What do you think?
Rate this book
Muse & Music #1
Burning Muses
Burning Muses is Book 1 of the Muse & Music Series. It can be read as a standalone.
Don’t let fear sway you. You’re not your past.
Seraphina Daniels feels like running—the kind of running that doesn’t include a set destination. So, when her childhood friend calls in distress, she’s more than prepared to leave behind her failed—and famous—relationship, her writer’s block, and her impending thirtieth birthday.
But upon her return to the Ozarks—a sharp contrast to New York City—she discovers that everything’s changed.
I think I wanted you before I even knew what it was like to want someone.
The homecoming brings Sera to Chace Holloway: the man who’s made a home out of the place that was once hers. Romance isn’t an option, but friendship comes easily with the twenty-two-year-old songwriter—despite the attraction they both feel.
He is music, and I am merely madness and melancholy.
What started as an escape becomes more of a trap when the past begins to wrap around the present. As hope blooms, Sera and Chace face their biggest obstacles—what they each fear, and what old lovers desire.
Don’t let fear sway you. You’re not your past.
Seraphina Daniels feels like running—the kind of running that doesn’t include a set destination. So, when her childhood friend calls in distress, she’s more than prepared to leave behind her failed—and famous—relationship, her writer’s block, and her impending thirtieth birthday.
But upon her return to the Ozarks—a sharp contrast to New York City—she discovers that everything’s changed.
I think I wanted you before I even knew what it was like to want someone.
The homecoming brings Sera to Chace Holloway: the man who’s made a home out of the place that was once hers. Romance isn’t an option, but friendship comes easily with the twenty-two-year-old songwriter—despite the attraction they both feel.
He is music, and I am merely madness and melancholy.
What started as an escape becomes more of a trap when the past begins to wrap around the present. As hope blooms, Sera and Chace face their biggest obstacles—what they each fear, and what old lovers desire.
244 pages, Paperback
Published January 28, 2018
61 people are currently reading
629 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Rogue
60 books851 followersJ.R. Rogue first put pen to paper at the age of fifteen after developing an unrequited high school crush and has never stopped writing about heartache. She has published multiple volumes of poetry and novels. Her work has been recognized with three Goodreads Choice Awards nominations, a testament to the impact of her work on readers.
In addition to her writing, J.R. Rogue is a certified yoga teacher with additional certification in Yoga Nidra and Trauma-Informed Yoga. She is passionate about mindfulness and meditation, and currently studying Foundations in Meditation. Furthermore, J.R. Rogue has been sober from alcohol since January 1st, 2020, a personal achievement that she is proud of and that has strengthened her commitment to mindfulness and wellness.
J.R. Rogue resides in a small town in the Midwest with her family, where she enjoys a peaceful life reading and telling stories
In addition to her writing, J.R. Rogue is a certified yoga teacher with additional certification in Yoga Nidra and Trauma-Informed Yoga. She is passionate about mindfulness and meditation, and currently studying Foundations in Meditation. Furthermore, J.R. Rogue has been sober from alcohol since January 1st, 2020, a personal achievement that she is proud of and that has strengthened her commitment to mindfulness and wellness.
J.R. Rogue resides in a small town in the Midwest with her family, where she enjoys a peaceful life reading and telling stories
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
May 28, 2020
RE-READ REVIEW 5/26/20 ✨
The first time I ever read this book was in 2016. The second time was 2020. I’m so proud of Jen and how far she has come as both an author and a person. I’m just in awe.
FIRST REVIEW 3/5/16 ✨
Writing reviews is tough. It really honestly is. Do you be honest? Do you just sugar coat everything? Sometimes you read a book that you liked but found some quirks that you found rather distracting. It happens. Embrace it.
Burning Muses is JR Rogue's debut novel. I have read quite a few first time author books and I notice the same thing every time: wordy-ness and over descriptiveness.
It's the same story every time for me. The author uses so much detail and inner dialogue you literally know everything that character is feeling and thinking or even sometimes you can predict what they're going to do. Some readers enjoy that. Some readers want to discover things on their own. I don't judge either way. But I prefer to learn on my own.
"My words were only for Chace. He was in every one of them. I sang for him. I bled for him, and the vein was heavy."
Sera. With her inner dialogue she was a character that was easy to figure out. She was witty and closed off and a very different character. However, she is an open book to the reader. You know everything, past present, and future and you know those things very vividly as you read along. Some things are irrelevant. Chace. I don't how I feel about him because the first part was centered so much around Sera and her thoughts that I couldn't dissect Chace for myself. But the epilogue semi made up for all of my misconceptions and lost thoughts of Chace.
The story line is great. And JR Rogue has a way with words. There's no instalove. This love was a slow burning and slow sinking love. I appreciated the details for this aspect alone. The plot was hook, line, and sinker. I kept checking how much of the book was left and I would internally panic when I felt there wasn't enough time in the book left. Solid ending. The last few chapters were so beautifully written.
"You hold this darkness deep inside your ribcage. I know how that feels. I have it too. It isn't the same as yours, I know that, but your darkness is fucking blinding, Sera. It's beautiful and it's part of you. Use it."
One word: POETRY. Yes!
The first time I ever read this book was in 2016. The second time was 2020. I’m so proud of Jen and how far she has come as both an author and a person. I’m just in awe.
FIRST REVIEW 3/5/16 ✨
Writing reviews is tough. It really honestly is. Do you be honest? Do you just sugar coat everything? Sometimes you read a book that you liked but found some quirks that you found rather distracting. It happens. Embrace it.
Burning Muses is JR Rogue's debut novel. I have read quite a few first time author books and I notice the same thing every time: wordy-ness and over descriptiveness.
It's the same story every time for me. The author uses so much detail and inner dialogue you literally know everything that character is feeling and thinking or even sometimes you can predict what they're going to do. Some readers enjoy that. Some readers want to discover things on their own. I don't judge either way. But I prefer to learn on my own.
"My words were only for Chace. He was in every one of them. I sang for him. I bled for him, and the vein was heavy."
Sera. With her inner dialogue she was a character that was easy to figure out. She was witty and closed off and a very different character. However, she is an open book to the reader. You know everything, past present, and future and you know those things very vividly as you read along. Some things are irrelevant. Chace. I don't how I feel about him because the first part was centered so much around Sera and her thoughts that I couldn't dissect Chace for myself. But the epilogue semi made up for all of my misconceptions and lost thoughts of Chace.
The story line is great. And JR Rogue has a way with words. There's no instalove. This love was a slow burning and slow sinking love. I appreciated the details for this aspect alone. The plot was hook, line, and sinker. I kept checking how much of the book was left and I would internally panic when I felt there wasn't enough time in the book left. Solid ending. The last few chapters were so beautifully written.
"You hold this darkness deep inside your ribcage. I know how that feels. I have it too. It isn't the same as yours, I know that, but your darkness is fucking blinding, Sera. It's beautiful and it's part of you. Use it."
One word: POETRY. Yes!
March 31, 2016
I'm a stalker. A creeper, sometimes. To say that I've been hiding in the shadows waiting for this book is an understatement. I asked for an ARC and if she didn't give it to me, my stalking would have become awkward. Thank you J.R. Rogue for allowing me to get my hands on this beautiful story. I'm honored, truly.
This story was a journey, one with a slow and satisfying burn. J.R. Rogue expertly unveils the various hurdles that each of the characters must overcome in order to find themselves and in turn, find each other.
And the poetry - oh my heart! Strong, captivating and consuming. The poetry mixed in with the prose totally works and is beautiful.
"She was not merely madness and melancholy. She was so much more."
I'm looking forward to more stories from this incredibly talented author.
This story was a journey, one with a slow and satisfying burn. J.R. Rogue expertly unveils the various hurdles that each of the characters must overcome in order to find themselves and in turn, find each other.
And the poetry - oh my heart! Strong, captivating and consuming. The poetry mixed in with the prose totally works and is beautiful.
"She was not merely madness and melancholy. She was so much more."
I'm looking forward to more stories from this incredibly talented author.
March 31, 2016
Rogue's debut novel doesn't disappoint. Love the language, does an amazing job and describing the details, and the storyline is one both relatable and exciting. A job very well done. Highly recommended.
April 3, 2016
(**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**)
“Don’t let fear sway you. You’re not your past.”
I will not deny that I am a long time fan of J.R. Rogue’s work and her striking and emotionally charged words. A fan of a poetry that seems to undress us and expose the most intimate and secret emotions that agitate within us. So, to say I was ecstatic to learn that she would release her first novel is an understatement. To say that never before I had sent an ARC request in such a hurry would also be an understatement. My fingers were not fast enough to meet my anxiety. To say I was thrilled to see the notification that the file had been sent last weekend, would be a euphemism.
And to say that J. R. Rogue did not disappoint me is the absolute truth!
“He is music, and I am merely madness and melancholy.”
In her debut novel, J. R. Rogue brings the story of Seraphina Daniels, a successful writer who, after achieving fame, is facing a writer’s block. After several attempts to put an end to it, and a troubled break up, Sera decides to return to her hometown when her childhood best friend, Kat, calls needing a friend. Moreover, she is convinced that the change of scenery is exactly what she needs to write a novel she can be proud of.
When Sera meets Chace, a relationship is the last thing on her mind, after all, besides the fact he is much younger than her, her family treats him as one of their own. Chace is unlike any man she has ever dated. Gentle, innocent, hardworking…Their friendship comes easy. However, the attraction between them soon becomes difficult to ignore.
“I think I wanted you before I even knew what it was like to want someone.”
As expected, J. R. Rogue brings a captivating narrative. The power of her words, the emotion overflowing from them is there, bringing out our own emotions. For the past two months I haven’t been able to finish a book. I have picked up several books to read, several of them highly acclaimed, but none managed to hold my attention, being put aside quickly. For the last three months, I haven’t been moved by any of my readings. I have not felt the butterflies in my stomach, or my heart get warmed, or squeezed, or had the tears running down my eyes, both from joy or fear. For a long time, words haven’t brought excitement to my life. J. R. Rogue with her lovely story, loaded with emotion and simplicity, brought all those things back.
“I fell in love with your voice, with the brokenness you owned, too.”
The author develops the plot with a serene pace, with an almost poetic cadence, which did not surprise me. The narrative is not rushed. The events are not ran over. The pace is so nice and touching and the plot so captivating that you find yourself in a mixture of wanting to finish the book as soon as possible to find out everything that happens, with the will to enjoy it slowly so that it never ends.
“You hold this darkness deep inside your ribcage. I know how that feels. I have it too. It isn’t the same as yours, I know that, but your darkness is fucking blinding, Sera. It’s beautiful and it’s part of you. Use it.”
In the background, the author also addresses complex, difficult, aching issues, but with such respect and in a delicate way, that the reading doesn’t become heavy, always remaining with that emotion that warms much more than burns our heart. Maybe, I can compare the writing style of J. R. Rogue to Laura Miller’s, undoubtedly one of my favorite authors. I even daresay J. R. Rogue may ultimately become my Fall as well. Fall with the poetry of the orange and dry leaves carpets on the ground… Fall with the explosion of shades of pink, orange, blue and purple in its sunsets… Fall with the comfort of the gentle breezes which somehow warms our hearts… Fall with its simplicity that stir our emotions.
Rogue’s characters are real, and with which we can relate to. There isn’t all that drama and juggling situations in their stories and actions. Only bare and raw emotions, and humans trying to face each of the obstacles that are thrown in our daily lives, trying to fight, win and grow with each of the difficulties that life presents us, and trying to turn their pain into something positive that boots us to keep moving on in life.
Technically, the book revolves around 4/4.5 stars for me, which is something extraordinary for a debut novel. I felt the plot could have been developed a little more in some aspects. The book could certainly be a little longer without becoming tiresome. However, this in no way tarnishes the book, which is still charming and exciting in the same way.
But, some books have the ability to affect us in such way it is impossible to explain. I credit this power to what is behind each written word. In those books, I suspect that the emotion that comes out of their words and strikes us are the genuinely real emotions that their authors shed into those pages. That’s why the emotions end up being so tangible. Burning Muses definitely has that ability, nailing 5 full, complete, heated and accelerated hearts from me and putting J. R. Rogue among the authors for whom I’ll eagerly anticipate their upcoming releases.
Congratulations, J.! Your debut novel is beautiful and captivated my heart!
P.S.: I do must confess I LOVE the age difference theme!
RESENHA EM PORTUGUÊS: http://goo.gl/SZxPZr
“Don’t let fear sway you. You’re not your past.”
I will not deny that I am a long time fan of J.R. Rogue’s work and her striking and emotionally charged words. A fan of a poetry that seems to undress us and expose the most intimate and secret emotions that agitate within us. So, to say I was ecstatic to learn that she would release her first novel is an understatement. To say that never before I had sent an ARC request in such a hurry would also be an understatement. My fingers were not fast enough to meet my anxiety. To say I was thrilled to see the notification that the file had been sent last weekend, would be a euphemism.
And to say that J. R. Rogue did not disappoint me is the absolute truth!
“He is music, and I am merely madness and melancholy.”
In her debut novel, J. R. Rogue brings the story of Seraphina Daniels, a successful writer who, after achieving fame, is facing a writer’s block. After several attempts to put an end to it, and a troubled break up, Sera decides to return to her hometown when her childhood best friend, Kat, calls needing a friend. Moreover, she is convinced that the change of scenery is exactly what she needs to write a novel she can be proud of.
When Sera meets Chace, a relationship is the last thing on her mind, after all, besides the fact he is much younger than her, her family treats him as one of their own. Chace is unlike any man she has ever dated. Gentle, innocent, hardworking…Their friendship comes easy. However, the attraction between them soon becomes difficult to ignore.
“I think I wanted you before I even knew what it was like to want someone.”
As expected, J. R. Rogue brings a captivating narrative. The power of her words, the emotion overflowing from them is there, bringing out our own emotions. For the past two months I haven’t been able to finish a book. I have picked up several books to read, several of them highly acclaimed, but none managed to hold my attention, being put aside quickly. For the last three months, I haven’t been moved by any of my readings. I have not felt the butterflies in my stomach, or my heart get warmed, or squeezed, or had the tears running down my eyes, both from joy or fear. For a long time, words haven’t brought excitement to my life. J. R. Rogue with her lovely story, loaded with emotion and simplicity, brought all those things back.
“I fell in love with your voice, with the brokenness you owned, too.”
The author develops the plot with a serene pace, with an almost poetic cadence, which did not surprise me. The narrative is not rushed. The events are not ran over. The pace is so nice and touching and the plot so captivating that you find yourself in a mixture of wanting to finish the book as soon as possible to find out everything that happens, with the will to enjoy it slowly so that it never ends.
“You hold this darkness deep inside your ribcage. I know how that feels. I have it too. It isn’t the same as yours, I know that, but your darkness is fucking blinding, Sera. It’s beautiful and it’s part of you. Use it.”
In the background, the author also addresses complex, difficult, aching issues, but with such respect and in a delicate way, that the reading doesn’t become heavy, always remaining with that emotion that warms much more than burns our heart. Maybe, I can compare the writing style of J. R. Rogue to Laura Miller’s, undoubtedly one of my favorite authors. I even daresay J. R. Rogue may ultimately become my Fall as well. Fall with the poetry of the orange and dry leaves carpets on the ground… Fall with the explosion of shades of pink, orange, blue and purple in its sunsets… Fall with the comfort of the gentle breezes which somehow warms our hearts… Fall with its simplicity that stir our emotions.
Rogue’s characters are real, and with which we can relate to. There isn’t all that drama and juggling situations in their stories and actions. Only bare and raw emotions, and humans trying to face each of the obstacles that are thrown in our daily lives, trying to fight, win and grow with each of the difficulties that life presents us, and trying to turn their pain into something positive that boots us to keep moving on in life.
Technically, the book revolves around 4/4.5 stars for me, which is something extraordinary for a debut novel. I felt the plot could have been developed a little more in some aspects. The book could certainly be a little longer without becoming tiresome. However, this in no way tarnishes the book, which is still charming and exciting in the same way.
But, some books have the ability to affect us in such way it is impossible to explain. I credit this power to what is behind each written word. In those books, I suspect that the emotion that comes out of their words and strikes us are the genuinely real emotions that their authors shed into those pages. That’s why the emotions end up being so tangible. Burning Muses definitely has that ability, nailing 5 full, complete, heated and accelerated hearts from me and putting J. R. Rogue among the authors for whom I’ll eagerly anticipate their upcoming releases.
Congratulations, J.! Your debut novel is beautiful and captivated my heart!
P.S.: I do must confess I LOVE the age difference theme!
RESENHA EM PORTUGUÊS: http://goo.gl/SZxPZr
March 31, 2016
"He bit my jaw and followed the map of my pulse. He tasted my tears and the pure passion I wrote about but never allowed myself to give into. I let him take control, something I never did. He let me unravel. He reminded me that I am good."
I can't even begin to explain how much I love this woman's writing. I still can't believe my favorite poet is releasing her first debut novel, it was everything I hoped it would be and more.
Everyone should read her honest truths.
Releasing very soon! Keep a look out.
Full review to come <3
I can't even begin to explain how much I love this woman's writing. I still can't believe my favorite poet is releasing her first debut novel, it was everything I hoped it would be and more.
Everyone should read her honest truths.
Releasing very soon! Keep a look out.
Full review to come <3
April 5, 2016
“You hold this darkness deep inside your ribcage. I know how that feels. I have it too. It isn’t the same as yours, I know that, but your darkness is fucking blinding, Sera. It’s beautiful and it’s part of you.”
I knew J.R. Rogue through Tarryn Fisher as we were both members of her reader group. From there, Icreeped, stalked, followed her Instagram account and was instantly hooked. I just fell in love with her words. Her poetry will speak to your soul, her truths will make you think and you can almost touch the intensity of every single piece of poetry that she posts.
But I digress.
I have been on the lookout for her ARC signup sheet from the moment she announced her debut novel that my excitement was burning the moment it landed on my device.
The best thing about Rogue’s debut novel is that it didn’t feel like it was a debut novel at all. Yes, it was a bit wordy for my taste, some parts too descriptive than necessary that my imagination took a step backward. But other than that, I have nothing but good things to say about Rogue’s first baby.
The plot is amazing. The slow burn is done to perfection. I can feel it. I can taste it. I was anxious excited for how the story will develop. I love the buildup and was satisfied in all the right places. I was pleased by how real Sera can be (the paranoia when someone who looks dangerous walks behind her, laziness on a rainy Sunday morning, the social media addiction, retail therapy etc) and felt hopeful because of how Chace is despite the broken history. The tempo is steady, never rushing, never slowing down. And most especially, my heart swelled by how the story came to end.
Like I mentioned, this is mainly the story of Sera, who, after years of being away, went back home to conquer her writer’s block. She had a certain formula in writing and even that doesn’t work anymore. Throw in a younger, interesting, sexy housemate and it was attraction overload. I was excited for their friendship and was easily intrigued at how their characters and relationship will develop. There were parts that I felt were unnecessary, dialogue that I felt was too much already BUT generally, I felt the depth of what the author is trying to convey. This is not just a love story per se. It’s also a story of self-discovery, reinventing oneself and fighting one’s own demons. It was a peek into a writer’s life and it actually made me wonder how much of Sera was Rogue.
“She let me love her without restraint.
She let me unravel.
She reminded me that I am good.”
Sera is a likeable female lead with her wit and aloofness. She has a wickedly strong thinking mind but a very sensitive and hesitant heart. On the other hand, I felt like I needed more of Chace. A lot of times, I wished to know what he was thinking of, to be inside his head but the Epilogue more than made up for it.
“She was not merely madness and melancholy. She was so much more.”
There was also a number of secondary characters, all of whom were able to hold my interest; Kat, Sera’s mom and Andrew. Rogue didn’t just throw in characters for the sake of completing a lineup. Her characters, like her story, has a purpose and I would definitely love to read more about these people in the future.
I will definitely recommend this to anyone who appreciates a satisfyingly slow burn. NO instalove but a whole lot of history. If you’re looking for smart characters in a smartly written novel, then this one is for you.
The poetry though, magic as always.
I knew J.R. Rogue through Tarryn Fisher as we were both members of her reader group. From there, I
But I digress.
I have been on the lookout for her ARC signup sheet from the moment she announced her debut novel that my excitement was burning the moment it landed on my device.
The best thing about Rogue’s debut novel is that it didn’t feel like it was a debut novel at all. Yes, it was a bit wordy for my taste, some parts too descriptive than necessary that my imagination took a step backward. But other than that, I have nothing but good things to say about Rogue’s first baby.
The plot is amazing. The slow burn is done to perfection. I can feel it. I can taste it. I was anxious excited for how the story will develop. I love the buildup and was satisfied in all the right places. I was pleased by how real Sera can be (the paranoia when someone who looks dangerous walks behind her, laziness on a rainy Sunday morning, the social media addiction, retail therapy etc) and felt hopeful because of how Chace is despite the broken history. The tempo is steady, never rushing, never slowing down. And most especially, my heart swelled by how the story came to end.
Like I mentioned, this is mainly the story of Sera, who, after years of being away, went back home to conquer her writer’s block. She had a certain formula in writing and even that doesn’t work anymore. Throw in a younger, interesting, sexy housemate and it was attraction overload. I was excited for their friendship and was easily intrigued at how their characters and relationship will develop. There were parts that I felt were unnecessary, dialogue that I felt was too much already BUT generally, I felt the depth of what the author is trying to convey. This is not just a love story per se. It’s also a story of self-discovery, reinventing oneself and fighting one’s own demons. It was a peek into a writer’s life and it actually made me wonder how much of Sera was Rogue.
“She let me love her without restraint.
She let me unravel.
She reminded me that I am good.”
Sera is a likeable female lead with her wit and aloofness. She has a wickedly strong thinking mind but a very sensitive and hesitant heart. On the other hand, I felt like I needed more of Chace. A lot of times, I wished to know what he was thinking of, to be inside his head but the Epilogue more than made up for it.
“She was not merely madness and melancholy. She was so much more.”
There was also a number of secondary characters, all of whom were able to hold my interest; Kat, Sera’s mom and Andrew. Rogue didn’t just throw in characters for the sake of completing a lineup. Her characters, like her story, has a purpose and I would definitely love to read more about these people in the future.
I will definitely recommend this to anyone who appreciates a satisfyingly slow burn. NO instalove but a whole lot of history. If you’re looking for smart characters in a smartly written novel, then this one is for you.
The poetry though, magic as always.
November 23, 2016
I followed this author on Instagram a while back after seeing some of her work via other posts on Insta and Facebook (#sheeple). I enjoy poetry, but while there are some definite exceptions, it has never been something that completely speaks to me. I think it's because it is so highly personal, well the good poetry anyway, that it can sometimes be hard to connect to just anything. But that is the best part of it, yeah? The way some poets can speak directly to your soul with their work. It's different for me than with books, in a way. It just feels different.
Anyway, I'm rambling for a reason. Books are my escape, while poems ground me in myself. I love this author's poems; I read them and I can feel my past and present in the words. By the author combining both books and poetry into one, it was just provided an entirely different experience for me. It felt so deeply personal in a way that some authors try to reach but just fall short. I loved every bit of the poetry that feed the finale of the book, and I loved every emotion that lead up to that finale.
My only downside is that I was so involved with Sera that the rest of the characters fell a little flat in comparison. That isn't necessarily a bad thing since she was the primary focus of the book, but in the end I only cared about her. Chace ended up being a minor part of a major story and I would have loved to have been able to love him as much as Sera apparently did.
Overall, though, this was an amazing debut novel. The poetry has always been there, but I am excited to see where this author is able to take her novels in the future.
Anyway, I'm rambling for a reason. Books are my escape, while poems ground me in myself. I love this author's poems; I read them and I can feel my past and present in the words. By the author combining both books and poetry into one, it was just provided an entirely different experience for me. It felt so deeply personal in a way that some authors try to reach but just fall short. I loved every bit of the poetry that feed the finale of the book, and I loved every emotion that lead up to that finale.
My only downside is that I was so involved with Sera that the rest of the characters fell a little flat in comparison. That isn't necessarily a bad thing since she was the primary focus of the book, but in the end I only cared about her. Chace ended up being a minor part of a major story and I would have loved to have been able to love him as much as Sera apparently did.
Overall, though, this was an amazing debut novel. The poetry has always been there, but I am excited to see where this author is able to take her novels in the future.
May 6, 2016
*6+++ stars*.
What an absolutely beautiful book. The writing, the story, the main characters - just gorgeous.
What an absolutely beautiful book. The writing, the story, the main characters - just gorgeous.
December 29, 2020
"Humans shed their skin every day, but some things are so deep inside, they can never be divorced from our skin."
This is not the first time I've read this book, and this is not the first time I've loved these characters. The slow fall, the gentle love, the growth, this book is engrained in my mind, Sera and Chase are engrained in my mind. This story is every we hope to experience, A love straight out of a romance novel!
Sera and Chace's story is one of the purest stories I've read, love that's found in the midst of tragedy.
And this of course, would not be complete without talking about J. R. Rogue' writing. Her words whether in prose or poetry always cut deep and crawls into your bones, so here you go, another perfect prose!
This is not the first time I've read this book, and this is not the first time I've loved these characters. The slow fall, the gentle love, the growth, this book is engrained in my mind, Sera and Chase are engrained in my mind. This story is every we hope to experience, A love straight out of a romance novel!
Sera and Chace's story is one of the purest stories I've read, love that's found in the midst of tragedy.
And this of course, would not be complete without talking about J. R. Rogue' writing. Her words whether in prose or poetry always cut deep and crawls into your bones, so here you go, another perfect prose!
May 1, 2016
"I think I wanted you before I even knew what it was like to want someone."
once in a while, you pick up a book and everything about it is beautiful. Not because of the pretty words or the pretty people. No. it's beautiful because it confronts this ugliness. & while they might not come out unscathed, they're still breathing. its a book that requires no reason for a reread. I've only just finished it the other day and I'm about to reread it again until I've committed every word to memory. AND THE DATES ON THE CONVERSE! I couldn't handle it. I recommend it for anyone that breathes.
May 13, 2016
Just finished reading Burning Muses.
What I liked about this story was how Rogue was able to capture my attention from the very first page but mostly how I was able to feel every single emotion that went into each word.
I loved it, J Rogue. Very beautifully written.
What I liked about this story was how Rogue was able to capture my attention from the very first page but mostly how I was able to feel every single emotion that went into each word.
I loved it, J Rogue. Very beautifully written.
December 2, 2018
I finished this beauty of a story last night. I plan to read all the @j.r.rogue words I can get my hands on
July 10, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and did not feel as if I was reading a debut novel at all. J.R. Rogue's writing and poetry is beautiful. I can't wait to read more from her in the future.
April 4, 2017
A truly amazing read! J.R. Rogue you have done it again!
June 10, 2017
DNF after chapter 4
I thought that this will be book of poetry? *slowly backs away*
Sākums vēl bija okay. 29 gadus vecā Sera ir erotisko noveļu rakstniece, kura gozējas slavas saulītē. Pēc viņas darbu motīviem tapušas jau 3 filmas, un viņa tiekas ar galvenās lomas aktieri. #swoon #goals etc. Tiesa, viņa arī jau vairāk nekā gadu nav spējusi uzrakstīt neko jaunu un atrodas personiskās dzīves dziļākajā bedrē.
Sera pamet lielpilsētu dzīvi un atgriežas vecāku mājās, lai mēģinātu uzveikt bloku un palīdzētu draudzenei, kura šķiras no vīra, un - kas to būtu domājis! - sastop sava brāļa labāko draugu, kurš uz laiku arī dzīvo tajās mājās.
Oh myyyyyyy. Pēc tam, kad viņa pirmās nodaļas bija atkārtojusi, ka nespēj atrast savu īsto un vienīgo, un visas mūzas bijušas īslaicīgas? Jau sākums lasījās kā Cosmopolitan sponsorēts, šo nu es nudien vairs nespēju izturēt.
[Ha, on the other hand - give me a LGBTA couple in that situation and I would have devoured that book in one evening :D :D ]
Patinu arī uz beigu daļu, lai pārliecinātos ar savām teorijām, un jap, viss aiziet kā pēc plāniņa. Piedod, atvaino, bet es netaisos lasīt grāmatu, kurai varu balsī skaitīt līdzi nodaļu sižeta punktus. Un tas briesmīgi poētiskais sekss?? Oh my. No. NO.
I thought that this will be book of poetry? *slowly backs away*
Sākums vēl bija okay. 29 gadus vecā Sera ir erotisko noveļu rakstniece, kura gozējas slavas saulītē. Pēc viņas darbu motīviem tapušas jau 3 filmas, un viņa tiekas ar galvenās lomas aktieri. #swoon #goals etc. Tiesa, viņa arī jau vairāk nekā gadu nav spējusi uzrakstīt neko jaunu un atrodas personiskās dzīves dziļākajā bedrē.
Sera pamet lielpilsētu dzīvi un atgriežas vecāku mājās, lai mēģinātu uzveikt bloku un palīdzētu draudzenei, kura šķiras no vīra, un - kas to būtu domājis! - sastop sava brāļa labāko draugu, kurš uz laiku arī dzīvo tajās mājās.
Oh myyyyyyy. Pēc tam, kad viņa pirmās nodaļas bija atkārtojusi, ka nespēj atrast savu īsto un vienīgo, un visas mūzas bijušas īslaicīgas? Jau sākums lasījās kā Cosmopolitan sponsorēts, šo nu es nudien vairs nespēju izturēt.
[Ha, on the other hand - give me a LGBTA couple in that situation and I would have devoured that book in one evening :D :D ]
Patinu arī uz beigu daļu, lai pārliecinātos ar savām teorijām, un jap, viss aiziet kā pēc plāniņa. Piedod, atvaino, bet es netaisos lasīt grāmatu, kurai varu balsī skaitīt līdzi nodaļu sižeta punktus. Un tas briesmīgi poētiskais sekss?? Oh my. No. NO.
September 30, 2019
" The calm that balanced out my manic mind. He was steady, and I simply flowed around him, in waves, in drops, in floods."
I love this story.
Sera is a successful erotica author who is afraid to write from the heart.
Chase is a musician who has some demons of his own to exorcise.
I love love LOVED this story. It’s simple and wholesome yet still packs a deep message about overcoming the trauma of our pasts and growing into who we are. Told in Jen’s unique voice, you follow Sera, post breakup, as she returns to her roots in the sticks of Missouri. It’s here she crosses paths with Chase. He’s by far one of my favorite book boyfriends and I’m pretty sure he will be yours as well. If what you are looking for is a simple love story, this is your book. If you are looking for something with a little more substance, this is your book as well. I don’t know how Jen managed to do both, but I’m here for it.
Oh, and I believe this was her debut! It’s hard to believe as you read. The words flow with an ease that up until now I only associated with veterans of the craft.
I hate to call people talented, because I believe true talent comes from so many undocumented hours of practice that it’s almost insulting to use the word as if they haven’t put in the time, but I also believe there is an exception to every rule. Somehow J.R. Rogue manages to be both. She has an undeniable natural charm with words as well as a bad ass work ethic that is intimidating at worst, and inspiring at best. She pours out one book after the next with hardly a breath in between, and each one is just as good if not better than the last. She’s a powerhouse. If you haven’t heard of her before now, you should definitely check her out.
She’s a literary beast and she should be on everyone’s watch list.
I love this story.
Sera is a successful erotica author who is afraid to write from the heart.
Chase is a musician who has some demons of his own to exorcise.
I love love LOVED this story. It’s simple and wholesome yet still packs a deep message about overcoming the trauma of our pasts and growing into who we are. Told in Jen’s unique voice, you follow Sera, post breakup, as she returns to her roots in the sticks of Missouri. It’s here she crosses paths with Chase. He’s by far one of my favorite book boyfriends and I’m pretty sure he will be yours as well. If what you are looking for is a simple love story, this is your book. If you are looking for something with a little more substance, this is your book as well. I don’t know how Jen managed to do both, but I’m here for it.
Oh, and I believe this was her debut! It’s hard to believe as you read. The words flow with an ease that up until now I only associated with veterans of the craft.
I hate to call people talented, because I believe true talent comes from so many undocumented hours of practice that it’s almost insulting to use the word as if they haven’t put in the time, but I also believe there is an exception to every rule. Somehow J.R. Rogue manages to be both. She has an undeniable natural charm with words as well as a bad ass work ethic that is intimidating at worst, and inspiring at best. She pours out one book after the next with hardly a breath in between, and each one is just as good if not better than the last. She’s a powerhouse. If you haven’t heard of her before now, you should definitely check her out.
She’s a literary beast and she should be on everyone’s watch list.
October 10, 2019
My first J.R. read. The writing just had me in awe. It's descriptive, beautiful, seeps into your soul and them poems...Wow!!
Sera was so realistic and believable, her thoughts and feelings are understandable. She's an author who is stuck not just in writing but in more ways than you could imagine. Chace, I loved him and he stole my heart especially once we get to hear his side.
This story went in such a path I didn't see coming. I think that was one of my favorite things about it, it's not an insta at all but a slow burn where you seeing our leads in a whole new light and wanting them to put the demons to rest.
I will read more books from J.R. because I can't help but love a powerful book voice that you will hear long after you have turned your reader off. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
Sera was so realistic and believable, her thoughts and feelings are understandable. She's an author who is stuck not just in writing but in more ways than you could imagine. Chace, I loved him and he stole my heart especially once we get to hear his side.
This story went in such a path I didn't see coming. I think that was one of my favorite things about it, it's not an insta at all but a slow burn where you seeing our leads in a whole new light and wanting them to put the demons to rest.
I will read more books from J.R. because I can't help but love a powerful book voice that you will hear long after you have turned your reader off. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
April 17, 2022
I read this book when it first came out and decided I need a good reread... Which was exactly what I needed. I won't reread a bad book! Rogue creates a beautifully complex protagonist; Seraphina is funny and witty and so self-aware. She has her damage, she owns it and she wants to change it! Her self-driven journey is just as good as her steamy relationship with "the boy next door". I loved Chance and Seraphina and their little game of cat and mouse... They were cute and sexy and fun. I just kept wanting MORE 👏👏👏 .. oh! And I can't forget the poems chapters... It was the perfect infusion to mimic the setting and it made me FEEL what was happening. So beautiful.
December 16, 2019
“Burning Muses” is the kind of tale that grabs your heart, draws you in and sings to your soul. J.R. Rogue is a new author for me so I did not know what to expect and this story did not disappoint. I fell in love with the character, Sera and Chace. A damaged but beautiful soul meets a sweetly innocent one. This story is so much more than a steamy romance it’s a journey that needs to be taken. I highly recommend this read and this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2022
WOW! I really don’t know what to say. Rogue has put story n poetry together seamlessly. The feelings put into this just come out effortlessly. So amazing!! A must read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2016
This and more reviews at The Book Bar.co
Rating: TOP SHELF, a 'ready for the big screen' novel, with a poetic twist
I inhaled this book. I was so caught up in the perfect combination of fame and humility, lust and love, pain and healing. Our heroine, Seraphina (Sera), knows that her success rests on her next big book, but her hometown breaks down her armor and helps her find what really makes her happy. It's not only a boy that saves her, but her past and her loved ones. She has a haunted childhood secret that she's only told on pages and a lot of her "running" and "hiding" molded her into the thirty-something she is presently, and it makes her sad. She doesn't want to run and hide from any of it anymore.
Sera knows that one night stands and a non-commitment attitude can keep emotional situations at arms length. She knows that acting upon her desire to forever change the relationship between herself and her mom's housekeeper, Chace, is a terrible idea. This makes for a books full of sexual tension. She lists all the reasons "why they shouldn't" and each reason helps break apart why she keeps men and relationships and love out of her life.
Chace appears to be the complete opposite to Sera, but he's loved her ever since he read her words. Chase is funny and direct and wears his heart on his sleeve. You feel for him and want him to be happy, but you also fear that Sera is going to shut down her connection to him, like she's done to other men, and you don't want Chace to get hurt more than he already has.
When these two get together, it's like a white-hot fire, even though it's nothing overtly sexual. Instead, it's the confessions they share and the time they spend learning more about each other and their hurtful pasts. Of course, there is "the chase" and it's so good.
Finally, fame rears it's ugly head and ruins everything that Sera hoped was building up into something that she could hold on to. Misunderstandings and hurt feelings tear Chace and Sera apart and this is where Rouge's linguistic gift comes into play. Sera shares with us the poetry that's been flowing from her since her encounters with Chace, only these are lines from a broken heart.
The poems made a knot in my chest because I felt so sorry for these two. One that wants to love and the other that doesn't know how. It's really depressing part of the book and the entire environment changes with Sera's mood.
You know there is going to be a happy ending. There had to be because these two were like two pieces of a puzzle that finally found each other. They belonged together. You just needed to peel away all the layers of the past to finally fit.
Burning Muses was fun and an emotional roller coaster. I loved the banter between Sera and her girlfriend Kat (this book is the first in a series for all the characters), the realness between a mom and daughter, and the heartache before the heal. You need to read this story and then grab her book of poetry, La Douleur Exquise, to continue to feel the ache and desire of two hearts that are meant to be together.
Rating: TOP SHELF, a 'ready for the big screen' novel, with a poetic twist
I inhaled this book. I was so caught up in the perfect combination of fame and humility, lust and love, pain and healing. Our heroine, Seraphina (Sera), knows that her success rests on her next big book, but her hometown breaks down her armor and helps her find what really makes her happy. It's not only a boy that saves her, but her past and her loved ones. She has a haunted childhood secret that she's only told on pages and a lot of her "running" and "hiding" molded her into the thirty-something she is presently, and it makes her sad. She doesn't want to run and hide from any of it anymore.
I loved the sounds of the house now. Maybe I could stitch up my wounds with these new sounds
J.R. Rogue. Burning Muses (Kindle Locations 856-857). Radiant Sky Publishing Group.
Sera knows that one night stands and a non-commitment attitude can keep emotional situations at arms length. She knows that acting upon her desire to forever change the relationship between herself and her mom's housekeeper, Chace, is a terrible idea. This makes for a books full of sexual tension. She lists all the reasons "why they shouldn't" and each reason helps break apart why she keeps men and relationships and love out of her life.
He was not the type to tell someone to receive attention. He did it simply because he was good. I wanted to be good the way he was good. I was grim grey toned morals and sin, someone who wore bruises since they were 10-years-old.
J.R. Rogue. Burning Muses (Kindle Locations 895-897). Radiant Sky Publishing Group.
Chace appears to be the complete opposite to Sera, but he's loved her ever since he read her words. Chase is funny and direct and wears his heart on his sleeve. You feel for him and want him to be happy, but you also fear that Sera is going to shut down her connection to him, like she's done to other men, and you don't want Chace to get hurt more than he already has.
Chace pulled back, and looked down at me. His gaze was penetrating. “I like you,” he said, simply. We both knew there was nothing simple about those words.
I stared back. We had stopped dancing. Couples zipped passed us, most likely shooting daggers at us. I didn’t care. “I like you, too.”
“More than a friend,” he stated. His tone was confident. His eyes were not.
“Me too.” I felt something release inside of me. I had said it. Not to myself, not to Kat. To him. Everything would change.
“Okay,” he replied. It was all I needed. He pulled me close again.
J.R. Rogue. Burning Muses (Kindle Locations 1698-1703). Radiant Sky Publishing Group.
When these two get together, it's like a white-hot fire, even though it's nothing overtly sexual. Instead, it's the confessions they share and the time they spend learning more about each other and their hurtful pasts. Of course, there is "the chase" and it's so good.
Me: Ok, I won’t text you anymore. Play on.
Chace: As you wish.
Did this kid just quote The Princess Bride to me?
J.R. Rogue. Burning Muses (Kindle Locations 502-504). Radiant Sky Publishing Group.
Finally, fame rears it's ugly head and ruins everything that Sera hoped was building up into something that she could hold on to. Misunderstandings and hurt feelings tear Chace and Sera apart and this is where Rouge's linguistic gift comes into play. Sera shares with us the poetry that's been flowing from her since her encounters with Chace, only these are lines from a broken heart.
The poems made a knot in my chest because I felt so sorry for these two. One that wants to love and the other that doesn't know how. It's really depressing part of the book and the entire environment changes with Sera's mood.
Now, I ached. I ached in places I didn’t know existed. My body didn’t want to function. And yet, the world was still turning. I couldn’t fathom the fucking ‘how’ of it all. I simply wanted to stay in bed. Soulmates. I believed in that word now. This year I became a believer. What a bitch that was.
J.R. Rogue. Burning Muses (Kindle Locations 2669-2671). Radiant Sky Publishing Group.
You know there is going to be a happy ending. There had to be because these two were like two pieces of a puzzle that finally found each other. They belonged together. You just needed to peel away all the layers of the past to finally fit.
Burning Muses was fun and an emotional roller coaster. I loved the banter between Sera and her girlfriend Kat (this book is the first in a series for all the characters), the realness between a mom and daughter, and the heartache before the heal. You need to read this story and then grab her book of poetry, La Douleur Exquise, to continue to feel the ache and desire of two hearts that are meant to be together.
August 11, 2020
Second time reading this book, and honestly, I loved it even more the second time around. I still got sucked into the story as if reading it for the very first time. Sera and Chace are both very layered characters, and it was very interesting to read their story. Definitely recommend.
April 22, 2017
Ahh, this was good.
I don't want to put any labels on this book, but "romance" is the last thing I'd call it. I avoid romance because of the predictability of it all, of how there is a he and a she, and they end up together, blah-blah, and they make love a lot in the meantime, and it seems all the same, from book to book. Boring.
This is such a special multi-layered story (not giving any spoilers here), with characters I felt so close to. Gosh, I'm such a book snob at times, and a lot of plots would make me roll my eyes, but I have truly enjoyed reading "Burning Muses".
P.S. I'm biased in my judgments because I just love everything Jen creates.
I don't want to put any labels on this book, but "romance" is the last thing I'd call it. I avoid romance because of the predictability of it all, of how there is a he and a she, and they end up together, blah-blah, and they make love a lot in the meantime, and it seems all the same, from book to book. Boring.
This is such a special multi-layered story (not giving any spoilers here), with characters I felt so close to. Gosh, I'm such a book snob at times, and a lot of plots would make me roll my eyes, but I have truly enjoyed reading "Burning Muses".
P.S. I'm biased in my judgments because I just love everything Jen creates.
September 13, 2019
I honestly am mad at myself for having this book as long as I have and only now finally reading this. Seraphina is a women we can all aspire to be, she is raw honesty and fiercely loyal even with flaws. We all have them. Then in walks Chace, this old soul with a youthfulness that keeps the walls of Sera up. But what happens when walls crack? What happens when you find your place? What happens when everything feels perfect when it shouldn’t?
Jen weaves a tale of growing into the women you want to become through looking beyond the norm and simply by following what is in your heart. Her words and the poems that lay within the pages are one that sit with you long after you read the final line.
Jen weaves a tale of growing into the women you want to become through looking beyond the norm and simply by following what is in your heart. Her words and the poems that lay within the pages are one that sit with you long after you read the final line.
April 13, 2017
Just wow!! I was so enraptured reading this book, I didn't want to put it down but at the same time I found myself needing a moment just to reflect.
In a way I think it was good that I only had the chance to read this while commuting to and from work. Two hours a day is just not long enough, not when a book is this damn good. So tonight when I arrived home I knew I had to finish it, there was no doubt in my mind it was a done deal. I am so grateful to Tarryn Fisher for her recommendation. I ordered Rogue as soon as I saw her post on PLN and then purchased Burning Muses straight after before I had even read Rogue.
J.R.Rogue's writing resonated with me in ways people don't tend to talk about, not out loud. The strength you have to be able to write what you do is a powerful gift and I am proud to say I am now a fully fledged fan, roll on the end of the month so I can buy another one of your books.
Burning MusesBurning Muses
J.R. Rogue
In a way I think it was good that I only had the chance to read this while commuting to and from work. Two hours a day is just not long enough, not when a book is this damn good. So tonight when I arrived home I knew I had to finish it, there was no doubt in my mind it was a done deal. I am so grateful to Tarryn Fisher for her recommendation. I ordered Rogue as soon as I saw her post on PLN and then purchased Burning Muses straight after before I had even read Rogue.
J.R.Rogue's writing resonated with me in ways people don't tend to talk about, not out loud. The strength you have to be able to write what you do is a powerful gift and I am proud to say I am now a fully fledged fan, roll on the end of the month so I can buy another one of your books.
Burning MusesBurning Muses
J.R. Rogue
December 21, 2018
Burned through this book. (No pun intended.) Lyrical and beautiful, Rogue writes with such feeling. Definitely a forever fan.
April 16, 2016
This a debut novel, and people can be harsh about that fact alone. I went into this book blind. In truth that is what I like. The synopsis doesn't give much away, and I enjoy that. I went into this tale with no sight and came out a blubbering mess. When I cry in a book, it's because something has deeply touched me. It's usually not romance. I'm not one to start crying about love, or the loss of love. I cry when it comes to self redemption, and I'd like to think that's what this book is about. Rogue's writing style is impeccable. She will always be first, a poet, and I like that some of that leaked into her novel. Her characters are rich and well developed. Her story has a plot that goes beyond the bounds of a standard romance, or new adult novel. She tips the scales on debut releases and words written from the deepest part of our souls. That's a hell of a feat to accomplish. Rogue proves that she writes with one intention; to tell the tale deep within her bones. I admire her for that.
I'd like to think Chace is one of my favorite male characters who I have read about in a long time. His traits make him more lovable and respected than most of male characters I read about nowadays. He is true and easy to relate to. I feel like Chace is a real person, and I think that's why I like him. Sera, however, would top my list of favorite characters. Top five for sure. She's familiar to me. She's flawed and admittedly so. She's also very real. Her traits embody those of someone I could relate to. I felt myself wondering about Sera long after I had finished the book.
Rogue gives the reader the tools to know what's coming, but still slips a nice little extra subplot at the end, that wraps everything up in a neat little package. Bottom line-it all makes sense. I had no questions. Nothing was hard to believe. And I cried. I felt like I took a journey with Sera, and that's what a good story is all about.
I look forward to Rogue's next endeavor. Burning Muses tops my list for 2016 reads. I highly recommend it. These are the type of tales for people who are interested in reading stories that are raw, painful, beautiful, and redeeming. Way to go.
I'd like to think Chace is one of my favorite male characters who I have read about in a long time. His traits make him more lovable and respected than most of male characters I read about nowadays. He is true and easy to relate to. I feel like Chace is a real person, and I think that's why I like him. Sera, however, would top my list of favorite characters. Top five for sure. She's familiar to me. She's flawed and admittedly so. She's also very real. Her traits embody those of someone I could relate to. I felt myself wondering about Sera long after I had finished the book.
Rogue gives the reader the tools to know what's coming, but still slips a nice little extra subplot at the end, that wraps everything up in a neat little package. Bottom line-it all makes sense. I had no questions. Nothing was hard to believe. And I cried. I felt like I took a journey with Sera, and that's what a good story is all about.
I look forward to Rogue's next endeavor. Burning Muses tops my list for 2016 reads. I highly recommend it. These are the type of tales for people who are interested in reading stories that are raw, painful, beautiful, and redeeming. Way to go.
December 27, 2016
Don’t let fear sway you. You’re not your past.”
I learned about J.R. Rogue on Instagram and was very excited to dive neck deep into her works.
This was my first book and I loved it!
“"...I think I was writing about
you before we met.
I think I will write about
you long after
that lingering ache
from your lips
leaves me.
You fell for me before you touched my skin,
& I felt my essence in every note
you dropped onto the page.
I felt it in the songs you refused
to sing & the ones I caught
on that rainy balcony the
nights I held my breath &
inhaled the sound of your guitar.
I felt it in the way you lost
yourself in me, hidden
away on that mahogany bed
with the canopy & the rain..."
Beautiful words.
Beautiful poems.
The writing, the story, the characters, the poetry.
November 7, 2018
Although not my first choice, I have been expanding my reading horizons and reading genres that take me out of my comfort zone. When i discovered this contemporary romance by J. R. Rogue, the synopsis grabbed my interest, and Rogue's writing made me a fan. Her ability to weave a tale that keeps the reader entranced, with believable characters and a smoothly flowing storyline, make her an author I look forward to following.
Want to read
November 12, 2020💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/4/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
I've burned muses.
I've felt little remorse.
I stored our tales.
I sold them for this life—
this luxury,
this ease.
Their sighs and lies
led me to believe they
enjoyed the dance too.
I've burned muses.
I laughed at those tales.
Then I met him.
Blurb:
I've burned muses.
I've felt little remorse.
I stored our tales.
I sold them for this life—
this luxury,
this ease.
Their sighs and lies
led me to believe they
enjoyed the dance too.
I've burned muses.
I laughed at those tales.
Then I met him.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews