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Blue Mountain #2
Blue Moon
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B01MTRZ85Q
She’s a workaholic executive forced to start over after being wrongly dismissed. He’s a billionaire playboy haunted by a violent past. Will their explosive attraction lead them into danger?
Driven executive Bliss Heywood seeks solace in the arms of playboy Ciaran Lanigan. What begins as a few weeks of fun become much more than she bargained for.
Beneath his charming facade Ciaran Lanigan is a haunted man. The more he reveals of his past, the less she trusts him.
Is he really in danger, or is he just a danger to Bliss?
She’s a workaholic executive forced to start over after being wrongly dismissed. He’s a billionaire playboy haunted by a violent past. Will their explosive attraction lead them into danger?
Driven executive Bliss Heywood seeks solace in the arms of playboy Ciaran Lanigan. What begins as a few weeks of fun become much more than she bargained for.
Beneath his charming facade Ciaran Lanigan is a haunted man. The more he reveals of his past, the less she trusts him.
Is he really in danger, or is he just a danger to Bliss?
278 pages, ebook
First published August 3, 2015
1262 people are currently reading
851 people want to read
About the author
Tess Thompson
118 books1,729 followersTess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
August 22, 2022
2.5 ⭐️
<><> Story Overview <><>
On the day Bliss gets fired, she slips and falls, hits her head, ends up in the ER and makes a promise to herself to make friends and not put work first.
So, she befriends her driver, a homeless guy and his dog and heads to Idaho to be with her sister for Thanksgiving.
There she meets Ciaran (her sister’s fiancé’s brother). These two start out just having a good time together, but soon much stronger feelings develop.
<><> Characters <><>
Hero: Ciaran Lanigan
~ Age: 37
~ Occupation: nothing specific was mentioned. He spends time with his charities.
~ Ciaran is the youngest of the five Lanigan siblings. One sibling is dead and the other four have not managed to mend the family rift. He has had several near death experiences over the years and feels like someone is out to kill him.
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: charming, intelligent, a player, one of America’s most eligible bachelors,
Heroine: Bliss Heywood
~ Age: 40
~ Occupation: she’s held a lot of different CEO type positions over the years
~ When Bliss was nine, her father died. Her mother was a hippie who liked her drugs, so her sister Blythe mostly raised her. They didn’t have much money growing up, so Bliss has made sure she’s made her career a priority.
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: a bit of a fashion snob, driven, fearful of being hurt, a loner, has no friends, risk-taker, unyielding, independent, lonely,
<><> A Few Thoughts <><>
^^ ~ right from the beginning I realized this was going to be a telling type book. There is a ton of inner dialogue
^^ ~ it was 37% before Ciaran and Bliss met. For me that was just too long to wait to at least even have them meet. Especially since this is only told from the female POV. Therefore, I didn’t feel like I knew Ciaran well.
^^ ~ I prefer conversational dialogue rather than a “tell me what was said” narrative. See below example of the writing style.
~ ” Lola commented on my boots and said she couldn’t wait to be old enough to wear high heels. Blythe ignored Lola‘s comment, asking instead if we’d had any trouble with the weather on the drive. Clementine bounced next to me, tugging at my hands as I replied that, no, the weather had been fine.”
^^ ~ I didn’t get to experience them falling in love. Again, just more narrative telling what they did. So, this resulted in a lack of chemistry because I didn’t get to experience those potent new love emotions.
^^ ~ I didn’t find this deep. The characters were a bit hollow
^^ ~ I thought the cover was eye catching. It’s what drew me to the book.
<><> The Basics <><>
- Setting: Peregrine, Idaho
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I didn’t. Both of these characters were introduced in the previous book. There were a couple times where I felt like I missed some of the backstory regarding the families.
- POV: Female POV only
- Hero likable? I didn’t feel like I knew much about him
- heroine likable? she was ok
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 48%
- First time they sleep together: 63%
- Safe sex? No condoms used and no discussion about safety before they slept together
- First time they say I Love You: 96%
- steamy? so-so. One small descriptive bedroom scene, others were behind closed doors
- Chemistry? I didn’t feel it
- OW/OM drama? Not much. Ciaran has been seen around with a Hollywood actress (a friend of his from high school), but he views her more as a sister
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? No
- Did I skip pages? almost. All the inner dialogue almost led to a DNF for me
- Big secrets? No
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? No, which is a shame because if feel if it was written differently Ciaran could have been a swoony character. He had a good heart.
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? probably 6 months later
- Recommend? one point of view and the writing style were not my favorite, but it might work for someone else.
<><> Quotes <><>
“Don’t stay in the middle place between doubt and belief. Choose one way or the other.”
“Why can’t we let go of these family wounds? I suspect the nature of betrayal, cruelty, or abandonment from those with whom we share the same blood, no matter how we try to forget, feels too big to forgive, because we love them the most.”
“Building friendships started with kindness.”
<><> Story Overview <><>
On the day Bliss gets fired, she slips and falls, hits her head, ends up in the ER and makes a promise to herself to make friends and not put work first.
So, she befriends her driver, a homeless guy and his dog and heads to Idaho to be with her sister for Thanksgiving.
There she meets Ciaran (her sister’s fiancé’s brother). These two start out just having a good time together, but soon much stronger feelings develop.
<><> Characters <><>
Hero: Ciaran Lanigan
~ Age: 37
~ Occupation: nothing specific was mentioned. He spends time with his charities.
~ Ciaran is the youngest of the five Lanigan siblings. One sibling is dead and the other four have not managed to mend the family rift. He has had several near death experiences over the years and feels like someone is out to kill him.
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: charming, intelligent, a player, one of America’s most eligible bachelors,
Heroine: Bliss Heywood
~ Age: 40
~ Occupation: she’s held a lot of different CEO type positions over the years
~ When Bliss was nine, her father died. Her mother was a hippie who liked her drugs, so her sister Blythe mostly raised her. They didn’t have much money growing up, so Bliss has made sure she’s made her career a priority.
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: a bit of a fashion snob, driven, fearful of being hurt, a loner, has no friends, risk-taker, unyielding, independent, lonely,
<><> A Few Thoughts <><>
^^ ~ right from the beginning I realized this was going to be a telling type book. There is a ton of inner dialogue
^^ ~ it was 37% before Ciaran and Bliss met. For me that was just too long to wait to at least even have them meet. Especially since this is only told from the female POV. Therefore, I didn’t feel like I knew Ciaran well.
^^ ~ I prefer conversational dialogue rather than a “tell me what was said” narrative. See below example of the writing style.
~ ” Lola commented on my boots and said she couldn’t wait to be old enough to wear high heels. Blythe ignored Lola‘s comment, asking instead if we’d had any trouble with the weather on the drive. Clementine bounced next to me, tugging at my hands as I replied that, no, the weather had been fine.”
^^ ~ I didn’t get to experience them falling in love. Again, just more narrative telling what they did. So, this resulted in a lack of chemistry because I didn’t get to experience those potent new love emotions.
^^ ~ I didn’t find this deep. The characters were a bit hollow
^^ ~ I thought the cover was eye catching. It’s what drew me to the book.
<><> The Basics <><>
- Setting: Peregrine, Idaho
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I didn’t. Both of these characters were introduced in the previous book. There were a couple times where I felt like I missed some of the backstory regarding the families.
- POV: Female POV only
- Hero likable? I didn’t feel like I knew much about him
- heroine likable? she was ok
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 48%
- First time they sleep together: 63%
- Safe sex? No condoms used and no discussion about safety before they slept together
- First time they say I Love You: 96%
- steamy? so-so. One small descriptive bedroom scene, others were behind closed doors
- Chemistry? I didn’t feel it
- OW/OM drama? Not much. Ciaran has been seen around with a Hollywood actress (a friend of his from high school), but he views her more as a sister
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? No
- Did I skip pages? almost. All the inner dialogue almost led to a DNF for me
- Big secrets? No
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? No, which is a shame because if feel if it was written differently Ciaran could have been a swoony character. He had a good heart.
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? probably 6 months later
- Recommend? one point of view and the writing style were not my favorite, but it might work for someone else.
<><> Quotes <><>
“Don’t stay in the middle place between doubt and belief. Choose one way or the other.”
“Why can’t we let go of these family wounds? I suspect the nature of betrayal, cruelty, or abandonment from those with whom we share the same blood, no matter how we try to forget, feels too big to forgive, because we love them the most.”
“Building friendships started with kindness.”
June 21, 2020
I really loved Bliss' character. Her efforts to turn her life around and make friends for the first time in her life was priceless. I laughed out loud several times. Just enough levity in a book about changes. I enjoyed this book more than the first, and I loved the first book! Onto the next one in the series. ;)
September 7, 2015
Want to win the BLUE MOUNTAIN COLLECTION from Tess Thompson?
Grand Prize: an eCopy of BOTH Blue Midnight & Blue Moon
Two winners will each receive an eCopy of Blue Midnight
Two winners will each receive an eCopy of Blue Moon
Ends - September 21, 2015 - International where allowed
Click on Banner to enter!
We’re heading back to Peregrine, Iowa where love and attraction follow no rules and two people learn to uncover another side to themselves, one piece at a time. Blue Moon by talented author Tess Thompson is a magical journey of love, discovery, sharing and learning to trust and live a little by the seat of your pants!
Bliss has always lived to be an achiever, a powerful woman in the business world, but under that façade is a heart of gold, but please, do NOT mention it to her. When life takes all of her hard work and runs it through the shredder, she finds that living life on the edge, doing the unpredictable and giving of herself only further encourages her to give more and it feels better than any boardroom victory.
Ciarin is always the life of any party, but he is hiding a dread fear that he is either being stalked or has become completely paranoid. Is it possible that some person or persons has actually been trying to kill him for years? The mask he wears is that of a light-hearted party animal, but there is something more to him, something deeper and well-hidden. Will he learn to trust Bliss with his secrets? Will she learn to trust Ciarin? Will they join forces to find out if what Ciarin believes is real?
I was chuckling, I was angry, I was near tears as I savored each page written by Ms. Thompson. Moments of delight, humor and danger, along with some great mystery and suspense flows along like the rapids just before the calm waters! Swirling and churning, as we are soaked in the brilliance of great writing! Do you like romance that can heat up the pages? How about mystery that will leave you looking over your shoulder? Acts of kindness that are over the top and fun to watch? Not to mention a cast of characters that couldn’t be more diverse then the colors in a box of crayons, who knew visiting Iowa could be so magnetic, fun and life changing? Start to finish, a must read series!
I received an ARC edition from Tess Thompson in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Blue Mountain Collection - Book 2
Publication Date: August 8, 2015
Publisher: Booktrope Editions
ISBN-13: 2940151086707
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Print Length: 280 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Grand Prize: an eCopy of BOTH Blue Midnight & Blue Moon
Two winners will each receive an eCopy of Blue Midnight
Two winners will each receive an eCopy of Blue Moon
Ends - September 21, 2015 - International where allowed
Click on Banner to enter!
We’re heading back to Peregrine, Iowa where love and attraction follow no rules and two people learn to uncover another side to themselves, one piece at a time. Blue Moon by talented author Tess Thompson is a magical journey of love, discovery, sharing and learning to trust and live a little by the seat of your pants!
Bliss has always lived to be an achiever, a powerful woman in the business world, but under that façade is a heart of gold, but please, do NOT mention it to her. When life takes all of her hard work and runs it through the shredder, she finds that living life on the edge, doing the unpredictable and giving of herself only further encourages her to give more and it feels better than any boardroom victory.
Ciarin is always the life of any party, but he is hiding a dread fear that he is either being stalked or has become completely paranoid. Is it possible that some person or persons has actually been trying to kill him for years? The mask he wears is that of a light-hearted party animal, but there is something more to him, something deeper and well-hidden. Will he learn to trust Bliss with his secrets? Will she learn to trust Ciarin? Will they join forces to find out if what Ciarin believes is real?
I was chuckling, I was angry, I was near tears as I savored each page written by Ms. Thompson. Moments of delight, humor and danger, along with some great mystery and suspense flows along like the rapids just before the calm waters! Swirling and churning, as we are soaked in the brilliance of great writing! Do you like romance that can heat up the pages? How about mystery that will leave you looking over your shoulder? Acts of kindness that are over the top and fun to watch? Not to mention a cast of characters that couldn’t be more diverse then the colors in a box of crayons, who knew visiting Iowa could be so magnetic, fun and life changing? Start to finish, a must read series!
I received an ARC edition from Tess Thompson in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Blue Mountain Collection - Book 2
Publication Date: August 8, 2015
Publisher: Booktrope Editions
ISBN-13: 2940151086707
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Print Length: 280 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Want to read
November 12, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/12/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
Playboy Ciaran Lanigan was the party. Executive Bliss Heywood was the library. When they meet, sparks fly and so begins an uncontrollable attraction.
But party boy Ciaran isn’t everything he appears. Lurking beneath the surface of his charming grin is a man haunted by fears. Are they real or imagined? As he slowly reveals his past, Bliss becomes less sure if the man she’s involved with is unstable or truly in danger.
Neither can deny their growing feelings for each other, but with lives fraught with secrets, lies, and family complexities, walking away from each other might be the safest path. But safe is rarely satisfying and Ciaran and Bliss love with all their hearts.
Regardless of consequences, their growing love binds them together, even in the face of danger.
Blurb:
Playboy Ciaran Lanigan was the party. Executive Bliss Heywood was the library. When they meet, sparks fly and so begins an uncontrollable attraction.
But party boy Ciaran isn’t everything he appears. Lurking beneath the surface of his charming grin is a man haunted by fears. Are they real or imagined? As he slowly reveals his past, Bliss becomes less sure if the man she’s involved with is unstable or truly in danger.
Neither can deny their growing feelings for each other, but with lives fraught with secrets, lies, and family complexities, walking away from each other might be the safest path. But safe is rarely satisfying and Ciaran and Bliss love with all their hearts.
Regardless of consequences, their growing love binds them together, even in the face of danger.
September 8, 2019
This was a nice refreshing read. It had humor, romance and a little angst. The characters were engaging and fit well together. Bliss is sassy and Ciaran was witty. They went well together. Bliss goes home for the Holidays to her sisters after she is fired and slips on ice ending up in the hospital. She meets playboy actor Ciaran, but like with all gossip his not a playboy for the same reasons as everyone thinks. While having fun over the holidays Ciaran learns to trust Bliss and opens up. There's lots of side characters that make the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2015
Blue Moon by Tess Thompson
Book #2: Blue Mountain Series
Source: ARC from author
My Rating: 4½/5 stars
My Review:
Bliss Heywood has known since she was a small child she would be successful in her life. Since her older sister, Blythe taught her to read at age four, Bliss has studied hard, worked hard, and made a pile of money for herself. She has a horde of connections in the business world, has lived in twenty different cities, and turned around a pile of floundering companies. Turns out none of that matters when an uber-nerd with no social skills but a controlling interest in the company wants you fired. Fired! Bliss Heywood has never been fired!
As if to add insult to injury, Bliss packs up her meager belongings from her office, walks out the front door of the building, falls on the ice and knocks herself out. After a long, lonely night in the hospital, Bliss decides it is time to make some serious changes in her life. First change? Collect Sam, the homeless man, his dog Sweetheart, her driver, and go to Peregrine, Idaho for the Thanksgiving with her sister, Blythe and her new man, Kevan. While she’s at it, why not meet a new man have some thoroughly amazing sex and help him figure out who has been trying to kill him for 15+ years. Sounds like a holiday, huh?
Ciaran Lanigan is known the world over for his playboy ways. Along with the rest of his family, he is tremendously wealthy, has stunning good looks, and the charm to go with both. The moment he meets Bliss Heywood, Ciaran knows he is going to sleep with her. The only left to be decided is if Bliss can handle a no-strings-attached, totally short-term affair. Ciaran has lived the better part of his adult life with complete abandon. Though he can’t prove it, he is sure the “accidents” he has been involved in weren’t accidents at all but attempts on his life. The suspicion and fear has led him to live life to the fullest each and every moment and never, ever get attached to one woman.
With no job and nothing to take her back to her lonely and somewhat sterile townhouse, Bliss agrees to an extended affair with Ciaran. Hiding away from the world and locked in each other’s arms for a month is more than either could have ever hoped for. For the first time in his adult life, Ciaran shares his life and his secrets with Bliss and she determines two things: 1) she will help him solve the mystery of the accidents and, 2) she will not, under any circumstances fall in love with him. All is going according to plan right up to moment Ciaran is launched off the side of a mountain as the two are enjoying an afternoon of skiing. Funny how a near-death experience can put everything into perspective.
The Bottom Line: Yep, I totally liked book two better than book one. Bliss Heywood is all kinds of fantastic especially once she loses her job and decides to take on the homeless man, his dog, her driver, and her own life. In the process of helping everyone else, Bliss also makes some positive changes in her own life and with every new change, she becomes little more interesting and entertaining. Ciaran is such a good character because of how honest he is about his life and his intentions. Bliss is the first person who makes Ciaran wish for something more and when his worst fears actually come to fruition and he survives it, he ponies up some more of that honesty and lays it on Bliss. Like the first book, the mystery in this read is light and it is pretty clear who the big bad is early on but I just didn’t’ care. Bliss and Ciaran’s story is sweet and sexy and the mystery only spices up that story. Thompson also does one of those writer things that always makes me happy, she brings back the characters from the previous book(s) and evolves their personal stories as the current plot unfolds. I’m getting in deeper to the Blue Mountain series and feel all kinds of OK with that :)
Book #2: Blue Mountain Series
Source: ARC from author
My Rating: 4½/5 stars
My Review:
Bliss Heywood has known since she was a small child she would be successful in her life. Since her older sister, Blythe taught her to read at age four, Bliss has studied hard, worked hard, and made a pile of money for herself. She has a horde of connections in the business world, has lived in twenty different cities, and turned around a pile of floundering companies. Turns out none of that matters when an uber-nerd with no social skills but a controlling interest in the company wants you fired. Fired! Bliss Heywood has never been fired!
As if to add insult to injury, Bliss packs up her meager belongings from her office, walks out the front door of the building, falls on the ice and knocks herself out. After a long, lonely night in the hospital, Bliss decides it is time to make some serious changes in her life. First change? Collect Sam, the homeless man, his dog Sweetheart, her driver, and go to Peregrine, Idaho for the Thanksgiving with her sister, Blythe and her new man, Kevan. While she’s at it, why not meet a new man have some thoroughly amazing sex and help him figure out who has been trying to kill him for 15+ years. Sounds like a holiday, huh?
Ciaran Lanigan is known the world over for his playboy ways. Along with the rest of his family, he is tremendously wealthy, has stunning good looks, and the charm to go with both. The moment he meets Bliss Heywood, Ciaran knows he is going to sleep with her. The only left to be decided is if Bliss can handle a no-strings-attached, totally short-term affair. Ciaran has lived the better part of his adult life with complete abandon. Though he can’t prove it, he is sure the “accidents” he has been involved in weren’t accidents at all but attempts on his life. The suspicion and fear has led him to live life to the fullest each and every moment and never, ever get attached to one woman.
With no job and nothing to take her back to her lonely and somewhat sterile townhouse, Bliss agrees to an extended affair with Ciaran. Hiding away from the world and locked in each other’s arms for a month is more than either could have ever hoped for. For the first time in his adult life, Ciaran shares his life and his secrets with Bliss and she determines two things: 1) she will help him solve the mystery of the accidents and, 2) she will not, under any circumstances fall in love with him. All is going according to plan right up to moment Ciaran is launched off the side of a mountain as the two are enjoying an afternoon of skiing. Funny how a near-death experience can put everything into perspective.
The Bottom Line: Yep, I totally liked book two better than book one. Bliss Heywood is all kinds of fantastic especially once she loses her job and decides to take on the homeless man, his dog, her driver, and her own life. In the process of helping everyone else, Bliss also makes some positive changes in her own life and with every new change, she becomes little more interesting and entertaining. Ciaran is such a good character because of how honest he is about his life and his intentions. Bliss is the first person who makes Ciaran wish for something more and when his worst fears actually come to fruition and he survives it, he ponies up some more of that honesty and lays it on Bliss. Like the first book, the mystery in this read is light and it is pretty clear who the big bad is early on but I just didn’t’ care. Bliss and Ciaran’s story is sweet and sexy and the mystery only spices up that story. Thompson also does one of those writer things that always makes me happy, she brings back the characters from the previous book(s) and evolves their personal stories as the current plot unfolds. I’m getting in deeper to the Blue Mountain series and feel all kinds of OK with that :)
July 20, 2018
Tess Thompson has a way of writing that pulls me in every time. I enjoyed this book so much. It has it all and I do mean all. Love, hate, hurt, tears, mystery, thriller, pain and more love than you’ll ever think possible.
It’s the second book in the Blue Mountain series. About Bliss who is Blythe’s younger sister. You met Blythe in the first book, Blue Midnight. She and Kevan’s love story. Now you get Bliss and Ciaran’s story. And what a story it is. You will fall in love with this family, all of them. Bliss is a very kind hearted woman despite how she thinks of herself. Ciaran cares more than he realizes too.
It’s such a good book that you won’t be able to put it down. From the first page to the last you will be hooked. I have to admit I could have finished this on a day sooner but the last 10% I wanted to savor for sure. It was so intense and lots of questions answered. Truths came out and brothers will be ok again. It’s a definite page turner.
I think I liked this one a tiny bit better than the first book. But it’s better if you read then in order. I found out there will be a couple more in this series and I can’t wait. Any book by Tess Thompson is so well worth the read. She can weave a story like no one else.
Thank you for writing this Ms Thompson. It’s a big unlimited star but I can only give it 5.
It’s the second book in the Blue Mountain series. About Bliss who is Blythe’s younger sister. You met Blythe in the first book, Blue Midnight. She and Kevan’s love story. Now you get Bliss and Ciaran’s story. And what a story it is. You will fall in love with this family, all of them. Bliss is a very kind hearted woman despite how she thinks of herself. Ciaran cares more than he realizes too.
It’s such a good book that you won’t be able to put it down. From the first page to the last you will be hooked. I have to admit I could have finished this on a day sooner but the last 10% I wanted to savor for sure. It was so intense and lots of questions answered. Truths came out and brothers will be ok again. It’s a definite page turner.
I think I liked this one a tiny bit better than the first book. But it’s better if you read then in order. I found out there will be a couple more in this series and I can’t wait. Any book by Tess Thompson is so well worth the read. She can weave a story like no one else.
Thank you for writing this Ms Thompson. It’s a big unlimited star but I can only give it 5.
February 27, 2020
After losing her job and sustaining an injury all in the same day, Bliss rethinks her life and wonders if she wants more than just an amazing career. When she heads to Blue Mountain ID to celebrate Thanksgiving with her sister, Blythe, and her family, she might just find a new purpose too!
I was surprised and delighted by how many story lines besides Bliss' were included in this second installment of the Blue Mountain series. I loved that Bliss helped Sam, a mute homeless man, her chauffeur reminded me of Batman's Alfred, and Moonstone was yet again amusing and made me giggle several times. As if that weren't enough, the twist near the end left me shocked. Didn't see that coming. This sweet, heartwarming story would be perfect for a day at the beach!
Location: Peregrine, ID (Blue Mountain)
Audiobook
I was surprised and delighted by how many story lines besides Bliss' were included in this second installment of the Blue Mountain series. I loved that Bliss helped Sam, a mute homeless man, her chauffeur reminded me of Batman's Alfred, and Moonstone was yet again amusing and made me giggle several times. As if that weren't enough, the twist near the end left me shocked. Didn't see that coming. This sweet, heartwarming story would be perfect for a day at the beach!
Location: Peregrine, ID (Blue Mountain)
Audiobook
August 12, 2015
This was a great book! I didn't get a chance to read the first in the series yet, but there is no need to read all of this series in order--or so I was told, and this proved true. The book follows Bliss, who lost her job and comes to realize that she has very little of what's important in life--friends, love, fun--the things that bring true happiness. The only person she really has is her sister. Enter Ciaran, the typical free-spirited, player dude. When Bliss and Ciaran meet, there's sparks.
Quite frankly, this book has it all. I flew through the pages and finished it in no time. It was fast-paced, with bits of humor, real characters that you can relate to, sex, plus intrigue and mystery. I will definitely be reading more of Tess's books in the future!
Quite frankly, this book has it all. I flew through the pages and finished it in no time. It was fast-paced, with bits of humor, real characters that you can relate to, sex, plus intrigue and mystery. I will definitely be reading more of Tess's books in the future!
August 5, 2015
I discovered Tess Thompson's books last summer and ever since I have been hooked! After reading Blue Midnight I eagerly awaited the release of Blue Moon and I was beyond thrilled to receive an ARC... Blue Moon didn't disappoint! It was an amazing story... I loved the relatable characters, I loved the story line and I loved how I kept giggling as I read. This was a fast paced book that I read in one weekend. It was hard to put down...
November 24, 2018
I didn't read the first book of the Blue Mountain series & found each book may be read as a stand-alone. Bliss is a hard working professional, always hired to make businesses profitable. She works long hours, has no friends or serious boyfriends & enjoys her solitary life. An unexpected event changes everything.
A new feeling takes her by surprise, an awakening of sorts, she begins to feel lonely, becomes introspective & with more than enough money in the bank decides to make a life change. Bliss has this sudden need to help people, to better their lives & ultimately, maybe make a few new friends. Deciding to visit her sister Blythe, her nieces & Blythe's boyfriend in Idaho for Thanksgiving, she brings along a few new acquaintances. Risky, but Bliss feels very comforable with her decision & new found ''friends.'' Little does she know, changes are in store for everyone once they reach their destination.
Many people struggle with a work/life balance & this book is a wonderful example of how work takes over the life of this woman, makes it her only focus. Sometimes life throws a curve ball that one doesn't expect but as it turns out is exactly what they needed. A very enjoyable story & there may be a lesson in there for us all, take a chance, mix things up a bit, because you just never know what could happen.
A new feeling takes her by surprise, an awakening of sorts, she begins to feel lonely, becomes introspective & with more than enough money in the bank decides to make a life change. Bliss has this sudden need to help people, to better their lives & ultimately, maybe make a few new friends. Deciding to visit her sister Blythe, her nieces & Blythe's boyfriend in Idaho for Thanksgiving, she brings along a few new acquaintances. Risky, but Bliss feels very comforable with her decision & new found ''friends.'' Little does she know, changes are in store for everyone once they reach their destination.
Many people struggle with a work/life balance & this book is a wonderful example of how work takes over the life of this woman, makes it her only focus. Sometimes life throws a curve ball that one doesn't expect but as it turns out is exactly what they needed. A very enjoyable story & there may be a lesson in there for us all, take a chance, mix things up a bit, because you just never know what could happen.
January 21, 2019
The second book in the author’s Blue Mountain series is just as good as the first one. This time out, we get to follow Bliss, the sister of Blythe (heroine of the first book). A real go-getter married to her work, Bliss suffers a series of unfortunate events and follows her sister’s footsteps to Idaho. Once again, Ms. Thompson bravely explores concepts that are beyond the usual scope of a small-town romance novel. I love the secondary characters that we have gotten to know, especially Moonstone. I did not think that the mystery in this book was as good as the one in the first, and I spotted the answer early on. But I still very much enjoyed the story and love Peregrine as much as the characters do!
January 19, 2019
Ms. Thompson continues to surprise me. The Blue Mountain series eases readers into a world of heartbreaking secrets and heartwarming romance. Blue Moon is the second installment is a chilling tale of mistrust, intrigue and romance. Ciaran wears his pain on the inside. His heartache feeds his fears and damages his soul until an avenging angel breaks through the abyss and helps him through the storm. A maze has nothing on the revelations that emerge from the hearts of these broken people.
April 1, 2022
This was a good read. I loved both Bliss and Ciaran. Both in-laws and when they meet sparks fly. It was sexy, playful with lots of feels. Cute romance with a touch of suspense.
August 7, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Booktrope via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Blue Moon is the second book in author Tess Thompson's Blue Mountain series set in Peregrine, Idaho and is as stellar a read as its predecessor, Blue Midnight, which is one of my top reads for 2015. Here we have the youngest Lanigan son, Ciaran, and the younger of the two Heywood sisters, Bliss, crossing paths while vacationing in Peregrine. The fact that their respective siblings, Kevan and Blythe, are engaged to be married has Bliss wary to act on her attraction toward Ciaran, but it doesn't take much to convince her that being with him while they're both together in the small town isn't necessarily a bad thing. Ciaran opens up to Bliss in a way he hasn't been able to with his own family, and she sees the real person behind the persona. On the other hand, Ciaran helps Bliss have fun, allowing her to enjoy moments that she would never have been able to experience had she still been stuck in her daily grind with all work and no play.
The story is about Bliss discovering a part of herself that she's kept under wraps for far too long, focused solely on being successful and trying to separate herself from her parentage. Her professional life may have been something that would have made other executive envious, but her personal life left a lot to be desired, and it is her journey of re-connecting with the true and authentic Bliss that makes this an inspiring story. Her reaching out to the homeless Sam and his three-legged dog Sweetheart, as well as establishing a friendship with her driver Henry, were moments that touched me and showcased that it's never too late to tap into what makes us human. Like the book before it, this was a tale about love and family and coming back to the person that we truly are beneath everything else that we think labels us as a success or failure. When we look back on our lives, it isn't about the money we've made, but about the lives we've touched.
There's also a fair bit of mystery and suspense in the story itself, what with Ciaran feeling as if he's spent year after year dodging death. Figuring out if it's all in his head or if the attempts on his life are real is one thing, but trying to also see who the potential suspects are at the same adds to the overall reading experience. With two lead characters that are much more than they appear to be to the people around them and writing that has you fully absorbed in everything that's going on, Tess Thompson definitely doesn't disappoint with this second in a series. Even without the two other Lanigan siblings--Ardan and Teagan--in this story, my curiosity about them was still high, as are my expectations with regard to their books because the author has spoiled me with her exemplary storytelling and character building. Blue Moon joins Blue Midnight as a 2015 favorite and I hope you enjoy them as much as I did. Five-plus stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Booktrope via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Blue Moon is the second book in author Tess Thompson's Blue Mountain series set in Peregrine, Idaho and is as stellar a read as its predecessor, Blue Midnight, which is one of my top reads for 2015. Here we have the youngest Lanigan son, Ciaran, and the younger of the two Heywood sisters, Bliss, crossing paths while vacationing in Peregrine. The fact that their respective siblings, Kevan and Blythe, are engaged to be married has Bliss wary to act on her attraction toward Ciaran, but it doesn't take much to convince her that being with him while they're both together in the small town isn't necessarily a bad thing. Ciaran opens up to Bliss in a way he hasn't been able to with his own family, and she sees the real person behind the persona. On the other hand, Ciaran helps Bliss have fun, allowing her to enjoy moments that she would never have been able to experience had she still been stuck in her daily grind with all work and no play.
The story is about Bliss discovering a part of herself that she's kept under wraps for far too long, focused solely on being successful and trying to separate herself from her parentage. Her professional life may have been something that would have made other executive envious, but her personal life left a lot to be desired, and it is her journey of re-connecting with the true and authentic Bliss that makes this an inspiring story. Her reaching out to the homeless Sam and his three-legged dog Sweetheart, as well as establishing a friendship with her driver Henry, were moments that touched me and showcased that it's never too late to tap into what makes us human. Like the book before it, this was a tale about love and family and coming back to the person that we truly are beneath everything else that we think labels us as a success or failure. When we look back on our lives, it isn't about the money we've made, but about the lives we've touched.
There's also a fair bit of mystery and suspense in the story itself, what with Ciaran feeling as if he's spent year after year dodging death. Figuring out if it's all in his head or if the attempts on his life are real is one thing, but trying to also see who the potential suspects are at the same adds to the overall reading experience. With two lead characters that are much more than they appear to be to the people around them and writing that has you fully absorbed in everything that's going on, Tess Thompson definitely doesn't disappoint with this second in a series. Even without the two other Lanigan siblings--Ardan and Teagan--in this story, my curiosity about them was still high, as are my expectations with regard to their books because the author has spoiled me with her exemplary storytelling and character building. Blue Moon joins Blue Midnight as a 2015 favorite and I hope you enjoy them as much as I did. Five-plus stars. ♥
August 5, 2015
As the second instalment of the Blue Mountain Series I found this book intriguing. In the fact that it involved so many well created characters.
The first book had Blythe and Kevan in a relationship of lust then love in three days of knowing each other. The characters in Blue Midnight were introduced but no focus was upon them.
In Blue Moon book #2, some of the minor characters get a life which is sweet but nothing like the main two people.
Blythe's little sister, Bliss is in a bit of a life crisis. She's lost her job, bumped her head and realises she has nothing. Not really anything that money can't buy. No friends, no love life, no fun. Who would miss her if she died. Only her sister. That's sad.
Then there's Ciaran, pronounced like 'Beer on' but with a C. Anyway he's Kevan's little brother. He's a player, an adventurer and he thinks something is wrong but he's not sure what or who it is.
So when these two meet and it's an instant attraction at first sight. Look out, they can't help themselves. And Bliss does try to resist but..... You can read the rest cause it's too hot to talk about but it's got sex, laughs, thrills, spills and tears so you get the lot.
We worth the read.
The first book had Blythe and Kevan in a relationship of lust then love in three days of knowing each other. The characters in Blue Midnight were introduced but no focus was upon them.
In Blue Moon book #2, some of the minor characters get a life which is sweet but nothing like the main two people.
Blythe's little sister, Bliss is in a bit of a life crisis. She's lost her job, bumped her head and realises she has nothing. Not really anything that money can't buy. No friends, no love life, no fun. Who would miss her if she died. Only her sister. That's sad.
Then there's Ciaran, pronounced like 'Beer on' but with a C. Anyway he's Kevan's little brother. He's a player, an adventurer and he thinks something is wrong but he's not sure what or who it is.
So when these two meet and it's an instant attraction at first sight. Look out, they can't help themselves. And Bliss does try to resist but..... You can read the rest cause it's too hot to talk about but it's got sex, laughs, thrills, spills and tears so you get the lot.
We worth the read.
April 13, 2016
My Thoughts:
This was one of those books that I just could not put down! I absolutely loved the story and the setting of the book, small town Idaho. I have to admit that I am a sucker for a story set in a nice picturesque small town! I thought that the main character, Bliss went through such a change in attitude from the first part of the book to the middle and end of the book but it is easy to see from the beginning of the book that Bliss’s true nature is just dying to come to the surface. I loved the romance of Ciaran and Bliss, just a nice love story with a lot of drama and mystery. Who is trying to harm Ciaran? Again, I am a sucker for a nice romance/mystery and this book had that as well.
Final Thoughts:
Great ending to this book! I thought that the author wrapped up the story quite well. I am going to read the first book in this series Blue Midnight, I know I did it a bit backwards but that’s okay:) I would definitely read more books from this author.This review was originally posted on
This was one of those books that I just could not put down! I absolutely loved the story and the setting of the book, small town Idaho. I have to admit that I am a sucker for a story set in a nice picturesque small town! I thought that the main character, Bliss went through such a change in attitude from the first part of the book to the middle and end of the book but it is easy to see from the beginning of the book that Bliss’s true nature is just dying to come to the surface. I loved the romance of Ciaran and Bliss, just a nice love story with a lot of drama and mystery. Who is trying to harm Ciaran? Again, I am a sucker for a nice romance/mystery and this book had that as well.
Final Thoughts:
Great ending to this book! I thought that the author wrapped up the story quite well. I am going to read the first book in this series Blue Midnight, I know I did it a bit backwards but that’s okay:) I would definitely read more books from this author.This review was originally posted on
July 15, 2015
Another wonderful book by Tess Thompson! Blue Moon is the second book in the Blue Mountain collection. Just as with the first book, I was hooked from the first chapter. This book follows Bliss Heywood (Blythe's sister) on her journey through a lot of life changes. Bliss touched my heart when she befriended a homeless man and his dog. There were a few twists and turns throughout the story that held my interest. It was a great read and I was sad to see it end. I had a good chuckle reading about Bliss learning how to ski, it reminded me of my first (and only!) experience on skis. Ms. Thompson's next book is eagerly awaited!
September 20, 2015
loved it! read it in one day....it was kind of a sequel to the other book.... the sister and brother in laws get together from the first book..... sounds kind of corny, but I saw them together in the first place and enjoyed the way that the author told their story. This author is a great romance teller! She really develops fun characters and tells interesting stories that are not at all predictable that many romance novels are. A really fun read.
August 9, 2015
You can never go wrong with a book by Tess Thompson. Her prose is heartfelt and tender. Blue Moon is no exception. I have read every book that Ms. Thompson has written. I always enjoy the escape she provides, her rich characters, and look forward to her next book.
May 6, 2018
Beautiful story - so well written
October 25, 2022
4,5 ⭐
Secondo romanzo della serie Blue Mountain, tradotto da Monica Lombardi, e anche questa volta Tess Thompson ci delizia con il prosieguo dei personaggi della famiglia Lanigan e Heywood. Affezionarsi a loro è semplice, amarli è un dovere. Se amate le storie a lieto fine che vi lasciano addosso la sensazione che tutto è possibile, allora i suoi libri fanno per voi.
«E hai passato la vita a cercare di provare che non sei invisibile?» «Qualcosa del genere.» Alzai lo sguardo su di lui, e in quel preciso istante qualcosa cambiò tra noi. Vidi la sua umanità, dietro al volto bellissimo e ai capelli che si arricciavano sopra il collo del maglione. Ciaran era un uomo con un bambino ferito appena sotto la superficie. Eravamo due bambini feriti in corpi da adulti, pensai, e stavamo guardando l’uno nell’anima dell’altra.
Si ritorna in Idaho e le avventure continuano con la sorella di Blythe ed il fratello di Kevan.
Bliss, un nome, un programma come piace definirlo lei. E’ una donna in carriera che ha dedicato tutta la sua vita al lavoro e alla sua aspirazione più grande. I soldi non le mancano per il futuro ma l’unica cosa che vorrebbe non è pagamento: l’amore.
Ciaran, un playboy che fa della sua bellezza la sua dote più grande. Sempre sulla cresta dell’onda del gossip sa anche ritagliarsi qualche tempo da passare con la sua famiglia anche se, dopo la morte del fratello minore Finn, nulla è più come prima. Una cosa che manca nella sua vita non è conquistabile con la sola bellezza: l’amore.
Bliss e Ciaran saranno due personaggi che metteranno a nudo le proprie anime davanti alla luna delle Blue Mountain. Saranno protagonisti di una nuova veste delle loro vite. Bliss dovrà fare i conti con una nuova visione del suo futuro, dove carriera e stress non ne fanno più parte. Ciaran dovrà capire se vale davvero la pena cambiare donna ogni giorno per una semplice attrazione o se l’amore duraturo è davvero quello di cui ha bisogno.
Sanno fino a dove possono spingersi ma non sanno fino a dove questo è lecito. Un senso di inquietudine aleggia sempre nell’ombra e dovranno rapportarsi non solo con loro stessi ma anche con chi li circonda. Pericolo, fiducia, amore, passione e tormento allieteranno la loro storia che è ricca di suspense al punto giusto.
Due cuori tormentati che hanno bisogno di amare possono redimere le loro colpe con l’accettazione di loro stessi?
PERCHE’ LEGGERE QUESTO ROMANZO: E’ una storia autoconclusiva ma, essendo il secondo romanzo della serie, è giusto leggerlo dopo il primo. La scrittura di questa autrice si conferma fluida e corretta, sempre molto dettagliata ma capace di ammaliare il lettore con le descrizioni dei luoghi dove si svolge la storia. I dialoghi sono intensi e caratterizzati in modo tale da rendere i protagonisti genuini e reali. In questa storia si assiste al cambiamento di due personaggi che hanno messo in gioco le loro vite per riscoprirsi innamorati di ciò che pensavano di non poter avere. Brava l’autrice nel raccontare di un’apparenza che poi non si rivela tale e mostra le fragilità di due esseri umani che dalla vita chiedono solo di poter sentirsi amati e protetti. La famiglia si riscopre presente, l’amicizia contorna gli avvenimenti e colora i paesaggi dell’Idaho di tinte calde e confidenziali. Un’ottima traduzione ed un editing accurato lasciano il lettore soddisfatto a fine lettura.
IL MIO PUNTO DI VISTA: nonostante la prima parte sia molto descrittiva come nel primo romanzo, in questa storia ho trovato più slancio e particolari che mi hanno coinvolta di più. Si ha più tempo per apprezzare i protagonisti e tutti i personaggi che fanno parte di questo racconto. Una giusta dose di suspense che va a nascondere la vera natura di questa storia: l’amore, in ogni sua forma e sfumatura.
Buona lettura, Eleonora
Secondo romanzo della serie Blue Mountain, tradotto da Monica Lombardi, e anche questa volta Tess Thompson ci delizia con il prosieguo dei personaggi della famiglia Lanigan e Heywood. Affezionarsi a loro è semplice, amarli è un dovere. Se amate le storie a lieto fine che vi lasciano addosso la sensazione che tutto è possibile, allora i suoi libri fanno per voi.
«E hai passato la vita a cercare di provare che non sei invisibile?» «Qualcosa del genere.» Alzai lo sguardo su di lui, e in quel preciso istante qualcosa cambiò tra noi. Vidi la sua umanità, dietro al volto bellissimo e ai capelli che si arricciavano sopra il collo del maglione. Ciaran era un uomo con un bambino ferito appena sotto la superficie. Eravamo due bambini feriti in corpi da adulti, pensai, e stavamo guardando l’uno nell’anima dell’altra.
Si ritorna in Idaho e le avventure continuano con la sorella di Blythe ed il fratello di Kevan.
Bliss, un nome, un programma come piace definirlo lei. E’ una donna in carriera che ha dedicato tutta la sua vita al lavoro e alla sua aspirazione più grande. I soldi non le mancano per il futuro ma l’unica cosa che vorrebbe non è pagamento: l’amore.
Ciaran, un playboy che fa della sua bellezza la sua dote più grande. Sempre sulla cresta dell’onda del gossip sa anche ritagliarsi qualche tempo da passare con la sua famiglia anche se, dopo la morte del fratello minore Finn, nulla è più come prima. Una cosa che manca nella sua vita non è conquistabile con la sola bellezza: l’amore.
Bliss e Ciaran saranno due personaggi che metteranno a nudo le proprie anime davanti alla luna delle Blue Mountain. Saranno protagonisti di una nuova veste delle loro vite. Bliss dovrà fare i conti con una nuova visione del suo futuro, dove carriera e stress non ne fanno più parte. Ciaran dovrà capire se vale davvero la pena cambiare donna ogni giorno per una semplice attrazione o se l’amore duraturo è davvero quello di cui ha bisogno.
Sanno fino a dove possono spingersi ma non sanno fino a dove questo è lecito. Un senso di inquietudine aleggia sempre nell’ombra e dovranno rapportarsi non solo con loro stessi ma anche con chi li circonda. Pericolo, fiducia, amore, passione e tormento allieteranno la loro storia che è ricca di suspense al punto giusto.
Due cuori tormentati che hanno bisogno di amare possono redimere le loro colpe con l’accettazione di loro stessi?
PERCHE’ LEGGERE QUESTO ROMANZO: E’ una storia autoconclusiva ma, essendo il secondo romanzo della serie, è giusto leggerlo dopo il primo. La scrittura di questa autrice si conferma fluida e corretta, sempre molto dettagliata ma capace di ammaliare il lettore con le descrizioni dei luoghi dove si svolge la storia. I dialoghi sono intensi e caratterizzati in modo tale da rendere i protagonisti genuini e reali. In questa storia si assiste al cambiamento di due personaggi che hanno messo in gioco le loro vite per riscoprirsi innamorati di ciò che pensavano di non poter avere. Brava l’autrice nel raccontare di un’apparenza che poi non si rivela tale e mostra le fragilità di due esseri umani che dalla vita chiedono solo di poter sentirsi amati e protetti. La famiglia si riscopre presente, l’amicizia contorna gli avvenimenti e colora i paesaggi dell’Idaho di tinte calde e confidenziali. Un’ottima traduzione ed un editing accurato lasciano il lettore soddisfatto a fine lettura.
IL MIO PUNTO DI VISTA: nonostante la prima parte sia molto descrittiva come nel primo romanzo, in questa storia ho trovato più slancio e particolari che mi hanno coinvolta di più. Si ha più tempo per apprezzare i protagonisti e tutti i personaggi che fanno parte di questo racconto. Una giusta dose di suspense che va a nascondere la vera natura di questa storia: l’amore, in ogni sua forma e sfumatura.
Buona lettura, Eleonora
October 5, 2022
recensione a cura del blog “Libri Magnetici" by Meghan
Il lavoro è la famiglia e lo scopo nella vita di Blyss, una quarantenne affermata CEO in carriera a Portland; ha girato città diverse degli States subito dopo la brillante laurea, salendo sempre di più nella sua carriera, abitando sempre in appartamenti diversi dove di sé c’era ben poco, scegliendo sempre lo stesso arredamento. Una vita quasi senz’anima e di certo senza scopo, senza amore, dove l’unico legame è con sua sorella Blythe, a cui è invece legatissima.
«Non mi pesava stare da sola, anzi mi piaceva. Probabilmente perché pensavo che, in quel modo, avrei corso meno il rischio di essere ferita. Ma ora? Era quella, la domanda. Che cosa mi ero persa con il mio essere così determinata, così sicura di quello che volevo ottenere, così spaventata di soffrire? Come sarebbe stato avere un amico oltre a Blythe?»
La voce narrante di Blyss in prima persona ci porta a capire le sue scelte, il suo voler essere così lontana da quella madre “sempre strafatta”, il suo indossare quel cappello di pelo che la fa sembrare Anastasia, ma che fanno perfettamente capire al lettore il punto di arrivo della vita solitaria di una donna che ha scelto la carriera come unica compagnia.Nel silenzio e nella neve dell’Idaho, in quello strano viaggio, con quei compagni imprevisti e inaspettati, di cui si occupa con affetto e rispetto al tempo stesso, Bliss capisce di aver risposto alla mancanza d’amore dei suoi genitori con la stessa mancanza, e questa sua scelta l’ha resa quasi un fantasma nella sua stessa vita.
«Tutti i modi in cui hai rifiutato l’amore per paura finiscono in una pentola che ribolle di rimpianti. Perché alla fine, quando non abbiamo altro che ricordi, sappiamo che tutto quello che volevamo era amare ed essere amati. E’ l’unica cosa che conta, l’unica cosa che ci rimane.»
E per un personaggio femminile così particolare abbiamo un protagonista maschile non da meno, un uomo che si avvicina a lei determinato, non privandola della sua identità, apprezzandola per quello che lei è e, soprattutto, amandola così com’è.Bliss, con quel suo carattere a tratti spigoloso, con quel suo atteggiamento sempre da dura, mostrerà a Ciaran che la vita va vissuta, contro ogni volere del destino diverso, contro un caos apparente ma che invece porta a una nuova strada condivisa.La lista di cose da fare di Ciaran acquisterà un nuovo significato: per lei uscirà da quella immobilità in cui si è rifugiata da una vita, per lui vivere senza la convinzione che possa la vita possa finire da un momento all’altro.Una lettura coinvolgente, che attraverso anche i protagonisti del primo volume, ci narra di legami familiari e di sentimenti come odio e morte, ma sempre con il giusto equilibrio, con un ritmo fluido e coinvolgente.
Cinque petali.
Il lavoro è la famiglia e lo scopo nella vita di Blyss, una quarantenne affermata CEO in carriera a Portland; ha girato città diverse degli States subito dopo la brillante laurea, salendo sempre di più nella sua carriera, abitando sempre in appartamenti diversi dove di sé c’era ben poco, scegliendo sempre lo stesso arredamento. Una vita quasi senz’anima e di certo senza scopo, senza amore, dove l’unico legame è con sua sorella Blythe, a cui è invece legatissima.
«Non mi pesava stare da sola, anzi mi piaceva. Probabilmente perché pensavo che, in quel modo, avrei corso meno il rischio di essere ferita. Ma ora? Era quella, la domanda. Che cosa mi ero persa con il mio essere così determinata, così sicura di quello che volevo ottenere, così spaventata di soffrire? Come sarebbe stato avere un amico oltre a Blythe?»
La voce narrante di Blyss in prima persona ci porta a capire le sue scelte, il suo voler essere così lontana da quella madre “sempre strafatta”, il suo indossare quel cappello di pelo che la fa sembrare Anastasia, ma che fanno perfettamente capire al lettore il punto di arrivo della vita solitaria di una donna che ha scelto la carriera come unica compagnia.Nel silenzio e nella neve dell’Idaho, in quello strano viaggio, con quei compagni imprevisti e inaspettati, di cui si occupa con affetto e rispetto al tempo stesso, Bliss capisce di aver risposto alla mancanza d’amore dei suoi genitori con la stessa mancanza, e questa sua scelta l’ha resa quasi un fantasma nella sua stessa vita.
«Tutti i modi in cui hai rifiutato l’amore per paura finiscono in una pentola che ribolle di rimpianti. Perché alla fine, quando non abbiamo altro che ricordi, sappiamo che tutto quello che volevamo era amare ed essere amati. E’ l’unica cosa che conta, l’unica cosa che ci rimane.»
E per un personaggio femminile così particolare abbiamo un protagonista maschile non da meno, un uomo che si avvicina a lei determinato, non privandola della sua identità, apprezzandola per quello che lei è e, soprattutto, amandola così com’è.Bliss, con quel suo carattere a tratti spigoloso, con quel suo atteggiamento sempre da dura, mostrerà a Ciaran che la vita va vissuta, contro ogni volere del destino diverso, contro un caos apparente ma che invece porta a una nuova strada condivisa.La lista di cose da fare di Ciaran acquisterà un nuovo significato: per lei uscirà da quella immobilità in cui si è rifugiata da una vita, per lui vivere senza la convinzione che possa la vita possa finire da un momento all’altro.Una lettura coinvolgente, che attraverso anche i protagonisti del primo volume, ci narra di legami familiari e di sentimenti come odio e morte, ma sempre con il giusto equilibrio, con un ritmo fluido e coinvolgente.
Cinque petali.
January 11, 2019
I love it when I pick up a Tess Thompson novel to read! I KNOW I'm in for an amazing read and one I can become involved in with the wonderful characters. Characters I become invested in and feel a part of their lives. Blue Moon is no exception to Ms. Thompson's writing skills and ability to create a tale that you won't want to put down until the very last word! Even then, you want to have more!
Blue Moon is the second book of the Blue Mountain series. It takes up the lives of Ciaran Lanigan and Bliss Haywood and their sparks flying attraction to each other. Each one has relationship issues that they are very reluctant to let go of and are afraid of commitment and what that might mean. They make an agreement that they'll just "have fun" and that will be the end of it. But where does that go and what happens when the unexpected happens? I kept turning the pages! I HAD to! Their story was one that I wanted so much for the two to be each other's reason! Tess Thompson puts the reader into the lives of her characters in such a deep and involved way that you can't help but become a part of the family.
There are other characters in this story who were a delightful thread to the story. I love each ones personality and the way they become living beings in my mind.
To me this story is about letting go and taking the risk to love. These are some of the passages that touched me very much.
"Why can't we let go of these family wounds? I suspect the nature of betrayal, cruelty, or abandonment from those with whom we share the same blood, no matter how we try to forget, feels too big to forgive, because we love them the most. But what if we did let go of injustices, accusations, the ways in which we failed one another? What if we said, I forgive, I let go, I will move on without ever thinking of it again?"
"Loving someone is risking that they could leave you at any moment."
"Letting go felt better than all that anger and drive, and it opened up enough space to let love inside."
The gift that Ms. Thompson has of creating passages like these is a treasure. I'm so grateful that I can tap into the stories she's so amazing at sharing.
Blue Moon is one of those stories that brought out feelings and emotions that I couldn't keep inside even if I tried.
Thank you, Tess Thompson, for the wonderful read!
I am on to the next in the series....Blue Ink and I'm very excited knowing it's going take me on more of the Blue Mountain journey!
Blue Moon is the second book of the Blue Mountain series. It takes up the lives of Ciaran Lanigan and Bliss Haywood and their sparks flying attraction to each other. Each one has relationship issues that they are very reluctant to let go of and are afraid of commitment and what that might mean. They make an agreement that they'll just "have fun" and that will be the end of it. But where does that go and what happens when the unexpected happens? I kept turning the pages! I HAD to! Their story was one that I wanted so much for the two to be each other's reason! Tess Thompson puts the reader into the lives of her characters in such a deep and involved way that you can't help but become a part of the family.
There are other characters in this story who were a delightful thread to the story. I love each ones personality and the way they become living beings in my mind.
To me this story is about letting go and taking the risk to love. These are some of the passages that touched me very much.
"Why can't we let go of these family wounds? I suspect the nature of betrayal, cruelty, or abandonment from those with whom we share the same blood, no matter how we try to forget, feels too big to forgive, because we love them the most. But what if we did let go of injustices, accusations, the ways in which we failed one another? What if we said, I forgive, I let go, I will move on without ever thinking of it again?"
"Loving someone is risking that they could leave you at any moment."
"Letting go felt better than all that anger and drive, and it opened up enough space to let love inside."
The gift that Ms. Thompson has of creating passages like these is a treasure. I'm so grateful that I can tap into the stories she's so amazing at sharing.
Blue Moon is one of those stories that brought out feelings and emotions that I couldn't keep inside even if I tried.
Thank you, Tess Thompson, for the wonderful read!
I am on to the next in the series....Blue Ink and I'm very excited knowing it's going take me on more of the Blue Mountain journey!
December 2, 2017
My mind was in a mesmerized lilt. I felt like I was there, similar to an out of body experience, even though I have little in common with Bliss. The uncharacteristically cold Oregon air surrounded me, I have have been cold all day despite the fact that I was reading outside in the dry heat of the California desert. It is still a balmy and humid 76 degrees inside, and I am snuggled up in layers. I am a fast read, typically, but when I read a book like this I want to savor every moment, take my time, and hang on every word written. Tess has a way of writing that makes you want to savor every word, much like a fine wine or spirit that you swirl and sniff before you take the smallest of tastes. Having read Blue Moon’s predecessor, Blue Midnight, I knew that I would need at least 2 full days to read and one day, uninhibited, to write a review, yet I am still having a difficult time conjuring the words to form a formidable review. My review does this work, any of Tess Thompson’s work, very little justice. I would hardly be surprised if I met these characters somewhere on the streets of Oregon or Idaho. I cannot tell if these characters have been dreamed to life or if they are based on real people. I certainly hope the latter of the two. Tess always seems to bring forth a substantial amount of emotion, even though she writes women decades older than I am. I suppose language knows no age…. I am a fairly “tough” nut to crack emotionally, not much affects me outside of an ugly cry, even then I shed very few tears…. the smallest sentiments written into these books (Blue Midnight and Blue Moon) made me cry with full on sniffles and a need for tissue… I don’t understand it… I cried when I thought Shakespeare (Kevan’s dog may have the chance at companionship as well). I have the gift of memory and foresight in these situations, I am gifted … I over analyze… maybe I am more like Bliss (and Blythe in the first book) than I thought… at this point I could even be Moonstone. Before I go, and let you discover the truly amazing talent of Tess Thompson on your own, I suppose I will share my favorite quote….. kidding, even that would give away too much.
June 13, 2023
Recensione a cura della pagina IG @autriciemergenti
Eccoci con il secondo volume di Blue Mountain.
Stavolta i protagonisti sono la sorella di Blythe e il fratello di Kevan, che avevamo iniziato a conoscere nel primo volume. Lei è una dirigente stacanovista costretta a ricominciare dopo essere stata licenziata senza alcun motivo. Lui è un milionario playboy perseguitato da un violento passato. L'attrazione esplosiva tra loro li porterà dritti verso il pericolo? Bliss si ritrova senza certezze in un momento della sua vita in cui tutto sembrava andare bene.
Aveva lottato, aveva sofferto ma era riuscita a realizzarsi e in un attimo i suoi sogni avevano fatto boom. Si rifugia al ranch della sorella e lì incontra Ciaran, apparentemente il suo opposto ma che in fondo è molto simile a lei. Ciaran infatti ci viene presentato inizialmente come un playboy, per nulla interessato a storie durature, ma nasconde un segreto.
Come nel volume precedente, anche qui ci sono sprazzi di suspense che aiutano a mantenere alta l'attenzione. I due protagonisti catturano fin da subito e insieme fanno scintille. Certo, all'apparenza la storia può non essere molto originale ma l'autrice riesce a dare forza ai suoi romanzi nella caratterizzazione dei personaggi e nella sua scrittura, fluida, sulle righe e descrittiva al punto giusto.
La costruzione, lenta ma continua, dei protagonisti (soprattutto di Ciaran) lo distingue dai romance poco originali e a volte ripetitivi
tra loro. Li scopriamo, anche attraverso la suspense, nei piccoli dettagli, nelle piccole attenzioni che vengono poi confermate verso la fine. Ciaran è anch'egli una persona sola e alla ricerca della felicità e condivide con Bliss questa ricerca continua di qualcosa che possa farlo sentire davvero bene. II POV è ancora una volta in prima persona.
Che dire? Il secondo volume mi è piaciuto anche più del primo quindi sono entusiasta di leggere il terzo!
Eccoci con il secondo volume di Blue Mountain.
Stavolta i protagonisti sono la sorella di Blythe e il fratello di Kevan, che avevamo iniziato a conoscere nel primo volume. Lei è una dirigente stacanovista costretta a ricominciare dopo essere stata licenziata senza alcun motivo. Lui è un milionario playboy perseguitato da un violento passato. L'attrazione esplosiva tra loro li porterà dritti verso il pericolo? Bliss si ritrova senza certezze in un momento della sua vita in cui tutto sembrava andare bene.
Aveva lottato, aveva sofferto ma era riuscita a realizzarsi e in un attimo i suoi sogni avevano fatto boom. Si rifugia al ranch della sorella e lì incontra Ciaran, apparentemente il suo opposto ma che in fondo è molto simile a lei. Ciaran infatti ci viene presentato inizialmente come un playboy, per nulla interessato a storie durature, ma nasconde un segreto.
Come nel volume precedente, anche qui ci sono sprazzi di suspense che aiutano a mantenere alta l'attenzione. I due protagonisti catturano fin da subito e insieme fanno scintille. Certo, all'apparenza la storia può non essere molto originale ma l'autrice riesce a dare forza ai suoi romanzi nella caratterizzazione dei personaggi e nella sua scrittura, fluida, sulle righe e descrittiva al punto giusto.
La costruzione, lenta ma continua, dei protagonisti (soprattutto di Ciaran) lo distingue dai romance poco originali e a volte ripetitivi
tra loro. Li scopriamo, anche attraverso la suspense, nei piccoli dettagli, nelle piccole attenzioni che vengono poi confermate verso la fine. Ciaran è anch'egli una persona sola e alla ricerca della felicità e condivide con Bliss questa ricerca continua di qualcosa che possa farlo sentire davvero bene. II POV è ancora una volta in prima persona.
Che dire? Il secondo volume mi è piaciuto anche più del primo quindi sono entusiasta di leggere il terzo!
October 14, 2022
Ancora una volta l’autrice mi ha coinvolta fin dal principio grazie alla sua protagonista femminile, se con Blythe la sintonia creata mi aveva permesso di immedesimarmi completamente, con Bliss ho sognato a occhi aperti e ho potuto immaginarmi in un'altra veste. La sensazione è stata un po’ come quando ripensi al passato e ti domandi e se avessi preso quella strada e se avessi dato priorità ad altro…
“C’era luce dopo le tenebre, ed esistevano le seconde opportunità in amore. Un’altra possibilità di essere felici.
«Grazie, Kevan Lanigan, per essere la nostra» sussurrai.”
L’autrice grazie a una trama leggera e un pizzico di suspense, tiene viva l’attenzione e grazie a descrizioni ben fatte, crea l’atmosfera perfetta che al lettore permette di immaginarsi con facilità in quei luoghi e viverli appieno accanto ai suoi protagonisti.
“Quell’uomo e la sua bellezza erano pericolosi. Quell’uomo aveva il potere di ferirmi, di riportarmi a un tempo in cui non avevo potere.”
La narrazione è scorrevole e regala a chi legge una lettura coinvolgente e dinamica.
I protagonisti Bliss e Ciaran sono ben caratterizzati, è facile ricrearli nella mente e sentirsi partecipi della loro storia. Il loro lato più intimo è ben ricostruito, permette al lettore di creare con loro un legame che si consolida di pagina in pagina.
“Eravamo due bambini feriti in corpi da adulti, pensai, e stavamo guardando l’uno nell’anima dell’altra.”
L’autrice è brava ogni volta nel ricreare una leggera sfumatura di suspense e tensione, alimenta la curiosità, spinge il lettore ad accelerare per saperne di più e ne alza le aspettative per i prossimi capitoli.
Una serie che consiglio, nel frattempo resto in attesa del terzo capitolo.
Alla prossima, Emanuela.
“C’era luce dopo le tenebre, ed esistevano le seconde opportunità in amore. Un’altra possibilità di essere felici.
«Grazie, Kevan Lanigan, per essere la nostra» sussurrai.”
L’autrice grazie a una trama leggera e un pizzico di suspense, tiene viva l’attenzione e grazie a descrizioni ben fatte, crea l’atmosfera perfetta che al lettore permette di immaginarsi con facilità in quei luoghi e viverli appieno accanto ai suoi protagonisti.
“Quell’uomo e la sua bellezza erano pericolosi. Quell’uomo aveva il potere di ferirmi, di riportarmi a un tempo in cui non avevo potere.”
La narrazione è scorrevole e regala a chi legge una lettura coinvolgente e dinamica.
I protagonisti Bliss e Ciaran sono ben caratterizzati, è facile ricrearli nella mente e sentirsi partecipi della loro storia. Il loro lato più intimo è ben ricostruito, permette al lettore di creare con loro un legame che si consolida di pagina in pagina.
“Eravamo due bambini feriti in corpi da adulti, pensai, e stavamo guardando l’uno nell’anima dell’altra.”
L’autrice è brava ogni volta nel ricreare una leggera sfumatura di suspense e tensione, alimenta la curiosità, spinge il lettore ad accelerare per saperne di più e ne alza le aspettative per i prossimi capitoli.
Una serie che consiglio, nel frattempo resto in attesa del terzo capitolo.
Alla prossima, Emanuela.
May 11, 2023
Blue Moon is the second book in the Blue Mountain series by Tess Thompson. Bliss Heywood is a driven, workaholic executive who faces an unsure future. After she is wrongly dismissed from her job, she spends the Thanksgiving holiday with her sister, Blythe, and her boyfriend, Kevan, in Peregrine, Idaho. There she meets Kevan’s playboy brother, Ciaran. Despite his reputation, Bliss is drawn to Ciaran who hides a secret, a dangerous secret. Bliss and Ciaran agree to a brief fling which quickly becomes more than they bargained for. Behind his charming façade, Ciaran is haunted by a past he is desperate to leave behind him. Believing he is in danger, he is always on the move. Will the threat eventually catch up with him? Will Bliss be caught in the crossfire?
Blue Moon is a love story with humor, wit and a bit of danger. I enjoyed Bliss’s sass and heart. The only person she has been able to rely on for support is her sister, Blythe, Bliss knows that hard work to get ahead in life. I loved that she refused to wallow after her dismissal, instead decided it was time for change. I enjoyed Ciaran as there is more to him than his playboy reputation. When the two meet, the sparks fly immediately. Their romance was fun and steamy. The mystery and drama with Ciaran’s threat was lackluster. I would have liked to see more of the threat than being told. Overall, I enjoyed Bliss and Ciaran’s love story. I look forward to reading the rest of the series. I recommend Blue Moon.
Blue Moon is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook
Blue Midnight, book 1, is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook
Blue Moon is a love story with humor, wit and a bit of danger. I enjoyed Bliss’s sass and heart. The only person she has been able to rely on for support is her sister, Blythe, Bliss knows that hard work to get ahead in life. I loved that she refused to wallow after her dismissal, instead decided it was time for change. I enjoyed Ciaran as there is more to him than his playboy reputation. When the two meet, the sparks fly immediately. Their romance was fun and steamy. The mystery and drama with Ciaran’s threat was lackluster. I would have liked to see more of the threat than being told. Overall, I enjoyed Bliss and Ciaran’s love story. I look forward to reading the rest of the series. I recommend Blue Moon.
Blue Moon is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook
Blue Midnight, book 1, is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook
March 30, 2021
When Bliss showed up at the end of Blue Midnight, I just knew that she had her own story to tell. And let me tell you, it is a good one.
Blythe's little sister has done well for herself in spite of their upbringing, and thanks to Blythe's amazing nurturing skills. But that doesn't mean that she is without her own trials and tribulations. Getting fired and her subsequent accident are fate's way of forcing Bliss's hand and reimagining her life. Her impulsive generosity leads her to also completely change the lives of others she encounters, and it is truly beautiful to watch unfold.
Bliss makes it out to Idaho to spend time with her sister and to regroup. When she meets her brother-in-law-to-be, Ciaran, she finally realizes that she does actually need and want a man in her life. She just honestly never really saw it before.
Ciaran has long been a playboy, never wanting to settle down, and always living like each day could be his last. We do eventually find out why. And Bliss is the first woman he has met who has ever made him believe that he could be ready to settle down.
Peregrine, Idaho seems to be a magical place where dreams of love come true as soulmates finally find each other. I loved reading about the Langian and Heywood families coming together again, as well as all of the secondary characters involved in their lives. I am heavily campaigning for a Moonstone spinoff!
You can read this delightful romantic story as a standalone, but you'll also want to go back and read Blythe's story in Blue Mountain. It is my favorite. 4.5 stars for this one.
Blythe's little sister has done well for herself in spite of their upbringing, and thanks to Blythe's amazing nurturing skills. But that doesn't mean that she is without her own trials and tribulations. Getting fired and her subsequent accident are fate's way of forcing Bliss's hand and reimagining her life. Her impulsive generosity leads her to also completely change the lives of others she encounters, and it is truly beautiful to watch unfold.
Bliss makes it out to Idaho to spend time with her sister and to regroup. When she meets her brother-in-law-to-be, Ciaran, she finally realizes that she does actually need and want a man in her life. She just honestly never really saw it before.
Ciaran has long been a playboy, never wanting to settle down, and always living like each day could be his last. We do eventually find out why. And Bliss is the first woman he has met who has ever made him believe that he could be ready to settle down.
Peregrine, Idaho seems to be a magical place where dreams of love come true as soulmates finally find each other. I loved reading about the Langian and Heywood families coming together again, as well as all of the secondary characters involved in their lives. I am heavily campaigning for a Moonstone spinoff!
You can read this delightful romantic story as a standalone, but you'll also want to go back and read Blythe's story in Blue Mountain. It is my favorite. 4.5 stars for this one.
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