Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

The Saxophonist

Rate this book
Prime
The depths of my pain were profound. An abyss so vast that people couldn’t comprehend it. Anger was a mere facade. The truth was in the hurt. Cursed, it was to be an emotionally intelligent man. My emotional memory was astute. Often, suffering was experienced on a spiritual level. Often, I felt my ancient hurt as if it had just occurred. Often, I spiraled, dissociating into the past, reliving my betrayals. Often, that whirlwind caused me to dissociate, jumping timelines into the future. Tasting the diabetic sweetness of revenge.

Winter
Sure, he was rugged, but he was also docile. A gentle soul, complex with many layers beneath it all. Dangerous, his depth was. The kind capable of suffocation. The kind capable of ruination. The kind capable of issuing heart palpitations. But I was an astute swimmer willing to plunge deep. After ten years of sitting with the weight of crime he didn’t commit, he deserved to feel slighted. He deserved to feel rage. Deserved to feel… The physical freedom was only the tip of the iceberg. The mental and emotional freedom would take patience—an abundance of it paired with love and understanding. For him, I’d swim.

After ten long years of being wrongfully incarcerated, Prime Hermès has been freed from the shackles of a 25-year sentence on his life. His first stop as he steps beyond the walls of Paramour Correctional Facility is the woman who aided his release. His second stop? The woman who aided his fall from grace.

389 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2024

114 people are currently reading
145 people want to read

About the author

Rae Anderson

19 books23 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
181 (55%)
4 stars
111 (33%)
3 stars
30 (9%)
2 stars
7 (2%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for *Ebony I*.
1,421 reviews157 followers
June 12, 2025
The sounds of love

This story was so poetic. Even though it was definitely a full novel, the writing just floated like poetry. I do believe this is an acquired taste, and may not be everyone's cup of tea, but I loved it. 

Prime and Winter became acquainted via a Pen Pals program while he was in prison. They were estranged for a bit due to Prime's fears. However, Winter and her teams due diligence allow them to meet face to face. Chilllllle the chemistry between them was palpable and I was here for it. 

Prime was just everything. The way he played the saxophone 🎷 was the sexiest imagery ever. Not to mention the way he played ALL his instruments 🤭😩 whew child. That dancing scene in the kitchen 🥵 He was a little rough around the edges, but sweet enough when it came to Winter and his daughter.

Winter was a supporter. She was smart, beautiful, stubborn, yet chill. I loved how she held Prime down and how she challenged him. Together they found a love that was just for them. 

There was so much going on around them and some of it felt unrealistic because it should have easily led back to Prime, but it didn't. That said I loved the story, it just felt good to me.
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,580 reviews104 followers
November 7, 2024
We meet Prime in prison, and he was unjustly imprisoned, although we don't know why just yet. Being a talented musician with the world at your fingertips, then being convicted of a crime he didn't commit broke him down. He is stripped down bare. Angry, hurt, and in disbelief that this has happened, causes him to fall into despair, and fight for survival. While in he becomes pen pals with a law intern, who gives him a spark. A spark of hope, a spark of humanity, and reminds him that he is indeed a man deserving of a second chance. This woman, along with her team, worked tirelessly to aid in his release from prison, getting his conviction overturned. As soon as he gets out, find Winter.

Winter, dedicated to her career in criminal law, is finishing up her law degree. However, she can't seem to get her pen pal out of her mind. When Prime approaches her upon his release their connection is magical. They are truly the yin to the other's yang, as they push and pull while getting to know each other. Although this thing with them is new, they don't stray far from the other, as they know their togetherness is their lifeline.

Prime is a complicated man with layers. We know that the death of his mother deeply impacted him, and I hope that we dig deeper into that as we move forward. I couldn't believe Camille, and the lengths that she went through to hurt him!! 🤬 What is Prodigy's deal? Just popping in and out of his children's lives, when he is the cause for the trauma, they all experience! The darkness that is Prodigy is also in Prime. The calculating revenge plots... 🤯whew! Then he would just seemingly shake it off, and go back to his baby, Winter. She is his balance and with her by his side he is smooth.

That reoccurring dream that Winter has been having has come to fruition, threatening to ruin their happiness. Now she and Prime need to make a move. Hmmm... what will they do? Looking forward to the next read to find out.
Profile Image for Mani.
80 reviews27 followers
April 28, 2025
It all started from a letter…..

Prime me, please. The Haitian sensation has landed. The cold, murderous, passionate, calculated lover boy.

This is a tale about a love that began with words on a page and blossomed into a covenant between a man doing time for a crime he didn’t commit and a junior attorney. The book pens life after lockup in such an expressive way. You feel Prime’s anguish and his difficulty with acclimating. His reintroduction into society was way more cushy than others who serve time but you still see him battle to get back to who he was after a 10 year stint.

Winter, a fiery law student, fiercely loyal to Prime from the moment he responded to her letter. While she held a space for Prime to be himself, she always held him accountable and fought for their love.

I can’t wait for his lil bro Pierre’s book.

4.5 ✨

Profile Image for Kamari.
41 reviews
November 21, 2025
The book started strong and interesting. The storyline and background were unique and well thought out, but their love didn't capture me in the end.

Halfway through, it started losing me. Winter started to grind my gears, and their "relationship" started to seem toxic. The more she stomped on his boundaries with her "stubbornness," the more disconnected I felt to their love story. Their connection seemed more like trauma bonding and Winter wanting to be his savior.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sha Sha.
250 reviews17 followers
Read
May 9, 2025
Soft DNF at this time.
Profile Image for Savannah.
59 reviews1 follower
June 13, 2025
Give this a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars. Only thing keeping it from a 5 star read was I didn’t care too much for the ending. But this authors writing style and how it was so poetic. I couldn’t help but to think about the feels I get from watching something like Love Jones.
Profile Image for Imajin Consulting.
202 reviews5 followers
December 30, 2024
For some reason my books read didn't register consistently on goodreads in 2024 so I'll do my best to track back but i was reading so many different ways for the first time ever it may take a while.
I'll check in more in 2025 to ensure my reads are logged in real time and accurately! Due to this, I honestly don't have the dates for this one.
This was my first read by Rae Anderson, recommended by @girlfriends_unfiltered & I absolutely loved it! The words were almost poetic definitely made me sit and savor the entire book like a deep, love song you play over & over cause you can't get enough of it.
I have a thing for names...Prime & Winter...yeah i'm feelin' these names...
The dynamics between the characters felt real. The obvious danger added in them even thinking about being together created a different type of connection. Sometimes the big sister/cousin in me, had me wondering why she was willing to risk it all for this man and other times I was like YES that's a man who has your back ' go for it!' His protective nature was a huge part of his personality even causing him to sacrifice a huge portion of his life for it...He was nothing to play with, yet his musical gifts gave balance to his roughness. I loved that it wasn't a smooth sailing love story. He had a past and that came with a lot but he was focused and what woman doesn't love a man focused ...on you! Lovin' the Hermes Family... I try not to give too much but Rae Anderson is definitely an excellent author!
Profile Image for Myana.
295 reviews4 followers
May 12, 2025
Not really sure how to review this one. While I did read the prequel novella I did go into this hoping for something a little less lyrical….. That was not the case. The writing was very similar as the letters and I guess I felt like I was always hoping for a little more out of the main characters. They were in each other’s space but it was hard to learn anything about the two together because we focused so heavily on them separately.
I don’t know I still have SO many questions and I feel like a lot was left open ended for this to have been a full length novel focusing on one couple and the next book focusing on another….. not sure if I’ll continue on with this series.
Profile Image for Evie.
131 reviews2 followers
April 14, 2025
I tore through this book in one sitting, yes, it’s that gripping. Rae Anderson absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one.

Prime Hermès is a character who lingers in your mind long after the final page. Wrongly imprisoned for ten years, his story of redemption, reconnection, and love is both devastating and deeply uplifting. Every twist and emotional beat hits hard, and you can’t help but root for him as he fights to piece his life back together.

Winter, the leading lady, is unshakable in her loyalty and love. The bond she shares with Prime is intense and beautifully written—a shining example of resilience and devotion.

The musical element threaded throughout adds another layer of richness. Prime, a world-famous saxophonist, comes from a gifted family: his brother Pierre masters the piano, and his sister Piper brings the violin to life. Their shared past and personal stories deepen the world Anderson has built—it’s immersive and unforgettable.

Then there’s Peyton, Prime’s daughter. Her presence adds emotional depth and complexity. She’s a vital part of the narrative, and I’m really hoping future books give us more of her voice and perspective.

This is just the start of what feels like an extraordinary series. I genuinely can’t wait to see where the stories of Prime’s siblings take us next.

Rae Anderson, you’ve got a lifelong reader in me. This one’s a must-read.
Profile Image for TheReaderVert .
818 reviews31 followers
November 20, 2025
A Murdery Saxophonist Who's a Lover Boy

One thing to expect for a Rae Anderson story is lyricism in the writing. I do feel that at times this particular story suffered from the weight of the lyrical flow. Instead of using the lyricism to punch up parts for maximum impact the stylistic choice for the entire book to be this way made it harder to truly feel the emotional weight of the story. It also allowed for difficult scenes, topics, or conversations to be mildly addressed. Some hard hitting truths were wrapped too nicely in the veneer of poetry. The beginning does a great job of sucking you in. Prime is a fascinating character; however, after a few chapters I couldn't say I truly got to know him, he still felt vague. I also wish I knew more extreme details about the mystery surrounding his arrest. We understand the players and we see the outcome but I was intrigued to know a little bit more about motive, etc. So much trauma that gets instantly smoothed over leaves the plate feeling like a sweet potation smear vs proper mashed side dish. His girl, Winter, is the same way, Prime would set a boundary and she would consistently smash through it, and then be forced to apologize when it's a delicate matter she just flopped into. But there were things I loved: the Haitian pieces, how Prime simplifies things, Winter's enthusiasm.
Profile Image for Gabrielle  Johnson.
28 reviews
August 1, 2025
Smooth…

I didn’t jump into this book expecting to be inspired to return to being a creative but this book gave me all the feels. I love an author that takes the time to create a character and actually sees the story’s progression through that character’s perspective. Anderson didn’t venture from Prime’s temperament. She stayed true to who he was and that was all MAN. He’s the oldest so he’s calculated and a natural protector. I love that the story was told from his POV first. Winter was an exceptional character as well but he was the clear lead.

I’m not a fan of a forced slow burn—neither am I a fan of forced smut. I believe sex should be introduced when the character’s decide it’s time. The heat level in this story made sense and boy was it 🔥. I can imagine sex with a musician would be an experience, maybe sensual and slow like the stroke of keys or fast and steady like the beat of a drum. Never would I have dreamed of a saxophone but I’m glad I landed here.

Kudos to Anderson for being a creative and staying true to her art! Congratulations girl because this is a hit!
Profile Image for Kierra Hayes.
172 reviews1 follower
April 14, 2025
I love this story from beginning to end. I definitely think reading the prelude short story helped answers some questions I would had have if I didn’t read it. I love the writing style and the point of view each gave when an event happened in the story. Winter was so great with being so patient as Prime renter society and battling his demons. She didn’t deflect when some of his darker side came out and stood on business with her man. I love the cliffhanger - nice and clean with the foreshadow from Winter’s dream. Love how we went through Prime little revenge moments. Glad it didn’t overtake the story with it being moments that help bridge the story between moments, and that’s was more focused on how Prime and winter felt about the whole thing. The ending was a little fast for me when I wanted to experience some of the pregnancy from Prime POV, but other than that the story was beautiful with its elegant and poetic writing.
8 reviews
July 26, 2025
Craving a Prime Love

In all my years of living I’ve never seen an author who wrote so poetically. This and letters to prime was my first read by Rae Anderson and she officially been added to my TOP 5 reads. Prime was a Fukn vision that I didn’t know I truly needed in my life. He was troubled but peace all in the same breath. Winter was calm to his hurricane and I loved every moment of it the most intimate moments where captivating I felt like I was truly placed in the room with the characters I can’t wait to hear Piper and Pierre story. Even Prodigy I would love to see him redeem himself and show him in another lite with new love
69 reviews1 follower
January 19, 2026
prime time

The Saxophonist is a raw, reflective story rooted in redemption, love, and life in the gray areas between right and wrong. Prime’s journey back into a world that moved on without him is layered with pain, growth, and quiet strength. Winter, the FMC, plays a pivotal role—not only as emotional support, but as the woman who helps prove his innocence, standing beside him when it matters most. Their connection adds depth to the story, balancing vulnerability with resilience. Honest, soulful, and intentional, this book highlights the importance of holding space for Black men and their stories, making it a powerful start to the Hermès Family series.
Profile Image for Chevarrie.
37 reviews
January 27, 2026
Appreciating the Craft, Missing the Spark

The author clearly did a solid job telling this story, but unfortunately it just didn’t resonate with me. It was a very slow burn, and I never quite had any aha moments or feelings of excitement while reading. At its core, it felt like a familiar “man meets woman, they face some differences” narrative, and it didn’t offer anything that truly grabbed me. While I can appreciate the craft behind it, the story itself simply didn’t land for me.
48 reviews1 follower
January 5, 2025
wow wow wow

Man Prime an winter were everything! Can’t wait to see what is in store for them as well as Peyton.

Detective Denim should’ve just left well enough alone, he done dug his own grave now.

Hopefully someone will come along and show Piper the way a REAL man loves and treats his woman, cause her husband wasn’t it.
26 reviews
May 18, 2025
Excellent

This was a beautiful and phenomenal telling of a love story. The richness of the language, the character development, the weaving of the storyline….just beautiful. The story of Prime and Winter’s reconnection after being prison pen pals was composed like a piece of music. This author did an amazing job. 5 stars
2 reviews
May 27, 2025
This book was a warm,rainy day with a hint of lime.

This book is 5 stars for sure. This is my first read by Ms.Rae but UT will not be my last. If I had to describe this book with one word it would just plainly be: Sexy. I love everything about this book from the beginning to the end.
245 reviews2 followers
January 27, 2026
Read the Prequel too!

I actually got fell in love with the characters in the Prequel book. And from there Prime & Winter have always had my support. 10 years is a long time to be locked up and dehumanizing as many are in prison. Not seen as a person, one who might be honest. Prime seeking revenge & not stopping until all are eliminated us what a Yonex would want to do.
Profile Image for Gigi.
587 reviews11 followers
January 29, 2026
What a intriguing family the Hermes

Wow I would love to GWT the prelude to Primes demise. My first time read Rae Anderson and I am not disappointed. The word play with the love scenes between Prime and winter and the emotional being of Prime. Bravo. Can't wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Tiffany C.
107 reviews1 follower
April 1, 2025
Prime!!

I don’t know what it is about a Haitian MMC but I’m going to eat it up every time. I just love how Prime and Winter ride for one another. I can’t wait til the second installment.
60 reviews
April 4, 2025
perfecto!!!

Some of the best writing u have read to date!! Absolutely loved winter and prime!!! To see growth in a broken man is always a big deal to me!! I felt this read on a personal level.. Thank you!!
Profile Image for Tanya LaTasha.
164 reviews2 followers
January 16, 2026
Winter

I really enjoyed the journey of Prime and Winter. This is my first by this author so it took a minute to adjust to her poetic wording and writing style and I’m looking forward to the Violinist so all of my questions are answered.
Profile Image for NeneReads.
20 reviews
February 2, 2026
Writing was very on point. The best I’ve seen recently (minus a few typos). I decided to dnf at 56%, I just couldn’t get past the daughter drama lol that’s why I don’t read books with bd’s I guess

I also wish winter woulda left him alone to stew for a bit, he was undeserving of her at times.
Profile Image for J Chance.
84 reviews2 followers
April 3, 2025
Prime and Winter🖤 .. The way this book is written.. Just Chefs Kiss 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Profile Image for MJ.
29 reviews
April 3, 2025
This one surprised me. The writing & development was so good!!!
52 reviews
April 15, 2025
Amazing

Rae’s writing is top tier, and this book proves it. They way every chapter felt like a dance between the characters. This book was A1
Profile Image for ShaTorey.
381 reviews10 followers
April 19, 2025
Booktok made me read the prequel and I landed here. This is a good book. The reasoning for him to go to jail, WILD. But I enjoyed it
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.