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The Composer's Muse
Music isn't the only thing that can heal a broken soul.
In 1892 England, Clair De Lune is a courtesan providing intimate services at Madam Tansley's, and she's never compromised her principles—until now. Hired to rehabilitate the renowned pianist, Julian Cassidy, she finds herself drawn to the bitter, isolated man who's lost more than just the use of his legs. As their therapeutic sessions ignite an all-consuming passion, Clair must choose between protecting her heart by walking away, or continuing her duty even as she falls desperately in love with a man who can never belong to her.
Julian Cassidy's world ended the day his piano crushed not just his body but his spirit. Now wheelchair-bound and furious at fate, he reluctantly accepts help from a woman who refuses to treat him like an invalid. As Clair awakens feelings he thought long dead, he discovers she's stirring more than just his desire to play again. But when his growing love clashes with the reality of who she is, Julian must decide if social and professional ruin is worth following his heart.
When the final notes fade away, will love be enough to bridge the chasm between their worlds?
Trope – Alpha hero, class difference, forced proximity, hero with disability
Steam 6+
In 1892 England, Clair De Lune is a courtesan providing intimate services at Madam Tansley's, and she's never compromised her principles—until now. Hired to rehabilitate the renowned pianist, Julian Cassidy, she finds herself drawn to the bitter, isolated man who's lost more than just the use of his legs. As their therapeutic sessions ignite an all-consuming passion, Clair must choose between protecting her heart by walking away, or continuing her duty even as she falls desperately in love with a man who can never belong to her.
Julian Cassidy's world ended the day his piano crushed not just his body but his spirit. Now wheelchair-bound and furious at fate, he reluctantly accepts help from a woman who refuses to treat him like an invalid. As Clair awakens feelings he thought long dead, he discovers she's stirring more than just his desire to play again. But when his growing love clashes with the reality of who she is, Julian must decide if social and professional ruin is worth following his heart.
When the final notes fade away, will love be enough to bridge the chasm between their worlds?
Trope – Alpha hero, class difference, forced proximity, hero with disability
Steam 6+
139 pages, Paperback
Published February 7, 2025
27 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Mihwa Lee
19 books72 followersMihwa Lee is NOT a New York Times, USA, or Amazon Best Selling Author. She is a former expert witness. But what she is not, she makes up for with her sense of humour, unusual life experiences, and imagination. The combination of these qualities can yield entertaining stories as well as parties. As a result, she is a sought-after guest at all parties and karaoke except those who have banned her.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 13, 2025
✨Sometimes you read the blurb about a book. You know it’s going to be amazing just by that… The Composer’s Muse by Mihwa Lee is one of those books!
🌟This was my first book from Mihwa Lee, and I can easily say I was blown away at her true and gritty characters and her unique style.
The portrayal of Claire as the courtesan hired to see to Julian’s therapeutic recovery after his legs were both terribly damaged in an accident was both captivating and heartbreaking. As for Julian, the pianist with not only the broken legs, but the broken will to live, she perfectly encapsulates the range of emotions that he is going through, dealing with his own issues, being tempted by Claire and fighting with societies expectations.
🌟This is a Novella and I think it’s a must read for any historical romance reader out there. I personally am very excited to continue on with Mihwa Lee’s backlist and her next release is moving forward- if you’ve not read her yet, this is definitely an author that needs to be on your radar!
🌟This was my first book from Mihwa Lee, and I can easily say I was blown away at her true and gritty characters and her unique style.
The portrayal of Claire as the courtesan hired to see to Julian’s therapeutic recovery after his legs were both terribly damaged in an accident was both captivating and heartbreaking. As for Julian, the pianist with not only the broken legs, but the broken will to live, she perfectly encapsulates the range of emotions that he is going through, dealing with his own issues, being tempted by Claire and fighting with societies expectations.
🌟This is a Novella and I think it’s a must read for any historical romance reader out there. I personally am very excited to continue on with Mihwa Lee’s backlist and her next release is moving forward- if you’ve not read her yet, this is definitely an author that needs to be on your radar!
February 18, 2025
A composer/pianist loses the use of his legs after being crushed by a piano. Frustrated and angry, feeling half a man, he hires a courtesan to help restore his masculinity. An unexpected forbidden love develops between them. A very emotional love story. Keep the tissues handy.
Explicit sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by the author.
Explicit sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by the author.
April 16, 2025
This would have been four stars except for the weird purity shaming thing at the end. I like the premise of this series, Professionals falling in love with clients, and how that works given their pasts. This was just slightly icky thoughout though. Julian hires Clair in some sort of England Times therapy to see if his, er, situation, can be recovered post piano-crush induced paralysis. She's one in a series of professionals he's brought on, apparently on the advice of his doctor. They attempt daily manipulation, and when he deflates, they are done for the day. He's weirdly slut-shamey of her given that he's hired several before her to try to get the job done."I'd prefer to view her as a creature without a name or family. I couldn't conjure up any romantic notions when hundreds of men have benefited from her service." This in spite of his doctor being like dude, I bet this would work better if you weren't so mechanical about your approach. It just happens again and again, he is starting to respond, but then remembers "she pleasured men for money as she was doing for him. He pushed the unpleasant thought out of his mind as his [member] deflated." DUDE you hired her.
So of course they are getting more feelings involved, and her Pretty Woman no kissing rule is just hanging there, but he keeps being the worst. There's an inadvertently hilarious scene where they are talking about his former fiancee and how she dipped as soon as he was paralyzed, and he's all, "I am far too selfish to love a woman who cannot accept me for who I am, for all that I am" when of course that's what he's doing with Clair. Yada Yada, "My plaything? ... Is that how you perceive our relationship?" (literally that's what it is) and more I can never love her because society would shun me, what if he see her clients somewhere. And then the gross and HIGHLY improbably thing happens. Anyway It spoiled the book for me. Yuck.
So of course they are getting more feelings involved, and her Pretty Woman no kissing rule is just hanging there, but he keeps being the worst. There's an inadvertently hilarious scene where they are talking about his former fiancee and how she dipped as soon as he was paralyzed, and he's all, "I am far too selfish to love a woman who cannot accept me for who I am, for all that I am" when of course that's what he's doing with Clair. Yada Yada, "My plaything? ... Is that how you perceive our relationship?" (literally that's what it is) and more I can never love her because society would shun me, what if he see her clients somewhere. And then the gross and HIGHLY improbably thing happens. Anyway It spoiled the book for me. Yuck.
January 30, 2025
This book was just lovely. Julian and Clair made a beautiful couple. I have read only a handful of books with a physically disabled hero, but this book made me want to read more.
Julian was left with paralyzed legs after his piano fell on him. It was nice to see that accidents did happen in the “mundane” life and not only during war. Julian was such a complex man, but it was easy to understand his issues. I really felt for him.
Clair was a graceful heroine. I love how the reasons for her job situation were driven from desperation for her family. I love how she was bold and unyielding when it came to standing up to Julian and not letting him degrade her.
The story really had it all - heartache, loss, grief, despair, courage, drive, encouragement, kindness, love, and passion. The ending of the book was just beautiful. It was a favorite ending or wrap up of a story!
Julian was left with paralyzed legs after his piano fell on him. It was nice to see that accidents did happen in the “mundane” life and not only during war. Julian was such a complex man, but it was easy to understand his issues. I really felt for him.
Clair was a graceful heroine. I love how the reasons for her job situation were driven from desperation for her family. I love how she was bold and unyielding when it came to standing up to Julian and not letting him degrade her.
The story really had it all - heartache, loss, grief, despair, courage, drive, encouragement, kindness, love, and passion. The ending of the book was just beautiful. It was a favorite ending or wrap up of a story!
March 5, 2025
I loved reading this novella! Its plot is so interesting and different to anything I’ve read before in this genre.
Grumpy composer and piano player Julian Cassidy has lost the use of his legs after a tragic accident. It has also left him impotent. He has employed several courtesans to try to bring things back to life with varying success and only for a few seconds. He gets more frustrated and grumpy with each courtesan’s failure to get him rise to the occasion. His physician friend can’t find any reason for Julian’s impotence but nothing seems to be working.
Miss Clair de Lune is the next courtesan to attempt to help cure the composers problem. She sees that he hides himself away from society and employs hardly any staff because he doesn’t trust others. He doesn’t want to be gossiped about. Clair has to do housework as well as being ready to do therapy sessions with Julian whenever he demands them.
Clair has spirit and grit. She’s also tender and caring. She has responsibilities outside of her job that causes tension between her and Julian. She stands up to him even when he roars in temper. Her tenacity and patience have an effect on Julian that he hasn’t felt in years. She could be the only one who can turn things around for this grumpy, frustrated man.
This is a very satisfying story to read. The steamy love scenes are fantastic and the development of trust in Julian and Clair’s relationship was amazing to read. Reading Julian’s transformation from angry lion to a cinnamon roll hero was so well written. This is my new favourite book by Mihwa Lee but only maybe until the next one comes out!
I received a special copy of this book from the author. I’m voluntarily leaving this review.
Grumpy composer and piano player Julian Cassidy has lost the use of his legs after a tragic accident. It has also left him impotent. He has employed several courtesans to try to bring things back to life with varying success and only for a few seconds. He gets more frustrated and grumpy with each courtesan’s failure to get him rise to the occasion. His physician friend can’t find any reason for Julian’s impotence but nothing seems to be working.
Miss Clair de Lune is the next courtesan to attempt to help cure the composers problem. She sees that he hides himself away from society and employs hardly any staff because he doesn’t trust others. He doesn’t want to be gossiped about. Clair has to do housework as well as being ready to do therapy sessions with Julian whenever he demands them.
Clair has spirit and grit. She’s also tender and caring. She has responsibilities outside of her job that causes tension between her and Julian. She stands up to him even when he roars in temper. Her tenacity and patience have an effect on Julian that he hasn’t felt in years. She could be the only one who can turn things around for this grumpy, frustrated man.
This is a very satisfying story to read. The steamy love scenes are fantastic and the development of trust in Julian and Clair’s relationship was amazing to read. Reading Julian’s transformation from angry lion to a cinnamon roll hero was so well written. This is my new favourite book by Mihwa Lee but only maybe until the next one comes out!
I received a special copy of this book from the author. I’m voluntarily leaving this review.
February 13, 2025
A beautiful, heartrending novella!
Clair & Julian
He’s a renowned pianist sequestered in his own home after an accident left him paralysed from the waist down. He’ll never walk again, but he might still recover his male prowess and to aid his recovery, his doctor suggested hiring “help”. Depressed, coarse, leery and brooding, he’s not much of a prince charming.
She’s not you run-of-the-mill courtesan; she’s driven by the need to take care of her sister, and that line of work was the only option providing her with the necessary funds. She’s patient, devoted, clever and creative, but also defiant, outspoken and well-aware of her own worth. A worthy counterpart in every way.
I was drawn to the premise of this novella: a disabled golden boy and a hardworking lady of the night, the impossibility of their situation and how they would eventually find their happily ever after.
Set in the late Victorian era, this story has a small and intimate setting; 2 MCs, his home and very few side-characters. I really liked the detail of the story, the small gestures, their inner struggle, the dry directness of Julian’s doctor, the roughness of the couple’s beginning and the slow shift in their relationship.
He goes from downright degrading to jealous, possessive and a little stuck-up before seeing the light. And she just grits her teeth, slowly working her way under his skin. To her he’s still a man and she’s determined to help him claw his way out of the darkness. They’re both so drawn to each other, but also proud and hesitant, knowing full well there could never be a future for them... Except, this is a romance novella, so anything is possible!
A diverting and captivating read with a whole range of emotions, and an excellent introduction to this author for me. I look forward to reading more of her books!
Clair & Julian
He’s a renowned pianist sequestered in his own home after an accident left him paralysed from the waist down. He’ll never walk again, but he might still recover his male prowess and to aid his recovery, his doctor suggested hiring “help”. Depressed, coarse, leery and brooding, he’s not much of a prince charming.
She’s not you run-of-the-mill courtesan; she’s driven by the need to take care of her sister, and that line of work was the only option providing her with the necessary funds. She’s patient, devoted, clever and creative, but also defiant, outspoken and well-aware of her own worth. A worthy counterpart in every way.
I was drawn to the premise of this novella: a disabled golden boy and a hardworking lady of the night, the impossibility of their situation and how they would eventually find their happily ever after.
Set in the late Victorian era, this story has a small and intimate setting; 2 MCs, his home and very few side-characters. I really liked the detail of the story, the small gestures, their inner struggle, the dry directness of Julian’s doctor, the roughness of the couple’s beginning and the slow shift in their relationship.
He goes from downright degrading to jealous, possessive and a little stuck-up before seeing the light. And she just grits her teeth, slowly working her way under his skin. To her he’s still a man and she’s determined to help him claw his way out of the darkness. They’re both so drawn to each other, but also proud and hesitant, knowing full well there could never be a future for them... Except, this is a romance novella, so anything is possible!
A diverting and captivating read with a whole range of emotions, and an excellent introduction to this author for me. I look forward to reading more of her books!
March 6, 2025
This book, one in the Madams and Mischief series, was a heartwarming, beautifully written historical romance novella. A unique and captivating story of a disabled hero and an unusual courtesan with an intriguing plot that was very original. It was full of delicious passion with emotional and intense issues that kept me very engaged. It brought me to tears often for many different reasons. I really enjoyed the delightful and joyous ending. I highly recommend reading!
March 12, 2025
I couldn't put this book down I thoroughly enjoyed it. When the companion arrives to meet a miserable composer who had become wheelchair bound she melds his hard heart and he softens to realise what love can be. This book has some twists and turns and I love Mihwa Lee's writing style it flows so nicely and her spicy intimacy moments are super steamy. I would recommend this book.
February 10, 2025
What an intriguing and spicy storyline! Not was I was expecting, but I really got into the story regarding Julian’s and Claire’s situations and the suffering that was involved and how their love story evolved. I am looking forward to reading more from Author Mihwa Lee.
March 27, 2025
Such a fun read!
This is a fantastic novella. Some times short stories miss full character development but that was not the case here. Mihwa creates such complex characters. Her writing just pulls you in. Love this book and I'm excited for the next one!
This is a fantastic novella. Some times short stories miss full character development but that was not the case here. Mihwa creates such complex characters. Her writing just pulls you in. Love this book and I'm excited for the next one!
February 1, 2025
A Love Story with a Difference!
Don't you just love her name, Clair De Lune and it is just perfect for this particular heroine. Not only that, but this story has to do with Julian Cassidy, a male who is a renowned pianist and Clair De Lune is the name of a beautiful, haunting musical piece.written by Claude Debussy.
So this was a rather clever naming of a beautiful, strong and perfectly likable heroine character.
Julian on the other hand is crass, quite rude in manner and very bitter, yet I couldn't help but feel empathy for him. All he wanted in life was to play the piano and be able to function as a man but due to a horrid accident, this was not to be.
The story flows so nicely, is very entertaining and most definitely held my attention throughout.
This author has the knack of writing a tale that makes you 'feel' and this is something I admire greatly.
I have just finished reading an early copy of this book and am happy to leave my voluntary review above.
Don't you just love her name, Clair De Lune and it is just perfect for this particular heroine. Not only that, but this story has to do with Julian Cassidy, a male who is a renowned pianist and Clair De Lune is the name of a beautiful, haunting musical piece.written by Claude Debussy.
So this was a rather clever naming of a beautiful, strong and perfectly likable heroine character.
Julian on the other hand is crass, quite rude in manner and very bitter, yet I couldn't help but feel empathy for him. All he wanted in life was to play the piano and be able to function as a man but due to a horrid accident, this was not to be.
The story flows so nicely, is very entertaining and most definitely held my attention throughout.
This author has the knack of writing a tale that makes you 'feel' and this is something I admire greatly.
I have just finished reading an early copy of this book and am happy to leave my voluntary review above.
April 8, 2025
Rounded up from 3.5-ish stars.
A Victorian romance featuring disabled main characters is a refreshing and welcome twist. Julian, the male lead, uses a wheelchair, and Clair, the female lead, is hired as a courtesan—which means the spice level escalates quickly (and stays there).
Clair was easy to root for from the start. Julian took a little longer to warm up—he spends much of the novella stuck in self-pity—but once he comes around, he’s genuinely compelling. For a novella, this one had impressive character development and a plot that held together well. A few missing details could have been fleshed out in a longer format, but nothing that derailed the story.
I’m definitely interested in trying one of Mihwa Lee’s full-length novels. Her writing style is engaging, and she beautifully balances emotional depth with romantic tension.
A Victorian romance featuring disabled main characters is a refreshing and welcome twist. Julian, the male lead, uses a wheelchair, and Clair, the female lead, is hired as a courtesan—which means the spice level escalates quickly (and stays there).
Clair was easy to root for from the start. Julian took a little longer to warm up—he spends much of the novella stuck in self-pity—but once he comes around, he’s genuinely compelling. For a novella, this one had impressive character development and a plot that held together well. A few missing details could have been fleshed out in a longer format, but nothing that derailed the story.
I’m definitely interested in trying one of Mihwa Lee’s full-length novels. Her writing style is engaging, and she beautifully balances emotional depth with romantic tension.
August 6, 2025
I feel sad for the people who enjoy this. Personally I can't get behind a romance where the man treats a woman like hot garbage and it's forgiven because he's crippled. Nevermind the fact that he's rich, hires her for sex, and then belittles her for being a sex worker. It's cool though, because he "falls in love" with her after a few days and buys her a house, right?
I would have told him to shove that house and proposal right up his ass. God I hate it when it's portrayed as romantic for women to "fix" grumpy man-children like Julian who can't even wipe their own ass without a servant to do it for them.
I would have told him to shove that house and proposal right up his ass. God I hate it when it's portrayed as romantic for women to "fix" grumpy man-children like Julian who can't even wipe their own ass without a servant to do it for them.
October 29, 2025
I was not a fan of how this bool approached the subject of sex work OR disability, despite picking it up because it seemed like there would be rep of both. Julian hires a woman for the explicit purpose of sleeping with her, and then demeans her for it? And he likes her because she’s selfless and patient with his constant BS? Excuse?
I did at least appreciate that Clair sticks up for herself, and that her genuine attraction to Julian is based on desire rather than pity. The bar is pretty low when it comes to physical disability rep in romance, so… I’ve read worse, but I’ve read better.
I did at least appreciate that Clair sticks up for herself, and that her genuine attraction to Julian is based on desire rather than pity. The bar is pretty low when it comes to physical disability rep in romance, so… I’ve read worse, but I’ve read better.
July 5, 2025
The virtual voice ruins experience
The story line was really interesting and had potential to be great. But there were parts that were rushed through which made some of the scenes feel disjointed. And the narration was filled with so many errors it added a layer of frustration to the story. Also hearing a robot voice attempt to moan was like being doused with a bucket of ice water. 🥴
The story line was really interesting and had potential to be great. But there were parts that were rushed through which made some of the scenes feel disjointed. And the narration was filled with so many errors it added a layer of frustration to the story. Also hearing a robot voice attempt to moan was like being doused with a bucket of ice water. 🥴
May 12, 2025
The composer‘s muse
Basic plot:
Julian Cassidy‘s life was music and performing before a serious accident left him disabled and he now lives in isolation.
Clair de Lune, a courtesan, is tasked with rehabilitating Julian, who has lost more than just the ability to move his legs.
Julian has difficulty accepting help, especially from Clair, who refuses to treat him like an invalid.
My thoughts:
The book begins without an introduction, you are immediately thrown into the story and the first conversation between Julian and Clair.
I found the story and the characters so complex that it was almost a bit too short for me. Mihwa Lee could have probably written 200 more pages about the two of them.
This made it seem a bit rushed to me at times, as Julian‘s feelings change and he lets Clair get closer to him. However, this was explained well through the time jumps.
Julian and Clair are both so proud in different ways and it is beautiful how the two of them grow closer and the protective walls around their hearts slowly disappears.
The ending is beautiful to read and leaves you feeling blissful.
Basic plot:
Julian Cassidy‘s life was music and performing before a serious accident left him disabled and he now lives in isolation.
Clair de Lune, a courtesan, is tasked with rehabilitating Julian, who has lost more than just the ability to move his legs.
Julian has difficulty accepting help, especially from Clair, who refuses to treat him like an invalid.
My thoughts:
The book begins without an introduction, you are immediately thrown into the story and the first conversation between Julian and Clair.
I found the story and the characters so complex that it was almost a bit too short for me. Mihwa Lee could have probably written 200 more pages about the two of them.
This made it seem a bit rushed to me at times, as Julian‘s feelings change and he lets Clair get closer to him. However, this was explained well through the time jumps.
Julian and Clair are both so proud in different ways and it is beautiful how the two of them grow closer and the protective walls around their hearts slowly disappears.
The ending is beautiful to read and leaves you feeling blissful.
March 18, 2025
4.5
We have Clair De Lune and Julian Cassidy a brilliant pianist and composer who was gravely injured and is wheelchair bound!
He has engaged women of ill repute to coax his body back to at least performing for a woman! They have all been unsuccessful until now!
Clair is educated, beautiful and taking care of her blind sister! She was forced into this life to pay her tuition and a place for her to reside comfortably due her sight impairment!
Julian is bitter, handsome wealthy and very grumpy! As in most life tragedies we focus on the losses not on what remains!
Clair has more secrets and Julian judges her and her profession inspite of her having more success with his impotence since the accident!
While he judges her and tries to distance himself emotionally as he cruelly bates her inferior status Clair remains professional!
When he realizes he misjudged and only himself to blame when she rebuffs him!
Can these two have a HEA when Clair’s profession will always stand between them!? Or will it? This was humorous yet poignant as two people who clearly belong together find their way! Bravo
We have Clair De Lune and Julian Cassidy a brilliant pianist and composer who was gravely injured and is wheelchair bound!
He has engaged women of ill repute to coax his body back to at least performing for a woman! They have all been unsuccessful until now!
Clair is educated, beautiful and taking care of her blind sister! She was forced into this life to pay her tuition and a place for her to reside comfortably due her sight impairment!
Julian is bitter, handsome wealthy and very grumpy! As in most life tragedies we focus on the losses not on what remains!
Clair has more secrets and Julian judges her and her profession inspite of her having more success with his impotence since the accident!
While he judges her and tries to distance himself emotionally as he cruelly bates her inferior status Clair remains professional!
When he realizes he misjudged and only himself to blame when she rebuffs him!
Can these two have a HEA when Clair’s profession will always stand between them!? Or will it? This was humorous yet poignant as two people who clearly belong together find their way! Bravo
June 29, 2025
This is the second book I've read by Mihwa Lee, and lawd, I love her style!! I love a book that is 50% Hot and 50% HOPE. Inject it into my veins. Such a wonderful message and also tried to burn my kindle down too. How is that possible to get that perfect blend?? What is this scorcery??
Here's the plot: you've got two people who've been beat up by life and you add tender loving care. You know what, Julian's gonna be OK, Clair's gonna be OK. And it gives me hope that we're all gonna be OK.
Thank you to Mihwa Lee for the copy. Opinions, or I should say, ramblings, are my own.
Here's the plot: you've got two people who've been beat up by life and you add tender loving care. You know what, Julian's gonna be OK, Clair's gonna be OK. And it gives me hope that we're all gonna be OK.
Thank you to Mihwa Lee for the copy. Opinions, or I should say, ramblings, are my own.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews