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Lyrical Lights
In a world of glamour, lies, and betrayal threatens to tear them apart...
Mable’s life as a model may be over after her agent drops her, but a chance encounter with a fashion photographer, Simon Rowe, revives her dream—and awakens desires she never imagined. Mable soon discovers there’s more to this sexy motorcyclist from down under.
As her relationship with Simon flourishes so does her modeling career. Suddenly, Mable struggles to find a balance in her life in a world that keeps on trying to tear her down, forcing her to choose between the life of fame she always wanted and the man that, until now, she never knew she needed. In a world that’s a stage, can their love thrive under the lights?
Lyrical Lights is a charming, modern love story full of free-spirited characters and a story that’ll hook you from the very first page.
Mable’s life as a model may be over after her agent drops her, but a chance encounter with a fashion photographer, Simon Rowe, revives her dream—and awakens desires she never imagined. Mable soon discovers there’s more to this sexy motorcyclist from down under.
As her relationship with Simon flourishes so does her modeling career. Suddenly, Mable struggles to find a balance in her life in a world that keeps on trying to tear her down, forcing her to choose between the life of fame she always wanted and the man that, until now, she never knew she needed. In a world that’s a stage, can their love thrive under the lights?
Lyrical Lights is a charming, modern love story full of free-spirited characters and a story that’ll hook you from the very first page.
304 pages, Paperback
First published April 19, 2018
8 people are currently reading
706 people want to read
About the author
Maria La Serra
7 books196 followersA Montréalaise who began her career in the fashion industry before transitioning to a writer. She is willing to try anything at least once—except for skiing, hiking, camping, or anything that would require her to spend time in the great outdoors. When she’s not working on her next book, you could find her spending time with her husband and kids.
You can follow her on:
Twitter @authormlaserra
Instagram @maria.laserra
Facebook @authormarialaserra
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 26, 2018
2.75 stars
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
Lyrical Lights was a different read, the plotline was quite fresh and new. I wasn't overly impressed, but I liked it enough.
I liked the banter between the main characters, even though their hot and cold relationship tired me after some time. I love angst and a good slow burn romance, but there's so much that I can take when it comes to building a romance between the hero and the heroine.
The characters go through a lot throughout the whole story and, at a point, I feel like a lot was just thrown there and I miss seeing the aftermath and the follow up. The ending was satisfactory, but some of the things that happen until we get to the end weren't showed to us readers. So I had a hard time connecting to that part of the story.
Overall, it was a good read, but I expected tobe more impressed.
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
Lyrical Lights was a different read, the plotline was quite fresh and new. I wasn't overly impressed, but I liked it enough.
I liked the banter between the main characters, even though their hot and cold relationship tired me after some time. I love angst and a good slow burn romance, but there's so much that I can take when it comes to building a romance between the hero and the heroine.
The characters go through a lot throughout the whole story and, at a point, I feel like a lot was just thrown there and I miss seeing the aftermath and the follow up. The ending was satisfactory, but some of the things that happen until we get to the end weren't showed to us readers. So I had a hard time connecting to that part of the story.
Overall, it was a good read, but I expected tobe more impressed.
April 17, 2018
This turned out to be a really good read. I say that because the story had me and my emotions going up, down, up, down then taking a hard right before coming back. I have to say, the author could have crushed us with this story and several times I thought that was exactly what was going to happen. This book was absolutely wonderfully written, giving the reader all the feels, including some entertaining banter between Simon and Mable. If ever two people were made for each other, it's these two. Too bad that we know it before they do, and that's where the ups and downs come in. He's a photographer, she's a model....well she wanted to be a model but she's dropped by her agent and now she's about to go home. A lucky break and a magazine cover has her returning to New York to meet with a friend of Simon's, and this woman changes her life as well as her career.
I loved these characters. Both are broken, however I feel that Simon is much more broken than Mable is, considering the loss he's suffered and the guilt he carries with him. Mable's mother left when she was a child and has made her look at the possibility of having a happily ever after as nothing but fantasy, and she doesn't believe in fantasies and thinks that filling young girls minds with the promises of finding their knight in shinning armor, their prince charming is doing them an injustice. The two do hit it off, the banter, they work well together and even love each other, but their brokenness begins to get in the way as Simon's helping Vanessa, someone from his pass who despises Mable, becomes one problem, until it becomes the straw that breaks the camel's back.
My problem with these characters, they don't talk and when one does, the other doesn't let them finish. They stumble over what they want to say, putting the other one on the defensive or offensive as the case may be. I wanted to shake both of them so hard! Their conversations sometimes confused the hell out of me, leaving me sitting here staring at the book, like I was staring at the door that one of them just walked through. Yep, I could definitely relate to the one left behind. LOL
This was really a wonderful read and I definitely recommend this book. You will love it!
I loved these characters. Both are broken, however I feel that Simon is much more broken than Mable is, considering the loss he's suffered and the guilt he carries with him. Mable's mother left when she was a child and has made her look at the possibility of having a happily ever after as nothing but fantasy, and she doesn't believe in fantasies and thinks that filling young girls minds with the promises of finding their knight in shinning armor, their prince charming is doing them an injustice. The two do hit it off, the banter, they work well together and even love each other, but their brokenness begins to get in the way as Simon's helping Vanessa, someone from his pass who despises Mable, becomes one problem, until it becomes the straw that breaks the camel's back.
My problem with these characters, they don't talk and when one does, the other doesn't let them finish. They stumble over what they want to say, putting the other one on the defensive or offensive as the case may be. I wanted to shake both of them so hard! Their conversations sometimes confused the hell out of me, leaving me sitting here staring at the book, like I was staring at the door that one of them just walked through. Yep, I could definitely relate to the one left behind. LOL
This was really a wonderful read and I definitely recommend this book. You will love it!
April 19, 2018
Lyrical Lights is a contemporary romance book. I believe it could be standalone as this is the first book I’ve read by this author. This book made me feel all types of emotions, from smiling to sadness.
The plot was grasping. How two people can be one… Come from different parts of the world and still mingle. To follow your dreams no matter what others say. Also, always tell the ones you care about everything even if it means it might not be something they want to hear.
Mable, what a unique name first off. I really liked her. Her dream was to be a model but because she was deaf her first agent dropped her so she thought giving up was her answer until she met Simon a photographer who took Mable’s pictures. Mable had talent, she knew what to do and be herself.
Simon was the male lead in this book and I liked him as well. What he has been thru and keeps to himself is something he learns he should’ve told Mable sooner.
Both of them have chemistry, but it’s not like other books I’ve read there isn’t a lot of heat.
The writing style was good. It kept me interested to find out what was going to happen. This is the first book I’ve read by Maria and I would read more by her. I really liked how each chapter was named.
Some quotes I liked:
“He believed in me, and when someone has that kind of faith in you, you can move mountains. “
“Our setbacks don’t define us unless we allow it.”
“You have to love what you do; that’s the only way it’s captured on film. “
Overall, Lyrical Lights was a fun, easy read that had for me a twist in it. I didn’t see that coming. If you are like me and like to read new to you authors in the contemporary romance genre then I’d recommend this.
Plot- 4/5
Characters -5/5
Heat- 1/5
Writing Style- 3.5/5
Overall rating- 4/5
Reviewed for SBR Blogs
The plot was grasping. How two people can be one… Come from different parts of the world and still mingle. To follow your dreams no matter what others say. Also, always tell the ones you care about everything even if it means it might not be something they want to hear.
Mable, what a unique name first off. I really liked her. Her dream was to be a model but because she was deaf her first agent dropped her so she thought giving up was her answer until she met Simon a photographer who took Mable’s pictures. Mable had talent, she knew what to do and be herself.
Simon was the male lead in this book and I liked him as well. What he has been thru and keeps to himself is something he learns he should’ve told Mable sooner.
Both of them have chemistry, but it’s not like other books I’ve read there isn’t a lot of heat.
The writing style was good. It kept me interested to find out what was going to happen. This is the first book I’ve read by Maria and I would read more by her. I really liked how each chapter was named.
Some quotes I liked:
“He believed in me, and when someone has that kind of faith in you, you can move mountains. “
“Our setbacks don’t define us unless we allow it.”
“You have to love what you do; that’s the only way it’s captured on film. “
Overall, Lyrical Lights was a fun, easy read that had for me a twist in it. I didn’t see that coming. If you are like me and like to read new to you authors in the contemporary romance genre then I’d recommend this.
Plot- 4/5
Characters -5/5
Heat- 1/5
Writing Style- 3.5/5
Overall rating- 4/5
Reviewed for SBR Blogs
April 19, 2018
I LOVED this book SO HARD! It’s a book with real substance, heart and grit! I was sucked in the moment I opened it and stayed up all night reading, it was so good! It was more than worth it to be zombie like the next day!
The characters are so well written!! I loved the development and growth of each of these characters. There was nothing fake nor unbelievable about them. Mable, a struggling super-model with a disability, trying to make her way in the cut-throat fashion industry, decides to give up and call it quits. Enter sexy, alluring and mysterious Simon. A world-renowned photographer that see’s something special in Mable that she doesn’t see in herself. Watching this relationship bloom, blossom and struggle like all relationships do, was an absolute pleasure!
The story flowed flawlessly and I felt all the feels! I found myself laughing at times, getting angry and being very surprised by certain parts. I appreciated the author’s detailed perspective on what it’s like to be in that industry; especially for someone that’s different and doesn’t quite fit the mold.
This is a MUST read!! It has everything a book should have! It has depth, heart, laughter and substance. I LOVED the twists and turns the story took and the emotions felt on this journey. Seriously… get this book!!
The characters are so well written!! I loved the development and growth of each of these characters. There was nothing fake nor unbelievable about them. Mable, a struggling super-model with a disability, trying to make her way in the cut-throat fashion industry, decides to give up and call it quits. Enter sexy, alluring and mysterious Simon. A world-renowned photographer that see’s something special in Mable that she doesn’t see in herself. Watching this relationship bloom, blossom and struggle like all relationships do, was an absolute pleasure!
The story flowed flawlessly and I felt all the feels! I found myself laughing at times, getting angry and being very surprised by certain parts. I appreciated the author’s detailed perspective on what it’s like to be in that industry; especially for someone that’s different and doesn’t quite fit the mold.
This is a MUST read!! It has everything a book should have! It has depth, heart, laughter and substance. I LOVED the twists and turns the story took and the emotions felt on this journey. Seriously… get this book!!
April 7, 2018
Not for Me
While I constantly berate authors for the insta-love in thier books, Maria La Serra gives her readers the opposite. Well, they do fall for each other quickly, but then it's a long, slow ride to the end.
The blurb was interesting, hearing impaired model, a little heavy, not fitting into the mold of the modeling world...other peoples drama? Count me in. However, there was little of Mable's struggles and lots of round and round with her and the handsome photographer that brought her back to life, Simon.
I liked these two together, but they were boring. Lots of talking and details of thier lives, pasts and even how the flash of a camera sounds, but nothing gritty or angsty to keep me interested in the story. Even with the handful of supporting characters, I couldn't find myself connecting with Mable and Simon.
The book is well written, includes a nice curve ball and epilogue at the end, however it wasn't for me.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
While I constantly berate authors for the insta-love in thier books, Maria La Serra gives her readers the opposite. Well, they do fall for each other quickly, but then it's a long, slow ride to the end.
The blurb was interesting, hearing impaired model, a little heavy, not fitting into the mold of the modeling world...other peoples drama? Count me in. However, there was little of Mable's struggles and lots of round and round with her and the handsome photographer that brought her back to life, Simon.
I liked these two together, but they were boring. Lots of talking and details of thier lives, pasts and even how the flash of a camera sounds, but nothing gritty or angsty to keep me interested in the story. Even with the handful of supporting characters, I couldn't find myself connecting with Mable and Simon.
The book is well written, includes a nice curve ball and epilogue at the end, however it wasn't for me.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
January 12, 2019
Maria La Serra is a new author to me, I sort of knew what to expect because I have read one other book like this before it was Tone Deaf by Olivia
I loved Mable its such a unique name you don’t really see it now a day. Mable has a dream of becoming a model. Her first agent that she had dropped her and she wanted to give up because she didn’t really fit into the mold of a model. She is a strong woman and she wants to change the way that the model industry is. That was until she met Simon.
Simon is a photographer who like to keep to himself. I think that he was able to bring this natural beauty out of Mable and I loved that.
Mable and Simon have a instant connection but they don’t act on there feelings right away. The story blended together well. There were many emotions that I had reading this book. I laughed and cried a few times I also got angry at some.
I think this is a must read because I haven’t found many like it. If you know of any then please let me know because I would love to read it.
*I was giving this book by Netgalley and the author in exchange for an honest review. *
I loved Mable its such a unique name you don’t really see it now a day. Mable has a dream of becoming a model. Her first agent that she had dropped her and she wanted to give up because she didn’t really fit into the mold of a model. She is a strong woman and she wants to change the way that the model industry is. That was until she met Simon.
Simon is a photographer who like to keep to himself. I think that he was able to bring this natural beauty out of Mable and I loved that.
Mable and Simon have a instant connection but they don’t act on there feelings right away. The story blended together well. There were many emotions that I had reading this book. I laughed and cried a few times I also got angry at some.
I think this is a must read because I haven’t found many like it. If you know of any then please let me know because I would love to read it.
*I was giving this book by Netgalley and the author in exchange for an honest review. *
February 15, 2018
[i received a free advance review copy by the author in exchange for an honest review]
This book has opened my eyes to a lot of things i’ve never given much thought to. I’ve always been skeptical about the act/profession of modeling, but Mable Harper has changed my view on that. She’s actually changed the aspect of the ideal body shape/weight for models, or people in general, at that. The fact that, and i quote, “Fashion is not created for one body type or culture.” And that’s one of the most crucial points this book delivers.
Mable is such a strong woman driven on her will to change the way the fashion industry is behaving, trying to alter the designers’ image of a perfect model’s body. And the fact that she volunteered to do humanitarian work when she became successful made my respect for her grow exponentially.
I’d like to believe that Simon had a major part in Mable’s evolution, if you may. She wouldn’t be the person she is now if it weren’t for him. And although that might sound a little sad for some, I personally believe it’s beautiful. This book had such a great impact on me. I definitely recommend it; it’s a must-read.
This book has opened my eyes to a lot of things i’ve never given much thought to. I’ve always been skeptical about the act/profession of modeling, but Mable Harper has changed my view on that. She’s actually changed the aspect of the ideal body shape/weight for models, or people in general, at that. The fact that, and i quote, “Fashion is not created for one body type or culture.” And that’s one of the most crucial points this book delivers.
Mable is such a strong woman driven on her will to change the way the fashion industry is behaving, trying to alter the designers’ image of a perfect model’s body. And the fact that she volunteered to do humanitarian work when she became successful made my respect for her grow exponentially.
I’d like to believe that Simon had a major part in Mable’s evolution, if you may. She wouldn’t be the person she is now if it weren’t for him. And although that might sound a little sad for some, I personally believe it’s beautiful. This book had such a great impact on me. I definitely recommend it; it’s a must-read.
April 8, 2018
I enjoyed Simon and Mable in this book and I liked their dialogue for the most part. The one big issue I had was it seemed to have a bit of teenage angst in characters that are over 20. Overall I liked the story and the message. Mable isn’t your normal model. She’s not the skinniest woman around and she is hard of hearing but she doesn’t care and neither does Simon, who is immediately smitten with her. Some of the events seemed to drag on for longer than necessary and towards the end I felt like it could have ended earlier. I’d recommend to read this book if for no other reason than the subject and the message that you can be anything you want to be and don’t let people’s perceptions hold you back.
Reviewed by: Alexis B.
Reviewed by: Alexis B.
April 21, 2018
I LOVED that the heroine, Mable, had a hearing disability. You don't see many books, movies, or TV like that. So to see a disability shown in this light is amazing to me and warms my heart. I love anything that shows minorities, disabilities, or anything that is 'looked down' upon in this society. I think we need more representation of that in this crazy world.
This is another roller coaster ride of a book. It has up and downs and sideways feelings before letting you upright and then it starts again. I loved Simon and Mable's back and forth banter that had me laughing out loud at some points and that kept it interesting and kept my interest.
I do recommend for this fresh new plot line.
This is another roller coaster ride of a book. It has up and downs and sideways feelings before letting you upright and then it starts again. I loved Simon and Mable's back and forth banter that had me laughing out loud at some points and that kept it interesting and kept my interest.
I do recommend for this fresh new plot line.
April 21, 2018
Mable and Simon meet and they are instantly attracted to each other. However, they fight their attraction until they can no longer. But it is not smooth sailing as one would think. There are situations that keep them apart, and once or twice I thought they may not find their way back to each other. This was the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2018
she is hard of hearing she wants to be a model. people say she wont make it, she goes to a bar and loses her purse when she meets him. they get on well but can the be a couple? will her dreams come true? see how this will go
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2018
My sister was born hard of hearing and is gorgeous! I absolutely loved this book and the use of a main character with a disability. It just goes to show that people can overcome obstacles and that there is a happy ending for everyone. Just a refreshingly terrific novel!
I read this book using my awesome Kindle Unlimited subscription.
I read this book using my awesome Kindle Unlimited subscription.
April 19, 2018
This book was well-written and I was not putting it down until I had finished reading it.This is the first book by this Author I have read but I will be looking for more by her.I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2018
I enjoyed reading this book! I liked Simon and Mabel's story and the characters in the book. Once I started reading this I was hooked. This is told mainly from Mabel's POV but once in a while Simon's POV is told.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review
April 9, 2018
***ARC REVIEW IN EXCHANGE OF A HONEST OPINION***
I love the chemistry between Mable and Simon, and the realistic feel of the plot. Love the writing definitely would recommend this book.
I love the chemistry between Mable and Simon, and the realistic feel of the plot. Love the writing definitely would recommend this book.
April 21, 2018
I love this & I can't wait for more.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
April 4, 2018
I received the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this. The beginning seemed quite cliche but as I got farther into it, it got even better. I liked how the author kept the plot realistic and the characters relatable. I do admit, I teared up from time to time. Especially towards the end. Not the best book I’ve ever read but it still was good. Mable is a perfect role model. It had a much better ending than the beginning.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this. The beginning seemed quite cliche but as I got farther into it, it got even better. I liked how the author kept the plot realistic and the characters relatable. I do admit, I teared up from time to time. Especially towards the end. Not the best book I’ve ever read but it still was good. Mable is a perfect role model. It had a much better ending than the beginning.
April 23, 2018
Lyrical Lights is a fantastic read that will give you a modern and moving love story set in the fashion/photography world. The story is written in a way that we have the perfect mix of friendship, love and self-discovery.
Maria La Serra is a new author to me, so I didn’t know what to expect when I started reading Lyrical Lights, but from the first page till the last it was a pleasure reading her work. While most books rush their characters relationships, Lyrical Lights allows her characters to grow as individuals and as a couple.
Mable is our sweet and loveable heroine. I loved her from the get go, her determination to make her dreams become a reality was what made me love this character even more. Not willing to change who she is for her to succeed in the fashion world, is an important lesson in this story, especially in today’s society where imagine is everything. I loved that Maria La Serra, the author, wrote about character that isn’t stick thin. She may not be what most people call a ‘normal’ person, but she used that to her advantage. I loved this element of the storyline. Maybe it’s because I am a plus size lady and have been judged, so to see someone, even fictional, succeed in a profession that has a huge impact on how people see themselves made me extremely happy.
Simon, our hero (sigh) had my heart in the palm of his hand throughout the story. We need more men like him! He has a natural charm that makes him a sweetheart. The most attractive quality that I loved in him was his ability to see beauty in all shapes and size, maybe it’s because he sees beauty behind a camera lenses.
While these characters have an undeniable attraction, their relationship isn’t an easy one.
I thoroughly enjoyed Lyrical Lights and can’t wait to read more off Maria La Serra work. Be sure to add this novel to your TBR List, you won’t be disappointed!
Maria La Serra is a new author to me, so I didn’t know what to expect when I started reading Lyrical Lights, but from the first page till the last it was a pleasure reading her work. While most books rush their characters relationships, Lyrical Lights allows her characters to grow as individuals and as a couple.
Mable is our sweet and loveable heroine. I loved her from the get go, her determination to make her dreams become a reality was what made me love this character even more. Not willing to change who she is for her to succeed in the fashion world, is an important lesson in this story, especially in today’s society where imagine is everything. I loved that Maria La Serra, the author, wrote about character that isn’t stick thin. She may not be what most people call a ‘normal’ person, but she used that to her advantage. I loved this element of the storyline. Maybe it’s because I am a plus size lady and have been judged, so to see someone, even fictional, succeed in a profession that has a huge impact on how people see themselves made me extremely happy.
Simon, our hero (sigh) had my heart in the palm of his hand throughout the story. We need more men like him! He has a natural charm that makes him a sweetheart. The most attractive quality that I loved in him was his ability to see beauty in all shapes and size, maybe it’s because he sees beauty behind a camera lenses.
While these characters have an undeniable attraction, their relationship isn’t an easy one.
I thoroughly enjoyed Lyrical Lights and can’t wait to read more off Maria La Serra work. Be sure to add this novel to your TBR List, you won’t be disappointed!
April 21, 2018
***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***
I requested this because of the synopsis. I was intrigued by the idea of a hard of hearing model. Then, I was promptly disappointed.
This book had a lot of potential, but didn't deliver. Ms. La Serra did make some different decisions when it came to story structure which I appreciate. There were some technical errors, but those don't typically bother me, plus this is an ARC so that's a possibility.
My main issue was the romance. I felt no chemistry between these two. I knew I was supposed to, but it felt bland. Mable and Simon were also very immature. Especially for adults (one of whom has been married) they should be able to use their words. Instead they would withhold things from each other and make petty decisions.
In the end, I don't hate this book or the writing. Instead it's kind of just forgettable. I do see potential in the writing and would try another book by this author in the future when she's had an opportunity to grow more as a writer.
I requested this because of the synopsis. I was intrigued by the idea of a hard of hearing model. Then, I was promptly disappointed.
This book had a lot of potential, but didn't deliver. Ms. La Serra did make some different decisions when it came to story structure which I appreciate. There were some technical errors, but those don't typically bother me, plus this is an ARC so that's a possibility.
My main issue was the romance. I felt no chemistry between these two. I knew I was supposed to, but it felt bland. Mable and Simon were also very immature. Especially for adults (one of whom has been married) they should be able to use their words. Instead they would withhold things from each other and make petty decisions.
In the end, I don't hate this book or the writing. Instead it's kind of just forgettable. I do see potential in the writing and would try another book by this author in the future when she's had an opportunity to grow more as a writer.
January 4, 2023
2 stars on Goodreads means "it was ok", and that really does explain how I feel about this one.
Firstly, and I admit to being somewhat petty here, but Mabel? I know that some readers have a strong dislike for gender ambiguous (I tend to love these), hard to pronounce or ridiculously modern 'made up' names, but my outright hatred is for the utterly old fashioned. Who names the 21 year old heroine of a love story MABEL in the 21st century? That name was already outdated 50/60 years ago let alone now! If this offends anyone then I'm really sorry, but being someone who was, unfortunately, 'gifted' a very frumpy old name myself, I feel supremely qualified to comment, as my name has been the bane of my life for almost my whole existence, much like I'm sure Mabel would have experienced. I have to say that this issue did have a huge impact on my impression of the story at the beginning, given it is a romance set in contemporary times. Had this been a Victorian, Edwardian or even up to WW2 era story it would have felt authentic to the times, but as it stands I had a hard time. TBH, if the blurb mentioned that Mabel was the heroine's name, it would have been a hard pass for me.
There were parts that annoyed me, some continuity issues, and TBH I wasn't really feeling the connection between Mabel and Simon. The tension was not very taut, the world was bland and the chemistry just MIA. Like many a story, the misunderstanding could so easily have been resolved with a single adult conversation.
Personally, I also wanted to know a little bit more about how Mabel's disability affected her in day to day life. Especially being a model. But then towards the third section of the book, I'm not even sure she was modeling anymore? I'm not saying that I wanted a "disabled experience" story, but I'm sure that given the author made the heroine HoH, it would have made more sense to discuss the issue a tad more than she did. That the h had a disability in the fashion industry is precisely what made me pick up the book to begin with, so I do feel let down by that aspect of it.
Firstly, and I admit to being somewhat petty here, but Mabel? I know that some readers have a strong dislike for gender ambiguous (I tend to love these), hard to pronounce or ridiculously modern 'made up' names, but my outright hatred is for the utterly old fashioned. Who names the 21 year old heroine of a love story MABEL in the 21st century? That name was already outdated 50/60 years ago let alone now! If this offends anyone then I'm really sorry, but being someone who was, unfortunately, 'gifted' a very frumpy old name myself, I feel supremely qualified to comment, as my name has been the bane of my life for almost my whole existence, much like I'm sure Mabel would have experienced. I have to say that this issue did have a huge impact on my impression of the story at the beginning, given it is a romance set in contemporary times. Had this been a Victorian, Edwardian or even up to WW2 era story it would have felt authentic to the times, but as it stands I had a hard time. TBH, if the blurb mentioned that Mabel was the heroine's name, it would have been a hard pass for me.
There were parts that annoyed me, some continuity issues, and TBH I wasn't really feeling the connection between Mabel and Simon. The tension was not very taut, the world was bland and the chemistry just MIA. Like many a story, the misunderstanding could so easily have been resolved with a single adult conversation.
Personally, I also wanted to know a little bit more about how Mabel's disability affected her in day to day life. Especially being a model. But then towards the third section of the book, I'm not even sure she was modeling anymore? I'm not saying that I wanted a "disabled experience" story, but I'm sure that given the author made the heroine HoH, it would have made more sense to discuss the issue a tad more than she did. That the h had a disability in the fashion industry is precisely what made me pick up the book to begin with, so I do feel let down by that aspect of it.
March 21, 2018
This book had potential. There were parts I truly loved (hence the four stars) but the story kept getting longer with no real interest line. The main characters are a strong draw, however it literally took years of the same drama, over and over, to reach a very short HEA. There needed to be better balance of beginning, middle and end, because the middle drama lasted practically throughout the whole book. The writing is lovely, which makes this book a good read.
April 8, 2018
"I received the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this. The beginning seemed quite cliche but as I got farther into it, it got even better. I liked how the author kept the plot realistic and the characters relatable. I do admit, I teared up from time to time. Especially towards the end. Not the best book I’ve ever read but it still was good. Mable is a perfect role model. It had a much better ending than the beginning. "
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this. The beginning seemed quite cliche but as I got farther into it, it got even better. I liked how the author kept the plot realistic and the characters relatable. I do admit, I teared up from time to time. Especially towards the end. Not the best book I’ve ever read but it still was good. Mable is a perfect role model. It had a much better ending than the beginning. "
April 28, 2018
I absolutely loved this book and was honored to have been able to receive an arc to read and review. It was such a phenomenal read and had amazing characters as well as an amazing story line. I just couldn't get enough of it and once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. I recommend that you read it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2018
My sister was born hard of hearing and is gorgeous! I absolutely loved this book and the use of a main character with a disability. It just goes to show that people can overcome obstacles and that there is a happy ending for everyone. Just a refreshingly terrific novel!
I read this book using my awesome Kindle Unlimited subscription.
I read this book using my awesome Kindle Unlimited subscription.
April 20, 2018
It was such an amazing read, the storyline was well thought out with steamy scenarios and hiden secrets as it unfolds, I liked reading it.
April 21, 2018
This book is emotional, ups and downs, disabilities, and intriguing storyline. Good characters with hands down attraction and it is written well. I liked reading this book.
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June 5, 2018Lyrical Lights is NOW LIVE!
March 11, 2018
Wishy washy and frankly boring. I kept expecting something powerful
May 1, 2018
Mabel is an aspiring model trying to make a big name for herself in NYC. She’s hard of hearing which affects her speech and modeling agencies steer clear of her. Mabel had been dropped by her agent and now she plans on going home. When Mabel is about ready to give up and move home when she meets Simon who is a big shot photographer, Simon challenged Mabel to a game of pool not knowing she had been taught to play the game by a three time champion- her father. Mabel had been spending the evening at a bar and then someone stole her purse. Mabel planned to win the hundred dollars as she needed it to survive for a few more days that she had left in NYC. Mabel’s mother left when she was she was a child and she wondered if she would ever find a lasting love. He also talks her into staying in NYC. Mabel also isn’t pencil thin like a lot of models.
I couldn’t really get into this book. I felt Mabel and Simon both had some maturing to do. I know they both have reasons and are broken but it wasn’t enough reasons for me. I didn’t feel a real connection between Simon and Mabel and this didn’t keep my attention . I tried a couple of times to finish this and couldn’t. This just wasn’t for me.
I couldn’t really get into this book. I felt Mabel and Simon both had some maturing to do. I know they both have reasons and are broken but it wasn’t enough reasons for me. I didn’t feel a real connection between Simon and Mabel and this didn’t keep my attention . I tried a couple of times to finish this and couldn’t. This just wasn’t for me.
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May 11, 2018rtc
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