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California Malcoms #1
Lure of Song and Magic
Her voice was a curse...
When Dylan "Oz" Oswin's son is kidnapped, the high-powered producer will do anything to get him back. Desperately following an anonymous tip, he seeks help from a former child singing sensation called Syrene, only to find she's vowed never to sing again. Immune to her voice but not her charm, Oz is convinced she holds the key to his son's disappearance—and he'll stop at nothing to make her break her vow.
Only he can make her sing ...
She knows the devastation her talent can bring. There's more than a child's life at stake, but Syrene cannot unleash her dangerous siren's voice upon the world, even for a man who is impossible to deny...
When Dylan "Oz" Oswin's son is kidnapped, the high-powered producer will do anything to get him back. Desperately following an anonymous tip, he seeks help from a former child singing sensation called Syrene, only to find she's vowed never to sing again. Immune to her voice but not her charm, Oz is convinced she holds the key to his son's disappearance—and he'll stop at nothing to make her break her vow.
Only he can make her sing ...
She knows the devastation her talent can bring. There's more than a child's life at stake, but Syrene cannot unleash her dangerous siren's voice upon the world, even for a man who is impossible to deny...
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
77 people are currently reading
254 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Rice
152 books514 followersWith several million books in print and New York Times and USA Today's bestseller lists under her belt, former CPA Patricia Rice writes emotionally-charged contemporary and historical romances which have won numerous awards, including the RT Book Reviews Reviewers Choice and Career Achievement Awards.
Her books have also been honored as Romance Writers of America RITA® finalists in the historical, regency and contemporary categories.
A firm believer in happily-ever-after for good reason, Patricia Rice is married to her high school sweetheart and has two children. A native of Kentucky and New York, a past resident of North Carolina and Missouri, she currently resides in Southern California, and now does accounting only for herself.
She also writes under the pen name Jamie Quaid
Her books have also been honored as Romance Writers of America RITA® finalists in the historical, regency and contemporary categories.
A firm believer in happily-ever-after for good reason, Patricia Rice is married to her high school sweetheart and has two children. A native of Kentucky and New York, a past resident of North Carolina and Missouri, she currently resides in Southern California, and now does accounting only for herself.
She also writes under the pen name Jamie Quaid
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 10, 2014
Good book with an intriguing storyline. Oz is determined to find his son, who has been gone for a year. Everyone else seems to have given up on finding him. Oz begins receiving mysterious text messages from someone called "The Librarian", sending him on a search for a former teen singing star named Syrene, implying that she's the key to finding his son. He wants to make her the star of his new children's show and use that to find his son. Syrene has left that world completely behind after the death of her young husband and a very public meltdown. She has begun a new life as children's author Pippa James and living in a small town. She wants nothing to do with Oz and his quest.
These two have quite a combustible relationship. Both of them have some serious issues to overcome. Oz is used to getting his way in everything and isn't going to give up now. He's carrying a boatload of guilt because he holds himself responsible for his wife's death and the later disappearance of his son. Pippa is determined to protect her privacy and her sanity. When she sings it brings out extreme emotions in people and she is afraid to use it again. When Oz forces his way into her life she is surprised to discover that, not only is he sceptical of her abilities, her Voice seems to have no effect on him. Oz is equally surprised to discover that Pippa has no problem standing up to his steamroller tactics.
There's definite chemistry between them from the beginning. It's obvious in the intensity of their encounters. I loved their verbal battles, their snarky comments sometimes leading into more physical encounters. As they begin to give in to their attraction, they also begin to get to know each other on a deeper level. I loved seeing Oz start to accept the idea of her abilities even as he works to bring her out of her protective shell. Pippa's fear of causing more harm begins to lessen just a little thanks to Oz's presence in her life. I loved seeing the way that they so quickly became important to each other, though they resisted the idea of a relationship between them.
The mystery that ran throughout the story was very well done. The more they got into the search, the more connections between the kidnapping and Pippa's search for her family appeared. There were some very intriguing twists and turns that kept the journey to the conclusion interesting. The addition of some secondary characters added to the fun. The mysterious "Librarian" is one who is ambiguous at the beginning, as we don't know if he is a good guy or a bad guy. Oz's brother Conan, a computer whiz, was terrific. His occasional geeky obliviousness is offset by his attention to detail in his searches. I enjoyed his verbal battles with Oz. His discovery of the links between Oz's son and Pippa solve part of the mystery, but leave enough unknown for future books to pursue.
These two have quite a combustible relationship. Both of them have some serious issues to overcome. Oz is used to getting his way in everything and isn't going to give up now. He's carrying a boatload of guilt because he holds himself responsible for his wife's death and the later disappearance of his son. Pippa is determined to protect her privacy and her sanity. When she sings it brings out extreme emotions in people and she is afraid to use it again. When Oz forces his way into her life she is surprised to discover that, not only is he sceptical of her abilities, her Voice seems to have no effect on him. Oz is equally surprised to discover that Pippa has no problem standing up to his steamroller tactics.
There's definite chemistry between them from the beginning. It's obvious in the intensity of their encounters. I loved their verbal battles, their snarky comments sometimes leading into more physical encounters. As they begin to give in to their attraction, they also begin to get to know each other on a deeper level. I loved seeing Oz start to accept the idea of her abilities even as he works to bring her out of her protective shell. Pippa's fear of causing more harm begins to lessen just a little thanks to Oz's presence in her life. I loved seeing the way that they so quickly became important to each other, though they resisted the idea of a relationship between them.
The mystery that ran throughout the story was very well done. The more they got into the search, the more connections between the kidnapping and Pippa's search for her family appeared. There were some very intriguing twists and turns that kept the journey to the conclusion interesting. The addition of some secondary characters added to the fun. The mysterious "Librarian" is one who is ambiguous at the beginning, as we don't know if he is a good guy or a bad guy. Oz's brother Conan, a computer whiz, was terrific. His occasional geeky obliviousness is offset by his attention to detail in his searches. I enjoyed his verbal battles with Oz. His discovery of the links between Oz's son and Pippa solve part of the mystery, but leave enough unknown for future books to pursue.
April 26, 2023
That ... a lot. You thought this was just another supernatural being assisting in a missing child's case. Is much much more. I wonder if the Librarian will ever be...see more
January 13, 2012
My Rating: 4.5 stars: Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Dylan Ives is a highly successful LA producer with a heavy heart. His 4-year-old son was kidnapped a year ago, a year after his wife ran away (and subsequently died) with the boy, fearful the boy was in danger. Dylan refused to believe his son was dead, so when a he receives a mysterious text from a person called "the Librarian" that a former child star can help find his missing son, Dylan tracks her down.
Pippa James is a secluded children's author, hiding from her destructive past. At the age of twelve, she was Syrene, a singing sensation, and by age 18 she was an emotional wreck, widow, and has-been child star. She believes her Voice is evil and will cause utter despair. She thinks her Voice turned her teenage husband to drugs and his early demise. She hides in the mountains, keeping her singing and Voice safe from the outside world.
Lure of Song and Magic is a spin-off of sorts of Ms. Rice's Magic series, a historically-set romance series with a hint of magic. Lure focuses on the descendants of the original characters, but is a stand alone story and does not require any knowledge of the original series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Right from the start, I was under Pippa's spell; she captured me as she does the hearts and minds of friends and strangers alike. Pippa does have a gift, and with the help of years of isolation and Dylan's persistence, she learns that her Voice can be a joyful, beautiful thing.
Pippa and Dylan's love grew from an honest place. It wasn't love at first site, nor was it an "I hate you, therefore I love you" cliche. The characters are written with their hearts on their sleeves. Each alone, but not overly lonely, they slowly realize that they do not want to live without the other. The give and take we witness between Dylan and Pippa is heart-warming and frankly, touching. I fell in love with the pair as they fell in love with one another.
The story also had subtle humor throughout the book. Both Pippa and Dylan has sarcastic and snarky moments. I never found myself laughing out loud, but I did have a grin often. Here is an example... Early on in the story, Dylan pushes his way into Pippa's life and won't walk away, believing she is the key to finding his lost son. In an effort to smooth things over, he makes Pippa a smoothie:
He knew to take peel off a banana. He wasn't as certain about the lemon and orange, so he threw them into the container whole. Orange peel was supposed to be good for something.
I found myself captivated by the scenario of the book... Is Dylan's son alive? Why was he kidnapped? What is Pippa's history and who are her parents? The plot unfolds at a comfortable pace, keeping me glued to the pages, always guessing at the truth.
Ms. Rice pours her heart into this story and her characters, and this makes for a beautiful story. There were a couple of parts that were so moving, I had tears in my eyes. The story had just the right mix of emotional upheaval, romance, humor and storyline. I recommend this story to anyone in the mood for a warm, wonderful romance.
Dylan Ives is a highly successful LA producer with a heavy heart. His 4-year-old son was kidnapped a year ago, a year after his wife ran away (and subsequently died) with the boy, fearful the boy was in danger. Dylan refused to believe his son was dead, so when a he receives a mysterious text from a person called "the Librarian" that a former child star can help find his missing son, Dylan tracks her down.
Pippa James is a secluded children's author, hiding from her destructive past. At the age of twelve, she was Syrene, a singing sensation, and by age 18 she was an emotional wreck, widow, and has-been child star. She believes her Voice is evil and will cause utter despair. She thinks her Voice turned her teenage husband to drugs and his early demise. She hides in the mountains, keeping her singing and Voice safe from the outside world.
Lure of Song and Magic is a spin-off of sorts of Ms. Rice's Magic series, a historically-set romance series with a hint of magic. Lure focuses on the descendants of the original characters, but is a stand alone story and does not require any knowledge of the original series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Right from the start, I was under Pippa's spell; she captured me as she does the hearts and minds of friends and strangers alike. Pippa does have a gift, and with the help of years of isolation and Dylan's persistence, she learns that her Voice can be a joyful, beautiful thing.
Pippa and Dylan's love grew from an honest place. It wasn't love at first site, nor was it an "I hate you, therefore I love you" cliche. The characters are written with their hearts on their sleeves. Each alone, but not overly lonely, they slowly realize that they do not want to live without the other. The give and take we witness between Dylan and Pippa is heart-warming and frankly, touching. I fell in love with the pair as they fell in love with one another.
The story also had subtle humor throughout the book. Both Pippa and Dylan has sarcastic and snarky moments. I never found myself laughing out loud, but I did have a grin often. Here is an example... Early on in the story, Dylan pushes his way into Pippa's life and won't walk away, believing she is the key to finding his lost son. In an effort to smooth things over, he makes Pippa a smoothie:
He knew to take peel off a banana. He wasn't as certain about the lemon and orange, so he threw them into the container whole. Orange peel was supposed to be good for something.
I found myself captivated by the scenario of the book... Is Dylan's son alive? Why was he kidnapped? What is Pippa's history and who are her parents? The plot unfolds at a comfortable pace, keeping me glued to the pages, always guessing at the truth.
Ms. Rice pours her heart into this story and her characters, and this makes for a beautiful story. There were a couple of parts that were so moving, I had tears in my eyes. The story had just the right mix of emotional upheaval, romance, humor and storyline. I recommend this story to anyone in the mood for a warm, wonderful romance.
March 17, 2020
Although firmly in the realm of woo-woo fiction, this book has great characters. Pippa's and Oz's reactions to events and each other are off-the-wall and fascinating to someone who is as ordinary as apple pie, like me. What a pair! I enjoyed this story even more than the ones set in earlier times, plus it has a very happy ending. I found the constant worry over Donal difficult, but it could not be prevented with my feelings about children being what they are. I stopped reading Mary Higgins Clark when whe murdered a child in one of her books. I just can't take harm to kids. It makes me frantic. So when a child is at risk, I read with a permanent tug to my guts, which is not a comfortable read at all. Fast, but not comfortable.
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February 23, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/23/2022)! 🎁
April 28, 2023
Good story with a hint of paranormal. The relationships are stormy and takes some getting used to but overall a good read b
March 23, 2012
I’ve not read many of Patricia Rice’s books, but the few I have read, I’ve totally loved. Her voice is what first draws me into a story. As mysterious as the characters’ backgrounds are or the direction the storyline takes a reader, there’s a whimsical tone to her storytelling that gives the entire book an extra layer for a terrific reading experience.
Dylan “Oz” Oswin has been getting mysterious texts from someone calling themselves The Librarian. Those messages have led him to Phillipa Seraphina Malcolm James, the former teen singing sensation Syrene. Somehow she has a way of finding his kidnapped son, and he’ll do whatever is necessary to see that she helps, despite her vow to stay out of the limelight, tucked away in her little house in a little town in the middle of nowhere.
Having a voice that can cause riots, even kill, among other things, is a curse Phillipa will not allow to control her again. Her young husband is dead because of her, and these past years teaching children and writing children’s books has been a balm to her soul after the disaster of her musical career and such heartbreaking loss. When Oz shows up at her day care, wanting to make her the star of his new children’s TV show, her answer is no. She’ll never sing to the masses again.
These characters are total opposites. Oz is a legend in his profession, making money hand over fist for his clients as well as himself. Phillipa needs little in the way of material things. Nothing matters anymore but her inner peace and finding her family. So when Oz keeps after her to participate in the program, she’ll agree only if he’ll help find her any living relative she may have out there. She knows nothing about her family, having been left on the steps of a fire station in Bakersfield. Oz immediately takes her up on the offer, knowing he has the resources to solve her puzzle, and now he can move forward with his plan to find his son.
Oz is one not to let anything stand in his way, especially when it comes to the whereabouts of his son. The townsfolk all protect Phillipa in their own strange ways. But he finds that he likes these different people as he slowly gets to know them. The same with Pippa. There’s a quality about her that just calls to him. She’s thrilled to learn her voice has no effect on Oz. And once she relents, opens herself to him, her life begins to change. Again. Keeping the panic at bay is a very tall order, but with Oz at her side, perhaps she can have more than ever before.
I so enjoyed this couple. Their banter is fun, even when Pippa is pushing Oz away in the beginning. Then once they become more open to their attraction and Pippa’s desire to help Oz begins to overshadow her own needs and she now knows Oz will help her in any way possible, the relationship blossoms and is that much more fun to read.
The mystery of Oz’s missing son and Pippa’s family come together in a slow revealing and then a crashing crescendo. I like the family dynamic on both sides, but it’s Oz’s brothers who really pique my interest. Conan is the private investigator who does all of the legwork for whatever is needed to make progress for Oz. It’s interesting that Oz describes their family has one not wanting to be in the same room together for any length of time, but these brothers, while in their own worlds, would do anything and everything for each other. I’m hoping Oz’s siblings eventually get their own books.
If you’ve not read any of Ms. Rice’s paranormal books, you really should. They’re exquisitely written and the characters are unique and charming every time, with never-before-read concepts that keep you turning the pages well into the early morning hours. What else can a reader ask for?
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
Dylan “Oz” Oswin has been getting mysterious texts from someone calling themselves The Librarian. Those messages have led him to Phillipa Seraphina Malcolm James, the former teen singing sensation Syrene. Somehow she has a way of finding his kidnapped son, and he’ll do whatever is necessary to see that she helps, despite her vow to stay out of the limelight, tucked away in her little house in a little town in the middle of nowhere.
Having a voice that can cause riots, even kill, among other things, is a curse Phillipa will not allow to control her again. Her young husband is dead because of her, and these past years teaching children and writing children’s books has been a balm to her soul after the disaster of her musical career and such heartbreaking loss. When Oz shows up at her day care, wanting to make her the star of his new children’s TV show, her answer is no. She’ll never sing to the masses again.
These characters are total opposites. Oz is a legend in his profession, making money hand over fist for his clients as well as himself. Phillipa needs little in the way of material things. Nothing matters anymore but her inner peace and finding her family. So when Oz keeps after her to participate in the program, she’ll agree only if he’ll help find her any living relative she may have out there. She knows nothing about her family, having been left on the steps of a fire station in Bakersfield. Oz immediately takes her up on the offer, knowing he has the resources to solve her puzzle, and now he can move forward with his plan to find his son.
Oz is one not to let anything stand in his way, especially when it comes to the whereabouts of his son. The townsfolk all protect Phillipa in their own strange ways. But he finds that he likes these different people as he slowly gets to know them. The same with Pippa. There’s a quality about her that just calls to him. She’s thrilled to learn her voice has no effect on Oz. And once she relents, opens herself to him, her life begins to change. Again. Keeping the panic at bay is a very tall order, but with Oz at her side, perhaps she can have more than ever before.
I so enjoyed this couple. Their banter is fun, even when Pippa is pushing Oz away in the beginning. Then once they become more open to their attraction and Pippa’s desire to help Oz begins to overshadow her own needs and she now knows Oz will help her in any way possible, the relationship blossoms and is that much more fun to read.
The mystery of Oz’s missing son and Pippa’s family come together in a slow revealing and then a crashing crescendo. I like the family dynamic on both sides, but it’s Oz’s brothers who really pique my interest. Conan is the private investigator who does all of the legwork for whatever is needed to make progress for Oz. It’s interesting that Oz describes their family has one not wanting to be in the same room together for any length of time, but these brothers, while in their own worlds, would do anything and everything for each other. I’m hoping Oz’s siblings eventually get their own books.
If you’ve not read any of Ms. Rice’s paranormal books, you really should. They’re exquisitely written and the characters are unique and charming every time, with never-before-read concepts that keep you turning the pages well into the early morning hours. What else can a reader ask for?
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
December 24, 2011
originally posted at http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...
This story really took me out of my element and made me experience things I have never encountered before as a reader. I say this because I usually read erotic romance and the slow, smooth burning love you in this sensual love story was new territory. I never knew how enjoyable reading a true romance novel could be until now.
Oz does not have anything in particular that normally would attract me to a hero (I'm a big fan of super alpha men), yet I still found myself mesmerized by his character. I am not sure if it is his refusal to take no for an answer or that he is a devoted father willing to do whatever it takes to get his son back, but Oz wormed his way into my heart. Most of us have known at least one person whom we did not find attractive at first but the more you learn about them to more attractive they seem, until eventually, you just cannot help but want them and that is exactly what Oz did to Syrene and me.
Syrene’s story is one that I sympathized with. She was a child star forced to grow up too fast and now just wants to live her adult life in privacy. Syrene’s need for privacy forces her to sometimes forget what makes her happy and I just wanted to see a glimmer of excitement within her. This need for privacy is further exacerbated when Oz shows up and destroys the little bit of a normal life she has created for herself. As an introvert, myself I can completely understand why Syrene would want to have her privacy honored and not be in the spotlight. I do not envy her situation one bit, but I knew she would do what was best for everyone even if it meant having to feel uncomfortable for a while.
The relationship between Oz and Syrene is a slow burn, which made it that much more infectious and enchanting. If nothing else keeps the pages turning the love / hate relationship of these characters will. Despite their appearance of being complete oppposites, the was an attraction between them that ensured a happy ever after, especially with the support of the other characters. I know their love will survive and their relationship will never be dull since they both have such strong personalities
This story is lovely and populated with amazing characters who would make any reader want to follow their story even after they read the last page of this book.
This story really took me out of my element and made me experience things I have never encountered before as a reader. I say this because I usually read erotic romance and the slow, smooth burning love you in this sensual love story was new territory. I never knew how enjoyable reading a true romance novel could be until now.
Oz does not have anything in particular that normally would attract me to a hero (I'm a big fan of super alpha men), yet I still found myself mesmerized by his character. I am not sure if it is his refusal to take no for an answer or that he is a devoted father willing to do whatever it takes to get his son back, but Oz wormed his way into my heart. Most of us have known at least one person whom we did not find attractive at first but the more you learn about them to more attractive they seem, until eventually, you just cannot help but want them and that is exactly what Oz did to Syrene and me.
Syrene’s story is one that I sympathized with. She was a child star forced to grow up too fast and now just wants to live her adult life in privacy. Syrene’s need for privacy forces her to sometimes forget what makes her happy and I just wanted to see a glimmer of excitement within her. This need for privacy is further exacerbated when Oz shows up and destroys the little bit of a normal life she has created for herself. As an introvert, myself I can completely understand why Syrene would want to have her privacy honored and not be in the spotlight. I do not envy her situation one bit, but I knew she would do what was best for everyone even if it meant having to feel uncomfortable for a while.
The relationship between Oz and Syrene is a slow burn, which made it that much more infectious and enchanting. If nothing else keeps the pages turning the love / hate relationship of these characters will. Despite their appearance of being complete oppposites, the was an attraction between them that ensured a happy ever after, especially with the support of the other characters. I know their love will survive and their relationship will never be dull since they both have such strong personalities
This story is lovely and populated with amazing characters who would make any reader want to follow their story even after they read the last page of this book.
February 10, 2012
LURE OF SONG AND MAGIC gave a paranormal twist to a familiar contemporary romance setting: the glamor and egos of Hollywood. Though I was intrigued by Rice’s siren mythology, the romance side of things fell flat for me, if only because of the over-the-top personalities of our hero and heroine.
For someone who lives in fear of inadvertently hurting people with her siren’s voice, I found it pretty odd that that Pippa actively trains in martial arts so she can hurt people with her hands. If martial arts had any part in her “calmness and self-control regimen”, I couldn’t see how. Though her emotional breakdowns are explained away as part of her curse, I never quite understood the justification for her physically attacking anyone who got in her personal space. Luckily, our hero’s superpower is being insensitive, both emotionally and physically, so whether Pippa is lashing out with her voice or her fists Oz remains impervious. Both of these characters are painted as brilliant and arrogant Hollywood royalty, very different from us common folk, which may be why I never emotionally connected with them. It’s more likely, however, that I was turned off by their tumultuous courtship. Oz and Pippa butt heads early and often. Though Rice does do a good job of painting her leading pair as individuals who thrive on that dynamic, it was not a situation that I could relate to.
Emotionally connection aside, however, Rice’s writing is solid and the siren mythology is interesting. Enough of the story focuses on Oz’s brother Conan that the seeds for a future hero were also planted. I may have an easier time relating to a computer super-spy than a Hollywood producer, but I’ll reserve my judgment until after I get a glimpse of who Conan’s leading lady will be.
Sexual Content: Explicit sex scenes, references to sexual assault.
For someone who lives in fear of inadvertently hurting people with her siren’s voice, I found it pretty odd that that Pippa actively trains in martial arts so she can hurt people with her hands. If martial arts had any part in her “calmness and self-control regimen”, I couldn’t see how. Though her emotional breakdowns are explained away as part of her curse, I never quite understood the justification for her physically attacking anyone who got in her personal space. Luckily, our hero’s superpower is being insensitive, both emotionally and physically, so whether Pippa is lashing out with her voice or her fists Oz remains impervious. Both of these characters are painted as brilliant and arrogant Hollywood royalty, very different from us common folk, which may be why I never emotionally connected with them. It’s more likely, however, that I was turned off by their tumultuous courtship. Oz and Pippa butt heads early and often. Though Rice does do a good job of painting her leading pair as individuals who thrive on that dynamic, it was not a situation that I could relate to.
Emotionally connection aside, however, Rice’s writing is solid and the siren mythology is interesting. Enough of the story focuses on Oz’s brother Conan that the seeds for a future hero were also planted. I may have an easier time relating to a computer super-spy than a Hollywood producer, but I’ll reserve my judgment until after I get a glimpse of who Conan’s leading lady will be.
Sexual Content: Explicit sex scenes, references to sexual assault.
January 18, 2012
Dylan “Oz” Oswin is a man with a mission. He is tracking down former child singing sensation Syrene, now known as Pippa James. Oz’s son Donal disappeared over a year ago and Oz has been getting cryptic messages from someone called the Librarian pointing him in Pippa’s direction. Reclusive Pippa is now a successful children’s author and has no use for Oz when she first meets him. She is convinced her unique vocal talents are responsible for the death of her first husband. Her fears make it impossible for her to open up to anyone else.
Oz eventually gets her to interact with him and the two discover there is a strong attraction between them. Neither one is looking for love. Pippa agrees to help Oz and discovers all kinds of information about her possible Malcolm family history. Most of way through this book it seemed impossible that it could ever have a happy ending. Never having read Ms. Rice’s earlier books about the Malcolm family, I was unaware of the significance of her real last name.
Once I started this book, I couldn’t stop reading it. Oz is using Pippa for his own ends but the reader can see how he is conflicted over his actions. Pippa is convinced she is relationship poison but she still wants to have love in her life. There are all kinds of plot twists that leave the reader wondering what the heck is going on but it all works in the end. I will have to go back and read the earlier books after reading this one.
Oz eventually gets her to interact with him and the two discover there is a strong attraction between them. Neither one is looking for love. Pippa agrees to help Oz and discovers all kinds of information about her possible Malcolm family history. Most of way through this book it seemed impossible that it could ever have a happy ending. Never having read Ms. Rice’s earlier books about the Malcolm family, I was unaware of the significance of her real last name.
Once I started this book, I couldn’t stop reading it. Oz is using Pippa for his own ends but the reader can see how he is conflicted over his actions. Pippa is convinced she is relationship poison but she still wants to have love in her life. There are all kinds of plot twists that leave the reader wondering what the heck is going on but it all works in the end. I will have to go back and read the earlier books after reading this one.
April 23, 2013
This have been on my wishlist for a long time, but I never got around to buy it until now. And I am glad I read it. This is Patricia Rice at her best.
The book hooked me from the start. The California setting felt believable, and I liked how the citizens of El Paso supported Pippa. I liked how they were depending on farmers and tourists, and how it made their economy vulnerable.
And.. Into this Oz storms. I liked Oz, and how he was prepared to do anything to find his son. It would have been easy for Pippa be steamrolled by Oz, but I liked how she stood her ground, and refused. It was intresting to meet the rest of the inhabitants, and Conan. Who was geeky like always.
The plot was fascinating, and I liked how everything was connected. Pippa's past, Oz missing son, the villain. What I also liked was how Pippa slowly started to step out of her shell, and start to heal from the past scars.
So what I didn't like. Sometimes I got confused over when the kidnapping happened, if it had happened when Donal was a baby or when he was older.
The book hooked me from the start. The California setting felt believable, and I liked how the citizens of El Paso supported Pippa. I liked how they were depending on farmers and tourists, and how it made their economy vulnerable.
And.. Into this Oz storms. I liked Oz, and how he was prepared to do anything to find his son. It would have been easy for Pippa be steamrolled by Oz, but I liked how she stood her ground, and refused. It was intresting to meet the rest of the inhabitants, and Conan. Who was geeky like always.
The plot was fascinating, and I liked how everything was connected. Pippa's past, Oz missing son, the villain. What I also liked was how Pippa slowly started to step out of her shell, and start to heal from the past scars.
So what I didn't like. Sometimes I got confused over when the kidnapping happened, if it had happened when Donal was a baby or when he was older.
October 27, 2016
This was an enjoyable read. I liked the characters and their personalities. Very well written with depth, suspense, twists and turns, puzzles and mysteries, sweet and sassy, and a great ending. This felt both modern and ancient at the same time. Very well done. ;) I definitely liked reading this and would like to read more about the other characters especially the brothers. Enjoy and Have Fun!
February 26, 2012
~* 4.5 Stars *~
A Little Paranormal and A Lot Lovely
Oz may look like the quintessential California surfer boy, but Dylan "Oz" Oswin is a high-powered LA producer with a no holds barred attitude and a grim determination to do whatever it takes to get his son back. Even if that means throwing good sense to the wind and following the breadcrumbs of cryptic text messages sent to him by a mysterious third party as they lead him straight to a former child singing sensation. One who had a huge, destructive, and very public melt down years ago, then completely dropped off the map and hasn't been heard from since.
It's been a year since Donal was taken by the nanny Oz had hired to care for the toddler. He didn't even know if his son still lived. All he knew is that he would turn over every rock on the planet, bully anyone and everyone who could possibly help find him if he has to, do whatever it took, follow weird text messages from a possible lunatic who calls himself the Librarian, but he would find his child. Even if he had to exploit a young recluse to do it.
Phillipa James writes children's books and keeps herself far removed from the public eye. Her life now is as distant from her years as the singing sensation Syrene as she could possibly make it. She is too dangerous to be allowed in public. There is too much risk. She's already killed one person and witnessed the devastating affects her Voice has on the masses. When she sings, it's a siren's call that can't be denied. Even speaking can cause people to do things they wouldn't normally do. She must stay far away from everyone.
Even at the risk of a young boy's life and the sanity of his devastatingly handsome but overbearing father.
Except Oz refuses to take no for an answer and strikes back with information no one but her should know, information that hints at a conspiracy far larger than the kidnapping of a child and more nefarious than even her Voice. Information that seems to connect the kidnapping and her unusual talent, leads to the truth about her origins, and draws Pippa and Oz together in inexplicable ways.
Ways Pippa worries will devastate her she has to give them up.
~*~
When I started Lure of Song and Magic, I had no idea it was a spin-off of a magical historical romance series, one that brought the families featured in it, Malcolm and Ives, into contemporary times. I like the idea. Even though I haven't read the Magic series, there's something comforting in knowing the characters in Lure of Song and Magic are the descendants of those who found their HEAs in their own books. I guess that accounts for the sense I had in several places in the book that I was reading well-established mythos and story history. It's been around for awhile.
The paranormal elements were more subtle influences in the plot than I'm used to. Beyond the fact that Pippa/Syrene is a young woman with special abilities and those abilities have direct effect on the life she's living and the person she's become, they don't really factor into the plotline of the book until later in the story. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed that. It may have slowed down the pace of the story a bit for me at first, as I was anticipating seeing what she could really do, but I enjoyed the thorough introduction to Oz and Pippa as characters and the slow, steady evolution of their relationship - contentious at first, but entertaining for it, before it warmed with the romance plot threads.
I thought the arc of the plot and the layers built into it were superbly crafted. There was a nice balance between the romance and the external conflicts. Not having experience with the Magic series, some of the threads may have been more of a surprise (pleasantly so) than others familiar with Rice's previous work, and the story left me with questions that the previously initiated may not have, but I like pleasant surprises and I don't mind unanswered questions...so long as they get answered eventually...so it's all good.
My favorite part of the book is something that I find surprisingly rare in romance. Two characters who are truly made for each other. And not just because of the obvious reason, either. Lets face it, Oz wasn't always a nice guy. He was self-absorbed, single-minded, obstinate, and he had entitlement issues. It was his way or the highway all the way. Pippa had her own issues. She was neurotic, a little flaky, had an over-inflated guilt complex, and was as skittish as a three-day-old colt. There were times when she a little mean, too. Just a touch.
Thing is, Oz could bully her all day long and Pippa just ignores it, and Pippa can flake out all she wants, and Oz just rolls right over it. Neither of them were at all bothered by the worst traits in the other. More than that, they needed those traits to achieve their own balance. They fit together perfectly. I can't express how lovely and rare that is, and how much I enjoyed experiencing it as it developed.
The only issue I had with the book, and really, in the grand scheme, it's minor, is that the inevitable crisis point in the relationship between Oz and Pippa seemed a bit abrupt - both as it happened and as it was resolved. After such a slow, steady buildup of all the many threads of character and story as the book progressed, it was pretty jolting to me. Despite that, I thought this was a truly great read. I do hope it's a series, though, or will become one, because if not, there were way too many unanswered questions and unresolved issues. I want more so badly that I'm treating it like it is, even though I couldn't find anything to indicate that was the case in the several places I checked to find out. Fingers crossed.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Sourcebooks Casablanca publisher Sourcebooks via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
A Little Paranormal and A Lot Lovely
Oz may look like the quintessential California surfer boy, but Dylan "Oz" Oswin is a high-powered LA producer with a no holds barred attitude and a grim determination to do whatever it takes to get his son back. Even if that means throwing good sense to the wind and following the breadcrumbs of cryptic text messages sent to him by a mysterious third party as they lead him straight to a former child singing sensation. One who had a huge, destructive, and very public melt down years ago, then completely dropped off the map and hasn't been heard from since.
It's been a year since Donal was taken by the nanny Oz had hired to care for the toddler. He didn't even know if his son still lived. All he knew is that he would turn over every rock on the planet, bully anyone and everyone who could possibly help find him if he has to, do whatever it took, follow weird text messages from a possible lunatic who calls himself the Librarian, but he would find his child. Even if he had to exploit a young recluse to do it.
Phillipa James writes children's books and keeps herself far removed from the public eye. Her life now is as distant from her years as the singing sensation Syrene as she could possibly make it. She is too dangerous to be allowed in public. There is too much risk. She's already killed one person and witnessed the devastating affects her Voice has on the masses. When she sings, it's a siren's call that can't be denied. Even speaking can cause people to do things they wouldn't normally do. She must stay far away from everyone.
Even at the risk of a young boy's life and the sanity of his devastatingly handsome but overbearing father.
Except Oz refuses to take no for an answer and strikes back with information no one but her should know, information that hints at a conspiracy far larger than the kidnapping of a child and more nefarious than even her Voice. Information that seems to connect the kidnapping and her unusual talent, leads to the truth about her origins, and draws Pippa and Oz together in inexplicable ways.
Ways Pippa worries will devastate her she has to give them up.
~*~
When I started Lure of Song and Magic, I had no idea it was a spin-off of a magical historical romance series, one that brought the families featured in it, Malcolm and Ives, into contemporary times. I like the idea. Even though I haven't read the Magic series, there's something comforting in knowing the characters in Lure of Song and Magic are the descendants of those who found their HEAs in their own books. I guess that accounts for the sense I had in several places in the book that I was reading well-established mythos and story history. It's been around for awhile.
The paranormal elements were more subtle influences in the plot than I'm used to. Beyond the fact that Pippa/Syrene is a young woman with special abilities and those abilities have direct effect on the life she's living and the person she's become, they don't really factor into the plotline of the book until later in the story. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed that. It may have slowed down the pace of the story a bit for me at first, as I was anticipating seeing what she could really do, but I enjoyed the thorough introduction to Oz and Pippa as characters and the slow, steady evolution of their relationship - contentious at first, but entertaining for it, before it warmed with the romance plot threads.
I thought the arc of the plot and the layers built into it were superbly crafted. There was a nice balance between the romance and the external conflicts. Not having experience with the Magic series, some of the threads may have been more of a surprise (pleasantly so) than others familiar with Rice's previous work, and the story left me with questions that the previously initiated may not have, but I like pleasant surprises and I don't mind unanswered questions...so long as they get answered eventually...so it's all good.
My favorite part of the book is something that I find surprisingly rare in romance. Two characters who are truly made for each other. And not just because of the obvious reason, either. Lets face it, Oz wasn't always a nice guy. He was self-absorbed, single-minded, obstinate, and he had entitlement issues. It was his way or the highway all the way. Pippa had her own issues. She was neurotic, a little flaky, had an over-inflated guilt complex, and was as skittish as a three-day-old colt. There were times when she a little mean, too. Just a touch.
Thing is, Oz could bully her all day long and Pippa just ignores it, and Pippa can flake out all she wants, and Oz just rolls right over it. Neither of them were at all bothered by the worst traits in the other. More than that, they needed those traits to achieve their own balance. They fit together perfectly. I can't express how lovely and rare that is, and how much I enjoyed experiencing it as it developed.
The only issue I had with the book, and really, in the grand scheme, it's minor, is that the inevitable crisis point in the relationship between Oz and Pippa seemed a bit abrupt - both as it happened and as it was resolved. After such a slow, steady buildup of all the many threads of character and story as the book progressed, it was pretty jolting to me. Despite that, I thought this was a truly great read. I do hope it's a series, though, or will become one, because if not, there were way too many unanswered questions and unresolved issues. I want more so badly that I'm treating it like it is, even though I couldn't find anything to indicate that was the case in the several places I checked to find out. Fingers crossed.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Sourcebooks Casablanca publisher Sourcebooks via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
January 23, 2024
Oz was sure that he was going to go see an unhinged woman, but she is the only one who can help him find his son. Pippa dropped out of society years ago and will not be bullied into going back now, but she really wants to help Oz find his son. Oz has received tips about his missing son from someone called the librarian. Those tips have led him to Pippa. She was a child star whose life imploded years ago. Everyone thinks she is dead. Oz will do anything to find his son, including dealing with a looney woman. Pippa has struggled to find peace for years and Oz has just upended her world. When he proposes that she appear on a show, she says she will do it if he can find her family. She was left outside of a fire department when she was very young, and no one knows who her parents were. She knows Oz can't pull that off, so she knows she will not perform ever again. Oz knows what Pippa has been through and doesn't want to put her through it again, but how can he stop if it will bring his son back. She can't live in his world, and he won't want to live in isolation with her. What to do?
December 31, 2020
I do enjoy Rice's various Malcolm stories and she is one of the few contemporary writers I like, though I usually prefer historicals. It helps to have a background in the historicals to know the Malcolm and Ives stories.
The plot device of this series is someone is hunting Malcolm's which is an interesting plot point.
This whole series is available on audible plus.
Dylan Osment is a high powered producer whose son has been kidnapped twice. The first by his wife who died in a car crash in Mexico, the second by his nanny when he was 4. He has been missing a year when Dylan receives a cryptic message from "The Librarian". This takes him to Pippa James, a children's book writer. That is all will say as the mystery unfolds from there. I have already started the next book, which starts days later.
The plot device of this series is someone is hunting Malcolm's which is an interesting plot point.
This whole series is available on audible plus.
Dylan Osment is a high powered producer whose son has been kidnapped twice. The first by his wife who died in a car crash in Mexico, the second by his nanny when he was 4. He has been missing a year when Dylan receives a cryptic message from "The Librarian". This takes him to Pippa James, a children's book writer. That is all will say as the mystery unfolds from there. I have already started the next book, which starts days later.
March 2, 2022
Mystery and Magic
Anyone who likes stories that include magic will like this book. Let’s face it, we wouldn’t read books if we didn’t like to lose ourselves in authors’ fantasy worlds. This book portrays a young woman who was found wandering as a child and who grew up in the foster system. She is now recovering from emotional abuse caused by her being pushed into stardom as a child. She has achieved balance by isolating herself but has also lost part of herself by no longer singing. She meets a successful man whose son was kidnapped who is suffering from a different sort of anguish. There is a mysterious third party who knows more than they should and who suggests that they know where the child is. But to find him will she need to expose herself by using her magical voice?
Anyone who likes stories that include magic will like this book. Let’s face it, we wouldn’t read books if we didn’t like to lose ourselves in authors’ fantasy worlds. This book portrays a young woman who was found wandering as a child and who grew up in the foster system. She is now recovering from emotional abuse caused by her being pushed into stardom as a child. She has achieved balance by isolating herself but has also lost part of herself by no longer singing. She meets a successful man whose son was kidnapped who is suffering from a different sort of anguish. There is a mysterious third party who knows more than they should and who suggests that they know where the child is. But to find him will she need to expose herself by using her magical voice?
March 25, 2022
I read this last week and was unable to review straight away.
A new author for me but I just found this strange and at times slow.
I loved that he gets his son back but not sure why he fell for Syrene/Pippa so strongly, especially after all his disparaging thinking of her being to thin.
To say I have forgotten this already is an understatement, I had to go back and read the last couple of chapters again to remind myself.
Characters that I didn’t connect with and I never really understood Syrene/Pippas point of view.
The librarian aspect was creepy and the kidnapper angle silly. It seems obvious at the end but no hints are ever bought up beforehand. In fact we are told a few times that the babysitter was not able to have been involved.
Not one I will ever reread. Moved to the discard pile.
A new author for me but I just found this strange and at times slow.
I loved that he gets his son back but not sure why he fell for Syrene/Pippa so strongly, especially after all his disparaging thinking of her being to thin.
To say I have forgotten this already is an understatement, I had to go back and read the last couple of chapters again to remind myself.
Characters that I didn’t connect with and I never really understood Syrene/Pippas point of view.
The librarian aspect was creepy and the kidnapper angle silly. It seems obvious at the end but no hints are ever bought up beforehand. In fact we are told a few times that the babysitter was not able to have been involved.
Not one I will ever reread. Moved to the discard pile.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2021
This is a great modern sci-fi about brothers with psychic gifts that they deny, a plot over the series about entire families with gifts, and a witch-hunt to wipe them out by an ex-military madman. The story is well written, and woven perfectly with the budding romance between the eldest brother and a former superstar singer with her own gifts. There is just a little angst about the relationship, a very few hot scenes, and an abundance of two strong people learning to relate on equal terms - no alpha male bossiness here.
It's a fun listen, and Kalin's narration is so easy to listen to; she reads like the voice in my head when I am engrossed with a great story. I don't give many 5 star rating these days, but this is well worth it.
It's a fun listen, and Kalin's narration is so easy to listen to; she reads like the voice in my head when I am engrossed with a great story. I don't give many 5 star rating these days, but this is well worth it.
May 3, 2022
Pippa James was strong and more importantly she was safe. It had taken her years to learn how to control her unique ability and to live a very secluded life without fame and popularity. Dylan (Oz) Oswin, charged into her tranquility upending her perfect routine. This storyline is so well thought-out and written that it's easy to think of Pippa and Oz as real people dealing with extraordinary challenges as they get to know each other. I was fascinated by Pippa's past and the possibility that she was endowed with almost magical powers. What an amazing concept! This was a very unique romance and a great mystery. Really! Really! well done and truly a great, great Read!!!!!
March 6, 2022
Hiding away in a small town, Pippa's solitude is invaded by Oz. It takes some slow and gentle convincing to get Pippa to agree to his scheme to hopefully find his kidnapped son. There's the mystery of Pippa's family background to solve as well.
The mix of contemporary romance with a tinge of paranormal/magic capability is well done. Not a dull moment.
The mix of contemporary romance with a tinge of paranormal/magic capability is well done. Not a dull moment.
April 27, 2022
This was a wonderful book to get lost in. It has magic, mystery, hardship, excitement and love. I absolutely loved it. The story captured my attention within the first few pages and held it until the last page. It got especially exciting nearer the end of the book when all their plans are put into action. I’m now off to get the rest of the series. Looks like I’ve found another author to follow!
March 5, 2022
lovely and heart warming
The search for a lost boy and the magic of a woman who could bring him home. This story has it all, Power, Fame, Intrigue and the sacrifices made for True Love.
The search for a lost boy and the magic of a woman who could bring him home. This story has it all, Power, Fame, Intrigue and the sacrifices made for True Love.
March 8, 2022
Crazy adventure with a new Malcolm line
Another great Patricia Rice book. People with odd powers, multi-year mysteries and strong characters combine in a great read. Can’t wait for more books in the series.
Another great Patricia Rice book. People with odd powers, multi-year mysteries and strong characters combine in a great read. Can’t wait for more books in the series.
April 12, 2022
Malcolm's book 1 review
Lure of Song and Magic a well thought out interesting read with mystery, magic, talent and sex that was only explicit enou
gh for the continuity of the story.
I loved the book, and read it every time I possibly could get a chance.
Lure of Song and Magic a well thought out interesting read with mystery, magic, talent and sex that was only explicit enou
gh for the continuity of the story.
I loved the book, and read it every time I possibly could get a chance.
May 31, 2018
Excellent
I love the Magic series and it's fun to see it brought into the present era. I hope the series gives more tie ins to the original series so it's easier to trace.
I love the Magic series and it's fun to see it brought into the present era. I hope the series gives more tie ins to the original series so it's easier to trace.
January 9, 2020
What fun!
More Malcom and Ives magic. Glad to see this is a series so I can look forward to more of the same.
More Malcom and Ives magic. Glad to see this is a series so I can look forward to more of the same.
February 7, 2021
Magical read!
I highly recommend this fantastic book, and amazing series in which it is to readers who love reading paranormal mystery romance. Enjoy!
I highly recommend this fantastic book, and amazing series in which it is to readers who love reading paranormal mystery romance. Enjoy!
March 5, 2022
Great book
October 20, 2022
I have enjoyed some this author's novels. The fantasy slant was a new angle. Kind of a cross between siren, fae, or a genetic mutation.
February 28, 2023
Uhm… so-so
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