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Spotlight #3
Blended Notes
Grady Dawson’s future looks bright. He’s at the top of his country music career, has a close-knit group of friends who have become his Nashville family, and has found solid ground in his personal life as he plans his intimate, private wedding with Nico, his stylist turned lover turned love of his life. It seems Grady has finally left his difficult childhood and tumultuous youth behind. That is, until his past shows up on his doorstep, news of his upcoming nuptials is leaked to the media, and his record company starts issuing demands that challenge his integrity as an artist and as a person. The foundation Grady built his new life on begins to crumble and fast. Can he have his future if he’s haunted by his past? Can he continue making music if it means comprising his convictions? Must he make the ultimate choice between a private life with Nico and the public demands of his career?
275 pages, Paperback
First published August 17, 2017
1 person is currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Lilah Suzanne
12 books85 followersAuthor of LGBT+ contemporary
rom-coms. Bi-furious. Genderqueer. Lambda/Indies/Bi Book Awards finalist.
rom-coms. Bi-furious. Genderqueer. Lambda/Indies/Bi Book Awards finalist.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 17 reviews
September 9, 2017
Nico and Grady are back at the center of the narrative in the third book of the Spotlight series, and they’re getting maaaaarried. If you haven’t read Broken Records or Burning Tracks, you can still read Blended Notes and understand everything going on, but why would you skip those other two books? Broken started us off with Nico, a stylist to the stars, meeting Grady, a star country singer, and, well, hitting it off. Burning moved the focus to Nico’s business partner Gwen and her life with her wife Flora, and added focus on famous country singer Clementine, who reminds me a bit of a young Lucinda Williams (at least I picture her that way—smart and feisty and full of everything). Blended swings back to Nico and Grady, but Clementine is there, and Flora and Gwen are there, along with their wee son Cayo, who’s there with all of his drool and joy.
(I should make a special note here: Cayo’s in it, but it’s not a fawning, baby-focused thing in which even his diapers are cute. He’s there for realness.)
Lest you think Blended Notes is only about the fantasy of getting married, there is much more to be had (I’ve written about this before—not all gay folk, or folk in general, burn only for a straight-style wedding and marriage or care much about it, except for the significant financial and legal equality it delivers in many parts of the world… in short, a wedding alone is not enough to sustain an interesting narrative in my opinion). (And I recognize that this, on the heels of my “a baby is not all cuteness” thing probably makes me seem like the bitterest old lesbian ever, but I swear that’s not it. I like both weddings and babies, but I also recognize there’s more in a person’s life, or at least there should be, and those two elements are usually cheap and easy story devices to lend motive and pathos to characters. But that isn’t the case here.) The wedding here is neither central (I mean, who wants to read about picking out napkins for more than a paragraph?) nor is it the point. It’s there, but only as an impetus for other things to happen. Also going on: Grady comes out about his love for Nico (well, “him”) in a song, his record company censors him, and he must make the decision about whether to sing from inside or outside the closet, and Nico must figure out how to support him.
The writing is well-paced as usual—and perhaps in this book, even better than before. It might have something to do with the tension created when wedding plans and homophobic record labels and snooping press all begin to make things go awry and one’s never sure whether the wedding—or Nico and Grady’s relationship--will go forward or not. Grady sees Nico sneaking around with some guy, and then Nico wants to cancel the wedding, and it just can’t be what it seems to be, right? (One more page, one more page, I kept saying, which is how I found myself still reading at 2:30 AM more than once.)
All in all, it’s a really satisfying way to wrap up a series of books which follows the lives of some very likeable, interesting characters. I, for one, am particularly partial to Clementine, Grady’s compatriot country singer—she’s been by turns vain, compassionate, weird, complex and interesting in this and past books, and I want to be her friend. On the whole, these characters are not, by any means, perfect, but they are all people you root for despite that (or maybe because of it).
(I should make a special note here: Cayo’s in it, but it’s not a fawning, baby-focused thing in which even his diapers are cute. He’s there for realness.)
Lest you think Blended Notes is only about the fantasy of getting married, there is much more to be had (I’ve written about this before—not all gay folk, or folk in general, burn only for a straight-style wedding and marriage or care much about it, except for the significant financial and legal equality it delivers in many parts of the world… in short, a wedding alone is not enough to sustain an interesting narrative in my opinion). (And I recognize that this, on the heels of my “a baby is not all cuteness” thing probably makes me seem like the bitterest old lesbian ever, but I swear that’s not it. I like both weddings and babies, but I also recognize there’s more in a person’s life, or at least there should be, and those two elements are usually cheap and easy story devices to lend motive and pathos to characters. But that isn’t the case here.) The wedding here is neither central (I mean, who wants to read about picking out napkins for more than a paragraph?) nor is it the point. It’s there, but only as an impetus for other things to happen. Also going on: Grady comes out about his love for Nico (well, “him”) in a song, his record company censors him, and he must make the decision about whether to sing from inside or outside the closet, and Nico must figure out how to support him.
The writing is well-paced as usual—and perhaps in this book, even better than before. It might have something to do with the tension created when wedding plans and homophobic record labels and snooping press all begin to make things go awry and one’s never sure whether the wedding—or Nico and Grady’s relationship--will go forward or not. Grady sees Nico sneaking around with some guy, and then Nico wants to cancel the wedding, and it just can’t be what it seems to be, right? (One more page, one more page, I kept saying, which is how I found myself still reading at 2:30 AM more than once.)
All in all, it’s a really satisfying way to wrap up a series of books which follows the lives of some very likeable, interesting characters. I, for one, am particularly partial to Clementine, Grady’s compatriot country singer—she’s been by turns vain, compassionate, weird, complex and interesting in this and past books, and I want to be her friend. On the whole, these characters are not, by any means, perfect, but they are all people you root for despite that (or maybe because of it).
August 22, 2017
Grady Dawson and Nico Takahashi made quite a splash in the country music scene when they fell for one another back in BROKEN RECORDS. Grady is an up-and-coming country singer and Nico a flamboyant stylist in LA, but they've relocated to Nashville and Nico, a private man, is settling into the celebrity status--not that he's happy with some of the irate fans who blame him for Grady "dumping" a popular female country singer...
It's good though. They're planning their secluded, paparazzi-free, wedding and a life together. Only, well, Grady's under pressure to change the single he wants to release on his forthcoming album. It's a love song he wrote for Nico, and clearly talks about deep love between men--a topic too scandalous for the record label's management. In fact, they're holding up the release of his album until he makes the change which puts Grady into a "Breach of Contract" situation. And, the potential for Grady to lose everything--money, property, and his recorded music--in a lawsuit is high. It's enough to drive Grady into depression, and kills his muse.
Add to this, Nico's struggling with the wedding plans, the lack of privacy, and Grady's self-isolation. He wants to help Grady find his bearings, and this might include opening some rather deep wounds in the hunt for Grady's parents to be guests at the wedding. Grady's been so long estranged, he has no desire to reconnect, but he might not have a choice.
This was an interesting read, with a lyrical and nostalgic tone. Grady tells this whole book from start to finish, and we get some insights into the darkness of his childhood, which includes substance abuse, abandonment and poverty. He was raised by his grandparents from early childhood because his too-young parents couldn't stay employed or sober. I loved the realistic experiences we re-live through Grady's memories. The juxtaposition lends a palpable fear to the legal battle Grady's refusal to re-write his love song brings to his present. What if he's soon-to-be destitute? Should he even marry Nico who could be saddled with Grady's debt? And, should Grady just swallow his artistic pride and re-record the song so it's palatable to heterosexuals? This quandary of conscience forms the biggest conflict of the book, and it's both poignant and easily accessible to the reader.
The resolution to the conflicts are interesting and engaging. I had already lost my heart to Nico, but he swept me off my feet again with all his changes to accommodate Grady and their life together. Likewise, Grady's tension and inner conflicts are so raw and exposed that he's impossible not to connect with on multiple levels. Bits of steam here and there, but those aren't the parts that struck me hardest. The end of the plot lines are so positive that it's beyond HEA. These characters are ones to root for and cheer on throughout, and their happiness merits multiple celebrations. Good thing we get to experience it over and again.
I received a review copy via NetGalley.
It's good though. They're planning their secluded, paparazzi-free, wedding and a life together. Only, well, Grady's under pressure to change the single he wants to release on his forthcoming album. It's a love song he wrote for Nico, and clearly talks about deep love between men--a topic too scandalous for the record label's management. In fact, they're holding up the release of his album until he makes the change which puts Grady into a "Breach of Contract" situation. And, the potential for Grady to lose everything--money, property, and his recorded music--in a lawsuit is high. It's enough to drive Grady into depression, and kills his muse.
Add to this, Nico's struggling with the wedding plans, the lack of privacy, and Grady's self-isolation. He wants to help Grady find his bearings, and this might include opening some rather deep wounds in the hunt for Grady's parents to be guests at the wedding. Grady's been so long estranged, he has no desire to reconnect, but he might not have a choice.
This was an interesting read, with a lyrical and nostalgic tone. Grady tells this whole book from start to finish, and we get some insights into the darkness of his childhood, which includes substance abuse, abandonment and poverty. He was raised by his grandparents from early childhood because his too-young parents couldn't stay employed or sober. I loved the realistic experiences we re-live through Grady's memories. The juxtaposition lends a palpable fear to the legal battle Grady's refusal to re-write his love song brings to his present. What if he's soon-to-be destitute? Should he even marry Nico who could be saddled with Grady's debt? And, should Grady just swallow his artistic pride and re-record the song so it's palatable to heterosexuals? This quandary of conscience forms the biggest conflict of the book, and it's both poignant and easily accessible to the reader.
The resolution to the conflicts are interesting and engaging. I had already lost my heart to Nico, but he swept me off my feet again with all his changes to accommodate Grady and their life together. Likewise, Grady's tension and inner conflicts are so raw and exposed that he's impossible not to connect with on multiple levels. Bits of steam here and there, but those aren't the parts that struck me hardest. The end of the plot lines are so positive that it's beyond HEA. These characters are ones to root for and cheer on throughout, and their happiness merits multiple celebrations. Good thing we get to experience it over and again.
I received a review copy via NetGalley.
August 19, 2017
For the third time I was lucky to have the opportunity to be an advance reader for Lilah Suzanne, this time for Blended Notes, the third and final (I believe) novel in her Spotlight series. The title truly says it all, and was one of the reasons why this book just might be my favorite of the three. While Broken Records introduced us to the celebrity lifestyle and Burning Tracks approached the challenges of everyday life, this final chapter blends both these themes together perfectly. (Ha, see what I did there?)
The novel starts off on a high note, causing the reader to be just as giddy as Grady and Nico while they shop for their home together. They are successful, in love, and engaged to be married - what could possibly go wrong?
The conflict is delivered so swiftly it feels like the rug has been taken out from under the feet of the reader, allowing a greater connection and sympathy for the characters. Grady’s past and future team up in an attempt to bring him down and rip away everything he’s worked so hard to achieve. This story demonstrates how opposing sides of society can exist in the same place, as Grady faces the difficultly of the conservative music industry pushing back against love alongside the joy of being a pseudo-uncle to “the biracial adopted child of two lesbians in Tennessee”.
Our favorite couple must choose between fighting for what is right and taking the easy and safe route to preserve what they can. Neither is inherently right or wrong, but both will have consequences for Grady’s career and relationship. Especially when, as Nico reminds him; “my wedding and home are the only places I get an escape from your career.” Can love and music hold our favorite couple together when the ghosts of Grady’s past come back full force?
There may be a wedding on the horizon, but life has a few more curveballs to throw at our music and fashion duo. Will Grady pick love and truth over the stage that has become his second home? If music is taken away from him, what does he have left?
Don’t miss out on the wonderful conclusion to the series, Blended Notes! Available now :)
The novel starts off on a high note, causing the reader to be just as giddy as Grady and Nico while they shop for their home together. They are successful, in love, and engaged to be married - what could possibly go wrong?
The conflict is delivered so swiftly it feels like the rug has been taken out from under the feet of the reader, allowing a greater connection and sympathy for the characters. Grady’s past and future team up in an attempt to bring him down and rip away everything he’s worked so hard to achieve. This story demonstrates how opposing sides of society can exist in the same place, as Grady faces the difficultly of the conservative music industry pushing back against love alongside the joy of being a pseudo-uncle to “the biracial adopted child of two lesbians in Tennessee”.
Our favorite couple must choose between fighting for what is right and taking the easy and safe route to preserve what they can. Neither is inherently right or wrong, but both will have consequences for Grady’s career and relationship. Especially when, as Nico reminds him; “my wedding and home are the only places I get an escape from your career.” Can love and music hold our favorite couple together when the ghosts of Grady’s past come back full force?
There may be a wedding on the horizon, but life has a few more curveballs to throw at our music and fashion duo. Will Grady pick love and truth over the stage that has become his second home? If music is taken away from him, what does he have left?
Don’t miss out on the wonderful conclusion to the series, Blended Notes! Available now :)
July 23, 2017
A copy was provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I just didn't really find this compelling. The characterization felt surface to me, and I struggled to care about these characters and the problems they were facing. It was a lot of plot, but there was so little feeling.
I liked that there were other queer characters, and that these queer MCs had supportive families. Those things are unusual in a m/m romance and I appreciated them. My favorite bits in the story involve their friends and Nico's family.
I like reading stories centering musicians, and this had some spark in some of the music focused scenes, but I wasn't invested in him and his music and what it meant to him the way I wanted to be. There was something missing around this; it could be that I needed to have read the first two books? I wish that I had cared more about the plotline around having openly queer content in his music, but I just didn't really care that much, unfortunately.
The arc is not a traditional stand alone romance arc; it begins when the MCs are engaged, and there is a lot of wedding planning. Which I usually like reading about, the mundane detail stuff around wedding planning stories is something I often enjoy. This didn't get there for me as a wedding planning story; not enough detail, not enough letting me savor descriptions of things, not enough sentiment.
I really missed the getting to see these characters fall in love part. Which is a sign that this really cannot be read as a stand alone book. (Which is unfortunate for me as I didn't read the first two books!) I didn't have an investment in them as a couple, had no reason to think they were right for each other, and part of that is about getting to see them fall for each other. There could be other ways to get me invested in them as a couple, but they just didn't seem to have much chemistry or sweetness or connection with each other; they didn't get to have romantic moments with each other til nearly the end of the story. By 25% I want to be rooting for them as a couple, and I just wasn't. I was looking to see if there might be another hero Grady could fall for instead.
I found myself continually irritated at Nico for I know I was supposed to think that the outcome justified the action and that he had Grady's best interests at heart, but I just didn't feel that way. He should have listened to and respected what Grady said, not decided that he could possibly know better. Nothing in the text got me on board, and this made me doubt that Nico was a good match for Grady, all the way through.
Trigger Warnings
I just didn't really find this compelling. The characterization felt surface to me, and I struggled to care about these characters and the problems they were facing. It was a lot of plot, but there was so little feeling.
I liked that there were other queer characters, and that these queer MCs had supportive families. Those things are unusual in a m/m romance and I appreciated them. My favorite bits in the story involve their friends and Nico's family.
I like reading stories centering musicians, and this had some spark in some of the music focused scenes, but I wasn't invested in him and his music and what it meant to him the way I wanted to be. There was something missing around this; it could be that I needed to have read the first two books? I wish that I had cared more about the plotline around having openly queer content in his music, but I just didn't really care that much, unfortunately.
The arc is not a traditional stand alone romance arc; it begins when the MCs are engaged, and there is a lot of wedding planning. Which I usually like reading about, the mundane detail stuff around wedding planning stories is something I often enjoy. This didn't get there for me as a wedding planning story; not enough detail, not enough letting me savor descriptions of things, not enough sentiment.
I really missed the getting to see these characters fall in love part. Which is a sign that this really cannot be read as a stand alone book. (Which is unfortunate for me as I didn't read the first two books!) I didn't have an investment in them as a couple, had no reason to think they were right for each other, and part of that is about getting to see them fall for each other. There could be other ways to get me invested in them as a couple, but they just didn't seem to have much chemistry or sweetness or connection with each other; they didn't get to have romantic moments with each other til nearly the end of the story. By 25% I want to be rooting for them as a couple, and I just wasn't. I was looking to see if there might be another hero Grady could fall for instead.
I found myself continually irritated at Nico for I know I was supposed to think that the outcome justified the action and that he had Grady's best interests at heart, but I just didn't feel that way. He should have listened to and respected what Grady said, not decided that he could possibly know better. Nothing in the text got me on board, and this made me doubt that Nico was a good match for Grady, all the way through.
Trigger Warnings
August 17, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Blended Notes follows with the third book in Suzanne’s Spotlight series and this book would work best with at least having read the first book, Broken Records. This story follows Nico and Grady as they are settling into living together and planning their wedding.
As the book opens, things are good for the guys, if not a bit hectic. Grady has turned in a brand new album, but the record company wants him to make changes, changes that don’t sit well with Grady and his relationship with Nico. There is also the wedding planning. Nico is a top stylist and a planner and Grady is trying to hang on until they can get to the big day. Nico and Grady are solid in their feelings for each other, but the constant planning and then dealing with paparazzi put strain on their relationship.
The book just moves along and follows the men as they are wedding planning, figuring out their careers, and dealing with family issues. I always enjoy seeing established couples as they move on with their lives, but there wasn’t a lot of spark here for me for a good portion of the book and many of the interactions remained flat, if not a bit uninspired. All of the gang is back with Gwen, Flora, and Clementine, but there wasn’t a lot going on that had me turning pages. While it was a smooth read, there wasn’t much that was pulling me in. It was still great to see Nico and Grady again, but the day in the life formula, which certainly has appeal, didn’t make their story highly compelling for me here.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Blended Notes follows with the third book in Suzanne’s Spotlight series and this book would work best with at least having read the first book, Broken Records. This story follows Nico and Grady as they are settling into living together and planning their wedding.
As the book opens, things are good for the guys, if not a bit hectic. Grady has turned in a brand new album, but the record company wants him to make changes, changes that don’t sit well with Grady and his relationship with Nico. There is also the wedding planning. Nico is a top stylist and a planner and Grady is trying to hang on until they can get to the big day. Nico and Grady are solid in their feelings for each other, but the constant planning and then dealing with paparazzi put strain on their relationship.
The book just moves along and follows the men as they are wedding planning, figuring out their careers, and dealing with family issues. I always enjoy seeing established couples as they move on with their lives, but there wasn’t a lot of spark here for me for a good portion of the book and many of the interactions remained flat, if not a bit uninspired. All of the gang is back with Gwen, Flora, and Clementine, but there wasn’t a lot going on that had me turning pages. While it was a smooth read, there wasn’t much that was pulling me in. It was still great to see Nico and Grady again, but the day in the life formula, which certainly has appeal, didn’t make their story highly compelling for me here.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
July 30, 2018
I was looking forward to reading more in this series, but to be honest, I was expecting a book where Clementine was the protagonist, and I very much hope we'll get to read her story one day. She rocks, and I want to know more about her. Pretty please with a cherry on top?
Anyway, reading more about Grady and his found family is amazing too. I'm glad he has an uncle who sounds like a decent person, and that his mother is trying to make amends for being so absent in his childhood and youth, but what this story shows is that it's possible to find your family elsewhere, and that those bonds are no less valid or strong because you lack a genetic connection. Nico is Grady's anchor, even when they have trouble communicating properly. And it's so lovely to see that Nico's mom has practically adopted Grady - oh, she sounds delightful - and that Flora and Gwen and their sweet cherub of a son ground and stabilize Grady. And Clem is like an older sister to him - forever pushing him to be the best version of himself and pricking through the PR nonsense to get to the essence. I love them all, and I loved this book - the perfect summer read!
(I so want to add a "I love everyone in this bar" gif to this review, but I can't, so you'll just have to picture it in your mind :-))
Anyway, reading more about Grady and his found family is amazing too. I'm glad he has an uncle who sounds like a decent person, and that his mother is trying to make amends for being so absent in his childhood and youth, but what this story shows is that it's possible to find your family elsewhere, and that those bonds are no less valid or strong because you lack a genetic connection. Nico is Grady's anchor, even when they have trouble communicating properly. And it's so lovely to see that Nico's mom has practically adopted Grady - oh, she sounds delightful - and that Flora and Gwen and their sweet cherub of a son ground and stabilize Grady. And Clem is like an older sister to him - forever pushing him to be the best version of himself and pricking through the PR nonsense to get to the essence. I love them all, and I loved this book - the perfect summer read!
(I so want to add a "I love everyone in this bar" gif to this review, but I can't, so you'll just have to picture it in your mind :-))
September 15, 2017
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review visit http://wp.me/p220KL-bqw
From that review: " I came to Blended Notes (Spotlight #3) by Lilah Suzanne without having read the first two stories (Broken Records and Burning Tracks) and I think that was a mistake. Each preceding novel gives you the various stages in the Grady Dawson/Nico Takahashi romance/relationship as well as supplies you with the surrounding cast members and overall series foundation. Coming blind into Blended Notes without all that back history and relationship tapestry means that you as a reader are forever feeling like you are missing pieces of a puzzle or playing catch up in a larger game. And that's a shame because this is a marvelous story."
For all our reviews, author interviews etc, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review visit http://wp.me/p220KL-bqw
From that review: " I came to Blended Notes (Spotlight #3) by Lilah Suzanne without having read the first two stories (Broken Records and Burning Tracks) and I think that was a mistake. Each preceding novel gives you the various stages in the Grady Dawson/Nico Takahashi romance/relationship as well as supplies you with the surrounding cast members and overall series foundation. Coming blind into Blended Notes without all that back history and relationship tapestry means that you as a reader are forever feeling like you are missing pieces of a puzzle or playing catch up in a larger game. And that's a shame because this is a marvelous story."
For all our reviews, author interviews etc, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
October 22, 2018
Fantastic book, amazing installment of the Spotlight series. The ending was beautiful and satisfying and felt very, very true to the characters. Suzanne has a gift for writing well rounded characters who are flawed, lovely in their humanity, but filled with a desire to love and the ability to give love. They aren't always perfect and they make mistakes, but that's what makes us fall in love with them and root for them. I loved getting to see Grady's perspective. There are times when Nico makes choices I wouldn't (but they are true to him) and I've always wondered how they read and feel to Grady. In many ways, Grady seems too perfect in the first books (he really isn't, but he has an endless well of patience, I swear). Being inside his head spoke to so much. There is so much heartbreak in Grady's past; I wanted his happy ending more than any one else's in this series, which says a lot because I rooted so hard for them all.
November 22, 2017
I loved it so much it only took me about 3 hours to read it. Such a good scene one. I love this series.
December 16, 2020
Lovely storytelling style. Not traditional romance, more slice of life, but lovely all the same. OMG ... Spencer's B sides is outstanding.
August 22, 2017
I waited for this book since the previous one in the series was released. I was delighted to come across Grady, Nico, and Clementine again. So naturally, I devoured it in an airport in mere hours. I don’t always connect to characters, feel for them, but I connected to these ones. I’m not always swept away by a plot and location, but I was this time. All this means that I’ll have to read this series again soon.
August 17, 2017
3.75 stars
Blended Notes follows with the third book in Suzanne’s Spotlight series and this book would work best with at least having read the first book, Broken Records. This story follows Nico and Grady as they are settling into living together and planning their wedding.
As the book opens, things are good for the guys, if not a bit hectic. Grady has turned in a brand new album, but the record company wants him to make changes, changes that don’t sit well with Grady and his relationship with Nico. There is also the wedding planning. Nico is a top stylist and a planner and Grady is trying to hang on until they can get to the big day. Nico and Grady are solid in their feelings for each other, but the constant planning and then dealing with paparazzi put strain on their relationship.
The book just moves along and follows the men as they are wedding planning, figuring out their careers, and dealing with family issues. I always enjoy seeing established couples as they move on with their lives, but there wasn’t a lot of spark here for me for a good portion of the book and many of the interactions remained flat, if not a bit uninspired. All of the gang is back with Gwen, Flora, and Clementine, but there wasn’t a lot going on that had me turning pages. While it was a smooth read, there wasn’t much that was pulling me in. It was still great to see Nico and Grady again, but the day in the life formula, which certainly has appeal, didn’t make their story highly compelling for me here.
What was missing was the magic of Nico and Grady, because when they are together they are magical. They were on page together for the earlier portion of the book, but were more circling each other. It wasn’t until later on that they started to come together again for me. Grady has a lot going on and he’s second guessing everything because he’s used to getting left behind. But when he sees Nico he knows that, “Grady can’t get enough of him; he is everything Grady never thought he could have.” And that is what Grady has to come to terms with in the book, that he is allowed to have something good just for himself.
After reading the first book in the series I wouldn’t have missed this one. It did get off to a slower start for me, but when you get to the heart of Nico and Grady it’s certainly worth the journey.
This review has been posted on the Joyfully Jay blog and can be viewed here.
Blended Notes follows with the third book in Suzanne’s Spotlight series and this book would work best with at least having read the first book, Broken Records. This story follows Nico and Grady as they are settling into living together and planning their wedding.
As the book opens, things are good for the guys, if not a bit hectic. Grady has turned in a brand new album, but the record company wants him to make changes, changes that don’t sit well with Grady and his relationship with Nico. There is also the wedding planning. Nico is a top stylist and a planner and Grady is trying to hang on until they can get to the big day. Nico and Grady are solid in their feelings for each other, but the constant planning and then dealing with paparazzi put strain on their relationship.
The book just moves along and follows the men as they are wedding planning, figuring out their careers, and dealing with family issues. I always enjoy seeing established couples as they move on with their lives, but there wasn’t a lot of spark here for me for a good portion of the book and many of the interactions remained flat, if not a bit uninspired. All of the gang is back with Gwen, Flora, and Clementine, but there wasn’t a lot going on that had me turning pages. While it was a smooth read, there wasn’t much that was pulling me in. It was still great to see Nico and Grady again, but the day in the life formula, which certainly has appeal, didn’t make their story highly compelling for me here.
What was missing was the magic of Nico and Grady, because when they are together they are magical. They were on page together for the earlier portion of the book, but were more circling each other. It wasn’t until later on that they started to come together again for me. Grady has a lot going on and he’s second guessing everything because he’s used to getting left behind. But when he sees Nico he knows that, “Grady can’t get enough of him; he is everything Grady never thought he could have.” And that is what Grady has to come to terms with in the book, that he is allowed to have something good just for himself.
After reading the first book in the series I wouldn’t have missed this one. It did get off to a slower start for me, but when you get to the heart of Nico and Grady it’s certainly worth the journey.
This review has been posted on the Joyfully Jay blog and can be viewed here.
March 22, 2022
I confess that I have been eagerly awaiting this novel after having read the first two books in Lilah Suzanne’s Spotlight series (Broken Records and Burning Tracks), and I am thrilled to report that it lived up to all of my expectations.
Delving into the world of Grady Dawson and Nico Takahashi once again felt like coming home. I know these characters, and their cohorts Gwen, Flora, and fellow superstar Clementine Campbell, well enough to feel like I’m reading about friends. The fact that this couple that I love is actually planning their nuptials left me with a full heart, and even when they faced some challenges that inevitably come along to most couples, and some that are definitely unique to their situations, I knew they would come out the other side with their love and commitment intact.
Grady Dawson hadn’t had the easiest of lives before achieving country music superstardom. Both his mother and father left negative impacts on him, and he grew up without the benefit of stable relationships. He’s overcome his background however, and is now shining with a fantastic career and wonderful friends. While planning his private wedding to Nico, the love of his life, things start to slowly unravel. His family comes out of the woodwork, his wedding plans have been leaked to the paparazzi, and worst of all, his record label challenges everything he believes so strongly in. His integrity is in jeopardy, and when it comes to his relationship with Nico, the most important thing in his life, he does not want to have to compromise, even if it means derailing his career.
Throughout this beautiful novel, Lilah Suzanne has once again displayed an amazing ability to evoke emotion and empathy for her characters. It would be an understatement to say that I was rooting for this couple and their true happiness more than is usual. They are very clearly partners in every way, but their differences are many and this serves to make them and their relationship extremely realistic, in spite of their high profile careers. I’m sad to see the series complete, but I cannot imagine a better send off for the characters, and I know I will revisit them again and again.
Delving into the world of Grady Dawson and Nico Takahashi once again felt like coming home. I know these characters, and their cohorts Gwen, Flora, and fellow superstar Clementine Campbell, well enough to feel like I’m reading about friends. The fact that this couple that I love is actually planning their nuptials left me with a full heart, and even when they faced some challenges that inevitably come along to most couples, and some that are definitely unique to their situations, I knew they would come out the other side with their love and commitment intact.
Grady Dawson hadn’t had the easiest of lives before achieving country music superstardom. Both his mother and father left negative impacts on him, and he grew up without the benefit of stable relationships. He’s overcome his background however, and is now shining with a fantastic career and wonderful friends. While planning his private wedding to Nico, the love of his life, things start to slowly unravel. His family comes out of the woodwork, his wedding plans have been leaked to the paparazzi, and worst of all, his record label challenges everything he believes so strongly in. His integrity is in jeopardy, and when it comes to his relationship with Nico, the most important thing in his life, he does not want to have to compromise, even if it means derailing his career.
Throughout this beautiful novel, Lilah Suzanne has once again displayed an amazing ability to evoke emotion and empathy for her characters. It would be an understatement to say that I was rooting for this couple and their true happiness more than is usual. They are very clearly partners in every way, but their differences are many and this serves to make them and their relationship extremely realistic, in spite of their high profile careers. I’m sad to see the series complete, but I cannot imagine a better send off for the characters, and I know I will revisit them again and again.
September 15, 2017
The Whole Spotlight Series has been a delight for me, and going back to Nick and Grady in this Coda was the cherry on this awesome cake Lilah Suzanne shared with us.
I've read some reviews saying that it felt a bit slow, since the couple is so domestic, but I for one loved that part. Love is not just falling for the other, and the passion (though there was plenty of that in the first volume of the series Broken Records, hint hint). Love is choosing the other, day after day, with their flaws and their contradictions.
I also connected with how the story deals with grief, showing that there is no good way to grieve, only one's own way.
To sum it up, this story, this coda of a beautiful series, is a story about Love (all kinds of loves, not just romantic) and Grief (all sorts of grieving)
I've read some reviews saying that it felt a bit slow, since the couple is so domestic, but I for one loved that part. Love is not just falling for the other, and the passion (though there was plenty of that in the first volume of the series Broken Records, hint hint). Love is choosing the other, day after day, with their flaws and their contradictions.
I also connected with how the story deals with grief, showing that there is no good way to grieve, only one's own way.
To sum it up, this story, this coda of a beautiful series, is a story about Love (all kinds of loves, not just romantic) and Grief (all sorts of grieving)
August 23, 2017
I was a big fan of the first two volumes of the series, and I returned to Nico and Grady like one reunites with old friends.
I loved the pace of the story, I ached with Grady and his pain, his grief, his hesitation about even grieving in the first place, his need to please, but most importantly, I basked in one of this character's absolute attribute: his ability to Love.
For me, the two main themes of the book, what draws me in no matter what in Suzanne's style, are Love--the different faces it can take--and Grief--the different faces it can take.
There is no black and white in Lilah Suzanne's stories--everything is nuanced, and bittersweet at time, balanced in a very "real" way.
Blended Notes is a beautiful Coda to this series, but I am a little bit sorry to say goodbye to the whole gang *sigh*.
I loved the pace of the story, I ached with Grady and his pain, his grief, his hesitation about even grieving in the first place, his need to please, but most importantly, I basked in one of this character's absolute attribute: his ability to Love.
For me, the two main themes of the book, what draws me in no matter what in Suzanne's style, are Love--the different faces it can take--and Grief--the different faces it can take.
There is no black and white in Lilah Suzanne's stories--everything is nuanced, and bittersweet at time, balanced in a very "real" way.
Blended Notes is a beautiful Coda to this series, but I am a little bit sorry to say goodbye to the whole gang *sigh*.
September 5, 2017
Blended Notes is apparently the conclusion to a trilogy. I wish I had known going into this that it was part of a series, but it still didn't detract from my enjoyment. Grady is a country star about to marry the love of his life, stylist Nico. He's dealt a huge blow, though, right in the beginning of Blended Notes, from his record label. It will affect his love, his life and his career. Everything will depend upon his decision. Does he go along with it and potentially end his relationship? Or does he go with his gut (and his love) and say no and potentially end his career?
But, Grady and Nico do not just have to deal with this huge blow. No, they have to deal with the stress of wedding planning, Nico's little surprise of inviting Grady's estranged family, and Nico's intensely private personality having to deal with Grady's fans, some of whom intensely dislike him. Of course there is miscommunication between the two, secrets being held, not baring their hearts to each other, and almost every other kind of stress a couple in love and planning a wedding can possibly think of. Will Grady and Nico be able to hold onto each other? Or will Grady's career get in the way of his love?
I found myself really liking both Grady and Nico. They make for an interesting couple with all their differences, and yet they make such a great couple. They have strong chemistry and even stronger love. A gay interracial romance set in the world of Nashville is certainly not the most common thing and I applaud Lilah Suzanne for not only highlighting it, but treating it with deft hands and obvious love for her characters. I am really looking forward to more from her!
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
But, Grady and Nico do not just have to deal with this huge blow. No, they have to deal with the stress of wedding planning, Nico's little surprise of inviting Grady's estranged family, and Nico's intensely private personality having to deal with Grady's fans, some of whom intensely dislike him. Of course there is miscommunication between the two, secrets being held, not baring their hearts to each other, and almost every other kind of stress a couple in love and planning a wedding can possibly think of. Will Grady and Nico be able to hold onto each other? Or will Grady's career get in the way of his love?
I found myself really liking both Grady and Nico. They make for an interesting couple with all their differences, and yet they make such a great couple. They have strong chemistry and even stronger love. A gay interracial romance set in the world of Nashville is certainly not the most common thing and I applaud Lilah Suzanne for not only highlighting it, but treating it with deft hands and obvious love for her characters. I am really looking forward to more from her!
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
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