Beneath Mediterranean skies
Second Chance At Sea
A second chance doesn't ask permission — it just shows up. In this sequel to Love, Uncharted, Olivia Carter follows her heart across the Mediterranean, from Naples to Santorini to Venice, and discovers that some doors, once opened, are worth walking through completely. Book two in KJB Alan's Uncharted Horizons series — inspired by real cruise ports and the real magic of falling in love again.
About the Book
Olivia Carter thought Civitavecchia would be simple: step off the plane, board the ship, and find out if what started in the Caribbean was real — or if she'd crossed an ocean chasing something that had already faded. She never expected to find Lance Donovan waiting for her on the waterfront before she'd even reached the ship.
What follows is a summer neither of them planned for. From the sun-worn streets of Naples — where a driver named Ciro shows them a city most tourists never see — to the ancient stillness of Pompeii, the volcanic vineyards above Vesuvius, and a quiet hillside chapel in Kusadasi that asks more of Olivia than she's ready to give, Beneath Mediterranean Skies follows two people learning that love the second time around doesn't erase what came before. It asks you to carry it forward instead.
Through Santorini's caldera, the canals of Venice, and the golden hills of Chianti, Olivia and Lance discover that falling in love again means more than reaching for someone new — it means finally letting go of the careful, guarded version of yourself you built to survive. And in Rome, beneath centuries of stone and gold and sky, they find out just how far they're both willing to go for a second chance neither of them saw coming.
Beneath Mediterranean Skies is the second novel in the Uncharted Horizons series — inspired by more than thirty years of real cruising, real ports, and the belief that the best love stories are the ones grounded in something true.
Everything in this book is real except the names and the story.
The Uncharted Horizons Series is a collection of contemporary romance novels that combine unforgettable love stories with authentic travel experiences from around the world. Each book is a standalone romance featuring new characters, a new destination, and an emotionally rich journey of healing, friendship, and second chances.
From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the timeless beauty of the Mediterranean, the canals of Amsterdam, the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska and Iceland, and beyond, every novel is inspired by real places personally visited by author KJB Alan. While each story and its characters are entirely fictional, the destinations, local culture, and many of the experiences are drawn from real-life travels, allowing readers to explore the world through the eyes of unforgettable characters.
Whether you're searching for a travel romance, vacation romance, cruise ship romance, or a heartfelt contemporary love story, the Uncharted Horizons series invites you to discover that life's greatest adventures—and the greatest love stories—often begin with a single journey.
Meet the Characters
Olivia Carter
Olivia Carter never expected to travel without her husband. After his passing, she withdrew from the world, finding comfort in familiar routines and the memories they had built together. When her best friend unexpectedly offers her the spare cabin on a Southern Caribbean cruise, Olivia reluctantly agrees, believing it's simply a chance to honor the trip she and her husband had once planned. Instead, the journey becomes one of healing, self-discovery, and the realization that opening her heart again doesn't mean leaving the past behind.
Inspired by Real Places
One of the things that makes Beneath Mediterranean Skies unique is its authentic sense of place. While the characters, dialogue, and story are entirely fictional, the destinations featured throughout the novel are inspired by real locations personally visited by author KJB Alan.
From the sun-drenched waterfront of Civitavecchia to the winding streets of Naples, the ancient ruins of Pompeii, and the volcanic vineyards above Mount Vesuvius, readers experience these remarkable destinations through the eyes of Olivia and Lance. The journey continues through the quiet hillside chapel of the House of Mary near Kusadasi, the turquoise coves of Santorini, the sun-drenched islands of Mykonos and Delos, the golden hills of Chianti, the canals of Venice, and the timeless streets of Rome. Many of the ports, landmarks, excursions, restaurants, and memorable moments are drawn from real travel experiences, bringing each destination to life with the details only firsthand experience can provide.
Whether you've sailed the Mediterranean before or dream of visiting someday, Beneath Mediterranean Skies offers more than a romance—it invites you to experience the beauty, culture, and adventure of the journey alongside its characters.
Every destination is real. Every emotion is genuine. Every love story is unforgettable.
Reader Reviews
Amazon Reviews
“A masterpiece of cruise romance. The attention to detail in the Caribbean settings made me feel like I was back on the deck of a ship.”
Verified Reviewers
continue the journey
The Romance Readers Lounge is the official reader community for KJB Alan. Discuss the Uncharted Horizons series, explore the real destinations behind the novels, receive exclusive previews, and connect with readers who love contemporary romance, cruise travel, and unforgettable adventures.
The Uncharted Horizons Series
Lance Donovan
Lance Donovan has spent his career building a reputation as one of the brightest minds in corporate finance. After years of helping others achieve success, he finally decided it was time to pursue his own vision. The decision cost him more than he expected when his longtime fiancée walked away, unable to accept the uncertainty that came with leaving the security of corporate life. Now, while quietly working aboard a Southern Caribbean cruise ship on a confidential assignment, Lance finds himself questioning whether success is measured by career achievements alone—or by the connections we make along the way.
Goodreads Reviews
“Olivia and Lance's journey is a slow-burn perfection. It captures the healing power of the ocean and the courage to find love again.”
Reading Community
Buy the Book
Kara
Kara is Olivia's best friend, biggest cheerleader, and the one person who refuses to let grief have the final word. Sharp-witted, outspoken, and always ready with a perfectly timed quip, she convinces Olivia to accept the spare cabin on a Southern Caribbean cruise after another passenger cancels. Beneath her playful humor is a fiercely loyal friend who knows that sometimes the greatest act of love is encouraging someone to take the first step toward living again.
Editorial Reviews
“Lushly described and emotionally resonant, this debut novel is a captivating voyage.”
Industry Critics
Emily
Emily is the calm voice of reason within Olivia's circle of friends. Thoughtful, organized, and quietly compassionate, she understands that healing can't be rushed—but she also knows it won't happen without taking the first step. While Kara provides the gentle push, Emily offers unwavering support and thoughtful encouragement, reminding Olivia that even life's most difficult chapters can lead to new beginnings.
Reader Testimonials
“I couldn't put it down. It felt like I was right there in the Caribbean with them.”
Book Lovers
Frequently Asked Questions: Beneath Mediterranean Skies
Is Beneath Mediterranean Skies part of a series?
Yes. Beneath Mediterranean Skies is Book Two in the Uncharted Horizons series by KJB Alan. While the books feature some recurring characters, each tells a complete story and works as a standalone novel.
Where does Beneath Mediterranean Skies take place?
The journey unfolds across the Mediterranean Sea, visiting authentic locations like Naples, Santorini, Venice, and Rome. Every port and landmark featured is based on real-world destinations visited by KJB Alan.
Is Beneath Mediterranean Skies based on a real cruise?
While the plot is fictional, the travel experiences, ship life, and shore excursions are all inspired by the author's genuine voyages, ensuring an immersive and realistic Mediterranean setting for the reader.
What type of romance is Beneath Mediterranean Skies?
It is a contemporary slow-burn cruise romance that explores themes of healing and second chances. The story prioritizes deep emotional connections and realistic character growth over instant attraction.
Who should read Beneath Mediterranean Skies?
This novel is ideal for anyone who loves travel-inspired fiction, cruise ship settings, and heartfelt contemporary romance. It’s perfect for readers seeking an emotional and atmospheric journey through Europe.
Can I read this book if I've never been on a cruise?
Absolutely. The story is crafted to welcome everyone, whether you are a veteran cruiser or have never stepped foot on a deck, allowing you to discover the beauty of the Mediterranean through the characters.
Does Beneath Mediterranean Skies have open-door romance?
Yes. It contains open-door romance with intimate, emotionally charged scenes that are central to the relationship's development. The focus remains on the authentic bond between Olivia and Lance.
Where can I purchase Beneath Mediterranean Skies?
Beneath Mediterranean Skies is available on Amazon in Kindle, paperback, and hardcover editions. You can also visit KJB Alan's website for updates on the Uncharted Horizons series and new releases.