The Book of Hours

Book Summary
Reviews
Awards
Excerpt

For Artist Gabriela Martinez, Psychopaths do hit twice.

Set in California and London, The Book of Hours, the follow-up to The Coin, is a story about greed, obsession, family duty, and especially, deserved second chances.

A LOVE IN JEOPARDY

In 1993, artist Gabriela Martinez almost lost her life to a sociopath’s twisted vision. If not for Richard Harrison, the operative sent to protect her, she would have ended up dead.

A NEW THREAT

After catching a glimpse of Gabriela’s new artwork, The Book of Hours, Arnold Wickeham has been like a man possessed. Now, he will do anything—anything—in order to claim it. Nothing, especially not Gabriela, will stand in his way.

THE PAST IS CATCHING UP

Richard Harrison has never given up on his true love, Gabriela. Now someone new is threatening her life, and he will risk everything to protect her. But the stakes are now higher, and there is much more to lose. And if he doesn’t stay one step ahead of the danger, her life, but mainly their future, may very well go up in flames.

Gabriela Martinez is a well-known author that is about to put her book up for auction. People are willing to do anything to get their hand on her book. At least one person is willing to take her life. There are plenty of twists to keep you listening, or turning the pages if you are reading the book. A few times I felt like I was getting lost when things from the previous book were referenced, but I was able to piece things together without any issues. This was the first book I have ever picked up by this author. I will be going to read book one and I will definitely be checking out her other works.

Plenty of Twists by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba on July 18, 2023

Absolutely adored this book! I can’t wait to read more of Ms. Alonso-Sierra’s work. Her writing style and the way she writes all her characters just drew me in! My fiancé is an artist, so I really liked the inclusion art! I loved Gabriela and Richard's story! It had me reading as fast as I could to find out what would happen next! I couldn’t put it down! I felt every moment of fear and panic like it was my own! I might have even checked behind my back a few times! I really wish there could be a third book in this heart-pounding series! If you are a lover of thrillers and a fast-paced plot, you have to check out The Book of Hours and the first book in the Coin/Hours Duology! You will not be disappointed!

Heart-Pounding by Suze13 on July 18, 2023

This is the second book, but you don't need to have read the first one to understand this one. This story was full of suspense, drama, danger, romance, twists and turns. The author wrote this story with vivid details so I was able to get more immersed in the story. I enjoyed the author's style of writing. This book started out a little slow to me but after reading a little further into it picked up the pace. Both Gabriela and Richard go through a lot throughout this story and I found myself hoping for the best. I don't want to give anything away so I will just say that I found this book to be entertaining and an enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more books by this author.

Drama, Danger, & Romance by Candi H. on July 18, 2023

This reminded me of a soap opera with all of the drama and action. Gabriela is barely holding things together when an obsessed fan of her work is willing to do whatever it takes to force her into selling it to him. Following a suspicious accident, Gabriela's friends reach out to Richard for help in protecting her; little do they know, the relationship between the two is more personal than anyone knew. Throw in a stalker paparazzo, and an international agency trying to snag a criminal, and this story has you guessing what's next until the end.

Keeps You Guessing by Wendy Wary on July 18, 2023

The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book #2) by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra continues the adventure of Gabriela and Richard. This is not the first time that fate has put these two together in difficult, life and death situations. This book is full of mystery and suspense, but it does kind of start off slowly in the beginning. The wait is well worth the twists and turns that Maria puts the reader and characters through, you will be captivated by the precision used to describe the various places Gabriela and Richard explore. Needless to say, the action and suspense will keep you hooked until the very end of the book. Throughout the whole book, I kept rooting for Gabriela and Richard to find a way to make their love work and to finally put all of the danger behind them… However, knowing Gabriela, trouble would find another way to crash into her life. If you like mysteries and suspense, this is a wonderful read, and I highly recommend it!

Action and Suspense by Jamie on July 17, 2023

While this is the second book in this duology, The Book of Hours is the first book I have read by this author. That being said, I was easily able to follow the story without having read the first book. I do feel like I could have benefitted by reading The Coin beforehand, and learned more of these characters, and will be going back to read that soon. The characters were easily relatable and the scenes were vivid and easy to picture. While there is suspense and romance, there is plenty of action and danger as well. When art enthusiast Arnold Wickham wants to purchase Gabriela's work before an upcoming auction, and she refuses, things get a bit intense. Fueled by the rejection, Wickham will do whatever it takes to get what he wants. Richard Harrison, the man in love with Gabriela, will do anything within his power to keep her safe. I am not usually interested in romance novels but there was plenty of mystery, suspense, danger and action to keep me turning the pages. I definitely feel like reading the prior book would have helped me "know" the history and characters better, but I still enjoyed this read.

Page-Turner by Amanda Swindle on July 17, 2023

Gabriela Martinez is ready to start a new chapter in her life. Gabriela is still waiting for the love of her life, Richard Harrison, to honor the words of love he promised her four years ago. Now she is under threat by a man named Arnold Wickeham who is determined to get his hands on her manuscript and not allow anyone else to get a chance to see it. He is ruthless with his tactics, but little does Gabriela know this will set in motion to bring Richard back into her life sooner then he planned.

Richard felt he needed to make himself the man who deserved Gabriela. Now he is back and has no plans to go anywhere. Can he keep Gabriela protected while earning her trust again, can they find their second chance?

I listened to this on audible. I thought the story was great, it was full of twists and turns. You are pulled into a complicated relationship and suspenseful story. The audiobook though I was not a fan of the narrator, she is soft spoken and has no real inflection in her voice which conflicts with the overall tone of this edge of your seat story. Overall, I would check out more by this author and go back to read the first book.

Suspenseful Story by Emily on July 17, 2023

Gabriela seemingly has gotten it together after her last brush with death. Staying committed to her family and raising her sons, but there are so many secrets just under the surface that could destroy everything.

Richard has pined for Gabriela but stays away seemingly rejected as she never reached out, or did she? He finds himself in a predicament to protect her again when she finishes her manuscript and another psychopath sets eyes on her prized work.

Can these two finally find a way together, or will another psycho torch their future before it can begin? And what of her other secrets in her family, what will she do?

Great story, simmering chemistry. Well-read as an audio. You won't regret it!

Simmering Chemistry by Melissa Saxton on July 16, 2023

The Book of Hours was such an amazing thriller book. The details in the whole book were amazing. This book was a page turner for me. The Book of Hours is an action packed read. If you didn't read the first book, that's okay. The storyline is in the book so you can follow along.

Amazing Thriller by Melissa Fink on July 16, 2023

Wonderful, clear visuals. Well fleshed out characters, both lovable and easy to hate. Easy to follow, but I think I may have enjoyed it a bit more if I’d read the first book beforehand. The storyline was clear and well described, I just enjoy the prose and feel I'd have felt even more connected had I read the first book.

Gabriela is an artist, well known and with enough works that she is working to sell some to raise money for a local kids’ charity. Wickham is a crazy curator who is obsessed with Gabriela, and will stop at nothing to obtain a piece from her prior to the auction. Gabriela refuses the sale, regardless of where the possibilities may lead her. Enter Richard, a man with a passionate history with Gabriela, who is willing to do what it takes to protect her.

Intrigue, passion, obsession, beauty, psychosis, attraction and suspense abound in this book.

Wonderful by MrsGuk14 on July 12, 2023

The Book of Hours is the second book in The Coin Duology, but can be enjoyed as a standalone if you don’t mind some spoilers for The Coin. It is full of action and suspense, as Gabriela is pursued by an art dealer desperate to buy a work for far less than she knows it is worth. Richard, who was tasked with protecting her in The Coin, is back to try and convince her of the level of danger she’s in and keep her safe.

There’s a fun cast of characters in this book! I’m particularly fond of Jeremy, who works as a bodyguard and chauffeur for Richard. He brings some comic relief, but is also observant and loyal to those he cares about.

This is an exciting book for fans of romance and crime, particularly if you’re interested in art-related crime. It’s a real page-turner, moving between perspectives to leave you on a cliffhanger so you have to keep reading to get back to the same character. It gets five stars from me!

A Real Page-Turner by Frances O’Sullivan on July 11, 2023

The Book of Hours wasn’t bad. However, I feel like I short changed myself by not reading book 1 first. There’s a lot of buildup that would’ve made more sense if I read that first, but I digress. In saying that, you could still navigate this book without it. Now my goal is to go back and read it, then reread this one. I was drawn to this book just by the name of the antagonist of the story. No book I ever read has anything good come from that name, no matter the spelling, Wickeham. The name drew me right into Gabriela and Richard’s story. Their triumphs. their love, their fierce protection of one another and those they love.

Gabriela and Richard have a past that developed and came together in book 1. But it ended in their separation. This book throws them back into each other’s lives to navigate the threats against her and her family. Also forces them to address the elephant in the room, their love for one another.

The author didn’t short change the drama and suspense. Keeping one turning the page wondering what’s around the next corner.

In saying all that, could you read this as a standalone novel, sure I did. However, I think it would’ve been so much better if I read it as a set.

Drama and Suspense by Beverly on July 10, 2023

This book is the second in the series. It can be read as a standalone although I do think reading the first book would be beneficial. This is quite a slow build book, starting off slow and increasing the pace of the book as it goes on. The book is full of romance and suspense and the author has combined them both so well.

This is a new author to me and I was taken in by her writing style. I will definitely be going back to read the first book but this was enjoyable in its own right. I became engaged with the story and wanted to see how things would turn out. This is a great story and I am looking forward to discovering more from the author.

Full of Romance and Suspense by Kerry Baker on July 10, 2023

This is a sequel to a previous book by this author, but it can be read as a standalone. I have not read the first book, but did not feel like I was missing much in the way of context. This book will keep you guessing at first, and then on the edge of your seats from there. Gabriela Martinez is a very talented illustrator, mother and wife. She is also in grave danger due to a manuscript that she is auctioning off in an effort to raise money for a children’s charity run by her cousin, a priest in California. When she refuses to sell her manuscript ahead of the auction to a man who has decided that he is entitled to it, he puts her life, as well as that of her children, in danger. When a former protector and lover from years past, Richard Harrison, learns of the issues, he immediately flies from his home in London to protect Gabriela with everything he has. This book takes place in Los Angeles, California and London, England in 1997, which allows for some of today’s tech to be left out, allowing for greater freedom in how the story plays out. This is an excellent read that makes me want to go back and read book 1!

Excellent Read by Candice on July 9, 2023

This book started out very slow in my opinion. This was super difficult for me to get into, but I have a a general rule about never DNF a book. In this case, I am so glad that I have that rule because about ⅓ of the way through this book it got so amazingly good. I did not want to put it down at all. It just is getting through the beginning part of the book, which really sets up the characters and who’s who and the general switching of points of view. The author is also very descriptive. It is absolutely vivid and there is no doubt how descriptive things are. The actual suspense is really good and I truly loved the story line. It is such a good book overall and I definitely recommend reading it! I will say that I did not read The Coin and I do not know if it would have helped to have read it to help with the beginning part. I definitely recommend reading this book! I did love the twist of the strange maniac who was obsessed with obtaining Gabriela’s manuscript and stopping at nothing to obtain it. Overall, it is a very good read that I recommend, filled with twists and turns.

Filled with Twists and Turns by Chrissey on July 8, 2023

Gabriela Martinez, a well-known author, is in the fight of her life. People are willing to do anything to get their hands on her works. Including taking her life. But will their evil plan work, and at what cost? Gabriela is so much stronger than even she believes. This may be a new author for me, you can bet I will be looking for more from her. This story is so full of twists and turns. Once it gets going it is hard to stop. The events that take place are amazing as well as intense. Love this story, hope you do too.

Love this Story by Cinful on July 8, 2023

I did not realize this book was a second in the series till I got further into the book and realized the details were missing because I was missing the first book, The Coin. The Book of Hours was a mystery with suspense. The story is told from Gabriela's point of view. The story is full of great imagery and will give you strong feelings about all the characters involved. It did take me a bit longer to read and get into than I assumed, but it is worth the read.

Worth the Read! by Tonya Merritt on July 6, 2023

This is the first book by the author that I’ve read. I did not read The Coin, which is the first book of the series. I was able to follow the story fairly quickly as the author does a wonderful job of world building which helps combine the characters who are located in different countries. Right from where the Prologue starts, I could almost feel the adrenaline rush as Gabriela is doing her best to drive while realizing her breaks are either broken or have been tampered with. The action, suspense, romance, and everything about this book moved the story along and I enjoyed reading it. I think it would be nice to read The Coin.

Wonderful by Betsy Melano on July 6, 2023

This is the second book in the Coin/Hours Duology, but the first I have read from this author. I didn’t feel like I had missed too much as the author cleverly interwove important details throughout the story. There’s a lot within the pages and I especially liked the mystery. This will appeal to a wide audience.

Liked the Mystery by Rayne on July 6, 2023

The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) is an Audiobook I absolutely loved listening to. This is my first Audiobook by this author and the narrator did a wonderful job of bringing the characters to life with different tones of their voice. I wasn’t really sure what to expect going in, but once I started listening, I couldn’t stop. I literally listened on the way to work every day and couldn’t wait for the drive home. This is a story about second chances, and obsession, family. What will this artist do? He will not stop until he gets what he wants. This author’s style of writing and fully developed characters make for quite the ride. I highly recommend listening to this fast-paced story to find out what happens next. I’m looking forward to seeing what other books this author has written.

Fast-Paced Story by Dawn Daughenbaugh on July 5, 2023

Gabriela is a well-known artist and she is auctioning off some of her most prized pieces to benefit a local children's charity. A psychopathic curator named Wickham is obsessed with Gabriela's work and is bound and determined to get his hands on a certain piece prior to the auction. Gaby isn't willing to allow this crazy lunatic to have his way and she'll do whatever she can to prevent this sale from happening, even if it means risking her life.

Richard lost the love of his life four years ago. There are secrets that have been revealed to him and he needs to find his way back to Gabriela. Lucky for him, someone is in need of his services so he finds himself at Gaby's side. How long will that last though? Will she even have room for him in her heart?

This was a slow starting book for me, mainly because I was missing some context from the previous book in this series. I will be going back and reading it soon though, as I need to fill in some holes. However, I don't feel like I missed so much that I couldn't enjoy this book. There was plenty of action, a small amount (but just enough) romance, and some twists and turns that weren't really expected.

Great Adventurous Read! by Faithful Girl on July 4, 2023

This is not my first book by this author and this is one of my favorites yet. This is a well written story where the characters pull you into the story from the beginning. They are supportive, connectable and made the story entertaining to read. A story about second chances, family and obsession. A story where one art dealer becomes obsessed with a new artist. He is determined and nothing will get in his way to get what he wants. This is a character that adds so much to the story. They brought twists and turns to life and had me coming back for more. It is a hard to put down story that is engaging and fast paced. This is a great story that I enjoyed reading. I highly recommend this book.

Great Story! by Bobbi Jo Wagner on July 3, 2023

The Book of Hours is the second book in the Coin/Hours Duology. This is the first book I have read by this author, but I will now read the first book in this group. It has some of the same characters, but I followed the story and enjoyed it thoroughly. The story starts slowly as the setting and situation are set up. Be patient because it doesn't stop until the end once it starts picking up. There is action, suspense, and more. I was initially intrigued by the blurb dealing with an obsessive art dealer and an artist's work, but I am glad I grabbed this thriller. The characters are interesting and well-thought out. The plot was not a cookie-cutter plot. There is action on multiple continents. I'm glad I grabbed this read and will look for more by this author soon.

Not a Cookie-Cutter Plot by Sheri on July 3, 2023

The Book of Hours is Book Two in the Coin/Hours Duology. This book is an intense, psychological thrill ride full of twists and turns that will keep you riveted to the end. Gabriela is a woman who seems to have nothing but bad luck which often leaves her feeling trapped within her past. She is stuck with the cycle of bad thoughts that run on a loop in her head, wanting to move forward, but something always seems to keep her from finding happiness. Her one true love is Richard, but surely after all the years that have passed, he will not still be waiting for her. Fear prevents her from pursuing the matter farther until he comes back into her life suddenly after hearing about mysterious accidents that keep happening to her.

Richard is still head over heels in love with Gabriela and vows to protect her from the man who is ruthless in his pursuit of Gabriela’s newest work. This man is determined to obtain The Book of Hours and will do anything to acquire it. The plot thickens and the suspense builds as Gabriela and Richard are faced with danger that lurks around every corner. With their entire future at stake can Gabriela and Richard stop the madman determined to acquire The Book of Hours? Can they find love through the chaos?

I really enjoyed this book and found the writing to be done wonderfully. The storyline, setting, and characters pulled me in, and I became completely invested in the outcome of their story. Gabriela and Richard are wonderful characters who I find myself rooting for as they fight to be together through distance, through bad relationships, and through all the chaos life throws at them. A love story of epic proportions as two people find a way to love.

Love Story of Epic Proportions by Tara Johnson on July 3, 2023

I was gripped from page one by this romantic suspense novel which kept me captivated throughout. Artist Gabriela Martinez’s new work, The Book of Hours, has put her in danger when an unscrupulous art dealer, Arnold Wickham, wants to claim it. When Richard Harrison discovers the woman he loves, Gabriela, is in danger, he believes he’s been gifted with a second chance to protect her. However, Richard needs to stay focused as both their lives are in danger. Both the California and London settings were brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative, making me feel immersed in the story. The characters are well defined, and I enjoyed the relationship development between the main characters. The storyline and plot twists kept me happily turning the pages, and I would recommend this enjoyable and engaging read.

Gripping Read by Jenny on July 3, 2023

Pulls You In by Bobbi Wagner on July 3, 2023

Sure enjoyed this continuation of The Coin series. Gabriela and Richard took this story to a whole new level. The spy game and time travel just made it so fanflippingtastic. I used to think The DaVinci Code was great but I have since changed my mind. I found the protagonists in this series are well-written and developed. The antagonists fit their role perfect. The story flows smooth and it just is. I couldn’t and didn’t want to put it down, that’s how well done it is. The tone of the story is total intrigue and suspense/mystery. I was totally hooked from the start. It’s a series I highly recommend. A definite must read.

Hooked from the Start by Shelley Kittell on July 3, 2023

This is the second book in the Coin/Hours Cycle Series. I haven't read the first one but I will definitely be heading to read it now. This book was really intriguing and captivating. I loved the twists and turns, the ups and downs, the danger around every corner it really kept me gripped.

Gabriela has a very rare artifact in her possession. So rare that someone wants it and is prepared to stop at nothing to get it. Even if it means removing Gabriela from the picture.

There is also a romance as well between Richard and Gabriela. Their romance is intense and passionate and when Richard hears of the threats to Gabriela and her family, he rushes to her side to protect her.

After 4 years of being apart, could this finally be their chance to be together and be happy, or will the danger facing Gabriela keep them apart for good.

I was gripped and captivated from start to end. I loved how I couldn't guess the outcome which left me reading and hooked.

Intriguing and Captivating by Kerry Carr on July 3, 2023

The Book of Hours is the second gripping book in the Coin/Hours Duology and the first I have had the pleasure of reading by this author. I did stop reading this book to go back and read the first because I thought I was missing out, but Maria made sure to include enough information if you don’t.

It is a suspenseful thrilling rollercoaster ride that had me checking everyone out around me. Paranoid I must admit, but it is due to the writing of this author. With crime, suspense, and mystery this psychological romantic drama had me on the edge of my seat and looking for anything hiding in the shadows.

The characters are well written, and this exciting world Maria has given us has everything to make it a great read and the pages turning. The plot is cleverly crafted and well-thought out and the story flowed well.

It started with a coin and ends with a book, a killer, a secret and an innocent woman, but now the stakes are higher. Unbeknownst to Gabriela she is the focus of a madman that wants her rendition of a book, but Richard Harrison is back to save the woman he loves from this Psychopath. Will they get their HEA?

I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more from this author. Those who like a great psychological thriller will love this duology.

Great Psychological Thriller by Jenni Bishop on July 3, 2023

This is my first audio book by this author which I enjoyed listening to. I look forward to picking up more from this author. I enjoyed the narrator and how the tone of their voice made the story engaging. A story about second chances, family and obsession. A story where one art dealer becomes obsessed with a new artist. He is determined and nothing will get in his way to get what he wants. This is an audio book you don’t want to miss for sure. It is an engaging story that made me want to know more which made this easy to listen to. I really enjoyed listening to this story. I highly recommend this audiobook.

Engaging Story by Bobbi Jo Wagner on July 3, 2023

Richard and Gabriela are back in this second book to the Coin/Hours duology. Gabriela is yet again in danger. She hasn’t spoken to Richard in years. Her husband is indisposed and she is caring for her two teenage sons and a three-year-old son. Even though she has hired a bodyguard to watch the household, danger is still present and wants her work that she plans to auction off.

When a priest, not Gabriela, contacts Richard and asks for help, he comes running. When he gets to her, old feelings that never died are reinforced even more.

Opinion:

This duology is a fantastic read. I highly suggest that you read The Coin first. You will want to follow it quickly with this book. Together, they are suspenseful, both with danger and with romance. I could not help but anticipate what was coming next as my mind would wander to the book when I wasn’t reading it. However, there are so many parts of this book that come unexpectedly that I was not successful at all. All of these curve balls kept me intrigued.

Many thanks to Bare Naked Words for providing me with an ARC of this book.

A Fantastic Read! by D. Devine of A Devine Read on February 26, 2022

HOLY HELL! I think I LOVED The Book of Hours even more than The Coin if possible. It’s been some time since Richard & Gabriela’s last crazy journey filled with danger. Of course, Gabiela is now in danger again because she won’t sell something to a person who shouldn’t be allowed out anywhere on his own since that person is like a spoiled child who wants to bully their way into getting what they want so let the games begin. Once again, I was drawn in completely from the jump as this story hijacked all my attention until every last page was devoured. The twists were coming in hot, and my head was spinning trying to figure out how it would all pan out, not to mention poor Richard, and his unrequited love for his charge. I’ve fallen completely in love with this brilliant author so I’ll just be over here impatiently waiting on the next book as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

#MOREINTENSETHRILLRIDE by Jennifer Pierson of The Power of Three Readers on February 25, 2022

Just like The Coin, The Book of Hours is a fast-paced, suspenseful read that will keep you guessing! Highly recommended if you like this genre.

Suspenseful by Bare Naked Words Blog on February 25, 2022

Gabriela. His only love. His Achilles heel.

Richard and Gabriela are back together again. This second book is much more intense than the first in my opinion. A fascinating mystery that keeps you reverted to the pages.

“Gabriela is giving herself a chance, trusting you will be there in the wings if she ever needs you. Don’t fail her by not being there as you promised.”

Mystery Romance by Patricia A. White – Read All About It on February 8, 2022

The Book of Hours is the second installment of the Cycle Series. I suggest reading The Coin first to get the full backstory.

Four years later after the incident with Albert a lot has changed for Gabriela. Another child, her career has taken off, her husband’s accident and threats.

When Richard was contacted about Gabriela’s threats he rushed to her side hoping there was still a chance. He lived in limbo for four long years wishing she would have contacted him. Upon seeing her his heart flipped. He wanted to kiss her.

Touch her…

Until a little mimicry shriek caught his attention. He couldn’t take his eyes away.

While learning about the threats, Richard was determined to protect her and her family once again. But where was her husband Roberto?

Gabriela was determined not to sell her Book of Hours to the nasty individual who was making threats and causing havoc in her life.

Evil is lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike to get what he feels like he deserves The Book of Hours.

A romantic thriller that will keep you intrigued from beginning to end.

Romantic Thriller by Romaine on February 6, 2022

Mesmerizing tale from beginning to the end. Love the energy and smooth flow. Villains abound while pure love stands strong.

Outstanding by Viola Howard on December 18, 2021

Great sequel to The Coin, a really top read from start to finish – exciting and satisfying plus very good twists to the plot. 5 1/2 Stars. What a refreshing change to have a sequel to a novel start exactly where the other left off. I enjoyed The Coin so much I wanted to continue reading immediately, especially to see Gabriela and Richard reconnect. I think that it was very clever to have the block to their relationship still in the way right to the end and for Gabriela to make peace with herself over her unfaithfulness to Roberto, sad that he had to die but makes for a pretty final exit of the major stumbling block. A nice final twist to Gabriela’s head to head with Arnold Wickeham, who up until when he thinks he has what he wants and has engineered everything to be in his favour, it’s the one small detail that he misses that costs him everything – a name. I didn’t see that one coming! Maurice is a very likeable character who seems to be the one able to be in the right places at the right time to pull a rabbit from a hat and has a nice nasty side to him that is obviously necessary to keep from the public eye. Overall the plot moved in all the right directions for me with the satisfaction of vengeance in the end for the evils perpetrated by Wickeham and his cohorts. All in all a very satisfying read and I hope to see heroes of this appear again in further books. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes either a ripping good thriller or a steamy romance as it has both going for it.

Great Sequel to The Coin by Keith Williams at StoryOrigin on July 7, 2020 (SPOILER ALERT!)

An intriguing story of greed, family duty and more. A perfect follow up to the Coin. Absolutely worth the read.

Superb by Jackie T. on July 7, 2020

Outstanding story. First time author for me and definitely not the last. An intriguing book that keeps you reading. Don’t miss out.

Outstanding Story by Jackie Stansky at StoryOrigin on July 6, 2020

What an intriguing book. Gabriela is hoping she can have a good life but danger is there instead. Once you start, you can’t put the book down.

It was amazing by Jackie on July 6, 2020

I immediately purchased this book after reading book 1, The Coin, because I had to know what would happen next with Gabriela and Richard. This was another excellent tale of romance and suspense woven by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra. It was full of action, and love. In it Gabriela is once again in danger and Richard must use his expert skills to protect her. But don’t be fooled, Gabriela is one tough cookie, she is strong-willed and smart, and will not sit idly by when someone threatens her and her family. Beautiful, beautiful story.

Another excellent tale of romance and suspense! By TM Witko on February 3, 2018

I liked this one very much.

Five Stars By Jacqueline A. Potts on August 21, 2017

At last, the wait is over! In “The Book of Hours” the beautiful Cuban born artist Gabriela Martinez is once again under siege by a maniacal villain who lusts after her latest artistic triumph…the lovely, mesmerizing Book of Hours…a work evoking both medieval and byzantine overtones. Her protector, the now ex-secret agent Richard Harrison, must rescue her anew while yearning to fan the flames of love to life from the white hot embers of the love still burning deep withing their hearts. Find out if love triumphs as this new caper twists and turns thru the art worlds of America and England.

Like an artist using charcoal, pastels, tempera or oils to create a picture,,Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra reweaves the lives of her finely drawn characters from her widely acclaimed first novel “The Coin” into a brand new adventure. Familiar characters are reintroduced along with the host of new ones each adding distinct flavors to the romantic thriller as it cascades to a thunderous conclusion. It is a very pleasurable read, hard to put down, one that will leave you wanting more… Enjoy! Is there a trilogy on the horizon? Fans of Gabriela and Richard can only hope so….

In “The Book of Hours” the beautiful Cuban born artist Gabriela Martinez is once again under … By richard sciandra on March 5, 2017

A great continuation of “The Coin”. I didn’t think this book could be as good as the first, but I was wrong. So much action it made me dizzy. I loved every bit of the romance, good, bad, and in between. I hated to see it end. Very good writing all the way through and the story kept me on the edge of my seat.

Excitement ‘til the very end By ickie on February 19, 2017

Excellent!

Five Stars By Amazon Customer on January 26, 2017

I loved both books and can only say I liked “The … By Anna on December 11, 2016

This was just as exciting as the first book. The people are well drawn and interesting. The story is fascinating and I couldn’t stop reading. I loved both books and can only say I liked “The Coin” better because I knew another one followed and now there are no more. I wish them well and am sorry to see them go. This is most certainly a must read for mystery, thriller and romance fans.

Another thriller that takes you beyond the borders of the USA!! By Deborah S. Craft on August 27, 2016

This second book of Ms. Alonso-Sierra was another thriller that kept you reading. I love the way she paints a picture in the readers’ mind as the story moves forward…never interfering with the flow of the novel. Her characters are well developed…some you hate and some you love, and of course the ones you love keep you reading hoping they will survive. I don’t want to give anything away, but I will say if you’re looking for a thriller Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra’s books are a must read!! (The Coin & The Book of Hours)

MUST READ By Books, Reviews, Links, And A Little Extra on August 23, 2016

I received a gifted copy of this book from the author for an honest review

Dare I say that this may have been better than The Coin?

Along with the action, suspense, romance, and murder attempts who wouldn’t enjoy this book?

I won’t give any spoilers, all I say is, go get your book now by clicking above and enjoy!

Loved this book… By A Voice on May 9, 2016

I will not rewrite what the story is about, though I will write about my experience. This is the first time reading one of Maria’s books and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Her book is written very smoothly. I read this book not as a sequel, but as a stand alone, able to grasp a lot of what happened in the first book and not feel as I missed something. This book has a lot of action and moves continually. Each character came to life, written with enough depth you know them. The love story was exceptional. It wasn’t your typical romance story, it was slightly more complicated, which stirred your emotions. Add in a touch of “Criminal Minds” drama and you have a great book.

I was given this book to read, though I would give it the same rating even for a purchase. It stirred me and I hated to put it down. I look forward to reading another one of her books.

A rollercoaster ride By Fuzzy’s Mom on March 17, 2016

Wow! This book never lets up. It takes the reader on a wild and rocky ride on both sides of the big pond with characters who are well drawn and compelling.

Gabriela is a famous artist who has recreated a beautiful Medieval manuscript. It is about to go to auction in London with the proceeds to fund a children’s charity. She is approached by a despicable man who refuses to take no for an answer. As his attempts to persuade her become more and more dangerous, her former lover, and the father of her child, Richard, is asked to intervene. Much has changed in the years they have been apart but not their love for each other. This love gets tested time and again by manipulative people for whom “no” is not an acceptable answer.

The love story of Richard and Gabriela is fraught with danger but the reader cannot help but be carried along through every twist and turn and exciting challenge.

There is a previous book with the same characters. The Book of Hours is so good, I am going to search out the prequel and read it too.

I give it a high recommendation.

Gifted book for honest review – juliesbookreview.blogspot.com By Theresa F on March 16, 2016

Gabriela Martinez and Richard Harrison first meet in Ms. Alonso-Sierra’s “The Coin.” I urge the reader to go there before beginning this page-turner. The love relationship between Gabriela and Richard starts in the first book 4 years before the “Book of Hours.” The reader doesn’t have to know the details of the first book to understand the 2nd, but it helps.

The original Book of Hours is a Christian devotional book popular in the Middle Ages. It is an illuminated manuscript, meaning that it is filled with intricate and ornate lettering and figures. In that respect, this Book of Hours is similar. Gabriela Martinez has made a copy of the original, for which collectors are more than willing to pay huge sums at auction. One collector is willing to kill for it. Therein is the reason that Gabriela and Richard are re-united.

This novel is a cocktail thriller mixed with love and madness. There are moments when you may feel you’ve drunk too much with all the novel’s twists and turns but it’s a pleasant hangover.

More importantly, you will be wishing to read more of Gabriela and Richard at story’s end.

Another great book By A Plant on January 18, 2016

The return of Richard and Gabriela, with a hugely different set of circumstances. Different country, different everything. Again full of intrigue etc as before, with the added question of how can the pair resolve things from their previous lives. I won’t spoil it.

The character of Wickeham is horrible, but truly fascinating. From the beginning you really despise him, and can see where he is going. He is the classic bully, awful but underneath he isn’t so clever as he tries to tell people he is. The difference in Gabriela is amazing and surprising as to how a character changes over time, but believably so. Loved these two books, and cannot wait for more!!!

* I received this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review. *

The book preview accurately describes the book so I won’t repeat it. As the story is full of twists and surprises, I do not want to give any more of the story away than is stated.

This is the first book I have read by the author and enjoyed her writing. Her prose is vivid and you don’t have to guess what she is describing. Ms. Alonso-Sierra has a gift with words and it makes the book a pleasure to read. There is never any doubt as to the setting. The story takes place in different continents and you move with the characters never doubting where you are.

The plot starts out a little slower than I would have liked, but picks up and moves at a steady pace, making you want the story to continue.

My only suggestion to the author would be to fix a few point of view issues. There were several times I had to stop reading and go back to see whose POV the story was in, thus pulling me out of the story. Though this did not stop me from reading the book.

A fun read. By Amazon Customer on August 24, 2015

I loved this book. As soon as I finished The Coin, and realized that the same characters reappear, I knew I had some reading to do.

The Book of Hours was even better than the first. Perhaps because it was like reuniting with old friends. It was just as exciting, fast paced and fun to read. It really moved. It had a satisfying ending.

Fun and exciting read… By nighean dubh on July 15, 2015

The Book of Hours by Maria Elena Alonso- Sierra can definitely be described as a work of art. The imagery and visualization were done with astounding perfection. The author has a skillful technique of luring her readers into a web of blissful hunger. The words written come to life and are choreographed immaculately. The Book of Hours is a story about a woman who puts her family first above all, even if it means endangering her life and forfeiting her happiness. Will history repeat itself? Is Danger lurking at Gabriela’s doorstep or will someone from her past pay her an unexpected visit? If you want to find out one click now. Secrets will be revealed and the revelation will be mind-blowing. This magnificent book will take you on a journey of love, friendship, family, betrayal, forgiveness, danger and most importantly second chances. I implore you, if you’re reading my review get this series it is amazing. This suspenseful romantic thriller will leave you in an inescapable desire. Do not hesitate to one click five stars guaranteed.

Outstanding***** By Stracey Charran Ishwar on June 11, 2015

One of the best books I have ever read! I couldn’t put it down… Thank you, looking forward to another!

One of the best books I have ever read By John Fitzpatrick on April 22, 2015

What a great read. Could not put the book down since I started reading. the Book of Hours is full of suspense and surprises. Three cheers for the author! Both books capture your interest and keep you hooked until the end.

What a great read. Could not put the book down since … By anitica on April 18, 2015

It didn’t take long to climb back into the world of Gabriella and Richard. Lots of passion and action as Gabriella has a viscous stalker on her tail and Richard comes back after a 4 year absence to help save her. Can work as a sequel to The Coin or stand alone. Couldn’t put this one down.

Riveting story By Pcost on April 4, 2015

I adored The Coin so I was highly anticipating The Book of Hours. And it didn’t disappoint.

Ms. Sierra is a master story teller. The characters of Gabriela and Richard are wonderfully complex and full characters. Gabriela shows so much growth from the first book to this one (set four years later) but she still has the same spirit and humor. She was dealing with a lot and much had changed. What hadn’t changed is that she is once again in danger. Richard is still in love with Gabriela but wanted to give her space to try to make her marriage work. But he was at his ends and was intent on reaching out to her, despite it all. Then he gets a fateful call to help protect her, just the opening he needed.

These two set the pages on fire! They had the same magnetism and passion as the first book but with more maturity. The suspense was well written but not predictable and had many twists and turns. It was fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat. The story had me laughing and crying and anxious to keep reading. I can only hope that at some point we get to see more of these great characters!

Master story teller By A. Cleaver on March 31, 2015

What a wonderful sequel to The Coin. The Book of Hours had me hooked on the first page. I couldn’t put the book down. I really enjoyed the suspense, as in the first book, and enjoyed the love story between the two main characters. I highly recommend this book.

Loved it!! By Yolma de Cardenas on March 28, 2015

The Book of Hours was a literary thrill ride! The characters were passionate and so well-written that you felt like you knew them personally. The story was fast-paced, full of action and interwoven with a great mystery, along with a horrifying bad guy. Who could ask for anything more?! Highly recommend!

Riveting Drama, Action-packed! By Amazon User on March 11, 2015

I couldn’t wait for this sequel to The Coin and The Book of Hours was definitely worth the wait. The author knows how to keep the action going at a fever pitch, but she also keeps the tension between Richard and Gabriela as strong or stronger than it was in “The Coin.” These two are both strong-willed people who also have strong principals. Their love story is one of the best I have read in a long while. Cheers to the author and I hope I don’t have to wait long for another story about these two as they finally are able to be together — because I don’t think the fireworks end with this book.

Their love story is one of the best I have read … By Sandra M. Bruney on February 27, 2015

I have been waiting to read this Book since I finished The Coin and I have to say that the wait was worthwhile! Once again Mrs. Sierra keeps you in nail biting suspense while at the same time engaging you with the intense, passionate relationship of Richard and Gabriela. There are chapters in which I felt like I was watching an episode of Criminal Minds, and others where it was like watching a beautiful love story! I just could not put it down, I even arrived very late at a dinner invitation because I couldn’t stop reading! Highly recommend it!

I have been waiting to read this Book since I … By Irma on February 22, 2015

Award for The Book of Hours

A preview of the excerpt on Amazon should have opened in a new window. If you do not see that window, click on the button below to access the excerpt.

Excerpt Preview on Amazon