I am always delighted to share new books I learn about with you, and especially so when the book is by an author I know and admire. That's why it's a pleasure today to introduce you to an intriguing new release, KISS OF THE ASSASSIN, by author Joylene Nowell Butler.
by Joylene Nowell Butler
◊ Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc (March 23,
2022)
◊ Paperback: 424 pages
◊ ASIN: B09P7T1ZRS
◊Language: English
* File size: 1138 KB
* Text-to-Speech: Enabled
* Screen Reader: Supported
Marina Antonovna, a Soviet spy, and Mateo Arcusa, an American homicide lieutenant first meet in Cambodia during the Vietnam War as enemies. Fearful that the most powerful man in the Soviet Union, KGB Chairman Vladimir Kurenkov, has ordered her death, Marina risks everything to defect to the United States.
She promises Mateo that her days as an assassin are over. Vladimir is determined to do whatever it takes to bring her back and, by threatening Mateo’s life, forces Marina to break her promise.
Now here's an excerpt for your reading pleasure.
“Malyshka …child…there’s no easy way of saying this apart from being honest and direct. I hope you can forgive me, but your father died.”
Marina’s eyes instantly watered, which seemed to surprise Kurenkov. He looked sympathetic.
“When?” The thought that he lived beyond that night and she hadn’t seen him made her ability to keep calm unbearable.
Kurenkov shrugged and admired his cuticles. “You were so young. I was afraid if I told you the truth, you would blame yourself.”
“Why would I—”
“Your father died the night your mother stabbed him. He has been dead for fifteen years.”
“I…I don’t understand, why would I—”
“You were so despondent. Your father asked for your help
before he died. What could you do? You were a mere child. I kept the truth from
you because I couldn’t bear you taking on all the blame. I knew you would. That
night you had already blamed yourself. You told me your papa asked for help and
you hadn’t helped him. I’m sure he didn’t mean to abandon you, not as my father
abandoned me. Please, Malyshka, please forgive me for shielding you from the
truth. I did it to protect[…]
Excerpt From: Joylene Nowell Butler. “Kiss of the Assassin.” iBooks.
Meet the Author: Joylene Nowell Butler
Joylene Butler lives with her husband in the tiny village of Cluculz Lake in central B.C... She is the author of three suspense novels and a contributor to one anthology.
For more on Joylene and her writing, visit her website and blog, as well as connect with her on Goodreads, Facebook, Twitter, and Amazon.
Thanks so much for stopping by today during Joylene's visit. You can find out more about Joylene and her new book by following her blog tour here.
Doesn't this sound like an intriguing book, especially for the times we are in? Do you enjoy books where the enemies evolve into more?
How I love the warmth and the support here in the blogosphere. I saw Kiss of the Assassin featured elsewhere yesterday - and yes it does sound good. And a very timely release.
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way. It all started when I met Alex. I can't imagine where I'd be today if not for Alex and Pamela and so many others. Thanks for visiting, EC.
DeleteHi Mason and Joylene - this does sound a fascinating premise ... and a book I'd love to read. All the best Joylene ... cheers to you both - Hilary
ReplyDeleteThanks, Hilary. You are a pleasure to know.
DeleteBig congratulations to Joylene!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Alex. And a huge congratulations on the release of CassaDark.
DeleteHi everyone, thanks for stopping by today during Joylene's tour. This is such a fascinating story.
ReplyDeleteJoylene, thanks for sharing your story with us. It's always a pleasure hosting you here. Wishing you much success.
Thanks so much, Pamela. I appreciate your support more than I can say.
ReplyDeleteThis does sound suspenseful, Mason! The Cold War era is such an interesting one, too, with all sorts of intrigue and more. That's a really clever idea to develop a relationshp between those two characters against that backdrop. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDelete