Hiding

by Katherine McDermott

Teresa Worthington escapes her abusive boyfriend, Alex, and flees to Paris to pursue a dream career in art. Alone and wary of men, she gradually makes friends and explores her new home. She is distraught to learn that Alex is still stalking her but is determined to create the life she has always wanted. Handsome, compassionate, and brave, Serge Gervais, a young Frenchman, slowly wins her trust. He shows her the sights of France and promises to protect her from Alex. Teresa finds herself falling in love for the first time until the unspeakable happens. Alex tracks her down and forces her into the catacombs beneath the city. Will Serge find Teresa in time to prevent Alex's vengeance?

Genres: Romance

236 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 7, 2015

About the author

Katherine McDermott is a retired English teacher who has written two children's books, one a chapter book and the other a picture book. Her suspense romance Hiding won a Daphne du Maurier Award from RWA. Abbey's Tale which is inspirational historical fiction is a sweet love story between a veteran suffering from PTSD and a blind woman. Her non-fiction book, The S.C. Lighthouses contains daring sea rescues and historical picture of the Carolina lights.

Reviews

[Fani · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Now you will always be my little bird”

Though “Hiding” has many characters, there are three that have the most importance: Teresa, the heroine of the story who travels to Paris in order to escape from the past and find the inspiration that she needs to pursue her art, her ex-boyfriend Alex, who is determined to find her and trap her back into his cycle of abuse and Serge, the hero of the story, a man determined to protect Teresa no matter the cost and help her heal and learn to open up again to other people.

I like the fact that this book didn't suffer from the usual faults of a romance story such as over the top drama, cheating and endless miscommunication. Both Teresa and Serge were able to openly express their feelings, they were always devoted to each other and there was not any kind of drama between them. The only problems the couple had, were caused by Alex and I like the fact that Teresa and Serge faced them together.

The story though was far from perfect. The events that happened in it were very rushed, especially in the beginning and even though I liked the descriptions that created a beautiful scenery in the reader's mind , there were also a lot of information about France's history and culture that I felt didn't fit with the rest of the story and only helped slowing it down. There was an info dump for the main character's past too, I specifically remember the hero's big monologue about his family.

Also, I did not like the fact that the heroine gave great importance to her virginity, Teresa was describing how excited she was to give her innocence as a gift, which seemed to me as if she was saying that the rest of the people who had sex were not innocent but guilty. Of course, everyone has the right to choose when and with who to have sex, but in this case I felt that there was a double standard in the matter of virginity. Even though both characters were religious only Teresa (aka the woman) was told by her father to save herself for her husband and indeed saved herself. The hero on the other hand not only never mentioned anything about his family telling him to save himself for his wife, but he also had sex with another woman before he met the heroine.

Finally, I would have liked to see more character development. I felt that we didn't have the chance to see what the characters truly felt during the story, what was the cause for Alex's abusive personality, what was his past? I wanted to learn more about the feelings Teresa and Serge had about each other beyond the “i love you” that they exchanged and most importantly, I wanted to see what kind of affects Alex's abuse had in Teresa because I feel that that part wasn't explored properly.

I voluntarily reviewed the free copy that i received via Reading Alley

[CoffeeTimeRomance andMore · Rating 2 out of 5]

The premise for this book was interesting, but unfortunately the delivery fell short for me. The writing style was heavy on “telling,” making it hard to read. Also, the dialogue was unnatural and utilitarian—designed to move the plot forward, but providing little opportunity to get to know and like the characters. I found the pace was interrupted by large portions of description about the culture and history of France, and of religious inspiration. To me, these felt out of place with the story as a whole. The issue of spousal abuse, on which this story’s tension relies, is treated far too lightly. Arguably, when one chooses to write about something so serious, he or she should take into consideration the impact of the long-lasting psychological damage on the victim, as well as the convoluted mentality of the abuser. Instead, Alex’s thoughts and actions came across as little better than juvenile throughout most of the book, and neither Teresa nor Serge seemed suitably alarmed by them. In all, I’m sorry to say that much more development is needed for Hiding.
Veronica
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance and More

Official Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More

[Virginia Marks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Domestic violence is rampant throughout the world. Violent love can make you so scared that you are willing to leave the country without telling anyone, just for a new start.

Teresa has left American and fled to Paris France in hopes to flew from her abusive man who claims her as his property. She knows very little French and no one in the town. She has very little money, but does posses the skills as an artist. She can paint beautiful artwork and she remembers art history, so she decides that a hotel employee Serge is the best person to ask about some jobs. Before long she begins to work giving tours and explaining the artwork to the visitors. When she is not working at the museum, she is painting the courtyard for the hotel and meets her neighbor. She finally has a friend and her loneliness is soon forgotten.

Serge works at the hotel at the desk and is stunned by Teresa when she walks in. He can tell that she has been hurt before. He quickly becomes apart of her friend circle, showing her the town and giving her sketches to the hotel owner. He knows that he must take his time to gain her trust is the only way to win her heart. Suddenly Alex finds Teresa and begins threatening her. He ruined the courtyard where she was painting the mural and has now realized that Alex knows about him as well. Soon the threats begin against Serge as well. Even with an accident breaking his leg, he refuses to forget Teresa as Alex ordered.

The beautiful world of art that Paris has to offer is astounding! I love the details of each painting and the feeling the painter felt. Due to Teresa's job we see the beauty through her eyes and the emotions it causes. I love that there is English words to translate the French words as a great way to learn a new language. All of the wonderful places in this book sound so exotic and inviting, I hope to visit these places myself.

There are many emotions in this story, anger, rage, lust, malice, trust, and fear. Through faith in God these characters learn how to forgive and go forth without giving up. The preacher offers a sermon that seems to resonate with many people's lives. Knowing that I am not alone in the troubles I face and these characters feel the same. Even through the treats of a madman these two find love and hope in catheters arm.

The best part of this story is the strength that Teresa has. She was willing to give everything up for a new start. When Alex found her in Paris she did not run, with the help of her friends she was able to stand up to Alex. With all the harm that he caused her, emotionally and physically, she is still able to love again. Serge was patient and understanding, vowing to protect her always. Teresa's confidence in herself made her stronger than she ever felt before. It is empowering and a testament that other have and will survive.

No foul language, very mild violence, Christians values, chastity, and perseverance makes this book great for teenagers on up. This book will be read many times when I need confidence! I was given this book to review from the author/publisher through Reading Alley and in exchange I give my unbiased opinion.

[Vera mallard · Rating 4 out of 5]

STORY-LINE HIDING BY KATHERINE MCDERMOTT:

Hiding by author Katherine McDermott begins in America with Teresa Worthington running from her abusive and mentally unstable boyfriend Alex. Fleeing to Paris, she finds a place of peace which appeals to her artistic soul. Meeting Serge Gervais, Teresa finds a handsome compassionate young man. Serge's campaign to win Teresa is slow and steady. With patience he shows Teresa the regard and love of a good man.

However in the shadows, a menace is waiting to wreak havoc on Teresa and Serge. Alex has tracked Teresa to Paris and as his mental stability falls further and further from reality, he plans revenge. My reviews for romance novel, Hiding, follows.

CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:

Although Hiding's a suspense romance, McDermott filled her story with the beautiful descriptions of France. From her vivid writing I could see France in my mind's eye. This book grabbed me immediately and I read it straight through. I love a good romance which includes a dastardly villain and a worthy hero. This book has all two in spades. As Alex's mental stability falls further and further, I sat on the edge of my seat.

Serge is the perfect match for Teresa; both have artistic souls. His patience and compassion will make the reader sigh; while Alex is the exact opposite, as he fell further into his fantasy. The character development in this novel's skillful and progressive. Each characters grows, in Alex's case drops further into insanity, throughout the book. The secondary characters gives the reader at look at Parisian citizens and the culture. With suspenseful and intriguing plotting, I found myself involved in Serge and Teresa life, feeling the fear and the growing love.

In concluding my reviews for romance novel, Hiding, I found a solid well-written and developed story-line. The characters grew throughout the story and the plot grabs you immediately. This is a clean romance with moral values in a day of free sex. McDermott's writing talent carries this book without the need of fluff or sex. I would not hesitate to buy this book for myself or a friend.

HIDING RECOMMENDATION: STARS 4

FINALLY, PLEASE NOTE:

Additionally, I received this book from the author and Readingalley. I chose to voluntarily review the book with an honest reviews for suspense romance novel, Hiding. Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. Consequently, all book reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinions. In addition, no one influenced my voluntary reviews for suspense romance novel, Hiding.

[Chloe (Romancing the Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hiding is exciting and full of suspense and mystery. You can really feel Teresa's terror as she fled for her life and then again as she came face to face with Alex once more. I have to applaud Teresa for being a strong and resourceful woman. She didn't like Alex's attitude toward her and she didn't stay and take it; instead she used her resources to get the hell away from him.

The setting is great as well; I've never been to Paris, but the author made the city come alive in a way that made me want to and see it in person! Though the story started out slow, I like this as it allows us to get to know the characters better and see them grow as well as immerse ourselves in the romantic development between Serge and Teresa.

Overall, a sweet, romantic read with just the right dash of suspense!

Originally posted in Reading Alley

[Ana · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has a few problems in it.First, the dialogues are short in order to make the plot move forward quickly.This way you don’t really get to know the characters.Some parts were interesting (you get to know a little about France and french history).Serge was cute and everything but I wonder how did he do all these things in the book with a cast on his leg?! He is literally driving a car,carrying Teresa and going into basements which doesn’t make any sence.This book wasn’t totally bad but I think you don’t need it in your life.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will keep you wondering WHAT NEXT ? It is a romance suspense story and one I did not want to put down. It is Teresa Worthington and Serge Gervais' story but Alex her ex is a stalker/abuser villain that does not want to let her go what will he do? I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Mirjana Tešić · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kind of unnatural dialogs

[JustLoveBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice read sprinkled with great action!

I was drawn to this book from the blurb in anticipation of an action packed story, as depicted in the blurb. As it turned out, Hiding provides enough mystery, thrills and chase, balanced with traditional sweet romance in a nice, serene and romantic French backdrop.

The story revolves around Teresa, opening with a look at what caused her to seek recluse in faraway Paris -- being physically abused by her boyfriend Alex. Starting a new life, she meets Serge, who slowly and patiently show her how to trust in guys and love again. But life is not so simple and Alex eventually tracks her down. The story culminates in a thrilling chase to stop Alex from killing Teresa.

I like how the story builds up -- on the one hand, we get to see how deranged and delusional one can get in stalking someone. On the other hand, we get to witness how love can grow and blossom between two people, no matter how painful a person's past can be. And interspersed throughout the book are nice, refreshing details giving us a glimpse of how life in Paris could be like (not just the usual few days and places tourists normally visit).

One aspect I believe could be improved on is on Alex's character development. For example, I am not sure what kind of background he has to be stalking Teresa to the point where he's willing to kill just to get her back. Sure, he felt he had been double crossed, but there has to be something more in his character to seek such kind of revenge.

Overall, this one is very well suited for those looking for a nice and sweet romance with a touch of mystery. I look forward to reading more books from the author.

Review copy provided by Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.

[Mary Beth Devaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read/get honest reviews! Http://www.goodbookswithtea.blogspot.com
Hiding, as the title suggests, is about the life of Teresa, who runs to a foreign country in an attempt to hide from her crazy, abusive ex lover, Alex. This is a suspense and fluff packed story that has readers experiencing a variety of emotions.
You feel the fear and anger in Teresa as well as the hope, doubt, and trust that later develops over the course of this novel.
It's a slow, steady process, and because of that I found Serge and Teresa's relationship very believable.
Hiding takes you on a journey of mystery, romance, and action that does nicely to explore the development of Teresa's trust.
The French scenery and lifestyle was also explored quite nicely. I've never been, but by the words and phrases used by this author, I felt at home with the comfortable French setting. It sounded both pleasant and safe, which I thought was perfect for helping sootheTeresa's fear/doubt.
Up until Alex appears it's a nice, steady ride. But when he does eventually find her, the story takes a darker, heavier turn.
The words appear to speed up with the new found action, forcing you to turn page after page until you're faced with the resolution!
It was nice to have the change of pace toward the end, there, but I certainly loved the romantic fluff leading up to it.
I recommend "Hiding" for fans of fluff, mild action, and romance!
-Mary Beth, Good Books With Tea Blogger

[Teresa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Ms. McDermott took time to explain things and develop the characters. A light romance without being graphic. Good suspense at the end wants to make the reader finish the last few chapters - - even if it was past bedtime.