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Sunday, March 31, 2013

Tempted by Trouble by Michelle Smart

Let me just say, I'm so sorry for putting Tempted by Trouble by Michelle Smart off. Seriously LOVED this book, I couldn't put it down, even with the headache. This tempting story is worth the time to read. Let me share what this story is about and my thoughts.

Pippa Rowantree is forced to go into exile for a couple weeks while the situation of the scandal slowly dies down. Force to stay with Marco Capello who just sees her as the same party girl that she was seven years prior. Somehow they need to keep out of each others way in order to find peace. Yet, that isn't in the cards for them.

I felt so sorry for Pippa. I don't know, but how many people do stupid things when they were younger. I mean seriously, some people need to make mistakes and learn from them. Pippa was one of those people. However, Marco kept throwing her past in her face. No matter how hard she tried to explain she had change, Marco wouldn't hear. He basically blamed her for ruining his life. Oh man, that pretty sucked.

I liked Marco and disliked at the same time. He was so judgmental towards Pippa it made me dislike him. Then when you read what happen to his life, you kind of understand. However, I kept thinking she was still a teen when all that happen. So, I had mix feelings towards Marco.

Seriously, LOVED the story. Tempted by Trouble definitely tugged on my heart. Throughout the story I felt those tears wanting to come out, because I felt for Pippa. Towards the end the flood gates couldn't be closed. Fantastic read! I personally like the animosity between Pippa and Marco, because of Marco wasn't willing to reconcile with the past. So, if you are looking for a read that tugs at your heart and hope of reconciliation, you might want to read Tempted by Trouble. I must say it was certainly a tempting read.

Copy provided by the publisher

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Torch in the Forest by Marcie Kremer

The other day I read Torch in the Forest by Marcie Kremer. First off, this is not normally a book I would read. However, I'm always looking for new reads, especially when it comes to historical romance novels. So, today I bring to you a Medieval tale today.

The tale starts out with a very young widow, Eleanor of Strathcombe who has a lot on her plate. First instance, she has an arrogant neighbor Hugh of Wykeham, who has an issue of her management style. On top of it all, Hugh is in the market for a new wife and figure Eleanor sister would be a perfect candidate, since she's young and malleable. However, there other things a foot. For instance, there are poachers running rampant between Hugh and Eleanor's land.

As I said this isn't a story I would normally look at. However. the story intrigued me. I must it was a good read and the writing was well done. Plus, as I read Torch in the Forest I felt like I was part of the story. I like Eleanor. I must say she handled everything very well. Plus, she even stood up to Hugh, which most people wouldn't have done so. Hugh had a temper and didn't trust anyone. So, we have Eleanor who will trust almost anyone (within reason) and Hugh who was hurt by the past and doesn't trust anyone.

Overall, a good read, especially if you are a fan of Medieval stories. I liked Marcie Kremer's writing style, so I most likely to checkout more stories by her. So, if you are looking for a Medieval with poachers and power struggle, I would suggest Torch in the Forest

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Hero of My Heart Blog Hop


Guess what time it is? It's time for another Blog Hop. Well, I wish you all luck. Plus, there are some awesome prizes. Have fun as you hop around.


Don't forget to leave you a comment about Your New Years Resolution. I don't make any, but how about you.

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Saturday, March 30, 2013

eARC: Hero of My Heart by Megan Frampton

All right, last night I was able to finished Hero of My Heart by Megan Frampton. I must say I enjoyed this quick read. I shall share what this story entailed and my thoughts.

Poor Mary Smith has been down on her luck. I mean her rotten half-brother decides to sell her virginity to the highest bidder to pay off his debt. The one person who saves her is Alasdair Thornham, Marquess of Datchworth, who is... well just say he isn't really hero material.

As you read the story, you understand why he isn't hero material. However, he sees a greater need to rescue a damsel in distress. Which isn't really in his nature, because he's a selfish bastard. Yet, somehow Mary starts to bring out his good side, which he thought was buried and long gone.

Honestly, I enjoyed this story. I mean the hero was able to overcome his addiction and able look beyond his selfish needs. I really like Mary. Heres why: Sometimes when you have a heroine with a religious background they tend to be bit tedious. However, she wasn't like that and a lot might have to do with the information she received on her fathers deathbed. Information like that starts to question things and what's the purpose of life.

Plus, I really appreciate how the author you use the proverb of "The road to hell is paved with good intentions." I felt that story really showed that, because both hero and heroine were dealing with there on hell. I enjoyed how the author had both characters help each other to get out of there own hell.

Bottom line: I enjoyed this quick read and it had me tearing up at certain parts of the story. Overall, I thought it was done well. So, if you are looking for a quick read with a seriously flawed hero and a heroine in need of rescuing, I would suggest Hero of My Heart.

Copy provided by Random House via NetGalley

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Thursday, March 28, 2013

ARC: Sweet Madness by Heather Snow

I just finished Sweet Madness by Heather Snow. When I first started this book, it had a different feel from her first two novels. Don't get me wrong its still a fabulous read, just had a different feel. Let me explain.

In the Ms. Snow's first book Sweet Enemy we meet Penelope and she's a normal debutante focusing on making a good match. When she married her first husband Michael, everything changed. She didn't know how to handle him, which changed her forever.

Three years later, she goes and visits her husband's cousin, Gabriel Devereaux. She finds him locked away in a home for lunatics. The more she talks with Gabriel, the more she questions if he should really be locked away from everyone.

Penelope Bridgeman is different from Ms. Snow's last two heroines. Here's how: First off, Liliana and Emma were more bluestock heroines while Penelope tends to use more of her intuition. Then we have a hero who believe that he's crazy. Makes for an interesting story.

When I started reading Sweet Madness, it felt a little darker and it might have a lot to do with it starting in home for the crazies. I was a little worry about the story, as I continue to read my fears subsided. I actually found myself really enjoying the story between Penelope and Gabriel. Surprisingly, they had a lot in common. I love how they were able to reconcile the past with each others help.

I enjoyed how Ms. Snow was able to work in conditions that we would recognize as bipolar disorder or PTSD in the regency era. I also have to give her credit for hiding the villain so well. I really thought it was someone else, but I was so wrong.

Overall, I feel that Sweet Madness was done extremely well done. I would recommend this remarkable read. However, I must give a little warning, it is a little slow at the beginning, but it did start to pick up the pace once they left home. I hope you get a chance to enjoy the madness of this read.

Copy provided by the author.

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eARC: Darius by Grace Burrowes

Last night I finished Darius by Grace Burrowes. I have to say I was on the fence on what I thought of the story through most of the book. Before I explain my thoughts, I guess I should share what the story is about.

Darius Lindsay is a penniless second son of an Earl and has found a way to make money. He tends his to use his body to entertain jaded women of society to make a living. Each time losing himself a little more. Until Lord William Longstreet makes him an offer that will help him break away the life he is living. However, there is a slight problem when he becomes attracted to Vivian when they try to make Lord Longstreet an heir.

So, that's the simple gist of the story. I'm sure this probably happened more often then we like to think. Anyways, Darius is different from other Grace Burrowes stories, but the writing is still excellent. I just don't think this is a story for me. However, there are others who will love Darius. As the story progress, I did start to like the story more, but just didn't grab me to the point of love. However, it did intrigue me enough to wonder what happen to his sister. Which will be the next book, but I don't know if I want to continue to reading. Maybe in a few months, who knows?

I did like Darius and I thought he was a pretty stand up guy once he remove is wall. Vivian was young and need rescuing from her step-father. Like other Grace Burrowes books you find a twisted villain. I have say I was surprise with who the villain was, because I thought it was someone else.

Bottom line: It's not a bad a read, and I did warm-up to book. However, it wasn't for me. I'm all for trying something different. So, if Darius piques your interest, I would say give a try, because Ms. Burrowes is an excellent writer. For some people the story might be right up there alley.

Copy provide by Sourcebooks via NetGalley

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Tuesday, March 26, 2013

With This Kiss (Part Three) by Eloisa James

We finally have the last installment of With This Kiss (Part Three). The last time we saw Colin and Grace, Grace was trying to make her escape back home. Feeling hurt and not sure of what has happening.
Finally, we have the closure we all have been waiting for. Ms. James finally lets us have the happy ending we all want. As we travel through the three part serial we have seen so much go on. I have to say it was nice journey, but a bit rough at times.

Overall, Ms. James comes through to give a happy ending. I love the story as a whole, but I'm not sure if I'm a fan of serials. I don't know if I would purchase another serial again or just wait till all the parts came out. However, Ms. James is definitely the queen of writing fairytale endings. So, if you are looking for a wonderful story and a happy ending, I would say check out Colin and Graces story.



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eARC: Last Chance Book Club by Hope Ramsay

All right everyone it's time to revisit Last Chance, South Carolina. I have to say that I have enjoyed all the Last Chance books I have read so far, and I must I say I plan to visit the other books I haven't read yet. Today Last Chance book is Last Chance Book Club. Just like the other books it shares the same heart-warming experience and Miz Miriam still playing matchmaker. So, let's meet todays soul mates.

Savannah White has decided she needed to break away from her life in Baltimore and figure the best place to go would be Last Chance. Growing up she remember her summers in Last Chance and figure it would be a great place to raise her son. However, she didn't count on running into Dash Randall.

Dash Randall didn't really like Savannah growing up. Always thought she was a bit of a princess. So, he has a hard time believing she has change. However, he finds himself drawn to Savannah and her son. Maybe they can mend the fence and become friends or more.

I actually thought this story was adorable. For those who have read Pride & Prejudice might enjoy some of the parallels that are drawn in Last Chance Book Club. I found myself laughing, because of Savannah and Dash butting-heads at every possible way.

Here's the bottom line: If you love the previous Last Chance books, you will love this book too. Last Chance Book Club has the same southern charm you find in the other stories and most important a happy ending that melts your heart. I hope you all take a chance on Last Chance Book Club.

Copy provide by Forever Romance via NetGalley

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Sunday, March 24, 2013

eARC: The Summer He Came Home by Juliana Stone

For the past few days I have been reading The Summer He Came Home by Juliana Stone. It's the first book in the Bad Boys of Crystal Lake. I must say that it was pretty awesome.

So, lets meet the Bad Boys of Crystal Lake: Cain Black, Jake Edwards, Jesse Edwards and Mackenzie Draper. These four guys were best friends growing up, somehow left Crystal Lake. However, the funeral of one of their own (Jesse Edwards) called them back to Crystal Lake.

However, this story focus more on Cain Black and his budding relationship with Maggie O'Rourke. Maggie tries to keep her distances from the bad boy rocker, but some how can't fight the attraction between them. Her number one priority is keeping her son, Michael, safe at whatever cost. Even sacrifice the budding relationship with Cain.

All right, Maggie is a single mom with a past she would like to forget and hopes it stays hidden. Funny how trying to keep things hidden never works. However, I can completely understand why she did the things she did. You have Cain, who is dreamy and actually a pretty decent guy. Even though he has the bad boy rocker image that would suggest otherwise. Yet, he's willing to take a chance with Maggie.

First off, I thought this story was pretty awesome. I mean Ms. Stone had me laughing at some parts of the story and nail biting at others. Towards the end I was holding my breath, because it got pretty tense. However, I survive and seriously can't wait to read about the other bad boys. I must this is an excellent start for the Bad Boys of Crystal Lake. I'm sure you will be just as anxious for the next story as I am. So, if you have a weakness for rocker heroes (I'm not going to lie, I do), you might want to read The Summer He Came Home.

Copy provided by Sourcebooks via NetGalley

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Saturday, March 23, 2013

The Walking Sexy by Andrea Laurence

Here is another novella from the More Than Men books. First off, let me clear some things up: I'm not a fan of The Walking Dead. Seriously, I don't like zombies or what Ms. Laurence calls them in The Walking Sexy: "flesh eaters, stumblers, walkers, rotters, the undead, or meat puppets." I have to say meat puppets is pretty clever. Anyways, there's my stance on zombies. However, I'm able to tolerate them in The Walking Sexy for a couple of reason.  The main reason you don't really see them till the end.

The story takes place after the zombie apocalypse. Yep, the zombie apocalypse happen and Greyson Foster isn't quite human or quite a zombie, but something in-between. He somehow stumbles upon Daria Mason while she had isolate herself from whatever is out there.

Ok, even though I'm not a fan of zombies, I was able to enjoy this story. Even if Grey isn't quite human he's still pretty hot. Daria is one smart cookie. With there combine effort they might the worlds only hope. Yay for hope! Here's the bottom-line, if you like zombie stuff and romance, I'm sure you will enjoy this quick read of The Walking Sexy. And a girl who can't stand zombies can enjoy this story, it be worth looking into.

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A Time to Love by Angelina Rose

Today I bring to you a new author by the name of Angelina Rose. I was able to get a chance to read her new novella A Time to Love. So, here are my thoughts on the story.

First off, I didn't like Eva. She just rubbed me the wrong way. Mostly because she was spoil, selfish and cared for only herself. As the story progress, Eva starts to change with the help of Brice.

Let me say, I cried throughout this story. Ms. Rose really pulled at your heart strings at times. Even though it's a short read, it is one powerful read. I love the how Eva evolved throughout the story and learned to be a real person. So, if you are looking for a quick heart-warming read, I would suggest A Time to Love.

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Friday, March 22, 2013

Driving to You by Marquita Valentine

I'm super excited to present you one of my latest reads. Seriously, if you don't know by now my love for Marquita Valentine's writing, obviously you haven't been reading some of my reviews. Anyways, I actually got a chance to beta read Driving to You, which was awesome. However, I did re-read the story to see if what I felt as a beta reader still felt the same as a reviewer. Without anymore delays let's dive right into my thoughts, since this is a novella I'm not going to summarize.

Last time we saw April Billingsworth was in Drive Me Crazy. If you haven't read that story you might want to check it out to see what April was like. You don't have to, but it's a suggestion. Let me just say I wasn't an April fan. Come on I wanted to choke the girl. *Deep breath*

Anyways, Ms. Valentine was able to get me to like April and help me understand her character a lot more. The things she did in Drive Me Crazy became clear in Driving to You. Amazing what knowing the circumstances can do to your perspective. Plus, Finn Burke Kennedy is to die for. He is such a great hero and he's perfect for April.

In short, this story is still AWESOME! I still chuckle through the story and the moments that were eye bulging were still eye bulging. You know the story is awesome when a character you can't stand, becomes likable. Seriously, I would say grab Driving to You and anything else by Marquita Valentine, because they are totally worth the read.

Copy provided by author

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Thursday, March 21, 2013

Barefoot in the Rain by Roxanne St. Claire

Yesterday, I finished Barefoot in the Rain by Roxanne St. Claire. This is the second book in Barefoot Bay series. I do have the first book, but I haven't gotten a chance. There is a reason for reading book two before the first book, and the reason is Harlequin Junkie is having a book chat about this book this evening. Everyone is welcome come and join the chat if y'all like just click link. So, here is what the book is about and my thoughts.

Fifteen years ago, Jocelyn Bloom left Barefoot Bay and never looked back. However, scandal has rocked Jocelyn's world and she needs to go into hiding. The only place the media wouldn't really find her is back at Barefoot Bay.

Will Palmer could never forget the girl of his dreams, especially since he's been taking care of her father. When Jocelyn learns he's been taken care of her father, she has a hard time coping with idea. Can they have a second chance of kindling their relationship?

I know that is extremely vague description of what the story is about. However, the story is an extremely emotional read. A very heavy read, especially with Jocelyn's trying to deal with the past and her fathers condition. Plus, Will wants to get another chance of being a part of her life.

At the beginning of the story, I had a really hard time with Jocelyn. I think a lot of it has to deal with how she closed herself off to everyone that cared about her. Sometimes those kind heroines tend to be hard to like. Once she started to let people in, I started to like her more. I adore Will, even when he had some bonehead moments.

Overall, a really good read, but emotional. So, if you are looking for an emotional read, I would suggest reading Barefoot in the Rain. I'm looking forward to the next book. Till next time.

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Magick by Moonrise by Laura Navarre

Hey everybody! Well, todays selection is Magick by Moonrise by Laura Navarre. I have to say that this was interesting read. Something I wouldn't normally choose, because there are a lot of layers to this story.

First off you have Rhiannon le Fay who happens to half-mortal and half-faerie. Who happens to be on a mission to make sure a war doesn't start between the faerie world and the mortal. Rhiannon is to get Queen Mary to sign the treaty between the two worlds. However, there are a few obstacles occur. One of those obstacles comes in the form of Lord Beltran Nemesto.

First off, I had a really hard time getting into the story. Don't get me wrong it was good story and well written. However, Magick by Moonrise just wasn't for me. However, there were somethings I really did enjoy as I read the story. I loved the sacrifice Rhiannon makes for her friends and Beltran. I enjoyed how Beltran starts to wonder about his mission in life.

Overall, it's a good story, just not for me. However, if you love stories with a bit of Arthurian legend, a bit of history of Tudors (by the way I'm not a Tudor fan), and fallen angels, you might want to take a shot on Magick by Moonrise. It was well done with all those elements in the story.

Copy provided by LitConnect

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Wednesday, March 20, 2013

eARC: Secrets of a Runaway Bride by Valerie Bowman

Oh I'm super excited about this book. So, I started this book on Monday and I couldn't put it down. Even though I had other books waiting for my attention, and other things to do. However, if I could have, I probably would have finish Secrets of a Runaway Bride by Valerie Bowman in one day. So, let's get started with this fantastic can't stop read.

We first meet Annie Andrews in Secrets of a Wedding Night and basically makes a spectacle of herself chasing Mr. Eggleston. However, nothing is going to stop her from marrying the "man of dreams." Well, maybe one person, Jordan Holloway, Earl of Ashbourne.

Poor Jordan, he has been tasked to keep an eye the runaway bride while his best friend and his new wife enjoy their honeymoon. However, this is no easy task, might I say. Annie definitely gives him a run for his money with all her antics to catch the eye of Eggleston.

OH MY GOODNESS, fantastic story. I must say that with every story Ms. Bowman has written each one has gotten better and better. Annie's story is fantastic. I mean she is not your typical heroine. The best way to describe Annie would be a hoyden. Seriously. What girl would rescue stray animals in that era? Not many. I love her vulnerability. She really doesn't see herself as a gorgeous girl, even though others do see her that way. A lot of it has to do with members of her family telling her she's "not beautiful, not talented. Absolutely nothing remarkable." That would break anyone's heart hearing those words.

Then you have Jordan Holloway. Most definitely a rake of the first class, but he does have some standards. Especially, when he tries to stop Annie from making a spectacle of herself. He is dependable and he's aways there. It's no wonder the ton loves him. Dude, I love him. However, I think it's hilarious that the world is plotting against him.

Here's the bottom line, Ms. Bowman has outdone herself with Secrets of a Runaway Bride. I'm personally adding this story to my collection. This is a story worth reading over and over again. If that's not enough here are a few of my favorite quotes from Annie from the book:

"First of all, you should not have been eavesdropping. It's unspeakably rude, and second, what would you know about a marital bed? You're not married!" 

"Arthur isn't here now to see, is he? If you're heaven's gift to the fairer sex, why don't you prove it?"

Those are some of the jaw dropping moments that you can look forward when your read this story. Seriously, you can't miss a fantastic read like this, especially with a girl like Annie and rake like Jordan.  I hope you get a chance to catch Secrets of a Runaway Bride.

Copy provide by St. Martin's Press via NetGalley

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A Risk Worth Taking by Victoria James

Hey everyone I was able to read A Risk Worth Taking by Victoria James on Monday. Let me tell you it was pretty awesome read. Before I share my thoughts, I better share what the book is about.

Holly Carrington is an interior designer aiming for the top when she receives devastating news about her sister and brother-in-law. Finding herself as the guardian of her niece. Now she heads back to her home town to renovate her childhood home and put it on the market. However, she's going to need some help with these renovation. Holly grudgingly contacts Quinn Manning, because he is the best for renovations. Hoping to get out of Red River with her heart intact.

I do believe this story is pretty awesome. Holly is pretty cool and stubborn. Seriously, stubborn and I believe part of the reason is she basically got her heart broken at the age of 18 by Quinn. She just wants to prove to everyone that she doesn't need any help. Quinn is all around good guy. He wanted what was best for Holly since he is older than her. Now that 10 years has pass, maybe this would be a good time to fix their relationship.

I'm so glad I got a chance to read this story. A Risk Worth Taking had me chuckling, had me near tears, and the ending gave me that warm-fuzzy feeling. I seriously wonder how they didn't kill each other through the renovations. So, if you are looking for a feel good story with re-untied friends to lovers, I would suggest A Risk Worth Taking. I must say this is a risk worth reading.

Copy provided by the publisher

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Playing the Maestro Blog Tour: Interview with Aubrie Dionne


Today I have with me Aubrie Dionne the author of Playing the Maestro.


Welcome to What I’m Reading Aubrie. How are you today?
I’m doing great! I’m very excited to be here! This is my first contemporary romance, so I’m so thrilled and nervous to see how it will be received by the world! 

Let’s these questions going:

What was your inspiration for writing in general?
I’ve always loved stories, whether it was reading or watching movies.  I grew up watching the older Star Wars movies over and over until I could recite every scene in my backyard with my sister. I loved Christopher Pike’s books, and Tad William’s Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn epic fantasy series. 

For those who having gotten a chance to read Playing the Maestro, can you share what the story is about?


Sure! A flutist in an orchestra falls in love with her boss, the guest conductor from Germany. Of course, this presents a whole bunch of problems, and romance ensues! This is a great story for all those band geeks out there, and anyone who’s ever wanted to play an instrument. The story gives the reader a window into what playing in an orchestra can be like.


What made you to do decide a story that takes place in orchestra?

 I’m a professional flutist, so I knew that world very well!


I adored the story, but I was wondering why would you name the heroine Melody? What was so important to name her Melody? I personally like it, but I’m curious.
I wanted a musical name for the main protagonist. As a flutist I LOVE playing the melody- not the umpa umpa accompaniment part. Thank goodness flutes usually do get the melody!

Will we be seeing more stories like Playing the Maestro? For instances, will there be a story about Carly?
 Yes!!! The sequel is about Carly! Tentatively titled Duets with Michelangelo, the orchestra tours Italy in the sequel, and Carly is especially taken with the Italian tour guide. She’ll have to decide whether to go back to her life in Boston, or join Michelangelo on his vineyard!

I just have a couple more questions.

So, are you working on any new projects and if you are able to share them with us?
 I’m currently finishing up the sequel that I spoke of earlier, and I can’t wait for this one to come out. Carly deserves a happily ever after, doesn’t she? Also, I just finished the third book in my YA sci fi Paradise Reclaimed series from Inkspell Publishing. The first book, Colonization, came out this past fall, and the second book will be coming out May 1st.  

My final question, if you were to write an autobiography about your life what would your title would be and why?
 Flutey Words- the title of my blog for sure. My life is definitely a combination of words and music.

Thank you Aubrie for stopping today and I hope you have a wonderful day.
 Thanks for having me!

About the Playing the Maestro: 

Melody Mires has sworn off dating musicians, but when the sexy European conductor Wolf Braun takes over her struggling symphony, her hesitation almost flies out the window with the notes of her flute—until he opens his mouth. Wolf is arrogant, haughty, and seems to have a personal vendetta against Melody. Oh, and he’s her boss. If she wants to keep her job as principal flutist, she’ll have to impress Wolf while simultaneously keeping her undeniable attraction to herself.

Wolf came to America to get as far away from his past as possible, and to recover some of the swagger he had as one of the world’s best maestros. He never imagined being forced to reassess the entire orchestra’s talent—and potentially fire anyone who doesn’t make his cut. Dating the attractive flutist is out of the question, but as their feelings reach a fever pitch, can they risk both their careers for a chance at love?


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