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The Art of Love #7
Composed
These childhood friends are the last to realize they’re perfect for each other…
Nally Hawthorne has always been a musical prodigy, but when the soundtrack he’s scored for a hit movie rockets him into the spotlight, he has no idea how to handle fame. It’s only natural for him to turn to his best mate since forever and social media influencer, Jude. The two of them have always been two peas in a pod, but now that they’re adults, their relationship is starting to become more…adult.
Jude Cranleigh has no problem handling a vast social media career, but when it comes to managing his growing feelings for his best friend, he’s at a loss. Especially since he’s been burned in the past by making a friend into a lover. He isn’t willing to risk losing Nally by making the same mistake twice…but his feelings for Nally are bigger than he can control.
But everything changes when an obsessive fan starts stalking Nally. Jude wants to protect Nally, but will his efforts push them into each other’s arms at last or split them apart?
Nally Hawthorne has always been a musical prodigy, but when the soundtrack he’s scored for a hit movie rockets him into the spotlight, he has no idea how to handle fame. It’s only natural for him to turn to his best mate since forever and social media influencer, Jude. The two of them have always been two peas in a pod, but now that they’re adults, their relationship is starting to become more…adult.
Jude Cranleigh has no problem handling a vast social media career, but when it comes to managing his growing feelings for his best friend, he’s at a loss. Especially since he’s been burned in the past by making a friend into a lover. He isn’t willing to risk losing Nally by making the same mistake twice…but his feelings for Nally are bigger than he can control.
But everything changes when an obsessive fan starts stalking Nally. Jude wants to protect Nally, but will his efforts push them into each other’s arms at last or split them apart?
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 23, 2025
12 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
Merry Farmer
292 books1,139 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
December 31, 2025
I find I really enjoy this series about the young men of the artistic, eccentric, aristocratic Hawthorne family finding their life partners. Each family member has an artistic talent of one sort or another, and all are involved in the functioning of the Hawthorne Community Arts Center, the latest life for Hawthorne House and the estate. Most of the immediate family live in apartments in the family wing of Hawthorne House, converted to that use after starting as a manor house, then a boarding school in the mid-twentieth century, and now an art center, all to support the expense of an ancestral estate.
This book features Ronald (Nally) Hawthorne, the youngest brother, and a gifted composer at age 23. He has just finished the musical score for a movie, and the book opens as the family is heading to the premier where Nally will walk the red carpet with his best friend since childhood, Jude, an up and coming social influencer. Nally is overwhelmed with the media attention, not used to the lights and noise, and having Jude with him is very calming. Jude is encouraging Nally to up his social media presence to take advantage of the publicity around the film, and offers to act as his agent for now to help manage his platforms.
Both young men have been inseparable for years, staying in the “Friendzone” fearing changes may affect their relationship, but both are becoming aware of more frequent physical/romantic feelings, and they don’t know how to handle them. With the stress of the increased attention on Nally, the social media aspect, probable changes in the trajectory of his career, and his concern over these feelings, Nally has picked up a stalker, one which Jude knew about but was trying to protect Nally from for fear of causing further stress. When Nally finds out after being confronted by the stalker, a rift develops between the two, further increasing the doubts and tension within the relationship. Both understand they need to face those fears and decide if they are a couple and how to handle it, or will the relationship shatter, causing both to lose their best friend. There is a lot of angst on both sides as each contemplates worst case scenarios, but both have supportive families to help them through their doubts as well as another confrontation with the stalker. Since this author favors HEAs, all comes right in the end after some tense moments for both.
I find the main characters in this and each of the other books to be realistic and relatable, engaging me in their everyday lives and the problems they face, rooting for them to reach their HEA. As I immersed myself in the lives of Nally and Jude, I could just feel they were younger than the previous MCs, they came across as naive and innocent at times, oblivious in their understanding of the depth of their connection to each other and what the status of their relationship was, whether they recognized it or not — others around them did. There was angst, humor, adventure, and danger, but both stayed focused on what they wanted long term. Previous characters showed up for quick cameos, and I always enjoy the connection made to the Brotherhood once or twice in each book. Each story also ends with a teaser about the next Hawthorne brother to encounter his future partner in the next book, and Ryan’s turn is next. It sounds like an interesting situation, too, one I am ready to read when it comes out next month. I find the entire series to be interesting, engaging and entertaining, and would recommend this book, as well as the others, as a future read.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
This book features Ronald (Nally) Hawthorne, the youngest brother, and a gifted composer at age 23. He has just finished the musical score for a movie, and the book opens as the family is heading to the premier where Nally will walk the red carpet with his best friend since childhood, Jude, an up and coming social influencer. Nally is overwhelmed with the media attention, not used to the lights and noise, and having Jude with him is very calming. Jude is encouraging Nally to up his social media presence to take advantage of the publicity around the film, and offers to act as his agent for now to help manage his platforms.
Both young men have been inseparable for years, staying in the “Friendzone” fearing changes may affect their relationship, but both are becoming aware of more frequent physical/romantic feelings, and they don’t know how to handle them. With the stress of the increased attention on Nally, the social media aspect, probable changes in the trajectory of his career, and his concern over these feelings, Nally has picked up a stalker, one which Jude knew about but was trying to protect Nally from for fear of causing further stress. When Nally finds out after being confronted by the stalker, a rift develops between the two, further increasing the doubts and tension within the relationship. Both understand they need to face those fears and decide if they are a couple and how to handle it, or will the relationship shatter, causing both to lose their best friend. There is a lot of angst on both sides as each contemplates worst case scenarios, but both have supportive families to help them through their doubts as well as another confrontation with the stalker. Since this author favors HEAs, all comes right in the end after some tense moments for both.
I find the main characters in this and each of the other books to be realistic and relatable, engaging me in their everyday lives and the problems they face, rooting for them to reach their HEA. As I immersed myself in the lives of Nally and Jude, I could just feel they were younger than the previous MCs, they came across as naive and innocent at times, oblivious in their understanding of the depth of their connection to each other and what the status of their relationship was, whether they recognized it or not — others around them did. There was angst, humor, adventure, and danger, but both stayed focused on what they wanted long term. Previous characters showed up for quick cameos, and I always enjoy the connection made to the Brotherhood once or twice in each book. Each story also ends with a teaser about the next Hawthorne brother to encounter his future partner in the next book, and Ryan’s turn is next. It sounds like an interesting situation, too, one I am ready to read when it comes out next month. I find the entire series to be interesting, engaging and entertaining, and would recommend this book, as well as the others, as a future read.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
December 29, 2025
Composed is the seventh book in the ‘Art of Love series.’ It stars Nally Hawthorne a musical prodigy, and Jude Carnleigh, a media influencer. This is told in third person from Nally and Jude’s pov.
4.5 Stars
The blurb gives a basic rundown of the two characters and a light intro to the plot. Here’s a bit more info. Nally wrote a musical score for a movie and became an overnight success. He’s written compositions before and that has attracted a stalker. Jude rescues Nally from the stalker and becomes Nally’s social media person. Nally’s fame is too much for him and he starts to panic. In a way, Nally and Jude haven’t really grown up. They hang around with each other almost constantly, so much so that people think they are a couple. But Nally and Jude think of themselves as friends until they start developing romantic feelings for each other and then they panic. The story is about them awakening to their romantic feelings, how they solve their confusion about those feelings, and how they deal with Nally’s stalker.
This was a cute story about two peas in a pod, drama queen, best friends. I really enjoyed Nally and Jude. In a way they were a bit naïve. Nally spent a lot of alone time composing, and Jude was a bit solitary also with his own room for his social media creations. They only spent time with each other until Nally became famous. Suddenly the world entered their little bubble. Neither was prepared for it.
Nally and Jude are the last to realize that they’re already a couple. I didn’t quite believe Jude’s idea of why they were panicking about being a couple. To me they just had to accept that they were growing up with romantic feelings as they interacted more with the outside world.
A few things didn’t quite work for me. I felt the stalker was written a little over the top and came across as rather clownish. If he was more persuasive and had an air of darkness about him, then I would have found him more believable. I thought Jude’s decision not to block the stalker from the media accounts was a bad idea, unless the police said not to block him. Also not telling Nally’s parents about the stalker was immature and irresponsible. Nally and Jude keeping that info between them only caused more trouble.
I enjoyed Composed and the return to Hawthorne House. Nally and Jude were a great couple, and the author did a good job of conveying them as younger personalities than the older brothers. I’d like to give this story 4.5 stars because of the things that didn’t work for me, but instead I’ll give it 5 Stars, just because Nally and Jude were so cute and incredibly clueless about their relationship.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest and unbiased review.
4.5 Stars
The blurb gives a basic rundown of the two characters and a light intro to the plot. Here’s a bit more info. Nally wrote a musical score for a movie and became an overnight success. He’s written compositions before and that has attracted a stalker. Jude rescues Nally from the stalker and becomes Nally’s social media person. Nally’s fame is too much for him and he starts to panic. In a way, Nally and Jude haven’t really grown up. They hang around with each other almost constantly, so much so that people think they are a couple. But Nally and Jude think of themselves as friends until they start developing romantic feelings for each other and then they panic. The story is about them awakening to their romantic feelings, how they solve their confusion about those feelings, and how they deal with Nally’s stalker.
This was a cute story about two peas in a pod, drama queen, best friends. I really enjoyed Nally and Jude. In a way they were a bit naïve. Nally spent a lot of alone time composing, and Jude was a bit solitary also with his own room for his social media creations. They only spent time with each other until Nally became famous. Suddenly the world entered their little bubble. Neither was prepared for it.
Nally and Jude are the last to realize that they’re already a couple. I didn’t quite believe Jude’s idea of why they were panicking about being a couple. To me they just had to accept that they were growing up with romantic feelings as they interacted more with the outside world.
A few things didn’t quite work for me. I felt the stalker was written a little over the top and came across as rather clownish. If he was more persuasive and had an air of darkness about him, then I would have found him more believable. I thought Jude’s decision not to block the stalker from the media accounts was a bad idea, unless the police said not to block him. Also not telling Nally’s parents about the stalker was immature and irresponsible. Nally and Jude keeping that info between them only caused more trouble.
I enjoyed Composed and the return to Hawthorne House. Nally and Jude were a great couple, and the author did a good job of conveying them as younger personalities than the older brothers. I’d like to give this story 4.5 stars because of the things that didn’t work for me, but instead I’ll give it 5 Stars, just because Nally and Jude were so cute and incredibly clueless about their relationship.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest and unbiased review.
December 31, 2025
Here's Merry Farmer's "Composed." It's the sevent novel in her new series, The Art of Love.
["These childhood friends are the last to realize they’re perfect for each other…
Nally Hawthorne has always been a musical prodigy, but when the soundtrack he’s scored for a hit movie rockets him into the spotlight, he has no idea how to handle fame. It’s only natural for him to turn to his best mate since forever and social media influencer, Jude. The two of them have always been two peas in a pod, but now that they’re adults, their relationship is starting to become more…adult.
Jude Cranleigh has no problem handling a vast social media career, but when it comes to managing his growing feelings for his best friend, he’s at a loss. Especially since he’s been burned in the past by making a friend into a lover. He isn’t willing to risk losing Nally by making the same mistake twice…but his feelings for Nally are bigger than he can control.
But everything changes when an obsessive fan starts stalking Nally. Jude wants to protect Nally, but will his efforts push them into each other’s arms at last or split them apart?"]
These two are...*sigh*. They needed a wack upside the head. And then a forced conversation about their feelings and the reality of loving your best friend (in the romantic way they both soooo clearly loved each other). Of course Mama Hawthorne saw it as it was happening.
Not sure if Nally's stalking helped them progress their relationship or if he added more drama to the situation. It certainly pushed them together, but it also almost tore them apart.
These two fell in love easily, they've been in love with each other for years. But dealing with their feelings, making these feelings go from inside their hearts to the outside world, wasn't as smooth or as easy as anticipated. From anyone. But they eventually figured it out, after they stopped trying so damn hard and just let their hearts lead.
Up next, Ryan's book. The man who just said he sucked at relationships but gave some seriously mature advise to baby bro Nally.
Trigger Warnings: stalking, violence from said stalker, and more.
#thrown #painted #decorated #forged #blown #sugared #composed #designed #theartoflove #theartofloveseries #merryfarmer #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["These childhood friends are the last to realize they’re perfect for each other…
Nally Hawthorne has always been a musical prodigy, but when the soundtrack he’s scored for a hit movie rockets him into the spotlight, he has no idea how to handle fame. It’s only natural for him to turn to his best mate since forever and social media influencer, Jude. The two of them have always been two peas in a pod, but now that they’re adults, their relationship is starting to become more…adult.
Jude Cranleigh has no problem handling a vast social media career, but when it comes to managing his growing feelings for his best friend, he’s at a loss. Especially since he’s been burned in the past by making a friend into a lover. He isn’t willing to risk losing Nally by making the same mistake twice…but his feelings for Nally are bigger than he can control.
But everything changes when an obsessive fan starts stalking Nally. Jude wants to protect Nally, but will his efforts push them into each other’s arms at last or split them apart?"]
These two are...*sigh*. They needed a wack upside the head. And then a forced conversation about their feelings and the reality of loving your best friend (in the romantic way they both soooo clearly loved each other). Of course Mama Hawthorne saw it as it was happening.
Not sure if Nally's stalking helped them progress their relationship or if he added more drama to the situation. It certainly pushed them together, but it also almost tore them apart.
These two fell in love easily, they've been in love with each other for years. But dealing with their feelings, making these feelings go from inside their hearts to the outside world, wasn't as smooth or as easy as anticipated. From anyone. But they eventually figured it out, after they stopped trying so damn hard and just let their hearts lead.
Up next, Ryan's book. The man who just said he sucked at relationships but gave some seriously mature advise to baby bro Nally.
Trigger Warnings: stalking, violence from said stalker, and more.
#thrown #painted #decorated #forged #blown #sugared #composed #designed #theartoflove #theartofloveseries #merryfarmer #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
December 27, 2025
Childhood best friends Nally and Jude have always been inseparable, but adulthood—and Nally’s sudden rise to fame as a film composer—pushes their bond into new, confusing territory. Nally turns to Jude for support as fame overwhelms him, while Jude struggles with growing feelings he’s terrified to act on after being hurt before. When an obsessive fan begins stalking Nally, Jude steps in to protect him. The danger forces them to confront the feelings they’ve both been avoiding, leaving them to discover whether this crisis will finally bring them together or tear their lifelong friendship apart.
I loved this story, which was a beautifully tender friends‑to‑lovers romance about two boys who grew up side by side and somehow never realised they were each other’s missing piece. Nally’s sudden rise to fame throws him into a world he’s completely unprepared for, and watching him unravel under the weight of attention is heartbreaking. The only person he trusts enough to lean on is Jude—the best friend who has always been his anchor, his safe place, his constant. Their bond is so natural and deep that you can feel the shift the moment it starts becoming something more, even if they’re the last ones to see it. Jude’s struggle hit me hardest. He’s confident online, adored by thousands, yet terrified of losing the one person who matters most. His fear of repeating past heartbreak makes every stolen glance and almost‑confession ache. You can feel how much he loves Nally long before he admits it. And then the stalker plot arrives—not sensationalised, but raw and frightening—and suddenly their feelings aren’t something they can ignore. Jude’s protectiveness, Nally’s vulnerability, the way they cling to each other when the world becomes too much… it’s emotional in the best way. This is a story about growing up together, falling in love slowly, and finally choosing each other when it matters most. Soft, heartfelt, and full of quiet devotion. A gorgeous read for anyone who loves friendships that deepen into something life‑changing. This was an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story, which was a beautifully tender friends‑to‑lovers romance about two boys who grew up side by side and somehow never realised they were each other’s missing piece. Nally’s sudden rise to fame throws him into a world he’s completely unprepared for, and watching him unravel under the weight of attention is heartbreaking. The only person he trusts enough to lean on is Jude—the best friend who has always been his anchor, his safe place, his constant. Their bond is so natural and deep that you can feel the shift the moment it starts becoming something more, even if they’re the last ones to see it. Jude’s struggle hit me hardest. He’s confident online, adored by thousands, yet terrified of losing the one person who matters most. His fear of repeating past heartbreak makes every stolen glance and almost‑confession ache. You can feel how much he loves Nally long before he admits it. And then the stalker plot arrives—not sensationalised, but raw and frightening—and suddenly their feelings aren’t something they can ignore. Jude’s protectiveness, Nally’s vulnerability, the way they cling to each other when the world becomes too much… it’s emotional in the best way. This is a story about growing up together, falling in love slowly, and finally choosing each other when it matters most. Soft, heartfelt, and full of quiet devotion. A gorgeous read for anyone who loves friendships that deepen into something life‑changing. This was an MM story with mature content.
December 21, 2025
This book had me enthralled from the first chapter and kept me devouring it straight through the laughs, the struggles, the bit of violence, family solidarity, and to the obliviousness of two sweet men who are best friends finally realizing that their bond had grown to a lifelong romantic love.
I loved returning to the Hawthorne family, a huge and lovely group of assorted and unique queer creatives who value family and are truly there for one another.
Nally is the youngest and quite gifted when it comes to composing his music, but rather naive about social media and interacting with groups of people.
Jude is his best friend, outgoing, and a successful social media influencer who is more than willing to help Nally with whatever he needs.
I enjoyed their quirky sense of humor and how they have so much in common and connect in so many ways. When they begin to realize the love they felt for one another was leaning towards romantic love, it caused a lot of confusion, doubts, ups and downs, and fears. Trying to navigate a new relationship changed their dynamic and affected their friendship, but learning that their friendship didn't need to change in order to add the romantic aspect took a while for them to grasp and accept. Thankfully they have some wonderful people in their lives to help guide them through their feelings and emotions. While trying to figure things out, there was the added elements of Nally's rising career and his stalker. The stalker turned out to be more than just an avid fan, it added extra drama to the story and showed just how much the Hawthorne family truly is there for one another.
Overall, another amazing addition to this series. I would definitely recommend it.
I received an ARC from GRR, this review is my honest opinion.
I loved returning to the Hawthorne family, a huge and lovely group of assorted and unique queer creatives who value family and are truly there for one another.
Nally is the youngest and quite gifted when it comes to composing his music, but rather naive about social media and interacting with groups of people.
Jude is his best friend, outgoing, and a successful social media influencer who is more than willing to help Nally with whatever he needs.
I enjoyed their quirky sense of humor and how they have so much in common and connect in so many ways. When they begin to realize the love they felt for one another was leaning towards romantic love, it caused a lot of confusion, doubts, ups and downs, and fears. Trying to navigate a new relationship changed their dynamic and affected their friendship, but learning that their friendship didn't need to change in order to add the romantic aspect took a while for them to grasp and accept. Thankfully they have some wonderful people in their lives to help guide them through their feelings and emotions. While trying to figure things out, there was the added elements of Nally's rising career and his stalker. The stalker turned out to be more than just an avid fan, it added extra drama to the story and showed just how much the Hawthorne family truly is there for one another.
Overall, another amazing addition to this series. I would definitely recommend it.
I received an ARC from GRR, this review is my honest opinion.
December 22, 2025
Nally can’t handle the fame that goes with his amazing work as a composer for a new movie, but his best friend Jude offers to be his agent of sorts. Jude is a social media influencer, so he knows how to post content, so the friends spend more time together and realize they’re feeling more than a just friendship.
This scares them both because they had a third friend who dated Jude, then they broke up and it almost ruined the friendship for all of them. At the same time, a stalker surfaces and thinks Nally is in love with him and they belong together.
Jude doesn’t tell Nally to protect him because he’s already stressed out, but the stalker keeps showing up everywhere they go. He ends up at a recording Nally’s doing with the LSO at a church, and is kicked out by security.
The two men flee to a cabin in Scotland, but it’s a mess without power and so much angst about their relationship, they end up coming home. The stalker tries to attack Nally at his house and Jude gets a broken nose, but the guy escapes and is later caught and charged.
They take some time apart and realize they’ve both been panicking and overthinking, they’ve been in a relationship for years, as everyone around them assumes, they’ve just ignored it themselves. They easily move forward from there and Jude moves in with Nally, starting their life together like it was always meant to be.
This was an entertaining read, with so much mishap and anxiety it made it easy to see why these two belong together, birds of a feather freak out together.
I received this ARC for free and am pleased to provide my honest review with gratitude.
This scares them both because they had a third friend who dated Jude, then they broke up and it almost ruined the friendship for all of them. At the same time, a stalker surfaces and thinks Nally is in love with him and they belong together.
Jude doesn’t tell Nally to protect him because he’s already stressed out, but the stalker keeps showing up everywhere they go. He ends up at a recording Nally’s doing with the LSO at a church, and is kicked out by security.
The two men flee to a cabin in Scotland, but it’s a mess without power and so much angst about their relationship, they end up coming home. The stalker tries to attack Nally at his house and Jude gets a broken nose, but the guy escapes and is later caught and charged.
They take some time apart and realize they’ve both been panicking and overthinking, they’ve been in a relationship for years, as everyone around them assumes, they’ve just ignored it themselves. They easily move forward from there and Jude moves in with Nally, starting their life together like it was always meant to be.
This was an entertaining read, with so much mishap and anxiety it made it easy to see why these two belong together, birds of a feather freak out together.
I received this ARC for free and am pleased to provide my honest review with gratitude.
January 2, 2026
MY OPINION: I have read a few of these books, and I honestly think this whole series is wonderful. I missed a few in the middle and will definitely read the ones I haven’t. The whole family and compound these stories are written around is so beyond what someone could hope for, and I am completely there for it.
This book is about the composer in the family, Nally. He is in his twenties and finds himself suddenly getting worldwide attention because he wrote the entire score for a new popular movie. It’s overwhelming to the shy, quiet artist; fortunately, he has his best friend Jude right there with him.
Jude and Nally have been best mates for as long as they can remember. They did everything together; they were ride-or-die friends. The two of them find that the feelings, the love, they have for each other is now a little bit more. They want to be the very best mates, but also want to be intimately together, which is something they both want. But is that weird to them? Wrong maybe?
The book navigates us through their feelings and throws in an obsessed stalker. Overall, it’s sweet and filled with plenty of heart. You get to see both men’s families, and I wanted them to find their way. The book takes us through their ups and downs. They figure out the truth of their relationship, and they have to get over themselves to find a happily ever after.
Overall, I liked this book as much as I liked the others. The MCs are sweet, and there isn’t a lot of drama. It’s a wonderful story of two friends embracing what they’ve had all along. Love. Pick this up along with the others, and you will enjoy them.
This book is about the composer in the family, Nally. He is in his twenties and finds himself suddenly getting worldwide attention because he wrote the entire score for a new popular movie. It’s overwhelming to the shy, quiet artist; fortunately, he has his best friend Jude right there with him.
Jude and Nally have been best mates for as long as they can remember. They did everything together; they were ride-or-die friends. The two of them find that the feelings, the love, they have for each other is now a little bit more. They want to be the very best mates, but also want to be intimately together, which is something they both want. But is that weird to them? Wrong maybe?
The book navigates us through their feelings and throws in an obsessed stalker. Overall, it’s sweet and filled with plenty of heart. You get to see both men’s families, and I wanted them to find their way. The book takes us through their ups and downs. They figure out the truth of their relationship, and they have to get over themselves to find a happily ever after.
Overall, I liked this book as much as I liked the others. The MCs are sweet, and there isn’t a lot of drama. It’s a wonderful story of two friends embracing what they’ve had all along. Love. Pick this up along with the others, and you will enjoy them.
December 23, 2025
COMPOSED is the seventh book in The Art of Loving series, and features Nally (Ronald) Hawthorne, the youngest of the bunch, and his BFF, Jude. Nally has just composed the soundtrack to a film and is swept away by all the publicity and social media attention. However, social media is where Jude excels, so he is more than happy to become Nally's agent for a while. There is a fly in the ointment, though, in the shape of a stalker 'fan', who seems to think Nally is his.
I thought this was really well-written, showing just how simple yet complicated a relationship can be between two men who have been lifelong friends, especially when there is a bad relationship example with another friend to get hung up on. And yes, I loved how it was resolved with Tim!
I thought the two of them made for a perfect pair, and both were slightly naive. I'm unsure if it's in a "they're supposed to be like that, because they're aristos" kind of way, or if that's just how I was reading it. That surprised me with Jude, especially with the stalker situation, as I thought he would have been more aware of things, due to his being an influencer.
This was an easy read that had both drama and lighthearted moments. Definitely recommended by me.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 23, 2025
I thought this was really well-written, showing just how simple yet complicated a relationship can be between two men who have been lifelong friends, especially when there is a bad relationship example with another friend to get hung up on. And yes, I loved how it was resolved with Tim!
I thought the two of them made for a perfect pair, and both were slightly naive. I'm unsure if it's in a "they're supposed to be like that, because they're aristos" kind of way, or if that's just how I was reading it. That surprised me with Jude, especially with the stalker situation, as I thought he would have been more aware of things, due to his being an influencer.
This was an easy read that had both drama and lighthearted moments. Definitely recommended by me.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 23, 2025
December 29, 2025
Composed is the 7th book in Merry Farmer's Art of Love series. While it is part of a series, I do think it is OK to read as a stand-alone.
Composed brings together 2 best friends; Nally and Jude. Nally is a music prodigy who is working as a composer and Jude is a social media influencer. Nally and Jude met as children and have been best friends since. They have always had this very close relationship that to others they could see the love that Nally and Jude don't see right away.
Nally has just composed the score to a movie and is getting accolades for his work. Unfortunately, this new found fame has brought out a stalker. As the book progresses along with the danger this stalker presents.
All Jude wants to do is protect Nally which leads to some miscommunication. However, it does give Nally and Jude a chance to disconnect and really talk to each other, or at least try.
One thing I really loved is the transition and acknowledgement of “I love Nally” to “I’m falling in love with Nally”. I also really appreciated the awkwardness of their first time. It felt true to life.
Nally’s mom is the absolute best, even when I’m having second hand embarrassment.
This was not my first book by Merry Farmer, and it won't be the last. I am looking forward to the next book.
Spice: 3/5
Fun: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Thanks to GRR for providing an eARC, this is my honest review.
Composed brings together 2 best friends; Nally and Jude. Nally is a music prodigy who is working as a composer and Jude is a social media influencer. Nally and Jude met as children and have been best friends since. They have always had this very close relationship that to others they could see the love that Nally and Jude don't see right away.
Nally has just composed the score to a movie and is getting accolades for his work. Unfortunately, this new found fame has brought out a stalker. As the book progresses along with the danger this stalker presents.
All Jude wants to do is protect Nally which leads to some miscommunication. However, it does give Nally and Jude a chance to disconnect and really talk to each other, or at least try.
One thing I really loved is the transition and acknowledgement of “I love Nally” to “I’m falling in love with Nally”. I also really appreciated the awkwardness of their first time. It felt true to life.
Nally’s mom is the absolute best, even when I’m having second hand embarrassment.
This was not my first book by Merry Farmer, and it won't be the last. I am looking forward to the next book.
Spice: 3/5
Fun: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
Thanks to GRR for providing an eARC, this is my honest review.
January 13, 2026
I have really enjoyed this series about the artistic, eccentric Hawthorne family, and Composed was such a tender addition. This one follows Nally, the youngest Hawthorne brother and a gifted composer, and his lifelong best friend Jude and wow, the friends-to-lovers angst hit just right.
Nally’s sudden rise to fame completely overwhelms him, and Jude is his calm, his safe place, the one person who truly understands him. Their bond is so natural and deep that everyone else can see what’s happening long before they do. They’re young, a little naïve, and clearly terrified of ruining the friendship they can’t imagine life without, which made their hesitation feel very real.
Jude’s internal struggle especially got to me. He’s confident online as an influencer, but emotionally guarded and afraid of repeating past heartbreak. Add in a stalker plot that’s genuinely unsettling, and suddenly their feelings aren’t something they can keep avoiding. Jude’s protectiveness and Nally’s vulnerability made for some really emotional moments.
There’s angst, warmth, family support, and just enough danger to keep the tension high, but this is still a soft, heartfelt story about growing up together and finally choosing each other. I loved the cameos from previous characters, and the tease for the next brother definitely has me ready for what’s coming next.
A lovely, emotional friends-to-lovers romance that reminded me why I enjoy this series so much. 💛
Nally’s sudden rise to fame completely overwhelms him, and Jude is his calm, his safe place, the one person who truly understands him. Their bond is so natural and deep that everyone else can see what’s happening long before they do. They’re young, a little naïve, and clearly terrified of ruining the friendship they can’t imagine life without, which made their hesitation feel very real.
Jude’s internal struggle especially got to me. He’s confident online as an influencer, but emotionally guarded and afraid of repeating past heartbreak. Add in a stalker plot that’s genuinely unsettling, and suddenly their feelings aren’t something they can keep avoiding. Jude’s protectiveness and Nally’s vulnerability made for some really emotional moments.
There’s angst, warmth, family support, and just enough danger to keep the tension high, but this is still a soft, heartfelt story about growing up together and finally choosing each other. I loved the cameos from previous characters, and the tease for the next brother definitely has me ready for what’s coming next.
A lovely, emotional friends-to-lovers romance that reminded me why I enjoy this series so much. 💛
December 31, 2025
This is book seven in the author’s Art of Love series featuring the eccentric Hawthorne family and in this one, we get Nally’s (the youngest Hawthorne sibling) story. Not a whole lot was known about him going in but, turns out, Nally’s quite the musical genius. Already composed the soundtrack for a hit movie in his early twenties? Yep, that’s Nally! When Jude, his best friend since grade school and a well known social media influencer in his own right, offers to help him with his online presence, the two finally acknowledge what everyone else has known for years.
This one was more angsty than I remember any of the others in the series being. I also kinda got a little frustrated with Nally and Jude though because they waffled back and forth almost the WHOLE. Book! For a while, yeah, I get that but the whole book? And on top of that, Nally had a stalker and that man was NUTS; he’s gotta be read to be believed! All’s well that ends well though, I guess, and we did get our HEA so I’m happy for them. I just wish we’d gotten past the wishy washy part much earlier and had more time with them as a couple. That’s just me though, I’m not that wild about angst—others may think that was the best part 🤷♀️. For me, 4 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
This one was more angsty than I remember any of the others in the series being. I also kinda got a little frustrated with Nally and Jude though because they waffled back and forth almost the WHOLE. Book! For a while, yeah, I get that but the whole book? And on top of that, Nally had a stalker and that man was NUTS; he’s gotta be read to be believed! All’s well that ends well though, I guess, and we did get our HEA so I’m happy for them. I just wish we’d gotten past the wishy washy part much earlier and had more time with them as a couple. That’s just me though, I’m not that wild about angst—others may think that was the best part 🤷♀️. For me, 4 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 23, 2025
Nally has no idea how to deal with his huge & recent success. He’s a bit naive about how to deal with all this. Thank goodness for his friend Jude, who is able to help him with this new part of his life. He’s willing to help him with anything, but as their feelings grow & Nally has a problem with an obsessed fan, it’s clear that they can truly be there for one another in hopefully more ways than one...
One part that seemed a bit strange was how Jude was a media influencer, behaved as if it was a real job, but didn’t make enough money to live from this. It would have been better if he’d had a side job (even part time), until being an influencer paid the bills.
Everyone always mistakes them as being a couple, and they seem to be the last ones who admit that maybe they should try it out. It takes them a while, since they want to avoid possible issues, but still, it’s just clear to everyone that they should be together.
I *loved* Nally’s mom... He had one great, open conversation with her near the end of the book. I needed more of this, throughout the book!
Despite this, it was a nice well written story, and it seemed mostly realistic, too.
I received this free ARC, and this is my honest review.
One part that seemed a bit strange was how Jude was a media influencer, behaved as if it was a real job, but didn’t make enough money to live from this. It would have been better if he’d had a side job (even part time), until being an influencer paid the bills.
Everyone always mistakes them as being a couple, and they seem to be the last ones who admit that maybe they should try it out. It takes them a while, since they want to avoid possible issues, but still, it’s just clear to everyone that they should be together.
I *loved* Nally’s mom... He had one great, open conversation with her near the end of the book. I needed more of this, throughout the book!
Despite this, it was a nice well written story, and it seemed mostly realistic, too.
I received this free ARC, and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nally & Jude
"We're posh slobs who slob knobs." 😂
These two had me cackling almost non-stop throughout their story, despite the few stressful moments that they had to deal with.
This was a great story that covers the misconceptions of two men coming together as a couple when they each primarily see themselves as "bottoms" and finding their way because their love for one another throughout their friendship was more important and stronger than those silly ideas of what makes or identifies a couple. I loved that pretty much everyone in their lives saw their romantic relationship coming, even if they were oblivious for years and focused on the wrong things in their lives. One comment the men made was that they had to 'panic about it to be sure it was real', and I thought that was hilarious.
Composed was a fantastic adventure between these two long-time friends and because I haven't read as much from this series yet, I'm intrigued by the Hawthorne family and estate and will have to circle back to the earlier stories in the series for the full experience. I look forward to Ryan's romance to come.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
"We're posh slobs who slob knobs." 😂
These two had me cackling almost non-stop throughout their story, despite the few stressful moments that they had to deal with.
This was a great story that covers the misconceptions of two men coming together as a couple when they each primarily see themselves as "bottoms" and finding their way because their love for one another throughout their friendship was more important and stronger than those silly ideas of what makes or identifies a couple. I loved that pretty much everyone in their lives saw their romantic relationship coming, even if they were oblivious for years and focused on the wrong things in their lives. One comment the men made was that they had to 'panic about it to be sure it was real', and I thought that was hilarious.
Composed was a fantastic adventure between these two long-time friends and because I haven't read as much from this series yet, I'm intrigued by the Hawthorne family and estate and will have to circle back to the earlier stories in the series for the full experience. I look forward to Ryan's romance to come.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
December 31, 2025
I really enjoyed this story about two anxious men who push past their fears to embrace love. Nally and Jude have been best friends pretty much their entire lives. Two artistic children of broke aristocratic families, they bonded on a deep level and pretty much live in each others' pockets. Nally is a composer on the verge of becoming famous and Jude is a well known influencer. When Nally becomes overwhelmed by the instant fame coming his way, Jude steps in to help manage and protect him. They both know their relationship is changing into something more serious but neither of them knows how to handle that. Adding to the pressure is a stalker that is targeting Nally. This book had a unique take on the BFFs to lovers trope which I found really interesting. Both characters are worriers in their own ways and also they have to work for the intimacy to work well between them. I feel like we so often see couples in stories just instantly fitting together and it was nice to see characters have to put some effort in. It helped deepen the satisfaction with the HEA. Would totally recommend this one and the rest of the series as well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nally Hawthorne has always been a musical prodigy, but when the soundtrack he’s scored for a hit movie rockets him into the spotlight, he has no idea how to handle fame. It’s only natural for him to turn to his best friend since forever and social media influencer, Jude. The two of them have always been two peas in a pod & have been friends since school. But everything changes when an obsessive fan starts stalking Nally.
Nally is the youngest Hawthorne & fast friends with Jude but their feelings are changing & deepening but neither wants to risk losing that special friendship, the sexual tension was amazing but even when they admitted their feelings things didn’t go as planned! There’s also tension with the stalker & Jude keep things from Nally. I loved that they were both drama queens & how they were the last to realise that they were a couple. An engrossing book which had tension, drama as well as light hearted moments
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Nally is the youngest Hawthorne & fast friends with Jude but their feelings are changing & deepening but neither wants to risk losing that special friendship, the sexual tension was amazing but even when they admitted their feelings things didn’t go as planned! There’s also tension with the stalker & Jude keep things from Nally. I loved that they were both drama queens & how they were the last to realise that they were a couple. An engrossing book which had tension, drama as well as light hearted moments
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
December 29, 2025
Nally and Jude's book is the seventh in the Art Of Love series but works as a standalone. I haven't read the others and didn't feel like I was missing context. This story, set in the artistic upper class world the Hawthorne family is part of, leans into the friends to lovers trope…well more like oblivious doofuses to lovers.
Nally, a composer, and Jude, an influencer, are nice (if neurotic) characters. They’ve been almost inseparable from early teens and have a lot of similar traits. The awkward shift from BFFs to addressing the complicated romantic feelings for each other is comedic, though it really accentuates their bond, but also their youth and immaturity.
As a romance, it's nice and fluffy and I like the stalker premise but references to the perp and appearances felt quite sporadic here, so it didn't really achieve the right balance for me. Overall, whilst I wouldn't say there's anything wrong with the book - though I did get a bit frustrated by how many times and how many characters wailed ‘it’s all my fault’ - this one just didn't set the world on fire for me. Nice, easy reading…3*.
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest opinion.
Nally, a composer, and Jude, an influencer, are nice (if neurotic) characters. They’ve been almost inseparable from early teens and have a lot of similar traits. The awkward shift from BFFs to addressing the complicated romantic feelings for each other is comedic, though it really accentuates their bond, but also their youth and immaturity.
As a romance, it's nice and fluffy and I like the stalker premise but references to the perp and appearances felt quite sporadic here, so it didn't really achieve the right balance for me. Overall, whilst I wouldn't say there's anything wrong with the book - though I did get a bit frustrated by how many times and how many characters wailed ‘it’s all my fault’ - this one just didn't set the world on fire for me. Nice, easy reading…3*.
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest opinion.
December 27, 2025
A musical romance
I am loving this series about this artistic family and their community center/home. Merry Farmer finally gives us the story of Nally, the musical genius in the family and his best friend Jude. I love music, but have never been musical myself and I am amazed by how Ms Farmer is able to write so well about so many different things. I do know through her Facebook page that she does a lot of research and has even tried things like making pottery herself to make her books more realistic.
Too often friends to lovers drives me crazy to read as I feel like reaching into the book and telling them to get together. This book didn’t make me feel like that! I felt like there were realistic reasons why they were oblivious and didn’t want to start anything. I was cheering them on from this side of my e-reader. The stalker thing never felt like it was added just to add more excitement to the story and instead was an important element.
Another fabulous addition to this series.
I am loving this series about this artistic family and their community center/home. Merry Farmer finally gives us the story of Nally, the musical genius in the family and his best friend Jude. I love music, but have never been musical myself and I am amazed by how Ms Farmer is able to write so well about so many different things. I do know through her Facebook page that she does a lot of research and has even tried things like making pottery herself to make her books more realistic.
Too often friends to lovers drives me crazy to read as I feel like reaching into the book and telling them to get together. This book didn’t make me feel like that! I felt like there were realistic reasons why they were oblivious and didn’t want to start anything. I was cheering them on from this side of my e-reader. The stalker thing never felt like it was added just to add more excitement to the story and instead was an important element.
Another fabulous addition to this series.
January 1, 2026
This book seven in The Art of Love series. I think you could enjoy it as a standalone read if you wanted. This is the story of Nally Hawthorne and Jude Cranleigh. Nally is a music prodigy who is working as a composer. The soundtrack he’s scored for a hit movie rockets him into the spotlight and he has no idea how to handle fame. Luckily for him; his best friend since childhood, Jude, just happens to be a social media influencer. No one better to help him handle his new found fame and the problems that it brings as well. Friends and family recognized what their relationship truly is long before Jude and Nally realize. But when a crazed fan moves into Stalker territory, that gives them the push they need to open up and be honest with each other. This is their story. The book is well written and easy to read. I received a complimentary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I enjoyed how much family played a roll in the book. I really enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
January 3, 2026
Nally and Jude are so cute. They have known one another for a long time. They have such a solid friendship and a history that has even had some challenges to their friendship and their bond remains true. There is so much about these men that is complementary - Nally is a gifted young composer who is experiencing success earlier than he expected and Jude is a social media influencer. Their current challenge is leaving the only friends part of their relationship behind and leaning into their developing romantic feelings for one another and navigating the change from just friends to more. Another, more frightening thing they have to deal with is a stalker who turns out to be more than just a problem. There is some danger but they get through it and heal together from the physical altercation and they also, with the support of their families, embrace the fact that they are indeed meant to be. I am really enjoying this series and find each pairing relatable.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5* rounded up
Omg, these two bumbling idiots are so great together.
This is a classical friends-to-lovers with two men who can't see what is in front of them and everyone just waits for them to realise what they already assume or believed.
I don't think I had a book with this thrope which entertained from start to finish in a long while. Nally is a typical artist, no idea about how to sort himself out most of the time and Jude - while more saffy about social media - is getting over his head trying to help and protect Nally.
The stalker part is more the catalyst of them realising what is in front of them but even a one-bed-scenario is not going smoothly, I couldn't stop laughing when they tried and failed.
They don't do anything the easy way as they don't know how to handle it without causing problems.
The Hawthorne Clan is all in action as well, protecting who they love and offering their usual style of advice.
Bring on the next book.
Omg, these two bumbling idiots are so great together.
This is a classical friends-to-lovers with two men who can't see what is in front of them and everyone just waits for them to realise what they already assume or believed.
I don't think I had a book with this thrope which entertained from start to finish in a long while. Nally is a typical artist, no idea about how to sort himself out most of the time and Jude - while more saffy about social media - is getting over his head trying to help and protect Nally.
The stalker part is more the catalyst of them realising what is in front of them but even a one-bed-scenario is not going smoothly, I couldn't stop laughing when they tried and failed.
They don't do anything the easy way as they don't know how to handle it without causing problems.
The Hawthorne Clan is all in action as well, protecting who they love and offering their usual style of advice.
Bring on the next book.
January 1, 2026
Once bitten, twice shy. That's how the saying goes, but it doesn't quite fit here. Anyone who has experienced the loss that follows those first tender feelings will shy away from the possibility of finding true love in a friend.
That fits better.
Friendship vs. love is exciting enough, but when you mix in fame and constant media attention, it quickly becomes overwhelming. What I found beautifully portrayed here was that fame isn't all sunshine and rainbows and that it can also have a dark side. I wouldn't wish having a stalker on anyone.
Those who appreciate friends-to-lovers stories, as I certainly do, will find a wonderful tale here with relatable and emotional characters. Of course, this trope is quite prevalent, but some things are simply never enough, and Merry Farmer has a unique way of storytelling.
Sometimes growth isn't about becoming stronger—it's about stopping hiding.
Highly recommended.
That fits better.
Friendship vs. love is exciting enough, but when you mix in fame and constant media attention, it quickly becomes overwhelming. What I found beautifully portrayed here was that fame isn't all sunshine and rainbows and that it can also have a dark side. I wouldn't wish having a stalker on anyone.
Those who appreciate friends-to-lovers stories, as I certainly do, will find a wonderful tale here with relatable and emotional characters. Of course, this trope is quite prevalent, but some things are simply never enough, and Merry Farmer has a unique way of storytelling.
Sometimes growth isn't about becoming stronger—it's about stopping hiding.
Highly recommended.
January 2, 2026
This was a really touching friends-to-lovers romance that crept up on me in the best way. Nally and Jude’s connection feels completely genuine, built on years of shared history and quiet understanding, which makes the shift from friendship to something more both tender and inevitable. Nally’s struggle with sudden fame is handled with care, and it’s easy to feel how overwhelming it is for him, especially when all he wants is the comfort of the one person who’s always been there.
Jude’s perspective adds a lovely layer of emotional tension. He’s confident and successful on the surface, yet deeply afraid of risking the friendship that means everything to him. That push and pull between longing and fear is beautifully done. The stalking storyline raises the stakes without overpowering the romance, giving them no choice but to face what they truly mean to each other.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Jude’s perspective adds a lovely layer of emotional tension. He’s confident and successful on the surface, yet deeply afraid of risking the friendship that means everything to him. That push and pull between longing and fear is beautifully done. The stalking storyline raises the stakes without overpowering the romance, giving them no choice but to face what they truly mean to each other.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Do you think it’s possible to make a problem where there isn’t one because everything feels too anticlimactic if you don’t?”
I loved this latest edition to the series, The Art of Love, by Merry Farmer. I really need to go back and read the books that I've missed out on since this series and it's characters are so interesting. If only there were more hours in the day.
What a sweet story. These two artsy dorky guys are perfect for one another, if only they could get out of their own way and realize it like everyone else has. Nally is the composer and the youngest of the Hawthorne's. Jude is a social media influencer and Nally's best friend.
A rabid stalker, two childhood best friends, two peas in a pod, a breakout moment in his musical career, a loving free-spirited family where disasters seem to be commonplace events, can they learn to be versatile
I loved this latest edition to the series, The Art of Love, by Merry Farmer. I really need to go back and read the books that I've missed out on since this series and it's characters are so interesting. If only there were more hours in the day.
What a sweet story. These two artsy dorky guys are perfect for one another, if only they could get out of their own way and realize it like everyone else has. Nally is the composer and the youngest of the Hawthorne's. Jude is a social media influencer and Nally's best friend.
A rabid stalker, two childhood best friends, two peas in a pod, a breakout moment in his musical career, a loving free-spirited family where disasters seem to be commonplace events, can they learn to be versatile
January 6, 2026
One of the things I like most about the best friends to lovers trope, is the lightbulb moment where one MC realizes that everything they've ever wanted in a relationship is right in front of them. Usually comes with pining and angst as the other MC had always known MC1 was the one.
That's not here. And I honestly didn't miss it. Nally and Jude loved each other, before they fell in love. They were always there for each other. They're open about the difficulties of moving from friends to lovers, and teah, there are a few bumps in the road to HEA.
A stalker adds a breath of danger. Both families are supportive, with cameos from the other books. Overall, low on the angst meter, but very high on the sizzle meter. A sweet story. Fits so well into the Art of Love universe.
I received an advanced copy of this e book and this is my review.
That's not here. And I honestly didn't miss it. Nally and Jude loved each other, before they fell in love. They were always there for each other. They're open about the difficulties of moving from friends to lovers, and teah, there are a few bumps in the road to HEA.
A stalker adds a breath of danger. Both families are supportive, with cameos from the other books. Overall, low on the angst meter, but very high on the sizzle meter. A sweet story. Fits so well into the Art of Love universe.
I received an advanced copy of this e book and this is my review.
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January 19, 2026A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
This is the seventh book in Merry Farmer’s Art of Love series, and fully enjoyable as a standalone. It is the first friends-to-lovers romance I’ve read that has complete calamity happening before, during, and after the couple gets together. I really liked both characters and the will they/won’t they tension was funny, adding a levity that helped to balance the stalker drama. This book is dripping with angst, but it’s also filled with love and heart.
Real talk, though; the stalker business gets dire, so if that’s a trigger for you, take care. Otherwise, Composed is a solid new adult romance and I loved reading a realistic fiction story from this author.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
This is the seventh book in Merry Farmer’s Art of Love series, and fully enjoyable as a standalone. It is the first friends-to-lovers romance I’ve read that has complete calamity happening before, during, and after the couple gets together. I really liked both characters and the will they/won’t they tension was funny, adding a levity that helped to balance the stalker drama. This book is dripping with angst, but it’s also filled with love and heart.
Real talk, though; the stalker business gets dire, so if that’s a trigger for you, take care. Otherwise, Composed is a solid new adult romance and I loved reading a realistic fiction story from this author.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Hawthorne family continues to entertain with their peculiar way of handling wealth and prestige, all while trying to find love and authenticity in their lives and artistic pursuits. Nally, the youngest Hawthorne, is a composer whose movie score is about to burst onto the scene. Meanwhile, his childhood friend, Jude, is a modestly successful influencer. They're committed to remaining friends, and only friends, even as they both realize they may harbor deeper feelings and desires. This reads like a novella even though it's slightly longer. My only complaint would be that both men read as naive in the face of an overzealous fan, and I had to decide to believe that they wouldn't worry more sooner. That said, the books zips along and ends satisfyingly.
December 27, 2025
Nally and Jude are best friends who are constantly in 'each other's pockets' and don't realize they mean more than just friends to each other...which they are 'blind' to.
After Nally becomes famous for a composition he wrote, he attracts attention...much of it unwanted.
As a social media influence, Jude offers to handle his social media accounts.
When a stalker becomes aggressive, they are both threatened.
This is a currently relevant book with lessons about privacy, what you should/or shouldn't post online, and the need to tell the police everything!
Thanks to GRR and Merry for this exciting and romantic story.
After Nally becomes famous for a composition he wrote, he attracts attention...much of it unwanted.
As a social media influence, Jude offers to handle his social media accounts.
When a stalker becomes aggressive, they are both threatened.
This is a currently relevant book with lessons about privacy, what you should/or shouldn't post online, and the need to tell the police everything!
Thanks to GRR and Merry for this exciting and romantic story.
December 26, 2025
Nally is the youngest in the Hawthorne family and a prodigy in music. After composing a soundtrack for a film, he is suddenly famous. Jude his lifelong friend is an influencer on social media try’s to help him. Unfortunately his fame attracts a stalker. This adventure in the lives of Nally and Jude also brings their attraction to each other to the forefront. These two are very naive in how to handle this new situation. With the solidarity of the Hawthorne family they have solid guidance in helping them. This is a sweet story with drama, danger, romance so fun to read.
December 27, 2025
Composed, The Art of Love book #7, is about Nally and Jude.
They’re absolute best friends from an early age and are like two peas in a pod. But Nally’s sudden fame and the change of feelings for his best friend are wrecking him. And when those feelings are returned by Jude things turn a bit weird and uncomfortable. Friends turning into lovers is quite the journey for both Nally and Jude, because there’s so much to lose if it fails. Adding a stalker to the mix doesn’t make things any easier for them.
I really liked this book.
They’re absolute best friends from an early age and are like two peas in a pod. But Nally’s sudden fame and the change of feelings for his best friend are wrecking him. And when those feelings are returned by Jude things turn a bit weird and uncomfortable. Friends turning into lovers is quite the journey for both Nally and Jude, because there’s so much to lose if it fails. Adding a stalker to the mix doesn’t make things any easier for them.
I really liked this book.
December 27, 2025
After reading this fun book, it is apparent I have some work to do in readying the earlier books. I feel in love with Nally and Jude immediately and knew they were destined for love. Seems that all the others in the book saw that too, just too them time to move and accept the change in relationship (they are long life friends). I love that it has romance with suspense (a stalker of Nally) gives it some depth. Do not worry however if you have not read the first books you will still love this one.
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