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Crescent City Confidential
Best-selling mystery writer Sam Torres loves jetting around the world, researching her next plot, and enjoying local culture, cuisine, and women. Her next stop: the Big Easy. Tess Arceneaux is a New Orleans native who likes life simple and uncomplicated. That includes shucking oysters for wealthy tourists and singing at the neighborhood bar—no pretense and no pressure.
When Sam saunters in looking for company in addition to dinner, she sets her sights on Tess. Although Tess is hardly inclined to get involved with a woman who’s just passing through, Sam proves very persuasive. But when casual dates hint at something more, strange and sinister things ensue. Someone doesn’t want them together and will go to extreme lengths to make her point. Will looming danger bring them closer or drive them apart for good?
When Sam saunters in looking for company in addition to dinner, she sets her sights on Tess. Although Tess is hardly inclined to get involved with a woman who’s just passing through, Sam proves very persuasive. But when casual dates hint at something more, strange and sinister things ensue. Someone doesn’t want them together and will go to extreme lengths to make her point. Will looming danger bring them closer or drive them apart for good?
240 pages, Paperback
First published February 14, 2017
13 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Aurora Rey
35 books288 followersAurora Rey is a college dean by day and a life coach award-winning author of queer romance author the rest of the time, except when she’s cooking, baking, riding the tractor, or pining for goats. She grew up in a small town in south Louisiana, daydreaming about New England. She keeps a special place in her heart for the South, especially the food and the ways women are raised to be strong, even if they're taught not to show it. After a brief dalliance with biochemistry, she completed both a B.A. and an M.A. in English.
She is the author of the Cape End Romance series and several standalone contemporary lesbian romance novels and novellas. She is has been a finalist for the Lambda Literary, RITA®, and Golden Crown Literary Society awards, but loves reader feedback the most. She lives in Ithaca, New York with her dog and whatever wildlife has taken up residence in the pond.
She is the author of the Cape End Romance series and several standalone contemporary lesbian romance novels and novellas. She is has been a finalist for the Lambda Literary, RITA®, and Golden Crown Literary Society awards, but loves reader feedback the most. She lives in Ithaca, New York with her dog and whatever wildlife has taken up residence in the pond.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 7, 2017
This is my second book by Rey, the first was Winter's Harbor. I was surprised to find I almost have identical feelings for both books. Like Winter's, I had a really hard time getting into this book. I am normally at least a book a day reader. This book I kept putting down, and it took almost three days to finish. The first half was way too slow for me. Lot's of eating, and basically just going through everyday life. Luckily, like in Winter's, the second half was much better. The pace picked up and I felt like the story was finally going somewhere.
The story is about Sam, a bit of a player and a famous writer. Sam writes under a pen name, so no one knows just how popular she really is. She moves around every few months, to take in settings for her new books. She also likes to pick up a few women in that time. When Sam finds herself in New Orleans, she is impressed with the culture, and oyster bar worker Tess. Tess, has a bit of a guard up, but a no strings affair might work perfect for her. Can these two casually date, or will their hearts get in the way?
Rey, really impressed me with her setting in Winter's and did the same in this book. New Orleans, is one of my favorite places to visit. This book really took me back there. The people, the food and the culture. It was all there in this book and was well done.
I think one of the reasons I struggled with this book, in the beginning, was the characters. While I found both to be likeable, I could not really see them together. I didn't really feel the spark or the chemistry. Towards the second half of the book, I got it more. I got them together, but I still don't know if I was seeing a soul mate kind of love connection.
My other small complaint is I found the ending to be a bit rushed. I really wished Rey would have taken some of those slower pages in the beginning, and added them to the end. I needed to be a little more convinced just how everything was going to work out.
As I found the style of this book, to be similar to Winter's Harbor, I think I can safely say if you like Rey's books, you will enjoy this. Those of you new to Rey, this is a bit slow in the beginning, but it does get much better in the second half.
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books, for a honest review.
The story is about Sam, a bit of a player and a famous writer. Sam writes under a pen name, so no one knows just how popular she really is. She moves around every few months, to take in settings for her new books. She also likes to pick up a few women in that time. When Sam finds herself in New Orleans, she is impressed with the culture, and oyster bar worker Tess. Tess, has a bit of a guard up, but a no strings affair might work perfect for her. Can these two casually date, or will their hearts get in the way?
Rey, really impressed me with her setting in Winter's and did the same in this book. New Orleans, is one of my favorite places to visit. This book really took me back there. The people, the food and the culture. It was all there in this book and was well done.
I think one of the reasons I struggled with this book, in the beginning, was the characters. While I found both to be likeable, I could not really see them together. I didn't really feel the spark or the chemistry. Towards the second half of the book, I got it more. I got them together, but I still don't know if I was seeing a soul mate kind of love connection.
My other small complaint is I found the ending to be a bit rushed. I really wished Rey would have taken some of those slower pages in the beginning, and added them to the end. I needed to be a little more convinced just how everything was going to work out.
As I found the style of this book, to be similar to Winter's Harbor, I think I can safely say if you like Rey's books, you will enjoy this. Those of you new to Rey, this is a bit slow in the beginning, but it does get much better in the second half.
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books, for a honest review.
January 8, 2017
Too much about food...
First, one fair warning. Do not read this book if you are on post holiday dietary restriction or similar, because you would be tempted to eat. The author is obsessed with food, and her main characters here are eating or preparing food all the time.
This is my third book by Aurora Rey, and in Crescent City Confidential she again delivered a good solid romance with well-defined and believable main characters. This time she nicely threw in a little bit of mystery and suspense. The setting was well described with the author's obvious fondness for New Orleans. The pacing was a little bit slow at times, and I skipped a few paragraphs here and there. I am not quite satisfied with the ending. It is kind of rushed -- a I-love-you-I-love-you-too type. (I know, I know... I am picky about endings. I just am.)
Overall, a nice enjoyable romance, although not re-reading material, and I will continue to read further books by this author.
3 stars
Jan 8, 2017
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
First, one fair warning. Do not read this book if you are on post holiday dietary restriction or similar, because you would be tempted to eat. The author is obsessed with food, and her main characters here are eating or preparing food all the time.
This is my third book by Aurora Rey, and in Crescent City Confidential she again delivered a good solid romance with well-defined and believable main characters. This time she nicely threw in a little bit of mystery and suspense. The setting was well described with the author's obvious fondness for New Orleans. The pacing was a little bit slow at times, and I skipped a few paragraphs here and there. I am not quite satisfied with the ending. It is kind of rushed -- a I-love-you-I-love-you-too type. (I know, I know... I am picky about endings. I just am.)
Overall, a nice enjoyable romance, although not re-reading material, and I will continue to read further books by this author.
3 stars
Jan 8, 2017
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
February 7, 2017
I enjoyed this slow and easy romance by Aurora Rey. The author takes her time building this love story and I was in the mood for a leisurely Big Easy read. I expected she would include mouth watering food descriptions and would let her readers see New Orleans through the eyes of both newcomer Sam and New Orleans native, Tess. What I did not expect was how much growth I see in her storytelling since her debut novel. She has added depth to her characters and given them more to do than eat and have sex. There is still plenty of both to keep Rey’s fans happy but now she is a writer who gives her two mains others to talk to and friends and family who help give Tess and Sam dimensions which were lacking in her early work.
Both women lead interesting full lives. I liked that Sam was a disappointment to her Cuban family not because she was lesbian but because she hid her brilliance as a novelist behind a pen name, a male pen name. The parallels with JK Rowling and her Robert Galbraith novels made me smile. Tess has her Cajun roots, her musical talent, her skills as an oyster shucker and her fearless nature which combined make her irresistible to Sam. I liked her wariness when Sam first started coming in to the restaurant where she worked. I liked the way both women took their time building a relationship.
The mystery aspect of this novel is the weak link in an otherwise pleasurable read. It was too easy to identify who the person adding conflict to this couple's HEA was going to be. I know the couple needed some form of drama to force them to face their obvious attraction but this was an aspect of the novel Rey still needs to work on and refine. I admit to being a hard-core thriller reader when I am not reading lesfic romances so I was hoping for more buildup, more tension for both Tess and Sam leading up to the dramatic finale. The drama did serve its purpose so I won't grumble over much.
This slow and easy relationship build reminded me of other authors who take their time building strong foundations. The care Rey takes to flesh out her mains made for a memorable read and points to a bright future for this author.
4 stars
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
Both women lead interesting full lives. I liked that Sam was a disappointment to her Cuban family not because she was lesbian but because she hid her brilliance as a novelist behind a pen name, a male pen name. The parallels with JK Rowling and her Robert Galbraith novels made me smile. Tess has her Cajun roots, her musical talent, her skills as an oyster shucker and her fearless nature which combined make her irresistible to Sam. I liked her wariness when Sam first started coming in to the restaurant where she worked. I liked the way both women took their time building a relationship.
The mystery aspect of this novel is the weak link in an otherwise pleasurable read. It was too easy to identify who the person adding conflict to this couple's HEA was going to be. I know the couple needed some form of drama to force them to face their obvious attraction but this was an aspect of the novel Rey still needs to work on and refine. I admit to being a hard-core thriller reader when I am not reading lesfic romances so I was hoping for more buildup, more tension for both Tess and Sam leading up to the dramatic finale. The drama did serve its purpose so I won't grumble over much.
This slow and easy relationship build reminded me of other authors who take their time building strong foundations. The care Rey takes to flesh out her mains made for a memorable read and points to a bright future for this author.
4 stars
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
January 6, 2017
Mystery novelist Sam lives a transient life, moving from city to city, immersing herself in the culture to relate it back her writing. She arrives in New Orleans and is immediately falling fast for not only the city but also the beautiful oyster-shucker she can’t get out of her head!
This book blew my socks off and not in the way I was expecting. Literally couldn’t put it down, I started it mid afternoon and was still reading early into the next morning. Yes, it ticks all the boxes I’ve started to expect from Aurora Rey. Firstly, Crescent City Confidential is written very well and the characters are extremely well developed, I felt like I was getting to know new friends and my excitement grew with every finished chapter.
The love story itself emanates off the page and I could totally empathize with quite a few of the worries Tess had about her growing feeling for Sam due to her transient lifestyle. I think it was a good change of pace that Tess was the aggressor in their first official date and also their first intimate night together, considering that Sam was the continuous flirt and confident with it to. I may have developed a crush on Tess and her sassiness… it was all a little sexy!
What excited me the most about the book is Sam’s backstory, that led to this book also hitting the Thriller/Mystery genre as well. I didn’t expect it but now I’ve read it, I know it couldn’t have been written any other way and still been so good. It shook things up and what I’ve realized recently is that the novels I enjoy the most are by the authors that are thinking outside the box when writing them. I want to say more but I truly don’t want to spoil anything for you…
Also, Crescent City Confidential made me want to visit New Orleans more than ever before. It was almost teasing how much I enjoyed reading about the alluring and vibrant city. This is not the first time this has happened with a book by Aurora Rey, oh no… first it was Provincetown with her novel “Winter’s Harbor”. She should include links to guide books as part of your purchase!
And then there is the food… The cravings I get while reading her books are unbelievable but this book… this one took was the icing on the cake (excuse the pun)… I’ve heard from many sources that the food in New Orleans is amazing, but I can’t stop thinking about the seafood gumbo.
5 Stars!
https://lesreveur.com/2017/01/06/cres...
This book blew my socks off and not in the way I was expecting. Literally couldn’t put it down, I started it mid afternoon and was still reading early into the next morning. Yes, it ticks all the boxes I’ve started to expect from Aurora Rey. Firstly, Crescent City Confidential is written very well and the characters are extremely well developed, I felt like I was getting to know new friends and my excitement grew with every finished chapter.
The love story itself emanates off the page and I could totally empathize with quite a few of the worries Tess had about her growing feeling for Sam due to her transient lifestyle. I think it was a good change of pace that Tess was the aggressor in their first official date and also their first intimate night together, considering that Sam was the continuous flirt and confident with it to. I may have developed a crush on Tess and her sassiness… it was all a little sexy!
What excited me the most about the book is Sam’s backstory, that led to this book also hitting the Thriller/Mystery genre as well. I didn’t expect it but now I’ve read it, I know it couldn’t have been written any other way and still been so good. It shook things up and what I’ve realized recently is that the novels I enjoy the most are by the authors that are thinking outside the box when writing them. I want to say more but I truly don’t want to spoil anything for you…
Also, Crescent City Confidential made me want to visit New Orleans more than ever before. It was almost teasing how much I enjoyed reading about the alluring and vibrant city. This is not the first time this has happened with a book by Aurora Rey, oh no… first it was Provincetown with her novel “Winter’s Harbor”. She should include links to guide books as part of your purchase!
And then there is the food… The cravings I get while reading her books are unbelievable but this book… this one took was the icing on the cake (excuse the pun)… I’ve heard from many sources that the food in New Orleans is amazing, but I can’t stop thinking about the seafood gumbo.
5 Stars!
https://lesreveur.com/2017/01/06/cres...
January 21, 2017
Until the very end of this book...I loved it. I liked the characters and the writing. The author gave them quite a lot of depth very quickly. It was a great romance story. I think the author would have done better to focus more on that relationship than the introduction of a mystery. The pacing of the "mystery" was weird. With one quick mention at the very beginning of the story and then nothing else until the last 1/4 of the book. It then becomes the main focus. It feels contrived and the ending just didn't work at all for me.
I gave 3 stars because, after all, it was set in NOLA!
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I gave 3 stars because, after all, it was set in NOLA!
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 24, 2019
Very much a romance topped up with a "who done it?" (but actually we know all the time who did & it not very "thrilling" and I only mention it as prominent in the blurb) - good enough read, somewhere between 3 and 4 stars.
February 7, 2017
Too much blaba too keep me interested (so I crossread a lot until it got more interesting). Very slow romance
February 5, 2017
This is the second book I have read by Aurora Rey. The first was Built to Last and it was also a 4 star read for me. I liked Built to Last better, but this was still a solid read. It took me a while to really get into the book, but once it started going I really enjoyed it.
This book will make you want to visit New Orleans if you have never been. I enjoy descriptive writing and Rey does a really wonderful job of creating the setting. You actually feel like you know the place. She does write about a lot of food in this book, so read on a full stomach. I just enjoyed the writing so much, that even if I hadn’t enjoyed the characters this one would have been worth it for me.
Fortunately, I really enjoyed the characters. Sam I liked a lot. I typically do fall for the more butch characters so of course Sam was my favorite. Tess was likable as well though. I did feel like this was a “happy for now” instead of a “happily ever after.” I think that is okay though. I still enjoyed their story and would be willing to read another one later where they break up and are now friends. Sam could then find her ever after. I just didn’t feel like these two were the perfect match. ARC provided by NetGalley for honest review.
This book will make you want to visit New Orleans if you have never been. I enjoy descriptive writing and Rey does a really wonderful job of creating the setting. You actually feel like you know the place. She does write about a lot of food in this book, so read on a full stomach. I just enjoyed the writing so much, that even if I hadn’t enjoyed the characters this one would have been worth it for me.
Fortunately, I really enjoyed the characters. Sam I liked a lot. I typically do fall for the more butch characters so of course Sam was my favorite. Tess was likable as well though. I did feel like this was a “happy for now” instead of a “happily ever after.” I think that is okay though. I still enjoyed their story and would be willing to read another one later where they break up and are now friends. Sam could then find her ever after. I just didn’t feel like these two were the perfect match. ARC provided by NetGalley for honest review.
March 1, 2017
I'm from Louisiana and so was really looking forward to reading this book. The ambience and culture of New Orleans are spot on but I had a tough time connecting with these characters. Tess seems a bit spoiled and immature. Sam is an okay character, but I was hoping for better than okay. This isn't a terrible book, but it was oh so predictable and a bit of a letdown.
January 31, 2017
I feel like I just visited New Orleans. The food, the atmosphere and the mystique. A slow building romance with a mystery twist. Although, I figured out the mystery right away, it took the characters a while to figure it out. The dialog made me laugh at times. Not because it was bad, but because it was funny. I find myself craving an oyster po'boy!
January 27, 2017
Best selling writer Sam Torres arrives in a new city, choosing to stay for a few months to better understand the location for her latest novel. Intrigued by New Orleans, she finds a local to help explore the mystery and moods of the city. It doesn’t hurt that in the local bar she finds a beautiful woman shucking oysters. As long as Sam can keep her pen name a secret, perhaps a dalliance with the attractive Tess will be fun while Sam’s in town.
Tess Arceneaux works six days a week and likes the quiet life. Her friends have all settled down and had kids, but she’s happy to be quiet and is slow to open up to the possibilities of new romance.
As things start to heat up between Sam and Tess, strange things start happening.
This is a slowly paced romance. Sam is a bit more worldly, and obviously has money. She takes the running in the relationship, while Tess is understandably more reticent to commit. Rey has constructed two characters who fit well together, and both seem to be smart and capable, and come with their own identities. It’s nice to see in a romance. I liked both characters.
However, there is a small element of thriller in this, but I don’t think it’s as well managed as the romance. The character Sam is supposed to write thrillers, but doesn’t seem to be very cluey about working out who is the source of her problems. I found it a bit frustrating that she didn’t work it out so much earlier than she did. It would have been a shorter book, but perhaps that’s what it needed. It felt like it dragged a bit in the middle of the book, as things were moving so slowly with the romance, and the threat to the characters was not making an impression on either of them at that point.
I really enjoyed reading Rey’s other books. In those she focused more on the romance and I think they worked better. I guess I was expecting more of a thriller, and a faster paced plot to go with it. The slow romance would have worked in a romance only book, but I think I wanted a faster paced romance and a more serious element of thrills/action if the two genres were to be combined.
Admittedly, it is hard to work out how to categorise this book. I like the idea of not categorizing stories, but to be honest, I also have particular moods and want something fast and full of thrills, or something gentler with no violence. I guess I can’t have my cake and eat it too.
The characters have a lot to recommend them, and if you are after a gentle romance with a small element of thrills, this is the book for you.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Tess Arceneaux works six days a week and likes the quiet life. Her friends have all settled down and had kids, but she’s happy to be quiet and is slow to open up to the possibilities of new romance.
As things start to heat up between Sam and Tess, strange things start happening.
This is a slowly paced romance. Sam is a bit more worldly, and obviously has money. She takes the running in the relationship, while Tess is understandably more reticent to commit. Rey has constructed two characters who fit well together, and both seem to be smart and capable, and come with their own identities. It’s nice to see in a romance. I liked both characters.
However, there is a small element of thriller in this, but I don’t think it’s as well managed as the romance. The character Sam is supposed to write thrillers, but doesn’t seem to be very cluey about working out who is the source of her problems. I found it a bit frustrating that she didn’t work it out so much earlier than she did. It would have been a shorter book, but perhaps that’s what it needed. It felt like it dragged a bit in the middle of the book, as things were moving so slowly with the romance, and the threat to the characters was not making an impression on either of them at that point.
I really enjoyed reading Rey’s other books. In those she focused more on the romance and I think they worked better. I guess I was expecting more of a thriller, and a faster paced plot to go with it. The slow romance would have worked in a romance only book, but I think I wanted a faster paced romance and a more serious element of thrills/action if the two genres were to be combined.
Admittedly, it is hard to work out how to categorise this book. I like the idea of not categorizing stories, but to be honest, I also have particular moods and want something fast and full of thrills, or something gentler with no violence. I guess I can’t have my cake and eat it too.
The characters have a lot to recommend them, and if you are after a gentle romance with a small element of thrills, this is the book for you.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
February 14, 2017
Aurora Rey has proven time and again she's a brilliant and talented writer of romance but in her newest novel she shows us she also has a flair for suspense.
Samara (Sam) Torres moves from place to place just about every six months, doing research for her best-selling mystery novels. This time she lands in New Orleans and finds herself enamoured with singer/bartender Tess Arceneaux, a New Orleans native. Sam is never lacking in company of women but none of them ever needed as much persuasion as Tess, and none of them seemed to matter as much as Tess. Good food, good friends, great music surround the two women on their journey towards each other and towards home. But there is something dark and dangerous that threatens their safety and their relationship.
As always, the food is out of control amazing. It's almost a character itself and is used as a brilliant tool to immerse the reader in the setting and works to deepen the emotions of the scenes.
The suspense was great! I wouldn't mind reading more books with a little mystery like this one. It kept me guessing until the end.
I loved both Tess and Sam - they were complex (and sexy) characters but that were also easy to relate too even if I had zero in common with them. Their connection was strong from the beginning and as a reader you fell in love along with them. The secondary characters are wonderful as always - rich and fun characters that helped create the homey atmosphere of the novel.
Reading this book, or any book of Aurora Rey's, is like being wrapped up in a warm hug from your favourite person. I have no complaints. Aurora Rey is my hero. I can't wait for her next novel.
Samara (Sam) Torres moves from place to place just about every six months, doing research for her best-selling mystery novels. This time she lands in New Orleans and finds herself enamoured with singer/bartender Tess Arceneaux, a New Orleans native. Sam is never lacking in company of women but none of them ever needed as much persuasion as Tess, and none of them seemed to matter as much as Tess. Good food, good friends, great music surround the two women on their journey towards each other and towards home. But there is something dark and dangerous that threatens their safety and their relationship.
As always, the food is out of control amazing. It's almost a character itself and is used as a brilliant tool to immerse the reader in the setting and works to deepen the emotions of the scenes.
The suspense was great! I wouldn't mind reading more books with a little mystery like this one. It kept me guessing until the end.
I loved both Tess and Sam - they were complex (and sexy) characters but that were also easy to relate too even if I had zero in common with them. Their connection was strong from the beginning and as a reader you fell in love along with them. The secondary characters are wonderful as always - rich and fun characters that helped create the homey atmosphere of the novel.
Reading this book, or any book of Aurora Rey's, is like being wrapped up in a warm hug from your favourite person. I have no complaints. Aurora Rey is my hero. I can't wait for her next novel.
January 23, 2017
Enjoyed this but the thriller part could have been drawn out more.
Arc give by NetGalley for an honest review.
Arc give by NetGalley for an honest review.
September 27, 2023
Edgy and exciting romance!
Sam meets Tess while in search of her next plot. Striking up a friendship, Tess reluctantly agrees to a date and they enjoy each other’s company and for Sam, exploring the city, until her past starts catching up with her. Unsure what is really happening, Sam worries it could drive a wedge between her and Tess, but her efforts to protect her might not be enough.
Really loved this story from Aurora Rey. It’s got an edgy feel that placed Sam and Tess within a raw and more dangerous setting than is typical with Aurora’s works, but what was so clever was that false sense of security and unexpected twists lingering after warming you up and getting you comfortable in Sam and Tess’ budding romance. Everything was going along nicely, Sam wearing down Tess’ defences and them building a connection, only for everything to turn in just one moment, adding a gritty darker edge that suited the city and settings of the story.
Once we’d reached that point, it was wonderful having that edge of the seat feeling with so many variables. There was Tess being unaware of a looming danger Sam was suspicious off, the trying to ignore it and knowing that never works, then Tess starting to figure something. A winning combination that took the story up a gear, engaging me further into Sam’s complicated world and situation, but I was very empathetic towards her too. It was easy to understand why she’d made the choices she had and why she’d kept some things to herself. She’d just underestimated the lengths some people will go to if they feel hurt.
A great story, very exciting and engaging and definitely one I’ll read again and again.
Sam meets Tess while in search of her next plot. Striking up a friendship, Tess reluctantly agrees to a date and they enjoy each other’s company and for Sam, exploring the city, until her past starts catching up with her. Unsure what is really happening, Sam worries it could drive a wedge between her and Tess, but her efforts to protect her might not be enough.
Really loved this story from Aurora Rey. It’s got an edgy feel that placed Sam and Tess within a raw and more dangerous setting than is typical with Aurora’s works, but what was so clever was that false sense of security and unexpected twists lingering after warming you up and getting you comfortable in Sam and Tess’ budding romance. Everything was going along nicely, Sam wearing down Tess’ defences and them building a connection, only for everything to turn in just one moment, adding a gritty darker edge that suited the city and settings of the story.
Once we’d reached that point, it was wonderful having that edge of the seat feeling with so many variables. There was Tess being unaware of a looming danger Sam was suspicious off, the trying to ignore it and knowing that never works, then Tess starting to figure something. A winning combination that took the story up a gear, engaging me further into Sam’s complicated world and situation, but I was very empathetic towards her too. It was easy to understand why she’d made the choices she had and why she’d kept some things to herself. She’d just underestimated the lengths some people will go to if they feel hurt.
A great story, very exciting and engaging and definitely one I’ll read again and again.
September 28, 2020
I really waffled on if this should be a 3 or 4 star (I changed it 3 times while writing this review). I didn’t enjoy it as much as the other two Rey books I’ve read so far (Recipe for Love and The Last Place You Look). But I do always like when there is actually a POC main character and there were many parts I enjoyed about the book so I feel like I should round up despite several little things that bugged me a little.
It was slow build which didn’t bother me, partly because you really got a feel for New Orleans which was great. I did also enjoy the relationship more as things progressed. But I don’t like when there is a slow build and then what feels like not enough wrap up. I also loved the secondary characters and the feel of community, and I wish there had been some kind of wrap up that included the secondary characters. I guess I’m a fan of epilogues, what can I say.
Also, this is super nit picky small thing, but the MC wrote a song about the other MC and then there wasn’t a scene when she sang it in front of the other MC and I was looking forward to that!
The synopsis was pretty spoilery, so I kept expecting the bad stuff. Even if I hadn’t been... I think the MC was kind of an idiot not to put things together faster or do anything faster to respond. And again, the ending felt rushed especially after the danger drama.
It was slow build which didn’t bother me, partly because you really got a feel for New Orleans which was great. I did also enjoy the relationship more as things progressed. But I don’t like when there is a slow build and then what feels like not enough wrap up. I also loved the secondary characters and the feel of community, and I wish there had been some kind of wrap up that included the secondary characters. I guess I’m a fan of epilogues, what can I say.
Also, this is super nit picky small thing, but the MC wrote a song about the other MC and then there wasn’t a scene when she sang it in front of the other MC and I was looking forward to that!
The synopsis was pretty spoilery, so I kept expecting the bad stuff. Even if I hadn’t been... I think the MC was kind of an idiot not to put things together faster or do anything faster to respond. And again, the ending felt rushed especially after the danger drama.
January 30, 2017
It is only appropriate when talking about the Big Easy, that the location and exquisite cuisine be included. After reading the description about the story location, I looked forward to this read. I thought the author did a wonderful job describing the food as well as the location. Presenting information from a local, Tess Arceneaux and a visitor, Sam Torres was on point. I like the feistiness of Tess as she struggled with her feelings for Sam. The character of Sam grew so much during the story that I became her cheerleader for change. I enjoyed the slow romantic build up as they grew in friendship while checking out New Orleans. This read is different from most lesfic because of the depth of character, hesitancy about relationships, a writer writing under a male pen name and the friendship/slow romantic build up. My only point of contention was the “mystery/danger”, which was not a mystery although a little dangerous. Look forward to checking out more reads by Aurora Rey.
Received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley.
Received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley.
January 22, 2017
Aurora Rey has written one of the best novels I've read in a very long time. I loved everything about this book - the characters likable and well written, the plot interesting and the pacing impeccable , the setting was, well, the setting is New Orleans.
If you are tired of the same old story told with the same characters with different names, then this book is for you. If you're tired of being thrown out of the story because of poor editing, then this book is for you..
If you want to read a book that is so well written, you'll stay up well past your bed time to read one more chapter, buy this book. If you want to read a book where you wish you know these characters in real life, buy this book. If you want to read a book where you're disappointed when it ends, buy this book.
If you are tired of the same old story told with the same characters with different names, then this book is for you. If you're tired of being thrown out of the story because of poor editing, then this book is for you..
If you want to read a book that is so well written, you'll stay up well past your bed time to read one more chapter, buy this book. If you want to read a book where you wish you know these characters in real life, buy this book. If you want to read a book where you're disappointed when it ends, buy this book.
January 28, 2019
I enjoyed this book. However I found the early parts very slow. I have read other books by this author that have grabbed my attention immediately but this one took a bit more work to get through. Overall it was a good love story with a small amount of crime thrown in which makes a good mix.
March 8, 2017
This is the type of book I find immensely irritating because what little promise it has is swept over by the same old tropes and unoriginality. The two main characters are Sam and Tess, and while Sam is that typical lesbian playboy, gorgeous, and immensely wealthy (as an author no less...hmm) and thus fairly ho hum boring, Tess is written as a living breathing person when she's not being objectified by Sam or Sam's gaze. She's a strong, southern character with an intriguing backstory that isn't really touched upon. We spend precious few chapters in her head, and instead most of the story is told through Sam. The romance was boring and predictable and whatever chemistry between them was more often than not told rather than shown. There's more chemistry between each woman and the food they're eating than each other. And there is a LOT of food in this book. I get that New Orleans has a rich culinary culture, but for a non cooking/chef storyline, there is a hell of a lot of eating. The "big third act" comes in late, without any tension or buildup and is just as quickly resolved. I spent most of this book hoping that it would veer off in a completely different direction and surprise me with something new or unique. That never happened. I can do without reading another story featuring the Sam-archetype. I wish the author had settled on exactly what type of story she wanted to tell--travelogue, romance, thriller...instead, it had pieces of each without cohesively interweaving them together as a satisfying whole. Tess was the one bright spot of the piece, but she's not really given the opportunity to shine as the star. There's not much else in here to recommend, so I'd give it a pass.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
November 29, 2017
Great book. I listened to it on audible and loved the story that was told. I’m pretty sure that I will pickup more by this author.
February 10, 2019
I briefly read about Tess and Sam in 'The Boss of Her' and I liked reading about how they got together in this book.
February 19, 2020
Loved the suspense and the romance between Sam and Tess
March 4, 2020
Not today, Satan
March 11, 2022
I enjoyed the romance story line, and it did make me hungry and want to miss NOLA. But I did forget for long chunks of the book that there was supposed to be a stalker story line.
March 4, 2017
What a perfect time of the year to enjoy a romance with a little bit of suspense! This story is one which develops its characters slowly and thoroughly over time. I found it interesting in that many of the questions the two main characters were asking each other in the slow-dance relationship added to the reader’s ability to form her own picture of the individual personalities.
The two main characters are Sam Torres, an internationally acclaimed author who is writing her work under a male pseudonym to sell books and maintain anonymity. She is quite transient due to researching her books and moving every several months. Tess Arceneaux is a New Orleans native who loves everything involving food and singing. You couldn’t have two people who are more different. I loved how they played the cat and mouse game of getting to know each other and how their relationship changed into something much closer without them even realizing it.
Carly and Elisa were two sub-characters I enjoyed. Carly is Tess’s best friend and confident who uses her managerial/behavioral skills in helping Tess to understand some of her feelings. Elisa is Sam’s cousin and a lawyer.
Ms. Rey threads an element of suspense into the story. She starts by planting a few breadcrumbs along the way to make for a little angst. Although the suspense is good, I feel the romance is the book’s strength.
Although I have only been to New Orleans twice in my life, I was pleasantly introduced to many of the “native” sights and sounds. This side of New Orleans and the surrounding area appealed to me. The in-depth description of the food adds to the flavor of the book.
Having read Ms. Rey’s book “Built to Last”, I was really looking forward to reading this one. I was not disappointed and rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
I was given this ARC in return for an honest review.
The two main characters are Sam Torres, an internationally acclaimed author who is writing her work under a male pseudonym to sell books and maintain anonymity. She is quite transient due to researching her books and moving every several months. Tess Arceneaux is a New Orleans native who loves everything involving food and singing. You couldn’t have two people who are more different. I loved how they played the cat and mouse game of getting to know each other and how their relationship changed into something much closer without them even realizing it.
Carly and Elisa were two sub-characters I enjoyed. Carly is Tess’s best friend and confident who uses her managerial/behavioral skills in helping Tess to understand some of her feelings. Elisa is Sam’s cousin and a lawyer.
Ms. Rey threads an element of suspense into the story. She starts by planting a few breadcrumbs along the way to make for a little angst. Although the suspense is good, I feel the romance is the book’s strength.
Although I have only been to New Orleans twice in my life, I was pleasantly introduced to many of the “native” sights and sounds. This side of New Orleans and the surrounding area appealed to me. The in-depth description of the food adds to the flavor of the book.
Having read Ms. Rey’s book “Built to Last”, I was really looking forward to reading this one. I was not disappointed and rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
I was given this ARC in return for an honest review.
March 12, 2017
I thought this book had great promise, but then it lost moment at the climax, which is really strange and made for an uneven read. The characters were interesting, but minor characters were less fleshed out (I'm looking at you Eliza).
March 5, 2017
Excellent!
I loved Crescent City Confidential. Great characters with great background and development. The New Orleans setting is perfect. The plot is exciting and keeps moving right along.
I loved Crescent City Confidential. Great characters with great background and development. The New Orleans setting is perfect. The plot is exciting and keeps moving right along.
January 23, 2017
I really enjoyed this book!
Sam & Tess are wonderful together. The author crafts a wonderful sweet love story by weaving the intimacy, humor & vulnerability into these characters. In many ways Sam & Tess are both trying to discover where they 'belong' in life as individuals & eventually with each other.
I didn't see the mystery coming and it was little bit out of the blue, however it was well written to complement the storyline. I am a big fan of New Orleans so that was a big plus.
The supportive characters of Carly & Elisa were nicely woven in as friends and family.
If I have one small complaint it's the book ended abruptly. I would of loved an epilogue to see where Sam & Tess ended up living.
I would highly recommend this book for readers who would enjoy a well written romance.
ARC provided by publisher for honest review.
Best-selling mystery writer Sam Torres loves jetting around the world, researching her next plot, and enjoying local culture, cuisine, and women. Her next stop: the Big Easy. Tess Arceneaux is a New Orleans native who likes life simple and uncomplicated. That includes shucking oysters for wealthy tourists and singing at the neighborhood bar—no pretense and no pressure.
When Sam saunters in looking for company in addition to dinner, she sets her sights on Tess. Although Tess is hardly inclined to get involved with a woman who’s just passing through, Sam proves very persuasive. But when casual dates hint at something more, strange and sinister things ensue. Someone doesn’t want them together and will go to extreme lengths to make her point. Will looming danger bring them closer or drive them apart for good?
Sam & Tess are wonderful together. The author crafts a wonderful sweet love story by weaving the intimacy, humor & vulnerability into these characters. In many ways Sam & Tess are both trying to discover where they 'belong' in life as individuals & eventually with each other.
I didn't see the mystery coming and it was little bit out of the blue, however it was well written to complement the storyline. I am a big fan of New Orleans so that was a big plus.
The supportive characters of Carly & Elisa were nicely woven in as friends and family.
If I have one small complaint it's the book ended abruptly. I would of loved an epilogue to see where Sam & Tess ended up living.
I would highly recommend this book for readers who would enjoy a well written romance.
ARC provided by publisher for honest review.
Best-selling mystery writer Sam Torres loves jetting around the world, researching her next plot, and enjoying local culture, cuisine, and women. Her next stop: the Big Easy. Tess Arceneaux is a New Orleans native who likes life simple and uncomplicated. That includes shucking oysters for wealthy tourists and singing at the neighborhood bar—no pretense and no pressure.
When Sam saunters in looking for company in addition to dinner, she sets her sights on Tess. Although Tess is hardly inclined to get involved with a woman who’s just passing through, Sam proves very persuasive. But when casual dates hint at something more, strange and sinister things ensue. Someone doesn’t want them together and will go to extreme lengths to make her point. Will looming danger bring them closer or drive them apart for good?
January 27, 2017
This was my first book by Aurora Rey and it definitely will not be my last. I really liked both Tess and Sam and understood where they were coming from in regards to their hesitancy about relationships. The author also did a fantastic job of describing the city and the wonderful food you can find there. The only downfall I really had to this book was that I felt it wrapped up a little too quickly.
ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for honest review
ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for honest review
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