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Violin Words
WHO IS THE AUTHOR?
When Jade Lockwood begins to receive anonymous love letters, she becomes a woman on a mission.
She’s determined to figure out who wrote the flowery, over-the-top letters filled with the sweetest violin words she’s ever heard.
She’s neglected her love life, concentrating on Lockwood Cabins, the business her father built from the ground up. But her sweet letters have awakened something inside of her, something that can’t be ignored.
Facing Christmas alone this year, her emotions are already fragile. Add in a mysterious burglary, a handsome stranger, and a little deceit, and it just might be the most eventful Christmas she’s ever endured.
Will Jade find her happy ending? Or will her love letters prove to be nothing more than a sinister ploy?
Find out in this charming Christmas novel.
When Jade Lockwood begins to receive anonymous love letters, she becomes a woman on a mission.
She’s determined to figure out who wrote the flowery, over-the-top letters filled with the sweetest violin words she’s ever heard.
She’s neglected her love life, concentrating on Lockwood Cabins, the business her father built from the ground up. But her sweet letters have awakened something inside of her, something that can’t be ignored.
Facing Christmas alone this year, her emotions are already fragile. Add in a mysterious burglary, a handsome stranger, and a little deceit, and it just might be the most eventful Christmas she’s ever endured.
Will Jade find her happy ending? Or will her love letters prove to be nothing more than a sinister ploy?
Find out in this charming Christmas novel.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 19, 2018
16 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Taylor Dean
20 books750 followersTaylor Dean/Lee Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of clean romance in her line-up. Taylor has also jumped into the magical world of children’s books as Lee Taylor Dean, making one more dream into a reality.
Connect with Taylor on her website: www.taylordeanbooks.com
Connect with Taylor on her website: www.taylordeanbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 22, 2018
Nominated for a 2018 Swoony Award, vote here http://bit.ly/2CWYB9U
I'm having a bit of déjà vu writing this review. The very first book I read by Ms. Dean was a hard one for me to review. I couldn't review my normal way because I didn't want to give anything away. And that's exactly how it is for this one as well! So... heads up... there's a chance my review may contain spoilers. If you don't like spoilers then I suggest you stop reading because I'm not going to be held responsible for ruining the book for anyone! Haha.
Okay... you've been warned. If you're still reading then you can't get mad at me!
Jade Lockwood has been running Lockwood Cabins since her parents passed away. Her dream has always been to keep her father's legacy alive. She has put so much time and effort into keeping things going that her social life is definitely lacking.
When a love letter filled with sweet violin words arrives in the mail, it opens her eyes to the possibility of love. She knew that it would happen one day, she just hasn't had time to give it much thought. With the violin words fresh on her mind she can't help but wonder about the author. Is it someone she knows? A stranger? Is it someone she can love in return? Does she have a stalker?
Jade sets out to find the author of the letter but along the way starts to develop feelings for one of her guests. There's just something about Mr. Myles Burnett that draws her to him and unfortunately causes her to become a blubbering idiot whenever he's around. There's no way that he's the author of the letter but her heart is holding out hope that maybe... just maybe he is. Especially after they spend the perfect Christmas together.
However, she can't forget about Logan.. her handy man. He's always there to lend a hand whenever she needs him. If it hadn't been for the violin words, she might not have seen the way he looks at her. Is he author? Can she see herself falling in love with him?
But when a mysterious break-in occurs at her cabin, she'll have to put her search for the author on hold until she figures out who broke in and why. And to make matters worse, she discovers that Myles has been keeping something from her. She is heartbroken and torn. But she owes it to herself to see everything through. One way or another, she'll figure everything out and get her happily ever after.
You guys! I absolutely ADORED this book! It was super cute and I did NOT want to put it down! I was seriously getting mad when real life got in the way of my reading time! This is my first Christmas book of the season and it was the PERFECT choice! I found myself smiling throughout the book and letting out little dreamy sighs. Talk about swoony! Oh my! *dreamy sigh*
It's no wonder Ms. Dean is one of my favorite authors! She has a way of sucking me in and not letting me go till the very end! She's been an autobuy for me since I read Chasing Fireflies. If you haven't read any of her books then you are most definitely missing out! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
As for my casting... let's just say I'm giving nothing away here... ;) Hehe. What do you think?!
I'm having a bit of déjà vu writing this review. The very first book I read by Ms. Dean was a hard one for me to review. I couldn't review my normal way because I didn't want to give anything away. And that's exactly how it is for this one as well! So... heads up... there's a chance my review may contain spoilers. If you don't like spoilers then I suggest you stop reading because I'm not going to be held responsible for ruining the book for anyone! Haha.
Okay... you've been warned. If you're still reading then you can't get mad at me!
Jade Lockwood has been running Lockwood Cabins since her parents passed away. Her dream has always been to keep her father's legacy alive. She has put so much time and effort into keeping things going that her social life is definitely lacking.
When a love letter filled with sweet violin words arrives in the mail, it opens her eyes to the possibility of love. She knew that it would happen one day, she just hasn't had time to give it much thought. With the violin words fresh on her mind she can't help but wonder about the author. Is it someone she knows? A stranger? Is it someone she can love in return? Does she have a stalker?
Jade sets out to find the author of the letter but along the way starts to develop feelings for one of her guests. There's just something about Mr. Myles Burnett that draws her to him and unfortunately causes her to become a blubbering idiot whenever he's around. There's no way that he's the author of the letter but her heart is holding out hope that maybe... just maybe he is. Especially after they spend the perfect Christmas together.
However, she can't forget about Logan.. her handy man. He's always there to lend a hand whenever she needs him. If it hadn't been for the violin words, she might not have seen the way he looks at her. Is he author? Can she see herself falling in love with him?
But when a mysterious break-in occurs at her cabin, she'll have to put her search for the author on hold until she figures out who broke in and why. And to make matters worse, she discovers that Myles has been keeping something from her. She is heartbroken and torn. But she owes it to herself to see everything through. One way or another, she'll figure everything out and get her happily ever after.
You guys! I absolutely ADORED this book! It was super cute and I did NOT want to put it down! I was seriously getting mad when real life got in the way of my reading time! This is my first Christmas book of the season and it was the PERFECT choice! I found myself smiling throughout the book and letting out little dreamy sighs. Talk about swoony! Oh my! *dreamy sigh*
It's no wonder Ms. Dean is one of my favorite authors! She has a way of sucking me in and not letting me go till the very end! She's been an autobuy for me since I read Chasing Fireflies. If you haven't read any of her books then you are most definitely missing out! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
As for my casting... let's just say I'm giving nothing away here... ;) Hehe. What do you think?!
November 29, 2018
Taylor Dean has written another fantastic book. This was beautifully done! Just lovely actually.
The acknowledgments at the start of the book state that Taylor's mother requested she write a "Hallmarkish" novel with both romance and mystery. To be honest, as I started reading I was thinking the "mystery" portion of this story was going to be a little weak since I knew from the moment we met him who the author of the letters was. I was expecting predictable but I should have known better. This is, after all, Taylor Dean writing... She wove mystery into the story in a way I was not expecting.
If you a looking for a heartwarming book to read this holiday season pick up Violin Words. You'll love the characters, setting, and storyline. It is a perfectly done romance that will melt your heart and leave you asking: When is Taylor's next book going to be released? I have read and loved everything Taylor has written and wish she had more books already written. She only puts out two or three books each year but they are books worth waiting for and get bumped to the top of my to-read list.
If you have read Taylor's books then don't miss this one, if you haven't read her books you are missing out and should remedy that issue as soon as possible.
Content: Clean
The acknowledgments at the start of the book state that Taylor's mother requested she write a "Hallmarkish" novel with both romance and mystery. To be honest, as I started reading I was thinking the "mystery" portion of this story was going to be a little weak since I knew from the moment we met him who the author of the letters was. I was expecting predictable but I should have known better. This is, after all, Taylor Dean writing... She wove mystery into the story in a way I was not expecting.
If you a looking for a heartwarming book to read this holiday season pick up Violin Words. You'll love the characters, setting, and storyline. It is a perfectly done romance that will melt your heart and leave you asking: When is Taylor's next book going to be released? I have read and loved everything Taylor has written and wish she had more books already written. She only puts out two or three books each year but they are books worth waiting for and get bumped to the top of my to-read list.
If you have read Taylor's books then don't miss this one, if you haven't read her books you are missing out and should remedy that issue as soon as possible.
Content: Clean
November 27, 2018
Super adorable!
November 26, 2018
It's no secret that Taylor Dean is one of my favorite authors. I love reading her books. This book was a happy surprise for me this month because I didn't know it was coming! This book reminded me of a good Hallmark movie because it played out just like that in my head. I wish this was a Hallmark movie!!
Jade's life is wholly devoted to Lockwood Cabins. Her tunnel vision keeps her focused and on task as she meets the daily demands of running her family business, until she receives an anonymous love letter that tosses her whole life upside down. What a fun premise, right? Jade starts suspecting every single man she knows from the bug guy to the handyman to her best friend.
Then throw in a bit more mystery with a break in and an unexpected Christmas eve visitor and you have the perfect set up for romance and mystery that will keep you invested until the very last page. I really loved this story! It was so sweet, so tender. The perfect book to snuggle up with this holiday season! (don't forget your chocolate!!)
Content: kissing
-I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Jade's life is wholly devoted to Lockwood Cabins. Her tunnel vision keeps her focused and on task as she meets the daily demands of running her family business, until she receives an anonymous love letter that tosses her whole life upside down. What a fun premise, right? Jade starts suspecting every single man she knows from the bug guy to the handyman to her best friend.
Then throw in a bit more mystery with a break in and an unexpected Christmas eve visitor and you have the perfect set up for romance and mystery that will keep you invested until the very last page. I really loved this story! It was so sweet, so tender. The perfect book to snuggle up with this holiday season! (don't forget your chocolate!!)
Content: kissing
-I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 10, 2018
I love getting notes and letters. Isn't that just such a wonderful feeling? A letter shows up and has such kind words that it brightens your day and makes life a little bit brighter?
Story time for you...Julie's rambling thoughts have returned. While reading this book I couldn't help but think back on a couple key memories of receiving notes and letters, like Jade does in this book. I'm not talking about electronic messages on social media or email in my story time. I'm talking about a physical piece of paper, a pen and/or pencil and a cramp in your hand from writing. Both of my grandparents on my mom and dad's side were letter writers. I lived for the day as a young girl (and even as I aged) for when I could check the mailbox and pull out a letter from my grandparents. I still have many of those letters and treasure them as only one grandfather is living (and celebrates 90 years soon). One of my grandmothers was a widow and was the postmaster in her little community. She had a little one room store in her home that served as the post office as well as a little store to buy penny candies and such. She was always writing letters. She wrote letters to her husband and brothers when they were serving during WWII in Europe. She wrote letters to all of her family members. She wrote letters to people she lived by and their children. She wrote sweet little notes of encouragement to me and my hubby when we were first married. She made sure to write notes to each of my daughters clear up until she passed away. The thoughtfulness and love expressed in those notes are so special. Her love and true care for others showed through in her notes. But the fact that she took the time to write, actually handwrite and address and stamp those letters shows so much thoughtfulness on her part.
When she passed away and at her funeral most everyone who came to pay their respects and celebrate her long life said the same thing, "I cherished your grandmother's letters...I still have them...The saved me at a hard time in my life...She always brought joy into my life when I got a letter from her...I didn't have anybody else at the time but your grandma always let me know she cared."
What a great legacy she left behind.
Another story for you with my ramblings. Back in college (before I met my hubby) a friend introduced me to a friend. We had a fun time meeting and getting to know each other while he was up visiting our mutual friend. Then he went back to the state he was living in at the time and I stayed where I was. We communicated back and forth a lot via email. And let me tell you, it wasn't the super speedy fast internet connection of today. It was the super slow dial up email. Hahahahaha! Back when email first started. Great memories. I would check my email as soon as I got back to my apartment and wait for the painstakingly slow dial up sound to finish connecting and wait for the email to slowly pull up. Of course I learned to stop at different kiosks on campus and check my email there since they had a touch bit faster internet service than me. The thrill and excitement that came as I anticipated these silly but thoughtful email messages from some guy I was starting to like was so real. Then to read these silly and fun notes. It was such a boost to my day. I could most definitely be found with a perma-grin all day. My roommates knew when I'd received that email.
Then another little memory, still my college days. At church we could grab cute little bright colored papers and write "love notes" to each other. Just notes to say thank you and how are you today, to other friends. Sometimes they were anonymous and other times they were signed.
Now, what in the world do all three of these little walks down memory lane have to do with this review? I'm sure you're wondering. My letters from my grandma, exciting notes from someone I liked and "love notes" from friends are many different ways to show care and love for others. A person knows they are cared for and that you are sincere in your thoughts, words by your actions. Especially taking time to write a thoughtful message by hand. Well, I can't give you many details about this book because I can't spoil the thrill and sweetness of figuring out who is sending Jade these violin words in notes. But I can relate to her thrill and excitement. Someone writing beautiful, well thought out and sincere words to you is so uplifting. And Jade needs that in her life. Especially at this time in her life. She needs a champion in her corner, cheering her, and letting her know that she is noticed, loved, admired, and so much more.
I have to say that I enjoy highlighting passages in my books. When phrases touch me, I highlight them. And I highlighted a lot in this book. My heart was soaring as I read this sweet Christmas story. Jade was funny! She had me laughing out loud at all of her mixed up words that came out of her mouth at the most convenient (ok, not really convenient) times. Sometimes I feel like that. I go to talk and just fumble along. Then shake my head and think why was that so hard. I'm usually great at articulating myself but I just fumbled along on that moment. Anyone else feel that way? I know Jade does. *blushes* Honestly, I loved and adored Jade. The more I read in the book, the more I grew to know her and she just was a character who works her way into your heart and stays there. I loved how the author tied in family history into Jade's character and family as well as how it tied everything in the book together. Well done!
I really, really, really want to tell you about who writes the violin words and how much I absolutely adore his character. But, I'm going to refrain. Let me just reiterate...I LOVE HIS CHARACTER!!!!!!!! *happy sigh* He was perfect.
Just sitting her typing these thoughts about Jade and mystery violin words man, I want to go back and reread the book right now! I keep having different favorite scenes going through my mind...guitar, singing, Christmas, phone calls with her sister, cleaning, snow, the tree man, the handy man, the guest, the best friend, the bug man, Tall glass of water, family, Dear Jade..., Jade's tree, candlelight, kisses, quiet moments, family history, loss, sorrow, love and healing.
If you can't tell, I really highly recommend this one. And it's the perfect time of the year for you to grab it and get lost in the beauty and fun of it all. I laughed, I cried and I sighed. Don't read reviews that have spoilers, just do yourself that favor. Read the book and be beyond pleasantly surprised. Curl up with your special someone and enjoy some toasty warm hot cocoa, snuggle under a warm blanket and read this soul warming book. Taylor Dean, you're amazing! Let's all take some time to send a sweet note to someone on our mind. Whether that's a family member, friend or a someone you admire from afar! Happy writing!
Content: Clean. A mild moment of peril, sweet and swoony kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Story time for you...Julie's rambling thoughts have returned. While reading this book I couldn't help but think back on a couple key memories of receiving notes and letters, like Jade does in this book. I'm not talking about electronic messages on social media or email in my story time. I'm talking about a physical piece of paper, a pen and/or pencil and a cramp in your hand from writing. Both of my grandparents on my mom and dad's side were letter writers. I lived for the day as a young girl (and even as I aged) for when I could check the mailbox and pull out a letter from my grandparents. I still have many of those letters and treasure them as only one grandfather is living (and celebrates 90 years soon). One of my grandmothers was a widow and was the postmaster in her little community. She had a little one room store in her home that served as the post office as well as a little store to buy penny candies and such. She was always writing letters. She wrote letters to her husband and brothers when they were serving during WWII in Europe. She wrote letters to all of her family members. She wrote letters to people she lived by and their children. She wrote sweet little notes of encouragement to me and my hubby when we were first married. She made sure to write notes to each of my daughters clear up until she passed away. The thoughtfulness and love expressed in those notes are so special. Her love and true care for others showed through in her notes. But the fact that she took the time to write, actually handwrite and address and stamp those letters shows so much thoughtfulness on her part.
When she passed away and at her funeral most everyone who came to pay their respects and celebrate her long life said the same thing, "I cherished your grandmother's letters...I still have them...The saved me at a hard time in my life...She always brought joy into my life when I got a letter from her...I didn't have anybody else at the time but your grandma always let me know she cared."
What a great legacy she left behind.
Another story for you with my ramblings. Back in college (before I met my hubby) a friend introduced me to a friend. We had a fun time meeting and getting to know each other while he was up visiting our mutual friend. Then he went back to the state he was living in at the time and I stayed where I was. We communicated back and forth a lot via email. And let me tell you, it wasn't the super speedy fast internet connection of today. It was the super slow dial up email. Hahahahaha! Back when email first started. Great memories. I would check my email as soon as I got back to my apartment and wait for the painstakingly slow dial up sound to finish connecting and wait for the email to slowly pull up. Of course I learned to stop at different kiosks on campus and check my email there since they had a touch bit faster internet service than me. The thrill and excitement that came as I anticipated these silly but thoughtful email messages from some guy I was starting to like was so real. Then to read these silly and fun notes. It was such a boost to my day. I could most definitely be found with a perma-grin all day. My roommates knew when I'd received that email.
Then another little memory, still my college days. At church we could grab cute little bright colored papers and write "love notes" to each other. Just notes to say thank you and how are you today, to other friends. Sometimes they were anonymous and other times they were signed.
Now, what in the world do all three of these little walks down memory lane have to do with this review? I'm sure you're wondering. My letters from my grandma, exciting notes from someone I liked and "love notes" from friends are many different ways to show care and love for others. A person knows they are cared for and that you are sincere in your thoughts, words by your actions. Especially taking time to write a thoughtful message by hand. Well, I can't give you many details about this book because I can't spoil the thrill and sweetness of figuring out who is sending Jade these violin words in notes. But I can relate to her thrill and excitement. Someone writing beautiful, well thought out and sincere words to you is so uplifting. And Jade needs that in her life. Especially at this time in her life. She needs a champion in her corner, cheering her, and letting her know that she is noticed, loved, admired, and so much more.
I have to say that I enjoy highlighting passages in my books. When phrases touch me, I highlight them. And I highlighted a lot in this book. My heart was soaring as I read this sweet Christmas story. Jade was funny! She had me laughing out loud at all of her mixed up words that came out of her mouth at the most convenient (ok, not really convenient) times. Sometimes I feel like that. I go to talk and just fumble along. Then shake my head and think why was that so hard. I'm usually great at articulating myself but I just fumbled along on that moment. Anyone else feel that way? I know Jade does. *blushes* Honestly, I loved and adored Jade. The more I read in the book, the more I grew to know her and she just was a character who works her way into your heart and stays there. I loved how the author tied in family history into Jade's character and family as well as how it tied everything in the book together. Well done!
I really, really, really want to tell you about who writes the violin words and how much I absolutely adore his character. But, I'm going to refrain. Let me just reiterate...I LOVE HIS CHARACTER!!!!!!!! *happy sigh* He was perfect.
Just sitting her typing these thoughts about Jade and mystery violin words man, I want to go back and reread the book right now! I keep having different favorite scenes going through my mind...guitar, singing, Christmas, phone calls with her sister, cleaning, snow, the tree man, the handy man, the guest, the best friend, the bug man, Tall glass of water, family, Dear Jade..., Jade's tree, candlelight, kisses, quiet moments, family history, loss, sorrow, love and healing.
If you can't tell, I really highly recommend this one. And it's the perfect time of the year for you to grab it and get lost in the beauty and fun of it all. I laughed, I cried and I sighed. Don't read reviews that have spoilers, just do yourself that favor. Read the book and be beyond pleasantly surprised. Curl up with your special someone and enjoy some toasty warm hot cocoa, snuggle under a warm blanket and read this soul warming book. Taylor Dean, you're amazing! Let's all take some time to send a sweet note to someone on our mind. Whether that's a family member, friend or a someone you admire from afar! Happy writing!
Content: Clean. A mild moment of peril, sweet and swoony kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 8, 2019
4.5
Super cute! I really enjoyed this one. This had a great setting, likable characters, a dash of mystery and a charming Christmas ambiance. I enjoyed how the story unfolded, kept my interest and wanting to see how things would end up. Jade was a likable heroine, she made me chuckle a few times at the embarrassing things she’d say and do. It was endearing. Fun romance and an entertaining read.
Content: Clean romance, no language, no violence
Super cute! I really enjoyed this one. This had a great setting, likable characters, a dash of mystery and a charming Christmas ambiance. I enjoyed how the story unfolded, kept my interest and wanting to see how things would end up. Jade was a likable heroine, she made me chuckle a few times at the embarrassing things she’d say and do. It was endearing. Fun romance and an entertaining read.
Content: Clean romance, no language, no violence
November 1, 2018
This was a sweet Christmas story that had me getting excited about the upcoming holiday. Dean takes two very great main leads and weaves a fun, exciting story about falling in love and sharing the heart of the Christmas spirit with the people you love. I thoroughly enjoyed being swept away and getting lost in the snow, mountains and sweet feelings of blossoming love.
Don’t miss this fun, perfect holiday read by a master storyteller!
Don’t miss this fun, perfect holiday read by a master storyteller!
December 28, 2018
This charming Christmas tale is a throwback to sweet and simpler times. Jade is a woman driven by devotion to her father's dream and with her parents gone, she throws herself into carrying on their business. The Lockwood Cabins sound divine, with a beautifully secluded location and a homegrown touch of goodness. In fact, these cabins have captured every moment of Jade's life. When very sweet, secret, handwritten love letters start arriving for her, the romance in her is awakened and every man she knows is a suspect.
Jade embodies the nostalgia of the Christmas season. She embraces and thrives on the structure of tradition. The romance that blossoms was so perfectly sugary sweet and swoony, but as with any great story, it wasn't without its hardships, which makes it all the more sweet.
Ms. Dean has a way with words that struck a chord deep in my soul and resonated with me. Violin words. She fully captured the personality of characters, bringing them to life in a very dimensional and realistic way, and I enjoy every minute of every page.
Content: mild, swoony romance
Jade embodies the nostalgia of the Christmas season. She embraces and thrives on the structure of tradition. The romance that blossoms was so perfectly sugary sweet and swoony, but as with any great story, it wasn't without its hardships, which makes it all the more sweet.
Ms. Dean has a way with words that struck a chord deep in my soul and resonated with me. Violin words. She fully captured the personality of characters, bringing them to life in a very dimensional and realistic way, and I enjoy every minute of every page.
Content: mild, swoony romance
November 9, 2018
This sweet Christmas romance was a fun journey of the heart—like all Taylor Dean books are. Jade Lockwood runs the Lockwood cabins resort. It is her parents’ legacy, and she pours her heart into the venture. But that has left her with no social life these past few years. But that all changes when she begins receiving love letters from an anonymous stranger—ME. As she tries to discover who is behind the Violin Words—so sweet and soothing—that she is receiving, she doesn’t know whether to be thrilled or terrified. Is it someone she knows, or is it a scary stalker? With a long list of “could-be’s”, Jade sets out to identify The Author. But the mystery deepens as a break-in and theft occur at the resort. She doesn’t know what to think anymore. But her heart knows who she wishes The Author to be. A sweet, heartwarming romance with a twist of mystery and suspense all wrapped up in Christmas magic that makes this one hard to put down. ***I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for leaving an honest review.
December 17, 2022
4.5 stars
Loved the premise, loved the story. It starts out just a little slow, but then again that may have been my impatience to know who the letter writer was. Some of it was predictable, but there were still some surprises. The happily-ever-after was lovely! This one's a definite reread for me!
Romance level: sweet, romantic kisses, nothing graphic
Loved the premise, loved the story. It starts out just a little slow, but then again that may have been my impatience to know who the letter writer was. Some of it was predictable, but there were still some surprises. The happily-ever-after was lovely! This one's a definite reread for me!
Romance level: sweet, romantic kisses, nothing graphic
December 18, 2022
I absolutely loved this novel/novella. It was so romantic and I was enraptured the entire time. :)
The premise was a bit odd and I wasn’t sure if I’d like it or not. But the author handled it SO well, and I ended up loving every minute! I enjoyed every bit of the story so much that I think I basically read the book twice over since I reread so many scenes between the two of them, just to savor their chemistry.
The love interest didn’t start out on a great foot, and at first I wasn’t too sure about him. I mean, surely any guy who says stiff, formal things like, “Jade is such a beautiful name for a young lady,” is a total weirdo, right? Plus it’s a pet peeve of mine when book characters say the other person’s name too much in a single one-on-one conversation:
“May I please get my mail, Jade?”
“Have a good night, Jade.”
“Thank you, Jade.”
“Don’t forget to lock your door, Jade.”
Gah, make it stop. It’s so jarring. People just don’t talk like that. BUT despite this irritating writing weakness, somehow the author succeeded in getting me to fall in love with him. Head over heels. The fact that he became MUCH less stilted and more human helped. Lol. His awkwardness was at least partly intentional, and he stopped, so it all worked out.
I love the main characters in the book. The heroine is smart and capable but also appreciates being taken care of, and even carried upon occasion when she’s injured and isn’t able to walk. I like that balance between independence and dependence. The hero wants to protect her, and does, but also respects her autonomy and desires. He is so sincere, devoted, and sweet while still being manly and successful. I’m a sucker for a protective man.
I love how they both forgave the perpetrator. They even helped him while still maintaining personal boundaries. That was so cool, since forgiveness and compassion aren’t particularly popular in book characters these days.
All in all, I found this romance to be immensely fulfilling and fun. It just hit all the right buttons for me. I even liked that they got married quickly in the epilogue and I didn’t mind that they started their family quickly. I was entirely convinced that they were perfectly happy and in love. I didn’t find this book cheesy at all. Tbh, I hate cheesy. Hence, I can’t stomach Hallmark movies or dorky “sweet romances” that are a dime and dozen. I have to have sympathetic characters and great chemistry in the books I read, and this one was a winner.
Content:
Language- no swearing
Sex- no sex or talk of sex. Very clean. I could have had more descriptive kisses, but that’s okay. ;) While it didn’t come out and say it, I got the impression they were saving sex for marriage, which is unusual and refreshing in the romance genre. Also, I want to point out that the chemistry was off the charts imo, so sex is not necessary for high chemistry!
Cover- meh
I read this on KU
The premise was a bit odd and I wasn’t sure if I’d like it or not. But the author handled it SO well, and I ended up loving every minute! I enjoyed every bit of the story so much that I think I basically read the book twice over since I reread so many scenes between the two of them, just to savor their chemistry.
The love interest didn’t start out on a great foot, and at first I wasn’t too sure about him. I mean, surely any guy who says stiff, formal things like, “Jade is such a beautiful name for a young lady,” is a total weirdo, right? Plus it’s a pet peeve of mine when book characters say the other person’s name too much in a single one-on-one conversation:
“May I please get my mail, Jade?”
“Have a good night, Jade.”
“Thank you, Jade.”
“Don’t forget to lock your door, Jade.”
Gah, make it stop. It’s so jarring. People just don’t talk like that. BUT despite this irritating writing weakness, somehow the author succeeded in getting me to fall in love with him. Head over heels. The fact that he became MUCH less stilted and more human helped. Lol. His awkwardness was at least partly intentional, and he stopped, so it all worked out.
I love the main characters in the book. The heroine is smart and capable but also appreciates being taken care of, and even carried upon occasion when she’s injured and isn’t able to walk. I like that balance between independence and dependence. The hero wants to protect her, and does, but also respects her autonomy and desires. He is so sincere, devoted, and sweet while still being manly and successful. I’m a sucker for a protective man.
I love how they both forgave the perpetrator. They even helped him while still maintaining personal boundaries. That was so cool, since forgiveness and compassion aren’t particularly popular in book characters these days.
All in all, I found this romance to be immensely fulfilling and fun. It just hit all the right buttons for me. I even liked that they got married quickly in the epilogue and I didn’t mind that they started their family quickly. I was entirely convinced that they were perfectly happy and in love. I didn’t find this book cheesy at all. Tbh, I hate cheesy. Hence, I can’t stomach Hallmark movies or dorky “sweet romances” that are a dime and dozen. I have to have sympathetic characters and great chemistry in the books I read, and this one was a winner.
Content:
Language- no swearing
Sex- no sex or talk of sex. Very clean. I could have had more descriptive kisses, but that’s okay. ;) While it didn’t come out and say it, I got the impression they were saving sex for marriage, which is unusual and refreshing in the romance genre. Also, I want to point out that the chemistry was off the charts imo, so sex is not necessary for high chemistry!
Cover- meh
I read this on KU
November 23, 2018
Heartwarming
This was a short heartwarming tale that was perfect for Christmas. The wonderful intrigue of who the author is and another small mystery balanced this book out beautifully. Recommended for a hallmark type read.
This was a short heartwarming tale that was perfect for Christmas. The wonderful intrigue of who the author is and another small mystery balanced this book out beautifully. Recommended for a hallmark type read.
December 21, 2022
A Must Read!
For anyone that hasn’t read a book by this author, go pick up one now. Taylor Dean is so talented in letting us as readers get inside her characters’ heads, and really bringing her stories to life.
I loved the title of this one, and the meaning behind it. The idea that written words could be so powerful, so beautiful, that they remind you of the soul-wrenching sound of a violin really touched me. The letters our protagonist Jade got were like music to my ears, or to any girls’ ears really.
Jade is a sweet and good-hearted woman with an inner strength. Our hero is oh-so-swoon-worthy, and that’s about all I can say about him without giving anything away.
LOVED this story, and will definitely be reading it again!
For anyone that hasn’t read a book by this author, go pick up one now. Taylor Dean is so talented in letting us as readers get inside her characters’ heads, and really bringing her stories to life.
I loved the title of this one, and the meaning behind it. The idea that written words could be so powerful, so beautiful, that they remind you of the soul-wrenching sound of a violin really touched me. The letters our protagonist Jade got were like music to my ears, or to any girls’ ears really.
Jade is a sweet and good-hearted woman with an inner strength. Our hero is oh-so-swoon-worthy, and that’s about all I can say about him without giving anything away.
LOVED this story, and will definitely be reading it again!
December 31, 2018
The author of Violin Word, Taylor Dean, grabs the reader’s attention in the first chapter. She opens the book with an anonymous love letter to Jade, the heroine of the book.
Jade’s family owns a hotel, Lockwood Cabins. When her parents die, they pass the hotel onto to their five daughters. However, Jade is the only sister who wants to stay in town. Therefore, she bought her sisters out, and runs the hotel herself. She is surprised when she receives this love letter because she has never had time for dates or any other type of social life.
There are, also, three men in this book. Myles Burnett is currently a guest at the hotel. He has been there for months because of some kind of work he does in the city. He is so handsome and classy that, every time Jade sees him, she is clumsy and has trouble speaking.
Logan Yates is Jade’s handyman. He often substitutes for Jade in the front office if she needs to go somewhere. He often brings her lunch or a pastry, and they eat them “amidst lazy conversation.”
Dylan Riker and Jade have known each other since kindergarten. He is a successful real estate agent. He and Jade act like “goofballs when we’re together.”
Meanwhile, Jade gets more letters as she tries to figure out who sent them to her. Also, during this time, there is a break-in while Jade is sleeping. The robber steals a sentimental bible mounted on the front office hall of the hotel.
This story is an intriguing suspense in which the author often manages to confuse the readers as we try to figure out who wrote the love letter and who robbed the hotel.
This book is written in the first person, but Ms. Dean skillfully does it in a way so that the reader feels like she is reading Jade’s diary. This point of view adds to the mystery because we only ever hear Jade’s thoughts. As I was reading, I often changed my mind often over “whodunit.”
I have read and enjoyed many of this author’s books, but Violin Words has become one of my favorite of them.
Jade’s family owns a hotel, Lockwood Cabins. When her parents die, they pass the hotel onto to their five daughters. However, Jade is the only sister who wants to stay in town. Therefore, she bought her sisters out, and runs the hotel herself. She is surprised when she receives this love letter because she has never had time for dates or any other type of social life.
There are, also, three men in this book. Myles Burnett is currently a guest at the hotel. He has been there for months because of some kind of work he does in the city. He is so handsome and classy that, every time Jade sees him, she is clumsy and has trouble speaking.
Logan Yates is Jade’s handyman. He often substitutes for Jade in the front office if she needs to go somewhere. He often brings her lunch or a pastry, and they eat them “amidst lazy conversation.”
Dylan Riker and Jade have known each other since kindergarten. He is a successful real estate agent. He and Jade act like “goofballs when we’re together.”
Meanwhile, Jade gets more letters as she tries to figure out who sent them to her. Also, during this time, there is a break-in while Jade is sleeping. The robber steals a sentimental bible mounted on the front office hall of the hotel.
This story is an intriguing suspense in which the author often manages to confuse the readers as we try to figure out who wrote the love letter and who robbed the hotel.
This book is written in the first person, but Ms. Dean skillfully does it in a way so that the reader feels like she is reading Jade’s diary. This point of view adds to the mystery because we only ever hear Jade’s thoughts. As I was reading, I often changed my mind often over “whodunit.”
I have read and enjoyed many of this author’s books, but Violin Words has become one of my favorite of them.
December 3, 2018
Jade Lockwood has a lot of dreams, but they all center around making Lockwood Cabins a more successful business. Until she starts receiving mysterious love letters. Then she starts seeing all the men in her life differently as she sets out to discover who is writing her the letters.
December 12, 2019
Taylor Dean is becoming one of my favorite authors. This book had me laughing out loud with the main characters nervous flubs. Fun read.
December 23, 2023
This was my first book by Taylor Dean and I can’t wait to read more by her. I fell in love with this beautiful story. The romance was so tender and sweet and the mystery of the letter and break in had me quickly turning pages. It would make the perfect Hallmark movie. This one is going on my reread list!
December 20, 2021
Cute, sweet and cozy
This was cute, sweet and cozy, with the emotional depth that I love and have come to expect from a Taylor Dean book! Definitely will be reading this one again soon!
This was cute, sweet and cozy, with the emotional depth that I love and have come to expect from a Taylor Dean book! Definitely will be reading this one again soon!
November 29, 2018
Loved this book, it has all the feels and chills, love, romance, Christmas, and mystery, beautiful letters and a mysterious writer, will Jade find her secret admirer, will she find love, and who is in her house, Lockwood at night...while she sleeps?? This is a must read!!
November 21, 2019
Oh my gosh! What a fantastic Christmas Story! Loved it! I want to print those letters out and frame them. This novel was full of everything you need to get ready for the season! Love and trust! Thanks Taylor! 💜💜💜 Enjoy!
December 17, 2018
A quick read, set at Christmas. A suspense that kept me guessing.
January 22, 2019
Violin Words is unashamedly romantic, but it was such a sweet read and I fell in love with Myles almost as much as Jade did. His letters were pure poetry and would move even the coldest of hearts. I was touched by his beautiful words. If only such men existed in real life (sigh!)
April 25, 2019
Taylor's novels have an element of depth few capture in romance. At times it may feel like to much introspection, but it brings a real level that touches the heart.
December 9, 2019
I love this story so much.
Content: clean
Content: clean
March 1, 2019
I loved Taylor Dean's I'm With You. It's one of my favorite books of hers. She has a way with words that draws the emotions from deep within your being when reading her books. You can't help but feel the author's words. Violin Words is another one of her amazing stories. The things the Author of the anonymous love letters writes to Jade are so beautifully worded, and gets more and more so with each letter. I was truly and utterly wowed.
Also, I love how Ms. Dean dangles the idea of more than one possibility for the actual Author of the letters; leaving Jade guessing at who her secret admirer could be. At the same time, I was getting anxious because I know who I "wanted" it to be, and was practically chomping at the bit to see if he turned out to be the one I'd hope Jade would end up with. I was not disappointed. I really loved this amazing story!💖
Also, I love how Ms. Dean dangles the idea of more than one possibility for the actual Author of the letters; leaving Jade guessing at who her secret admirer could be. At the same time, I was getting anxious because I know who I "wanted" it to be, and was practically chomping at the bit to see if he turned out to be the one I'd hope Jade would end up with. I was not disappointed. I really loved this amazing story!💖
December 13, 2018
Christmas spice and everything nice! If you are looking for a great Christmas story that will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside, then look no further! Taylor Dean has done it again! The love that she pours into her books shines through in this story. And in true Dean fashion, you don't only get romance but a little mystery as well!
*I received a copy of this book for an honest review*
*I received a copy of this book for an honest review*
January 27, 2019
Totally sappy fun romance. Quick read perfect swoony moments. I mean, the love letters were a little too good to be true! 😍
One complaint. I didn’t like her use of the word libido...like here’s a work focused gal who all of the sudden sees potential around her and she references a few times that all of the sudden her libido is acting crazy....uh 😂 okay.
One complaint. I didn’t like her use of the word libido...like here’s a work focused gal who all of the sudden sees potential around her and she references a few times that all of the sudden her libido is acting crazy....uh 😂 okay.
March 20, 2020
I thought the letters were way more creepy stalker than love letters. Kisses only
December 13, 2023
Yeah, this one wasn't for me. Did not like the protagonist. She came off as clueless, and I didn't really care for the story. I skimmed through half of it.
January 8, 2025
Good story. 3.5 stars. Didn’t like it as much as some of her others but still decent.
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