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Songs in the Dark #1
Music & Mirrors
Eric Asher has always dreamed of being an opera singer, instead of making his living seducing wealthy women out of their money. He finally gets his chance when he’s hired to join the chorus of the Grand Opera House.
He has never seen the owner of the opera house. She speaks from behind mirrors and has the most haunting voice he’s ever heard. But Eric still reckons he can charm her into promoting him out of the chorus and into a main role.
Ada Byron’s only true love is engineering, but as the daughter of England’s most infamous peer, she’s pressured into an engagement she doesn’t want. When she runs away to the Grand Opera House, the mysterious owner agrees to hire her to work on the special effects machinery.
But what at first seems like a dream come true for both Ada and Eric slowly turns to a nightmare as they realise that their mysterious employer is both jealous and deadly. She wants Eric all to herself, and she doesn’t take kindly to his fascination with Ada.
As Ada and Eric are drawn deeper into the opera house’s world of haunting music and secret passageways, it becomes clear that their employer has no intention of letting Eric go…
Music & Mirrors is a retelling of the Phantom of the Opera with a twist. Come discover the labyrinthine Grand Opera House where the walls have ears, mirrors aren’t what they seem, and where something skulks through the hallways at night, watching.
If you like complex characters, gorgeously gothic settings, all with a dash of romance, you will love this unexpected reimagining.
He has never seen the owner of the opera house. She speaks from behind mirrors and has the most haunting voice he’s ever heard. But Eric still reckons he can charm her into promoting him out of the chorus and into a main role.
Ada Byron’s only true love is engineering, but as the daughter of England’s most infamous peer, she’s pressured into an engagement she doesn’t want. When she runs away to the Grand Opera House, the mysterious owner agrees to hire her to work on the special effects machinery.
But what at first seems like a dream come true for both Ada and Eric slowly turns to a nightmare as they realise that their mysterious employer is both jealous and deadly. She wants Eric all to herself, and she doesn’t take kindly to his fascination with Ada.
As Ada and Eric are drawn deeper into the opera house’s world of haunting music and secret passageways, it becomes clear that their employer has no intention of letting Eric go…
Music & Mirrors is a retelling of the Phantom of the Opera with a twist. Come discover the labyrinthine Grand Opera House where the walls have ears, mirrors aren’t what they seem, and where something skulks through the hallways at night, watching.
If you like complex characters, gorgeously gothic settings, all with a dash of romance, you will love this unexpected reimagining.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2021
39 people are currently reading
1448 people want to read
About the author
Celine Jeanjean
32 books244 followersCeline Jeanjean is French, grew up in the UK and now she travels the world as a nomadic writer. That makes her a tad confused about where she is from. During her travels she's watched the sun rise over Angkor Wat, lost her shoes in Vietnam, and fallen off a bamboo raft in China.
Celine writes stories that feature quirky characters and misfits, set in wondrous worlds.
Celine writes stories that feature quirky characters and misfits, set in wondrous worlds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 22, 2021
A retelling of "Phantom of the Opera" with switched genders, a female 'phantom' who becomes obsessed with a male singer. You don't need to be familiar with the original book or stage musical to appreciate this story as it has plenty of atmosphere and intrigue all of it's own. Indeed, in many ways I'd say it's more 'inspired by' than a 'retelling of'. The characters are original and very real and the story is well paced and intriguing. There is nothing vivid in terms of violence or sex, although both occur the author doesn't focus in on the gory details. I found it a good balance, enough violence to be menacing and threatening, not enough to be off-putting.
The prologue is written in present tense, which is usually cause for me to stop reading and find something else to read. In my opinion, many a great author has utterly destroyed what would otherwise have been a fabulous book by writing in present tense. Thankfully, the author assured me in her newsletter that after the prologue it switches to being readable (i.e. written in past tense) or she might have lost me in those first few pages. Unfortunately, every time there was a chapter from Igor's point of view it reverted to present tense which is definitely a negative for me, but oddly enough I do have to admit the style did suit Igor's voice.
I'm not sure what to make of the inclusion of Ada Lovelace in the book. She was a real historical figure and widely regarded as the world's first computer programmer, but as far as I know her life, relationship with her mother and personality were nothing like presented here. The entire book I was waiting for Ada and her circumstances to become more like the real Ada, but it never happened. The fact that she really existed doesn't change the story, so why not just call the character Jane Smith and not pretend the character is a real figure from history? Igor on the other hand I totally understand including. While (hopefully) never a real person, Igor is the quintessential lackey in gothic horror stories and is the perfect fit as Marian's henchman.
Overall it's a great read with the right balance of mystery, mayhem and menace. Yet at the end, it wasn't at all satisfying. There were just too many questions left unanswered; what do Eric and Ada do next, what happens to Igor, who exactly was Marian and how did she get the money and influence to open the opera house? I suspect given the genre these unanswered questions are deliberate and we are all expected to live with them. Personally, I'm hoping for a sequel.
The prologue is written in present tense, which is usually cause for me to stop reading and find something else to read. In my opinion, many a great author has utterly destroyed what would otherwise have been a fabulous book by writing in present tense. Thankfully, the author assured me in her newsletter that after the prologue it switches to being readable (i.e. written in past tense) or she might have lost me in those first few pages. Unfortunately, every time there was a chapter from Igor's point of view it reverted to present tense which is definitely a negative for me, but oddly enough I do have to admit the style did suit Igor's voice.
I'm not sure what to make of the inclusion of Ada Lovelace in the book. She was a real historical figure and widely regarded as the world's first computer programmer, but as far as I know her life, relationship with her mother and personality were nothing like presented here. The entire book I was waiting for Ada and her circumstances to become more like the real Ada, but it never happened. The fact that she really existed doesn't change the story, so why not just call the character Jane Smith and not pretend the character is a real figure from history? Igor on the other hand I totally understand including. While (hopefully) never a real person, Igor is the quintessential lackey in gothic horror stories and is the perfect fit as Marian's henchman.
Overall it's a great read with the right balance of mystery, mayhem and menace. Yet at the end, it wasn't at all satisfying. There were just too many questions left unanswered; what do Eric and Ada do next, what happens to Igor, who exactly was Marian and how did she get the money and influence to open the opera house? I suspect given the genre these unanswered questions are deliberate and we are all expected to live with them. Personally, I'm hoping for a sequel.
August 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this Phantom of the Opera retelling. Kept me wondering the whole time what the outcome would be. Hard to know what to say in a review without spoilers haha
June 28, 2025
I wanted to like this book, but I just couldn’t. The premise had me hooked, so I paid for the ebook, but it felt like reading Wattpad fan fiction. I did really enjoy the characters, especially Ada (as someone with autism, I really liked the way the author described her stims and aversion to eye contact). Most of the book felt rushed, like the author was more excited to get to the next plot point than let the readers settle into the scenes. The ending was especially rushed and anticlimactic.
There were several grammar mistakes (at least 2 every few pages), and a lot of the words/phrases were repetitive and over-used. Some of the character dialogue felt too modern/casual compared to how people in Victorian England would’ve spoken.
Overall, the book has a good premise and several interesting characters, but it lacks depth, pacing, attention to detail, and prose. It feels like reading a short Wattpad fan fiction.
There were several grammar mistakes (at least 2 every few pages), and a lot of the words/phrases were repetitive and over-used. Some of the character dialogue felt too modern/casual compared to how people in Victorian England would’ve spoken.
Overall, the book has a good premise and several interesting characters, but it lacks depth, pacing, attention to detail, and prose. It feels like reading a short Wattpad fan fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2021
An intriguing retelling of this familiar story begins with the introduction of a fearsome creature who talks of his mistress to whom he is devoted. It was not easy to warm to Eric at first as he is a gigolo seducing older women for money, but we soon discover he is saving money to take his sickly sister to a sanatorium, and he lives for singing for an audience. In contrast Ada Byron is an unhappy brilliant young woman on the autistic spectrum unable to cope with the society her mother plunges her into.
At the Grand Opera Eric has the chance to achieve his ambition while Ada has escaped an unwanted marriage and enjoys working with the special effects team backstage. At first they are both enchanted by Marian, the mysterious invisible owner of the Opera House but there are unfortunate events, mysterious sounds behind the walls and mirrors through which Marian observes them. Soon the couple realise they are trapped and must seek help before all is lost.
I found myself reading late into the night, routing for Ada and Eric but I wanted to know more about Marian and how she created her assistant. As there is a sequel more may be revealed then.
At the Grand Opera Eric has the chance to achieve his ambition while Ada has escaped an unwanted marriage and enjoys working with the special effects team backstage. At first they are both enchanted by Marian, the mysterious invisible owner of the Opera House but there are unfortunate events, mysterious sounds behind the walls and mirrors through which Marian observes them. Soon the couple realise they are trapped and must seek help before all is lost.
I found myself reading late into the night, routing for Ada and Eric but I wanted to know more about Marian and how she created her assistant. As there is a sequel more may be revealed then.
November 12, 2025
This was definitely an interesting spin on the Phantom of the Opera. It was a good read. While there were things I wasn’t too keen on and would others I have done differently, I did enjoy it nonetheless. It’s a gender reversal on the characters and I thought that was written really well. I wasn’t a huge fan of the Igor plot though. Mainly because it was never really discussed how he came to be. I would have liked more detail on that. But all in all, a good solid read. I purchased the color special edition and I cannot wait to get it.
June 27, 2021
I've watched Phantom of the Opera twice. Once as a youth in high school and once as an adult. In the musical, I sympathized more with the Phantom and I didn’t really understand why Christine would choose Raoul over the Phantom.
This new story by Celine is only loosely based on Phantom of the Opera, and it’s so much better. Similar setting, new characters and a story that delves much more into their motivations, fears and interactions with each other.
The Phantom is still a sympathetic character, but there’s a much better understanding of all the characters and what drives their actions and decisions. It still has sad undertones, but with a hopeful ending. So much can be learned from the story, and applied to life these days. Be kind, try to understand where the other person's coming from, look for other ways to communicate and resolve issues. Don't resort to violence as it begets violence (or bad feelings at the very least).
Such a worthwhile read.
If you enjoy this novel, Celine has 2 other series which I also enjoyed very much. Both are light hearted, fun reads, and very enjoyable. The Bloodless Assassin is the first book of the Viper and the Urchin series. Touched by Magic is the first book of the Razor’s Edge Chronicles. If you sign up for Celine’s newsletter, there are free shorts to both series if you just want a taste.
This new story by Celine is only loosely based on Phantom of the Opera, and it’s so much better. Similar setting, new characters and a story that delves much more into their motivations, fears and interactions with each other.
The Phantom is still a sympathetic character, but there’s a much better understanding of all the characters and what drives their actions and decisions. It still has sad undertones, but with a hopeful ending. So much can be learned from the story, and applied to life these days. Be kind, try to understand where the other person's coming from, look for other ways to communicate and resolve issues. Don't resort to violence as it begets violence (or bad feelings at the very least).
Such a worthwhile read.
If you enjoy this novel, Celine has 2 other series which I also enjoyed very much. Both are light hearted, fun reads, and very enjoyable. The Bloodless Assassin is the first book of the Viper and the Urchin series. Touched by Magic is the first book of the Razor’s Edge Chronicles. If you sign up for Celine’s newsletter, there are free shorts to both series if you just want a taste.
August 10, 2025
Loved the gender swap and reimagining of the characters. Their backstories were excellent. Despite being a retelling, it is a refreshingly original story. I am a huge Phantom of the Opera fan and I enjoyed the read very much!
I loved the multiple POV's, but wish that Marian had had her own chapter or two. I would have liked to know more about her story.
I couldn't give it a 5 star because some of the writing is problematic... lots of repetitive words (a thesaurus could have easily fixed this issue), some spelling errors, some expressions that were too modern for the time period, and a general lack of description.
Overall, I would recommend this work and will likely re-read it sometime soon!
I loved the multiple POV's, but wish that Marian had had her own chapter or two. I would have liked to know more about her story.
I couldn't give it a 5 star because some of the writing is problematic... lots of repetitive words (a thesaurus could have easily fixed this issue), some spelling errors, some expressions that were too modern for the time period, and a general lack of description.
Overall, I would recommend this work and will likely re-read it sometime soon!
February 10, 2023
A gripping re-tell of the phantom of the Opera but then again, so very different. Beautiful characters and very suspenseful.
December 5, 2025
Exquisitely beautiful ❤️
Extremely slow burn but wonderful. To be seen, to be understood, to not be judged but accepted in a world who has not learned to do so.
I am in awe, truly.
Extremely slow burn but wonderful. To be seen, to be understood, to not be judged but accepted in a world who has not learned to do so.
I am in awe, truly.
June 25, 2021
You think you know the story because you have read Gaston Leroux’s Phantom of the Opera. Or because you have seen the silent movie version starring Lon Chaney. Or maybe you have seen the stage or screen version of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical. You think you know the story.
And you do. Music and Mirrors could also be called The Phantom of the Opera. Having seen this story in all those iterations I mentioned, I was both excited and wary to read this retelling. Excited because I love the story. Wary….because I love the story.
Most of the events occur in the London opera house. Built over an underground river, it is filled with secret passageways, dark hallways and mirrors. Many, many mirrors illuminated by gas lighting. Marian, the owner, uses the mirrors and lights to watch everything that goes on in her house without having to walk among the people that work there. For those places that the mirrors don’t reach, she has Igor to spy for her.
Marian and Igor watch Ada and Eric. Ada, because she is the girl who does not belong and Eric because he is the man Marian longs for.
As the reader, I appreciate that both Ada and Eric actions are simply motivated. Ada wants a life where her differences will not be so noticed. Ada is both genius and extremely introverted. As a titled young woman, her natural tendencies cause people (her mother) to think she is psychotic. In order to survive, instead of being truthful, she has established a Code of Interaction and mathematical algorithms to deal with the people around her. Eric’s motivation is his sister. Tuberculosis keeps her bedridden and lack of any wealth means she cannot get the treatment she needs. Eric will do anything he can to help her, even if that means being something he does not want to be.
Ada and Eric find their place in the opera house. Ada helps maintain the intricate stage equipment, which allows her learn the science behind the fantastic stage effects and to stay away from anyone that would institutionalize her. Eric finds his musical muse in Marian who takes Eric under her wing and trains him become a great opera singer, which is what he truly wants for himself. If you do not know the Phantom of the Opera story, you might even imagine that everything could turn out nicely for the pair.
But if you do know the story, you know that Marian is a jealous taskmaster. Her jealously increases when Igor reports on Eric’s activities. When tragedy occurs, the whispers of a phantom in the opera house are spread. As the truth is slowly revealed, more tragedies occur ultimately leading to a showdown.
As I read the tale, I kept thinking back to the earlier tellings, not for comparison, but to determine where I was in the overall storyline. I don’t want to compare Music and Mirrors to anything. Every story, every character, every fictional relationship is affected by the storyteller. In Music and Mirrors, Celine Jeanjean has marked this classic tale with her personal stamp. Her vision brings a fresh feminist view to the story of the dark, scarred musical genius longing for a human connection.
Many thanks to the author who provided a copy of her book in exchange for my honest review.
And you do. Music and Mirrors could also be called The Phantom of the Opera. Having seen this story in all those iterations I mentioned, I was both excited and wary to read this retelling. Excited because I love the story. Wary….because I love the story.
Most of the events occur in the London opera house. Built over an underground river, it is filled with secret passageways, dark hallways and mirrors. Many, many mirrors illuminated by gas lighting. Marian, the owner, uses the mirrors and lights to watch everything that goes on in her house without having to walk among the people that work there. For those places that the mirrors don’t reach, she has Igor to spy for her.
Marian and Igor watch Ada and Eric. Ada, because she is the girl who does not belong and Eric because he is the man Marian longs for.
As the reader, I appreciate that both Ada and Eric actions are simply motivated. Ada wants a life where her differences will not be so noticed. Ada is both genius and extremely introverted. As a titled young woman, her natural tendencies cause people (her mother) to think she is psychotic. In order to survive, instead of being truthful, she has established a Code of Interaction and mathematical algorithms to deal with the people around her. Eric’s motivation is his sister. Tuberculosis keeps her bedridden and lack of any wealth means she cannot get the treatment she needs. Eric will do anything he can to help her, even if that means being something he does not want to be.
Ada and Eric find their place in the opera house. Ada helps maintain the intricate stage equipment, which allows her learn the science behind the fantastic stage effects and to stay away from anyone that would institutionalize her. Eric finds his musical muse in Marian who takes Eric under her wing and trains him become a great opera singer, which is what he truly wants for himself. If you do not know the Phantom of the Opera story, you might even imagine that everything could turn out nicely for the pair.
But if you do know the story, you know that Marian is a jealous taskmaster. Her jealously increases when Igor reports on Eric’s activities. When tragedy occurs, the whispers of a phantom in the opera house are spread. As the truth is slowly revealed, more tragedies occur ultimately leading to a showdown.
As I read the tale, I kept thinking back to the earlier tellings, not for comparison, but to determine where I was in the overall storyline. I don’t want to compare Music and Mirrors to anything. Every story, every character, every fictional relationship is affected by the storyteller. In Music and Mirrors, Celine Jeanjean has marked this classic tale with her personal stamp. Her vision brings a fresh feminist view to the story of the dark, scarred musical genius longing for a human connection.
Many thanks to the author who provided a copy of her book in exchange for my honest review.
June 25, 2021
Review originally posted on A Keyboard and an Open Mind 25 June 2021:
While I know that it’s a bit of a problematic trashfire, Phantom of the Opera is pretty much my favourite musical, so I was extremely excited when Celine Jeanjean announced to her advance team that she would be publishing a Phantom retelling this month. When I saw that gorgeous cover, my excitement only increased.
This is very different to Celine’s other books – her characteristic humour and snark are absent, and it’s a lot more character-driven that her other books. There were a couple of occasions when I found myself thinking “but nothing has actually happened“. Things had happened, though, but so much of it about the character arcs and what happens to them as people, rather than actual action or events.
And there are still hints of the Jeanjean signature style. I was getting some definite Viper and the Urchin series vibes from the descriptions of the feats of engineering in and under the opera house.
This version of the story is genderbent, with a female “phantom” and an aspiring bass-baritone opera singer. Also present is Ada Byron aka Ada Lovelace, in our own world commonly viewed as the earliest “computer programmer”. Jeanjean’s Ada is clearly autistic, even though the word obviously is never used. I wasn’t quite sure why it was necessary to have Ada Lovelace present as a character and not just an original aristocratic character, but in and of herself, I loved this character.
I wasn’t entirely sure what to make of Eric when we first met him, but he grew on me as the story went on. His love for his sister really shines through and it becomes clear early on that he will genuinely do anything for her. I also really loved that he respected Ada’s boundaries and the fact that she didn’t make eye contact or want to be touched.
In the original story, we learn about Erik’s disownment by his mother and how he travelled Europe and Asia before taking up residence under the Opera House. I wish we had got a bit of a similar backstory for Miriam, the Phantom equivalent in this story, especially given that she was the owner of the opera house and incredibly wealthy. I was intrigued where all that came from. Jeanjean does a good job of humanising the character without justifying her terrible actions, and I certainly sympathised with her as she realised towards the end that her loneliness was mostly of her own making.
I am pretty sure this is intended as a standalone, but I’d be interested in seeing more of these characters if Celine is willing to revisit them. I feel like there’s still so much ahead of them that could be explored!
Thank you to the author for a gratis copy of this book in exchange for a review.
While I know that it’s a bit of a problematic trashfire, Phantom of the Opera is pretty much my favourite musical, so I was extremely excited when Celine Jeanjean announced to her advance team that she would be publishing a Phantom retelling this month. When I saw that gorgeous cover, my excitement only increased.
This is very different to Celine’s other books – her characteristic humour and snark are absent, and it’s a lot more character-driven that her other books. There were a couple of occasions when I found myself thinking “but nothing has actually happened“. Things had happened, though, but so much of it about the character arcs and what happens to them as people, rather than actual action or events.
And there are still hints of the Jeanjean signature style. I was getting some definite Viper and the Urchin series vibes from the descriptions of the feats of engineering in and under the opera house.
This version of the story is genderbent, with a female “phantom” and an aspiring bass-baritone opera singer. Also present is Ada Byron aka Ada Lovelace, in our own world commonly viewed as the earliest “computer programmer”. Jeanjean’s Ada is clearly autistic, even though the word obviously is never used. I wasn’t quite sure why it was necessary to have Ada Lovelace present as a character and not just an original aristocratic character, but in and of herself, I loved this character.
I wasn’t entirely sure what to make of Eric when we first met him, but he grew on me as the story went on. His love for his sister really shines through and it becomes clear early on that he will genuinely do anything for her. I also really loved that he respected Ada’s boundaries and the fact that she didn’t make eye contact or want to be touched.
In the original story, we learn about Erik’s disownment by his mother and how he travelled Europe and Asia before taking up residence under the Opera House. I wish we had got a bit of a similar backstory for Miriam, the Phantom equivalent in this story, especially given that she was the owner of the opera house and incredibly wealthy. I was intrigued where all that came from. Jeanjean does a good job of humanising the character without justifying her terrible actions, and I certainly sympathised with her as she realised towards the end that her loneliness was mostly of her own making.
I am pretty sure this is intended as a standalone, but I’d be interested in seeing more of these characters if Celine is willing to revisit them. I feel like there’s still so much ahead of them that could be explored!
Thank you to the author for a gratis copy of this book in exchange for a review.
November 14, 2025
4.5/5
Ada Byron is a noble lady, but she is different than her peers. She wants more than just to be a wife, she loves science and math. But she also has a lack of understanding of anything emotional. Her father has always kept her from needing to be sent to an Institution, but her father has died and her mother is trying to marry her off and be rid of her. After visiting the Opera House, she decides to run away and work there while hiding from her family and the engagement her mother tricked her into. Eric Asher is a young man who has taken on the role of bread winner in his family after his mother has died and his father spends all his money on alcohol. His sister, Lily, has consumption and needs to be cared for in a sanatorium. Eric loves singing, but working in a club singing and swindling women isn't what he wants to do anymore. When he finds out there is an audition to train at the new opera house, he jumps on the chance. But will their chance at happiness be shattered by the curse of the Opera House?
The characters in this book are definitely complex. Ada is what people consider different in the time this book was written to be in. She knew it and while she embraced herself, she managed to find a way to blend in with her high society "peers". She is an independent person and hard working. Eric is a young man who takes advantage of women and uses his looks and charm to get money to take care of his sister. Even though he has some loose morals, his heart is in the right place. His character also goes through some development in this book as well. Then we have Marian, the reclusive and never seen owner of the Opera House. She seems at first as very philanthropic but when jealousy strikes she becomes someone else.
I have never read or seen any version of Phantom of the Opera (I know I know), so I am not sure how true to the original this is. But I love the way this opera house reminds me of the Chicago Murder House and the way the author uses the mirrors is very interesting. The world building was wonderful and I loved all the Gaslamp elements as well. It was a bit spooky and had the perfect amount of tension. When I started the book, I was unsure how I was going to feel about this book, but I was definitely pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this book. Once it got going, I was definitely pulled in. I know there is a sequel in the works and I am looking forward to that.
Ada Byron is a noble lady, but she is different than her peers. She wants more than just to be a wife, she loves science and math. But she also has a lack of understanding of anything emotional. Her father has always kept her from needing to be sent to an Institution, but her father has died and her mother is trying to marry her off and be rid of her. After visiting the Opera House, she decides to run away and work there while hiding from her family and the engagement her mother tricked her into. Eric Asher is a young man who has taken on the role of bread winner in his family after his mother has died and his father spends all his money on alcohol. His sister, Lily, has consumption and needs to be cared for in a sanatorium. Eric loves singing, but working in a club singing and swindling women isn't what he wants to do anymore. When he finds out there is an audition to train at the new opera house, he jumps on the chance. But will their chance at happiness be shattered by the curse of the Opera House?
The characters in this book are definitely complex. Ada is what people consider different in the time this book was written to be in. She knew it and while she embraced herself, she managed to find a way to blend in with her high society "peers". She is an independent person and hard working. Eric is a young man who takes advantage of women and uses his looks and charm to get money to take care of his sister. Even though he has some loose morals, his heart is in the right place. His character also goes through some development in this book as well. Then we have Marian, the reclusive and never seen owner of the Opera House. She seems at first as very philanthropic but when jealousy strikes she becomes someone else.
I have never read or seen any version of Phantom of the Opera (I know I know), so I am not sure how true to the original this is. But I love the way this opera house reminds me of the Chicago Murder House and the way the author uses the mirrors is very interesting. The world building was wonderful and I loved all the Gaslamp elements as well. It was a bit spooky and had the perfect amount of tension. When I started the book, I was unsure how I was going to feel about this book, but I was definitely pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this book. Once it got going, I was definitely pulled in. I know there is a sequel in the works and I am looking forward to that.
July 6, 2021
Though at its heart this book is a retelling of Phantom of Opera, it is still very much its own story filled with characters that are at once unique and relatable. I personally have a soft spot for Ada Byron who is trying to make her way through an incomprehensible world that expects things of her that she just cannot give. However, I will admit to a slight bias in that area.
The opera house is all it should be. A grand mask hiding the darker places, it is both beautiful and horrifying. For Eric Asher it offers dreams and only asks for his soul in return. In many ways, Eric is his own worst enemy, and I wanted to both throttle and hug him, in turn.
I enjoyed the story and all its characters. On occasion, there might have even been a tear or two shed in frustration or sympathy, oftentimes in both. I do not want to give too much away, but the ending felt more like a beginning and it may not be exactly what you would expect. However, it does make me wonder where that new beginning will lead.
I did receive an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. Though to be fair, I had already preordered it beforehand.
The opera house is all it should be. A grand mask hiding the darker places, it is both beautiful and horrifying. For Eric Asher it offers dreams and only asks for his soul in return. In many ways, Eric is his own worst enemy, and I wanted to both throttle and hug him, in turn.
I enjoyed the story and all its characters. On occasion, there might have even been a tear or two shed in frustration or sympathy, oftentimes in both. I do not want to give too much away, but the ending felt more like a beginning and it may not be exactly what you would expect. However, it does make me wonder where that new beginning will lead.
I did receive an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. Though to be fair, I had already preordered it beforehand.
August 11, 2025
As someone who is unfamiliar with the original Phantom of the Opera, I cannot comfortably say if this reimagining held up. What I can say though, is that the story was intriguing and good. Though the end left many questions to be answered, maybe that was the intention.
Ada, Eric, and Igor were each interesting POV's to read from. Ada is a brilliant mind only seen for her differences, forced into relations she doesn't desire until she makes the choice for herself to work in the opera house. Eric takes care of his sister by doing work he doesn't like. When the opportunity presents itself for him to be able to take care of her and start doing what he loves, he takes it, taking up singing at the opera house. Igor lurks in the walls, watching and listening for his Mistress, Marian.
Grammatical errors aside, the real issue is that Phipps only got a few pages for us to see him for the character he is.
Ada, Eric, and Igor were each interesting POV's to read from. Ada is a brilliant mind only seen for her differences, forced into relations she doesn't desire until she makes the choice for herself to work in the opera house. Eric takes care of his sister by doing work he doesn't like. When the opportunity presents itself for him to be able to take care of her and start doing what he loves, he takes it, taking up singing at the opera house. Igor lurks in the walls, watching and listening for his Mistress, Marian.
Grammatical errors aside, the real issue is that Phipps only got a few pages for us to see him for the character he is.
January 6, 2026
Despite there being 3 POVs in Music & Mirrors I feel like it could have really benefitted from having Marian’s POV included. By the end of the book I felt like Ada’s mom was more of a villain than Marian and that it wrapped up abruptly.
The initial pacing was okay despite the slow progress. It made it feel like the book should have been much longer in length to properly get a feel and enjoy the characters. The amount of typos were also distracting. It was surprising to learn this was released a few years ago, went through a kickstarter for some deluxe editions, and it hadn’t even been refined.
Though the books are beautiful I also wish the art inside of it made more sense? Like it depicted something along the lines of what was going on during the scene vs just a character portrait. It seemed unnecessary and took away from the story telling. Only 2 or 3 total seemed appropriately placed. It was just another distraction from the story.
The initial pacing was okay despite the slow progress. It made it feel like the book should have been much longer in length to properly get a feel and enjoy the characters. The amount of typos were also distracting. It was surprising to learn this was released a few years ago, went through a kickstarter for some deluxe editions, and it hadn’t even been refined.
Though the books are beautiful I also wish the art inside of it made more sense? Like it depicted something along the lines of what was going on during the scene vs just a character portrait. It seemed unnecessary and took away from the story telling. Only 2 or 3 total seemed appropriately placed. It was just another distraction from the story.
January 5, 2026
Ada was a great character, the opera house was very cool, and I liked how Ada's and Eric's relationship progresses.
I don't know why Ada's mom had to be made a villain in order for Ada to go to the opera house. Historically, Ada Lovelace's mother focused her daughter's education on math and science so she wouldn't end up like her father, so to have her so opposed to it here made no sense. Could've been solved by not having her be Ada Lovelace, as that really had no bearing on the story.
Ada also had more chemistry with Marian than Eric did, but Eric was partially acting, so I guess it makes sense on his end.
This was a great premise that fell flat in execution. In my copy, the editor missed several errors, the big one being several chapters having the wrong POV character listed. The art was pretty, though.
I don't know why Ada's mom had to be made a villain in order for Ada to go to the opera house. Historically, Ada Lovelace's mother focused her daughter's education on math and science so she wouldn't end up like her father, so to have her so opposed to it here made no sense. Could've been solved by not having her be Ada Lovelace, as that really had no bearing on the story.
Ada also had more chemistry with Marian than Eric did, but Eric was partially acting, so I guess it makes sense on his end.
This was a great premise that fell flat in execution. In my copy, the editor missed several errors, the big one being several chapters having the wrong POV character listed. The art was pretty, though.
October 28, 2025
Celine Jeanjean develops a story with enough mystery and suggested potential romance to keep the reader awake all night long. She's visibly worked a lot to document and render the musical part and spirit, as well as to put us in the shoes of an autist lady in victorian London.
Although it takes a bit too long to get acquainted with the main characters - the story starts to unravel only in chapter 5 - that gives the reader ample time to try to guess how the 3 protagonists we first follow will eventually meet.
Once in the opera, you get captivated, all the more so if you like classical music and science infused with mystery.
I give it only 4 stars because of the too lengthy introduction in the Music & Mirrors world.
Although it takes a bit too long to get acquainted with the main characters - the story starts to unravel only in chapter 5 - that gives the reader ample time to try to guess how the 3 protagonists we first follow will eventually meet.
Once in the opera, you get captivated, all the more so if you like classical music and science infused with mystery.
I give it only 4 stars because of the too lengthy introduction in the Music & Mirrors world.
October 24, 2025
I loved the concept and thought it was a creative take on an old story. Eric and Ada’s backgrounds were fleshed out and realistic. However, the numerous typos really killed the magic for me, as well as some clunky wording in similes. This is my first read from an independent writer, so maybe that’s typical, but it felt lazy. Also, I’m almost certain the illustrations were AI, especially with no illustrator credited. Either pay an artist or don’t include random pictures. Still loved the book, but frustrated because it could have been 5 stars if not for those careless mistakes.
January 9, 2026
absoloutley amazing book best descriptions of neurodivergence and masking i have come across in a book of yet beautiful described characters a highly creative retelling of the phantom of the opera the fact the mfc being neurodivergent adds a good deal more weight to the story line laughed gasped cried dont have to know the phantom of the opera play to enjoy the book but if you do and love it probably makes the book even better to read i was planning to read this bit by bit for tiktok purpose but after a few chapters i was so invested i could not put it down and read it all
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2025
I love the complexities of the characters and really detailing the struggles they face just being who they are in a society that doesn’t understand those differences with people who focus more on what they see outwardly of a person than who they are truly within. I loved the twist the story took from Phantom of the Opera story and the homages paid to it all the same. Very well done and very enjoyable.
December 11, 2025
I enjoyed the idea of this book, but it very clearly reads like its gone through AI. There was so many mistakes, near the end its like the author couldn't be bothered to make sure the right POV was correct or not. The wording throughout also screamed AI. I was excited for this book and it was a huge let down. if anyone is looking at getting this edition. Dont. the artwork has been done by AI too its not worth paying so much for this.
January 5, 2026
Before anything else— this is an absolute gorgeous book, just stunning deluxe edition. Possibly one of the most beautiful books I’ve encountered in a long time! (My favorite, just great job on that design!)
Now the review! What was there not to love about this phantom of the opera retelling? This was well done, I devoured it when I wasn’t simply staring at the cover and pictures lol! Cant wait to read other works by this author 🥰
Now the review! What was there not to love about this phantom of the opera retelling? This was well done, I devoured it when I wasn’t simply staring at the cover and pictures lol! Cant wait to read other works by this author 🥰
January 6, 2026
5/5 looks
3.5 content
I got Celine's special edition paperback, and my goodness is it stunning. The book itself was good..not great? I wanted to explore a little more about the characters and build their connection. She laid a good foundation, and the book ended before we could really delve into it. And while I did not go into this expecting smut, I did expect a little romance, and that was lacking. This could be G rated lol.
3.5 content
I got Celine's special edition paperback, and my goodness is it stunning. The book itself was good..not great? I wanted to explore a little more about the characters and build their connection. She laid a good foundation, and the book ended before we could really delve into it. And while I did not go into this expecting smut, I did expect a little romance, and that was lacking. This could be G rated lol.
January 6, 2026
There’s a good premise here, but like many other reviewers mentioned, this book was either written by AI or edited with AI, neither of which were helpful. The grammar errors, spelling errors, pro-noun shifts and constant repetition of the same phrases felt more like page filler than story progression. The characters were like-able enough but their development was surface deep. The edition I bought is beautiful and will look lovely on my shelf but that is where it will remain.
July 1, 2021
Absolutely mesmerizing. I fell into the characters' lives and fears so quickly and thoroughly that I couldn't escape until the last word of the book.
The characters were amazingly real, very well fleshed out and sympathetic. I didn't want this book to end.
Perfect retelling of a classic. Beautifully done!
The characters were amazingly real, very well fleshed out and sympathetic. I didn't want this book to end.
Perfect retelling of a classic. Beautifully done!
July 5, 2021
Engaging story with a twist....
For the fans of re-telling with a new twist of classics as The Phantom of the Opera you won't be disapointed with this book that creates a story so engaging right from the start that kept me hooked right through.If you enjoyed the Viper and the Urchin stories you'll enjoy this one too and be on your toes waiting the next installment of this story.
For the fans of re-telling with a new twist of classics as The Phantom of the Opera you won't be disapointed with this book that creates a story so engaging right from the start that kept me hooked right through.If you enjoyed the Viper and the Urchin stories you'll enjoy this one too and be on your toes waiting the next installment of this story.
October 14, 2025
Chilling but at the same time a story of romance as well. Both Ada and Eric leave unhappy homes and they find each other in the Grand Opera House. While pursuing their individual happiness while working and studying, murders of their coworkers take place around them. Story is a retelling of Phantom of the Opera, but HEA at end.
December 28, 2025
Phantom of the opera is my favorite play of all time. This was an entertaining retelling. I truly enjoyed the book start to finish. I could have used a little more at the end to know what happens to them or even the back story of Marian but overall a fantastic read!
January 3, 2026
If I could do 4.5/5 I would! Such a lovely reimagining of this classic story and of course I loved all the nods to the original novel and the Webber musical adaptation. Very excited to read the sequel!
January 4, 2026
This was a DNF for me. Highly disappointed. Was marketed as a “clean” book but still heavily implied sexual situations. There was no need for the book to have a scene where a character takes her clothes off (nothing described but still). Would not recommend to anyone wanting a clean read.
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