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The Overtures Of My Saga
Why is it that when you try your hardest to escape, that gravity always pulls you back?
When Miann Lleyton settled in Bordeaux, the only thing he wanted was to overwork himself through odd-jobs to make sure he could push past the pain of having his first love snatched away from him in the cruelest way possible.
He did not expect Theus Brumoy, an architect with dreams as big as his heart to find him and ground him. To provide a shield against the heat of re-entry as Miann crashed head first back into his past. The Overtures of My Saga is the sequel to Swan Song of My Era set in the idyllic countryside of France.
When Miann Lleyton settled in Bordeaux, the only thing he wanted was to overwork himself through odd-jobs to make sure he could push past the pain of having his first love snatched away from him in the cruelest way possible.
He did not expect Theus Brumoy, an architect with dreams as big as his heart to find him and ground him. To provide a shield against the heat of re-entry as Miann crashed head first back into his past. The Overtures of My Saga is the sequel to Swan Song of My Era set in the idyllic countryside of France.
- GenresContemporary
490 pages, Paperback
Published August 3, 2022
1 person is currently reading
12 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 10, 2023
Elsie Swain's "The Overtures of My Saga" is a harmonious blend of ambition, love, and the unyielding pursuit of dreams. The book immerses readers in the intricate lives of Miann and Thesus, echoing the timeless connection between Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann.
What truly inspired me was Swain's ability to infuse music and architecture with the essence of humanity. As I delved into the pages, I couldn't help but draw parallels between their world and the aspirations many of us hold. The characters' struggles resonated deeply, reminding me that the pursuit of one's passion often requires overcoming substantial obstacles.
Swain's writing style is a masterpiece in itself. She seamlessly transports readers between the realms of fashion and music, creating a vibrant and compelling narrative. The book's setting is nothing short of enchanting, serving as a powerful backdrop to explore themes of desire and salvation.
I expected a unique and evocative story from this book, and I wasn't disappointed. "The Overtures of My Saga" is a testament to the enduring power of dreams and the transformative impact of love. Swain's ingenious fusion of history and contemporary storytelling makes this a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and depth in their literature.
What truly inspired me was Swain's ability to infuse music and architecture with the essence of humanity. As I delved into the pages, I couldn't help but draw parallels between their world and the aspirations many of us hold. The characters' struggles resonated deeply, reminding me that the pursuit of one's passion often requires overcoming substantial obstacles.
Swain's writing style is a masterpiece in itself. She seamlessly transports readers between the realms of fashion and music, creating a vibrant and compelling narrative. The book's setting is nothing short of enchanting, serving as a powerful backdrop to explore themes of desire and salvation.
I expected a unique and evocative story from this book, and I wasn't disappointed. "The Overtures of My Saga" is a testament to the enduring power of dreams and the transformative impact of love. Swain's ingenious fusion of history and contemporary storytelling makes this a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and depth in their literature.
August 19, 2022
Even though I have not read the prequel, Swan Song of My Era, I had no trouble reading this book. Even though it's a series, you can read the books as stand-alone!
I really enjoyed my time reading this book. I had a little trouble getting into the story, but after a couple of pages I was really invested in the story.
The characters were all so nice and likeable. Miann is a musician and Theus is an architect, and I loved the fact that they are so passionate about their art.
The friendships were amazing in this book. I loved Miann and Pax's friendship so much. I believe Spes is the main character of the first book, she also appeared in this book and I really liked her and Hope in this book, so I am interested to read their story in book 1 as well!
The writing is also great. I loved the writing style and the pacing of the story.
Overall, this was a great book. I really liked it. I'd definitely recommend!
I really enjoyed my time reading this book. I had a little trouble getting into the story, but after a couple of pages I was really invested in the story.
The characters were all so nice and likeable. Miann is a musician and Theus is an architect, and I loved the fact that they are so passionate about their art.
The friendships were amazing in this book. I loved Miann and Pax's friendship so much. I believe Spes is the main character of the first book, she also appeared in this book and I really liked her and Hope in this book, so I am interested to read their story in book 1 as well!
The writing is also great. I loved the writing style and the pacing of the story.
Overall, this was a great book. I really liked it. I'd definitely recommend!
September 4, 2022
Thank you to Pride Book Tours for providing me with a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Another "new to me" author, The Overtures Of My Saga is the first of her works that I have read and I did not know what to expect. Not having read Swan Song Of My Era, Overtures follows different characters in the same world and both can be read as a standalone.
Swain's writing is a style I haven't encountered often; complicated and lovely, effortless and deep, there is a prosaic feel to it that is almost mesmerising. It did take me a while for me to get into it fully - it's a slow burn and I had to rush read this - but I found my stride about halfway through and it was smooth sailing all the way.
This was a wonderfully written love story, but it is so, so much more:
- Excellent gay representation
- Architecture & maths
- Well-developed characters
- The cutest gay couple since Nick & Charlie
- Fashion design
- Plot Driven
- Classical piano music
- Extra Slow Burn
Happy reading!
Another "new to me" author, The Overtures Of My Saga is the first of her works that I have read and I did not know what to expect. Not having read Swan Song Of My Era, Overtures follows different characters in the same world and both can be read as a standalone.
Swain's writing is a style I haven't encountered often; complicated and lovely, effortless and deep, there is a prosaic feel to it that is almost mesmerising. It did take me a while for me to get into it fully - it's a slow burn and I had to rush read this - but I found my stride about halfway through and it was smooth sailing all the way.
This was a wonderfully written love story, but it is so, so much more:
- Excellent gay representation
- Architecture & maths
- Well-developed characters
- The cutest gay couple since Nick & Charlie
- Fashion design
- Plot Driven
- Classical piano music
- Extra Slow Burn
Happy reading!
September 16, 2022
Interesting read, I just wasn’t super engaged with it.
August 20, 2022
5 Stars
Honestly? If I could give it more, I would. As a gay male myself, there is perhaps nothing more satisfying than reading a romance between two boys that reads like a romance between two boys, not a straight romance dressed gay.
Swain has really done an amazing job of not only intricately weaving a romance that is equal parts “OH MY GODS, THEY’RE SO CUTE” and equal parts ”CAN THEY JUST FUCK ALREADY!?” I’m not one that particularly enjoys slow burn because truth be told, I find more and more that slow-burns these days are just normal relationships that have been unnecessarily stretched out to become slow-burns but Elsie weaves a slow-burn that has me clenching my butt-cheeks and powering through the read in one sitting because I just, just, JUST wanted them to be together.
Which is not to say this is purely a romance novel, oh no, no, no, no. It is an Elsie Swain novel after all and I’ve honestly come to expect an intricate and immense plot that weaves all over the place and unfolds like a Royal Flush at the end of poker game that had you on the edge of the seat the whole time until the final play was made. As with her other reads and especially the prequel, which I believe can be read alone and so can this one, the focus is primarily on the characters dreams and ambitions. Luckily, those are not just about being with someone or needing a relationship.
Miann has MY WHOLE FUCKING HEART. Finally a rich boy that is NOT a fuckboy or fucked in the head. And Theus? He deserves the world. The novel does a good— no, an EXCELLENT job in balancing their relationship, the banter and relationship between the friends and the plot.
I don’t wanna go into depth about the plot because honestly, telling you any of it would be telling you all of it but let me just say that the power games are so brilliantly played out that it felt more like a episode of House of Cards rather than a contemporary fiction. I’m talking big corporations that are greedy, innocent lives sacrificed for profit, government links and the music industry all rolled into one FUCKING DELICIOUS BURRITO!
All in all, I’d give this read five stars, no actually 15— Fuck that, roughly 100-400 billion stars (Milky Way reference for those that have read it)
Jokes aside, my rating is 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 plus one Polaris. ✨
Please read to make your queer and ambitious hearts warm and happy.
August 30, 2022
The cover and title they come out so beautiful for her books.
Theus is an architect having trouble get ideas for his project and is asked to go for vacation and work combo to Bordeaux. Miann is a musician currently doing odd jobs to keep him busy inspite of being a rich boy.
I liked Theus and Miann from the very start, their banter is excellent. They are both sweet, passionate about their work and have an intriguing air around them. Knowing them was fun and they know how to place themselves in your heart.
The author knows her way with words. I love her writing, it is beautiful, complicated yet lovely at the same time. It has poetic feel to it. She writes lovable characters that has me totally invested in their life journey.
The secondary characters overlap from the first book but reading that is not a requirement for this one. All the friendship between each character is beautiful and strong.
This is not just a romance novel but so much more that is interwoven nicely. The slow burn is at its best, it focuses on their dreams and goals. I can't say more as it would be like revealing but definitely recommend this one.
Theus is an architect having trouble get ideas for his project and is asked to go for vacation and work combo to Bordeaux. Miann is a musician currently doing odd jobs to keep him busy inspite of being a rich boy.
I liked Theus and Miann from the very start, their banter is excellent. They are both sweet, passionate about their work and have an intriguing air around them. Knowing them was fun and they know how to place themselves in your heart.
The author knows her way with words. I love her writing, it is beautiful, complicated yet lovely at the same time. It has poetic feel to it. She writes lovable characters that has me totally invested in their life journey.
The secondary characters overlap from the first book but reading that is not a requirement for this one. All the friendship between each character is beautiful and strong.
This is not just a romance novel but so much more that is interwoven nicely. The slow burn is at its best, it focuses on their dreams and goals. I can't say more as it would be like revealing but definitely recommend this one.
August 25, 2022
This was a wonderfully written love story.
Swains writing is new for me and a style I’ve not read before but the author has a way with words.
The characters are very flushed out as their arc weaves and grows throughout the story plot. Miann and Theus were very involved within their careers (musician and architect) which made me feel like I was learning quite a bit in those fields. There is quite a bit of representation in this which is always a plus to me. This is the second book in a series but I didn’t feel lost- if anything I just want to read Spes and Hopes story now!
Read if you like:
🎵 Queer Representation
🎵 Well Developed Characters
🎵 Plot Driven
🎵 Slow Slow Burn
🎵 Romance in the French Countryside
This story did take me a bit to get into and it was difficult at first to be able to follow the conversations within the story but about halfway in, I was truly sucked in and had no problem following along. I do think this was a very unique romance and I totally recommend this for its diversity and story.
Swains writing is new for me and a style I’ve not read before but the author has a way with words.
The characters are very flushed out as their arc weaves and grows throughout the story plot. Miann and Theus were very involved within their careers (musician and architect) which made me feel like I was learning quite a bit in those fields. There is quite a bit of representation in this which is always a plus to me. This is the second book in a series but I didn’t feel lost- if anything I just want to read Spes and Hopes story now!
Read if you like:
🎵 Queer Representation
🎵 Well Developed Characters
🎵 Plot Driven
🎵 Slow Slow Burn
🎵 Romance in the French Countryside
This story did take me a bit to get into and it was difficult at first to be able to follow the conversations within the story but about halfway in, I was truly sucked in and had no problem following along. I do think this was a very unique romance and I totally recommend this for its diversity and story.
August 21, 2022
Where better to set a classic love story then in France? Meet Miann; The musician; and Theus; The architect. Brought together in this artistic ballad by Elsie Swain, a master of queer narratives.
What I loved is that there are straight stories with this narrative and now we finally have a timeless love story with queer representation. A slow burn romance that will have you rooting for the characters all the way through, along with a gradual character growth.
I would definitely recommend reading the first book “Swan Song of my Era,” I was told you could read this without reading the first book but there were a few times whereby characters were mention and I had to flick through book one to know who they were; but it was still easy to gage them and their personalities. But definitely read book one before following on to this!!!
The book is full of a wide ensemble of characters, one Of which I’m sure each reader would be able to identify with
What I loved is that there are straight stories with this narrative and now we finally have a timeless love story with queer representation. A slow burn romance that will have you rooting for the characters all the way through, along with a gradual character growth.
I would definitely recommend reading the first book “Swan Song of my Era,” I was told you could read this without reading the first book but there were a few times whereby characters were mention and I had to flick through book one to know who they were; but it was still easy to gage them and their personalities. But definitely read book one before following on to this!!!
The book is full of a wide ensemble of characters, one Of which I’m sure each reader would be able to identify with
August 29, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
wow! this is unlike anything i have ever read. for anyone that is a fan of architecture (especially the mathematical element of it), playing classical music (especially piano), or fashion design then this one is for you.
my favourite part of this book was easily the mlm relationship of miann and theus. i think i have highlighted virtually every interaction between them?! i was honestly *OBSESSED* from their very first time meeting. it was such a healthy relationship. communication, understanding, openness (especially theus. i love you theus). it was just the purest of relationships, but mixed with an exciting plot.
this is the 2nd book in a series (the swan song of my era is book 1) and this was supposed to work as a standalone and … it does … but i was really quite lost for some of it about who the characters were so i kind of wish i had picked up book 1 first? HOWEVER, the plot was very interesting. a family feud and destroying a corrupt company, but mixed with romance and beautiful friendships.
what came through astonishingly well in this book was elsie’s passion for the creative arts. the architecture (through theus) and musical aspects of piano/ classical music and songwriting (through miann) were incredibly detailed and clearly coming from a place of passion. i wasn’t always entirely sure what all of it meant, especially with the architecture, but the creativity of it made me smile.
the main thing that made this 4 instead of 5 stars was that … this book felt a little unedited. there were quite a few typos and sentences that were so long that by the end i’d forgotten what it was about?? however, the writing was beautiful!
altogether, a book with a heck of a lot of potential (it would make SUCH a good film) but could’ve done with some final edits :)
- lara <3
wow! this is unlike anything i have ever read. for anyone that is a fan of architecture (especially the mathematical element of it), playing classical music (especially piano), or fashion design then this one is for you.
my favourite part of this book was easily the mlm relationship of miann and theus. i think i have highlighted virtually every interaction between them?! i was honestly *OBSESSED* from their very first time meeting. it was such a healthy relationship. communication, understanding, openness (especially theus. i love you theus). it was just the purest of relationships, but mixed with an exciting plot.
this is the 2nd book in a series (the swan song of my era is book 1) and this was supposed to work as a standalone and … it does … but i was really quite lost for some of it about who the characters were so i kind of wish i had picked up book 1 first? HOWEVER, the plot was very interesting. a family feud and destroying a corrupt company, but mixed with romance and beautiful friendships.
what came through astonishingly well in this book was elsie’s passion for the creative arts. the architecture (through theus) and musical aspects of piano/ classical music and songwriting (through miann) were incredibly detailed and clearly coming from a place of passion. i wasn’t always entirely sure what all of it meant, especially with the architecture, but the creativity of it made me smile.
the main thing that made this 4 instead of 5 stars was that … this book felt a little unedited. there were quite a few typos and sentences that were so long that by the end i’d forgotten what it was about?? however, the writing was beautiful!
altogether, a book with a heck of a lot of potential (it would make SUCH a good film) but could’ve done with some final edits :)
- lara <3
September 7, 2023
"The Overtures of My Saga" by Elsie Swain is an immensely inspiring and thought-provoking novel that left a deep impression on me. What struck me most was the resounding theme of resilience and the power of pursuing one's dreams. Miann and Theus, the central characters, navigate a world where ambition and temptation blur the lines between right and wrong. This aspect resonated with me, as I could relate to their determination in the face of adversity.
The book is set in a contemporary backdrop but draws inspiration from the historical relationship between Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann. Swain has masterfully crafted a narrative that is both fresh and engaging. It's a captivating blend of romance, ambition, and redemption, and what I appreciated most was how it delved into the intricate nuances of human relationships and the unyielding spirit of the human soul.
"The Overtures of My Saga" is a compelling read that explores profound emotions and desires while keeping readers engaged throughout. Its emotional depth and storytelling prowess make it a standout novel in its genre. In conclusion, this book is a must-read for those seeking a compelling story that touches the heart and stirs the soul, all while offering a fresh take on timeless themes.
The book is set in a contemporary backdrop but draws inspiration from the historical relationship between Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann. Swain has masterfully crafted a narrative that is both fresh and engaging. It's a captivating blend of romance, ambition, and redemption, and what I appreciated most was how it delved into the intricate nuances of human relationships and the unyielding spirit of the human soul.
"The Overtures of My Saga" is a compelling read that explores profound emotions and desires while keeping readers engaged throughout. Its emotional depth and storytelling prowess make it a standout novel in its genre. In conclusion, this book is a must-read for those seeking a compelling story that touches the heart and stirs the soul, all while offering a fresh take on timeless themes.
September 7, 2023
"The Overtures of My Saga" by Elsie Swain is a contemporary masterpiece that artfully reimagines the relationship between Miann and Thesus, drawing parallels to the historical connection between Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann. Swain's storytelling is a tapestry of emotions, ambition, and the resilience of the human spirit.
The book's most inspiring aspect is its ability to intricately weave together the aspirations and tribulations of Miann and Thesus. As a reader, I was profoundly moved by their journeys, finding elements of their struggles deeply relatable.
Elsie Swain's writing style is nothing short of captivating. Her narrative effortlessly navigates the realms of haute couture and music, offering readers a rich and immersive experience. The setting is both vibrant and thought-provoking, serving as a backdrop to explore themes of ambition and redemption.
I approached this book with expectations of a unique and emotionally resonant story, and it absolutely met and exceeded those expectations. "The Overtures of My Saga" is not just a love story; it's a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the pursuit of one's true calling. Elsie Swain's ability to blend historical inspiration with a contemporary narrative is commendable and makes this book a must-read.
The book's most inspiring aspect is its ability to intricately weave together the aspirations and tribulations of Miann and Thesus. As a reader, I was profoundly moved by their journeys, finding elements of their struggles deeply relatable.
Elsie Swain's writing style is nothing short of captivating. Her narrative effortlessly navigates the realms of haute couture and music, offering readers a rich and immersive experience. The setting is both vibrant and thought-provoking, serving as a backdrop to explore themes of ambition and redemption.
I approached this book with expectations of a unique and emotionally resonant story, and it absolutely met and exceeded those expectations. "The Overtures of My Saga" is not just a love story; it's a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the pursuit of one's true calling. Elsie Swain's ability to blend historical inspiration with a contemporary narrative is commendable and makes this book a must-read.
September 3, 2023
"The Overtures of My Saga" by Elsie Swain is a literary gem that left me thoroughly enchanted. The book is an ode to the resilience of the human spirit and the pursuit of one's dreams. What resonated deeply with me was the authenticity of the characters, particularly Miann and Theus, as they navigate the complexities of ambition and temptation.
The novel is set in a modern context but draws its inspiration from the historical connection between Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann. Swain's storytelling is rich and engaging, making it a compelling blend of romance, ambition, and redemption. The intricate exploration of human relationships and the unwavering determination of the characters were the aspects that captivated me the most.
"The Overtures of My Saga" is a book that evokes profound emotions and paints a vivid picture of the human experience. Swain's narrative is both poignant and thought-provoking, making it a standout in contemporary literature. In conclusion, this novel is a literary masterpiece that will resonate with anyone seeking a heartfelt and intellectually stimulating read.
The novel is set in a modern context but draws its inspiration from the historical connection between Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann. Swain's storytelling is rich and engaging, making it a compelling blend of romance, ambition, and redemption. The intricate exploration of human relationships and the unwavering determination of the characters were the aspects that captivated me the most.
"The Overtures of My Saga" is a book that evokes profound emotions and paints a vivid picture of the human experience. Swain's narrative is both poignant and thought-provoking, making it a standout in contemporary literature. In conclusion, this novel is a literary masterpiece that will resonate with anyone seeking a heartfelt and intellectually stimulating read.
August 29, 2022
♡ thanks to @pridebooktours for the copy!
♤ rating: 4.5/5
♤ review: i finished this book just a while ago, and i am definitely impressed. This was the first I have read of the author, and even though i hadn't read the prequel, i had a very lil problems reading this.
About their relationship, there are no words!!! Seriously it was balanced so well that i may have just fallen in love with Miann and Theus (its gay)! Finally a one where i didn't scream "it's toxic!!!! " they were so cute from the start to the end!!
The pacing was just fine, not too hard to catch up and the plot is chef's kiss!! I don't wanna dwell in too much cuz it can turn to spoiler but you gottaaaaaa giveee thisss a tryyyyy!!!!!
♤ rating: 4.5/5
♤ review: i finished this book just a while ago, and i am definitely impressed. This was the first I have read of the author, and even though i hadn't read the prequel, i had a very lil problems reading this.
About their relationship, there are no words!!! Seriously it was balanced so well that i may have just fallen in love with Miann and Theus (its gay)! Finally a one where i didn't scream "it's toxic!!!! " they were so cute from the start to the end!!
The pacing was just fine, not too hard to catch up and the plot is chef's kiss!! I don't wanna dwell in too much cuz it can turn to spoiler but you gottaaaaaa giveee thisss a tryyyyy!!!!!
September 21, 2023
"The Overtures" is a literary gem that effortlessly weaves together music, memories, and moments of pure joy. Elsie Swain's storytelling is like a gentle lullaby, taking you on a journey through the lives of the characters and their shared love for art.
It reminds us to savor the beauty in everyday moments and the connections we build with others. I personally love Thesus and his character throughout the book. Book talk about any form of art always makes me excited and this book makes me HAPPY. 😭
As you turn the pages, you'll find yourself smiling, maybe even shedding a tear or two, but always feeling a warm and comforting embrace from Swain's words. "The Overtures" is a heartwarming tale that leaves you with a sense of contentment and a desire to cherish the sweet melodies of life.
It reminds us to savor the beauty in everyday moments and the connections we build with others. I personally love Thesus and his character throughout the book. Book talk about any form of art always makes me excited and this book makes me HAPPY. 😭
As you turn the pages, you'll find yourself smiling, maybe even shedding a tear or two, but always feeling a warm and comforting embrace from Swain's words. "The Overtures" is a heartwarming tale that leaves you with a sense of contentment and a desire to cherish the sweet melodies of life.
August 6, 2023
I remember when the author first shared glimpses of Theus & Miann with me, small excerpts that I was allowed to read early on. My heart burst with joy because I knew, when I finally would get to read their book, I would love them with the whole of my heart, just as I've loved Spes and Hope.
"Love was a funny thing. People seemed to attribute everything to it"
Even though it is the sequel to 'Swan Song of My Era', it can be read without reading the first book (though I wouldn't recommend that). This character driven slow paced tale is not 'just' a story about love, it's also about friendships, fighting for the ones you love and identity. The cute moments between Theus and Miann left me with no choice but to root for them with a stupid smile on my face.
I absolutely loved reading this one. It felt like I was also on a journey with the characters because of the way it's written. My heart could do nothing but feel the same things they felt. And that ending?! My brain went "what?! I need the next book NOW" 😭 [I realise that I do that a lot & it's very unfair of me]
I'm an idiot for not sharing this spectacular book with my bookstafam sooner (I read this one months ago but life happened) but if you are looking for a great story in your next read, pick this one up!!
"Love was a funny thing. People seemed to attribute everything to it"
Even though it is the sequel to 'Swan Song of My Era', it can be read without reading the first book (though I wouldn't recommend that). This character driven slow paced tale is not 'just' a story about love, it's also about friendships, fighting for the ones you love and identity. The cute moments between Theus and Miann left me with no choice but to root for them with a stupid smile on my face.
I absolutely loved reading this one. It felt like I was also on a journey with the characters because of the way it's written. My heart could do nothing but feel the same things they felt. And that ending?! My brain went "what?! I need the next book NOW" 😭 [I realise that I do that a lot & it's very unfair of me]
I'm an idiot for not sharing this spectacular book with my bookstafam sooner (I read this one months ago but life happened) but if you are looking for a great story in your next read, pick this one up!!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews