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Blue Notes #6
Dissonance
A Blue Notes Novel
British noble Cameron Sherrington has hit rock bottom. The love of his life, opera sensation Aiden Lind, is marrying another man, and Cam knows it’s his fault for pushing Aiden away. As if that’s not enough, someone is trying to take away his family business, and the US authorities are pursuing him on charges of money laundering. Fearing for his safety and unable to return to London, Cam runs, but he’s too broke to find a place to stay, and his fugitive’s life doesn’t even remotely resemble a Hollywood thriller.
Desperate and betrayed by the people he thought cared about him, Cam takes refuge in the subway station where Galen Rusk plays his trumpet for tips. Though Cam hears the beauty in Galen’s music, it’s Galen’s firm hand on his shoulder that stops him from throwing everything away. Their unusual relationship takes a turn that surprises them both, and neither man is sure he wants the complication. Galen is fighting the ghosts of his past, and Cam has his own nightmares to face. When Cam’s troubles threaten to tear them apart, Cam figures he had it coming—that it’s all penance due for a life lived without honesty or love. But he never considered the possibility that he might not survive it.
Note: The Blue Notes Series can be read in any order. Each is a stand-alone story from the same classical music universe.
British noble Cameron Sherrington has hit rock bottom. The love of his life, opera sensation Aiden Lind, is marrying another man, and Cam knows it’s his fault for pushing Aiden away. As if that’s not enough, someone is trying to take away his family business, and the US authorities are pursuing him on charges of money laundering. Fearing for his safety and unable to return to London, Cam runs, but he’s too broke to find a place to stay, and his fugitive’s life doesn’t even remotely resemble a Hollywood thriller.
Desperate and betrayed by the people he thought cared about him, Cam takes refuge in the subway station where Galen Rusk plays his trumpet for tips. Though Cam hears the beauty in Galen’s music, it’s Galen’s firm hand on his shoulder that stops him from throwing everything away. Their unusual relationship takes a turn that surprises them both, and neither man is sure he wants the complication. Galen is fighting the ghosts of his past, and Cam has his own nightmares to face. When Cam’s troubles threaten to tear them apart, Cam figures he had it coming—that it’s all penance due for a life lived without honesty or love. But he never considered the possibility that he might not survive it.
Note: The Blue Notes Series can be read in any order. Each is a stand-alone story from the same classical music universe.
240 pages, Paperback
First published August 7, 2014
5 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Shira Anthony
43 books426 followersShira Anthony is a complete sucker for a happily-ever-after, and rarely reads or writes a story without one. Never a fan of instalove, Shira likes to write stories about real men with real issues making real relationships work.
In her last incarnation, Shira was a professional opera singer, performing roles in such operas as “Tosca,” “Pagliacci,” and “La Traviata,” among others. Her Blue Notes Series is loosely based upon her own experiences as a professional musician.
Shira is married with two children and two insane dogs and when she’s not writing, she is usually in a courtroom trying to make the world safer for children. When she’s not working, she can be found aboard a 36’ catamaran at the Carolina coast with her favorite sexy captain at the wheel. She’s given up TV for evenings spent with her laptop, and she never goes anywhere without a pile of unread M/M romance on her Kindle.
Interested in hearing Shira sing? Here's a link to a live performance of Shira singing an aria from Puccini's "Tosca": http://www.shiraanthony.com/wp-conten...
You can subscribe to Shira's monthly newsletter for updates, free fiction, and subscriber-only contests here: http://www.shiraanthony.com/newsletter/
In her last incarnation, Shira was a professional opera singer, performing roles in such operas as “Tosca,” “Pagliacci,” and “La Traviata,” among others. Her Blue Notes Series is loosely based upon her own experiences as a professional musician.
Shira is married with two children and two insane dogs and when she’s not writing, she is usually in a courtroom trying to make the world safer for children. When she’s not working, she can be found aboard a 36’ catamaran at the Carolina coast with her favorite sexy captain at the wheel. She’s given up TV for evenings spent with her laptop, and she never goes anywhere without a pile of unread M/M romance on her Kindle.
Interested in hearing Shira sing? Here's a link to a live performance of Shira singing an aria from Puccini's "Tosca": http://www.shiraanthony.com/wp-conten...
You can subscribe to Shira's monthly newsletter for updates, free fiction, and subscriber-only contests here: http://www.shiraanthony.com/newsletter/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
August 23, 2014
2 stars. DNF @35 %. Review posted August 22, 2014
A while ago I decided not to rate a book if I quit before the 45 % mark. This time, though, I couldn't care less. I will rate it nonetheless, just because I'm so incredibly peeved!
Again, the writing was good but I hated the über asshole Cameron. Also, I categorically refuse to be emotionally manipulated by an author. After the 30 % mark I could smell where the story was heading: right into the black hole of Oh, yeah, we have to redeem the disgusting jerk somehow. I'm very sorry, but that doesn't fly with me. Cam cheated on his former lover Aiden like a f@cking world champion, he acted like a super-duper arrogant bastard; he's a self-pitying, snobbish and condescending jerk and I couldn't feel sorry for him. I can't stress enough how friggin' mad I am! I'm positive that in the end his past will serve as both, an explanation and excuse for his shitty behavior. Nope, not with me. By the way…Cam, quit snapping at people. It's friggin' irritating and very rude!
A while ago I decided not to rate a book if I quit before the 45 % mark. This time, though, I couldn't care less. I will rate it nonetheless, just because I'm so incredibly peeved!
Again, the writing was good but I hated the über asshole Cameron. Also, I categorically refuse to be emotionally manipulated by an author. After the 30 % mark I could smell where the story was heading: right into the black hole of Oh, yeah, we have to redeem the disgusting jerk somehow. I'm very sorry, but that doesn't fly with me. Cam cheated on his former lover Aiden like a f@cking world champion, he acted like a super-duper arrogant bastard; he's a self-pitying, snobbish and condescending jerk and I couldn't feel sorry for him. I can't stress enough how friggin' mad I am! I'm positive that in the end his past will serve as both, an explanation and excuse for his shitty behavior. Nope, not with me. By the way…Cam, quit snapping at people. It's friggin' irritating and very rude!
November 8, 2014
FOUR HEARTS--Relax. Focus.
A mantra of sorts that was repeated throughout "Dissonance"by the main characters, two damaged souls that didn't know that they needed the other. Trigger warnings: past child sexual abuse and suicide attempts.
I warn because this book does not in any form exploit child abuse but the way the survivor recalls his abuse...it struck a chord with me. I am not a survivor but there are people who are very near and dear to my heart that are. And the way the story is told, it put me back into the first time they'd shared with me. I think the author was spot on in portraying the conflicting emotions (and there are more than what was in Dissonance). I also applaud the author for not making the abuse survivor a likeable character that would get automatic sympathy points just because.
Just like how some people are nice and other are assholes, so can be abuse survivors. They are people just like you and I. This author took the harder route to tell her story, and I applaud her.
Cameron is spoiled. He is selfish. He is uncaring and a cheater (he's the villain in a previous book in this series). He's rich, elitist, and uncaring. He's also a minor British noble, never had to work for anything in his life. And is unapologetic about it. He is not even touching my top ten of despicable main characters but he might get an honorable mention...if it weren't for the cracks that showed he was more human than he gave himself credit for.
Galen is this new-age, vegetarian, always has a positive quote, high school music teacher and subway performer. Yes, he plays the trumpet in the subway. He catches, the player's eye but Cam believes the good looking blonde to be beneath him. at first. It wasn't until hitting rock bottom, that Cam finally learned to humble himself.
Even when Cam hit rock bottom, he wouldn't open. So impenetrable, so cold...but still waters run deep. Ever wondered what makes a jerk tic? Ever think that maybe something happened to mold them into the person they were? The author does a pretty good case study of Cam as he is being tried for a white collar crime he didn't commit. He's so spoiled and unused to not getting what he wants, it made him more interesting.
Cam goes from Manhattan high-life to hiding in New Jersey with Galen. The story alternates POV but it is mostly Cam's POV being told. We get visits from past characters from the series (my favorite couple - David and Alex - "Prelude" is still my favorite of this series) and get to learn about the characters.
So full of depth they were...both men were damaged, each facet cracked but put together, they made sense. Galen and Cam together made sense. They helped each other while discovering who is behind the sabotage of Cam's life. Galen was a little slow on revealing his background but it was no surprise they were the perfect compliment to each other.
There were a lot of emotions swirling in the story but I didn't feel influenced to pity Cam. It was kind of refreshing to have an asshole MC learn to drop the boulder on his shoulder and realize his self worth. Don't think that all the issues get solved by the end of the story or by a magic penis. No such thing.
Time, discussion were the keys on mending the men while traveling to NYC, NJ, and London. Adult conversations, adult reactions and a sense of realism with a musical background that Shira Anthony writes so well. She's a quiet creeper with the feelz but she always writes a solid story, well for me anyway.
This story does have a HEA, I wish at points the two men would quit being so stubborn but it was in their nature and it made for a better story in the long run. Justice does prevail but on the mens' terms and oddly enough it fit them.
Would I read more of this series? Definitely. (I love that I don't have to read in order)
Recommended.
A copy provided for an honest review.
A mantra of sorts that was repeated throughout "Dissonance"by the main characters, two damaged souls that didn't know that they needed the other. Trigger warnings: past child sexual abuse and suicide attempts.
I warn because this book does not in any form exploit child abuse but the way the survivor recalls his abuse...it struck a chord with me. I am not a survivor but there are people who are very near and dear to my heart that are. And the way the story is told, it put me back into the first time they'd shared with me. I think the author was spot on in portraying the conflicting emotions (and there are more than what was in Dissonance). I also applaud the author for not making the abuse survivor a likeable character that would get automatic sympathy points just because.
Just like how some people are nice and other are assholes, so can be abuse survivors. They are people just like you and I. This author took the harder route to tell her story, and I applaud her.
Cameron is spoiled. He is selfish. He is uncaring and a cheater (he's the villain in a previous book in this series). He's rich, elitist, and uncaring. He's also a minor British noble, never had to work for anything in his life. And is unapologetic about it. He is not even touching my top ten of despicable main characters but he might get an honorable mention...if it weren't for the cracks that showed he was more human than he gave himself credit for.
Galen is this new-age, vegetarian, always has a positive quote, high school music teacher and subway performer. Yes, he plays the trumpet in the subway. He catches, the player's eye but Cam believes the good looking blonde to be beneath him. at first. It wasn't until hitting rock bottom, that Cam finally learned to humble himself.
"The realization took him by surprise. He hated the way everyone looked at Cam. Clever, charming Cam. Poised, confident, carefree Cam. Complete and utter bullshit. and with the realization came clarity of thought: not one of them knew Cam. Really knew him. They didn't know the big heart underneath the cool exterior. they didn't know of the grief and heartache. They didn't know that even now, Cam still hated himself for what he'd done to Aiden. Hated himself for what he was. For what he'd been."
Even when Cam hit rock bottom, he wouldn't open. So impenetrable, so cold...but still waters run deep. Ever wondered what makes a jerk tic? Ever think that maybe something happened to mold them into the person they were? The author does a pretty good case study of Cam as he is being tried for a white collar crime he didn't commit. He's so spoiled and unused to not getting what he wants, it made him more interesting.
Cam goes from Manhattan high-life to hiding in New Jersey with Galen. The story alternates POV but it is mostly Cam's POV being told. We get visits from past characters from the series (my favorite couple - David and Alex - "Prelude" is still my favorite of this series) and get to learn about the characters.
So full of depth they were...both men were damaged, each facet cracked but put together, they made sense. Galen and Cam together made sense. They helped each other while discovering who is behind the sabotage of Cam's life. Galen was a little slow on revealing his background but it was no surprise they were the perfect compliment to each other.
There were a lot of emotions swirling in the story but I didn't feel influenced to pity Cam. It was kind of refreshing to have an asshole MC learn to drop the boulder on his shoulder and realize his self worth. Don't think that all the issues get solved by the end of the story or by a magic penis. No such thing.
Time, discussion were the keys on mending the men while traveling to NYC, NJ, and London. Adult conversations, adult reactions and a sense of realism with a musical background that Shira Anthony writes so well. She's a quiet creeper with the feelz but she always writes a solid story, well for me anyway.
This story does have a HEA, I wish at points the two men would quit being so stubborn but it was in their nature and it made for a better story in the long run. Justice does prevail but on the mens' terms and oddly enough it fit them.
Would I read more of this series? Definitely. (I love that I don't have to read in order)
Recommended.
A copy provided for an honest review.
Read
May 2, 2014I've always wanted to write Lord Cameron (Cam) Sherrington's story, if only to show that sometimes people are screwed up for a good reason. At the end of "Aria," Cam (who breaks opera singer Aiden Lind's heart), redeems himself a little. But not so much that I fell in love with him, as I usually do with my characters. Still, I knew Cam was the way he was for a reason, and I knew I wanted to share his story with Blue Notes readers....
Cam begins "Dissonance" with his usual smart-ass, I-don't-give-a-shit attitude. At least on the outside. Underneath, we already see the cracks forming in his life of luxury. Getting inside Cam's head was both a revelation and a painful experience for me, because I began to see the heart of gold underneath all the BS. And I had to draw out the demons of Cam's childhood--demons even he didn't want to remember.
Cam's story is based on real-life stories of survivors of abuse. And although my personal experience with child abuse is not as extreme as Cam's, I know too many adults who survived what Cam survived and far worse. Sometimes it's easy to forget that we are who were are in part because of where we've been. For Cam, his betrayal as a child lays the foundation for the flighty playboy he becomes. That betrayal runs so deep, even Cam can't fathom it.
I also knew that for Cam to grow, he needed to lose everything that keeps him going. He needed to walk through the fire. How he makes it through, if he makes it through, depends upon his own strength of character in the end. He won't do it alone, either. In Galen Rusk, he finds a dogged ally who has been through his own, different traumatic experience. With Galen's support, Cam has a chance to change his life.
I hope you'll come to love Cam as much as I did through this story. He has a great deal to offer. He'll pay for his actions, but by doing so, he'll become a man worthy of real and lasting love. -Shira
Cam begins "Dissonance" with his usual smart-ass, I-don't-give-a-shit attitude. At least on the outside. Underneath, we already see the cracks forming in his life of luxury. Getting inside Cam's head was both a revelation and a painful experience for me, because I began to see the heart of gold underneath all the BS. And I had to draw out the demons of Cam's childhood--demons even he didn't want to remember.
Cam's story is based on real-life stories of survivors of abuse. And although my personal experience with child abuse is not as extreme as Cam's, I know too many adults who survived what Cam survived and far worse. Sometimes it's easy to forget that we are who were are in part because of where we've been. For Cam, his betrayal as a child lays the foundation for the flighty playboy he becomes. That betrayal runs so deep, even Cam can't fathom it.
I also knew that for Cam to grow, he needed to lose everything that keeps him going. He needed to walk through the fire. How he makes it through, if he makes it through, depends upon his own strength of character in the end. He won't do it alone, either. In Galen Rusk, he finds a dogged ally who has been through his own, different traumatic experience. With Galen's support, Cam has a chance to change his life.
I hope you'll come to love Cam as much as I did through this story. He has a great deal to offer. He'll pay for his actions, but by doing so, he'll become a man worthy of real and lasting love. -Shira
August 15, 2014
Loved, loved, loved this story! Shira Anthony took Cam, a spoiled rich boy, former cheating boyfriend of Aiden, (Aria), and a character I despised, and sent me on a tumultuous somersault of emotions to the point where I now want to hug him close to my heart forever!
When Cam Sherrington flies to New York for Aiden’s debut at the Metropolitan Opera House, he happens to hear a lone trumpeter playing in the subway system one night and is fascinated by the music he makes. A few nights later, he spots him again, and drops a hundred dollar bill into the trumpet case, but he doesn’t linger. Not many days later, it’s Cam who is lurking in the subway system after his life has gone to hell. He’s wanted by the FBI for a money-laundering operation discovered when they audited the books of his company. But Cam is innocent and has no idea what happened. Trying to get help from his uncle, the president of his company, is futile, since his uncle won’t answer his calls. When Cam found out the FBI issued a warrant, he fled with the clothes on his back and the money in his pocket.
Galen Rusk, the trumpeter, spots him as he’s trying to get comfortable on a bench one night, and offers the hundred dollar bill back to him. Arrogant Cam, of course, refuses, but he later finds it tucked into the bench. Within another two days, he’s reached bottom, and is just about to jump onto the tracks, when Galen grabs him and offers him a safe place to stay.
Slowly, over the course of a week, several positive things happen for Cam, among them a realization that his nightmares are actually childhood memories of sexual abuse by his uncle. It’s becoming more evident that he’s been set up by his uncle, but there’s no one else to turn to for help, because he’s never allowed himself to get too close to anyone. David and Alex, (Prelude), and even Aiden, might believe him but they are all away on concert tours. Turning to Galen for comfort seems out of the question, yet he slowly begins to realize that Galen is truly a kind, gentle, caring and concerned man who genuinely wants to help him. Galen is a friend to Cam when he needs it most. Quiet, unassuming Galen always seems to anticipate Cam’s needs, and Cam suspects that Galen’s heart is “big enough to embrace the world”.
When Cam agrees to meet the finance guy from his company who claims he has evidence to help prove his innocence, Galen helps him devise an emergency escape plan to avoid the FBI, a plan that has to be put into effect. Slowly, very slowly, Cam is coming to appreciate more about Galen than his good looks, and he’s starting to feel something in his heart that he’s never experienced before. And when they eventually make love, it truly is love, yet neither is willing to acknowledge its existence.
True love is never simple, and it’s never easy. Both men have to learn to deal with past issues, and to fight for their love. Will Cam be able to prove his innocence? Will the guys eventually get together?
I love the progression of the relationship between Cam and Galen as well as their individual emotional growth in this story. Shira Anthony worked magic here! These guys have moved right up to the top of my list of favorite characters from this series and will remain among my most memorable characters in M/M literature.
I highly recommend this series to all. This book can be read as a standalone, however, be aware it will whet your appetite for more, and you’ll be driven to grab the others in this series. If you’ve read the rest of the series, then this is a no-brainer. Buy this book. You won’t be disappointed.
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
When Cam Sherrington flies to New York for Aiden’s debut at the Metropolitan Opera House, he happens to hear a lone trumpeter playing in the subway system one night and is fascinated by the music he makes. A few nights later, he spots him again, and drops a hundred dollar bill into the trumpet case, but he doesn’t linger. Not many days later, it’s Cam who is lurking in the subway system after his life has gone to hell. He’s wanted by the FBI for a money-laundering operation discovered when they audited the books of his company. But Cam is innocent and has no idea what happened. Trying to get help from his uncle, the president of his company, is futile, since his uncle won’t answer his calls. When Cam found out the FBI issued a warrant, he fled with the clothes on his back and the money in his pocket.
Galen Rusk, the trumpeter, spots him as he’s trying to get comfortable on a bench one night, and offers the hundred dollar bill back to him. Arrogant Cam, of course, refuses, but he later finds it tucked into the bench. Within another two days, he’s reached bottom, and is just about to jump onto the tracks, when Galen grabs him and offers him a safe place to stay.
Slowly, over the course of a week, several positive things happen for Cam, among them a realization that his nightmares are actually childhood memories of sexual abuse by his uncle. It’s becoming more evident that he’s been set up by his uncle, but there’s no one else to turn to for help, because he’s never allowed himself to get too close to anyone. David and Alex, (Prelude), and even Aiden, might believe him but they are all away on concert tours. Turning to Galen for comfort seems out of the question, yet he slowly begins to realize that Galen is truly a kind, gentle, caring and concerned man who genuinely wants to help him. Galen is a friend to Cam when he needs it most. Quiet, unassuming Galen always seems to anticipate Cam’s needs, and Cam suspects that Galen’s heart is “big enough to embrace the world”.
When Cam agrees to meet the finance guy from his company who claims he has evidence to help prove his innocence, Galen helps him devise an emergency escape plan to avoid the FBI, a plan that has to be put into effect. Slowly, very slowly, Cam is coming to appreciate more about Galen than his good looks, and he’s starting to feel something in his heart that he’s never experienced before. And when they eventually make love, it truly is love, yet neither is willing to acknowledge its existence.
True love is never simple, and it’s never easy. Both men have to learn to deal with past issues, and to fight for their love. Will Cam be able to prove his innocence? Will the guys eventually get together?
I love the progression of the relationship between Cam and Galen as well as their individual emotional growth in this story. Shira Anthony worked magic here! These guys have moved right up to the top of my list of favorite characters from this series and will remain among my most memorable characters in M/M literature.
I highly recommend this series to all. This book can be read as a standalone, however, be aware it will whet your appetite for more, and you’ll be driven to grab the others in this series. If you’ve read the rest of the series, then this is a no-brainer. Buy this book. You won’t be disappointed.
Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
May 30, 2021
I disliked Cam from the moment we met him several books ago. It was a spoiled rich guy that thought the world owed him and he owned everyone in his life. He made David’s partner Alex Bishop’s life miserable and nearly cost Alex a life with David. So when he is at his lowest and I have stopped clapping and cheering we find he has met Galen. Cam of course is still wallowing in his high class entitlement along with an ego that can only come from a total lack of self-confidence, sees Galen as a lazy low-class American who would rather beg in the subway than put in a full day's work. As if Cam would recognize a day's work if it bit him on the butt. Of course, he's outrageously wrong...as are we, the readers. Cam is at the lowest point and there is nowhere to go except up and lucky for him Galen...who he misjudged is just the one to help him. Turns out that Galen is nothing close to lazy or some of the other opinions that Cam had formed. Also turns out that Cam has a terrible past that has ridden along with him making him react to life that way he has. Something that was never in a million years ever his fault. This is a beautifully written book built on a truly authentic understanding of the fears of the human heart. It is not just a beautiful love story, it's a story that will not fail to touch the reader's heart.
August 17, 2014
Music Can Calm the Nerves and Clear the Nightmares...If Only We Listen to Each Other
The sixth, and IMHO, the best, of the Blue Notes series, this one brings back a nasty character named Cameron Sherrington, a minor British "royal" whose arrogant disregard for most people, including his lover, opera star Aiden Lind, set the stage for Aiden's story in Book 3 of the series, "Aria." Now having screwed up so many other lives, Lord Cameron (or, as he prefers, just plain Cam) has become a member of his wealthy family's business empire, settling in as a New York City-to-London-and-back jetsetter with an allowance but no real wealth, having blown his inheritance on hedonistic ventures the past several years.
During a trip to New York to celebrate his 30th birthday, three things happen to throw his dream world into a shattering nightmare after a lovely dinner date with his friends David Somers and Alex Bishop, protagonists in "Prelude," Book 4 of the series. (They will return late in the book at crucial juncture to add another sub-plot to this volume). While in the middle of a hot and heavy cruise with a guest at his birthday party, Cam gets a phone call from Aiden who tells him he is going to marry his partner, Sam, a lawyer who "rescued" Aiden from Cam in "Aria," crushing Cam's hopes of wooing Aiden, his only true love, back. Then he makes contact in the subway (his preferred ride in the city) with a trumpet player whom he has viewed a few times before who plays exceptionally beautiful music. This is Galen Rusk, a man about his age with golden hair, beautiful eyes, and an inner peace that appeals to Cam in many ways, some of which he can't comprehend.
Then he finds out all his money and assets have been frozen by his company on orders of British and American financial regulators, and the FBI is looking for him as a potential money launderer. Cam, who has no idea what is going on, cannot find anyone to help him since the FBI has surrounded him and his friends and associates with intimidation, as is their procedure at times. Thrown to the wolves with no money, he manages to wind up in the subway and there Galen rescues him and convinces him to accompany him home.
This Good Samaritan outreach is handled beautifully and without author's tricks by Shira Anthony, as a destitute and frightened Cam finds himself in a small farm house in the suburbs of New Jersey getting to know (and being cared for by) Galen, a high school music teacher who likes to play in the subway (not an unusual scenario for those of us who live in New York City to understand). This encounter plays out for both Cam and Galen, both of whom are damaged goods. Galen's sympathetic but gentle prodding of Cam, based on what Galen says is his experience in a similar situation, brings out hidden secrets in Cam's life which not only bring him into a psychological nightmare, but also gives him hints of what, and who, is behind his fugitive status.
The book then takes the appropriate turn as Cam and Galen figure out what happened, but when that situation seems to be solved (and it's a wild ride, indeed, subway included), and it looks like these two star-crossed men might become lovers, serendipity takes over. On a trip back to England where Cam has taken Galen to meet his social circle, they are invited to a party at the home of the aforementioned David Somers and Alex Bishop--and the biggest secret of all is revealed.
All you will say is "wow!" because while it might have occurred to you that Galen could be "the man behind the green curtain ," (so to speak), this comes totally out of the blue (no pun intended). How this all plays into the outcome is cleverly handled by Ms. Anthony, who also teases us with the possibility that another book is on the way with a protagonist who has been introduced to us in this one.
This book, like all the ones in the Blue Notes series, is promoted as a stand alone that you do not have to read in order. I beg to differ because there are characters from each novel which wander in and out of others, and they are often involved in plot lines. However, Ms. Anthony always gives enough background to provide a comfortable fit for those who are inclined to cherry pick through the group. My advice is to read them in order--for the richness of the writing, the development of the characters, the growth of a community, and most of all for bringing music to our souls in ways that we may not have experienced before. Bravo!
The sixth, and IMHO, the best, of the Blue Notes series, this one brings back a nasty character named Cameron Sherrington, a minor British "royal" whose arrogant disregard for most people, including his lover, opera star Aiden Lind, set the stage for Aiden's story in Book 3 of the series, "Aria." Now having screwed up so many other lives, Lord Cameron (or, as he prefers, just plain Cam) has become a member of his wealthy family's business empire, settling in as a New York City-to-London-and-back jetsetter with an allowance but no real wealth, having blown his inheritance on hedonistic ventures the past several years.
During a trip to New York to celebrate his 30th birthday, three things happen to throw his dream world into a shattering nightmare after a lovely dinner date with his friends David Somers and Alex Bishop, protagonists in "Prelude," Book 4 of the series. (They will return late in the book at crucial juncture to add another sub-plot to this volume). While in the middle of a hot and heavy cruise with a guest at his birthday party, Cam gets a phone call from Aiden who tells him he is going to marry his partner, Sam, a lawyer who "rescued" Aiden from Cam in "Aria," crushing Cam's hopes of wooing Aiden, his only true love, back. Then he makes contact in the subway (his preferred ride in the city) with a trumpet player whom he has viewed a few times before who plays exceptionally beautiful music. This is Galen Rusk, a man about his age with golden hair, beautiful eyes, and an inner peace that appeals to Cam in many ways, some of which he can't comprehend.
Then he finds out all his money and assets have been frozen by his company on orders of British and American financial regulators, and the FBI is looking for him as a potential money launderer. Cam, who has no idea what is going on, cannot find anyone to help him since the FBI has surrounded him and his friends and associates with intimidation, as is their procedure at times. Thrown to the wolves with no money, he manages to wind up in the subway and there Galen rescues him and convinces him to accompany him home.
This Good Samaritan outreach is handled beautifully and without author's tricks by Shira Anthony, as a destitute and frightened Cam finds himself in a small farm house in the suburbs of New Jersey getting to know (and being cared for by) Galen, a high school music teacher who likes to play in the subway (not an unusual scenario for those of us who live in New York City to understand). This encounter plays out for both Cam and Galen, both of whom are damaged goods. Galen's sympathetic but gentle prodding of Cam, based on what Galen says is his experience in a similar situation, brings out hidden secrets in Cam's life which not only bring him into a psychological nightmare, but also gives him hints of what, and who, is behind his fugitive status.
The book then takes the appropriate turn as Cam and Galen figure out what happened, but when that situation seems to be solved (and it's a wild ride, indeed, subway included), and it looks like these two star-crossed men might become lovers, serendipity takes over. On a trip back to England where Cam has taken Galen to meet his social circle, they are invited to a party at the home of the aforementioned David Somers and Alex Bishop--and the biggest secret of all is revealed.
All you will say is "wow!" because while it might have occurred to you that Galen could be "the man behind the green curtain ," (so to speak), this comes totally out of the blue (no pun intended). How this all plays into the outcome is cleverly handled by Ms. Anthony, who also teases us with the possibility that another book is on the way with a protagonist who has been introduced to us in this one.
This book, like all the ones in the Blue Notes series, is promoted as a stand alone that you do not have to read in order. I beg to differ because there are characters from each novel which wander in and out of others, and they are often involved in plot lines. However, Ms. Anthony always gives enough background to provide a comfortable fit for those who are inclined to cherry pick through the group. My advice is to read them in order--for the richness of the writing, the development of the characters, the growth of a community, and most of all for bringing music to our souls in ways that we may not have experienced before. Bravo!
August 4, 2014
Cameron Sherrington lives a life of luxury, laziness and idiocy. Coming from a wealthy family he has already blown through his inheritance left by his late father, and now lives off a monthly allowance until he’s old enough to claim his trust fund. His days consist of random one off’s with strangers, lunch with friends, parties and an occasional business meeting. But underneath all that privilege he has grown accustomed to, there is a gentle soul hiding, he only need open his eyes and ears.
Galen Rusk is a part time music teacher, and he loves to play his trumpet in the subway. Acoustics and people are great and he even gets a tip or two. He noticed the tall, lithe, well dressed blonde man a while back. Always in a hurry. Always checking his watch. On this particular day though the man stops to help an elderly woman when she drops her grocers, and at one point actually looks over at Galen. Afterward Cam stops to listen to Galen play, asks him to play something classical. There is a moment when both men are captivated and the initial attraction is born.
Cam has put his trust in the wrong person though and his life is about to take a nose dive. No money, no friends, no place to live and on the run from the FBI for something he didn’t do, Cam is now sleeping in the subway station. At the end of his rope, he entertains the thought of ending it all, but the gorgeous man with the green eyes is there, laying his hand on his shoulder. With all other options exhausted, Cam has no choice but to take Galen up on his offer to come stay with him. And slowly, painfully slowly, the two men get to know each other and build that trust that both of them have very little of.
One thing leads to another and the two finally become lovers. But the scars these two men carry both mentally and physically threaten to break the weak bond they’ve created. They will be put to an even greater test when they are separated by thousands of miles, while Galen fights for the job he loves, and both men refuse to admit they’ve fallen in love, though anyone with eyes can see it’s true.
Anthony’s Blue Notes is one of my favorite series. I love all the varying characters and how their lives as individuals still runs concurrent with the other characters in the different stories. My personal favorite will always be David and Alex, but Cam and Galen have worked their way under my skin. I really enjoy stories where the two ML have to struggle to find their way to each other. They are flawed and human and maybe by the grace of god and their love for one another, they can find a balance and a way to coexist together. These two in particular are the most stubborn I’ve met in the series. Strong, loyal, compassionate and stubborn. It makes for some fantastic reading, I assure you.
I highly recommend this series, and while the books can be read as a standalone, I’d urge you to read them in order. It just makes the experience with all these couples that are all entangled in each other’s lives in one way or another, that much better. {note the author has included the series order in the description above}
** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **
http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpres...
Galen Rusk is a part time music teacher, and he loves to play his trumpet in the subway. Acoustics and people are great and he even gets a tip or two. He noticed the tall, lithe, well dressed blonde man a while back. Always in a hurry. Always checking his watch. On this particular day though the man stops to help an elderly woman when she drops her grocers, and at one point actually looks over at Galen. Afterward Cam stops to listen to Galen play, asks him to play something classical. There is a moment when both men are captivated and the initial attraction is born.
Cam has put his trust in the wrong person though and his life is about to take a nose dive. No money, no friends, no place to live and on the run from the FBI for something he didn’t do, Cam is now sleeping in the subway station. At the end of his rope, he entertains the thought of ending it all, but the gorgeous man with the green eyes is there, laying his hand on his shoulder. With all other options exhausted, Cam has no choice but to take Galen up on his offer to come stay with him. And slowly, painfully slowly, the two men get to know each other and build that trust that both of them have very little of.
One thing leads to another and the two finally become lovers. But the scars these two men carry both mentally and physically threaten to break the weak bond they’ve created. They will be put to an even greater test when they are separated by thousands of miles, while Galen fights for the job he loves, and both men refuse to admit they’ve fallen in love, though anyone with eyes can see it’s true.
Anthony’s Blue Notes is one of my favorite series. I love all the varying characters and how their lives as individuals still runs concurrent with the other characters in the different stories. My personal favorite will always be David and Alex, but Cam and Galen have worked their way under my skin. I really enjoy stories where the two ML have to struggle to find their way to each other. They are flawed and human and maybe by the grace of god and their love for one another, they can find a balance and a way to coexist together. These two in particular are the most stubborn I’ve met in the series. Strong, loyal, compassionate and stubborn. It makes for some fantastic reading, I assure you.
I highly recommend this series, and while the books can be read as a standalone, I’d urge you to read them in order. It just makes the experience with all these couples that are all entangled in each other’s lives in one way or another, that much better. {note the author has included the series order in the description above}
** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **
http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpres...
February 15, 2015
Review can be read at It's About The Book
Lord Cameron Sherrington first appeared in” Aria”, one of the author’s earlier books in her fabulous Blue Notes series, and he was, shall we say, an extremely unappealing individual. I was rubbing my hands together in anticipation when I heard the author was making Cam a MC in her next book, apparently due to get his full story told - and his own chance for a happily ever after. Redeeming a character who had behaved like such a lout was going to be no easy feat, however, the pen of Shira Anthony proved magical once again. She has really outdone herself with Dissonance.
If you haven’t already guessed, Blue Notes is one of my favorite series. While not necessarily crucial, I definitely recommend reading the books in the order they were released, to best appreciate the appearances different characters make throughout the series.
Early on in the story, it becomes best to bear in mind that all humans are multi- layered, and perhaps one should not rush to judgment. This holds true for Lord Cameron Sherrington. Cam gives every outward appearance of a man who “has it “all”, when in reality, he does not. He has foolishly spent his inheritance, is on a monthly budget, and does not have control of the family company. Oh sure, Cam is a drop dead gorgeous man, but he knows few people he can truly call friend, his mother is dismissive of him, he engages in frequent casual sex and he parties with those who merely like being able to drop his name. And to top it off, he has driven away the only man he’s ever loved. Oh, he does still have a hand in some business dealings, but he’s been in a sort of coasting mode - looking forward to the day his trust fund comes under his control. Add to that an under- current of self- loathing, and he’s not a pretty mix. The fragility of Cam’s true station in life comes crashing down when the FBI centers an investigation on him, and he finds himself quite suddenly without money, a place to stay or a trusted friend in sight.
Enter Galen Rusk. Well, actually the two men had previously crossed paths, thanks to their common love of music. Cam had been drawn to Galen’s talented trumpet performances – and good looks - at a subway station. The brief words and appraising stares they exchanged packed quite an emotional punch, one which Cam dismissed. He had pretty much pegged Galen for a wastrel. When Galen later encounters an obviously “on the run” Cam, he offers him safe haven, as well as the emotional support that he is desperately in need of. Cam is wary at first, but soon relaxes in Galen’s home. There is no pushing from Galen - he lets Cam set the pace for either telling him or not telling him what he is running from. As Cam realizes he is safe with Galen, - and his gentle dog Max - he begins experiencing confusing, highly disturbing nightmares. As the ultimate and devastating reality of these nightmares become evident to Cam, he will be staggered by their meaning.
Galen proves to be a still waters run deep kind of guy, one who in reality, is constantly trying not to drown in his past. It became obvious Galen harbors deep scars of his own, some of which he reveals to Cam as they grow closer, some of which he hides for a long time. I found myself thinking that Galen’s past was hindering the fragile new relationship between himself and Cam. He seemed in some respects to be punishing himself, leading a somewhat confined life consisting of helping others through his teaching of music– and being a good listener and confidante. Galen’s main solace has been his music.
“Breathe, focus, relax.” This was not only Galen’s personal grounding mantra, but mine too as I read and experienced this gut wrenching story. Both men carried so much emotional baggage. The journey during which they become familiar with each other, learn to trust each other, confront their pasts, and eventually become lovers - is told in striking depth. It is a story written with vivid impact and candid care, played out at an unrushed pace.
Cam ultimately finds the strength to confront and battle his demons – or perhaps I should more aptly state, one demon in particular. However, he finds himself doing so on his own. Galen had provided Cam overwhelming support and comfort, but had made it clear from the beginning that he was not emotionally available for more. I felt so bad for Cam at this point and just wanted to shake Galen for being so uncompromising. Galen, through actions stemming from his compassionate nature, also winds up in a fight - for his professional integrity. When the dust settles, which man will be the first to reach out for the other?
I was pleased to see the appearance of David and Alex in this story (their story is told in “Prelude”), and how they end up being very important to Cam. As always with this series, the music as a central theme speaks so deeply to me. I truly understand how enriching, freeing and empowering music can be – I know Cam and Galen agree. ♪♫
The author painted Cam in a very interesting light from the start of this story. While he oozed the poor little rich kid vibe, there was an ever-present vulnerability discernable at his core, which was nurtured gently and beautifully to fruition over the course of the story, by virtue of Galen. I found myself definitely sympathizing with, and ultimately rooting for Cam as the story progressed. I fell utterly in love with Galen. I want to hug them both! ♥
I highly recommend this book and the entire Blue Notes series.
~I love the title of this book – so evocative of the story inside. The cover art by Catt Ford is gorgeous.
~Shira, thanks for including Max - such a loving and intuitive dog - in this story.
Lord Cameron Sherrington first appeared in” Aria”, one of the author’s earlier books in her fabulous Blue Notes series, and he was, shall we say, an extremely unappealing individual. I was rubbing my hands together in anticipation when I heard the author was making Cam a MC in her next book, apparently due to get his full story told - and his own chance for a happily ever after. Redeeming a character who had behaved like such a lout was going to be no easy feat, however, the pen of Shira Anthony proved magical once again. She has really outdone herself with Dissonance.
If you haven’t already guessed, Blue Notes is one of my favorite series. While not necessarily crucial, I definitely recommend reading the books in the order they were released, to best appreciate the appearances different characters make throughout the series.
Early on in the story, it becomes best to bear in mind that all humans are multi- layered, and perhaps one should not rush to judgment. This holds true for Lord Cameron Sherrington. Cam gives every outward appearance of a man who “has it “all”, when in reality, he does not. He has foolishly spent his inheritance, is on a monthly budget, and does not have control of the family company. Oh sure, Cam is a drop dead gorgeous man, but he knows few people he can truly call friend, his mother is dismissive of him, he engages in frequent casual sex and he parties with those who merely like being able to drop his name. And to top it off, he has driven away the only man he’s ever loved. Oh, he does still have a hand in some business dealings, but he’s been in a sort of coasting mode - looking forward to the day his trust fund comes under his control. Add to that an under- current of self- loathing, and he’s not a pretty mix. The fragility of Cam’s true station in life comes crashing down when the FBI centers an investigation on him, and he finds himself quite suddenly without money, a place to stay or a trusted friend in sight.
Enter Galen Rusk. Well, actually the two men had previously crossed paths, thanks to their common love of music. Cam had been drawn to Galen’s talented trumpet performances – and good looks - at a subway station. The brief words and appraising stares they exchanged packed quite an emotional punch, one which Cam dismissed. He had pretty much pegged Galen for a wastrel. When Galen later encounters an obviously “on the run” Cam, he offers him safe haven, as well as the emotional support that he is desperately in need of. Cam is wary at first, but soon relaxes in Galen’s home. There is no pushing from Galen - he lets Cam set the pace for either telling him or not telling him what he is running from. As Cam realizes he is safe with Galen, - and his gentle dog Max - he begins experiencing confusing, highly disturbing nightmares. As the ultimate and devastating reality of these nightmares become evident to Cam, he will be staggered by their meaning.
Galen proves to be a still waters run deep kind of guy, one who in reality, is constantly trying not to drown in his past. It became obvious Galen harbors deep scars of his own, some of which he reveals to Cam as they grow closer, some of which he hides for a long time. I found myself thinking that Galen’s past was hindering the fragile new relationship between himself and Cam. He seemed in some respects to be punishing himself, leading a somewhat confined life consisting of helping others through his teaching of music– and being a good listener and confidante. Galen’s main solace has been his music.
“Breathe, focus, relax.” This was not only Galen’s personal grounding mantra, but mine too as I read and experienced this gut wrenching story. Both men carried so much emotional baggage. The journey during which they become familiar with each other, learn to trust each other, confront their pasts, and eventually become lovers - is told in striking depth. It is a story written with vivid impact and candid care, played out at an unrushed pace.
Cam ultimately finds the strength to confront and battle his demons – or perhaps I should more aptly state, one demon in particular. However, he finds himself doing so on his own. Galen had provided Cam overwhelming support and comfort, but had made it clear from the beginning that he was not emotionally available for more. I felt so bad for Cam at this point and just wanted to shake Galen for being so uncompromising. Galen, through actions stemming from his compassionate nature, also winds up in a fight - for his professional integrity. When the dust settles, which man will be the first to reach out for the other?
I was pleased to see the appearance of David and Alex in this story (their story is told in “Prelude”), and how they end up being very important to Cam. As always with this series, the music as a central theme speaks so deeply to me. I truly understand how enriching, freeing and empowering music can be – I know Cam and Galen agree. ♪♫
The author painted Cam in a very interesting light from the start of this story. While he oozed the poor little rich kid vibe, there was an ever-present vulnerability discernable at his core, which was nurtured gently and beautifully to fruition over the course of the story, by virtue of Galen. I found myself definitely sympathizing with, and ultimately rooting for Cam as the story progressed. I fell utterly in love with Galen. I want to hug them both! ♥
I highly recommend this book and the entire Blue Notes series.
~I love the title of this book – so evocative of the story inside. The cover art by Catt Ford is gorgeous.
~Shira, thanks for including Max - such a loving and intuitive dog - in this story.
August 20, 2014
“Karma is not just about the troubles, but also about surmounting them.” Rick Springfield
Lord Cameron Sherrington (Cam) has all the luxuries in life money can buy, i.e., the best clothes, schools, houses and more; but when his father died, Cam lost the only person who truly loved him. To make matters worse, his mother ignored him and his uncle sexually abused Cam when he was nine years old. His uncle's betrayal robs Cam of his childhood and causes him to grow up believing that he's never going to amount to anything, so he simply stops trying. Cam also believes he's unworthy of love. To protect himself from further pain, Cam develops a sarcastic, cynical attitude which few see beyond. Cam's poor self-esteem causes him to undermine relationships for fear of ending up alone anyway. He cheated on his ex-lover, Aiden, a man he loves very much, and still hates himself because of it. Cam is heading for disaster and it will come more rapidly than he can imagine.
Even though people respect Cam's title and money, he feels like a fraud, as if he doesn't deserve any of the amenities his fortune provides. He continues in his self-destructive behavior, spending all of his inheritance in a short time, then he has to ask for an allowance, which he spends just as recklessly. When his sky starts falling, in the form of being set up by his uncle to take the fault for illegal activities, Cam is cut off from all the privileges he's so used to having. Cam is running out of money fast, and has no idea what to do or where to go. When Cam chooses to run from the police, he ends up on a subway bench, lost, alone, and scared. He's desperate enough to think about ending it all when his knight in a torn sweatshirt and baggy pants for armor, holding a trumpet instead of a lance, steps in and pulls him from the brink. Except for a short exchange while Galen was playing in the subway, he's a complete stranger. Galen introduces himself and convinces Cam to go get coffee. Galen sees the desperate look in his eyes and convinces Cam to come stay with him for a while. Cam reluctantly agrees, especially since there's nowhere else for him to go. The self-centered, arrogant mask Cam usually wears disappears; and in its place is a kind, humble, and grateful young man. For the first time, in a long time, Lord Cameron Sherrington is just Cam.
Galen is an odd duck; he's an extremely generous, nurturing person who is trying to live a simple life. Galen knows a broken man when he sees one, especially since he's been in a similar predicament at one time. He expects nothing from Cam; Galen only wants to offer a safe place for him to recover. Galen is attracted to Cam, but he's not about to take advantage of him. Galen goes above and beyond helping Cam. He's determined to help him sort out his problems and get back on his feet. When the relationship morphs into a sexual one, Galen cautions Cam that he doesn't do long-term and Cam reluctantly agrees. Cam learns that Galen is running away from something too and is afraid to stop. Galen knows he loves Cam and will miss him, but is still convinced Cam is better off without him. Galen doesn't trust himself not to fall apart again and disappoint, not only himself, but Cam as well; Galen thinks that if he does crash again, he will never recover.
'Dissonance' is the sixth book in the Blue Notes series and although the books are designed to be stand alones, I can't see how the reader would be able to realize the drastic change which Cam goes through without at least reading 'Aria', Blue Notes 3, the story in which Cam was introduced, before reading 'Dissonance'. After reading 'Aria' I seriously doubted that I could ever like Cam, much less feel sorry for him. Turning a bad guy into a good guy is no small task, but Shira does so quite successfully. I think that fans of the series are going to love 'Dissonance'. It mends a lot of fences and provides closure to some of the issues in the other stories. For those who are not yet fans, I'd like to recommend that you join the scores of readers who have and get caught up in the fabulous, magical world of music and the men who make it. Thanks, Shira, for giving Cam and Galen a second chance.
Lord Cameron Sherrington (Cam) has all the luxuries in life money can buy, i.e., the best clothes, schools, houses and more; but when his father died, Cam lost the only person who truly loved him. To make matters worse, his mother ignored him and his uncle sexually abused Cam when he was nine years old. His uncle's betrayal robs Cam of his childhood and causes him to grow up believing that he's never going to amount to anything, so he simply stops trying. Cam also believes he's unworthy of love. To protect himself from further pain, Cam develops a sarcastic, cynical attitude which few see beyond. Cam's poor self-esteem causes him to undermine relationships for fear of ending up alone anyway. He cheated on his ex-lover, Aiden, a man he loves very much, and still hates himself because of it. Cam is heading for disaster and it will come more rapidly than he can imagine.
Even though people respect Cam's title and money, he feels like a fraud, as if he doesn't deserve any of the amenities his fortune provides. He continues in his self-destructive behavior, spending all of his inheritance in a short time, then he has to ask for an allowance, which he spends just as recklessly. When his sky starts falling, in the form of being set up by his uncle to take the fault for illegal activities, Cam is cut off from all the privileges he's so used to having. Cam is running out of money fast, and has no idea what to do or where to go. When Cam chooses to run from the police, he ends up on a subway bench, lost, alone, and scared. He's desperate enough to think about ending it all when his knight in a torn sweatshirt and baggy pants for armor, holding a trumpet instead of a lance, steps in and pulls him from the brink. Except for a short exchange while Galen was playing in the subway, he's a complete stranger. Galen introduces himself and convinces Cam to go get coffee. Galen sees the desperate look in his eyes and convinces Cam to come stay with him for a while. Cam reluctantly agrees, especially since there's nowhere else for him to go. The self-centered, arrogant mask Cam usually wears disappears; and in its place is a kind, humble, and grateful young man. For the first time, in a long time, Lord Cameron Sherrington is just Cam.
Galen is an odd duck; he's an extremely generous, nurturing person who is trying to live a simple life. Galen knows a broken man when he sees one, especially since he's been in a similar predicament at one time. He expects nothing from Cam; Galen only wants to offer a safe place for him to recover. Galen is attracted to Cam, but he's not about to take advantage of him. Galen goes above and beyond helping Cam. He's determined to help him sort out his problems and get back on his feet. When the relationship morphs into a sexual one, Galen cautions Cam that he doesn't do long-term and Cam reluctantly agrees. Cam learns that Galen is running away from something too and is afraid to stop. Galen knows he loves Cam and will miss him, but is still convinced Cam is better off without him. Galen doesn't trust himself not to fall apart again and disappoint, not only himself, but Cam as well; Galen thinks that if he does crash again, he will never recover.
'Dissonance' is the sixth book in the Blue Notes series and although the books are designed to be stand alones, I can't see how the reader would be able to realize the drastic change which Cam goes through without at least reading 'Aria', Blue Notes 3, the story in which Cam was introduced, before reading 'Dissonance'. After reading 'Aria' I seriously doubted that I could ever like Cam, much less feel sorry for him. Turning a bad guy into a good guy is no small task, but Shira does so quite successfully. I think that fans of the series are going to love 'Dissonance'. It mends a lot of fences and provides closure to some of the issues in the other stories. For those who are not yet fans, I'd like to recommend that you join the scores of readers who have and get caught up in the fabulous, magical world of music and the men who make it. Thanks, Shira, for giving Cam and Galen a second chance.
Read
December 23, 2023El peor con diferencia, y como ya tengo varios con una estrella a este ni se la pongo
August 20, 2014
Jeez, I could have smacked Cam a time or three...loved his story though. Full review to come soon.
---------
Cameron Sherrington wins first prize as the character I most hated to love. I tell you, that man got on my every nerve! But somehow I couldn't put his story down.
I found myself riveted in the story. Knowing that Cam had issues in desperate need of attention and no clue as to how go about it, let alone the reason's behind them, my only option was to accompany him every step of his journey. I knew, KNEW, the ride was going to be so very worth it.
And it so was! As Shira Anthony leads us into Cam's world, giving us insight into his thoughts and inner struggles, we finally see what Aidan must have seen in Cam all those years ago--a man starving for love and acceptance but reluctant to make his needs known.
Then there was Galen--such a mysterious and endearing character. I was intrigued by his story and starved for every little tid bit Shira threw at me. I loved the change he made in Cam's life. I admired the fact that he was attentive without hovering over Cam and caring without judging his actions. His loyalty to Cam came to the surface with their every interaction, even in the moments when Cam didn't deserve it.
Cam and Galen's romance was slow in coming but solid connection wise. They shared more than physical attraction and I think that was what ultimately made this such an enjoyable story for me. From strangers to friends and then from friends to lovers, their journey was packed full of emotions, honest interactions and tender moments. I liked that their physical attraction was always a present entity, but I loved that it was their emotional connection that made them stronger.
All in all, a touching emotional story about acceptance, loyalty and love.
*I received this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
---------
Cameron Sherrington wins first prize as the character I most hated to love. I tell you, that man got on my every nerve! But somehow I couldn't put his story down.
I found myself riveted in the story. Knowing that Cam had issues in desperate need of attention and no clue as to how go about it, let alone the reason's behind them, my only option was to accompany him every step of his journey. I knew, KNEW, the ride was going to be so very worth it.
And it so was! As Shira Anthony leads us into Cam's world, giving us insight into his thoughts and inner struggles, we finally see what Aidan must have seen in Cam all those years ago--a man starving for love and acceptance but reluctant to make his needs known.
Then there was Galen--such a mysterious and endearing character. I was intrigued by his story and starved for every little tid bit Shira threw at me. I loved the change he made in Cam's life. I admired the fact that he was attentive without hovering over Cam and caring without judging his actions. His loyalty to Cam came to the surface with their every interaction, even in the moments when Cam didn't deserve it.
Cam and Galen's romance was slow in coming but solid connection wise. They shared more than physical attraction and I think that was what ultimately made this such an enjoyable story for me. From strangers to friends and then from friends to lovers, their journey was packed full of emotions, honest interactions and tender moments. I liked that their physical attraction was always a present entity, but I loved that it was their emotional connection that made them stronger.
All in all, a touching emotional story about acceptance, loyalty and love.
*I received this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
July 4, 2015
Still loving this series. It's nice that while the characters from one book to the next are interrelated, it's not set up in a way that some in this genre are, that make it seem the world is made up of only gay men. Instead, it's a believable journey through the lives of men in the classical music community around the world.
This time, we're mostly set in NYC and NJ, though there's enough of England to warm my Anglophile heart. Cam is a minor lord who's been living as a profligate playboy, and is suddenly set adrift and under attack, accused of money laundering. He runs into Gaven, one of the musicians busking in the subway stations of NYC. Penniless and at the end of his options, he reluctantly agrees to let Gaven help him, offering him a place to stay.
We get glimpses into both character's thoughts, though most of the book is told from Cam's POV. Anthony does a skillful job of taking a pretty unlikable character(Cam was actually the antagonist of another book in the series) and gradually revealing the reasons for his outlook and the choices he's made in his life, becoming more sympathetic as time goes on. Galen seems a grounded, calm soul, but there are hints that there's more there, which we don't discover until almost the end of the book.
As with most(all?) of this series, David Somers is a welcome, if brief, presence. As with the rest of the series, music underscores the story beautifully, and the story arc progresses to a satisfying conclusion.
This time, we're mostly set in NYC and NJ, though there's enough of England to warm my Anglophile heart. Cam is a minor lord who's been living as a profligate playboy, and is suddenly set adrift and under attack, accused of money laundering. He runs into Gaven, one of the musicians busking in the subway stations of NYC. Penniless and at the end of his options, he reluctantly agrees to let Gaven help him, offering him a place to stay.
We get glimpses into both character's thoughts, though most of the book is told from Cam's POV. Anthony does a skillful job of taking a pretty unlikable character(Cam was actually the antagonist of another book in the series) and gradually revealing the reasons for his outlook and the choices he's made in his life, becoming more sympathetic as time goes on. Galen seems a grounded, calm soul, but there are hints that there's more there, which we don't discover until almost the end of the book.
As with most(all?) of this series, David Somers is a welcome, if brief, presence. As with the rest of the series, music underscores the story beautifully, and the story arc progresses to a satisfying conclusion.
September 15, 2014
I'm always intrigued by switching things up, with the bad guy in a former book now featured. So, Cam... it's not easy to go from creepy, threatening cheater to someone the least bit sympathetic, but slowly and surely we find out things, and the character grows enough to make it so. I think that "slow/sure" thing could inhibit a reader's ability to like being so much in Cam's pov. I think it helps having read the earlier books and knowing that Cam isn't the angel he appears to be on the outside--that he has issues he needs to work through, and those shouldn't disappear over-night.
I liked, also, that Cam is the poor little rich boy (he's a British Lord) and passes Galen who plays his trumpet in the NYC subway, thinking how lowly he must be, despite appreciating his beautiful playing-- And then positions are switched when Cam abruptly finds himself alone, without anything.
There were a couple of WTF?! moments, but they didn't spoil the story for me (although I probably should deduct a half star). I liked the slow-heating chemistry between the two characters and thought they were both interesting and not predictable. I have enjoyed all the books in the Blue Notes series, so I must admit to some bias.
I liked, also, that Cam is the poor little rich boy (he's a British Lord) and passes Galen who plays his trumpet in the NYC subway, thinking how lowly he must be, despite appreciating his beautiful playing-- And then positions are switched when Cam abruptly finds himself alone, without anything.
There were a couple of WTF?! moments, but they didn't spoil the story for me (although I probably should deduct a half star). I liked the slow-heating chemistry between the two characters and thought they were both interesting and not predictable. I have enjoyed all the books in the Blue Notes series, so I must admit to some bias.
September 28, 2014
Warning this book contains flashbacks of childhood rape by a family member to one of the main characters and thoughts of suicide.
This book kind of threw me for a loop because I was pretty close to hating one of the main characters Cameron Sherrington from the beginning. I especially didn’t want him to get together with the sweet and innocent and incredibly talented Galen Rusk. Cameron at first seems to be every bit of the spoiled, rich and entitled playboy his reputation has set him up as, but as his life slowly unravels around him you start to see the real Cameron hiding behind a carefully crafted shell of disinterest.
When Cameron is finally at the end of his rope and even the authorities are after him he decides he doesn’t deserve to be on this Earth anymore, he is rescued by Galen. Galen has been where Cameron is and knows a struggling man when he sees one. He gives Cameron a place to lay low and try to find out why his life is falling apart. As Cameron heals Galen doesn’t know how to be in a relationship with someone who doesn’t need him to take care of them.
This is a story of two very damaged men who heal each other with their love, understanding, patience and music.
This book kind of threw me for a loop because I was pretty close to hating one of the main characters Cameron Sherrington from the beginning. I especially didn’t want him to get together with the sweet and innocent and incredibly talented Galen Rusk. Cameron at first seems to be every bit of the spoiled, rich and entitled playboy his reputation has set him up as, but as his life slowly unravels around him you start to see the real Cameron hiding behind a carefully crafted shell of disinterest.
When Cameron is finally at the end of his rope and even the authorities are after him he decides he doesn’t deserve to be on this Earth anymore, he is rescued by Galen. Galen has been where Cameron is and knows a struggling man when he sees one. He gives Cameron a place to lay low and try to find out why his life is falling apart. As Cameron heals Galen doesn’t know how to be in a relationship with someone who doesn’t need him to take care of them.
This is a story of two very damaged men who heal each other with their love, understanding, patience and music.
August 8, 2016
I seem to be jumping all around in this series, so I'm glad that these books for the most part can be read as stand-alones. This one certainly is one of the ones I like best (not least because it keeps the massive jumps in time to a minimum). I liked how great the chemistry was between the two. And even with all the fucked up stuff from Cam's background, I like how he he stood up (even if it took him a while to get there). Mostly it was just a very well told story.
(I will say that if childhood sexual abuse is a trigger for you, you might want to think twice about reading this. Or to at least read with caution. While there is nothing graphic, it does get a bit bad during the dream sequences.)
4.5 stars
(I will say that if childhood sexual abuse is a trigger for you, you might want to think twice about reading this. Or to at least read with caution. While there is nothing graphic, it does get a bit bad during the dream sequences.)
4.5 stars
March 10, 2016
Very emotional story. Complex characters. You think you know them, then something happens and they are not at all what you expected. I really enjoyed this book. I love how the author incorporates music into the stories.
January 18, 2016
A perfect blending of action and angst. The impassioned narrative remains focused on the characters and their personal struggles with themselves and their relationship with each other, woven into an exciting, page-turning plot.
December 6, 2015
2014 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
December 12, 2015
3.5 rounded up to 4
Had some trouble getting into it at the beginning, but it became better as I got to know the characters. Nice and slow burn.
Had some trouble getting into it at the beginning, but it became better as I got to know the characters. Nice and slow burn.
August 25, 2014
4.5 star review by Vicki
I am so happy Cameron got a chance to prove he’s not the asshole he appeared to be in Aiden’s book! Well…. He was an asshole, but he got his chance at redemption.
Lord Cameron Sherrington is a spoiled, obnoxious, cheating, snot. At least to all outward appearances. He divides his time between his apartment in New York, and one in London, nominally running a company, and spending his inheritance. He’s actually gone through all of his money and is living off what he convinced the board of his family company to give him. He rarely speaks to his mother, his father died years ago, and he has issues with his controlling uncle Duncan. He drove away the love of his life, Aiden, by cheating on him. He is one mess of a man. And it gets worse when he is accused of embezzling money from the family company. He finds out the FBI is after him and he panics and runs.
Galen is a fabulous musician with a healthy fear of commitment, and some trust issues! His story is slow to develop during this book, we really don’t get all of it until close to the end. He is a music teacher by day and a busker in the NYC subway by night. He’s very committed to his students, especially the gay ones, helping as he can when they have problems. He plays his trumpet in the subway, picking up a bit of cash, but really it’s for the love of music, and sharing it with strangers. He sees a well dressed man come through a time or two, thinking he’s pretty, but cold, and is surprised when he leaves him a large tip. One night he finds that same man, attempting to sleep on a bench in the subway. Things have obviously changed in this man’s life, and he offers help. Cam is reluctant to accept that help, but realizes he has no choice.
That is the basic set up for this fantastic book. Cam and his issues are front and center, he has no money, is hiding from the FBI, doesn’t know who to trust, and has no idea what to do. He’s got some really nasty stuff coming out in his head about his uncle, the man he loved and trusted as a father. He tries to deal with it all while living at Galen’s house. Galen tries to help as he can, but he has his own issues and is only willing to commit so much to Cam. There is also an attraction building betewen them, but each tries to ignore it. Galen is generous and caring, wanting to help Cam, but has a big wall around his heart that he is reluctant to break. He’s obviously got some problems in his past, but is not ready to share with Cam.
The non romance plot of this book is great. Cam has made some bad business decisions and hasn’t always paid attention to what is going on, both with the family business and one he’s purchased on his own. He gets taken advantage of, and is now paying the price for his inattention. He struggles to sort it all out, he really just wants to ignore it all. Plus he’s got all this crap from his past coming up, with his uncle and the boarding school he attended. Oh, and his dawning discomfort of the way he treated Aiden, and his eventual understanding of why he behaved that way. He goes through a total transformation and redemption. The Lord Cameron from the beginning of the book, is not the Cam at the end of the book. Everything about him changes. I love a good redemption story and we get that here.
Then there is the romance between Cam and Galen. Slow and gentle…. They sneak up on it, not even realizing they have fallen in love until it is too late. Cam thinks he doesn’t deserve Galen, he’s been such an ass to his past lovers, using and leaving them. Especially Aiden. Galen we don’t really get to know as well, we know he’s got some pain, but we don’t know much about his past lovers. He’s very much about “now”. Not telling about his past, even when it’s clear it would help Cam to hear it. Not thinking about the future, he can’t see one with Cam, so why bother thinking or planning? He’s a very interesting man, I wish we had gotten more than a glimpse of his past.
I liked the plot, the whole who-is-doing-what-sneaky-shit to Cam, and the complete transformation that Cam goes through. I loved the romance between them, they are great individual characters and are even better together. There wasn’t loads of sex, it wasn’t needed and wouldn’t have worked. What there was, did work very well. Their whole relationship is slow and sweet, so was the sex. It took a while to get there, but was worth it. I liked the ending, I wasn’t sure where we were going at one point, I didn’t see a solution. But it was there and it was perfect. The writing was great, I have read all of the Blue Notes books, this one may be my favorite. They are all good, but this was exceptionally good too.
If you haven’t read the series, you’d be fine reading this one on it’s own, a couple of characters pop in to help, but not knowing their story won’t detract from this one. But, if you haven’t read the others, you should! It’s worth it, they all have interesting characters, all with a music connection. All weaving together in a fantastic series of interconnected stories. Shira Anthony’s love of music is very evident in these books, and made me wish I was musically inclined. ..
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
I am so happy Cameron got a chance to prove he’s not the asshole he appeared to be in Aiden’s book! Well…. He was an asshole, but he got his chance at redemption.
Lord Cameron Sherrington is a spoiled, obnoxious, cheating, snot. At least to all outward appearances. He divides his time between his apartment in New York, and one in London, nominally running a company, and spending his inheritance. He’s actually gone through all of his money and is living off what he convinced the board of his family company to give him. He rarely speaks to his mother, his father died years ago, and he has issues with his controlling uncle Duncan. He drove away the love of his life, Aiden, by cheating on him. He is one mess of a man. And it gets worse when he is accused of embezzling money from the family company. He finds out the FBI is after him and he panics and runs.
Galen is a fabulous musician with a healthy fear of commitment, and some trust issues! His story is slow to develop during this book, we really don’t get all of it until close to the end. He is a music teacher by day and a busker in the NYC subway by night. He’s very committed to his students, especially the gay ones, helping as he can when they have problems. He plays his trumpet in the subway, picking up a bit of cash, but really it’s for the love of music, and sharing it with strangers. He sees a well dressed man come through a time or two, thinking he’s pretty, but cold, and is surprised when he leaves him a large tip. One night he finds that same man, attempting to sleep on a bench in the subway. Things have obviously changed in this man’s life, and he offers help. Cam is reluctant to accept that help, but realizes he has no choice.
That is the basic set up for this fantastic book. Cam and his issues are front and center, he has no money, is hiding from the FBI, doesn’t know who to trust, and has no idea what to do. He’s got some really nasty stuff coming out in his head about his uncle, the man he loved and trusted as a father. He tries to deal with it all while living at Galen’s house. Galen tries to help as he can, but he has his own issues and is only willing to commit so much to Cam. There is also an attraction building betewen them, but each tries to ignore it. Galen is generous and caring, wanting to help Cam, but has a big wall around his heart that he is reluctant to break. He’s obviously got some problems in his past, but is not ready to share with Cam.
The non romance plot of this book is great. Cam has made some bad business decisions and hasn’t always paid attention to what is going on, both with the family business and one he’s purchased on his own. He gets taken advantage of, and is now paying the price for his inattention. He struggles to sort it all out, he really just wants to ignore it all. Plus he’s got all this crap from his past coming up, with his uncle and the boarding school he attended. Oh, and his dawning discomfort of the way he treated Aiden, and his eventual understanding of why he behaved that way. He goes through a total transformation and redemption. The Lord Cameron from the beginning of the book, is not the Cam at the end of the book. Everything about him changes. I love a good redemption story and we get that here.
Then there is the romance between Cam and Galen. Slow and gentle…. They sneak up on it, not even realizing they have fallen in love until it is too late. Cam thinks he doesn’t deserve Galen, he’s been such an ass to his past lovers, using and leaving them. Especially Aiden. Galen we don’t really get to know as well, we know he’s got some pain, but we don’t know much about his past lovers. He’s very much about “now”. Not telling about his past, even when it’s clear it would help Cam to hear it. Not thinking about the future, he can’t see one with Cam, so why bother thinking or planning? He’s a very interesting man, I wish we had gotten more than a glimpse of his past.
I liked the plot, the whole who-is-doing-what-sneaky-shit to Cam, and the complete transformation that Cam goes through. I loved the romance between them, they are great individual characters and are even better together. There wasn’t loads of sex, it wasn’t needed and wouldn’t have worked. What there was, did work very well. Their whole relationship is slow and sweet, so was the sex. It took a while to get there, but was worth it. I liked the ending, I wasn’t sure where we were going at one point, I didn’t see a solution. But it was there and it was perfect. The writing was great, I have read all of the Blue Notes books, this one may be my favorite. They are all good, but this was exceptionally good too.
If you haven’t read the series, you’d be fine reading this one on it’s own, a couple of characters pop in to help, but not knowing their story won’t detract from this one. But, if you haven’t read the others, you should! It’s worth it, they all have interesting characters, all with a music connection. All weaving together in a fantastic series of interconnected stories. Shira Anthony’s love of music is very evident in these books, and made me wish I was musically inclined. ..
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
April 18, 2020
NOTE TO AUTHOR: this book needs a rape trigger warning. This book was amazing. The ups and downs are crazy. It has some trigger point so be aware. However it’s worth reading through them. Thanks Shira Anthony for making these beautiful series of books. Truly gifts for all who read them. 💜💜💜
May 22, 2018
Man did I hate Cam. But no one should have to go through the mess he has. No matter what a sleaze he could be. And he paid his due
He knows he did wrong. So it's nice to see him humbled yes but this was a bit much lol.glad he found what he needed though.
He knows he did wrong. So it's nice to see him humbled yes but this was a bit much lol.glad he found what he needed though.
October 29, 2016
As the blurb states, this story starts with Cam losing everything and being forced to run and hide, too broke to find shelter other than in the New York subway. But the beginning was very slow; during the first few chapters nothing much happened except Cam taking up space and time as a shallow, arrogant, spoiled trustfund-babe kind of guy. Oh, and Galen making a first short appearance. I found that part rather tedious, and I really couldn’t stand Cam in the beginning. But once things came crashing down around Cam’s ears, the story took up speed and soon held me in its grip, so to speak, never letting me go until the satisfying, happy-sigh-worthy end. Cam’s sufferings were so painful even for me as the reader; I couldn’t even begrudge him an eventual convenient solution to his ordeal (which is normally one of my pet peeves)
Cam and Galen are both wounded heroes, both carrying around burdens of their pasts which, though very different, are equally hard to bear. It’s no surprise both break under the weight at one point or another; it’s more of a surprise both manage to cope and live fairly normal lives. There’s no trace of “love conquers all” in this story though; it’s their respective and mutual growth, nurtured by their feelings for each other, which might bring about healing and conclusion for both of them.
I loved watching them grow; I loved watching Cam change and mature so much that I ended up liking him a lot and rooting for him and his happiness. And I also felt deeply for Galen, seemingly serene, relaxed, philosophical Galen when he fell apart at the seams; I loved how he and Cam both had to take an effort to make it work between them. I felt them ending up as a couple worth every effort.
So, once readers are past the sluggish beginning, they’d be rewarded with an intense, emotional, gripping read which I warmly recommend (best enjoyed by the way in combination with the other “Blue Note” books; the series always features a musician somehow, and the musical nomenclature and musical pieces mentioned in each book - which is some kind of trademark for the series - adds a beautiful soundtrack-kind of mood)
A warning though:
Cam and Galen are both wounded heroes, both carrying around burdens of their pasts which, though very different, are equally hard to bear. It’s no surprise both break under the weight at one point or another; it’s more of a surprise both manage to cope and live fairly normal lives. There’s no trace of “love conquers all” in this story though; it’s their respective and mutual growth, nurtured by their feelings for each other, which might bring about healing and conclusion for both of them.
I loved watching them grow; I loved watching Cam change and mature so much that I ended up liking him a lot and rooting for him and his happiness. And I also felt deeply for Galen, seemingly serene, relaxed, philosophical Galen when he fell apart at the seams; I loved how he and Cam both had to take an effort to make it work between them. I felt them ending up as a couple worth every effort.
So, once readers are past the sluggish beginning, they’d be rewarded with an intense, emotional, gripping read which I warmly recommend (best enjoyed by the way in combination with the other “Blue Note” books; the series always features a musician somehow, and the musical nomenclature and musical pieces mentioned in each book - which is some kind of trademark for the series - adds a beautiful soundtrack-kind of mood)
A warning though:
August 22, 2014
I had been looking forward to Cam's story since book 3, so I was surprised to find myself disliking him at the beginning. Was Cam that obnoxious in the previous story?
Thankfully as time went on and I got to learn the real Cam my feelings changed again and Cam was back in my good books.
This story was pretty heartbreaking at times, especially watching Cam start to remember his childhood. Worrying about the FBI and the criminal charges against him had my stomach in knots.
Galen was pretty darn perfect up till he lied, poor Cam. But I wont say any more.
Overall this was a true romance story. We saw Cam fall in love and then we saw him go after what he wanted. The story kept a nice pace and the drama was believable.
If I have any niggles it was the lack of comeuppance for Duncan. I prefer a little bit more payback than what we see. I would of liked to of seen Cam's mothers reaction to all that transpired. A little grovelling on her part was warranted but I get the feeling that “lady” was too far into her own world to really care about Cams.
Thankfully as time went on and I got to learn the real Cam my feelings changed again and Cam was back in my good books.
This story was pretty heartbreaking at times, especially watching Cam start to remember his childhood. Worrying about the FBI and the criminal charges against him had my stomach in knots.
Galen was pretty darn perfect up till he lied, poor Cam. But I wont say any more.
Overall this was a true romance story. We saw Cam fall in love and then we saw him go after what he wanted. The story kept a nice pace and the drama was believable.
If I have any niggles it was the lack of comeuppance for Duncan. I prefer a little bit more payback than what we see. I would of liked to of seen Cam's mothers reaction to all that transpired. A little grovelling on her part was warranted but I get the feeling that “lady” was too far into her own world to really care about Cams.
September 21, 2014
I've enjoyed all the Blue Note series stories, and this is another good one.
Shira Anthony's writing style draws me in, flows nicely and the pacing makes for an involved but easy read.
This one has less of the heavy musical elements than some of the others - both Cam and Galen use music, Galen more so with his busking - and the story is more of broken men finding a way to heal themselves and each other.
Cam goes from spoiled rich boy with a silver spoon in his mouth to being lucky to have a broken plastic stirrer quite quickly and with no support, he is soon living in the subway. He has no idea who has set him up for his fall.
Galen, who he has seen busking, rescues him and allows him the space to get his act together. It is only later in the story that cracks appear in the seemingly put together version of Galen that he shows the world.
Cam's voice was nicely British, which I liked. Despite the traumas both have gone through, it is a fairly light read. Enjoyed it.
Shira Anthony's writing style draws me in, flows nicely and the pacing makes for an involved but easy read.
This one has less of the heavy musical elements than some of the others - both Cam and Galen use music, Galen more so with his busking - and the story is more of broken men finding a way to heal themselves and each other.
Cam goes from spoiled rich boy with a silver spoon in his mouth to being lucky to have a broken plastic stirrer quite quickly and with no support, he is soon living in the subway. He has no idea who has set him up for his fall.
Galen, who he has seen busking, rescues him and allows him the space to get his act together. It is only later in the story that cracks appear in the seemingly put together version of Galen that he shows the world.
Cam's voice was nicely British, which I liked. Despite the traumas both have gone through, it is a fairly light read. Enjoyed it.
August 28, 2014
This was a tough book for me to read because I disliked Cam so much in previous books. Anthony is such a good writer that by the end of the book, I came to like Cam much more. But Cam had treated so many other, more likeable characters so badly that I realized that no matter what Anthony did, I'd never love Cam.
Maybe I didn't like this book as much as the others because this story had so much less music in it than the others. Maybe that's why it didn't resonate with me, or maybe it was the fact that Cam had so much money and could have helped so many starving musicians but was so narcissistic and so deliberately cruel that he seemed too set in his ways to change.
The bottom line for me is that Cam had no music in his soul, and that's what I love best about Anthony's other characters--their very beings radiate music.
Maybe I didn't like this book as much as the others because this story had so much less music in it than the others. Maybe that's why it didn't resonate with me, or maybe it was the fact that Cam had so much money and could have helped so many starving musicians but was so narcissistic and so deliberately cruel that he seemed too set in his ways to change.
The bottom line for me is that Cam had no music in his soul, and that's what I love best about Anthony's other characters--their very beings radiate music.
January 7, 2015
I'll confess that I only read one book of this series before and I didn't even like all that much but I love hurt/comfort so much and it reminded me a little bit of A Note in the Margin so I decided to try this one and I couldn't be more pleased that I did. There were some characters I didn't know but it didn't get in the way of understanding what was going on, something I always appreciate when I pick up a book in a big series.
I understand that Cameron was the "bad guy" of one of the books of this series but since I haven't read it, it was quite easy for me to like him, even when he was being an arrogant ass! So when we got to the hurt and then comfort part of the book I really love both characters and enjoyed the hell out of their story.
I understand that Cameron was the "bad guy" of one of the books of this series but since I haven't read it, it was quite easy for me to like him, even when he was being an arrogant ass! So when we got to the hurt and then comfort part of the book I really love both characters and enjoyed the hell out of their story.
August 14, 2014
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For my full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-2Rj
From the full review: "The shear vitality and musicality to Shira Anthony's writing makes these characters and their stories ones to hold close to your heart. It is so easy to revel in all the romance, passion and yes, even pain, that life brings to them all as we watch them overcome the obstacles on the path to a future and happily ever after. But of all of them, I believe that Cameron and Galen are my favorite couple of the Blue Notes series…"
For all my reviews, author interviews, and book contests, visit http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
October 12, 2014
3.5 stars
This is a series I really enjoy, although most of the books are in the 3-3.5 star range. I really wanted Cam's story and I completely enjoyed how his and Galen's relationship developed. The story did stall quite a bit in the first half, so I had some pacing issues. Not sure if I completely love Cam after this, but he's at least moving in the right direction (could have something to do with how much I love Aiden ;))
This is a series I really enjoy, although most of the books are in the 3-3.5 star range. I really wanted Cam's story and I completely enjoyed how his and Galen's relationship developed. The story did stall quite a bit in the first half, so I had some pacing issues. Not sure if I completely love Cam after this, but he's at least moving in the right direction (could have something to do with how much I love Aiden ;))
September 23, 2014
2.5 Stars
First off, I am a Shira Anthony fan. For sure. I love her writing. That said, I didn't like this book for two reasons: 1) Cam's an elitist, arrogant prick and 2) hurt/comfort is not my bag. I struggled to finish this book. The writing was tight (duh, it's Shira Anthony!) but the characters were uninspiring IMO.
Bottom line: Fans of the Blue Notes series (I'm one) should try this. Different strokes for different folks and all that. It just wasn't for me.
First off, I am a Shira Anthony fan. For sure. I love her writing. That said, I didn't like this book for two reasons: 1) Cam's an elitist, arrogant prick and 2) hurt/comfort is not my bag. I struggled to finish this book. The writing was tight (duh, it's Shira Anthony!) but the characters were uninspiring IMO.
Bottom line: Fans of the Blue Notes series (I'm one) should try this. Different strokes for different folks and all that. It just wasn't for me.
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