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Love at First Note
Love at First Note
Emma Hill was practically born with a violin in her hands. She lives for the life of the piece, for each song's story, for the perfect stillness after the endnotes when the vibrations of sound are still humming through her body.
If only her love life were that harmonic.
When Emma's world collides with piano-playing YouTube sensation Elliott Hart, she finds herself falling for the way he plucks at her heartstrings, despite their painfully awkward first encounter.
But navigating a new relationship is hard in the limelight of Elliott's fame. Will Emma be able to bring their two worlds into harmony, or is she destined for a broken heart?
If only her love life were that harmonic.
When Emma's world collides with piano-playing YouTube sensation Elliott Hart, she finds herself falling for the way he plucks at her heartstrings, despite their painfully awkward first encounter.
But navigating a new relationship is hard in the limelight of Elliott's fame. Will Emma be able to bring their two worlds into harmony, or is she destined for a broken heart?
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2016
50 people are currently reading
1641 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Proctor
39 books2,252 followersJenny Proctor is an award-winning author of more than fourteen romantic comedies and an Amazon bestseller. She began her career in publishing in 2013; her writing has been a constant since then, but she's also spent time as the owner and managing editor of Midnight Owl Editors and the chair of the Storymakers Conference. Wired for relationships, Jenny loves public speaking, teaching, and building lasting connections.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
July 15, 2016
Well this was a pleasant surprise and amazing coincidence. No sooner do I gripe about "missing faith" and invent a tag than I get an example of the flip side—where the author illustrates the general through the specific. And coincidentally produces an outstanding contemporary romance with solid religious/faithful characters. But I'll nerd out about that in detail at the end (where you can safely skip it if so inclined).
The heart of this story is Emma. Her love of music rings from the page even as she shows the balance she is trying to achieve with other aspects of her life that are as, or more, important. I loved Emma pretty much from the start. I particularly liked how much of her character came through from those around her. From her friend and roommate, Lilly, to her family, to an obliging ex and even the one blind date. Her interactions came across as genuine and caring and kind, though imperfectly (humanly) so. I particularly liked how difficult she found it to express herself, sometimes. Proctor does an outstanding job conveying that in a way that most authors fumble (being articulate creatures themselves, at least in print).
And I truly enjoyed how music permeates the story as well. A note in the beginning indicates that Proctor leaned on expert help in exploring the details, but she manages to make this aspect of the novel a living, breathing part of the story (without being even a little bit tedious). I can't say if she got everything right, but it felt real and engaged me wholly. This is vital as the main couple discovers their connection through a shared appreciation for music in all its emotional detail and power. It made me want to attend a concert for the first time in decades and that's no small thing.
The romance was pitch-perfect, the characters strong, the plot exactly what it needed to be. I feel compelled to mention two minor weaknesses, but they obviously didn't bother me overly. The first is that the story is a slow build kind of thing. For the story to work, we really do need to understand the emotional structure of both Emma and Elliot and Proctor takes the time the story needs for that to work. I didn't feel impatient to move on, but Emma engaged me right off so that's not surprising. I note merely that others may bounce off the scenes getting there, which would be a real shame.
The second is more serious, even if still minor. It's spoilery, but only mildly so.
So anyway, this is a lovely contemporary romance and one I enjoyed to the very last page. I hope you do, too.
A note about LDS: As I mention above, Emma and her family (and Elliot) are explicitly Mormon from the start. Proctor makes this an integral part of the story so naturally that I actually resist thinking of it as "faith-based". Indeed, if anything, this is a character-based romance with characters who happen to be LDS and act like it. Better, still, Proctor does so in ways that I believe will be completely transparent, and equally engaging, to non-Mormon readers (no preaching or didacticism, only honest characters falling in love). I loved seeing this so soon after my problems with Changes of the Heart, where it felt like religion has been surgically removed (with accompanying scars). I love seeing a confirming example so soon after experiencing its antithesis. Serendipity FTW.
The heart of this story is Emma. Her love of music rings from the page even as she shows the balance she is trying to achieve with other aspects of her life that are as, or more, important. I loved Emma pretty much from the start. I particularly liked how much of her character came through from those around her. From her friend and roommate, Lilly, to her family, to an obliging ex and even the one blind date. Her interactions came across as genuine and caring and kind, though imperfectly (humanly) so. I particularly liked how difficult she found it to express herself, sometimes. Proctor does an outstanding job conveying that in a way that most authors fumble (being articulate creatures themselves, at least in print).
And I truly enjoyed how music permeates the story as well. A note in the beginning indicates that Proctor leaned on expert help in exploring the details, but she manages to make this aspect of the novel a living, breathing part of the story (without being even a little bit tedious). I can't say if she got everything right, but it felt real and engaged me wholly. This is vital as the main couple discovers their connection through a shared appreciation for music in all its emotional detail and power. It made me want to attend a concert for the first time in decades and that's no small thing.
The romance was pitch-perfect, the characters strong, the plot exactly what it needed to be. I feel compelled to mention two minor weaknesses, but they obviously didn't bother me overly. The first is that the story is a slow build kind of thing. For the story to work, we really do need to understand the emotional structure of both Emma and Elliot and Proctor takes the time the story needs for that to work. I didn't feel impatient to move on, but Emma engaged me right off so that's not surprising. I note merely that others may bounce off the scenes getting there, which would be a real shame.
The second is more serious, even if still minor. It's spoilery, but only mildly so.
So anyway, this is a lovely contemporary romance and one I enjoyed to the very last page. I hope you do, too.
A note about LDS: As I mention above, Emma and her family (and Elliot) are explicitly Mormon from the start. Proctor makes this an integral part of the story so naturally that I actually resist thinking of it as "faith-based". Indeed, if anything, this is a character-based romance with characters who happen to be LDS and act like it. Better, still, Proctor does so in ways that I believe will be completely transparent, and equally engaging, to non-Mormon readers (no preaching or didacticism, only honest characters falling in love). I loved seeing this so soon after my problems with Changes of the Heart, where it felt like religion has been surgically removed (with accompanying scars). I love seeing a confirming example so soon after experiencing its antithesis. Serendipity FTW.
March 18, 2016
Love. Love, love, love, love, love.
So, so good.
Perfectly real, human characters who live, love, make mistakes and learn. I loved the full on incorporation of music. It was in every page and every feeling. It made me want to go immerse myself in classical music. I wish I could have heard the music described playing while I read. That would have been perfect. Maybe Jenny Proctor has a playlist somewhere for this book? I need to check. (yeah, just sent her an email...) (you can find the following list with links on here website)
Samuel Barber, Concerto: Op 14
George Gershwin, Rhapsody in Blue
Anton Dvorak, Symphony No. 7
Antonio Vivaldi, Four Seasons – Spring
Antonio Vivaldi, Four Seasons – Summer
Aaron Copland, Appalachian Spring
Giacomo Puccini, Crisantemi
Sergei Prokofiev, Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Major, Op. 26
Johann Sebastian Bach, Sonata No. 3 in C Major
Niccolo Paganini, Caprice, No. 7
Scott Joplin, The Entertainer
Ludwig van Beethoven, Symphony No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 67
Johann Sebastian Bach, Brandenburg Concerto No. 3
Sergei Rachmaninoff, Piano Concerto No. 3
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Nocturne in C Sharp Minor Op. 14, No. 4
(Thanks, Jenny Proctor!) Now you can listen to the music when you read the book. I may just have to go back and read it again while listening. It's a book worth perusing again.
Emma and Elliott were great characters. There was a fantastic support of secondary characters for Emma in family and friends as well. It all helped me, as a reader, have a very clear picture of who Emma was and I loved seeing everything from her perspective. Especially Elliott. So romantic. The tension is fantastic.
This is an LDS fiction book, but the references to religion are minimal. (no drinking, no sex before marriage, a few scenes at church) Clean and so much fun!
So, so good.
Perfectly real, human characters who live, love, make mistakes and learn. I loved the full on incorporation of music. It was in every page and every feeling. It made me want to go immerse myself in classical music. I wish I could have heard the music described playing while I read. That would have been perfect. Maybe Jenny Proctor has a playlist somewhere for this book? I need to check. (yeah, just sent her an email...) (you can find the following list with links on here website)
Samuel Barber, Concerto: Op 14
George Gershwin, Rhapsody in Blue
Anton Dvorak, Symphony No. 7
Antonio Vivaldi, Four Seasons – Spring
Antonio Vivaldi, Four Seasons – Summer
Aaron Copland, Appalachian Spring
Giacomo Puccini, Crisantemi
Sergei Prokofiev, Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Major, Op. 26
Johann Sebastian Bach, Sonata No. 3 in C Major
Niccolo Paganini, Caprice, No. 7
Scott Joplin, The Entertainer
Ludwig van Beethoven, Symphony No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 67
Johann Sebastian Bach, Brandenburg Concerto No. 3
Sergei Rachmaninoff, Piano Concerto No. 3
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Nocturne in C Sharp Minor Op. 14, No. 4
(Thanks, Jenny Proctor!) Now you can listen to the music when you read the book. I may just have to go back and read it again while listening. It's a book worth perusing again.
Emma and Elliott were great characters. There was a fantastic support of secondary characters for Emma in family and friends as well. It all helped me, as a reader, have a very clear picture of who Emma was and I loved seeing everything from her perspective. Especially Elliott. So romantic. The tension is fantastic.
This is an LDS fiction book, but the references to religion are minimal. (no drinking, no sex before marriage, a few scenes at church) Clean and so much fun!
September 8, 2016
2:30 in the morning. That's when I finished this book. Don't start it if you want sleep. There was never a good stopping point so I just kept reading.
I loved the characters but they also frustrated me, especially their stubbornness near the end of the book. Thankfully this wraps up with a couple amazing grand gestures. I loved the misunderstandings between Emma and Elliott when they first meet. And loved the role music played in the story. The characters are LDS but there is no preaching. They attend church and you know Elliott served a mission, this can be enjoyed by people of all faiths.
Content: Clean
Source: Netgalley
I loved the characters but they also frustrated me, especially their stubbornness near the end of the book. Thankfully this wraps up with a couple amazing grand gestures. I loved the misunderstandings between Emma and Elliott when they first meet. And loved the role music played in the story. The characters are LDS but there is no preaching. They attend church and you know Elliott served a mission, this can be enjoyed by people of all faiths.
Content: Clean
Source: Netgalley
March 17, 2016
I couldn't help being a total fan-girl over this book! I love music and always have. I played the violin for years, although not to this degree, but I could relate to a small measure, the passion and dedication it takes to make beautiful music.
Emma is extremely talented and she doesn't just feel the music, but it becomes a part of her heart and soul. She's not eloquent and often sticks her foot in her mouth, but when it comes to music, she's a completely different woman. Her violin is such a part of her and I enjoyed every piece of her and her talent.
Elliott is a piano prodigy and when his YouTube career is on the line, he moves to a small town to regroup and focus, but how can he, with a dueling violinist right next door? He's a very conflicted character--one who evoked a lot of emotion from me. I absolutely adored him one minute and was beyond frustrated with him the next, but underneath his inner struggles, he's the sweetest, most passionate, and almost perfect guy.
I loved the setting, the characters, the realistic struggles, the music battles, the process of composition, and the growth--on so many different levels and between so many different characters. These people felt real to me! This story has stayed with me for several days, just simmering in my mind. The ending. Oh, that ending had me in literal tears! What perfection! I laughed; I cried; I might have even blushed a little from embarrassing comments and situations. *sigh*
Content: religious elements, specific to the LDS church, but not preachy; no language; mild, swoony romance (kissing); no violence; references to being drunk. Clean!
*I received a copy through Covenant Communications in exchange for an honest review*
Emma is extremely talented and she doesn't just feel the music, but it becomes a part of her heart and soul. She's not eloquent and often sticks her foot in her mouth, but when it comes to music, she's a completely different woman. Her violin is such a part of her and I enjoyed every piece of her and her talent.
Elliott is a piano prodigy and when his YouTube career is on the line, he moves to a small town to regroup and focus, but how can he, with a dueling violinist right next door? He's a very conflicted character--one who evoked a lot of emotion from me. I absolutely adored him one minute and was beyond frustrated with him the next, but underneath his inner struggles, he's the sweetest, most passionate, and almost perfect guy.
I loved the setting, the characters, the realistic struggles, the music battles, the process of composition, and the growth--on so many different levels and between so many different characters. These people felt real to me! This story has stayed with me for several days, just simmering in my mind. The ending. Oh, that ending had me in literal tears! What perfection! I laughed; I cried; I might have even blushed a little from embarrassing comments and situations. *sigh*
Content: religious elements, specific to the LDS church, but not preachy; no language; mild, swoony romance (kissing); no violence; references to being drunk. Clean!
*I received a copy through Covenant Communications in exchange for an honest review*
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March 16, 2023Authors probably say this all the time, but this is my favorite one yet.
March 19, 2016
Jenny Proctor’s novel Love at First Note is funny, entertaining, and has heart. This is one of those books that readers will want to read cover to cover without stopping. Jenny has a way of creating realistic and charming characters that readers will adore as they enjoy the frustrations and delights of the characters, laughing along the way. Not only are Jenny’s characters engaging, but the beautiful story will cause readers to sigh over the sweet, charming romance of the story too. I would recommend this novel to readers that enjoy clean and fun contemporary LDS fiction.
Genre: contemporary, clean romance, LDS
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: March 1, 2016
Number of pages: 304
Content Rating: PG, alcohol at a party with people getting drunk, kissing
Book Rating: 5 stars
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications.
Genre: contemporary, clean romance, LDS
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: March 1, 2016
Number of pages: 304
Content Rating: PG, alcohol at a party with people getting drunk, kissing
Book Rating: 5 stars
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications.
February 24, 2017
This cute romance pairs two musicians. Emma is an accomplished violinist. When Elliott, a YouTube piano sensation, moves next door, she is eager to meet him. But when he accuses her of being a stalker, tempers ignite. Thus are the beginnings of an amazing romance just waiting to bloom, right? This really was a fun book, especially if you love music. The romantic tension is great; the characters are adorable. It’s just plain awesome.
February 13, 2017
Such a great book. Not only is it a cute, sweet, clean contemporary romance, but the music aspect was too perfect--my favorite part since, to me, music is also a language I speak and love. Really loved this book.
July 2, 2016
The synopsis of this one intrigued me and I knew I wanted to read it. And I'm glad I did! Emma is a wonderful protagonist and reading about her busy life as a professional musician made me tired. Busy is an understatement let me tell you!
From lots of practice for her role as concertmaster for the Asheville symphony, to lots of practice for playing violin at her church (she's Mormon), just adds up to lots and lots of practice. (If real life musicians do the same amount, which I suspect they do, then wow. Playing an instrument full time takes a tremendous amount of commitment!) Not to mention that she's moved back home to help care for her mother. I suspect that's one thing that connected me to this story because I understand exactly how Emma felt about wanting to be there for her mom. So yes, Emma's a busy woman. But then she meets Elliott and oh my! Those two have quite a bit of chemistry and watching them together is wonderful. As they're both musicians, they understand each other. While their first few meetings might involve more embarrassment than cuteness, once they become friends their interactions were loads of fun! Especially a certain music battle through the wall. I loved that bit! :)
Once they begin to spend time together, they just get ever more adorable. And that's pretty much what kept me reading! Lilly and Trav's drama is an interesting addition to the story, but I skimmed through much of it just to get to Emma and Elliott's parts. Watching as they make so many mistakes, yet strive to learn from them and do better, and ultimately watching them fall in love is awfully sweet. They help each other grow, what more can a reader ask for?
It's not a perfect story, there were times it was a bit slow or didn't flow as smoothly as other parts, but I wasn't looking for perfection. I was just looking for a fun story that would make me smile and this one definitely fit that criteria! :)
**I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
From lots of practice for her role as concertmaster for the Asheville symphony, to lots of practice for playing violin at her church (she's Mormon), just adds up to lots and lots of practice. (If real life musicians do the same amount, which I suspect they do, then wow. Playing an instrument full time takes a tremendous amount of commitment!) Not to mention that she's moved back home to help care for her mother. I suspect that's one thing that connected me to this story because I understand exactly how Emma felt about wanting to be there for her mom. So yes, Emma's a busy woman. But then she meets Elliott and oh my! Those two have quite a bit of chemistry and watching them together is wonderful. As they're both musicians, they understand each other. While their first few meetings might involve more embarrassment than cuteness, once they become friends their interactions were loads of fun! Especially a certain music battle through the wall. I loved that bit! :)
Once they begin to spend time together, they just get ever more adorable. And that's pretty much what kept me reading! Lilly and Trav's drama is an interesting addition to the story, but I skimmed through much of it just to get to Emma and Elliott's parts. Watching as they make so many mistakes, yet strive to learn from them and do better, and ultimately watching them fall in love is awfully sweet. They help each other grow, what more can a reader ask for?
It's not a perfect story, there were times it was a bit slow or didn't flow as smoothly as other parts, but I wasn't looking for perfection. I was just looking for a fun story that would make me smile and this one definitely fit that criteria! :)
**I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
June 6, 2016
This was a perfect read for me! The setting with the two musicians, their love of music, and their great chemistry. Emma was a great character. For me, her commitment to her family, her love and deep commitment to her music, her collection of friends, her sincere care and concern for those close to her was an honest, heartfelt, lovely novel with lots of self-awareness learned over the course of the novel and her relationship with Elliot. The secondary characters, her friends, and family made for great side development and insight into who Emma was, and Elliot as he interacted with them. Her moments with Elliott were lovely, fraught with her initial 'like' to their sweet, deep chemistry, and also their poetic/musical and honest moments.
Loved the ending, it was so fitting that Emma had her moment come to her in so many ways.
I think I absolutely fell in love with all the musical moments, their "speaking" their hearts with music, and the way that music brought spoke to each of them so deeply and bound them together.
I received a copy from NetGalley and Covenant Communications in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Romance, clean, Christian, LDS elements.
Loved the ending, it was so fitting that Emma had her moment come to her in so many ways.
I think I absolutely fell in love with all the musical moments, their "speaking" their hearts with music, and the way that music brought spoke to each of them so deeply and bound them together.
I received a copy from NetGalley and Covenant Communications in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Romance, clean, Christian, LDS elements.
March 16, 2016
Sometimes when I read a book I think of a phrase that describes the book. In this case it is "very cute". (OK, it was actually "stinkin' cute", but this book doesn't stink.) I have to admit that the first thing that drew me to the book was the cover. It has a prominent violin. I love the violin.
The book begins on a sour note (pun intended). Emma is awkward when it comes to meeting new people and her first meeting with Elliott left me chuckling. I knew from that moment that I was going to like this book. Awkwardness and music... definitely a winner for me.
Both Emma and Elliott are talented musicians. With musical talent comes pride (at least in my experience, and the reason I walked away from music.) It takes character to realize that you are wrong. A lesson that is pointed out to both characters. You can't help but like Emma from the beginning, and it takes a little longer to warm up to Elliott.
This book is a contemporary LDS romance. It's clean and fun.
The book begins on a sour note (pun intended). Emma is awkward when it comes to meeting new people and her first meeting with Elliott left me chuckling. I knew from that moment that I was going to like this book. Awkwardness and music... definitely a winner for me.
Both Emma and Elliott are talented musicians. With musical talent comes pride (at least in my experience, and the reason I walked away from music.) It takes character to realize that you are wrong. A lesson that is pointed out to both characters. You can't help but like Emma from the beginning, and it takes a little longer to warm up to Elliott.
This book is a contemporary LDS romance. It's clean and fun.
May 20, 2017
I absolutely adored this book! Let's start with the cover, shall we? Loved it. Like serious cover envy. So pretty. And best part, the story inside is just as amazing.
Emma has moved back home, giving up her seat in her beloved orchestra, to help care for her mother. She still plays the violin, but with a much less prestigious orchestra. In addition, her dating prospects in her hometown are extremely limited... That is until a handsome, piano playing celebrity moves in next door.
Enter Elliot Hart. Gorgeous, confident, perfect for Emma... Only first impressions don't go too well and you'll have to read the book to find out what happens next.
My top three moments:
1. Their first conversation. Hilarious.
2. When he asks if she wants his autograph. Perfect.
3. When they finally... Actually that would spoil it-- just read this one. Trust me.
Emma has moved back home, giving up her seat in her beloved orchestra, to help care for her mother. She still plays the violin, but with a much less prestigious orchestra. In addition, her dating prospects in her hometown are extremely limited... That is until a handsome, piano playing celebrity moves in next door.
Enter Elliot Hart. Gorgeous, confident, perfect for Emma... Only first impressions don't go too well and you'll have to read the book to find out what happens next.
My top three moments:
1. Their first conversation. Hilarious.
2. When he asks if she wants his autograph. Perfect.
3. When they finally... Actually that would spoil it-- just read this one. Trust me.
March 14, 2016
Love at First Note is a clean, sweet, and fast read. I was annoyed that I had to take a break from reading to sleep and go to work.
February 15, 2016
I got to beta read this and it was SO GOOD! Jenny keeps getting better and better.
November 4, 2018
Light and funny, this book touches on the different paths musicians choose to take, and illustrates how the language of music, when played from the heart, can be more powerful than spoken words. Each person is unique in how they express themselves best; and this is true for musicians as well. For the main character, music (particularly classical) in it's pure, original form, is her best means of expression, and she chooses the life of a professional concertmaster. Then there's Elliott Hart, the YouTube sensation with his mash-ups of classical-with-pop music, and covers of popular favorites. But, the reader comes to find that he has much more depth and goodness than would be expected of a pretty, popular, poster-boy. Though some things in the book were a little unrealistic (a musician getting off a plane, then playing a concerto perfectly without warming up, e.g.), as a musician myself, I particularly enjoyed reading about the effects of this heart-spoken language. There was a little French thrown in too, with talk of the ultimate city of romance-- Paris. So for a romantic, this book with its journey through both cacophony and resolution, was a satisfying oeuvre d'art!
September 13, 2017
*sigh* I loved this one. The is the first for me from this Author. I really enjoyed it a lot. I have wanted to play the violin since I was about 10. I still haven't taken it up yet but my daughter has been playing for 2 1/2 years. I defiantly introduced me to a lot more classic music and I love to watch her when she finds a song she really loves to play. Emma reminded me of myself in a lot of ways. An overachiever that doesn't have a way with words. Also the no desire to be famous thing. I love her and Elliott's relationship and how it was so simple yet intense from the beginning. Every relationship has struggles and sacrifices. I loved this one wasn't all fairy tale and I loved the ending! I will be looking for more from this Author!
April 19, 2017
Loved this book. Emma plays the violin and leaves a prestigious position with the Cleveland symphony to move to Asheville, NC to help take care of her mother, who has MS. She convinces herself that teaching violin and being concertmaster for the smaller Asheville symphony makes her happy since she is near her family again.
Enter Elliott Hart (piano player extraordinaire, YouTube sensation, and winner of a reality TV show) who moves in next door. Emma can play the violin in front of a thousand people, but can't keep words from tripping over her tongue. They're first meeting doesn't go well at all. There's also a misunderstanding where Elliott thinks she's a stalker (hilarious). Finally these two become friends after a swoon worthy scene of them playing music through a common wall.
Because of Elliott's stardom he doesn't want to be more than friends. That doesn't work out too well for either of them. He moves back to California to work things out with his record label and Emma finally realizes a few things about herself.
There are more swoon worthy scenes in the last couple of chapters that I don't want to spoil. The author had a couple of twists and turns in the story which kept me reading past 2 a.m. Would love to revisit Emma and Elliott's story in another book.
This is a clean romance with mild kissing scenes only.
Enter Elliott Hart (piano player extraordinaire, YouTube sensation, and winner of a reality TV show) who moves in next door. Emma can play the violin in front of a thousand people, but can't keep words from tripping over her tongue. They're first meeting doesn't go well at all. There's also a misunderstanding where Elliott thinks she's a stalker (hilarious). Finally these two become friends after a swoon worthy scene of them playing music through a common wall.
Because of Elliott's stardom he doesn't want to be more than friends. That doesn't work out too well for either of them. He moves back to California to work things out with his record label and Emma finally realizes a few things about herself.
There are more swoon worthy scenes in the last couple of chapters that I don't want to spoil. The author had a couple of twists and turns in the story which kept me reading past 2 a.m. Would love to revisit Emma and Elliott's story in another book.
This is a clean romance with mild kissing scenes only.
March 14, 2016
The little town of Asheville, North Carolina, is about to add two musical stars to its population. Emma Hill, an amazing violinist and concertmaster, leaves her position in Cleveland to come back to Asheville and take care of her ailing mother. It's a big step down, but Emma is willing to make the sacrifice for her family. She tells herself she's happy about it, but she doesn't examine things very closely deep down.
In order to make her life just a bit more complicated, YouTube sensation and pianist extraordinaire Elliott Hart moves in next door. She has a love/hate relationship with his music, loving the more purist, classical side of him, and not finding much to like about mashups with contemporary pieces. They get off on the wrong foot (she accidentally tells him she loves him at their first meeting. He thinks she's a stalker.) But once they get past their misunderstandings about the other, the sparks start to fly. But are their worlds just too different for them to ever have something real?
I really enjoyed the character of Emma in this story. She gets tongue-tied around guys, she is a bit over-bearing when it comes to her family, and she feels music so deeply she cries. With all her flaws, she was so lovable and relatable. She was definitely the heart of the story. Elliott is a great hero, also with flaws. He starts out a bit arrogant, but as you slowly come to know him and his background, it's more understandable. His interactions with Emma were fun and sweet. The secondary cast was also well-drawn, delving into more emotional issues for Emma from her ex-boyfriend to her bratty sister.
The author has obviously done her homework when it comes to the music scene. It added a very realistic thread to the entire novel and swept the reader away with all the ins and outs of orchestra and agents and truly loving music as opposed to appreciating it.
This was a fun romance, perfect for someone who wants a sigh-worthy hero, a sweet heroine, and some sour notes to overcome on the way to the perfect melody of true love.
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
In order to make her life just a bit more complicated, YouTube sensation and pianist extraordinaire Elliott Hart moves in next door. She has a love/hate relationship with his music, loving the more purist, classical side of him, and not finding much to like about mashups with contemporary pieces. They get off on the wrong foot (she accidentally tells him she loves him at their first meeting. He thinks she's a stalker.) But once they get past their misunderstandings about the other, the sparks start to fly. But are their worlds just too different for them to ever have something real?
I really enjoyed the character of Emma in this story. She gets tongue-tied around guys, she is a bit over-bearing when it comes to her family, and she feels music so deeply she cries. With all her flaws, she was so lovable and relatable. She was definitely the heart of the story. Elliott is a great hero, also with flaws. He starts out a bit arrogant, but as you slowly come to know him and his background, it's more understandable. His interactions with Emma were fun and sweet. The secondary cast was also well-drawn, delving into more emotional issues for Emma from her ex-boyfriend to her bratty sister.
The author has obviously done her homework when it comes to the music scene. It added a very realistic thread to the entire novel and swept the reader away with all the ins and outs of orchestra and agents and truly loving music as opposed to appreciating it.
This was a fun romance, perfect for someone who wants a sigh-worthy hero, a sweet heroine, and some sour notes to overcome on the way to the perfect melody of true love.
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
May 18, 2016
(Thank you to Netgalley and Covenant Communications for a free digital copy of this book.)
Note: I wasn't aware that this was a book set in the Mormon society and at first I was a bit shocked and feared what kind of preachery novel I was reading, but it really is just the background of the story and as such pretty interesting.
Emma, the heroine of the story, is a young violinist, who gave up her performing career to be close to her sick mother, her dating life is pretty barren since there are few to none acceptable guys her age in her community. That is of course until YouTube-star Elliott moves in next to her. Good-looking, into music, really nice AND Mormon. Unfortunately he is determined to not let social life interfere with the work on his new album and Emma's first meetings with him aren't exactly cut out to make him see more than a crazed fan in her anyway...
I loved the protagonists and pretty much all the side characters, they were very vividly painted and easy to fall in love with. I definitely loved the way music as an important part of this story and of the connection between the protagonists was portrayed. The writing style was light and fun and I really enjoyed the humour.
(Of course) it is a very „clean“ romance, which is to be expected but if you are looking for steamy bits you will be very disappointed here.
In the last third I fell a bit out of love with the protagonists but they won me over by the end again.
Religion in books and as a driving force for actions and lifestyle in books usually makes me cringe but here it was pretty tolerable and I have to say I enjoyed a glance into the Mormon society, it is definetely a setting I hadn't encountered before.
All in all this was a really enjoyable read, light and funny, lots of music, I have to admitt I even shed some tears. Don't get scared off by the Mormon bit, it is really just a back story and to me added an interesting colour to the whole book.
Note: I wasn't aware that this was a book set in the Mormon society and at first I was a bit shocked and feared what kind of preachery novel I was reading, but it really is just the background of the story and as such pretty interesting.
Emma, the heroine of the story, is a young violinist, who gave up her performing career to be close to her sick mother, her dating life is pretty barren since there are few to none acceptable guys her age in her community. That is of course until YouTube-star Elliott moves in next to her. Good-looking, into music, really nice AND Mormon. Unfortunately he is determined to not let social life interfere with the work on his new album and Emma's first meetings with him aren't exactly cut out to make him see more than a crazed fan in her anyway...
I loved the protagonists and pretty much all the side characters, they were very vividly painted and easy to fall in love with. I definitely loved the way music as an important part of this story and of the connection between the protagonists was portrayed. The writing style was light and fun and I really enjoyed the humour.
(Of course) it is a very „clean“ romance, which is to be expected but if you are looking for steamy bits you will be very disappointed here.
In the last third I fell a bit out of love with the protagonists but they won me over by the end again.
Religion in books and as a driving force for actions and lifestyle in books usually makes me cringe but here it was pretty tolerable and I have to say I enjoyed a glance into the Mormon society, it is definetely a setting I hadn't encountered before.
All in all this was a really enjoyable read, light and funny, lots of music, I have to admitt I even shed some tears. Don't get scared off by the Mormon bit, it is really just a back story and to me added an interesting colour to the whole book.
July 26, 2017
Emma Hill is an exceptional violinist; unfortunately, her talents don't extend to interacting with cute guys. So when Elliott Hart, a YouTube piano sensation, moves in next door, Emma's attempt to welcome him leaves him thinking she's a crazy stalker. Annoyed by his impression of her, Emma makes it clear that she's not a groupie--and doesn't even like his music. Although they get off to a rough start, their passion for music draws Emma and Elliott together--but Elliott needs to avoid distractions in order to write material for a new album. Just when it seems like things might finally move forward, Emma comes face-to-face with what it means to date someone famous and isn't sure that she can handle at that that entails.
This book just put a big smile on my face. I pretty much neglected 90% of what I should have done today so that I could read it because I didn't want to put it down. It was funny (oh man, seeing Emma's bumbling attempt to welcome Elliott was painfully hilarious, but the scene where he accused her of being a stalker was even better!), but there was also quite a bit of depth, as Emma had to take a hard look at herself and what she really wanted--not just with Elliott but with her music career. The scene where Emma is on a date with someone else and Elliott is texting her was awesome! (Can't go into more detail without giving spoilers, but I loved it and was totally swooning .) Elliott and Emma were both really nice characters, people you really wanted things to work out for, and even though I'm not at all musically talented, I liked seeing how they connected through music. Really enjoyed it from start to finish.
I received a copy of the book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book just put a big smile on my face. I pretty much neglected 90% of what I should have done today so that I could read it because I didn't want to put it down. It was funny (oh man, seeing Emma's bumbling attempt to welcome Elliott was painfully hilarious, but the scene where he accused her of being a stalker was even better!), but there was also quite a bit of depth, as Emma had to take a hard look at herself and what she really wanted--not just with Elliott but with her music career. The scene where Emma is on a date with someone else and Elliott is texting her was awesome! (Can't go into more detail without giving spoilers, but I loved it and was totally swooning .) Elliott and Emma were both really nice characters, people you really wanted things to work out for, and even though I'm not at all musically talented, I liked seeing how they connected through music. Really enjoyed it from start to finish.
I received a copy of the book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2016
Oh. My. Goodness! I love a good romance and this one is just amazing! I love the way Jenny Proctor included music in almost every bit of this book. The whole plot line is awesome and the ending is just amazing!
I love Emma. I had to laugh at the beginning when she first met Elliot. I loved the way that she couldn't even talk to him. And what made it even funnier was all of the assumptions that he had made about her that were revealed later. I loved the way that Emma was forced to learn some things about herself and her motives and the way that she was able to grow and change because of that. And I loved all of the care she went to at the end for Elliot. It was kind of fun in this book that the only point of view we see is Emma's. It might be a little one sided, but that's how we see our every day life.
What to say about Elliot??? I have to admit that he wasn't one of my favorite characters at the beginning. But I loved the way he changed once he realized that his initial impression of Emma was completely wrong. I loved that he was honest with her from the very beginning about his motives for being in Asheville and the way he saw their relationship going. I loved the way he was a gentleman. The scene at the beer festival with the Stud t-shirt guy was probably one of my favorites! (Go read it, I'm not saying any more about it!)
I loved how I felt transported to Asheville with every word I read, I think I seriously need a trip there. This book is amazing! Go read it, end of story!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love Emma. I had to laugh at the beginning when she first met Elliot. I loved the way that she couldn't even talk to him. And what made it even funnier was all of the assumptions that he had made about her that were revealed later. I loved the way that Emma was forced to learn some things about herself and her motives and the way that she was able to grow and change because of that. And I loved all of the care she went to at the end for Elliot. It was kind of fun in this book that the only point of view we see is Emma's. It might be a little one sided, but that's how we see our every day life.
What to say about Elliot??? I have to admit that he wasn't one of my favorite characters at the beginning. But I loved the way he changed once he realized that his initial impression of Emma was completely wrong. I loved that he was honest with her from the very beginning about his motives for being in Asheville and the way he saw their relationship going. I loved the way he was a gentleman. The scene at the beer festival with the Stud t-shirt guy was probably one of my favorites! (Go read it, I'm not saying any more about it!)
I loved how I felt transported to Asheville with every word I read, I think I seriously need a trip there. This book is amazing! Go read it, end of story!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2016
I can honestly say that I really loved this book! I enjoyed the characters, especially Emma and Elliott. I loved the musical aspects of the book. In fact, as I read I wished I could actually hear the music being discussed and played by the characters. It was interesting to 'observe' Emma and Elliott's relationship develop from the first disastrous meeting to the satisfying last note. Like all relationships, Emma and Elliott's has some real ups and downs. Emma's awkwardness at talking to him gradually makes way for a sweet romance. But things take a turn for the worse when Elliott's fame puts Emma in a place she really doesn't want to be and she has to decide what it is she really wants. And that choice leads her down a path she might never have gone otherwise. The secondary characters are fun as well, including Lilly (Emma's roommate) and her boyfriend Travis, Emma's family (parents and sister, Ava), even an ex-boyfriend all play important roles in Emma and Elliott's lives. I found this book to be a thoroughly enjoyable romance with great characters, interesting themes, and great music. I just wish there was a soundtrack to go with it. ;)
February 25, 2017
This was a a really cute read. It's a bit different from the author's two other books, being it's not as deep in content, but still very enjoyable.
I really liked the setting and the theme of music that brought the main characters together. The way they met was funny and painfully awkward and it makes you wonder about Emma. When Elliott refuses her, you have to wonder what's wrong with him too.
In the end, what Emma does for Elliott brings the best in her to light, especially to him.
It's a clean LDS romance what will appeal to anyone who loves cute love stories and adorable characters.
I really liked the setting and the theme of music that brought the main characters together. The way they met was funny and painfully awkward and it makes you wonder about Emma. When Elliott refuses her, you have to wonder what's wrong with him too.
In the end, what Emma does for Elliott brings the best in her to light, especially to him.
It's a clean LDS romance what will appeal to anyone who loves cute love stories and adorable characters.
March 17, 2016
This was a very fun read, especially being a musician myself. I enjoyed the characters and the music that was talked about. It's an up paced story that falls into place like the pieces Elliot composes. There were a couple of places that described things in the music world that weren't quite accurate, but no one other than someone who's involved in that world would notice. It's a fantastic read that anyone would loved. I highly recommend it.
July 5, 2016
My favorite of Jenny's books. It reminded me of a modern twist on Pride and Prejudice (or its first title, "First Impressions"), but with lots more music. :)
June 2, 2019
I love everything about this book, the characters, the witty dialogue, and everything else. I just wish I hadn’t waited so long to read it!
December 16, 2019
This was one of my favorites I’ve read in a while. Super cute story, great chemistry and I liked the music part.
February 23, 2017
When I bought this I didn't realize it was LDS lit. I tend to stay far, far away from LDS lit because I have read some that has been so cheesy and special that I couldn't bear it. So when I started reading this and realized it was about Mormons I was very disappointed. I know that is weird considering I AM one of those cheesy Mormons, and I do love to read contemporary fiction by LDS authors, just not contemporary fiction ABOUT Mormons. However, that feeling soon went away when I realized it was just a nice story where the people happened to be LDS. It wasn't sappy, it wasn't ridiculously sweet and spiritual, it was just a great story. Thanks, Jenny Proctor, for making me see that LDS lit doesn't have to be over the top. I really, really liked this book! The music aspect of it completely pulled me in. I mean, really pulled me in. Music is the core of this story. What is does to people, how we react to it, the different feelings it invokes. For me the music added to the romance. "Has he heard you play?" was asked of the main character several times. And hearing him play - and them both play together had me all squishy. I recommend this to everyone, but especially those who are like me and have been purposely staying away from LDS lit. This one will bring you around :) .
May 14, 2016
I love everything about this book from the perfect title through to the dynamic characters, the plot is unpredictable & you will be pulled in from the very first page. I really appreciate a writer that can capture your attention like that. There's an abundance of characters, but it's never overwhelming or confusing, each one adding a dimension to this fabulous story, complimenting Emma & Elliot, such a vast array of personalities and background. You feel like you are getting a very real slice of life for a couple of LDS in their mid 20's living in North Carolina, not your typical 'Utah' young single adult tale.. Emma & Elliot have been blessed with amazing musical talent, and having to live in today's world of fame, demands from the business, colleagues. The dilemmas presented. I loved that Elliot had depth to his 'celebrity' character, despite this story being written as Emma in the first person, you feel so deeply for him, his genuine nature - the conflicts of his life. I enjoyed the aspects of Emma's personal life, from the best friend/roommate to her family, she has come home to be near - her Mom suffering with MS. There were many 'awww' moments while reading, what amounts to overall a very very well written story. My new favorite from Jenny Proctor, who has totally outdone herself. I enjoyed her first 2 books, this one is outstanding!! Maybe it's a shared love of music with the characters, or just that deep down wonder of meeting and connecting with someone of celebrity status, the untouchable fantasy that becomes the reality. I appreciated that Emma seemingly is the one with the doubts and struggles, the expectations were the other way round. This was enlightening and added to the story. Jenny, thank you for writing this as a full novel, and not the planned short story! It's a new favorite!
Thanks to Netgalley & Covenant Communications for the book, and here is my honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley & Covenant Communications for the book, and here is my honest review.
March 3, 2016
Let's start with the cover. Isn't it cute? I really enjoy the simplicity of it. The background color makes it pop, and it definitely is something that would catch my eye to pick it up to look at.
I enjoy music. I always have. I like listening to it, singing it, playing it, etc. I've never been passionate about it though. In fact, I can't tell you the name or artist of most songs :) But who hasn't had an experience of some music moving you to tears, or if not to tears, touching something deep down? Music is powerful, so when I read or hear about people (like in this book) who music is a need it really strikes me because while I can't relate to the passion, I can relate to the power.
Emma's character was great. It amused me how tongue tied she got when trying to speak to other people, unless she was really comfortable with them. That, I can definitely relate to. Sometimes she's stubborn to the point of everyone else must be wrong if they don't agree, and a little judgmental. However, I loved how she was willing to rethink her positions and really listen to what others were saying (after she had calmed down).
I was taken along Elliot's and Emma's romance, and thoroughly enjoyed the ride. I read at the beginning how this was originally going to be a novella, and boy am I glad that the author changed her mind about that :)
For an almost 300 page book, it is a really quick read. Definitely entertaining, and one of those books where everything (like dishes and laundry) gets put to the side so you can read one more chapter, that turns into the whole book :) While there is kissing in the book, it wasn't anything that when my daughter grows up I would have a problem with her reading it. Highly recommended.
*I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoy music. I always have. I like listening to it, singing it, playing it, etc. I've never been passionate about it though. In fact, I can't tell you the name or artist of most songs :) But who hasn't had an experience of some music moving you to tears, or if not to tears, touching something deep down? Music is powerful, so when I read or hear about people (like in this book) who music is a need it really strikes me because while I can't relate to the passion, I can relate to the power.
Emma's character was great. It amused me how tongue tied she got when trying to speak to other people, unless she was really comfortable with them. That, I can definitely relate to. Sometimes she's stubborn to the point of everyone else must be wrong if they don't agree, and a little judgmental. However, I loved how she was willing to rethink her positions and really listen to what others were saying (after she had calmed down).
I was taken along Elliot's and Emma's romance, and thoroughly enjoyed the ride. I read at the beginning how this was originally going to be a novella, and boy am I glad that the author changed her mind about that :)
For an almost 300 page book, it is a really quick read. Definitely entertaining, and one of those books where everything (like dishes and laundry) gets put to the side so you can read one more chapter, that turns into the whole book :) While there is kissing in the book, it wasn't anything that when my daughter grows up I would have a problem with her reading it. Highly recommended.
*I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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