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Ancient Passages #2

Afraid to Hope

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Archaeologist and INTERPOL contractor Dr. Natasha Jordaan is on a dangerous mission to recover artifacts looted from Morocco, the home of her past and her heart. Trained, competent, and proven, the last thing she needs is a brash, infuriating babysitter, no matter how sexy he is.

Former Special Forces operator Bane Rua wants the starched-up professor in every way a man can have a woman, and he always gets what he wants. His duty might be to protect the beautiful doctor and recover the relics, but no one ever said he couldn’t have two assignments.

Unknown Binding

Published May 14, 2020

2 people are currently reading
1218 people want to read

About the author

Sutton Bishop

20 books495 followers
Sutton Bishop is known for her immersive romance novels that blend elements of adventure, suspense, and rich cultural detail. Originally from the Chicago area and now a long-time resident of Indiana (she married a Hoosier, folks), Bishop draws on her academic background in anthropology, forensics, and history, as well as her extensive travels, to create stories that are both emotionally resonant and vividly atmospheric, keeping readers turning pages that are filled with heartfelt emotion and high stakes.
Her current releases include the Ancient Passage Series, Piñon Ridge Series series, Javier, and One Scorching Summer.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Romantically Inclined Reviews.
749 reviews2,898 followers
April 27, 2020
Fans of The Mummy and Indiana Jones will flip for this romantic suspense novel from author Sutton Bishop. Her first novel Afraid to Fall really blew me out of the water with its attention to detail, an introduction to the Guatemalan and Mayan culture, and the whole sexy adventure aspect. Afraid to Hope was no different. Bishop writes smart, sophisticated romance that takes you on a trip through fascinating cultures--in this case, the Moroccan culture--and stimulating plots rife with mystery, danger, and explosive chemistry.

Natasha is a bad ass bitch. We're talking a doctor, secret agent, take-no-shits, brilliant woman. She was exactly what a romance reader wants from their heroine. And the best part is that the tough, strong, handsome hero never tries to put her in her place. Oh, you want to go on ahead and scope out a location? You do that, honey. What's that? You want to break into this building with me or climb down into a strange tunnel we just found? How about you go first! Bane is a dirty-talking, nerve-getting-on, handsome hero to start, but he morphs into more than just a thorn in her side throughout the novel. He always considers her his (very attractive) equal and that's not something we get enough from in romance novels, in my opinion. And I truly enjoyed that Bane wasn't afraid to get emotional himself.

Most of the romance novels I read take place in present-day America or 1800s England, so it's fun to come across a book that'll transport me to a country I've never been and teach me about a culture I know nothing about. Not only did Afraid to Hope teach me about the Moroccan culture, but I also learned so much about archaeology and antiques and history at the same time. A couple of times I actually paused my reading to look some term or get more information on a person, place, or thing. Sometimes I want an easy-going read and then sometimes I want a book that's going to challenge me and my knowledge base, and this is one of those books.

But, at the end of the day, the book is a really fun, suspenseful read filled with spicy romance, exciting adventure, and an evil society hellbent on depriving the world of priceless artifacts. You don't have to read Afraid to Fall to enjoy Afraid to Hope necessarily, but if this book sounds good, why wouldn't you?
Profile Image for Literati Literature Lovers.
2,021 reviews154 followers
June 17, 2020
Afraid to Hope is author Sutton Bishop's second book in her Ancient Passages series. This book can be read as a stand-alone, so if you missed Book #1 Afraid to Fall, don't hesitate to jump in and enjoy a story whose setting will be evocative of the movie Casablanca. As you read, you'll be expecting any moment to walk by Rick's Café Américain and meet Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman walking out. The author's descriptive language about the exotic and mysterious country of Morocco will place you squarely in a perilous world where unscrupulous people are stealing antiquities for personal gain and placing them in private collections rather than in the museums where they belong. Enter Dr. Natasha Jordaan whose job it is to thwart these thieves and the secret society to which they belong. She is a strong, independent, and highly competent woman who is less than happy to find herself in an unexpected "marriage" with a very sexy man whose assignment is to protect her. It doesn't help that the chemistry between these two is instant and explosive and it doesn't take long for the fireworks to begin despite Natasha's misgivings about Bane Rua.

As the adventure unfolds and the suspense builds, Natasha finds that Bane is a good man to have around in more ways than one. Not only is he funny and sweet as a lover, but he is a source of comfort and protection to a woman whose life has been laced with past tragedy. Sadly, the tragedy may not be over for Natasha as a secret comes to light threatening to undermine the foundation of love and respect for her family which has anchored her throughout her life. Afraid to Hope is a well-written story replete with details about an ancient culture and the work of archeologists. Added to that is danger, mystery, some unforeseen twists, and the white-hot romance between Natasha and Bane that lights up the pages. The ending is satisfying but will leave you wanting more, so be looking forward to Book 3, Afraid to Love.

Many Thanks to Author Sutton Bishop for the Opportunity to Read and Review!
Profile Image for Karen.
43 reviews1 follower
May 25, 2020
Afraid to Hope is a exciting action adventure between two very powerful characters, and Sutton Bishop’s sophomore book and follow up to her debut Afraid to Fall. Afraid to Hope is a stand alone, and the previous book in the series isn’t necessary, but it too is a fabulous adventure.

In Afraid to Hope, Dr. Natasha Jordaan, a minor character in Afraid to Fall, is the heroine of this romantic adventure. She is written as a complex three dimensional woman, who knows her own mind and can take care of herself. I honestly didn’t like her in Afraid to Fall. She works as an agent for Interpol in recovering and repatriating stolen antiquities. She is the best at what she does, and she is written by Bishop as a very strong minded and fierce character. She is also all business, and at first is a rather cool and aloof character.

The hero in this tale is Bane Rua, he is a freelance Interpol agent and has the life experience to help investigate and find those responsible for crimes that involve international broken laws. He is written by Bishop as an alpha male with a heart and personality. He is written as oozing sexuality, and has a teasing personality and this doesn’t mix well with Natasha’s all business coolness. Which makes for great sexual tension and banter between the two characters. Bane is determined to pull the stick out of Natasha’s fanny.

When Bane and Natasha verbally spar it’s foreplay, as their attraction to each other is palpable. For Bane it’s an attraction he’s very on board with. Unfortunately for him straight laced Natasha might be attracted to him, but she has business on her mind twenty four seven. She has lived and breathed her commitment to antiquities and the world; and hasn’t truly had a life outside of her job. She is a character who has built protective walls around herself, to emotional distance herself from the pain she has experienced in life.

The plot of the book, is lively, sexy, explosive and very adventuresome. It’s a complex tale of stolen antiquities, secret societies and a load of danger. The more Natasha and Bane investigate the more the realize that they can trust no one. It is a solidly written character based romance and has a unique plot beyond the romance between the two characters
Profile Image for Christina.
632 reviews26 followers
May 13, 2020
* I received this book as a gift in exchange for my honest opinion.

Well, well, well....this was an unexpected surprise. Not only have I never heard of this author, I obviously missed the boat with the first book in the series as well. But have no fear, I didn't feel lost AT ALL while reading this second installment. If you enjoy mystery books, filled with a ton of drama, anticipation and romance, this could be just the book you're looking for.

If you're familiar with mystery/suspense books, then you know that you're usually pulled in to a book immediately, only to have it slow down a bit for character building. Yep, this sticks to that motif as well. But when it picks up, hang on tight because it's non-stop from that point on.

Bane is ex special ops, hired on by INTERPOL to bring down an organization that's stealing/looting and illegally selling ancient artifacts. Although he can more than take care of himself in any dangerous situation, he doesn't have the capacity to authenticate the artifacts origins, etc. This can only mean one thing...he needs a partner.

In steps Natasha. She's an archeologist who has also been hired by INTERPOL for the same reason. Although she doesn't typically have issues with working with others, this time might be hazardous to her health. Why? Because in order to complete this mission, she has to pose as husband/wife to a man who is extremely attractive and cocky. Oh...did I mention that he's also attracted to her and isn't afraid to express himself....ALL THE TIME!!!!

To say that these two have chemistry would be an understatement. But thankfully the author does a really good job with not overpowering their relationship, focusing on the mystery/suspense of the story. This is a jam packed "who done it" story that will keep you guessing and wondering the whole time. But like any other serial book, be prepared for some questions to NOT be answered.
Profile Image for Toni.
207 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2020
I'm a bit of a skeptic when it comes to reading books by authors I've never heard of, but I knew from reading the blurb this book could possibly be a good read; it did not disappoint. I have to point out this authors attention to detail. The description of the Moroccan culture and artifacts blew my mind. For someone who knows nothing about Morocco nor how archaeology works, this book makes you want to take an interest in both. I also enjoyed the fact that the romance wasn't overpowering. Some romance/suspense novels I've read were heavy on the romance and lacked suspense. I'm excited to read more from this author!

Natasha!! She's a woman I aspire to be; in my imagination. I love the fact that she's not only a doctor but that she works for Interpol! Talk about a tough AND intelligent woman. Add on to the fact that the man by her side didn't stand in her way. It's annoying when the male character feels the need to "protect" and jump into danger to spare the female. Bane is the opposite. He was a pain at first but I loved the chemistry between him and Natasha. He let her shine! Having to pose as husband/wife with a man with no filter?!? Lol I loved it! This book was a really good read.

Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews186 followers
May 18, 2020
Afraid to Hope was a romantic suspense, filled with mystery, as two people have to figure out how to bring down an organization who is illegally selling stolen artifacts in Africa. Our hero is Bane, who is ex-special forces, who has been hired by INTERPOL to bring these people down, but while he's the muscle, he still needs someone who specializes in the artifacts themselves. This is where Dr. Natasha Jordan, an archaeologist, hired by INTERPOL herself, and now these two have to pretend they're a married couple to do so. Natasha is pretty laid back when it comes to people, but Bane is doing everything he can round the clock to get under her skin, and it's working. They also have some big time chemistry to add in more complications, and yet, they have to figure out who dun it quickly, because these type of people won't hesitate to get rid of those in their way. So, hit those one click buttons to go on an exciting journey to Morocco, as this author truly had me feeling like I was in the thick of things myself. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
2 reviews
August 24, 2020
This novel surprised me in one of the most amazing ways and has quickly become one of my all-time favorite reads. The sparks that fly between Natasha and Bane are fun, flirty and draw you in but the imagery used by Sutton to describe the settings, places and events really keep you craving more. My favorite part about this book is the imagery. You can easily imagine yourself in Morocco and you can see these places just from the descriptions. It was also fun to Google words used in Morocco to get an understanding or visual (i.e. riad or the foods that Natasha and Bane cook). I thought that Afraid to Fall would remain my favorite Sutton novel but Afraid to Hope quickly took over my heart. I can't wait to read more! I would really recommend anyone that enjoys romance to pick this novel up and dive in!
Profile Image for Stephanie Crews.
618 reviews2 followers
July 18, 2020
This is my fist Sutton Bishop book, I now need to go back and read the first book in the series, I love finding new authors.

I don’t usually go for the action/adventure trope, but this book makes me a new fan. This romantic, suspense story with lots of intrigue, follows Dr. Natasha Jordan and Bane, ex-special forces, both have been hired by Interpool to track down whomever is selling stolen artifacts in Africa. It’s a twisted tale of modern day, and wonderful history, that will take you on a trip of many cultures, at one point it felt like you could just taste the Moroccan food. I loved learning how archeology works, and the fascinating way to discover artifacts.

I am looking forward to many more books from Ms. Bishop!
Profile Image for Read.Review.Repeat Blog.
5,958 reviews102 followers
July 21, 2020
"This is my fist Sutton Bishop book, I now need to go back and read the first book in the series, I love finding new authors

I don’t usually go for the action/adventure trope, but this book makes me a new fan. This romantic, suspense story with lots of intrigue, follows Dr. Natasha Jordan and Bane, ex-special forces, both have been hired by Interpool to track down whomever is selling stolen artifacts in Africa. It’s a twisted tale of modern day, and wonderful history, that will take you on a trip of many cultures, at one point it felt like you could just taste the Moroccan food. I loved learning how archeology works, and the fascinating way to discover artifacts.

I am looking forward to many more books from Ms. Bishop!"
Profile Image for Kayla Busch.
347 reviews5 followers
July 12, 2020
This was my first read of Sutton's and I really enjoyed it. The cover and blurb drew me in and from the very first page I was sucked into the story. I honestly left like I was on a thrill-seeking ride throughout the novel. It was exciting, engaging and the story was so well-written. Natasha is someone I secretly aspire to be like one day. She is the epitome of cool and Bane was oh so delicious! If I could think of the perfect guy in my head, he would be it. The two of them together were phenomenal and I loved every second of this novel.
Profile Image for CA Portnellus.
293 reviews4 followers
May 19, 2020
A twisting tale of ancient and modern history bring two contractors working with Interpol together. The heat of their attraction and their covert story both repels and links this handsome pair. Soon their personal needs are met and they toss aside pride and regret to work well. Steamy Moroccan nights fuel their attraction and their mission. Family mysteries help to shape the story and plot.
16 reviews
May 23, 2020
One you can't put down!!
If you want a book you can't put down, this is the one. Fast paced and keeps your interest. Excellent read. (Disclosure I received a free copy of this book for a honest review.)
4 reviews17 followers
May 18, 2020
Really great book! I really loved how much we get to "taste" Morocco throughout the story! I'm excited to read the next one.
Profile Image for Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog).
3,211 reviews94 followers
February 25, 2022
Afraid to Hope

A sexy entertaining mystery full of plenty of steam, a bit of suspense, and lots of fun push and pull moments from the characters as they grew closer throughout the story.
3 reviews1 follower
June 12, 2020
Bravo Sutton Bishop! She knocked it out of the park with her latest novel "Afraid to Hope," second in the Ancient Passages series. "Afraid to Hope" is SO good that I read it twice!

Riding the wave of her debut novel "Afraid to Fall," "Afraid to Hope" is chock full of more suspense, more sex, and more surprise! Set in modern day Morocco, Bishop did her research with this carefully crafted tale of intrigue, passion & discovery. The plot is cohesive and engaging. The characters are well thought out and developed. The loving is steamy! And there's the extra bonus of lessons in trust, vulnerability and, of course, hope!

Sutton Bishop's background in forensics and anthropology and her knowledge of Morocco and its culture are evident. I could literally "taste" the sites, smells and food - all came to life and left me salivating and wanting more. Bishop delivers the experience of Morocco, allowing you to explore the country without ever leaving your home. 

This book leaves me looking forward to what's to come in the third novel. Who will be the next hot couple? What treasures will be uncovered? Where will we travel to next? And, forget about who shot JR (for those of you old enough to remember). Will we find out who shot . . . wait, I can't reveal the details. You'll have to read "Afraid to Hope" to find out more. 
Profile Image for Michelle.
59 reviews3 followers
May 14, 2020
When I first started reading this I thought I would just plow through because I’m not much of a suspense reader. However, I was pleasantly surprised with this book. It had just enough intrigue to keep me hooked but not overwhelm me. It simply hooked me before I knew it. Both the hero and heroine were realistic and on fire. The Hero was man enough to help the Heroine be as adventurous and risk taking as she needed to be and still back her up.

Definite read for all, not just suspense readers.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
471 reviews
May 28, 2020
The one thing that I love about Author Sutton Bishop's writing is that it is different than anything else out there. You can tell A LOT of research goes into her stories and it shows. Bane and Natasha's story is steamy, suspenseful and engaging!

When you read Afraid to Hope you will take a trip to Morocco and go on a journey to find ancient artifacts, family secrets and throw in a wonderful love story and you have a great read. Don't miss out, go grab your copy today!
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
2,151 reviews197 followers
May 25, 2020
Afraid to Hope was beautifully, well written story. Sutton wrote about the wonderful history in Morocco, about customs and places, that makes the reader feel like they are there or would love to visit one day.
Natasha and Bane are the most unlikely pair, but their story is written so well that I was committed to their relationship!
Profile Image for Kaitie.
623 reviews10 followers
August 31, 2020
I think that fans of the mummy and Indiana Jones will like this story. This book is filled with fun, suspense, adventure and romance.
25 reviews1 follower
July 11, 2020
Sutton Bishop's second novel in the Ancient Passages Series, Afraid to Hope, ticks multiple boxes. Adventure (check), intrigue (check), mystery (check), and yes, romance and steamy sex (check, check!). Barely in the door from her horrifying experience in the Guatemalan jungle (Afraid to Fall), INTERPOL contractor, Dr. Natasha Jordaan, has already received new orders. She is to travel to Morocco and track down a band of thieves stealing archeological treasures from her beloved homeland. Natasha soon meets her partner, born-and-bred-in-Indiana former Special Forces hunk, Bane Rua, and the sparks fly. Bishop again puts her world travels to work, and it shows. From the architecture to the food (we can almost taste the chicken bastille and smell the spiced Moroccan coffee), we feel like we are there with Natasha and Bane! Curl up with a glass of something cool and refreshing, but be prepared to stay put until the last page!
Profile Image for Amanda M.
3,111 reviews16 followers
September 19, 2021
Another fantastic book in the series. This one is an excellent read. It'll captivate you from the very beginning. It takes you on an adventure. There's suspense, mystery, culture, romance, and so much more. The storyline is well written and the plot thickens as the story goes on, unraveling and revealing something that is so much more. I absolutely loved this book.
70 reviews6 followers
October 13, 2020
Absolutely love Bane and Natalie! Sutton Bishop did a wonderful job describing the locations and items in this book. Cant wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Miranda.
439 reviews6 followers
October 24, 2020
At first I was a little reluctant to reading about Natasha. Last book she was shed in not a very good light but redeemed herself.

I really enjoyed getting to know Natasha more, who she is, her struggles, her background. Not only does she battle her own demons but she tries to resist Bane and her strong attraction to him.

The prologue jumps into the mysterious accident of in the Mayan Temple that was discovered from Afraid to Fall. Intriguing with the supernatural part involving ancient Maya entities but I was waiting for it to tie in for that part more than it did. It did play into Natasha’s story but not as much as I expected.
I’m hoping next book will wrap up more pieces of the puzzle.
This story does wrap up a lot that happens but does leave you wanting more. Not a cliff hanger but definitely leaves you with a hook.

I think I enjoyed the most the cultures that are different than the American way.
Overall a good story between Natasha and Bane, they are good for each other and love their partnership. They work so well as a team.
Want to see where they go from here!
Profile Image for Breen.
1,575 reviews
February 21, 2022
“It made me so sad that the story needed to have an advance warning about being interracial but I’m not gonna say more and focused on the important that’s Natasha and Bane’s phenomenal story! If you like knowing more about different cultures the author slayed this part and if you add the suspense and mystery you’ll be glued to the pages as I was lol. It was the second book I’ve read outside the States this past two weeks and I’m so in love with them. Thank to the author for my visit to Morocco! Back to Natasha and Bane’s story it was delicious to read. They were an incredible team. Of course there were some ups and down but couldn’t imagine them not being together. Also, both as individual characters were fascinating. Natasha had a vulnerable side like any human being but her determination and strong self were something to admire off. Now, Bane, he was hard to resist, that’s for sure! But he stole my heart and I don’t want it back.”
Profile Image for Nikki Bao.
721 reviews8 followers
February 22, 2022
Natasha is an archaeologist working with INTERPOL on a deadly mission. Assigned to protect her is Bane, a handsome but brash man. Bane is very attracted to Natasha from the get-go. Working closely might be riskier than the mission itself because hearts are on the line.
Profile Image for Sarah DeLong.
1,785 reviews1 follower
March 1, 2022
Filled with suspense, intrigue, steamy chemistry and angst, this was a great read!
Profile Image for Patricia.
1,828 reviews47 followers
February 23, 2022
Dr Natasha Jordaan is on a mission to recover stolen artifacts from Morocco, a place that is dear to her heart and her past . She knows what she is doing and is trained in what to do . She really doesn't need a baby sitter . Enter Special Forces operator Bane Rua , a sexy rogue who wants the professor in every way . He might have to keep her safe and recover the artifacts but who said he couldn't have the job and the beautiful Natasha .
Ok ok who loves a mystery adventure book with a sexy Indiana Jones type male character and the sexy art historian that fights as good as the Indiana Jones character . Well this book has it enter Bane , man he is sexy and kind of cocky man who is sure of himself .He is ex special forces so we know that he is good at what he does . Natasha is a professor and kind of buttoned up , shy when it comes to being around Bane cause he loves to try and crawl under her skin any way he can . She knows her job and when push comes to shove she really steps up and fights just as hard as Bane does . They are wonderful characters that are well written and complex
This is one of those books that when you sit down you really don't know what to expect. The story is well written and man you are transported to Morocco and you can see what it looks like in modern and what it was like in the past . The author uses that as a backdrop for the main characters . This is one of those books that kind of took me a little bit to get into but after the third chapter things started to pick up and get rolling . Over all I truly enjoyed this book it was a great mixture of romance and mystery . Some of the romance can make you blush and the next moment you are on the edge of your seat . So if you want a romantic mystery check it out .
Profile Image for Nicole.
384 reviews8 followers
January 13, 2024
An interesting continuation from Afraid to Fall with a new romance. While I appreciated the detail of Casablanca and surrounding areas, I missed the myths and historical references that were a part of Afraid to Fall.
I also craved movement for the story. The two characters were supposed to be on a trail to find lost relics but the majority of the story was set at Natasha's home.
I also preferred the "Queen B" Natasha had been in Afraid to Fall. She seemed more weak and insecure for a woman of her job history. She always seemed to be using escapism to avoid any sort of emotion and, while understandable, I found it annoying at times.
However, I loved Bane. I thought he was going to be the playboy type which can be a hit or miss for me but from his first line of "looking better naked", I was hooked. I loved his playful and flirty nature mixed with the "you're the only girl for me" character type.
I also appreciate the introduction of the two love interests that will be appearing in the final book and am curious as to how the series will wrap up.
Profile Image for Ali Crain.
510 reviews3 followers
February 26, 2023
I wanted to like this book. But it was a struggle. Admittedly I have a difficult time reading books about places I’ve lived because there’s always so much wrong in the information presented. I also have major issues with the crassness of the lead make character, whose comments bordered on sexual harassment. In todays world this behavior is not welcoming to women and definitely shouldn’t be to a strong, independent female protagonists.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews