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Hearts Under Fire
Jenny is a beautiful young businesswoman. She lives in an Italian tourist town where she owns a shop. Her need for independence is her strength, but her innate distrust sometimes creates problems with others. One day she encounters love. More than an encounter, it’s a collision, a head-on collision. Her heart isn’t Eros’s only target, and everything changes … Police begin investigating suspicious events around her, slowing down the construction of a new great hotel in town and rocking her life even more. Updated translation by Renee Ryder available in April 2019
216 pages, ebook
First published October 20, 2014
About the author
Antonio Scotto di Carlo
39 books410 followers INSTAGRAM instagram/
I'm an Italian Author because I was born in Italy, so I must be Italian. Then I happened to write a couple of novels, so I started to call myself an Author. Eventually, I dared to have them translated in English... so here I am :)
I'm an Italian Author because I was born in Italy, so I must be Italian. Then I happened to write a couple of novels, so I started to call myself an Author. Eventually, I dared to have them translated in English... so here I am :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
February 22, 2021
Re-read Feb 19, 2021
*** The author's writing is lyrical, poetic and mesmerizing ! ***
This is a romantic murder mystery that men and women alike will love. My first by this author, it is airy at times and intense at other times. We feel as though we are placed in the scene.
All throughout we are captivated by the lyrical words and enrapturing flow. Jenny is a lady running her shop in Italy, an obsession to be the best, most independent owner possible. When her boyfriend is murdered, her life turns around.
The confessional.
There is a limited investigation, and her readiness to move on shortly after the event, that confound us, and hold all of our questions up front. We are questioning every character's motive, as everyone is a suspect.
Their romance moves quickly, with sensual sexual descriptions, but no explicit language. Their sex was written more like a poem of magical emotion. The author weaves his romance beautifully, and the murder mystery takes second place, until the end.
As another reviewer, I reread the last chapter and epilogue, to clear my thoughts.
This one will stick with you. Highly recommended. ENJOY !!
============================================
* the cover implies paranormal, but it is not.
======================================
*** The author's writing is lyrical, poetic and mesmerizing ! ***
This is a romantic murder mystery that men and women alike will love. My first by this author, it is airy at times and intense at other times. We feel as though we are placed in the scene.
All throughout we are captivated by the lyrical words and enrapturing flow. Jenny is a lady running her shop in Italy, an obsession to be the best, most independent owner possible. When her boyfriend is murdered, her life turns around.
The confessional.
There is a limited investigation, and her readiness to move on shortly after the event, that confound us, and hold all of our questions up front. We are questioning every character's motive, as everyone is a suspect.
Their romance moves quickly, with sensual sexual descriptions, but no explicit language. Their sex was written more like a poem of magical emotion. The author weaves his romance beautifully, and the murder mystery takes second place, until the end.
As another reviewer, I reread the last chapter and epilogue, to clear my thoughts.
This one will stick with you. Highly recommended. ENJOY !!
============================================
* the cover implies paranormal, but it is not.
======================================
Want to read
April 2, 2016Free on Amazon until April 6th:
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August 24, 2017
I received this book from the author for an honest review. He is a good writer. Characters are developed, we know some of their back stories and their temperament. That being said, I have a hard time with a very independent woman who falls in love with a super jealous man and surrenders to what the man wants. There is something wrong with a man who is jealous of the plumber or the gynecologist. He has issues and mix in that he's a cop, if he were to get violent, who would you turn to. That being said, it was well written, but isn't a favorite of mine.
March 21, 2017
3.5 stars for this very engaging story. It has romance and mystery, and both are done very well...with a twist in the end that I almost didn't see coming. I figured it out, but not until shortly before it was alluded to.
I rather enjoyed this writer's beautiful poetic style of writing. He is very descriptive, but the words flow beautifully. I understand the story was translated from Italian to English, and the translation was very well done. However, the style felt very different from the normal way English flows. It just felt...European, if that makes any sense. This writer definitely has a way of being able to turn a phrase in order make you physically able to see what he is trying to show you with his words.
I rather enjoyed this writer's beautiful poetic style of writing. He is very descriptive, but the words flow beautifully. I understand the story was translated from Italian to English, and the translation was very well done. However, the style felt very different from the normal way English flows. It just felt...European, if that makes any sense. This writer definitely has a way of being able to turn a phrase in order make you physically able to see what he is trying to show you with his words.
Shelved as 'owned-and-ready'
April 4, 2016Free on Amazon now until April 6, 2016.
Hurry and get it while you can!!
http://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Under-An...
Hurry and get it while you can!!
http://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Under-An...
January 12, 2016
Jenny is strong and independent and means to stay that way. She owns her own business and has made it a success all on her own. Her boyfriend is very tolerant -- he only wants what makes her happy.
Andre loves Jenny, exasperating as she can be at times. He's ready to get married, settle down, but Jenny is not quite there yet.
My Way ... Frank Sinatra's well known song was playing one day. Jenny looks up and there she sees a man that literally stops her heart.
And when her boyfriend is murdered, she meets the mysterious man up close and personal --- he's one of the detective's handling the case.
And so begins a love affair. But she finds out there are lies .. and secrets. As her relationship with Chris continues, he becomes more controlling, jealous, angry.
The book is a little choppy - I think it has more to do with the translation than the actual writing. At times, it was almost too wordy, not adding substance to the story. The characters are well drawn, but jump out of step here and there.
The book leans more toward to the romance, but I would have like to see more of the investigative / crime part. There are some twists and turns that will have you doing a double take. I had to read the last chapter twice - to see what clues I had missed along the way.
Many thanks to the author who asked if I would read and review as it was listed on Amazon at no charge.
Andre loves Jenny, exasperating as she can be at times. He's ready to get married, settle down, but Jenny is not quite there yet.
My Way ... Frank Sinatra's well known song was playing one day. Jenny looks up and there she sees a man that literally stops her heart.
And when her boyfriend is murdered, she meets the mysterious man up close and personal --- he's one of the detective's handling the case.
And so begins a love affair. But she finds out there are lies .. and secrets. As her relationship with Chris continues, he becomes more controlling, jealous, angry.
The book is a little choppy - I think it has more to do with the translation than the actual writing. At times, it was almost too wordy, not adding substance to the story. The characters are well drawn, but jump out of step here and there.
The book leans more toward to the romance, but I would have like to see more of the investigative / crime part. There are some twists and turns that will have you doing a double take. I had to read the last chapter twice - to see what clues I had missed along the way.
Many thanks to the author who asked if I would read and review as it was listed on Amazon at no charge.
November 23, 2015
Wasn't one of my typical reads, but Antonio Scotto di Carlo is certainly an author to pay attention to. His descriptive storyline and plot keeps you fully engaged and intrigued with each page. So you're probably wondering why the three stars right? It was mainly the language difference. While I thoroughly enjoyed Hearts Under Fire, at times felt it was hard to comprehend.
December 2, 2019
"Discover this Treasure"
"But if you want to grow up, you need to experience disappointment. You cannot live your life avoiding risks all the time. Live serenely, my dear. Sometimes it will be fine, sometimes not. This is the way to grow up. Otherwise, you will lock yourself in your little bunker, bragging that nobody ever fooled you. If this is what you want, then by all means listen to her. So you can win the trophy of an undefiled life and enjoy it all the time. Alone. You will be pleased with yourself 'I’m the smart one!' And you will clap for yourself. And you will thank yourself for the moving applause. And you will clap even louder, spectator of yourself."
I am very grateful to this generous Italian author who gifted me with a kindle copy of this book! I am not a regular reviewer of ARCs, but if a story catches my eye in my email, I will sometimes take a chance and see how interested I can become in the characters as they move through the plot points of the storyline. This is a gorgeous translation from Italian into English. There is an enchanting european sensibility that permeates the atmosphere of the book's setting.
The story is many things. It's an investigative crime story; a story of a strong woman who suffered a tragic loss but has the strength to reach for her dreams; a story about obsessive love and the possible consequences in the darkness of obsessive love. It is a story about friendship. More than all of this, it is a haunting sexy story of two people falling in love even while each of the lovers has doubts about the fundamental goodness of the other person. And yes. there is a fair amount of "swoon-worthy" moments of love between the hero and heroine.
It is a captivating read definitely written by an author of imagination, intelligence and the heart of a romantic. The translation is brilliant! I made good use of my time reading this haunting and ultimately heart-warming story. I loved the ending. If you paid attention while reading, the "whodunit" becomes crystal clear. Loved this ending touch!
If you like some mystery and suspense in your romance, beautifully written, then be sure not to miss this treasure.
"But if you want to grow up, you need to experience disappointment. You cannot live your life avoiding risks all the time. Live serenely, my dear. Sometimes it will be fine, sometimes not. This is the way to grow up. Otherwise, you will lock yourself in your little bunker, bragging that nobody ever fooled you. If this is what you want, then by all means listen to her. So you can win the trophy of an undefiled life and enjoy it all the time. Alone. You will be pleased with yourself 'I’m the smart one!' And you will clap for yourself. And you will thank yourself for the moving applause. And you will clap even louder, spectator of yourself."
I am very grateful to this generous Italian author who gifted me with a kindle copy of this book! I am not a regular reviewer of ARCs, but if a story catches my eye in my email, I will sometimes take a chance and see how interested I can become in the characters as they move through the plot points of the storyline. This is a gorgeous translation from Italian into English. There is an enchanting european sensibility that permeates the atmosphere of the book's setting.
The story is many things. It's an investigative crime story; a story of a strong woman who suffered a tragic loss but has the strength to reach for her dreams; a story about obsessive love and the possible consequences in the darkness of obsessive love. It is a story about friendship. More than all of this, it is a haunting sexy story of two people falling in love even while each of the lovers has doubts about the fundamental goodness of the other person. And yes. there is a fair amount of "swoon-worthy" moments of love between the hero and heroine.
It is a captivating read definitely written by an author of imagination, intelligence and the heart of a romantic. The translation is brilliant! I made good use of my time reading this haunting and ultimately heart-warming story. I loved the ending. If you paid attention while reading, the "whodunit" becomes crystal clear. Loved this ending touch!
If you like some mystery and suspense in your romance, beautifully written, then be sure not to miss this treasure.
May 6, 2015
From the first chapter I knew I was going to enjoy this book. I could hear "My Way" playing in my head, sung by Elvis of course! What a great opening chapter! Then when chapter 2 started with the story about the farmer and the cow, I knew this was my kind of book.
My emotions kept jumping around during this story starting with Jenny and her feelings for this beautiful stranger by the fountain. This one moment set in place the series of events, deceptions, twists & turns & love interest that defines this story. I could not put this book down!
Some of the writing and story segments seemed choppy at times and out of place but this could be because the book was translated into english. Aside from that, the writing and storyline were great and I found quite a few profound quotes and thoughts throughout.
My emotions kept jumping around during this story starting with Jenny and her feelings for this beautiful stranger by the fountain. This one moment set in place the series of events, deceptions, twists & turns & love interest that defines this story. I could not put this book down!
Some of the writing and story segments seemed choppy at times and out of place but this could be because the book was translated into english. Aside from that, the writing and storyline were great and I found quite a few profound quotes and thoughts throughout.
March 3, 2016
4.5 stars though I don't know how it could be better. I usually give 5 to those that have a moved me or stick with me. This one just got me hot & bothered. Lol
May 25, 2015
I had so many different thoughts and emotions whilst reading this book, and after the first few chapters, and the slow start, I didn't think that I would end up absolutely loving this book as much as I did. The progression and development of the the characters, was what made it for me.
The characters just felt real to me, they were multi-faceted human beings like the rest of us. As people, we all change in different situations and with different people, and although I got annoyed that Jenny was going against her strong beliefs in the book, I soon began to realise that it was just the reality of the world that I was reading about. It was nice to have a strong willed independant woman character that isn't intimidated by the first man that she meets as you get with a lot of romance novels.
The characters realness really made me think about a lot of things, but the book itself was extremely thought provoking. Laced in with the storyline, there were moments where the characters would reflect upon themselves and their actions in a casual internal dialogue manner. These moments were some of my favourite in the book as they not only relate to the story and the characters but to the real life, and any book that can make you think is a winner in my books. (I've also got a few good quotes highlighted from these sections as well!)
I have mixed feelings about the way the story was handled however. It progressed with regards to the mystery, yes, but sometimes I felt as though it was pushed to the side for the romance or the interactions between the "romancees" to be at the forefront. Personally I thought how the romance started was a little random (and a bit horrible on Jenny's side) but I have to admit that it wasn't in your face and was handled in a classy manner alongside the suspence.
The writing was suspenceful but laid back if not a little too wordy at times. I found it was padded out with a lot of unnecesary descriptions, but in my opinion that isn't anything too drastic to worry about.
I don't think I can fully describe in a cohesive way how I feel about this book as I have so many different opinions that aren't easily worded. However, overall, Hearts Under Fire was a rollercoaster of a read. Emotions flaring everywhere, suspence, romance, and reality. I'd wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone. Oh, and the twist at the end was AWESOME!
The characters just felt real to me, they were multi-faceted human beings like the rest of us. As people, we all change in different situations and with different people, and although I got annoyed that Jenny was going against her strong beliefs in the book, I soon began to realise that it was just the reality of the world that I was reading about. It was nice to have a strong willed independant woman character that isn't intimidated by the first man that she meets as you get with a lot of romance novels.
The characters realness really made me think about a lot of things, but the book itself was extremely thought provoking. Laced in with the storyline, there were moments where the characters would reflect upon themselves and their actions in a casual internal dialogue manner. These moments were some of my favourite in the book as they not only relate to the story and the characters but to the real life, and any book that can make you think is a winner in my books. (I've also got a few good quotes highlighted from these sections as well!)
I have mixed feelings about the way the story was handled however. It progressed with regards to the mystery, yes, but sometimes I felt as though it was pushed to the side for the romance or the interactions between the "romancees" to be at the forefront. Personally I thought how the romance started was a little random (and a bit horrible on Jenny's side) but I have to admit that it wasn't in your face and was handled in a classy manner alongside the suspence.
The writing was suspenceful but laid back if not a little too wordy at times. I found it was padded out with a lot of unnecesary descriptions, but in my opinion that isn't anything too drastic to worry about.
I don't think I can fully describe in a cohesive way how I feel about this book as I have so many different opinions that aren't easily worded. However, overall, Hearts Under Fire was a rollercoaster of a read. Emotions flaring everywhere, suspence, romance, and reality. I'd wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone. Oh, and the twist at the end was AWESOME!
November 23, 2015
I was gifted Hearts Under Fire by the author Antonio Scotto di Carlo for an honest review. Wow!
This was the first time for me to read this author's work and didn't know what to expect, but was surprisingly delighted with this book.
If you want to read about Romance with mystery and suspense with twists and turns, then this is one for you. Since it was originally written in Italian you might have a slow start to get the gist of this book but after the first chapter you will be hooked. The trials that Jenny deals with emotionally will have you shaking your head at times saying, yeah I know that feeling.lol. Then through in a murder mystery and wow.
Very enjoyable read and I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Romance with a twist.
Great job Mr. Antonio Scotto de Carlo.
This was the first time for me to read this author's work and didn't know what to expect, but was surprisingly delighted with this book.
If you want to read about Romance with mystery and suspense with twists and turns, then this is one for you. Since it was originally written in Italian you might have a slow start to get the gist of this book but after the first chapter you will be hooked. The trials that Jenny deals with emotionally will have you shaking your head at times saying, yeah I know that feeling.lol. Then through in a murder mystery and wow.
Very enjoyable read and I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Romance with a twist.
Great job Mr. Antonio Scotto de Carlo.
September 14, 2015
4.5 Stars!
There was something very genuine and heartfelt about this book that was a refreshing change. I thought the characters were well written and that everything was pretty straightforward...until it wasn't. Then, I thought I knew what was going on and was thrown for another curve ball. This author did a wonderful job setting up some misdirection while still making the characters likable. Overall I was very happy with this book.
There was something very genuine and heartfelt about this book that was a refreshing change. I thought the characters were well written and that everything was pretty straightforward...until it wasn't. Then, I thought I knew what was going on and was thrown for another curve ball. This author did a wonderful job setting up some misdirection while still making the characters likable. Overall I was very happy with this book.
July 26, 2015
Intriguing, Emotional, Engaging, Page-Turner! Excellent Story! I Loved It!
September 3, 2017
Very good book! I loved it. I finished it one night! I want to thank the author for recommending this book to me. It was great! Thank you!
September 5, 2017
Wow! I fell so deeply in love with Hearts Under Fire! I was captivated from the very beginning. The author sends us on journey to the romantic streets of Italy with a violinist playing 'My Way'.
Jenny was somewhat of an independent woman who owned her own shop. She trusted no one. She and Andre were inlove and had made plans for their future. Then one tragic day, Jenny's world came spiraling downwards. Andre was murdered.
Chris was an inspector. He and Luc were not only partners but best friends as well. Chris had demons of his own haunting him.
When Chris came upon a busker playing a violin, he was bewitched by the musical piece the violinist was playing, My Way. He was enthralled by a beautiful woman there. When she tossed the two euros into the violinist bucket, Chris tossed in five and took the woman's two. He took the two euros and wrapped them in a small cotton wool, not knowing if he would ever see her again. So romantic.
Months later, Chris and Jenny became lovers. Their love was like a romantic poem full of passions and desires.
Chris did have a jealousy problem, but I felt as though Jenny gave him reason at times.
Hearts Under Fire will send you on an emotional rollercoaster ride that keeps you intrigued as it spins a web of murder, suspense, mystery and romance.
The book cover was beautiful. A guardian angel, Andre, watching over Jenny and Chris.
Even though the story was a murder mystery mixed with romance, I fell inlove with Chris. His and Jenny's first kiss, his proposal and his confession that broke my heart.
Antonio Scotto di Carlo is a new author to me and I will continue to read his magnificent books. I would strongly recommend Hearts Under Fire!!
5 stars +++
* ********************
Italian
Wow! Mi sono innamorata di Cuori Sotto Tiro! Mi ha presa sin dall’inizio. L’autore ci invita in un viaggio tra le romantiche stradine di una piccola cittadina italiana con un violinista che suona “My Way”.
Jenny è una giovane donna indipendente che possiede un negozio. Non si fida di nessuno. Lei e il suo ragazzo Andrea pianificano il loro futuro insieme. Poi un tragico giorno, il mondo di Jenny collassa. Andrea viene ucciso.
Chris è un ispettore. Lui e Luca non sono solo colleghi, ma grandi amici. Chris ha dei demoni nel suo passato che ancora lo tormentano.
Quando incappa in un artista di strada che suona il violino, rimane stregato dalla musica che sta eseguendo. My Way. Rimane affascinato da una giovane donna che ascolta anche lei. Quando lei lascia 2 euro all’artista, Chris ne mette 5 e prende come resto la moneta lasciata da lei. E la conserva, non sapendo se rivedrà ancora quella ragazza. Così romantico!
Mesi dopo, Chris e Jenny si mettono insieme. Il loro amore è come una poesia romantica piena di passione e desideri.
Chris è molto geloso, ma Jenny a volte gli dà motivo per esserlo.
Cuori Sotto Tiro vi manderà sulle montagne russe delle emozioni, intrigandovi in una rete di delitto, suspense, mistero e romance.
Mi piace anche la copertina. Un angelo custode, Andrea, che veglia su Jenny e Chris.
Anche se la storia riguarda un omicidio mixato con romance, mi sono affezionata a Chris. Il suo primo bacio con Jenny, la sua proposta e la sua confessione mi hanno spezzato il cuore.
Non conoscevo Antonio Scotto di Carlo, ma continuerò a leggere i suoi bei libri. Consiglio caldamente Cuori Sotto Tiro. 5 stelle ++
Jenny was somewhat of an independent woman who owned her own shop. She trusted no one. She and Andre were inlove and had made plans for their future. Then one tragic day, Jenny's world came spiraling downwards. Andre was murdered.
Chris was an inspector. He and Luc were not only partners but best friends as well. Chris had demons of his own haunting him.
When Chris came upon a busker playing a violin, he was bewitched by the musical piece the violinist was playing, My Way. He was enthralled by a beautiful woman there. When she tossed the two euros into the violinist bucket, Chris tossed in five and took the woman's two. He took the two euros and wrapped them in a small cotton wool, not knowing if he would ever see her again. So romantic.
Months later, Chris and Jenny became lovers. Their love was like a romantic poem full of passions and desires.
Chris did have a jealousy problem, but I felt as though Jenny gave him reason at times.
Hearts Under Fire will send you on an emotional rollercoaster ride that keeps you intrigued as it spins a web of murder, suspense, mystery and romance.
The book cover was beautiful. A guardian angel, Andre, watching over Jenny and Chris.
Even though the story was a murder mystery mixed with romance, I fell inlove with Chris. His and Jenny's first kiss, his proposal and his confession that broke my heart.
Antonio Scotto di Carlo is a new author to me and I will continue to read his magnificent books. I would strongly recommend Hearts Under Fire!!
5 stars +++
* ********************
Italian
Wow! Mi sono innamorata di Cuori Sotto Tiro! Mi ha presa sin dall’inizio. L’autore ci invita in un viaggio tra le romantiche stradine di una piccola cittadina italiana con un violinista che suona “My Way”.
Jenny è una giovane donna indipendente che possiede un negozio. Non si fida di nessuno. Lei e il suo ragazzo Andrea pianificano il loro futuro insieme. Poi un tragico giorno, il mondo di Jenny collassa. Andrea viene ucciso.
Chris è un ispettore. Lui e Luca non sono solo colleghi, ma grandi amici. Chris ha dei demoni nel suo passato che ancora lo tormentano.
Quando incappa in un artista di strada che suona il violino, rimane stregato dalla musica che sta eseguendo. My Way. Rimane affascinato da una giovane donna che ascolta anche lei. Quando lei lascia 2 euro all’artista, Chris ne mette 5 e prende come resto la moneta lasciata da lei. E la conserva, non sapendo se rivedrà ancora quella ragazza. Così romantico!
Mesi dopo, Chris e Jenny si mettono insieme. Il loro amore è come una poesia romantica piena di passione e desideri.
Chris è molto geloso, ma Jenny a volte gli dà motivo per esserlo.
Cuori Sotto Tiro vi manderà sulle montagne russe delle emozioni, intrigandovi in una rete di delitto, suspense, mistero e romance.
Mi piace anche la copertina. Un angelo custode, Andrea, che veglia su Jenny e Chris.
Anche se la storia riguarda un omicidio mixato con romance, mi sono affezionata a Chris. Il suo primo bacio con Jenny, la sua proposta e la sua confessione mi hanno spezzato il cuore.
Non conoscevo Antonio Scotto di Carlo, ma continuerò a leggere i suoi bei libri. Consiglio caldamente Cuori Sotto Tiro. 5 stelle ++
December 6, 2015
Title: Hearts Under Fire
Author: Antonio Scotto di Cario
Publisher: A.S. d. C.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Hearts Under Fire" by Antonio Scotto di Cario
My Thoughts...
What a wonderful emotional read [setting in Italy] with 'My Way'[the song] being so well featured in this well written story. This was definitely one of those stories where you may think you know what is going on then then there will be some twist, turns and deceptions that you certainly will not expect. I will say for this heroine [Jenny] that was a lots on her plate....running a shop trusting people...enjoying a relationship with Andre but unexpectedly after hearing 'My Way' being played by a violinist...will she have feelings from someone else? Then this story will take a turn...what is up with the man with the green gray eyes[Chris]? OK, this story moves on and there will be a murder, a hot steamy romance. a suspenseful journey and by the end definitely a reality...all that will keep you turning the pages to see what is going on next. That ending was well...I don't want to tell you any of it ...only saying you will have to pick this one up to see for yourself how well this author writes this intriguing story for the readers. Now, I will say my favorite part was the unexpected ending... 'The Confession.' All I will say is that this will clear up a lots of questions I had from this read. Very well done to the author!
Author: Antonio Scotto di Cario
Publisher: A.S. d. C.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Hearts Under Fire" by Antonio Scotto di Cario
My Thoughts...
What a wonderful emotional read [setting in Italy] with 'My Way'[the song] being so well featured in this well written story. This was definitely one of those stories where you may think you know what is going on then then there will be some twist, turns and deceptions that you certainly will not expect. I will say for this heroine [Jenny] that was a lots on her plate....running a shop trusting people...enjoying a relationship with Andre but unexpectedly after hearing 'My Way' being played by a violinist...will she have feelings from someone else? Then this story will take a turn...what is up with the man with the green gray eyes[Chris]? OK, this story moves on and there will be a murder, a hot steamy romance. a suspenseful journey and by the end definitely a reality...all that will keep you turning the pages to see what is going on next. That ending was well...I don't want to tell you any of it ...only saying you will have to pick this one up to see for yourself how well this author writes this intriguing story for the readers. Now, I will say my favorite part was the unexpected ending... 'The Confession.' All I will say is that this will clear up a lots of questions I had from this read. Very well done to the author!
January 21, 2016
Crime of Passion never becomes legal
Its not a paranormal book at all, no matter how the cover looks.
Hearts Under Fire is murder mystery that will have you trying to solve the crime. Jenny is a independent woman that has her own business. She works hard for what she has and ask for little help when needed. Jenny is in a relationship with this architect name Andre. When Andre gets murdered Jenny is devastated. The two cops that tell Jenny the bad news is
Luca and Chris. When she see Chris she realize that this is the same gorgeous man that she has seen about some weeks ago on the street listening to a violinist playing My Way. Chris notice that this is the same girl and gets quite. While they are investigating the crime Chris keeps coming back to see her and that day on the street comes back into their minds and they start a relationship. Moving forward some months as Chris and Jenny relationship gets on she realize the he is very jealous and the he don't want her around no other men. His jealousy becomes a problem and when she calls it quits he is lost. Luca see his friend is in a bad way and goes and help them get back together but not before telling her about Chris's obsession with her and what he did before they got together. After hearing everything Jenny starts to analyze what was told to her and starts to think that Chris killed Andre.
This a good murdered mystery book and I will read more from Antonio Scotto di Carlo.
Its not a paranormal book at all, no matter how the cover looks.
Hearts Under Fire is murder mystery that will have you trying to solve the crime. Jenny is a independent woman that has her own business. She works hard for what she has and ask for little help when needed. Jenny is in a relationship with this architect name Andre. When Andre gets murdered Jenny is devastated. The two cops that tell Jenny the bad news is
Luca and Chris. When she see Chris she realize that this is the same gorgeous man that she has seen about some weeks ago on the street listening to a violinist playing My Way. Chris notice that this is the same girl and gets quite. While they are investigating the crime Chris keeps coming back to see her and that day on the street comes back into their minds and they start a relationship. Moving forward some months as Chris and Jenny relationship gets on she realize the he is very jealous and the he don't want her around no other men. His jealousy becomes a problem and when she calls it quits he is lost. Luca see his friend is in a bad way and goes and help them get back together but not before telling her about Chris's obsession with her and what he did before they got together. After hearing everything Jenny starts to analyze what was told to her and starts to think that Chris killed Andre.
This a good murdered mystery book and I will read more from Antonio Scotto di Carlo.
April 19, 2016
"Hearts Under Fire" by Antonio Scotto di Carlo has a little bit of everything. Mystery, Murder, Romance....and not particularly in that order. Jenny is a Independent woman who becomes involved Andre. She has a business and he is an architect. Love, secrets, and a messy relationship brings forth the strength of each person. This author is a newer author for me and I really enjoy their writing.
April 4, 2016
What an all-round captivating story which leaves you breathless as it challenges your beliefs and makes you wonder whether fate is all it's made out to be!
Running a shop, Jenny’s life seems balanced and together with her boyfriend Andre, she is enjoying a contented relationship. That is until the day when she hears “My Way” being played by a violinist and comes, unexpectedly, across a man who makes her question her feelings for Andre. Running from her emotions, Jenny doesn’t expect to see the man with the beautiful green-gray eyes again and decides to forgot about the unexpected feelings seeing him brought about.
His features seemed to be dashed by a Caravaggio who wanted to bewitch any woman who looked at him
It becomes quickly apparent to Jenny that with love comes mystery and deception. After receiving some tragic news, at the hands of the man who captivated her waking thoughts, she starts to believe that fate has played a cruel hand in her future but it’s a future which draws her in wholeheartedly, until she begins to question her reasoning.
Their eyes were so close that they could see each other’s souls.
As you can see from the quotes above, this story is one which is beautifully written and despite being translated from Italian, the story has a fluidity that transcends the pages. From the story’s inception, I was thoroughly entranced by the characters. Inspector Christian Inverni, as Jenny comes to know him, starts out as a romantic dream but quickly becomes her nightmare as she questions whether she can really love such a controlling man.
The storyline has highs and lows as readers start to wonder whether Christian is all he is portrayed to be or whether there an underlying sinister nature to his persona. But, as the pages turn so do you beliefs and by the end of the story you yourself start to wonder if Christian is that duplicitous or if Jenny has simply become confused by her emotions and the way Christian has become a permanent feature in her life.
This is the first book that I have read by the author and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who loves romantic suspense stories. I didn’t enjoy the controlling side of Christian and one or twice I was almost screaming at Jenny to turn her back on him but it became quickly apparent that this was a key facet to the storyline. Jenny’s character, by contrast was endearing and despite being blind-sided by Christian, you felt for her and the love she felt for Christian despite his misguided ways. This really was a roller-coaster of a ride as you become absorbed by the storyline and the essence of the book.
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April 6, 2015
"Cuori sotto tiro" mi aveva incuriosito perché scritto da un uomo, infatti il romantic suspense è un genere quasi prettamente femminile, e devo ammettere che Antonio Scotto non mi ha delusa, anzi. Mi è piaciuta sia la sua sensibilità che l'approfondimento psicologico dei personaggi.
Jenny, la protagonista, è una ragazza molto caparbia e indipendente, che nella vita vuole farcela da sola, senza l'aiuto di nessuno. E' riuscita a mettere in piedi una piccola attività commerciale e sogna di espandersi acquistando un locale vicino.
Christian è l'ispettore di polizia incaricato delle indagini su un paio di omicidi avvenuti in città.
Attirati dalle magiche note di My Way, la splendida canzone di Sinatra, i due rimangono colpiti dal classico colpo di fulmine, anche se poi ognuno andrà per la sua strada.
Il destino invece ha deciso diversamente e presto si ritroveranno.
La loro storia però è tutta in salita, sia per la diffidenza innata di Jenny che la rende sospettosa verso tutti, sia per la gelosia patologica di Chris.
L'inizio del romanzo l'ho giudicato un po' lento, forse perché a me piace ritrovarmi da subito nel pieno dell'azione e non amo le lunghe presentazioni, ma poi si riprende alla grande.
L'autore è stato bravo nel descrivere il tormento di Jenny, divisa fra l'attrazione irresistibile che prova per Chris e il ricordo di un amore perduto tragicamente.
La parte "rosa" mi ha convinta pienamente. Antonio Scotto ha un suo stile personale e la lettura risulta molto piacevole. Entrambi i protagonisti hanno un carattere forte ma nascondono anche una certa fragilità che me li ha resi più simpatici. Inoltre le scene d'amore sono descritte con molta eleganza.
La parte "gialla" invece a un certo punto mi aveva lasciata un po' perplessa.
L'autore aveva seminato dubbi e sospetti oltre che nella mente di Jenny anche nella mia e mi sembrava banale il modo in cui tutto si era risolto finché non ho letto il finale e allora sono rimasta soddisfatta.
Una nota di merito anche per i personaggi secondari. Luca Dogaretti, la spalla di Christian, con la sua simpatia mi è piaciuto molto. Ben caratterizzato anche Valerio, il proprietario del locale che Jenny vuole acquistare, vanesio e dongiovanni, con il suo modo di parlare molto particolare, subito riconoscibile, che alla fine trova anche il suo perché.
Per concludere, "Cuori sotto tiro" si è rivelato un romantic suspense gradevolissimo e ne consiglio caldamente la lettura.
Jenny, la protagonista, è una ragazza molto caparbia e indipendente, che nella vita vuole farcela da sola, senza l'aiuto di nessuno. E' riuscita a mettere in piedi una piccola attività commerciale e sogna di espandersi acquistando un locale vicino.
Christian è l'ispettore di polizia incaricato delle indagini su un paio di omicidi avvenuti in città.
Attirati dalle magiche note di My Way, la splendida canzone di Sinatra, i due rimangono colpiti dal classico colpo di fulmine, anche se poi ognuno andrà per la sua strada.
Il destino invece ha deciso diversamente e presto si ritroveranno.
La loro storia però è tutta in salita, sia per la diffidenza innata di Jenny che la rende sospettosa verso tutti, sia per la gelosia patologica di Chris.
L'inizio del romanzo l'ho giudicato un po' lento, forse perché a me piace ritrovarmi da subito nel pieno dell'azione e non amo le lunghe presentazioni, ma poi si riprende alla grande.
L'autore è stato bravo nel descrivere il tormento di Jenny, divisa fra l'attrazione irresistibile che prova per Chris e il ricordo di un amore perduto tragicamente.
La parte "rosa" mi ha convinta pienamente. Antonio Scotto ha un suo stile personale e la lettura risulta molto piacevole. Entrambi i protagonisti hanno un carattere forte ma nascondono anche una certa fragilità che me li ha resi più simpatici. Inoltre le scene d'amore sono descritte con molta eleganza.
La parte "gialla" invece a un certo punto mi aveva lasciata un po' perplessa.
L'autore aveva seminato dubbi e sospetti oltre che nella mente di Jenny anche nella mia e mi sembrava banale il modo in cui tutto si era risolto finché non ho letto il finale e allora sono rimasta soddisfatta.
Una nota di merito anche per i personaggi secondari. Luca Dogaretti, la spalla di Christian, con la sua simpatia mi è piaciuto molto. Ben caratterizzato anche Valerio, il proprietario del locale che Jenny vuole acquistare, vanesio e dongiovanni, con il suo modo di parlare molto particolare, subito riconoscibile, che alla fine trova anche il suo perché.
Per concludere, "Cuori sotto tiro" si è rivelato un romantic suspense gradevolissimo e ne consiglio caldamente la lettura.
August 25, 2015
I was told about this free romantic suspense novel and decided to give it a try. From what I've read it was originally written in Italian and then translated to English (which might explain a few awkward moments and phrasing) but the end result was much more poetic sounding and read like an emotional and at times, romantic comedy with some suspense and mystery thrown in.
I think that although this book seems to be geared towards female readers (because of the gentle and descriptive style) it will also be enjoyable to men because of the murder mystery surrounding Jenny and the surprising twists at the end. I was still left wondering and thinking over what I read after the ending though...and I guess that is a good thing.
Just give this one a try and have an open mind as it different from a lot of the current action thrillers on the market as it takes a different approach as the author takes his time to build the characters and craft all the interweaving storylines. Bravo!
**** 4 **** "love can make you forgive and forget" stars
I think that although this book seems to be geared towards female readers (because of the gentle and descriptive style) it will also be enjoyable to men because of the murder mystery surrounding Jenny and the surprising twists at the end. I was still left wondering and thinking over what I read after the ending though...and I guess that is a good thing.
Just give this one a try and have an open mind as it different from a lot of the current action thrillers on the market as it takes a different approach as the author takes his time to build the characters and craft all the interweaving storylines. Bravo!
**** 4 **** "love can make you forgive and forget" stars
November 3, 2016
I wasn't sure that I would enjoy this book as I know that the author is Italian and that the book was originally written in Italian and transcribed into English, but all my worry was for naught. This was a good book, I enjoyed the storyline, the characters and the location. The way that the author described the countryside, the squares and the area made me feel as if I was there. I could picture the locations as if I had been there with the characters. I enjoyed the plot as well, the author's writing style was fun, exciting and kept the reader guessing.
Not to say anything bad about the book, but there were a few places where the English wasn't exactly translated well - some wrong words, or minor misspellings, but the reader was able to over look this as they did enjoy the story. I will be reading more by this author - If you want to feel like you are in a small Italian Village and forget all about your troubles, pick this one up now!!
Not to say anything bad about the book, but there were a few places where the English wasn't exactly translated well - some wrong words, or minor misspellings, but the reader was able to over look this as they did enjoy the story. I will be reading more by this author - If you want to feel like you are in a small Italian Village and forget all about your troubles, pick this one up now!!
August 15, 2015
A VERY BEAUTIFUL ROMANTIC STORY WITH A TINY TOUCH OF MYSTERY, THE SETTING IS IN ITALY.
JENNY HAS ISSUES THE BIGGEST ONE IS TRUSTING PEOPLE, I UNDERSTAND THIS BUT YOU HAVE TO SOMETIMES. CHRIS HAS PROBLEMS ALSO, HE DOESEN’T HANDLE HIS PROBLEMS ANY BETTER THAN SHE DOES. I THINK THE STORY SEEMED CONFUSING AND A BIT DISJOINTED AT TIMES DUE TO IT BEING TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH. IT REMINDED ME OF THOSE MOVIES WITH SUBTITLES SOMETHING IS ALWAYS LOST IN THE TRANSLATION. I DID GIGURE OUT THE MYSTERY BEFORE THE END. DON’T GET ME WRONG I TOTALLY LOVED THE BOOK HAD IT NOT BEEN FOR THAT I WOULD HAVE GIVEN IT 5*stars. HATS OFF TO WHO DID THE COVER ITS VERY EYE CATCHING AND SO BEAUTIFUL AND SUPER SEXY. ;D
JENNY HAS ISSUES THE BIGGEST ONE IS TRUSTING PEOPLE, I UNDERSTAND THIS BUT YOU HAVE TO SOMETIMES. CHRIS HAS PROBLEMS ALSO, HE DOESEN’T HANDLE HIS PROBLEMS ANY BETTER THAN SHE DOES. I THINK THE STORY SEEMED CONFUSING AND A BIT DISJOINTED AT TIMES DUE TO IT BEING TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH. IT REMINDED ME OF THOSE MOVIES WITH SUBTITLES SOMETHING IS ALWAYS LOST IN THE TRANSLATION. I DID GIGURE OUT THE MYSTERY BEFORE THE END. DON’T GET ME WRONG I TOTALLY LOVED THE BOOK HAD IT NOT BEEN FOR THAT I WOULD HAVE GIVEN IT 5*stars. HATS OFF TO WHO DID THE COVER ITS VERY EYE CATCHING AND SO BEAUTIFUL AND SUPER SEXY. ;D
November 5, 2019
It seems like everything done in Italy should be so romantic especially how to strangers met. Jenny was on the streets of Italy where she heard the most beautiful music, she was drawn to it and when she found where it was coming from she was in a daze from the violinist playing "My Way" by Sinatra When she finally take her eyes off the violinist she see a man in a suit as entranced as she was by the music. When their eyes met it was like electro currents shooting through both of them. The most beautiful man, her soul mate. but how could that be she was currently with Andre she immediately started to feel guilty and walked away hoping the beautiful man would not follow her.
Jenny is the most independent woman ever, she doesn't want any hand out not even from her father that want to help her open her clothing business name Gioventu. Jenny didn't even want her boyfriend Andre which was an Architect to help out. Jenny refused anyones help, she didn't trust anyone believing it was always a motive behind the help. While on a sudden holiday Andre proposed to Jenny and once they returned Jenny world took a spiraling turn for the worst.
The man Jenny planned on spending her future with was now gone. This is where you head start to spin guess who show up to tell Jenny her life has now changed. Yes the soul mate who Jenny spent fantasizing about Inspector Chris & Inspector Luca. What will Jenny do now that the man of her dreams is right before her, can she morn the man who has been taken from her so tragically and miss the opportunity to maybe have true love. This book sends you on a tail spin with all its twist and turns.
Jenny is the most independent woman ever, she doesn't want any hand out not even from her father that want to help her open her clothing business name Gioventu. Jenny didn't even want her boyfriend Andre which was an Architect to help out. Jenny refused anyones help, she didn't trust anyone believing it was always a motive behind the help. While on a sudden holiday Andre proposed to Jenny and once they returned Jenny world took a spiraling turn for the worst.
The man Jenny planned on spending her future with was now gone. This is where you head start to spin guess who show up to tell Jenny her life has now changed. Yes the soul mate who Jenny spent fantasizing about Inspector Chris & Inspector Luca. What will Jenny do now that the man of her dreams is right before her, can she morn the man who has been taken from her so tragically and miss the opportunity to maybe have true love. This book sends you on a tail spin with all its twist and turns.
March 8, 2015
I was impatiently waiting for this book, even because I know the Author himself, his style and capacity to always be original. I’ve read the Italian version, and I can say that the epilogue of this book confirms what I said. Or better, I think he was tempted to end the story in a different way, but he was a good boy this time … What can I say about this book? There’s action, romance, passion through a couple of hot (but not vulgar) scenes. You can see the characters grow wiser, and also read some deep thoughts, because the Author is not just writing an ordinary story. You have suspense, twists and turns, and a murderer to find out. Actually, I would have liked if he had written more about the investigations, but I enjoyed it anyway. Not like his other books, that’s why my real vote is 4.5 stars, but I definitely recommend it.
I didn’t like Jenny, but I can’t tell you why because I don’t want to spoiler, but I think she doesn’t deserve the sweet person who Chris is. Ok, he's a little jealous, but he’s so in love that you can forgive him everything. I also liked Martina and Luca, two secondary characters, but I literally adored the “soundtrack” that was the background of the most moving scenes of the book: My Way. Read it, I can’t tell you more.
I didn’t like Jenny, but I can’t tell you why because I don’t want to spoiler, but I think she doesn’t deserve the sweet person who Chris is. Ok, he's a little jealous, but he’s so in love that you can forgive him everything. I also liked Martina and Luca, two secondary characters, but I literally adored the “soundtrack” that was the background of the most moving scenes of the book: My Way. Read it, I can’t tell you more.
March 7, 2015
I love Romantic Suspense, but not everybody are capable to balance romance and suspense. In this case, I think the author made it. I appreciated his attempt to describe a female point of view -even though it sounded a bit masculine in certain situations- his realistic way to make the characters, the way he presents them to us, and the fact that love is such an important element in the story. I was surprised by the romantic section because it evolves flowingly, and it’s well written and never trivial. Action and description are well mixed, and the lead to the murderer is well structured. The final twist is another good thing: I had even doubt about the assassin’s identity for moment :P The things I didn’t appreciate that much are the abrupt interruption of some chapters, and the fact that Jenny forgives her guy too easily... Such a jelousy would bother me pretty much! Aside from that, I reccomend this book. I think both the readers who love romance or thriller would like it. My congrats to the author.
Want to read
August 25, 2015 FREEBIE ALERT!!! UNTIL AUGUST 28TH!!!
Hearts Under Fire
by Antonio Scotto di Carlo
http://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Under-Antonio-Scotto-Carlo-ebook/dp/B00U88RP52/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1425439430&sr=1-1
~Blurb~
Jenny is a beautiful young businesswoman. She lives in an Italian tourist town where she owns a shop. Her need for independence is her strength, but her innate distrust sometimes creates problems with others.
One day she encounters love. More than an encounter, it’s a collision, a head-on collision. Her heart isn’t Eros’s only target, and everything changes …
Police begin investigating suspicious events around her, slowing down the construction of a new great hotel in town and rocking her life even more.
Hearts Under Fire
by Antonio Scotto di Carlo
http://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Under-Antonio-Scotto-Carlo-ebook/dp/B00U88RP52/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1425439430&sr=1-1
~Blurb~
Jenny is a beautiful young businesswoman. She lives in an Italian tourist town where she owns a shop. Her need for independence is her strength, but her innate distrust sometimes creates problems with others.
One day she encounters love. More than an encounter, it’s a collision, a head-on collision. Her heart isn’t Eros’s only target, and everything changes …
Police begin investigating suspicious events around her, slowing down the construction of a new great hotel in town and rocking her life even more.
December 15, 2015
Jenny is a beautiful young businesswoman. She lives in an Italian tourist town where she owns a shop. Her need for independence is her strength, but her innate distrust sometimes creates problems with others.
One day she encounters love. More than an encounter, it’s a collision, a head-on collision. Her heart isn’t Eros’s only target, and everything changes …
Police begin investigating suspicious events around her, slowing down the construction of a new great hotel in town and rocking her life even more.
This kind of romance is not my thing so maybe that's why I didn't really care for the book. I also don't like men who are crazy jealous, it reminds me too much of 50 Shades of Grey type of character and I didn't like him.
One day she encounters love. More than an encounter, it’s a collision, a head-on collision. Her heart isn’t Eros’s only target, and everything changes …
Police begin investigating suspicious events around her, slowing down the construction of a new great hotel in town and rocking her life even more.
This kind of romance is not my thing so maybe that's why I didn't really care for the book. I also don't like men who are crazy jealous, it reminds me too much of 50 Shades of Grey type of character and I didn't like him.
April 3, 2016
Lovely romantic suspense
I loved the tone and flow of this novel. The cadence was unlike any book I've read before. After the first paragraph I researched to see if there was more from Anthony Scotto di Carlo and found that the story was originally written in Italian. This intrigued me and I was soon grabbed by Jenny's internal struggle and deeply engrossed in the story, wondering were it would lead and surprised more than once. The love story was breathtaking and the mystery surrounding Jenny, kept me happily unsure of what was the truth. I was kept off kilter til the final paragraph, I hadn't been able solved the mystery. That makes this a 5***** read for me!
I loved the tone and flow of this novel. The cadence was unlike any book I've read before. After the first paragraph I researched to see if there was more from Anthony Scotto di Carlo and found that the story was originally written in Italian. This intrigued me and I was soon grabbed by Jenny's internal struggle and deeply engrossed in the story, wondering were it would lead and surprised more than once. The love story was breathtaking and the mystery surrounding Jenny, kept me happily unsure of what was the truth. I was kept off kilter til the final paragraph, I hadn't been able solved the mystery. That makes this a 5***** read for me!
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