MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
#IREADBOOKTOURS

Stolen Obsession is the first book in the Annalisse Series by Marlene M. Bell, and I think it is a nice introduction into the series. This story focuses on an old artifact, a 500 year old bracelet that’s already responsible for the death of two people. Can Annalisse find this piece of jewelry before anyone else gets hurt?

This is my first book by Marlene M. Bell, and I enjoyed this one very much and can’t wait to read and review book two. I like Bell’s writing style, the fact that she makes you feel right there in her stories is a plus for me. I really enjoy stories more when the author has this ability.

Annalisse and Alec were quite the two to follow, taking readers to places we love, and with them, the plot is so intense it was difficult to put the book down. The author’s writing style is enjoyable and I thought pretty easy to read. The entire story is full of fast paced thrills and mystery, and is a pretty quick read. I did find myself going back to re-read some parts, to make sure I didn’t miss anything. If you enjoy a good suspense thriller/mystery, you will enjoy this one, so i encourage you to check it out. I’m giving Stolen Obsession Four Stars.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. ( )

Annalisse loved her job but her boss’s brother-in-law was a major irritation and her boss was slightly intense. They were enjoying an evening of the gallery opening of a client when she noticed some unsettling anomalies culminating in a tragedy. Annalisse believed this tragedy was related to a curse attached to an antique necklace. One she believed led to the death of her best friend.

Alec was the gorgeous playboy son of the gallery owner. Although he was truly interested in Annalisse, she couldn’t allow herself to believe someone so attractive, rich, and sought-after could be seriously interested in her. She kept avoiding his flirtations but found in him someone she could confide her fears to and obtain his help in keeping the necklace from doing more harm.

As the police and FBI get involved, Annalisse did not know who she could trust. Could she even trust Alec?

As various situations arose, Alec and his mother, convince her to flee to a relaxing time on their yacht in Greece. Relaxation was far from what she received.

This fast-paced novel keeps the reader/listener on his/her seat’s edge. One adventure and mystery leads to another. The endearing relationship between Alec and Annalisse evolves resulting in a climactic ending. It contains a strong ending and at the same time an intriguing intro to the next book of the series.

The characters are very realistic and the scenes are easy to feel a part of. It has some in-depth moments which aroused various emotions in the reader/listener.

I listened to the audiobook. Narrator/performer Katina Kalin, did an excellent job in maintaining vocal fluxations and accents. Her performance was very believable.

*There are a few words of profanity and an explicit sex scene ad other sexual implications. I would have preferred to be eliminated.

The literary accomplishment earns a Five Stars rating.

This audiobook was gifted me with no pressure to post a positive review. This is my honest review. ( )

I enjoyed this first mystery novel of a new series. I especially liked the last half of this book because this is where most of the action is in the story. I am really looking forward to reading the next books about Annalisse and Alec. I liked the romance also. I really like the characters in the story. I received a copy of the book from ireadbooktour for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. ( )

From an art gallery opening to the island of Crete, the search for the answer to ancient curse is on.

Stolen Obsession is the first book in Marlene M. Bell’s Annalisse series featuring antiquities appraiser Annalisse Drury. Although still grieving over the horrific murder of her best friend, which is related to a cursed bracelet, Annalisse steps forward when gallery owner, Generosa Zavos, reveals she owns the necklace from the same set of ancient jewelry.

Annalisse is in a fragile state at the gallery opening, and the author descriptions of her thoughts and reactions upon seeing the necklace made me feel how untethered she was after being the one that found her friend’s body. Its presence terrifies her and the feeling was palpable. But she still has the gumption to perform CPR on her boss who collapses in the middle of the opening. Of course, I liked the more focused and capable woman of action. Her old friend and coworker, Chase, is a real “ride or die” pal, and Alec is a sexy and romantic love interest.

The story has a global setting but starts off on a rainy New York City evening. I really thought the author made the city feel real, with the chill in the air, running to get undercover from the rain, and that small cozy restaurant. Once Annalisse and Alec are on Crete, I could almost feel the sun and smell the lavender. The author had me visualizing the surroundings so effortlessly.

With the mysteries of the ancient pieces of cursed jewelry and related deaths to puzzle out and an engaging couple you’ll want to root for, I recommend STOLEN OBSESSION to readers who enjoy romantic mysteries and tales of suspense, armchair traveling to iconic locations, and stories of dangerous cursed jewelry.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Lone Star Book Blog Tours. ( )

A nice mix of intrigue, action and romance. Gore averse readers beware, but anyone else liking a well-crafted mystery with true baddies and good plot twists will be very satisfied. ( )