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Invisible, as Music
Henrietta Cochran has spent nearly forty years dealing with the effects of the polio she contracted in 1945. Her braces and crutches restrict her, define her, but they also give her independence. Almost. She hates that she has become increasingly reliant on a series of live-in companions to help her. For some reason, the companions never seem to want to stay very long. So Henrietta retreats further and further into her art, where her physical limitations don’t matter.
Into her life sails Meryn Fleming: out, outspoken, and fiercely political. She’s young, enthusiastically diving into her first job as a history professor at the local college. When she falls, almost literally, into Henrietta’s path, she seems like a godsend.
Little does Henrietta know that this young woman is about to upend her carefully structured existence. Ryn challenges everything, barging right through the walls Henrietta has built to keep others at a distance.
To Ryn, Henrietta is an enigma: prickly and easily insulted at the slightest suggestion that she can’t do things for herself; a brilliant artist capable of producing the most beautiful paintings; and sometimes, when Henrietta doesn’t realize she’s letting her guard down, a tender and sensitive woman.
With Meryn’s youthful optimism pitted against Henrietta’s jaded acceptance of the world as it is, life will never be the same for either of them.
Words: 114,100
Into her life sails Meryn Fleming: out, outspoken, and fiercely political. She’s young, enthusiastically diving into her first job as a history professor at the local college. When she falls, almost literally, into Henrietta’s path, she seems like a godsend.
Little does Henrietta know that this young woman is about to upend her carefully structured existence. Ryn challenges everything, barging right through the walls Henrietta has built to keep others at a distance.
To Ryn, Henrietta is an enigma: prickly and easily insulted at the slightest suggestion that she can’t do things for herself; a brilliant artist capable of producing the most beautiful paintings; and sometimes, when Henrietta doesn’t realize she’s letting her guard down, a tender and sensitive woman.
With Meryn’s youthful optimism pitted against Henrietta’s jaded acceptance of the world as it is, life will never be the same for either of them.
Words: 114,100
407 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2019
32 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Caren J. Werlinger
22 books296 followersFrom the author's website: Bestselling author Caren Werlinger published her first award-winning novel, Looking Through Windows, in 2008. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels, winning several more awards. Influenced by a diverse array of authors, including Rumer Godden, J.R.R. Tolkein, Ursula LeGuin, Marion Zimmer Bradley, Willa Cather and the Brontë sisters, Caren writes literary fiction that features the struggles and joys of characters readers can identify with. Her stories cover a wide range of genres: historical fiction, contemporary drama, and fantasy, including the award-winning Dragonmage Saga, a fantasy trilogy set in ancient Ireland. Most recently, she created the magical setting of Little Sister Island (a place she and her readers wish were real) in When the Stars Sang and Face the Wind.
She lives in Virginia with her wife and their canine fur-children.
She lives in Virginia with her wife and their canine fur-children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
November 15, 2019
4.50 stars. Damn this was good! I have enjoyed every book I have read by Werlinger especially her last few releases in a row which have been great. I have just come to expect great things when I pick up a Werlinger book and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. If you have read her books before you will know what I mean. She writes beautifully. Her books instantly transport you to another time or place and you become so involved and comfortable in the book that you don’t want it to end. If you haven’t read Werlinger before… it’s time to jump aboard, you won’t be disappointed.
Different is a word that can be pretty broad, but when you read 6 books a week, year after year, you crave finding a book that fits the meaning of different. I’m happy to say this was completely different than anything I have read in a long time and I could not be happier. I guess you can put a literary fiction tag on this. I don’t like the name of that category so I think I might call this a drama. Drama as in this is a book about life and dramatic things that can and will happen.
Werlinger mentions that this is not a romance, but it is a love story. That is the perfect description of this book and after you read it you will completely understand that difference. I do have to point out that this does have a huge age-gap. It might be either the largest or tied for the largest I have read. It’s actually 30 years between a young college professor who is 23, and an artist who is still dealing with the effects of polio (from when she was a child), now at the age of 53. Surprisingly, it completely worked. I won’t give away any spoilers but I promise you that you will finish the book absolutely believing that these two women loved each other.
This book takes place in the 80’s so there is some homophobia, sexism and even racism. However, this is not what I would call a dark or depressing book. There are some villains in this story but there are plenty of great characters that make this book more “feel good” than I expected. Although, I do warn you to still keep the tissues handy. I cared so much about the characters and what they were going through that I kept tearing up. This book made me feel because Werlinger writes so well that she got to me. And I love when that happens.
This is a book that I easily recommend. I really enjoyed her book When the Stars Sang and her last one A Bittersweet Garden, but for me, this book was even more special than both of those. This is the best I have read by Werlinger so far, and it makes me itch with excitement for what she could possibly come out with next. If you are looking for something extremely well written, different, and will make you feel, this book is for you.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
Different is a word that can be pretty broad, but when you read 6 books a week, year after year, you crave finding a book that fits the meaning of different. I’m happy to say this was completely different than anything I have read in a long time and I could not be happier. I guess you can put a literary fiction tag on this. I don’t like the name of that category so I think I might call this a drama. Drama as in this is a book about life and dramatic things that can and will happen.
Werlinger mentions that this is not a romance, but it is a love story. That is the perfect description of this book and after you read it you will completely understand that difference. I do have to point out that this does have a huge age-gap. It might be either the largest or tied for the largest I have read. It’s actually 30 years between a young college professor who is 23, and an artist who is still dealing with the effects of polio (from when she was a child), now at the age of 53. Surprisingly, it completely worked. I won’t give away any spoilers but I promise you that you will finish the book absolutely believing that these two women loved each other.
This book takes place in the 80’s so there is some homophobia, sexism and even racism. However, this is not what I would call a dark or depressing book. There are some villains in this story but there are plenty of great characters that make this book more “feel good” than I expected. Although, I do warn you to still keep the tissues handy. I cared so much about the characters and what they were going through that I kept tearing up. This book made me feel because Werlinger writes so well that she got to me. And I love when that happens.
This is a book that I easily recommend. I really enjoyed her book When the Stars Sang and her last one A Bittersweet Garden, but for me, this book was even more special than both of those. This is the best I have read by Werlinger so far, and it makes me itch with excitement for what she could possibly come out with next. If you are looking for something extremely well written, different, and will make you feel, this book is for you.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
November 9, 2019
I’ll start with a confession (these reviews are getting more and more personal, aren’t they?): age gap romances make me uncomfortable. I’m not judging, or, rather, if I’m judging anyone, it’s myself. I have trouble understanding them. It’s all in my head, I know. For the physical part, I can see loving an older or younger body, but even writing that makes me cringe. And I struggle with imagining two people with a substantial age difference holding each other’s interest long enough for a relationship to grow. Especially nowadays, with the world changing so fast. Once again, I’m not saying it can’t be, I’m saying it’s difficult for me to imagine. When I read, if the characters are well-written, I become them. I feel what they feel. I hurt when they hurt. I’m happy when they are. Characters in age gap romances unsettle me. I feel things I’m not sure I understand. It’s good for me, I guess. It takes me out of my comfort zone. And the thing is, it doesn’t really matter whether I understand or not, does it?
Invisible, as Music both is and is not an age gap romance. As I’m getting used to with Caren J. Werlinger’s books, it‘s different, unexpected. “Most of my books aren’t romances in the accepted sense, but they’re all love stories”, she writes in the acknowledgments page of this book.
Henrietta Cochran contracted polio when she was 15, in 1945. Almost forty years later, she still lives in the house her parents built around her needs in Bluemont, NY, needing live-in companions ever since her parents’ death. She has never allowed herself to want or need anything other than being alive. She’s involuntarily closed herself off, protecting herself from the outside world. She’s convinced no one is interested in her and others only talk about her disability, her braces and her crutches. Her life is dull and colourless, her only respite her art. Her so-called friends are the women she plays bridge with at the country club. The only person she’s vaguely close to is Bonnie, the woman who comes and clean her house, and cook for her on a weekly basis. Her companions are employees, never more.
Until she meets Ryn. At twenty-three, Meryn Fleming is a new History teacher at the local Catholic college. Despite her colleagues’ unabashed misogyny, she’s full of energy and joie de vivre. Henrietta’s coldness doesn’t fool her, nor does it scare her, and she deliberately ignores the walls she’s built around herself, bringing warmth and new friends (including young and wise nuns) into Henrietta’s life.
Invisible, as Music is a wonderful and unusual love story, and an awakening of sorts, to love and, beyond, to the world. For Ryn and Henrietta to allow their love to exist, they have to overcome more than a significant age difference and Henrietta’s health issues. The main part of the story takes place in 1983-1984. At first, the fact that the setting was the middle of the Reagan era didn’t seem to matter that much, except to establish a specific atmosphere. Then, as the 1984 presidential election came closer, the political aspect – and with it Meryn’s involvement and consequently Henrietta’s – became more and more significant. I was thirteen in 1984, and I’m French, so I don’t remember much about it, but this election marked the first time a woman was on a major party’s presidential ticket in the U.S. – Geraldine Ferraro, running as Vice President with Walter Mondale as the Democratic candidate for President.
If I had to summarize this book in a few words (or sentences, I’m not good at limiting myself, obviously), I’d say it’s about the definition of love, of what makes a relationship. It’s also about how society evolves, or doesn’t evolve, in regards to women and minorities. It’s about finding your place and acknowledging your worth. About not letting others define who you are. I don’t know if it’s a romance but it’s definitely a love story.
I never know exactly how to write about Caren J. Werlinger’s books. The best I can say about this one is that it’s quietly beautiful. Read it.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Invisible, as Music both is and is not an age gap romance. As I’m getting used to with Caren J. Werlinger’s books, it‘s different, unexpected. “Most of my books aren’t romances in the accepted sense, but they’re all love stories”, she writes in the acknowledgments page of this book.
Henrietta Cochran contracted polio when she was 15, in 1945. Almost forty years later, she still lives in the house her parents built around her needs in Bluemont, NY, needing live-in companions ever since her parents’ death. She has never allowed herself to want or need anything other than being alive. She’s involuntarily closed herself off, protecting herself from the outside world. She’s convinced no one is interested in her and others only talk about her disability, her braces and her crutches. Her life is dull and colourless, her only respite her art. Her so-called friends are the women she plays bridge with at the country club. The only person she’s vaguely close to is Bonnie, the woman who comes and clean her house, and cook for her on a weekly basis. Her companions are employees, never more.
Until she meets Ryn. At twenty-three, Meryn Fleming is a new History teacher at the local Catholic college. Despite her colleagues’ unabashed misogyny, she’s full of energy and joie de vivre. Henrietta’s coldness doesn’t fool her, nor does it scare her, and she deliberately ignores the walls she’s built around herself, bringing warmth and new friends (including young and wise nuns) into Henrietta’s life.
Invisible, as Music is a wonderful and unusual love story, and an awakening of sorts, to love and, beyond, to the world. For Ryn and Henrietta to allow their love to exist, they have to overcome more than a significant age difference and Henrietta’s health issues. The main part of the story takes place in 1983-1984. At first, the fact that the setting was the middle of the Reagan era didn’t seem to matter that much, except to establish a specific atmosphere. Then, as the 1984 presidential election came closer, the political aspect – and with it Meryn’s involvement and consequently Henrietta’s – became more and more significant. I was thirteen in 1984, and I’m French, so I don’t remember much about it, but this election marked the first time a woman was on a major party’s presidential ticket in the U.S. – Geraldine Ferraro, running as Vice President with Walter Mondale as the Democratic candidate for President.
If I had to summarize this book in a few words (or sentences, I’m not good at limiting myself, obviously), I’d say it’s about the definition of love, of what makes a relationship. It’s also about how society evolves, or doesn’t evolve, in regards to women and minorities. It’s about finding your place and acknowledging your worth. About not letting others define who you are. I don’t know if it’s a romance but it’s definitely a love story.
I never know exactly how to write about Caren J. Werlinger’s books. The best I can say about this one is that it’s quietly beautiful. Read it.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2019
Another full five stars book by Caren J. Werlinger. When the Stars Sang is still my favorite by her, but Invisible, as Music is not too far behind. As all of her books I have read, this one is not a light read either. It tells us a serious story, deals with some distressing subjects and with an unusual kind of love for lesbian fiction. There are no steamy scenes, but a slow-burn love story between polio-disabled artist Henrietta Cochran (53) and a young college history professor Meryn Fleming (23) is special, sweet and touching. It is so humanly profound and meaningful, and will stay with us long after the last page has been turned.
The plot is set in the mid 80s in the small college town in upstate New York and deals with events and lifestyle from that period. The book covers a lot of diversity, and is a good example of how good Werlinger is at characterization. All of her many characters are real and complex. None of them are stock.
On the surface the ending is kind of sad, but in fact it is not. One should never let go of their dreams, whatever the situation.
5 stars
November 10, 2019
*A review copy of this book was provided by the author.*
The plot is set in the mid 80s in the small college town in upstate New York and deals with events and lifestyle from that period. The book covers a lot of diversity, and is a good example of how good Werlinger is at characterization. All of her many characters are real and complex. None of them are stock.
On the surface the ending is kind of sad, but in fact it is not. One should never let go of their dreams, whatever the situation.
5 stars
November 10, 2019
*A review copy of this book was provided by the author.*
November 19, 2019
This is heavy! I finished the book, closed my kindle and just sat on the couch thinking about so many things In life! That’s what this book will probably do to you, it will make you think. Whatever it is that you will think of because it will have to relate to you, but you won’t just end the book and open the tv, go for a walk or go meet friends for drinks right away. No you will sit and think.
I might be rambling here I know, so back to my review : it’s a wonderful wonderful wonderful read! It’s about love, sacrifice, heartache, Art, women’s rights, suffering, injustice and most importantly, I repeat again: LOVE :)
I highly recommend this read !
I might be rambling here I know, so back to my review : it’s a wonderful wonderful wonderful read! It’s about love, sacrifice, heartache, Art, women’s rights, suffering, injustice and most importantly, I repeat again: LOVE :)
I highly recommend this read !
November 9, 2019
Caren J. Werlinger has (again) written a solid, character driven powerhouse of a novel. Invisible, as Music turned out to be substantial in both size and subject.
As I have come to know, Werlinger does not do fluffy, she does not do insta-love (thank the gods) and one of her main characters (or both) usually is a tortured soul. In this case that would be Henrietta Cochran who contracted polio when she was 15 and has since then lived a very regimented life-style due to her disability. Her walls are thick and impenetrable. She is prickly and abrasive. Her world is very small.
I thought Henrietta was fleshed out the most, more than Meryn Fleming, the young college professor who will cross her path. The romance that blossoms between them was a hard sell and Werlinger really needed the whole book to convince me (and still after all that… I’m not totally there). Maybe it’s because I was close to Meryn’s age (3 years younger) in 1984. Let me just say I could totally understand Meryn’s mother.
I liked the various plotlines although all, invariably, had a sad outcome. The cast of extras is engaging and varied. Set in 1983-84, we get a fair amount of 80s pop culture through the tech, the politics and music. I laughed when Maryn was reading Rita Mae Brown’s Six of One. I loved that book back then.
Fans of Caren Werlinger’s work, no doubt, will gobble it up but I’m not entirely sure every romance lover will be left as fulfilled.
f/f
Themes: 1980s, Bluemont, polio, living with severe physical limitations, a 30 year age gap, small town grapevine, politics, misogyny, racism, catholics, a snake in the rowboat, painting, young college professor, bridge at the country club, so many roadblocks, I guess the author was going for a love transcending everything.
4 Stars
* An ARC copy was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
As I have come to know, Werlinger does not do fluffy, she does not do insta-love (thank the gods) and one of her main characters (or both) usually is a tortured soul. In this case that would be Henrietta Cochran who contracted polio when she was 15 and has since then lived a very regimented life-style due to her disability. Her walls are thick and impenetrable. She is prickly and abrasive. Her world is very small.
I thought Henrietta was fleshed out the most, more than Meryn Fleming, the young college professor who will cross her path. The romance that blossoms between them was a hard sell and Werlinger really needed the whole book to convince me (and still after all that… I’m not totally there). Maybe it’s because I was close to Meryn’s age (3 years younger) in 1984. Let me just say I could totally understand Meryn’s mother.
I liked the various plotlines although all, invariably, had a sad outcome. The cast of extras is engaging and varied. Set in 1983-84, we get a fair amount of 80s pop culture through the tech, the politics and music. I laughed when Maryn was reading Rita Mae Brown’s Six of One. I loved that book back then.
Fans of Caren Werlinger’s work, no doubt, will gobble it up but I’m not entirely sure every romance lover will be left as fulfilled.
f/f
Themes: 1980s, Bluemont, polio, living with severe physical limitations, a 30 year age gap, small town grapevine, politics, misogyny, racism, catholics, a snake in the rowboat, painting, young college professor, bridge at the country club, so many roadblocks, I guess the author was going for a love transcending everything.
4 Stars
* An ARC copy was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2019
There are some books that you read that reach right into you and help you tell your own story, maybe not literally but the emotional truth of what you’ve been wanting to say for the longest. I feel that way about Invisible, As Music.
Henrietta is 53 and has carved a routine that from the outside appears full, especially for a woman her age who has battled the effects of Polio her entire adult life, church on Sundays, Bridge with her coifed Country Club friends, and hours of creating paintings of the local natural beauty with enough skill to sell to galleries. Her parents left her money so she lives in a big house by herself which is the problem. Fiercely independent but still needing help.
After her last live-in companion leaves, the new 23 year old college professor in town, agrees to move in and take over that role. It’s the late 80’s and politics are front and center for the idealistic Ryn who is determined to fight Reagan era injustices and discrimination against women and lgbtq. She does not flinch from taking on the big boys in town and at the college. She’s energy and light. People love her because she sees everyone. That in essence is why I believe Henrietta and Ryn fall in love. They see each other and it’s about as romantic and achingly tender as you can get. The author's writing is magic, with an incredible flow and subtleties that sunk my heart.
One of my favorites now and I wish I could give it 6 deserved stars.
Henrietta is 53 and has carved a routine that from the outside appears full, especially for a woman her age who has battled the effects of Polio her entire adult life, church on Sundays, Bridge with her coifed Country Club friends, and hours of creating paintings of the local natural beauty with enough skill to sell to galleries. Her parents left her money so she lives in a big house by herself which is the problem. Fiercely independent but still needing help.
After her last live-in companion leaves, the new 23 year old college professor in town, agrees to move in and take over that role. It’s the late 80’s and politics are front and center for the idealistic Ryn who is determined to fight Reagan era injustices and discrimination against women and lgbtq. She does not flinch from taking on the big boys in town and at the college. She’s energy and light. People love her because she sees everyone. That in essence is why I believe Henrietta and Ryn fall in love. They see each other and it’s about as romantic and achingly tender as you can get. The author's writing is magic, with an incredible flow and subtleties that sunk my heart.
One of my favorites now and I wish I could give it 6 deserved stars.
November 22, 2019
I am not a fan of super age gap love stories. I was not going to read this book because the main characters have a 30+ year age difference and thought that I would be put off by it. After reading several favorable reviews from trusted goodreads friends, I decided to buy this and give it a try.
I'm glad to report that I did not have any adverse reactions to the story. In fact, I very much enjoyed it.
The author mentioned that this is an unconventional love story. I'll agree with that. A lot of reviewers said this is not a romance, it is a love story. But I have to disagree. This was a romance by my interpretation.
It's the 1980's. Meryn Fleming begins a new job teaching at a small town Catholic university. She initially finds housing in a dorm-like boarding house. She finds herself running into Henrietta Cochran, a 50-something-year-old woman who is physically challenged as a result of Polio from when she was a teenager. Since another one of Henrietta's live-ins has left, she invites Meryn to come and help her in exchange for living rent free.
This is a heartfelt story with a lot of things happening throughout. Meryn has to work through some chauvinism and unfairness at work. She befriends some nuns that challenge and also lift her. She faces a no-win request and has to deal with the sad fallout. And she ultimately has to identify and confront her growing feelings for her older housemate.
Inspired by Meryn's open and kind nature, Henrietta allows herself to experience things outside of her comfort zone. She begins to see things differently. Unfortunately, she knows that Meryn would never entertain the idea of having romantic feelings for her. And even if she did, it would be completely absurd.
I loved how the author referenced a lot of 80s things to really get the reader into the decade. I certainly felt transported back in time. A lot of it did have to do with politics and activism. I could have done without that but it was appropriate for the characterization of Meryn.
There were only a couple of things I didn't care for. Henrietta is from New York but she would say things like 'Posh' and think things like she was going to have a 'row' with her country club friends. I'm not familiar with the author, but that made me think that she is British and some of her language bled through on accident.
The other thing is a little spoilery and has to do with physical intimacy. So I won't go into it here. Just that I would have made different decisions with the story telling in this regard.
Overall, it was a wonderful story that leaves you feeling like more people should do things without caring what other people think. Follow your heart no matter where it takes you.
I recommend this to those who like to read about love stories, age gap romances, education, religion, politics, disabled persons, art, and y'uns.
I'm glad to report that I did not have any adverse reactions to the story. In fact, I very much enjoyed it.
The author mentioned that this is an unconventional love story. I'll agree with that. A lot of reviewers said this is not a romance, it is a love story. But I have to disagree. This was a romance by my interpretation.
It's the 1980's. Meryn Fleming begins a new job teaching at a small town Catholic university. She initially finds housing in a dorm-like boarding house. She finds herself running into Henrietta Cochran, a 50-something-year-old woman who is physically challenged as a result of Polio from when she was a teenager. Since another one of Henrietta's live-ins has left, she invites Meryn to come and help her in exchange for living rent free.
This is a heartfelt story with a lot of things happening throughout. Meryn has to work through some chauvinism and unfairness at work. She befriends some nuns that challenge and also lift her. She faces a no-win request and has to deal with the sad fallout. And she ultimately has to identify and confront her growing feelings for her older housemate.
Inspired by Meryn's open and kind nature, Henrietta allows herself to experience things outside of her comfort zone. She begins to see things differently. Unfortunately, she knows that Meryn would never entertain the idea of having romantic feelings for her. And even if she did, it would be completely absurd.
I loved how the author referenced a lot of 80s things to really get the reader into the decade. I certainly felt transported back in time. A lot of it did have to do with politics and activism. I could have done without that but it was appropriate for the characterization of Meryn.
There were only a couple of things I didn't care for. Henrietta is from New York but she would say things like 'Posh' and think things like she was going to have a 'row' with her country club friends. I'm not familiar with the author, but that made me think that she is British and some of her language bled through on accident.
The other thing is a little spoilery and has to do with physical intimacy. So I won't go into it here. Just that I would have made different decisions with the story telling in this regard.
Overall, it was a wonderful story that leaves you feeling like more people should do things without caring what other people think. Follow your heart no matter where it takes you.
I recommend this to those who like to read about love stories, age gap romances, education, religion, politics, disabled persons, art, and y'uns.
November 13, 2019
What can I say about Caren J. Werlinger's latest book, "Invisible, as Music," eh? Gosh, Werlinger can really squeeze your heart, pull your heartstrings, with her stories, can't she? After reading "Bittersweet Garden" and "When The Stars Sang," I knew Werlinger would give me yet another thought-provoking, heart-gripping, gut-wrenching story about the human condition - the wonders, fragility, strength, power, vulnerability of it - in her own unique voice, which, I must say, always carries a certain spiritual undertone. And, I was not wrong because "Invisible, as Music" was absolutely captivating from start to finish, with some memorable moments I'd not soon forget!
Firstly, the title. Not knowing its origin, I was immediately intrigued because...music. Anything about music always perks my curiosity. And to add the word "invisible" to it... I don't know but it immediately gave me this feeling of mystique. Invisible, as music... It's so lyrically poetic. 'Nuff said.
This story, on the surface, when it comes to romance, was incredibly subversive, if I may say so myself. See, if you take it at face value, you could simply say that the romance was derived from the bog-standard age-gap trope that we've encountered in many lesfic stories. You could also say that it's a BIG age-gap trope...because there was a 30-year gap between the two MCs, Henrietta (Hank) and Meryn (Ryn). Buuuut, not so fast! Now, if you delve deeper into the story, you'd find that age, let alone the gap in-between, is essentially, a state of mind, really. Well, that's not only my interpretation of Werlinger's intention in this story, but also my personal point of view. Besides the age factor, Werlingner upped the intricacy of the romance with another unique and dare I say, original, factor, to one of the MCs, Hank. And that sealed the deal for me as a reader who loves to delve and explore a different nature of relationships in lesbian romance. And oh, this story was set in the era of Reagan's upcoming re-election - 1984-85? So, a historical romance.
Full commentary here... In Bugs' Own Words
**I was given, with much thanks and appreciation, an ARC of this book, by the author, in return for an honest review.
Firstly, the title. Not knowing its origin, I was immediately intrigued because...music. Anything about music always perks my curiosity. And to add the word "invisible" to it... I don't know but it immediately gave me this feeling of mystique. Invisible, as music... It's so lyrically poetic. 'Nuff said.
This story, on the surface, when it comes to romance, was incredibly subversive, if I may say so myself. See, if you take it at face value, you could simply say that the romance was derived from the bog-standard age-gap trope that we've encountered in many lesfic stories. You could also say that it's a BIG age-gap trope...because there was a 30-year gap between the two MCs, Henrietta (Hank) and Meryn (Ryn). Buuuut, not so fast! Now, if you delve deeper into the story, you'd find that age, let alone the gap in-between, is essentially, a state of mind, really. Well, that's not only my interpretation of Werlinger's intention in this story, but also my personal point of view. Besides the age factor, Werlingner upped the intricacy of the romance with another unique and dare I say, original, factor, to one of the MCs, Hank. And that sealed the deal for me as a reader who loves to delve and explore a different nature of relationships in lesbian romance. And oh, this story was set in the era of Reagan's upcoming re-election - 1984-85? So, a historical romance.
Full commentary here... In Bugs' Own Words
**I was given, with much thanks and appreciation, an ARC of this book, by the author, in return for an honest review.
January 18, 2022
This is a touching love story about two women, one of whom suffers from the ravages of polio which she caught swimming in a pond in the 1940s. There is a 30 year age difference between Henrietta, a gifted artist, and Meryn, a history professor. She moves in initially as Henrietta’s companion and helper and a deep love slowly, very slowly, grows between them.
This is set in 1983, by coincidence the year I spent living on Long Island, NY, so I enjoyed the references to that time and the reminders of musicians I’d forgotten about such as Holly Near and Cris Williamson. It addresses racial prejudice and homophobia, the actions of a male professor who is a sexual predator, and Meryn’s friendship with a group of young nuns called to serve God opens up interesting issues about choice and relationships. The descriptions of small town life, family dynamics, friendship, and the beauty of the surrounding nature are all well written. Henrietta’s transition from emotionally closed, bitter loner to a life of new friends and a loving relationship with Meryn is often very moving.
For me, it reads like a first novel that would have benefited from stricter editing. I found it too long winded and I skimmed quite regularly, something I rarely do. Werlinger has written many books but this is the first of hers I have read so I can’t make comparisons. I enjoyed much of it. I just wish it had been 80-100 pages shorter.
This is set in 1983, by coincidence the year I spent living on Long Island, NY, so I enjoyed the references to that time and the reminders of musicians I’d forgotten about such as Holly Near and Cris Williamson. It addresses racial prejudice and homophobia, the actions of a male professor who is a sexual predator, and Meryn’s friendship with a group of young nuns called to serve God opens up interesting issues about choice and relationships. The descriptions of small town life, family dynamics, friendship, and the beauty of the surrounding nature are all well written. Henrietta’s transition from emotionally closed, bitter loner to a life of new friends and a loving relationship with Meryn is often very moving.
For me, it reads like a first novel that would have benefited from stricter editing. I found it too long winded and I skimmed quite regularly, something I rarely do. Werlinger has written many books but this is the first of hers I have read so I can’t make comparisons. I enjoyed much of it. I just wish it had been 80-100 pages shorter.
September 3, 2020
Review of ‘Invisible as Music’ by Caren J. Werlinger, audiobook narrated by Ann Etter
This is a very good wlw historical fiction novel set in the US in the 1980s during the first presidency of Ronald Reagan. I wouldn’t set it firmly in the romance category as it mostly emphasises on a strong platonic bond between the characters but it’s about a love of a different kind but not necessarily less deep or committed.
In the early 1980s, Henrietta Cochran is a reclusive artist living with the severe effects of polio she contracted in 1945. When her live-in companion leaves, she offers the post to college professor Meryn Fleming who is the complete opposite to her: out, outspoken, fiercely political, and also 30 years younger. Both women start an unexpected friendship that eventually develops into something deeper. But will they be able to overcome the huge age-gap and Henrietta’s reclusive tendencies?
This is a very good read about life in the 1980s for lesbians and women in general. It touches many sensitive issues such as racism, sexism, disability, sexual harassment, and homophobia. As there is 30 year-age-gap between the main characters, there are also many differences in their worldview.
Henrietta is a wounded soul who has suffered from the limiting effects of polio in her body, shaping her into a middle-aged guarded person while Meryn is young, extrovert, and outspoken. Henrietta is a Republican, Meryn a Democrat, so to say that they are opposites is an understatement. But somehow, Ms. Werlinger makes their unpredicted bond sound natural and organic to the story.
As I said above, this isn’t a traditional romance as it stresses more in the platonic rather than the physical aspects of the relationship. It’s my understanding that the author doesn’t write sex scenes in her novels (I might be wrong as I haven’t read all her catalogue). Even though I prefer intimate scenes in romances, as this isn’t a typical one, they aren’t needed to deepen their relationship.
Having said that, as both characters address the need to take their bond to the physical level, and Henrietta has understandable body image issues, I think that the novel should have raised the matter somehow, not necessarily in an explicit way. It seemed to me that it left a loose end that should have been tied up. However, this issue didn’t affect my overall enjoyment of the story.
The audiobook narration by Anne Etter was impeccable. This is the first time I’ve listened to this narrator and I enjoyed the overall tone of the story and her different voices for each character. At a length of 11 hrs and 10 mins, this audiobook is good value for your Audible credit and it’s also available with a Scribd subscription. 4.5 stars.
Audiobook generously provided by the author.
This is a very good wlw historical fiction novel set in the US in the 1980s during the first presidency of Ronald Reagan. I wouldn’t set it firmly in the romance category as it mostly emphasises on a strong platonic bond between the characters but it’s about a love of a different kind but not necessarily less deep or committed.
In the early 1980s, Henrietta Cochran is a reclusive artist living with the severe effects of polio she contracted in 1945. When her live-in companion leaves, she offers the post to college professor Meryn Fleming who is the complete opposite to her: out, outspoken, fiercely political, and also 30 years younger. Both women start an unexpected friendship that eventually develops into something deeper. But will they be able to overcome the huge age-gap and Henrietta’s reclusive tendencies?
This is a very good read about life in the 1980s for lesbians and women in general. It touches many sensitive issues such as racism, sexism, disability, sexual harassment, and homophobia. As there is 30 year-age-gap between the main characters, there are also many differences in their worldview.
Henrietta is a wounded soul who has suffered from the limiting effects of polio in her body, shaping her into a middle-aged guarded person while Meryn is young, extrovert, and outspoken. Henrietta is a Republican, Meryn a Democrat, so to say that they are opposites is an understatement. But somehow, Ms. Werlinger makes their unpredicted bond sound natural and organic to the story.
As I said above, this isn’t a traditional romance as it stresses more in the platonic rather than the physical aspects of the relationship. It’s my understanding that the author doesn’t write sex scenes in her novels (I might be wrong as I haven’t read all her catalogue). Even though I prefer intimate scenes in romances, as this isn’t a typical one, they aren’t needed to deepen their relationship.
Having said that, as both characters address the need to take their bond to the physical level, and Henrietta has understandable body image issues, I think that the novel should have raised the matter somehow, not necessarily in an explicit way. It seemed to me that it left a loose end that should have been tied up. However, this issue didn’t affect my overall enjoyment of the story.
The audiobook narration by Anne Etter was impeccable. This is the first time I’ve listened to this narrator and I enjoyed the overall tone of the story and her different voices for each character. At a length of 11 hrs and 10 mins, this audiobook is good value for your Audible credit and it’s also available with a Scribd subscription. 4.5 stars.
Audiobook generously provided by the author.
September 12, 2020
I was really intrigued about this book because of the high ratings. I admit I was a bit apprehensive because of the age gap — while I love age gaps, this is the biggest age gap I’ve read so far. But through beautiful storytelling, their relationship was really believable. I felt the love between the two main characters, Henrietta and Meryn. It did not happen in an instant, of course, but we are privy to all the ways Ryn cracked Henrietta’s walls.
This book made me feel different emotions in many different ways. Some parts made me happy and giddy, some made me really angry, and some just broke my heart. There were parts where my heart ached and I felt like crying. There is drama and angst, but they are not overdone. Some books would have drama thrown around for the heck of it, but it’s not the same case here.
The main characters are well-developed and not simply one-dimensional. You can really see them grow and become better. Although the villains are truly despicable, the supporting characters are very endearing.
This is my first book from this author, and I am really amazed. This is truly a wonderful story about love.
This book made me feel different emotions in many different ways. Some parts made me happy and giddy, some made me really angry, and some just broke my heart. There were parts where my heart ached and I felt like crying. There is drama and angst, but they are not overdone. Some books would have drama thrown around for the heck of it, but it’s not the same case here.
The main characters are well-developed and not simply one-dimensional. You can really see them grow and become better. Although the villains are truly despicable, the supporting characters are very endearing.
This is my first book from this author, and I am really amazed. This is truly a wonderful story about love.
March 22, 2021
Loved this book - it was slow, thoughtful, full of interesting characters and real life. It didn't pull punches and has left me with a beautiful aura of grief and sadness.
June 1, 2020
This was a walk down memory lane for this reader, taking place in the early '80's in a time and small town place where uttering the word lesbian meant you might lose your job and endure the whispers and gossip (or worse) of the closed-minded folks in those small towns. It was also a time of change and early acceptance that women deserved the jobs they held, could love who they loved and find their voices in a male dominated world.
Compare this time and place to the world Henrietta Cochran grew up in before her life was forever altered by polio and the Eighties seem like an enlightened time. I loved the contrast between Henrietta's life and coming of age in the early '40s vs Meryn Fleming, the young professor hoping to inspire her students with her love of history and fearless approach to her own sexuality.
This is an age gap, ice queen romance unique in many ways. Their age gap of thirty years is unsettling and there were moments when I wondered how the author would handle this as Hank and Ryn spent more and more time together. Werlinger is a master of the craft and weaves this story with so much heart, feelings and compassion this age difference no longer matters when two kindred spirits share a life together. The secondary characters are as richly drawn as the mains and made for a book I could not put down.
A beautiful read.
Compare this time and place to the world Henrietta Cochran grew up in before her life was forever altered by polio and the Eighties seem like an enlightened time. I loved the contrast between Henrietta's life and coming of age in the early '40s vs Meryn Fleming, the young professor hoping to inspire her students with her love of history and fearless approach to her own sexuality.
This is an age gap, ice queen romance unique in many ways. Their age gap of thirty years is unsettling and there were moments when I wondered how the author would handle this as Hank and Ryn spent more and more time together. Werlinger is a master of the craft and weaves this story with so much heart, feelings and compassion this age difference no longer matters when two kindred spirits share a life together. The secondary characters are as richly drawn as the mains and made for a book I could not put down.
A beautiful read.
July 13, 2020
Ohhhhh.... this book. I spent my entire Sunday reading it - couldn't put it down.
Set in the 1980s, this is a non-traditional love story between Henrietta Cochran, a disabled woman in her mid-50s and Meryn Fleming, a professor in her mid-20s, who connect when the latter becomes a live-in companion in Cochran's home. The two women couldn't be more different. Meryn is a gregarious, intelligent, political, out lesbian, while Henrietta is a semi-reclusive artist whose only social outlet is stuffy conservative acquaintances at the local country club. While determined to be as independent as possible, Henrietta also needs to have someone living in her home for occasional help and safety. On the surface, you wouldn't think these women would be drawn towards one another, but author Caren Werlinger peels back layers of these two characters, utilizing Meryn's disarmingly open nature to break through Henrietta's very high, protective walls.
Invisible, as Music is not a romance per se so if you're looking for passion and sex, you won't find it here. But for a heartbreakingly beautiful love story that will wrap itself snugly around your heart and not let go? This is it. What an introduction to Werlinger's work this was! Can't wait for more.
Set in the 1980s, this is a non-traditional love story between Henrietta Cochran, a disabled woman in her mid-50s and Meryn Fleming, a professor in her mid-20s, who connect when the latter becomes a live-in companion in Cochran's home. The two women couldn't be more different. Meryn is a gregarious, intelligent, political, out lesbian, while Henrietta is a semi-reclusive artist whose only social outlet is stuffy conservative acquaintances at the local country club. While determined to be as independent as possible, Henrietta also needs to have someone living in her home for occasional help and safety. On the surface, you wouldn't think these women would be drawn towards one another, but author Caren Werlinger peels back layers of these two characters, utilizing Meryn's disarmingly open nature to break through Henrietta's very high, protective walls.
Invisible, as Music is not a romance per se so if you're looking for passion and sex, you won't find it here. But for a heartbreakingly beautiful love story that will wrap itself snugly around your heart and not let go? This is it. What an introduction to Werlinger's work this was! Can't wait for more.
January 29, 2022
Representation is important. As somebody living from the effects of a viral infection 16 years ago (not polio) I have never, ever, read a book where I could relate to a character like me, until now. Thank you Caren J. Welinger! Usually in books disabled characters are there to make the healthy characters to look good or to kill off mid-story because the author is in need of a twist in the story. There is none of that in this book. Henrietta is in this story because she had a story to tell, she may have had carers but she was a person in her own right. This book had obviously been well researched, there was no hiding from the difficulties disability holds which was great to read. Although set in the 1980s many of these difficulties do still exist and it was really affirming to see them recognised. The romance of the story took some time for me to get on board with, the 30 year age difference was a struggle, but I guess the story was highlighting that real love has no boundaries. There were some difficult subjects in this book, so it isn't a light easy read. But it is worth it and I would highly recommend to fellow readers who enjoy this genre.
April 3, 2021
I couldn't put this book down, and now that I've finished it I have a whopper of a book hangover. I loved all the characters, and it was refreshing to travel back to the 80's.
November 6, 2019
Invisible, as Music is wonderfully different. It’s a love story that changes the lives of the two people in it, but one that also reaches out from within the pages and changes readers themselves. This is something that, in my opinion, only the very best books do. Invisible, as Music changes readers by leading them to question and reassess how they see themselves, how they see others, and what they might want in a relationship.
I think the reason that this story touched and changed me so much is because it let me, as the reader, experience the inner emotions and feelings of the two main characters to an extent greater than usual in fiction. I think it’s also because the author, Caren J. Werlinger, is adept at writing characters that readers can empathize with, and find elements in common with, despite the ways that they might differ from readers.
Meryn Fleming moves to Bluemont, a small town in New York state, to teach history at a Catholic college. She recently completed her Master’s degree in history, and is much younger than the two male professors in the small department. They make work difficult for Meryn, although she enjoys teaching and likes her students. She does her best to fit into her new life in Bluemont, doing things with her roommate, a first-year undergraduate student, and making friends with the department secretary, Beverly.
Henrietta Cochran grew up in Bluemont, and has spent nearly all of her life there. Since she contracted polio as a teenager, she’s needed braces for her legs and back, and uses crutches to walk. Her life has been relatively constricted and hasn’t changed much over the years, although she’s become much more isolated since the deaths of her parents.
The friends Henrietta plays bridge with at the country club are those she’s known for most of her life, but they are quite narrow minded people, and these friendships are quite superficial. She has a weekly housekeeper, Bonnie, and usually has a live-in companion so that she’s not alone in the house, something that’s a concern because of her disability.
Henrietta and Meryn have some unexpected meetings and eventually Meryn becomes Henrietta’s live-in companion—an arrangement that has the potential to be ideal, disastrous, or something else entirely. Just what happens when the two live together is the major focus of the story.
The plot is filled with twists, turns, and surprises. I debated with myself throughout my first reading of the book about the nature of any potential relationship between Henrietta and Meryn and how I felt it should or might turn out. I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll just say that I was truly satisfied with the ending.
Meryn is a character who is easy to relate to. She has a passion for history, particularly the role of women and the women’s suffrage movement. This is tied in with her present-day political activism. The book is set in the middle of the Reagan era and Meryn is a strong supporter of the Democrats. Nevertheless, Meryn tries to be an agent of change, both within the history department, and in terms of the broader political situation around her.
Meryn brings together a circle of people, mostly women, who despite differences in life circumstances, form bonds of friendship and trust. Henrietta is brought into this circle, and it is life-changing for her. Although Henrietta was not totally socially isolated before she met Meryn, her life was turned inward, and she did not open herself to others completely. Meryn helps open up Henrietta’s world.
Although I have much in common with Meryn, I found so much to relate to in Henrietta’s character, in terms of many of her internal thoughts and feelings. I think this shows the strength of Caren J. Werlinger’s character development. She writes Henrietta with a great deal of sensitivity and understanding, not only in terms of the physical limitations faced by a polio survivor, but also the enduring emotional effects. Henrietta is a well-developed and interesting character who is not defined solely by her disability. She can be pessimistic and sour at times, but we also see glimpses of the person she is underneath. We learn about Henrietta’s past and life before polio. We also see Henrietta’s life-long passion— art. Henrietta, a talented painter, spends most days working in her studio. She also enjoys sketching and painting outdoors, capturing the local landscapes.
The time period of 1983-1984 is brought to life in many ways, from the little details of everyday life and technology that were different then, to the societal differences that made life much more difficult for women and lesbians than it is now. We are immersed the time period through the music Meryn listens to, the books she reads, and the election cycle during the story. In the pre-smartphone age, even the ways people got together and met up were different in that time period. Although our world has never been more connected, the characters seem to have a closer sense of connectedness and being together.
The setting of the small town of Bluemont, with the college and its students, the country club, and the local pond, is brought to life to the extent that I could imagine myself walking among the college buildings and experiencing the changing seasons. Along with the characters, we make visits to nearby villages and picturesque Owasco Lake.
Invisible, as Music is a story about daily life and the small things that happen and matter in our lives, but also about how we face and cope with bigger life events and issues. Its focus is on those people who uplift us, but it also incorporates the very real presence of those who seek to tear down others, or involve themselves in others’ lives without any concern for how they might negatively affect them.
The title, inspired by a line in one of Emily Dickinson’s poems, is truly fitting for the story. It provides a connection between different points in Henrietta’s life, and its significance is something that readers will slowly uncover as they move through the story.
One of the wonderful things about Caren J. Werlinger’s work is that each of her books is different from the others. With Invisible as Music, I think she’s written something exceptionally unique and memorable. Henrietta, in particular, is a character whose inner thoughts and wider experiences will stay with me.
The broadest and most significant theme of this book is whether relationships really need to be categorized or if they can be considered as unique as the people in them. It’s something that has the potential to provoke discussions among readers. Invisible, as Music would be a perfect selection for a book club for this very reason.
I probably write this about each of her new books, but Caren J. Werlinger has really outdone herself. There are layers upon layers in the characters and storyline. Every time I reflect on the story, I grasp more of these insights and realize more ways that this story enlightens me.
This is an outstanding book. You’ll love it if you like storylines with strong female characters, and literary fiction that focuses on differing perspectives of women’s lives.
Disclaimer: I was involved in editing this manuscript, but my opinions here are from my perspective as a reader.
I think the reason that this story touched and changed me so much is because it let me, as the reader, experience the inner emotions and feelings of the two main characters to an extent greater than usual in fiction. I think it’s also because the author, Caren J. Werlinger, is adept at writing characters that readers can empathize with, and find elements in common with, despite the ways that they might differ from readers.
Meryn Fleming moves to Bluemont, a small town in New York state, to teach history at a Catholic college. She recently completed her Master’s degree in history, and is much younger than the two male professors in the small department. They make work difficult for Meryn, although she enjoys teaching and likes her students. She does her best to fit into her new life in Bluemont, doing things with her roommate, a first-year undergraduate student, and making friends with the department secretary, Beverly.
Henrietta Cochran grew up in Bluemont, and has spent nearly all of her life there. Since she contracted polio as a teenager, she’s needed braces for her legs and back, and uses crutches to walk. Her life has been relatively constricted and hasn’t changed much over the years, although she’s become much more isolated since the deaths of her parents.
The friends Henrietta plays bridge with at the country club are those she’s known for most of her life, but they are quite narrow minded people, and these friendships are quite superficial. She has a weekly housekeeper, Bonnie, and usually has a live-in companion so that she’s not alone in the house, something that’s a concern because of her disability.
Henrietta and Meryn have some unexpected meetings and eventually Meryn becomes Henrietta’s live-in companion—an arrangement that has the potential to be ideal, disastrous, or something else entirely. Just what happens when the two live together is the major focus of the story.
The plot is filled with twists, turns, and surprises. I debated with myself throughout my first reading of the book about the nature of any potential relationship between Henrietta and Meryn and how I felt it should or might turn out. I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll just say that I was truly satisfied with the ending.
Meryn is a character who is easy to relate to. She has a passion for history, particularly the role of women and the women’s suffrage movement. This is tied in with her present-day political activism. The book is set in the middle of the Reagan era and Meryn is a strong supporter of the Democrats. Nevertheless, Meryn tries to be an agent of change, both within the history department, and in terms of the broader political situation around her.
Meryn brings together a circle of people, mostly women, who despite differences in life circumstances, form bonds of friendship and trust. Henrietta is brought into this circle, and it is life-changing for her. Although Henrietta was not totally socially isolated before she met Meryn, her life was turned inward, and she did not open herself to others completely. Meryn helps open up Henrietta’s world.
Although I have much in common with Meryn, I found so much to relate to in Henrietta’s character, in terms of many of her internal thoughts and feelings. I think this shows the strength of Caren J. Werlinger’s character development. She writes Henrietta with a great deal of sensitivity and understanding, not only in terms of the physical limitations faced by a polio survivor, but also the enduring emotional effects. Henrietta is a well-developed and interesting character who is not defined solely by her disability. She can be pessimistic and sour at times, but we also see glimpses of the person she is underneath. We learn about Henrietta’s past and life before polio. We also see Henrietta’s life-long passion— art. Henrietta, a talented painter, spends most days working in her studio. She also enjoys sketching and painting outdoors, capturing the local landscapes.
The time period of 1983-1984 is brought to life in many ways, from the little details of everyday life and technology that were different then, to the societal differences that made life much more difficult for women and lesbians than it is now. We are immersed the time period through the music Meryn listens to, the books she reads, and the election cycle during the story. In the pre-smartphone age, even the ways people got together and met up were different in that time period. Although our world has never been more connected, the characters seem to have a closer sense of connectedness and being together.
The setting of the small town of Bluemont, with the college and its students, the country club, and the local pond, is brought to life to the extent that I could imagine myself walking among the college buildings and experiencing the changing seasons. Along with the characters, we make visits to nearby villages and picturesque Owasco Lake.
Invisible, as Music is a story about daily life and the small things that happen and matter in our lives, but also about how we face and cope with bigger life events and issues. Its focus is on those people who uplift us, but it also incorporates the very real presence of those who seek to tear down others, or involve themselves in others’ lives without any concern for how they might negatively affect them.
The title, inspired by a line in one of Emily Dickinson’s poems, is truly fitting for the story. It provides a connection between different points in Henrietta’s life, and its significance is something that readers will slowly uncover as they move through the story.
One of the wonderful things about Caren J. Werlinger’s work is that each of her books is different from the others. With Invisible as Music, I think she’s written something exceptionally unique and memorable. Henrietta, in particular, is a character whose inner thoughts and wider experiences will stay with me.
The broadest and most significant theme of this book is whether relationships really need to be categorized or if they can be considered as unique as the people in them. It’s something that has the potential to provoke discussions among readers. Invisible, as Music would be a perfect selection for a book club for this very reason.
I probably write this about each of her new books, but Caren J. Werlinger has really outdone herself. There are layers upon layers in the characters and storyline. Every time I reflect on the story, I grasp more of these insights and realize more ways that this story enlightens me.
This is an outstanding book. You’ll love it if you like storylines with strong female characters, and literary fiction that focuses on differing perspectives of women’s lives.
Disclaimer: I was involved in editing this manuscript, but my opinions here are from my perspective as a reader.
November 19, 2019
Absolutely perfect from beginning to end. It's a must read. Touching, loving, amazing characters, amazing story.
May 23, 2021
Crap that was depressing...
March 25, 2025
The way her eyes lit up, the earnestness in her voice when she spoke—Meryn could hold a class enthralled, Henrietta was certain of it. She holds me enthralled.
4.5 stars. This absolutely wrecked me. There are some books that I feel like I don't even have the capacity to review, and this is one of them. Oh my god. I've read from Werlinger before, and this is definitely my favourite so far. Books that make me cry don't automatically make it to my favourites list, but this was so just so powerfully effective, even in the moments where I could see the clear ways the author was attempting to tug on my heartstrings. It still worked! I ended this book sobbing!! And I will say, this isn't quiiiiite a romance, because it doesn't quiiiiite meet the requirements of romance novel conventions... but it meets them enough. So I'm still going to label this as a romance, rather than a love story. I'm also gonna stick it under the historical romance label, even though it feels weird to do that with a book that takes place only a few years before I was born.
This is an age gap romance between Henrietta, a stern, older artist who's been living with the effects of her polio for years; and Ryn, the young professor who ends up staying with her to assist her, and brings friendship, joy, upheaval to her strict routines, and ultimately, love. It's a super slow burn romance, which for me is always SO satisfying when well-done, and this was pretty much perfect. I adore a good opposites attract situation, and Ryn is just this wonderful little whirlwind in Henrietta's life, making her see things differently, helping her approach life with a little more kindness and vitality, bringing new friends to her. The attraction is slow to build, and when it starts, it's on Henrietta's side first. I usually prefer, in age gap romance, for the younger person so start catching feelings first, but I definitely understand why it was written this way. That period of discovery was so important for Hank, and she also had to wrestle with her feelings for her childhood friend. (That also wrecked me.) And the age gap is pretty huge, so I'm glad they struggled with it, and really had to consider what it would mean for the people around them both. Henrietta not wanting to feel like a burden, not wanting Ryn to be her caretaker; Ryn wanting to be taken seriously, wanting to make her own decisions. None of their conflicts or arguments felt extraneous or overdone. There's a lot of emotional intensity and intimacy that absolutely melted me; simply written, but so devastating, nonetheless. So many little moments that gave me butterflies.
I really enjoyed all the side plots and subplots. This had a great little cast of side characters that truly helped make this feel like a found family: Bonnie, Beverly, the nuns, Sandy and Maxine. Ryn's troubles with her male professors at the college were infuriating. I liked seeing Henrietta become more politically aware, more cognisant of the kinds of people in her social circle and at the country club. There's a side plot that deals with abortion in a way that broke my heart. (And to be honest, it did rub me the wrong way a liiiiiittle bit? ) There are some religious themes that managed to land pretty well for me, which doesn't always happen. I learnt a lot about polio, and I can't be the best judge, but I like the frankness and dignity with which Henrietta's disability was treated. Because Ryn is so politically involved, we got a lot of her thoughts about the Reagan administration, and towards the end, as the election drew near, a lot about her campaigning for Mondale and Ferraro. And... woof. I don't know a lot about historical American politics, but it got to me. It's sad but hopeful in the best way possible. Thinking about their romance and their love just bowls me over.
God, I just know I'm going to be turning this book over and over in my mind for the longest while. I wouldn't ever say that I ENJOY being brought to tears like this, but it was an experience I won't forget. Lol, I just started crying again. Perhaps it was a little heavy-handed, but I find that I don't mind that much? Not in the face of how much it made me feel. Listened to the audiobook as read by Ann Etter, who isn't a favourite narrator of mine, but she did a great job with this. Her voices feel very classic, and very fitting for this era. I have a couple more books from Werlinger in my library, and after this, they've moved way up on my priority list.
Content warnings:
This World is not Conclusion.
A Species stands beyond —
Invisible, as Music —
But positive, as Sound.
--
I can't quite say if this is a 4.5 or a 5 star. I can say that I spent the last few minutes crying so hard I could barely breathe, lol. RTC.
October 18, 2022
I don't think I could ever write a good enough review for this book and give it justice.
This was one of the most beautiful, emotional, heart wrenching stories I've read recently and I loved every second of it. Henrietta and Ryn's love story is probably unlike any other you'll ever read but it was one of the most soul-stirring ones I've come across with an array of secondary characters all of which authentic and complex.
This was my first book by Caren J. Werlinger and I'm so glad I stumbled upon Lex Kent's review and had the pleasure of discovering this author.
This was one of the most beautiful, emotional, heart wrenching stories I've read recently and I loved every second of it. Henrietta and Ryn's love story is probably unlike any other you'll ever read but it was one of the most soul-stirring ones I've come across with an array of secondary characters all of which authentic and complex.
This was my first book by Caren J. Werlinger and I'm so glad I stumbled upon Lex Kent's review and had the pleasure of discovering this author.
February 11, 2022
Is it possible to love, to be in love, and to receive nothing but the other person's presence in return? It appears to be plausible and, what is more, it is the most beautiful love story imaginable.
Caren Werlinger presented us with a crystal clear soul, Ryn. This young and very aspirational woman comes from a loving home and is equipped with the charisma of a loving person. People gather around her willingly, people of any kind. Those who do not like her have broken moral spines, I assume. Ryn is simply a dream companion, also for her 30 year old senior, Henrietta, whom she meets by chance due to her warm and open heart while helping with groceries. All of her good deeds are rewarded in return. The elderly lady is reserved, a bit bitter and does not like people because they disappoint her. Ryn, naturally, with her loving heart, helps Henrietta open up to people, feelings, and love. Such a kind-spirited person cannot exist in real life, so is this a fairy tale? It could be, but in this novel we also get to know characters whose experiences are not so easy to read about. They are more human, more real.
The reader will remember this wonderfully written novel for a long time. For me, it helped to revise some aspects of my everyday life. Patience and kindness, I have learnt, bring more life satisfaction than constant fighting. All that is needed here is to start believing in everlasting love. It always provides hints on how to figure out life's challenges. This is a HR novel that is not only heart-racing but also highly recommended.
Caren Werlinger presented us with a crystal clear soul, Ryn. This young and very aspirational woman comes from a loving home and is equipped with the charisma of a loving person. People gather around her willingly, people of any kind. Those who do not like her have broken moral spines, I assume. Ryn is simply a dream companion, also for her 30 year old senior, Henrietta, whom she meets by chance due to her warm and open heart while helping with groceries. All of her good deeds are rewarded in return. The elderly lady is reserved, a bit bitter and does not like people because they disappoint her. Ryn, naturally, with her loving heart, helps Henrietta open up to people, feelings, and love. Such a kind-spirited person cannot exist in real life, so is this a fairy tale? It could be, but in this novel we also get to know characters whose experiences are not so easy to read about. They are more human, more real.
The reader will remember this wonderfully written novel for a long time. For me, it helped to revise some aspects of my everyday life. Patience and kindness, I have learnt, bring more life satisfaction than constant fighting. All that is needed here is to start believing in everlasting love. It always provides hints on how to figure out life's challenges. This is a HR novel that is not only heart-racing but also highly recommended.
March 19, 2024
4 Stars
CJW captured the 80’s like nobody’s business. It wasn’t just the mentioning of the year or outfits or whatever, it was the little thing like the punched yellow folder with fastener, the computer lab, etc the whole atmosphere of the story was bathed in a decade familiar to me that it was eerie in a way to watch the scenes unfold in my brain in a sepia coloured lens.
To be honest I couldn’t imagine the pairings from the start. The age gap was wide partnered with other factors and so I approached the story skeptically. CJW on the other hand, proved just how good they are at writing and making things plausible. The social inequality commentary at the background held a good arc as well. An unexpected tearjerker.
CJW captured the 80’s like nobody’s business. It wasn’t just the mentioning of the year or outfits or whatever, it was the little thing like the punched yellow folder with fastener, the computer lab, etc the whole atmosphere of the story was bathed in a decade familiar to me that it was eerie in a way to watch the scenes unfold in my brain in a sepia coloured lens.
To be honest I couldn’t imagine the pairings from the start. The age gap was wide partnered with other factors and so I approached the story skeptically. CJW on the other hand, proved just how good they are at writing and making things plausible. The social inequality commentary at the background held a good arc as well. An unexpected tearjerker.
January 7, 2020
5⭐️
I found Caren J. Werlinger quite by accident one day last year. I am so happy that I did.
Invisible, as Music, in my humble opinion, is her best book yet and a true example of all of her wonderful writing skills.
If you are looking for the what I call a “meaty “ novel ; one which pulls you in and wraps the authors story around you, this is it.
You cannot help but become invested in Henrietta who is a survivor of childhood polio and who now has limited mobility at the cost of wearing painful leg and spinal braces. She is an intelligent but a lonely, reclusive woman in her mid fifties. Henrietta has just lost another live in companion and is looking for a replacement. Meryn is a new history professor at the local Catholic university looking for a place to stay. Circumstances bring these two together to help each other out.
We are brought slowly into each character’s life and history as well as their daily struggles. Henrietta with her limitations and Meryn with the political misogyny at her university.
Ms Werlinger’s strength as a writer is her varied and unique characters. We are introduced to a myriad of characters we would not have met if we had not read her books.
There is also a peacefulness I find when I read this story. Even through the intense crisis each character faces, the strength and solidness of the writing holds me in a caring and warm cocoon. There is a basic goodness to each character that you know is their foundation and makes you love and worry about them.
I loved this novel and will be re-reading it in years to come.
6⭐️ if it was allowed
I found Caren J. Werlinger quite by accident one day last year. I am so happy that I did.
Invisible, as Music, in my humble opinion, is her best book yet and a true example of all of her wonderful writing skills.
If you are looking for the what I call a “meaty “ novel ; one which pulls you in and wraps the authors story around you, this is it.
You cannot help but become invested in Henrietta who is a survivor of childhood polio and who now has limited mobility at the cost of wearing painful leg and spinal braces. She is an intelligent but a lonely, reclusive woman in her mid fifties. Henrietta has just lost another live in companion and is looking for a replacement. Meryn is a new history professor at the local Catholic university looking for a place to stay. Circumstances bring these two together to help each other out.
We are brought slowly into each character’s life and history as well as their daily struggles. Henrietta with her limitations and Meryn with the political misogyny at her university.
Ms Werlinger’s strength as a writer is her varied and unique characters. We are introduced to a myriad of characters we would not have met if we had not read her books.
There is also a peacefulness I find when I read this story. Even through the intense crisis each character faces, the strength and solidness of the writing holds me in a caring and warm cocoon. There is a basic goodness to each character that you know is their foundation and makes you love and worry about them.
I loved this novel and will be re-reading it in years to come.
6⭐️ if it was allowed
November 21, 2019
I write this review as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team and thank her and the author for the ARC copy of the book, which I freely chose to review.
This is the second book by this author I read, and it shares many of the characteristics of the previous one (a great setting, a love story at the centre of the book, a sense of time and place, great characters, both protagonists and secondary, wonderful writing…).
Here we have two characters that seem total opposites at first sight. Meryn, Ryn, a young woman, openly lesbian, newly qualified to teach history, from a large family, gregarious and friendly, dynamic, with strong convictions, and happy to stir things up. Henrietta, on the other hand, contracted polio in the 1940s and has lived with its sequelae ever since, leading a reclusive life, restricted to a small town, with a tiny circle of friends (mostly not deserving of the name), dedicated to her art, and dependant for her everyday life on paid help and living-in companions. Although the book starts in the 1980s, in many ways Henrietta still lives in the fifties. Due to the braces she wears and to her level of disability she has built up a protective shell around herself, and she’s never dared to change anything or explore beyond her self-imposed boundaries.
The story is narrated in the third person, alternating the two main characters’ points of view, and this works very well, as we have the contrast between a total newcomer who finds it difficult to fit into the stuffy and stifling society of the small town and of the Catholic college (where men reign supreme and misbehave without anybody taking them to task) where she works, and an older woman who might not like her lifestyle and those she mixes with if she stops to think about it, but cannot imagine a different life for herself. She fears the pity of others and has never allowed herself to love, after an experience she had as an adolescent prior to her illness. The girl disappeared, and she never heard from her again. That coupled with her conviction that nobody could look at her and feel anything but pity means that she is closed off and does not let anybody in, in case they hurt her.
The author creates two complex characters we get to empathise with and sets them in a recent historical period, but like the best historical fiction, the novel highlights how much some things have changed since, and also how little other things have truly changed. The gender politics at the college are appalling but not miles away from what still exists today in some places; the prejudice might be less open but is still present (and it takes many forms here: gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, political beliefs…); and as the epilogue reminds us, the parallels with the current political situation (Reagan was in power at the time the story starts and the Democrats lost their campaign, and the book closes after the 2016 election with Trump’s victory) are evident.
Above all that, the novel talks about love: about different kinds of love (religious love, family love, friendship, romantic love…), about acceptance and tolerance of diversity, about letting others in and learning to look with new eyes at ourselves and those around us. Although there are some truly appalling characters, Ryn and Henrietta manage to find a community of friends who make them feel welcome and accept them for who they are. Henrietta’s love for art and painting, and Ryn’s enthusiasm for history and women’s history in particular, their passion and creativity, make them more alike than they realise at first, and although their story is not without complications, and there are sad as well as joyful moments, this is ultimately an inspiring and beautiful read.
This is a novel that explores issues of identity, prejudice, diversity, different definitions of love, and what life (and love) is like for a person with a disability and for those around her. I enjoyed becoming a part of the story and, as was the case with the previous novel by Werlinger, I was sorry to get to the end, and I hope to read more of her stories. Recommended to readers who are looking for LGTB and diverse romances or simply enjoy beautifully written stories that will make them think.
This is the second book by this author I read, and it shares many of the characteristics of the previous one (a great setting, a love story at the centre of the book, a sense of time and place, great characters, both protagonists and secondary, wonderful writing…).
Here we have two characters that seem total opposites at first sight. Meryn, Ryn, a young woman, openly lesbian, newly qualified to teach history, from a large family, gregarious and friendly, dynamic, with strong convictions, and happy to stir things up. Henrietta, on the other hand, contracted polio in the 1940s and has lived with its sequelae ever since, leading a reclusive life, restricted to a small town, with a tiny circle of friends (mostly not deserving of the name), dedicated to her art, and dependant for her everyday life on paid help and living-in companions. Although the book starts in the 1980s, in many ways Henrietta still lives in the fifties. Due to the braces she wears and to her level of disability she has built up a protective shell around herself, and she’s never dared to change anything or explore beyond her self-imposed boundaries.
The story is narrated in the third person, alternating the two main characters’ points of view, and this works very well, as we have the contrast between a total newcomer who finds it difficult to fit into the stuffy and stifling society of the small town and of the Catholic college (where men reign supreme and misbehave without anybody taking them to task) where she works, and an older woman who might not like her lifestyle and those she mixes with if she stops to think about it, but cannot imagine a different life for herself. She fears the pity of others and has never allowed herself to love, after an experience she had as an adolescent prior to her illness. The girl disappeared, and she never heard from her again. That coupled with her conviction that nobody could look at her and feel anything but pity means that she is closed off and does not let anybody in, in case they hurt her.
The author creates two complex characters we get to empathise with and sets them in a recent historical period, but like the best historical fiction, the novel highlights how much some things have changed since, and also how little other things have truly changed. The gender politics at the college are appalling but not miles away from what still exists today in some places; the prejudice might be less open but is still present (and it takes many forms here: gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, political beliefs…); and as the epilogue reminds us, the parallels with the current political situation (Reagan was in power at the time the story starts and the Democrats lost their campaign, and the book closes after the 2016 election with Trump’s victory) are evident.
Above all that, the novel talks about love: about different kinds of love (religious love, family love, friendship, romantic love…), about acceptance and tolerance of diversity, about letting others in and learning to look with new eyes at ourselves and those around us. Although there are some truly appalling characters, Ryn and Henrietta manage to find a community of friends who make them feel welcome and accept them for who they are. Henrietta’s love for art and painting, and Ryn’s enthusiasm for history and women’s history in particular, their passion and creativity, make them more alike than they realise at first, and although their story is not without complications, and there are sad as well as joyful moments, this is ultimately an inspiring and beautiful read.
This is a novel that explores issues of identity, prejudice, diversity, different definitions of love, and what life (and love) is like for a person with a disability and for those around her. I enjoyed becoming a part of the story and, as was the case with the previous novel by Werlinger, I was sorry to get to the end, and I hope to read more of her stories. Recommended to readers who are looking for LGTB and diverse romances or simply enjoy beautifully written stories that will make them think.
May 17, 2020
My oh my, what a story. This is not a light read. This is not a simple read. This is a complex read with various topics presented. For example, loss, family, small town, disability, ethnicity/diversity, academic misbehavior to name a few.
I was so captivated by the writing and the characters that I read it in one day/night. Meryn Fleming, young college professor settling into her first teaching position at a small liberal arts college. She is a wonderful character full of spunk and possessing a desire to make a difference. Henrietta Cochran, artist, dealing with the effects of polio, and keeps herself walled in and controlled with structure.
This read is not a romance. It is a beautiful love story that takes the reader back to the 1980s. This well written book weaves a story that causes emotions to surface and pulls the reader in as Henrietta and Ryn meet and interact along with a interesting cast of secondary characters. Just wow!
I was so captivated by the writing and the characters that I read it in one day/night. Meryn Fleming, young college professor settling into her first teaching position at a small liberal arts college. She is a wonderful character full of spunk and possessing a desire to make a difference. Henrietta Cochran, artist, dealing with the effects of polio, and keeps herself walled in and controlled with structure.
This read is not a romance. It is a beautiful love story that takes the reader back to the 1980s. This well written book weaves a story that causes emotions to surface and pulls the reader in as Henrietta and Ryn meet and interact along with a interesting cast of secondary characters. Just wow!
March 14, 2020
Wonderful love story - Highly recommended
This book goes on my top 10 list of books read to date. It is deeply moving and ultimately uplifting. The writing is incredible, as is always the case with anything I've read from this author. This is a wonderful love story that is both simple and complex. I felt it on many levels and found myself wishing the story would never end.
This book goes on my top 10 list of books read to date. It is deeply moving and ultimately uplifting. The writing is incredible, as is always the case with anything I've read from this author. This is a wonderful love story that is both simple and complex. I felt it on many levels and found myself wishing the story would never end.
August 25, 2020
I'm super late to the party on this one, but during the past few months I've thought that what I needed was lighthearted fluff, so that's mainly what I've been reading.
I've read two fairly dense books in the past three days, and it turns out to be just what I've needed. Caren Werlinger is, in my opinion, the most brilliant writer in the lesbian fiction genre. She has never written the same book twice, and, in fact, has never used a single trope. Every story is a singular, profound piece of literature that always transports me away to the center of the story. And I can always expect a hangover after I finish, or what I refer to as "staring at the wall".
The early 80s is the perfect backdrop for this story. No Google, no cell phones, the Reagan era; these all contribute to the believability of the main and secondary storylines. The growth that both Meryn and Henrietta experience make the 30-year age gap work. (I love how "Hank" refers to Ryn in her mind as "the girl".)
I've said enough. If you haven't read Invisible, as Music yet, please do yourself a favor.
I've read two fairly dense books in the past three days, and it turns out to be just what I've needed. Caren Werlinger is, in my opinion, the most brilliant writer in the lesbian fiction genre. She has never written the same book twice, and, in fact, has never used a single trope. Every story is a singular, profound piece of literature that always transports me away to the center of the story. And I can always expect a hangover after I finish, or what I refer to as "staring at the wall".
The early 80s is the perfect backdrop for this story. No Google, no cell phones, the Reagan era; these all contribute to the believability of the main and secondary storylines. The growth that both Meryn and Henrietta experience make the 30-year age gap work. (I love how "Hank" refers to Ryn in her mind as "the girl".)
I've said enough. If you haven't read Invisible, as Music yet, please do yourself a favor.
September 28, 2021
I am glad that I finally got around reading this book. Not an easy read, but story has great depth and author writes beautifully.
November 21, 2019
Beautiful
Ms. Werlinger has written another astounding book. What is love? Ryn and Hank an unlikely pair but is that not usually the best kind. I am not one for spoiler alerts. But do recommend this book highly. Some of the audience are not going to understand how devastating polio was. My mother had polio at a young age. People of her era feared this disease that made summer a time of dread. It left so many crippled and others did not survive. The compassion and conflict of emotions that are represented in the story are going pull you into the story and stay with you after you finish. A story is a living thing make this one part of your life.
Ms. Werlinger has written another astounding book. What is love? Ryn and Hank an unlikely pair but is that not usually the best kind. I am not one for spoiler alerts. But do recommend this book highly. Some of the audience are not going to understand how devastating polio was. My mother had polio at a young age. People of her era feared this disease that made summer a time of dread. It left so many crippled and others did not survive. The compassion and conflict of emotions that are represented in the story are going pull you into the story and stay with you after you finish. A story is a living thing make this one part of your life.
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