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"Facade", is the first book in the series, Seductively Ever After.and is a modern romance inspired by the beloved story, "Phantom of The Opera". It is a combination of all the different incarnations.
* * *
The world is nothing but one big façade. You have to be special to see the behind the mask.
Erik Renevant once lived in the spotlight. As lead singer for the wildly successful group, Specter the world revered him. When an accident destroyed his band and his face, he chose to live his life in the darkness, hiding away from the shadows of his former self and refusing to be seen again.
Christine Day longs to have her chance in the spotlight. Living her life flitting from one thing to the other and currently without a permanent residence, she sees her big break in becoming the backup singer for an unknown band and entering the Stage of Stars, the latest hit reality competition.
When Christine wanders into Erik’s perfectly controlled world and he hears her voice, he knows she is destined for super stardom. However, he never dreamed she would be the one to help him shatter his own façade and lead him into the light.
* * *
The world is nothing but one big façade. You have to be special to see the behind the mask.
Erik Renevant once lived in the spotlight. As lead singer for the wildly successful group, Specter the world revered him. When an accident destroyed his band and his face, he chose to live his life in the darkness, hiding away from the shadows of his former self and refusing to be seen again.
Christine Day longs to have her chance in the spotlight. Living her life flitting from one thing to the other and currently without a permanent residence, she sees her big break in becoming the backup singer for an unknown band and entering the Stage of Stars, the latest hit reality competition.
When Christine wanders into Erik’s perfectly controlled world and he hears her voice, he knows she is destined for super stardom. However, he never dreamed she would be the one to help him shatter his own façade and lead him into the light.
- GenresRomance
146 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2016
30 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Kim Carmichael
54 books538 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author, Kim Carmichael, began writing fourteen years ago when her love of happy endings inspired her to create her own. She has a weakness for bad boys and techno geeks, and married her own computer whiz after he proved he could keep her all her gadgets running. When not writing, she can usually be found slathered in sunscreen trolling Los Angeles and helping top doctors build their practices.
You can find Kim Carmichael at:
www.kimcarmichaelnovels.com
When you sign up for her newsletter you get a free short story, The Drive.
You can also find her on facebook at kimcarmichaelnovels or follow her on twitter at @kimcarmichael4
You can find Kim Carmichael at:
www.kimcarmichaelnovels.com
When you sign up for her newsletter you get a free short story, The Drive.
You can also find her on facebook at kimcarmichaelnovels or follow her on twitter at @kimcarmichael4
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
March 18, 2016
Kim Carmichael gives a romantic twist to The Phantom of the Opera.
This is my first book by Kim and I was drew to the book due to its inspiration by one of my favorites classical read. I don't recall much of the original, but its definitely not a feel good romance. So I'm really looking forward to see my Erik getting a HEA this time around.
Erik, was once the lead singer of a popular rock band named Spectra until the day his face was scarred by an accident while performing on stage. Since then he had been secluding himself in the theater he bought.
Christine is a wanderer and a dreamer. She is practically homeless and penniless, only armed with a great vocal. She was initially a back up singer for an amateur band that is planning to audition for a reality talent show.
Upon a chance occurrence, Christine came across Erik's theater and was enamored by its beauty. She can't stop herself visiting it repeatedly, until she finally came across its enigmatic masked owner. Erik turns out to be a gifted musician and wanted to coach her win the talent show.
"I want to see you."
"There's nothing to see, everything in life is a facade."
Facade does read like fairy tale. It does have some magical touch to it, like how a homeless girl manage to find the one man who help her succeed in life and she in turn accept him despite his flaws. I think Kim only manage to skim the surface of the complexity of her characters. I wish I know more of Christine's past and her life on the street and how did Erik manage to live a secluded life for a decade. All these are being touched on, but not really in depth. However, the characters interaction and the overall pacing of the story makes this a really engaging read for me.
"You can't make me better, Christine."
"I don't want to make you better. Don't you see? I wanted you to make me better."
Most of the story centered around their music. I wish Kim can include some of the lyrics to make us feel more connected to her feelings and emotions. One thing I find it bothersome is the celebrity judges' critics. They sound really fake and cheesy. Did American Idol's judges sounds that awful? Maybe.
The ending with the epilogue is a nice touch. It would have been better if this book is longer and I get to read about how their journey continues from the last chapter to the epilogue. It is something really worth exploring in my opinion.
This is my first book by Kim and I was drew to the book due to its inspiration by one of my favorites classical read. I don't recall much of the original, but its definitely not a feel good romance. So I'm really looking forward to see my Erik getting a HEA this time around.
Erik, was once the lead singer of a popular rock band named Spectra until the day his face was scarred by an accident while performing on stage. Since then he had been secluding himself in the theater he bought.
Christine is a wanderer and a dreamer. She is practically homeless and penniless, only armed with a great vocal. She was initially a back up singer for an amateur band that is planning to audition for a reality talent show.
Upon a chance occurrence, Christine came across Erik's theater and was enamored by its beauty. She can't stop herself visiting it repeatedly, until she finally came across its enigmatic masked owner. Erik turns out to be a gifted musician and wanted to coach her win the talent show.
"I want to see you."
"There's nothing to see, everything in life is a facade."
Facade does read like fairy tale. It does have some magical touch to it, like how a homeless girl manage to find the one man who help her succeed in life and she in turn accept him despite his flaws. I think Kim only manage to skim the surface of the complexity of her characters. I wish I know more of Christine's past and her life on the street and how did Erik manage to live a secluded life for a decade. All these are being touched on, but not really in depth. However, the characters interaction and the overall pacing of the story makes this a really engaging read for me.
"You can't make me better, Christine."
"I don't want to make you better. Don't you see? I wanted you to make me better."
Most of the story centered around their music. I wish Kim can include some of the lyrics to make us feel more connected to her feelings and emotions. One thing I find it bothersome is the celebrity judges' critics. They sound really fake and cheesy. Did American Idol's judges sounds that awful? Maybe.
The ending with the epilogue is a nice touch. It would have been better if this book is longer and I get to read about how their journey continues from the last chapter to the epilogue. It is something really worth exploring in my opinion.
September 9, 2024
" - You can't make me better Christine
- I don't want to make you better. Don't you see? I wanted you to make me better."
"Life is nothing but a facade if you are not with the one you love."
- I don't want to make you better. Don't you see? I wanted you to make me better."
"Life is nothing but a facade if you are not with the one you love."
May 4, 2020
I have an obsession with The Phantom of the Opera so I whenever I find a retelling or inspired story I just have to read it. This one was pretty cute, very easy going and without any unnecessary drama, though if we’re being honest The Phantom demands for drama.
If Goodreads allowed it I would have given it a five stars because I feel like nothing was too remarkable on this and I found quite a handful or typos (I’m not even an English native speaker and even I was able to spot them) but like I can’t I’ve decided to give it four because it was real nice and I enjoyed it.
If Goodreads allowed it I would have given it a five stars because I feel like nothing was too remarkable on this and I found quite a handful or typos (I’m not even an English native speaker and even I was able to spot them) but like I can’t I’ve decided to give it four because it was real nice and I enjoyed it.
August 20, 2025
I needed the Erik/Christine fluff.
March 30, 2016
I was drawn to this book as soon as I discovered it was inspired by one of my most favourite musicals. I love "The Phantom of The Opera" so I was very much looking forward to reading this one. I was curious to see how the author would bring such a classic love story into the present day and I have to say that I was not disappointed. I wholeheartedly enjoyed every minute of being wrapped up in this book and I fell in love with Eric and Christine's delicious romance all over again.
.."The second he kissed her that would be it, he would never be able to let her go." .
Eric and Christine's story was brought into the modern world through the delights of an "X-Factor" style television series. The book is focused around a reality entertainment competition in which Christine enters. I loved the idea of bringing a talent show into the story and all of the other additions that the author made to bring the story into the present day. I also enjoyed how the author stayed faithful to the the old world charm of the original story. I always thought there was something utterly enchanting about Eric and Christine's world so I was excited to see that this quality was continued in "Facade" giving the story a fairytale like feeling to it, which I adored.
.."I didn't know what an angel looked like until you entered my theatre."
.
I absolutely loved Eric and Christine, who were obviously based on the original characters. They shared such a sweet love story. I did notice that Eric was a lot more pleasant in this book, therefore I found it even easier to fall in love with him this time around. I loved uncovering a softer and more vulnerable side to him than I was expecting. My heart broke for him as he constantly battled his insecurities. Surprisingly, it was Christine who emerged as the more stronger and determined of the two. Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed.
.."You can't make me better, Christine."
"Don't you see? I wanted you to make me better.".
This book was my first from Kim Carmichael, but it I'm sure it won't be my last. I loved this modern day twist on a classic love story. It was easy to read, full of beautiful romance and it took up just the right amount of reading time. What more could you ask for from a book?
.."The second he kissed her that would be it, he would never be able to let her go." .
Eric and Christine's story was brought into the modern world through the delights of an "X-Factor" style television series. The book is focused around a reality entertainment competition in which Christine enters. I loved the idea of bringing a talent show into the story and all of the other additions that the author made to bring the story into the present day. I also enjoyed how the author stayed faithful to the the old world charm of the original story. I always thought there was something utterly enchanting about Eric and Christine's world so I was excited to see that this quality was continued in "Facade" giving the story a fairytale like feeling to it, which I adored.
.."I didn't know what an angel looked like until you entered my theatre."
.
I absolutely loved Eric and Christine, who were obviously based on the original characters. They shared such a sweet love story. I did notice that Eric was a lot more pleasant in this book, therefore I found it even easier to fall in love with him this time around. I loved uncovering a softer and more vulnerable side to him than I was expecting. My heart broke for him as he constantly battled his insecurities. Surprisingly, it was Christine who emerged as the more stronger and determined of the two. Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed.
.."You can't make me better, Christine."
"Don't you see? I wanted you to make me better.".
This book was my first from Kim Carmichael, but it I'm sure it won't be my last. I loved this modern day twist on a classic love story. It was easy to read, full of beautiful romance and it took up just the right amount of reading time. What more could you ask for from a book?
April 14, 2016
Where do I begin to tell the story of how great a love can be... (c) Or how the Phantom of the Opera's story transforms into the modern retelling.
I was ready to love this book. Frankly speaking, read dozen of Phantom-ish books, I'm quite sceptical about them now. But this time I decided to let the story go. It coud've been interesting, but instead it turned to be average boring fluff.
What I liked. Christine. Though the author tried to use a lot of cliches ever existed in the PotO fandom, the female lead got some fresh ideas. Her behavior wasn's as stupid as it could be expected from a Mary-Sue-like character. She encourages sympathy. That's great. And then the subplot of the story, the talent show, Christine took part in. Quite interesting and really enjoyable. Though 3/4 unrealistic, it's still unusual set for our fandom.
What I disliked. Erik. Really, he wasn't that bad, but he was so mush cliched, I almost cried. I think there is a general issue with such characters in modern retellings. The problem is, they conduct themselves in modern world like they're still in 19th century! They hide, wearing mask and abandon the real life. I'm not speaking they're immodestly rich. Yes, that's what original Erik did himself, but honestly, in 2016 does he need to do the same tricks?
And another great problem was the writing style. It wasn't bad, but it was quite weird. Of course it could be me, English isn't my native language. But still. The way sentences were build, the choice of vocabulary... Sometimes it was uneasy to follow the line.
But also there was Nash, Erik's friend. I presume, he's playing the role of Persian in this story. And I simply liked him. It's a pity he was only the suppor character without his own storyline. I'd like to read more about him.
I was ready to love this book. Frankly speaking, read dozen of Phantom-ish books, I'm quite sceptical about them now. But this time I decided to let the story go. It coud've been interesting, but instead it turned to be average boring fluff.
What I liked. Christine. Though the author tried to use a lot of cliches ever existed in the PotO fandom, the female lead got some fresh ideas. Her behavior wasn's as stupid as it could be expected from a Mary-Sue-like character. She encourages sympathy. That's great. And then the subplot of the story, the talent show, Christine took part in. Quite interesting and really enjoyable. Though 3/4 unrealistic, it's still unusual set for our fandom.
What I disliked. Erik. Really, he wasn't that bad, but he was so mush cliched, I almost cried. I think there is a general issue with such characters in modern retellings. The problem is, they conduct themselves in modern world like they're still in 19th century! They hide, wearing mask and abandon the real life. I'm not speaking they're immodestly rich. Yes, that's what original Erik did himself, but honestly, in 2016 does he need to do the same tricks?
And another great problem was the writing style. It wasn't bad, but it was quite weird. Of course it could be me, English isn't my native language. But still. The way sentences were build, the choice of vocabulary... Sometimes it was uneasy to follow the line.
But also there was Nash, Erik's friend. I presume, he's playing the role of Persian in this story. And I simply liked him. It's a pity he was only the suppor character without his own storyline. I'd like to read more about him.
April 21, 2016
Facade was a bit of a fail, sadly enough. Sure, it had some things that I liked but mostly it wasn't a very good book for me, which is really too bad because I'm a huge Phantom of the Opera fan.
I'll start with the good. What I liked was obviously that this book was inspired by The Phantom of the Opera. I liked how the author took elements from the original story and put them in a modern setting. It was also a pretty quick read so that's also a bonus.
Now the bad... the characters were kind of boring. Especially Christine fell flat to me. She really had no depth whatsoever. Erik could be okay at times, though. I also wasn't a fan of the writing. It was mediocre at best. I just wanted more character and world building, I guess.
I also want to say that the story itself wasn't bad either. Like I said before I liked the modern setting. And also Christine entering a competition called Stage of Stars where Erik trains her for.
I'm not sure what to say about the secondary characters. I definitely liked Nash. But as for the others, I don't really feel like I got to know them that well. The romance aspect wasn't my favorite either. Sometimes it was okay, but other times it was just bad.
Overall I wouldn't recommend Facade by Kim Carmichael. I really wanted to like it but even though I'm pretty obsessed with all things Phantom of the Opera, this wasn't the story for me.
I'll start with the good. What I liked was obviously that this book was inspired by The Phantom of the Opera. I liked how the author took elements from the original story and put them in a modern setting. It was also a pretty quick read so that's also a bonus.
Now the bad... the characters were kind of boring. Especially Christine fell flat to me. She really had no depth whatsoever. Erik could be okay at times, though. I also wasn't a fan of the writing. It was mediocre at best. I just wanted more character and world building, I guess.
I also want to say that the story itself wasn't bad either. Like I said before I liked the modern setting. And also Christine entering a competition called Stage of Stars where Erik trains her for.
I'm not sure what to say about the secondary characters. I definitely liked Nash. But as for the others, I don't really feel like I got to know them that well. The romance aspect wasn't my favorite either. Sometimes it was okay, but other times it was just bad.
Overall I wouldn't recommend Facade by Kim Carmichael. I really wanted to like it but even though I'm pretty obsessed with all things Phantom of the Opera, this wasn't the story for me.
March 17, 2016
Facade had some big shoes to fill. Any writer who seeks to create a story inspired by one of the most dramatic and over the top musicals of all time may need their head examined. Ms. Carmichael took a story well known and added her voice to a classic. She captured the longing for fame that Christine craved and the air of naivety of the character is so believable that I as a reader wanted to protect her. Erik in his madness willows in darkness and dwells in the anger at his predicament, the pain of all he lost and the yearning for the unattainable. Phantom of the Opera is a story that is as timeless as it is dark. Facade took the best parts of a story full of heartbreaking despair and brings a modern voice to any reader that has not experienced the power of this story. I received an ARC of Facade in exchange for an honest review. A beautiful adaptation of a still relevant story.
May 1, 2016
The Book Junkie Reads . . . Review of Facade. . .
The similarities got me in the door. I love Phantom of the Opera. I have loved it for years. The premise of this destined romance had me at the on set. It wavered in some placed but kept me to the end.
Christine needed some work as far as her depth. She had the voice and beauty. There was that extra umph that was missing from her as a lead heroine.
Erik had the brooding ex-superstar down. I found him rich and intriguing. He grew and opened up. I will give Christine that much. She brough hime out.
**This eBook was provided by NK Author Serives the author in exchange for an honest review.**
The similarities got me in the door. I love Phantom of the Opera. I have loved it for years. The premise of this destined romance had me at the on set. It wavered in some placed but kept me to the end.
Christine needed some work as far as her depth. She had the voice and beauty. There was that extra umph that was missing from her as a lead heroine.
Erik had the brooding ex-superstar down. I found him rich and intriguing. He grew and opened up. I will give Christine that much. She brough hime out.
**This eBook was provided by NK Author Serives the author in exchange for an honest review.**
March 17, 2016
THREE Stars!
I received an ARC for an honest review of Facade: A Modern Romance Inspired by The Phantom of The Opera by Kim Carmichael
While I enjoyed this modern version of the Phantom of The Opera, it was almost unbelievable. After a terrible explosion at the start of a performance that caused Erik Renevant to be burned severely on his face, and destroy his band, and ultimately his world. Christine Day is a back up singer who has just landed on a reality show. She has the potential to be a real star, and she has the ability to draw him out of the darkness.
~ Jackie
I received an ARC for an honest review of Facade: A Modern Romance Inspired by The Phantom of The Opera by Kim Carmichael
While I enjoyed this modern version of the Phantom of The Opera, it was almost unbelievable. After a terrible explosion at the start of a performance that caused Erik Renevant to be burned severely on his face, and destroy his band, and ultimately his world. Christine Day is a back up singer who has just landed on a reality show. She has the potential to be a real star, and she has the ability to draw him out of the darkness.
~ Jackie
February 25, 2019
I bought this book 3 years ago and had I actually started reading it then, however I wasn’t ready for modern phantom at that time. I had just gotten into POTO and not knowing the characters all that well I felt that I couldn’t see them in the morning setting at that point.
Three years later and I know these characters inside and out and I have wanted to read this book for ages so I settled down and finished the book in two days.
Really good, I love the little changes to the names, I love Erik’s backstory, I guess the only issue for me is that he’s not in any way a black hat 🎩 which of course is why I love Erik so much.
But really real characters, great development and a decent amount of scene setting. Lovely build up, slow burn, and nice sex scenes. Would like to have seen a little more sexy times if I’m honest, so obvious Erik’s a Dom I’d have liked to have seen a game or two between them but I’m a horn dog.
I felt maybe Erik’s actions right towards the end of the novel were slightly off as Christine had made it clear she chose him, in a way an echo of LND? Beneath a moonless sky? But luckily this Christine has enough about her to get past that and they get their FTE. Yay! 5 stars.
*edit; found out there are two more books about the other members of Erik’s band, books fantasy and fascination and I’m moving straight from this to them. The only comment I have is that both of the follow up books are based around fairytales, where POTO isn’t. Just a comment. I’ll review soon.
Three years later and I know these characters inside and out and I have wanted to read this book for ages so I settled down and finished the book in two days.
Really good, I love the little changes to the names, I love Erik’s backstory, I guess the only issue for me is that he’s not in any way a black hat 🎩 which of course is why I love Erik so much.
But really real characters, great development and a decent amount of scene setting. Lovely build up, slow burn, and nice sex scenes. Would like to have seen a little more sexy times if I’m honest, so obvious Erik’s a Dom I’d have liked to have seen a game or two between them but I’m a horn dog.
I felt maybe Erik’s actions right towards the end of the novel were slightly off as Christine had made it clear she chose him, in a way an echo of LND? Beneath a moonless sky? But luckily this Christine has enough about her to get past that and they get their FTE. Yay! 5 stars.
*edit; found out there are two more books about the other members of Erik’s band, books fantasy and fascination and I’m moving straight from this to them. The only comment I have is that both of the follow up books are based around fairytales, where POTO isn’t. Just a comment. I’ll review soon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2017
Facade is a fabulous retelling of the classic Phantom Of The Opera with a romantic twist. A intriguing synopsis that leads into a prologue that draws you in & keeps you captivated until the end. Eric & Christine's character's are complex, well seasoned & the chemistry between these two is undeniable . A well blended mix of supporting character's that add to the story. A beautiful love story that is powerful & brimming with heartbreaking anguish. The ending with a sweet epilogue is a splendid touch, however could have been a bit longer. My only other complaint would be that some lyrics in the story would be nice since it is surrounded around the music world. A admirable retelling of an old classic with a modern day romantic twist which is written with a writing style that fits the narrative. I highly recommend reading this modern retelling of the classic tale Phantom Of The Opera with a romantic twist as it does the spiel justice. I volunteerily reviewed an advanced reading copy of this novel.
February 18, 2019
..
Phantom of the Opera is a timeless classic and as such has had many variations of it made. This particular variation gave me chills. Modern music setting with rock bands and reality shows. The devotion these two display is nothing short of magical. It's very hard to pull off a good variation of such a well known and timeless classic but this author did it. And did it exceptionally well. Theres really no reason to go into plot lines because it's a known story, but the modernized way that it was taken with this version is easily the top slot of my favorites. I fully intend to read this one several times.
Phantom of the Opera is a timeless classic and as such has had many variations of it made. This particular variation gave me chills. Modern music setting with rock bands and reality shows. The devotion these two display is nothing short of magical. It's very hard to pull off a good variation of such a well known and timeless classic but this author did it. And did it exceptionally well. Theres really no reason to go into plot lines because it's a known story, but the modernized way that it was taken with this version is easily the top slot of my favorites. I fully intend to read this one several times.
September 15, 2017
Modern Phan fiction
An updated version of Phantom, with Erik as a former rock star and Christine a determined orphan competing on a televised music show. It's a quick read and flows well, though a bit of a disappointment that the final 20% of the book is teasers for other works by the same author.
An updated version of Phantom, with Erik as a former rock star and Christine a determined orphan competing on a televised music show. It's a quick read and flows well, though a bit of a disappointment that the final 20% of the book is teasers for other works by the same author.
November 2, 2017
Erik believes that his life ended on that tragic day, but what he doesn’t realize is it takes someone special to see you for who you really are and then you will truly begin to live. Christine has taken care of herself for years and knows how tough that can be. But she also knows how to care for others, if Erik will only let her. Sweet story with a HEA.
May 23, 2018
Have you ever had someone who loved you despite your faults? Kim Carmichael had traveled into the soul of every woman and drawn out characters you cry over...men who are flawed but caring...women who are strong but desire to be loved...her characters are drawn with a fine line and you can't help but fall into their world.
Love it!!!
Love it!!!
August 9, 2022
3 stars. I wish this book was longer and took its time. I’ve recently discovered the phantom
Of the opera and I’m obsessed with consuming any phantom of the opera related media I can😅😂😂. Was this the best phantom of the opera retelling? No. But not because it’s bad or anything. It just felt rushed. Like there wasn’t enough of it.
Of the opera and I’m obsessed with consuming any phantom of the opera related media I can😅😂😂. Was this the best phantom of the opera retelling? No. But not because it’s bad or anything. It just felt rushed. Like there wasn’t enough of it.
November 16, 2022
Such a wonderful story based off of the phantom of the opera with a modern day twist. Great story Erik was lead singer of spectre with an accident that happened on stage his band was never the same nor was he that is till Christine came into his life. Great story
June 30, 2020
Best Morden retelling of phantom ever. Thoughtful and hot. Enjoyed a lot.
November 15, 2020
OMG
Best retelling of Phantom I have ever had the joy of reading. This is a true work of art! I’m in love!
Best retelling of Phantom I have ever had the joy of reading. This is a true work of art! I’m in love!
June 4, 2016
Title: Facade: A Modern Romance Inspired by The Phantom of The Opera
Series:
Author: Kim Carmichael
Publisher: Irksome Rebel Press
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: March 23, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count: 206 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
Forever scared in a pyrotechnic accident, rock star Erik Renevant becomes a shadow. He lives in an old theater that he is rebuilding destined to live his life alone. Based on the story of the Phantom of the Opera. The rock legend meets the girl that will save him. Plot One day a group breaks into an old theater to practice. The sounds that the lead singer makes, hurts the ears of Erik as he listens and watches from the shadows. There is something about the beautiful girl who is singing back[up. He can’t take his eyes off of her. He must however get them out of his home and he uses an on trick to scare them away. The back-up singer has nowhere to go. She is on her own living on the streets working odd jobs to keep herself alive, hoping for her big break. Christine Day returns to the haunted theater with the hopes of finding shelter. What she finds is safety and a man that believes in her. The chemistry between these two is pretty inspiring. I really liked the way that this book read. I loved the ending and thought that the author did a wonderful job of bringing the characters to life.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5
Categories
PLOT: 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 4 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 4 Stars
Review Copy of Facade: A Modern Romance Inspired by The Phantom of The Opera provided by the Irksome Rebel Press for an honest Review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Series:
Author: Kim Carmichael
Publisher: Irksome Rebel Press
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: March 23, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count: 206 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
The world is nothing but one big façade. You have to be special to see the behind the mask.
Erik Renevant once lived in the spotlight. As lead singer for the wildly successful group, Specter the world revered him. When an accident destroyed his band and his face, he chose to live his life in the darkness, hiding away from the shadows of his former self and refusing to be seen again.
Christine Day longs to have her chance in the spotlight. Living her life flitting from one thing to the other and currently without a permanent residence, she sees her big break in becoming the backup singer for an unknown band and entering the Stage of Stars, the latest hit reality competition.
When Christine wanders into Erik’s perfectly controlled world and he hears her voice, he knows she is destined for super stardom. However, he never dreamed she would be the one to help him shatter his own façade and lead him into the light.
Façade is inspired by the beloved story of the Phantom of the Opera and is a combination of all the different incarnations.
Review:
Forever scared in a pyrotechnic accident, rock star Erik Renevant becomes a shadow. He lives in an old theater that he is rebuilding destined to live his life alone. Based on the story of the Phantom of the Opera. The rock legend meets the girl that will save him. Plot One day a group breaks into an old theater to practice. The sounds that the lead singer makes, hurts the ears of Erik as he listens and watches from the shadows. There is something about the beautiful girl who is singing back[up. He can’t take his eyes off of her. He must however get them out of his home and he uses an on trick to scare them away. The back-up singer has nowhere to go. She is on her own living on the streets working odd jobs to keep herself alive, hoping for her big break. Christine Day returns to the haunted theater with the hopes of finding shelter. What she finds is safety and a man that believes in her. The chemistry between these two is pretty inspiring. I really liked the way that this book read. I loved the ending and thought that the author did a wonderful job of bringing the characters to life.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5
Categories
PLOT: 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 4 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 4 Stars
Review Copy of Facade: A Modern Romance Inspired by The Phantom of The Opera provided by the Irksome Rebel Press for an honest Review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
April 3, 2016
This novel was so much more than the blurb lead me to believe!
This is the story of a homeless girl Christine and a severely scarred reclusive Rock God, Erik.
Christine is street savy and determined to pay her way. Odd jobs and friends are what she relies on. She doesn't want charity and she is wary of offers of something for nothing. When the band that she is singing back up for breaks into a theater to rehearse it changes her future. Although the band leaves the theater scared of a voice, she returns later looking for a warm place to stay the night. She snoops around and realizes that the theater is being remodeled and that there is someone there, not a ghost. She goes up on the stage and sings for a place to sleep. Which is utterly endearing and speaks to Erik who wishes to remain unaffected and safe in his exemption from the real world, but he doesn't kick her out of his theater and enjoys her returns and her songs.
When the little cricket returns to his theater and sings and keeps returning Erik decides that he wants to help her win the competition he heard her and her bandmates discuss, the catch is just her, not the whole band. When she agrees to the deal he gives her ground rules.
Rule number 4 "you will not talk about this." he motioned to his mask." You will not ask me about it, nor will you try to remove it. Ever."
While they go through the motions of coaching Christine for the show and also being in the competition, they become friends and start to care for one another.
All the while someone tries to sabotage Christine chances at winning, first by messing with her music then by drugging her, and Erik still hasn't revealed himself or his past to her. Can she love the man under the mask? Will he be able to trust her with the real man, and not live in fear that she will run once he is revealed or when she no longer needs him?
A great twist of the classic Phantom of the Opera. Well written intelligent and intriguing. I definitely recommend this read!
This is the story of a homeless girl Christine and a severely scarred reclusive Rock God, Erik.
Christine is street savy and determined to pay her way. Odd jobs and friends are what she relies on. She doesn't want charity and she is wary of offers of something for nothing. When the band that she is singing back up for breaks into a theater to rehearse it changes her future. Although the band leaves the theater scared of a voice, she returns later looking for a warm place to stay the night. She snoops around and realizes that the theater is being remodeled and that there is someone there, not a ghost. She goes up on the stage and sings for a place to sleep. Which is utterly endearing and speaks to Erik who wishes to remain unaffected and safe in his exemption from the real world, but he doesn't kick her out of his theater and enjoys her returns and her songs.
When the little cricket returns to his theater and sings and keeps returning Erik decides that he wants to help her win the competition he heard her and her bandmates discuss, the catch is just her, not the whole band. When she agrees to the deal he gives her ground rules.
Rule number 4 "you will not talk about this." he motioned to his mask." You will not ask me about it, nor will you try to remove it. Ever."
While they go through the motions of coaching Christine for the show and also being in the competition, they become friends and start to care for one another.
All the while someone tries to sabotage Christine chances at winning, first by messing with her music then by drugging her, and Erik still hasn't revealed himself or his past to her. Can she love the man under the mask? Will he be able to trust her with the real man, and not live in fear that she will run once he is revealed or when she no longer needs him?
A great twist of the classic Phantom of the Opera. Well written intelligent and intriguing. I definitely recommend this read!
June 22, 2016
Specter was a successful group, which Erik Renevant was the lead singer for. Erik and his Band had been in an accident, and this destroyed them both. From that point on, Erik chose to live in darkness. He refused to be seen again, he hid in the shadows, and never let anyone see him again.
Everyone longs for a chance at the spotlight, especially Christine Day. Christine dreams of entering the ‘Stage of Stars’ the latest hit reality competition, entering contests, traveling, and doing everything she can to get her chance.
One day, Christine receives her big break in becoming the backup singer for an unknown band. Christine ends up wandering into Eriks world, and he hears her voice. From that moment on, he recognizes perfection, and knows she is destined for great things.
Furthermore, Erik never imagined, that Christine and her voice, would cause him to desire to make him end his own façade, and lead him back into the star light.
There was just something about Christine, her voice, and music. The façade could no longer be kept in the dark…
Façade is said to be inspired by the ‘Phantom of the Opera’ and is a combination of all the different incarnations.
I give ‘Façade’ five stars, and found it to be quite entertaining, and I truly enjoyed the fact that Christine inspired Erik enough to draw him out of the shadows. People need not live in shame of whom and what they are. I totally loved this story from the get go, and felt like ‘Façade’ was everything I wanted and more. This was an extremely well written book, and it truly will make you think about how people feel about how we look, and how we know everyone around us looks at, and judges us. Kim Carmichael will always pull you in with her writing, she makes you feel like you are right there with her, as she is writing her stories. She tells everything so clearly that you always can visually see and feel everything. A beautiful five star read you will want to read over and over again.
Everyone longs for a chance at the spotlight, especially Christine Day. Christine dreams of entering the ‘Stage of Stars’ the latest hit reality competition, entering contests, traveling, and doing everything she can to get her chance.
One day, Christine receives her big break in becoming the backup singer for an unknown band. Christine ends up wandering into Eriks world, and he hears her voice. From that moment on, he recognizes perfection, and knows she is destined for great things.
Furthermore, Erik never imagined, that Christine and her voice, would cause him to desire to make him end his own façade, and lead him back into the star light.
There was just something about Christine, her voice, and music. The façade could no longer be kept in the dark…
Façade is said to be inspired by the ‘Phantom of the Opera’ and is a combination of all the different incarnations.
I give ‘Façade’ five stars, and found it to be quite entertaining, and I truly enjoyed the fact that Christine inspired Erik enough to draw him out of the shadows. People need not live in shame of whom and what they are. I totally loved this story from the get go, and felt like ‘Façade’ was everything I wanted and more. This was an extremely well written book, and it truly will make you think about how people feel about how we look, and how we know everyone around us looks at, and judges us. Kim Carmichael will always pull you in with her writing, she makes you feel like you are right there with her, as she is writing her stories. She tells everything so clearly that you always can visually see and feel everything. A beautiful five star read you will want to read over and over again.
April 7, 2016
A fantastic Rock and Roll take on "Phantom of the Opera" story. Kim Carmichael has a break out hit with "Facade". Many times when a classic story is turned into a modern day romance it's either mangled beyond recognition or the author tries too hard to stay close to the original concept but only changes a few thing in the wrong way and it becomes ridiculous. Ms. Carmichael finds a perfect balance, she stays very close to the original "Phantom of the Opera" but modernizes it into the Rock and Roll Reality Television present day. The Hero is Erik Renevant a former popular Rock Star who now lives in an old Golden Age Theater that he is restoring. He's hiding from the world, and there are only one or two people who know he's still alive. The Heroine is Christine Day, a homeless girl who is a back up singer in an amateur rock band, that is trying to make it onto a popular televised music talent show. The main characters undergo a lot of growth - Christine with her self confidence and talent and Erik with his emotion overcoming his self doubt about his physical and emotional scars. "Facade" keeps your interest with a fast pace and an intriguing storyline. The characters are engaging and likable and the villain is totally obnoxious and vile.
This Rock and Roll Romance novel spin on "Phantom of the Opera" really works well, I can't say it enough. "Facade" has so many great nods to the musical and movie but at the same time the updates do not take away, or distract, from the story. The steam level is mild and the focus is on the story and the romance which is the perfect. Kim Carmichael did a fantastic job on this novel and she is becoming a new "go to" author for me in a short amount of time.
To read the entire review please visit: http://wp.me/p4XqxF-116
This novel was provided in exchange for an unbiased review.
This Rock and Roll Romance novel spin on "Phantom of the Opera" really works well, I can't say it enough. "Facade" has so many great nods to the musical and movie but at the same time the updates do not take away, or distract, from the story. The steam level is mild and the focus is on the story and the romance which is the perfect. Kim Carmichael did a fantastic job on this novel and she is becoming a new "go to" author for me in a short amount of time.
To read the entire review please visit: http://wp.me/p4XqxF-116
This novel was provided in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 28, 2016
I was given a copy for an honest review. Imagine Phantom of the Opera without the Opera and add in some modern music.
Erik Renevant was the lead singer of the wildly successful group Specter. After a horrible accident left his face disfigured, he purchased a run-down theater and was in the process of bringing it back to its former glory. Christina Day was the back-up singer of the unknown band Rat Race. One day the band broke into the theater so that they could practice their audition piece for a tv music competition show. After they left, Christina snuck back in and sang a solo as a way of saying thank you to the theater for allowing them the practice. Little did she know that Erik heard her and was amazed at her voice. After some time, Christina and Erik meet and Erik tells Christina that she needs to leave the band and audition for the competition show as a solo artist. He convinces her and takes over as her manager, make-up artist, wardrobe designer, coach and all around musical guru. All the while wearing a mask so Christina can’t see his disfigured face.
This is a wonderful story. You get the angst and the love. It’s not easy for either of them. They both have their problems. Erik more so because he is afraid Christina won’t want him if he removes his mask. There is both hope and heartache in this story.
The writing is so good that you feel that you are witnessing the story, rather than reading some words on a screen. The characters are real and honest, both good and bad. This is a wonderful story and I would definitely suggest reading it. Ms. Carmichael is a new to me author and I am definitely glad I was given a chance to read this story. You have made me a fan.
review by Cryssy
Erik Renevant was the lead singer of the wildly successful group Specter. After a horrible accident left his face disfigured, he purchased a run-down theater and was in the process of bringing it back to its former glory. Christina Day was the back-up singer of the unknown band Rat Race. One day the band broke into the theater so that they could practice their audition piece for a tv music competition show. After they left, Christina snuck back in and sang a solo as a way of saying thank you to the theater for allowing them the practice. Little did she know that Erik heard her and was amazed at her voice. After some time, Christina and Erik meet and Erik tells Christina that she needs to leave the band and audition for the competition show as a solo artist. He convinces her and takes over as her manager, make-up artist, wardrobe designer, coach and all around musical guru. All the while wearing a mask so Christina can’t see his disfigured face.
This is a wonderful story. You get the angst and the love. It’s not easy for either of them. They both have their problems. Erik more so because he is afraid Christina won’t want him if he removes his mask. There is both hope and heartache in this story.
The writing is so good that you feel that you are witnessing the story, rather than reading some words on a screen. The characters are real and honest, both good and bad. This is a wonderful story and I would definitely suggest reading it. Ms. Carmichael is a new to me author and I am definitely glad I was given a chance to read this story. You have made me a fan.
review by Cryssy
March 28, 2016
I was given a copy for an honest review. Imagine Phantom of the Opera without the Opera and add in some modern music.
Erik Renevant was the lead singer of the wildly successful group Specter. After a horrible accident left his face disfigured, he purchased a run-down theater and was in the process of bringing it back to its former glory. Christina Day was the back-up singer of the unknown band Rat Race. One day the band broke into the theater so that they could practice their audition piece for a tv music competition show. After they left, Christina snuck back in and sang a solo as a way of saying thank you to the theater for allowing them the practice. Little did she know that Erik heard her and was amazed at her voice. After some time, Christina and Erik meet and Erik tells Christina that she needs to leave the band and audition for the competition show as a solo artist. He convinces her and takes over as her manager, make-up artist, wardrobe designer, coach and all around musical guru. All the while wearing a mask so Christina can’t see his disfigured face.
This is a wonderful story. You get the angst and the love. It’s not easy for either of them. They both have their problems. Erik more so because he is afraid Christina won’t want him if he removes his mask. There is both hope and heartache in this story.
The writing is so good that you feel that you are witnessing the story, rather than reading some words on a screen. The characters are real and honest, both good and bad. This is a wonderful story and I would definitely suggest reading it. Ms. Carmichael is a new to me author and I am definitely glad I was given a chance to read this story. You have made me a fan.
Erik Renevant was the lead singer of the wildly successful group Specter. After a horrible accident left his face disfigured, he purchased a run-down theater and was in the process of bringing it back to its former glory. Christina Day was the back-up singer of the unknown band Rat Race. One day the band broke into the theater so that they could practice their audition piece for a tv music competition show. After they left, Christina snuck back in and sang a solo as a way of saying thank you to the theater for allowing them the practice. Little did she know that Erik heard her and was amazed at her voice. After some time, Christina and Erik meet and Erik tells Christina that she needs to leave the band and audition for the competition show as a solo artist. He convinces her and takes over as her manager, make-up artist, wardrobe designer, coach and all around musical guru. All the while wearing a mask so Christina can’t see his disfigured face.
This is a wonderful story. You get the angst and the love. It’s not easy for either of them. They both have their problems. Erik more so because he is afraid Christina won’t want him if he removes his mask. There is both hope and heartache in this story.
The writing is so good that you feel that you are witnessing the story, rather than reading some words on a screen. The characters are real and honest, both good and bad. This is a wonderful story and I would definitely suggest reading it. Ms. Carmichael is a new to me author and I am definitely glad I was given a chance to read this story. You have made me a fan.
March 22, 2016
Where do I begin !!!!????!!!!!
If I'm honest, I really didn't expect to like this much. I am not really a fan of fairytale based books....they aren't my style. All I can say is I WAS SOOOOOOOOOOOOO WRONG !!! HOLY MOLY!!! I loved this book. I couldn't put it down and I ended up getting nothing done and reading it straight through. I could NOT get Erik out of my head. He's still there..... when I first finished reading it, I couldnt get into another book. it was all Erik, Erik, Erik !!
Erik, OMG ~~ the man had my heart from the first second I was introduced to him. He broke my heart, repaired it and then broke it again ~~ Good thing he knew how to repair it again eh?!! The man is sexy as all h*** ... He's talented, intelligent and oh so broken. My heart hammered in my chest so many times, because i felt him and his anguish and pain, not to mention his bits of happiness he could only get from his Christine.
This modern day twist on Phantom of the Opera, was just written so well, and the author did an amazing job of bringing the characters to life for me.
Christine, was not your everyday annoying female lead (sorry but i generally hate female leads). You really cant help but fall in love with her too. She is sweet, innocent, trusting and so grateful for everything she has been given. She really is an amazing character.
The side characters are well written and I really do hope to see more on the rest of Erik's band and their lives.
I highly recommend this book and this author
If I'm honest, I really didn't expect to like this much. I am not really a fan of fairytale based books....they aren't my style. All I can say is I WAS SOOOOOOOOOOOOO WRONG !!! HOLY MOLY!!! I loved this book. I couldn't put it down and I ended up getting nothing done and reading it straight through. I could NOT get Erik out of my head. He's still there..... when I first finished reading it, I couldnt get into another book. it was all Erik, Erik, Erik !!
Erik, OMG ~~ the man had my heart from the first second I was introduced to him. He broke my heart, repaired it and then broke it again ~~ Good thing he knew how to repair it again eh?!! The man is sexy as all h*** ... He's talented, intelligent and oh so broken. My heart hammered in my chest so many times, because i felt him and his anguish and pain, not to mention his bits of happiness he could only get from his Christine.
This modern day twist on Phantom of the Opera, was just written so well, and the author did an amazing job of bringing the characters to life for me.
Christine, was not your everyday annoying female lead (sorry but i generally hate female leads). You really cant help but fall in love with her too. She is sweet, innocent, trusting and so grateful for everything she has been given. She really is an amazing character.
The side characters are well written and I really do hope to see more on the rest of Erik's band and their lives.
I highly recommend this book and this author
March 28, 2016
I couldn't wait to read Kim Carmichael's newest book Façade. I don't think I've even seen the Phantom of the Opera but I absolutely love beauty and the beast type romances. It's probably because someone has to be truly charming and alluring instead of just rich and arrogant to capture the affection and love of the character they want to court.
Façade is Erik and Christine's love story. These two maintain their lives and exist in society by their own rules. They are content with the path their lives take, even though they don't live like 'normal' people do - it's mainly because of unfortunate tragedies that occurred in their lives.
She's homeless.
He's scarred.
They're both hiding out in an old theater - searching for something. A home. Love. Acceptance.
The pages of Façade are filled with the most entertaining and romantic journey - it's AMAZING. I ended up staying up half the night to finish their story. I was so drawn into Erik and Christine's world and curious to see how it would all play out. I was completely enchanted by Erik's sweet gestures and how generously Christine viewed the world. My heart wanted their happiness because I could hear their music. I could feel the passion.
It was all so vivid that I felt as thought I was watching their romance instead of reading about it. I loved their story.
Façade is a beautiful book - one that I would definitely recommend you purchase. Kim Carmichael has written a must read love story.
March 24, 2016
Façade by Kim Carmichael is a modern rendition of Phantom of the Opera and it was brilliantly executed. I have always been a fan of the story of the man who hid away in the darkness only to fall in love with the songstress, and then of course someone else wins the girl. The phantom deserved love too! And he gets it in Façade!!!!!
Christine is homeless and hoping singing backup with a band is going to be her big break, but when they break into an old theatre, her destiny is about to change. Eric owns the theatre and is renovating it, but after an accident with his band, he doesn’t like being around people. He scares away the trespassers, and yet, he finds that Christine intrigues him – especially when she keeps coming back and singing for him. He finally decides to take her under his wing and train her, convincing her that she would do better as soloist than singing backup for the band. Entering a competition similar to American Idol, the world will soon find out how wonderful she really is.
Falling in love was not part of the original plan, but both Christine and Eric find that they found their other half in each other and that music unites them. Will Christine be able to convince him to completely open his heart, or will Eric convince her that she is better off without him?
Finally a love story for the phantom and it is a must read! You will love the story woven within the pages and fall in love with the characters. 4.5 stars!
Christine is homeless and hoping singing backup with a band is going to be her big break, but when they break into an old theatre, her destiny is about to change. Eric owns the theatre and is renovating it, but after an accident with his band, he doesn’t like being around people. He scares away the trespassers, and yet, he finds that Christine intrigues him – especially when she keeps coming back and singing for him. He finally decides to take her under his wing and train her, convincing her that she would do better as soloist than singing backup for the band. Entering a competition similar to American Idol, the world will soon find out how wonderful she really is.
Falling in love was not part of the original plan, but both Christine and Eric find that they found their other half in each other and that music unites them. Will Christine be able to convince him to completely open his heart, or will Eric convince her that she is better off without him?
Finally a love story for the phantom and it is a must read! You will love the story woven within the pages and fall in love with the characters. 4.5 stars!
March 24, 2016
Facade by Kim Carmicheal it's a modern version of the phantom of the opera that Includes little bits of all the different versions including the book/play, which the author gives a nod to, as well as, the movie Starring Gerard Butler and Emmy Ronsom (which I also love it has the hilarious lines of the prima Donna Diva who hates Christine.)
Facade is an ode to, with direct line for line quotes, from The Phantom of the Opera book and movies. Good for Superfans. As well as a little uncomfortable for me at times.
In this version of Phantom, the facade is held by Erik Revenant, a former famous musician who was badly burned in a pyrotechnic accident and Christine Day, Aka "Cricket".
She is gifted with a beautiful voice, but very little training. Erik knows Christine is trying to get on a reality tv/music contest show with a lame band, her protector, convinces Christine to leave the band and be a Solo Artist. As Christine is homeless she jumps at the opportunity to train and live at the theatre. Let the singing and training begin!! And not just training in music *waggles eyebrows
Once you get "behind the facade"
You will see the beauty of the night...
Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by Jeannie
Facade is an ode to, with direct line for line quotes, from The Phantom of the Opera book and movies. Good for Superfans. As well as a little uncomfortable for me at times.
In this version of Phantom, the facade is held by Erik Revenant, a former famous musician who was badly burned in a pyrotechnic accident and Christine Day, Aka "Cricket".
She is gifted with a beautiful voice, but very little training. Erik knows Christine is trying to get on a reality tv/music contest show with a lame band, her protector, convinces Christine to leave the band and be a Solo Artist. As Christine is homeless she jumps at the opportunity to train and live at the theatre. Let the singing and training begin!! And not just training in music *waggles eyebrows
Once you get "behind the facade"
You will see the beauty of the night...
Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by Jeannie
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