What do you think?
Rate this book
Reverie
Small town love isn't always quaint: A lesbian romance... with some twists.
Lucinda Hamilton settles down in sleepy Reverie, South Carolina, because she’s running from the troubles of her past. But when her dangerous ex-husband evades law enforcement, she fears that no amount of running will ever make her safe again.
Two women are determined to keep Lucinda’s past at bay — the mysterious young nurse living on the other side of Lucinda’s duplex, who won’t even tell Lucinda her name, and Ardie Brown, an ex-marine who’s recently moved back to Reverie herself. It’s hard for Lucinda to trust either one of them; it’s even harder to admit to herself that she’s falling for both of them.
What will happen when Lucinda’s ex-husband finally catches up to her? Will the girl next door or Ardie have the power to stop him?
Or will Lucinda finally have to face her past all by herself?
About this book
This book is best classified as "romantic suspense." If you're looking for a light-hearted, formulaic, run-of-the-mill lesbian romance, then this book is *not* for you. It's not fluff. It's rated R, and it has some trigger warnings. But if you're looking for something with substance that will keep you reading -- and guessing -- until the final scene, then start reading today.
This book includes:
Sexual content
Mention of domestic violence (nothing explicit)
Discussion of PTSD (somewhat explicit)
Lucinda Hamilton settles down in sleepy Reverie, South Carolina, because she’s running from the troubles of her past. But when her dangerous ex-husband evades law enforcement, she fears that no amount of running will ever make her safe again.
Two women are determined to keep Lucinda’s past at bay — the mysterious young nurse living on the other side of Lucinda’s duplex, who won’t even tell Lucinda her name, and Ardie Brown, an ex-marine who’s recently moved back to Reverie herself. It’s hard for Lucinda to trust either one of them; it’s even harder to admit to herself that she’s falling for both of them.
What will happen when Lucinda’s ex-husband finally catches up to her? Will the girl next door or Ardie have the power to stop him?
Or will Lucinda finally have to face her past all by herself?
About this book
This book is best classified as "romantic suspense." If you're looking for a light-hearted, formulaic, run-of-the-mill lesbian romance, then this book is *not* for you. It's not fluff. It's rated R, and it has some trigger warnings. But if you're looking for something with substance that will keep you reading -- and guessing -- until the final scene, then start reading today.
This book includes:
Sexual content
Mention of domestic violence (nothing explicit)
Discussion of PTSD (somewhat explicit)
427 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2018
163 people are currently reading
265 people want to read
About the author
Eliza Andrews
14 books379 followersWhen I started thinking of a new pen name to write fiction featuring lesbian protagonists, I commandeered the name of an ancestor. Eliza Frances Andrews was an interesting woman, one I have mixed feelings about. A southern belle who lived through the civil war as the privileged daughter of a prominent plantation owner, she refused to marry "below her station" after the war and therefore set about creating her own career -- highly unusual for a woman of her day and age. Eventually she became a teacher, novelist, and world-renowned botanist. And interestingly, a socialist.
But she was quite racist and I can only imagine what she would have to say about LGBTQ people. It is therefore somewhat tongue-in-cheek to borrow her name; it is my reimagining of Eliza if she'd grown up in the 21st century rather than the 19th, after women's lib and the Civil Rights movement and Stonewall. Perhaps a 21st-century Eliza would grin at me and say, "Right on." Perhaps the 19th-century Eliza is rolling over in her grave -- if she is, call it karmic justice.
Reach out anytime: eliza@ninja-writer.com.
PS, I also write young adult science fiction / fantasy under the name R. A. Marshall (another borrowed name). LGBTQ readers might enjoy the Lost Children trilogy.
But she was quite racist and I can only imagine what she would have to say about LGBTQ people. It is therefore somewhat tongue-in-cheek to borrow her name; it is my reimagining of Eliza if she'd grown up in the 21st century rather than the 19th, after women's lib and the Civil Rights movement and Stonewall. Perhaps a 21st-century Eliza would grin at me and say, "Right on." Perhaps the 19th-century Eliza is rolling over in her grave -- if she is, call it karmic justice.
Reach out anytime: eliza@ninja-writer.com.
PS, I also write young adult science fiction / fantasy under the name R. A. Marshall (another borrowed name). LGBTQ readers might enjoy the Lost Children trilogy.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
February 8, 2019
I actually have no words for this. I don't think I've been this emotionally affected by a book in years.
February 19, 2018
Author Eliza Andrews warns us in advance, this is not your run-of-the-mill fluffy lesbian romance. And she is right. Even though it starts out harmless enough with a woman (Lucinda Hamilton) newly arriving in the small Southern town of Reverie. She is trying to start a new life and with help of a local cousin she gets a job as a hairdresser. Soon we find out that Lucinda has left an abusive husband and a younger female lover Dionne. She is still feeling very raw about that when she finds out her hopefully-soon-to-be-ex-husband has skipped bail and without a doubt will be coming for her next.
Lucinda strikes up a friendship with the only lesbian in town, a local Harley driving ex-marine named Ardith (Ardie) Brown. Ardie, who lives with her aging parents and works at her father’s garage, offers to do some much needed DIY on Lucinda’s rented duplex and begins to hope there could be something more between her and Lucinda.
Lucinda also meets her new next-door neighbor. A mysterious young woman who bares an uncanny resemblance to her lost love Dionne. She is attracted to this woman who refuses to give Lucinda her name, even makes it into a little guessing game. Lucinda doesn’t dare hope this young, beautiful woman will answer her feelings until she is proven wrong. Can she be happy again or is it almost too good to be true?
And then… OMG… then the author throws in a twist that I did not see coming. The romance novel turns into something much more sinister, something that gave me a cold shiver down my spine. The next shoe had dropped. We switch from Lucinda to Ardie’s pov and I read on with bated breath.
f/f explicit
Themes: Something wicked this way comes and it’s not only hurricane Amber, Holy shit… I was not prepared for this, a twist within a twist! Be sure to read the author’s personal essay in the back of the book as well and to answer your question, Eliza Andrews, yes, it worked.
5 stars
Lucinda strikes up a friendship with the only lesbian in town, a local Harley driving ex-marine named Ardith (Ardie) Brown. Ardie, who lives with her aging parents and works at her father’s garage, offers to do some much needed DIY on Lucinda’s rented duplex and begins to hope there could be something more between her and Lucinda.
Lucinda also meets her new next-door neighbor. A mysterious young woman who bares an uncanny resemblance to her lost love Dionne. She is attracted to this woman who refuses to give Lucinda her name, even makes it into a little guessing game. Lucinda doesn’t dare hope this young, beautiful woman will answer her feelings until she is proven wrong. Can she be happy again or is it almost too good to be true?
And then… OMG… then the author throws in a twist that I did not see coming. The romance novel turns into something much more sinister, something that gave me a cold shiver down my spine. The next shoe had dropped. We switch from Lucinda to Ardie’s pov and I read on with bated breath.
f/f explicit
Themes: Something wicked this way comes and it’s not only hurricane Amber, Holy shit… I was not prepared for this, a twist within a twist! Be sure to read the author’s personal essay in the back of the book as well and to answer your question, Eliza Andrews, yes, it worked.
5 stars
July 15, 2018
This was me FIRST book by Eliza Andrews, an indie lesbian author I knew nothing of before until a fellow member (cheers, Evelyn Smith!!) of an FB group recommended her in one of the group’s discussion posts.
I picked “Reverie” to fully explore Andrews’ writing and storytelling style because I was curious after reading the blurb. It didn’t sound like a bog-standard lesbian romance. The word “twists” got me attention. Fresh from having read and enjoyed few draft chapters of Andrews’ upcoming novel (found on her website) tremendously (you can read me initial thoughts about it here ) I was ready to take the plunge with a full-length novel of hers.
OH. MY. GOD. I can’t even begin to tell you just how absolutely gobsmacked I was with this story! To say that it’s different doesn’t do it justice! I’ve never read anything like it in lesfic, let alone in the lesbian romance genre! Utterly creative and original. Not only did Andrews manage to draw me in to the seemingly formulaic story at first that transformed slowly throughout, with her captivating writing style (present tense, which is not commonly used, but totally appropriate in this story to create an acute sense of the “now”), her clever weaving of clues and breadcrumbs into the developing story was absolutely brilliant! It gave me a sense of cautious anticipation, kept me curiosity piqued throughout. I kept wondering… “What the bloody hell is going on?”
My full commentary here... In Bug's Own Words
I picked “Reverie” to fully explore Andrews’ writing and storytelling style because I was curious after reading the blurb. It didn’t sound like a bog-standard lesbian romance. The word “twists” got me attention. Fresh from having read and enjoyed few draft chapters of Andrews’ upcoming novel (found on her website) tremendously (you can read me initial thoughts about it here ) I was ready to take the plunge with a full-length novel of hers.
OH. MY. GOD. I can’t even begin to tell you just how absolutely gobsmacked I was with this story! To say that it’s different doesn’t do it justice! I’ve never read anything like it in lesfic, let alone in the lesbian romance genre! Utterly creative and original. Not only did Andrews manage to draw me in to the seemingly formulaic story at first that transformed slowly throughout, with her captivating writing style (present tense, which is not commonly used, but totally appropriate in this story to create an acute sense of the “now”), her clever weaving of clues and breadcrumbs into the developing story was absolutely brilliant! It gave me a sense of cautious anticipation, kept me curiosity piqued throughout. I kept wondering… “What the bloody hell is going on?”
My full commentary here... In Bug's Own Words
September 26, 2019
Now I can’t sleep for all the wrong reasons. With practically nothing but the clothes on her back, Lucinda moves back into the tiny South Carolina town where she spent summers as a child. Reverie is a hot, steamy country town where everyone knows everyone from way back and all the little secrets. Almost immediately, there’s dark talk that tells of Lucinda being a woman in hiding from a flesh and blood kind of monster, the man she’s called husband for many years. Then layer by layer, the author peels away the story weaving past and present, drawing in language that is sensually evocative as well as provocative that undoubtedly filled me with knowing dread of what might be coming.
The tension builds as the characters of Lucinda and the neighbor down the way, Ardie, begin a friendship, both having been to hell and back and who are now caught between sanity and survival, their futures entwining in an unpredictable way. Can’t say much else without spoiling except that there are hairpin twists and turns and body slams throughout the book and most of the time, you just never know how it’s all going to work out. So now I can’t sleep.
The tension builds as the characters of Lucinda and the neighbor down the way, Ardie, begin a friendship, both having been to hell and back and who are now caught between sanity and survival, their futures entwining in an unpredictable way. Can’t say much else without spoiling except that there are hairpin twists and turns and body slams throughout the book and most of the time, you just never know how it’s all going to work out. So now I can’t sleep.
September 13, 2019
Loved this audiobook.
From the opening quote by T.S. Elliott to the final scenes this story grabs you and doesn’t let you go.
The voice actor, Elizabeth Saydah compliments this moody mind bending look at a couple of women damaged by life and doing their best to survive in the small southern town of Reverie.
This book has to be experienced without preconception so no spoilers from me. I will say Eliza Andrews has that southern knack for setting the mood, slowing down to enjoy a piece of peach pie and blurring reality until you find yourself wondering if time itself stands still in South Carolina.
Powerful look at the way memories shape us, lift us up and occasionally tear us down. Wow. Bravo.
From the opening quote by T.S. Elliott to the final scenes this story grabs you and doesn’t let you go.
The voice actor, Elizabeth Saydah compliments this moody mind bending look at a couple of women damaged by life and doing their best to survive in the small southern town of Reverie.
This book has to be experienced without preconception so no spoilers from me. I will say Eliza Andrews has that southern knack for setting the mood, slowing down to enjoy a piece of peach pie and blurring reality until you find yourself wondering if time itself stands still in South Carolina.
Powerful look at the way memories shape us, lift us up and occasionally tear us down. Wow. Bravo.
November 29, 2019
What the.....but.....how.....could that have....wait a sec....I can't buh-lieve....damnitalltohell....who the fuck....was that a....how did I not...huh??!!
READ THIS BOOK. I absolutely loved it and it was different and refreshing and moving and emotional and I was floored by it and adored Ardie and it had a full-on Steel Magnolias vibe at the beginning with the accents and the hair salon except there's lesbians and trauma and drama and stuff and things and boy oh boy....
That's all.
READ THIS BOOK. I absolutely loved it and it was different and refreshing and moving and emotional and I was floored by it and adored Ardie and it had a full-on Steel Magnolias vibe at the beginning with the accents and the hair salon except there's lesbians and trauma and drama and stuff and things and boy oh boy....
That's all.
March 30, 2018
A psychological thriller/horror is the best way to describe what this book is. Something that belongs on late night cable TV where you really should leave more than one light on.
Neurosis. Psychosis. PTSD. Whatever label you want to put on it, Lucinda is a broken person from the get go on this. This book invokes similar emotion for me as The Art of Peeling an Orange where I actually, in real life, threw my kindle several feet. Then sat there for a while staring at it thinking, the gall of the woman to actually write something like this. Under normal circumstances this would have been an easy 2 star and move on without much thought. But because the author has the ovaries to write something like this, to evoke that squicky, yucky, did that @#$% just happen emotion I'm gonna give it a 3.
edit: Looks like a small edit went into place after publication that fixed an issue I had with it.
Gotta love Ardie... heh...
Neurosis. Psychosis. PTSD. Whatever label you want to put on it, Lucinda is a broken person from the get go on this. This book invokes similar emotion for me as The Art of Peeling an Orange where I actually, in real life, threw my kindle several feet. Then sat there for a while staring at it thinking, the gall of the woman to actually write something like this. Under normal circumstances this would have been an easy 2 star and move on without much thought. But because the author has the ovaries to write something like this, to evoke that squicky, yucky, did that @#$% just happen emotion I'm gonna give it a 3.
edit: Looks like a small edit went into place after publication that fixed an issue I had with it.
Gotta love Ardie... heh...
March 9, 2019
This blew my mind. Thank you Eliza Andrews.
February 27, 2019
I don't even know what to say! An unusual plot for sure and I never read something like it in lesbian romance.
I think this is one of the books that's not everyone going to have the same feeling about it.
For me, it was 3.5 stars for the creativity of the story and the well written book.
I think this is one of the books that's not everyone going to have the same feeling about it.
For me, it was 3.5 stars for the creativity of the story and the well written book.
March 29, 2024
5 Stars
Pros:
•The story is very original in terms of lesfic.
•It touches on complex topics such as DV, PTSD from abuse and war service, homophobia, small town mindset. It’s so beautifully amalgamated by the author.
•It leaves you thrilled, suspicious, confused, sad and just a little more curious about life.
•The twist is twisting.
Cons:
•Nichts
Pros:
•The story is very original in terms of lesfic.
•It touches on complex topics such as DV, PTSD from abuse and war service, homophobia, small town mindset. It’s so beautifully amalgamated by the author.
•It leaves you thrilled, suspicious, confused, sad and just a little more curious about life.
•The twist is twisting.
Cons:
•Nichts
January 28, 2018
"This book is best classified as 'romantic suspense.'"
Actually, it shouldn't be classified or marketed as a romance, which is what's stated in the subtitle, and implied by the term romantic suspense. I thought the prose was gorgeous and I loved the character of Ardie, also felt for Lucinda at first, but this is NOT a romance. When you break the genre convention of an HEA, you're no longer writing romance. It's like reading a mystery where no one ever solves the crime.
I'm really aggravated that I spent so long reading it only to have my expectations jacked with like this. If I'd known I was reading a paranormal lesbian story, without being cued to expect a romance, I would have rated it fairly high.
Actually, it shouldn't be classified or marketed as a romance, which is what's stated in the subtitle, and implied by the term romantic suspense. I thought the prose was gorgeous and I loved the character of Ardie, also felt for Lucinda at first, but this is NOT a romance. When you break the genre convention of an HEA, you're no longer writing romance. It's like reading a mystery where no one ever solves the crime.
I'm really aggravated that I spent so long reading it only to have my expectations jacked with like this. If I'd known I was reading a paranormal lesbian story, without being cued to expect a romance, I would have rated it fairly high.
February 17, 2019
Whoa. .... That was....different. A story of love, loss, violence, trauma, love, moving on. Where nothing is as it seems. It had me gripped by about 3 chapters in when you start to wonder....
I can’t review this in detail without spoilers. So I won’t. If you’re in the mood for something really different then give this a go. It’s currently on KU.
This one will stay with me for a while. And had me gripped. For that it gets a solid 5*.
I can’t review this in detail without spoilers. So I won’t. If you’re in the mood for something really different then give this a go. It’s currently on KU.
This one will stay with me for a while. And had me gripped. For that it gets a solid 5*.
April 5, 2018
Unusual plot
Well written. Unusual plot. I was entertained and definitely hooked to see where it was going and how it would end. But I didnt really feel like I got the payoff I was hoping for.
Well written. Unusual plot. I was entertained and definitely hooked to see where it was going and how it would end. But I didnt really feel like I got the payoff I was hoping for.
January 24, 2018
Good book
I found this book intriguing. I liked the characters and the quirks that were thrown into the books. I really did not expect the ending that we got. I found this whole book an intriguing mix of life and death and coming to terms with your feelings and emotions.
I found this book intriguing. I liked the characters and the quirks that were thrown into the books. I really did not expect the ending that we got. I found this whole book an intriguing mix of life and death and coming to terms with your feelings and emotions.
September 12, 2019
I finished “Reverie” this evening - WOW
You can’t write a regular review for this book without giving it away. If your looking for something other than the formula lesbian romance, read this book. I listened to the Audible and read along - the narrator, Elizebeth Saydah, adds to the whole effect.
Brava Ms. Andrews! Thank you, Ms. Saydah
You can’t write a regular review for this book without giving it away. If your looking for something other than the formula lesbian romance, read this book. I listened to the Audible and read along - the narrator, Elizebeth Saydah, adds to the whole effect.
Brava Ms. Andrews! Thank you, Ms. Saydah
September 21, 2019
Definitively book that will have your head spinning. Very unexpected ending. That ending made me cry, because not only I did not expect it but also because it was not what I wanted for the main characters….and if you think book hangover does not apply to this book, you would be wrong. I think it will take me a little to get over it.
April 23, 2025
I went into this book not really knowing much about it. Right away I was hooked. Andrews built each character bit by bit. A little piece of Lucinda here, a piece of Ardie there, a taste of Dionne to whet your appetite. I couldn't put this one down. Then the second half of the book started, and I felt that itch in my brain begin. This story is something different and my brain ate it up. The journey that Andrews was taking us on jumps track. I love this tale of strength, escape and released love. Btw: Reverie-a state of being pleasantly lost in one's thoughts; a daydream: Yep this covers my feelings about this one.
April 10, 2018
3.5*
I don’t know how to feel about this book. The paranormal, other worldly vibe was a nice touch. The ending was heartbreaking, but I kinda saw it coming.
It’s a mixed bag of feelings this one, I like Ardie, she’s your typical hard as nails, soft as a kitten type gal.
It took me a while to read, but I’m glad I read it to the end. The last few chapters were intense.
I don’t know how to feel about this book. The paranormal, other worldly vibe was a nice touch. The ending was heartbreaking, but I kinda saw it coming.
It’s a mixed bag of feelings this one, I like Ardie, she’s your typical hard as nails, soft as a kitten type gal.
It took me a while to read, but I’m glad I read it to the end. The last few chapters were intense.
January 18, 2024
Just no words. Amazing book. Couldn't sleep after reading it. I'd recommend it to anyone.
October 22, 2019
This is a good book. Honestly it's a great book. Amazing writing and style, a compelling story, really wonderful performance from the narrator. But I can't rate it as highly as I thought I would because the tail end of it disappointed me so bad. I feel like a sexy butch took me out to a great dinner and then spit in my food during the last course.
Let's start with the good:
- A very atmospherically beautiful novel. You can tell this was written by someone who grew up in and loves the south. I loved the descriptions of nature, the accents, the small town vibes. A great job was done establishing the setting, and everything, including all the later weather events, felt so visceral.
- Really lovely writing! Nothing more nothing less! Some books are badly written, some books are well written, and some books, you read a line and immediately want to read it again because it was so striking or poignant. This was one of those books. And it did so while remaining simple, and true to the characters. There was never a point where, say, Lucinda said something really pretty but it bothered me because it sounded like it came from the author rather than the character. That's another thing: all the dialogue was really good, really authentic. I just ENJOYED reading this so much!
- I say 'reading' but of course I listened to the audiobook as performed by Elizabeth Saydah and she was peeeeerfect. Great and distinctive character voices, great tone, awesome job with the accents (imo; I'm not from the south, or even American). I really loved it.
- Gosh I also loved the characters. I came to care and root for Lucinda super quickly. I freaking fell in LOVE with Ardie. Most of the romance in this really appealed to me. Really liked Rhonda, and was pleasantly surprised by her since I was sort of wincing in anticipation like I do every time a black character appears in a predominantly white novel. She had a role to play and wasn't the mammy character I had kinda feared at first. The entire little small town cast was really fun, added life and character to the novel.
- This just does a really good job of treating with abuse, PTSD, and trauma, and memory as trauma (oh man that was good), grief and all the little coping mechanisms we have. The Shahrazad metaphor was so good.
- I really recommend reading the author's little personal essay at the end; it really helped pull me back from the edge of that initial tidal wave of disappointment.
Speaking of disappointments... Let's.
This feels unfinished but I'm all talked out. Again, this was a good book. A great book! I guess I kind of just wish it was something that it's not. You know?
3.5 stars.
Let's start with the good:
- A very atmospherically beautiful novel. You can tell this was written by someone who grew up in and loves the south. I loved the descriptions of nature, the accents, the small town vibes. A great job was done establishing the setting, and everything, including all the later weather events, felt so visceral.
- Really lovely writing! Nothing more nothing less! Some books are badly written, some books are well written, and some books, you read a line and immediately want to read it again because it was so striking or poignant. This was one of those books. And it did so while remaining simple, and true to the characters. There was never a point where, say, Lucinda said something really pretty but it bothered me because it sounded like it came from the author rather than the character. That's another thing: all the dialogue was really good, really authentic. I just ENJOYED reading this so much!
- I say 'reading' but of course I listened to the audiobook as performed by Elizabeth Saydah and she was peeeeerfect. Great and distinctive character voices, great tone, awesome job with the accents (imo; I'm not from the south, or even American). I really loved it.
- Gosh I also loved the characters. I came to care and root for Lucinda super quickly. I freaking fell in LOVE with Ardie. Most of the romance in this really appealed to me. Really liked Rhonda, and was pleasantly surprised by her since I was sort of wincing in anticipation like I do every time a black character appears in a predominantly white novel. She had a role to play and wasn't the mammy character I had kinda feared at first. The entire little small town cast was really fun, added life and character to the novel.
- This just does a really good job of treating with abuse, PTSD, and trauma, and memory as trauma (oh man that was good), grief and all the little coping mechanisms we have. The Shahrazad metaphor was so good.
- I really recommend reading the author's little personal essay at the end; it really helped pull me back from the edge of that initial tidal wave of disappointment.
Speaking of disappointments... Let's.
This feels unfinished but I'm all talked out. Again, this was a good book. A great book! I guess I kind of just wish it was something that it's not. You know?
3.5 stars.
November 8, 2019
**Read This Book**
Eliza delivers the spine tingling twist you are looking for.
However, DO NOT READ if you are triggered by PTSD from war or abuse of any kind because you may have nightmares.
Otherwise, it’s a must read. Eliza is descriptive. Her characters are real, relatable and lovable. I don’t write a lot of reviews but this book demands my time!
Also, read Eastside/Westside/Love by Eliza. It’s a completely different type of book but same great writing style. Eliza has become my favorite author for lesbian romance 😊
**Warning**
It’s dark, not your average lesbian romance, but still highly recommended.
Eliza delivers the spine tingling twist you are looking for.
However, DO NOT READ if you are triggered by PTSD from war or abuse of any kind because you may have nightmares.
Otherwise, it’s a must read. Eliza is descriptive. Her characters are real, relatable and lovable. I don’t write a lot of reviews but this book demands my time!
Also, read Eastside/Westside/Love by Eliza. It’s a completely different type of book but same great writing style. Eliza has become my favorite author for lesbian romance 😊
**Warning**
It’s dark, not your average lesbian romance, but still highly recommended.
February 22, 2018
You know, kudos to the author as this was REALLY different and I kinda sorta agree this is truly a romance vs supernatural fiction. A love story enmeshed in a twisty thriller that peels back the ethereal question of what comes next and the wretched, blinding longing that accompanies loss and regret. A really enjoyable and original read! I think I was on the path to 5 stars until the last like 10%. The author specifically requests no spoilers, so won't go into what made the tide turn, but I loved me some Ardie...her heart... like 100%. I'm missing her already. xo
May 24, 2018
Really good!!
This is not usually my favorite genre but i have to say, this was a nice surprise. It kept me entertained and intrigued and it was really difficult to put it down. I loved the writing style and the pace. I will definitely keep reading more from this author.
This is not usually my favorite genre but i have to say, this was a nice surprise. It kept me entertained and intrigued and it was really difficult to put it down. I loved the writing style and the pace. I will definitely keep reading more from this author.
December 24, 2018
This book still haunts me; in a "I get it" kind of way. Living with PTSD is no fun; I know because I move through life with it. I related to Ardie, Marine vet. I know a woman similar to Lucinda, a victim of egregious male spousal abuse. There is no full living until the past is faced and released. Eliza Andrews hit this one out of the ball park; truly. I felt the South Carolina heat and heard the southern accents swishing over every page. I cried, laughed, and 'got it'. The hurricane, getting ready for the whipping rain and blustering wind was well written. I can't write further because it'll be a spoiler.
It's a book that should be read so the journey can be unique to the reader.
Well done Eliza, well done.
It's a book that should be read so the journey can be unique to the reader.
Well done Eliza, well done.
January 23, 2025
3.5⭐️ not my fav but not terrible
July 6, 2018
A phenomenal Book!
Wow! Where to begin? There’s so much I can’t say about it because there are so many ways to give up too much information.
Let’s start with the writing. Absolutely brilliant! Andrews opens the story with a slow, wonderfully meandering feel that seems to fit the small southern town setting but also begins the build-up of tension about why main character Lucinda has moved to Reverie, NC. There is reference to an ex-husband that she had to run from and some heartbreak she needs to heal from. From there, it slides seamlessly into what appears to be a fairly typical, well-written, and steamy love triangle between Lucinda and two very different women she meets. Which one will she choose? Then it accelerates into a curve and the events, twists, and turns of the remainder of the book leave you breathless. Through it all, Andrews’s writing is elegant, painting pictures in the mind rather than simply providing descriptions. The melodious southern drawl of Elizabeth Saydah’s narration only adds to this phenomena. It’s the perfect combination of narration, writing style, and story.
The most fascinating and amazing thing about this book is everything you don’t see coming. And there’s a lot! And Andrews pulls it off exquisitely. At the end, I sat in stunned silence, going back over every detail of the story, the only word coming to mind repeatedly being WOW!
Okay everything else I want to say is going to give too much away. In short, I highly, highly, highly recommend this book to everyone. A MUST read! I know I will reread/relisten to it many times even though I now know all its secrets, just to marvel at the artistry. The flow of the story, depth of character development and characters’ journeys, and the emotional impact are also all elements that will make me return to this book time after time.
Treat yourself to this read/listen, and do yourself a favor—savor it.
Wow! Where to begin? There’s so much I can’t say about it because there are so many ways to give up too much information.
Let’s start with the writing. Absolutely brilliant! Andrews opens the story with a slow, wonderfully meandering feel that seems to fit the small southern town setting but also begins the build-up of tension about why main character Lucinda has moved to Reverie, NC. There is reference to an ex-husband that she had to run from and some heartbreak she needs to heal from. From there, it slides seamlessly into what appears to be a fairly typical, well-written, and steamy love triangle between Lucinda and two very different women she meets. Which one will she choose? Then it accelerates into a curve and the events, twists, and turns of the remainder of the book leave you breathless. Through it all, Andrews’s writing is elegant, painting pictures in the mind rather than simply providing descriptions. The melodious southern drawl of Elizabeth Saydah’s narration only adds to this phenomena. It’s the perfect combination of narration, writing style, and story.
The most fascinating and amazing thing about this book is everything you don’t see coming. And there’s a lot! And Andrews pulls it off exquisitely. At the end, I sat in stunned silence, going back over every detail of the story, the only word coming to mind repeatedly being WOW!
Okay everything else I want to say is going to give too much away. In short, I highly, highly, highly recommend this book to everyone. A MUST read! I know I will reread/relisten to it many times even though I now know all its secrets, just to marvel at the artistry. The flow of the story, depth of character development and characters’ journeys, and the emotional impact are also all elements that will make me return to this book time after time.
Treat yourself to this read/listen, and do yourself a favor—savor it.
April 29, 2020
"It was all but a dream"
Reverie had a Steel Magnolias feel to it, but with black magic and other mysteries that I will not reveal. Everybody knew everybody. Overly friendly neighbours. Secrets. Whispers. Old ghosts. I saw it all playing out in my head like a movie.
It had me guessing all the way to the end. Just when I was confident of how the story was enfolding, the script would suddenly flip, leaving me stunned.
I immediately adored Ardie who I was instantly drawn into. Well, duh. A friendly, helpful, sweet butch with a motorcycle. I was really rooting for Ardie and Lucinda to get together, but unfortunately, Lucinda fell for the mysterious girl next door who refused to reveal her name. I knew right away what the girl was and what she was doing with Lucinda. It wouldn't take a genius to figure that out. At one point I thought Lucinda was losing her marbles and imagining it all. This story turned out darker that I originally thought. However, it was the dark a lot of people fear; the natural darker side to life.
A great story that left vivid images in my head, and if you read it and think you've figured it out sooner rather than later, I can assure you, you haven't and won't until the very end.
P.S. I would love a continuation story about Ardie to see where life may take her.
Reverie had a Steel Magnolias feel to it, but with black magic and other mysteries that I will not reveal. Everybody knew everybody. Overly friendly neighbours. Secrets. Whispers. Old ghosts. I saw it all playing out in my head like a movie.
It had me guessing all the way to the end. Just when I was confident of how the story was enfolding, the script would suddenly flip, leaving me stunned.
I immediately adored Ardie who I was instantly drawn into. Well, duh. A friendly, helpful, sweet butch with a motorcycle. I was really rooting for Ardie and Lucinda to get together, but unfortunately, Lucinda fell for the mysterious girl next door who refused to reveal her name. I knew right away what the girl was and what she was doing with Lucinda. It wouldn't take a genius to figure that out. At one point I thought Lucinda was losing her marbles and imagining it all. This story turned out darker that I originally thought. However, it was the dark a lot of people fear; the natural darker side to life.
A great story that left vivid images in my head, and if you read it and think you've figured it out sooner rather than later, I can assure you, you haven't and won't until the very end.
P.S. I would love a continuation story about Ardie to see where life may take her.
September 24, 2019
OH MY GOD.
I have read books that moved me, touched my heart and opened my eyes. But this book, it kissed my spirits (Rhonda). At first I was just testing the waters, feel the vibe since it came with trigger warnings (PTSD, violence). But once I started to feel the real twists and turns, then I knew, it was something I had to read.
Oh and heaven on earth, it was spectacular. The way the story is written is just like any other novel, but the way the plot and twists are planted at the right point, now that's what makes it unique from others.
And the major issues were based on facts that happen in real life so one can't complain about that.
I was so mind blown. Esp at the near end... I couldn't believe how something that is alressy at ita best be any better. But it did, that once scene that almost woild have given me a sleepless night had I not been to the nearest end of the book. Because there was no way in heaven, I was sleeping without know how it came about.
It is a total recommendation. Badass work of art.
I have read books that moved me, touched my heart and opened my eyes. But this book, it kissed my spirits (Rhonda). At first I was just testing the waters, feel the vibe since it came with trigger warnings (PTSD, violence). But once I started to feel the real twists and turns, then I knew, it was something I had to read.
Oh and heaven on earth, it was spectacular. The way the story is written is just like any other novel, but the way the plot and twists are planted at the right point, now that's what makes it unique from others.
And the major issues were based on facts that happen in real life so one can't complain about that.
I was so mind blown. Esp at the near end... I couldn't believe how something that is alressy at ita best be any better. But it did, that once scene that almost woild have given me a sleepless night had I not been to the nearest end of the book. Because there was no way in heaven, I was sleeping without know how it came about.
It is a total recommendation. Badass work of art.
January 28, 2018
I cannot really give you a tidy plot summary that is spoiler-free. Here's my best attempt: Lucinda Hamilton is on the run from her murderous ex-husband, which lands her in Reverie, the boring, backwater South Carolina town where she spent part of her childhood. This attractive middle-aged bisexual (who had a same-sex affair of a couple of years' duration while she was still with her hubby) quickly attracts attention from the only two female woman-loving women in town, a sweet butch, motorcycle-riding, retired Marine auto mechanic close to her own age, and a mysterious hot young nurse who won't tell Lu her name. Which one is the girl/woman for Lucinda, and which one will be there for her when her ex-husband tracks her down?
This is the third lesbian-themed full-length novel by this author. It shows growth and change from her previous two novels, which I think is always a good sign in an author. It has less of the tragedy of her first novel, less of the humor of her second, and it takes more chances than either one. There were points along the way where, expecting it to follow traditional lesfic tropes, I was frustrated or confused, but in the end, I was glad I stuck with it.
Those who freak out over TPPT (third-person, present tense — much to my surprise, hating TPPT is a thing) be forewarned that _Reverie_ TPPTs all over the place. My advice if you're a TPPT truther: Get over it. If you really want to get hot under the collar, how about going off on her admiration for the poetry of T.S. Eliot? I mean it's almost impossible to read that poser without hundreds of footnotes to explain the ridiculous pile-up of references, allusions, and quotes (in English and several other languages) he inflicts on his readers. You can just skip the academic masturbation and discover the joys of Louise Glück or ee cummings or Leonard Cohen or Dylan Thomas or (yes, I used to be able to recite all of "Gunga Din" by heart, but I'm not so politically incorrect as to recommend Rudyard Kipling) many others. Just kidding. Andrews is definitely an Author to Watch, and _Reverie_, along with the author's end-of-book essay, will give you much to ponder after the last page has been turned.
This is the third lesbian-themed full-length novel by this author. It shows growth and change from her previous two novels, which I think is always a good sign in an author. It has less of the tragedy of her first novel, less of the humor of her second, and it takes more chances than either one. There were points along the way where, expecting it to follow traditional lesfic tropes, I was frustrated or confused, but in the end, I was glad I stuck with it.
Those who freak out over TPPT (third-person, present tense — much to my surprise, hating TPPT is a thing) be forewarned that _Reverie_ TPPTs all over the place. My advice if you're a TPPT truther: Get over it. If you really want to get hot under the collar, how about going off on her admiration for the poetry of T.S. Eliot? I mean it's almost impossible to read that poser without hundreds of footnotes to explain the ridiculous pile-up of references, allusions, and quotes (in English and several other languages) he inflicts on his readers. You can just skip the academic masturbation and discover the joys of Louise Glück or ee cummings or Leonard Cohen or Dylan Thomas or (yes, I used to be able to recite all of "Gunga Din" by heart, but I'm not so politically incorrect as to recommend Rudyard Kipling) many others. Just kidding. Andrews is definitely an Author to Watch, and _Reverie_, along with the author's end-of-book essay, will give you much to ponder after the last page has been turned.
February 14, 2018
Best Book I’ve Read So Far
This book left me stunned when I finished it. It’s the best story ever with great unexpected twists. It’s written so well, flows perfectly, has great characters, I honestly can’t say enough about this book. It’s perfect. It’s written like a bestseller book, which says something. It’s also amazing that this is a lesbian book. There needs to be more books like this. A real book with a real story that is unforgettable. Even in the straight world, there’s not enough of them. This book easily can be on the same list as memorable books like “Jar of Kisses” except this book is a lot more spooky.
Wow, wow, wow. I definitely want to read more books by this author.
This book left me stunned when I finished it. It’s the best story ever with great unexpected twists. It’s written so well, flows perfectly, has great characters, I honestly can’t say enough about this book. It’s perfect. It’s written like a bestseller book, which says something. It’s also amazing that this is a lesbian book. There needs to be more books like this. A real book with a real story that is unforgettable. Even in the straight world, there’s not enough of them. This book easily can be on the same list as memorable books like “Jar of Kisses” except this book is a lot more spooky.
Wow, wow, wow. I definitely want to read more books by this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews