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A Shot of Red
During the launch of Moncure Therapuetics’ new flu vaccine, Mia Moncure is rocked by news that the public relations director at her family's company has been found dead in Switzerland. A cryptic video warns her that something is amiss with the vaccine, and convinces Mia that his death wasn’t accidental.
Determined to expose the killer, Mia heads to Lucerne, where her own life is threatened. Desperate for backup, she turns to Gio Lorenzo, communications director for a high-ranking senator, even though she’s still reeling from their one-night stand months before. Mia and Gio race to uncover a deadly scheme that threatens to ruin her family’s company. But time is running out. Millions of people are being vaccinated, and any of them could be the next to die.
Determined to expose the killer, Mia heads to Lucerne, where her own life is threatened. Desperate for backup, she turns to Gio Lorenzo, communications director for a high-ranking senator, even though she’s still reeling from their one-night stand months before. Mia and Gio race to uncover a deadly scheme that threatens to ruin her family’s company. But time is running out. Millions of people are being vaccinated, and any of them could be the next to die.
400 pages, Paperback
First published April 21, 2014
17 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Tracy March
11 books392 followersAward-winning author Tracy March writes romantic thrillers and lighthearted romances inspired by her real-life happily ever after.
Always up for travel and adventure, Tracy has flown in a stunt plane, snowmobiled on the Continental Divide, ziplined in the Swiss Alps, and been chased by a bull in the mountains of St. Lucia. She loves Nationals baseball, Saturday date nights, and Dairy Queen Blizzards—and rarely goes a day without craving pizza.
Tracy lives in Yorktown, Virginia, with her superhero husband who works for NASA.
Always up for travel and adventure, Tracy has flown in a stunt plane, snowmobiled on the Continental Divide, ziplined in the Swiss Alps, and been chased by a bull in the mountains of St. Lucia. She loves Nationals baseball, Saturday date nights, and Dairy Queen Blizzards—and rarely goes a day without craving pizza.
Tracy lives in Yorktown, Virginia, with her superhero husband who works for NASA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 24, 2014
If you love action and thrills this is definitely a book you'll enjoy, reading it reminded me of old Alfred Hitchcock edge of your seat, gripping, nail biting, who done it adventures. A great read in my opinion.
The heroine will eventually inherit a large pharmaceutical company, unfortunately due to politics and greed a flu vaccination isn't what it seems.
You'll never guess who done it! Kept me guessing right up to the end.
The heroine will eventually inherit a large pharmaceutical company, unfortunately due to politics and greed a flu vaccination isn't what it seems.
You'll never guess who done it! Kept me guessing right up to the end.
April 26, 2014
Wow this book had it all from passion, suspense, murder. It was so hard to put this one down. I stayed up a few nights because I just had to see what was going to happen next. Some twists I didn't see coming in this one. One highlight for me was the the epilogue it was so perfect and it closed the book on the perfect note. I highly recommend this one.
August 13, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings from this Chick
I’d previously read and thoroughly enjoyed Tracy March’s super-sweet contemporaries but had yet to try her romantic thrillers with a scientific bend, which seems blasphemous since I have an advanced degree in science, live in a big biotechnology hub, and have friends who work in the pharmaceutical industry! So I decided to remedy that with her upcoming single-title release, A SHOT OF RED. Reunited one-night-stand lovers, a budding flu epidemic, potentially dodgy corporate behaviour, a crazy-ass dysfunctional family that makes anyone else’s look like the Cleavers, and a vicarious trip to the Swiss Alps? I’m sold. In A SHOT OF RED, Ms. March skillfully blends political and scientific intrigue to deliver a white-knuckle thrill ride of a read that feels like a summer blockbuster film, complete with larger-than-life action and the right touch of romance. [Confession: I love action films—the more over-the-top the better!]
A SHOT OF RED opens with heroine Mia Moncure, PR Director of the family pharmaceutical company, being summoned back Stateside after an eight-month humanitarian mission to earthquake-ravaged Haiti to spearhead the early launch of the company’s government-backed flu vaccine in the wake of her ex-boyfriend and coworker’s mysterious falling-off-a-mountain-in-Switzerland death. Because, apparently, people fly halfway across the world to attend the funeral of a friend no one knew about and then fall to their deaths spreading the ashes on a mountaintop in the Alps. Sure, I’ll buy that. Things really get interesting for Mia when she’s paired with Gio Lorenzo on the launch campaign—the way-off-limits communications director for her Senator mother and hot pre-Haiti one-night stand—and she begins to suspect her ex’s death was more corporate cover-up than accident. Messages from beyond the grave! Mysterious safe-deposit boxes in a Swiss bank! Mounting flu deaths despite the vaccine! Attempts on Mia’s life! A government conspiracy! All in the span of less than a week, which makes for high-octane, nonstop action that stretches believability but works beautifully to make A A SHOT OF RED a fun, approachable page-turner with a stronger focus on romance than a lot of romantic thrillers.
In addition to the breezy, approachable writing, Ms. March does a great job creating an enjoyable and well-developed cast of characters, both primary and secondary. Mia’s mother—the dictatorial Senator Moncure—is a delightfully manipulative bitch readers will love to hate and will enjoy immensely, along with Mia’s equally conniving twin brother. My enjoyment of romance often hinges heavily on my feelings regarding the heroine (more so than the hero!), and Mia really worked for me. I liked how she stuck to her guns and refused to be her mother’s political cover-your-ass pawn, her genuine concern for the people receiving (and potentially dying from) the vaccine rather than the corporate bottom line, and her commitment to getting to the bottom of a mystery that could destroy her family’s legacy. The way she ran off to Haiti after ending a comfortable but uninspired relationship with her ex and having a life-altering night with Gio to escape dealing with her jumbled emotions, fear of the potent (and unexpected) emotions Gio awakens in her, and the corporate maneuvering going on at Moncure Therapeutics made her relatable and realistic. I would’ve made the same choices in her position. And what to say about Gio? It’s no secret I like my heroes a little beta—even in romantic suspense, where it’s generally all about badass blokes—and Gio fills that mould perfectly. He’s not shy about admitting that he’s felt something for Mia since the moment he laid eyes on her, that their one night together was much more to him than that, and that he was hurt and confused when Mia hopped a plane to Haiti immediately after and was incommunicado for eight months whilst at the same time faking an illness and risking his job to fly to Switzerland to ‘protect’ Mia after she’s attacked whilst investigating Gio is a refreshing change from the typical uber-alpha RS hero—in touch with his emotions AND willing to risk his life for the woman he loves!—and I really liked him. He and Mia make a great couple, and I’m glad a significant chunk of the novel was devoted to (re)establishing their relationship.
Overall, A SHOT OF RED was a great introduction to the other side of Tracy March (whose incredibly fun and sweet contemporaries are a few of that ilk I can tolerate). It’s fast-paced and jam-packed with action and romance and deftly explores the intersection of science and politics that is a hotbed for intrigue. Despite being a full-length novel, it felt like it flew by (in a good way) and the plot never dragged. I look forward to reading more of Ms. March’s thrillers!
I’d previously read and thoroughly enjoyed Tracy March’s super-sweet contemporaries but had yet to try her romantic thrillers with a scientific bend, which seems blasphemous since I have an advanced degree in science, live in a big biotechnology hub, and have friends who work in the pharmaceutical industry! So I decided to remedy that with her upcoming single-title release, A SHOT OF RED. Reunited one-night-stand lovers, a budding flu epidemic, potentially dodgy corporate behaviour, a crazy-ass dysfunctional family that makes anyone else’s look like the Cleavers, and a vicarious trip to the Swiss Alps? I’m sold. In A SHOT OF RED, Ms. March skillfully blends political and scientific intrigue to deliver a white-knuckle thrill ride of a read that feels like a summer blockbuster film, complete with larger-than-life action and the right touch of romance. [Confession: I love action films—the more over-the-top the better!]
A SHOT OF RED opens with heroine Mia Moncure, PR Director of the family pharmaceutical company, being summoned back Stateside after an eight-month humanitarian mission to earthquake-ravaged Haiti to spearhead the early launch of the company’s government-backed flu vaccine in the wake of her ex-boyfriend and coworker’s mysterious falling-off-a-mountain-in-Switzerland death. Because, apparently, people fly halfway across the world to attend the funeral of a friend no one knew about and then fall to their deaths spreading the ashes on a mountaintop in the Alps. Sure, I’ll buy that. Things really get interesting for Mia when she’s paired with Gio Lorenzo on the launch campaign—the way-off-limits communications director for her Senator mother and hot pre-Haiti one-night stand—and she begins to suspect her ex’s death was more corporate cover-up than accident. Messages from beyond the grave! Mysterious safe-deposit boxes in a Swiss bank! Mounting flu deaths despite the vaccine! Attempts on Mia’s life! A government conspiracy! All in the span of less than a week, which makes for high-octane, nonstop action that stretches believability but works beautifully to make A A SHOT OF RED a fun, approachable page-turner with a stronger focus on romance than a lot of romantic thrillers.
In addition to the breezy, approachable writing, Ms. March does a great job creating an enjoyable and well-developed cast of characters, both primary and secondary. Mia’s mother—the dictatorial Senator Moncure—is a delightfully manipulative bitch readers will love to hate and will enjoy immensely, along with Mia’s equally conniving twin brother. My enjoyment of romance often hinges heavily on my feelings regarding the heroine (more so than the hero!), and Mia really worked for me. I liked how she stuck to her guns and refused to be her mother’s political cover-your-ass pawn, her genuine concern for the people receiving (and potentially dying from) the vaccine rather than the corporate bottom line, and her commitment to getting to the bottom of a mystery that could destroy her family’s legacy. The way she ran off to Haiti after ending a comfortable but uninspired relationship with her ex and having a life-altering night with Gio to escape dealing with her jumbled emotions, fear of the potent (and unexpected) emotions Gio awakens in her, and the corporate maneuvering going on at Moncure Therapeutics made her relatable and realistic. I would’ve made the same choices in her position. And what to say about Gio? It’s no secret I like my heroes a little beta—even in romantic suspense, where it’s generally all about badass blokes—and Gio fills that mould perfectly. He’s not shy about admitting that he’s felt something for Mia since the moment he laid eyes on her, that their one night together was much more to him than that, and that he was hurt and confused when Mia hopped a plane to Haiti immediately after and was incommunicado for eight months whilst at the same time faking an illness and risking his job to fly to Switzerland to ‘protect’ Mia after she’s attacked whilst investigating Gio is a refreshing change from the typical uber-alpha RS hero—in touch with his emotions AND willing to risk his life for the woman he loves!—and I really liked him. He and Mia make a great couple, and I’m glad a significant chunk of the novel was devoted to (re)establishing their relationship.
Overall, A SHOT OF RED was a great introduction to the other side of Tracy March (whose incredibly fun and sweet contemporaries are a few of that ilk I can tolerate). It’s fast-paced and jam-packed with action and romance and deftly explores the intersection of science and politics that is a hotbed for intrigue. Despite being a full-length novel, it felt like it flew by (in a good way) and the plot never dragged. I look forward to reading more of Ms. March’s thrillers!
April 21, 2014
A Shot of Red is a thrilling romantic suspense that pulls you into a complicated story with edge-of-your-seat danger, irresistible passion and leaves you with so much hope.
A Shot of Red is a story about so many things – love, death, betrayal, deceit, and hope. There are several story lines that are going on and Tracy does a fantastic job of weaving them all together to make for a very intriguing read.
In short, the heroine Mia, learns that several vaccines her company Moncure Therapeutics formulated may have been tainted during the manufacturing process and she is set out to find the truth because hundreds are dying. When things turn dangerous and she is nearly killed, Gio rushes to her aid. From there they have quite the adventure in digging up any evidence they can find.
A Shot of Red is definitely a book you need to read carefully. Tracy alternates between past and present at the beginning of the book and if you don’t pay attention you could miss it. Once I realized that, I didn’t have any problems following along with the story and the style of the writing.
I found Mia to be very compelling. She wasn’t the damsel-in-distress heroine, but an assertive, decisive woman who knows the difference between right and wrong. She knows what she wants and goes after it, which was very refreshing to read! Gio is a no-nonsense type of guy so the two of them compliment each other. He is a little torn between his job (working for Mia’s mother who forbids any relationships between her staff and her family) and his feelings for Mia. The chemistry between Gio and Mia is undeniable, but the complication of their situation prevents them from going all in with their relationship. Love will find a way, though, right? Tracy does a fantastic job with the building of their romance. The intimate scenes are done extremely well, are very romantic and hot, but also fit the story. I will admit those scenes left me squirming in my seat while reading them!
The overall story is a tricky one and several times asked myself how Tracy plotted it all out. She develops the characters in A Shot of Red extremely well, describes settings so well that you feel as if you are living out the story and she is also a master of twists and turns. The ending totally blindsided me. Just when I thought the book was over, and I felt a little disappointed in the ending, BAM! She threw in another twist and ended the story perfectly. Well done, Tracy. If you like romantic suspense, you must try A Shot of Red.
A Shot of Red is a story about so many things – love, death, betrayal, deceit, and hope. There are several story lines that are going on and Tracy does a fantastic job of weaving them all together to make for a very intriguing read.
In short, the heroine Mia, learns that several vaccines her company Moncure Therapeutics formulated may have been tainted during the manufacturing process and she is set out to find the truth because hundreds are dying. When things turn dangerous and she is nearly killed, Gio rushes to her aid. From there they have quite the adventure in digging up any evidence they can find.
A Shot of Red is definitely a book you need to read carefully. Tracy alternates between past and present at the beginning of the book and if you don’t pay attention you could miss it. Once I realized that, I didn’t have any problems following along with the story and the style of the writing.
I found Mia to be very compelling. She wasn’t the damsel-in-distress heroine, but an assertive, decisive woman who knows the difference between right and wrong. She knows what she wants and goes after it, which was very refreshing to read! Gio is a no-nonsense type of guy so the two of them compliment each other. He is a little torn between his job (working for Mia’s mother who forbids any relationships between her staff and her family) and his feelings for Mia. The chemistry between Gio and Mia is undeniable, but the complication of their situation prevents them from going all in with their relationship. Love will find a way, though, right? Tracy does a fantastic job with the building of their romance. The intimate scenes are done extremely well, are very romantic and hot, but also fit the story. I will admit those scenes left me squirming in my seat while reading them!
The overall story is a tricky one and several times asked myself how Tracy plotted it all out. She develops the characters in A Shot of Red extremely well, describes settings so well that you feel as if you are living out the story and she is also a master of twists and turns. The ending totally blindsided me. Just when I thought the book was over, and I felt a little disappointed in the ending, BAM! She threw in another twist and ended the story perfectly. Well done, Tracy. If you like romantic suspense, you must try A Shot of Red.
April 21, 2014
This was the first time for me reading anything by this author which is why I really looked forward to seeing what tasty tidbits where inside waiting to be discovered. Since I so like to mix it up in my reading was ready for some adventure and mystery so was ready for this one. Since this novel centered around a murder it was sure to be something I could sink my teeth into. Murder to be solved-check, heroine who is a someone who could get the job done-check,coupled with a hunk of a hero who could knock anyone's socks off to aid said heroine,check. Right away this author snatches you by the neck and says come with me there is a mystery coupled with a murder waiting to be revealed. Mia is the granddaughter of one of the biggest companies that is producing and providing vaccine for many in a much needed flu epidemic. Being pulled away from where she ran away too even if she was doing good while there, her grandmother needs her more. Determined to uncover the truth of a ex's murder could also lead her to danger so help she receives from the one she ran away from Gio. But he is slightly off limits in the relationship department being he works for her mother who says no no to that sort of thing. So glad when the heart knows what the heart wants with no not being in the vocabulary. So by know I am grabbed by the neck needing to see what is really going on turning each page discovering the clues right along with Mia. What a dysfunctional family too to say the least,thank goodness for her grandmother though. Great intrigue if a author can keep me guessing as this one has the deeper I am into this novel. Twists and turns to this is also quite fascinating keeping me on my toes. She certainly has not much to worry about with Gio by her side to aide her in more ways then one. With lots of people in danger nothing less than the truth must come out. Enjoyed watching this relationship grow even amongst the danger they are in. Also love the blindside the author throws at you near the end that a excellent mystery romance needs to have if it to be above the norm. This author left me feeling satisfied so much so just did not feel like putting those sock back on. Received a arc for a honest review.
April 25, 2014
Love, romance, mystery, suspense, thrills
Love, romance, mystery, suspense, thrills
I loved this story. it's the first Tracy March book I've read and I couldn't put it down. it had me right from the start all the way to the end. full of romance, intrigue, suspense, and thrills. my kind of book. Mia and Gio were perfect! I highly recommend it.
Love, romance, mystery, suspense, thrills
I loved this story. it's the first Tracy March book I've read and I couldn't put it down. it had me right from the start all the way to the end. full of romance, intrigue, suspense, and thrills. my kind of book. Mia and Gio were perfect! I highly recommend it.
April 21, 2014
This book is a great read. Mia and Gio story is a mystery, some detective work, adventure, and finding love.
July 23, 2018
The first part of this book really drew me in, political intrigue mixed with a big pharma cover up and a bit of romance to heighten the story. I was all over it and totally invested but then things slowly just fell apart. The second half the story lacked the details and depth necessary to pull off the story and keep me invested. While individually I really liked the main characters, I never bought into their romance. The trip to Lucerne read like a travel guide more than a setting description and the motivations for the characters actions were weak at best.
December 9, 2014
4 stars
A Shot of Red is a mix of suspense, thrill, romance, with a hint of Dan Brown's conspiracy and politic plot. This book remind me at the time when I read old Linda Howard's romantic suspense and Sandra Brown.
This book basically about Mia Moncure, the heiress of Moncure Therapeutic and her journey to investigate her ex-boyfriend's death. She believe that her ex death somehow connected with her family business, a business that produce vaccine that believed to cure the flu epidemic in USA. So, Ms March bring readers to follow Mia's trip into Lucerne, Switzerland to unravel the truth.
While in the other side, Mia also deal with her feeling to Gio Lorenzo, a man who work to Mia's mother, Senator Moncure. To have a relationship with him is dangerous and forbidden. But Gio is not a man who easily to give up. Together with Mia in Switzerland, he will do anything to ensure the safety of a woman he loved, when someone try to kill them.
I admit I read this book very slowly, much because my tight schedule and the early part make me bored. But, when Mia found that her ex might be murdered to hide a sinister wrongdoings, things got interesting. I love that Ms March took me into Lucerne, Switzerland. She mix myth (about dragon. Loove dragon!), art and so many description about Lucerne, from Mount Pilatus, Reuss river, Museum Sammlung Rossengart, and much more. I wish, someday if I have money, I will go there. Of course, with ease not like Mia who constantly on alert, because someone target her when she at Lucerne.
The thriller and the suspense is well written, same with the conspiracy and politic part. Some part that irk me, maybe is the romance factor. Don't get me wrong, Ms March did know how to write a steamy scene. She also make Gio as sexy as hell. But,I just wish that Mia do not act as coward. Gio see her as sexy, independent woman, and dedicated. But what Mia did to him is otherwise. I want Mia to stop hiding from her feeling, because what she did to Gio, somehow was awful.
Other part is.. ehm, the sex scene. I'm so disappointed when Ms March didn't write the actual sex scene, when Gio first have sex with Mia, and when they met again after 8 month. I become panic. No way I read so much sexual tension between Gio and Mia, a sexy and hot foreplay between them to finally read fade to black scene in the end, right? It's like slam a door in front of my face, and I admit that I'm a little bit pissed off. Surprisely, their time in Switzerland and in the end is well, I give my smut approval, which make me a happy reader. Well, it's not that I read this book just for the sex only, but when the hero described with a physical description that make your mouth drool, add it with hot foreplay, of course I want a hot and sizzling sex scene after that. Amirite?
One thing that I like is a twist near the end. Well, to sum it up "don't see it coming!". Even, I think that the reason why someone target Mia and Gio is a little bit meh and I have a "oh, really. It's the reason why the culprit do that?". So this is why I reduce the star, but oh, well, A Shot of Red still an enjoyable read for me. Especially when knowing that Gio love to ride bike. I love men who ride bike (ssstt, don't tell my husband! :P)
Recommended if you want to read a romantic suspense while also enjoying lush description of Lucerne, Switzerland.
ARC provided by Entangled for honest review
A Shot of Red is a mix of suspense, thrill, romance, with a hint of Dan Brown's conspiracy and politic plot. This book remind me at the time when I read old Linda Howard's romantic suspense and Sandra Brown.
This book basically about Mia Moncure, the heiress of Moncure Therapeutic and her journey to investigate her ex-boyfriend's death. She believe that her ex death somehow connected with her family business, a business that produce vaccine that believed to cure the flu epidemic in USA. So, Ms March bring readers to follow Mia's trip into Lucerne, Switzerland to unravel the truth.
While in the other side, Mia also deal with her feeling to Gio Lorenzo, a man who work to Mia's mother, Senator Moncure. To have a relationship with him is dangerous and forbidden. But Gio is not a man who easily to give up. Together with Mia in Switzerland, he will do anything to ensure the safety of a woman he loved, when someone try to kill them.
I admit I read this book very slowly, much because my tight schedule and the early part make me bored. But, when Mia found that her ex might be murdered to hide a sinister wrongdoings, things got interesting. I love that Ms March took me into Lucerne, Switzerland. She mix myth (about dragon. Loove dragon!), art and so many description about Lucerne, from Mount Pilatus, Reuss river, Museum Sammlung Rossengart, and much more. I wish, someday if I have money, I will go there. Of course, with ease not like Mia who constantly on alert, because someone target her when she at Lucerne.
The thriller and the suspense is well written, same with the conspiracy and politic part. Some part that irk me, maybe is the romance factor. Don't get me wrong, Ms March did know how to write a steamy scene. She also make Gio as sexy as hell. But,I just wish that Mia do not act as coward. Gio see her as sexy, independent woman, and dedicated. But what Mia did to him is otherwise. I want Mia to stop hiding from her feeling, because what she did to Gio, somehow was awful.
Other part is.. ehm, the sex scene. I'm so disappointed when Ms March didn't write the actual sex scene, when Gio first have sex with Mia, and when they met again after 8 month. I become panic. No way I read so much sexual tension between Gio and Mia, a sexy and hot foreplay between them to finally read fade to black scene in the end, right? It's like slam a door in front of my face, and I admit that I'm a little bit pissed off. Surprisely, their time in Switzerland and in the end is well, I give my smut approval, which make me a happy reader. Well, it's not that I read this book just for the sex only, but when the hero described with a physical description that make your mouth drool, add it with hot foreplay, of course I want a hot and sizzling sex scene after that. Amirite?
One thing that I like is a twist near the end. Well, to sum it up "don't see it coming!". Even, I think that the reason why someone target Mia and Gio is a little bit meh and I have a "oh, really. It's the reason why the culprit do that?". So this is why I reduce the star, but oh, well, A Shot of Red still an enjoyable read for me. Especially when knowing that Gio love to ride bike. I love men who ride bike (ssstt, don't tell my husband! :P)
Recommended if you want to read a romantic suspense while also enjoying lush description of Lucerne, Switzerland.
ARC provided by Entangled for honest review
April 18, 2014
I got a copy in exchange for an honest review
I was in the mood for a suspense book and am trying to read more books in this genres. A Shot of Red is an interesting story and I really liked the political aspects and the vaccine plot. Pretty soon it's obvious something is going on with the vaccine and I couldn't wait to find out more alongside main character Mia. The political aspects surrounding the pharmaceutical company Moncure where done really well and I liked how some characters seemed to focus on the fact people where dying while other where more focussed on the problems for the company, it made for an interetsing dynamica. And while A Shot of red was an enjoyable story that kept me reading, there where also some things that could've been done better.
One of my biggest issues with this book is a certain plot twist at the end. If you think back to the story, nothing seems to make sense anymore in light of this relevation and it feels like the story is falling apart with it. You know some books are fun to re-read because then you see the hints and can make sense of things earlier? Well with this book the story would be ruined when you re-read it. Nothing makes sense in light of the last plot twist and actions and motivations aren't properly explained. I would've liked this story better without that twists, it didn't add anything except for the surprise element at the end.
Mia was a great character, she genuinely cares about people and wants to do things to help them. She also is loyal to her family's company, but for her the people are more important than the reputation of the company. I liked her and thought she was a great character. When she first gets hints something might be wrong with the vaccine she reacts very believeable. The cast of side characters mostly consist of character that shouldn't be likeable like Mia's mother, Richard and Mia's brother. I did like Mia's grandmother Lila, she was an awesome character and some of her actions towards half of the book made me like her even more.
The romance also is an important part of this book, but the romance didn't do it for me at all. I couldn't feel their chemistry and while there was some lust between them, I didn't feel their emotional connection they claimed to have. They where nice together and Gio was really protective of Mia, but I just didn't feel chemistry and I wish they talked a bit more. There are a lot of misunderstandings between them and there wasn't enough talking and finding things out about each other. It just didn't work for me and I didn't care about the romance and even skiped some of those scenes later on in the book.
To conclude: A Shot of Red is an interesting story that kept my attention. The political aspects where done well and I liked the mystery surrounding the vaccine. I didn't like a certain plot twist towards the end and thought it ruined the story a bit, as many things didn't make sense in light of that. I liked Mia as a main character, but the romance between her and Gio just didn't do it for me. They had some lust going on, but nothing more it seemed and their misunderstandings where annoying. All in all an enjoyable book and I liked the suspense and mystery aspects, but it could've been better.
I was in the mood for a suspense book and am trying to read more books in this genres. A Shot of Red is an interesting story and I really liked the political aspects and the vaccine plot. Pretty soon it's obvious something is going on with the vaccine and I couldn't wait to find out more alongside main character Mia. The political aspects surrounding the pharmaceutical company Moncure where done really well and I liked how some characters seemed to focus on the fact people where dying while other where more focussed on the problems for the company, it made for an interetsing dynamica. And while A Shot of red was an enjoyable story that kept me reading, there where also some things that could've been done better.
One of my biggest issues with this book is a certain plot twist at the end. If you think back to the story, nothing seems to make sense anymore in light of this relevation and it feels like the story is falling apart with it. You know some books are fun to re-read because then you see the hints and can make sense of things earlier? Well with this book the story would be ruined when you re-read it. Nothing makes sense in light of the last plot twist and actions and motivations aren't properly explained. I would've liked this story better without that twists, it didn't add anything except for the surprise element at the end.
Mia was a great character, she genuinely cares about people and wants to do things to help them. She also is loyal to her family's company, but for her the people are more important than the reputation of the company. I liked her and thought she was a great character. When she first gets hints something might be wrong with the vaccine she reacts very believeable. The cast of side characters mostly consist of character that shouldn't be likeable like Mia's mother, Richard and Mia's brother. I did like Mia's grandmother Lila, she was an awesome character and some of her actions towards half of the book made me like her even more.
The romance also is an important part of this book, but the romance didn't do it for me at all. I couldn't feel their chemistry and while there was some lust between them, I didn't feel their emotional connection they claimed to have. They where nice together and Gio was really protective of Mia, but I just didn't feel chemistry and I wish they talked a bit more. There are a lot of misunderstandings between them and there wasn't enough talking and finding things out about each other. It just didn't work for me and I didn't care about the romance and even skiped some of those scenes later on in the book.
To conclude: A Shot of Red is an interesting story that kept my attention. The political aspects where done well and I liked the mystery surrounding the vaccine. I didn't like a certain plot twist towards the end and thought it ruined the story a bit, as many things didn't make sense in light of that. I liked Mia as a main character, but the romance between her and Gio just didn't do it for me. They had some lust going on, but nothing more it seemed and their misunderstandings where annoying. All in all an enjoyable book and I liked the suspense and mystery aspects, but it could've been better.
July 15, 2014
A Shot of Red by Tracy March is a thriller, mystery, romance, adventure type story and that’s just the beginning. It’s a full out novel of the finest quality. I will be wanting to read much more of Tracy March’s work.
To really set this up properly I’d practically have to write a small novel…so here’s a quick set up, but all those wonderful details that really make the story, you must discover for yourselves.
This story features huge corporations, corrupt governments, greed, family dynamics of the powerful and so much more. It’s well written, intricately plotted and wonderfully twisty. In short, one of my favorite kind of stories! Tracy March has written a great book here and I will be reading more of Tracy’s work in the future, I hope.
Mia is a young executive for her family’s firm Moncure Therapeutics (they make vaccines for diseases). She broke up with her recent boyfriend, Brent, because he wanted marriage and she didn’t feel she loved him enough, but he still wants to marry her. A week later she had a wonderful night with Gio, a handsome hunk of wonderful that works for her mother, Senator Catherine Moncure, the deep passion she felt for him frightened her and she fled to Haiti for a few months to do volunteer work and think.
She has much going on. While she was away Brent was killed in an accident in Switzerland. However a talk with his mother leads to thinking it wasn’t an accident. He was investigating something wrong with the new flu vaccine they are launching and may have been killed. She becomes involved in an investigation of what he was doing, not knowing who to trust, except her grandmother.
Her relationship with Gio is strained, but still there. The passion flares again and they just can’t seem to stay apart despite her mother’s rules on employee’s dating her children. Her brother is always trying to upstage her as well. Her investigations lead her right into danger and intrigue.
Through her grandmothers wishes Gio joins her covertly in her investigation and they face so much together while they get to know each other and understand why she runs away from love.
That’s the set-up, WOW! This is a fast paced very intense thriller, along with a really involved love story with some love scenes hot enough to curl your toes. This story really has it all my friends. Do yourself a favor and don’t miss a second of it! Enjoy, I did!
Copy was Gifted
To really set this up properly I’d practically have to write a small novel…so here’s a quick set up, but all those wonderful details that really make the story, you must discover for yourselves.
This story features huge corporations, corrupt governments, greed, family dynamics of the powerful and so much more. It’s well written, intricately plotted and wonderfully twisty. In short, one of my favorite kind of stories! Tracy March has written a great book here and I will be reading more of Tracy’s work in the future, I hope.
Mia is a young executive for her family’s firm Moncure Therapeutics (they make vaccines for diseases). She broke up with her recent boyfriend, Brent, because he wanted marriage and she didn’t feel she loved him enough, but he still wants to marry her. A week later she had a wonderful night with Gio, a handsome hunk of wonderful that works for her mother, Senator Catherine Moncure, the deep passion she felt for him frightened her and she fled to Haiti for a few months to do volunteer work and think.
She has much going on. While she was away Brent was killed in an accident in Switzerland. However a talk with his mother leads to thinking it wasn’t an accident. He was investigating something wrong with the new flu vaccine they are launching and may have been killed. She becomes involved in an investigation of what he was doing, not knowing who to trust, except her grandmother.
Her relationship with Gio is strained, but still there. The passion flares again and they just can’t seem to stay apart despite her mother’s rules on employee’s dating her children. Her brother is always trying to upstage her as well. Her investigations lead her right into danger and intrigue.
Through her grandmothers wishes Gio joins her covertly in her investigation and they face so much together while they get to know each other and understand why she runs away from love.
That’s the set-up, WOW! This is a fast paced very intense thriller, along with a really involved love story with some love scenes hot enough to curl your toes. This story really has it all my friends. Do yourself a favor and don’t miss a second of it! Enjoy, I did!
Copy was Gifted
May 8, 2015
I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Tracy March has really written a great book with this one. Her characters are well developed, the scenes are detailed and richly written.
I enjoyed the twists and turns this one took. Action packed and it was a believable crime. She keeps you guessing with this one, who will die next?
Brent, Mia's ex-boyfriend has died in an accident or so that's what everyone thinks, but Brent was looking into something which is why he was in Switzerland. He left a cryptic message for Mia with his mother, once Mia returns to the United States she receives a call from Bents mother asking her to come to her home. After viewing the message Mia and Brent's mother are left with questions that only can be answered if Mia travels to Switzerland.
But Mia is supposed to be doing a tour to promote the families latest vaccination for the Flu, how will she get out of the tour and out of the country without anyone knowing?
Will Mia and Gio uncover the mystery in time to stop thousands more from dieing?
Who killed Brent? Why was he in Switzerland? Who is now trying to kill Mia? Is she getting too close to solving the mystery?
Mia and Gio the two main characters in this book have such a hot chemistry and bit of history. They work well together and compliment each other. Mia is spontaneous and unpredictable and has trouble expressing her emotions. Gio is calm, level headed and head over heels for Mia. When Lila Mia's grandmother asks Gio to go to Switzerland to help Mia and to keep Mia safe he can not refuse.
You can tell that Tracy March has done her homework in this book, the places, the murder weapon all very well thought out and researched.
The ending was a total surprise and I will not spoil it for you, just be ready to have your mouth hang open.
Tracy March has really written a great book with this one. Her characters are well developed, the scenes are detailed and richly written.
I enjoyed the twists and turns this one took. Action packed and it was a believable crime. She keeps you guessing with this one, who will die next?
Brent, Mia's ex-boyfriend has died in an accident or so that's what everyone thinks, but Brent was looking into something which is why he was in Switzerland. He left a cryptic message for Mia with his mother, once Mia returns to the United States she receives a call from Bents mother asking her to come to her home. After viewing the message Mia and Brent's mother are left with questions that only can be answered if Mia travels to Switzerland.
But Mia is supposed to be doing a tour to promote the families latest vaccination for the Flu, how will she get out of the tour and out of the country without anyone knowing?
Will Mia and Gio uncover the mystery in time to stop thousands more from dieing?
Who killed Brent? Why was he in Switzerland? Who is now trying to kill Mia? Is she getting too close to solving the mystery?
Mia and Gio the two main characters in this book have such a hot chemistry and bit of history. They work well together and compliment each other. Mia is spontaneous and unpredictable and has trouble expressing her emotions. Gio is calm, level headed and head over heels for Mia. When Lila Mia's grandmother asks Gio to go to Switzerland to help Mia and to keep Mia safe he can not refuse.
You can tell that Tracy March has done her homework in this book, the places, the murder weapon all very well thought out and researched.
The ending was a total surprise and I will not spoil it for you, just be ready to have your mouth hang open.
April 23, 2014
Mia is a strong willed, powerful woman who has chosen to take after her grandmother, the leader of one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the United States if not the world. She is not normally one to let emotions dictate anything; however the majority of this book from her running to Haiti to possibly searching for a killer is based on her feelings that not all is right and to better serve her grandmother along with herself she must find the cause of those feelings.
Tracy March did a very good job of making the characters real and making you like or hate them. Her character attributes are just as you think they are, if you immediately dislike them then you will probably dislike them the entire book, same with characters you are immediately drawn to.
I really liked the entire book, it was suspenseful, tense, sexy, and sent a shiver down my spine on just how easy it would be to mess with someone’s health. I did not like the ending though, I really wished that the author had just ended it about two pages from the end, not counting the epilogue. Adding in that last twoish pages really undermined the entire book and didn’t fit in at all with what the story was about, at least in my opinion. Since I don’t spoil I cannot tell you what happened.
Tracy March did a very good job of making the characters real and making you like or hate them. Her character attributes are just as you think they are, if you immediately dislike them then you will probably dislike them the entire book, same with characters you are immediately drawn to.
I really liked the entire book, it was suspenseful, tense, sexy, and sent a shiver down my spine on just how easy it would be to mess with someone’s health. I did not like the ending though, I really wished that the author had just ended it about two pages from the end, not counting the epilogue. Adding in that last twoish pages really undermined the entire book and didn’t fit in at all with what the story was about, at least in my opinion. Since I don’t spoil I cannot tell you what happened.
April 25, 2014
The main character Mia is a very determined young woman set to possibly take over a multi million dollar pharmaceutical company. Her brother is also in line with her. She returns from a humanitarian trip to Haiti (which she also uses as an escape hatch) she finds out her former fiance has died, there is possibly something wrong with the flu vaccination just released, a possible flu epidemic, foul play and decides to tackle it all. This is where the sexy Gio helps her.
I really liked this book. The author Tracy did a fabulous job with the characters. They were realistic and easy to relate to. There was enough background information to make it interesting but not to much to overwhelm you. I couldn't put the book down wanting to know the outcome. I was shocked to say the least. If you are looking for a good mystery with romance this is a great book to try out.
I was provided a free copy of this book for my honest review.
I really liked this book. The author Tracy did a fabulous job with the characters. They were realistic and easy to relate to. There was enough background information to make it interesting but not to much to overwhelm you. I couldn't put the book down wanting to know the outcome. I was shocked to say the least. If you are looking for a good mystery with romance this is a great book to try out.
I was provided a free copy of this book for my honest review.
November 20, 2014
We start and end in the earthquake ravaged Haiti where Mia Moncure goes to provide humanitarian aid administering vaccines that are provided from her family run company of Moncure Therapeutics. Now its what happens in between that is a big ole mess.
Mia’s grandmother who runs Moncure Therapeutics request her to return home from Haiti. Mia was reluctant to go for more personal reasons but once she gets back she gets deeply embroiled in a vaccine Flu situation that seems to have already caused the death of her ex boyfriend and maybe eventually even more dastardly things.
As the plot moves along and things are revealed Mia is devastated to find out just how deep this conspiracy goes. Helping Mia figure out what is going on is Gio Lorenzo who she had a one night stand with and is her mother’s Communications Director that also works at Moncure Therapeutics.
Mia’s grandmother who runs Moncure Therapeutics request her to return home from Haiti. Mia was reluctant to go for more personal reasons but once she gets back she gets deeply embroiled in a vaccine Flu situation that seems to have already caused the death of her ex boyfriend and maybe eventually even more dastardly things.
As the plot moves along and things are revealed Mia is devastated to find out just how deep this conspiracy goes. Helping Mia figure out what is going on is Gio Lorenzo who she had a one night stand with and is her mother’s Communications Director that also works at Moncure Therapeutics.
May 22, 2014
WOW!!! A Shot of read was a fantastic, romantic and suspenseful read. This was the first of Tracy March's book that I have read. I will defiantly be one clicking a lot more. This book takes you around the world and back again visiting the US, Haiti and Switzerland. The details of the scenery was fabulous. I loved Mia as the main character and felt for her so badly losing love, gaining love, losing family and gaining family. I fell in love with Pearl in the beginning and so hoped that there would be a great ending for her. I am so happy with the outcome of this book and strongly recommend it. You will not regret it!!!!
A 4.5 Star read!!!
A 4.5 Star read!!!
May 5, 2014
This is the first book I have read by Tracy March, but I will be looking for more! A Shot of Red is an outstanding, fast-paced, romantic thriller! An absolute winner! Ms. March's talents shows from the first page as the story grabbed me an wouldn't let me stop. Lately I haven't been able to read even the best books straight through but I started this one at 10 at night and read to the last page. The sex is steamy but appropriate to the characters and is part of the flow of the story. The plot is intriguing and unexpected and awesome. I was sooo tempted to peek, but I am glad I resisted!
July 11, 2014
I picked this up after meeting the author and was finally able to read it. I loved it. I was pulled in right away. Mia is in Haiti giving out flu vaccines when she is called back to the U.S. because her family owns the company that handles the vaccines and they are having issues. There is the medical angle and politics, secrets and betrayal. And then there is Gio, the one-night stand that she ran away from but can't stop thinking about. A perfect blend of romance and suspense. I couldn't put it down and then I was sad when it was over. The ending totally blew me away and I didn't see coming. A definite must-read for romantic suspense fans.
April 5, 2015
Oh WOW! What a book. This was that recipe of ingenious storytelling, unique plot, incredible wring and that something extra that gets your blood pumping the moment you see a book cover, then your heart beats faster after reading the blurb and you just KNOW you'll love it. This book for me was just that, plus it fell into the rare category where your left speechless and breathless at the end of the book. It just exceeds your expectation.
My nomination for book of the year.
(update to this review will be coming up at the end of the year when I've made my BOTY pick)
My nomination for book of the year.
(update to this review will be coming up at the end of the year when I've made my BOTY pick)
May 2, 2014
Holy Smoke!! This was one amazingly intriguing story. There is suspense, tragedy, powerful people and an underlying love story. Great attention to detail and character development move this story along nicely as it keeps you guessing at every turn. This compelling story is full of mystery from start to finish and also has its share of sexual chemistry. This was a fantastic read and I will definitely read more from this author.
Gifted copy for review
Gifted copy for review
June 3, 2014
Thoroughly enjoyed the non-stop action and sizzling heat delivered by Ms. March! Combining the dangerous world of DC politics along with a family-owned pharmaceutical and toss in a nationwide flu epidemic and you have yourself a can't-put-down-this-book story that will leave you guessing until the end (and even then I was shocked! LOL)
I definitely recommend this action packed and HOT romance (Gio and Mia heat those pages up!!) from Tracy March.
I definitely recommend this action packed and HOT romance (Gio and Mia heat those pages up!!) from Tracy March.
May 20, 2014
This was the first Tracy March book I read. It got my right from the start till the end. The story was full of suspense, intrigue, twists and romance. I loved Mia.
July 25, 2020
Did not finish. Boring.
There is way too much tell and not enough show. There are whole chapters seemingly dedicated to angst and internal debate about either their emotions or an imagined moral dilemma. Character development is minimal and I could have cared less if she had drowned when she was thrown off a bridge. Equally, by the second half of the book I thought he was a bit of a wimp. There are some sex scenes, nothing to get excited about but it's the storyline that bothered me because there you have a nationwide epidemic gathering speed and casualties and all we read about is the stereotypical bad mom senator working with CDC to some nefarious plan. Given the global pandemic we are all currently living through it strikes close to home and the total lack of consultation with the WHO is unbelievable. I just can't recommend the book to readers, I lost the will to continue to read and that's a shame when an author has invested time and thought into birthing their story.
There is way too much tell and not enough show. There are whole chapters seemingly dedicated to angst and internal debate about either their emotions or an imagined moral dilemma. Character development is minimal and I could have cared less if she had drowned when she was thrown off a bridge. Equally, by the second half of the book I thought he was a bit of a wimp. There are some sex scenes, nothing to get excited about but it's the storyline that bothered me because there you have a nationwide epidemic gathering speed and casualties and all we read about is the stereotypical bad mom senator working with CDC to some nefarious plan. Given the global pandemic we are all currently living through it strikes close to home and the total lack of consultation with the WHO is unbelievable. I just can't recommend the book to readers, I lost the will to continue to read and that's a shame when an author has invested time and thought into birthing their story.
April 30, 2014
For more reviews, visit my blog Obsessive Compulsive Reader
Actual Ratings: 3.5/5
A Shot of Red is a romantic suspense by Tracy March that delves into a complicated plot with murder, millions of lives potentially at stake and amongst all the drama and intrigue, a love story filled with passion. Mia Moncure, while in Haiti both for humanitarian work as well as escaping the personal dramas she left behind in the States, is suddenly called back by her grandmother - head of the Moncure Therapeutics - to head their new PR campaign to get millions of people vaccinated with the new annual flu vaccine. However, once she returns, she discovers that not all is as it seems. The company's PR Director's sudden death in the Alps does not appear to happen the way she was told, there could be more in the vaccine that they are aware of, and someone appears to be after Mia's life.
To make things more complicated, Mia is forced into close proximity to Gio Lorenzo, the one man she escaped to Haiti for as he invokes deep feelings within her that leaves her all flustered and confused. The pair shared one intense night together and with so much left unspoken between the two of them, will they be able to work together to uncover the mystery and stay alive in the process?
The overall story plot is intriguing and incredibly enjoyable to read. While the story does take awhile to build up the pace as there are some background setting and information to convey to the reader, once the ball gets rolling, it is almost impossible to put the book down. Just be careful in the earlier chapters when the narrative flashes between the present and the past.
In addition, all the characters are well-developed. I especially found Mia really relatable. She is an independent woman with her own mind and certainly no damsel-in-distress. Rio, on the other hand, is just the type of man you wish is there on a rainy day to jump in and sweep you off your feet. Even the secondary characters are all three-dimensional with their own personalities and agendas.
Plus, the chemistry between Mia and Rio is palpable across the pages and enjoyable to read. My only minor quibble with the entire book would be how quickly their chemistry is established in the story. I do appreciate that Mia is attractive and Rio is desirable. But their attraction to each other initially felt like a stated fact without much explanation. However, once the story progresses and the pair interacts with each other more, the relationship developing between the couple is more realistic and highly entertaining.
I really enjoyed this book and having been a new reader of Tracy March, this book definitely gives me the confidence to try her other books. I'm particularly looking forward to reading her contemporary romances such as the Suddenly Smitten series. For fans of romantic suspense, I'd definitely suggest giving A Shot of Red a try.
Disclaimer: A complimentary copy of the ebook was provided to me by the author and publisher in exchange of an honest review. The views expressed above are entirely my own and are in, no way, affected by the source of this book.
Actual Ratings: 3.5/5
A Shot of Red is a romantic suspense by Tracy March that delves into a complicated plot with murder, millions of lives potentially at stake and amongst all the drama and intrigue, a love story filled with passion. Mia Moncure, while in Haiti both for humanitarian work as well as escaping the personal dramas she left behind in the States, is suddenly called back by her grandmother - head of the Moncure Therapeutics - to head their new PR campaign to get millions of people vaccinated with the new annual flu vaccine. However, once she returns, she discovers that not all is as it seems. The company's PR Director's sudden death in the Alps does not appear to happen the way she was told, there could be more in the vaccine that they are aware of, and someone appears to be after Mia's life.
To make things more complicated, Mia is forced into close proximity to Gio Lorenzo, the one man she escaped to Haiti for as he invokes deep feelings within her that leaves her all flustered and confused. The pair shared one intense night together and with so much left unspoken between the two of them, will they be able to work together to uncover the mystery and stay alive in the process?
The overall story plot is intriguing and incredibly enjoyable to read. While the story does take awhile to build up the pace as there are some background setting and information to convey to the reader, once the ball gets rolling, it is almost impossible to put the book down. Just be careful in the earlier chapters when the narrative flashes between the present and the past.
In addition, all the characters are well-developed. I especially found Mia really relatable. She is an independent woman with her own mind and certainly no damsel-in-distress. Rio, on the other hand, is just the type of man you wish is there on a rainy day to jump in and sweep you off your feet. Even the secondary characters are all three-dimensional with their own personalities and agendas.
Plus, the chemistry between Mia and Rio is palpable across the pages and enjoyable to read. My only minor quibble with the entire book would be how quickly their chemistry is established in the story. I do appreciate that Mia is attractive and Rio is desirable. But their attraction to each other initially felt like a stated fact without much explanation. However, once the story progresses and the pair interacts with each other more, the relationship developing between the couple is more realistic and highly entertaining.
I really enjoyed this book and having been a new reader of Tracy March, this book definitely gives me the confidence to try her other books. I'm particularly looking forward to reading her contemporary romances such as the Suddenly Smitten series. For fans of romantic suspense, I'd definitely suggest giving A Shot of Red a try.
Disclaimer: A complimentary copy of the ebook was provided to me by the author and publisher in exchange of an honest review. The views expressed above are entirely my own and are in, no way, affected by the source of this book.
May 5, 2014
Originally Reviewed on Bewitching Bibliophile
Original Review Contains a lot of pictures, swing on over to enjoy the full experience.
Welcome Ladies and gentlemen, please fasten your seat belts because today, instead of a "boring" review, we are going a global tour. Let's start in the disaster torn areas of Haiti, where we have been giving aide to the people in need for the last few months along with our tour guide Mia. For those who don't know they were hit by an earthquake in 2010 then a devastating hurricane right after. You can see more information here. Mia is here as part of relief efforts to stem the rising epidemic due to these disasters.
After a few months of avoiding her 'real life' it comes calling for her, and she must return home. There she is made aware of the problem about to explode all over the US and her familys' company is right in the center of it. Before long we realize this is a true whodunit, as secrets Mia wasn't aware of started coming out. She had run away from her feelings and her personal life, but just because she pushed pause didn't mean the rest of the world did, and someone important to her is now gone. Mia is left reeling from their departure, but their death isn't as it seems and Mia is left with a few clues as to what was happening and of course all her own personal family drama, because her brother Matt is the worst twin ever!!
Before long our travels takes us away from, the Beltway into old New York, and from there into one of the oldest and sexiest (in my opinion ) places on Earth. Welcome ladies and gents to Lucrene Switzerland.
Here is where the mystery really begins, let's depart for our hotel, take a walk down memory lane, stop at the bank, eat and head on over to the gorgeous Spreuer Bridge.
These paintings are very amazing. Of course this isn't the only thing about this bridge that should scare us. Make sure you watch your step.
According to Frommer's guide we have to check out the collection here in the Museum (image via the website) which is funny because our clues lead us there. Is anyone really a fan of Picasso or do they just say that to sound 'cultured' we learn even more information that we expected. Something to do with a Dragon, hmm this is getting better every page.
There is so much going on and poor Mia is at the epicenter of it, and she's way out of her depth.I loved reading the build up between Mia and Gio, I loved the mystery of who had done what and why. I was compelled to finish the story, I was intrigued and loved the heck out of everything that was being revealed. I hated who we were supposed to hate and just went along for the ride. It's too awesome and I've already given you a few clues, the rest?? Well you're just going to have to read to find out now aren't you??
Original Review Contains a lot of pictures, swing on over to enjoy the full experience.
Welcome Ladies and gentlemen, please fasten your seat belts because today, instead of a "boring" review, we are going a global tour. Let's start in the disaster torn areas of Haiti, where we have been giving aide to the people in need for the last few months along with our tour guide Mia. For those who don't know they were hit by an earthquake in 2010 then a devastating hurricane right after. You can see more information here. Mia is here as part of relief efforts to stem the rising epidemic due to these disasters.
After a few months of avoiding her 'real life' it comes calling for her, and she must return home. There she is made aware of the problem about to explode all over the US and her familys' company is right in the center of it. Before long we realize this is a true whodunit, as secrets Mia wasn't aware of started coming out. She had run away from her feelings and her personal life, but just because she pushed pause didn't mean the rest of the world did, and someone important to her is now gone. Mia is left reeling from their departure, but their death isn't as it seems and Mia is left with a few clues as to what was happening and of course all her own personal family drama, because her brother Matt is the worst twin ever!!
Before long our travels takes us away from, the Beltway into old New York, and from there into one of the oldest and sexiest (in my opinion ) places on Earth. Welcome ladies and gents to Lucrene Switzerland.
Here is where the mystery really begins, let's depart for our hotel, take a walk down memory lane, stop at the bank, eat and head on over to the gorgeous Spreuer Bridge.
These paintings are very amazing. Of course this isn't the only thing about this bridge that should scare us. Make sure you watch your step.
According to Frommer's guide we have to check out the collection here in the Museum (image via the website) which is funny because our clues lead us there. Is anyone really a fan of Picasso or do they just say that to sound 'cultured' we learn even more information that we expected. Something to do with a Dragon, hmm this is getting better every page.
There is so much going on and poor Mia is at the epicenter of it, and she's way out of her depth.I loved reading the build up between Mia and Gio, I loved the mystery of who had done what and why. I was compelled to finish the story, I was intrigued and loved the heck out of everything that was being revealed. I hated who we were supposed to hate and just went along for the ride. It's too awesome and I've already given you a few clues, the rest?? Well you're just going to have to read to find out now aren't you??
May 1, 2014
I usually stay away from romantic suspense because ex-Navy SEALs and Middle Eastern war zones are too intense for me. This book contains neither; it’s just a girl (heir to a pharmaceutical company, do-gooder) and a guy (communications director, motorcycle rider) trying to solve a mystery surrounding flu vaccines while in Switzerland.
Mia broke up with her boyfriend when he proposed to her, and shortly thereafter had a one-night-stand with Gio, a hot muscled guy who happens to work for her mother. That night was so life-changing that Mia ran off to Haiti so that she wouldn’t have to deal with the repercussions.
The book opens in Haiti, where Mia is on a humanitarian team vaccinating orphans. As the vaccine runs out and she braces for a riot, she notices a soldier who sort of looks like Gio, and she has a mid-crisis flashback to that excellent night of sex. Bad timing, Mia. Shortly thereafter, she’s summoned home to publicize a new flu vaccine because America is heading straight into an epidemic and she needs to tell the public to get vaccinated.
Gio works for Mia’s mother, who is a cold, power-hungry US senator. He’s part of the publicity team, so eventually he and Mia are face to face. They kind of admit their attraction, but acting on it could cost Gio his job. Plus, Mia’s recently come by cryptic clues that point to nefarious dealings surrounding the vaccine and possibly murder, so she’s not ready for a relationship. Instead, she fakes an illness and runs off to Switzerland.
The plot moved quickly (the events happen over a short timeline), and the writing was tight. The author worked in the pharmaceutical field and managed to make the mystery easy enough to grasp the stakes but challenging enough to keep it suspenseful. It wasn’t overly burdened with science, is what I’m trying to say.
The romance wasn’t the center of the book, and it wasn’t perfect. Mia and Gio’s memorable night together was only described in flashback, and even then it faded to black a little too soon for my tastes. Both characters said that what happened between them felt real, but I didn’t get to see it. Later, as they’re thrown together in the face of danger, their deep feelings surface and the heat factor jumps up. But they don’t spend much time discussing their relationship, or even admitting that they have one. They’ve got lives to save, there isn’t time!
So, I enjoyed this book as a smart suspense with high stakes and lovely scenery. Mia was a proactive heroine (although she was prone to running away when she got upset) and Gio was a sturdy, steady hero. The plot resolution was marginally acceptable to me, and the ending wrapped things up in a tidy bow.
Rating: B
Review copy provided by the publisher
This review originally posted on Red Hot Books at: http://redhotbooks.com/2014/05/review...
Mia broke up with her boyfriend when he proposed to her, and shortly thereafter had a one-night-stand with Gio, a hot muscled guy who happens to work for her mother. That night was so life-changing that Mia ran off to Haiti so that she wouldn’t have to deal with the repercussions.
The book opens in Haiti, where Mia is on a humanitarian team vaccinating orphans. As the vaccine runs out and she braces for a riot, she notices a soldier who sort of looks like Gio, and she has a mid-crisis flashback to that excellent night of sex. Bad timing, Mia. Shortly thereafter, she’s summoned home to publicize a new flu vaccine because America is heading straight into an epidemic and she needs to tell the public to get vaccinated.
Gio works for Mia’s mother, who is a cold, power-hungry US senator. He’s part of the publicity team, so eventually he and Mia are face to face. They kind of admit their attraction, but acting on it could cost Gio his job. Plus, Mia’s recently come by cryptic clues that point to nefarious dealings surrounding the vaccine and possibly murder, so she’s not ready for a relationship. Instead, she fakes an illness and runs off to Switzerland.
The plot moved quickly (the events happen over a short timeline), and the writing was tight. The author worked in the pharmaceutical field and managed to make the mystery easy enough to grasp the stakes but challenging enough to keep it suspenseful. It wasn’t overly burdened with science, is what I’m trying to say.
The romance wasn’t the center of the book, and it wasn’t perfect. Mia and Gio’s memorable night together was only described in flashback, and even then it faded to black a little too soon for my tastes. Both characters said that what happened between them felt real, but I didn’t get to see it. Later, as they’re thrown together in the face of danger, their deep feelings surface and the heat factor jumps up. But they don’t spend much time discussing their relationship, or even admitting that they have one. They’ve got lives to save, there isn’t time!
So, I enjoyed this book as a smart suspense with high stakes and lovely scenery. Mia was a proactive heroine (although she was prone to running away when she got upset) and Gio was a sturdy, steady hero. The plot resolution was marginally acceptable to me, and the ending wrapped things up in a tidy bow.
Rating: B
Review copy provided by the publisher
This review originally posted on Red Hot Books at: http://redhotbooks.com/2014/05/review...
August 5, 2016
This was an enjoyable, suspenseful and action-packed read--with a touch of romance and a HUGE plot twist toward the end that I absolutely did not see coming! (Seriously--Mini Moe #1 heard my gasp through his headphones and everything--he was very concerned about his mother's well being. Or maybe it was the state of her mental health that worried him. I'm going with option #1, though. It makes me happier.)
Picturing Gio looking like this makes me happy too--he was Tracy's inspiration for the part. ;)
But I digress. As usual.
A Shot of Red offered an enjoyable escape this weekend--I was especially glad that the only snow involved was fictional (for a refreshing change)! Though I might be a little hesitant to visit Switzerland in the future now--and if I do, I'm sure as heck not getting into a gondola to ride down a mountain in a snowstorm.
Well, unless Gio's with me. Then it's a big maybe.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars / B
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Picturing Gio looking like this makes me happy too--he was Tracy's inspiration for the part. ;)
But I digress. As usual.
A Shot of Red offered an enjoyable escape this weekend--I was especially glad that the only snow involved was fictional (for a refreshing change)! Though I might be a little hesitant to visit Switzerland in the future now--and if I do, I'm sure as heck not getting into a gondola to ride down a mountain in a snowstorm.
Well, unless Gio's with me. Then it's a big maybe.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars / B
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2014
I was pleased to get a copy of this book in exchange for offering my honest opinions.
I love mysteries. I have not ready many action, suspense romances, but this book seemed to have a little of everything.
Family drama, corrupt politicians, greedy siblings, secrets from everyone!
There were a few places in the book where I thought the author over explained, repeated things she had told us more than once before.
I have to agree with some other reviewers that did not care for the ending.
The added information at the end actually made me question things that had happened earlier in the book. It was not as neatly wrapped up.
I also believe that given some people had information available to them, they would have behaved differently. They would have made sure somethings happened, and other things would have not gone as they did. But I am not the writer! I can see how sometimes a story can surprise even those who know what is "supposed" to happen.
I want to read more by this author.
I love mysteries. I have not ready many action, suspense romances, but this book seemed to have a little of everything.
Family drama, corrupt politicians, greedy siblings, secrets from everyone!
There were a few places in the book where I thought the author over explained, repeated things she had told us more than once before.
I have to agree with some other reviewers that did not care for the ending.
The added information at the end actually made me question things that had happened earlier in the book. It was not as neatly wrapped up.
I also believe that given some people had information available to them, they would have behaved differently. They would have made sure somethings happened, and other things would have not gone as they did. But I am not the writer! I can see how sometimes a story can surprise even those who know what is "supposed" to happen.
I want to read more by this author.
May 9, 2014
A Shot Of Red grabs hold of you and doesn't let go! Tracy March has written a Thriller/Suspence with a HOT Romance thrown in. Mia, a woman in line to take over a multi-million dollar company, determined to right some wrongs Gio, hot,sexy involved in Washington politics. One of the Good Guys!! The chemistry between these 2 undeniable! Working together to find the cause of tainted flu vaccine, I found myself holding tight to my kindle, reading page after page not wanting to put it down! An added plus a grandmother that's unforgettable . I don't do spoilers I want you to get in to the book and enjoy it without thinking when is this going to "happen" . Get this book, once you start reading you won't put it down.
June 6, 2014
Wow! This story was fantastic it had something for everyone, great suspense a passionate romance and a mystery with an outcome that was not expected! I especially loved the setting of Lucerne in Switzerland, it is a beautiful place and i loved the contrast between the beauty of the setting and the horrible things that were taking place! I would highly recommend everyone go out and read this book Asap.
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