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Concerto
When Catriona Drouot, a young music therapist, honours an opera diva's dying request to help her son, Umberto Monteverdi, recover his musical gift, she knows it will be a difficult assignment. She had shared a night of passion with the once-celebrated composer ten years before, with unexpected consequences.
The extent of her challenge becomes apparent when she arrives at her client's estate on the glittering shores of Lake Como, Italy. Robbed of his sight by a nearfatal car accident, the man is arrogant, embittered and resistant to her every effort to help him. Still, Catriona sings a siren's call within him that he cannot ignore.
Caught up in the tempestuous intrigues at Umberto's Palladian mansion, Catriona discovers that her attraction to the blind musician is as powerful as ever. How can she share what she has hidden from him for the past decade? Soon she realises that hers is not the only secret that is rippling uneasily below the surface. Dark forces haunt the sightless composer, threatening his life - for the second time.
Concerto is a sensual and romantic story of lost love and forgiveness, destiny and difficult choices, and of a heroine determined to put things right at last.
The extent of her challenge becomes apparent when she arrives at her client's estate on the glittering shores of Lake Como, Italy. Robbed of his sight by a nearfatal car accident, the man is arrogant, embittered and resistant to her every effort to help him. Still, Catriona sings a siren's call within him that he cannot ignore.
Caught up in the tempestuous intrigues at Umberto's Palladian mansion, Catriona discovers that her attraction to the blind musician is as powerful as ever. How can she share what she has hidden from him for the past decade? Soon she realises that hers is not the only secret that is rippling uneasily below the surface. Dark forces haunt the sightless composer, threatening his life - for the second time.
Concerto is a sensual and romantic story of lost love and forgiveness, destiny and difficult choices, and of a heroine determined to put things right at last.
- GenresRomance
528 pages, Hardcover
Published August 1, 2019
2 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Fielding
18 books636 followersHannah Fielding is an incurable romantic. The seeds for her writing career were sown in early childhood, spent in Egypt, when she came to an agreement with her governess Zula: for each fairy story Zula told, Hannah would invent and relate one of her own. Years later – following a degree in French literature, several years of travelling in Europe, falling in love with an Englishman, the arrival of two beautiful children and a career in property development – Hannah decided after so many years of yearning to write that the time was now. Today, she lives the dream: writing full time at her homes in England and Ireland, and in the South of France, where she dreams up romances overlooking breath-taking views of the Mediterranean.
To date, Hannah has published eight novels: Burning Embers, set in Kenya; The Echoes of Love, set in Italy; the Andalucian Nights trilogy (Indiscretion, Masquerade and Legacy), set in Spain; Aphrodite’s Tears, set on the Greek islands; Concerto, set on Lake Como; and Song of the Nile, set in Hannah's homeland, Egypt.
To date, Hannah has published eight novels: Burning Embers, set in Kenya; The Echoes of Love, set in Italy; the Andalucian Nights trilogy (Indiscretion, Masquerade and Legacy), set in Spain; Aphrodite’s Tears, set on the Greek islands; Concerto, set on Lake Como; and Song of the Nile, set in Hannah's homeland, Egypt.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
June 12, 2019
My review on www.bookread2day.wordpress.com
I felt like I was at the opera from the comfort of my sofa, while reading this beautiful story.
Catriona Drouot runs a psychology practice, one of the best in Nice. Catriona specialized in a variety of psychological disciplines, it was music therapy that was close to heart as ten years before she had an ambition to become an International opera singer.
I really liked the theme Catronia having a business in music therapy, I thought that this was a wonderful idea, so refreshing.
When diva Calandra Rolando Monteverdi visited Catriona's clinic it wasn't to be seen as a patient, but to persuade Catriona, to move to Torno to save her son Umberto Rolando Monteverdi who is the greatest concert pianist composer, who became blind four years ago.
I do love a diva who demands that you must do what she says.
How can Catriona move to Torno to help Umberto, as she has a clinic to run and family?
But diva Calandra knows that there was history ten years ago with Catriona and Umberto.
I loved reading about Catriona and Umberto. I also loved reading about diva Calandra, I could just picture her.
This is one of the most beautiful romantic storylines that I have read in quite some time.
I felt like I was at the opera from the comfort of my sofa, while reading this beautiful story.
Catriona Drouot runs a psychology practice, one of the best in Nice. Catriona specialized in a variety of psychological disciplines, it was music therapy that was close to heart as ten years before she had an ambition to become an International opera singer.
I really liked the theme Catronia having a business in music therapy, I thought that this was a wonderful idea, so refreshing.
When diva Calandra Rolando Monteverdi visited Catriona's clinic it wasn't to be seen as a patient, but to persuade Catriona, to move to Torno to save her son Umberto Rolando Monteverdi who is the greatest concert pianist composer, who became blind four years ago.
I do love a diva who demands that you must do what she says.
How can Catriona move to Torno to help Umberto, as she has a clinic to run and family?
But diva Calandra knows that there was history ten years ago with Catriona and Umberto.
I loved reading about Catriona and Umberto. I also loved reading about diva Calandra, I could just picture her.
This is one of the most beautiful romantic storylines that I have read in quite some time.
May 27, 2019
3.5 Stars.
Passionate, mysterious, and exceptionally descriptive!
Concerto is a captivating, enigmatic tale about the power of love; the lengths that one will go to for it and the unimaginable things one often does in the name of it.
The prose is evocative and lush. The characters are fervent, secretive, and flawed. And the plot, although a little slow at times, is a sweeping saga laced from start to finish with palpable emotion, colourful imagery, longing, desperation, heartbreak, greed, jealousy, first loves, and heartwrenching romance.
Overall, Concerto is a dramatic, mysterious, enticing, love story that does a wonderful job of highlighting the magic of music and its ability to, universally, heal the mind, body, heart, and soul.
Thank you to London Wall Publishers and Midas PR for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Passionate, mysterious, and exceptionally descriptive!
Concerto is a captivating, enigmatic tale about the power of love; the lengths that one will go to for it and the unimaginable things one often does in the name of it.
The prose is evocative and lush. The characters are fervent, secretive, and flawed. And the plot, although a little slow at times, is a sweeping saga laced from start to finish with palpable emotion, colourful imagery, longing, desperation, heartbreak, greed, jealousy, first loves, and heartwrenching romance.
Overall, Concerto is a dramatic, mysterious, enticing, love story that does a wonderful job of highlighting the magic of music and its ability to, universally, heal the mind, body, heart, and soul.
Thank you to London Wall Publishers and Midas PR for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2020
I love this author's books with how descriptive they are. She richly describes the setting and you can fully imagine yourself there.
Very romantic , an epic love story.
A talented young music therapist accepts an assignment that could be her undoing.
She carries a secret with her about her past that if found out could put at risk everything she has worked so hard towards or bring her an unbelievable happiness. She must decide what it's worth and how to proceed.
I have read many books by this author and they are so well written, just unforgettable!
Pub Date 01 Aug 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Very romantic , an epic love story.
A talented young music therapist accepts an assignment that could be her undoing.
She carries a secret with her about her past that if found out could put at risk everything she has worked so hard towards or bring her an unbelievable happiness. She must decide what it's worth and how to proceed.
I have read many books by this author and they are so well written, just unforgettable!
Pub Date 01 Aug 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
July 24, 2019
First things first, this might be a tome of a book but you need to read it for the breathtaking, picturesque backdrop. Every time I sat with this book, I was transported to Nice and Lake Como. It’s captivating and instantly made me fall in love with the concept of the plot (a romance amidst great view is every Bollywood movie fanatic’s dream)
Now, the plot itself is a bit mainstream and cliche. Catriona is a music therapist, who is about to heal a man she met 10 years ago- Umberto Monteverdi. After a brief one night stand, these two love birds fell in love (10 years ago). In the present day, however, Umberto is Blind and Catriona- his savior. Their actual story unfolds slowly and dramatically as Catriona is conflicted between hiding her true self and laying bare her soul to Umberto, whereas Umberto has a lot of emotional baggage to carry and process. Their personalities are so different and it’s fun to watch them interact. Right from their thoughts to their feelings, the intensity of it all has been put down quite brilliantly.
‘Concerto’ is a page-turner, in spite of a predictable plot. Catriona and Umberto’s chemistry is unmistakable and that’s what makes this a great story. However, the plot tends to get overly dramatic at places, by that I mean reallyyyy…… dramatic. I made my peace with the ‘falling in love after a one night stand’ but emotionally the story can take a toll, to the point of it being annoying (my personal opinion of course).
But, this love story is a romance lover’s dream. If you believe in grand gestures, soul mates, some exquisite music and happily ever after, this story has everything and more.
Now, the plot itself is a bit mainstream and cliche. Catriona is a music therapist, who is about to heal a man she met 10 years ago- Umberto Monteverdi. After a brief one night stand, these two love birds fell in love (10 years ago). In the present day, however, Umberto is Blind and Catriona- his savior. Their actual story unfolds slowly and dramatically as Catriona is conflicted between hiding her true self and laying bare her soul to Umberto, whereas Umberto has a lot of emotional baggage to carry and process. Their personalities are so different and it’s fun to watch them interact. Right from their thoughts to their feelings, the intensity of it all has been put down quite brilliantly.
‘Concerto’ is a page-turner, in spite of a predictable plot. Catriona and Umberto’s chemistry is unmistakable and that’s what makes this a great story. However, the plot tends to get overly dramatic at places, by that I mean reallyyyy…… dramatic. I made my peace with the ‘falling in love after a one night stand’ but emotionally the story can take a toll, to the point of it being annoying (my personal opinion of course).
But, this love story is a romance lover’s dream. If you believe in grand gestures, soul mates, some exquisite music and happily ever after, this story has everything and more.
June 4, 2019
Catriona is a music therapist who was once on the track to become an opera singer. That is, until she met the great composer Umberto Monteverdi. After a torrid night spent together, Umberto leaves her high and dry. 10 years later, he becomes blind and guess which music therapist is roped in to save the guy? Catriona, of course! But she’s carrying secrets, he’s carrying baggage–how the two process everything and get back together forms the rest of the story.
Concerto is another angsty page turner from Hannah Fielding. However, even I, the connoisseur of all things angsty, wasn’t able to tolerate some of the angst in this book. I just found it a little difficult to root for two characters who had supposedly fallen in love through a one night stand. But I am a cynic, so I know I don’t speak for all readers.
Once again, Fielding has proved how strong her knowledge of Italy and mythology is in this book. At 530 pages, at least 20% of this book is adjective-strewn descriptions of places in Italy and the stories and myths that surround them. Get your passports ready, folks, for these parts of the book will definitely have you checking flight prices to Italy. I don’t know if this geography and mythology is for everyone, however, so fair warning!
The downside to being a hardcore cynic who reads romance novels is I find it very hard to believe certain things in them. In this novel, it was all the grand declarations of love. I found them contrived.
Overall, Concerto is an engaging, angst-filled romance novel which you should definitely read if you like hell a lot of pining, music, and, the secret baby trope.
Concerto is another angsty page turner from Hannah Fielding. However, even I, the connoisseur of all things angsty, wasn’t able to tolerate some of the angst in this book. I just found it a little difficult to root for two characters who had supposedly fallen in love through a one night stand. But I am a cynic, so I know I don’t speak for all readers.
Once again, Fielding has proved how strong her knowledge of Italy and mythology is in this book. At 530 pages, at least 20% of this book is adjective-strewn descriptions of places in Italy and the stories and myths that surround them. Get your passports ready, folks, for these parts of the book will definitely have you checking flight prices to Italy. I don’t know if this geography and mythology is for everyone, however, so fair warning!
The downside to being a hardcore cynic who reads romance novels is I find it very hard to believe certain things in them. In this novel, it was all the grand declarations of love. I found them contrived.
Overall, Concerto is an engaging, angst-filled romance novel which you should definitely read if you like hell a lot of pining, music, and, the secret baby trope.
October 23, 2019
Hannah Fielding’s ‘Concerto’ is a different kind of read from what I’m used to.
There’s something about the style of storytelling of ‘Concerto’ that feels very old school: long and languid descriptive sentences, with the determination to paint every picture of an exotic locale to exhaustion, and the inclusion of every emotion, no matter how minute. In fact, ‘Concerto’ is very reminiscent of an older style of historical romance that I used to read but have since moved past; as a result, I did find myself skipping through all the pages.
For those who love all things European, or rather, anything that remotely has a French or Italian connection, along with music, ‘Concerto’ is the read for you. There are beautiful parts written about Italy and the exploration of emotions of a wide-eyed girl—a romanticised version, so to speak, of the Old World wonders, the splendour of music and the first, heart-racing flushes of infatuation.
But there are tropes in here that probably pushed all my wrong buttons and as someone who’s more used to a faster pace and rather stereotypical characters (with dated attitudes) who behave like they’re in a soap opera, it wasn’t long before I realised ‘Concerto’ isn’t quite my kind of read—and this is clearly a matter of personal preference than the storytelling itself.
In fact, I found Umberto a detestable and unrepentant lothario, or rather, manwhore who went through countless women with romantic, poetic language and would would have probably carried on that way had it not been an accident that blinded him, while Catriona was too much of a wallflower who fell at his feet too easily for my liking. Throw some of my jaded cynicism in about them falling in love (?) after a one night stand 10 years ago and the suspension of disbelief had to work overtime.
I wished ‘Concerto’ could have been less of a disappointment, seeing how much I love the subject matter of the story, but there were simply too many stumbling blocks in here to even complete this.
*ARC by the author via The Romance Reviews
There’s something about the style of storytelling of ‘Concerto’ that feels very old school: long and languid descriptive sentences, with the determination to paint every picture of an exotic locale to exhaustion, and the inclusion of every emotion, no matter how minute. In fact, ‘Concerto’ is very reminiscent of an older style of historical romance that I used to read but have since moved past; as a result, I did find myself skipping through all the pages.
For those who love all things European, or rather, anything that remotely has a French or Italian connection, along with music, ‘Concerto’ is the read for you. There are beautiful parts written about Italy and the exploration of emotions of a wide-eyed girl—a romanticised version, so to speak, of the Old World wonders, the splendour of music and the first, heart-racing flushes of infatuation.
But there are tropes in here that probably pushed all my wrong buttons and as someone who’s more used to a faster pace and rather stereotypical characters (with dated attitudes) who behave like they’re in a soap opera, it wasn’t long before I realised ‘Concerto’ isn’t quite my kind of read—and this is clearly a matter of personal preference than the storytelling itself.
In fact, I found Umberto a detestable and unrepentant lothario, or rather, manwhore who went through countless women with romantic, poetic language and would would have probably carried on that way had it not been an accident that blinded him, while Catriona was too much of a wallflower who fell at his feet too easily for my liking. Throw some of my jaded cynicism in about them falling in love (?) after a one night stand 10 years ago and the suspension of disbelief had to work overtime.
I wished ‘Concerto’ could have been less of a disappointment, seeing how much I love the subject matter of the story, but there were simply too many stumbling blocks in here to even complete this.
*ARC by the author via The Romance Reviews
July 5, 2019
Concerto is the next book by Hannah Fielding and I am so excited to share my review with you all. If you are a lover of romantic books and haven’t read the author’s works yet, then let me tell you, you don’t know what you’re missing!
I shall begin with giving you a short summary before proceeding with the review.
Summary
Catriona Drouot is a music therapist in Nice and when she is approached by a famous opera singer for her son, Umberto’s treatment, she is in a dilemma. As she had spent a wild night with Umberto many years ago, she is reluctant to face him again. But her duty as a doctor overrides her personal conflicting emotions and she accepts.
She finds herself drawn towards Umberto again, but this time she cannot let her feelings take control. She is here to treat Umberto and will do just that. If only her feelings would mind their own business!
What I Liked
I always enjoy reading Hannah’s books. They aren’t your regular, mushy love stories, you know. They have romance, depth and emotions and that, in my opinion, makes for a complete reading experience.
In this particular book, too, the author has outdone herself. The story is set in the Lake Como region of Italy. Hannah not only paints a moving story but also gives the reader a thorough walk-through of the lifestyle and goings-on of the region. The characters are real and can be related to. The author chooses a different region in each of her stories and she explains the whereabouts with such clarity that the reader travels with her everywhere. I must say it a bonus for any travel enthusiast, like myself.
The narrative is absolutely smooth, and the reader simply flows with the story. Overall, it is a beautiful, emotional tale which will leave a smile on your lips at the end.
What I Did Not Like
Absolutely nothing.
Other Details
Other than Concerto, I have reviewed (and loved!) Hannah’s previous books too.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes! Concerto is a beautiful story filled with music and love, all happening at the backdrop of the scenic Lake Como. A perfect setting for a perfect love story!
I shall begin with giving you a short summary before proceeding with the review.
Summary
Catriona Drouot is a music therapist in Nice and when she is approached by a famous opera singer for her son, Umberto’s treatment, she is in a dilemma. As she had spent a wild night with Umberto many years ago, she is reluctant to face him again. But her duty as a doctor overrides her personal conflicting emotions and she accepts.
She finds herself drawn towards Umberto again, but this time she cannot let her feelings take control. She is here to treat Umberto and will do just that. If only her feelings would mind their own business!
What I Liked
I always enjoy reading Hannah’s books. They aren’t your regular, mushy love stories, you know. They have romance, depth and emotions and that, in my opinion, makes for a complete reading experience.
In this particular book, too, the author has outdone herself. The story is set in the Lake Como region of Italy. Hannah not only paints a moving story but also gives the reader a thorough walk-through of the lifestyle and goings-on of the region. The characters are real and can be related to. The author chooses a different region in each of her stories and she explains the whereabouts with such clarity that the reader travels with her everywhere. I must say it a bonus for any travel enthusiast, like myself.
The narrative is absolutely smooth, and the reader simply flows with the story. Overall, it is a beautiful, emotional tale which will leave a smile on your lips at the end.
What I Did Not Like
Absolutely nothing.
Other Details
Other than Concerto, I have reviewed (and loved!) Hannah’s previous books too.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes! Concerto is a beautiful story filled with music and love, all happening at the backdrop of the scenic Lake Como. A perfect setting for a perfect love story!
June 9, 2019
five stars,
Beguiling romantic read
Catriona Droucot, tall, elegant beautiful, had trained to be an opera singer. She now devotes her energies to helping others via psychology and music therapy. The latest case she is asked to take on, that of the famous composer Umberto Monteverdi who has recently become blind, stirs up old memories and emotions.
Through flashbacks chapters the reader sees Umberto and Catriona and their developing relationship, a romance of tenderness, power and passion. Hannah Fielding perfectly explores the magic of music, of beautiful settings and a hero who will remain in my mind for a long time.
And in all this lavishness, who is seducing whom? However, too soon the demands of Umberto's demanding career cause the young couple to part, after one night of love which leaves Catriona pregnant with her son Michael. She hopes Umberto will keep in touch but, in the whirlwind of concerts and compositions, Umberto seems to have forgotten her and Catriona does not want to be a burden. In the light of this she retrains as a music therapist and tried to forget Umberto, until fate throws them together once more.
With its gorgeous settings in the Riviera and Italy, this novel is a treat for all the senses, a kind of modern beauty and beast, with secrets, villains and dangers in the palace where the beast Umberto has retreated. Meanwhile music makes a beautiful redemptive healing thread throughout the novel, thoroughly apt and marvellous.
Totally recommended.
Beguiling romantic read
Catriona Droucot, tall, elegant beautiful, had trained to be an opera singer. She now devotes her energies to helping others via psychology and music therapy. The latest case she is asked to take on, that of the famous composer Umberto Monteverdi who has recently become blind, stirs up old memories and emotions.
Through flashbacks chapters the reader sees Umberto and Catriona and their developing relationship, a romance of tenderness, power and passion. Hannah Fielding perfectly explores the magic of music, of beautiful settings and a hero who will remain in my mind for a long time.
And in all this lavishness, who is seducing whom? However, too soon the demands of Umberto's demanding career cause the young couple to part, after one night of love which leaves Catriona pregnant with her son Michael. She hopes Umberto will keep in touch but, in the whirlwind of concerts and compositions, Umberto seems to have forgotten her and Catriona does not want to be a burden. In the light of this she retrains as a music therapist and tried to forget Umberto, until fate throws them together once more.
With its gorgeous settings in the Riviera and Italy, this novel is a treat for all the senses, a kind of modern beauty and beast, with secrets, villains and dangers in the palace where the beast Umberto has retreated. Meanwhile music makes a beautiful redemptive healing thread throughout the novel, thoroughly apt and marvellous.
Totally recommended.
August 11, 2019
*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
This book still has me in awe and I mean that in a positive way. I was blown away by this story, it’s incrediable.
We follow Catriona Drouot, who is a music therapist and gets a request to help a famous composer. The interesting thing about that?! They shared a passionate night together when she was just eighteen and now ten years later a lot of things have changed.
Ten years ago Catriona wanted to become an opera singer, she is very talented. Umberto Rolando Monteverdi was their neighbour and judged a competition she won. One thing lead to another, but they had instant chemistry for sure. Hannah Fielding captured the atmosphere beautifully and included all the emotions. Well, Umberto left for a world tour and that was it.
Catriona’s life changed a lot and she doesn’t want to take the offer to help him at first. Also Umberto’s life changed, he had an accident and is blind now.
She decides to go to Italy to help him. Umberto’s estate is mysterious and so are the people there, especially his cousin Giacomo, but also Silvana, a friend since childhood, or is she more?!
Well, Catriona instantly feels attracted to him again, but they don’t have an easy start. When he discovered who she is, their passion for each other ignited again. Their chemistry is electric, but it’s not all paradise. Catriona is still hiding a secret and is scared of his reaction. Other secrets are also flying around and adding a lot of drama, which made this story very exciting. I couldn’t put the book down.
Catriona and Umberto shared a lot of sensual and passionate moments, the author’s writing is adoring, flirty, romantic, intense, hooking, descriptive, touching and so much more. I didn’t want the story to finish and I like all the different aspects it had.
The musical aspect is to die for, beautifully captured and just magical. Hannah Fielding really created her own voice and her writing is just on point.
There were two things that bothered me a little bit. I understand that Italian words somehow have to be translated. I didn’t like the way it was done. The Italian words were always translated in the same sentence word by word. That disturbed me a bit. At times I also felt like the storyline dragged a little bit.
Whether it was Italy or Nice, I liked the way the author described these unique and special places, I felt like being there with the characters.
I really fell in love with this story, the characters and the writing immediately.
WONDERFUL!!!
This book still has me in awe and I mean that in a positive way. I was blown away by this story, it’s incrediable.
We follow Catriona Drouot, who is a music therapist and gets a request to help a famous composer. The interesting thing about that?! They shared a passionate night together when she was just eighteen and now ten years later a lot of things have changed.
Ten years ago Catriona wanted to become an opera singer, she is very talented. Umberto Rolando Monteverdi was their neighbour and judged a competition she won. One thing lead to another, but they had instant chemistry for sure. Hannah Fielding captured the atmosphere beautifully and included all the emotions. Well, Umberto left for a world tour and that was it.
Catriona’s life changed a lot and she doesn’t want to take the offer to help him at first. Also Umberto’s life changed, he had an accident and is blind now.
She decides to go to Italy to help him. Umberto’s estate is mysterious and so are the people there, especially his cousin Giacomo, but also Silvana, a friend since childhood, or is she more?!
Well, Catriona instantly feels attracted to him again, but they don’t have an easy start. When he discovered who she is, their passion for each other ignited again. Their chemistry is electric, but it’s not all paradise. Catriona is still hiding a secret and is scared of his reaction. Other secrets are also flying around and adding a lot of drama, which made this story very exciting. I couldn’t put the book down.
Catriona and Umberto shared a lot of sensual and passionate moments, the author’s writing is adoring, flirty, romantic, intense, hooking, descriptive, touching and so much more. I didn’t want the story to finish and I like all the different aspects it had.
The musical aspect is to die for, beautifully captured and just magical. Hannah Fielding really created her own voice and her writing is just on point.
There were two things that bothered me a little bit. I understand that Italian words somehow have to be translated. I didn’t like the way it was done. The Italian words were always translated in the same sentence word by word. That disturbed me a bit. At times I also felt like the storyline dragged a little bit.
Whether it was Italy or Nice, I liked the way the author described these unique and special places, I felt like being there with the characters.
I really fell in love with this story, the characters and the writing immediately.
WONDERFUL!!!
July 19, 2019
Words almost escape me with how beautiful this story was.
We follow Catriona Drouot in two different time lines. We have the past where she is a young woman living with her mother with dreams of being an opera singer. It is then where she meets Umberto Monteverdi, who is a world famous musician. They have a whirlwind romance of a matter of days, I believe, where it ends with Umberto having to leave to follow his career and Catriona left broken hearted.
We also have the present day, where Catriona is a music therapist. She is approached by Umberto's mother to ask for her help. It is then that she learns that Umberto has been left blind after an accident and has not taken it well. After a little time to think, Catriona decides to help Umberto and that is where the story really begins.
What I loved the most was the romance, both in the past and in the present day. I was certainly rooting for them when they first met but it seemed that from the first moment they met again that they were destined to be together.
Along with the above, you also have a mystery. Many years before, at Umberto's mansion at Lake something happened to one of Umberto's girlfriends, who had new discovered she was pregnant. Although this is a smaller aspect of the story to start with it does come back into play later in with a very important plot twist.
A truly wonderful, romantic story that will sweep you away...
For more reviews, please check out the link below:
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
We follow Catriona Drouot in two different time lines. We have the past where she is a young woman living with her mother with dreams of being an opera singer. It is then where she meets Umberto Monteverdi, who is a world famous musician. They have a whirlwind romance of a matter of days, I believe, where it ends with Umberto having to leave to follow his career and Catriona left broken hearted.
We also have the present day, where Catriona is a music therapist. She is approached by Umberto's mother to ask for her help. It is then that she learns that Umberto has been left blind after an accident and has not taken it well. After a little time to think, Catriona decides to help Umberto and that is where the story really begins.
What I loved the most was the romance, both in the past and in the present day. I was certainly rooting for them when they first met but it seemed that from the first moment they met again that they were destined to be together.
Along with the above, you also have a mystery. Many years before, at Umberto's mansion at Lake something happened to one of Umberto's girlfriends, who had new discovered she was pregnant. Although this is a smaller aspect of the story to start with it does come back into play later in with a very important plot twist.
A truly wonderful, romantic story that will sweep you away...
For more reviews, please check out the link below:
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
May 29, 2019
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
"Concerto follows Catriona, a young music therapist, who must honour an opera diva’s dying request to help her son, Umberto Rolando Monteverdi, recover his musical gift after a car accident robbed him of his sight. Ten years previously, Catriona shared a night of passion with the handsome musician that led to unexpected circumstances. Arriving at Umberto’s mansion in Lake Como, she finds him resistant to her every effort. Catriona discovers her feelings toward the blind musician are as strong as ever while battling her own secrets and the dark forces that threaten Umberto’s life – for the second time."
This gorgeous romance novel is a sumptuous read - there's really not another word for it. It's set against the backdrops of Nice and Italy, with classical music serving as the main vehicle for the plot.
Catriona, aged eighteen, has the world at her feet. She's on course to win a competition that will give her a place at the most prestigious of music conservatoires, when she meets a composer and pianist whose fame is quickly rising. She meets him and they spend a single, passionate night together before he unexpectedly leaves for a tour in America. He leaves her with something else unexpected, too - a pregnancy with which she follows through. Ten years later, Umberto's mother begs Catriona to help her son after he loses his sight.
It takes some persuasion, but Catriona finally agrees. When she reaches Umberto in Lake Como, however, she has to decide whether or not she will reveal the truth about herself and her son - Umberto's son. He is not the only factor at play, though. Umberto's cousin and a childhood friend/ex-lover, makes things even more tense and awkward.
Umberto finally figures out who Catriona is, though, and they pick up exactly where they left off ten years previously. Catriona, however, still cannot figure out a way to reveal the truth about the son. Meanwhile, the stakes are only getting higher and higher.
This book was a passionate, sweeping love story from start to finish, full of hedonism, romance, and gorgeous descriptions of some of the world's most luxurious and beautiful places. If you enjoy romance novels, then this book will appeal and then some. It's a long read, but it doesn't feel that way. Every chapter, the author introduces some new intrigue or plot twist that makes the larger story even more of a mystery with satisfying payoffs.
An exceptionally beautiful and heart-touching read which will stay with you long after you finish.
"Concerto follows Catriona, a young music therapist, who must honour an opera diva’s dying request to help her son, Umberto Rolando Monteverdi, recover his musical gift after a car accident robbed him of his sight. Ten years previously, Catriona shared a night of passion with the handsome musician that led to unexpected circumstances. Arriving at Umberto’s mansion in Lake Como, she finds him resistant to her every effort. Catriona discovers her feelings toward the blind musician are as strong as ever while battling her own secrets and the dark forces that threaten Umberto’s life – for the second time."
This gorgeous romance novel is a sumptuous read - there's really not another word for it. It's set against the backdrops of Nice and Italy, with classical music serving as the main vehicle for the plot.
Catriona, aged eighteen, has the world at her feet. She's on course to win a competition that will give her a place at the most prestigious of music conservatoires, when she meets a composer and pianist whose fame is quickly rising. She meets him and they spend a single, passionate night together before he unexpectedly leaves for a tour in America. He leaves her with something else unexpected, too - a pregnancy with which she follows through. Ten years later, Umberto's mother begs Catriona to help her son after he loses his sight.
It takes some persuasion, but Catriona finally agrees. When she reaches Umberto in Lake Como, however, she has to decide whether or not she will reveal the truth about herself and her son - Umberto's son. He is not the only factor at play, though. Umberto's cousin and a childhood friend/ex-lover, makes things even more tense and awkward.
Umberto finally figures out who Catriona is, though, and they pick up exactly where they left off ten years previously. Catriona, however, still cannot figure out a way to reveal the truth about the son. Meanwhile, the stakes are only getting higher and higher.
This book was a passionate, sweeping love story from start to finish, full of hedonism, romance, and gorgeous descriptions of some of the world's most luxurious and beautiful places. If you enjoy romance novels, then this book will appeal and then some. It's a long read, but it doesn't feel that way. Every chapter, the author introduces some new intrigue or plot twist that makes the larger story even more of a mystery with satisfying payoffs.
An exceptionally beautiful and heart-touching read which will stay with you long after you finish.
October 13, 2019
I can’t explain how I felt while reading this book, the book gave me a feeling of comfort like I was in the story being told. “Concerto” is a masterpiece made by Hannah Fielding one of my personal favorite authors.
I was expecting this book to be great, a romantic story between the famous piano player and an ordinary 19 year old girl named Katerina.
One night Katerina’s life took a turn, that she did not expect, but thankfully it was a good thing. She is young, beautiful and she is a rebel that is working hard on her singing career to one day be an opera singer. the connection and love between them lead to a whole night of love. Umberto is a really famous and successful piano player, he got once in a lifetime chance to gain more popularity. After ten years Katerina and Umberto meet again, but in different situations and more secrets. Will they get back together or continue what they were doing these last 10 years?
There are very interesting facts and legends in this book which I love reading.
“Yes, I remember reading somewhere that remote villa on Lake Como was Rossini’s inspiration for his opera Tancredi. Do you he took only six days to write it? It’s funny but I can almost feel how the place, with all its romance and sadness, influenced his music.”
I also enjoy reading about Lake Como and all those villas around its shore Hannah describes them very well and I have the impression that I have already visit them.
Best quotes:
“There’s nothing like hard work to heal the soul. Often it’s the best therapy.”
“…wine is like rain. When it falls on the dirt or mud, it makes it fouler but when it hits the good soil, it rouses it to beauty and to bloom.”
“His jaw clenched. ‘You are my therapy, don’t you get it? You’ve given sun to my dark days.”
I was expecting this book to be great, a romantic story between the famous piano player and an ordinary 19 year old girl named Katerina.
One night Katerina’s life took a turn, that she did not expect, but thankfully it was a good thing. She is young, beautiful and she is a rebel that is working hard on her singing career to one day be an opera singer. the connection and love between them lead to a whole night of love. Umberto is a really famous and successful piano player, he got once in a lifetime chance to gain more popularity. After ten years Katerina and Umberto meet again, but in different situations and more secrets. Will they get back together or continue what they were doing these last 10 years?
There are very interesting facts and legends in this book which I love reading.
“Yes, I remember reading somewhere that remote villa on Lake Como was Rossini’s inspiration for his opera Tancredi. Do you he took only six days to write it? It’s funny but I can almost feel how the place, with all its romance and sadness, influenced his music.”
I also enjoy reading about Lake Como and all those villas around its shore Hannah describes them very well and I have the impression that I have already visit them.
Best quotes:
“There’s nothing like hard work to heal the soul. Often it’s the best therapy.”
“…wine is like rain. When it falls on the dirt or mud, it makes it fouler but when it hits the good soil, it rouses it to beauty and to bloom.”
“His jaw clenched. ‘You are my therapy, don’t you get it? You’ve given sun to my dark days.”
October 27, 2019
Having seen other reviews of Concerto, I am definitely in the minority in rating this book with 2 stars. I requested it after I read the description on NetGalley as I thought I would like it, but what the description didn’t tell me is that it is full of descriptions of everything – what the characters look like, what they are wearing each time they appear, and their emotions, plus pages and pages describing the locations, the buildings, the rooms, the scenery, the weather and so on. In addition it is not just plain description – in most instances it is accompanied by at least four adjectives and in the most fulsome and vivid terms. I like description but this is just too much.
The plot is a simple one, but it is padded out with stories and myths about so many people and places that, whilst these are interesting, they add next to nothing to the story They just slow the action down to practically zero. But the sad thing is that the plot is too simple, unconvincing and it is so easy to predict what will happen. It is full of cliches and the characters are for the most part stereotypes – particularly Umberto. It is a book full of angst, sensuality and passion, but the over-writing and repetition just killed it for me.
I was thinking of giving the book just 1 star but I thought the explanation of how music therapy works was interesting and I did like the descriptions of the Italian landscape to a certain extent. But, if like so many others, you love long, slow books, full of romance and passion with lovers being swept off their feet in the splendour of music, emotion and sensuality then you’ll probably enjoy it much more than I did.
The plot is a simple one, but it is padded out with stories and myths about so many people and places that, whilst these are interesting, they add next to nothing to the story They just slow the action down to practically zero. But the sad thing is that the plot is too simple, unconvincing and it is so easy to predict what will happen. It is full of cliches and the characters are for the most part stereotypes – particularly Umberto. It is a book full of angst, sensuality and passion, but the over-writing and repetition just killed it for me.
I was thinking of giving the book just 1 star but I thought the explanation of how music therapy works was interesting and I did like the descriptions of the Italian landscape to a certain extent. But, if like so many others, you love long, slow books, full of romance and passion with lovers being swept off their feet in the splendour of music, emotion and sensuality then you’ll probably enjoy it much more than I did.
November 21, 2019
Catriona Droust specializes in music therapy as a way to help people suffering from Psychological disorders. She and her friend have centered their practice in Nice, France, and over the years she has become well known for her success. But years ago, she was training to become an opera singer. Until the night she gave herself to one Umberto Monteverdi, a great composer. Their one night of passion left Catriona pregnant.
When she is contacted by Umberto’s Mother, herself an opera diva, to help her son, who has lost his sight, Catriona is faced with the decision of telling the man he has a child, a secret she has kept to herself all this time.
A story of love, loss, rebirth. While the plot was interesting. The story could have been told in fewer pages. I figured out what was going to happen early on in the story. Even the antagonists were pretty transparent. I guess I like a book with a few surprises along the way…something to keep and hold my interest.
I must say that the author did a wonderful job of bringing the area around Lake Como to life. She did a remarkable job of describing the beauty of the area and helping to visualize the lake and near-by towns.
June 26, 2019
‘Concerto’ follows Catriona, a music therapist, who is set to become famous, and pursue her dream of becoming an opera singer. She then meets composer Umberto Monteverdi and after a night spent together, he leaves her. Ten years pass and she is called upon by Umberto’s mother to help him rediscover his musical passion, having been blinded in a car accident. When they meet again, Catriona finds herself once again drawn to Umberto, despite his resistance to her efforts to help him. She also is struggling to hide her own secrets.
The backdrop of Italy was vividly described and suited this sumptuous novel. The romance between Umberto and Catriona, beautifully told, making for an enjoyable reading experience.
I received an advanced review copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
The backdrop of Italy was vividly described and suited this sumptuous novel. The romance between Umberto and Catriona, beautifully told, making for an enjoyable reading experience.
I received an advanced review copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Read
July 10, 2019This book just serves as a reminder that not all is lost when it comes to love and sometimes, the journey to healing takes the most unexpected route. For Umberto, losing his sight and not being able to play music takes a toll on him, but when the woman who comes to serve as his Therapist, turns out to be the girl he loved, he's faced with not one nightmare but many more that he's got to resolve towards healing.
I like how it starts and the pace seemed to drag on somewhere mid-story, then picked up towards the end.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.
I like how it starts and the pace seemed to drag on somewhere mid-story, then picked up towards the end.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.
July 15, 2019
Hannah Fielding does it again. A beautiful feel good romantic story which transports you to the Rivera and the Italian Lakes. Just the book to take on holiday with you.
A story of first love which survives through time.,Secrets ,lies and tragedy are all in the mix but will love conquer all.
Can’t recommend it enough.
Five stars all the way.
A story of first love which survives through time.,Secrets ,lies and tragedy are all in the mix but will love conquer all.
Can’t recommend it enough.
Five stars all the way.
Read
September 23, 2019Captivating, romance story. Intriguing characters, Umberto and Catriona follow their relationship. Well written book, that kept my attention throughout, I enjoyed reading. I have voluntarily chosen to read and review this book.
January 22, 2021
Reading this in lockdown and it feels like I'm on holiday! Another admirable novel from Hannah Fielding.
September 2, 2023
Преубава приказна која не можеш да ја оставиш додека не стигнеш до самиот крај
July 10, 2019
When Catriona Drouot, a young music therapist, honours an opera diva's dying request to help her son, Umberto Monteverdi, recover his musical gift, she knows it will be a difficult assignment. She had shared a night of passion with the once-celebrated composer ten years before, with unexpected consequences.
The extent of her challenge becomes apparent when she arrives at her client's estate on the glittering shores of Lake Como, Italy. Robbed of his sight by a nearfatal car accident, the man is arrogant, embittered and resistant to her every effort to help him. Still, Catriona sings a siren's call within him that he cannot ignore.
Caught up in the tempestuous intrigues at Umberto's Palladian mansion, Catriona discovers that her attraction to the blind musician is as powerful as ever. How can she share what she has hidden from him for the past decade? Soon she realises that hers is not the only secret that is rippling uneasily below the surface. Dark forces haunt the sightless composer, threatening his life - for the second time.
Concerto is a sensual and romantic story of lost love and forgiveness, destiny and difficult choices, and of a heroine determined to put things right at last.
My rating:
Story: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Review:
This book is very captivating. The author artfully creates a vivid world describing sights and sounds, smells and tastes. The plot is full of emotion, intrigue, and passion. It almost feels like you are actually there yourself. The characters are well developed which makes them realistic and easy to relate to. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a will written romance novel.
I received a ARC through NetGalley at no cost to me.
The extent of her challenge becomes apparent when she arrives at her client's estate on the glittering shores of Lake Como, Italy. Robbed of his sight by a nearfatal car accident, the man is arrogant, embittered and resistant to her every effort to help him. Still, Catriona sings a siren's call within him that he cannot ignore.
Caught up in the tempestuous intrigues at Umberto's Palladian mansion, Catriona discovers that her attraction to the blind musician is as powerful as ever. How can she share what she has hidden from him for the past decade? Soon she realises that hers is not the only secret that is rippling uneasily below the surface. Dark forces haunt the sightless composer, threatening his life - for the second time.
Concerto is a sensual and romantic story of lost love and forgiveness, destiny and difficult choices, and of a heroine determined to put things right at last.
My rating:
Story: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Review:
This book is very captivating. The author artfully creates a vivid world describing sights and sounds, smells and tastes. The plot is full of emotion, intrigue, and passion. It almost feels like you are actually there yourself. The characters are well developed which makes them realistic and easy to relate to. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a will written romance novel.
I received a ARC through NetGalley at no cost to me.
September 11, 2019
This book opened with the request of a famous opera singer to a music therapist to help her son. The son whose past linked to the music therapist itself.
The plot actually a cliche, you can predict the twist and the ending of course. The flow also too slow for me, author spend two chapters in detail description that it felt like several more chapters of the past of the opera singer's son and music therapist at the beginning of the novel.
Then it went forward with how they interact in the present.
Author has rich description in the setting, be it the opera house or the house the character reside.
This book unfortunately is not my cup of tea, but for readers who like music, and do not mind a slow pace, the book might be more suitable. Thank you netgalley for providing the arc.
The plot actually a cliche, you can predict the twist and the ending of course. The flow also too slow for me, author spend two chapters in detail description that it felt like several more chapters of the past of the opera singer's son and music therapist at the beginning of the novel.
Then it went forward with how they interact in the present.
Author has rich description in the setting, be it the opera house or the house the character reside.
This book unfortunately is not my cup of tea, but for readers who like music, and do not mind a slow pace, the book might be more suitable. Thank you netgalley for providing the arc.
April 29, 2019
Romance with music at it's heart.Good characters with human flaws,a little mystery,some twists and a happy ending.
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