Mercury Rising by Kristian Parker Blog Tour

The son of a famous movie star, Mercury Morrison is used to all eyes being on him. So of course he’s grown up to be one of London’s premier influencers, with followers across the globe.

But when Mercury finds himself on the wrong side of the law after a run-in with a paranoid concept artist at the Tate Modern, it all comes crashing down. The worst bit is, he’s innocent! Advised to plead guilty, he dutifully arrives for his first day of community service at a youth project in South London… and walks slap-bang into his new boss, the handsome Nick Campbell.

The attraction between them is instant and electric. Romance may be on the cards but this summer is going to shake Mercury’s whole view on life to its foundations. Can Mercury take the huge leap of faith needed to make his dreams come true, and, if he dares, will Nick be there to catch him?

Don’t miss our reviews of other books in the Queens Crescent series!
For book two, Pole Position, click HERE.
For book four, Public Affair, click HERE.
For book five, Let It Breathe, click HERE.
For book six, Warm Hearts, click HERE.

 

 

Book 7
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Paperback (US)
~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

 

 

As the woman checked her list, the man stared up. “Are you the dickhead who thinks my art is shit?”

Mercury took a step away. “I don’t think I said that. I presume you’re Grim.”

“Fucking right I am.”

He appeared fit to burst.

“I haven’t even seen it yet,” Mercury said. “Calm yourself.”

“Fucking rich kids. You think you’re so superior, don’t you?”

Mercury burst into laughter. It echoed around the room, causing people to stare.

“Take a look around you, Grim. This is the Tate Modern, for fuck’s sake. Everyone is rich.”

The clipboard woman ushered them in.

“What a dick,” Mercury said.

“Let’s do a quick circuit and go,” Lotty replied. “He must be constantly checking his own name on insta. You only just posted it, for goodness’ sake.”

Mercury shrugged. “Imagine being so touchy you’re vanity scrolling instead of enjoying the big moment. Weird.”

They approached the first canvas. It was brilliant white with a thin blue line down the centre.

“This is called Orgasm,” Mercury said.

He and Lotty stared.

“I don’t get it,” Lotty said immediately.

An impossibly chic woman in Chanel glided past. She glanced at them. “Is there any food?”

“I think so,” Lotty replied.

“Might as well make the trip worthwhile.”

She left them to it. In fact, the tunnel of focus had become one of emptiness. Most people had aborted mission.

“I’m following her,” Lotty said. “That crowd will strip the buffet in minutes. You coming?”

Mercury shook his head. “I’ll catch you up. I want to get a few shots.”

Lotty grinned. “Play nice.”

“Always.”

He wandered farther into the tunnel. Each canvas was a variation on a theme, brilliant white with a different coloured line daubed down the centre.

Love

War

Net Zero

Mercury snapped away.

Who the fuck is going to buy these?

His mother had an art collection to rival a minor royal’s, meaning Mercury had grown up around true talent. Somehow he didn’t think Madeline and her cronies would be scrambling to buy this utter crap anytime soon.

At the end hung Poverty. This time a brown line bisected the white.

“I hope that’s paint,” Mercury muttered to himself.

Perhaps it was time to check out the food. It was evident the “art” wouldn’t get any better.

He turned to see the hulking figure of Grim standing between him and the exit. Alarmingly, it appeared they were the only ones in the tunnel. And Grim certainly had his focus on Mercury.

“What are you going to do?” Mercury asked. “Beat me up because I said something nasty?”

“You’ve made everyone think I’m a right twat,” Grim said, approaching Mercury, who involuntarily took another step away.

“I’ve done nothing of the sort. If you hadn’t pounced literally seconds after I posted it, you wouldn’t have looked so ridiculous.”

Grim clenched and unclenched his fists.

For a split second, Mercury feared he was going to be murdered in the Tate Modern.

Typical of my luck that they’d find my body next to some really terrible art.

People were standing close to the tunnel entrance and evidently unaware or unconcerned that Mercury was trapped.

“How about I give you a glowing review on my channel?” Mercury asked.

“You think I give a fuck what stuck-up wankers like you have to say?”

Mercury raised an eyebrow. “Well, something’s got you riled up.”

“I’ll show you riled up, you posh twat.”

In a split second, Grim grabbed the half-drunk glass of red from Mercury’s hand and threw the contents at Poverty.

“What the fuck are you doing?” Mercury yelped.

Grim dropped the glass at Mercury’s feet. Suddenly his leering face transformed into one of devastation. He backed away, his hands up.

“You… you made it clear you didn’t like my art. You didn’t have to ruin it.”

“Wait—”

It was pointless. Grim had reached the entrance to the tunnel. Mercury chased after him. When he got to the exit, a group of people huddled around Grim.

“What’s the matter?” a particularly snide art critic asked.

“That man,” Grim roared, pointing at Mercury. “He’s destroyed my work!”

Suddenly, all eyes were on Mercury.

“I’m calling the police,” someone with a name badge said.

“The police?” Mercury cried. His legs wobbled as he clutched the side of the stupid tunnel of focus.

What am I going to do?

 

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
4.5 stars of absolute goodness!

This is the seventh book in the series, and really, I love them all!

We are treated to Mercury's story this time – but Mrs. Wimpole and the Professor also make an appearance, as do some of our earlier couples... I will say no more!

Mercury finds himself accused of a crime he did not commit, but in order to reduce the embarrassment to his famous actress mum, he pleads guilty and ends up with community service. And this is where he meets the most delicious, Nick Campbell.

Whilst their chemistry is sizzling, their lives could not be further apart, so there are more than a few stumbling blocks for these two men to overcome in their journey to a happily ever after. I really enjoyed how we got to know the youngsters who spent time at the Bodhi house, and that Mercury recognised just how much privilege he had experienced.

Nick may have overreacted to someone's cruel statements, but it forced Mercury to think very seriously about who he really wanted to be. He woke up the wider possibilities for his life and knew that Nick should be a part of his future.

Another great story from Queen's Crescent; thank you, Kristian Parker!

 

 

 

I have written for as long as I could write. In fact, before, when I would dictate to my auntie. I love to read, and I love to create worlds and characters.

I live in the English countryside. When I’m not writing, I like to get out there and think through the next scenario I’m going to throw my characters into.

Inspiration can be found anywhere, on a train, in a restaurant or in an office. I am always in search of the next character to find love in one of my stories. In a world of apps and online dating, it is important to remember love can be found when you least expect it.

Connect with Kristian Parker!

Facebook  ~  Instagram  ~  TikTok  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads
Facebook Group: Kristian Parker's World

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

Hosted by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Mercury Rising (Queens Crescent #7) by Kristian Parker to read and review.

Kicks by Kristian Parker Release Blitz

Eddie Channing has never bothered with a career. Yet somehow he’s become the best salesman at Pleasure Seekers.
When his boss makes a shock announcement, Eddie isn’t just fighting for his job—his whole life as he knows it is at stake.

Enter Billy Webster. A Brighton shop owner still grieving the loss of his mother as well as raising his teenage sister, he could hold the answers to all of Eddie’s problems… if Eddie can screw a good chunk of commission out of him. But Eddie, who’s as chilled about his love life as he is about his professional one, is shaken to the core when he first sets eyes on Billy. Can he lie to him straight away, and keep the deception going if they become involved?

And what will happen if the truth comes out, to Eddie, Billy and any relationship they’ve built?

Trigger Warning – elements of grief for the loss of a mother (off page).

Don’t miss our reviews of the rest of the Pleasure Seekers series!
For book one, Thrill, click HERE.

 

 

Book 2
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Paperback (US)
~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

 

 

The front doorbell sounded, snapping Billy to attention.

“He must be here,” he said.

“Or it’s a customer,” Harry replied.

“I admire your optimism. I’ll go.”

Billy strode out into the shop. A man had his back to him. He appeared to be inspecting a shell-covered jewellery box. Not one of Billy’s wisest choices.

“Can I help you?”

When the man turned around, Billy gasped. He hadn’t seen someone that handsome in a long time. With light brown skin and short dreadlocks that appeared to have been tinted by the sun, he glowed.

He was a contrast to Billy’s much darker tone and cropped hair. Fashion statements had never been high on Billy’s agenda. He took pride in his appearance whilst making minimal effort. Although when Crystal’s friends all became obsessed with giving each other facials at sleepovers, he did succumb to letting Crystal practice her technique on him.

The life of a girl dad proved to be a never-ending voyage of discovery.

“Mr Webster?” the exquisite specimen said.

“Um… yes.”

“Eddie Channing. From Pleasure Seekers. We have an appointment?”

“That’s right.”

“Sorry, Mr Channing,” Harry said as he pushed past Billy. “My brother appears to have let the heat get to him. I’m Harry and this is Billy.”

Eddie shook his hand. “That’s better. I’d get confused dealing with two Mr Websters.”

Billy got a hold of himself and forced his brain to focus. “My apologies, Mr… Eddie. I don’t know what came over me.”

This man intrigued Eddie. “Don’t worry about it. As long as I have the bragging rights. It’s not every day I make a handsome man lose his words. My flatmates will be amazed.”

Did he just call me handsome?

Billy refused to let his emotions take control. This was important. He wouldn’t fall for a salesman’s tactics.

He held his hand out. When Eddie took it, Billy tried his best to ignore the spark of electricity that fizzed through him.

“Would you like to come through?” Billy said.

“I’ll put the closed sign on,” Harry chipped in.

“No n—” Billy started.

Harry widened his eyes at him. “Probably for the best.”

Suddenly, Billy saw how wildly out of his depth he was. Harry seemed to be treating this like one of his fights. He was ducking and weaving all over the place. Billy had never been any good at games.

That was probably why they were about to go bust.

He led Eddie through. The close proximity making his heart beat a little faster. However, those few steps gave him the chance to get it together.

“Take a seat,” he said. “Can I get you a drink? It’s hot today.”

“No, I’m good,” Eddie said.

Billy took his usual seat at the little desk. He gestured for Eddie to take the armchair that Crystal usually sat in to do her homework.

Harry soon followed them and perched delicately on the remaining stool. He was far too big for it. Billy prayed to everything holy that it wouldn’t collapse under him.

Why didn’t I give him this seat? Fuck’s sake, calm down. It doesn’t matter.

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in this lovely series set in Brighton and involving the staff of a rather interesting business called Pleasure Seekers. If you have not read Thrill, then I would recommend it to you, but you could start here and go back, but read it you should!

We met Eddie and his flatmates in the first book, so we know a bit about his style and his love of football, and an almost career as a professional player, which failed due to an injury. So it was fun to have a subplot which involved the game. Early on he is faced with the need to compete for his boss's job, which does bad things to his style and his behaviour. Sadly, the worst deal he pulls is with someone he soon realises he wants to get to know better.

Billy stepped up when his mum died and put his life on hold to bring up his sister, Crystal, and keep the shops open that his mother had, to provide a future for Crystal. The second has been a struggle, and with only one left, an opportunity arises to become a seller of Pleasure Seekers products. This is how he meets Eddie – who sets a high percentage fee which never gets negotiated down.

As the men get close, Eddie sits with the knowledge that the contract is going to get him the job, but damages the chances of his new relationship succeeding when the truth is known.

There are another couple of clever side plots which keep the tension on the simmer, and are reminders that life is never that simple and that good people can do silly things, just as bad ones can sometimes behave reasonably.

Lots of depth to another delicious story from the very talented Kristian Parker.

 

 

I have written for as long as I could write. In fact, before, when I would dictate to my auntie. I love to read, and I love to create worlds and characters.

I live in the English countryside. When I’m not writing, I like to get out there and think through the next scenario I’m going to throw my characters into.

Inspiration can be found anywhere, on a train, in a restaurant or in an office. I am always in search of the next character to find love in one of my stories. In a world of apps and online dating, it is important to remember love can be found when you least expect it.

Connect with Kristian Parker!

Facebook  ~  Instagram  ~  TikTok  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads
Facebook Group: Kristian Parker's World

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

Hosted by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Kicks (Pleasure Seekers #2) by Kristian Parker to read and review.

Thrill by Kristian Parker

Tyler Jones is celebrating hitting his mid-thirties with a new job and it’s unlike anywhere he’s ever worked before. Pleasure Seekers is a sex toy retail company based in the seaside resort of Brighton.

On his first day, Tyler finds himself in a very sticky situation with the drop-dead gorgeous Danny Healy. This man is next-level handsome. When Danny offers to help Tyler become personally acquainted with some of the items the company sells online, the heat truly blasts off.

But Tyler has never been one for meaningless sex. When he gets to know Danny, he finds so much more than he ever expected. What could happen if the lines of their arrangement were blurred a little?

Trigger Warning – discussion of historical emotional struggles and attempted suicide.

 

 

Book 1
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Paperback (US)
~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
I am such a fan of Kristian Parker's novels that I didn't even need to read the blurb to know I wanted to dive into this first book in a new series. There is such a wonderful feeling of family, place, and details of everyday life which work so well in all this author's works. Thankfully all my expectations were met and more!

Tyler is starting a new job in a new town and has found himself in the worst flatshare ever – already making us both laugh and cringe! Thankfully that nightmare is short-lived, but still does a fabulous job of giving us insight into him and his feelings of discombobulation as he starts afresh.

He makes a very valid point that procurement is the same wherever you work, but it is great fun listening in to the antics that the workers at Pleasure Seekers get up to – especially with new arrivers. One good thing is that he doesn't feel any need to hide his sexuality. Meeting Danny from the warehouse at a lube scent testing is an interesting start to his first day, and the feelings that assail him are both exciting and dangerous. Luckily, Danny is feeling exactly the same way.

As we get to know these two guys better, and from their families understand more why they are as they are, it is impossible not to want the very best for them – and that is a feature of this talented author, a real skill in giving us little details which bring the pages to life. And it is true of side characters too, such as Bruce, Amanda, and many others.

I will let you enjoy the body of the story without saying more, but believe me when I say that this promises to be another fun and fabulous series!

 

 

I have written for as long as I could write. In fact, before, when I would dictate to my auntie. I love to read, and I love to create worlds and characters.

I live in the English countryside. When I’m not writing, I like to get out there and think through the next scenario I’m going to throw my characters into.

Inspiration can be found anywhere, on a train, in a restaurant or in an office. I am always in search of the next character to find love in one of my stories. In a world of apps and online dating, it is important to remember love can be found when you least expect it.

Connect with Kristian Parker!

Facebook  ~  Instagram  ~  TikTok  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads
Facebook Group: Kristian Parker's World

 

 

ARC provided by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Thrill (Pleasure Seekers #1) by Kristian Parker to read and review.

Warm Hearts by Kristian Parker Release Blitz

Arvid Nilsen was once a big star until fame chewed him up and spat him out. Now he’s focused on building a career writing the songs instead of singing them.

A chance encounter with busker Cesar Rodriguez in New York sees the two thrown together in the pursuit of that special song which is going to change everything. When Cesar turns up on Arvid’s London doorstep, something sparks that neither of them can control.

Yet one of them isn’t being as honest as he could be. Will this perfect combination fall apart before they can even begin?

Don’t miss our reviews of other books in the Queens Crescent series!
For book two, Pole Position, click HERE.
For book four, Public Affair, click HERE.
For book five, Let It Breathe, click HERE.

 

 

Book 6
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Paperback (US)
~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

 

 

His thoughts were disturbed by music ahead. Someone was singing the Frank Sinatra classic That’s Life and they were doing an incredible job. Arvid dashed forward to the block before his hotel. A young man sat on a low wall with a guitar and a woefully empty hat in front of him. A few people had stopped to listen—a minor miracle in these parts.

Arvid took in the singer. He was stunning. Most likely Mexican with jet-black hair and beard. His eyes shone as he powered through the lyrics. Arvid knew that feeling. The incredible high when lost in a song. He ignored the cold and listened to the singer run all the way through. When he finished, Arvid clapped wildly.

“Bravo,” he shouted.

The singer seemed startled for a second, as if he’d forgotten where he was. “Thanks, man,” he replied, blushing.

A few people dropped notes into his hat as they dispersed. Arvid walked over. As he got closer, his heart started racing. That never happened. “Wow. Very good,” he said. “You’re wasted busking.”

The man shrugged. “Have to earn the rent while I wait for that big break. Cesar Rodriguez.”

He held out his hand which Arvid gladly took. That first impact of skin on skin ricocheted around his system. “Arvid Nilsen.” To his horror, his voice cracked.

Get your act together. You’re over forty, for fuck’s sake.

 

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the sixth book in the series – and I am really enjoying the variety of people who live in Queens Crescent and how they have developed a community. Arvid has been a bit of a mystery up until now, so it was fascinating to find out why!

I did find Arvid's nervousness at even contemplating a relationship, after such a long time, both frustrating and utterly understandable. He was so happy to help Cesar succeed and yet, so frightened of being used again. It set up the tension, even if it was pleasantly low level. The idea of creating a Christmas hit was engaging, and I really enjoyed getting some insight into the creative process.

One of those books which help get one into a Christmassy mood and cheering on another happily ever after for a resident of Queens Crescent.

 

 

 

I have written for as long as I could write. In fact, before, when I would dictate to my auntie. I love to read, and I love to create worlds and characters.

I live in the English countryside. When I’m not writing, I like to get out there and think through the next scenario I’m going to throw my characters into.

Inspiration can be found anywhere, on a train, in a restaurant or in an office. I am always in search of the next character to find love in one of my stories. In a world of apps and online dating, it is important to remember love can be found when you least expect it.

Connect with Kristian Parker!

Facebook  ~  Instagram  ~  TikTok  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads
Facebook Group: Kristian Parker's World

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

Hosted by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Warm Hearts (Queens Crescent #6) by Kristian Parker to read and review.

Let It Breathe by Kristian Parker Blog Tour

Simon Harrington has two great loves, the first being his son, Luca, and the second, wine. As a premier importer, Simon has built a business that allows him to live on Queens Crescent, one of London’s most exclusive addresses. Yet that life is under threat—one of Simon’s main clients has gone bust.

When Simon’s ex-wife nags him to find a man and stop hiding behind their son, Simon feels change is in the air. And when he meets Rodrigo Costa at a party, everything turns upside down. This man is the most gorgeous hunk Simon has ever laid eyes on. Even better, it appears nightclub owner Rodrigo could be the answer to Simon’s business woes.

The chemistry between them is off the scale from the first moment they meet. However, Simon soon discovers Rodrigo is running from his own demons. Simon will have to let his guard down completely to find the happiness he craves. Is he brave enough to do that?

Don’t miss our reviews of other books in the Queens Crescent series!
For book two, Pole Position, click HERE.
For book four, Public Affair, click HERE.

 

 

Book 5
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Paperback (US)
~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

 

 

“Are you having a nice time?” Simon asked, cursing himself for sounding so awkward.

“I am,” Rodrigo replied. “This wine is helping. It’s delicious. I must ask the hotel where they get it from.”

Now he was on safe ground. “Nihal brought the wine. I supplied him with it.”

Rodrigo raised an eyebrow. “Then I am talking to the most important man in the room.”

“I think that’s Jeremy.”

“Pah,” Rodrigo said. “I’ve never been one for reading.”

“It seems strange that you would be at a book launch then.”

Rodrigo shrugged. He had an air of impishness that only served to make him more attractive. “I’m staying in the hotel. I got talking to Mr Varma while they were setting up. I may be needing his services in the future.”

“Oh, really?”

“Yes, I’m opening a members only club in the area. I need to get the word out or I’ll be drinking alone. And I hate to do that.”

Simon frowned. There had been a lot of building working happening on the local shopping street, Queens Parade. “Are you the person who bought the old carpet shop?”

Rodrigo nodded. “Got it in one.”

“Where do you call home, Mr Costa?”

“Call me Rodrigo. I come from Lisbon. Things are very different in London. I love it. It was time for a change.

The words seemed loaded. Simon didn’t feel it appropriate to dig any further. Where was Mrs Wimpole when he needed her?

“You must come for a hard-hat tour,” Rodrigo continued. “I’d love to show you the place. It’s going to be fantastic.”

“That would be wonderful,” Simon said.

“Give me your phone.”

“I’m sorry?”

“Your phone. I can put my number in.”

Hesitantly, Simon unlocked the screen on his phone and handed it over. The wallpaper had a picture of him and Luca dressed as Jedis at a party.

“Who is this handsome little soul?” Rodrigo said. “And I don’t mean you.”

“That’s my son, Luca,” Simon blurted out, ignoring the compliment. The room had started to feel hot all of a sudden.

“You are lucky.”

Rodrigo put his number into Simon’s phone. Once he’d finished, he handed it back. Their fingers brushed together as he did so.

“There,” he said with a loaded stare. “I never leave anything to chance.”

 

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fifth in the Queens Crescent series, and another great addition to the fascinating people who live in this very select neighbourhood. I really enjoyed understanding a little more about the life of a wine merchant in this installment.

Simon's made a lot of changes in his life to be his honest self. Divorced from his wife, only seeing his son half the week, he has acknowledged that he is gay, but not really taken a move towards a real happily ever after. Some of his caring (possibly also read interfering!) neighbours are keen to see him happy, others are genuine sounding boards on his new possibilities in life. Even his ex-wife wants him to be happy, encouraged by their young son.

At an event he meets a man who definitely turns his head, but then the chance of a business saving relationship seems more important than a romantic one. As he tries to navigate the unfamiliar waters of attraction and romance, he finds that the man he has chosen has some issues of his own. It is very engaging watching them provide the elements the other needs, and work out how to move their life forward together.

I am hoping that a new neighbour gets their story soon!

 

 

 

I have written for as long as I could write. In fact, before, when I would dictate to my auntie. I love to read, and I love to create worlds and characters.

I live in the English countryside. When I’m not writing, I like to get out there and think through the next scenario I’m going to throw my characters into.

Inspiration can be found anywhere, on a train, in a restaurant or in an office. I am always in search of the next character to find love in one of my stories. In a world of apps and online dating, it is important to remember love can be found when you least expect it.

Connect with Kristian Parker!

Facebook  ~  Instagram  ~  TikTok  ~  Website  ~  Goodreads
Facebook Group: Kristian Parker's World

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

Hosted by

Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Let It Breathe (Queens Crescent #5) by Kristian Parker to read and review.

Public Affair by Kristian Parker Blog Tour

London is in the grip of a heatwave, but something else is causing Nihal Varma’s temperature to skyrocket.

The CEO of a PR agency, he’s used to dealing with glamourous and beautiful people. He’s woken up with a lot of them too.

Yet when Carl Carrington, MP and candidate for leader of the opposition, walks into his office, Nihal finds himself a bag of nerves. And that never happens. He soon discovers that not only is Carl stunning to look at, he radiates decency. In Nihal’s world, that’s a very rare commodity.

When Carl insists on working with Nihal only, he’s entranced. Could this MP be interested in a man whose past is… chequered, to say the least? Nihal ‘I don’t do relationships’ Varma really hopes so. Even if getting involved with a client, especially such a high-profile one, is not just crazy. It’s insane.

But for once Nihal is out of control and that makes a man do very strange things…

Don’t miss our reviews of other books in the Queens Crescent series!
For book two, Pole Position, click HERE.

 

 

Book 4
Buy Links

Amazon US  ~  Amazon UK  ~  Amazon Au  ~  Amazon Ca
Paperback (US)
~  Also Available with KindleUnlimited  ~

 

 

“Nihal Varma. You get more handsome every time I see you.” The man himself strode across the lobby.

“Dieter,” Nihal said.

They shook hands. Dieter had a strong grip that Nihal had enjoyed on many other parts of his body. At 6ft and toned, Nihal was a commanding presence, yet Dieter still towered over him.

“How are you doing? I haven’t seen you in a while. Hello, Bee.”

“Oh, you know how it is,” Nihal replied. “Not much to launch when it’s this bloody hot.”

In reality, he and Jeff had been making an effort to find cool venues off the beaten track. The Nickleby would still host the big stuff. In the world of public relations, it didn’t do to stagnate.

Dieter looked as if he didn’t believe a word of it. Ever the professional, he forced a smile on his face. “Well, you’re here now,” he said. “You’re in the Copperfield room.”

“We know the way. Thank you, Dieter.”

They left the handsome man in the lobby. Walking down the corridor to the room they had booked, Bee nudged him. “He’s gorgeous and still interested. I don’t know why you don’t go for it.”

Nihal sighed. “He snores.”

“Fair enough,” Bee replied. “I had a boyfriend who snored so loud I got evicted. He dumped me a week later. Twat.”

“They’re all twats, Bee, my love. The sooner you learn that one, the better.”

“Not all of them, surely,” Bee replied.

“Maybe not. Who knows? I’m long gone before I can find out. Relationships aren’t my bag. Once was enough, thank you.”

The Copperfield room was a hive of activity. A large ice sculpture in the shape of a martini glass dominated the room. Young men and woman in very skimpy costumes with the Dream Ices logo emblazoned on them walked around, trays strapped to them like vendors in old-fashioned cinemas.

The vibe was thirties glamour. The hotel leant itself perfectly to it. A DJ stood in the corner, spinning the latest chilled tracks.

“It’s a decent-sized crowd,” Nihal said to Bee.

“Free ice lollies in this weather? It’s a dead cert.”

“They’re all a bit static though,” Nihal mused. He grabbed an ice from one of the trays. “I’m going to find Jeff. Can you do a circuit of the room? We need to liven this bloody place up.”

Bee scurried off. Nihal glanced around the room and saw his business partner standing by the window with a lolly in hand.

“I think it’s impossible to eat one of these without looking sexy, you know,” Nihal said as he sidled up to him.

 

 

 

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fourth book in the series – you can read them as standalones, I think, but you will get a better understanding of the characters who live in Queens Crescent if you have read the previous ones. Mrs. Wimpole is very entertaining at all times!

Successful at PR, but not so much at relationships after his ex got him into all sorts of trouble, Nihal is unexpectedly attracted to a politician aiming to become leader of the opposition. Through a series of misadventures, their closeness could be a problem, but watching them work it out is very enjoyable.

Carl has done everything to keep his image clean and his personal life away from politics, so getting involved with a PR guy publicly was never in the plan – yet somehow, that's what has happened. With his opponent in the race to be leader playing dirty, this could ruin his one chance at success.

I enjoyed the mix of politics, PR, power, and the camaraderie of Queens Crescent, I am sure you will too!

 

 

 

I have written for as long as I could write. In fact, before, when I would dictate to my auntie. I love to read, and I love to create worlds and characters.

I live in the English countryside. When I’m not writing, I like to get out there and think through the next scenario I’m going to throw my characters into.

Inspiration can be found anywhere, on a train, in a restaurant or in an office. I am always in search of the next character to find love in one of my stories. In a world of apps and online dating, it is important to remember love can be found when you least expect it.

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Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Public Affair by (Queens Crescent #4) Kristian Parker to read and review.