that all right – but not before getting into a lot of trouble and even facing death a few times. Because as if her situation wasn’t bad enough, in just a few hours after arriving in Paris, she gets involved in a mysterious murder - for which she becomes a suspect - and gets dragged into a story full of conspiracies, history, codes and symbols and secret societies.
Everything happens because of a missing crucifix. Dangerous people are after Maya because apparently that crucifix is very important and they think she has it and the only way to get them out of her back is to actually find it. In searching for it, Maya meets Simon Girard, a hot Frenchman with green eyes and a good heart. He helps her find out more about this Moret Crucifix and the Moret Society, and travel all around Paris looking for clues and people who might know more about it. We get to meet new characters who share their amazing stories related to the mysterious society. This is one of the things I loved most about this book: the Da Vinci Code feeling, the mystery, the history of the crucifix and of all those people… The history lover in me was fascinated by all these elements and always wanted to know more! The Paris setting was wonderful! All the places Maya and Simon visited were so nicely described and vivid, that I felt like I was walking around the museums or streets along with the characters. It’s all so beautiful!
As for the love story, I liked it, but I felt like things happened a bit too quickly, like there was yet more to discover about it. I would have liked to get to know more about Simon and to see more about the development of his relationship with Maya. Then again, with all the things going on in this book, with all the action and the investigations, a very complicated and twisted love story would have been too much. But I really liked Maya as a character; it was easy to relate to her and to care about her.
While reading this book, I felt like I was walking through a magical maze, and each turn, each new 'wall' was revealing another thrilling story and though I had no idea where was the end of it, I was in no hurry to reach it, because I just wanted to see more, to learn more, to discover a new special place, a new story, a new character... The plot was so well thought out and full of history, mystery, suspense, twists and turns… Simply amazing! I can only imagine the amount of research that went into writing this book! All the details are so well crafted and all the tiny pieces so perfectly put together! It was like all the puzzle parts were revealed bit by bit, at the right time, right place.
All in all, The Paris Secret is an engaging story, beautifully written, that draws the reader in a suspenseful, exciting and very interesting journey through Paris; the romance combined with intrigues, mystery and history elements in a The Da Vinci Code style promises to keep the reader captivated until the very last page. I would love to see this book made into a movie!
December 21, 2010
If the DaVinci Code & Julie Kenner's Play or Die series had a baby, I think it might be a little something like this. While it doesn't entirely fill the shoes of these two greats (hey, those are mighty big shoes), it definitely satisfied my cravings for hot romance & historical mystery during the holiday season.
Less than twenty-four hours after fleeing to Paris, Maya Sinclair is the prime suspect in a brutal murder—and targeted by the real killer. When she's viciously attacked in the gardens of Versailles, Maya barely escapes with her life thanks to sexy French journalist Simon Girard.
Simon has been investigating the mysterious death of his brother, an art forger with ties to the woman Maya is suspected of killing. Still healing from heartbreak of his own, Simon reluctantly joins forces with Maya, who has awakened feelings within him he thought long dead.
Their search for answers uncovers the existence of a secret society, and puts them on a quest to find a missing crucifix rumored to hold the key to everlasting life. Together, Maya and Simon race through Paris one step ahead of a killer who will do anything to ensure some secrets remain buried forever...
This really was fun to read. Simon & Maya have a lot of chemistry together in & out of bed. Something I found refreshing (and might be considered slightly spoilery) is that while the relationship is left up in the air until the end of the book, our dynamic duo didn't fight their desire to bed each other early on in the book. It's pretty much a romance staple for our romantic leads to deny the lust between the two of them, so it was nice to see a couple that did the opposite of that. There's still a little angst in the relationship, so it's not completely smooth sailing for them. Also interesting is the mystery of the crucifix- while there were a few bumpy spots to the hunt, the historical aspects were obviously well researched & lovingly detailed.
While the historical parts of the story were well done, at times the story just seemed a little too large for the page count of the book. The later parts of the book seemed a little too glossed over for how important they were, plus some of the discoveries at the end seemed a little too coincidental. However, it felt less like an oversight or "easy way out" than it was an attempt to fit into a specific page count or to keep in tone with the quickly paced ending. I can't help but feel that if there had been about 10-15 more pages to the book, it would have been perfect.
Overall this was a very fun book to read & I really loved the characters in this book. (Brian & Jerrod were two of my favorites, short as their time in the story was.) I just wish that the ending had been a little more fleshed out to fit the story that preceded it. It's still well worth reading, if only for the romance built between the two lead characters.
(ARC provided by NetGalley)
Less than twenty-four hours after fleeing to Paris, Maya Sinclair is the prime suspect in a brutal murder—and targeted by the real killer. When she's viciously attacked in the gardens of Versailles, Maya barely escapes with her life thanks to sexy French journalist Simon Girard.
Simon has been investigating the mysterious death of his brother, an art forger with ties to the woman Maya is suspected of killing. Still healing from heartbreak of his own, Simon reluctantly joins forces with Maya, who has awakened feelings within him he thought long dead.
Their search for answers uncovers the existence of a secret society, and puts them on a quest to find a missing crucifix rumored to hold the key to everlasting life. Together, Maya and Simon race through Paris one step ahead of a killer who will do anything to ensure some secrets remain buried forever...
This really was fun to read. Simon & Maya have a lot of chemistry together in & out of bed. Something I found refreshing (and might be considered slightly spoilery) is that while the relationship is left up in the air until the end of the book, our dynamic duo didn't fight their desire to bed each other early on in the book. It's pretty much a romance staple for our romantic leads to deny the lust between the two of them, so it was nice to see a couple that did the opposite of that. There's still a little angst in the relationship, so it's not completely smooth sailing for them. Also interesting is the mystery of the crucifix- while there were a few bumpy spots to the hunt, the historical aspects were obviously well researched & lovingly detailed.
While the historical parts of the story were well done, at times the story just seemed a little too large for the page count of the book. The later parts of the book seemed a little too glossed over for how important they were, plus some of the discoveries at the end seemed a little too coincidental. However, it felt less like an oversight or "easy way out" than it was an attempt to fit into a specific page count or to keep in tone with the quickly paced ending. I can't help but feel that if there had been about 10-15 more pages to the book, it would have been perfect.
Overall this was a very fun book to read & I really loved the characters in this book. (Brian & Jerrod were two of my favorites, short as their time in the story was.) I just wish that the ending had been a little more fleshed out to fit the story that preceded it. It's still well worth reading, if only for the romance built between the two lead characters.
(ARC provided by NetGalley)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2011
Is there a better way to get over a broken heart than to run off to the most romantic city in the world? For Maya Sinclair there doesn't seem to be. Thinking the least she deserves is a nice vaca away from her ex, especially since it's on his dime, Maya decides her solo trip to Paris is just what she needs to move on.
She never expects to get tangled up in a web of secrets so thick she can hardly keep from going under as the pile of dead bodies around her threaten to bury her too. Luckily, Maya has a "sexy Frenchman" to help her pieces together clues that just might unlock a past she shares a connection with.
Because of the Paris setting, I was expecting more of an epic romance between Maya and her "sexy Frenchman" (I can't stop saying those words together) Simon, but the true focal point of the story was the mystery, which was rich and intricate.
Librarian extraordinaire Maya becomes the ultimate detective as she tries to race against a deadly deadline to uncover the key to finding a book that holds secrets to immortality and wealth.
Though the slow pacing was a little maddening, I thought Henry did an excellent job of weaving together history and noir to create contemporary fiction that carried a supernatural weight. The paranormal parts of the story were so small they could have been lost, but instead, Henry used them as an opportunity to reveal background information that set a cryptic tone for the rest of the mystery. I do have to admit that at the end, I was a bit disappointed that a bigger reveal didn't occur regarding Maya involvement because then the mystery seemed to rely too much on coincidence instead of Maya specifically.
Character wise, I thought both Maya and "sexy Frenchman" Simon were solid. Both added much needed humorous moments to the mix, especially at the times when the story got to be a bit too heavy. But as I've said, there wasn't anything heart pounding/butterflies fluttering romantic about their relationship. I would have liked to have seen more chemistry and sexual tension between them. The way they fell quickly into bed seemed to be more about them relieving stress than about them forming feelings for each other. Sure, Maya went through all the appropriate stages of 'is he the one?', which included some good old fashion jealousy and misinterpretation of emotions, but it felt artificial.
While I wouldn't say the appeal of The Paris Secret was the romance, I would say that the mystery was interesting and cleverly done. I had fun hanging out with ever witty Maya, especially since she quoted Bell Biv DeVoe (Never trust a big butt and a smile), as she raced through Paris, and I'm hoping for a follow up story that will tie Maya's past to some of the lingering secrets.
http://www.theunreadreader.com/2011/0...
She never expects to get tangled up in a web of secrets so thick she can hardly keep from going under as the pile of dead bodies around her threaten to bury her too. Luckily, Maya has a "sexy Frenchman" to help her pieces together clues that just might unlock a past she shares a connection with.
Because of the Paris setting, I was expecting more of an epic romance between Maya and her "sexy Frenchman" (I can't stop saying those words together) Simon, but the true focal point of the story was the mystery, which was rich and intricate.
Librarian extraordinaire Maya becomes the ultimate detective as she tries to race against a deadly deadline to uncover the key to finding a book that holds secrets to immortality and wealth.
Though the slow pacing was a little maddening, I thought Henry did an excellent job of weaving together history and noir to create contemporary fiction that carried a supernatural weight. The paranormal parts of the story were so small they could have been lost, but instead, Henry used them as an opportunity to reveal background information that set a cryptic tone for the rest of the mystery. I do have to admit that at the end, I was a bit disappointed that a bigger reveal didn't occur regarding Maya involvement because then the mystery seemed to rely too much on coincidence instead of Maya specifically.
Character wise, I thought both Maya and "sexy Frenchman" Simon were solid. Both added much needed humorous moments to the mix, especially at the times when the story got to be a bit too heavy. But as I've said, there wasn't anything heart pounding/butterflies fluttering romantic about their relationship. I would have liked to have seen more chemistry and sexual tension between them. The way they fell quickly into bed seemed to be more about them relieving stress than about them forming feelings for each other. Sure, Maya went through all the appropriate stages of 'is he the one?', which included some good old fashion jealousy and misinterpretation of emotions, but it felt artificial.
While I wouldn't say the appeal of The Paris Secret was the romance, I would say that the mystery was interesting and cleverly done. I had fun hanging out with ever witty Maya, especially since she quoted Bell Biv DeVoe (Never trust a big butt and a smile), as she raced through Paris, and I'm hoping for a follow up story that will tie Maya's past to some of the lingering secrets.
http://www.theunreadreader.com/2011/0...
January 17, 2011
My Thoughts: The Paris Secret is the new Da Vinci Code infused with a bit of romance and featuring a female protagonist. Maya is the American girl next door, after a bad breakup she flies off to Paris to get herself together and mend her broken heart with a trip to the City of Love. Instead of romantic candlelit boat cruising on the Seine, after she discovers the body of her murdered hotel roommate she not only becomes the main suspect in the police investigation but the real killer is also chasing her across Paris to silence her forever. Her only associate and helper in her flight is Simon Girard, an incredibly handsome French reporter who wants to uncover the identity of his brother’s murderer.
Besides the thrill of Maya and Simon’s getaway adventure and battle against time, the excitement of uncovering clues and the history of a secret society, and the steamy attraction between Maya and Simon what I enjoyed the most in the novel was the virtual tour of Paris Angela Henry gave the reader. I have been several times to Paris and through Angela Henry’s descriptions of Paris’ cobblestone winding streets, the métro or historical sights, I felt like I was really there with Maya, soaking up the athmosphere of the city with a café au lait and a pain au chocolat.
eading Simon and Maya's interactions was very entertaining, the chemistry between them is palpable and just imagining Simon speaking with his French temperament in that sexy and funny English spoken with that characteristic accent makes you feel all warm and fuzzy, mmm :-) The sex scenes were steamy without being too graphic, and exactly because of that held a note of excitement.
My only complaint is that I felt the conclusion a bit rushed. It whooshed by me, I would have liked the explanation of the killer/mystery and their reasons to be a bit more explored in detail.
Verdict: The Paris Secret has the perfect mix of suspense and romance to keep you biting your nails and make you stay up until dawn. And if that wasn't enough, the virtual tour of Paris Angela Henry gives the reader is wonderful! The experience of The Paris Secret could only be enhanced more if 1) it were made into an illustrated book with photos of the real Paris scenery where the scene is taking place, or 2) if you were reading it while being in Paris! :-)
Plot: 8/10
Characters: 8/10
Ending: 7/10
Writing: 9/10
Cover: 9/10
Besides the thrill of Maya and Simon’s getaway adventure and battle against time, the excitement of uncovering clues and the history of a secret society, and the steamy attraction between Maya and Simon what I enjoyed the most in the novel was the virtual tour of Paris Angela Henry gave the reader. I have been several times to Paris and through Angela Henry’s descriptions of Paris’ cobblestone winding streets, the métro or historical sights, I felt like I was really there with Maya, soaking up the athmosphere of the city with a café au lait and a pain au chocolat.
eading Simon and Maya's interactions was very entertaining, the chemistry between them is palpable and just imagining Simon speaking with his French temperament in that sexy and funny English spoken with that characteristic accent makes you feel all warm and fuzzy, mmm :-) The sex scenes were steamy without being too graphic, and exactly because of that held a note of excitement.
My only complaint is that I felt the conclusion a bit rushed. It whooshed by me, I would have liked the explanation of the killer/mystery and their reasons to be a bit more explored in detail.
Verdict: The Paris Secret has the perfect mix of suspense and romance to keep you biting your nails and make you stay up until dawn. And if that wasn't enough, the virtual tour of Paris Angela Henry gives the reader is wonderful! The experience of The Paris Secret could only be enhanced more if 1) it were made into an illustrated book with photos of the real Paris scenery where the scene is taking place, or 2) if you were reading it while being in Paris! :-)
Plot: 8/10
Characters: 8/10
Ending: 7/10
Writing: 9/10
Cover: 9/10
August 30, 2011
I wanted to like this book more than I actually did. There were some great things about this book but ultimately the issues I had with it seemed to overshadow the whole of the story for me.
Let's talk about the good parts:
Paris! Ok i have never been there but I feel like I was right there with Maya and Simon. It is obvious the author has been to Paris. This amount of detail with the streets, the food, the hotels the small bits of trivia is all presented with an ease and a flow that even the arm-chair traveler feels is authentic.
The writing. Very nicely polished. I love it when I read a new to me author who doesn't feel newly hatched. LOL. And the conversational dialogue with real punctuation of normal everyday humor, even in fraught situations, felt real as well.
So let's talk about the 'meh' parts:
Romance. Maya and Sam hook-up while they are on the run during their Da Vinci Code-esque escapades. The problem is it felt tacked on and unconvincing. Honestly as I was reading I could almost hear the gears grind to a halt as the romance subplot was inserted in, only for them to start up sluggishly to get back to the thriller/adventure parts. Honestly Simon and Maya did not have any chemistry. And the sex scenes didn't feel organic to the already labored romance. In fact they felt weirdly dispassionate.
The Da Vinci Code redux. This is a personal thing, but I am not a major fan of the secret society/on-the-run/priceless artifact thriller. Although I absolutely adored The Eight, that book pretty much ate up my quota for that plot device. There were moments where I thought incidents stretched credibility. Sure your phone dies just as you are about to warn your friend that the lawyer they hired for you is actually the person trying to kill you.
The Villain. Managed to be everywhere all the time.
So yeah, overall this book was not inside my wheelhouse although it may appeal to thriller fans, as long as they don't mind an awkward romantic subplot.
Let's talk about the good parts:
Paris! Ok i have never been there but I feel like I was right there with Maya and Simon. It is obvious the author has been to Paris. This amount of detail with the streets, the food, the hotels the small bits of trivia is all presented with an ease and a flow that even the arm-chair traveler feels is authentic.
The writing. Very nicely polished. I love it when I read a new to me author who doesn't feel newly hatched. LOL. And the conversational dialogue with real punctuation of normal everyday humor, even in fraught situations, felt real as well.
So let's talk about the 'meh' parts:
Romance. Maya and Sam hook-up while they are on the run during their Da Vinci Code-esque escapades. The problem is it felt tacked on and unconvincing. Honestly as I was reading I could almost hear the gears grind to a halt as the romance subplot was inserted in, only for them to start up sluggishly to get back to the thriller/adventure parts. Honestly Simon and Maya did not have any chemistry. And the sex scenes didn't feel organic to the already labored romance. In fact they felt weirdly dispassionate.
The Da Vinci Code redux. This is a personal thing, but I am not a major fan of the secret society/on-the-run/priceless artifact thriller. Although I absolutely adored The Eight, that book pretty much ate up my quota for that plot device. There were moments where I thought incidents stretched credibility. Sure your phone dies just as you are about to warn your friend that the lawyer they hired for you is actually the person trying to kill you.
The Villain. Managed to be everywhere all the time.
So yeah, overall this book was not inside my wheelhouse although it may appeal to thriller fans, as long as they don't mind an awkward romantic subplot.
January 2, 2011
A change from the Young Adult books with a murder mystery in Paris.
Angela Henry takes a very well know myth, the philosopher's stone, and mix it with our history with a result a really captivated story of murders and romance in Paris.
When i started reading the book i felt like i was watching a movie. Following a girl which picked Paris for vacations, how she filled for what she was seeing for first time and lastly being accused of murder. I have to say that i loved how i was trying to guess from clues who the murderer was. Every time something new appeared the suspect was changing and that made me excited and to read faster and more and see what was going on. So before i knew it i was caught in a thrilling adventure with some amazing descriptions of Paris and history.
The main characters ( Maya & Simon ) were persons which you see everyday, with problems of your enviromment, so it's actually easy to feel what they feel and get to them.You may have not acted the same at some points but surely you understand what they do and why.
Lastly, i want to mention two little things that bothered me. And it's clearly personal taste that something everyone will have problem with. Firstly, is the sexual content. It really bothers me in books and movies as you may already know and that scene in the book was one of the most awkard sex scenes i've read, making me really uncomfortable to read it. Thanks for me, it was small. Secondly, i don't like, even in real life, girls that swearing. Okay, i might say "stupid" or "damn" but i don't like girls calling "asshole", "dick" or any "fuck" related word. And there were times the girl characters sweared like which obviously wasn't the best for me.
Apart from those two things, The Paris Secret is a captivated mystery to read at your holidays and keep you in until the last page.
Angela Henry takes a very well know myth, the philosopher's stone, and mix it with our history with a result a really captivated story of murders and romance in Paris.
When i started reading the book i felt like i was watching a movie. Following a girl which picked Paris for vacations, how she filled for what she was seeing for first time and lastly being accused of murder. I have to say that i loved how i was trying to guess from clues who the murderer was. Every time something new appeared the suspect was changing and that made me excited and to read faster and more and see what was going on. So before i knew it i was caught in a thrilling adventure with some amazing descriptions of Paris and history.
The main characters ( Maya & Simon ) were persons which you see everyday, with problems of your enviromment, so it's actually easy to feel what they feel and get to them.You may have not acted the same at some points but surely you understand what they do and why.
Lastly, i want to mention two little things that bothered me. And it's clearly personal taste that something everyone will have problem with. Firstly, is the sexual content. It really bothers me in books and movies as you may already know and that scene in the book was one of the most awkard sex scenes i've read, making me really uncomfortable to read it. Thanks for me, it was small. Secondly, i don't like, even in real life, girls that swearing. Okay, i might say "stupid" or "damn" but i don't like girls calling "asshole", "dick" or any "fuck" related word. And there were times the girl characters sweared like which obviously wasn't the best for me.
Apart from those two things, The Paris Secret is a captivated mystery to read at your holidays and keep you in until the last page.
March 13, 2011
I'm ashamed to say how long I've had this waiting for me to read in my kindle since I've downloaded it from netgalley. Let's just say it waited there much too long, because once I started reading this I couldn't stop. I normally have trouble with Romantic Suspense novels, but not this one. I mean what's not to love about Paris, a mysterious secret society and murder?
I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a romantic suspense novel so much! There are just so many things that drew me into this book. There was the setting: Paris-while I was reading the book I felt like I was experiencing it with Maya. There were so many twists and turns in this book that I never knew who was coming after the heroine next-I loved it.
Maya is one tough cookie. She might be down and out in Paris and have someone framing her for murder-but she's not going to let it stop her from clearing her name and maybe, just maybe finding some romance. Speaking of romance, Simon was a really fun character. I loved how he tried to be all controlling and Maya would have none of it-she would listen to his suggestions, but if she didn't like it she would follow her instincts. I loved the banter between Simon and Maya and for me there was just the right amount of romance mixed in with the mystery at hand. This is one of the few inter-racial romances that I've read and it makes me wonder why I haven't read more of them.
The only real fault I had with The Paris Secret was that I really enjoyed some of the secondary characters that Maya meets on her tour and would have liked to see more of them-they kind of disappeared and reappeared out of nowhere-but I have a feeling that might be how romantic suspense novels flow with secondary characters. Despite that though, this was just a fun read that made me want to read more of this genre!
I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a romantic suspense novel so much! There are just so many things that drew me into this book. There was the setting: Paris-while I was reading the book I felt like I was experiencing it with Maya. There were so many twists and turns in this book that I never knew who was coming after the heroine next-I loved it.
Maya is one tough cookie. She might be down and out in Paris and have someone framing her for murder-but she's not going to let it stop her from clearing her name and maybe, just maybe finding some romance. Speaking of romance, Simon was a really fun character. I loved how he tried to be all controlling and Maya would have none of it-she would listen to his suggestions, but if she didn't like it she would follow her instincts. I loved the banter between Simon and Maya and for me there was just the right amount of romance mixed in with the mystery at hand. This is one of the few inter-racial romances that I've read and it makes me wonder why I haven't read more of them.
The only real fault I had with The Paris Secret was that I really enjoyed some of the secondary characters that Maya meets on her tour and would have liked to see more of them-they kind of disappeared and reappeared out of nowhere-but I have a feeling that might be how romantic suspense novels flow with secondary characters. Despite that though, this was just a fun read that made me want to read more of this genre!
Read
June 19, 2011The Paris Secret is a true romantic thriller: love, passion and people who want to kill you. Yep. That’s it. This is a book that I’ve had a hard time reviewing. I enjoyed reading it, I liked the idea and how it was expressed, I even liked the characters and the setting but at the end of the book I just felt like, “Oh, well that was nice.” So I’m going to say that, for me, it’s not really a book that inspires pages of gushing words.
Let’s start with the good. The Paris Secret was a solid read and it had everything there to make it interesting and to make the story work. The writing was quite good and the protagonist, Maya, was bad ass and complex. The love interest (who had a very sexy accent in my head) was smart, funny and fulfilled his role well but my favorite character was Simon’s goddaughter, Francoise, a 13 year old hacker with a wonderful snarky attitude. The bits with her in them were definitely my favorites.
The setting was wonderful, it’s always hard to go wrong with Paris! I have a soft spot for anything set in the land of love and mystery and I especially enjoyed the atmosphere the city gave the story. The author made a really interesting connection between the mystery and the place. This gave the whole thing a bit more of an edge, something that made me want to read more. I think my main problem with this book though, is that it is very predictable. I knew what was going to happen and I knew how it was going to happen. While there were some very interesting historical bits and pieces thrown in, it kind of felt like a “been there, done that” kind of situation.
End thoughts: An interesting international mystery with a hot love interest and a kick butt protagonist. Recommended to those who are looking for a lighter, more romantic, DaVinci C0de kind of a read.
Let’s start with the good. The Paris Secret was a solid read and it had everything there to make it interesting and to make the story work. The writing was quite good and the protagonist, Maya, was bad ass and complex. The love interest (who had a very sexy accent in my head) was smart, funny and fulfilled his role well but my favorite character was Simon’s goddaughter, Francoise, a 13 year old hacker with a wonderful snarky attitude. The bits with her in them were definitely my favorites.
The setting was wonderful, it’s always hard to go wrong with Paris! I have a soft spot for anything set in the land of love and mystery and I especially enjoyed the atmosphere the city gave the story. The author made a really interesting connection between the mystery and the place. This gave the whole thing a bit more of an edge, something that made me want to read more. I think my main problem with this book though, is that it is very predictable. I knew what was going to happen and I knew how it was going to happen. While there were some very interesting historical bits and pieces thrown in, it kind of felt like a “been there, done that” kind of situation.
End thoughts: An interesting international mystery with a hot love interest and a kick butt protagonist. Recommended to those who are looking for a lighter, more romantic, DaVinci C0de kind of a read.
February 20, 2011
When I first read the summary of the book, I knew it would be good. For someone like me who really enjoys murder mysteries, it's hard not to enjoy a book about murder, sex, betrayal, ancient artifacts, secret societies and everlasting life.
I really dug into this book with a smile on my face, and I thought the french titles on the chapters was a nice touch with quite a creative flair. I liked Maya a lot and thought she was pretty brave to go on a trip to Paris all by herself. I certainly wouldn't! Then for her to become so completely immersed in something that was way bigger than she ever bargained for, well, talk about bad luck!
What was quite unexpected though was the extremely well written sex scenes. I had no idea what I was expecting, but when Maya finally became intimate, it was H-O-T! Not trashy, full of passion, and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
I really hate to compare a book to a movie, but with the secret societies and everlasting life element of this book, I just couldn't help but think about it's similarities to National Treasure. Since I absolutely adore that movie, that should tell you how much I enjoyed this book.
If there was anything at all that I could change, it would be maybe just a little less French history, because not all of it was really needed to get the point across.
I hope that Henry finds a way to turn this into a series, because I would love to see what happens between Maya and Simon in the future! Thanks to Carina Press and netGalley for allowing me the chance to read and review this book for free.
I really dug into this book with a smile on my face, and I thought the french titles on the chapters was a nice touch with quite a creative flair. I liked Maya a lot and thought she was pretty brave to go on a trip to Paris all by herself. I certainly wouldn't! Then for her to become so completely immersed in something that was way bigger than she ever bargained for, well, talk about bad luck!
What was quite unexpected though was the extremely well written sex scenes. I had no idea what I was expecting, but when Maya finally became intimate, it was H-O-T! Not trashy, full of passion, and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
I really hate to compare a book to a movie, but with the secret societies and everlasting life element of this book, I just couldn't help but think about it's similarities to National Treasure. Since I absolutely adore that movie, that should tell you how much I enjoyed this book.
If there was anything at all that I could change, it would be maybe just a little less French history, because not all of it was really needed to get the point across.
I hope that Henry finds a way to turn this into a series, because I would love to see what happens between Maya and Simon in the future! Thanks to Carina Press and netGalley for allowing me the chance to read and review this book for free.
July 5, 2011
Wow, this book was not like other books that I'm used to reading. This was mostly a murder mystery, with a hint of passion/romance. The heroine in this story is Maya, a smart and courageous woman who takes a trip to Paris by herself after finding out her boyfriend cheated on her. Her luck goes from bad to worse when she is framed for murder. Even worse than that - the real murderer is trying to kill her.
This is one of those books that makes you grateful for your normal, boring life. I couldn't imagine being Maya, I think I would have had a mental breakdown from the very beginning. She is definitely stronger and more independent than I am. She has nothing but bad luck, and then she meets Simon - who is thrown into the living hell with her. Together, they are forced to figure out clues that are of life and death importance.
This book is a bit of a thriller, and is full of mystery, action, and suspense. The plot of the story was wonderful, and so was the writing. There were twists and turns throughout the whole story to keep you on your toes. You don't know who to trust, and you keep turning the pages hoping to find out all the answers. I don't know if this is part of a series or not, but it definitely could be. I would like to see more between Simon and Maya. They have really good chemistry and I would like to see them have time together where they are not running for their lives.
This is one of those books that makes you grateful for your normal, boring life. I couldn't imagine being Maya, I think I would have had a mental breakdown from the very beginning. She is definitely stronger and more independent than I am. She has nothing but bad luck, and then she meets Simon - who is thrown into the living hell with her. Together, they are forced to figure out clues that are of life and death importance.
This book is a bit of a thriller, and is full of mystery, action, and suspense. The plot of the story was wonderful, and so was the writing. There were twists and turns throughout the whole story to keep you on your toes. You don't know who to trust, and you keep turning the pages hoping to find out all the answers. I don't know if this is part of a series or not, but it definitely could be. I would like to see more between Simon and Maya. They have really good chemistry and I would like to see them have time together where they are not running for their lives.
July 1, 2016
Okay, I love this beautiful girl that the story is about. Raven hair, colored eyes and brown skin. I think the author described a magical looking beauty as her main character: Maya Sinclair.
This is Angela Henry's fantasy. This book is a total fantasy and I once owned it but I gave it away and I don't think they're selling it anymore.
Anywho...
This girl gets her heart broke by some man, so she decides to go on vacation alone in Paris. Kind of a thing I wouldn't do. Vacationing alone is more lonely than being left lonely by someone you wanted a future with. Anyway, she winds up in the center of a big mystery and people are chasing her and kicking her ass. Big men beat her up, if I recall.
It's all because she had some crazy room mate in a hotel that all this crazy bologna starts happening to her.
The whole book is all glamorous and stuff, but it's not that well-written in some places. I also think the author has this character doing some questionable things nearing the end of the book and that is what made me put it down.
It was simply too much of a fantasy for me. But I read a lot of it. I hear there was some paranormal in the end. I still wonder how the author worked that into the story-line. It seems to me that she was throwing everything in but the kitchen sink by doing that one...
This is Angela Henry's fantasy. This book is a total fantasy and I once owned it but I gave it away and I don't think they're selling it anymore.
Anywho...
This girl gets her heart broke by some man, so she decides to go on vacation alone in Paris. Kind of a thing I wouldn't do. Vacationing alone is more lonely than being left lonely by someone you wanted a future with. Anyway, she winds up in the center of a big mystery and people are chasing her and kicking her ass. Big men beat her up, if I recall.
It's all because she had some crazy room mate in a hotel that all this crazy bologna starts happening to her.
The whole book is all glamorous and stuff, but it's not that well-written in some places. I also think the author has this character doing some questionable things nearing the end of the book and that is what made me put it down.
It was simply too much of a fantasy for me. But I read a lot of it. I hear there was some paranormal in the end. I still wonder how the author worked that into the story-line. It seems to me that she was throwing everything in but the kitchen sink by doing that one...
January 5, 2011
Paris, romance, and murder are an intoxicating mix.
Setting: Paris - I want to go. The book was like a tour of Paris, the food, the sights, the atmosphere.
Mystery: There was a lot going on- murders, the missing crucifix, a secret society. Henry did a good job holding it all together, keeping the suspense going. There definitely weren't any slow spots.
Romance: Maya and Simon are both recovering from broken hearts, but they're a well-matched couple. He's passionate, grumpy at times, dedicated. She's independent, feisty, and a librarian. Their relationship is not smooth sailing, but at least they don't spend the first half of the book denying the attraction. The sex scenes were steamy without being overly graphic.
Overall it was an exciting story, heavier on the suspense than the romance, and I enjoyed it.
Setting: Paris - I want to go. The book was like a tour of Paris, the food, the sights, the atmosphere.
Mystery: There was a lot going on- murders, the missing crucifix, a secret society. Henry did a good job holding it all together, keeping the suspense going. There definitely weren't any slow spots.
Romance: Maya and Simon are both recovering from broken hearts, but they're a well-matched couple. He's passionate, grumpy at times, dedicated. She's independent, feisty, and a librarian. Their relationship is not smooth sailing, but at least they don't spend the first half of the book denying the attraction. The sex scenes were steamy without being overly graphic.
Overall it was an exciting story, heavier on the suspense than the romance, and I enjoyed it.
March 28, 2011
Reviewed at: Library of Lights
Date reviewed: 28th Feb 2011
Review link: http://mykindaland.com/?p=178
Like Paris, The City of Love? Like romance? Like a bit of mystery? Like adventure? Then The Paris Secrets by Angela Henry is definitely for you. This book is a romantic thriller that will surely take your breath away. Well, at least it did took my breath away.
I enjoyed reading The Paris Secrets by Angela Henry. It made me wish that I’m in the City of Love myself. The book and storyline is well done. And the setting is very descriptive.
There’s enough mystery in the book to keep me interested and keep on turning the pages. This is a very good book to read when you’re bored and looking for some adventure without stepping out of your home.
I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
Date reviewed: 28th Feb 2011
Review link: http://mykindaland.com/?p=178
Like Paris, The City of Love? Like romance? Like a bit of mystery? Like adventure? Then The Paris Secrets by Angela Henry is definitely for you. This book is a romantic thriller that will surely take your breath away. Well, at least it did took my breath away.
I enjoyed reading The Paris Secrets by Angela Henry. It made me wish that I’m in the City of Love myself. The book and storyline is well done. And the setting is very descriptive.
There’s enough mystery in the book to keep me interested and keep on turning the pages. This is a very good book to read when you’re bored and looking for some adventure without stepping out of your home.
I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
November 2, 2012
Mystery meets romance with a nod to the paranormal in this page turning treasure hunt. You will experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of Paris while the main characters lie, steal, run from the police and search for religious relics in a race against the clock.
Follow Maya as she tries to clear her name after taking a solo trip to Paris and within hours of her arrival is accused of murder. She quickly has to go on a treasure hunt through this unknown city and learn more about Sister Louise-Marie – the secret hidden black daughter of a French queen and her African lover- than she bargained for. Luckily she meets attractive Frenchman Simon Girard who is on a murder hunt as well which just happens to be intertwined with her own.
I received this great book for free as part of the first reads giveaway and now thanks to you I am craving French pastries and wine.
Follow Maya as she tries to clear her name after taking a solo trip to Paris and within hours of her arrival is accused of murder. She quickly has to go on a treasure hunt through this unknown city and learn more about Sister Louise-Marie – the secret hidden black daughter of a French queen and her African lover- than she bargained for. Luckily she meets attractive Frenchman Simon Girard who is on a murder hunt as well which just happens to be intertwined with her own.
I received this great book for free as part of the first reads giveaway and now thanks to you I am craving French pastries and wine.
November 19, 2011
This book came in my November Eharlequin suspense collection and I was so glad it did. The book is a mix of romance, Da Vinci Code, and Indian Jones.
I loved the non-stop suspense of this book. Maya goes to Paris after being dumped by her boyfriend. Just barely getting the feel of Paris, she becomes the prime suspect in a murder. Next she is attacked in the famous gardens of Versailles but is rescued by a French journalist name Simon. From this point on the story is a weave of intrigue and suspense.
I love stories like this because they keep you on your toes. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.
I loved the non-stop suspense of this book. Maya goes to Paris after being dumped by her boyfriend. Just barely getting the feel of Paris, she becomes the prime suspect in a murder. Next she is attacked in the famous gardens of Versailles but is rescued by a French journalist name Simon. From this point on the story is a weave of intrigue and suspense.
I love stories like this because they keep you on your toes. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.
October 21, 2012
What a fun book! Similar in some ways to The DaVinci Code, with a little bit of romance thrown in, I found this book easy to read, and hard to put down. The action never stopped and kept you guessing about what would happen next. Since I know very little French, or truly very much about French History I also learned a lot while reading the book. I am very glad I won this book on goodreads and look forward to reading more by Angela Henry. If her other books are as good she may very easily become one of my favorite mystery writers.
July 9, 2020
The Paris Secret mixes romance and a lot of action and mystery. The main characters discover themselves in the middle of elaborate crimes and riddles and run against time to save their lives and uncover the truth. It´s a mix of Da Vinci Code and Agatha Christie with a good dose of humour and some steamy descriptions. A well established plot with a lot of twists and turns and some unexpected outcomings. I think the copy I read was not the final one, as there were quite a few typos.
I downloaded a free copy of this book from Bookfunnel and this is my honest review.
I downloaded a free copy of this book from Bookfunnel and this is my honest review.
January 4, 2013
Surprisingly good! I only say surprisingly because I haven't read a book written in first person in a long time and I enjoyed The Paris Secret immensely.
The historical mystery ramps up this suspense and the rapid attraction between Maya and Simon was true and well done.
There were so many twists and turns in this story that I believe you will make you want to go to Paris on the next flight out..! I know, I do.
The historical mystery ramps up this suspense and the rapid attraction between Maya and Simon was true and well done.
There were so many twists and turns in this story that I believe you will make you want to go to Paris on the next flight out..! I know, I do.
February 6, 2012
I enjoyed this book. It was full of non-stop action and the ending had an interesting twist. (I often wonder how authors come up with these things since I have no imagination whatsoever. Never in a million years would I be able to come up with such stories.) But I love them. It's wonderful that authors are able to imagine and create such stories for people like me to read and enjoy.
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