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A Musical Interlude #1.5
An Aria in Venice
**This novel is a standalone with no cliffhanger. Complete at 95,000 words.***
This series will include five books and one companion novel (An Aria in Venice)
His goal...One night with the ballerina.
Her goal...To beat the player at his game.
The outcome...Something completely unexpected.
Adriana Dostov pegged Luca Martuccio from day one: gorgeous, talented, arrogant, a man who has had difficulty committing to one woman in the past. He is known in fashion circles as the player with a scandalous history. So when the girls in her ballet troupe suggest she gives up her virginity to him, she doesn't say no. But she's not sure that a 'yes' is the right answer either. Yet, she can't stop herself from making the offer...a one night stand in Venice.
Luca wanted fiesty little Adriana the moment they first met - and he fully intends to have her, hence why he's agreed to accept her proposal. In the end, he'll get what he wants. No commitment. All sex.
But, as Luca discovers, there's more to the ballerina with the overbearing mother - and he can't help but care about the frightened girl behind those sad eyes.
Adriana discovers Luca isn't just walking sex on a stick - he has a wildly passionate side, a lost soul who has suffered just as much grief as her. And it could be, they're exactly what the other one needs.
**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+** All novels in the Musical Interlude Series are steamy contemporary romance with alpha male heroes and sexy, empowered women.
This series will include five books and one companion novel (An Aria in Venice)
His goal...One night with the ballerina.
Her goal...To beat the player at his game.
The outcome...Something completely unexpected.
Adriana Dostov pegged Luca Martuccio from day one: gorgeous, talented, arrogant, a man who has had difficulty committing to one woman in the past. He is known in fashion circles as the player with a scandalous history. So when the girls in her ballet troupe suggest she gives up her virginity to him, she doesn't say no. But she's not sure that a 'yes' is the right answer either. Yet, she can't stop herself from making the offer...a one night stand in Venice.
Luca wanted fiesty little Adriana the moment they first met - and he fully intends to have her, hence why he's agreed to accept her proposal. In the end, he'll get what he wants. No commitment. All sex.
But, as Luca discovers, there's more to the ballerina with the overbearing mother - and he can't help but care about the frightened girl behind those sad eyes.
Adriana discovers Luca isn't just walking sex on a stick - he has a wildly passionate side, a lost soul who has suffered just as much grief as her. And it could be, they're exactly what the other one needs.
**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+** All novels in the Musical Interlude Series are steamy contemporary romance with alpha male heroes and sexy, empowered women.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2014
3 people are currently reading
712 people want to read
About the author
KaSonndra Leigh
20 books702 followersAuthor of the International bestselling novels, the Prelude and the Lost Immortals Saga, KaSonndra is a mother, designer, reader, gardener, home renovator, and a slayer of undead Egyptian mummies in Tomb Raider. She believes in karma, and coffee, and seriously wishes that the producers of Xena would bring her favorite show back.
KaSonndra was born in the race-car city of Charlotte, NC, and now lives in the City of Alchemy and Medicine, NC, when she's not hanging out in Bardonia (Lost Immortals Saga setting). Most of her characters are based on people she has met throughout her travels and adventures.
People tend to stop and start conversations with KaSonndra as if she has known them her entire life. Does this freak her out? Not really. Her mom says that one day she’ll get kidnapped by one of these folks. KaSonndra's response? She told her mom that if it weren’t for these lovely people, she wouldn’t be able to create such fabulously romantic stories!
KaSonndra was born in the race-car city of Charlotte, NC, and now lives in the City of Alchemy and Medicine, NC, when she's not hanging out in Bardonia (Lost Immortals Saga setting). Most of her characters are based on people she has met throughout her travels and adventures.
People tend to stop and start conversations with KaSonndra as if she has known them her entire life. Does this freak her out? Not really. Her mom says that one day she’ll get kidnapped by one of these folks. KaSonndra's response? She told her mom that if it weren’t for these lovely people, she wouldn’t be able to create such fabulously romantic stories!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
March 20, 2014
3 In Love Stars
I will cherish you today. I will love you forever and always...
Love isn't the dreams we have as teenagers, the ideal that we have shaped. Love is furious and certainly blind, passionate and can be easily mistaken for a bond between friends and family. The real one, the forever kind will blindside you, crash you and make you whole as you are building new dreams to fit your beloved one. Real love will make you...
...hit repeat at the end.
This our story. The story of 3 people. Luca, the grieving designer. Nikolai, the tormented choreographer. And between them an innocent and passionate girl. Adriana, the ballerina that wants to be loved. The dreamer.
These three people are our heroes in an emotional story of first love, family, secrets and betrayals. Adriana is desperate to make Nikolai want her as much she wants him, but he sees her as his little sister, not the woman she grew up in. So she is set on gaining experience and making him jealous; in the arms of another man. But nothing is really that simple when it comes to games of the heart.
Set in the romantic Italy, with the backdrop of Venice to whisper seductive evenings in your ears, you can't help but root for these people and crave for a happily ever after for all of them. But are HEA's even possible?
I enjoyed reading about the Maestro's little sister and her adventures as she is growing up as a woman and dancer. My only issue is that I kept comparing it to the first book and I decided that I liked it more. The almost love triangle isn't my cuppa and Adriana although adorable seemed immature and superficial to me.
KaSonndra Leigh manages to write another story with intriguing plot and complex relationships and I will definitely come back for more!
ARC courtesy of the author KaSonndra Leigh, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I will cherish you today. I will love you forever and always...
Love isn't the dreams we have as teenagers, the ideal that we have shaped. Love is furious and certainly blind, passionate and can be easily mistaken for a bond between friends and family. The real one, the forever kind will blindside you, crash you and make you whole as you are building new dreams to fit your beloved one. Real love will make you...
...hit repeat at the end.
This our story. The story of 3 people. Luca, the grieving designer. Nikolai, the tormented choreographer. And between them an innocent and passionate girl. Adriana, the ballerina that wants to be loved. The dreamer.
These three people are our heroes in an emotional story of first love, family, secrets and betrayals. Adriana is desperate to make Nikolai want her as much she wants him, but he sees her as his little sister, not the woman she grew up in. So she is set on gaining experience and making him jealous; in the arms of another man. But nothing is really that simple when it comes to games of the heart.
Set in the romantic Italy, with the backdrop of Venice to whisper seductive evenings in your ears, you can't help but root for these people and crave for a happily ever after for all of them. But are HEA's even possible?
I enjoyed reading about the Maestro's little sister and her adventures as she is growing up as a woman and dancer. My only issue is that I kept comparing it to the first book and I decided that I liked it more. The almost love triangle isn't my cuppa and Adriana although adorable seemed immature and superficial to me.
KaSonndra Leigh manages to write another story with intriguing plot and complex relationships and I will definitely come back for more!
ARC courtesy of the author KaSonndra Leigh, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2014
3.5 intriguing, encouraging and promising stars.
I love picking up books by authors who are new to me. I love the anticipation of not knowing anything about the story or the characters or even the authors writing style, and I have to say I was quickly impressed with all three elements in this, my first and certainly not my last, encounter with author KaSonndra Leigh.
Set in the romantic and beautiful country of Italy, you can not help but feel drawn into this story about a Russian born ballet dancer Adriana, her first love, protector and choreographer; Nikolai and the new designer in town, and ladies man; Luca Martuccio.
This is a story with many many elements, it's brings together issues of both family loyalty and family betrayal, of falling in love, discovering new love, and losing love, and of secrets and lies. It is the story of a girl who so desperately wants the love of her life; Nikolai to wake up and notice her, and how the arrival of Luca may be just the thing she needs in helping Adriana in achieving her dreams.
I really enjoyed reading all about Adriana and her progression from young naive ballet dancer to strong and more independent woman. And what a beautiful journey it was, from ballet productions to gondola rides in Venice. The author was able to give some very complex and interesting characters which meant many parts of the story had me eagerly turning the pages. You definitely get a lot of detail in this story, perhaps on a few occasions there was almost a little too much and therefore the detail distracted from the actual story line, but this aside I really did feel this was a positive first experience to this authors work and I am definitely intrigued to read more.
ARC courtesy of the author KaSonndra Leigh, in exchange for an honest review.
I love picking up books by authors who are new to me. I love the anticipation of not knowing anything about the story or the characters or even the authors writing style, and I have to say I was quickly impressed with all three elements in this, my first and certainly not my last, encounter with author KaSonndra Leigh.
Set in the romantic and beautiful country of Italy, you can not help but feel drawn into this story about a Russian born ballet dancer Adriana, her first love, protector and choreographer; Nikolai and the new designer in town, and ladies man; Luca Martuccio.
This is a story with many many elements, it's brings together issues of both family loyalty and family betrayal, of falling in love, discovering new love, and losing love, and of secrets and lies. It is the story of a girl who so desperately wants the love of her life; Nikolai to wake up and notice her, and how the arrival of Luca may be just the thing she needs in helping Adriana in achieving her dreams.
I really enjoyed reading all about Adriana and her progression from young naive ballet dancer to strong and more independent woman. And what a beautiful journey it was, from ballet productions to gondola rides in Venice. The author was able to give some very complex and interesting characters which meant many parts of the story had me eagerly turning the pages. You definitely get a lot of detail in this story, perhaps on a few occasions there was almost a little too much and therefore the detail distracted from the actual story line, but this aside I really did feel this was a positive first experience to this authors work and I am definitely intrigued to read more.
ARC courtesy of the author KaSonndra Leigh, in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2014
4.5 stars
What do you do when the man you have loved for years refuses to see you as the woman you have become and pushes you away at every turn? Try to make him regret his decision and fume with jealousy of course. And that is exactly what Adriana sets out to do when she sees fashion designer and known player Luca for the first time.
Only the more time she spends with him, the more confused she becomes...the more things feel less like a game and more real. And she starts to care for his mother making their lies even more difficult.
When the man she has always loved finally wakes up and makes his play, Adriana is faced with the ultimate choice between the man she thought she always wanted and the new man in her life.
After reading the synopsis of this story I thought I was getting one thing and I ended up getting something different which was a wonderful surprise. This is an angsty love story about a beautiful tortured girl who is trying to deal with so much in her life. All of the characters were great and well written. I started the story wanting her to be with one character and by the end, I was happy with her choice although sad for the one she doesn't choose (although he really does have only himself to blame). My only complaint is that it does get a little wordy at times with the descriptions of scenery etc. which I found myself skimming but otherwise, I thought it was great.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 5 (I was hooked from the first chapter)
Character development: 4.5
Level of Romance between characters: 4
Passion/Heat level: 4 (you don't get anything until after the halfway mark and it is frustrating for awhile but defiantly worth the wait once the action gets started.)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4.5 (love triangle with additional drama thrown in)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, this is the second in the series but can be read as a standalone.
Overall, I though this was a really good read. I am going to have to go back and read the first book now to see what I missed with Alek!
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What do you do when the man you have loved for years refuses to see you as the woman you have become and pushes you away at every turn? Try to make him regret his decision and fume with jealousy of course. And that is exactly what Adriana sets out to do when she sees fashion designer and known player Luca for the first time.
Only the more time she spends with him, the more confused she becomes...the more things feel less like a game and more real. And she starts to care for his mother making their lies even more difficult.
When the man she has always loved finally wakes up and makes his play, Adriana is faced with the ultimate choice between the man she thought she always wanted and the new man in her life.
After reading the synopsis of this story I thought I was getting one thing and I ended up getting something different which was a wonderful surprise. This is an angsty love story about a beautiful tortured girl who is trying to deal with so much in her life. All of the characters were great and well written. I started the story wanting her to be with one character and by the end, I was happy with her choice although sad for the one she doesn't choose (although he really does have only himself to blame). My only complaint is that it does get a little wordy at times with the descriptions of scenery etc. which I found myself skimming but otherwise, I thought it was great.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 5 (I was hooked from the first chapter)
Character development: 4.5
Level of Romance between characters: 4
Passion/Heat level: 4 (you don't get anything until after the halfway mark and it is frustrating for awhile but defiantly worth the wait once the action gets started.)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4.5 (love triangle with additional drama thrown in)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, this is the second in the series but can be read as a standalone.
Overall, I though this was a really good read. I am going to have to go back and read the first book now to see what I missed with Alek!
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2014
What should you do when by trying to make one guy jealous you end up with a torn heart?
We have this love triangle between Adriana, a 21 year old ballerina who has been in love his her brother's best friend Nikolai, who only sees her as his little sister, and Luca, a player who is really good at his game. But everything changes once Adriana and Luca share their stories and start to realise that they actually need each other.
I haven't read a book with this kind of love triangle in a really long time and I've got to admit that I was unsure of who she was going to pick until the last few chapters and I'm glad she didn't choose Nikolai. I don't know what I feel about him. On one hand he's this haunted soul who has never had love in his life and is tormented by his past which makes him fascinating. On the other hand, he kind of creeps me out with always following Adriana when she's in Milan. But I still find the character intriguing which makes me want him to have a story of his own. I was immediately wrapped around the romance between Adriana and Luca especially when she got to meet his family and the relationship she established with his mom made my heart melt.
I was clearly caught up in this romance: I got mad, I laughed, I cried and I wasn't able to stop reading and that's when I know it's a good book. So, if you like a story that has a lot of unexpected twists and a huge amount of romance this is your book!
We have this love triangle between Adriana, a 21 year old ballerina who has been in love his her brother's best friend Nikolai, who only sees her as his little sister, and Luca, a player who is really good at his game. But everything changes once Adriana and Luca share their stories and start to realise that they actually need each other.
I haven't read a book with this kind of love triangle in a really long time and I've got to admit that I was unsure of who she was going to pick until the last few chapters and I'm glad she didn't choose Nikolai. I don't know what I feel about him. On one hand he's this haunted soul who has never had love in his life and is tormented by his past which makes him fascinating. On the other hand, he kind of creeps me out with always following Adriana when she's in Milan. But I still find the character intriguing which makes me want him to have a story of his own. I was immediately wrapped around the romance between Adriana and Luca especially when she got to meet his family and the relationship she established with his mom made my heart melt.
I was clearly caught up in this romance: I got mad, I laughed, I cried and I wasn't able to stop reading and that's when I know it's a good book. So, if you like a story that has a lot of unexpected twists and a huge amount of romance this is your book!
April 23, 2014
Like wow, unbelievable. I totally fell in love with An Aria In Venice. Luca and Nikolai are extremely drool worthy.
Adriana and Luca are wonderful together. What starts as a nice gesture between the two turns into a bit of a romance. Luca is definitely romantic, the perfect guy that any girl would want to be with. Adriana is the beautiful dancer who struggles with her mom and Nikoli. But in the end, he pushes Adriana into Luca's arms.
It seems that Adriana and Luca are drawn together, through family and friends. They make the perfect couple.
I have given 5 stars. An Aria In Venice deserves it. This is a wonderful book that I am happy and proud to read and pass along.
Kasonndra is a very wonderful and talented author who deserves all the praise for this book. So do not pass this up, you must read this.
Congrats KaSonndra:)
Adriana and Luca are wonderful together. What starts as a nice gesture between the two turns into a bit of a romance. Luca is definitely romantic, the perfect guy that any girl would want to be with. Adriana is the beautiful dancer who struggles with her mom and Nikoli. But in the end, he pushes Adriana into Luca's arms.
It seems that Adriana and Luca are drawn together, through family and friends. They make the perfect couple.
I have given 5 stars. An Aria In Venice deserves it. This is a wonderful book that I am happy and proud to read and pass along.
Kasonndra is a very wonderful and talented author who deserves all the praise for this book. So do not pass this up, you must read this.
Congrats KaSonndra:)
September 10, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Adriana is a beautiful, talented ballerina. She just happens to be a virgin. Luca is a super, sexy man that's used to getting whatever he wants. He spots Adriana and decides he wants her! Adriana sees Luca and knows he's the one she wants to give her virginity to. No strings. This should be the end of the story...it's not!
This book is HOT!! They find they are meant for each other. Reading their journey was extremely satisfying. I loved the beauty of the musical world that this book brings out. This was my first book by KaSonndra Leigh. It won't be my last!
5 'Sorry Nikolai' Stars!
Adriana is a beautiful, talented ballerina. She just happens to be a virgin. Luca is a super, sexy man that's used to getting whatever he wants. He spots Adriana and decides he wants her! Adriana sees Luca and knows he's the one she wants to give her virginity to. No strings. This should be the end of the story...it's not!
This book is HOT!! They find they are meant for each other. Reading their journey was extremely satisfying. I loved the beauty of the musical world that this book brings out. This was my first book by KaSonndra Leigh. It won't be my last!
5 'Sorry Nikolai' Stars!
September 3, 2014
This book was a very original uplifting read.
The story itself kept me on the edge of my seat what an exceptional "love story" ! It's a hypnotic,romantic, but sexy twists and turns that would give you whiplash and in the end a couple of life lessons and heart felt memories to last always
The characters and story were written in ways to give different points of view. I love how there's a connection to everything it all just fits like a puzzle .this book can stand as a book or part of a spin off .
Great read I would like more from the 2 main characters to see what the future holds.
A ballet dancer and a Romeo what could be the outcome ..... Read you will enjoy
The story itself kept me on the edge of my seat what an exceptional "love story" ! It's a hypnotic,romantic, but sexy twists and turns that would give you whiplash and in the end a couple of life lessons and heart felt memories to last always
The characters and story were written in ways to give different points of view. I love how there's a connection to everything it all just fits like a puzzle .this book can stand as a book or part of a spin off .
Great read I would like more from the 2 main characters to see what the future holds.
A ballet dancer and a Romeo what could be the outcome ..... Read you will enjoy
September 6, 2014
Love this series. Adrianna you would think would be a spoiled little rich girl but she isn't. She's loved Nikolai so long without knowing he loved her back that she finally gave up and decided to go with someone new. It started out as friendship and I think she wanted to make Nikolai jealous but then she finds she really cares for Luca and gives him her heart. I liked how she realized that she still loves Nikolai just nut in the same way. Luca makes her happy. I really like this series it's so well done with intrigue, mystery, family drama, and of course romance.
August 11, 2014
I'm so sorry I had a hard time getting into this book the first time I started to read it!!! I came back to it last night - and couldn't put it down!
I fell in love with the locations, the characters, the romance, the tension, everything! When I was finished reading, I felt a sadness at losing contact with my newfound friends! I wanted to stay with them and watch their lives...now I feel like a voyeur!!! ;)
Totally happy I didn't turn my back on this wonderful book forever!!!
I fell in love with the locations, the characters, the romance, the tension, everything! When I was finished reading, I felt a sadness at losing contact with my newfound friends! I wanted to stay with them and watch their lives...now I feel like a voyeur!!! ;)
Totally happy I didn't turn my back on this wonderful book forever!!!
April 29, 2014
I read the first book in this series and was blow away by its passion, backdrop, characters and story development. Now granted, the romance got a bit on the tempestuous side, but they were very passionate people who suppressed their feelings a lot.
Anyhoo, I had the opportunity to read the companion novel about Alek's little sister and jumped on it because Adriana was a little firecracker in the first book and was just waiting for her opportunity to blossom if she ever got out from under her family's loving, but smothering protection. Let me tell you, the author did it to me again. I was enchanted by this little 'bad ass ballerina' as Luca calls her.
This is a standalone companion novel to The Prelude. It takes place at the same time and hits briefly on the same events, but only just enough so that the reader knows where they're at in the timeline. This is very much Adriana's story. I suppose it can be read successfully without reading the first book, but personally I think the reader misses out by doing so. Whenever there were references to Aleks' story in this one, I liked knowing to what the story was referencing.
Adriana Dostovsky is an aspiring ballerina in her mother's company, but the work to hold her place and rise higher is all her own. She auditions for a lead role, but the day was distracting between a fellow ballerina sabotaging her costume and the man she has a crush on giving her the brush off yet again. Nikolai is her hero and she has always loved him, but he only sees her as his bestfriend's little sister and won't take her seriously. Adriana has had enough. She tells her fellow ballerina and best friend/roommate, Lis, that she needs to ditch the V-card or Nikolai will never take her seriously and she knows just the man for the job when she sets eyes on her mother's new costume designer, Luca Martuccio.
Adriana's plot to get Nikolai to sit up and notice along with boldly accosting the known womanizer, Luca, works in ways that she would have never imagined. She sees conflict in Nikolai's emotions right up until the moment he looks her in the eye and tells her that nothing will ever happen between them and points her straight at Luca. And with Luca, she owes him a favor after he played along and made Nikolai jealous so now she plays along as his girlfriend to make his mother happy who is a beautiful, wise and sweet lady. The ploy works only too well and Adriana finds herself accompanying the family to Venice where she must continue the pretense as Luca's mother revisits all the places that she was with her late husband when they first fell in love. The time spend with Simona teaches Adriana more than she ever could have imagined.
Taking my hands in hers, she locks gazes with me; a fire blazes inside her dark eyes that reminds me so much of Luca when he's hard at work on a design.
"Be happy, my girl. Always dance like the world is watching you. And love my Luca as though it will be the last breathe you take. For he cares so very much about you."
Loc. 3449 Simona to Adriana in An Aria in Venice
Luca feels things are getting out of control. After a tragic event in his life, he never plans to love again, but the angelic ballerina is getting under his skin. As they pretend for his mother, he makes a deal with Adriana that he can help her forget the guy who makes her sad if she will give herself to him for the duration of their trip. He is surprised to discover hidden depths to her that make her even more bewitching. Adriana has her secrets as does he and those might destroy the beautiful thing between them before even her controlling and manipulative relations come after him.
This story was multi-faceted Shakespearian tragedy-type piece where it grows from a young woman's quest to be acknowledged as the adult she is most of all by the damaged man she loves. Things become complicated when the other man in the story who was never meant to be anything more than short-term becomes a real person to her and she develops feelings for him. Just about the time she begins to discover her true self during the pilgrimage in Venice, the first guy figures out what he is losing and now want Adriana enough to fight for her. And that's just the romance which yes, there is a triangle thing for a little while and that is totally not my thing, but in this case I gave it a pass since the way it was written and the way the author didn't leave doubt to the outcome for long if at all.
Then there are the complexities of the three narrators (narrated first person, by the way), Adriana, Luca and Nikolai, set into their backgrounds of the dark and dangerous world swirling around all of them. The author is not afraid to expose the darker, grittier side of things. These are flawed people and they've seen and done things that make them who they are. I loved the honesty in them to accept this. Luca was a player and his actions cost his family more than once, Nikolai has a dark nature with dark proclivities, and Adriana is the daughter of an ambitious, cold and dangerous woman and a vicious Russian mob boss.
Pulling it all together, I was once again seriously impressed with the whole package. As far as I can tell, this series is just getting stronger as it goes along. Those who enjoy contemporary romance set against the backdrop of beautiful urban Italy and the world of ballet and fashion with two passionate well-written characters should give the Musical Interlude series a try.
My thanks to the author for providing a copy of her book in exchange for my honest review.
Anyhoo, I had the opportunity to read the companion novel about Alek's little sister and jumped on it because Adriana was a little firecracker in the first book and was just waiting for her opportunity to blossom if she ever got out from under her family's loving, but smothering protection. Let me tell you, the author did it to me again. I was enchanted by this little 'bad ass ballerina' as Luca calls her.
This is a standalone companion novel to The Prelude. It takes place at the same time and hits briefly on the same events, but only just enough so that the reader knows where they're at in the timeline. This is very much Adriana's story. I suppose it can be read successfully without reading the first book, but personally I think the reader misses out by doing so. Whenever there were references to Aleks' story in this one, I liked knowing to what the story was referencing.
Adriana Dostovsky is an aspiring ballerina in her mother's company, but the work to hold her place and rise higher is all her own. She auditions for a lead role, but the day was distracting between a fellow ballerina sabotaging her costume and the man she has a crush on giving her the brush off yet again. Nikolai is her hero and she has always loved him, but he only sees her as his bestfriend's little sister and won't take her seriously. Adriana has had enough. She tells her fellow ballerina and best friend/roommate, Lis, that she needs to ditch the V-card or Nikolai will never take her seriously and she knows just the man for the job when she sets eyes on her mother's new costume designer, Luca Martuccio.
Adriana's plot to get Nikolai to sit up and notice along with boldly accosting the known womanizer, Luca, works in ways that she would have never imagined. She sees conflict in Nikolai's emotions right up until the moment he looks her in the eye and tells her that nothing will ever happen between them and points her straight at Luca. And with Luca, she owes him a favor after he played along and made Nikolai jealous so now she plays along as his girlfriend to make his mother happy who is a beautiful, wise and sweet lady. The ploy works only too well and Adriana finds herself accompanying the family to Venice where she must continue the pretense as Luca's mother revisits all the places that she was with her late husband when they first fell in love. The time spend with Simona teaches Adriana more than she ever could have imagined.
Taking my hands in hers, she locks gazes with me; a fire blazes inside her dark eyes that reminds me so much of Luca when he's hard at work on a design.
"Be happy, my girl. Always dance like the world is watching you. And love my Luca as though it will be the last breathe you take. For he cares so very much about you."
Loc. 3449 Simona to Adriana in An Aria in Venice
Luca feels things are getting out of control. After a tragic event in his life, he never plans to love again, but the angelic ballerina is getting under his skin. As they pretend for his mother, he makes a deal with Adriana that he can help her forget the guy who makes her sad if she will give herself to him for the duration of their trip. He is surprised to discover hidden depths to her that make her even more bewitching. Adriana has her secrets as does he and those might destroy the beautiful thing between them before even her controlling and manipulative relations come after him.
This story was multi-faceted Shakespearian tragedy-type piece where it grows from a young woman's quest to be acknowledged as the adult she is most of all by the damaged man she loves. Things become complicated when the other man in the story who was never meant to be anything more than short-term becomes a real person to her and she develops feelings for him. Just about the time she begins to discover her true self during the pilgrimage in Venice, the first guy figures out what he is losing and now want Adriana enough to fight for her. And that's just the romance which yes, there is a triangle thing for a little while and that is totally not my thing, but in this case I gave it a pass since the way it was written and the way the author didn't leave doubt to the outcome for long if at all.
Then there are the complexities of the three narrators (narrated first person, by the way), Adriana, Luca and Nikolai, set into their backgrounds of the dark and dangerous world swirling around all of them. The author is not afraid to expose the darker, grittier side of things. These are flawed people and they've seen and done things that make them who they are. I loved the honesty in them to accept this. Luca was a player and his actions cost his family more than once, Nikolai has a dark nature with dark proclivities, and Adriana is the daughter of an ambitious, cold and dangerous woman and a vicious Russian mob boss.
Pulling it all together, I was once again seriously impressed with the whole package. As far as I can tell, this series is just getting stronger as it goes along. Those who enjoy contemporary romance set against the backdrop of beautiful urban Italy and the world of ballet and fashion with two passionate well-written characters should give the Musical Interlude series a try.
My thanks to the author for providing a copy of her book in exchange for my honest review.
November 3, 2014
An Aria in Venice
ARR #62 given by the author via GR's Fifty Shades Support Group, in exchange of honest review. This was given alongside the book #1, Prelude.
"... an aria, as my ballerina calls a short song that stays with you forever, affecting you in such a way that each muscle, every bone, every single organ in your body falls under its spell. An Aria in Venice."
"I want Nikolai to see me, to feel me, to understand how I ache inside each time he touches me as though I’m still a little girl and not the woman who has grown to admire him for the man he has become."
Literature quality :: 4.5
Enjoyment quantity :: 3
Heroine :: Adriana Dostovsky
A ballerina. Little badass ballerina. Little sister of the Maestro. Perky, happy go lucky. Fish lips expert.
"Adriana Dostovsky creates a simplistic vision of loveliness, a girl who’s naturally curious and naïve and built like a goddess."
Hero :: Nikolai Belikov
A leader of dance troupe. Friend of the Maestro. Blonde shoulder length hair. Blue gray eyes. Former slave.
" I cannot believe I sent her away, crying into the arms of another man."
Whooops the hero is not him. Its actually, Luciano Alastair Martuccio.
Lead designer of Black Butterfly design house. Player with a sad eyes. New age romeo. Pierced tongue and lip. Roman-Sicilian man.
"He’s truly a beautiful man. Hurt. Betrayed. Misunderstood. But well-loved by his parents. The rock star designer god. A player with the big heart that he carries on his shoulder, not so everyone can admire it from a distance, but so he can give pieces of it to the people he chooses to love."
A contemporary romance with a taste on the historical literature side. Lots beautiful phrase. Totally poetic. Alternating POV between heroine, hero, and Nikolai, uhhm not the hero. Milan background. Includes all the excitement of Italy, the passionate men, Maestro, dance troupe, fashion design house. YA/NA, under 25 y.o. Virgin. Standalone to the whole series, a complementary story about another character. Seduce another man to raise up the real one. Some girl on girl action. Lots quote worthy phrases. Historical issue mentioned.
The titled chapters. Its somewhat funny and light compared to the poetic way author usually told her story. Think it is her signature. In prelude, the storyline, especially the narrative part written so beautifully. Now in Aria in Venice, the poetic theme shows up again.
Aww. I love feisty heroine. And Adriana one of them. The way she handle Nikolai is thumbs up. Actually, the i-text-when-i-mad is kinda cute and well different. Just imagine a sleek and controlled, sometimes brooding Nikolai did just that.
This spinoff took place right along the time "Prelude" had going on. It could easily be a Prelude from Adriana POV. Starts from the scene where Alek family meet the black butterfly designer in a restaurant.
Okaaay now i am interested in Lis-Byron story. Byron sounds like my kind of fave hero. The Red Room. Whoaa what an intriguing teaser.
The texting with Nikolai thing gave the book fresh air, since typical this author's book had a serious aura surrounding it. It is a nice break from all those heavy conversation and background.
" Yeah, sure he’s an MMA fighter with the big, bad wolfy attitude. And according to Luca, he has more women—and yes, even some men—fighting to spend just one night with the Cruiser than both Luca and Rafe put together."
Wow! Hottie Mertuccio brothers everywhere. Rafe already in book #1 with Adriana. Will Giovanni, the exentric middle brother make appearance somewhere? Oh and is Rafe have it bad for Erin, seeing Kami looks exactly likr her?
" who’s never supposed to feel sad, overwhelmed, or neglected. Everyone else is so busy loving me that, they have never really seen the person I truly am, the woman waiting patiently inside the girl’s body."
Found several grammatical errors, like missing commas to paraphrase a long sentences.
When things playful and only a little dark with Luca, it is the opposite with Nikolai. Sad, remorse, the unleashed passion, the want. So heavy for heart..
Again, mentioned. Alek legendary sexual appetite. Which is only empty talk for me, since no scene to support it both in book #1 and this one. And you'll never gonna be guessing what Luca Mertuccio second hobby beside designing and drawing.
Well. True to her style of writing, an Aria in Venice is just as beautiful, if not even more, as The Prelude. The way the story flow, the inner thought and conversation, very beautiful. Like reading one of those old manuscript by legendary author.
Now,now. Exactly opposite of The Prelude, their long awaited sexual encounter actually so hot here. Take charge Luca, could u imagine how hot is that? Red gondola scene was so much sensual than the actual first time tough.
Yes, this is it. The author fully embrace what a fingerfuck means to a virgin. The first one i think i've read. Good job! Waiting for Luca's size and why the tattoo says that.
Overall, knowing that the read would be full of poetic phrases, it was hard to stay tune to the story at first. Laziness creeping up my mind. But when the story starts going on, it is easy to read. Almost effortlessly.
And hollyheaven, the concersation with Nikolai.. tears breaming my eyes. Please gives him a spinoff too! Poor Nikolai..
would have give this 5 stars if Nikolai didnt dissapear so sudden in the third end. love this one more than the main story in this series.
ARR #62 given by the author via GR's Fifty Shades Support Group, in exchange of honest review. This was given alongside the book #1, Prelude.
"... an aria, as my ballerina calls a short song that stays with you forever, affecting you in such a way that each muscle, every bone, every single organ in your body falls under its spell. An Aria in Venice."
"I want Nikolai to see me, to feel me, to understand how I ache inside each time he touches me as though I’m still a little girl and not the woman who has grown to admire him for the man he has become."
Literature quality :: 4.5
Enjoyment quantity :: 3
Heroine :: Adriana Dostovsky
A ballerina. Little badass ballerina. Little sister of the Maestro. Perky, happy go lucky. Fish lips expert.
"Adriana Dostovsky creates a simplistic vision of loveliness, a girl who’s naturally curious and naïve and built like a goddess."
Hero :: Nikolai Belikov
A leader of dance troupe. Friend of the Maestro. Blonde shoulder length hair. Blue gray eyes. Former slave.
" I cannot believe I sent her away, crying into the arms of another man."
Whooops the hero is not him. Its actually, Luciano Alastair Martuccio.
Lead designer of Black Butterfly design house. Player with a sad eyes. New age romeo. Pierced tongue and lip. Roman-Sicilian man.
"He’s truly a beautiful man. Hurt. Betrayed. Misunderstood. But well-loved by his parents. The rock star designer god. A player with the big heart that he carries on his shoulder, not so everyone can admire it from a distance, but so he can give pieces of it to the people he chooses to love."
A contemporary romance with a taste on the historical literature side. Lots beautiful phrase. Totally poetic. Alternating POV between heroine, hero, and Nikolai, uhhm not the hero. Milan background. Includes all the excitement of Italy, the passionate men, Maestro, dance troupe, fashion design house. YA/NA, under 25 y.o. Virgin. Standalone to the whole series, a complementary story about another character. Seduce another man to raise up the real one. Some girl on girl action. Lots quote worthy phrases. Historical issue mentioned.
The titled chapters. Its somewhat funny and light compared to the poetic way author usually told her story. Think it is her signature. In prelude, the storyline, especially the narrative part written so beautifully. Now in Aria in Venice, the poetic theme shows up again.
Aww. I love feisty heroine. And Adriana one of them. The way she handle Nikolai is thumbs up. Actually, the i-text-when-i-mad is kinda cute and well different. Just imagine a sleek and controlled, sometimes brooding Nikolai did just that.
This spinoff took place right along the time "Prelude" had going on. It could easily be a Prelude from Adriana POV. Starts from the scene where Alek family meet the black butterfly designer in a restaurant.
Okaaay now i am interested in Lis-Byron story. Byron sounds like my kind of fave hero. The Red Room. Whoaa what an intriguing teaser.
The texting with Nikolai thing gave the book fresh air, since typical this author's book had a serious aura surrounding it. It is a nice break from all those heavy conversation and background.
" Yeah, sure he’s an MMA fighter with the big, bad wolfy attitude. And according to Luca, he has more women—and yes, even some men—fighting to spend just one night with the Cruiser than both Luca and Rafe put together."
Wow! Hottie Mertuccio brothers everywhere. Rafe already in book #1 with Adriana. Will Giovanni, the exentric middle brother make appearance somewhere? Oh and is Rafe have it bad for Erin, seeing Kami looks exactly likr her?
" who’s never supposed to feel sad, overwhelmed, or neglected. Everyone else is so busy loving me that, they have never really seen the person I truly am, the woman waiting patiently inside the girl’s body."
Found several grammatical errors, like missing commas to paraphrase a long sentences.
When things playful and only a little dark with Luca, it is the opposite with Nikolai. Sad, remorse, the unleashed passion, the want. So heavy for heart..
Again, mentioned. Alek legendary sexual appetite. Which is only empty talk for me, since no scene to support it both in book #1 and this one. And you'll never gonna be guessing what Luca Mertuccio second hobby beside designing and drawing.
Well. True to her style of writing, an Aria in Venice is just as beautiful, if not even more, as The Prelude. The way the story flow, the inner thought and conversation, very beautiful. Like reading one of those old manuscript by legendary author.
Now,now. Exactly opposite of The Prelude, their long awaited sexual encounter actually so hot here. Take charge Luca, could u imagine how hot is that? Red gondola scene was so much sensual than the actual first time tough.
Yes, this is it. The author fully embrace what a fingerfuck means to a virgin. The first one i think i've read. Good job! Waiting for Luca's size and why the tattoo says that.
Overall, knowing that the read would be full of poetic phrases, it was hard to stay tune to the story at first. Laziness creeping up my mind. But when the story starts going on, it is easy to read. Almost effortlessly.
And hollyheaven, the concersation with Nikolai.. tears breaming my eyes. Please gives him a spinoff too! Poor Nikolai..
would have give this 5 stars if Nikolai didnt dissapear so sudden in the third end. love this one more than the main story in this series.
May 9, 2014
Favorite Quotes
"'After all the crazy shit you just heard, you're still willing to take a chance on me?' he asks, closing the distance between us. 'Everybody deserves to have someone who believes in them,' I answer, keeping my gaze locked inside his."
"Life doesn't always wind up fixing itself and leaving a happy ending that comes complete with a boat made out of gold waiting to carry its passengers off into the sunset."
Why I Picked It Up
I loved The Prelude and couldn't wait to read Adriana's story!
Plot
This novel follows Adriana, Alek's sister, as she fights her long-standing affection of Nikolai and her growing feelings for Luca. I really enjoyed the plot and pacing of this novel. It focused on the romance, primarily, but it also had some other elements thrown in that made it all them ore interesting. This novel runs parallel to The Prelude, so we also see some of Alek as her is pursuing Erin. This novel kept me enraptured for the whole book. It was a really interesting read.
Leading Lady
Adriana was the female protagonist in this novel. I liked her. She was a very different character than Erin, the lead in The Prelude. I loved that Leigh was able to make two completely different characters that I loved equally in their own ways. Adriana was kind, slightly rebellious, adventurous, and determined. She didn't let people walk over her for the most part and fought for what she believed in even when everyone around her was discouraging it. She had a terrible backstory that was hinted to in The Prelude, and we get to see that past. It was sad but made me love her character even more because she didn't let it hold her back.
Leading Male
"Here comes the twist. But...he's off limits. He's my brother's best friend. Even if he were to notice me, then that little tidbit keeps us from ever being able to be any more than friends."
The two male leads in this novel were Luca and Nikolai. I did not enjoy either of them as much as Alek but they weere very well written. Nikolai was stoic so I wasn't really able to get a good feel on him. Therefore my affections lie more with Luca. Nikolai was hot and cold and kind of harsh, and I just couldn't get myself to like him much. Regardless, I'm interested to see what becomes of him in any future novels.
Luca was an entertainment all in himself. He was sarcastic, kind of flamboyant, and just an amusing character to read. I thought he was a much better fit for Adriana as their personalities seemed to complement each others better. Luca was kind of a player. However, it was endearing for the most part. He wasn't mean about his man-whorishness. He just was. But he was faithful to Adriana and that's all that matters. And his lines that he would say...they were just so poetic and smooth. Swoon.
Romance
"Moving closer to where I stand, he places his hands over mine, our gazes locking, and I can't help but recall the way he stood up for me against his older brother. Why did he do that? He didn't have to. This is a game we're playing, a charade, nothing more; yet, clearly Luca's taking our game a bit more seriously than I thought he would. And now he's choosing to open up to me. The more I learn about the famous designer with the scandalous past and an inability to keep his hormones in check, the more intrigued I become."
I liked the romance in this novel. There were two times: hot and passionate, which was Luca and Adriana. This was my favorite of the two. It started off as a not-really relationship to please Luca's mother, and then turned into more. They had the chemistry and the adorable factor. And Luca's mom loved them together! They were pretty much perfect. Then there was the tense, somewhat withdrawn and forbidden romance. This was between Nikolai and Adriana. Adriana had always loved Nikolai but Nikolai refused to act on it because she was Alek's younger sister. I feel like if it weren't for that, it wouldn't have been as awkward of a romance for me. I still feel for him though, because he did love her.
Other Characters
As I mentioned, we get to see some of the events from The Prelude from the Dostov side. It was really cool how Leigh was able to make these novels parallel with the same events.
I also wanted to mention that I absolutely adored Luca's mother, Simona. She was an integral part of the novel and I positively loved her.
Conclusion
An Aria in Venice was another fantastic addition to the series, even though it can be read as a standalone. It's definitely one that I can recommend, especially if you have a thing for romance and a great setting!
"'After all the crazy shit you just heard, you're still willing to take a chance on me?' he asks, closing the distance between us. 'Everybody deserves to have someone who believes in them,' I answer, keeping my gaze locked inside his."
"Life doesn't always wind up fixing itself and leaving a happy ending that comes complete with a boat made out of gold waiting to carry its passengers off into the sunset."
Why I Picked It Up
I loved The Prelude and couldn't wait to read Adriana's story!
Plot
This novel follows Adriana, Alek's sister, as she fights her long-standing affection of Nikolai and her growing feelings for Luca. I really enjoyed the plot and pacing of this novel. It focused on the romance, primarily, but it also had some other elements thrown in that made it all them ore interesting. This novel runs parallel to The Prelude, so we also see some of Alek as her is pursuing Erin. This novel kept me enraptured for the whole book. It was a really interesting read.
Leading Lady
Adriana was the female protagonist in this novel. I liked her. She was a very different character than Erin, the lead in The Prelude. I loved that Leigh was able to make two completely different characters that I loved equally in their own ways. Adriana was kind, slightly rebellious, adventurous, and determined. She didn't let people walk over her for the most part and fought for what she believed in even when everyone around her was discouraging it. She had a terrible backstory that was hinted to in The Prelude, and we get to see that past. It was sad but made me love her character even more because she didn't let it hold her back.
Leading Male
"Here comes the twist. But...he's off limits. He's my brother's best friend. Even if he were to notice me, then that little tidbit keeps us from ever being able to be any more than friends."
The two male leads in this novel were Luca and Nikolai. I did not enjoy either of them as much as Alek but they weere very well written. Nikolai was stoic so I wasn't really able to get a good feel on him. Therefore my affections lie more with Luca. Nikolai was hot and cold and kind of harsh, and I just couldn't get myself to like him much. Regardless, I'm interested to see what becomes of him in any future novels.
Luca was an entertainment all in himself. He was sarcastic, kind of flamboyant, and just an amusing character to read. I thought he was a much better fit for Adriana as their personalities seemed to complement each others better. Luca was kind of a player. However, it was endearing for the most part. He wasn't mean about his man-whorishness. He just was. But he was faithful to Adriana and that's all that matters. And his lines that he would say...they were just so poetic and smooth. Swoon.
Romance
"Moving closer to where I stand, he places his hands over mine, our gazes locking, and I can't help but recall the way he stood up for me against his older brother. Why did he do that? He didn't have to. This is a game we're playing, a charade, nothing more; yet, clearly Luca's taking our game a bit more seriously than I thought he would. And now he's choosing to open up to me. The more I learn about the famous designer with the scandalous past and an inability to keep his hormones in check, the more intrigued I become."
I liked the romance in this novel. There were two times: hot and passionate, which was Luca and Adriana. This was my favorite of the two. It started off as a not-really relationship to please Luca's mother, and then turned into more. They had the chemistry and the adorable factor. And Luca's mom loved them together! They were pretty much perfect. Then there was the tense, somewhat withdrawn and forbidden romance. This was between Nikolai and Adriana. Adriana had always loved Nikolai but Nikolai refused to act on it because she was Alek's younger sister. I feel like if it weren't for that, it wouldn't have been as awkward of a romance for me. I still feel for him though, because he did love her.
Other Characters
As I mentioned, we get to see some of the events from The Prelude from the Dostov side. It was really cool how Leigh was able to make these novels parallel with the same events.
I also wanted to mention that I absolutely adored Luca's mother, Simona. She was an integral part of the novel and I positively loved her.
Conclusion
An Aria in Venice was another fantastic addition to the series, even though it can be read as a standalone. It's definitely one that I can recommend, especially if you have a thing for romance and a great setting!
June 14, 2014
Original review here: http://offbeatvagabond.blogspot.com/2014/05/an-aria-in-venice-blog-tour-book-review.html
An Aria in Venice is a standalone story in the A Musical Interlude series. This story follows Alek's younger sister, Aria (aka Adriana). In the first book, The Prelude, we follow the growing relationship between Alek and Erin. This story is all that is happening to Aria while Alek is chasing Erin. I really loved this because while reading the first book, I knew something was going on with Aria and I was so curious. I am glad Leigh sated my curiosity. I loved Aria in the first book and I love her even more now.
I loved Aria in this book. She is the sheltered little sister of Alek and she can't take it. Everyone treats her like a doll and she can't take it. It is now time for her to go out and get what she wants. She wants to officially become a woman by finally getting rid of her virginity. She is being pursued by Luca, Erin's boss, who does get around. He invites Aria to stay with him in Italy to visit his family. While they are together in Italy, Aria finds that people have been wrong about Luca. She learns so much about him and his family, more than she thought possible. What was supposed to be a little ruse between them becomes something more.
If Luca has a doppleganger walking around anywhere, please send me an email. I loved him. I wasn't so sure about him before. He just bounced around a lot and didn't seem to care much about much else. I loved that Aria gave Luca a chance. They both wanted to use each other, but I love where it went. Luca was just mouthwatering. I could read his scenes again and again. I loved them. Next to my insane love for Luca, I loved the characters all round. They are so well put together and they are all so complex. Some of those complexities leas to a few twists in the story as well. I was so happy to dive back into this world again and read about these incredible characters again. They are unforgettable for me. they really are.
The story was such an eye opener. I love how Aria goes from being a girl trapped under her mother's thumb to a woman with a spine. The connection they had in Italy really steamed up my ereader, let me tell you. I loved how Aria connected with Luca's family specifically Luca's mom. His siblings were torture. I won't tell you why, but there is a lot of hurt in this family. I love that this story was about more than just Aria and Luca getting together, but them resolving some very deep issues, Luca more than anyone.
One thing that did drive me crazy was Nikolai. Nikolai is Alek's best friend and he protects Aria. He is also in love with her. He doesn't want to let his feelings be known because she is his best friend's sister. When he has the chance to be with her, he doesn't take the chance. The way he handles the whole situation made me so mad. I just couldn't believe him at time. I didn't hate him, but I definitely wanted to punch him. They definitely have a history and I could have seen them together, but man. It drove me nuts and Aria's mother didn't help. I couldn't believe that woman especially near the end of the book. Again, this is why I love that Aria has grown so much in the book. She really stood up to her. I was so proud.
This was an incredible read. I loved this book as much as the first one. I was dying to read things from Aria's side because I knew it would be interesting. It was that and more. This story can be read as a standalone, so reading the first book isn't necessary, but do it anyway because it was awesome. Leigh has such an engaging style. Once you start, you simply can't stop. She will make you laugh, cry, pull your hair out, and set you on fire. If she isn't on your must-read list, she should be. I can't wait for book two in this series. This is definitely a favorite for 2014. Leigh you have done it again. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a beautifully written and emotional coming-of-age story that will leave you fanning yourself.
An Aria in Venice is a standalone story in the A Musical Interlude series. This story follows Alek's younger sister, Aria (aka Adriana). In the first book, The Prelude, we follow the growing relationship between Alek and Erin. This story is all that is happening to Aria while Alek is chasing Erin. I really loved this because while reading the first book, I knew something was going on with Aria and I was so curious. I am glad Leigh sated my curiosity. I loved Aria in the first book and I love her even more now.
I loved Aria in this book. She is the sheltered little sister of Alek and she can't take it. Everyone treats her like a doll and she can't take it. It is now time for her to go out and get what she wants. She wants to officially become a woman by finally getting rid of her virginity. She is being pursued by Luca, Erin's boss, who does get around. He invites Aria to stay with him in Italy to visit his family. While they are together in Italy, Aria finds that people have been wrong about Luca. She learns so much about him and his family, more than she thought possible. What was supposed to be a little ruse between them becomes something more.
If Luca has a doppleganger walking around anywhere, please send me an email. I loved him. I wasn't so sure about him before. He just bounced around a lot and didn't seem to care much about much else. I loved that Aria gave Luca a chance. They both wanted to use each other, but I love where it went. Luca was just mouthwatering. I could read his scenes again and again. I loved them. Next to my insane love for Luca, I loved the characters all round. They are so well put together and they are all so complex. Some of those complexities leas to a few twists in the story as well. I was so happy to dive back into this world again and read about these incredible characters again. They are unforgettable for me. they really are.
The story was such an eye opener. I love how Aria goes from being a girl trapped under her mother's thumb to a woman with a spine. The connection they had in Italy really steamed up my ereader, let me tell you. I loved how Aria connected with Luca's family specifically Luca's mom. His siblings were torture. I won't tell you why, but there is a lot of hurt in this family. I love that this story was about more than just Aria and Luca getting together, but them resolving some very deep issues, Luca more than anyone.
One thing that did drive me crazy was Nikolai. Nikolai is Alek's best friend and he protects Aria. He is also in love with her. He doesn't want to let his feelings be known because she is his best friend's sister. When he has the chance to be with her, he doesn't take the chance. The way he handles the whole situation made me so mad. I just couldn't believe him at time. I didn't hate him, but I definitely wanted to punch him. They definitely have a history and I could have seen them together, but man. It drove me nuts and Aria's mother didn't help. I couldn't believe that woman especially near the end of the book. Again, this is why I love that Aria has grown so much in the book. She really stood up to her. I was so proud.
This was an incredible read. I loved this book as much as the first one. I was dying to read things from Aria's side because I knew it would be interesting. It was that and more. This story can be read as a standalone, so reading the first book isn't necessary, but do it anyway because it was awesome. Leigh has such an engaging style. Once you start, you simply can't stop. She will make you laugh, cry, pull your hair out, and set you on fire. If she isn't on your must-read list, she should be. I can't wait for book two in this series. This is definitely a favorite for 2014. Leigh you have done it again. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a beautifully written and emotional coming-of-age story that will leave you fanning yourself.
May 29, 2014
An Aria in Venice, A Musical Interlude Novel , KaSonndra Leigh .
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews.
This book is connected to the Musical Interlude series, but can be read as a standalone. It focuses mainly on Adriana and Luca, who we met in the first MI book, along with other characters .
I'd loved the first book about Erin and Alek, this time we meet and see more of Luca, one of Erin's bosses at the Black Butterfly design com, and Adriana, who is Alek's sister. She's been in love with Nicolai for years it seems, he was brought up with them though, and sees her still as his little sister. So when Luca shows an interest and fed up fo getting rejected once again by Nicolai, she decides to use Luca to make him jealous. That suits Luca, he's really just toying with her and though she plays the part on their family dinner he knows what's behind it, but he wants someone to come with him on a family trip to Venice for almost a week and Adriana will do perfectly. If along the way he manages to seduce her – well, that's just extra bonus. He's well known along with his brothers as a playboy, and the family are typical Italian, loving and emotive and yet always quarreling and full of jealousises.
It's a facinating read, the first half was slow for me though, full of beautiful descriptions and almost poetic revelations about the people, the places and the events. I need to focus on the characters and the story so though this was beautifully written it didn't really capture my imagination in the way it deserved. Thats a personal thing though, and I know others will fully appreciate how this part was scene setting. Then they go on the Venice trip – things heat up, there are secrets slowly coming out of the woodwork, revelations that shock and despair, heart rending some of the things brought in to the open. Nicolai certainly is jealous, furiously so, he wants Adriana fiercely, but thinks he's not good enough. He and Alek are both known killers, have done what's needed in the past and would do it again. The whole family have strong ties not only to the Russian Mafia but to a rival mob too.....and thats slowly heating up over all the novels. Some future drama certainly to come from that angle. Nicolai doesn't think Luca is good enough either, and when he finds out that they've become closer he's furious, looking to grub up any dark secrets he can find, and of course he and Alek have the connections to do just that. Poor Adriana, she needs love, deserves love but will she get it between her brothers, her overbearing,ambitious mother and Luca's warring family.
I really enjoyed this once the focus was on the characters rather than theplaces.It'sgreat read, I felt for poor Nicolai but then he just wasn't helping himself, he seemed to want Adriana to be put on a shelf, kept away from men and just admired from a safe distance...and she's a hot blooded Amercian/Russian lady who wanted, needed and deserved more. There were some shocksto come for all of them over what was revealed and some hard looks at behaviours and what they could and couldn't accept..
Stars: Four – loved it and though its a stand alone it mentions events and characters that are going to be part of the main series and I think reading this will enhance enjoyment of that.
ARC supplied via author.
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews.
This book is connected to the Musical Interlude series, but can be read as a standalone. It focuses mainly on Adriana and Luca, who we met in the first MI book, along with other characters .
I'd loved the first book about Erin and Alek, this time we meet and see more of Luca, one of Erin's bosses at the Black Butterfly design com, and Adriana, who is Alek's sister. She's been in love with Nicolai for years it seems, he was brought up with them though, and sees her still as his little sister. So when Luca shows an interest and fed up fo getting rejected once again by Nicolai, she decides to use Luca to make him jealous. That suits Luca, he's really just toying with her and though she plays the part on their family dinner he knows what's behind it, but he wants someone to come with him on a family trip to Venice for almost a week and Adriana will do perfectly. If along the way he manages to seduce her – well, that's just extra bonus. He's well known along with his brothers as a playboy, and the family are typical Italian, loving and emotive and yet always quarreling and full of jealousises.
It's a facinating read, the first half was slow for me though, full of beautiful descriptions and almost poetic revelations about the people, the places and the events. I need to focus on the characters and the story so though this was beautifully written it didn't really capture my imagination in the way it deserved. Thats a personal thing though, and I know others will fully appreciate how this part was scene setting. Then they go on the Venice trip – things heat up, there are secrets slowly coming out of the woodwork, revelations that shock and despair, heart rending some of the things brought in to the open. Nicolai certainly is jealous, furiously so, he wants Adriana fiercely, but thinks he's not good enough. He and Alek are both known killers, have done what's needed in the past and would do it again. The whole family have strong ties not only to the Russian Mafia but to a rival mob too.....and thats slowly heating up over all the novels. Some future drama certainly to come from that angle. Nicolai doesn't think Luca is good enough either, and when he finds out that they've become closer he's furious, looking to grub up any dark secrets he can find, and of course he and Alek have the connections to do just that. Poor Adriana, she needs love, deserves love but will she get it between her brothers, her overbearing,ambitious mother and Luca's warring family.
I really enjoyed this once the focus was on the characters rather than theplaces.It'sgreat read, I felt for poor Nicolai but then he just wasn't helping himself, he seemed to want Adriana to be put on a shelf, kept away from men and just admired from a safe distance...and she's a hot blooded Amercian/Russian lady who wanted, needed and deserved more. There were some shocksto come for all of them over what was revealed and some hard looks at behaviours and what they could and couldn't accept..
Stars: Four – loved it and though its a stand alone it mentions events and characters that are going to be part of the main series and I think reading this will enhance enjoyment of that.
ARC supplied via author.
October 3, 2014
★★★★★Goodreads|Amazon
I highly enjoyed Prelude and this Novella for the series was no different. It was a quick and wonderful read. It can be read as a standalone, but I enjoyed having the first one read before I jumped into this.
In this story we follow the trite between Luca, Nikolai, and Adriana in the battle for love. She wants to be loved, and wants to be seen, but doesn't see whats right in front of her.
Adriana is in lust with Nikolai. All she wants is for him to returns her affections sat the level she wishes. Her wishes are in front of blind eyes as Nikolai sees her as a child. A little sister at most times. To make him see her she wants him to be jealous. See that she is an adult and she is what he wants. Do plans like that ever work out? Not usually and with Adriana's case, nothing is any different.
I loved this novel. It was wonderfully written and kept my attention. I loved getting to diverge deeper into this world and its characters. It was just enough with the first novel to get me hooked. This one sealed the deal for me. I am very excited to see where this series goes next. Another recommended one click.
ARC received in exchange for an Honest Review via Netgalley.
Synopsis:
**This novel is a standalone with no cliffhanger.**
His goal…One night with the ballerina.
Her goal…To beat the player at his game.
The outcome...Something completely unexpected.
Adriana Dostov pegged Luca Martuccio from day one: gorgeous, talented, arrogant, a man who has had difficulty committing to one woman in the past. He is known in fashion circles as the player with a scandalous history. So when the girls in her ballet troupe suggest she gives up her virginity to him, she doesn't say no. But she’s not sure that a ‘yes’ is the right answer either. Yet, she can’t stop herself from making the offer...a one night stand in Venice.
Luca wanted fiesty little Adriana the moment they first met - and he fully intends to have her, hence why he's agreed to accept her proposal. In the end, he'll get what he wants. No commitment. All sex.
But, as Luca discovers, there's more to the ballerina with the overbearing mother - and he can't help but care about the frightened girl behind those sad eyes.
Adriana discovers Luca isn't just walking sex on a stick - he has a wildly passionate side, a lost soul who has suffered just as much grief as her. And it could be, they're exactly what the other one needs.
May 8, 2014
“Like everyone else, he’s too busy loving me to really see me.”—Adriana
Adriana Dostov has been in love with her brother’s best friend, Nikolai, for years. He loves her back fiercely but refuses to admit it to her. Determined to get her mind of off him, she agrees to join the gorgeous and sexy playboy Luca and his family in Venice. He was only supposed to get her mind off of Nikolai, not fall in love with her and steal her heart. And Nikolai? Now that Adriana has the chance to be happy with someone else, he’s ready to fight for her. But so is Luca…
“I can see you for who you truly are, Adriana Dostovsky.”—Luca
Ah, what a sweet song. When I picked up this book, I was expecting a light-hearted and simple story where the sweet girl reforms the playboy and happily ever after. Instead, I got a complicated tale with a strong heroine, her scandalous family, a super sexy and challenging love triangle, and an emotional storyline. I didn’t want to put this book down!
You can pretty much apply the phrase “poor little rich girl” to our heroine Adriana in that she’s rich and well loved by everyone but still unhappy. Not that anyone would know it. She hides her pain away and clings to what makes her feel safe—like Nikolai who has given everything up to protect her. Her mother is dismissive of her while being controlling and her mobster father is nowhere to be seen. I love how feisty and adorable she is despite her notorious and over-protective family. She goes after what she wants and yet she’s fiercely loyal to and protective about those she cares about. It’s easy to see why she catches both Nikolai’s and Luca’s heart!
Oh, and what a sexy conundrum (a high heat one on the romance scale)! Do you go with the gorgeous sex god with assassin tendencies who has protected you during your worst nightmares? Or do you go with the gorgeous sex god with poetic tendencies who makes those nightmares fade? Usually in love triangles, there’s a clear cut answer who the winner will be. In this case, I really wasn’t sure while reading through most of the book, and I loved not knowing! I would flip back and forth between the two as secrets were revealed and feelings shared. Oh…dear…what a lucky girl—or I guess unlucky for having to choose between two men who love her fiercely. Nope, I’ll stick with the first statement and call her lucky.
I loved the story, particularly the part in Venice where Luca and Adriana fall for each other. Told in the viewpoints of the three main characters, we really get to know them, which makes her choosing one so difficult! There’s also another story going on with Adriana’s brother and love interest that seemed kinda random, but I’m guessing it’s because he has his own book and the stories are happening concurrently so we’re getting snippets of it. We also get some background on Luca’s fascinating brothers, so I’m assuming they’ll be getting their own books one day, too (crossing fingers)! Overall, this is one song I’d put on repeat. This is a 5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a NetGalley copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Adriana Dostov has been in love with her brother’s best friend, Nikolai, for years. He loves her back fiercely but refuses to admit it to her. Determined to get her mind of off him, she agrees to join the gorgeous and sexy playboy Luca and his family in Venice. He was only supposed to get her mind off of Nikolai, not fall in love with her and steal her heart. And Nikolai? Now that Adriana has the chance to be happy with someone else, he’s ready to fight for her. But so is Luca…
“I can see you for who you truly are, Adriana Dostovsky.”—Luca
Ah, what a sweet song. When I picked up this book, I was expecting a light-hearted and simple story where the sweet girl reforms the playboy and happily ever after. Instead, I got a complicated tale with a strong heroine, her scandalous family, a super sexy and challenging love triangle, and an emotional storyline. I didn’t want to put this book down!
You can pretty much apply the phrase “poor little rich girl” to our heroine Adriana in that she’s rich and well loved by everyone but still unhappy. Not that anyone would know it. She hides her pain away and clings to what makes her feel safe—like Nikolai who has given everything up to protect her. Her mother is dismissive of her while being controlling and her mobster father is nowhere to be seen. I love how feisty and adorable she is despite her notorious and over-protective family. She goes after what she wants and yet she’s fiercely loyal to and protective about those she cares about. It’s easy to see why she catches both Nikolai’s and Luca’s heart!
Oh, and what a sexy conundrum (a high heat one on the romance scale)! Do you go with the gorgeous sex god with assassin tendencies who has protected you during your worst nightmares? Or do you go with the gorgeous sex god with poetic tendencies who makes those nightmares fade? Usually in love triangles, there’s a clear cut answer who the winner will be. In this case, I really wasn’t sure while reading through most of the book, and I loved not knowing! I would flip back and forth between the two as secrets were revealed and feelings shared. Oh…dear…what a lucky girl—or I guess unlucky for having to choose between two men who love her fiercely. Nope, I’ll stick with the first statement and call her lucky.
I loved the story, particularly the part in Venice where Luca and Adriana fall for each other. Told in the viewpoints of the three main characters, we really get to know them, which makes her choosing one so difficult! There’s also another story going on with Adriana’s brother and love interest that seemed kinda random, but I’m guessing it’s because he has his own book and the stories are happening concurrently so we’re getting snippets of it. We also get some background on Luca’s fascinating brothers, so I’m assuming they’ll be getting their own books one day, too (crossing fingers)! Overall, this is one song I’d put on repeat. This is a 5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a NetGalley copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
July 16, 2014
An aria in Venice.. What a perfect title for such a great book. Again, I was lucky enough to get this copy for my honest review.. I love dancing and everything that has to do with ballet. One day I'd love to go to Venice too. The way this book described all the beautifully lost architecture and art it made me want to fly out now to see all that Luca and Adriana saw..
I'm getting ahead of myself though.. Bad boys, bad boys, oh were there plenty of deliciously bad boys in this book. Sooo many to drool over and have yummy dreams about.. First there's Nikolai. He's the bad boy Russian ballet dancer but don't let the pretty boy face and tights fool you.. Nickolai is bad boy to the extreme. He comes from a line of killers. He's been through enough crap in his life though. Prostituded out as a young boy to be saved by his best friend Alek. It's no wonder he doesn't believe he's worthy of love. Then theres Luca.. He's bad boy number two.. Luca is roman-Sicilian with blond hair and deep blue eyes that reach deep down in his soul. If he lets you get close enough to see him that is..
Then there's little miss Adriana Dostovsky. The Russian-American "badass" ballerina. Or so she's called. You could not say she is a typical girl. Her father is a Russian baddie and because of him her family had to flee from the only life she knew just to get away from all the crap he brought in. Having the Dostovsky name has brought her nothing but pain. It has it's perks but pretty much everyone in her ballet troupe calls her the little spoiled princess and the others are just plain afraid of her family.
To me Adriana was what every girl wishes they were. She was a ballerina for goodness sakes and she is good. If only she could step away from all her past drama to find the woman hiding inside. Adriana has always had a huge crush on Nikolai. he's been there for her through everything. He's her protector. His warm arms soothed her from her nightmares.
Oh yes, did I forget that mr yummy player boy Luca is in the picture too? This designer hottie is nothin more than beautiful. beautifully broken that is but Adriana sees a different side of him. He's loving and caring when around his family. Just a complete opposite of what everyone says about him.
Anyway, everything about this book was perfect. The love triangle that makes you think how in e heck could you ever choose between a man you've loved all your life and the man who won over your heart in a short week? The sorrow, the fights, the crazy ass mom who thinks she owns her children. Nothing but page after page of emotion.
This might have been a short book but it held so much in every word. I haven't read the first one yet, I know bad me, but your damn right I will be picking it up now. I need more of this story. This world of passion and fire.
I'm getting ahead of myself though.. Bad boys, bad boys, oh were there plenty of deliciously bad boys in this book. Sooo many to drool over and have yummy dreams about.. First there's Nikolai. He's the bad boy Russian ballet dancer but don't let the pretty boy face and tights fool you.. Nickolai is bad boy to the extreme. He comes from a line of killers. He's been through enough crap in his life though. Prostituded out as a young boy to be saved by his best friend Alek. It's no wonder he doesn't believe he's worthy of love. Then theres Luca.. He's bad boy number two.. Luca is roman-Sicilian with blond hair and deep blue eyes that reach deep down in his soul. If he lets you get close enough to see him that is..
Then there's little miss Adriana Dostovsky. The Russian-American "badass" ballerina. Or so she's called. You could not say she is a typical girl. Her father is a Russian baddie and because of him her family had to flee from the only life she knew just to get away from all the crap he brought in. Having the Dostovsky name has brought her nothing but pain. It has it's perks but pretty much everyone in her ballet troupe calls her the little spoiled princess and the others are just plain afraid of her family.
To me Adriana was what every girl wishes they were. She was a ballerina for goodness sakes and she is good. If only she could step away from all her past drama to find the woman hiding inside. Adriana has always had a huge crush on Nikolai. he's been there for her through everything. He's her protector. His warm arms soothed her from her nightmares.
Oh yes, did I forget that mr yummy player boy Luca is in the picture too? This designer hottie is nothin more than beautiful. beautifully broken that is but Adriana sees a different side of him. He's loving and caring when around his family. Just a complete opposite of what everyone says about him.
Anyway, everything about this book was perfect. The love triangle that makes you think how in e heck could you ever choose between a man you've loved all your life and the man who won over your heart in a short week? The sorrow, the fights, the crazy ass mom who thinks she owns her children. Nothing but page after page of emotion.
This might have been a short book but it held so much in every word. I haven't read the first one yet, I know bad me, but your damn right I will be picking it up now. I need more of this story. This world of passion and fire.
September 18, 2014
Provided a copy in exchange for an honest review
An Aria in Venice is the story of Adriana a ballerina that has been in love with her brother's best friend Nikolai for years. She does not hide her feelings from him and though he feels the same about her, he will not admit it because he feels he is not good enough for her and that her brother and mother (who are like family to him) will not approve. Then Adriana meets Luca a fashion designer who is designing costumes for her mother's ballet company. Luca is a player, but Adriana can't help feeling a growing attraction to him. She then makes a bet with her friend that she is going to lose her virginity to him.
Adriana makes an offer to Luca for a one night stand, however after spending time with him and his family she begins to develop feelings for him. Luca does not do relationships, but when his physical attraction to Adriana takes him by surprise and becomes so much more he has to decide whether to continue being being who he was or man he is becoming the more time he spends with her. Nikolai after pushing Adriana away and into the arms of Luca realizes that he no longer wants to fight his attraction to her, but is he too late?
I loved this story. What I enjoyed the most about it was that as I was reading, I was not sure how things would turn out. Many books are predictable with their outcome, so this story was refreshing because I did not know what was going to happen next. Another thing I enjoyed was that the narration switched between the three main characters. It was nice to be able to get into the head of each character, and it made me more invested in finding out who Adriana would end up with. There is also more to this story than just romance though the romance is hot! Each of the characters has a deep back story that is revealed throughout the book. Combined between the three of them in their pasts there is heartache, fear, pain, loss, mistrust, loneliness, and so much more.
Any story that has characters that are relatable and that I cannot put down is a top read for me. This was a fantastic story from beginning to end. Though it can be read as a standalone, after I finished reading I found out that there are books that come before about Adriana's brother with events that coincide with what is happening in this book. I plan to read them very soon. I highly recommend this book book that took me by surprise in such a good way!!!
An Aria in Venice is the story of Adriana a ballerina that has been in love with her brother's best friend Nikolai for years. She does not hide her feelings from him and though he feels the same about her, he will not admit it because he feels he is not good enough for her and that her brother and mother (who are like family to him) will not approve. Then Adriana meets Luca a fashion designer who is designing costumes for her mother's ballet company. Luca is a player, but Adriana can't help feeling a growing attraction to him. She then makes a bet with her friend that she is going to lose her virginity to him.
Adriana makes an offer to Luca for a one night stand, however after spending time with him and his family she begins to develop feelings for him. Luca does not do relationships, but when his physical attraction to Adriana takes him by surprise and becomes so much more he has to decide whether to continue being being who he was or man he is becoming the more time he spends with her. Nikolai after pushing Adriana away and into the arms of Luca realizes that he no longer wants to fight his attraction to her, but is he too late?
I loved this story. What I enjoyed the most about it was that as I was reading, I was not sure how things would turn out. Many books are predictable with their outcome, so this story was refreshing because I did not know what was going to happen next. Another thing I enjoyed was that the narration switched between the three main characters. It was nice to be able to get into the head of each character, and it made me more invested in finding out who Adriana would end up with. There is also more to this story than just romance though the romance is hot! Each of the characters has a deep back story that is revealed throughout the book. Combined between the three of them in their pasts there is heartache, fear, pain, loss, mistrust, loneliness, and so much more.
Any story that has characters that are relatable and that I cannot put down is a top read for me. This was a fantastic story from beginning to end. Though it can be read as a standalone, after I finished reading I found out that there are books that come before about Adriana's brother with events that coincide with what is happening in this book. I plan to read them very soon. I highly recommend this book book that took me by surprise in such a good way!!!
April 17, 2014
What happens when you make a deal with your friends to give up your virginity at the age of 21 to a gorgeous player? One night, no strings attached is the deal, but it seems fate might have other plans…
Adriana Dostov comes from a Russian father and an American mother. One night a few years ago; Adriana, her mother, brother and Nikolai they had to escape from Russia to avoid trouble caused from her father. This left Adriana growing up with a mother, who does not show affection and is very critical of everything that Adriana does, and a brother and almost brother (Nikolai) who are very over protective. All of this leads to a very frustrated ballerina.
Until the day that Luca Martuccio walks into her life. This is the day that changes her path in life, even though she does not know it yet. Luca is the bad boy designer, womanizer and all around player and Adriana makes the decision that she wants to lose her virginity to him with no strings attached. Nothing is ever that simple.
Throughout this story Adriana is shown through Luca’s family what unconditional love truly is and how important it is to have it in your life. The love story that develops among Adriana and Luca is epic. There are many twists and turns in the book , but it would not be an epic love story without them. True love is never as simple as the fairy tales make it out to be.
I absolutely loved this book, there are moments that I cried and wanted to fight for the characters in the story to help them win their battles. The romance and story of love within this book is amazing and pulled me in. I could not put it down. In the epilogue of the book there is a statement from Adriana that really touched me, here it is:
“Life is about taking chances, seizing an opportunity while you can. It’s about finding a way to make the best out of some crappy situations that world has a way of tossing at you. Time keeps going, even among loss. However, it’s how we choose to move forward and cherish those who stay behind to share new ventures with us that give us the strength to rise above the pain, to live, to love.”
This book depicts the growth of Adriana from the girl being ruled by her mother; to the ‘badass ballerina’ Luca knew she could be. Thank you KaSonndra Leigh for an amazing story of true love!
Adriana Dostov comes from a Russian father and an American mother. One night a few years ago; Adriana, her mother, brother and Nikolai they had to escape from Russia to avoid trouble caused from her father. This left Adriana growing up with a mother, who does not show affection and is very critical of everything that Adriana does, and a brother and almost brother (Nikolai) who are very over protective. All of this leads to a very frustrated ballerina.
Until the day that Luca Martuccio walks into her life. This is the day that changes her path in life, even though she does not know it yet. Luca is the bad boy designer, womanizer and all around player and Adriana makes the decision that she wants to lose her virginity to him with no strings attached. Nothing is ever that simple.
Throughout this story Adriana is shown through Luca’s family what unconditional love truly is and how important it is to have it in your life. The love story that develops among Adriana and Luca is epic. There are many twists and turns in the book , but it would not be an epic love story without them. True love is never as simple as the fairy tales make it out to be.
I absolutely loved this book, there are moments that I cried and wanted to fight for the characters in the story to help them win their battles. The romance and story of love within this book is amazing and pulled me in. I could not put it down. In the epilogue of the book there is a statement from Adriana that really touched me, here it is:
“Life is about taking chances, seizing an opportunity while you can. It’s about finding a way to make the best out of some crappy situations that world has a way of tossing at you. Time keeps going, even among loss. However, it’s how we choose to move forward and cherish those who stay behind to share new ventures with us that give us the strength to rise above the pain, to live, to love.”
This book depicts the growth of Adriana from the girl being ruled by her mother; to the ‘badass ballerina’ Luca knew she could be. Thank you KaSonndra Leigh for an amazing story of true love!
April 10, 2014
An Aria in Venice is an exquisite story full of joy, sorrow, love, loss, sensuality and so much more. KaSonndra Leigh's best work to date. I fell hopelessly in love with the beauty of her words and now dream of walking the streets of Venice or riding a gondola through the canals until the sun comes up. A truly magical journey.
Adriana has had a painful life, full of nightmares from the day her family escaped the lies of her father. Her rock has always been Nickolai, a man who she has longed for since the day he saved her. She can't seem to get him to notice her for the woman she has become, so when she meets the handsome, womanizing designer Luca, she forms a plan to get Nickolai's attention and lose her virginity all at once.
Adriana is fiesty and knows what she wants, but is filled with a sadness that runs deep. Luca has demons of his own that tend to push him into destructive behavior. What starts out as a mutual favor between them, leads to chemistry that is explosive and healing. The sexual tension they share only adds to the beauty of their blooming relationship. I fell head over heels in love with Luca. He's sexy, intelligent, poetic and has a cockiness that makes him a magnet for women. Luca is the epitome of sexuality and all things manly. I could never get enough of him.
While reading An Aria in Venice, I found myself laughing out loud, crying my eyes out, screaming at my kindle and swooning over the hotness KaSonndra has provided throughout the pages. The humor is perfectly balanced in the story, not leaving out all the other emotions the book provokes. I cannot say enough good things about this book. Brilliant, beautiful, seductive, moving...the list could go on and on. I highly recommend An Aria in Venice.
Adriana has had a painful life, full of nightmares from the day her family escaped the lies of her father. Her rock has always been Nickolai, a man who she has longed for since the day he saved her. She can't seem to get him to notice her for the woman she has become, so when she meets the handsome, womanizing designer Luca, she forms a plan to get Nickolai's attention and lose her virginity all at once.
Adriana is fiesty and knows what she wants, but is filled with a sadness that runs deep. Luca has demons of his own that tend to push him into destructive behavior. What starts out as a mutual favor between them, leads to chemistry that is explosive and healing. The sexual tension they share only adds to the beauty of their blooming relationship. I fell head over heels in love with Luca. He's sexy, intelligent, poetic and has a cockiness that makes him a magnet for women. Luca is the epitome of sexuality and all things manly. I could never get enough of him.
While reading An Aria in Venice, I found myself laughing out loud, crying my eyes out, screaming at my kindle and swooning over the hotness KaSonndra has provided throughout the pages. The humor is perfectly balanced in the story, not leaving out all the other emotions the book provokes. I cannot say enough good things about this book. Brilliant, beautiful, seductive, moving...the list could go on and on. I highly recommend An Aria in Venice.
December 25, 2014
I love it when I hit jackpot when using a random picker to choose what book to read next. And because it was random, I didn't read the blurb; which I think didn't do justice to the book, by the way. There's a love triangle in the story and I felt that it should have been mentioned in the blurb. And having said that, I'm glad I didn't read it before the book. I enjoyed the heroine's bittersweet realizations about the two men. The blurb was actually a spoiler. It didn't mention Nikolai's important part in the story.
I. Love. This. Book. It made me laugh, made me swoon, and it even made me cry. Adriana is my girl. I love her character, she's fun, witty, loyal, strong, a good person through and through. She may be naive but she's not stupid nor weak. Luca is... *sigh* There's just something about a man who knows how to respect and love his mother, regardless of his notoriety in other aspects. In the first half of the book I was actually rooting for Nikolai, with his dark, mysterious appeal, he's just the perfect hero. But as the story progressed, I fell for Luca's character and was hoping Adriana will pick him (remember, I didn't read the blurb. Lol). Adriana and Luca just seemed perfect together. I'm glad the author thought so, too. As for my favorite character in the book, that would be Luca's mom, Simona. The scenes with Simona were both inspiring and heartbreaking that I cried near the end.
I'm damned happy that this book is part of a series. I haven't read a story like this before and would definitely love to read more about the other characters, especially Nikolai who I'm hoping will have his own happy ending, too.
I'm recommending this to all romance readers aged 18 and above. Definitely worth your time!
I. Love. This. Book. It made me laugh, made me swoon, and it even made me cry. Adriana is my girl. I love her character, she's fun, witty, loyal, strong, a good person through and through. She may be naive but she's not stupid nor weak. Luca is... *sigh* There's just something about a man who knows how to respect and love his mother, regardless of his notoriety in other aspects. In the first half of the book I was actually rooting for Nikolai, with his dark, mysterious appeal, he's just the perfect hero. But as the story progressed, I fell for Luca's character and was hoping Adriana will pick him (remember, I didn't read the blurb. Lol). Adriana and Luca just seemed perfect together. I'm glad the author thought so, too. As for my favorite character in the book, that would be Luca's mom, Simona. The scenes with Simona were both inspiring and heartbreaking that I cried near the end.
I'm damned happy that this book is part of a series. I haven't read a story like this before and would definitely love to read more about the other characters, especially Nikolai who I'm hoping will have his own happy ending, too.
I'm recommending this to all romance readers aged 18 and above. Definitely worth your time!
April 18, 2014
To start off, I did not read the first book in this series. This book is a standalone, and I had no issue getting into the story. Bonus points: No cliffhanger!
KaSonndra Leigh has a beautiful way with words. Her writing is very descriptive and it flowed smoothly. At times though, the descriptions were so heavy that I had trouble looking past them to find the story. The emotions run high in this tale. The story felt like it was built on many layers and which turn of the page, I got to peel back another layer and discover more about the complex cast of characters and their world.
I'll be honest; Adriana wasn't really my cup of tea. I thought she came across as spoiled and childish. But I can say that she showed definite growth throughout the story, as did the other characters. They were all certainly given their own voices, and it was interesting to get to know them as KaSonndra Leigh introduced them. This is a love story and you definitely will get that vibe. There's a shadow of love triangle, as well. Personally, I'm glad it wasn't played up too much. I'm growing so weary of love triangles after being inundated with them in my latest reads.
Overall, this is a quick and sentimental read. If you enjoyed the first book in this series, you'll enjoy this one. If you haven't read the series but you enjoy a sweet love story, give this book a chance.
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Book Enthusiast Promotions and KaSonndra Leigh.
KaSonndra Leigh has a beautiful way with words. Her writing is very descriptive and it flowed smoothly. At times though, the descriptions were so heavy that I had trouble looking past them to find the story. The emotions run high in this tale. The story felt like it was built on many layers and which turn of the page, I got to peel back another layer and discover more about the complex cast of characters and their world.
I'll be honest; Adriana wasn't really my cup of tea. I thought she came across as spoiled and childish. But I can say that she showed definite growth throughout the story, as did the other characters. They were all certainly given their own voices, and it was interesting to get to know them as KaSonndra Leigh introduced them. This is a love story and you definitely will get that vibe. There's a shadow of love triangle, as well. Personally, I'm glad it wasn't played up too much. I'm growing so weary of love triangles after being inundated with them in my latest reads.
Overall, this is a quick and sentimental read. If you enjoyed the first book in this series, you'll enjoy this one. If you haven't read the series but you enjoy a sweet love story, give this book a chance.
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Book Enthusiast Promotions and KaSonndra Leigh.
March 31, 2014
An Aria in Venice. I have to say, this is an amazing love story. Let me start off by saying that I got a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and beta reading it was a lot of fun. I fell in love with the story from the very beginning. Dancing is one of my favorite things to do and I honestly fell in love with ballet. Another thing I love about this story is the gorgeous place of Venice. I've always thought of Venice as one of the most beautiful places in the world and the way the author describes every place, artists and architecture of the places makes everything even more magical. Of course there's also the stories of Adriana, Nikolai and Luca. Not going to go into too much detail about these hot, sexy and adorable guys, but believe me when I say that you won't want to stop reading until the end. There's a particular part in the story that I love. The gondolas and the steamy scene that happens in one of them, made me have a seriously crazy dream. Honestly, I wrote to the author ketting her know about it and we just couldn't stop laughing. I love when a story is well written. Very highly recommend it to everyone who loves a good read. It will make you laugh, cry, you might even want to throw a punch or two here and there, lol. If you like a story with an awesome combo, then this one is for you. KaSonndra did an amazing job writing it. An Aria In Venice is one of my favorite stories by far.
February 17, 2016
Adriana Dostov has always done what she is told...from her mother, her ballet teacher, even her over protective brother and his best friend. Whom she just happens to have a major crush on. When he doesn't give her the time of day she tries to move on. She meets Luca Martuccio, the new designer for the ballet company Adriana attends. Luca catches Adriana's eye and Vice Versa. When they discover there is more to one another than meets the eye obstacles start popping up at every corner.
Although this is between the first and second novels in the series it is a stand alone book. Having said that I really enjoyed it and couldn't put it down so naturally I am eager to read the series. Adriana is guarded on the verge of isolated by her mother, brother, and his best friend because of things from the past. She is very likable, a little naive, definitely a smart ass! I loved her instantly. Luca is your everyday garden variety bad boy with closeted romantic tendencies. This story was cute, romantic, heartbreaking, devastating, and everything in between. Adriana's mother though, OH My God...not to give anything away but I couldn't stand her...maybe even hated her. Not loved to hate her because there was no love there at all! I am so glad I got this book to review from Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock and through NetGalley because I found a new series to devour.
Although this is between the first and second novels in the series it is a stand alone book. Having said that I really enjoyed it and couldn't put it down so naturally I am eager to read the series. Adriana is guarded on the verge of isolated by her mother, brother, and his best friend because of things from the past. She is very likable, a little naive, definitely a smart ass! I loved her instantly. Luca is your everyday garden variety bad boy with closeted romantic tendencies. This story was cute, romantic, heartbreaking, devastating, and everything in between. Adriana's mother though, OH My God...not to give anything away but I couldn't stand her...maybe even hated her. Not loved to hate her because there was no love there at all! I am so glad I got this book to review from Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock and through NetGalley because I found a new series to devour.
September 7, 2014
We met Adriana and Luca in The Prelude. Adriana is Alex Dostov's little sister who he is very protective of. On top of that she is also the dream Nikolei won't allow himself to have. Adriana has always been in love or crush with Nikolei, her adopted brother, but he never sees her in that way. When Luca shows an interest in Adriana and she finds herself having feelings for him, she finds herself at a crossroads. This is a wonderful journey for Adriana as she sheds who she was an embraces her true self, someone she seemed to be hiding from and Luca allowed her to embrace. Their journey to Venice is bittersweet with his family as issues with his Mother surface but the bright side allows Adriana to feel a true mother's love through Luca's Mother. As much as we were left to believe Luca was a player in The Prelude, we get to see his romantic side and everything he is willing to do for love once he finds it. I loved how this story shadows the timeline from The Prelude yet Luca and Adriana have their own story to tell that doesn't detract from what we know of Alek and Erin. Another fabulous installment from KaSonndra as we get sucked in to this crazy Russian mafia world. Excited to read the other parts to see what happens with the other players and how the latest threats get untangled.
April 19, 2014
This is the first time I have read a romance novel by KaSonndra Leigh, I have been a long time fan of her paranormal series. I must admit it's always scary reading a new genre from an author you have come to love for the genre's she's written previously, however, KaSonndra amazed me by this book. It was truly epic. Reading An Aria in Venice was an emotional roller coaster. I really felt like I was able to connect to the characters who were just epic. My heart went out to Adrianna, Luca and Nickolai. There was times I was angry, times that I cried but for the majority of the part my I was swooning from the passion and desire you could feel coming from Adrianna and Luca. If I was to pick a favorite character it would be Nickolai, my heart really went out to him and I hope we get to see more of him in the rest of the series. Although, I will admit I would love to keep Luca and his tongue ring for five days myself. I really enjoyed reading An Aria in Venice and now have to read the whole series because I am intrigued to see what's to come next.
April 27, 2014
KaSonndra Leigh has done it again. Please note this is an adult read, for mature audiences.
Adriana Dostov was legally an adult, age 21, but everyone around her treated her like a child or a porcelain doll that needed to be protected so it would not break.
Adriana decided it was time to be an adult and made a bet with her friends to lose her virginity. Enter one drop dead gorgeous hunk called Luca. Luca was well known for having numerous affairs with women, and leaving them behind. Adriana thought that perfect, no strings, no long term commitments or relationship.
But things don’t always go as planned.
An aria is defined as a piece of music for one voice, or occasionally two voices in an opera. Arias are melodious and usually elaborate. The title could not be more spot. For a ballerina and a designer, elaborate is the perfect adjective. The relationship and story will draw you in. The more they learn about themselves, the secrets and each other, the more you will feel for them and their families.
Adriana Dostov was legally an adult, age 21, but everyone around her treated her like a child or a porcelain doll that needed to be protected so it would not break.
Adriana decided it was time to be an adult and made a bet with her friends to lose her virginity. Enter one drop dead gorgeous hunk called Luca. Luca was well known for having numerous affairs with women, and leaving them behind. Adriana thought that perfect, no strings, no long term commitments or relationship.
But things don’t always go as planned.
An aria is defined as a piece of music for one voice, or occasionally two voices in an opera. Arias are melodious and usually elaborate. The title could not be more spot. For a ballerina and a designer, elaborate is the perfect adjective. The relationship and story will draw you in. The more they learn about themselves, the secrets and each other, the more you will feel for them and their families.
April 18, 2014
I was provided a copy of the book by the Author for an honest review.
I just finish reading this book and I love it, love the characters, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
This is the story of three people, Luca, the grieving designer, Nikolai, the tormented choreographer And between them we have the innocent and passionate girl, Adriana, the ballerina that wants to be loved, and a dreamer. their is a lot going on in the life of this three characters, they are face with emotions of first love, family, and betrayals, all Adriana wants to do is to show the love of her life Lucas that she is all grown up, but Lucas only see her as a little sister. The question is would he get to see her more than that, this book will take you on a journey with this characters, you get to see what's going on with them, and what they fighting for.
I really enjoy and love reading this book, Author Kasonndra Leigh THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome book and this amazing characters.
I just finish reading this book and I love it, love the characters, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
This is the story of three people, Luca, the grieving designer, Nikolai, the tormented choreographer And between them we have the innocent and passionate girl, Adriana, the ballerina that wants to be loved, and a dreamer. their is a lot going on in the life of this three characters, they are face with emotions of first love, family, and betrayals, all Adriana wants to do is to show the love of her life Lucas that she is all grown up, but Lucas only see her as a little sister. The question is would he get to see her more than that, this book will take you on a journey with this characters, you get to see what's going on with them, and what they fighting for.
I really enjoy and love reading this book, Author Kasonndra Leigh THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome book and this amazing characters.
September 10, 2014
*** I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.***
3.5 out of 5 stars
I enjoyed this story for the most part. There were a lot of characters and it was confusing at times trying to keep some of them straight. I liked the mother/daughter relationship that blossomed between Adrianna and Simona, and I definitely feel like Adrianna chose the right guy to be with. The story didn't wow me, but it was a decent love story, with just the right amount suspense, and drama mixed in.
3.5 out of 5 stars
I enjoyed this story for the most part. There were a lot of characters and it was confusing at times trying to keep some of them straight. I liked the mother/daughter relationship that blossomed between Adrianna and Simona, and I definitely feel like Adrianna chose the right guy to be with. The story didn't wow me, but it was a decent love story, with just the right amount suspense, and drama mixed in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2014
I was lucky enough to get a copy from the author in exchange for a review.
What an Amazingly well written and beautiful story. From Start to Finish I COULD NOT put this down. I'm usually not into reading about love triangles but this one didn't feel that way to me.
This is about a young woman's time to find herself and discover what love truly means to her. So many emotions throughout this story, a crazy controlling mother, a couple of hot guys.....Cant wait to read the next book in this series!!
What an Amazingly well written and beautiful story. From Start to Finish I COULD NOT put this down. I'm usually not into reading about love triangles but this one didn't feel that way to me.
This is about a young woman's time to find herself and discover what love truly means to her. So many emotions throughout this story, a crazy controlling mother, a couple of hot guys.....Cant wait to read the next book in this series!!
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