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Reverie #1
Reverie
Julia James has spent most of her life hiding in plain sight. For her, the cello was a way to get past a hellish childhood. Even now that she is one of the top cellists in the country, and a contender in the most prestigious, high-stakes music competition in the world, she hopes no one will notice her.
But then someone does.
A chance (or is it?) encounter brings her to the attention of the distractingly sexy, charismatic French horn player, Jeremy Corrigan. As he helps her to embrace her talent, her sexuality and her past, Julia thinks she might finally be headed toward her ‘happily-ever-after.'
Unfortunately, happily isn’t so much ‘ever-after’ for Julia.
The lines between love and obsession are blurred in REVERIE.
But then someone does.
A chance (or is it?) encounter brings her to the attention of the distractingly sexy, charismatic French horn player, Jeremy Corrigan. As he helps her to embrace her talent, her sexuality and her past, Julia thinks she might finally be headed toward her ‘happily-ever-after.'
Unfortunately, happily isn’t so much ‘ever-after’ for Julia.
The lines between love and obsession are blurred in REVERIE.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2016
22 people are currently reading
519 people want to read
About the author
Lauren E. Rico
14 books552 followersLibrarian Note: Also writes under the pen name L.E. Rico.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 6, 2016
3/5 stars
This was such an intense book. Certain parts left me shocked and wanting more. I continue to think this reminds me of a soap opera turned into a book just because it was dramatic yet inpactful. Lauren Rico, grabs your attention and has you thinking one way yet suprising you by turning the story in a completely different direction. I personally didn't love the characters but overall, I very much enjoyed my reading experience and I'm anticipating picking up the second book.
Video Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KCmO...
**I was sent this book by the author in exchange for an honest review**
This was such an intense book. Certain parts left me shocked and wanting more. I continue to think this reminds me of a soap opera turned into a book just because it was dramatic yet inpactful. Lauren Rico, grabs your attention and has you thinking one way yet suprising you by turning the story in a completely different direction. I personally didn't love the characters but overall, I very much enjoyed my reading experience and I'm anticipating picking up the second book.
Video Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KCmO...
**I was sent this book by the author in exchange for an honest review**
September 10, 2023
True Rating: 3.5
This was one unputdownable read. Apart from the romance and the twists, I loved the backdrop of classical music. I've always been a sucker for books and anime with classical music and this one also turned out to be interesting. I loved how the music performances resonated with the current mood of the story or the emotion of the character playing it.
The best way to read this book is to keep all the mentioned music ready in hand and play them when they are mentioned in the scenes. This way the reading becomes a musical experience, almost like attending a theatrical performance.
The turn of events was quite predictable. However, the writing kept me hooked. Even though I knew what was coming up next, I could not stop reading.
I would recommend this book if you like classical music, romance, erotica and would be okay with reading trilogies.
Note: I received a free copy of this ebook from NetGalley.
This was one unputdownable read. Apart from the romance and the twists, I loved the backdrop of classical music. I've always been a sucker for books and anime with classical music and this one also turned out to be interesting. I loved how the music performances resonated with the current mood of the story or the emotion of the character playing it.
The best way to read this book is to keep all the mentioned music ready in hand and play them when they are mentioned in the scenes. This way the reading becomes a musical experience, almost like attending a theatrical performance.
The turn of events was quite predictable. However, the writing kept me hooked. Even though I knew what was coming up next, I could not stop reading.
I would recommend this book if you like classical music, romance, erotica and would be okay with reading trilogies.
Note: I received a free copy of this ebook from NetGalley.
September 15, 2016
Actual rating: 4.5/5 stars
So it has been a whole day, and I think I can now produce coherent thoughts. Or at least I will try to. Here we go:
This book was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
To be completely honest, I thought this was going to be like every other book out there with this the girl and guy fall for each other, but their dark past is holding them back from pursuing it. And it started off just like that, but somewhere along the way it evolved into something grittier and darker that I was expecting.
This book definitely has the surprise element that will knock you off your feet, and leave you discombobulated. And I think it was because of that feeling of distraught that I just could not put this book down. I started this book late in the evening thinking that I would just read a few chapters and go to bed, but that was not the case at all. I read until I could not read anymore, and then I read until I finished the book.
In this story we have our two main characters, Julia and Jeremy. They are essentially the center of the plot, but we do have side characters that are a big part of the plot as well. For example, Matthew is Julia's roommate/best friend they've been through a lot together. They met in the orphanage and have gone through a whole lot together. There also is Brett, Jeremy's brother, who has a long time rivalry with Matthew. Lastly, we have Cal, who has had a long time crush on Julia, but Julia doesn't feel the same way towards him. All of these characters have one thing in common and that is classical music.
The setting for this is just perfect because we get a good amount of music and drama. And that is like music to my ears. (That was a lousy pun.) I think that the darkness of the story was engulfed by the classical music which created this eerie atmosphere. It definitely set the tone of the story, and I am ecstatic to get my hands on the sequel.
I would continue gushing about this book, but I don't want to reveal too much of the plot because I think that going blind is the best way to experience this. I did deduct a half a star because I felt like the ending was rushed. Other than that, this book left me speechless.
Triggers: sexual abuse, verbal abuse, physical abuse, rape
---
Holy Crap! I was not expecting this book to be what it was. I am speechless. I shall write a more coherent review later on today once my thoughts have settle down. But just know that this really surpass my expectations.
So it has been a whole day, and I think I can now produce coherent thoughts. Or at least I will try to. Here we go:
This book was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
To be completely honest, I thought this was going to be like every other book out there with this the girl and guy fall for each other, but their dark past is holding them back from pursuing it. And it started off just like that, but somewhere along the way it evolved into something grittier and darker that I was expecting.
This book definitely has the surprise element that will knock you off your feet, and leave you discombobulated. And I think it was because of that feeling of distraught that I just could not put this book down. I started this book late in the evening thinking that I would just read a few chapters and go to bed, but that was not the case at all. I read until I could not read anymore, and then I read until I finished the book.
In this story we have our two main characters, Julia and Jeremy. They are essentially the center of the plot, but we do have side characters that are a big part of the plot as well. For example, Matthew is Julia's roommate/best friend they've been through a lot together. They met in the orphanage and have gone through a whole lot together. There also is Brett, Jeremy's brother, who has a long time rivalry with Matthew. Lastly, we have Cal, who has had a long time crush on Julia, but Julia doesn't feel the same way towards him. All of these characters have one thing in common and that is classical music.
The setting for this is just perfect because we get a good amount of music and drama. And that is like music to my ears. (That was a lousy pun.) I think that the darkness of the story was engulfed by the classical music which created this eerie atmosphere. It definitely set the tone of the story, and I am ecstatic to get my hands on the sequel.
I would continue gushing about this book, but I don't want to reveal too much of the plot because I think that going blind is the best way to experience this. I did deduct a half a star because I felt like the ending was rushed. Other than that, this book left me speechless.
Triggers: sexual abuse, verbal abuse, physical abuse, rape
---
Holy Crap! I was not expecting this book to be what it was. I am speechless. I shall write a more coherent review later on today once my thoughts have settle down. But just know that this really surpass my expectations.
September 4, 2016
Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest review.
I am keeping this as spoiler free as possible.
So I started reading this book falling instantly in love with the writing of Lauren Rico. It was fast-paced but still her words are chosen in such an observant manner. She combines the beauty and darkness of classical music, with passion and obsession.
This book is written in two perspectives. In the perspective of Julia and Jeremy both competing in an audition that can change their career as a musician.
But what does one to win a competition? Thats the big question that was hovering over me after reading the synopsis of this book.
Once I started it it went into the background. I was completely focused on the beautiful descriptions of how playing classical music changes the musician and how the musician changes the music.
The passionate part kicked in and for a minute I thought we are really going down the road of 50 Shades of Grey which would have been disastrous, but Lauren Rico didn't do that. She did something that I had a feeling about right from the start but what I also wasn't quiet expecting.
My first intuition on the turn was that this is it. This is 50 Shades of Grey just the way I imagined it without the millionair. It is an episode of Criminal Minds. And it couldn't have been made any better than Lauren Rico did it.
I had moments where I just had to keep reading because I was so freaked out.
Seriously if I would have had the time I would have read it in one sitting.
I have read many good Thrillers, but none was like that and I really think the element of the classical music contributed that extra wow effect and helped making it even darker and more psychological.
So for me this is honestly a 5 out of 5 stars and I can't wait to read the second one.
I am keeping this as spoiler free as possible.
So I started reading this book falling instantly in love with the writing of Lauren Rico. It was fast-paced but still her words are chosen in such an observant manner. She combines the beauty and darkness of classical music, with passion and obsession.
This book is written in two perspectives. In the perspective of Julia and Jeremy both competing in an audition that can change their career as a musician.
But what does one to win a competition? Thats the big question that was hovering over me after reading the synopsis of this book.
Once I started it it went into the background. I was completely focused on the beautiful descriptions of how playing classical music changes the musician and how the musician changes the music.
The passionate part kicked in and for a minute I thought we are really going down the road of 50 Shades of Grey which would have been disastrous, but Lauren Rico didn't do that. She did something that I had a feeling about right from the start but what I also wasn't quiet expecting.
My first intuition on the turn was that this is it. This is 50 Shades of Grey just the way I imagined it without the millionair. It is an episode of Criminal Minds. And it couldn't have been made any better than Lauren Rico did it.
I had moments where I just had to keep reading because I was so freaked out.
Seriously if I would have had the time I would have read it in one sitting.
I have read many good Thrillers, but none was like that and I really think the element of the classical music contributed that extra wow effect and helped making it even darker and more psychological.
So for me this is honestly a 5 out of 5 stars and I can't wait to read the second one.
February 23, 2017
What a fantastic read! Not only does it take in the intensity of becoming a professional at anything, especially in the high-stress and demanding world of professional, classical musicians, but it also shows us the intensity of love and obsession.
I found every moment of this book a mix of intriguing and exciting, whilst experiencing a hint of fear and dread for our main character. she is inexperienced in love and in a sexual nature. this leads to her being naively pulled into something that may have had alarms bells going off for someone more experienced in the world. Reading along as she began to explore, trust and understand herself was very exciting. It really got me to completely connect with her and want to understand her, her life and her past.
The pace, mixed with the twists and turns, throughout the book kept me excited and ready to find out what was going to happen next, even if I was a bit fearful at some points. The intensity of some of the actions really blended with the pace and created a very enthralling book.
Overall, I think this was fantastic! I can see a lot of readers really becoming completely hooked by this series.
**Arc received for review.
I found every moment of this book a mix of intriguing and exciting, whilst experiencing a hint of fear and dread for our main character. she is inexperienced in love and in a sexual nature. this leads to her being naively pulled into something that may have had alarms bells going off for someone more experienced in the world. Reading along as she began to explore, trust and understand herself was very exciting. It really got me to completely connect with her and want to understand her, her life and her past.
The pace, mixed with the twists and turns, throughout the book kept me excited and ready to find out what was going to happen next, even if I was a bit fearful at some points. The intensity of some of the actions really blended with the pace and created a very enthralling book.
Overall, I think this was fantastic! I can see a lot of readers really becoming completely hooked by this series.
**Arc received for review.
January 26, 2019
Reread.
May 1, 2016
“The cello is a wordless voice, heaving, and sighing with the weight of her sorrow.”
I was lucky to receive an ARC of Reverie by Lauren E. Rico from NetGalley provided by Harmony House productions for an honest book review.
The first thing that struck me about this book were the credits:
For Vanessa, who told me I could.
For Tom, who told me I should.
For Janet, who told me I would
I started reading this book at 12:00. I thought I would read a chapter to see what it was about and then I would go to sleep. I was wrong. I was very, very wrong.
It was finished by 2:44 AM.
Plot:
Julia James has always been part of the background. If she passed you, you probably wouldn't even notice her. Julia had to learn from a young age how to go unnoticed not to stand out or face the consequences. So, she became quiet, quiet like a mouse.
For Julia, the only way to escape her past and to release the cacophony in her heart is to be on stage with her hands curved around her cello.
Then somebody notices her. That somebody is no other than the handsome devil, Jeremy Corrigan. His charm is only exceeded by his talent as a french horn player. Soon he starts showing Julia a whole new world. A world of danger, desire, and lust, He helps her to grow more confident and discover the strength within herself.
The perfect set up for a Disney romance right?
Nope.
This is not a fairy tale.
My Experience:
After finishing this book I was a mashed ball of wrecked emotions only able to repeat the words:
"So good."
"So good"
I don’t know how to explain my experience without giving any spoilers so I have decided to explain it metaphorically.
It starts off soft and sweet with a pinch of sadness vibrating from the violins. Dragging you into the dark despair of Julia’s past.You hear broken strings being gently plucked whispering of heartache and moaning with sorrow. Then a cheeky piano interrupts jovially and you feel the tone changing from sorrow to thrill.An explosion of instruments bursts through the pages silencing the sadness playing the melodies of wishes and seductive roses.
You become so entranced with the beauty and power of the pages you fail to notice the tempo slowing and the tone changing. The instruments turn dark and the music becomes almost mechanic. Gone is the cheekiness from the piano that whispered of promise and fun earlier. Instead, it is replaced with ominous tones screeching from an old cello. A false note escapes the piano and all havoc breaks loose. A sound so sinister and so horrifying hits you in your ears it stretches into your stomach and you can hardly comprehend how such a sound can exist. Yet it echoes through the pages and you get lost in the symphony of this absolute masterpiece.
I can’t say more without ruining it for you. All I can say is you have to read it to hear it. When you read it you will hear it.
What I liked:
I loved how the music was described. I could actually hear it when reading the words which rarely happens for me in books. I could feel the vibrations of the strings and the echoes of the horns.
What I did not like:
Brett’s character was a bit confusing. I thought I had an idea of who he was until the chapter where you get to read from his perspective. I felt as if his inner monolog did not go with how he was portrayed throughout the story.
Recommendations:
Everyone just everyone. I want to go buy a trolley filled with copies of Reverie and just throw people with this book.
However, there are some heavy themes in this book including BDSM, abuse and sexual assault in this book so I will only recommend this to everybody over 18.
Rating for the book:
I can not, not give this book a 5.
It made me dream. It made me cry. It made me shiver. It made me remember and I will never be able to forget this story.
* * * * * / 5
5 stars. 5 snowflakes. 5 golden medals.
I salute you.
Snow
May 25, 2016
I was intrigued by the synopsis of Reverie as soon as I read it, but I have to be honest, it wasn’t what I expected…it was even better! Set amidst the backdrop of a prestigious music conservatory, Reverie delves into the competitive nature of the students who are vying for a spot in an internationally renowned music competition. This is a fast paced read that offers up the perfect combination of romance, emotion, drama and psychological suspense. With twists and turns that kept my heart pounding, Reverie kept me completely enthralled in the story and the lives of the characters until the very end.
Julia is a hardworking, talented cellist who’s accustomed to fading into the background. Her meek, mild, insecure nature can be attributed to her painful childhood which was filled with abuse and abandonment. Julia’s safe haven is her long-time best friend and roommate, Matthew, and her music, which she uses as a balm to help her express her emotions.
When the handsome, charming French horn player finally notices her, she is more than a little surprised and flattered. Jeremy Corrigan is as talented as he is captivating, never known to be without the company of a variety of ladies. As he expresses his interest in Julia, she finds herself succumbing to his appeal and easily slipping under the spell of his charms.
The book is split into three parts. The first and third part is told from Julia’s perspective, while the second part is from Jeremy’s perspective. I enjoyed this aspect of the book. It gives the reader an insight into the mindset of the characters and provides a better understanding of their psyches and motivations (oh, does it ever).
Reverie had the romance, the fascinating characters, and the interesting storyline that I look forward to when picking up a book, but it also had a dark, twisted, sinister aspect to it that kept me glued to the pages. There was never a dull moment, and I was sitting on pins and needles through its entirety.
Lauren E. Rico’s debut novel is exquisitely written and showcases her knowledge of classical music and the beauty that it possesses. While I was unaware that Reverie was the first book in a series, I couldn’t be happier that there will be more of this intense and compelling story.
Julia is a hardworking, talented cellist who’s accustomed to fading into the background. Her meek, mild, insecure nature can be attributed to her painful childhood which was filled with abuse and abandonment. Julia’s safe haven is her long-time best friend and roommate, Matthew, and her music, which she uses as a balm to help her express her emotions.
When the handsome, charming French horn player finally notices her, she is more than a little surprised and flattered. Jeremy Corrigan is as talented as he is captivating, never known to be without the company of a variety of ladies. As he expresses his interest in Julia, she finds herself succumbing to his appeal and easily slipping under the spell of his charms.
The book is split into three parts. The first and third part is told from Julia’s perspective, while the second part is from Jeremy’s perspective. I enjoyed this aspect of the book. It gives the reader an insight into the mindset of the characters and provides a better understanding of their psyches and motivations (oh, does it ever).
Reverie had the romance, the fascinating characters, and the interesting storyline that I look forward to when picking up a book, but it also had a dark, twisted, sinister aspect to it that kept me glued to the pages. There was never a dull moment, and I was sitting on pins and needles through its entirety.
Lauren E. Rico’s debut novel is exquisitely written and showcases her knowledge of classical music and the beauty that it possesses. While I was unaware that Reverie was the first book in a series, I couldn’t be happier that there will be more of this intense and compelling story.
April 3, 2016
This book is a page turner with so many emotions!!! If I didn't have a regular job I would have finished this book in one sitting. Lauren has done an amazing job with the emotional rollercoaster! On one page I was crying the next I was angry. The main characters are Julia James who plays cello, Matthew Ayers, who plays viola and Jeremy Corrigan who plays french horn! As a french horn player and piano player this book struck me with the musical piece being part of the story. The scenes in the conservatory take me back to when I was a piano student taking lessons at a college.
Jeremy and Julia are both going for a prestigious music award and Jeremy will do whatever it takes to win it! Matthew is trying to protect Julia from ruining her life as he knows her better than anyone. They have been friends since they were kids living together in the foster system.
If you like a book with music as a background, romance with a sprinkle of 50 Shades of Grey and even a little murder mystery then this is the book for you!!
Jeremy and Julia are both going for a prestigious music award and Jeremy will do whatever it takes to win it! Matthew is trying to protect Julia from ruining her life as he knows her better than anyone. They have been friends since they were kids living together in the foster system.
If you like a book with music as a background, romance with a sprinkle of 50 Shades of Grey and even a little murder mystery then this is the book for you!!
June 15, 2016
3.5 Stars
Taking the classical music world as a backdrop with a romance/suspense story is a unique idea. The competitive world is ruthless and what lengths the participants will do is something we experience. Is everyone as they present themselves... are hearts being used for personal advantage?
These are the things to ponder while enjoying the detailed story of classical music, hearts and competition.
A gifted copy was provided by Harmony House Productions via NetGalley for an honest review
Taking the classical music world as a backdrop with a romance/suspense story is a unique idea. The competitive world is ruthless and what lengths the participants will do is something we experience. Is everyone as they present themselves... are hearts being used for personal advantage?
These are the things to ponder while enjoying the detailed story of classical music, hearts and competition.
A gifted copy was provided by Harmony House Productions via NetGalley for an honest review
April 4, 2016
This book is a roller-coaster of a thriller. The glimpse inside the world of competitive classical music is fascinating but the love story drives the narrative. Cellist Julia James is on the rise and falling in love with handsome, charismatic, talented Jeremy is the icing on the cake--or is it? I gobbled this book up and can't wait for the sequels.
February 15, 2017
This was my first Dark Romance that I have read for this year and boy let me tell you that this is a wow me story. It blew me away. I was so impressed with it. It kept me turning the pages for more I was completely hooked.
Julia and Jermery are the main characters in this book but there were other great Characters in this book as well but these two were my favorite. They were mostly the center of the plot. That kept me reading. Nicely well written. I also liked the the setting with the music and I think that is what kept this a nice dark love story.
I loved how the details were with the music it was just very well done. It felt like you could hear every bit of the music through the book. I just love that.
A wonderful story you need to read if you are into Dark Romance. I highly recommend this book. A job well done.
I received a eARC of this book to give a honest review.
Julia and Jermery are the main characters in this book but there were other great Characters in this book as well but these two were my favorite. They were mostly the center of the plot. That kept me reading. Nicely well written. I also liked the the setting with the music and I think that is what kept this a nice dark love story.
I loved how the details were with the music it was just very well done. It felt like you could hear every bit of the music through the book. I just love that.
A wonderful story you need to read if you are into Dark Romance. I highly recommend this book. A job well done.
I received a eARC of this book to give a honest review.
June 20, 2017
Reverie by Lauren E Rico.
Julia James has spent most of her life hiding in plain sight. For her, the cello was a way to get past a hellish childhood. Even now that she is one of the top cellists in the country, and a contender in the most prestigious, high-stakes music competition in the world, she hopes no one will notice her.
But then someone does.
A chance (or is it?) encounter brings her to the attention of the distractingly sexy, charismatic French horn player, Jeremy Corrigan. As he helps her to embrace her talent, her sexuality and her past, Julia thinks she might finally be headed toward her ‘happily-ever-after.'
Unfortunately, happily isn’t so much ‘ever-after’ for Julia.
a very good read with good characters. I liked Julia. 4*. Netgalley and weaponry co-op.
Julia James has spent most of her life hiding in plain sight. For her, the cello was a way to get past a hellish childhood. Even now that she is one of the top cellists in the country, and a contender in the most prestigious, high-stakes music competition in the world, she hopes no one will notice her.
But then someone does.
A chance (or is it?) encounter brings her to the attention of the distractingly sexy, charismatic French horn player, Jeremy Corrigan. As he helps her to embrace her talent, her sexuality and her past, Julia thinks she might finally be headed toward her ‘happily-ever-after.'
Unfortunately, happily isn’t so much ‘ever-after’ for Julia.
a very good read with good characters. I liked Julia. 4*. Netgalley and weaponry co-op.
March 29, 2017
I'm not usually a fan of dark romance, so Reverie was a nice surprise for me. Set in the world of classical music, Reverie is both love story and suspense. On the one hand, we have the intense relationship between cellist Julia and french horn player Jeremy--and in this we see that he enthrals her and is definitely the alpha. Both are trying to win the same prestigious competition, and Jeremy is willing to do anything to win. Be prepared for some very sexy scenes and a book that is beautifully written--it captures all the ebbs and flows of classical music and is very evocative. I thought the characters were believable and well-developed. I could imagine them as I read and, at times, the book felt so cinematic.
I really enjoyed reading Reverie and look forward to reading Rhapsody, the next book in the series. It's a compelling read will keep you hooked from page one. This was my first time reading Lauren E. Rico. Adding her to my list of authors to watch.
Note: I received a free copy of Reverie through a Read & Review program in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
I really enjoyed reading Reverie and look forward to reading Rhapsody, the next book in the series. It's a compelling read will keep you hooked from page one. This was my first time reading Lauren E. Rico. Adding her to my list of authors to watch.
Note: I received a free copy of Reverie through a Read & Review program in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
March 2, 2017
Wow! This book was such an exciting and thrilling read! This book took off from page one and kept you fully entertained to the very last page!
This book is book one of a three part book series.
This book is not your typical romance/love story. There is no cotton candy fluff and rainbows. This love story focuses not just on love, but on obsession, seduction, addiction, compulsion, instability, and fascination. This is more of a dark romance with stalker tendencies and psychological imbalances.
I had a very hard time putting this book down as I was completely enthralled in the storyline and had to know what was going to happen next.
The main character, Julia James, is a well accomplished cellist. She is intelligent, but somewhat naive. She is the quieter, reserved, keeps to herself type that hopes to hide in the background. However, with her level of talent and beauty she is left in the spotlight and it isn’t long before the girl who wants to be unnoticed becomes well – noticed.
Julia is very likeable and genuine. I’m not the quiet type, but I think many readers will be able to relate and identify with her.
Jeremy Corrigan is sexy, alluring, and charismatic. Julia thinks she has finally met the “one,” but Jeremey may not be the perfect guy she thinks he is.
There are lots of twists and turns in this book that you may not see coming. The pace of the book is fast as so much happens, but it’s at the right speed for a suspenseful, thriller book.
The storyline is truly captivating! Love can make you do you crazy things! This book is well written and researched. It is clear Miss. Rico comes from a music background as the writing is sound!
This book shows you another side of romance. The dark, intense, scary, and creepy side. You can just feel the fear, suspense, and torment leap off the pages! Total goosebumps!
I would absolutely recommend this book as it was highly entertaining, engaging, exciting, and suspenseful! This book will take you on quite the adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat! I am happy to have found a fascinating new author and am eager to check out the other two books in this series!
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest, and unbiased review in accordance with FTC regulations.**
This book is book one of a three part book series.
This book is not your typical romance/love story. There is no cotton candy fluff and rainbows. This love story focuses not just on love, but on obsession, seduction, addiction, compulsion, instability, and fascination. This is more of a dark romance with stalker tendencies and psychological imbalances.
I had a very hard time putting this book down as I was completely enthralled in the storyline and had to know what was going to happen next.
The main character, Julia James, is a well accomplished cellist. She is intelligent, but somewhat naive. She is the quieter, reserved, keeps to herself type that hopes to hide in the background. However, with her level of talent and beauty she is left in the spotlight and it isn’t long before the girl who wants to be unnoticed becomes well – noticed.
Julia is very likeable and genuine. I’m not the quiet type, but I think many readers will be able to relate and identify with her.
Jeremy Corrigan is sexy, alluring, and charismatic. Julia thinks she has finally met the “one,” but Jeremey may not be the perfect guy she thinks he is.
There are lots of twists and turns in this book that you may not see coming. The pace of the book is fast as so much happens, but it’s at the right speed for a suspenseful, thriller book.
The storyline is truly captivating! Love can make you do you crazy things! This book is well written and researched. It is clear Miss. Rico comes from a music background as the writing is sound!
This book shows you another side of romance. The dark, intense, scary, and creepy side. You can just feel the fear, suspense, and torment leap off the pages! Total goosebumps!
I would absolutely recommend this book as it was highly entertaining, engaging, exciting, and suspenseful! This book will take you on quite the adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat! I am happy to have found a fascinating new author and am eager to check out the other two books in this series!
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest, and unbiased review in accordance with FTC regulations.**
March 15, 2017
Reverie is a great start of what will ultimately be a trilogy. Julia is a successful, quiet, young woman who plays the cello in The McInnes Conservatory of Music. Her nickname is Mouse, for mostly unflattering reasons, but she's not as timid as the nickname suggests. She had a rough childhood and was in the foster care system for a lot of it. Her best friend, Matthew, was in foster care with her, and is her roommate now. He too is a classical musician, a viola player. Jeremy is a horn player at McInnes, also, and he will become the man to seduce her and bring her out of her mousy shell. He's clearly dominant and the relationship progresses really quickly. It's steamy, so if that's your thing, you'll love Reverie.
But, twists and turns and crazy things start happening and Julia is left reeling. If you like your romance with lots of unpredictability and shades of darkness, I highly recommend you read Reverie. Beware, though, that this is only part 1 of a trilogy.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
But, twists and turns and crazy things start happening and Julia is left reeling. If you like your romance with lots of unpredictability and shades of darkness, I highly recommend you read Reverie. Beware, though, that this is only part 1 of a trilogy.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
October 18, 2016
My Review:
You will never hear the Cello Suites in quite the same way again:
Bach’s famously haunting Prelude, much akin to it’s namesake, foretells of the cornucopia of raw emotions to come in author and SiriusXM radio host Lauren Rico’s debut novel “Reverie:” a soul-wrenching blend of hope, despair, passion, vitriol, tragedy and ultimately triumph over seemingly unshakable obstacles that sees our heroine Julia James free herself from the harrowing and confining shackles of abuse.
Reverie’s is a dialogue all too common in modern society – James’ tragic story reads like a discourse on the mental and physical ramifications of years of generational abuse and shines a bright spotlight onto the torturous practice of “gas lighting:” a many-tiered form of emotional exploitation that sees it’s victim subjected to a systematic and lengthy process of forced memory distortion by a trusted and loved assailant, ultimately leading to the ‘patient’ (or in this instance, the ‘case subject’) questioning his or her own memory – and, in the ultimate coup de grâce for the abuser – leaving the victim questioning his or her own perception of abuse.
Told in present time (with allusions to the protagonist’s past), Reverie takes us painstakingly through the private lives of budding master musicians, revealing the grit behind the "pomp," and the reality behind the "circumstance" of the perceived perfectionism commonly associated with classical music and with that of it’s practitioners, blending seamlessly the steadfast dedication and passion of rising within elite musical ranks and within social and intimately personal ones – revealing most expertly the fragility of man at his most vulnerable, and the unshakeable ability for the human soul to continue to seek love and triumph over any obstacle.
James' story is a story for the mind, an exultation for the soul, and a powerful testament to mental health. A remarkable debut from an equally musically inclined author: Reverie is officially Rico’s first opus, and this review is simply raving!
-Rose.
You will never hear the Cello Suites in quite the same way again:
"Here, in the darkness, it’s almost as if the cello and I are a single entity. I supplement the instrument’s delicate panels of wood, and tough lengths of gut string with my own flesh, blood, and breath. I inhale every phrase, and my entire body moves in a circular pattern, cello lovingly embraced between my knees. It takes me to places I don’t usually allow myself to go, places buried deep in the back of my mind. My mother lives here, in this place where the music brings me. She’s a young woman, not much older than I am now. I can see her pretty, fair face. She has freckles like me, and a head full of coppery curls. I imagine her leaning over me and tucking me in. She brushes the hair from my forehead and tells me to have sweet dreams. But they are not sweet at all. As my bow slices across the strings, I hear her and my father yelling through the night. I dig into the Bach harder, recalling the crash of objects hurled and the smack of a hand on someone’s face. Whose? I don’t know. My fingers move frantically now, recklessly. The music could break apart and shatter in an instant. But it doesn’t. It slows and begins the lament. The crying. Her tears. There it is. He slapped her, this time. The cello is a wordless voice, heaving and sighing with the weight of her sorrow. The bow carries my fear with it as it swings to each string in turn. They are so volatile. They cannot hold our fragile life together. It just spirals out of control, picking up speed again, until it reaches a fever pitch.
Without warning, my hand slips across the D string, lurching forward and sending my bow flying across the room. It hits the floor with a sickening ‘thwack,’ returning me instantly to the tiny, pitch - black room in which I have lost myself once again.”
Bach’s famously haunting Prelude, much akin to it’s namesake, foretells of the cornucopia of raw emotions to come in author and SiriusXM radio host Lauren Rico’s debut novel “Reverie:” a soul-wrenching blend of hope, despair, passion, vitriol, tragedy and ultimately triumph over seemingly unshakable obstacles that sees our heroine Julia James free herself from the harrowing and confining shackles of abuse.
Reverie’s is a dialogue all too common in modern society – James’ tragic story reads like a discourse on the mental and physical ramifications of years of generational abuse and shines a bright spotlight onto the torturous practice of “gas lighting:” a many-tiered form of emotional exploitation that sees it’s victim subjected to a systematic and lengthy process of forced memory distortion by a trusted and loved assailant, ultimately leading to the ‘patient’ (or in this instance, the ‘case subject’) questioning his or her own memory – and, in the ultimate coup de grâce for the abuser – leaving the victim questioning his or her own perception of abuse.
Told in present time (with allusions to the protagonist’s past), Reverie takes us painstakingly through the private lives of budding master musicians, revealing the grit behind the "pomp," and the reality behind the "circumstance" of the perceived perfectionism commonly associated with classical music and with that of it’s practitioners, blending seamlessly the steadfast dedication and passion of rising within elite musical ranks and within social and intimately personal ones – revealing most expertly the fragility of man at his most vulnerable, and the unshakeable ability for the human soul to continue to seek love and triumph over any obstacle.
James' story is a story for the mind, an exultation for the soul, and a powerful testament to mental health. A remarkable debut from an equally musically inclined author: Reverie is officially Rico’s first opus, and this review is simply raving!
-Rose.
November 6, 2016
Months ago, I received an Advanced Review Copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. With so many books to review, I’ve only just gotten around to this one. In the event, the ARC proved to have so many formatting errors that it rendered it virtually unreadable. So, instead, I downloaded a copy from Kindle Unlimited on Amazon, and am basing my review on that copy.
First of all, I have to say that I love the book cover. It shows the story so well, and I love the dark versus light too.
Secondly, and happily, I can say that in the Kindle copy, the formatting issues have been resolved.
Abandoned at a young age by her mother, Julia James escaped an abusive childhood only to find herself in state care until she came of age. A fellow ward of the state, Matthew, took her under his wing and helped her to come out of her shell. The two of them found a passion for playing classical music, and it is the Cello that brought Julia back to life. Reverie begins at the point where Julia is studying at the McInnes Institute and has become lead Cello there. Despite her talent, she manages to remain largely unnoticed and earns the nickname of ‘Mouse’. Until, that is, Kreisler rival, Jeremy, sets her in his sights.
The first half of the book is told from Julia’s rather innocent point of view, and I found that I connected strongly with this lead character. What a wrench it felt, then, when the POV flipped abruptly to Jeremy’s obsessive and manipulative character. It read like two separate books, and I had to take a period to readjust to the massive change. As you might expect, I didn’t like Jeremy’s character at all, but that is all kudos to the author, as she portrayed him realistically enough for me to develop such a strong aversion to him. Right at the end of the book, the POV flips again, and this time it moves between Julia’s POV once more and Brett’s (Jeremy’s brother) in the epilogue. The story contains plenty of steamy scenes and suspense and will pull you right in.
While the ending isn’t a cliff-hanger, it is open-ended and leads you to book two, which–I’m pleased to say–is now available.
The characters and setting are written well and feel authentic. The author, obviously, knows her stuff when it comes to the world of classical music. Unfortunately, unpolished writing and spelling mistakes let it down somewhat. The amount of times ‘own’ is inserted into a sentence where it just isn’t needed, and waive is used instead of wave, as well as sooth instead of soothe, etc. Add to that dialogue tags that tell what has just been artfully shown (he coaxes, I point out, I agree, I whine, he quips, etc.), and all the filter words (I’m sure, I notice, I can feel, I can see, etc.), and the name-dropping within dialogue, and it all ends up a bit tedious to read. Also, hyphens have been used where dashes are needed.
All of which leaves me in a quandary with the rating for this review. A book with characters this well drawn and the scene-setting so excellently done, and with such a good and consistent pace and plot, would get five stars from me, no question. However, with the issues mentioned above, this would earn it an automatic three stars. So, what to do? For sure, the book is so much better than a three, and this writer has brilliant potential. After some thought, I have plumbed for a four-star rating, with the proviso that it does contain some errors that need tidying up. All of that aside, this is an enjoyable and entertaining read. And, while some of it is predictable, it still has a unique twist and feels authentic and realistic. I look forward to reading book two: Rhapsody–so, watch this space for that review, coming soon! :)
First of all, I have to say that I love the book cover. It shows the story so well, and I love the dark versus light too.
Secondly, and happily, I can say that in the Kindle copy, the formatting issues have been resolved.
Abandoned at a young age by her mother, Julia James escaped an abusive childhood only to find herself in state care until she came of age. A fellow ward of the state, Matthew, took her under his wing and helped her to come out of her shell. The two of them found a passion for playing classical music, and it is the Cello that brought Julia back to life. Reverie begins at the point where Julia is studying at the McInnes Institute and has become lead Cello there. Despite her talent, she manages to remain largely unnoticed and earns the nickname of ‘Mouse’. Until, that is, Kreisler rival, Jeremy, sets her in his sights.
The first half of the book is told from Julia’s rather innocent point of view, and I found that I connected strongly with this lead character. What a wrench it felt, then, when the POV flipped abruptly to Jeremy’s obsessive and manipulative character. It read like two separate books, and I had to take a period to readjust to the massive change. As you might expect, I didn’t like Jeremy’s character at all, but that is all kudos to the author, as she portrayed him realistically enough for me to develop such a strong aversion to him. Right at the end of the book, the POV flips again, and this time it moves between Julia’s POV once more and Brett’s (Jeremy’s brother) in the epilogue. The story contains plenty of steamy scenes and suspense and will pull you right in.
While the ending isn’t a cliff-hanger, it is open-ended and leads you to book two, which–I’m pleased to say–is now available.
The characters and setting are written well and feel authentic. The author, obviously, knows her stuff when it comes to the world of classical music. Unfortunately, unpolished writing and spelling mistakes let it down somewhat. The amount of times ‘own’ is inserted into a sentence where it just isn’t needed, and waive is used instead of wave, as well as sooth instead of soothe, etc. Add to that dialogue tags that tell what has just been artfully shown (he coaxes, I point out, I agree, I whine, he quips, etc.), and all the filter words (I’m sure, I notice, I can feel, I can see, etc.), and the name-dropping within dialogue, and it all ends up a bit tedious to read. Also, hyphens have been used where dashes are needed.
All of which leaves me in a quandary with the rating for this review. A book with characters this well drawn and the scene-setting so excellently done, and with such a good and consistent pace and plot, would get five stars from me, no question. However, with the issues mentioned above, this would earn it an automatic three stars. So, what to do? For sure, the book is so much better than a three, and this writer has brilliant potential. After some thought, I have plumbed for a four-star rating, with the proviso that it does contain some errors that need tidying up. All of that aside, this is an enjoyable and entertaining read. And, while some of it is predictable, it still has a unique twist and feels authentic and realistic. I look forward to reading book two: Rhapsody–so, watch this space for that review, coming soon! :)
March 1, 2017
Finally! Finally. I've been waiting for this from the new adult category for quite sometime.
Julie plays the cello in a super competitive orchestra and she's competing in an international competition. She knows this puts a target on her back, but she's use to fading into the background.
She's also a victim of abuse, but she doesn't want pity. She taps into her memories and uses them to drive her music.
Jeremy plays the french horn and is also competing against Julia. He inserts himself into her life and they fall into an obsession sort of love.
I saw the twist coming, but I didn't really expect it.
I find so much of this relatable being a victim of abuse, growing up a total band nerd. This is definitely 5 stars. Full of triggers, 18+ content, light bdsm I wouldn't recommend this to everyone, but if you are of age and looking for fast pace new adult novel I don't think you will be disappointed.
Julie plays the cello in a super competitive orchestra and she's competing in an international competition. She knows this puts a target on her back, but she's use to fading into the background.
She's also a victim of abuse, but she doesn't want pity. She taps into her memories and uses them to drive her music.
Jeremy plays the french horn and is also competing against Julia. He inserts himself into her life and they fall into an obsession sort of love.
I saw the twist coming, but I didn't really expect it.
I find so much of this relatable being a victim of abuse, growing up a total band nerd. This is definitely 5 stars. Full of triggers, 18+ content, light bdsm I wouldn't recommend this to everyone, but if you are of age and looking for fast pace new adult novel I don't think you will be disappointed.
April 28, 2016
Wow, what a powerful, astonishing read from debut author Lauren E. Rico. Romance, psychological intrigue, edgy eroticism, love and loyalties - this story has it all. I’m a lifelong classical music fan and an adult student of the violin, and this is what initially drew me in. The rest of the story and its delivery is what kept me there. I loved immersing myself in the lives of talented cello student Julia, her longtime friend, professional violist Matthew, and French horn prodigy Jeremy, as Julia and Jeremy compete in a prestigious international competition that culminates in much, much more. I thoroughly enjoyed all the references to classical music and the music-making scenes. There is one scene, early on, where the aloof, charismatic Jeremy softens to assist the more timid, introverted Julia in her efforts with her competition piece, the Rachmaninoff Cello Sonata. Through music, and this scene, Rico gives us a marvelously nuanced, subtle seduction, much like what classical music does to its devotees. Concurrently, Jeremy and the prose have lulled Julia and the reader into an illusion of trustworthiness and safety, but of course the story’s premise says it all. This isn’t a sweet romance, a happily ever after. It’s a psychological thriller with a sexy edge.
The story is nicely paced, with a compelling cast of characters. Backstories serve the narrative well. An appropriate amount of detail is judiciously delivered, that enhances and never slows the action. Julia shows both her strengths and weaknesses, as the [near] adult version of someone who grew up in the foster care system after her mother abandoned the family and her father abused her physically and emotionally. She is any psychological manipulator’s dream victim.
Some readers are likely going to be jolted, maybe even put off, by the shift in point of view a third of the way into the story. Don’t let this fool you into thinking the story has shifted out of its clever staging. The new narrator and the darker angle is a crucial part of the story and it’s meant to be subdivided in this way. Rico has cleverly created a plot that does to the reader what the antagonist has done, revealing its darker intent stealthily and effectively.
This can be considered new adult or simply fiction for adults who like their stories classy, but with an edge. Its writing style, immediate and accessible, will appeal to all. Above all, as a classical music person, I love how it exposes readers to the classical music world, with a sexy, irresistible, dark-but-not-too-much patina. What’s not to like about that? A compelling, delicious page-turner you’ll want to devour in one sitting. My only regret is that I’ll have to wait a spell for Rhapsody, the sequel, which I plan to jump on as soon as it appears. Better yet, it sounds like this is a trio of books. What a fun addition to the classical music fiction archives. Brava, Lauren E. Rico!
The story is nicely paced, with a compelling cast of characters. Backstories serve the narrative well. An appropriate amount of detail is judiciously delivered, that enhances and never slows the action. Julia shows both her strengths and weaknesses, as the [near] adult version of someone who grew up in the foster care system after her mother abandoned the family and her father abused her physically and emotionally. She is any psychological manipulator’s dream victim.
Some readers are likely going to be jolted, maybe even put off, by the shift in point of view a third of the way into the story. Don’t let this fool you into thinking the story has shifted out of its clever staging. The new narrator and the darker angle is a crucial part of the story and it’s meant to be subdivided in this way. Rico has cleverly created a plot that does to the reader what the antagonist has done, revealing its darker intent stealthily and effectively.
This can be considered new adult or simply fiction for adults who like their stories classy, but with an edge. Its writing style, immediate and accessible, will appeal to all. Above all, as a classical music person, I love how it exposes readers to the classical music world, with a sexy, irresistible, dark-but-not-too-much patina. What’s not to like about that? A compelling, delicious page-turner you’ll want to devour in one sitting. My only regret is that I’ll have to wait a spell for Rhapsody, the sequel, which I plan to jump on as soon as it appears. Better yet, it sounds like this is a trio of books. What a fun addition to the classical music fiction archives. Brava, Lauren E. Rico!
April 18, 2018
Utterly twisted.
June 18, 2016
Reverie by Lauren Rico is a stunning contemporary novel that blew me away instantly. I was immediately drawn into the leading female character's life story. Her troubled past to the present trouble brewing up...Love, hatred, abuse, lies...and danger wrapped up in one riveting tale. From a dysfunctional family with abuse going on to a young woman falling into a trap of abuse far greater than the one she escaped from as a child. This is a novel for adults only. There's hot steamy sex...lies, betrayal, murder, and beatings. Lauren Rico has masterfully created a novel that shows us the violence and threats that happen in real life. Sometimes there's no justice...the good fall victim and to those that are unaware might just die for a selfish reason that was completely unexpected. The nightmare never ends...as Julia and her new love, Matthew, now fight for their lives. The stirred up the mess of a dangerous murderer, and now, he may just come after them next. The suspense and intrigue are high in this exciting and thrilling read. Reverie is an adventure that readers will carry with them forever. Overall, I highly recommend this beautifully told story, to readers everywhere.
Read
October 28, 2016“Intriguingly dark and intensely compelling . . . sure to keep readers in suspense.”
Wow, what a powerful, intriguingly dark and compelling read from new author Lauren E. Rico. Romance, psychological intrigue, edgy eroticism, love and loyalties - this story has it all. I’m a classical music fan and this story delivers on that front just beautiful. I enjoy sitting back and listening to classical music from time to time to help unwind I may have even listened to some while reading this. The rest of the story and its delivery is what kept me there. The Characters are well developed the world vivid just beautifully written. It will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions from turbulent to soothing and everything in between.
**** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from RBTL Book Promotions and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I will leave my Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". *****
Wow, what a powerful, intriguingly dark and compelling read from new author Lauren E. Rico. Romance, psychological intrigue, edgy eroticism, love and loyalties - this story has it all. I’m a classical music fan and this story delivers on that front just beautiful. I enjoy sitting back and listening to classical music from time to time to help unwind I may have even listened to some while reading this. The rest of the story and its delivery is what kept me there. The Characters are well developed the world vivid just beautifully written. It will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions from turbulent to soothing and everything in between.
**** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from RBTL Book Promotions and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I will leave my Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". *****
April 30, 2016
I love the classical music atmosphere of this book. If you are not familiar with all of the music mentioned, I recommend looking it up., it adds something. Julia is a great character. She's portrayed as quiet and mousy, which I was unsure of at first. It's almost a trope in this type of book, and tired and cliche. But as more of her past is revealed, it makes sense. Her becoming "Mouse" is the logical conclusion of her life experiences. And she becomes so much more than that as the book progresses. My only negative comment is the book is uneven. It's like two halves of different books, it starts out more innocent. Julia is focusing on her music and an important competition, and getting to know Jeremy. Their relationship escalates kind of out of nowhere. I didn't expect their relationship to take quite the turn it did. These are minor things though. If you like classical music and romances that don't get boring, you will enjoy this.
December 6, 2016
Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?
The writing in Reverie was beautiful. The author perfectly captured and brought me right in to the mindset of her characters. That added a whole new level to the reading experience. I felt like I was right there with them, in their darkness. Freddy Krueger isn't scary. Jason isn't scary. It's people like this that are scary, because you know they are really out there.
Reverie by Lauren E. Rico was kindly provided to me by the author for review. The opinions are my own.
October 4, 2016
I really wasn't expecting what this book turned out to be. I was thinking it would be the classical music version of a rock star romance, but it's actually much deeper, creepier and more intense. It has a mystery/thriller element that totally surprised me, but that I enjoyed reading more than I thought I would, as that's really not my kind of thing usually. It's dark and gritty, and unexpected, but it's also addictive, a definite page-turner and although I probably won't be looking for Rico's other work, I'm glad I read it.
October 6, 2016
I got this book for free on Amazon and I thought oh it's going to be a lil dark (judging off the cover) but it'll be the female will get our 'bad boy' to change his wicked ways type of romance novel. WRONG. Oh there was 'love' but I knew something was going on when all of the sudden Jeremy started being nice after 5 years of not knowing she existed but this was way over the top...
I wasn't overly attached to our leading female Julia; she just seemed a little too innocent and naive to me but we only accept the love we feel we deserve.
Can't wait to read the next book.
I wasn't overly attached to our leading female Julia; she just seemed a little too innocent and naive to me but we only accept the love we feel we deserve.
Can't wait to read the next book.
May 31, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, it had loads of suspense and enough thriller to keep me hooked till the last page. I really liked the story, which is based around musicians. this book is a roller coaster of emotions in every page. this book has plenty of romance with a bit of steam with the added thriller this makes it a fantastic read.
highly recommended
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highly recommended
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May 21, 2016
What a great read!!! I found myself up into the night not being able to put this book down. It is obvious that Ms. Rico has a great knowledge of classic music and a great passion for writing. I cant wait for more to come. The twists and turns left me wanting to continue reading as did the settings of the book. Growing up on Long Island and spending so many summers in Montauk, this up and coming author took me back to those days.
I GIVE IT 5 STARS
I GIVE IT 5 STARS
July 24, 2016
Great book with a good cast of characters. The story is told from multiple points of view, and allows you to explore each character, seeing both their strengths and their flaws. Before I read this book, I didn't know much about classical music or the various musical instruments that several characters in the story play. The music added a nice angle to the storyline. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel to this book.
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