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Tattered Curtain #1
Phantom
A dark, modern, romantic retelling of the musical classic, Phantom of the Opera.
But this time, the man behind the mask won’t stop until she is his.
She is my muse, and I am her demon of music.
A year ago, I witnessed sweet Scarlett Day’s dark side. She’s been my obsession ever since.
I was content with being her secret. Content with protecting her from afar… until an enemy from my past sets his sights on her.
Our families have a deep history of hatred, and Scarlett is caught in the middle.
Meanwhile, her mind plays tricks on her. When a panic attack goes horribly wrong, I emerge from the shadows to save her.
Now that she’s mine, I can’t let her go.
I’ve mastered the darkness. She tempts me with her light.
But when my mask is gone, will she fear the monster underneath?
PHANTOM is a spicy story set in modern-day New Orleans and a complete STANDALONE in the Tattered Curtain series. Guaranteed HEA.
Trigger Warning: complications with mental health (FMC has bipolar disorder type one), dementia, severe psychotic depression, conversations about suicide; dubcon between MCs; physical violence, murder, torture (not between MCs), reference to SA, reference to CSA; loss of a father; substance misuse; stalking
But this time, the man behind the mask won’t stop until she is his.
She is my muse, and I am her demon of music.
A year ago, I witnessed sweet Scarlett Day’s dark side. She’s been my obsession ever since.
I was content with being her secret. Content with protecting her from afar… until an enemy from my past sets his sights on her.
Our families have a deep history of hatred, and Scarlett is caught in the middle.
Meanwhile, her mind plays tricks on her. When a panic attack goes horribly wrong, I emerge from the shadows to save her.
Now that she’s mine, I can’t let her go.
I’ve mastered the darkness. She tempts me with her light.
But when my mask is gone, will she fear the monster underneath?
PHANTOM is a spicy story set in modern-day New Orleans and a complete STANDALONE in the Tattered Curtain series. Guaranteed HEA.
Trigger Warning: complications with mental health (FMC has bipolar disorder type one), dementia, severe psychotic depression, conversations about suicide; dubcon between MCs; physical violence, murder, torture (not between MCs), reference to SA, reference to CSA; loss of a father; substance misuse; stalking
408 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 19, 2022
6708 people are currently reading
67069 people want to read
About the author
Greer Rivers
14 books2,676 followersGreer Rivers lives by the mountains with her real-life book husband and their three furbabies. Obsessed with history and folklore, she’s also a sucker for reality TV and proudly owns her titles as a messy eater, shirt ruiner, and steadfast non-sharer of food and wine. She adores romance, especially the dark and twisty kind, and her main goal as an author is to create a safe place for readers to feel too much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,201 reviews
April 20, 2023
“You’re my pretty little muse, Scarlett. I worship your voice. Your body, mind, and soul are no different.”
“Even the darkness in my mind?”
“Especially the darkness.”
Well well well leave it to me to read just one extract from any book somewhere, dive head first into it and then regret my decision while having to finish it bc apparently if I chose something my brain has to see the end of it, even if it is gonna cost me the last 2 brain cells I function on 🫠
This started off strong, despite the fact that 2 chapters in and you can already decipher the way the story was going to go so no plot twists. But the middle was hard to get through so that sucked all of my enthusiasm and then the ending was just fine ig considering everything was dumped on me all at once.
Scarlett was just infuriating, annoying and irritating with everything she spoke and did. If I could, I would go in and knock some real sense into her.
Sol was okay but far better than Scarlett and the only thing good about this book. I liked him maybe because the only option was to collect the crumbs and get through this shit show.
Once both the characters got together it became boring af, there was no plot left and sex was being used as a cover up.
Don't get me started on those cringy sex scenes because ffs he was asking her to sing during her orgasms and my brain, even in its most fucked up state, is just not ready to accept the fact that a song can be made out of moans or something!?!?!? According to them that's the best time to showcase their musical talent bcoz that's the only way you can feel the music in your bones 💀
Also the writing felt repetitive like the only thing used for describing Sol's eye was 'midnight eye' , the nickname 'pretty little muse' being used 100 times in every chapter and the word 'sing' in every damn sex scene was just a big fucking NO. This was so damn frustrating. I had to take deep breaths, hoping that it gets better but joke's on me, it didn't 🤡
The only thing intriguing was their past and the author even fucked that up. The way it was revealed felt hurried and superficial. Usually in dark romances make you feel the torture and trauma the mc went through by letting us delve deeper into their psyche by flashbacks of their past, this is what connects us to them and makes us feel their pain. But here nothing of that sort happened so the connection just lacked for me.
I wanted to like this so bad but this was a total mess 😞
“Even the darkness in my mind?”
“Especially the darkness.”
Well well well leave it to me to read just one extract from any book somewhere, dive head first into it and then regret my decision while having to finish it bc apparently if I chose something my brain has to see the end of it, even if it is gonna cost me the last 2 brain cells I function on 🫠
This started off strong, despite the fact that 2 chapters in and you can already decipher the way the story was going to go so no plot twists. But the middle was hard to get through so that sucked all of my enthusiasm and then the ending was just fine ig considering everything was dumped on me all at once.
Scarlett was just infuriating, annoying and irritating with everything she spoke and did. If I could, I would go in and knock some real sense into her.
Sol was okay but far better than Scarlett and the only thing good about this book. I liked him maybe because the only option was to collect the crumbs and get through this shit show.
Once both the characters got together it became boring af, there was no plot left and sex was being used as a cover up.
Don't get me started on those cringy sex scenes because ffs he was asking her to sing during her orgasms and my brain, even in its most fucked up state, is just not ready to accept the fact that a song can be made out of moans or something!?!?!? According to them that's the best time to showcase their musical talent bcoz that's the only way you can feel the music in your bones 💀
Also the writing felt repetitive like the only thing used for describing Sol's eye was 'midnight eye' , the nickname 'pretty little muse' being used 100 times in every chapter and the word 'sing' in every damn sex scene was just a big fucking NO. This was so damn frustrating. I had to take deep breaths, hoping that it gets better but joke's on me, it didn't 🤡
The only thing intriguing was their past and the author even fucked that up. The way it was revealed felt hurried and superficial. Usually in dark romances make you feel the torture and trauma the mc went through by letting us delve deeper into their psyche by flashbacks of their past, this is what connects us to them and makes us feel their pain. But here nothing of that sort happened so the connection just lacked for me.
I wanted to like this so bad but this was a total mess 😞
July 30, 2022
This was a Outstanding retelling of the Phantom of the Opera!!!! Greer Rivers is a amazing writer and her storytelling is phenomenal!!!! I've loved the phantom of the Opera since I was a young girl and to have not only the story take on a different slant and add a beautiful haunting tale of obsession and passion and unbelievable hot steamy sex scenes its every girls dream come true! Especially if she's into dark anti hero's like me! Sol might be disfigured from a kidnapping that left his father dead and him scared over a decade ago and it has made him not only wear a mask but live in the darkness under the city and yes he's the phantom of New Orleans and him and his shadows are feared by those who would harm anyone that they consider family and while his justice is final he lives by a code of fight or die and he rarely loses! I adored Sol !! He is a very dark fantasy but one I would pick time and time again. I loved Scarlett so much! Her vulnerability and her dealing with her mental health from having a condition called bipolar pulled at my heart and I couldn't help the pain I felt in my heart for her. The writer wrote her with so much emotion that at times it made me cry. Especially her fear of having another manic episode and ending up locked away in some psych ward. Every day is a fight to stay sane and the medicine and her best friend jamie being their and her secret demon of music sending her music shes doing better but when her medicine disappears everything she thinks she knows changes and it forces her demon of music to come out of dark to save her.The chemistry and passion between Sol and Scarlett is delious and beautiful and full of sensuality and the writers atmospheric and darkly rich detail in the surroundings makes it very hot!!! I don't want to say much more about the book because it would ruin it. But this book has the feels of one of those gothic romances that I adored as a young girl ! Theirs mystery, suspense, betrayal,flaming passion,obsession and a love that will last forever!!! And I hope to read more like this from this fabulous writer!!! Theirs a certain shadow named sabine that I would love to get her own book in this world! And I just want to say that Rand the golden boy made my skin crawl from the beginning! What a fucking dick face this guy is!!! He's a fucking douche bag and while the face was handsome he was the true monster. Until next time Luv's💕💋
January 13, 2023
4.5 Stars
Phantom of the Opera retelling that’s better than the original because this time it’s actually Phantom who gets the girl! And he’s a sexy, obsessive, mask-wearing beast who ticks all the panty-melting, morally grey, anti-hero boxes—except his first name, cause for some reason I’m not hot on the name Sol, which is short for Solomon.
I loved the duality/paradoxes in Sol’s characterization. It’s like he’s... dark (cutthroat with everyone), but he’s all kinds of soft and tender with Scarlett (protective, possessive, and so attentive). While at the same time, there’s a bit of yearning and pining cause he’s not sure Scarlett will accept him if she knows his truth; yet, he’s determined to never let her go.
He’s also self-conscious about his scars/disfigurement. Not because he’s vain, but because he thinks it symbolizes his and his family’s weakness for letting someone/their enemy got the better of him (even though the incident that caused it happened when he was only 15). Meanwhile, when he’s in the bedroom... damn, the kinks... I don’t mind if you use them all on me, Sir. LOL.
Scarlett, on the other hand, might annoy some readers cause she’s a little naive and gullible when it comes to Rand (the rival love interest/OM). It makes you want to squeeze and shake her, but can you blame her? Rationally, who’d you trust more between your stalker (Phantom) and your childhood friend? I think her mistake was understandable.
Scarlett has type one bipolar disorder, which I’ve never found in all the romance books I’ve read. So the rep was refreshing and interesting. I feel like it played a huge part in Scarlett’s identity at the beginning of the book, but after Sol’s involvement, it just sorta fade into the background? Like he’s making her more stable, which Idk if it’s realistic, but who cares?
The mafia plotline reminded me of the feuding family conflict in Romeo and Juliet, and I really enjoyed it. The only thing that was a bit too cringe/corny for me was all the music element. Like, this girl was freakin ~s I n G i N g~ (well, I guess she hummed 🤔) a song while she was choking and giving Sol a blowjob. I was honestly confused if the author was being metaphorical or literal.
Overall, I loved this book. It was spicy; and, when it wasn’t, the romance gave me the best kind of zing-zap, electric shock sensation in my chest. I HIGHLY recommend this. I read the Cat and Mouse duet by H.D. Carlton prior to this one, and I heard that it was quite popular on TikTok? Which was absurd cause this book should’ve been THE TikTok sensation.
P.S. Lots of trigger warnings for this book. Read the Goodreads blurb to find out.
Phantom of the Opera retelling that’s better than the original because this time it’s actually Phantom who gets the girl! And he’s a sexy, obsessive, mask-wearing beast who ticks all the panty-melting, morally grey, anti-hero boxes—except his first name, cause for some reason I’m not hot on the name Sol, which is short for Solomon.
“I’m not good, little muse. My obsession with you is the only pure thing about me. Never forget that I’m your demon of music, Scarlett. You can’t expect me to behave like a gentleman when you beg like my whore.”
I loved the duality/paradoxes in Sol’s characterization. It’s like he’s... dark (cutthroat with everyone), but he’s all kinds of soft and tender with Scarlett (protective, possessive, and so attentive). While at the same time, there’s a bit of yearning and pining cause he’s not sure Scarlett will accept him if she knows his truth; yet, he’s determined to never let her go.
He’s also self-conscious about his scars/disfigurement. Not because he’s vain, but because he thinks it symbolizes his and his family’s weakness for letting someone/their enemy got the better of him (even though the incident that caused it happened when he was only 15). Meanwhile, when he’s in the bedroom... damn, the kinks... I don’t mind if you use them all on me, Sir. LOL.
Scarlett, on the other hand, might annoy some readers cause she’s a little naive and gullible when it comes to Rand (the rival love interest/OM). It makes you want to squeeze and shake her, but can you blame her? Rationally, who’d you trust more between your stalker (Phantom) and your childhood friend? I think her mistake was understandable.
Scarlett has type one bipolar disorder, which I’ve never found in all the romance books I’ve read. So the rep was refreshing and interesting. I feel like it played a huge part in Scarlett’s identity at the beginning of the book, but after Sol’s involvement, it just sorta fade into the background? Like he’s making her more stable, which Idk if it’s realistic, but who cares?
The mafia plotline reminded me of the feuding family conflict in Romeo and Juliet, and I really enjoyed it. The only thing that was a bit too cringe/corny for me was all the music element. Like, this girl was freakin ~s I n G i N g~ (well, I guess she hummed 🤔) a song while she was choking and giving Sol a blowjob. I was honestly confused if the author was being metaphorical or literal.
“I loved you when you were only music sheets, roses, and letters. You’ve been here for me longer than I ever knew. I never want to let you go again. I want to be yours.”
Overall, I loved this book. It was spicy; and, when it wasn’t, the romance gave me the best kind of zing-zap, electric shock sensation in my chest. I HIGHLY recommend this. I read the Cat and Mouse duet by H.D. Carlton prior to this one, and I heard that it was quite popular on TikTok? Which was absurd cause this book should’ve been THE TikTok sensation.
P.S. Lots of trigger warnings for this book. Read the Goodreads blurb to find out.
July 25, 2022
Our story begins after Scarlett Day is promoted from understudy to lead in Romeo and Juliet.
Having made a home in the tunnels of the prohibition-era speakeasy below the Bordeaux Conservatory of Music, Sol Bordeaux lives his life in the shadows. When his ma jolie petite muse becomes endangered, his obsession draws him out.
Phantom masterfully weaves the tough subject of mental health through a suspenseful dark retelling of Phantom of the Opera with a HOT mafia-esque spin. I can’t wait to see what Greer has in store for the rest of the series!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶🌶
Range of Emotions: 😢🤔🥵🤬😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Tropes: Mafia/Bratva/Crime Family, Stalker, Fairytale Retelling, Forced Proximity, Virgin h, Touch-Her-and-💀
🫦 Kinks: Brėėding (Mild), Wax Play, Domination
⛔️ Warning: This book may cause blushing, squirming, combusting panties, and/or self-care.
⚠️ Safety Squad: Mental Health, Dub-Cön, StäIkîng, VîöIencė (Mostly Off-Page), Past SėxüaI AssäuIt and others. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Phantom is part of the Tattered Curtain series, but can be read as a standalone.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
Having made a home in the tunnels of the prohibition-era speakeasy below the Bordeaux Conservatory of Music, Sol Bordeaux lives his life in the shadows. When his ma jolie petite muse becomes endangered, his obsession draws him out.
Phantom masterfully weaves the tough subject of mental health through a suspenseful dark retelling of Phantom of the Opera with a HOT mafia-esque spin. I can’t wait to see what Greer has in store for the rest of the series!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶🌶
Range of Emotions: 😢🤔🥵🤬😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Tropes: Mafia/Bratva/Crime Family, Stalker, Fairytale Retelling, Forced Proximity, Virgin h, Touch-Her-and-💀
🫦 Kinks: Brėėding (Mild), Wax Play, Domination
⛔️ Warning: This book may cause blushing, squirming, combusting panties, and/or self-care.
⚠️ Safety Squad: Mental Health, Dub-Cön, StäIkîng, VîöIencė (Mostly Off-Page), Past SėxüaI AssäuIt and others. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Phantom is part of the Tattered Curtain series, but can be read as a standalone.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
November 8, 2022
These kinks deserved a better book.
I rest my case.
I rest my case.
November 4, 2022
Let the music free you from the darkness in your mind...
Sigh...I have no words...this book honestly surpassed all my expectations and combined so many elements I love: a great storyline, mental illness rep, tension, scorching chemistry, hot spice, and gothic vibes
SOL BORDEAUX, where have you been my entire life?
He is ott, dark and so fucking obsessed with his little muse, Scarlett.
Sol is what I want when I'm looking for an obsessed Hero!!!!
Scarlett was a great FMC, and her trying to manage her mental illness resonated with me extremly.
She is the light to the Phantoms shadow but has her own darkness inside.
This is a twisted, captivating, and spicy story, and I urge you to read it!!!
🗂Genre: gothic erotic romance
🏷Tropes
- Phantom of the Opera Retelling
- Masqued ott anti-hero
- Boy obsessed
- Singer FMC with bipolar disorder
- "She’s Mine" & "Touch her, and I‘ll kill you"
- Secret Identity
- Gothic & Mafia Vibes
- Yearning, tension, and great chemistry
- Hurt/Comfort
⚠️Safety: stalking, mental illness, gaslighting (not by the MMC), kinks, Trigger Warnings
📖KU: 1st person, dual POV
🎧Theme song: darkness - x v I
📚If you loved this, check out: Gothikana, Swan Song, Hollow Heathens: Book of Blackwell
🎨Fanart: Phantom
"Obsession. That’s what my brother calls it. But the ache I feel when I’m away from her is much more than any obsessed revenge I’ve embarked on. It’s the feeling you get when you find the perfect song, the one you could play for eternity, never getting tired of a single note, and still not want to get to the final measure."
___Tattered Curtain Series___
Book 1: Phantom
Book 2: TBR
Sigh...I have no words...this book honestly surpassed all my expectations and combined so many elements I love: a great storyline, mental illness rep, tension, scorching chemistry, hot spice, and gothic vibes
SOL BORDEAUX, where have you been my entire life?
He is ott, dark and so fucking obsessed with his little muse, Scarlett.
Sol is what I want when I'm looking for an obsessed Hero!!!!
“My little muse is my addiction, and her voice is my drug. If there is a cure to my madness, I don’t want it. I’d rather welcome blissful oblivion”
Scarlett was a great FMC, and her trying to manage her mental illness resonated with me extremly.
She is the light to the Phantoms shadow but has her own darkness inside.
“You’re my pretty little muse, Scarlett. I worship your voice. Your body, mind, and soul are no different.” “Even the darkness in my mind?” I ask, not sure why it matters if my phantom accepts my madness. “Especially your darkness.”
This is a twisted, captivating, and spicy story, and I urge you to read it!!!
🗂Genre: gothic erotic romance
🏷Tropes
- Phantom of the Opera Retelling
- Masqued ott anti-hero
- Boy obsessed
- Singer FMC with bipolar disorder
- "She’s Mine" & "Touch her, and I‘ll kill you"
- Secret Identity
- Gothic & Mafia Vibes
- Yearning, tension, and great chemistry
- Hurt/Comfort
⚠️Safety: stalking, mental illness, gaslighting (not by the MMC), kinks, Trigger Warnings
📖KU: 1st person, dual POV
🎧Theme song: darkness - x v I
📚If you loved this, check out: Gothikana, Swan Song, Hollow Heathens: Book of Blackwell
🎨Fanart: Phantom
"Obsession. That’s what my brother calls it. But the ache I feel when I’m away from her is much more than any obsessed revenge I’ve embarked on. It’s the feeling you get when you find the perfect song, the one you could play for eternity, never getting tired of a single note, and still not want to get to the final measure."
___Tattered Curtain Series___
Book 1: Phantom
Book 2: TBR
January 10, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
''Is madness so terrible, when euphoria is on the other side?''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OW drama
- OM drama
- Stalking
- Torture/violence/d*ath
- Mention of child assault
- Mental illness
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
Obviously this is a mafia retelling of the Phantom of the Opera, and I will be honest, I don't know much about the original story or the later movies/retellings. Just had a vague idea of what to expect..
I had a few issues with the pacing in this book and the FMC - Scarlett. She did test my patience so many times and it got to the point where I didn't even get shocked when she made bad decisions. She trusted Rand too much, especially when revealing he was 17? when she was 12 and touching her inappropriately and the fact he was interested in her and kept referring to them as childhood sweethearts. She should have woken up and realised how gross his actions were and stepped back from the trust. ESPECIALLY since they had not seen each other in 10 years? You don't need to be loyal to him....
Ran was just sending off so many red flags from the moment he is introduced and I’m glad it was proven despite his constant attempt to look innocent.
Sol? I really liked him. He was broken and filled with darkness after the torture he went through at 15. He was absolutely destroyed by Rand's older brother....the things he endured and was done to him was so disturbing.
My heart hurt for him when he forgot his mask in front of her and he felt her horror show but Scarlett later explained it was the horror of what was done to him and not what he looked like.
He was OTT and obsessed with Scarlett. He was making sure she was safe and kept her from harm from herself and her illness. I loved the length he went through to make sure she was healthy and protected.
The side plot about her father and his mysterious death was fun to unravel. Especially when it's revealed that Scarlett was the one to kill the assassin and Sol was the one to get rid of the body right after when she was passed out.
I was actually intrigued by Sol's brother and his story with his wife and wished we had gotten more info? Unless they are from previous books? but I don't think so.
''Is madness so terrible, when euphoria is on the other side?''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OW drama
- OM drama
- Stalking
- Torture/violence/d*ath
- Mention of child assault
- Mental illness
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
Obviously this is a mafia retelling of the Phantom of the Opera, and I will be honest, I don't know much about the original story or the later movies/retellings. Just had a vague idea of what to expect..
I had a few issues with the pacing in this book and the FMC - Scarlett. She did test my patience so many times and it got to the point where I didn't even get shocked when she made bad decisions. She trusted Rand too much, especially when revealing he was 17? when she was 12 and touching her inappropriately and the fact he was interested in her and kept referring to them as childhood sweethearts. She should have woken up and realised how gross his actions were and stepped back from the trust. ESPECIALLY since they had not seen each other in 10 years? You don't need to be loyal to him....
Ran was just sending off so many red flags from the moment he is introduced and I’m glad it was proven despite his constant attempt to look innocent.
Sol? I really liked him. He was broken and filled with darkness after the torture he went through at 15. He was absolutely destroyed by Rand's older brother....the things he endured and was done to him was so disturbing.
My heart hurt for him when he forgot his mask in front of her and he felt her horror show but Scarlett later explained it was the horror of what was done to him and not what he looked like.
He was OTT and obsessed with Scarlett. He was making sure she was safe and kept her from harm from herself and her illness. I loved the length he went through to make sure she was healthy and protected.
The side plot about her father and his mysterious death was fun to unravel. Especially when it's revealed that Scarlett was the one to kill the assassin and Sol was the one to get rid of the body right after when she was passed out.
I was actually intrigued by Sol's brother and his story with his wife and wished we had gotten more info? Unless they are from previous books? but I don't think so.
March 3, 2024
Just trying to get through chapter 1 was painful
September 2, 2022
Rating: 2 stars
Wtf was that… I’ll admit, the beginning was very good and there was a lot of potential but once Scarlett finally discovered Sol, everything just went downhill.
Scarlett might be one of the dumbest FMC I have ever read. Not only did she almost automatically start trusting a man who has been stalking her and invading her privacy for a year, she’s so fucking stupid when it comes to Randal too. It was also all so insta-love and there was no tension or slow burn.
I expected the poor romance to be combated with a decent plot, but no. Not only was the reveal totally predictable, it wasn’t even enticing.
The spice was also okay, there was really only one or 2 scenes that were pretty hot.
Wtf was that… I’ll admit, the beginning was very good and there was a lot of potential but once Scarlett finally discovered Sol, everything just went downhill.
Scarlett might be one of the dumbest FMC I have ever read. Not only did she almost automatically start trusting a man who has been stalking her and invading her privacy for a year, she’s so fucking stupid when it comes to Randal too. It was also all so insta-love and there was no tension or slow burn.
I expected the poor romance to be combated with a decent plot, but no. Not only was the reveal totally predictable, it wasn’t even enticing.
The spice was also okay, there was really only one or 2 scenes that were pretty hot.
February 3, 2025
pre-review
3.5, beautiful writing style
3.5, beautiful writing style
September 17, 2025
“I’m not good, little muse. My obsession with you is the only pure thing about me."
This was my very first book by Greer Rivers, but it absolutely will not be my last. I can't wait to get my hands on another book by this author. I loved this spin on this classic retelling, dark and gothic vibes with mental health representation. I will say there are definitely triggers so please check your triggers before reading.
What to Expect
🖤Dark Romance
🖤Phantom of the Opera Retelling
🖤Mafia
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Mental Health Rep
I loved the New Orleans setting, and I loved Sol! The writing was breathtaking, and the characters were written with so much depth and detail. An amazing story that blends suspense, passion, and mental health representation. I absolutely recommend that you check this one out if you are a fan of dark romance or dark and gothic vibes.
Huge shout out and thank you to Hambright Pr and Greer Rivers for giving me an arc in exchange for an honest review!
December 30, 2024
DNF at 52%. This was not for me. I legit could not get into this at all. It definitely felt all over the place and I just could not connect with a single character. I tried 😭
I do still want to try Dreadful though!!
I do still want to try Dreadful though!!
March 10, 2025
3.5⭐️
Enjoyable twist on dark romance, with the dark phantom of the opera retelling! I loved the New Orleans setting, and kinda of mafia esque vibes with the two rival families the Bordeaux’s and the Chatelains, who run the city.
I didn’t connect to Sol & Scarlett as much as I’d hoped, however I enjoyed the book, the ending was super fast paced and exciting with a few twists and turns but nothing jaw dropping.
It’s a good palette cleanser if you love dark romance but want to stick the genre but read something a little more fun & different!
Enjoyable twist on dark romance, with the dark phantom of the opera retelling! I loved the New Orleans setting, and kinda of mafia esque vibes with the two rival families the Bordeaux’s and the Chatelains, who run the city.
I didn’t connect to Sol & Scarlett as much as I’d hoped, however I enjoyed the book, the ending was super fast paced and exciting with a few twists and turns but nothing jaw dropping.
It’s a good palette cleanser if you love dark romance but want to stick the genre but read something a little more fun & different!
April 23, 2023
4/5
Oh my, this book blew me away. There are a lot of triggers in this book but it didn't deter me one bit. I've had my eye on this one since I saw a tiktok about it and I'm so glad I finally read it!
Sol is the Phantom of the French Quarter... and Scarlett is his little muse. This book starts out with a prologue from a year ago, during Scarlett's first manic episode after her father's death. She gets carted away because people think she's drunk, but she really has bipolar 1 and hasn't gotten diagnosed yet. One year later, she's in a better place but not by much.
Cue Sol. He has been stalking her for over a year, watching her from afar, protecting her, and hurting anyone who does anything wrong to her. He was the perfect protector but also a little broken himself. I loved his flawed character so much. They finally meet one day after her performance and they just... click. As if they were soulmates.
There's OM drama in this book that causes a lot of jealousy. I'm usually not a huge fan of that but I didn't mind it at all. I knew that Sol would take care of him eventually. ;) There's also a lot of hidden secrets, twists and turns, and unexpected things that happen in this novel.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series!! The spice in this book blew me away, it was so passionate. This is one of the top books I've read so far this year. I recommend this to anyone who likes their books dark and spicy!
LIKES:
-Sol stayed celibate since the moment he saw her
-how OVERPROTECTIVE he was!
-the bipolar/anxiety rep. I feel seen.
-the maskkkkkk. he wore it for most of the book!
-Scarlett's character. she was strong, independent but also sheltered and flawed
-the "secret" I was trying to figure out for a lot of the book, lmao
DISLIKES:
-miscommunication lol
SAFETY:
Virgin/celibate: virgin heroine, celibate hero
OM/OW drama: OM drama
Tropes & Keywords: retelling of Phantom of the Opera, soulmates (imo)
Triggers: mental health issues (including bipolar 1 and anxiety/panic attacks), convos about suicide, violence, murder, torture, SA, CSA, loss of father, substance misuse, stalking & kidnapping
Kinks: breeding, wax play, fire play, light bondage, primal kink, voyeurism, degradation, humiliation, praise, dubcon, and dubcon branding
HEA?: yes!
"You're my pretty little muse, Scarlett. I worship your voice. Your body, mind, and soul are no different."
"Even the darkness in my mind?"
"Especially your darkness."
Oh my, this book blew me away. There are a lot of triggers in this book but it didn't deter me one bit. I've had my eye on this one since I saw a tiktok about it and I'm so glad I finally read it!
Sol is the Phantom of the French Quarter... and Scarlett is his little muse. This book starts out with a prologue from a year ago, during Scarlett's first manic episode after her father's death. She gets carted away because people think she's drunk, but she really has bipolar 1 and hasn't gotten diagnosed yet. One year later, she's in a better place but not by much.
"My little angel is more savage than she looks. I love her innocence, but her darkness is what calls to me."
Cue Sol. He has been stalking her for over a year, watching her from afar, protecting her, and hurting anyone who does anything wrong to her. He was the perfect protector but also a little broken himself. I loved his flawed character so much. They finally meet one day after her performance and they just... click. As if they were soulmates.
My little muse is my addiction, and her voice is my drug. If there is a cure to my madness, I don't want it. I'd rather welcome blissful oblivion.
There's OM drama in this book that causes a lot of jealousy. I'm usually not a huge fan of that but I didn't mind it at all. I knew that Sol would take care of him eventually. ;) There's also a lot of hidden secrets, twists and turns, and unexpected things that happen in this novel.
My breath heaves in my chest as he lifts my chin to turn my face toward the light before growling. "Who the fuck hurt you, little muse?"
I can't wait to read the next book in the series!! The spice in this book blew me away, it was so passionate. This is one of the top books I've read so far this year. I recommend this to anyone who likes their books dark and spicy!
"I'm not good, little muse. My obsession with you is the only pure thing about me. Never forget that I'm your demon of music, Scarlett. You can't expect me to behave like a gentleman when you beg like my whore."
LIKES:
-Sol stayed celibate since the moment he saw her
-how OVERPROTECTIVE he was!
-the bipolar/anxiety rep. I feel seen.
-the maskkkkkk. he wore it for most of the book!
-Scarlett's character. she was strong, independent but also sheltered and flawed
-the "secret" I was trying to figure out for a lot of the book, lmao
DISLIKES:
-miscommunication lol
SAFETY:
Virgin/celibate: virgin heroine, celibate hero
OM/OW drama: OM drama
Tropes & Keywords: retelling of Phantom of the Opera, soulmates (imo)
Triggers: mental health issues (including bipolar 1 and anxiety/panic attacks), convos about suicide, violence, murder, torture, SA, CSA, loss of father, substance misuse, stalking & kidnapping
Kinks: breeding, wax play, fire play, light bondage, primal kink, voyeurism, degradation, humiliation, praise, dubcon, and dubcon branding
HEA?: yes!
March 29, 2023
Sol is a total red flag…
…and officially my new book boyfriend. 😂
~Sol has been obsessed with Scarlett ever since he saw her dark side. She’s his muse and, whether she knows it or it, he’s her demon. He never expected for her to actually see the man behind the mask.~
This was my first ‘Phantom of the Opera’ retelling and I really enjoyed it! The plot had me hooked but Sol kept me prisoner. I don’t know why men who are willing to kill you are such a green flag in books but a big red flag in real life. 😂
I really like how it focuses on mental health and trauma.
…and officially my new book boyfriend. 😂
~Sol has been obsessed with Scarlett ever since he saw her dark side. She’s his muse and, whether she knows it or it, he’s her demon. He never expected for her to actually see the man behind the mask.~
This was my first ‘Phantom of the Opera’ retelling and I really enjoyed it! The plot had me hooked but Sol kept me prisoner. I don’t know why men who are willing to kill you are such a green flag in books but a big red flag in real life. 😂
I really like how it focuses on mental health and trauma.
February 27, 2025
IMMEDIATE DNF
this book opens to scarlett, the main character, and her bff jaime (who is latino) enjoying a night out on the town. here are some memorable things jaime and scarlett said on page 1-
jaime: “The cops are already thinking you’re straight up loca.”
scarlett: “No way, High-may! High-may! High-mayyy”
jaime: “No joda, Scarlett.”
jaime: “Meirda, Scarlo, I’m sor—”
scarlett: “Jaime curses from somewhere behind us and my eyes widen. My New Orleanian best friend never curses in anything but Spanish, French, or his own personal combination of Spanglench”
and it doesn’t stop here. the audiobook makes sure you get the full stereotypical experience with jaime’s speedy gonzalez accent even though it seems that jaime is fluent in english, spanish, and french.
i’ve never been slapped in the face by a book on PAGE ONE before but the way latinos are treated in this country i shouldn’t be surprised. honestly, my bad. lemme just leave this review here and be on my way.
this book opens to scarlett, the main character, and her bff jaime (who is latino) enjoying a night out on the town. here are some memorable things jaime and scarlett said on page 1-
jaime: “The cops are already thinking you’re straight up loca.”
scarlett: “No way, High-may! High-may! High-mayyy”
jaime: “No joda, Scarlett.”
jaime: “Meirda, Scarlo, I’m sor—”
scarlett: “Jaime curses from somewhere behind us and my eyes widen. My New Orleanian best friend never curses in anything but Spanish, French, or his own personal combination of Spanglench”
and it doesn’t stop here. the audiobook makes sure you get the full stereotypical experience with jaime’s speedy gonzalez accent even though it seems that jaime is fluent in english, spanish, and french.
i’ve never been slapped in the face by a book on PAGE ONE before but the way latinos are treated in this country i shouldn’t be surprised. honestly, my bad. lemme just leave this review here and be on my way.
May 1, 2025
i ran out of red tabs twice while reading this book so make of that what you will
November 5, 2023
Retelling olarak anlatmak için çok güzel bir konu seçilmiş ve bence çok daha iyi şekilde anlatılabilirdi. Yeterli bulmadım. Tatmin etmedi.
Kadın karakter opera öğrencisi, yatılı okulda okuyor. Kız inanılmaz sinir bozucu bir karakterdi. Evet, bir hastalığı var. Sanrıları yüzünden kafası da karışıyor, evet. Fakat verdiği salakça kararların hiçbir şekilde akla yatan bir yeri yok. Hani kitabın içine girip kızın suratına şak diye bir tokat indirmek istiyorsunuz. Karşında her şeyini sana açan bir erkek varken gidip de her şeyiyle “red flag” olan bir herife inanmak nasıl bir kafadır?
Sol… Hayalet… Bir sürü lakabı olan adam. O okulun ve şehrin yarısının sahibi. Yaralı, özgüveni eksik ve çok aşık. New Orleans’ta şehri ikiye bölmüşler, bir tarafında B’ler bir tarafında C’ler hüküm sürüyor. Soyadları bir tuhaf, yazamadım şimdi. Okulun duvarlarının içinde, yüzünde maskeyle dolanıyor ve kızı gözlüyor.
Öncelikle yazarın sürekli aynı kelimeleri kullanıp durması bir müddet sonra artık insanı delirtiyor. Anladık, kız senin küçük ilham perin… Tamam, anladık. 150 kere söylüyor herhalde. Erotik sahnelerde durmadan benim için şarkı söyle deyip duruyor kıza. Gerçek şarkı değil, inlemesi için öyle diyor. Konunun etrafında dolanıp durmadan seviştiriyor. Ya tamam kitaba erotizm katılır ama sürekli sürekli sürekli… yeter da. Adamla müzikle ilgili, kız da. O yüzden bir piyano sahnesi var… evlerden ırak. Yani konu sekse gelsin diye hep aynı şeylerin etrafında dönüp duruyoruz. Kız özür diliyor, beyimizin penisi dikiliveriyor. Kızı yorgun görüyor, penisi dikiliveriyor. Yok efendim, ciddi bir şey konuşurken kızın gözleri dalıyor, hoppp penis dikilmiş :D:D:D Yanlış anlaşılmasın, aynı şey kızımız için de geçerli. Adam bir şey anlatıyor, hopppp ıslanmışız. Adam bir yere bakıyor, a aaa o da ne? Don ıslak :D
Kitapla ilgili en ilgi çeken kısım, geçmişle ilgili kısımlardı. O da yeterli değildi.
Konu, çok güzeldi. Ama yazar güzel işleyememişti.
Sol karakterinin tabanı nefis, üstüne neler neler inşa edilirdi ama adama papağan gibi aynı şeyleri söyletip durmuş. Maalesef olmadı.
Kadın karakter opera öğrencisi, yatılı okulda okuyor. Kız inanılmaz sinir bozucu bir karakterdi. Evet, bir hastalığı var. Sanrıları yüzünden kafası da karışıyor, evet. Fakat verdiği salakça kararların hiçbir şekilde akla yatan bir yeri yok. Hani kitabın içine girip kızın suratına şak diye bir tokat indirmek istiyorsunuz. Karşında her şeyini sana açan bir erkek varken gidip de her şeyiyle “red flag” olan bir herife inanmak nasıl bir kafadır?
Sol… Hayalet… Bir sürü lakabı olan adam. O okulun ve şehrin yarısının sahibi. Yaralı, özgüveni eksik ve çok aşık. New Orleans’ta şehri ikiye bölmüşler, bir tarafında B’ler bir tarafında C’ler hüküm sürüyor. Soyadları bir tuhaf, yazamadım şimdi. Okulun duvarlarının içinde, yüzünde maskeyle dolanıyor ve kızı gözlüyor.
Öncelikle yazarın sürekli aynı kelimeleri kullanıp durması bir müddet sonra artık insanı delirtiyor. Anladık, kız senin küçük ilham perin… Tamam, anladık. 150 kere söylüyor herhalde. Erotik sahnelerde durmadan benim için şarkı söyle deyip duruyor kıza. Gerçek şarkı değil, inlemesi için öyle diyor. Konunun etrafında dolanıp durmadan seviştiriyor. Ya tamam kitaba erotizm katılır ama sürekli sürekli sürekli… yeter da. Adamla müzikle ilgili, kız da. O yüzden bir piyano sahnesi var… evlerden ırak. Yani konu sekse gelsin diye hep aynı şeylerin etrafında dönüp duruyoruz. Kız özür diliyor, beyimizin penisi dikiliveriyor. Kızı yorgun görüyor, penisi dikiliveriyor. Yok efendim, ciddi bir şey konuşurken kızın gözleri dalıyor, hoppp penis dikilmiş :D:D:D Yanlış anlaşılmasın, aynı şey kızımız için de geçerli. Adam bir şey anlatıyor, hopppp ıslanmışız. Adam bir yere bakıyor, a aaa o da ne? Don ıslak :D
Kitapla ilgili en ilgi çeken kısım, geçmişle ilgili kısımlardı. O da yeterli değildi.
Konu, çok güzeldi. Ama yazar güzel işleyememişti.
Sol karakterinin tabanı nefis, üstüne neler neler inşa edilirdi ama adama papağan gibi aynı şeyleri söyletip durmuş. Maalesef olmadı.
March 22, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads ✨
I absolutely loved this Phantom of the Opera dark romance retelling. New Orleans is one of my favorite places so I absolutely loved the story being set there.
The way Greer wrote about bipolar disorder was beautifully done and I felt her own story and vulnerability coming through the pages.
I only held back on giving it 5 stars because some aspects seemed rushed and others drawn out. But truly one of my favorite dark romances I’ve read!
I absolutely loved this Phantom of the Opera dark romance retelling. New Orleans is one of my favorite places so I absolutely loved the story being set there.
The way Greer wrote about bipolar disorder was beautifully done and I felt her own story and vulnerability coming through the pages.
I only held back on giving it 5 stars because some aspects seemed rushed and others drawn out. But truly one of my favorite dark romances I’ve read!
March 5, 2023
Re-read: I'm bumping this up to a 5 star because I also want someone to call me "my muse" and write songs only for me. SOL YOU ARE THE STANDARD.
***
"My life was pitch black before you. You were the moonlight to my midnight."
I love it when I find hidden gems that turns out to be unexpected amazing reads, and this book is exactly just that. Sol is this deliciously dark obsessive hero that got me rooting for him from start to finish. The way he was boy obsessed over Scarlett?? He would kill for her and lay down his life for her. THAT'S THE KIND OF OBSESSION I'M TALKING ABOUT.
Also there's a slight tinge of suspense/mystery aspect to this which also heightened the feeling of not being able to put this book down.
I loved Sol and Scarlett together. They had chemistry and personality, they didn't feel like 2 dimensional characters which I appreciated.
Although I must say, this is the first time I've ever read a book with wax play in it. Can't decide if I love it or hate it, but I was kind of uncomfortable with that scene so maybe I don't like the idea of it.
Anyways, I loved this! Such an unexpected read, but it was everything I wanted.
***
"My life was pitch black before you. You were the moonlight to my midnight."
I love it when I find hidden gems that turns out to be unexpected amazing reads, and this book is exactly just that. Sol is this deliciously dark obsessive hero that got me rooting for him from start to finish. The way he was boy obsessed over Scarlett?? He would kill for her and lay down his life for her. THAT'S THE KIND OF OBSESSION I'M TALKING ABOUT.
Also there's a slight tinge of suspense/mystery aspect to this which also heightened the feeling of not being able to put this book down.
I loved Sol and Scarlett together. They had chemistry and personality, they didn't feel like 2 dimensional characters which I appreciated.
Although I must say, this is the first time I've ever read a book with wax play in it. Can't decide if I love it or hate it, but I was kind of uncomfortable with that scene so maybe I don't like the idea of it.
Anyways, I loved this! Such an unexpected read, but it was everything I wanted.
September 6, 2022
4.5 Stars
WOW. this book was absolutely amazing! I was not expecting so action from this book. I love the atmosphere in this book and that it took place in New Orleans. I loved the characters and the story told!
WOW. this book was absolutely amazing! I was not expecting so action from this book. I love the atmosphere in this book and that it took place in New Orleans. I loved the characters and the story told!
March 19, 2023
this book altered my brain chemistry.
March 18, 2025
4/5 stars.
July 22, 2023
“I haven’t been able to resist you ever since. Your light, your darkness, your passion… you have consumed me every moment. You became more than an obsession. You became everything.”
When I say I want a dark retelling, this is what I mean. The author captured Phantom of the Opera really well in this book. I think that this was really needed for those who wanted the tension and more romance out of the the original novel.
Not gonna lie, Scarlett was a bit infuriating from time to time mostly because of her naivety.
And Sol was such an interesting character. I enjoyed how he was written, and his character's duality. He was this scary monster on the outside and an overprotective simp on the inside. We gotta love a man who can be both heheh
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
“For those who are fighting their minds just to stay alive. It’s worth it.”
“Is madness so terrible, when euphoria is on the other side?”
“I’m not good, little muse. My obsession with you is the only pure thing about me. Never forget that I’m your demon of music, Scarlett."
“This is your only warning, Scarlett. I won’t settle for ‘first.’ I’ll be your only. Nothing less.”
Overall this was an enjoyable read and I'm excited to read the next book in this series!
I'd reccommend this book for those who like dark romances but don't forget to check the TW!
When I say I want a dark retelling, this is what I mean. The author captured Phantom of the Opera really well in this book. I think that this was really needed for those who wanted the tension and more romance out of the the original novel.
Not gonna lie, Scarlett was a bit infuriating from time to time mostly because of her naivety.
And Sol was such an interesting character. I enjoyed how he was written, and his character's duality. He was this scary monster on the outside and an overprotective simp on the inside. We gotta love a man who can be both heheh
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
“For those who are fighting their minds just to stay alive. It’s worth it.”
“Is madness so terrible, when euphoria is on the other side?”
“I’m not good, little muse. My obsession with you is the only pure thing about me. Never forget that I’m your demon of music, Scarlett."
“This is your only warning, Scarlett. I won’t settle for ‘first.’ I’ll be your only. Nothing less.”
Overall this was an enjoyable read and I'm excited to read the next book in this series!
I'd reccommend this book for those who like dark romances but don't forget to check the TW!
May 9, 2025
2/5
Мені не сподобалося🥲
Спочатку було дуже цікаво і захоплююче, як не як ретелінг "Привида опери". Він загадковий понівечений мужик в масці, який ховається в тіні і рідко з'являється на людях. Вона — актриса з біполярним розладом.
Починалося все непогано, а потім головні герої вивели мене з себе. По перше, я не повірила в їхнє кохання: з його боку — нездорова одержимість, яка іноді переходила всі межі, а з її непонятно шо, бо коли вона встигла в нього закохатися, незрозуміло.
Він їй багато чого не договорює, вона йому повністю не довіряє, а їхні стосунки складаються з постійного сексу. Так тут була і турбота з його боку і прийняття його шрамів і понівеченоного обличчя з її боку. Але в цілому, мені не сподобався розвиток їхніх стосунків. І ота драма в кінці... Так і хотілося сказати головній героїні відкрий очі і включи мозок, хоч на хвилину. Ідіотка тупа.
А ще не дуже зрозуміло, чим займається головний герой, чи він мафіозі, чи хто він. Мужик, який тримає весь район (місто?), має якийсь свій моральний кодекс і самостійно чинить правосуддя для людей, які на його думку цього заслужили. Таке щось
В цілому, я розчарована і засмучена, очікувала зовсім іншого від цієї історії
Мені не сподобалося🥲
Спочатку було дуже цікаво і захоплююче, як не як ретелінг "Привида опери". Він загадковий понівечений мужик в масці, який ховається в тіні і рідко з'являється на людях. Вона — актриса з біполярним розладом.
Починалося все непогано, а потім головні герої вивели мене з себе. По перше, я не повірила в їхнє кохання: з його боку — нездорова одержимість, яка іноді переходила всі межі, а з її непонятно шо, бо коли вона встигла в нього закохатися, незрозуміло.
Він їй багато чого не договорює, вона йому повністю не довіряє, а їхні стосунки складаються з постійного сексу. Так тут була і турбота з його боку і прийняття його шрамів і понівеченоного обличчя з її боку. Але в цілому, мені не сподобався розвиток їхніх стосунків. І ота драма в кінці... Так і хотілося сказати головній героїні відкрий очі і включи мозок, хоч на хвилину. Ідіотка тупа.
А ще не дуже зрозуміло, чим займається головний герой, чи він мафіозі, чи хто він. Мужик, який тримає весь район (місто?), має якийсь свій моральний кодекс і самостійно чинить правосуддя для людей, які на його думку цього заслужили. Таке щось
В цілому, я розчарована і засмучена, очікувала зовсім іншого від цієї історії
January 9, 2023
I SWEAR if I read "Mon démon de la musique" or "ma belle muse" ONE MORE TIME...
Loved the idea, not the execution. Hollow characters, dumb h , no chemistry, too much too fast. Some sexe scene were hot but it was not enough and cringy at the same time, especially with all the musical references. Because it's a musicaaal retelling wiiink wiiink get it? Get it??
Loved the idea, not the execution. Hollow characters, dumb h , no chemistry, too much too fast. Some sexe scene were hot but it was not enough and cringy at the same time, especially with all the musical references. Because it's a musicaaal retelling wiiink wiiink get it? Get it??
November 30, 2023
Title: Phantom
Author: Greer Rivers
Tropes: dark romance, retelling, obsessive/possessive mmc, mental health rep, morally grey mmc
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐,25
Check TW‼️
"I’m not good, little muse. My obsession with you is the only pure thing about me. Never forget that I’m your demon of music, Scarlett. You can’t expect me to behave like a gentleman when you beg like my whore."
I'm so excited to tell you about this book! It's a retelling of The Phantom of The Opera, which happens to be my first ever retelling book, and I have to say, it blew me away🤯 Even though I never watched any Phantom of The Opera musical or movie before, I found myself completely engrossed in this story!!
The best part? It actually has a happy ending where the Phantom gets the girl! I mean, who doesn't love a good love story, right?🥺
"Head will roll if they stare at what’s mine for too long, but goddamn am I a lucky bastard for getting to look at you all night."
But that's not all, this book has everything I look for in a great read - an amazing storyline, representation of mental illness, tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat, some seriously steamy chemistry, spicy romance, and the perfect dose of gothic vibes. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this one🙌
Sol's character fascinated me with its duality and paradoxes. Despite being cruel and dangerous to everyone, he displayed tenderness and softness towards Scarlett, which warmed my heart🥰 His protective and possessive nature towards her was endearing, and I loved how he yearned for her acceptance despite his flaws. Even though he was broken, he was determined to keep her safe, making him the perfect protector😍 I found his flawed character very alluring, and I couldn't resist the urge to protect and comfort him. The fact that he got the happiest ending was just the icing on the cake😄
"You’re my pretty little muse, Scarlett. I worship your voice. Your body, mind, and soul are no different.”
“Even the darkness in my mind?”
“Especially the darkness."
Scarlett's naivety and gullibility towards Rand may have been irritating, making me feel like shaking her to bring her to her senses😑 However, I empathize with her situation and can understand her perspective. What I found most endearing about her character was her vulnerability, especially in dealing with her bipolar condition, which tugged at my heartstrings and left me feeling pained for her🥲
Building two captivating characters on the foundation of mental health problems and profound trauma, Greer did an exceptional job!! The way the two primary characters connected with each other, in both their darkest and brightest moments, was something I truly enjoyed. Overall, I recommend this book especially if you like The Phantom of The Opera💙
"You wanted to know why I started to follow you? It’s because I saw your darkness that night, Scarlett. Your darkness called to mine. My life was pitch black before you. You were the moonlight to my midnight."
Author: Greer Rivers
Tropes: dark romance, retelling, obsessive/possessive mmc, mental health rep, morally grey mmc
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐,25
Check TW‼️
"I’m not good, little muse. My obsession with you is the only pure thing about me. Never forget that I’m your demon of music, Scarlett. You can’t expect me to behave like a gentleman when you beg like my whore."
I'm so excited to tell you about this book! It's a retelling of The Phantom of The Opera, which happens to be my first ever retelling book, and I have to say, it blew me away🤯 Even though I never watched any Phantom of The Opera musical or movie before, I found myself completely engrossed in this story!!
The best part? It actually has a happy ending where the Phantom gets the girl! I mean, who doesn't love a good love story, right?🥺
"Head will roll if they stare at what’s mine for too long, but goddamn am I a lucky bastard for getting to look at you all night."
But that's not all, this book has everything I look for in a great read - an amazing storyline, representation of mental illness, tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat, some seriously steamy chemistry, spicy romance, and the perfect dose of gothic vibes. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this one🙌
Sol's character fascinated me with its duality and paradoxes. Despite being cruel and dangerous to everyone, he displayed tenderness and softness towards Scarlett, which warmed my heart🥰 His protective and possessive nature towards her was endearing, and I loved how he yearned for her acceptance despite his flaws. Even though he was broken, he was determined to keep her safe, making him the perfect protector😍 I found his flawed character very alluring, and I couldn't resist the urge to protect and comfort him. The fact that he got the happiest ending was just the icing on the cake😄
"You’re my pretty little muse, Scarlett. I worship your voice. Your body, mind, and soul are no different.”
“Even the darkness in my mind?”
“Especially the darkness."
Scarlett's naivety and gullibility towards Rand may have been irritating, making me feel like shaking her to bring her to her senses😑 However, I empathize with her situation and can understand her perspective. What I found most endearing about her character was her vulnerability, especially in dealing with her bipolar condition, which tugged at my heartstrings and left me feeling pained for her🥲
Building two captivating characters on the foundation of mental health problems and profound trauma, Greer did an exceptional job!! The way the two primary characters connected with each other, in both their darkest and brightest moments, was something I truly enjoyed. Overall, I recommend this book especially if you like The Phantom of The Opera💙
"You wanted to know why I started to follow you? It’s because I saw your darkness that night, Scarlett. Your darkness called to mine. My life was pitch black before you. You were the moonlight to my midnight."
March 6, 2023
☾⋆｡°✩･:*:｡ Oh this was so fun! Thank you Giselle for recommending this to me. You know me so welllllll.
Phantom is a Phantom of the Opera dark romance retelling set in an opera house/conservatory of music. It's also a mafia romance because the hero is an enforcer of his family who rules half of New Orleans. He has become obsessed.... OBSESSED... with the heroine from the very first time he saw her. He's been stalking her and sending her cute little notes, sheet musics, playing the piano for her through the pipes, etc. You know cute things lmao! This book is def a stalker romance as well... so take that into consideration if you do start reading it.
I love that this series is all about tragic plays turned into happily ever afters. So, this is Phantom of the Opera and the next book in the series is Moulin Rouge! That's so intriguing and I'm definitely game for the next book.
This book does have questionable scenes that many people won't like. I am on the fence about them, but when I think about my overall thoughts about this book it definitely deserves a four-star rating. It was entertaining, so many steamy scenes (omg!!!!), and the way that Sol was completely captivated, obsessed, in love with Scarlett *chef kiss* You know I prefer when the heroes are down on their knees for their love interests, and yeah this one has it. Though Sol tries to be all calm and collected, when he is behind closed doors, he's the one who flirts, smiles, and jokes around Scarlett. She's his light in the darkness! HIS MUSE!
Phantom is a Phantom of the Opera dark romance retelling set in an opera house/conservatory of music. It's also a mafia romance because the hero is an enforcer of his family who rules half of New Orleans. He has become obsessed.... OBSESSED... with the heroine from the very first time he saw her. He's been stalking her and sending her cute little notes, sheet musics, playing the piano for her through the pipes, etc. You know cute things lmao! This book is def a stalker romance as well... so take that into consideration if you do start reading it.
I love that this series is all about tragic plays turned into happily ever afters. So, this is Phantom of the Opera and the next book in the series is Moulin Rouge! That's so intriguing and I'm definitely game for the next book.
This book does have questionable scenes that many people won't like. I am on the fence about them, but when I think about my overall thoughts about this book it definitely deserves a four-star rating. It was entertaining, so many steamy scenes (omg!!!!), and the way that Sol was completely captivated, obsessed, in love with Scarlett *chef kiss* You know I prefer when the heroes are down on their knees for their love interests, and yeah this one has it. Though Sol tries to be all calm and collected, when he is behind closed doors, he's the one who flirts, smiles, and jokes around Scarlett. She's his light in the darkness! HIS MUSE!
May 25, 2023
DNF at 30ish%
Honestly I can see people genuinely enjoying this.
It wasn't for me because the setting (New Orleans which is divided between two mob families, the *good* mob and the *evil* mob) as well as the MMC felt clownish to me and with mob stories that actually bothers me because I don't like mafia shit. But that's just me! Most mob romances have cartoon characters and cartoon story lines and the murder/tortures are often played out as fun character quirks; and no one is bothered by that!
The Phantom, Sol(omon) is a lecherous stalker creep who is obsessively watching the heroine through cameras but is also not above breaking into her room to watch her sleep(ily masturbate). He also likes to blackmail the people around her, ostensibly to make her life easier (which backfires quite often, actually). His hobbies are fucking tourists (his brother brings them to him in his stinky blood and piss torture catacombs, which is YUCK) as well as torturing and murdering his enemies as well as his *petite muse's* enemies. Which would be less concerning if Sol and his brother weren't utterly convinced that they are the *good monsters* because the other mob family does the really bad stuff, like human trafficking and stuff.
Obviously all of those are trifles in a big sea of mob romances. You might like this, so don't let me deter you.
I'm giving it 2 stars because the heroine's portrayal was based on the author's own experience with bipolar disorder and that part was very well done.
Honestly I can see people genuinely enjoying this.
It wasn't for me because the setting (New Orleans which is divided between two mob families, the *good* mob and the *evil* mob) as well as the MMC felt clownish to me and with mob stories that actually bothers me because I don't like mafia shit. But that's just me! Most mob romances have cartoon characters and cartoon story lines and the murder/tortures are often played out as fun character quirks; and no one is bothered by that!
The Phantom, Sol(omon) is a lecherous stalker creep who is obsessively watching the heroine through cameras but is also not above breaking into her room to watch her sleep(ily masturbate). He also likes to blackmail the people around her, ostensibly to make her life easier (which backfires quite often, actually). His hobbies are fucking tourists (his brother brings them to him in his stinky blood and piss torture catacombs, which is YUCK) as well as torturing and murdering his enemies as well as his *petite muse's* enemies. Which would be less concerning if Sol and his brother weren't utterly convinced that they are the *good monsters* because the other mob family does the really bad stuff, like human trafficking and stuff.
Obviously all of those are trifles in a big sea of mob romances. You might like this, so don't let me deter you.
I'm giving it 2 stars because the heroine's portrayal was based on the author's own experience with bipolar disorder and that part was very well done.
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