Welcome author Tim Smith

I’m pleased to be Dawn’s guest today to present my latest romantic thriller Warning Shot from eXtasy Books. This is the third installment in the Nick Seven spy series, featuring my two most popular characters, former CIA spooks Nick Seven and Felicia Hagens. They were featured in the best-selling books Memories Die Last and Never Look Back. Although this is part of a series, the books do not need to be read in order, as each one is a stand-alone adventure.

For the uninitiated, Nick and Felicia live in Key Largo, Florida, where they fled to get away from the spy game and intrigue. Nick is a moody action hero plagued by memories of things from his past, and Felicia is the Barbadian beauty who was once his co-worker. This installment finds them helping Nick’s former mentor from his spy days when it appears that this person has gotten involved in something he shouldn’t have.

Nick Seven and Felicia Hagens left the CIA for the laidback ease of the Florida Keys, leaving behind a life of intrigue. When Nick’s former mentor becomes part of a conspiracy with international repercussions, Nick breaks his self-imposed exile to stop him. The case throws Nick and Felicia into a juggernaut of espionage, government cover-ups and political assassinations. Will they succeed in stopping the plan in time? Can their relationship survive another unwanted adventure?

I think this is the fastest-paced thriller I’ve ever written, with something for everyone – action, great atmosphere, realistic characters and dialogue, humor, and enough heat between Nick and Felicia to make Key West in July feel like Alaska. There’s also a very strong romantic element between the two leads, one that keeps evolving and getting stronger with each new episode. Here’s an example: 

Nick brought Felicia’s hand to his mouth then kissed it. “That’s one of the reasons I’m glad I have you around. You always keep me focused.”

“Is that the only reason you’re glad I’m around?”

“No, but it’s a long list.”

She sat on his lap then ran her fingers through his hair. “I’ve got nothin’ but time, Tough Guy.”

He caressed her cheek “You’re resourceful, self-confident and independent.”

“You just described a Boy Scout. Can’t you do better than that?”

He kissed her. “You’re incredibly hot, passionate about everything and waking up next to you makes all my teenaged dreams come true.” He paused. “Plus you make a mean stir-fried shrimp.”

Felicia laughed and lightly smacked his arm. “Is that the best you’ve got? You were always better at foreplay.”

“You make me feel alive and I can’t wait to start every day all over again with you.”

She cupped his cheek and peered into his eyes. “That’s what I was gonna say. It’s kinda hard to explain but when I first saw you, all that time ago in London, it was like a jolt of electricity went through me. Then when you quit and I went back to Barbados, I felt this big empty inside, like somethin’ vital had been taken away.”

He traced her jaw with his fingers. “Same thing I felt. I’m glad we finally got together.”

                                                                        * * * *

I’ve been asked why I chose the Florida Keys as the setting for this series. When I sat down to write the first one, I asked myself a question – if I were a former spy who wanted to start over, where would I go? Since I had recently returned from a trip there, the answer was obvious. The atmosphere lends itself to anonymity, because people basically don’t care who you are or where you came from. In doing research I discovered that the Keys have a lot of former cops and government operatives among its nameless residents. That sealed it for me.

If you’re looking for a terrific poolside read this summer, take a trip to the Florida Keys with Nick and Felicia in Warning Shot. It’s a fun ride!

Find Warning Shot at Amazon

Bio:

Tim Smith is an award-winning, bestselling author whose books range from romantic mystery/thrillers to contemporary erotic romance. He is also a freelance photographer. When he isn’t pursuing those two passions, he can be found in the Florida Keys, doing research in between parasailing and seeking out the perfect Mojito. His website is www.timsmithauthor.com.