Temple of Swoon

Segura (Raiders of the Lost Heart) delights with another Indiana Jones–inspired rom-com set in the Brazilian Amazon. Archaeologist Miriam “Miri” Jacobs aspires to make a name for herself, though she lacks field experience. Opportunity arises when she is unexpectedly appointed co-lead for an expedition in the Amazon to search for the ancient Cidade Perdida da Lua, or the Lost City of the Moon. Handsome journalist Rafael “Rafa” Monfils is hired to document the team’s journey—but also secretly tasked by his father with sabotaging the expedition in order to protect his mother’s legacy as one of the ancient city’s guardians. Miri and Rafa are smitten from their meet-cute at a bus stop, but vow to keep their relationship strictly professional. When they learn that artifact thief Pierre Vautour is also searching for the Moon City, it’s a race against time to beat Vautour and protect the city’s treasures. Segura’s narrative packs in set pieces worthy of an adventure movie, including vine swinging and a boat fight. A subplot about Miri coming into her own as an archaeologist is slightly rushed on the way to a too convenient ending, but readers will find plenty to enjoy in the central couple’s playful dynamic. It’s a diverting romp. Agent: Eva Scalzo, Speilburg Literary. (Jan.)