Euphoria, is the latest standalone contemporary romance novel by Best-Selling author of women loving women fiction, Claire Highton-Stevenson. When Alexandra Montgomery took on the persona of Sasha, she had no idea where her life would lead. Wanting to rebel against her feisty mother, she joined a pop band, Solar Flare, and found a foothold on the ladder to fame and fortune. That was until tragedy struck and the band was involved in a horrific crash. Despite being ‘the lucky one,’ who survived uninjured; she still lives with the guilt of surviving and the ensuing panic attacks that have never gone away.
Now, into her forties, Sasha is a well-known and celebrated classical pianist about to embark on a tour of UK cathedrals, however, those panic attacks are worse than ever, leading to a visit to the local hospital where Alex meets Dr Morgan Kelly.
A very attractive, much younger, calming influence,
who jumps at the chance to go on tour with the gorgeous musician.
Morgan is exhausted and already on the verge of burnout, a few weeks lounging in fancy hotels is just what the doctor ordered...until Alex’s P.A. Francine orchestrates a fake Girlfriend scenario to keep the anxiety issues out of the papers.
Forced to share a hotel suite for the entire tour would be fine, if neither of them was attracted to the other, and Alex didn’t come off stage filled with an adrenaline-led Euphoria that only wants one thing: to be released!
Award-Winning and best selling, Claire Highton-Stevenson is an Independent author of contemporary romance and crime novels.
Having worked for many years in emergency services, Claire now spends her time writing, traveling, researching ancestry, following Liverpool FC and enjoying life as much as possible.
She lives in West Sussex, UK. Along with her wife and fur babies.
Such a beautiful story. Alex/Sasha suffers from panic attacks due to having survived a horrific bus accident years ago. She's a celebrated concert pianist now. She has a panic attack at home and is brought to the hospital by her agent, when she meets Dr. Morgan Kelly, who talks her down from the panic attack. Alex trusts Morgan and wants her on her tour. This is a beautiful, age gap/ rich girl, poor girl love story. That takes you on a tour of wonderful cathedrals and churches in England and Scotland. So HOT and loving. Should be more than 5 stars!!
I really wanted to like Euphoria since I loved the premise—an age gap fake celebrity romance. The story revolves around Alexandra Montgomery, aka Sasha, a celebrity who is in her forties, and 30+ year old Dr. Morgan Kelly, who accompanies Alex on her tour due to Alex’s anxiety resulting from a horrific accident which led to the death of many of her band members - the same accident in Escape & Freedom. This is a standalone book, so if you haven't read E&F, that's fine. It's a good story, but just not for me this time around. Euphoria somehow fell flat for me; I didn't get that warm fuzzy feeling.
What separates Euphoria from other celebrity sapphic books is the fact that the non-celebrity character Morgan was direct and concise with what she wants and needs. She communicates it and has BOUNDARIES. I also appreciate that even though they are kinky (dom and sub) the sex scenes did not inundate the story. Some scenes were implied some were explicit. I liked that. Just overall, it was nice and refreshing to read something different from the “celebrity” trope.
This is an interesting story right up there with the best from this author. A classical pianist and composer with a tortured past meets a career driven doctor. The rest as they say makes for a lovely tale full of clever banter between these two, plus the frantic publicist. It's fast paced, full of humour and sexy times are 🔥 🔥 This writer always has a brilliant turn of phrase and this book is no different. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys intelligent writing, age gap and a little mystery, you can't go wrong.
Somehow I was able to finish this book despite the random and disorienting POV shifts (sometimes mid sentence somehow?) and the really awkward and kinda cringy "Crescendo, allegro" stuff.
The biggest problem with this book is it has no clear direction. It sets up several potential plot lines that should lead to conflict and yet none of them are resolved in a satisfying way. Every single point of interest was never fully fleshed out and has a lackluster ending. At 96%, I actually began to wonder if there was somehow going to be a sequel because there were 4 major points that were not resolved yet. Within a few paragraphs, 1 is forgotten and the other 3 are written off without importance.
It legitimately felt like the author got bored with her own book and just decided to end it in the laziest way possible.
Also, Francine was an absolute nightmare! Hated her character more and more as the story went on and yet she's supposed to be one of the good guys. I struggled to see how Alex could possibly be friends with this person. I also couldn't figure out if she was supposed to have some sort of southern accent or something because sometimes she had it and sometimes she didn't. Just really poorly written in general.
2.5-3 stars. I found it really distracting that the POV changes randomly, even paragraph by paragraph. There were even a few short paragraphs with a side character’s POV. The writing felt sloppy and this all over the place POV business made it worse for me. The 421 pages were a struggle for me to go through. I wanted to give the book a chance to prove its 4.5 average rating and finished it. I was disappointed although I did find last 10% the best part of the book regarding the love story. There were more emotions and more than physical attraction there.
The plot/blurb sounded interesting but the actual story was completely ridiculous. Like 100k pounds for 3 weeks’ work? The attraction part was written quite well and especially Alex’s past trauma was supporting the present day events. I missed having proper love story on top of all the physical.
Euphoria was my first book by the author and I’m not eager to explore more in the near future.
I really wanted to like this book by Claire Highton-Stevenson. I loved the premise, and she delivered as expected. However, for me, she is one of the few authors that I tend to want to DNF but refuse to. Two issues I have are her writing style, and I can not connect to her books. The writing style is mixed between MCs in her sections, where she starts off with one, goes to another than back. It's a good story, and I do not want anyone discouraged from giving it a try.
Such a beautiful book. I absolutely loved every single word. The main characters are written perfectly, the changing settings made for an interesting read. And the ending just ties everything together. I would have happily read another 30 or more chapters. Loved these two characters and I hope they pop up again in a future book.
“Pressing her hips forward, her legs feeling weaker, arms aching as every sinew stretched and tired, she begged, “Please, Alex, I need—” “Accelerando.” The word whispered that way was erotic, but the gradual increase of pressure and speed that accompanied it felt out of this world. The pressure between Morgan’s legs intensified, her clit swelling with every movement as Alex’s palm hit against it. “Please, I just want to— Please.” Alex’s arm that had at some point eased around her waist, tightened again, holding Morgan against her nakedness, fingers speeding up. “Allegro. Allegro,” Alex said before she whispered once more, and Morgan finally understood the random Italian words. “Now, crescendo.”
A new high in the musical story that brings peace to the gifted but tortured soul.
I so enjoy this further story for the bus crash band and the one who recieved "no" injuries. Sasha may have not been physically injured but Alex finds peace and passion in the music is completely harmed. The panic attacks have lessened but all it takes is a demand to do the next tour travel by bus to treate a heart panic that scares Alex. Enter Dr. Morgan who treats Alex in the ED and brings calming touch that opens up the heart to a new bunch of panic feelings. I just love how Claire Highton-Stevenson brings that desire and connection together for her characters. From their first meeting I felt that strong touch between Alex and Morgan. Watching in grow throughout the tour was just so magical and hot. The twist of a stalker that helped Alex to demand the life she wants enough to risk at last was priceless. I have to admit Francine was a little hard to warm up to. Her take no prisoners kind of order and organizing that left people in the dark was harsh at first. She was a delight as we gathered to see some of her thoughts that went with her actions. This whole story unfolded in a way that just made me want more of their dreams come true. Again Claire gives the reader a delightful story with some story twists that keep the reader glued to see how the couple comes together.
So I was just saying that in general, I find books about about musicians a little more compelling than books about actors… because you can play or sing a song while looking someone in the eye and letting them know with your gaze that it’s all about them… but you can’t so much act the crap out of a scene while conveying that it’s all for somebody else.
And here we go — Alex writes a song for Morgan, announces it somewhat cryptically for the audience, but looks Morgan in the eye and tells her it’s for her. Those… are the moments that make books like this for me. :)
It helps that Alex and Morgan are great characters, of course. While they do feel that instant spark when they meet, there’s plenty of time before they finally decide to explore it, so it ends up feeling a bit more natural when the time comes. And there’s plenty of drama to keep the story going, from crazy exes to mysterious text message and more. The various locations were fun too, from cathedrals to hotels to random shops ducked into to avoid the rain. I’m also used to the musicians being rock stars, more or less, so the classical pianist was a fresh take on it.
Put all that together, and it was a fun read, and one that I’d be happy to revisit some time.
P.S. it wasn’t until writing this review that I noticed — Alex Morgan? ⚽️ 😂
I really liked this book. A little more spice than the last book I read from her about her bandmate in Escape and Freedom, closer to the level of spice in her newer works. Did have the same POV confusion from time to time where I wasn't sure who was experiencing what because she changes POV mid-scene. It is better than her older books, but still an issue I have with reading her books.
The relationship between Alex and Morgan is definitely not sweet. It is rip your clothes off chemistry from the start. There wasn't as much relationship building as I would have liked, but I could still see the MCs working out in the long run. Also enjoyed watching Francine boss everyone around and run around like a little American terror or something.
There was no third act breakup. Woo! There was some drama with an ex and surrounding some events during the tour. But nothing that even hinted at forcing the MCs apart. They actually did a pretty good job about talking to each other about what was bothering them and opening up about past traumas.
Claire takes us on an adventure of another Solar Flare bandmate. Alex Montgomery who also survived the tragic crash from many years ago, was not injured as she was the only one strapped in her seat. Survivors Guilt and Panic Attacks are what she lives with now in her late forties. Morgan Kelly is a doctor in her early thirties who is tiredly working the ER. She is working hard with little personal life trying to pay off school debts and a mortgage. She knows she is reaching a burnout situation. When the two are brought together in an ER situation, little do they know both their lives were going to change. This writer constantly develops characters that show vulnerability,sexuality and their heart. I feel another book coming……
When world-renowned musician Alex Montgomery hires Dr. Morgan Kelly to accompany her on a concert tour, the younger, alluring physician proves an invaluable help for her stress and panic attacks, but she also ignites a long-dormant passion that will either unravel Alex's dreams or fulfill them.
Euphoria is a steamy, emotional, and engaging sapphic romance with two compelling main characters. Alex's ongoing struggle with trauma in conjunction with her musical ambition creates powerful tension, and when Morgan is drawn into her world, the spark that ignites between them is explosive. Their journey to lasting love is a delightful mix of tender and sexy, and the drama and glamor of the concert world creates an entertaining backdrop.
There are so many wonderful ways to express love. To be able to manifest it totally through music is a talent from the gods. Alex (Sasha), due to tragic professional circumstances, has lost her ability to do so. A panic attack introduces her to Dr. Morgan and her world changes. A tour brings the two them together on a journey where the doctor heals Alex’s soul( and body ❤️). A variety of misadventures brings them even closer. ( Along with members of their families and friends). This is a well constructed novel, filled with interesting characters and circumstances. Also, you get a picture of the hectic nature of concert tours, and the problems therein. Enjoy love, support and heat of this well worth reading sapphic romance.
Having read a few of your other books. I chose to read this book. While reading I came across a thread of Alex's memories of her younger experiences, in particular a tragic past. That description poked at my memory of having read that before; so I went searching in my other books of yours and found what I was looking for❗. In a book titled Escape and Freedom. This story was a Masterpiece of lesfic drama. So many pleasant emotions run through you while reading this story of heartbreak and sorrow. And too read how Sasha triumphs and comes out with a Happy ever after is just Icing on the cake. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥❗😝😜😋
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Claire is an amazing author and Euphoria definitely lives up to her standards. Concert pianist Alex meets younger Dr Morgan and there's immediate chemistry. Alex is about to go on tour but has some anxiety issues from an earlier trauma. Her friend and manager suggests the good Dr Morgan accompany Alex but has her pose as a love interest so the press won't focus on any possible medical issues. Well, everyone knows what happens when a character Poses as a love interest - they actually fall for each other. Follow Alex and Morgan and their supporting cast as they find their way to Euphoria. It's a wonderful read and you won't want to put it down.
I loved the idea of this story and thoroughly enjoyed this sort of insta love romance. My only critique was that the twist was anticlimactic.
*SPOILER*
I found that the most climactic part where laurel is confronted could have been more intense. Felt like a missed opportunity for a big dramatic moment like something happening to Morgan or finding out that laurel was the woman texting Alex. Just fell flat when it felt like the whole story was building up to this crazy moment and in reality it was like nothing related to each other and easy could have been left of from the story.
I’ve loved every page of Euphoria. Did it get a little frustrating to be teased only to have a proverbial fade to black moment instead? Yes. Does it take away from the story? No.
I did think that the whole mystery texting was pointless, especially as it became a subplot that got dropped with no real resolution, nor reason for having been incorporated in the first place; we understood Alex didn’t have anything along the lines of friends or a social life outside her work, but it did flesh out Alex as a character on some level.
I want more. I know I should just be grateful for this beautiful story but… I just want more!
I like to write reviews on books like this because it really is a great journey for the main character and love interest.
Even Francine didn't make it about herself, she was tough, yes, but at the end of the day she was doing her job. Morgan had a backbone and trust was established which is key to a believable relationship.
Given time stories like this one makes it fun to enjoy with a coffee and yes classical music which I enjoy too. Great story.
This is a wonderful story. It starts out not so happy about a musician Alex that survived an awful bus wreck and dealing with the trauma decades later. The Dr is confident and feels the energy between them. As a fake lover to go on the road as her Dr. Morgan doesn't have to fake liking Alex. As the chemistry builds between them things begin to happen on the tour. A stalker and the will to protect. Brings a passion back into an artist so that she may get what she is looking for love. Just a wonderful story to read.
From the beginning of the novel, it was clear that Alexandra had issues, and once we understood why, it became clear that part of this story was Alex continuing to heal from the past trauma she’d experienced by falling for her doctor. But it was less clear that Morgan had issues of her own to deal with as well.
But this is also a story about art, and about the beauty that love, passion, and desire can give to the artist.
I greatly enjoyed this book and I hope that you will too.
Alexandra Montgomery, aka, Sasha is a celebrated classical composer and pianist. After a horrible accident in a motor coach when she escaped unharmed but the rest of Solar Flare were killed or horribly injured she suffers crippling panic attacks. Rushed to the hospital she meets Dr. Morgan Strong who helps her recover. Preparing to tour the UK cathedrals, Sasha persuaded Morgan to accompany her. A romantic masterpiece about a soaring love.
A phenomenal story about two phenomenal people falling in love on a tour around the UK. Or maybe it was love at first sight, and just took them a while to come to terms with it.
I also loved how classical music was at the core of the story and I would think it took quite a lot of research to create such credible characters and events.
From the beginning to the end was phenomenal. The kind of love orchestrated through music, ups and downs, highs and lows this book kept me going. This story was passionately written and the intimate details were satisfying. Kudos to the author on a well written story.