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The Loudest Silence #2
Shades of Blue
Kate and Vivian are both anxious to put their recent disagreement in the past. As they settle into their happy routine again, they are excited for the coming holidays with each other and Max.
When Vivian’s mother, the head of J. C. Kensington Foundation, pulls Kate aside after Thanksgiving and offers her a gift she never knew existed, Kate’s spirits soar.
However, it’s not long before Kate learns that perhaps Jacqueline can’t always be trusted.
With allegiances torn, Kate must decide. Will she fight for the love she had been completely unprepared for? Or will she give in and let these lonely shades of blue overtake her?
99,000 words
When Vivian’s mother, the head of J. C. Kensington Foundation, pulls Kate aside after Thanksgiving and offers her a gift she never knew existed, Kate’s spirits soar.
However, it’s not long before Kate learns that perhaps Jacqueline can’t always be trusted.
With allegiances torn, Kate must decide. Will she fight for the love she had been completely unprepared for? Or will she give in and let these lonely shades of blue overtake her?
99,000 words
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2017
20 people are currently reading
261 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Janae
13 books155 followersOlivia Janae has been a life long writer. Growing up in California, it was always her dream to one day see her name on the cover of a book ever since she scribbled down her first story in a notebook at the age of eleven. To this day, she can’t believe that her dream has come true.
Now, Olivia is living outside of Chicago with her son, and three cats.
Outside of her love of writing, Olivia is an avid movie buff with an obsessive love for cooking, candy making, ‘Buffy, The Vampire Slayer’, and Stephen King.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 29, 2019
" There is a part || as well :-) " that was what Ms. Smooth Criminal / Operator aka Corrie commented on my review on The Loudest Silence although it was a so-so read to me due to The Ash Factor. I read her review, bought the book and read it in one sitting.
Only Love Can Hurt / Heal Like This
Ms.Janae's work in The Loudest Silence was something but in Shades of Blue, her writing was truly poetric, flawless and beautiful. All the elements turned into waves and kept on hitting me, the shore.
Surprisingly, for a strictly romance, there were so many scenes that had my heart racing and I caught myself holding my breath in anticipation several times. This was something new to me as that usually happened in action / thriller.. Ms.Janae must have poured her heart and soul into Shades Of Blue to create such special effects on her readers.
It captured my attention and heart from page 1, I couldn't read fast/slow enough. Vivian's loft became their world as they began their life as a couple with Max that added the element of cuteness whenever he appeared. The romance was breathtaking, swoonworthy, intense, emotional and sizzling hot. The communication barrier, Kate's career and financial issues showed their ugly faces onced again and kudos to Ms.Janae for going in depth and letting Vivian and Kate worked on such issues. Vivian and Kate actions / decisions did frustrate me a few times but I could understand where they were coming from even though it hurt my heart / head and toilet breaks.
Ash was the major issue I had in the first book, if you are worried about the geometric romance, please don't. I am not a fan of such trope. The heartache that I usually felt when reading the lead dating someone else instead of the one destined for her, I didn't feel it in The Loudest Silence because Ashley was a nutcase + Kate was never emotionally invested in her .. It had always been Vivian.
Yes, you have to read The Loudest of Silence first. Think of the artichoke, you have to go through the extremely tough leaves to get to the delicious heart. Keep this series on your tbr, find a free weekend and spend time with Kate, Vivian, Max and Charlie. Ash might be useful during your treadmill / punching bag session.
Wise men say only fools rush in
But I can't help falling in love with you, Olivia Janae :D
Corrie, many thanks.
Only Love Can Hurt / Heal Like This
Ms.Janae's work in The Loudest Silence was something but in Shades of Blue, her writing was truly poetric, flawless and beautiful. All the elements turned into waves and kept on hitting me, the shore.
Surprisingly, for a strictly romance, there were so many scenes that had my heart racing and I caught myself holding my breath in anticipation several times. This was something new to me as that usually happened in action / thriller.. Ms.Janae must have poured her heart and soul into Shades Of Blue to create such special effects on her readers.
It captured my attention and heart from page 1, I couldn't read fast/slow enough. Vivian's loft became their world as they began their life as a couple with Max that added the element of cuteness whenever he appeared. The romance was breathtaking, swoonworthy, intense, emotional and sizzling hot. The communication barrier, Kate's career and financial issues showed their ugly faces onced again and kudos to Ms.Janae for going in depth and letting Vivian and Kate worked on such issues. Vivian and Kate actions / decisions did frustrate me a few times but I could understand where they were coming from even though it hurt my heart / head and toilet breaks.
Ash was the major issue I had in the first book, if you are worried about the geometric romance, please don't. I am not a fan of such trope. The heartache that I usually felt when reading the lead dating someone else instead of the one destined for her, I didn't feel it in The Loudest Silence because Ashley was a nutcase + Kate was never emotionally invested in her .. It had always been Vivian.
Yes, you have to read The Loudest of Silence first. Think of the artichoke, you have to go through the extremely tough leaves to get to the delicious heart. Keep this series on your tbr, find a free weekend and spend time with Kate, Vivian, Max and Charlie. Ash might be useful during your treadmill / punching bag session.
Wise men say only fools rush in
But I can't help falling in love with you, Olivia Janae :D
Corrie, many thanks.
December 5, 2017
I have held off writing this review for a few days. I needed to let my thoughts marinate on just how to say exactly how I feel about this one. When I finished The Loudest Silence, I wrote in my review that “I was glad this wasn't over, I need more of this in my life”. I needed this sequel. I had to see where the two characters go. While reading the sequel, I cannot say this thought continued. I confusing statement but let me explain.
Is the book well written? Absolutely, Olivia Janae is an amazingly gifted author. There is no question about that. Where I got hung up, is that in the first book, I loved the time that Kate and Vivian spent together. Whether they are fighting, friends or lovers their interactions were spellbinding. In Shades of Blue the two characters don’t for a large portion of the book, even see one another. Over the course of reading the book, I was struck by the coldness of the book. I could hash this out in detail but I don’t want to ruin it for would be readers. You can gather that there is a break of some sort and it’s rather harsh.
While in the end the two main characters come back together, this is a romance, you know it’s all but guaranteed. I’m going to be honest here, and I will probably be in the minority, I felt like the ship had sailed. It felt final, I felt like the reunion was grasping at straws. Again this is just my take on a very good book. Is it worth reading? YES! Did it hurt my heart, again, a yes, but isn’t why a good book is hard to beat. Overall a solid 4 stars
Is the book well written? Absolutely, Olivia Janae is an amazingly gifted author. There is no question about that. Where I got hung up, is that in the first book, I loved the time that Kate and Vivian spent together. Whether they are fighting, friends or lovers their interactions were spellbinding. In Shades of Blue the two characters don’t for a large portion of the book, even see one another. Over the course of reading the book, I was struck by the coldness of the book. I could hash this out in detail but I don’t want to ruin it for would be readers. You can gather that there is a break of some sort and it’s rather harsh.
While in the end the two main characters come back together, this is a romance, you know it’s all but guaranteed. I’m going to be honest here, and I will probably be in the minority, I felt like the ship had sailed. It felt final, I felt like the reunion was grasping at straws. Again this is just my take on a very good book. Is it worth reading? YES! Did it hurt my heart, again, a yes, but isn’t why a good book is hard to beat. Overall a solid 4 stars
December 3, 2017
Olivia Janae has done it again... keeping me up past my bedtime that is. I don’t often read books in one sitting but when I opened the file in the early afternoon it grabbed me by the throat and didn’t let go until I closed it 2 hours after midnight. Sweet Jesus weeping at the cross, this is one major angst fest! The tear-your-hair-out-beat-your-breast-and-wail-to-the-heavens kind of angst. But the author is so crafty with her dialogue, she sucks you into the characters, she makes you feel all the feels, she chews you up and spits you out at the end and all you can manage is a shaky… ‘thank you ma’am’ at the end.
Shades of Blue throws us right back in after we left The Loudest Silence. Kate, her 4-year-old son Max, and Vivian are living the happy life in Vivian’s loft. Kate is still playing for the WCCE (Windy City Chamber Ensemble) but she knows that can’t last forever. She has a tentative audition with Lyric in a few months, but the chance of her actually getting that dream job (it’s like a professor getting tenure) is small. Meanwhile tension is rising as Vivian is spending some money on her and Max, something proud Kate has major problems with.
Then there is Vivian’s mother, Jacqueline Kensington, the ice queen bitch we all love to hate. She plays a much bigger role in this story. Her manipulative ways put a real strain on our couple’s relationship. And when it all goes to shit around Christmas time in a spectacular way (and oh boy, can we say super nova style?) we are pulled into the drama and aftermath.
Janae does sweet and cuddly so well it makes your teeth hurt, but she does drama and hardship like I’ve never seen anyone write it before. Next to Jacqueline there’s a strong role for Charlie, Vivian’s longtime best friend and ALS translator) and John (Kate’s orchestra buddy). Little Max is woven into the mix with great care. I’m normally not too fond of kids having a bigger role in a romance story but Janae has written it very organically. Max is adorable but also a typical (and realistically written) 4-year-old boy. Well done!
If you’ve read The Loudest Silence it’s a no-brainer you want to read Shades of Blue. If you haven’t read part one yet, do that first. It’s a must. And I most highly recommend!
f/f
Themes: deaf, unloveable, stubborn pride, this story will fuck you up, but in the best possible way, emotional roller coaster, these two stubborn women… ugh!, the rich girl-poor girl dynamic is really strong in this book, hurray! hardly any annoying Ash Campbell to suffer to, the bitch vibe is strong in mommy dearest… but is she really all that bad?
5 stars
*ARC provided by the publisher in return for an honest review *
Shades of Blue throws us right back in after we left The Loudest Silence. Kate, her 4-year-old son Max, and Vivian are living the happy life in Vivian’s loft. Kate is still playing for the WCCE (Windy City Chamber Ensemble) but she knows that can’t last forever. She has a tentative audition with Lyric in a few months, but the chance of her actually getting that dream job (it’s like a professor getting tenure) is small. Meanwhile tension is rising as Vivian is spending some money on her and Max, something proud Kate has major problems with.
Then there is Vivian’s mother, Jacqueline Kensington, the ice queen bitch we all love to hate. She plays a much bigger role in this story. Her manipulative ways put a real strain on our couple’s relationship. And when it all goes to shit around Christmas time in a spectacular way (and oh boy, can we say super nova style?) we are pulled into the drama and aftermath.
Janae does sweet and cuddly so well it makes your teeth hurt, but she does drama and hardship like I’ve never seen anyone write it before. Next to Jacqueline there’s a strong role for Charlie, Vivian’s longtime best friend and ALS translator) and John (Kate’s orchestra buddy). Little Max is woven into the mix with great care. I’m normally not too fond of kids having a bigger role in a romance story but Janae has written it very organically. Max is adorable but also a typical (and realistically written) 4-year-old boy. Well done!
If you’ve read The Loudest Silence it’s a no-brainer you want to read Shades of Blue. If you haven’t read part one yet, do that first. It’s a must. And I most highly recommend!
f/f
Themes: deaf, unloveable, stubborn pride, this story will fuck you up, but in the best possible way, emotional roller coaster, these two stubborn women… ugh!, the rich girl-poor girl dynamic is really strong in this book, hurray! hardly any annoying Ash Campbell to suffer to, the bitch vibe is strong in mommy dearest… but is she really all that bad?
5 stars
*ARC provided by the publisher in return for an honest review *
February 10, 2019
The sequel was really good. No disappointments. I am truly happy with it. These books have been a rollercoaster and that's why I loved them. I so wish there was going to be a third one my heart is not ready to part ways with Viv and Kate.
5 stars
5 stars
December 2, 2017
From the first word in this story I was snapped back into the lives of Kate and Vivian from the first novel, The Loudest Silence. Both women have to face many internal and external pressures that add stress to their budding relationship and it touched me so deeply to see them struggle. This novel is definitely a must read because the characters are like dear friends, their vibrancy spills off of the pages and their witty and sometimes emotional banter will keep you entertained for hours on end. I can attest to that because I have spent my entire weekend with my kindle cradled in my arms while I rejected sleep in favor of laughing, smiling and arguing with Kate and Vivian while I read, even when I knew they couldn't hear me or respond to any of my rants. The author did a really great job of portraying what a musician's life is like and she also captured the essence of each character and described them with such clarity that I felt as though I was side by side with Kate, Vivian, Charlie and Max in the story. I am really hoping there is a sequel to this story and if there is, I eagerly look forward to reading it!
December 23, 2017
This is an excellent book and very well-written. After saying that I only have a complaint and it is my fault: when I am so excited waiting for a book, my expectations are always very high. I'm not disappointed with this book, the opposite. However, I must say that I couldn't get into the story at the beginning because I got a little bored. Nevertheless, after the big issue exploded between the two characters I got more enveloped in the story, and I enjoyed a lot how Vivian and Kate try to fix their relationship although sometimes I could understand why their communication was so bad. This is a very sweet and cute love story!
September 16, 2019
Wow, Olivia Janae can really write conflict. I was feeling it, and feeling it... I am torn about how many stars to give. The writing was excellent, but I was very uncomfortable with the resolution. The mains spend nearly the entire book not speaking to each other and not seeing each other. Max is crying in nearly all his page time. It's a testament to Janae's writing skill that I finished this book. I was very uncomfortable throughout, but I couldn't put it down.
September 1, 2019
Thanks Farah for reminding me I had not read the second book in this series.
Impressive writing once again and an emotional roller coaster once the preliminary happy ever after from the first book gets done and dusted. Strong characters with hot and intense scenes that pull you in and make you as angry as the women involved.
Powerful. Loved it.
Impressive writing once again and an emotional roller coaster once the preliminary happy ever after from the first book gets done and dusted. Strong characters with hot and intense scenes that pull you in and make you as angry as the women involved.
Powerful. Loved it.
February 7, 2018
First off, if you haven’t already, grab a copy of The Loudest Silence and get reading it, as Shades of Blue is the sequel to it and it’s imperative you read these books in order.
This book was definitely an emotional rollercoaster ride. The book begins almost straight after book one finishes and things are pretty good with Kate, Vivian and little Max. Their relationship is on track for greatness but there are still a few key traits they both need to work on for their relationship to be less bumpy. With Vivian’s mother playing a key role in the biggest argument to date, this makes things even harder for the couple.
I really enjoyed this book. Probably not as much as first because I felt it had lots more angst than I was expecting and the emotional rollercoaster ride was heartbreaking for Vivian and Kate at times.
Don’t get me wrong, this book is still fantastic and so well written, especially with one of the main protagonists being deaf. The level of knowledge Olivia Janae has put into both these books in nothing short of impressive.
The moments where Kate and Vivian get page time together was amazing and those were the moments I clung to through out the book. Also, Max became one of my favourite kids in written into Lesbian Fiction to date. He’s such a character and the books would not be the same without him.
I really feel that Olivia Janae needs one more book in this series to round it off. This book really mixed it up and gave me lots to consider about Vivian and Kate’s future together. I reckon one more novel or novella would tie everything together to cement their happy ever after.
Looking forward to reading much more from Olivia Janae in the future.
4 stars
This book was definitely an emotional rollercoaster ride. The book begins almost straight after book one finishes and things are pretty good with Kate, Vivian and little Max. Their relationship is on track for greatness but there are still a few key traits they both need to work on for their relationship to be less bumpy. With Vivian’s mother playing a key role in the biggest argument to date, this makes things even harder for the couple.
I really enjoyed this book. Probably not as much as first because I felt it had lots more angst than I was expecting and the emotional rollercoaster ride was heartbreaking for Vivian and Kate at times.
Don’t get me wrong, this book is still fantastic and so well written, especially with one of the main protagonists being deaf. The level of knowledge Olivia Janae has put into both these books in nothing short of impressive.
The moments where Kate and Vivian get page time together was amazing and those were the moments I clung to through out the book. Also, Max became one of my favourite kids in written into Lesbian Fiction to date. He’s such a character and the books would not be the same without him.
I really feel that Olivia Janae needs one more book in this series to round it off. This book really mixed it up and gave me lots to consider about Vivian and Kate’s future together. I reckon one more novel or novella would tie everything together to cement their happy ever after.
Looking forward to reading much more from Olivia Janae in the future.
4 stars
December 1, 2017
Shades of Blue by Olivia Janae is well written and a great read. It took me through a range of emotions. I honestly enjoyed it. I simply cannot get enough of these characters. I’m greedy though and want more. Lol. I would love to see how Vivian’s relationship with her mother turns out. I’d also love to see what happens with Vivian and Kate and who wouldn’t want to see more of that sweetie, Max? I highly recommend Shades of Blue and Olivia’s first book The Loudest Silence. I received a free arc in exchange for my honest review.
July 18, 2024
For me, fanfics which are published is a 'spot the difference' game. It's also interesting to see if/how the characters are fleshed out further to appeal to a new reader/non-shipper. For this novel, unfortunately, there wasn't much. As a result, some of Kate's and Vivian's behaviour seems harsh or inexplicable. Still, the writing and dialogue was engaging.
I also started this duology to mark Lana Parrilla's birthday this year. The walk down the #Swen memory lane was fun.
I also started this duology to mark Lana Parrilla's birthday this year. The walk down the #Swen memory lane was fun.
January 10, 2018
Well, what an emotional journey! Absolutely adored Shades of Blue. All the feelings contained within it are one emotional rollercoaster ride that you just shouldn't miss. I adore Vivian's character, and the way she interacts with Kate, Max and Charlie is just heartwarming. Would highly recommend this book.
July 8, 2022
For almost 90% of the book they are fighting and then suddenly Kate propose and happy ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2025
The Vivian character was not just mean she was vile. Anytime she got angry at Kate, Vivian would throw her out of her loft; Kate and her four-year-old little boy. The last time being Christmas night when Vivian had Kate escorted out by security. I would not have someone like this Vivian character around my child especially at such a young age.
With everything going on in this country right now I did not need the additional stress I was getting from this story.
Abandoned @ 49%
With everything going on in this country right now I did not need the additional stress I was getting from this story.
Abandoned @ 49%
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2017
I am not sure I can process the right words to describe how much I enjoyed this book. I honestly have zero complaints or cons to this book, besides the ending, and I only say this because it left me wanting more! So it was still a wonderful thing. The continued rollercoaster relationship of Vivian and Kate continues in this second installment of 'The Loudest Silence' series; this sequel outshines the first one, which I also enjoyed but this one completely has my heart. And the continued adorable moments with Max melt my heart still.
I'm not one to go diving in to tell you different scenes of a book or go into detail on specific things, because to me you're going to get the gist of the book by simply reading the synopsis of it. Why would you want someone giving away the surprises? So I'm just going to say... You might want to buckle your emotional safety belt before reading this, that is my main warning. There were many moments that filled me with elation and made me giddy, only for the bottom to drop out and leave me completely heartbroken, wallowing in my tears as I swept the pieces up. Taking the twists and turns throughout, the misunderstandings, the walls built to protect oneself, the pasts rushing in to seize them and remind them of things that have haunted them throughout their life. It is an emotion filled journey of two broken people, of two hearts wanting to be wanted, and of discovering that feeling of finding someone that loves and accepts you as you are. A person that loves you even when all your life you thought you were unlovable.
"Are you going to throw me away again?"
"Please don't give up on me."
Please don't throw away your chance at reading this fantastic book!
This book left me humbly amazed. This writer has an amazing future ahead of her.
I'm not one to go diving in to tell you different scenes of a book or go into detail on specific things, because to me you're going to get the gist of the book by simply reading the synopsis of it. Why would you want someone giving away the surprises? So I'm just going to say... You might want to buckle your emotional safety belt before reading this, that is my main warning. There were many moments that filled me with elation and made me giddy, only for the bottom to drop out and leave me completely heartbroken, wallowing in my tears as I swept the pieces up. Taking the twists and turns throughout, the misunderstandings, the walls built to protect oneself, the pasts rushing in to seize them and remind them of things that have haunted them throughout their life. It is an emotion filled journey of two broken people, of two hearts wanting to be wanted, and of discovering that feeling of finding someone that loves and accepts you as you are. A person that loves you even when all your life you thought you were unlovable.
"Are you going to throw me away again?"
"Please don't give up on me."
Please don't throw away your chance at reading this fantastic book!
This book left me humbly amazed. This writer has an amazing future ahead of her.
December 2, 2017
This is the second part of the Loudest Silence Serie and i couldnt wait to finally get it. I read it within two days and I absolutely adore this book. The former fanfiction was one of the first works I ever read and it stated it all. Right from the beginning of the book I was sucked into the life of our two main characters Vivian and Kate. I really appiciate the way of Janae´s writing, the figures come to live, develop within the book and even if im neighter deaf nor a musican you can connect with the. In this part we ae ofter the meeting and get together phase, we walk right into life and its good and harder sides. We see how our main protagonists have to find a way to work together and be a unit against all odds.
I totally adore the relationship between Vivian and Max and how easy kids can accept a lot of situations.
I absolutely recommend this story. It’s the perfect closure for the first but but I still see enough topics for another add on to this serie.
I totally adore the relationship between Vivian and Max and how easy kids can accept a lot of situations.
I absolutely recommend this story. It’s the perfect closure for the first but but I still see enough topics for another add on to this serie.
December 2, 2017
Wow I can't even put into words all the amazing feeling s this book gave me. It made me laugh out loud, it made tears fall from my eyes. There were times when I had to put it down before I threw it across the room. What a wonderful story between two totally different women. The way the authors words flow throughout this book pulled me in so deep I didn't want it too end . I kinda feel sad right now that it did but what an amazing way to end the book. I truly hope that Oliva Janae continues the story of Vivian, Kate and little max.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
December 6, 2017
I loved this book.
WOW! I loved Shades of Blue. The low parts will rip your heart out and then you will rejoice in the happiness. Beautifully written. Excellent story. I’m ready to start reading Book III.
WOW! I loved Shades of Blue. The low parts will rip your heart out and then you will rejoice in the happiness. Beautifully written. Excellent story. I’m ready to start reading Book III.
February 9, 2020
The Blues
Vivian and Kate are beautifully broken women, exuding auras in every shade of blue known to humanity. And those unbeknownst.
Sigh.
This is a couple, whose story, enough could never be had.
Will there be more?
Vivian and Kate are beautifully broken women, exuding auras in every shade of blue known to humanity. And those unbeknownst.
Sigh.
This is a couple, whose story, enough could never be had.
Will there be more?
October 5, 2021
angst, but so GOOD
max is a king
max is a king
November 26, 2017
Amazing quick read, literally could not put it down. Amazing job again Olivia can't wait to see what else you come up with. Shades of Blue is an amazing conclusion to The Longest Silence, you see what happens between Kate and Vivian along with Max, Charlie and John.
July 20, 2022
I had to skip a lot of the drama in the middle of this book because it was frustrating. The big fight wasn't realistic and both were just plain beong annoying. I was somehow attached to the story and wanted to see how it would end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2022
i’m not sure i liked the conflict here :/
November 28, 2017
I loved the first book and I definitely loved this book too.
Shades of Blue continues from where The Loudest Silence ends. Kate and Vivian are together and happy. Jacqueline, Vivian's mother, gets involved and everything starts to fall apart. Will things be able to be fixed or is the damage done irreparable? The book takes you on an emotional journey through Kate and Vivian's relationship.
First I want to say how much I love that the book pushes the idea that just because you have a disability that doesn't mean you are lesser or should have to change. I love that Vivian is a strong, powerful woman who also happens to be deaf. She doesn't let her disability hold her back and looks at it as just another part of who she is.
The characters in this book are well written and real. There's Vivian who has been damaged from growing up with a mother who never truly showed she loved her. She thinks she's unlovable and builds walls to protect herself so she is called the Ice Queen. There's Kate who just wants to be a good mother and have some stability for both herself and Max, her son. She's always afraid of being left behind like her childhood growing up in the foster system has made her expect. Both Vivian and Kate are stubborn women. Between Kate and Vivian there are a lot of insecurities and obstacles to get through in order for their relationship to work. There is also Charlie who is Vivian's best friend and interpreter. Charlie is funny, protective, and caring. There is John, Kate's best friend. He is a supportive friend and there for Kate when she needs him. And there's Max who offers so much cuteness.
This book will take you on an emotional journey. I was left holding my hand to my heart quite a few times while reading the book. I was also very frustrated with Kate because so much could have been avoided if she would have just stopped being afraid and just signed.
The ending of the book offered some closure, but at the same time left me wanting to know what will happen next with the characters.
I would definitely recommend the book.
Shades of Blue continues from where The Loudest Silence ends. Kate and Vivian are together and happy. Jacqueline, Vivian's mother, gets involved and everything starts to fall apart. Will things be able to be fixed or is the damage done irreparable? The book takes you on an emotional journey through Kate and Vivian's relationship.
First I want to say how much I love that the book pushes the idea that just because you have a disability that doesn't mean you are lesser or should have to change. I love that Vivian is a strong, powerful woman who also happens to be deaf. She doesn't let her disability hold her back and looks at it as just another part of who she is.
The characters in this book are well written and real. There's Vivian who has been damaged from growing up with a mother who never truly showed she loved her. She thinks she's unlovable and builds walls to protect herself so she is called the Ice Queen. There's Kate who just wants to be a good mother and have some stability for both herself and Max, her son. She's always afraid of being left behind like her childhood growing up in the foster system has made her expect. Both Vivian and Kate are stubborn women. Between Kate and Vivian there are a lot of insecurities and obstacles to get through in order for their relationship to work. There is also Charlie who is Vivian's best friend and interpreter. Charlie is funny, protective, and caring. There is John, Kate's best friend. He is a supportive friend and there for Kate when she needs him. And there's Max who offers so much cuteness.
This book will take you on an emotional journey. I was left holding my hand to my heart quite a few times while reading the book. I was also very frustrated with Kate because so much could have been avoided if she would have just stopped being afraid and just signed.
The ending of the book offered some closure, but at the same time left me wanting to know what will happen next with the characters.
I would definitely recommend the book.
December 2, 2017
I liked the first part, The Loudest Silence, so much that I thought it would be hard to keep up the story. And, boy, was I ever wrong.
When Kate and Vivian are still building up their relationship, a new obstacle comes to ruin it, Vivian's mother. Even though she was warned, Kate, being the good heart she is, still thought that she couldn't be that bad and trusted her.
A good part of the book is about Kate finding a way to have Vivian back. She also has to face the possibility of losing her job, auditoning for a her dream one, losing her friends, her sad and heart-broken son. Too much for an already damaged heart. But she has ocercomed more and she will get over this, at least that's what she tells herself every day.
There's one thing I didn't like or enjoy though. Understanding where Vivian is coming from and all the hurt she has suffered, I don't get her cruelness towards Kate. I don't get either why it's Kate who has to do all the effort to make the relationship work and never give up. I admired her because of that but I would shout at her “stop begging, don't grovel anymore, she doesn't deserve you, let her get close to you” as if she could hear me. And then to Vivian “I could smack you for making her feel so bad and meaningless”. The proposal was a combination of laughter and love.
I loved the book. I finished it in a couple of days because I couldn't put it down, taking time from my sleep but no regrets there.
I highly recommend this book. If you liked Part 1, you are going to love this one.
I received an ARC from the publisher for a honest review.
When Kate and Vivian are still building up their relationship, a new obstacle comes to ruin it, Vivian's mother. Even though she was warned, Kate, being the good heart she is, still thought that she couldn't be that bad and trusted her.
A good part of the book is about Kate finding a way to have Vivian back. She also has to face the possibility of losing her job, auditoning for a her dream one, losing her friends, her sad and heart-broken son. Too much for an already damaged heart. But she has ocercomed more and she will get over this, at least that's what she tells herself every day.
There's one thing I didn't like or enjoy though. Understanding where Vivian is coming from and all the hurt she has suffered, I don't get her cruelness towards Kate. I don't get either why it's Kate who has to do all the effort to make the relationship work and never give up. I admired her because of that but I would shout at her “stop begging, don't grovel anymore, she doesn't deserve you, let her get close to you” as if she could hear me. And then to Vivian “I could smack you for making her feel so bad and meaningless”. The proposal was a combination of laughter and love.
I loved the book. I finished it in a couple of days because I couldn't put it down, taking time from my sleep but no regrets there.
I highly recommend this book. If you liked Part 1, you are going to love this one.
I received an ARC from the publisher for a honest review.
December 2, 2017
Shades of Blue, part two of The Loudest Silence, starts soon after where the first book left off. Kate and Vivian are juggling family and work life together. Of course it isn't all fun and games...
This time the biggest problems arrive in the shape of one Jacqueline Kensington, Vivian's mother. If you thought Ash was irritating (in the first book) and wondered why Kate went along with her, well.. Jacqueline is much worse.
I suppose it's a good sign that a book makes me really invested in the story - enough to want to kill one of its characters, and gets me ranting out loud about why someone just doesn't see what is going on :-) My poor spouse got to hear it all, murder fantasies included.
Shades of Blue takes the reader to quite an emotional journey, through anger, frustration, heartbreak and sadness to eventual love and happiness... whoo, what a ride!
The characters stay true to themselves and "in character" all the time, we get more insight to some of them, get even more info on deaf culture and perhaps some knowledge about careers in the world of classical music. The auditions, for example, were written so well that I felt I was there.
Olivia Janae: I'm a fan. Next task - have to read both books back to back!
This time the biggest problems arrive in the shape of one Jacqueline Kensington, Vivian's mother. If you thought Ash was irritating (in the first book) and wondered why Kate went along with her, well.. Jacqueline is much worse.
I suppose it's a good sign that a book makes me really invested in the story - enough to want to kill one of its characters, and gets me ranting out loud about why someone just doesn't see what is going on :-) My poor spouse got to hear it all, murder fantasies included.
Shades of Blue takes the reader to quite an emotional journey, through anger, frustration, heartbreak and sadness to eventual love and happiness... whoo, what a ride!
The characters stay true to themselves and "in character" all the time, we get more insight to some of them, get even more info on deaf culture and perhaps some knowledge about careers in the world of classical music. The auditions, for example, were written so well that I felt I was there.
Olivia Janae: I'm a fan. Next task - have to read both books back to back!
January 12, 2018
Book 1 ended with a cliffhanger and the wait between books was eating me aive until my wife was so kind to gave it to my as an early christmas present (love you to the moon and back, love)
Book 2 made me cry, laugh, cry again, my heart was fill with emotions and of course I had to cry all over again. That's what I like about books: the way they make me feel so into the story and the characters and their feelings that I cry so much, those are the best kind of books and I love when authors do that.
I felt very heartbroken for Max and they was he was behaving/feeling towards Oliva not being in his liife as before, not living with her and how he had a regretion.
First of all, why believe in Olivia's mom? wrong choice and even it that made Kate and Olivia be apart for months, at least it gave Kate the power of focusing in learning Olivia's lenguage.
These are the books you need in your collection, a MUST READ and I hope she can keep writing because I definetly want to read more from her.
Book 2 made me cry, laugh, cry again, my heart was fill with emotions and of course I had to cry all over again. That's what I like about books: the way they make me feel so into the story and the characters and their feelings that I cry so much, those are the best kind of books and I love when authors do that.
I felt very heartbroken for Max and they was he was behaving/feeling towards Oliva not being in his liife as before, not living with her and how he had a regretion.
First of all, why believe in Olivia's mom? wrong choice and even it that made Kate and Olivia be apart for months, at least it gave Kate the power of focusing in learning Olivia's lenguage.
These are the books you need in your collection, a MUST READ and I hope she can keep writing because I definetly want to read more from her.
January 7, 2020
Even better than the first book!!
“Having people was great, wonderful even, but having people she loved, well, that was a dream not granted to many. Kate craved it with every fiber of her being.”
• ~ • ~ • ~ •
Talk about finishing strong… couldn't be any better way to conclude this awesome romantic journey!
Loved this spellbinding story about two women, both shaped & scarred by life's unfairness throughout their lives, who work at building a romantic relationship together & finding, nurturing & sustaining love in/with each other that bestows the peace, joy & safety that heals & overcomes the wounds, scars & the damages & destruction from their pasts.
It SOOOO made me smile, made me cry, made my heart ache & made me optimistic riding the emotional rollercoaster from the first word to the last about finding & forging the redemption & resilience, security, strength, promise & power of real love.
“Having people was great, wonderful even, but having people she loved, well, that was a dream not granted to many. Kate craved it with every fiber of her being.”
• ~ • ~ • ~ •
Talk about finishing strong… couldn't be any better way to conclude this awesome romantic journey!
Loved this spellbinding story about two women, both shaped & scarred by life's unfairness throughout their lives, who work at building a romantic relationship together & finding, nurturing & sustaining love in/with each other that bestows the peace, joy & safety that heals & overcomes the wounds, scars & the damages & destruction from their pasts.
It SOOOO made me smile, made me cry, made my heart ache & made me optimistic riding the emotional rollercoaster from the first word to the last about finding & forging the redemption & resilience, security, strength, promise & power of real love.
November 23, 2025
dnf 16%. kate is so stupid and insufferable and soo sooo stupid. the hills she chooses to die on… girl actually die. like actually im not playing. like hmmm why would the mother of my deaf gf who had been outwardly ableist towards her her whole life be gifting her a cochlear implant… hmm i wonder why maybe bc SHES ABLEIST AS YOU KNOW NOW OHMYGOD. i swear given every context in the world about every single thing in the world she would still be the most dumbest ho ever ever ever. doesnt want to use sign language, doesnt want to think, like damn girl what do u do.. what CAN you do. like FUCK. fuck you kate. like seriously fuck you. i wish u nothing but the worst of the worst. i hope vivian finds someone else. i hope she falls out of love w ur stupid ass.
February 17, 2019
Amazing. This was the perfect finale to this series. My God was I frustrated while reading these books. NEVER have I wanted to smash two characters together so badly. At times I was screaming
"FOR THE LOVE OF GOD JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER!!"
Of course, this is the best part about this series. You feel Kate and Vivian's frustration about their own lack of communication.
As a queer HOH person and a music lover this books are my pick for 2019. It's only February and I already know I have read the best thing I will read this year!
My new favourite books. I hope you love them too.
"FOR THE LOVE OF GOD JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER!!"
Of course, this is the best part about this series. You feel Kate and Vivian's frustration about their own lack of communication.
As a queer HOH person and a music lover this books are my pick for 2019. It's only February and I already know I have read the best thing I will read this year!
My new favourite books. I hope you love them too.
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