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404 Sound #1
After Hours Redemption: 404 Sound, Book 1
Their red-hot reunion
is off the charts!
They made passionate music together.
Has this heartbreaker changed his tune?
Songwriter Eden Voss had the perfect man—sexy, charming, talented and hers. Until record executive Blaine Woodson broke her heart to save his fledging label. Now music’s bad boy is back, begging for her songwriting skills in his studio…and her lovemaking skills after hours. Eden vows to keep things strictly business this time. But there is nothing professional about the heat still between them…
is off the charts!
They made passionate music together.
Has this heartbreaker changed his tune?
Songwriter Eden Voss had the perfect man—sexy, charming, talented and hers. Until record executive Blaine Woodson broke her heart to save his fledging label. Now music’s bad boy is back, begging for her songwriting skills in his studio…and her lovemaking skills after hours. Eden vows to keep things strictly business this time. But there is nothing professional about the heat still between them…
Audible Audio
First published September 16, 2020
42 people are currently reading
449 people want to read
About the author
Kianna Alexander
108 books553 followersI've always loved the written word. For as long as I can remember, I read as much as I could, as often as I could. Cereal boxes, newspapers, product packaging. Ebony, Essence, and Jet Magazine. Billboards. I loved it all. I read the entire Fear Street series, as well as the Sweet Valley Books, from Twins and Friends through Sweet Valley High. Each week I'd bring 15 or 20 books home from the library, and read them all before the due date.
Now, my mother owned a pristine, barely touched collection of Harlequin romance novels, and I was not to touch them under any circumstances. Well, as a teenager, you know what that meant. I read some of them, and got my first introduction to romance.
When I was sixteen, I picked up my stepmother's copy of Night Song, by Beverly Jenkins. The cover showed an obviously historical image of a black couple, against a beautiful backdrop, locked in a passionate embrace. With my love of history, I had to crack this book. What I read inside literally blew my mind. I was exposed to a wonderful, touching love story involving people who looked like me! What a thrill. To this day Night Song remains my favorite book, and I credit it with planting the seed of desire to write romance. I didn't get serious until many years later, but that's where it all began.
Now, my mother owned a pristine, barely touched collection of Harlequin romance novels, and I was not to touch them under any circumstances. Well, as a teenager, you know what that meant. I read some of them, and got my first introduction to romance.
When I was sixteen, I picked up my stepmother's copy of Night Song, by Beverly Jenkins. The cover showed an obviously historical image of a black couple, against a beautiful backdrop, locked in a passionate embrace. With my love of history, I had to crack this book. What I read inside literally blew my mind. I was exposed to a wonderful, touching love story involving people who looked like me! What a thrill. To this day Night Song remains my favorite book, and I credit it with planting the seed of desire to write romance. I didn't get serious until many years later, but that's where it all began.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
August 1, 2024
After Hours Redemption is a second chance romance set in the music industry and I liked it more than I expected to given the premise. Blaine owns a small music label beholden to a larger company for funding. Years ago, he broke Eden's heart and shattered her dreams of performing her own music. Now, he wants to bring her on as the songwriter for a new project and the chemistry between the two of them is still there. But he still thinks he did nothing wrong- after all his hands were tied and it wasn't personal, right?
While I don't love that this rekindled relationship begins with this kind of power dynamic- him as the boss and her really needing the job - I ultimately loved where the book went. It has something to say about authenticity in creating art in contrast to something watered down and corporate. And while Blaine is an idiot for a lot of the book, Eden really stands her ground and he eventually gets his head out of his ass.
While I don't love that this rekindled relationship begins with this kind of power dynamic- him as the boss and her really needing the job - I ultimately loved where the book went. It has something to say about authenticity in creating art in contrast to something watered down and corporate. And while Blaine is an idiot for a lot of the book, Eden really stands her ground and he eventually gets his head out of his ass.
October 4, 2020
That cover, tho!!!
First of all I am not ashamed to admit I got this soley for the cover. This is a strong argument for authors to pay attention to their cover game.
Luckily the book inside lived up to the cover.
I liked the setting, Atlanta and behind the scenes in the R&B music industry. Not a setting or workplace we see a lot. I thought the author did a good job of incorporating that aspect into the story and making it an important plot element.
This is a sexy second-chance romance with a fair amount of heartbreak between our hero and heroine in the past. Mostly the hero's fault. Of the two mains, I loved the heroine, Eden, the most. I found Blaine somewhat frustrating but I think the author managed to redeem him in the end. The book is nicely hot and the chemistry is all on the page.
First of all I am not ashamed to admit I got this soley for the cover. This is a strong argument for authors to pay attention to their cover game.
Luckily the book inside lived up to the cover.
I liked the setting, Atlanta and behind the scenes in the R&B music industry. Not a setting or workplace we see a lot. I thought the author did a good job of incorporating that aspect into the story and making it an important plot element.
This is a sexy second-chance romance with a fair amount of heartbreak between our hero and heroine in the past. Mostly the hero's fault. Of the two mains, I loved the heroine, Eden, the most. I found Blaine somewhat frustrating but I think the author managed to redeem him in the end. The book is nicely hot and the chemistry is all on the page.
May 18, 2021
I’m absolutely loving what Harlequin are doing with their covers at the moment. It’s excellent to see Black models getting paid to be on these stunning covers, and chosen with obvious care to really represent the characters inside. 5 stars to the art department for this one in particular; it’s spot on, from Blaine’s locs to the recording studio setting.
Talking of that recording studio - this was also a really intriguing setting for a romance, and not one I think I’ve seen done before, which took us behind the scenes of the recording industry and Atlanta’s R+B scene. Eden, the heroine, is a songwriter, and the hero Blaine owns a small record label. The pair of them have History, in a bad way, because seven years ago Blaine caved to industry pressure and cut Eden and her cousin Ainsley from the label, taking their friend Cambria on to solo stardom instead of pressing ahead with their girl group.
Honestly… Cambria was an actual villain here and I really didn’t get how this wasn’t focussed on. Cambria knew her friends had talent, knew Eden was a songwriter, and… Cambria’s now off touring the world being super famous and presumably rich, and Eden and Ainsley are struggling to scrape up a couple of thousand dollars for an insurance co-pay. Cambria rocked up at one point in the story and I honestly expected Eden to cut her dead (as Cambria apparently did with her friends) and… it didn’t happen. It was a really puzzling sub-plot for me; maybe it’ll get resolved later in the series (looks like Ainsley will get her own book).
Returning to Blaine… he does get called on his having treated Eden badly. He basically is repeating the pattern with his new protegee, a young singer called Naiya B who Eden is writing songs for, when the major label backing the album don’t want Naiya to ‘get political’ and put pressure on Blaine. There’s a fantastic scene where Eden tells him that all their problems can be traced back to his absolute inability to stand up for someone other than himself, and I wanted to CHEER. It was a perfect example of setting up a male love interest with massive flaws and having the woman point them out to him, causing him to have an existential crisis and rethink his entire life philosophy. Aka, giving the story a Hunsford moment, to reference the classic scene from Pride and Prejudice where Elizabeth Bennet verbally tears Mr Darcy a new one.
The chemistry between Eden and Blaine is always off the charts, and there are some very sexy love scenes in here, although it’s obvious from the start that they really aren’t approaching the relationship with the same goals in mind. In fact, it’s a refreshing change from the norm; Blaine seems to think they are building a future whereas for Eden it’s obviously casual because Blaine’s incapable of listening to her concerns and therefore isn’t worthy of getting serious with until he changes his ways.
Where this fell down a bit for me was that it took Blaine’s family, specifically his brother Gage, to reinforce the point Eden had already made very clearly at the big confrontation, which felt really unnecessary and in fact took away from the impact of Eden confronting Blaine. Overall it’s very good and puts a fresh twist on some old tropes. The few things I quibbled with didn’t stop me from believing in a happy ending for Blaine and Eden, and I definitely plan to read more books in this series. 5 stars.
Talking of that recording studio - this was also a really intriguing setting for a romance, and not one I think I’ve seen done before, which took us behind the scenes of the recording industry and Atlanta’s R+B scene. Eden, the heroine, is a songwriter, and the hero Blaine owns a small record label. The pair of them have History, in a bad way, because seven years ago Blaine caved to industry pressure and cut Eden and her cousin Ainsley from the label, taking their friend Cambria on to solo stardom instead of pressing ahead with their girl group.
Honestly… Cambria was an actual villain here and I really didn’t get how this wasn’t focussed on. Cambria knew her friends had talent, knew Eden was a songwriter, and… Cambria’s now off touring the world being super famous and presumably rich, and Eden and Ainsley are struggling to scrape up a couple of thousand dollars for an insurance co-pay. Cambria rocked up at one point in the story and I honestly expected Eden to cut her dead (as Cambria apparently did with her friends) and… it didn’t happen. It was a really puzzling sub-plot for me; maybe it’ll get resolved later in the series (looks like Ainsley will get her own book).
Returning to Blaine… he does get called on his having treated Eden badly. He basically is repeating the pattern with his new protegee, a young singer called Naiya B who Eden is writing songs for, when the major label backing the album don’t want Naiya to ‘get political’ and put pressure on Blaine. There’s a fantastic scene where Eden tells him that all their problems can be traced back to his absolute inability to stand up for someone other than himself, and I wanted to CHEER. It was a perfect example of setting up a male love interest with massive flaws and having the woman point them out to him, causing him to have an existential crisis and rethink his entire life philosophy. Aka, giving the story a Hunsford moment, to reference the classic scene from Pride and Prejudice where Elizabeth Bennet verbally tears Mr Darcy a new one.
The chemistry between Eden and Blaine is always off the charts, and there are some very sexy love scenes in here, although it’s obvious from the start that they really aren’t approaching the relationship with the same goals in mind. In fact, it’s a refreshing change from the norm; Blaine seems to think they are building a future whereas for Eden it’s obviously casual because Blaine’s incapable of listening to her concerns and therefore isn’t worthy of getting serious with until he changes his ways.
Where this fell down a bit for me was that it took Blaine’s family, specifically his brother Gage, to reinforce the point Eden had already made very clearly at the big confrontation, which felt really unnecessary and in fact took away from the impact of Eden confronting Blaine. Overall it’s very good and puts a fresh twist on some old tropes. The few things I quibbled with didn’t stop me from believing in a happy ending for Blaine and Eden, and I definitely plan to read more books in this series. 5 stars.
October 11, 2020
thank you Harlequin Desire and Netgalley for a review copy of this book. this doesn't affect my thoughts in any way.
After Hours Redemption is a short romance novel and love letter to music about two people who parted ways years ago but are now forced within close proximity. while i enjoyed the plot, the sexy times and the writing, i found it hard to connect with one of the main characters and his behaviours.
my main problem with blaine is that for 80% of the book, he genuinly cannot see his wrongdoings. he really does not listen to anyone who says that maybe he's to blame. and while he was redeemed, it still wasn't enough for me to excuse his behaviour, mainly because his realization was too sudden. not only that, but one of the side characters kept telling eden (the female main character) that she should give him a chance and listen to what he has to say? it's his second time screwing up? anyway, i did not like that at all.
but truth to be told, i did like this book. eden is a strong main character, fierce and unafraid to say what's on her mind. the pacing was also very welle executed; i didn't feel like it was rushed nor boring. i still wanna read more of this author's works, hopefully in the future!
After Hours Redemption is a short romance novel and love letter to music about two people who parted ways years ago but are now forced within close proximity. while i enjoyed the plot, the sexy times and the writing, i found it hard to connect with one of the main characters and his behaviours.
my main problem with blaine is that for 80% of the book, he genuinly cannot see his wrongdoings. he really does not listen to anyone who says that maybe he's to blame. and while he was redeemed, it still wasn't enough for me to excuse his behaviour, mainly because his realization was too sudden. not only that, but one of the side characters kept telling eden (the female main character) that she should give him a chance and listen to what he has to say? it's his second time screwing up? anyway, i did not like that at all.
but truth to be told, i did like this book. eden is a strong main character, fierce and unafraid to say what's on her mind. the pacing was also very welle executed; i didn't feel like it was rushed nor boring. i still wanna read more of this author's works, hopefully in the future!
October 13, 2020
After Hours Redemption by Kianna Alexander is an entertaining second chance romance set within the music industry, and the first story in her 404 Sound series.
Eden Voss gave up her own aspirations to be a singer and became a songwriter instead, after a promising career start got nipped in the bud- by a man who put his career over her own. That was years ago and it’s water under the bridge, until record executive Blaine Woodson approaches her with a songwriting job for a new artist he’s hoping to help turn into a breakaway star.
In those early days Blaine was under a lot of pressure with his new record label, and he had to make some tough decisions, including dashing Eden’s career hopes. While she’s gone on to make a name for herself, he still has feelings for her, though he understands why she would turn down his job offer. But Eden has her own reasons for accepting this challenge, even if it means being in Blaine’s orbit again. When one thing leads to another, it’s not hard to succumb to their attraction for a secret fling. But has Blaine learned enough from their time apart to be worthy of a second chance with Eden?
I really enjoyed the setting of this story! The music industry is well described from the production side, with the pressure on Blaine to produce a winning album with a new star, and the delightful young woman Naiya who wants her songs to be meaningful and not just forgettable pop songs.
Eden lives with her cousin Ainsley and her nephew Cooper and the family closeness was lovely to see. They lost their mothers together in an accident and have supported each other ever since. Eden is a strong independent woman and Blaine has to work hard to regain her trust. At the beginning he seems somewhat oblivious to the hurt he caused Eden when their music arrangement (and relationship) went bust. It’s not until later in the story, when it seems like he might be heading towards repeating his mistakes that he realizes how much he wants Eden to be part of his life. Along the pathway to their happy ending they share some sexy love scenes and heart to heart conversations. The result is a delightful romance with interesting and likable characters and a great musical setting. I’m excited to see where the series will go next!
This review is also posted at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-af...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
Eden Voss gave up her own aspirations to be a singer and became a songwriter instead, after a promising career start got nipped in the bud- by a man who put his career over her own. That was years ago and it’s water under the bridge, until record executive Blaine Woodson approaches her with a songwriting job for a new artist he’s hoping to help turn into a breakaway star.
In those early days Blaine was under a lot of pressure with his new record label, and he had to make some tough decisions, including dashing Eden’s career hopes. While she’s gone on to make a name for herself, he still has feelings for her, though he understands why she would turn down his job offer. But Eden has her own reasons for accepting this challenge, even if it means being in Blaine’s orbit again. When one thing leads to another, it’s not hard to succumb to their attraction for a secret fling. But has Blaine learned enough from their time apart to be worthy of a second chance with Eden?
I really enjoyed the setting of this story! The music industry is well described from the production side, with the pressure on Blaine to produce a winning album with a new star, and the delightful young woman Naiya who wants her songs to be meaningful and not just forgettable pop songs.
Eden lives with her cousin Ainsley and her nephew Cooper and the family closeness was lovely to see. They lost their mothers together in an accident and have supported each other ever since. Eden is a strong independent woman and Blaine has to work hard to regain her trust. At the beginning he seems somewhat oblivious to the hurt he caused Eden when their music arrangement (and relationship) went bust. It’s not until later in the story, when it seems like he might be heading towards repeating his mistakes that he realizes how much he wants Eden to be part of his life. Along the pathway to their happy ending they share some sexy love scenes and heart to heart conversations. The result is a delightful romance with interesting and likable characters and a great musical setting. I’m excited to see where the series will go next!
This review is also posted at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-af...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
October 3, 2020
In this second chance romance, we have 2 people in the music industry. In their first encounter, Blaine was at the mercy of others, and made a decision that directly effected Eden and her music career. She is now behind the scenes writing songs, and has had nothing to do with Blaine in a long time. When he comes calling giving her a dream project to work on, sparks start to fly again.
I really enjoyed this romance. The chemistry was electric, and the story engaging enough that I never felt like there was a lull in the story. Definitely worth checking out.
I really enjoyed this romance. The chemistry was electric, and the story engaging enough that I never felt like there was a lull in the story. Definitely worth checking out.
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February 14, 2024Kianna Alexander is a new to me author. I was excited to learn she had a series with Harlequin Desire.
Eden Voss and Blaine Woodson were really good characters and I liked their chemistry. After Hours Redemption was a book I really enjoyed. I'm looking forward to more books in the 404 Sound series.
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
Eden Voss and Blaine Woodson were really good characters and I liked their chemistry. After Hours Redemption was a book I really enjoyed. I'm looking forward to more books in the 404 Sound series.
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
March 31, 2021
4.5 ⭐
A hero who wants the heroin in his life again and worked for it to happen. A duel narrative which made me know both of the characters thoughts and feelings. A not so idiot man who doesn't say hurtful things to the heroine. All in a second chance romance. What do I want more?
I have zero information about the R&B or music industry in general. I always thought that books about singers and music aren't my jam but seriously, have you seen the cover? How can I say no to this gorgeousness.
I started this book without even reading the synopsis so when I knew this book is related to music I had my doubts that were soon shattered. The book is worth every minute I spend on reading it. The writing is fast-paced and really engaging. The characters were likable, mature and both knew how to have a conversation when they need to have one. Eden is a strong and independent woman and Blaine had to work hard to gain her trust again.
I enjoyed this book from the first page to the end.
A hero who wants the heroin in his life again and worked for it to happen. A duel narrative which made me know both of the characters thoughts and feelings. A not so idiot man who doesn't say hurtful things to the heroine. All in a second chance romance. What do I want more?
I have zero information about the R&B or music industry in general. I always thought that books about singers and music aren't my jam but seriously, have you seen the cover? How can I say no to this gorgeousness.
I started this book without even reading the synopsis so when I knew this book is related to music I had my doubts that were soon shattered. The book is worth every minute I spend on reading it. The writing is fast-paced and really engaging. The characters were likable, mature and both knew how to have a conversation when they need to have one. Eden is a strong and independent woman and Blaine had to work hard to gain her trust again.
I enjoyed this book from the first page to the end.
October 23, 2020
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Second chance romances can be a bit hit or miss for me but when I saw that this one was set within the music industry I knew I wanted to give it a go. I really enjoyed it and found it to be a really quick read. I loved Eden and how strong she is and really felt her voice was great throughout the story. The pacing of Alexander's writing was fantastic and easily made this a book read in one or two sittings.
I did really like how this second chance romance progressed, though I would have liked Blaine to come around to realizing things about the past and his actions. Saying that, his being oblivious could be reasonable too - sometimes people have blind spots that they don't see. All in all it was a great story and an enjoyable romance.
Second chance romances can be a bit hit or miss for me but when I saw that this one was set within the music industry I knew I wanted to give it a go. I really enjoyed it and found it to be a really quick read. I loved Eden and how strong she is and really felt her voice was great throughout the story. The pacing of Alexander's writing was fantastic and easily made this a book read in one or two sittings.
I did really like how this second chance romance progressed, though I would have liked Blaine to come around to realizing things about the past and his actions. Saying that, his being oblivious could be reasonable too - sometimes people have blind spots that they don't see. All in all it was a great story and an enjoyable romance.
October 12, 2020
This is a second chance romance set in the music industry.
Eden Voss had been part of a group, along with her cousin and a friend. They were en route to stardom, or so their record executive, Blaine Woodson, had them believe until he followed corporate orders and split the group, leaving songwriter Eden doubly devastated as she'd been his girlfriend until then and he did nothing to help fight for her or support her after putting his studio label above their romance.
When he gets back in touch to offer her a contract to write songs for a new fledgling star. With an injured nephew needing surgery and her home needing repairs, Eden can't afford to say no. However, she's adamant that their relationship is to be strictly business . . . . . but the attraction is still there and they both find it irresistible! However, when the corporate folks try to intervene again, will Blaine be man enough to do what's right or will he cave in to them again and lose everything?
This is a story with family dramas, a lovely young lad, music, promises and romance. It is a steamy read with plenty of twists and I wasn't convinced it could all be resolved in the end until it was. I'm presuming there are going to be more stories involving the Woodson family in future - there are plenty of potential stars for future stories but I really hope there will be on for Eden's cousin and Blaine's brother!
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
Eden Voss had been part of a group, along with her cousin and a friend. They were en route to stardom, or so their record executive, Blaine Woodson, had them believe until he followed corporate orders and split the group, leaving songwriter Eden doubly devastated as she'd been his girlfriend until then and he did nothing to help fight for her or support her after putting his studio label above their romance.
When he gets back in touch to offer her a contract to write songs for a new fledgling star. With an injured nephew needing surgery and her home needing repairs, Eden can't afford to say no. However, she's adamant that their relationship is to be strictly business . . . . . but the attraction is still there and they both find it irresistible! However, when the corporate folks try to intervene again, will Blaine be man enough to do what's right or will he cave in to them again and lose everything?
This is a story with family dramas, a lovely young lad, music, promises and romance. It is a steamy read with plenty of twists and I wasn't convinced it could all be resolved in the end until it was. I'm presuming there are going to be more stories involving the Woodson family in future - there are plenty of potential stars for future stories but I really hope there will be on for Eden's cousin and Blaine's brother!
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
September 28, 2020
I think this book is a perfect example of why second chance romances so often do not work for me. Blaine Woodson prioritized his career over Eden Voss like almost a decade ago and now he's back offering her a job as a songwriter for a new solo star he's signed. First of all, I didn't love that this book just glosses over the power dynamics at play in the fact that Blaine was the record label president of the label Eden's group was part of, but I set that aside. What I couldn't get past or set aside was that Blaine TRULY had no concept of what exactly he'd done wrong. Like, he knew enough to know that he had hurt Eden, but he didn't get it and I just really struggled to support him as our hero.
Eden, though, I adored. Eden is a fantastic aunt and sister and I love her and want the best for her. I wish that I thought the best for her was Blaine because they had great chemistry, but honestly, a man should really have a bit more emotional intelligence than Blaine seemed capable of expressing. I loved how Eden worked with Naiya and the only thing I really would change about that is that I would have loved to see the lyrics for the songs they worked on. I did appreciate that we got closure with Naiya's album and the label situation and I'm excited to see where this overall series is going to go. I have a feeling our next hero is Blaine's brother Gage and I'm very excited about that.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for the opportunity to read this book early!
Eden, though, I adored. Eden is a fantastic aunt and sister and I love her and want the best for her. I wish that I thought the best for her was Blaine because they had great chemistry, but honestly, a man should really have a bit more emotional intelligence than Blaine seemed capable of expressing. I loved how Eden worked with Naiya and the only thing I really would change about that is that I would have loved to see the lyrics for the songs they worked on. I did appreciate that we got closure with Naiya's album and the label situation and I'm excited to see where this overall series is going to go. I have a feeling our next hero is Blaine's brother Gage and I'm very excited about that.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for the opportunity to read this book early!
October 14, 2020
Eden Voss and Blaine Woodson have a romantic past that was sweet until it turned bitter and this was because of him.
Eden wants to continue her success in the R&B music industry. But what will happen when circumstances conspire to throw her and Blaine back in a situation where they have no choice but to try and work together?
Memories are still raw and emotions are rife. Will they reclaim the spark they once had?
I liked how the R&B scene was the background for this and how there were also stories behind the main plotline. The backstory for each character was rich and immersive and I felt I got to know the characters pretty well pretty quickly.
The pacing in this book was enhanced by the writing style and the words chosen were carefully thought through which made it make more impact on me.
A well-rounded, sexy realistic story with R&B at its heart that oozes with chemistry and real-life issues.
I was left wanting to listen to Eternal, Usher or TLC afterwards. The R&B theme gives this a relaxed vibe in amongst all the feelings and action.
Thanks to Kianna Alexander and Harlequin Desire for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
4 stars
I am looking forward to the other books in the series.
Eden wants to continue her success in the R&B music industry. But what will happen when circumstances conspire to throw her and Blaine back in a situation where they have no choice but to try and work together?
Memories are still raw and emotions are rife. Will they reclaim the spark they once had?
I liked how the R&B scene was the background for this and how there were also stories behind the main plotline. The backstory for each character was rich and immersive and I felt I got to know the characters pretty well pretty quickly.
The pacing in this book was enhanced by the writing style and the words chosen were carefully thought through which made it make more impact on me.
A well-rounded, sexy realistic story with R&B at its heart that oozes with chemistry and real-life issues.
I was left wanting to listen to Eternal, Usher or TLC afterwards. The R&B theme gives this a relaxed vibe in amongst all the feelings and action.
Thanks to Kianna Alexander and Harlequin Desire for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
4 stars
I am looking forward to the other books in the series.
October 18, 2020
I’ve said this many times, but second-chance romance is not my favorite trope. But it worked for me here. Eden is a songwriter who almost made it big in the music business as a singer before being betrayed by the one man she should have been able to trust. Blaine, once desperate to save his music label, is desperate again and enlists the song writing talents of the woman he hurt but still loves.
There is a lot family/sisterly* love in this story and I wrapped that around myself like a cozy blanket. And the blazing chemistry between Eden and Blaine? Hot. This would have been five stars for me if the grovel had been bigger. Blaine did a reeeeeeally selfish thing and Eden deserved a bigger grovel in my grovel-loving opinion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin for the chance to read an advanced copy.
There is a lot family/sisterly* love in this story and I wrapped that around myself like a cozy blanket. And the blazing chemistry between Eden and Blaine? Hot. This would have been five stars for me if the grovel had been bigger. Blaine did a reeeeeeally selfish thing and Eden deserved a bigger grovel in my grovel-loving opinion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin for the chance to read an advanced copy.
October 18, 2020
After Hours Redemption is the first book in the 404 Sound series. Blaine is the black sheep of the family. Rather than go into the family business, he left in an attempt to make it in the music business on his own. Now he needs a hit album to save his company and Eden is the woman who he needs to write the songs that will save it.
This is a second chance romance. While I didn't love it, I did like it. It was a bit predictable and didn't have anything new, but it was a pleasant way to spend a few hours. I really liked Eden over Blaine. I loved that she was the stronger character of the two. Blaine really didn't grow on me until the end. It took until closer to the end of the book for me to warm up to him. The couple did a have a lot of chemistry. There was a nice HEA. I would recommend giving it a try.
This is a second chance romance. While I didn't love it, I did like it. It was a bit predictable and didn't have anything new, but it was a pleasant way to spend a few hours. I really liked Eden over Blaine. I loved that she was the stronger character of the two. Blaine really didn't grow on me until the end. It took until closer to the end of the book for me to warm up to him. The couple did a have a lot of chemistry. There was a nice HEA. I would recommend giving it a try.
September 8, 2020
Blaine Woodson broke Eden Voss' heart to save his record label. Years later, Blaine is back to ask Eden to help write songs for his new artist, Naima B. Eden agrees because of financial obligations and though she is attracted to Blaine, vows to keep things between them on a professional level.
I found this a quick, enjoyable read. At times, I didn't understand Blaine and his actions. He was...frustrating and yes, selfish. I was glad to see how the author developed both characters and it was good to see their growth. It isn't easy to redeem characters and I felt she did that with Blaine. They had an intense and hot attraction that will keep readers turning the pages.
The cover is hot. Thank you, #Netgalley #Harlequin.
I found this a quick, enjoyable read. At times, I didn't understand Blaine and his actions. He was...frustrating and yes, selfish. I was glad to see how the author developed both characters and it was good to see their growth. It isn't easy to redeem characters and I felt she did that with Blaine. They had an intense and hot attraction that will keep readers turning the pages.
The cover is hot. Thank you, #Netgalley #Harlequin.
January 27, 2021
This is the fourth book I’ve read from HQN’s Desire line, and I must say I really enjoyed this one. The author did a great job providing a believable plot that tied in with a wonderful character arc for the hero.
First, the heroine. Very likeable. And very talented. Eden’s been burned in the past. She had a chance at stardom, but her ex-lover Blaine sank her battleship to save his submarine. Yes, he chose his small label funded by a big label over his love for Eden and her career—all so he could prove he could make it in the music business without the help of his father. Yikes!
Read more here: https://maggieblackbird.com/2021/01/2...
First, the heroine. Very likeable. And very talented. Eden’s been burned in the past. She had a chance at stardom, but her ex-lover Blaine sank her battleship to save his submarine. Yes, he chose his small label funded by a big label over his love for Eden and her career—all so he could prove he could make it in the music business without the help of his father. Yikes!
Read more here: https://maggieblackbird.com/2021/01/2...
December 24, 2024
The story was far from believable. The MMC was an absolute idiot with zero self-awareness—he didn’t listen to the FMC, zoned out mid-conversation, had no backbone, and constantly used sex to avoid discussing important issues. The gaslighting was off the charts, yet somehow the FMC was in love with him, and her best friend kept encouraging her to give him a chance, which was baffling.
The narration didn’t help either. Having one voice narrate all characters made it difficult to tell when there was a switch in perspective. I kept listening, hoping something would redeem the story, but it just didn’t happen and I gave up. The only interesting part was the storyline itself, but the details and execution completely missed the mark for me.
The narration didn’t help either. Having one voice narrate all characters made it difficult to tell when there was a switch in perspective. I kept listening, hoping something would redeem the story, but it just didn’t happen and I gave up. The only interesting part was the storyline itself, but the details and execution completely missed the mark for me.
February 19, 2021
I'll admit upfront that second chance romances usually don't have much appeal for me. Unless the characters have matured in some significant way, I find myself doubtful that the relationship will not eventually implode the second time around. This book featured two very attractive characters and I really liked Eden a great deal. She's strong with an attitude that was really appealing. I couldn't warm to Blaine however; his last minute surge of independence seemed too auspicious for me. This was a fast, easy read that had me interested from the get-go and despite my cynicism I flew through it.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
December 4, 2024
This book is part of the Harlequin Desire series and it reminds me of why I stopped reading Harlequin romances. While the story concept is good, they follow a format and ultimately make the sex scenes to flowery.
This book was a drudge to read and I almost DNF’d it. The story is about a male record producer, Blaine and Eden who use to be a member of a girl group he produced. Then working on a new project featuring a new female artist is just okay and way too simplistic.
So while I’ve finished it, I won’t read the additional books in the series. It really was a pass for me.
This book was a drudge to read and I almost DNF’d it. The story is about a male record producer, Blaine and Eden who use to be a member of a girl group he produced. Then working on a new project featuring a new female artist is just okay and way too simplistic.
So while I’ve finished it, I won’t read the additional books in the series. It really was a pass for me.
February 15, 2021
This book follows Ethan and Blaine as they navigate their second chance at love. It's not a favorite romance but it does what it needs to do as a quick read. It was a good book to read between some of the longer books. Besides chemistry, the author didn't concretely convey why Ethan and Blaine got back together. It a short, enjoyable read but nothing I would reread. I would recommend it to those who like second chance romances.
October 13, 2020
I enjoyed this Second Chance romance...I can tell the author is a HUGE Outkast fan and love the ATL from the references and shoutouts mentioned in the book...lol. I really enjoyed Eden and Blaine's second chance. Now, I'm expecting the next novel would be on Eden's cousin Ainsley and Gage (Blaine's brother) :-)
November 3, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. The writing is lush and emotional and the romance was charming. The hero has 'typical man syndrome' and it takes him a while to pull his head out of ... coughs ... the sand and figure out how to be a decent person. And yet, he had all the elements of the M&B Desire hero: strong, forthright, arrogant, and brought to his knees by an incredible heroine.
March 23, 2021
Good story about second chances and what to believe. Also relates the concept of how and when to request help, especially from the person you least expect to give it to you without saying, :I told you so."
I like that even though Eden regretted not having her father as a child growing up, and believed that he let both her and her mother down, she did not let him down.
I like that even though Eden regretted not having her father as a child growing up, and believed that he let both her and her mother down, she did not let him down.
October 6, 2020
After Hours Redemption
Reunited exes with lingering feelings.. Blaine and Eden were in for a ride! They had a lot of past hurts to get over as they worked together to help a new singer. Great chemistry and I really enjoyed this book!
Reunited exes with lingering feelings.. Blaine and Eden were in for a ride! They had a lot of past hurts to get over as they worked together to help a new singer. Great chemistry and I really enjoyed this book!
October 7, 2020
Looking out for #1
Blain and Eden were made for each other but the drive for success came between. Second chances are only good if you recognize them for what they are. Family first.
Blain and Eden were made for each other but the drive for success came between. Second chances are only good if you recognize them for what they are. Family first.
September 5, 2024
This was almost a DNF for me. The story took a while to pick up. It was good to know that there are men out there who listen to women's wisdom. Because the love of your life could be staring you right in your face.
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October 3, 2020Categories
African American Romance, Multicultural & Interracial Romance
Miniseries
404 Sound
African American Romance, Multicultural & Interracial Romance
Miniseries
404 Sound
October 5, 2020
Great story. Second chance at love. Both characters following their dreams.
May 18, 2021
After hours
Another good read, by Alexander. Love will live a long time in the heart if it's true. So glad this couple had the opportunity to restart again.
Another good read, by Alexander. Love will live a long time in the heart if it's true. So glad this couple had the opportunity to restart again.
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April 12, 2023Good second chance read
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