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Matched to Perfection #3
Their Perfect Melody
A ZEBRA SHOUT FRESH NEW ROMANCE
With talent, heart, and ambition to spare, the Fernandez sisters have each followed their own unique path, even when it leads to surprising destinations--in life and love . . .
Growing up, Lil� Mar�a Fernandez was affectionately known as the family "wild child." The life of the party, she loved to dance, especially salsa, merengue, and bachata, and often sang beside her father during rehearsals for his tr�o group. But tragedy and loss have drawn out Lil�'s caretaking side, compelling her to become a victim's advocate. These days, the special rhythms of the past seem like a distant memory. Until she meets Diego
Reyes . . .
A police officer with the Chicago PD, Diego also has a talent for playing classical Spanish guitar. And Lil� soon finds herself inspired by his passion--for the music, for her, and for their shared love of familia and community. Can Diego reignite Lil�'s fun-loving spirit, persuade her to balance work and pleasure--and embrace her wild side once more?
With talent, heart, and ambition to spare, the Fernandez sisters have each followed their own unique path, even when it leads to surprising destinations--in life and love . . .
Growing up, Lil� Mar�a Fernandez was affectionately known as the family "wild child." The life of the party, she loved to dance, especially salsa, merengue, and bachata, and often sang beside her father during rehearsals for his tr�o group. But tragedy and loss have drawn out Lil�'s caretaking side, compelling her to become a victim's advocate. These days, the special rhythms of the past seem like a distant memory. Until she meets Diego
Reyes . . .
A police officer with the Chicago PD, Diego also has a talent for playing classical Spanish guitar. And Lil� soon finds herself inspired by his passion--for the music, for her, and for their shared love of familia and community. Can Diego reignite Lil�'s fun-loving spirit, persuade her to balance work and pleasure--and embrace her wild side once more?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2018
53 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
Priscilla Oliveras
13 books1,473 followersPRISCILLA OLIVERAS is a USA Today bestselling author and Tall Poppy Writers member who writes stories that stir your heart. Proud of her Puerto Rican-Mexican heritage, she brings authenticity to her novels by sharing her Latine culture with readers. Her books (including His Perfect Partner, Island Affair, and West Side Love Story) have earned Starred Reviews and praise from Publishers Weekly, Kirkus Reviews, Booklist, O, The Oprah Magazine, the Washington Post, New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, and more. Priscilla earned her Master of Fine Arts in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University and now serves as adjunct faculty in the program while teaching the online class “Romance Writing” for ed2go.com. A long-time romance enthusiast, Priscilla’s also a sports fan, beach lover, and Zumba aficionado, who enjoys practicing the art of hammock napping and never says no to a slice at her favorite Brooklyn neighborhood pizzeria.
Find out more about her at https://prisoliveras.com and catch up with her on Facebook www.facebook.com/prisoliveras or on Instagram and other social media via @prisoliveras.
Find out more about her at https://prisoliveras.com and catch up with her on Facebook www.facebook.com/prisoliveras or on Instagram and other social media via @prisoliveras.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 29, 2022
CW: partner/domestic violence, assault, substance abuse and recovery, grief, reference to past rape
This is a tricky review to write as I have two schools of thought so I’m going to review the story and then review the depiction of Lilí’s job as a domestic violence caseworker.
First, the story. Oliveras excels in bringing her characters to life. Lilí and Diego are strongly developed, despite occasionally irritating me. Their chemistry was palpable from the moment they met. They’re both devoted to their families and their work and it was fascinating to see how that devotion could put them at odds. They don’t start off on the right foot but life keeps bringing their paths together and in turn, their respect and interest grows.
The Puerta Rican family at the center of this trilogy is the best part. I loved Lilí’s sisters and cousin! True, Yaz and Rosa could be overbearing and overprotective but by the end, they come to see Lilí’s strength and are able to back off a bit and trust she knows what she’s doing.
Diego’s relationship with his sister Lourdes was much more complex due to how he’s dealt with her substance abuse. He thinks he knows exactly what she needs to do to get on the right path, which puts an understandable strain on their relationship. Suffice it to say, Diego has a lot to learn and I really liked how this was handled, although I could have done with less of his macho attitude getting there.
Lilí and Diego are largely adversarial throughout the story, either fighting with each other, fighting their attraction, or staying locked up in their own fears and worries instead of trusting the other person. Some of this made sense, some did not. I found myself more frustrated with Lilí, most of which I’ll address below, because what she viewed as disrespect for her profession was really Diego understanding the need for boundaries. She needed to listen and support Diego, not get involved where she wasn’t invited. But Diego also needs to do some emotional labor and learn to share his feelings and actually process the trauma from his past.
The inevitable fallout made sense and I was relieved Diego’s grand gesture was They’ll be great together if they each work on themselves and their relationship. I was happy with the resolution.
This leads me to what did not make me happy: the depiction of domestic violence and the portrayal of Lilí’s job as a victim’s advocate.
Lilí did so many things you should not do if you work for a domestic violence agency or women’s shelter and it hurt my social worker heart. She gives her personal cell phone number to a client (a huge no-no), then doesn’t answer the unknown number until the client calls again, then races off to the scene of an assault without checking in at work or making sure the police were contacted. She refers to her clients as friends, which is not okay. They are CLIENTS. She tells her sister her client’s name, which is a major ethical violation.
Time and again Lilí ignores normal procedures, which are there to keep employees and clients safe. I believe this is supposed to make us see her as compassionate and dedicated to her job but all I could see was the severe lack of boundaries and ethical violations. She’s essentially building codependent relationships with her clients. She also took so many unnecessary risks, like going to a victim’s home to pick up their belongings without a police escort. Now my background isn’t in domestic violence but I did liaise with agencies as part of my medical social work job in the past. It’s possible there are agencies who don’t have these protocols and procedures in place but then I’d have to question why. Most of what Lilí did with her clients goes against the grain of the social work and case management professions. That’s also why I struggled with some of the plot points, which heightened the drama but would not happen with any of my colleagues.
Outside of one particular case, we don’t see much of what Lilí does at work. There’s more of a focus on her volunteer work at the community center. That’s fine but it does mean some of the threads of her client’s case are never properly tied up, nor do we get to see what happens in the aftermath of pressing charges and starting over. It would have been better not to have included her clients at all, given this depiction.
If this wasn’t enough, there’s also a fair amount of victim-blaming by Diego (the cop!!! who regularly answers these calls!!!) that’s never challenged, not even by Lilí who is our presumed expert. I would have liked more exploration of why people stay in abusive relationships and I would have especially liked for Diego’s assumptions to be handed to him on a silver platter. Cops would certainly benefit from education. But I would have hoped he would have already had a better understanding, since his own family had been affected by intimate partner violence.
I enjoyed Diego and Lilí’s romance overall and if not for these issues, I would have given it a higher rating. But alas, the issues are there. I’d point you to Oliveras’s other work first.
Disclosure: I received an advanced copy from Zebra Shout in exchange for an honest review.
This is a tricky review to write as I have two schools of thought so I’m going to review the story and then review the depiction of Lilí’s job as a domestic violence caseworker.
First, the story. Oliveras excels in bringing her characters to life. Lilí and Diego are strongly developed, despite occasionally irritating me. Their chemistry was palpable from the moment they met. They’re both devoted to their families and their work and it was fascinating to see how that devotion could put them at odds. They don’t start off on the right foot but life keeps bringing their paths together and in turn, their respect and interest grows.
The Puerta Rican family at the center of this trilogy is the best part. I loved Lilí’s sisters and cousin! True, Yaz and Rosa could be overbearing and overprotective but by the end, they come to see Lilí’s strength and are able to back off a bit and trust she knows what she’s doing.
Diego’s relationship with his sister Lourdes was much more complex due to how he’s dealt with her substance abuse. He thinks he knows exactly what she needs to do to get on the right path, which puts an understandable strain on their relationship. Suffice it to say, Diego has a lot to learn and I really liked how this was handled, although I could have done with less of his macho attitude getting there.
Lilí and Diego are largely adversarial throughout the story, either fighting with each other, fighting their attraction, or staying locked up in their own fears and worries instead of trusting the other person. Some of this made sense, some did not. I found myself more frustrated with Lilí, most of which I’ll address below, because what she viewed as disrespect for her profession was really Diego understanding the need for boundaries. She needed to listen and support Diego, not get involved where she wasn’t invited. But Diego also needs to do some emotional labor and learn to share his feelings and actually process the trauma from his past.
The inevitable fallout made sense and I was relieved Diego’s grand gesture was They’ll be great together if they each work on themselves and their relationship. I was happy with the resolution.
This leads me to what did not make me happy: the depiction of domestic violence and the portrayal of Lilí’s job as a victim’s advocate.
Lilí did so many things you should not do if you work for a domestic violence agency or women’s shelter and it hurt my social worker heart. She gives her personal cell phone number to a client (a huge no-no), then doesn’t answer the unknown number until the client calls again, then races off to the scene of an assault without checking in at work or making sure the police were contacted. She refers to her clients as friends, which is not okay. They are CLIENTS. She tells her sister her client’s name, which is a major ethical violation.
Time and again Lilí ignores normal procedures, which are there to keep employees and clients safe. I believe this is supposed to make us see her as compassionate and dedicated to her job but all I could see was the severe lack of boundaries and ethical violations. She’s essentially building codependent relationships with her clients. She also took so many unnecessary risks, like going to a victim’s home to pick up their belongings without a police escort. Now my background isn’t in domestic violence but I did liaise with agencies as part of my medical social work job in the past. It’s possible there are agencies who don’t have these protocols and procedures in place but then I’d have to question why. Most of what Lilí did with her clients goes against the grain of the social work and case management professions. That’s also why I struggled with some of the plot points, which heightened the drama but would not happen with any of my colleagues.
Outside of one particular case, we don’t see much of what Lilí does at work. There’s more of a focus on her volunteer work at the community center. That’s fine but it does mean some of the threads of her client’s case are never properly tied up, nor do we get to see what happens in the aftermath of pressing charges and starting over. It would have been better not to have included her clients at all, given this depiction.
If this wasn’t enough, there’s also a fair amount of victim-blaming by Diego (the cop!!! who regularly answers these calls!!!) that’s never challenged, not even by Lilí who is our presumed expert. I would have liked more exploration of why people stay in abusive relationships and I would have especially liked for Diego’s assumptions to be handed to him on a silver platter. Cops would certainly benefit from education. But I would have hoped he would have already had a better understanding, since his own family had been affected by intimate partner violence.
I enjoyed Diego and Lilí’s romance overall and if not for these issues, I would have given it a higher rating. But alas, the issues are there. I’d point you to Oliveras’s other work first.
Disclosure: I received an advanced copy from Zebra Shout in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2020
What's better than a Latin romance? "Their Perfect Melody". This is a re-read of an Netgalley ARC I received from two years ago and I'm honestly surprised by how much I still like this romance novel. The chemistry between Diego and Lili was undeniable and the storyline left me intrigued. TPM tells the story about how family always comes first and most importantly that it's okay to fall in love. Seeing how I couldn't put this now, it's a must read.
dnf
January 27, 2023DNF. Can’t handle a cop hero.
July 27, 2020
Like all of Priscilla Oliveras' books, Their Perfect Melody is a sweet, family-focused romance that wears its Latinidad like a badge of honor. This final novel in the trilogy delivered the thoughtful and charismatic characters I've come to expect from the author, this time in the form of a soft-hearted cop and a wild-child-turned-counselor.
Lilí, the third and last Fernandez sister to get a Happily Ever After, was not featured heavily in either of the trilogy's first two installments. So going into this story, the heroine was sort of an unknown quantity. I knew what her older sisters thought of her—an irresponsible tomboy in need of some serious guidance (preferably from her elder sisters). But who is Lilí herself? As I learned, Lilí is somewhat impulsive, optimistic, and "feisty" (not my word). She works at a center for domestic abuse victims, fueled by a passion that was ignited when one of her friends in college was sexually assaulted.
It is Lilí's job that eventually leads her to meet Diego Reyes, a friendly neighborhood Chicago cop. Diego grew up in a lower-income neighborhood with his mom and sister, and sees his role as a police officer as "giving back" to the community. Diego is a bit of a hardass, and tends to impose his very rigid moral code onto everyone he comes across. And, not gonna lie: I don't love Diego's character. He's fairly closed-minded, and a tad bit victim-blamey, and I really could have done without that time he slut-shamed his sister. And I do understand that those issues are part of his character, and those are things he realizes he needs to change. But honestly. A police officer who works with domestic abuse survivors should show a little more compassion and a little less derision at perceived "weakness."
As I said, those flaws in Diego's character are addressed in Their Perfect Melody—in fact, Lilí's frustration with Diego's rigidity is the main reason for the Dark Moment that (temporarily) puts the brakes on their developing romance. While she's trying to help his sister, Lourdes, figure out how to get clean and stay that way, he's too busy trying to out-macho everyone and control everything, with a liberal dose of "I told you so, sis" heaped on top. Obviously, it's not a good look, and it drives a wedge between the two.
The above conflict is resolved, however, in trademark Priscilla Oliveras fashion: a grand gesture in front of an audience. Whereas Lilí's older sister recited a horribly corny poem, this time, Diego plays Lilí's favorite flamenco song on his guitar. It's cheesy and over-the-top, but it does the trick. What can I say? People in this series are not lactose intolerant. (But I guess my question is: does a grand gesture actually demonstrate character growth? My hypothesis is that it doesn't.)
And, naturally, in the background of all of this romantic drama is the big, happy, loud extended Puerto Rican family that supports (and annoys) Lilí through it all. Readers get to see both Yaz and Rosa, Lilí's older sisters, comfortably involved with their husbands and kids. And even though the Ferndandez parents have both passed on, their memories are very much alive in much of the family's traditions and conversations. Familia is certainly something that this author does well.
Yet in all honesty, this author's stories are not my favorite—things for the Fernandez family come just a little too easily, and the characterization of the leads in this book lacked depth. I didn't see enough character growth, and sappy grand gestures make me uncomfy. Even so, it's a well-written book, and there's something charming about it that was enjoyable in a very traditional, Hallmark movie kind of way.
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Lilí, the third and last Fernandez sister to get a Happily Ever After, was not featured heavily in either of the trilogy's first two installments. So going into this story, the heroine was sort of an unknown quantity. I knew what her older sisters thought of her—an irresponsible tomboy in need of some serious guidance (preferably from her elder sisters). But who is Lilí herself? As I learned, Lilí is somewhat impulsive, optimistic, and "feisty" (not my word). She works at a center for domestic abuse victims, fueled by a passion that was ignited when one of her friends in college was sexually assaulted.
It is Lilí's job that eventually leads her to meet Diego Reyes, a friendly neighborhood Chicago cop. Diego grew up in a lower-income neighborhood with his mom and sister, and sees his role as a police officer as "giving back" to the community. Diego is a bit of a hardass, and tends to impose his very rigid moral code onto everyone he comes across. And, not gonna lie: I don't love Diego's character. He's fairly closed-minded, and a tad bit victim-blamey, and I really could have done without that time he slut-shamed his sister. And I do understand that those issues are part of his character, and those are things he realizes he needs to change. But honestly. A police officer who works with domestic abuse survivors should show a little more compassion and a little less derision at perceived "weakness."
As I said, those flaws in Diego's character are addressed in Their Perfect Melody—in fact, Lilí's frustration with Diego's rigidity is the main reason for the Dark Moment that (temporarily) puts the brakes on their developing romance. While she's trying to help his sister, Lourdes, figure out how to get clean and stay that way, he's too busy trying to out-macho everyone and control everything, with a liberal dose of "I told you so, sis" heaped on top. Obviously, it's not a good look, and it drives a wedge between the two.
The above conflict is resolved, however, in trademark Priscilla Oliveras fashion: a grand gesture in front of an audience. Whereas Lilí's older sister recited a horribly corny poem, this time, Diego plays Lilí's favorite flamenco song on his guitar. It's cheesy and over-the-top, but it does the trick. What can I say? People in this series are not lactose intolerant. (But I guess my question is: does a grand gesture actually demonstrate character growth? My hypothesis is that it doesn't.)
And, naturally, in the background of all of this romantic drama is the big, happy, loud extended Puerto Rican family that supports (and annoys) Lilí through it all. Readers get to see both Yaz and Rosa, Lilí's older sisters, comfortably involved with their husbands and kids. And even though the Ferndandez parents have both passed on, their memories are very much alive in much of the family's traditions and conversations. Familia is certainly something that this author does well.
Yet in all honesty, this author's stories are not my favorite—things for the Fernandez family come just a little too easily, and the characterization of the leads in this book lacked depth. I didn't see enough character growth, and sappy grand gestures make me uncomfy. Even so, it's a well-written book, and there's something charming about it that was enjoyable in a very traditional, Hallmark movie kind of way.
📌 . Blog | Review Database | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads
November 26, 2018
Review:
(Trigger Warnings for the review: physical assault, sexual assault, date rape, domestic violence, police brutality, stalker behavior, racial profiling. Full list of trigger warnings for the book after the review)
This year has been marked by the sheer amount of Romance novels I’ve read. In no other year have I read as much as I have this time around. I have a very complicated relationship with the genre, as I always come in with low expectations, not because I don’t respect the Romance genre. To the contrary, I think in Romance is where most progress in terms of representation and subversion of tropes can be seen, especially among marginalized writers. I come in low because sometimes… there’s a lot of work to be done… Which is why when I enter a Romance book with high expectations I have to look at myself and say “Congratulations, you played yourself.”
Their Perfect Melody by Priscilla Oliveras is by no means perfect. One might argue that, of course, no person and, therefore, relationship is perfect. From the description alone, I thought the pairing could be good: two Latinx people, both of Puerto Rican descent, in Chicago with their own emotional baggage figuring out how to work through that together by showing how passionate they are in what they do.
Lilí Fernandez is a Victim’s Advocate, working with battered women to help them cope and get better. She meets Diego Reyes when she responds to one of her clients’ call for help after their partner threatened her and turned violent. Reyes, a police officer, has also answered the victim’s emergency call and is standing guard outside, obstructing the way and not letting Lilí do her job to protect her client.
After she’s allowed inside, she proceeds to do her job, though Reyes keeps antagonizing her inside and, again, obstructing her process by contradicting her and defying her decisions. Lilí wants her client to press charges against the abuser, but we know that the victim must be the one to bring it up and come to terms with it. Yet Reyes gets angry and confrontational when Melba (the victim) hesitates to do so, which is the opposite of what Lilí needed. The antagonizing particularly annoyed me, seeing as it’s played as a cute thing. I’d be furious, especially when we see from his perspective that he riles her up on purpose.
The story continues with Lilí deciding to let her stay at her own apartment until Melba decides to go to a women’s shelter. Reyes is beside himself for some reason, which we later find out why, but it made me wonder if he took it personal any time a woman, who isn’t conventionally attractive like Lilí or connected to him in some way, who’s been assaulted and decided not to report it to the police. He proceeds to “investigate,” in the name of law and order, where Lilí lives by following her car after she leaves the crime scene, even though she explicitly asks him not to. Eventually, he goes to her apartment building (without her knowledge) to canvas and notify the head of security to help find the abuser. He saw it as a part of his job; I saw it as an invasion of privacy, but Lilí doesn’t seem to mind for some reason.
There’s a theme throughout the whole book about the lines the characters are willing to cross, be they personal or professional. Lilí will cross her own professional boundaries to keep her clients safe, while Diego will cross his own to keep his sister and Lilí safe. It’s implied that he looks out for the kids in the neighborhood, but there’s not much evidence of it except when he’s at the community youth center. Lilí will cross her personal boundaries after knowing how the system fails victims of assault and previously having a bad relationship with a cop; Diego will actually do some emotional labor for change (?).
The book says that Lilí went into Women and Gender Studies in college after helping a younger student go through the reporting of a date rape, which ended up in nothing as most of these cases usually do. After that, she decides to become a Victim’s advocate, helping them get better and being a positive but realistic person. As someone who graduated with a Women and Gender Studies degree from a school in the Midwest, this was especially comforting to see, seeing as it's something a lot of my classmates also do. And yet, Lilí’ll do and say things that are incongruous with many of the things we’re taught in a basic Women and Gender Studies class. For example, at the beginning of the book, after Lilí’s first brush with Diego, she’s thinking about maybe having a different meet-cute: “It made her wonder what it would have been like had they run into each other at a club or bar out with friends. To have those intense brown eyes focused on her in a totally different way. The male-female kind of way (bolded for emphasis).” I re-read this line plenty of times, at first confused and then insulted. It’s an incredibly hetero- and cisnormative way to view passion and even how some people experience sexual tension/attraction.
If that’s not enough, Diego’s constant insistence that he’s a “nice guy” grated me; no “nice guy” needs reiterating the fact. This especially when he’s repeatedly undermining Lilí and her job. Sure, he sometimes admits fault. But Lilí, who finds fault in him and knows Diego doesn’t take her career seriously and that he doesn't ever take the time to actually listen to victims, won’t look him in the eye and never calls him out. And she doesn't point out his chosen profession and say the obvious: domestic violence is more prevalent in police officers’ families than in non-police officer families. Lilí, who knows firsthand about the failings, oppression and ignorance of certain institutions, who’s probably seen her fair share of domestic violence survivors at the clinic, ignores these facts. How many of Diego’s coworkers have probably been abusive toward their families? Does he know and keep quiet, therefore maintaining a culture of abuse within the police? What about racial profiling done by the police? Police brutality? Where does Diego stand on the issues that affect the community he so loves? How many victims have been to Lilí's workplace that Diego probably knows?
I know that Diego has his issues with his family and his sister. But throughout most of the book he lets Lilí do most of the emotional labor, and when the climax of the story (or "The Big Misunderstanding") happens, Diego bails. Lilí tells him exactly why she did what she did, and he still makes it about himself. He isolates himself and doesn't contact Lilí. It takes him two weeks, a grand romantic gesture, and a private conversation where he grovels a little bit, to apologize. (And not for everything.)
I know this review looks like I didn’t like the story, which isn’t the truth. I thoroughly enjoyed Lilí and the heavier topics the book tackles, such as trauma, what family means in different contexts, as well as assault and its repercussions. I liked the fact that there wasn’t a declaration of love, seeing as they’d met about a month (?) before the book's conclusion. However, I don’t think the two characters need to have a happy ever after together. At least, not in the “let’s get married and have kids” way. I think they can grow together, have sex together, learn from each other. I don’t think Diego deserves to have Lilí doing so much emotional labor for him. He needs to take a look at his life and realize all that he needs to do to get better. In the end he does seem like he wants to start mending those things, which I appreciate.
To conclude, the book isn’t perfect, and the relationship between Lilí and Diego isn’t perfect except in their own eyes, but it’s still an enjoyable story that hits a lot of topics ignored in the Romance genre. I hope to read more from the author, as I believe she’s a great writer in terms of the technical aspects and in developing her characters. Oliveras captures Latinx family dynamics in the most heartfelt and loving way that could only be possible if written by a Latinx author. It’s in the crowded scenes, such as the baseball game and the family dinner, where Oliveras finds her strength as an author when she makes a big cast melt into the background so that the two characters always gravitate toward each other; which is why the story still resonated with me. It’s when the scenes are loudest that the more moving, quiet moments happen. And that’s what still makes this story a good one in my books.
Trigger warnings for novel: domestic violence (secondary character experiences it and describes it), physical assault (described by victim and then experienced by MC), abuse, sexual assault of secondary character (actual act isn’t described or seen), date rape of secondary character (mentioned), reporting of sexual assault of secondary character (perpetrator isn’t apprehended), drug use (specifically crack cocaine; mentioned and seen, usage of it isn’t described), drug rehab, stalker behavior, homo- and transphobia (wording), misogynistic slurs used by man during an assault, emotional trauma, PTSD (MC experiences signs of it after assault, showing mostly anxiety), mention of death of loved ones (one of the MCs has lost their parents, the other lost their mother), parental negligence (father of one of the MC’s is an absent parent).
An eARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All quotes are taken from said copy and may be changed in the final print. Thank you!
You can pre-order this book online on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Indiebound, and other online book retailers now! Book will be released on November 27th, 2018.
(Trigger Warnings for the review: physical assault, sexual assault, date rape, domestic violence, police brutality, stalker behavior, racial profiling. Full list of trigger warnings for the book after the review)
This year has been marked by the sheer amount of Romance novels I’ve read. In no other year have I read as much as I have this time around. I have a very complicated relationship with the genre, as I always come in with low expectations, not because I don’t respect the Romance genre. To the contrary, I think in Romance is where most progress in terms of representation and subversion of tropes can be seen, especially among marginalized writers. I come in low because sometimes… there’s a lot of work to be done… Which is why when I enter a Romance book with high expectations I have to look at myself and say “Congratulations, you played yourself.”
Their Perfect Melody by Priscilla Oliveras is by no means perfect. One might argue that, of course, no person and, therefore, relationship is perfect. From the description alone, I thought the pairing could be good: two Latinx people, both of Puerto Rican descent, in Chicago with their own emotional baggage figuring out how to work through that together by showing how passionate they are in what they do.
Lilí Fernandez is a Victim’s Advocate, working with battered women to help them cope and get better. She meets Diego Reyes when she responds to one of her clients’ call for help after their partner threatened her and turned violent. Reyes, a police officer, has also answered the victim’s emergency call and is standing guard outside, obstructing the way and not letting Lilí do her job to protect her client.
After she’s allowed inside, she proceeds to do her job, though Reyes keeps antagonizing her inside and, again, obstructing her process by contradicting her and defying her decisions. Lilí wants her client to press charges against the abuser, but we know that the victim must be the one to bring it up and come to terms with it. Yet Reyes gets angry and confrontational when Melba (the victim) hesitates to do so, which is the opposite of what Lilí needed. The antagonizing particularly annoyed me, seeing as it’s played as a cute thing. I’d be furious, especially when we see from his perspective that he riles her up on purpose.
The story continues with Lilí deciding to let her stay at her own apartment until Melba decides to go to a women’s shelter. Reyes is beside himself for some reason, which we later find out why, but it made me wonder if he took it personal any time a woman, who isn’t conventionally attractive like Lilí or connected to him in some way, who’s been assaulted and decided not to report it to the police. He proceeds to “investigate,” in the name of law and order, where Lilí lives by following her car after she leaves the crime scene, even though she explicitly asks him not to. Eventually, he goes to her apartment building (without her knowledge) to canvas and notify the head of security to help find the abuser. He saw it as a part of his job; I saw it as an invasion of privacy, but Lilí doesn’t seem to mind for some reason.
There’s a theme throughout the whole book about the lines the characters are willing to cross, be they personal or professional. Lilí will cross her own professional boundaries to keep her clients safe, while Diego will cross his own to keep his sister and Lilí safe. It’s implied that he looks out for the kids in the neighborhood, but there’s not much evidence of it except when he’s at the community youth center. Lilí will cross her personal boundaries after knowing how the system fails victims of assault and previously having a bad relationship with a cop; Diego will actually do some emotional labor for change (?).
The book says that Lilí went into Women and Gender Studies in college after helping a younger student go through the reporting of a date rape, which ended up in nothing as most of these cases usually do. After that, she decides to become a Victim’s advocate, helping them get better and being a positive but realistic person. As someone who graduated with a Women and Gender Studies degree from a school in the Midwest, this was especially comforting to see, seeing as it's something a lot of my classmates also do. And yet, Lilí’ll do and say things that are incongruous with many of the things we’re taught in a basic Women and Gender Studies class. For example, at the beginning of the book, after Lilí’s first brush with Diego, she’s thinking about maybe having a different meet-cute: “It made her wonder what it would have been like had they run into each other at a club or bar out with friends. To have those intense brown eyes focused on her in a totally different way. The male-female kind of way (bolded for emphasis).” I re-read this line plenty of times, at first confused and then insulted. It’s an incredibly hetero- and cisnormative way to view passion and even how some people experience sexual tension/attraction.
If that’s not enough, Diego’s constant insistence that he’s a “nice guy” grated me; no “nice guy” needs reiterating the fact. This especially when he’s repeatedly undermining Lilí and her job. Sure, he sometimes admits fault. But Lilí, who finds fault in him and knows Diego doesn’t take her career seriously and that he doesn't ever take the time to actually listen to victims, won’t look him in the eye and never calls him out. And she doesn't point out his chosen profession and say the obvious: domestic violence is more prevalent in police officers’ families than in non-police officer families. Lilí, who knows firsthand about the failings, oppression and ignorance of certain institutions, who’s probably seen her fair share of domestic violence survivors at the clinic, ignores these facts. How many of Diego’s coworkers have probably been abusive toward their families? Does he know and keep quiet, therefore maintaining a culture of abuse within the police? What about racial profiling done by the police? Police brutality? Where does Diego stand on the issues that affect the community he so loves? How many victims have been to Lilí's workplace that Diego probably knows?
I know that Diego has his issues with his family and his sister. But throughout most of the book he lets Lilí do most of the emotional labor, and when the climax of the story (or "The Big Misunderstanding") happens, Diego bails. Lilí tells him exactly why she did what she did, and he still makes it about himself. He isolates himself and doesn't contact Lilí. It takes him two weeks, a grand romantic gesture, and a private conversation where he grovels a little bit, to apologize. (And not for everything.)
I know this review looks like I didn’t like the story, which isn’t the truth. I thoroughly enjoyed Lilí and the heavier topics the book tackles, such as trauma, what family means in different contexts, as well as assault and its repercussions. I liked the fact that there wasn’t a declaration of love, seeing as they’d met about a month (?) before the book's conclusion. However, I don’t think the two characters need to have a happy ever after together. At least, not in the “let’s get married and have kids” way. I think they can grow together, have sex together, learn from each other. I don’t think Diego deserves to have Lilí doing so much emotional labor for him. He needs to take a look at his life and realize all that he needs to do to get better. In the end he does seem like he wants to start mending those things, which I appreciate.
To conclude, the book isn’t perfect, and the relationship between Lilí and Diego isn’t perfect except in their own eyes, but it’s still an enjoyable story that hits a lot of topics ignored in the Romance genre. I hope to read more from the author, as I believe she’s a great writer in terms of the technical aspects and in developing her characters. Oliveras captures Latinx family dynamics in the most heartfelt and loving way that could only be possible if written by a Latinx author. It’s in the crowded scenes, such as the baseball game and the family dinner, where Oliveras finds her strength as an author when she makes a big cast melt into the background so that the two characters always gravitate toward each other; which is why the story still resonated with me. It’s when the scenes are loudest that the more moving, quiet moments happen. And that’s what still makes this story a good one in my books.
Trigger warnings for novel: domestic violence (secondary character experiences it and describes it), physical assault (described by victim and then experienced by MC), abuse, sexual assault of secondary character (actual act isn’t described or seen), date rape of secondary character (mentioned), reporting of sexual assault of secondary character (perpetrator isn’t apprehended), drug use (specifically crack cocaine; mentioned and seen, usage of it isn’t described), drug rehab, stalker behavior, homo- and transphobia (wording), misogynistic slurs used by man during an assault, emotional trauma, PTSD (MC experiences signs of it after assault, showing mostly anxiety), mention of death of loved ones (one of the MCs has lost their parents, the other lost their mother), parental negligence (father of one of the MC’s is an absent parent).
An eARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All quotes are taken from said copy and may be changed in the final print. Thank you!
You can pre-order this book online on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Indiebound, and other online book retailers now! Book will be released on November 27th, 2018.
October 27, 2018
Their Perfect Melody was just the perfect way to end this sweet trilogy. I've had a lot of luck with these books and with Priscilla Oliveras' writing and I can't wait to see what else she writes in the future. I just know I'll be first in line to grab whatever she publishes.
In Their Perfect Melody, we get Lili's story, who happens to be the youngest Fernandes sister. I loved the glimpses that we saw of Lili in the previous book, so I was happy to see her shine. As with her sisters, she was a strong independent young woman with a heart of gold. She had devoted much of her career to helping women in need. Lili was brave and kind, and just the perfect heroine for this book. When her latest case brings her in the face of danger, she meets Diego, a police officer. Diego was a protective hero who was dealing with his own issues with his sister. Besides being a cop, he was passionate about music and was a talented guitar player. When they first meet, they butt heads, but over the course of the book, they develop a companionship that developed into more.
Their romance was really sweet. I especially loved how they bonded over their shared love of music and their passion for doing community work for those in need. Their relationship was incredibly satisfying to a romance lover like me. Once again, family was a huge part of the book. Both Diego and Lili were close to their families and how both their families placed such important roles in their lives. It was great to see the previous couples as well as their bonds with the characters.
I can't recommend the Matched to Perfection series enough. They have a lot of great things going on for them, and this last book was just delightful!
January 6, 2019
Review also found at https://kristineandterri.blogspot.com...
**I received and advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!)
I read this book a while ago and had forgotten to submit my review so I apologize if I fail to do the story justice.
This story delivers exactly what you would expect from it based on the synopsis. This appears to be the third in a series however I did not read the first two installments. I am assuming they were about Lili's two sisters.
The chemistry between Lili and Diego was instant and combustible (and somewhat humorous). I knew that I would be in their corner from the beginning. I was anxious to see where their journey would take them. I particularly like Diego however the stubborn streak for both characters somewhat annoyed me.
I had one pet peeve regarding this story and it was a major one for me. It bothered me that in the narration of the story, the characters would say a phrase in Spanish and each and every time it was repeated in English. Now I have no Spanish language skills outside what I have learned from my annual trips down south each winter (where is the washroom? how are you? what's your names? May I have a beer etc.) however I was perfectly able to understand what the characters were saying. I felt the need to repeat the phrases in English repetitive and annoying. Perhaps a happy balance would have worked better by repeating some of the phrases and leaving the reader to fend for themselves on the other. Others may not feel this way however since I made a promise to give an honest review, and it did impact my enjoyment, I must bring it up. That aside I had no issues.
This was a story that delivered upon expectations and fans of this genre would likely be fans of this story.
**I received and advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!)
I read this book a while ago and had forgotten to submit my review so I apologize if I fail to do the story justice.
This story delivers exactly what you would expect from it based on the synopsis. This appears to be the third in a series however I did not read the first two installments. I am assuming they were about Lili's two sisters.
The chemistry between Lili and Diego was instant and combustible (and somewhat humorous). I knew that I would be in their corner from the beginning. I was anxious to see where their journey would take them. I particularly like Diego however the stubborn streak for both characters somewhat annoyed me.
I had one pet peeve regarding this story and it was a major one for me. It bothered me that in the narration of the story, the characters would say a phrase in Spanish and each and every time it was repeated in English. Now I have no Spanish language skills outside what I have learned from my annual trips down south each winter (where is the washroom? how are you? what's your names? May I have a beer etc.) however I was perfectly able to understand what the characters were saying. I felt the need to repeat the phrases in English repetitive and annoying. Perhaps a happy balance would have worked better by repeating some of the phrases and leaving the reader to fend for themselves on the other. Others may not feel this way however since I made a promise to give an honest review, and it did impact my enjoyment, I must bring it up. That aside I had no issues.
This was a story that delivered upon expectations and fans of this genre would likely be fans of this story.
November 28, 2018
Lili is a strong, independent, but she could also be reckless, and impulsive but she has giving heart. Lili is a Victim’s Advocate and works at the center. She works with abused women to help them cope and heal and go on with their lives. One of Lili’s clients-Melba- calls Lili and the police for help when her husband threatens her and it turns violent. When Lili gets there Diego- A Chicago cop - is standing guard and won’t let Lili in to do her job. Lili finally does get into Melba and offers to let Melba stay with her at her apartment until Melba decides to go to the woman’s shelter. Lili wants Melba to press charges but Melba has to be the one to initiate it to the cops. Diego seems angry when she doesn’t press charges right away. Diego has issues with his sister Lourdes who has made some poor decisions and is basically in the same place. Diego is overprotective of those he cares about and Lourdes is one of them. Diego can also be very bossy. Him and Lili don’t get along to well at first but that changes at times goes on. Diego also has a passionate love for music as does Lili.. Diego is also a talented guitarist. Diego follows Lili home even though she asked him not to. Lili had already had a bad relationship with a cop. She will do anything she can for her clients even if she puts herself into danger as she already knows how the system usually fails victims of domestic violence. Lili taught self defense at the center and Diego gives guitar lessons. I enjoyed this book a lot considering the topics throughout this book as well as the romance. I advise you read the previous books in this series and in order as it will make for a smoother read. I liked how protective Diego was of Lourdes as well as Lili but sometimes it was too much. I loved that both Lili and Diego loved music and connected there. I also really liked they both volunteered to try to help people in their community. I really liked the plot and pace of this book. Diego’s and Lili’s chemistry was hot. I also loved how important family was to Diego as well as Lili. But I was annoyed how Diego acted around Melba and at other times also and things he sometimes said. He was too bossy and overprotective at times. I loved that the author handled the subjects of emotional trauma, and domestic violence and the repercussions from them. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I recommend. I wish i could have rated this 4.5.
November 8, 2018
Brimming with the perfect balance of warmth and sizzle, this story takes on some weighty issues with a light touch. Diego Reyes is an alpha with a badge and also happens to be a gifted musician (insert a happy sigh for that romantic trait). He can be a tad bossy in his desire to protect the women he loves, including the more than capable Lili Fernandes, but I think his experience with his sister colors his perspective at the outset, and he does come around eventually. Lili devotes herself to her work with abused women, which makes her eminently admirable. I also enjoyed the way she helped young women learn to protect themselves. She’s devoted to her family and shares a wonderful bond with her older sisters, whom series readers will be happy to see again.
I consider this romance to be built around an enemies-to-lovers trope because Lili and Diego certainly butt heads when they first meet. They are also both somewhat stubborn and guarded, but that only made the melting of the ice between them all the better!
It takes a special talent to be able to vividly bring to life some of the less fortunate sides of society while still leaving plenty of room for romance to bloom. Ms. Oliveras did an excellent job with that, and of convincing this reader that Diego and Lily made another perfect pair to finish this delightful series.
I consider this romance to be built around an enemies-to-lovers trope because Lili and Diego certainly butt heads when they first meet. They are also both somewhat stubborn and guarded, but that only made the melting of the ice between them all the better!
It takes a special talent to be able to vividly bring to life some of the less fortunate sides of society while still leaving plenty of room for romance to bloom. Ms. Oliveras did an excellent job with that, and of convincing this reader that Diego and Lily made another perfect pair to finish this delightful series.
June 14, 2024
Trigger warnings: depictions of Intimate Partner Violence, other violence against women, addiction
This was my favorite in the Matched to Perfection trilogy; you can really see the evolution of Oliveras' writing here and her author voice and choices really shine.
Lili and Diego did not have a cute meet and the IPV is front in center in the beginning of the story. Lili is now a college graduate and working as a social worker-type at a women's domestic violence shelter. She has matured so much since book one but she is also idealistic and a little impulsive still and tries to save everyone, including her client Melba who calls Lili after an particularly scary situation.
Out of the three heroes in this series, Diego is my definite favorite. He is a cop who volunteers as a mentor at the youth center and is trying to get his sister off the street and off drugs. The way he loves and woos Lili...*sigh*
My favorite part was the baseball game and after game beers. Lili is my kind of baseball fan, although I root for a different team. My least favorite part is anytime Rosa, Lili's older sister and the heroine of book two (which I DNF'd) - Rosa is a wet blanket and I want her to shut up and mind her damn business. She was so annoying; Yaz, as the oldest sister, was worried about Lili but went about it in a much more realistic way than Rosa.
4 stars.
This was my favorite in the Matched to Perfection trilogy; you can really see the evolution of Oliveras' writing here and her author voice and choices really shine.
Lili and Diego did not have a cute meet and the IPV is front in center in the beginning of the story. Lili is now a college graduate and working as a social worker-type at a women's domestic violence shelter. She has matured so much since book one but she is also idealistic and a little impulsive still and tries to save everyone, including her client Melba who calls Lili after an particularly scary situation.
Out of the three heroes in this series, Diego is my definite favorite. He is a cop who volunteers as a mentor at the youth center and is trying to get his sister off the street and off drugs. The way he loves and woos Lili...*sigh*
My favorite part was the baseball game and after game beers. Lili is my kind of baseball fan, although I root for a different team. My least favorite part is anytime Rosa, Lili's older sister and the heroine of book two (which I DNF'd) - Rosa is a wet blanket and I want her to shut up and mind her damn business. She was so annoying; Yaz, as the oldest sister, was worried about Lili but went about it in a much more realistic way than Rosa.
4 stars.
December 20, 2018
Is there a real Diego Reyes in this world and can I please have him?? Their Perfect Melody was my first book by Priscilla Oliveras but the third book in her Matched to Perfection series. This book was sweet, full of family, and peppered with fun Puerto Rican culture.
Their Perfect Melody follows two inherent do-gooders in Lilí and Diego, the heroine and hero of our story. Lilí’s motivation as a social worker comes from a passion for victims that originates from personal experience. Diego’s as a police officer stems from a deep protectiveness for anyone he cares about, especially his deceased mother and troubled sister. Together their shared ideals were apparent as well as the many complexities that arise from their different approaches to the same goal.
My favorite part of this book was the expertly expressed sibling dynamics. Both Lilí and Diego had deep and complicated relationships with their families, which made them deeply relatable characters. The relationships between the characters and the easy way Priscilla invites you into the Latin culture, made this book stand above.
While I think the emphasis on social justice and family was fun and exciting, I do wish there had been more of an emphasis on Lilí and Diego’s relationship. They had good chemistry, but it often took a backseat to the other conflicts that arose within the story. The book took place over a short period of time, and I just wanted a little bit more between the two characters, most likely because I enjoyed them so much separately. There were also a few plot points that I felt were left dangling, mostly Lilí’s previous relationship with a police officer.
Overall, this was a sweet romance with intense moments taking place in the world the characters live. As a warning, there are scenes of domestic violence and abuse, but I think Priscilla approaches them with respect and tact. Their Perfect Melody was my first book from Priscilla, but it absolutely won’t be my last!
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
Find/Follow me on Twitter Instagram and my blog !!
Their Perfect Melody follows two inherent do-gooders in Lilí and Diego, the heroine and hero of our story. Lilí’s motivation as a social worker comes from a passion for victims that originates from personal experience. Diego’s as a police officer stems from a deep protectiveness for anyone he cares about, especially his deceased mother and troubled sister. Together their shared ideals were apparent as well as the many complexities that arise from their different approaches to the same goal.
My favorite part of this book was the expertly expressed sibling dynamics. Both Lilí and Diego had deep and complicated relationships with their families, which made them deeply relatable characters. The relationships between the characters and the easy way Priscilla invites you into the Latin culture, made this book stand above.
While I think the emphasis on social justice and family was fun and exciting, I do wish there had been more of an emphasis on Lilí and Diego’s relationship. They had good chemistry, but it often took a backseat to the other conflicts that arose within the story. The book took place over a short period of time, and I just wanted a little bit more between the two characters, most likely because I enjoyed them so much separately. There were also a few plot points that I felt were left dangling, mostly Lilí’s previous relationship with a police officer.
Overall, this was a sweet romance with intense moments taking place in the world the characters live. As a warning, there are scenes of domestic violence and abuse, but I think Priscilla approaches them with respect and tact. Their Perfect Melody was my first book from Priscilla, but it absolutely won’t be my last!
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
Find/Follow me on Twitter Instagram and my blog !!
July 30, 2018
This book rounds out a really charming trilogy about the Fernandez sisters. At last, we get the story of Lili, the youngest. In the earlier books, she's presented as the family clown: the person who gets everyone laughing. Here, we get to see her more serious side as a caring young professional.
We also get more of the fabulous Fernandez family. The sisters' relationships with each other has always been my favorite parts of Oliveras' books and this book is no different.
I did kind of want to smack Diego a few times. Hardheaded macho men aren't my cup of tea, especially when they're trying to boss the women in their lives around. He means well, but it still bugs. He does, of course, come around, but if this was real life and not a novel, I'd be pretty sure there would be yet more bumps in their road because of his overbearing ways.
I was given an advance reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
We also get more of the fabulous Fernandez family. The sisters' relationships with each other has always been my favorite parts of Oliveras' books and this book is no different.
I did kind of want to smack Diego a few times. Hardheaded macho men aren't my cup of tea, especially when they're trying to boss the women in their lives around. He means well, but it still bugs. He does, of course, come around, but if this was real life and not a novel, I'd be pretty sure there would be yet more bumps in their road because of his overbearing ways.
I was given an advance reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2018
I’ve very much enjoyed reading about Ms. Oliveras’ Fernandez sisters. There is such an amazing feeling of family, of warmth and support, and I adore the glimpses of Puerto Rican culture. While much of the subject matter (drug abuse and intimate partner violence) is heavy, Ms. Oliveras manages to balance it with Lilí’s optimism and the Fernandez family warmth. I think it would be possible to read this as a standalone, as while the characters from the rest of the series make frequent cameos, enough of the series background is explained.
Lilí and Diego meet when she receives a call from one of her domestic violence clients, only to find the police, in the form of Diego and his partner, guarding her apartment (frequent readers of the series will realize this picks up where Julia’s novella left us). Though she’s frustrated with his refusal to let her through, they both feel a spark of attraction towards the other person, and both admire the others’, well, stubbornness. When Lilí makes the questionable choice to take her client home with her for the night, against Diego’s protestations, he insists on giving her his phone number. That spark is still there when she reaches back out to him for help, and especially when they run into each other while volunteering at the youth center, where Lilí teaches girls self defense and Diego teaches guitar. But Lilí’s dated a cop before, and she fears that Diego will also be unable to accept her and her commitment to her job. Is it just the same old song and dance, or the start of a brand new melody?
I liked Lilí a lot. In the other books, she came off as the clown of the family, and while some of that is still there, a lot of has been lost under the grief from her parents’ death. She is still feisty, smart, and dedicated to her family, however. She also sees the good in everyone, which Diego thinks blinds her to a lot of the dangers that come with her job, but I thought was exactly what her clients and the kids she worked with needed. I struggled with Diego. He’s the picture of machismo, and basically every alpha trait that I can’t stand. He dismisses Lilí’s expertise and refuses to let her in, out of fear of bogging her down in his family drama. He was downright aggressive with some of Lilí’s clients, and completely unable to empathize with what they’re going through. While past family trauma explained a lot of his behavior, I didn’t like that a cop – who would be expected to deal sympathetically with victims – would react that way. Lilí herself is frustrated with his black and white thinking, and that he discounts her experience and training working with DV victims, even when it’s his own sister. I didn’t leave the book with the feeling that he’d actually changed or come to understand why his approach was so harmful.
Besides that, though, there were so many things I liked. Lilí and Diego both share a love of music, especially classical guitar. Diego’s mom loved the band Lilí’s dad played in, and the song she used to insist he play for her was Lilí’s parents’ favorite song. Music is a big deal to her family, and it’s been a thread throughout the series. The Fernandez sisters – and cousin – are such a warm family, and I loved seeing how they drew support from each other, even if they didn’t necessarily agree with the others’ actions. Though Lilí laments that they treat her like a child, to me it came off more as concern. It was good getting to catch up with each of the couples and their new families.
I think, overall, this would be more a 3.5 for me. It has all the warmth, the familia that I’ve come to love from Ms. Oliveras, but I had issues with Diego. So, overall, I’m sad to say goodbye to the Fernandez sisters, but I’m very eager for whatever Ms. Oliveras writes next!
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lilí and Diego meet when she receives a call from one of her domestic violence clients, only to find the police, in the form of Diego and his partner, guarding her apartment (frequent readers of the series will realize this picks up where Julia’s novella left us). Though she’s frustrated with his refusal to let her through, they both feel a spark of attraction towards the other person, and both admire the others’, well, stubbornness. When Lilí makes the questionable choice to take her client home with her for the night, against Diego’s protestations, he insists on giving her his phone number. That spark is still there when she reaches back out to him for help, and especially when they run into each other while volunteering at the youth center, where Lilí teaches girls self defense and Diego teaches guitar. But Lilí’s dated a cop before, and she fears that Diego will also be unable to accept her and her commitment to her job. Is it just the same old song and dance, or the start of a brand new melody?
“Sees the good in everyone, doesn’t she?” Ryan shook his head slowly from side to side.
Well, she didn’t seem to have trouble finding fault in him, Diego noted. He kept that thought to himself.
I liked Lilí a lot. In the other books, she came off as the clown of the family, and while some of that is still there, a lot of has been lost under the grief from her parents’ death. She is still feisty, smart, and dedicated to her family, however. She also sees the good in everyone, which Diego thinks blinds her to a lot of the dangers that come with her job, but I thought was exactly what her clients and the kids she worked with needed. I struggled with Diego. He’s the picture of machismo, and basically every alpha trait that I can’t stand. He dismisses Lilí’s expertise and refuses to let her in, out of fear of bogging her down in his family drama. He was downright aggressive with some of Lilí’s clients, and completely unable to empathize with what they’re going through. While past family trauma explained a lot of his behavior, I didn’t like that a cop – who would be expected to deal sympathetically with victims – would react that way. Lilí herself is frustrated with his black and white thinking, and that he discounts her experience and training working with DV victims, even when it’s his own sister. I didn’t leave the book with the feeling that he’d actually changed or come to understand why his approach was so harmful.
“They shared a soft smile, the unbreakable bonds of music tying them together. First years ago with their respective parents. Now with each other.”
Besides that, though, there were so many things I liked. Lilí and Diego both share a love of music, especially classical guitar. Diego’s mom loved the band Lilí’s dad played in, and the song she used to insist he play for her was Lilí’s parents’ favorite song. Music is a big deal to her family, and it’s been a thread throughout the series. The Fernandez sisters – and cousin – are such a warm family, and I loved seeing how they drew support from each other, even if they didn’t necessarily agree with the others’ actions. Though Lilí laments that they treat her like a child, to me it came off more as concern. It was good getting to catch up with each of the couples and their new families.
I think, overall, this would be more a 3.5 for me. It has all the warmth, the familia that I’ve come to love from Ms. Oliveras, but I had issues with Diego. So, overall, I’m sad to say goodbye to the Fernandez sisters, but I’m very eager for whatever Ms. Oliveras writes next!
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
December 3, 2018
This is the last book about the three sisters. In this one Lili the youngest is working at helping women at a women’s abuse center and is also a victim’s advocate. The book opens with her arguing with a police officer that she called to the scene and that she needs to get inside. He of course is not letting her in. this would be the theme for most of the book. Diego Reyes a Chicago police officer finally lets her in when his partner asks for her and that is when he finds out what she does. That first meeting does not go well between them and when the next time they meet at the youth center he is surprised that she is there. Thinking that she is some high society women just coming down to the city to make herself feel good? He finds out later that is not the case. She also argues with Diego just because she likes him but he thinks he knows everything. When that begin to take the kids on a few trips from the center they find out that they have some things in common and music is one of them. She even takes him to her house and he meets her sisters and their husbands. After that it starts to go downhill when he won’t talk about himself and when his sister shows up she asks for Lil’s help not his. It is here that he lets his anger take a hold of him and tells her things that he later regrets but he cannot apologize because she won’t talk to him. She misses him but she knows she must move on. Read this story to see what happens and if he can get her back? I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
September 12, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) This is the third book in the series, I recommend you start from the beginning because I truly believe you will not enjoy it or appreciate the story if you dont. The way these sisters interact you will definitely enjoy, which is one the reasons I recommend reading from the very beginning, that being said I found this book to be ok. I enjoyed the meeting of Lili and Diego I think you will like. I really approved of Lili's work at the center, helping those in need but Lili herself I wasn't crazy about, which kind of surprised me because she was always portrayed as the clown or the happy one who didn't take much seriously. Diego was too macho, I like alpha's dont get me wrong but I dont enjoy machismo, so yeah was totally not crazy about him. All in all was an ok read, I would rush out to get a copy.
November 29, 2018
To see the whole review: https://wickedcoolflight.net/2018/11/...
A little music, baseball, a hot Latina woman, a sexy Latin cop and we have all the ingredients for a sexy sweet love story. And did I mention both are very much about family.
The story was based around the job that Lili does and Diego’s desire to protect her from herself. She is very giving to her Domestic Violence victims and that worries Diego to no end. It’s funny to watch him try to protect her and she thinks he either doesn’t understand her or is trying to take away her independence. Soon they realize they both have an affinity for family and music.
Their love song is sweetly woven into the tapestry of this story about learning to let go, loving again, and trusting in family. Priscilla does an outstanding job of showing us how Diego works through his guilt over his dysfunctional family and Lili’s attitude towards dating cops and lets us see how they discover their feelings for one another.
I can see why this series is so popular. Be sure to check out the stories of Lili’s sisters in Her Perfect Affair and His Perfect Partner.
A little music, baseball, a hot Latina woman, a sexy Latin cop and we have all the ingredients for a sexy sweet love story. And did I mention both are very much about family.
The story was based around the job that Lili does and Diego’s desire to protect her from herself. She is very giving to her Domestic Violence victims and that worries Diego to no end. It’s funny to watch him try to protect her and she thinks he either doesn’t understand her or is trying to take away her independence. Soon they realize they both have an affinity for family and music.
Their love song is sweetly woven into the tapestry of this story about learning to let go, loving again, and trusting in family. Priscilla does an outstanding job of showing us how Diego works through his guilt over his dysfunctional family and Lili’s attitude towards dating cops and lets us see how they discover their feelings for one another.
I can see why this series is so popular. Be sure to check out the stories of Lili’s sisters in Her Perfect Affair and His Perfect Partner.
December 19, 2018
I was waiting for Their Perfect Melody to come out before starting the series (I already had the first two), but I couldn't resist and read this first. Yes, Virginia, I read out of order. Horrors!
I didn't have any problems with the introduction of several characters who already had their stories told in previous books. Yaz and Rosa's presence here, along with their respective partners, actually made me want to read their books even more. I'm an older sister so I relate very well with the two of them in the way they behaved towards Lili. Truth is, as a Filipino, I can relate to a lot of elements in Priscilla's stories: strong family ties, female friendship, music, food, and yes, even Diego's machismo.
I really liked that both Lili and Diego are good people with noble intentions. While that stemmed from their jobs, it's also because of people in their lives. They're both strong-willed characters with enough vulnerabilities to balance their personalities.
Some heavy subjects were tackled in this book - domestic violence and drug use among them, but there were also lighthearted moments like the baseball game and all the teasing and matchmaking.
I enjoyed this book primarily because of Priscilla's writing. As a fellow writer of color in romance using #ownvoices to champion main characters who are not the norm, I have much admiration for her work and am inspired to produce quality books just like she does.
I didn't have any problems with the introduction of several characters who already had their stories told in previous books. Yaz and Rosa's presence here, along with their respective partners, actually made me want to read their books even more. I'm an older sister so I relate very well with the two of them in the way they behaved towards Lili. Truth is, as a Filipino, I can relate to a lot of elements in Priscilla's stories: strong family ties, female friendship, music, food, and yes, even Diego's machismo.
I really liked that both Lili and Diego are good people with noble intentions. While that stemmed from their jobs, it's also because of people in their lives. They're both strong-willed characters with enough vulnerabilities to balance their personalities.
Some heavy subjects were tackled in this book - domestic violence and drug use among them, but there were also lighthearted moments like the baseball game and all the teasing and matchmaking.
I enjoyed this book primarily because of Priscilla's writing. As a fellow writer of color in romance using #ownvoices to champion main characters who are not the norm, I have much admiration for her work and am inspired to produce quality books just like she does.
March 27, 2019
Lilí’s book features the very real conflict generated by the mutual attraction between her and Diego Reyes, a Chicago police officer. Diego at first thinks Lilí is a disconnected, rich social justice warrior, while Lilí is hesitant about entering into a relationship with a police officer, after having experienced a failed one in the past. For this couple, their greatest challenge is one of achieving emotional intimacy through honesty and admitting vulnerability, especially on the part of Diego, who hides so much of himself. His challenge is to break down the emotional walls he’s created to protect himself and others, while Lilí struggles to be understood.
Olivera’s ouvre (I like the word!) appeals to me because, as a fellow Puerto Rican, I caught on quickly to the cultural shorthand she uses to describe the space in which the Fernandez sisters to live and fall in love. I understood the food, the mini-expressions in Spanish, the superstitions and cultural beliefs. There’s is a common refrain from book one, familiar primero or family first, that resonates throughout the novels and makes sense to me. When Lilí, in book three, prays to both her parents for guidance, it is a second-nature, authentic gesture I recognize from my own experience.
Music plays a major role in the novels, also. In book one, the beloved patriarch, Rey, has spent his life playing with a band and frequently jams in the makeshift studio in his basement. As in many Hispanic families, music forms the back drop of nearly every social gathering or important event. The motif of music comes full circle in the character of Diego, who plays the guitar and sings, becoming the music man Lilí has always been looking for.
Music and dancing are accompanied by descritions of wonderful Puerto Rican cuisine. The three sisters cook together, reminding me of the comforts and pleasures of my family’s kitchen when my grandmother, mother, aunts descended en masse to make pasteles or other complicated dishes while the men roasted pork and played dominos in the backyard, the children always underfoot.
This series was a true pleasure to read. Oliveras is a master of emotional beats and pacing. Because these books are relatively low heat, the onus of the emotional payoff rests heavily on the relationship between the characters and the work they have to do to obtain a happy ending. That is not to say there isn’t sexual tension, and in fact, the books grow progressively steamier, but when it is resolved, it is done off the page.
Romantic, full of rich characters and cultural details, this series provides the joy of full immersion. Pair it with a warm blanket, a glass of wine and and a bowl of asopao for the perfect book weekend.
Olivera’s ouvre (I like the word!) appeals to me because, as a fellow Puerto Rican, I caught on quickly to the cultural shorthand she uses to describe the space in which the Fernandez sisters to live and fall in love. I understood the food, the mini-expressions in Spanish, the superstitions and cultural beliefs. There’s is a common refrain from book one, familiar primero or family first, that resonates throughout the novels and makes sense to me. When Lilí, in book three, prays to both her parents for guidance, it is a second-nature, authentic gesture I recognize from my own experience.
Music plays a major role in the novels, also. In book one, the beloved patriarch, Rey, has spent his life playing with a band and frequently jams in the makeshift studio in his basement. As in many Hispanic families, music forms the back drop of nearly every social gathering or important event. The motif of music comes full circle in the character of Diego, who plays the guitar and sings, becoming the music man Lilí has always been looking for.
Music and dancing are accompanied by descritions of wonderful Puerto Rican cuisine. The three sisters cook together, reminding me of the comforts and pleasures of my family’s kitchen when my grandmother, mother, aunts descended en masse to make pasteles or other complicated dishes while the men roasted pork and played dominos in the backyard, the children always underfoot.
This series was a true pleasure to read. Oliveras is a master of emotional beats and pacing. Because these books are relatively low heat, the onus of the emotional payoff rests heavily on the relationship between the characters and the work they have to do to obtain a happy ending. That is not to say there isn’t sexual tension, and in fact, the books grow progressively steamier, but when it is resolved, it is done off the page.
Romantic, full of rich characters and cultural details, this series provides the joy of full immersion. Pair it with a warm blanket, a glass of wine and and a bowl of asopao for the perfect book weekend.
September 23, 2024
Their Perfect Melody is the third book in the Matched to Perfection series by Priscilla Oliveras. As the youngest sister, Lili Maria grew up affectionately known as the “wild child.” The life of the party where she loved to dance and sing. After the loss of her beloved parents, she discovered a caretaking side and became a victim’s advocate. During one call to a client, she meets Diego Reyes, a Chicago police officer, who lives to serve the people of his community. Lili finds herself drawn to him as he has a talent for playing classical Spanish guitar and has a passion for music she long forgot. As they bond over their shared desire to serve the community and their families, they find they have a lot in common as well as some different philosophies on life. Will Lili allow her once wild side to come out once again? Can they find a middle ground for their obvious attraction?
I usually don’t like to read books out of order in a series. However, I received a copy of Their Perfect Melody and decided to take the chance. I loved this story. While there are some references to the previous two books, it was done in a way that readers do not need to know the events of those stories to enjoy Lili’s story. The story definitely focused on Lili and Diego. Their Perfect Melody is a sweet, fast paced romance with laughter and very touching moments. I loved Lili’s commitment to helping others out of bad situations and I loved Diego’s knight in shining armor mentality as he was quick to help when someone calls. Their romance was sweet and touchy. Overall, I loved this story and I am going to try and go back and read the first two books of the series. If you enjoy books about love, family and community, I recommend Their Perfect Melody.
Their Perfect Melody is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
I usually don’t like to read books out of order in a series. However, I received a copy of Their Perfect Melody and decided to take the chance. I loved this story. While there are some references to the previous two books, it was done in a way that readers do not need to know the events of those stories to enjoy Lili’s story. The story definitely focused on Lili and Diego. Their Perfect Melody is a sweet, fast paced romance with laughter and very touching moments. I loved Lili’s commitment to helping others out of bad situations and I loved Diego’s knight in shining armor mentality as he was quick to help when someone calls. Their romance was sweet and touchy. Overall, I loved this story and I am going to try and go back and read the first two books of the series. If you enjoy books about love, family and community, I recommend Their Perfect Melody.
Their Perfect Melody is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
October 21, 2023
4.5 Stars
This author continues to surprise me with her writing. She fills her books with warm characters with well-built back stories that invite you into the story immediately and this story was no different. Moreover, this story had a really engrossing plot that sucked me in from the start and was filled with lots of emotion that made me feel for both characters.
Diego Reyes is a police officer with a love for playing his guitar. He's a man that will do anything to keep people safe, especially those he loves and the person he's falling for is Lili. Can he keep her safe?
While, Lili Maria Fernandez used to be the 'wild one' of her and her siblings until tragedy and loss turned her life upside down and made her want to become a victim's advocate. Now she's helping women move past the troubles in their lives and move forward to a brighter future for themselves. Can she once again find her wild side and let someone in? Someone that isn't willing to give up on her.
Diego is amazing and I loved his confidence, his protective side and everything he does to win Lili's trust and show her how right they are for each other. While Lili, she is strong, brave and I loved how caring she was to the women she was helping. I also enjoyed how Lili once again found her fun-loving side because of Diego. He's someone she needs in her life and I'm glad she gave him a chance. Furthermore, I enjoyed the secondary characters in Lili's sisters. They share such a close relationship and their interactions bought more to the story, as Lili needs them just as much as she needs Diego.
Overall, Ms. Oliveras managed to deliver an engrossing and emotion-filled read in this third book of her Matched to Perfection series and I can't wait to read more stories from this author.
This author continues to surprise me with her writing. She fills her books with warm characters with well-built back stories that invite you into the story immediately and this story was no different. Moreover, this story had a really engrossing plot that sucked me in from the start and was filled with lots of emotion that made me feel for both characters.
Diego Reyes is a police officer with a love for playing his guitar. He's a man that will do anything to keep people safe, especially those he loves and the person he's falling for is Lili. Can he keep her safe?
While, Lili Maria Fernandez used to be the 'wild one' of her and her siblings until tragedy and loss turned her life upside down and made her want to become a victim's advocate. Now she's helping women move past the troubles in their lives and move forward to a brighter future for themselves. Can she once again find her wild side and let someone in? Someone that isn't willing to give up on her.
Diego is amazing and I loved his confidence, his protective side and everything he does to win Lili's trust and show her how right they are for each other. While Lili, she is strong, brave and I loved how caring she was to the women she was helping. I also enjoyed how Lili once again found her fun-loving side because of Diego. He's someone she needs in her life and I'm glad she gave him a chance. Furthermore, I enjoyed the secondary characters in Lili's sisters. They share such a close relationship and their interactions bought more to the story, as Lili needs them just as much as she needs Diego.
Overall, Ms. Oliveras managed to deliver an engrossing and emotion-filled read in this third book of her Matched to Perfection series and I can't wait to read more stories from this author.
January 19, 2019
I really like this family and have enjoyed all three of the sisters' stories. I'm actually sad that this is the conclusion to this trilogy as I will miss the Fernandez family. I love how family-centered this series is and how skillfully Oliveras twines both family life and Puerto Rican culture throughout. I mentioned in the first interview that although I'm not Puerto Rican there are still many aspects of the family dynamics of the Fernandez sisters that I completely relate to.
Lilí and Diego start out butting heads a lot. They both bring their own issues from their pasts to the relationship and those issues spark mistrust and misunderstanding. They are undeniably attracted to one another, but run into conflict because of their prior experiences. Eventually, they start communicating in ways that help them to better understand one another and are able to move forward. Lilí's sisters, Yazmine and Rosa, are present throughout this book and the reader gets to continue watching their sibling bonds strengthen and grow as they did through the first two books.
If you're a fan of contemporary romance you can't go wrong with this delightful trilogy.
Lilí and Diego start out butting heads a lot. They both bring their own issues from their pasts to the relationship and those issues spark mistrust and misunderstanding. They are undeniably attracted to one another, but run into conflict because of their prior experiences. Eventually, they start communicating in ways that help them to better understand one another and are able to move forward. Lilí's sisters, Yazmine and Rosa, are present throughout this book and the reader gets to continue watching their sibling bonds strengthen and grow as they did through the first two books.
If you're a fan of contemporary romance you can't go wrong with this delightful trilogy.
July 25, 2024
I just want more….
A hard knocks, protective, alpha cop hero, and a sunny, naive, but feisty female who doesn’t want to date a cop collide, bond over familial elements, and romance ensues after a tumultuous ritual courtship.
This is the most racey of the 3 novels in this series, but I give Oliveras credit for her reliance on her character portrayals to sell her novels (PG13). This is not the “more” I am alluding to.
There is no element of mystery, nothing more here than the ordinary. It’s not even a matter of conjecture that the main characters will end up together, nor even a matter of how final resolution will occur. The foreshadowing is as subtle as a billy club. Page after page of the same emotional inner monologue, that doesn’t actually seem to result in character development or enhanced emotional maturity.
I have wanted something more out of all 3 books, but this left me the most unsatisfied. I’ll check out the Keys to Love series and see if complexity improves with publication experience.
A hard knocks, protective, alpha cop hero, and a sunny, naive, but feisty female who doesn’t want to date a cop collide, bond over familial elements, and romance ensues after a tumultuous ritual courtship.
This is the most racey of the 3 novels in this series, but I give Oliveras credit for her reliance on her character portrayals to sell her novels (PG13). This is not the “more” I am alluding to.
There is no element of mystery, nothing more here than the ordinary. It’s not even a matter of conjecture that the main characters will end up together, nor even a matter of how final resolution will occur. The foreshadowing is as subtle as a billy club. Page after page of the same emotional inner monologue, that doesn’t actually seem to result in character development or enhanced emotional maturity.
I have wanted something more out of all 3 books, but this left me the most unsatisfied. I’ll check out the Keys to Love series and see if complexity improves with publication experience.
July 6, 2020
At first, I was dead set on giving this book a mediocre review for being extremely cliche. Then I realized that the reason I was sooo irritated by Diego was because Ms. Oliveras had pegged toxic machismo to a T!!! Not only machismo, but the mindset mixed with experience with law enforcement and the military. Thankfully, the level shown in Diego was protective in nature and is at the lowest level of the spectrum, but whew ... when I tell you it was triggering!!!
I LOVED seeing the small familial quirks and Spanglish thrown in throughout the whole book. While their demographic differs from mine, seeing the similar connections with family and the deep connection to music and food hit me in the feels.
I also read this via audiobook, so to hear Carmen Vine narrate really brought the story closer to me.
I read this out-of-order (I really have a problem with this lol), so I can wait to read about Lili's sisters!
I LOVED seeing the small familial quirks and Spanglish thrown in throughout the whole book. While their demographic differs from mine, seeing the similar connections with family and the deep connection to music and food hit me in the feels.
I also read this via audiobook, so to hear Carmen Vine narrate really brought the story closer to me.
I read this out-of-order (I really have a problem with this lol), so I can wait to read about Lili's sisters!
June 12, 2019
WOW!!! Just when I thought Priscilla Oliveras’s MATCHED TO PERFECTION series was fantastic, she releases the last novel THEIR PERFECT MELODY! Just brilliant!!!! The vivacious, daring and “wild child” of the Fernandez sisters, Lili and Diego story is full of drama, confrontations, caring and most of all loving with passion! I loved Diego’s guitar playing and was transported to his living room to listen to his Spanish tunes!!! ! And, as a Chicago Cubs fan, I truly enjoyed spending the afternoon with her characters on a Wrigley Field outing!
Priscilla Oliveras closes her series with an amazing coordination of the Fernandez family history and evolution culminating with Lili’s complicated and descriptive account of a phenomenal love story. Oh how I loved Lili’s and Diego’s story!!! Once again, BRAVO, BRAVO, BRAVO!!!!!
Priscilla Oliveras closes her series with an amazing coordination of the Fernandez family history and evolution culminating with Lili’s complicated and descriptive account of a phenomenal love story. Oh how I loved Lili’s and Diego’s story!!! Once again, BRAVO, BRAVO, BRAVO!!!!!
October 2, 2018
I haven't read the other books in this series and although this was a stand-alone it did mention other characters from previous books and, as with most series, it probably would have been nice to have read them first. But it didn't really detract from the story.
This book is about Lili and Diego. Lili is the youngest of the sisters from previous books, and works in a centre helping women in need. Diego is a cop. They meet when one of Lili's clients from the centre is attacked by her husband and calls Lili to help, along with the police. Lili and Diego immediately clash, but as the book goes on they warm to one another. It turns out that Diego also helps out at a centre Lili also helps out at, Diego with guitar lessons and Lili with self-defence classes. So they are both caring people helping those less fortunate in their community.
Diego did think he knew best a lot of the time though and instead of letting Lili just do her job he tried to protect her from various situations, which was a bit annoying as she was more than capable of looking after herself most of the time. But he came around eventually.
A light, quick, enjoyable read.
This book is about Lili and Diego. Lili is the youngest of the sisters from previous books, and works in a centre helping women in need. Diego is a cop. They meet when one of Lili's clients from the centre is attacked by her husband and calls Lili to help, along with the police. Lili and Diego immediately clash, but as the book goes on they warm to one another. It turns out that Diego also helps out at a centre Lili also helps out at, Diego with guitar lessons and Lili with self-defence classes. So they are both caring people helping those less fortunate in their community.
Diego did think he knew best a lot of the time though and instead of letting Lili just do her job he tried to protect her from various situations, which was a bit annoying as she was more than capable of looking after herself most of the time. But he came around eventually.
A light, quick, enjoyable read.
April 20, 2023
Once again the characters have great chemistry despite the fade to black style. In all of the books in the series the couple had a lot of conflict but in the other two I think it was more external things keeping them apart. This was another one of those stories with man made problems. Specifically the man made these problems. Also Diego is a cop I mean… but I love Lili, she’s probably my fav sister. Also she didn’t really have any trauma to overcome. Also I cry at the idea of Diego taking Ray’s place in his trio band at family parties. I wish she would have given us that finale epilogue. Also are we supposed to know Julia the cousin with the baseball player bf, is that a book I missed??
November 26, 2018
"Their Perfect Melody" by Priscilla Oliveras
I thoroughly enjoyed this contemporary family love and real life struggles story.
I chuckled and I shed a few tears while in the company of Lili and Diego.. and my memories of this story still have me smiling. I was one of the lucky ones who received an ARC of this story from the publisher via NetGalley. This is one of those stories that you just have to read another chapter before you can put the book down... and then maybe just a little bit more than that!
I thoroughly enjoyed this contemporary family love and real life struggles story.
I chuckled and I shed a few tears while in the company of Lili and Diego.. and my memories of this story still have me smiling. I was one of the lucky ones who received an ARC of this story from the publisher via NetGalley. This is one of those stories that you just have to read another chapter before you can put the book down... and then maybe just a little bit more than that!
December 3, 2018
I really liked this book, the characters were quite interesting and charming. The only thing that kept me from giving it 5 stars is that I got a little tired of Diego's constant dwelling on his family issues and I wish there had been more sweet scenes between Diego and Lili.
I know that it's normal and makes it believable for Diego to dwell on his problems, but I didn't want to read about them as much as I wanted to see more interactions between he and Lili, for the heat to build a little more slowly.
I know that it's normal and makes it believable for Diego to dwell on his problems, but I didn't want to read about them as much as I wanted to see more interactions between he and Lili, for the heat to build a little more slowly.
February 27, 2019
I had to skim this read because the characters were so hard headed and a bit obnoxious in their self righteousness. I mean Lili works in a women’s clinic and who has obviously seen her share of awful and yet Diego only sees her as naive, strong and confident, yet naive. He pushes her away when she seeks to help his sister, even though it’s what she does for living!
Plus, everything felt over explained. Plus, barely any actual sexy times. I bought their lust, not their love.
This just didn’t work for me, pretty much at all.
Plus, everything felt over explained. Plus, barely any actual sexy times. I bought their lust, not their love.
This just didn’t work for me, pretty much at all.
November 26, 2018
This was very good reading. It had romance, drug addiction, cops and their struggles with family, and hope. I loved that Lili worked with struggling women who needed help to be safe. Diego was a cop whose sister was one of those women. But as men often do, he wanted to be in control all the time. The story moved along well and I enjoyed all the characters. I got this book from NetGalley for an honest review
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