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The Paris Widow
A dream vacation turns deadly when secrets from the past catch up to a married couple in Paris in this new edge-of-your-seat thriller from USA Today bestselling author, Kimberly Belle.
When Stella met Adam, she thought she had finally found a nice, normal guy—a welcome change from her previous boyfriend and her precarious jetsetter lifestyle with him. But her secure world comes crashing down when Adam goes missing after an explosion in the city square. Unable to reach him, she panics.
As the French police investigate, it’s revealed that Adam was on their radar as a dealer of rare and stolen antiquities with a long roster of criminal clients. Reeling from this news, Stella is determined not to leave Paris until she has the full story. Was Adam a random victim or the target of the explosion? And why is someone following her through the streets of Paris?
An irresistible, fast-paced read set in some of Europe’s most inviting locales, The Paris Widow explores how sinister secrets of the past stay with us—no matter how far we travel.
When Stella met Adam, she thought she had finally found a nice, normal guy—a welcome change from her previous boyfriend and her precarious jetsetter lifestyle with him. But her secure world comes crashing down when Adam goes missing after an explosion in the city square. Unable to reach him, she panics.
As the French police investigate, it’s revealed that Adam was on their radar as a dealer of rare and stolen antiquities with a long roster of criminal clients. Reeling from this news, Stella is determined not to leave Paris until she has the full story. Was Adam a random victim or the target of the explosion? And why is someone following her through the streets of Paris?
An irresistible, fast-paced read set in some of Europe’s most inviting locales, The Paris Widow explores how sinister secrets of the past stay with us—no matter how far we travel.
304 pages, Paperback
First published June 11, 2024
About the author
Kimberly Belle
20 books4,686 followersKimberly Belle is the USA Today and internationally bestselling author with over one million copies sold worldwide, with titles including The Paris Widow, The Marriage Lie, a Goodreads Choice Awards semifinalist for Best Mystery & Thriller, and the co-authored #1 Audible Original, Young Rich Widows. Kimberly’s novels have been optioned for film and television and selected by LibraryReads and Amazon & Apple Books Editors as Best Books of the Month, and the International Thriller Writers as nominee for best book of the year. She divides her time between Atlanta and Amsterdam.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 564 reviews
March 1, 2024
Reliably Entertaining
3.5 stars
The Paris Widow is a thriller about a woman who, while on a trip to Paris, becomes entangled in a scheme related to her husband's tragic death.
Stella and Adam, married for four years, are on a three-week European vacation. While in Paris, Adam is a victim of a horrific accident. As Stella tries to put the pieces together of what happened to Adam, she finds herself caught up in a dangerous world built on deceit, lies, and murder.
Narrated by Stella and Adam, Stella is the more dominant character, and she has more chapters. She is also a more developed character. Adam’s chapters were flat and not necessarily needed. Stella is a strong lead, but the narrative structure doesn’t do her any favors when her past is finally revealed.
Belle relies too much on telling instead of showing Stella's character development. Although we learn about her past and the events that shaped her personality, we never see her in action. As a result, when her personality changes in the second half of the novel, it feels inauthentic and unconvincing. Similarly, her previous relationship lacked depth and believability, leaving me unconvinced.
The Paris Widow shares plotlines and plot devices from The Marriage Lie, but the last 3rd takes the novel in a different direction.
There are some issues, especially in the telling aspect, and a few plotholes and plot devices that didn’t fully work, but it was fun to read and experience Paris and some other European cities. Also fascinating was the focus on the art black market.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
The Paris Widow is a thriller about a woman who, while on a trip to Paris, becomes entangled in a scheme related to her husband's tragic death.
Stella and Adam, married for four years, are on a three-week European vacation. While in Paris, Adam is a victim of a horrific accident. As Stella tries to put the pieces together of what happened to Adam, she finds herself caught up in a dangerous world built on deceit, lies, and murder.
Narrated by Stella and Adam, Stella is the more dominant character, and she has more chapters. She is also a more developed character. Adam’s chapters were flat and not necessarily needed. Stella is a strong lead, but the narrative structure doesn’t do her any favors when her past is finally revealed.
Belle relies too much on telling instead of showing Stella's character development. Although we learn about her past and the events that shaped her personality, we never see her in action. As a result, when her personality changes in the second half of the novel, it feels inauthentic and unconvincing. Similarly, her previous relationship lacked depth and believability, leaving me unconvinced.
The Paris Widow shares plotlines and plot devices from The Marriage Lie, but the last 3rd takes the novel in a different direction.
There are some issues, especially in the telling aspect, and a few plotholes and plot devices that didn’t fully work, but it was fun to read and experience Paris and some other European cities. Also fascinating was the focus on the art black market.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2024
NEVER UNDERESTIMATE A FORMER FLIGHT ATTENDANT 😉
Stella’s husband Adam, is a dealer of rare antiquities- a job that takes him all over the World.
Stella was able to join him on his latest shopping trip, and with stops in Capri, Malta, and finally Paris and it has been like a vacation of a lifetime for the newly married couple.
But when Adam has to return to the cafe they had just left to retrieve a favorite pair of sunglasses left behind, her world comes crashing down around her.
A possible terrorist explosion has taken out much of a city square, including the cafe, and Adam appears to be missing among the rubble. His phone goes straight to Voicemail.
Wanting to get his face out there, Stella agrees to be interviewed by a news reporter with Global reach-and her tear stained face becomes known as “The Paris Widow” around the World.
But, as the French police investigate, she learns that the antiquities that Adam deals in, may be stolen, and they suspect that HE may have been the actual TARGET of the bomb.
Reeling from this news, and wanting to prove Adam’s innocence, Stella refuses to leave Paris until she gets answers, even when it appears that she is being followed, and that she could be risking her own life, if the accusations are true.
But, as a former flight attendant, Stella is familiar with these streets, and has a few contacts of her own.
Despite a few initial missteps, she eventually finds her footing, determined to right all that is wrong.
This book is an entertaining “CAT AND MOUSE” adrenaline thriller, which I could easily imagine translating to the BIG SCREEN. I’m betting it will be brought to life brilliantly in the audiobook format as well.
I enjoyed Kimberly Belle’s latest page-turner-and I think you will too!
DO read the acknowledgement page!!
Available NOW!
A big thank you to Park Row for providing me with an ARC through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
Stella’s husband Adam, is a dealer of rare antiquities- a job that takes him all over the World.
Stella was able to join him on his latest shopping trip, and with stops in Capri, Malta, and finally Paris and it has been like a vacation of a lifetime for the newly married couple.
But when Adam has to return to the cafe they had just left to retrieve a favorite pair of sunglasses left behind, her world comes crashing down around her.
A possible terrorist explosion has taken out much of a city square, including the cafe, and Adam appears to be missing among the rubble. His phone goes straight to Voicemail.
Wanting to get his face out there, Stella agrees to be interviewed by a news reporter with Global reach-and her tear stained face becomes known as “The Paris Widow” around the World.
But, as the French police investigate, she learns that the antiquities that Adam deals in, may be stolen, and they suspect that HE may have been the actual TARGET of the bomb.
Reeling from this news, and wanting to prove Adam’s innocence, Stella refuses to leave Paris until she gets answers, even when it appears that she is being followed, and that she could be risking her own life, if the accusations are true.
But, as a former flight attendant, Stella is familiar with these streets, and has a few contacts of her own.
Despite a few initial missteps, she eventually finds her footing, determined to right all that is wrong.
This book is an entertaining “CAT AND MOUSE” adrenaline thriller, which I could easily imagine translating to the BIG SCREEN. I’m betting it will be brought to life brilliantly in the audiobook format as well.
I enjoyed Kimberly Belle’s latest page-turner-and I think you will too!
DO read the acknowledgement page!!
Available NOW!
A big thank you to Park Row for providing me with an ARC through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
May 19, 2024
Secrets and lies...
Both Stella and Adam have travelled the world. But now is their chance to have an adventure and enjoy a trip across Europe together. After an amazing lunch in a small French Bistro the two are rushing back to the hotel to check out. Adam realizes he forgot his sunglasses. He heads back to the restaurant while Stella stays continues on to the hotel.
BOOM💥
An explosion goes off just blocks from Stella. In fact it was the direction of the restaurant.
Frantic now Stella heads into the melee in search of Adam.
But he’s missing...
Now it’s up to Stella to find answers. But the closer she gets the more she realizes that there may be more behind this bombing. Is Stella safe?
This was a very captivating thriller from one of my favorite authors. Kimberly Belle knows how to boost the tension to create an exciting and suspenseful read.
Do I recommend this book? Absolutely! If you enjoy a good fast paced thriller then you no further! This is your perfect summer (or anytime) read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing
Both Stella and Adam have travelled the world. But now is their chance to have an adventure and enjoy a trip across Europe together. After an amazing lunch in a small French Bistro the two are rushing back to the hotel to check out. Adam realizes he forgot his sunglasses. He heads back to the restaurant while Stella stays continues on to the hotel.
BOOM💥
An explosion goes off just blocks from Stella. In fact it was the direction of the restaurant.
Frantic now Stella heads into the melee in search of Adam.
But he’s missing...
Now it’s up to Stella to find answers. But the closer she gets the more she realizes that there may be more behind this bombing. Is Stella safe?
This was a very captivating thriller from one of my favorite authors. Kimberly Belle knows how to boost the tension to create an exciting and suspenseful read.
Do I recommend this book? Absolutely! If you enjoy a good fast paced thriller then you no further! This is your perfect summer (or anytime) read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing
July 2, 2024
When Stella met Adam, she thought she had finally found a nice, normal guy—a welcome change from her previous boyfriend and her precarious jetsetter lifestyle with him. But her secure world comes crashing down when Adam goes missing after an explosion in the city square. Unable to reach him, she panics.
As the French police investigate, it’s revealed that Adam was on their radar as a dealer of rare and stolen antiquities with a long roster of criminal clients. Reeling from this news, Stella is determined not to leave Paris until she has the full story. Was Adam a random victim or the target of the explosion? And why is someone following her through the streets of Paris?
O.M.G. There simply are no words for the pure perfection that was The Paris Widow. Okay. Okay. I’ll give it a try just for you. From the fast-paced, heart-pumping plot to the serious topics at play just below the surface, there simply wasn’t a thing not to love. The characters. The setting. The twists. Each step of the way, I was utterly spellbound. After all, there was intrigue, greed, dirty secrets, and one dynamite game of cat-and-mouse that had me flying through the pages.
While the plot was second to none, the characters pulled me in deep. Between the sweetest of sweet romances to a plucky, quick-witted narrator, I was overjoyed as I rode shotgun on this epic, suspense-laden tale. Even the bad guys were perfect. And then there were the handful to whom I gave the serious side-eye whenever they appeared on the page. All together, there wasn’t a persona involved who I didn’t look upon with suspicion—up to and including Stella herself.
Back to that plot to end all plots. On top of jaw-dropping twists and high tension action, there were plenty of thought-provoking themes. From what one should—or could—forgive in a partner to the dark art of black market smuggling, this would make one truly unforgettable book club selection. And while I didn’t have friends to bounce my own thoughts off of as I read, I’m sure that this psychological thriller will be living rent free in my head for the foreseeable future.
All in all, despite Kimberly Belle already being one of my tried and true auto-buy authors, she has outdone herself with this newest stunner. An addictive, unputdownable smash hit, it had a definite Zero Days feel. Not for the topic matter per se, but because of the edge-of-your-seat adrenaline rush that kept me up until three in the morning. So be sure to clear your calendar before picking up this novel. You’ll surely be ignoring chores, sleep, and maybe even your children. Needless to say, this one has easily made my list for best books of the year. Rating of 5+++ stars.
Thank you to Kimberly Belle, Park Row Books, HTP Books, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 11, 2024
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: a bombing, smuggling, threatening messages, a shooting
As the French police investigate, it’s revealed that Adam was on their radar as a dealer of rare and stolen antiquities with a long roster of criminal clients. Reeling from this news, Stella is determined not to leave Paris until she has the full story. Was Adam a random victim or the target of the explosion? And why is someone following her through the streets of Paris?
O.M.G. There simply are no words for the pure perfection that was The Paris Widow. Okay. Okay. I’ll give it a try just for you. From the fast-paced, heart-pumping plot to the serious topics at play just below the surface, there simply wasn’t a thing not to love. The characters. The setting. The twists. Each step of the way, I was utterly spellbound. After all, there was intrigue, greed, dirty secrets, and one dynamite game of cat-and-mouse that had me flying through the pages.
While the plot was second to none, the characters pulled me in deep. Between the sweetest of sweet romances to a plucky, quick-witted narrator, I was overjoyed as I rode shotgun on this epic, suspense-laden tale. Even the bad guys were perfect. And then there were the handful to whom I gave the serious side-eye whenever they appeared on the page. All together, there wasn’t a persona involved who I didn’t look upon with suspicion—up to and including Stella herself.
Back to that plot to end all plots. On top of jaw-dropping twists and high tension action, there were plenty of thought-provoking themes. From what one should—or could—forgive in a partner to the dark art of black market smuggling, this would make one truly unforgettable book club selection. And while I didn’t have friends to bounce my own thoughts off of as I read, I’m sure that this psychological thriller will be living rent free in my head for the foreseeable future.
All in all, despite Kimberly Belle already being one of my tried and true auto-buy authors, she has outdone herself with this newest stunner. An addictive, unputdownable smash hit, it had a definite Zero Days feel. Not for the topic matter per se, but because of the edge-of-your-seat adrenaline rush that kept me up until three in the morning. So be sure to clear your calendar before picking up this novel. You’ll surely be ignoring chores, sleep, and maybe even your children. Needless to say, this one has easily made my list for best books of the year. Rating of 5+++ stars.
Thank you to Kimberly Belle, Park Row Books, HTP Books, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 11, 2024
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: a bombing, smuggling, threatening messages, a shooting
December 30, 2023
Embezzlement, action packed cat-mouse game in the wide, long streets of Paris, intrigue, betrayal, greed, dirty secrets, heart pumping tempo, extremely building pressure and perfect climax with twisty revelations: this thriller that you cannot put down till the second you get your hands on it underrated gem, a must read if you don’t say no to be on your toes for hours till you reach the finish line.
I advise you find a comfy couch, your refreshments and your favorite snacks, cancellation everything in your life including frustrated husband who wants you to cook dinner instead of burying your head in your book ( that’s what happened to me. Can someone invent remote controller for pausing the husbands when they’re bickering) because this book will at least take your half day without moving from the position you got, demanding your entire focus and don’t worry about it, it’s totally worth it!
Enter-Stella Knox, an efficient caterer, once Kaley Cuoco’s kind of flight attendant who made terrible choices with man, tested with betrayal, losing of the track of her life. But things changed when she met Adam: antique dealer, knowing a lot of history and artifacts, a caring safe and sound man she can easily build trust.
After 4 years long relationship, they want to celebrate their happiness in a dreamy European vacation which ends with a tragedy: a bomb explosion at the place her husband returned for his forgotten sunglasses. Now he’s missing and Stella finds herself in front of tv cameras asking for her husband, nicknamed as “ Paris Widow”
Her interaction with French lieutenant colonel changes her perspective about her husband. The French lieutenant tells her that her husband is in highly lucrative business: trading of blood antiques which is the third-largest international criminal activity. Stella cannot believe her husband is doing illegal activities for years behind her back, endangering their lives by making powerful enemies that may target him, getting things too far to bomb a cafe with casualties.
Stella has to find the truth, learning who she is really married to. She has no intention to go back till she finds what really happened to her husband. If he’s alive, she deserves an explanation face to face even though as long as she resists leaving Paris, she also carries target in her head.
This is fast pacing, smart espionage, action packed thriller you truly enjoy! It gave me much thrill than most of the action moves I scroll through Netflix. I highly recommend you to read it as I grade it with my 4.5 stars rounded up 5 Parisian stars!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/ Park Row for sharing this exciting book’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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I advise you find a comfy couch, your refreshments and your favorite snacks, cancellation everything in your life including frustrated husband who wants you to cook dinner instead of burying your head in your book ( that’s what happened to me. Can someone invent remote controller for pausing the husbands when they’re bickering) because this book will at least take your half day without moving from the position you got, demanding your entire focus and don’t worry about it, it’s totally worth it!
Enter-Stella Knox, an efficient caterer, once Kaley Cuoco’s kind of flight attendant who made terrible choices with man, tested with betrayal, losing of the track of her life. But things changed when she met Adam: antique dealer, knowing a lot of history and artifacts, a caring safe and sound man she can easily build trust.
After 4 years long relationship, they want to celebrate their happiness in a dreamy European vacation which ends with a tragedy: a bomb explosion at the place her husband returned for his forgotten sunglasses. Now he’s missing and Stella finds herself in front of tv cameras asking for her husband, nicknamed as “ Paris Widow”
Her interaction with French lieutenant colonel changes her perspective about her husband. The French lieutenant tells her that her husband is in highly lucrative business: trading of blood antiques which is the third-largest international criminal activity. Stella cannot believe her husband is doing illegal activities for years behind her back, endangering their lives by making powerful enemies that may target him, getting things too far to bomb a cafe with casualties.
Stella has to find the truth, learning who she is really married to. She has no intention to go back till she finds what really happened to her husband. If he’s alive, she deserves an explanation face to face even though as long as she resists leaving Paris, she also carries target in her head.
This is fast pacing, smart espionage, action packed thriller you truly enjoy! It gave me much thrill than most of the action moves I scroll through Netflix. I highly recommend you to read it as I grade it with my 4.5 stars rounded up 5 Parisian stars!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/ Park Row for sharing this exciting book’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium.com
June 28, 2024
This was a very tense and suspenseful read! Really liked it!
July 8, 2024
3.5 Stars
The Paris Widow is an exciting mystery about the dark underbelly of the art world, stolen antiquities and second chances.
Stella has left her old life behind and has finally found the love of her life. Her husband, Adam, is a handsome, charismatic, sweet, methodical thinker who deals in antiquities. When he goes missing after an explosion at the Parisian cafe they had just eaten in, Stella is in a state of shock. After digesting what happened, she realizes that too many details aren’t adding up.
As Stella searches for Adam and the answers surrounding the increasingly mysterious circumstances she finds herself in, Stella vows not to leave Paris without Adam, no matter what— In the days that follow, her life is in imminent danger. Still, she is fearless in finding the answers. And the more she finds out, the more questions arise— what has her husband been hiding from her? Our past always finds us—
This story is relatively short but immensely engaging and entertaining. There are layers of intrigue, betrayal, scheming, lies and tension, but also a more in-depth look at human motivation, the complexities of fully trusting and of love, and ultimately, second chances at life and the choices we make to set us on that journey.
I want to thank NetGalley Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row, for the e-ARC
in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine.
The Paris Widow is now available in stores
The Paris Widow is an exciting mystery about the dark underbelly of the art world, stolen antiquities and second chances.
Stella has left her old life behind and has finally found the love of her life. Her husband, Adam, is a handsome, charismatic, sweet, methodical thinker who deals in antiquities. When he goes missing after an explosion at the Parisian cafe they had just eaten in, Stella is in a state of shock. After digesting what happened, she realizes that too many details aren’t adding up.
As Stella searches for Adam and the answers surrounding the increasingly mysterious circumstances she finds herself in, Stella vows not to leave Paris without Adam, no matter what— In the days that follow, her life is in imminent danger. Still, she is fearless in finding the answers. And the more she finds out, the more questions arise— what has her husband been hiding from her? Our past always finds us—
This story is relatively short but immensely engaging and entertaining. There are layers of intrigue, betrayal, scheming, lies and tension, but also a more in-depth look at human motivation, the complexities of fully trusting and of love, and ultimately, second chances at life and the choices we make to set us on that journey.
I want to thank NetGalley Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row, for the e-ARC
in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine.
The Paris Widow is now available in stores
June 4, 2024
RTC tomorrow
✨Thanks to NetGalley, The Author, & Harlequin Trade Publishing for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review✨
✨Thanks to NetGalley, The Author, & Harlequin Trade Publishing for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review✨
June 18, 2024
The Paris Widow by Kimberly Belle is an action packed suspenseful thriller novel. The story in The Paris Widow is one that is told mainly from one point of view but a few chapters alternate to another and is mainly told in the current timeline with also some flashing back to past events with the characters.
Four years ago Stella met and fell in love with her now husband, Adam. Adam is a rare antiquities dealer who travels looking for unique items to bring back to his business in the states. Stella and Adam decided that Stella would accompany him on his latest trip to Paris to also have a bit of a romantic getaway too.
One day while touring around Paris Adam forgets his sunglasses as he and Stella are heading back to their hotel. Stella heads on without him as he rushes back to retrieve the glasses but a huge explosion takes place and Stella can’t find Adam anywhere in the mayhem after the incident with victims surrounding her everywhere she turns. As the time passes without Adam being found Stella learns from a French policeman that Adam may have been involved in illegal activities making him a target of the bombing.
I’ve read quite a few novels from author Kimberly Belle in the past so I was expecting to pick this one up and find a story that I would enjoy. What I really didn’t expect was the high intensity action and expected more of a psychological thriller but I wasn’t disappointed in the least for this change. There was still the psychological side with some adrenaline pumping and it all wrapped up together nicely. I was quite glad I was on the edge of my seat waiting to find out was he or was he not the man our main character knew and if she would become a target herself so hats off to the the surprises along the way and I will definitely return to this author again to see what she will have in story for readers next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Four years ago Stella met and fell in love with her now husband, Adam. Adam is a rare antiquities dealer who travels looking for unique items to bring back to his business in the states. Stella and Adam decided that Stella would accompany him on his latest trip to Paris to also have a bit of a romantic getaway too.
One day while touring around Paris Adam forgets his sunglasses as he and Stella are heading back to their hotel. Stella heads on without him as he rushes back to retrieve the glasses but a huge explosion takes place and Stella can’t find Adam anywhere in the mayhem after the incident with victims surrounding her everywhere she turns. As the time passes without Adam being found Stella learns from a French policeman that Adam may have been involved in illegal activities making him a target of the bombing.
I’ve read quite a few novels from author Kimberly Belle in the past so I was expecting to pick this one up and find a story that I would enjoy. What I really didn’t expect was the high intensity action and expected more of a psychological thriller but I wasn’t disappointed in the least for this change. There was still the psychological side with some adrenaline pumping and it all wrapped up together nicely. I was quite glad I was on the edge of my seat waiting to find out was he or was he not the man our main character knew and if she would become a target herself so hats off to the the surprises along the way and I will definitely return to this author again to see what she will have in story for readers next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 30, 2024
“Farei qualsiasi cosa per te” ~ I would do anything for you.
This is a spectacular thriller. I hadn’t planned on binge-reading, but I seriously couldn’t put this one down!
I quickly placed Kimberly Belle on my auto-read list!
Stella and Adam Knox are at the end of 21 spectacular days in Europe (6 countries, 10 stops) and about to call for a taxi to the airport when Adam discovers he��s left his glasses at the cafe. They decide to divide and conquer: he’ll go fetch his glasses and she’ll empty the safe and bring the luggage down to the lobby. Adam’s final words are, “See you in ten, back at the hotel.”
He doesn’t show up.
New-to-me-author Kimberly Belle immediately impressed me with her prologue; I knew I’d be reading about a woman who was confident at hiding something. I needed to know more! Then Belle’s pacing and her ability to put me through the gamut of emotions Stella was experiencing in her search for Adam confirmed for me that I had a fantastic book in my hands. I enjoyed her examination of the human psyche, why we tell lies of omission and the lessons we learn from our mistakes. Belle had me down a deep rabbit hole researching blood antiquities.
My favourite quote:
“We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.”
I loved the thought-provoking questions she had me consider:
1) In choosing a partner, do we choose that particular person because of our own history? Adam didn’t show any interest in peering into the dark corners of Stella’s past, didn’t want to know who else she’d dated, nor what other versions of her existed. Because she had something to hide, she was willing to overlook the same tell-tale signs in her husband of three years.
2) Do we project what we think our partner wants to see? That we’re normal, mainstream and respectable. Are we hiding who we really are because of expectations? Or are we a ‘what you see is what you get’ kind of person?
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This is a spectacular thriller. I hadn’t planned on binge-reading, but I seriously couldn’t put this one down!
I quickly placed Kimberly Belle on my auto-read list!
Stella and Adam Knox are at the end of 21 spectacular days in Europe (6 countries, 10 stops) and about to call for a taxi to the airport when Adam discovers he��s left his glasses at the cafe. They decide to divide and conquer: he’ll go fetch his glasses and she’ll empty the safe and bring the luggage down to the lobby. Adam’s final words are, “See you in ten, back at the hotel.”
He doesn’t show up.
New-to-me-author Kimberly Belle immediately impressed me with her prologue; I knew I’d be reading about a woman who was confident at hiding something. I needed to know more! Then Belle’s pacing and her ability to put me through the gamut of emotions Stella was experiencing in her search for Adam confirmed for me that I had a fantastic book in my hands. I enjoyed her examination of the human psyche, why we tell lies of omission and the lessons we learn from our mistakes. Belle had me down a deep rabbit hole researching blood antiquities.
My favourite quote:
“We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.”
I loved the thought-provoking questions she had me consider:
1) In choosing a partner, do we choose that particular person because of our own history? Adam didn’t show any interest in peering into the dark corners of Stella’s past, didn’t want to know who else she’d dated, nor what other versions of her existed. Because she had something to hide, she was willing to overlook the same tell-tale signs in her husband of three years.
2) Do we project what we think our partner wants to see? That we’re normal, mainstream and respectable. Are we hiding who we really are because of expectations? Or are we a ‘what you see is what you get’ kind of person?
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 25, 2024
This was a unique story that I haven’t read before! A couple, Stellah and Adam, is vacationing in Paris when a bomb goes off near a restaurant. Adam is missing. Stella tries everything in her power to find him. The investigator tells her Adam may have been the intended target. She starts to uncover that Adam isn’t who he seems and is involved with some very shady people that want him dead. On the flip, no one knows about Stella’s past either….she hasn’t always been completely innocent.
This story gripped me! It was action packed and suspenseful! It was fast paced and kept me turning pages! The ending was *chef’s kiss*! You will find yourself rooting for Stella by the end!
This story gripped me! It was action packed and suspenseful! It was fast paced and kept me turning pages! The ending was *chef’s kiss*! You will find yourself rooting for Stella by the end!
May 14, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: June 11, 2024
Best-selling author Kimberly Belle’s newest novel, “The Paris Widow” is chock full of drama, intrigue and tension, and I couldn’t put it down!
Adam and Stella are on their honeymoon in Paris, happy, young and hopelessly in love, enjoying the sights and sounds. Until the day a bomb goes off in the town square, and Adam disappears. Desperate, and alone, Stella refuses to return home until she knows something, anything, about what happened to Adam. When she finally gets news, it isn’t the news she expects- not only is Adam alive but he disappeared on purpose. Some very dangerous people are looking for Adam and Stella may be next.
“Widow” is narrated by both Adam (before the bombing) and Stella (after). Both storylines not only craft sensational character development, but they serve to add more tension to the pulse-pounding plot as we learn more about what exactly Adam was up to, and the secrets Stella herself is keeping.
There are numerous twists and turns (it wouldn’t be a Belle novel if there wasn’t, after all) and the ending could’ve gone in any number of directions. As always, Belle managed to make the storyline flow in exactly the right way, and I was left guessing until the final pages.
The entire story takes place in France, so “Widow” provides an exotic locale for a bit of escapism, too, which seems to be what I’ve been seeking, if my recent novel choices are any indication.
“Widow” starts off with a bang and kept me on pins and needles (in the best way), all the way to the thrilling conclusion (and somehow still manages to be romantic? Belle continues to impress). I’ve been a fan of Belle since her early works and she keeps getting better and better! I look forward to devouring her next book, and enjoying it just as much!
Expected publication date: June 11, 2024
Best-selling author Kimberly Belle’s newest novel, “The Paris Widow” is chock full of drama, intrigue and tension, and I couldn’t put it down!
Adam and Stella are on their honeymoon in Paris, happy, young and hopelessly in love, enjoying the sights and sounds. Until the day a bomb goes off in the town square, and Adam disappears. Desperate, and alone, Stella refuses to return home until she knows something, anything, about what happened to Adam. When she finally gets news, it isn’t the news she expects- not only is Adam alive but he disappeared on purpose. Some very dangerous people are looking for Adam and Stella may be next.
“Widow” is narrated by both Adam (before the bombing) and Stella (after). Both storylines not only craft sensational character development, but they serve to add more tension to the pulse-pounding plot as we learn more about what exactly Adam was up to, and the secrets Stella herself is keeping.
There are numerous twists and turns (it wouldn’t be a Belle novel if there wasn’t, after all) and the ending could’ve gone in any number of directions. As always, Belle managed to make the storyline flow in exactly the right way, and I was left guessing until the final pages.
The entire story takes place in France, so “Widow” provides an exotic locale for a bit of escapism, too, which seems to be what I’ve been seeking, if my recent novel choices are any indication.
“Widow” starts off with a bang and kept me on pins and needles (in the best way), all the way to the thrilling conclusion (and somehow still manages to be romantic? Belle continues to impress). I’ve been a fan of Belle since her early works and she keeps getting better and better! I look forward to devouring her next book, and enjoying it just as much!
May 13, 2024
If you’re building your summer TBR this would be a fantastic addition! It’s fast paced and begs to be read in one sitting, it’s addictive and has some high stakes for the characters and its set in Paris, so if you can’t make the trip there for your own vacation you can at least see the sights from the pages of this one. The author does domestic suspense really well and I enjoyed her vacation spin this time around. The idea of a dream trip turned nightmare was fascinating and I felt for Stella as she tried to navigate the mess her husband created on foreign soil which added another layer of tension and anxiety. Not all of the surprises were true surprise for me but this was still really fun and enjoyable for me.
April 29, 2024
Loved this book so much!! It is a high tension binge worthy read that I just had to finish in a day. Who doesn’t love a trip around Europe, and I escaped Sydney for a few hours while I read this addictive book. Just couldn’t get enough of it.
Stella and Adam are enjoying their last day in Paris before flying back to the States. It is a beautiful, warm day and they are happy. All that changes when a bomb goes off and Adam is missing, feared dead. Stella is broken. Things only get worse when she gets a visit from the police telling her things about Adam that she can’t comprehend. Turns out she didn’t know the man she married that well at all.
I love the fast pace of this book, each chapter ending leaving the reader with more questions than ever. What happened to Adam? Who can Stella trust? What secrets does she have? she is determined to find out what her husband was doing and why.
Just a fantastic read. Thanks so much to HTP, Park Row and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on June 11th.
Stella and Adam are enjoying their last day in Paris before flying back to the States. It is a beautiful, warm day and they are happy. All that changes when a bomb goes off and Adam is missing, feared dead. Stella is broken. Things only get worse when she gets a visit from the police telling her things about Adam that she can’t comprehend. Turns out she didn’t know the man she married that well at all.
I love the fast pace of this book, each chapter ending leaving the reader with more questions than ever. What happened to Adam? Who can Stella trust? What secrets does she have? she is determined to find out what her husband was doing and why.
Just a fantastic read. Thanks so much to HTP, Park Row and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on June 11th.
March 13, 2024
The Paris Widow is Kimberly Belle's latest #thriller and this one is a wild ride while also acting as an armchair adventure.
The idea of being in another country where you don't speak the language and your spouse goes missing during an explosion is just too much to even fathom. It made me anxious and Kimberly did a great job heightening that feeling for me. There's a whole lot of mystery and suspense throughout and I was definitely nervous for Stella the entire time! I was only able to guess at one thing and everything else completely surprised me.
My only concern is that some parts got confusing, when I wasn't sure who was doing the right or wrong thing in a situation. It felt vague during those times and I wasn't sure whose side to be on when that was the case.
This novel is releasing in June, so be sure to add it to your summer TBR. If you haven't read Kimberly's books yet, you have about three months to get to know how great of a thriller writer she is while waiting for this one. (Kimberly is one of my go-to thriller writers.) Perfect for fans of Woman on Fire by Lisa Barr.
Movie casting suggestions:
The idea of being in another country where you don't speak the language and your spouse goes missing during an explosion is just too much to even fathom. It made me anxious and Kimberly did a great job heightening that feeling for me. There's a whole lot of mystery and suspense throughout and I was definitely nervous for Stella the entire time! I was only able to guess at one thing and everything else completely surprised me.
My only concern is that some parts got confusing, when I wasn't sure who was doing the right or wrong thing in a situation. It felt vague during those times and I wasn't sure whose side to be on when that was the case.
This novel is releasing in June, so be sure to add it to your summer TBR. If you haven't read Kimberly's books yet, you have about three months to get to know how great of a thriller writer she is while waiting for this one. (Kimberly is one of my go-to thriller writers.) Perfect for fans of Woman on Fire by Lisa Barr.
Movie casting suggestions:
Stella: Holland Roden
Adam: James Wolk
June 9, 2024
The Paris Widow should not be started if you don't have much time to read. It is one of those books that is so gripping that you can't put it down! I absolutely devoured the book reading it in 1 day. The Paris Widow is one thrill and twist after another. Imagine you married a man 4 years ago who checked all of your boxes and you've been happy ever since. Stella met Adam when helping her friend look for a rare book. Adam was filling in for the owner of the shop and he and Stella had an immediate attraction and connection. They fell in love quickly and married. Adam is an antiquities seller and operates a shop in town..
Adam and Stella take time off to travel around to some of the spots they've always wanted to go.. Towards the end of their trip they are enjoying a meal at a cafe' that Stella remembered from another trip. She was able to find it and Adam loved the food as much as she did. As they're walking back to their hotel to pack up for their trip to the airport, Adam realizes he forgot his sunglasses at the cafe'. He tells Stella to go ahead and get everything packed up and he'll meet her in a few minutes. As she is on her way back to the hotel, the ground shifts and there is a huge explosion coming from the area that Adam just walked toward. Once Stella realizes what has happened she runs back towards the smoke.
When Stella rounds the corner, the building that the cafe' was in is now gone. Rubble from the building is everywhere and there are bodies all over. Some people are injured and others are dead. Stella looks quickly at the people she can see, but doesn't see Adam anywhere. She keeps walking around and looking at the people. Adam is not there! Where could he be? She gives her name and a description of Adam to a police officer. Adam's name goes on a list of missing people. Stella is terrified and in a panic. She can't stop shaking. A tv reporter wants her to go on tv and tell people about her missing husband. She can't think of any reason not to as it might help if people are looking for him. Adam is nowhere and Stella is sick with worry.
When the police come to Stella's hotel room they tell a different story of who Adam is. They tell Stella that Adam has been on their watchlist as a person who sells stolen goods to criminals. Stella has no idea what they're talking about. The Adam she knows runs an antique shop in town and makes his living doing that. They also tell her that the bomb was set to take Adam out as he has made some very serious enemies. If the people who wanted to kill Adam think Stella knows about his other work, is she in danger? She begins to notice people around her and is sure she's being followed. When her hotel room is broken into, Stella knows she's got to take action.
Will Stella find Adam? Did Adam die in the explosion? Will Stella be able to find out about Adam's other work? Stella has also hidden something from Adam about her past. Should she go back and try to get help now? Will Stella be able to find out who's behind the bombing and help clear her husband? Did Adam really love her or was she played from the beginning? This book will have you putting your life on hold as you race to finish it! I rate The Paris Widow 5 stars with my very highest recommendation! Kimberly Belle has done it again and I can't wait for her next book! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an advanced copy of The Paris Widow in exchange for a fair review. #TheParisWidow
Adam and Stella take time off to travel around to some of the spots they've always wanted to go.. Towards the end of their trip they are enjoying a meal at a cafe' that Stella remembered from another trip. She was able to find it and Adam loved the food as much as she did. As they're walking back to their hotel to pack up for their trip to the airport, Adam realizes he forgot his sunglasses at the cafe'. He tells Stella to go ahead and get everything packed up and he'll meet her in a few minutes. As she is on her way back to the hotel, the ground shifts and there is a huge explosion coming from the area that Adam just walked toward. Once Stella realizes what has happened she runs back towards the smoke.
When Stella rounds the corner, the building that the cafe' was in is now gone. Rubble from the building is everywhere and there are bodies all over. Some people are injured and others are dead. Stella looks quickly at the people she can see, but doesn't see Adam anywhere. She keeps walking around and looking at the people. Adam is not there! Where could he be? She gives her name and a description of Adam to a police officer. Adam's name goes on a list of missing people. Stella is terrified and in a panic. She can't stop shaking. A tv reporter wants her to go on tv and tell people about her missing husband. She can't think of any reason not to as it might help if people are looking for him. Adam is nowhere and Stella is sick with worry.
When the police come to Stella's hotel room they tell a different story of who Adam is. They tell Stella that Adam has been on their watchlist as a person who sells stolen goods to criminals. Stella has no idea what they're talking about. The Adam she knows runs an antique shop in town and makes his living doing that. They also tell her that the bomb was set to take Adam out as he has made some very serious enemies. If the people who wanted to kill Adam think Stella knows about his other work, is she in danger? She begins to notice people around her and is sure she's being followed. When her hotel room is broken into, Stella knows she's got to take action.
Will Stella find Adam? Did Adam die in the explosion? Will Stella be able to find out about Adam's other work? Stella has also hidden something from Adam about her past. Should she go back and try to get help now? Will Stella be able to find out who's behind the bombing and help clear her husband? Did Adam really love her or was she played from the beginning? This book will have you putting your life on hold as you race to finish it! I rate The Paris Widow 5 stars with my very highest recommendation! Kimberly Belle has done it again and I can't wait for her next book! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an advanced copy of The Paris Widow in exchange for a fair review. #TheParisWidow
June 11, 2024
What kind of business was Adam in? How could his wife Stella not know?
Adam and Stella were taking a three-week European vacation that ended in Paris.
As they were ready to head back to the hotel, Adam said he forgot his sunglasses at the restaurant and heads there. Stella heads back to the hotel. A few minutes after he leaves Stella, an explosion rocks the entire area.
Was leaving his glasses an excuse to get back to the restaurant to do something more sinister than pick up the glasses or did someone spot him and caused the explosion which was for him?
Stella is stunned but unharmed, but where is Adam?
Will she be alone in a foreign country to deal with all of this on her own?
Is she in danger now?
But the main question is what has Adam been up to for all these years?
You will find out as Ms. Belle beautifully describes Europe and keeps your attention with the tension and unraveling of all that's going on.
Readers are never disappointed in a Kimberley Belle book, and the surprises will have you saying what??
Don't miss it. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
Adam and Stella were taking a three-week European vacation that ended in Paris.
As they were ready to head back to the hotel, Adam said he forgot his sunglasses at the restaurant and heads there. Stella heads back to the hotel. A few minutes after he leaves Stella, an explosion rocks the entire area.
Was leaving his glasses an excuse to get back to the restaurant to do something more sinister than pick up the glasses or did someone spot him and caused the explosion which was for him?
Stella is stunned but unharmed, but where is Adam?
Will she be alone in a foreign country to deal with all of this on her own?
Is she in danger now?
But the main question is what has Adam been up to for all these years?
You will find out as Ms. Belle beautifully describes Europe and keeps your attention with the tension and unraveling of all that's going on.
Readers are never disappointed in a Kimberley Belle book, and the surprises will have you saying what??
Don't miss it. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
April 26, 2024
The Paris widow is the perfect vacation thriller! Set in Paris and following the romantic relationship between Adam and Stella, things couldn’t be more magical. That is until and explosion completely blows up Stella’s life and erases everything she once thought to be true.
There is lots of suspense, mystery and intrigue. The pacing maintains a medium to fast pace throughout. There is excellent character depth and development as well as immersing the reader fully in the Paris experience with lots of visual descriptions and landmark and location mentions.
Thank you to Harlequin trade publishing, Kimberly Belle and NetGalley for the EARC!
Publish date: June 11th
There is lots of suspense, mystery and intrigue. The pacing maintains a medium to fast pace throughout. There is excellent character depth and development as well as immersing the reader fully in the Paris experience with lots of visual descriptions and landmark and location mentions.
Thank you to Harlequin trade publishing, Kimberly Belle and NetGalley for the EARC!
Publish date: June 11th
March 1, 2024
Kimberly Belle’s latest is a unique, action-packed, fast-paced thriller set in Paris. Stella is on vacation with her husband Adam when an explosion occurs and he is presumed dead. This sets off a very strange turn of events in which Stella must come to terms with her past as she questions everything she ever thought she knew about Adam.
This was a different style of writing for Belle and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The twisty plot kept me turning the pages. Belle’s writing does not disappoint. For fans of Heather Gudenkauf and Kimberly McCreight.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Park Row and Kimberly Belle for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was a different style of writing for Belle and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The twisty plot kept me turning the pages. Belle’s writing does not disappoint. For fans of Heather Gudenkauf and Kimberly McCreight.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Park Row and Kimberly Belle for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 14, 2024
Adam and Stella have been traveling all over Europe, blissfully still in love after four years, but then a bomb goes off and Adam goes missing. Stella is panicked and desperate in her search for him and it becomes apparent, Adam wasn’t just the nice, normal guy she thought she married. However, Stella has secrets of her own, too.
As Stella digs deeper into Adam’s past, it’s not clear who she can trust. There are those who think she was involved with Adam’s business, and that she knows more than she’s letting on putting her in danger, as well.
The Paris Widow was an engrossing, action-packed mystery unfolding all over Paris, and parts of Europe, a glamorous backdrop to exciting story! I felt like a lot of the revelations were easy to spot, but the story was still a fun page-turner! A perfect thriller to sink into this summer!
A copy was kindly provided by Harlequin Trade Publishing/Park Row Books in exchange for an honest review.
As Stella digs deeper into Adam’s past, it’s not clear who she can trust. There are those who think she was involved with Adam’s business, and that she knows more than she’s letting on putting her in danger, as well.
The Paris Widow was an engrossing, action-packed mystery unfolding all over Paris, and parts of Europe, a glamorous backdrop to exciting story! I felt like a lot of the revelations were easy to spot, but the story was still a fun page-turner! A perfect thriller to sink into this summer!
A copy was kindly provided by Harlequin Trade Publishing/Park Row Books in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2024
The Paris Widow
By: Kimberly Belle
Publisher: Park Row Books
Publishing date: June 11, 2024
Pages: 304
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Stella and Adam are winding down their vacation in Paris after a whirlwind vacation across Europe. After a last minute stop at a cafe before checking out of their hotel, an explosion at the cafe happens.
Adam had went back to the cafe after forgetting his sunglasses when the explosion happens. Now he is missing! An investigation begins and terrorism is suspected.
She quickly finds out Adam is not who he claims to be, according to the police. They are accusing him of being involved in stolen antiquties.
Stella wants to find out the truth. Are the police correct? Is he being set up? Is Stella in danger now? Whom does she believe? Everyone seems to want something from her!
Another page-turner filled with secrets, adventure, stunning scenery and heart-pounding action. So glad I preordered this one! Love Belle’s books. ❓Have you been to Paris or is it on your bucket list? I went in my twenties and loved it.
#thepariswidow, #kimberlybelle, #parkrowbooks, #booksconnectus, #bookreview, #stamperlady50
By: Kimberly Belle
Publisher: Park Row Books
Publishing date: June 11, 2024
Pages: 304
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Stella and Adam are winding down their vacation in Paris after a whirlwind vacation across Europe. After a last minute stop at a cafe before checking out of their hotel, an explosion at the cafe happens.
Adam had went back to the cafe after forgetting his sunglasses when the explosion happens. Now he is missing! An investigation begins and terrorism is suspected.
She quickly finds out Adam is not who he claims to be, according to the police. They are accusing him of being involved in stolen antiquties.
Stella wants to find out the truth. Are the police correct? Is he being set up? Is Stella in danger now? Whom does she believe? Everyone seems to want something from her!
Another page-turner filled with secrets, adventure, stunning scenery and heart-pounding action. So glad I preordered this one! Love Belle’s books. ❓Have you been to Paris or is it on your bucket list? I went in my twenties and loved it.
#thepariswidow, #kimberlybelle, #parkrowbooks, #booksconnectus, #bookreview, #stamperlady50
June 25, 2024
At first it was interesting to learn about Stella and Adam but at some point I was bored. For me it lacked suspense and I could not connect with any of the characters. Part of my dislike was due to the narrator who was so whiny and overacting while reading this story. I understand that Stella was shocked and hysterical by what had happened but there was no need to read it like that.
June 17, 2024
Stella, a former flight attendant and now caterer, lives with husband Adam in Atlanta. He's in the architectural antiques and restoration business. The couple, married for four years, take an exciting European vacation. While in Paris, there is a horrible explosion and afterwards, Adam is counted among the missing. The French police advise Stella that her sweet, loving husband is mixed up in some serious black-market antiques dealings and they suspect that Adam was the target of the bombing. Told in the present and past, the truth about Adam unfolds. And secrets Stella has been hiding come to light as well. Stella realizes that she is now in danger and goes on the run.
Author Kimberly Belle has created a fast-paced, entertaining story with The Paris Widow. Stella is a great character who takes control of the situation and seeks answers rather than play the grieving widow. The detailing of many locations throughout Paris gives the book a good cinematic feel. While the revelations were not particularly shocking, the action was non-stop and enjoyable. Count on Belle for a thrilling page-turner.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Author Kimberly Belle has created a fast-paced, entertaining story with The Paris Widow. Stella is a great character who takes control of the situation and seeks answers rather than play the grieving widow. The detailing of many locations throughout Paris gives the book a good cinematic feel. While the revelations were not particularly shocking, the action was non-stop and enjoyable. Count on Belle for a thrilling page-turner.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
March 7, 2024
The Paris Widow by Kimberly Belle is a novel of international intrigue that will have you jetting around to some of Europe's most exciting destinations.
Stella and Adam are enjoying a decadent vacation in Paris when an explosion rocks a city square. Separated from her husband, Stella races around Paris in a desperate bid to ensure that he was uninjured in the blast. But her search will lead her to places that she never expected when police reveal that Adam has been on their radar for some time. Just how well does Stella really know the man with whom she has built a life?
I loved following Stella down the rabbit hole as she searches for the truth, and the international element added to the general intrigue of it all.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an ARC.
Stella and Adam are enjoying a decadent vacation in Paris when an explosion rocks a city square. Separated from her husband, Stella races around Paris in a desperate bid to ensure that he was uninjured in the blast. But her search will lead her to places that she never expected when police reveal that Adam has been on their radar for some time. Just how well does Stella really know the man with whom she has built a life?
I loved following Stella down the rabbit hole as she searches for the truth, and the international element added to the general intrigue of it all.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an ARC.
June 11, 2024
When someone asks me for a recommendation for a quick read thriller my go to response is almost always “Well, have you read Kimberly Belle??” because I think it’s physically impossible to read her books in less than 4-5 hours. They are the definition of super fun popcorn reads and THE PARIS WIDOW just may very well be her best yet!
Belle’s protagonist Stella is on a dream vacation to multiple foreign cities with the love of her life Adam, an arts and antiquities dealer; and when they are in Paris an explosion occurs at a restaurant where Adam had went back to retrieve a pair of forgotten sunglasses…. and his remains are nowhere to be found…. Stella, instantly dubbed by international reporters as THE PARIS WIDOW is on a mission to uncover the truth about what happened to her husband and get the answers to so many clues she slowly begins to find in her husbands belongings at their hotel room…‼️ 🇫🇷 ‼️ 🇫🇷
I loved everything about this one; the international setting was so much fun and a great change of pace for me; I haven’t read a thriller set in a foreign country in a while; and this was just like catnip to me. I couldn’t put it down. Kimberly Belle will always be an auto-buy author for me; thanks Park Row Books for an advanced audiobook!
Belle’s protagonist Stella is on a dream vacation to multiple foreign cities with the love of her life Adam, an arts and antiquities dealer; and when they are in Paris an explosion occurs at a restaurant where Adam had went back to retrieve a pair of forgotten sunglasses…. and his remains are nowhere to be found…. Stella, instantly dubbed by international reporters as THE PARIS WIDOW is on a mission to uncover the truth about what happened to her husband and get the answers to so many clues she slowly begins to find in her husbands belongings at their hotel room…‼️ 🇫🇷 ‼️ 🇫🇷
I loved everything about this one; the international setting was so much fun and a great change of pace for me; I haven’t read a thriller set in a foreign country in a while; and this was just like catnip to me. I couldn’t put it down. Kimberly Belle will always be an auto-buy author for me; thanks Park Row Books for an advanced audiobook!
June 18, 2024
This is a fast-paced, literally explosive novel that takes readers around Europe after Stella’s husband, Adam, is supposedly killed in a terrorist attack in Paris. The disorientation following the explosion was really intense and this dragged me in to the narrative, keen to find out what happened to Adam and what Stella, the Paris Widow, would do next.
However, the explosion is merely the beginning as it soon becomes clear that Adam has been involved in dealings that immerse him in the criminal underworld. He is a wanted man and Stella fears for her life. Suddenly realising she can trust no one, Stella searches Adam’s belongings for clues: surely these accusations are untrue? And how do they link to Stella’s own past?
I enjoyed the mystery and action of the story, particularly as the writer moves to flashbacks several days earlier. These scenes are from Adam’s perspective and really inform on present day events. They add clues to Stella’s own investigations and it is like she is headed down a rabbit hole where answers just raise further questions. Her distrust of those around her is always proven correct and I liked how she was able to think logically, even amidst her grief over her husband.
There is plenty of suspense in this story and I think this is intensified by the foreign locations. Despite Paris being well-known, Stella is operating undercover mostly, desperately trying to keep the attention from her whilst delving into Adam’s secret life. I loved how the story takes readers beyond Paris as well: Luxembourg, Venice, Malta, to name but a few. It adds to the lavish, exoticness of Adam’s past and the corruption that he is accused of.
This was an entertaining action read and I enjoyed it immensely. I could not foresee how the story would conclude and liked seeing Stella on her quest for truth. Highly engaging.
With thanks to HQ and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
However, the explosion is merely the beginning as it soon becomes clear that Adam has been involved in dealings that immerse him in the criminal underworld. He is a wanted man and Stella fears for her life. Suddenly realising she can trust no one, Stella searches Adam’s belongings for clues: surely these accusations are untrue? And how do they link to Stella’s own past?
I enjoyed the mystery and action of the story, particularly as the writer moves to flashbacks several days earlier. These scenes are from Adam’s perspective and really inform on present day events. They add clues to Stella’s own investigations and it is like she is headed down a rabbit hole where answers just raise further questions. Her distrust of those around her is always proven correct and I liked how she was able to think logically, even amidst her grief over her husband.
There is plenty of suspense in this story and I think this is intensified by the foreign locations. Despite Paris being well-known, Stella is operating undercover mostly, desperately trying to keep the attention from her whilst delving into Adam’s secret life. I loved how the story takes readers beyond Paris as well: Luxembourg, Venice, Malta, to name but a few. It adds to the lavish, exoticness of Adam’s past and the corruption that he is accused of.
This was an entertaining action read and I enjoyed it immensely. I could not foresee how the story would conclude and liked seeing Stella on her quest for truth. Highly engaging.
With thanks to HQ and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2024
That voice.
I unfortunately chose this to be an audiobook and it was so hard to get through. The narrator was so over the top and whiny my ears felt like they were bleeding. Not really but dang. She was so annoying.
I can guarantee that if I’d have just read the book instead of listing it’d have made a huge difference. I could’ve enjoyed the story and not visualize strangling Stella.
I unfortunately chose this to be an audiobook and it was so hard to get through. The narrator was so over the top and whiny my ears felt like they were bleeding. Not really but dang. She was so annoying.
I can guarantee that if I’d have just read the book instead of listing it’d have made a huge difference. I could’ve enjoyed the story and not visualize strangling Stella.
November 22, 2023
...𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕'𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓--𝒊𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒃𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆. 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒕, 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂𝒊𝒓, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏'𝒔 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒏. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒅?
I live vicariously through the author on Instagram, where her travels are well-documented. While I was flying through the pages of this book, I could easily picture all of the foreign locales thanks to her photo grid!
Stella is so thankful to have found Adam, nice, normal, even a little vanilla. But she needed a change from her previous partner and the danger and instability he brought to her life. Stella and Adam are enjoying their last day in Paris, a work trip for Adam, a designer who is always looking for pieces to complement his clients' homes.
When an explosion rocks the city, Stella is stunned and devastated by Adam's absence. He was not among the survivors, and to her horror, after a few days of no news, he is presumed dead. However, her real horror begins when she is told by the French police that Adam has been on their radar for well over a decade. His crime? Adam has been dealing in blood antiquities and has acquired some very dangerous clients...one so dangerous, that it's assumed that the bombing wasn't random at all. Adam was a target. And now, because of what some dangerous people think she knows, Stella is one as well.
I could NOT put this book down and flew through it in two sittings. Everything was perfectly executed, from that amazing opening chapter that grabbed me immediately, to the intense plot that never faltered, the authentic characters, and those beautiful, lush SETTINGS! I was truly transported to another world.
RUN to pre-order this high octane thriller that releases June 11, 2024. Many thanks to HTP/Park Row Books for this early copy!
I live vicariously through the author on Instagram, where her travels are well-documented. While I was flying through the pages of this book, I could easily picture all of the foreign locales thanks to her photo grid!
Stella is so thankful to have found Adam, nice, normal, even a little vanilla. But she needed a change from her previous partner and the danger and instability he brought to her life. Stella and Adam are enjoying their last day in Paris, a work trip for Adam, a designer who is always looking for pieces to complement his clients' homes.
When an explosion rocks the city, Stella is stunned and devastated by Adam's absence. He was not among the survivors, and to her horror, after a few days of no news, he is presumed dead. However, her real horror begins when she is told by the French police that Adam has been on their radar for well over a decade. His crime? Adam has been dealing in blood antiquities and has acquired some very dangerous clients...one so dangerous, that it's assumed that the bombing wasn't random at all. Adam was a target. And now, because of what some dangerous people think she knows, Stella is one as well.
I could NOT put this book down and flew through it in two sittings. Everything was perfectly executed, from that amazing opening chapter that grabbed me immediately, to the intense plot that never faltered, the authentic characters, and those beautiful, lush SETTINGS! I was truly transported to another world.
RUN to pre-order this high octane thriller that releases June 11, 2024. Many thanks to HTP/Park Row Books for this early copy!
June 18, 2024
Kimberly Belle doesn't disappoint when it comes to suspenseful thrillers. The title captured my attention and needed to know more! Adam and Stella are the idyllic couple on vacation when...wait for it...tragedy strikes. The questions about the sudden explosion that turned Stella's life upside down lead to a path of secrets and lies that she's not prepared for. Who is is guy she married?
The unravelling of Adam's activities is what makes a great summer or anytime read. Be prepared not to get get up from your seat when you start this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing.
The unravelling of Adam's activities is what makes a great summer or anytime read. Be prepared not to get get up from your seat when you start this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing.
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