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Berlin Calling: Steamy, song contest romantic comedy
Rose writes twee pop, smiles a lot, and believes in magic and rainbows. When the cheesy love song she wrote is chosen for the European Song Contest, her luck seems to be turning around – especially when a chance encounter leads the hottest one-night stand of her life. It’s almost too bad she’ll never see him again.
But then Rose discovers it wasn’t a chance encounter. The hot German DJ with the sexy deep voice is her rival for song contest glory.
Grumpy Emil is incredibly talented and the song he spins with his sister could be a winner, even if he doesn’t appreciate the playful spirit of the contest. As the continent falls in love with Rose and Emil’s competitive banter on social media, they must hide their history from the press or risk losing credibility – and a future songwriting career.
With an anonymous gossip out to ridicule the colourful contestants and a plot to undermine European public broadcasting bubbling under the shiny surface, Rose must be strong in the face of criticism and stand up for everything the contest means to her.
If this Canadian girl can save the contest, maybe she can believe that her feelings for Emil are the real deal.
But then Rose discovers it wasn’t a chance encounter. The hot German DJ with the sexy deep voice is her rival for song contest glory.
Grumpy Emil is incredibly talented and the song he spins with his sister could be a winner, even if he doesn’t appreciate the playful spirit of the contest. As the continent falls in love with Rose and Emil’s competitive banter on social media, they must hide their history from the press or risk losing credibility – and a future songwriting career.
With an anonymous gossip out to ridicule the colourful contestants and a plot to undermine European public broadcasting bubbling under the shiny surface, Rose must be strong in the face of criticism and stand up for everything the contest means to her.
If this Canadian girl can save the contest, maybe she can believe that her feelings for Emil are the real deal.
- GenresRomance
316 pages, Paperback
Published December 13, 2022
1 person is currently reading
83 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 11, 2023
I’m not going to lie when Lilo Moore offered me this book for an honest review and told me it was spicy I jumped at the chance to read it and I wasn’t disappointed 😏😏😏
So while I’ve never seen a European Song Contest, I did grow up with American Idol and this gave me serious Idol vibes. But in this story I got to go behind the scenes with the contests and see what is really going on and who is hooking up. They didn’t show any of the good stuff on Idol.
So…Rose is a song writer and she has written a fun and upbeat love song which has been chosen to represent the UK in this European Song Contest. However, on the day she gets word that her song was picked and she is going to Berlin for the show, she meets Emil. Emil is delicious and they end up having a one night stand before he heads home to Germany. Well, come to find out he and his sister will be representing Germany in this contest.
Now Rose’s very hot one night stand is her rival and it makes it super awkward when they met up in Berlin, especially since she gave him a fake number after their hook-up 😬😬😬😬
This was adorable and witty and steamy! Loved it!
So while I’ve never seen a European Song Contest, I did grow up with American Idol and this gave me serious Idol vibes. But in this story I got to go behind the scenes with the contests and see what is really going on and who is hooking up. They didn’t show any of the good stuff on Idol.
So…Rose is a song writer and she has written a fun and upbeat love song which has been chosen to represent the UK in this European Song Contest. However, on the day she gets word that her song was picked and she is going to Berlin for the show, she meets Emil. Emil is delicious and they end up having a one night stand before he heads home to Germany. Well, come to find out he and his sister will be representing Germany in this contest.
Now Rose’s very hot one night stand is her rival and it makes it super awkward when they met up in Berlin, especially since she gave him a fake number after their hook-up 😬😬😬😬
This was adorable and witty and steamy! Loved it!
January 5, 2023
I received an ARC for this novel, and I DEVOURED it! It’s was funny, spicy, charming, heart-wrenching, and all the things you want in a good romance.
In this homage to EuroVision, Rose has dreamt of being on the European Song Contest since she was a little girl. In celebration of being selected, she has a FIRE one night stand with Emil, only to learn later he’s the act for Germany. The rivalry, and intense chemistry, between sunshine Rose and grumpy Emil is irresistible!
But beyond the romance, which was fantastic, it’s a beautiful celebration of the weird world of EuroVision. I’ve never watched, but this made me want to! There’s a beautiful and diverse cast of characters, and the plot revolves around celebrating differences and how beautiful life can be when people are allowed to be authentic in all they do.
I’m so happy I had the chance to read this, and I can’t wait to read Beerfest next!
In this homage to EuroVision, Rose has dreamt of being on the European Song Contest since she was a little girl. In celebration of being selected, she has a FIRE one night stand with Emil, only to learn later he’s the act for Germany. The rivalry, and intense chemistry, between sunshine Rose and grumpy Emil is irresistible!
But beyond the romance, which was fantastic, it’s a beautiful celebration of the weird world of EuroVision. I’ve never watched, but this made me want to! There’s a beautiful and diverse cast of characters, and the plot revolves around celebrating differences and how beautiful life can be when people are allowed to be authentic in all they do.
I’m so happy I had the chance to read this, and I can’t wait to read Beerfest next!
January 17, 2023
Whether you love Eurovision, or you just enjoy reading about music and the behind-the-scenes of live performances, this is a really fun read!
It was super entertaining, and I read it almost in one sitting. While the romance is central to the story, I loved how large a role the song contest played, in how much detail all of the events were described, and how much we saw Rose interact with all of the other characters.
I do have to admit Rose sometimes got on my nerves a little bit, as I found her a tad too naive at times. But this was also acknowledged within the story, and it was a good way to delve into how Eurovision is often seen as apolitical but that's an impossible way to be. I did think she grew as a character, especially in the last 100 pages. And I did absolutely love Emil!
It was super entertaining, and I read it almost in one sitting. While the romance is central to the story, I loved how large a role the song contest played, in how much detail all of the events were described, and how much we saw Rose interact with all of the other characters.
I do have to admit Rose sometimes got on my nerves a little bit, as I found her a tad too naive at times. But this was also acknowledged within the story, and it was a good way to delve into how Eurovision is often seen as apolitical but that's an impossible way to be. I did think she grew as a character, especially in the last 100 pages. And I did absolutely love Emil!
January 22, 2023
LILO MOORE: BERLIN CALLING
I will admit to be slightly over excited to get my paws on this title, having heard so many good things about it.
It promised to be a raunchy - euro romp, so did it deliver?
…..Well, yes, to be fair, it delivered what it promised and more.
Lilo Moore, is the new pen name from successful author Leonie Mack, whose books I have previously enjoyed.
What can I tell you about Berlin Calling?
Let’s start at the beginning.
Rose is a feisty, if a little naive, redhead. She is a girl who loves her Doc Marten boots and colourful clothes.
A chance meeting in a London pub, with the beautiful and beguiling Emil, leads to a hot night of steamy bedroom shenanigans.
Rose puts the one night stand behind her, but definitely doesn’t forget Emil, and focuses on the upcoming Eurovision song contest, for which she has written the Uk entry.
It soon transpires that Emil has his own connection to the contest and that the pair cannot walk away from each other quite as easily as Rose had planned.
The characters in the book are a vibrant, global mix of quirky and eclectic people who you will adore.
Rose is a bundle of energy and really grows as a person throughout the story.
Emil, the euro stud, smoulders from the pages.
The story trots along at a nice speed. It has a modern and fresh feel, while still encompassing the tradition of Eurovision.
Lilo Moore writes with more raunch than Leonie Mack. Yes, there is rumpy-pumpy, yes, it is described in some detail. However, it is fruity rather than explicit, and unless you are very easily offended, it won’t effect your enjoyment of the story.
To sum up, Berlin Calling, is a fun, saucy, romp of a read, with a sweet and touching love story at it’s heart. Not forgetting of course, the bold and brash song contest that shines over all the goings on in this brilliant book.
Some of the social media stuff went over my head, but that’s more down to the fact that I am old and slow, and it really didn’t spoil the book for me at all.
I adored this book. It has great humour and made me laugh. There are more serious threads that made me think and a love story that melted my heart.
Berlin Calling is a fun, fresh, fruity and fabulous, Euro extravaganza. You cannot fail to fall in love with this outstanding romp - com.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to #Rachel’sRandomRespurces for an early copy of this title.
I will admit to be slightly over excited to get my paws on this title, having heard so many good things about it.
It promised to be a raunchy - euro romp, so did it deliver?
…..Well, yes, to be fair, it delivered what it promised and more.
Lilo Moore, is the new pen name from successful author Leonie Mack, whose books I have previously enjoyed.
What can I tell you about Berlin Calling?
Let’s start at the beginning.
Rose is a feisty, if a little naive, redhead. She is a girl who loves her Doc Marten boots and colourful clothes.
A chance meeting in a London pub, with the beautiful and beguiling Emil, leads to a hot night of steamy bedroom shenanigans.
Rose puts the one night stand behind her, but definitely doesn’t forget Emil, and focuses on the upcoming Eurovision song contest, for which she has written the Uk entry.
It soon transpires that Emil has his own connection to the contest and that the pair cannot walk away from each other quite as easily as Rose had planned.
The characters in the book are a vibrant, global mix of quirky and eclectic people who you will adore.
Rose is a bundle of energy and really grows as a person throughout the story.
Emil, the euro stud, smoulders from the pages.
The story trots along at a nice speed. It has a modern and fresh feel, while still encompassing the tradition of Eurovision.
Lilo Moore writes with more raunch than Leonie Mack. Yes, there is rumpy-pumpy, yes, it is described in some detail. However, it is fruity rather than explicit, and unless you are very easily offended, it won’t effect your enjoyment of the story.
To sum up, Berlin Calling, is a fun, saucy, romp of a read, with a sweet and touching love story at it’s heart. Not forgetting of course, the bold and brash song contest that shines over all the goings on in this brilliant book.
Some of the social media stuff went over my head, but that’s more down to the fact that I am old and slow, and it really didn’t spoil the book for me at all.
I adored this book. It has great humour and made me laugh. There are more serious threads that made me think and a love story that melted my heart.
Berlin Calling is a fun, fresh, fruity and fabulous, Euro extravaganza. You cannot fail to fall in love with this outstanding romp - com.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to #Rachel’sRandomRespurces for an early copy of this title.
February 12, 2023
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy of Berlin Calling in exchange of an honest review.
To be honest, I struggled with this book… this wasn’t a bad book by any means, as evident by all the glowing reviews on Goodreads, however I think this book just happened to not be for me.
Even though I’m not a fan of Eurovision (I know, I’m terrible), I really liked the premise of this book, however there were some aspects I struggled with. Firstly, the main character, Rose. I really wanted to love Rose, and while I definitely didn’t hate her, I definitely struggled to like her at times, especially at the beginning of the book. Rose is a very naive character, and while this in itself is fine, it sometimes felt that her ignorance and naivety were just way too much for my liking.
I really liked so many aspects of this story, but there was one running theme for me, I wish they had been developed more! The main three aspects of the story I want to highlight is the politics that come into play, as well as the social media war and the mystery Instagram. I would’ve loved to have seen that explored more.
Another thing that I personally struggled with was the writing style, at times it felt a little too juvenile for me, especially for a book written for adults. Also, this book had a little too much spice for my liking, but I’m probably in the minority here… 😂
There was definitely some things I really enjoyed about Berlin Calling. I loved Emil’s character and his relationship with Daria was very enjoyable, I would’ve loved to have seen more of that, rather than just through Rose’s eyes. Also, I’m a sucker for the sunshine/grumpy trope so I loved that! Another thing I noticed and loved was the diverse side characters.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining read, however just not the book for me.
To be honest, I struggled with this book… this wasn’t a bad book by any means, as evident by all the glowing reviews on Goodreads, however I think this book just happened to not be for me.
Even though I’m not a fan of Eurovision (I know, I’m terrible), I really liked the premise of this book, however there were some aspects I struggled with. Firstly, the main character, Rose. I really wanted to love Rose, and while I definitely didn’t hate her, I definitely struggled to like her at times, especially at the beginning of the book. Rose is a very naive character, and while this in itself is fine, it sometimes felt that her ignorance and naivety were just way too much for my liking.
I really liked so many aspects of this story, but there was one running theme for me, I wish they had been developed more! The main three aspects of the story I want to highlight is the politics that come into play, as well as the social media war and the mystery Instagram. I would’ve loved to have seen that explored more.
Another thing that I personally struggled with was the writing style, at times it felt a little too juvenile for me, especially for a book written for adults. Also, this book had a little too much spice for my liking, but I’m probably in the minority here… 😂
There was definitely some things I really enjoyed about Berlin Calling. I loved Emil’s character and his relationship with Daria was very enjoyable, I would’ve loved to have seen more of that, rather than just through Rose’s eyes. Also, I’m a sucker for the sunshine/grumpy trope so I loved that! Another thing I noticed and loved was the diverse side characters.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining read, however just not the book for me.
January 15, 2023
This book is the perfect antidote to the grey January days following Christmas!
Full of fun, sparkles and unashamedly romantic moments, I flew through it in a couple of days.
Confession - I’m not a particular fan of the Eurovision Song Contest. I don’t dislike it but I don’t put myself out to watch it either - and yet this year, I think I might! This book won me over with its optimism and the beautiful, supportive, community of performing artists.
Oh, and did I mention the chemistry? Berlin Calling starts off hot and does not fizzle out. If grumpy/sunshine is your romance trope of choice, this book was made for you!
Full of fun, sparkles and unashamedly romantic moments, I flew through it in a couple of days.
Confession - I’m not a particular fan of the Eurovision Song Contest. I don’t dislike it but I don’t put myself out to watch it either - and yet this year, I think I might! This book won me over with its optimism and the beautiful, supportive, community of performing artists.
Oh, and did I mention the chemistry? Berlin Calling starts off hot and does not fizzle out. If grumpy/sunshine is your romance trope of choice, this book was made for you!
May 9, 2023
Fantastically fun Eurovision romp - everything you'd expect from a book about the contest.
January 20, 2023
If you’re a fan of all things Eurovision, you are going to love this book. Filled with glitz, glitter and Germans, it has everything you’d want from the contest and more.
A one night stand leads to a public love/hate relationship that takes over the build-up to the biggest night in Europop. Rose is the biggest fan of Eurovision there is and is representing the UK even though she’s from Canada, well she wrote the song anyway! Emil is half of the German duo that is all moody and seems to be the furthest from a fan that you’d ever meet.
Their relationship is a bit steamy in places, and cute as you like in others. I really enjoyed this book, but did find some of the political bits a bit heavy for this story, they were important lessons but I’m not sure they fitted in. But Eurovision is a bit out there so anything goes! Overall, a fab easy read with all the fun and frolics of the real competition.
A one night stand leads to a public love/hate relationship that takes over the build-up to the biggest night in Europop. Rose is the biggest fan of Eurovision there is and is representing the UK even though she’s from Canada, well she wrote the song anyway! Emil is half of the German duo that is all moody and seems to be the furthest from a fan that you’d ever meet.
Their relationship is a bit steamy in places, and cute as you like in others. I really enjoyed this book, but did find some of the political bits a bit heavy for this story, they were important lessons but I’m not sure they fitted in. But Eurovision is a bit out there so anything goes! Overall, a fab easy read with all the fun and frolics of the real competition.
January 30, 2023
Lilo Moore scores douze points!
I need to get something off my chest before we begin. What’s a Tangents review without a wee confession? *squeezes eyes shut* Here goes… I’mnotafanoftheEurovisionSongContest *gasps* There! I’ve said it. Digest, peeps, and let’s move on *waves hand*.
When I heard one of my favourite authors was unleashing her steamy romcom alter ego I could hardly contain myself. And ooh did she bring it!
You remember Amy Adams as Giselle in Enchanted? Well, Rose is the European Song Contest version of Giselle. She is all the colours of the rainbow combined with unicorns and glitter in one seggsy sassy package. Rose never meets a stranger and her heart is worn very much on her sleeve. I. Loved. Her.
I have one word to describe the chemistry between Emil and Rose; incendiary! *whispers* The whole pinning to the door thing… *wafts top* I won’t be forgetting that in a hurry, I tell you *winks*.
*groans* How is it possible for one man to emote so much without saying a word? Those eyes of his! Let’s face it, Emil is a grump with a capital G but Rose is his kryptonite. Rivals, schmivals! And the way he was with his sister, Daria?! I. Was. A. Goner!
I can admit to being a nosy bee-atch (shocker, eh?) so the mystery element of who was behind the gossip social media account added a fab twist to the story. I was ready to kick some booty and start taking names!
Full of camaraderie (Rose’s friendships with the other contestants/countries), the ups and downs of social media, a has-been or two (to be expected!) and current socio-political issues, BC is the perfect homage to the much loved Eurovision Song Contest with a romance to set your nether regions on fire!
Next up is Beerfest, I can’t wait!
I need to get something off my chest before we begin. What’s a Tangents review without a wee confession? *squeezes eyes shut* Here goes… I’mnotafanoftheEurovisionSongContest *gasps* There! I’ve said it. Digest, peeps, and let’s move on *waves hand*.
When I heard one of my favourite authors was unleashing her steamy romcom alter ego I could hardly contain myself. And ooh did she bring it!
You remember Amy Adams as Giselle in Enchanted? Well, Rose is the European Song Contest version of Giselle. She is all the colours of the rainbow combined with unicorns and glitter in one seggsy sassy package. Rose never meets a stranger and her heart is worn very much on her sleeve. I. Loved. Her.
I have one word to describe the chemistry between Emil and Rose; incendiary! *whispers* The whole pinning to the door thing… *wafts top* I won’t be forgetting that in a hurry, I tell you *winks*.
*groans* How is it possible for one man to emote so much without saying a word? Those eyes of his! Let’s face it, Emil is a grump with a capital G but Rose is his kryptonite. Rivals, schmivals! And the way he was with his sister, Daria?! I. Was. A. Goner!
I can admit to being a nosy bee-atch (shocker, eh?) so the mystery element of who was behind the gossip social media account added a fab twist to the story. I was ready to kick some booty and start taking names!
Full of camaraderie (Rose’s friendships with the other contestants/countries), the ups and downs of social media, a has-been or two (to be expected!) and current socio-political issues, BC is the perfect homage to the much loved Eurovision Song Contest with a romance to set your nether regions on fire!
Next up is Beerfest, I can’t wait!
July 3, 2023
This was one of the most refreshing romance books I've read in ages. Packed full of cutting humour, cutesy imagery and MUCH anticipated steaminess, I loved how pulled in I was by this story. The book goes all-out kitsch with its evocation of the setting - the European Song Contest bursting onto the pages with all of the hoped-for glitz, glamour and giddiness. But it's not all flashy flamboyance as many of the characters are exercising their political views as well as their musical talents, and that makes for some thrilling conflict. This is a love story between Rose and Emil which sparks right from the start, growing slowly with increasing desire, drama and - what I loved most of all - exquisite humour. I'll definitely look forward to more from Lilo Moore.
February 17, 2023
Unbezahlte Werbung | Rezensionsexemplar
You are looking for a book that makes you giggle, takes place in Berlin at the European Song Contest, and has some spice?
Well, in this case you should check this book out.
C O V E R:
First of all, can we please appreciate this cover? Isn't it absolutely beautiful? It definitely counts to one of the prettiest cover for me!
W R I T I N G S T Y L E:
I really liked the humorous writing style! It was an easy read and the chapters had the perfect length. What I really liked were the few German words that are "included" whenever Daria and Emil talk. It made the protagonists Emil and Daria - who are no native English speakers - more "authentic" (It were only a handful of words that you can understand in the context).
P L O T:
Rose gets the opportunity to represent the UK at the European Song Contest taking place in Berlin. For her, this is a dream come true.
The day she signs the contract, she meets a very attractive guy named Emil in a bar who visits London with his sister Daria. It doesn't take long until Rose and Emil leave together and have a ONS. This ONS, however, is different. Even though they don't know each other, they somehow develop feelings for each other. But both of them know that this is a one-time thing... Therefore, Rose leaves the same night while he is asleep and gives him a wrong phone number because she won't see him again anyway... At least that's what she thought. A few months later, all the contestants that will be part of this year's European Song Contest, get revealed. And guess who is representing Germany with his sister? Right. Emil.
For Rose, this is a shock. It would be weird to see him again, after she left him and gave him a wrong number... Therefore, she thinks it's a good idea to start a rivalry with him on social media...
When being in Berlin for the preparations and the contest itself, Emil and Rose encounter again. This time, however, they are rivals and try to stay away from each other.... Without success. The two of them can't deny that their feelings didn't vanish and, therefore, they repeat that one night back in London over and over again.
While the tension between Rose and Emil increases, they also drift further apart. It's kind of a back and forth... Talking about feelings is not really their strength, because of what I really wanted to shake both of them badly so that they finally talk with each other properly about everything!
Furthermore, while developing friendships with the other contestants, there is an Instagram Account named @eurogossip that tries to to ruin the contest and spreads rumors about the contestants... For Rose, who loves to see the world through rose-tinted glasses, this is not acceptable, because of what she tries to find out who the person behind the account is.
While the book shows the magic of music and the contest, it also addresses the political controversies in the Eurovision Song Contest. I really like how it's done.
P R O T A G O N I S T S:
Rose is the kind of woman that sees the world through rose-tinted glasses... She is a little bit naive and just tries to see the good in everyone.
That's als why pretty everyone at the contest likes her and becomes friends with her. And while she encourages everyone and sees the best in everyone, she is lacking this herself. Emil, however, shows her that she is beautiful and talented and that she shouldn't hide at all (it was really cute how Emil talked to her and treated her!!). She, however, is afraid to get hurt again... She has had bad experiences when it comes to serious relationships, because of which she tries to not fall in love with Emil.
Emil is a gentleman! He treats Rose very well and one could only see the "hearts in his eyes"! But just like Rose, he doesn't want to be hurt again. That's why both of them try to deny their feelings for each other and don't talk openly with each other. They both know that after the contest, they will go back to where they live and not see each other again...
While being rivals in public, they use the time they have to secretly develope even more feelings for each other and to have fun ( ;) ).
The other protagonists like Vija, Lina,
Daria, Pyotr, etc. were also really cool! I liked the whole group of contestants and the way they stick together.
S U M M A R I Z E D:
This is a really cute and humorous romcom. It's an easy and joyful read I can definitely recommend.
Here some key points to give you an idea of the book:
- "Love at first sight"
- The European Song Contest/passion for music
- Friendship
- Soft Enemies-To-Lovers
- Some spice
- Berlin as a setting
- A romanticized romcom
You are looking for a book that makes you giggle, takes place in Berlin at the European Song Contest, and has some spice?
Well, in this case you should check this book out.
C O V E R:
First of all, can we please appreciate this cover? Isn't it absolutely beautiful? It definitely counts to one of the prettiest cover for me!
W R I T I N G S T Y L E:
I really liked the humorous writing style! It was an easy read and the chapters had the perfect length. What I really liked were the few German words that are "included" whenever Daria and Emil talk. It made the protagonists Emil and Daria - who are no native English speakers - more "authentic" (It were only a handful of words that you can understand in the context).
P L O T:
Rose gets the opportunity to represent the UK at the European Song Contest taking place in Berlin. For her, this is a dream come true.
The day she signs the contract, she meets a very attractive guy named Emil in a bar who visits London with his sister Daria. It doesn't take long until Rose and Emil leave together and have a ONS. This ONS, however, is different. Even though they don't know each other, they somehow develop feelings for each other. But both of them know that this is a one-time thing... Therefore, Rose leaves the same night while he is asleep and gives him a wrong phone number because she won't see him again anyway... At least that's what she thought. A few months later, all the contestants that will be part of this year's European Song Contest, get revealed. And guess who is representing Germany with his sister? Right. Emil.
For Rose, this is a shock. It would be weird to see him again, after she left him and gave him a wrong number... Therefore, she thinks it's a good idea to start a rivalry with him on social media...
When being in Berlin for the preparations and the contest itself, Emil and Rose encounter again. This time, however, they are rivals and try to stay away from each other.... Without success. The two of them can't deny that their feelings didn't vanish and, therefore, they repeat that one night back in London over and over again.
While the tension between Rose and Emil increases, they also drift further apart. It's kind of a back and forth... Talking about feelings is not really their strength, because of what I really wanted to shake both of them badly so that they finally talk with each other properly about everything!
Furthermore, while developing friendships with the other contestants, there is an Instagram Account named @eurogossip that tries to to ruin the contest and spreads rumors about the contestants... For Rose, who loves to see the world through rose-tinted glasses, this is not acceptable, because of what she tries to find out who the person behind the account is.
While the book shows the magic of music and the contest, it also addresses the political controversies in the Eurovision Song Contest. I really like how it's done.
P R O T A G O N I S T S:
Rose is the kind of woman that sees the world through rose-tinted glasses... She is a little bit naive and just tries to see the good in everyone.
That's als why pretty everyone at the contest likes her and becomes friends with her. And while she encourages everyone and sees the best in everyone, she is lacking this herself. Emil, however, shows her that she is beautiful and talented and that she shouldn't hide at all (it was really cute how Emil talked to her and treated her!!). She, however, is afraid to get hurt again... She has had bad experiences when it comes to serious relationships, because of which she tries to not fall in love with Emil.
Emil is a gentleman! He treats Rose very well and one could only see the "hearts in his eyes"! But just like Rose, he doesn't want to be hurt again. That's why both of them try to deny their feelings for each other and don't talk openly with each other. They both know that after the contest, they will go back to where they live and not see each other again...
While being rivals in public, they use the time they have to secretly develope even more feelings for each other and to have fun ( ;) ).
The other protagonists like Vija, Lina,
Daria, Pyotr, etc. were also really cool! I liked the whole group of contestants and the way they stick together.
S U M M A R I Z E D:
This is a really cute and humorous romcom. It's an easy and joyful read I can definitely recommend.
Here some key points to give you an idea of the book:
- "Love at first sight"
- The European Song Contest/passion for music
- Friendship
- Soft Enemies-To-Lovers
- Some spice
- Berlin as a setting
- A romanticized romcom
January 9, 2023
Thanks to Book Sirens,I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am struggling to rate this book. This might already be on the list for disappointing books of 2023.
To me, this is a 1 star book, maybe a 1.5 for plot potential
I want to start this review off as this was not a book for me. I know others will love it but I did not.
Spoilers... I guess... I really don't care
Things I did not like:
1. The main female character
2. The not conflict, conflicts
3. The racial and sexist undertones disguised as "growth" and "understanding"
4. The subplot
1. Rose is the female main character and we are introduced to her as this "rainbows and unicorns" lady that radiates too much "pick-me" girl energy or even "manic, pixie dream girl" vibes. I SIMPLY could not stand it. She doesn't curse but instead says sillier words (I will point out that later in the book she does cuss and we are supposed to think that is "growth"... smh). Rose has an inner dialogue that is inconsistent and for some reason that irked me. For example, she refers to herself as "panicky rose" in the second chapter a minimum of 10 times and then NEVER AGAIN in a 400+ book. It made it seem like it was a part of her but it wasn't? The small inconsistencies really turned me off.
2. There was so much unnecessary conflict in this book that was not explained well. I get it, there needs to be conflict in a romance story because the audience is supposed to wonder "will they/won't they" - okay got it. However, everything else in this book was not explained. There is a conflict between Daria (Emil's sister) and Rose, and for the LIFE of me, I am still FUCKING confused. Is it because Rose makes spoofs of videos? Is it because she is sleeping with her brother? I don't know and even when they had their moment to clear the air it was still confusing because of Daria. I never really had her motives explained in a way that made sense for how mad she was about EVERYTHING.
3. I am still very confused about the racial topics that were brought up as well as the language the author uses in scenes where LGBTQIA+ members are involved. It rubbed me the wrong way. Rose's character is ignorant about the world around her so she says ignorant things about the world around her. The way it written comes across as biased but it's okay because Rose's character is "learning"? It just doesn't vibe. Another thing is how Rose just says what she is thinking, another "pick-me" girl thing, literally Benoit Blanc said this in the Glass Onion, "It’s a dangerous thing to mistake speaking without thought as speaking the truth". Rose just thinks she can say whatever without consequence. For instance, there is NOTHING to suggest this but Rose says, "(Emil) can't be homophobic, especially with a sister who is obviously gay, or bi" WHO SAYS THAT SHIT? Even if Daria was, Rose shouldn't say that shit. Idk, it comes off VERY wrong.
4. The subplot. I couldn't have cared less, and it did nothing to add to the story. The subplot is basically that there is a gossip girl Instagram account but Eurovision song contest version. It matters so fucking much to Rose that she solves the mystery of who is behind this account and she drags everyone into it. It's not funny, it's not compelling, it's just something to give this story more substance, and it did not do that.
Overall, I think this book was not well written at all. I don't know where the editor was during this process. It comes off as very juvenile. Not the book for me, but I bet it will be popular on TikTok.
I am struggling to rate this book. This might already be on the list for disappointing books of 2023.
To me, this is a 1 star book, maybe a 1.5 for plot potential
I want to start this review off as this was not a book for me. I know others will love it but I did not.
Spoilers... I guess... I really don't care
Things I did not like:
1. The main female character
2. The not conflict, conflicts
3. The racial and sexist undertones disguised as "growth" and "understanding"
4. The subplot
1. Rose is the female main character and we are introduced to her as this "rainbows and unicorns" lady that radiates too much "pick-me" girl energy or even "manic, pixie dream girl" vibes. I SIMPLY could not stand it. She doesn't curse but instead says sillier words (I will point out that later in the book she does cuss and we are supposed to think that is "growth"... smh). Rose has an inner dialogue that is inconsistent and for some reason that irked me. For example, she refers to herself as "panicky rose" in the second chapter a minimum of 10 times and then NEVER AGAIN in a 400+ book. It made it seem like it was a part of her but it wasn't? The small inconsistencies really turned me off.
2. There was so much unnecessary conflict in this book that was not explained well. I get it, there needs to be conflict in a romance story because the audience is supposed to wonder "will they/won't they" - okay got it. However, everything else in this book was not explained. There is a conflict between Daria (Emil's sister) and Rose, and for the LIFE of me, I am still FUCKING confused. Is it because Rose makes spoofs of videos? Is it because she is sleeping with her brother? I don't know and even when they had their moment to clear the air it was still confusing because of Daria. I never really had her motives explained in a way that made sense for how mad she was about EVERYTHING.
3. I am still very confused about the racial topics that were brought up as well as the language the author uses in scenes where LGBTQIA+ members are involved. It rubbed me the wrong way. Rose's character is ignorant about the world around her so she says ignorant things about the world around her. The way it written comes across as biased but it's okay because Rose's character is "learning"? It just doesn't vibe. Another thing is how Rose just says what she is thinking, another "pick-me" girl thing, literally Benoit Blanc said this in the Glass Onion, "It’s a dangerous thing to mistake speaking without thought as speaking the truth". Rose just thinks she can say whatever without consequence. For instance, there is NOTHING to suggest this but Rose says, "(Emil) can't be homophobic, especially with a sister who is obviously gay, or bi" WHO SAYS THAT SHIT? Even if Daria was, Rose shouldn't say that shit. Idk, it comes off VERY wrong.
4. The subplot. I couldn't have cared less, and it did nothing to add to the story. The subplot is basically that there is a gossip girl Instagram account but Eurovision song contest version. It matters so fucking much to Rose that she solves the mystery of who is behind this account and she drags everyone into it. It's not funny, it's not compelling, it's just something to give this story more substance, and it did not do that.
Overall, I think this book was not well written at all. I don't know where the editor was during this process. It comes off as very juvenile. Not the book for me, but I bet it will be popular on TikTok.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
❗️Disclaimer: This review isn’t to tell the author that they are bad or not. This review is simply based on my own personal opinion. I suggest you give a book a chance before you form an opinions about it and decide wether you like it or not. Just because a book wasn’t for me doesn’t mean the book won’t be something you enjoy. ❗️
Berlin Calling was unfortunately not the book for me.
❗️Don’t read if you don’t want posible spoilers. ❗️
Things I didn’t like:
- I didn’t like the Rose (the MC), she is supposed to be this rainbows and unicorns lady who just finds the good in everyone and believes that the world is good, but in reality she is just a pick me girl that doesn’t realize her actions and words have consequences. I just couldn’t stand her. Rose is super childish, she continues to make decisions without thinking them through and says whatever is on her mind without caring for the consequences. She gets into other people’s business when she shouldn’t. I hated how she did that whole social media rivalry because her “pride or ego was hurt”. She also continued to jump to conclusions and create delusional situation. Finally I disliked that she acted like a clingy childish girlfriend to Emil when they have only known each other for like 2 days at the beginning of the book.
- The language the author uses for LGBTQIA+ made me so irritated. I dislike how Rose is so ignorant about the world around her like she is a a teenager when in reality she is a 25 year old woman. I hated how she just assumed that Daria had to be bi or lesbian without a reason. She only talked to her like 1-2 times and she was already making that assumption. She said and I quote “Emil can’t be homophobic, especially with a sister who I was pretty sure is either lesbian or bi.” and she said it without even knowing her or Emil as a matter of fact. She just shouldn’t assume those things about people she doesn’t know anything about and the way she said it makes it even worse. But we are supposed to just skim through that because she is “learning to become better”.
- I thought that there was so much unnecessary conflict that could have been resolved so easily. I also didn’t understand the whole conflict between Daria and Rose.
In conclusion this book was just not something I enjoyed. It wasn’t well written and the characters and situations felt really juvenile.
❗️Disclaimer: This review isn’t to tell the author that they are bad or not. This review is simply based on my own personal opinion. I suggest you give a book a chance before you form an opinions about it and decide wether you like it or not. Just because a book wasn’t for me doesn’t mean the book won’t be something you enjoy. ❗️
Berlin Calling was unfortunately not the book for me.
❗️Don’t read if you don’t want posible spoilers. ❗️
Things I didn’t like:
- I didn’t like the Rose (the MC), she is supposed to be this rainbows and unicorns lady who just finds the good in everyone and believes that the world is good, but in reality she is just a pick me girl that doesn’t realize her actions and words have consequences. I just couldn’t stand her. Rose is super childish, she continues to make decisions without thinking them through and says whatever is on her mind without caring for the consequences. She gets into other people’s business when she shouldn’t. I hated how she did that whole social media rivalry because her “pride or ego was hurt”. She also continued to jump to conclusions and create delusional situation. Finally I disliked that she acted like a clingy childish girlfriend to Emil when they have only known each other for like 2 days at the beginning of the book.
- The language the author uses for LGBTQIA+ made me so irritated. I dislike how Rose is so ignorant about the world around her like she is a a teenager when in reality she is a 25 year old woman. I hated how she just assumed that Daria had to be bi or lesbian without a reason. She only talked to her like 1-2 times and she was already making that assumption. She said and I quote “Emil can’t be homophobic, especially with a sister who I was pretty sure is either lesbian or bi.” and she said it without even knowing her or Emil as a matter of fact. She just shouldn’t assume those things about people she doesn’t know anything about and the way she said it makes it even worse. But we are supposed to just skim through that because she is “learning to become better”.
- I thought that there was so much unnecessary conflict that could have been resolved so easily. I also didn’t understand the whole conflict between Daria and Rose.
In conclusion this book was just not something I enjoyed. It wasn’t well written and the characters and situations felt really juvenile.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2023
This book is the most wonderful love letter dedicated to the ESC and music diversity and I am here for it.
The story follows Rose, the European Song Contest unicorn that we all need every year, as she she explores the contest as a participant but also as a spectator and a fan. The main plot is the variety of feelings and experiences that the European Song Contest brings, so having Rose as a first-person narrator, who has big emotions toward the contest is very appropriate: her feelings are ours. That makes this story a bundle of excitement and joy for every reader.
Although Rose seems to be the happiest of unicorns, she's a person with a lot of insecurities who every now and then feels lonely. She loves too fiercely but doesn't see how much she too is loved. For that I constantly found myself enjoying her exploration through new friendships, cheering Rose on and hoping for her happily ever after.
I was hooked on the relationship between Rose and Emil ever since they first met. It was interesting to see the intricacies of each character's past, and how that made them who they are now. It was great seeing them try to work through their issues.
I, of course, also loved the configuration of the European Song Contest. It had great songs (each described in detail), likeable and dislikeable artists, awesome scenery and stages, parties, gossip, love, friendship… even the politics were there (in a very well-put and respectful way).
Aside from the greatness of the book, there are things that could have changed. Maybe it would have been fun to see more of the televised part of the show, mainly from the semifinals, and from other types of interviews. Also, comments from people on social media would have achieved more than mere statistics (like the number of likes on a post). The editing could be even more polished, but it was good enough.
All in all, this is an awesome story to come back to every spring. There are sprinkles of sadness but loads of joy that leave us all prepared to greet the future with a kiss.
The story follows Rose, the European Song Contest unicorn that we all need every year, as she she explores the contest as a participant but also as a spectator and a fan. The main plot is the variety of feelings and experiences that the European Song Contest brings, so having Rose as a first-person narrator, who has big emotions toward the contest is very appropriate: her feelings are ours. That makes this story a bundle of excitement and joy for every reader.
Although Rose seems to be the happiest of unicorns, she's a person with a lot of insecurities who every now and then feels lonely. She loves too fiercely but doesn't see how much she too is loved. For that I constantly found myself enjoying her exploration through new friendships, cheering Rose on and hoping for her happily ever after.
I was hooked on the relationship between Rose and Emil ever since they first met. It was interesting to see the intricacies of each character's past, and how that made them who they are now. It was great seeing them try to work through their issues.
I, of course, also loved the configuration of the European Song Contest. It had great songs (each described in detail), likeable and dislikeable artists, awesome scenery and stages, parties, gossip, love, friendship… even the politics were there (in a very well-put and respectful way).
Aside from the greatness of the book, there are things that could have changed. Maybe it would have been fun to see more of the televised part of the show, mainly from the semifinals, and from other types of interviews. Also, comments from people on social media would have achieved more than mere statistics (like the number of likes on a post). The editing could be even more polished, but it was good enough.
All in all, this is an awesome story to come back to every spring. There are sprinkles of sadness but loads of joy that leave us all prepared to greet the future with a kiss.
January 22, 2023
This fun story hits the ground running with heroine Rose penning a winning song that is chosen to represent the UK in the upcoming European Song Contest. High on the emotion of her success, she embarks on a one-night stand that is the best night of her life. It’s a shame that she’ll never see him again.
When Rose discovers that her sexy conquest is a rival for the competition, she takes to Instagram and TikTok to create a social media rivalry and a huge helping of banter. Hot German DJ Emil, her one-night stand, enters into the spirit of her social media activity and there is soon a huge following for their snipes and hilarious exchanges.
There was nothing not to enjoy about this story. I love to hate Eurovision and I was pleased that Berlin Calling poked fun at the political element that has become a huge part of the voting process. The behind-the-scenes elements cast a light on the bonding that happens between the performers, their camaraderie, and their whirlwind schedule of parties and photo opportunities.
Rose and Emil are seriously hot property, and their chemistry is definitely sizzling, but it’s their private relationship when they discuss each other’s backgrounds, that reminds us that there is still a lot that needs fixing in this world. Rose is a Canadian representing the UK and we discover that Emil is from Kosovo yet representing Germany. Whilst gently touching on these elements, the rest of the story is fun-filled and there’s plenty of gossip to be had.
I am now definitely in the mood to join Graham Norton and Sam Ryder in Liverpool. I loved escaping to the Euro-Village and helping to track down the identity of @eurogossip. If you don’t mind your romance being a little racy then this is a wonderful escape and a lot of fun.
Author Bio
Lilo Moore is the steamy romantic comedy pen name of travel romance author Leonie Mack. She lives among vineyards in Germany, creating fictional worlds and counting down to her next trip.
When Rose discovers that her sexy conquest is a rival for the competition, she takes to Instagram and TikTok to create a social media rivalry and a huge helping of banter. Hot German DJ Emil, her one-night stand, enters into the spirit of her social media activity and there is soon a huge following for their snipes and hilarious exchanges.
There was nothing not to enjoy about this story. I love to hate Eurovision and I was pleased that Berlin Calling poked fun at the political element that has become a huge part of the voting process. The behind-the-scenes elements cast a light on the bonding that happens between the performers, their camaraderie, and their whirlwind schedule of parties and photo opportunities.
Rose and Emil are seriously hot property, and their chemistry is definitely sizzling, but it’s their private relationship when they discuss each other’s backgrounds, that reminds us that there is still a lot that needs fixing in this world. Rose is a Canadian representing the UK and we discover that Emil is from Kosovo yet representing Germany. Whilst gently touching on these elements, the rest of the story is fun-filled and there’s plenty of gossip to be had.
I am now definitely in the mood to join Graham Norton and Sam Ryder in Liverpool. I loved escaping to the Euro-Village and helping to track down the identity of @eurogossip. If you don’t mind your romance being a little racy then this is a wonderful escape and a lot of fun.
Author Bio
Lilo Moore is the steamy romantic comedy pen name of travel romance author Leonie Mack. She lives among vineyards in Germany, creating fictional worlds and counting down to her next trip.
January 13, 2023
This book was an engaging story about the annual European Song Contest, a competition for new songwriters. Countries submit a song, the songwriter, and sometimes a performer to sing the song. Rose is a bubby Gen Z fangirl, who has dual Canadian and UK citizenship. She’s an upbeat social media songwriter and is thrilled when her pop love song is chosen to be the UK’s submission for the year (although not particularly happy with the singer who is assigned). Rose is caring, bubbly and sometimes appears a little vapid. Right after signing the contract for the competition, Rose and her manager meet a sexy German man and his sister. Rose ends up having a memorable one-night stand. She ghosts Emil after their hook-up, and believes she’ll never see him again. However, she later discovers that Emil and his sister will be among her competitors as the German contestants on the European Song Contest. Rose and Emil start to exchange flirtatious spoofs and funny challenges on Instagram for months, before they meet up again in Berlin for the competition. While hooking up again, Emil and Rose start to actually get to know each other during the show. This story has a lot of character development, plenty of heat, and interesting supporting characters. There are multiple plot twists, including Emil’s sister’s health issues and a troll who appears to be trying to damage the competition and the contestants. The author manages to tell a good story about the competition and the characters’ romance, while still skillfully acknowledging weighty issues such as handicap discrimination, geopolitical barriers, LGTB struggles and more. Somehow everything comes together, rewarding the reader with a feel-good HEA. This book is hard to put down! I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 30, 2023
If you’re a huge fan of very steamy romance, and a Eurovision obsessive like me, this is definitely the book for you. When I first heard about this book, set within the ‘European Song Contest’ in Berlin, I knew I had to read it, and it seriously did not disappoint.
Setting the romance to one side for the moment, the setting, and everything that happens around the contest was absolutely a tribute to the glory that is the Eurovision Song Contest, a love letter to the sheer enjoyment the contest brings to millions of people around the world every single year. We get to experience the rehearsals, the parties, the public appearances and filming of the mini films shown before each performance, and even the semi finals in the week before. The minor downside was that I really wanted to hear the songs, but nonetheless this book was so joyful! It was completely Eurotastic! The very first Eurovision I was allowed to stay up to watch was 1975, won by Netherlands with the catchy ‘Ding-a-dong’, although I was not allowed to stay up for the results part of the show until the following year when Brotherhood of Man won! Since then I’ve watched every year (including flying back from the States where I was living at the time to watch in 1997!) I know that Eurovision can still be a little like Marmite, without fail my husband complains about watching it, but still somehow sits through it and secretly enjoys it! Not that he’d ever admit it!
The book doesn’t just cover the fun side of the contest though, there are hints to the geopolitical issues that surround a contest which allows people the opportunity to vote for neighbours they like, and avoid neighbours they don’t like!
What I loved about the different characters/contestants in the competition was that on the whole they became a happy little community, all sharing the same values of love and acceptance (with a couple of exceptions). Rose quickly finds a sense of community and acceptance with the other contestants, and even though she is self-deprecating about her own talents, they all provide encouragement for her and everyone else.
I loved Emil and the close relationship he had with his artistic sister Daria. I liked the way in which Rose instantly wanted to be best friends with Daria as well. Emil was the antithesis of Rose and her bubbly personality, but wow, their connection was very hot! I loved the time they managed to spend together, it was sizzling perfection.
All in all this was my ideal (if a little niche) combination of a very steamy romance combined with a Eurovision-esque song contest!
Setting the romance to one side for the moment, the setting, and everything that happens around the contest was absolutely a tribute to the glory that is the Eurovision Song Contest, a love letter to the sheer enjoyment the contest brings to millions of people around the world every single year. We get to experience the rehearsals, the parties, the public appearances and filming of the mini films shown before each performance, and even the semi finals in the week before. The minor downside was that I really wanted to hear the songs, but nonetheless this book was so joyful! It was completely Eurotastic! The very first Eurovision I was allowed to stay up to watch was 1975, won by Netherlands with the catchy ‘Ding-a-dong’, although I was not allowed to stay up for the results part of the show until the following year when Brotherhood of Man won! Since then I’ve watched every year (including flying back from the States where I was living at the time to watch in 1997!) I know that Eurovision can still be a little like Marmite, without fail my husband complains about watching it, but still somehow sits through it and secretly enjoys it! Not that he’d ever admit it!
The book doesn’t just cover the fun side of the contest though, there are hints to the geopolitical issues that surround a contest which allows people the opportunity to vote for neighbours they like, and avoid neighbours they don’t like!
What I loved about the different characters/contestants in the competition was that on the whole they became a happy little community, all sharing the same values of love and acceptance (with a couple of exceptions). Rose quickly finds a sense of community and acceptance with the other contestants, and even though she is self-deprecating about her own talents, they all provide encouragement for her and everyone else.
I loved Emil and the close relationship he had with his artistic sister Daria. I liked the way in which Rose instantly wanted to be best friends with Daria as well. Emil was the antithesis of Rose and her bubbly personality, but wow, their connection was very hot! I loved the time they managed to spend together, it was sizzling perfection.
All in all this was my ideal (if a little niche) combination of a very steamy romance combined with a Eurovision-esque song contest!
January 1, 2023
It's a complete and utter ode to Eurovision, with a couple of main characters with off the charts chemistry, making this a very steamy story too.
I was caught up in all things European Song Contest (to give it the books name for Eurovision), but it is 100% based on the real thing.
My only regret with this story is that I don't know what the various songs really do sound like, as I suspect there could be a few great earworms amongst them.
Rose embodies everything the contest stands for and more and I wish more people were like her.
And Emil well I fell for him rather fast too, and loved the way he is with his sister too. Would have loved to see Daria's paintings too. Ok I just want the whole book made into a film, I know I'd watch!
It is everything a Eurovision lover could want for in a book, I just couldn't get enough of all of it, and the romance and the mystery of who the troll IG account belongs to also kept me hooked.
This was perfect poolside reading on the hottest day of my Mexican holiday, where I was heating up equally from the sun and the contents of some of the scenes.
A complete and utter triumph of a book, and a great first book for Lilo Moore for this sort of genre.
Light hearted (but with some key messages), full of camp escapism, what more could a girl ask for. Hit all the right spots and was entirely pleasurable!
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I was caught up in all things European Song Contest (to give it the books name for Eurovision), but it is 100% based on the real thing.
My only regret with this story is that I don't know what the various songs really do sound like, as I suspect there could be a few great earworms amongst them.
Rose embodies everything the contest stands for and more and I wish more people were like her.
And Emil well I fell for him rather fast too, and loved the way he is with his sister too. Would have loved to see Daria's paintings too. Ok I just want the whole book made into a film, I know I'd watch!
It is everything a Eurovision lover could want for in a book, I just couldn't get enough of all of it, and the romance and the mystery of who the troll IG account belongs to also kept me hooked.
This was perfect poolside reading on the hottest day of my Mexican holiday, where I was heating up equally from the sun and the contents of some of the scenes.
A complete and utter triumph of a book, and a great first book for Lilo Moore for this sort of genre.
Light hearted (but with some key messages), full of camp escapism, what more could a girl ask for. Hit all the right spots and was entirely pleasurable!
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 24, 2023
I’m finding it very difficult to rate this book. I have absolutely loved nearly all the other books that this author has written under LM, so I was looking forward to this one.
I guess I should say from the onset, that this book is totally different from those other books which drew me in, submerged me in a story that I loved, with characters I cared about.
The author has created a different type of book here and quite frankly it’s simply not my cup of tea. I think I got what she was trying to do but it left me cold.
Perhaps the biggest negative for me was the heroine, who I found very difficult to like or identify with. Rose’s behaviour was odd and frequently so juvenile, that I simply rolled my eyes in disbelief. The way she walked out on Emil in London, gave him a wrong phone number and blocked him made no sense and was at best discourteous and at worst utterly selfish and cruel. If a hero had done that, there would be no coming back from it!
The whole social media war made no sense to me and Rose’s behaviour was toe-curlingly embarrassing to me.
Emil on the other hand was a fabulous character, so well drawn and developed by the author and exactly what I am used to from her.
The side plot with political undertones was boring.
I think this is well written, but is clearly not aimed at readers like me. Never mind, I’ll continue to read her other books (under the LM name) and wish her well with this new venture.
I guess I should say from the onset, that this book is totally different from those other books which drew me in, submerged me in a story that I loved, with characters I cared about.
The author has created a different type of book here and quite frankly it’s simply not my cup of tea. I think I got what she was trying to do but it left me cold.
Perhaps the biggest negative for me was the heroine, who I found very difficult to like or identify with. Rose’s behaviour was odd and frequently so juvenile, that I simply rolled my eyes in disbelief. The way she walked out on Emil in London, gave him a wrong phone number and blocked him made no sense and was at best discourteous and at worst utterly selfish and cruel. If a hero had done that, there would be no coming back from it!
The whole social media war made no sense to me and Rose’s behaviour was toe-curlingly embarrassing to me.
Emil on the other hand was a fabulous character, so well drawn and developed by the author and exactly what I am used to from her.
The side plot with political undertones was boring.
I think this is well written, but is clearly not aimed at readers like me. Never mind, I’ll continue to read her other books (under the LM name) and wish her well with this new venture.
December 30, 2022
The European Song Contest brings challenge and excitement for Rose. She has been beaten down by circumstance and lack of encouragement.
Her self doubt is the reverse of how she portrays herself in her online forum. She has quite the following on her accounts and seems to understand social media and uses it to her advantage.
Emil has self confidence but also a strong familial bond to his sister whom he is quite protective of, though her love for him is just as strong, if not more so.
Emil and Rose are similar in their lack of communications and precious relationship hurts.
Rainbows, unicorns, star crossed lovers, all surrounded by a mysterious person who is out to destroy the competition and relationships on the way.
This story is so sweet. It was an easy read. It almost seems like it is going to be a stereotypical romance where they know they must be together but something is keeping it from happening. But it isn’t. It’s more real than that, communication is their enemy, as in most relationships. She is all rainbows and unicorns, and doesn’t take her self seriously. He takes everything seriously, a good opposites attract.
This reads more like a real life romance more than a fictional one which I appreciate.
Her self doubt is the reverse of how she portrays herself in her online forum. She has quite the following on her accounts and seems to understand social media and uses it to her advantage.
Emil has self confidence but also a strong familial bond to his sister whom he is quite protective of, though her love for him is just as strong, if not more so.
Emil and Rose are similar in their lack of communications and precious relationship hurts.
Rainbows, unicorns, star crossed lovers, all surrounded by a mysterious person who is out to destroy the competition and relationships on the way.
This story is so sweet. It was an easy read. It almost seems like it is going to be a stereotypical romance where they know they must be together but something is keeping it from happening. But it isn’t. It’s more real than that, communication is their enemy, as in most relationships. She is all rainbows and unicorns, and doesn’t take her self seriously. He takes everything seriously, a good opposites attract.
This reads more like a real life romance more than a fictional one which I appreciate.
January 6, 2023
WOW, just WOW
What a fabulous story, we have a hot, steamy one night stand between Rose and Emil in London, Rose heads off to Berlin where the song she has written is the UK entry in the European Song Contest,
Rose is living her dream, she is so excited to meet all the acts from the other countries, she is bouncy and sunshine, happiness, has her social media account and then she runs into Emil and his beautiful sister, they are in the competition too representing Germany. Emil is the complete opposite to Rose, he is quiet, brooding and very shy on stage.
I loved the way the author used the competition to build the different character personalities, they were all very realistic, it was easy to actually visualise them, there were multiple scenarios, personality conflicts, a bit of intrigue, sexual chemistry between several characters and the push and pull between Rose and Emil was at times almost painful but in a real way, real relationships do have those doubts and communication issues and I think Ms Moore has an amazing talent for writing such believable relatable characters, looking forward to reading more of her work.
I received an advanced reader’s copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily
What a fabulous story, we have a hot, steamy one night stand between Rose and Emil in London, Rose heads off to Berlin where the song she has written is the UK entry in the European Song Contest,
Rose is living her dream, she is so excited to meet all the acts from the other countries, she is bouncy and sunshine, happiness, has her social media account and then she runs into Emil and his beautiful sister, they are in the competition too representing Germany. Emil is the complete opposite to Rose, he is quiet, brooding and very shy on stage.
I loved the way the author used the competition to build the different character personalities, they were all very realistic, it was easy to actually visualise them, there were multiple scenarios, personality conflicts, a bit of intrigue, sexual chemistry between several characters and the push and pull between Rose and Emil was at times almost painful but in a real way, real relationships do have those doubts and communication issues and I think Ms Moore has an amazing talent for writing such believable relatable characters, looking forward to reading more of her work.
I received an advanced reader’s copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily
April 8, 2023
Berlin Calling was an absolutely delightful, sexy, song-filled ride that I would take again and again.
Lilo Moore does an amazing job with setting the stage for this Eurovision story. She pulls us into Rose's hopes and dreams and instant attraction for moody Emil. Underlying Rose's sunshine demeanor, however, is a girl with serious insecurity, evident by her dashing away after her and Emil's spicy one-night stand.
Moore expertly utilizes Rose's insecurity to drive the competitive plot between the two singers and keeps us hoping for a steamy reunion. I also liked how she gradually brought us into the Eurovision insanity so we could see it through Rose-colored glasses. Rose's love for the show and what it stands for makes us all want to embrace this song contest with everything in us.
Really, what a fun book. The sub-plots were entertaining and made sense in the larger story. The characters were engaging, and I enjoyed exploring Berlin with the song contest participants. But the chemistry between Rose and Emil is what really gave this story heart and heat.
This is the first book I've read by Lilo Moore, and I will definitely be back for more!
Lilo Moore does an amazing job with setting the stage for this Eurovision story. She pulls us into Rose's hopes and dreams and instant attraction for moody Emil. Underlying Rose's sunshine demeanor, however, is a girl with serious insecurity, evident by her dashing away after her and Emil's spicy one-night stand.
Moore expertly utilizes Rose's insecurity to drive the competitive plot between the two singers and keeps us hoping for a steamy reunion. I also liked how she gradually brought us into the Eurovision insanity so we could see it through Rose-colored glasses. Rose's love for the show and what it stands for makes us all want to embrace this song contest with everything in us.
Really, what a fun book. The sub-plots were entertaining and made sense in the larger story. The characters were engaging, and I enjoyed exploring Berlin with the song contest participants. But the chemistry between Rose and Emil is what really gave this story heart and heat.
This is the first book I've read by Lilo Moore, and I will definitely be back for more!
January 10, 2023
The story
Rose is a Canadian singer-songwriter living in London. She grew up with her English grandfather’s love for the European song contest, and she’s just heard her song has been chosen as the UK’s entry. When she meets a German duo leaving the office she’s just signed up in, she’s drawn to Daria and Emil, and ends up in a one night stand with Emil. When later they turn out to be fellow contestants, the rivalry turns serious on social media.
My thoughts
This story celebrates the positivity that is Rose’s persona, with a deep dive into the music contest, filled with dance and performance art. I appreciated how Rose grows to see how the complicated history of the countries shapes the lives of the contestants. She struggles with imposter syndrome and doesn’t want Emil to think she is more into him than he is into her. This story takes the author’s writing in a different direction to her previous work (published as Leonie Mack) and I am all for it! ❤️🇬🇧🇩🇪
Read an eARC courtesy of the author
Publication date 19 January 2023
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Rose is a Canadian singer-songwriter living in London. She grew up with her English grandfather’s love for the European song contest, and she’s just heard her song has been chosen as the UK’s entry. When she meets a German duo leaving the office she’s just signed up in, she’s drawn to Daria and Emil, and ends up in a one night stand with Emil. When later they turn out to be fellow contestants, the rivalry turns serious on social media.
My thoughts
This story celebrates the positivity that is Rose’s persona, with a deep dive into the music contest, filled with dance and performance art. I appreciated how Rose grows to see how the complicated history of the countries shapes the lives of the contestants. She struggles with imposter syndrome and doesn’t want Emil to think she is more into him than he is into her. This story takes the author’s writing in a different direction to her previous work (published as Leonie Mack) and I am all for it! ❤️🇬🇧🇩🇪
Read an eARC courtesy of the author
Publication date 19 January 2023
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
January 23, 2023
Sexy, funny, heartfelt and fun - this was an absolute blast from start to finish. Rose’s infectious optimism is irresistible both on the page and off, and her chemistry with Emil sparkles off the charts. I want to read more about these characters and wish them every success. Emil’s sister Daria definitely deserves her turn in the spotlight as she keeps stealing this one!
Yes, it’s full of tropes like one night stands, grumpy/sunshine and enemies to lovers. If you despise fun and look down on people who celebrate the little joys in life, this book may not be for you. However, if you have an interest in bubbly nineties pop, Eurovision, and a clueless white girl doing her best and learning about herself and geopolitical tensions along the way, I think you’ll enjoy this book. I know I did!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel’s Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out my blog!
Yes, it’s full of tropes like one night stands, grumpy/sunshine and enemies to lovers. If you despise fun and look down on people who celebrate the little joys in life, this book may not be for you. However, if you have an interest in bubbly nineties pop, Eurovision, and a clueless white girl doing her best and learning about herself and geopolitical tensions along the way, I think you’ll enjoy this book. I know I did!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel’s Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out my blog!
May 7, 2023
Rose is the ultimate optimist seeing the world full of rainbows and glitter and goodness, especially when it comes to the Eurovision song contest (which I honestly know nothing about but I was still able to enjoy the book). She occasionally came across as naïve yet she was very likable and fun.
Emil was quiet and at times grumpy but in all the best ways. There were times I wished that he had a chance to be narrator (it was all told from Rose's POV) but this just left us in Rose's shoes/mind rather than all knowing.
I enjoyed the European focus of this book with lots of foreign words and phrases thrown in (usually defined, though I occasionally had a hard time remembering the translations when they were used again later). There was lots of diversity and a little politics dealt with within the story as well. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Emil was quiet and at times grumpy but in all the best ways. There were times I wished that he had a chance to be narrator (it was all told from Rose's POV) but this just left us in Rose's shoes/mind rather than all knowing.
I enjoyed the European focus of this book with lots of foreign words and phrases thrown in (usually defined, though I occasionally had a hard time remembering the translations when they were used again later). There was lots of diversity and a little politics dealt with within the story as well. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 4, 2023
Rose is headed to the European Song Contest for a song she wrote, and she is so excited! Before she leaves, she runs into a gorgeous German hunk, and they have a hot, sexy night together. She never expects to see him again. She is mortified when he turns up at the contest with his sister. She had not been honest with him and even gave him a bogus phone number. Emil has an amazing voice and is shy, but his sister really brings in the crowd. I thought this book was very creative with all the song titles they shared with each other, the songs they wrote, costume changes, and the sharing of the cultures of 40 countries. I loved getting to know some of the artists and a chance to learn a little about their culture. Rose and Emil’s relationship is full of honest truths, sad backgrounds, and love. Great book.
January 23, 2023
I enjoyed following the developing romance between Rose and Emil at the contest after their one night stand earlier in the year and Rose's public declaration of their live/hate relationship. Despite their intense chemistry it wasn't easy for them as in both their pasts there were issues holding them back.
Rose did irritate me a little me at times as I felt some of her behaviour was childish and naive but I felt her character did grow. Grumpy Emil was lovely.
I loved how inclusive the book was and its celebration of diversity. However, with this can come political agendas and this was addressed too. The descriptions of places visited and behind the scenes at the concert all added to my enjoyment of the book.
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources for my gifted copy and spot on the tour.
Rose did irritate me a little me at times as I felt some of her behaviour was childish and naive but I felt her character did grow. Grumpy Emil was lovely.
I loved how inclusive the book was and its celebration of diversity. However, with this can come political agendas and this was addressed too. The descriptions of places visited and behind the scenes at the concert all added to my enjoyment of the book.
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources for my gifted copy and spot on the tour.
January 28, 2023
When Rose has a one-night stand, she does not expect to see Emil again, but finding out her music rival at the European Song Contest is the man she had the one-night stand with is not what she had expected. But now this means war and Rose needs to get his attention; without her heart getting in the way.
I loved this novel! This was full of fun characters, especially Rose who had so much light and enthusiasm in her character I wanted to crawl into this book and be her best friend.
Moore writes a fun, and at times, spicy read that you will not want to put down. I also found out this is the new pen name for the author Leonie Mack who I have read before.
Super excited about the European City Breaks Series!
I loved this novel! This was full of fun characters, especially Rose who had so much light and enthusiasm in her character I wanted to crawl into this book and be her best friend.
Moore writes a fun, and at times, spicy read that you will not want to put down. I also found out this is the new pen name for the author Leonie Mack who I have read before.
Super excited about the European City Breaks Series!
January 12, 2023
A European song contest...who knew a love story could develop, but that's what happens between Rose and Emil. But do they see it as love or as just the one night stand they set out to have. This story follows the road they take to get ro the contest finals.
This book started out a little slow for me and some parts were awkward (i.e.: all of Rose's crazy antics in her social media posts), but I truly loved this book. The message was beautiful and I the music just added something more. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to have a good time. This ended up being a genuinely good book.
I received an advance review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
This book started out a little slow for me and some parts were awkward (i.e.: all of Rose's crazy antics in her social media posts), but I truly loved this book. The message was beautiful and I the music just added something more. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to have a good time. This ended up being a genuinely good book.
I received an advance review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
January 23, 2023
I thank Author Lilo Moore for an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Sunshiny Rose reminds me of a Lisa Frank notebook.(If you know you know). She tries to make the best of every situation,including being a record company's second choice. Her song is chosen to be a contender in a European song contest. When one of the other contestants is none other than her recent one-night stand Emil,she doesn't know whether to be shocked or hopeful that there will be more nights together. Throw in a lot of colorful characters and a gossip column causing drama and this is a very fun read! Spicy and sweet!
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