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Kelly Brothers #5
A Seductive Melody
She has the scoop of a lifetime, but only if she betrays his trust…
Ethan Kelly lost his best friend and bandmate to an overdose, but staying clean is proving harder than he thought it would be. His only safety net during his first weeks of sobriety is fellow recovering addict, Becca. As she guides him through the darkness, he begins to trust her not only with his secrets, but also his heart.
After years of trying to be the daughter her socialite parents wanted her to be (and failing miserably), Rebecca Shore finally has her life on track. Sure, she’s just an assistant at Moderne magazine when she’d rather be pursuing more serious journalism, but it’s a foot in the door. She’s just waiting for the scoop of a lifetime that will take her to the next level. But when she’s asked to help the reclusive and enigmatic rock star, her heart is torn between the career she’s always wanted and the man who bares his soul to her.
Ethan Kelly lost his best friend and bandmate to an overdose, but staying clean is proving harder than he thought it would be. His only safety net during his first weeks of sobriety is fellow recovering addict, Becca. As she guides him through the darkness, he begins to trust her not only with his secrets, but also his heart.
After years of trying to be the daughter her socialite parents wanted her to be (and failing miserably), Rebecca Shore finally has her life on track. Sure, she’s just an assistant at Moderne magazine when she’d rather be pursuing more serious journalism, but it’s a foot in the door. She’s just waiting for the scoop of a lifetime that will take her to the next level. But when she’s asked to help the reclusive and enigmatic rock star, her heart is torn between the career she’s always wanted and the man who bares his soul to her.
226 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2014
14 people are currently reading
839 people want to read
About the author
Crista McHugh
68 books932 followersCrista McHugh is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY BESTSELLING author of fantasy and romance with heroines who are smart, sexy, and anything but ordinary.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
September 12, 2014
3 -
Just take it one day at a time.
Stars.
The Kelly Brothers series continues with A Seductive Melody, I enjoyed Ethan and Becca’s story, but I will be honest and say that I was expecting more, from this one. Ethan has been elusive in his presence in the previous books, and I was looking forward to getting to grips with him, his story and his interactions with his family.
”Hi I’m Ethan, and I’m not a hugger.”
In the previous 4 books everyone in the Kelly Family is very much involved, and I liked that it gave continuity to the series as a whole, you were kept in touch with the previous couples that had already had their books and it kept everything flowing.
The only way to find peace was to give in to his muse.
Ethan finds himself in New York, after losing his best friend and band mate Tyler to a heroin overdose; he realizes he needs to make a few changes in his life. So after rehab he craves the anonymity of a new town, and NA group, and no contacts from his previous life. You do get a few conversations with his mother and Adam, but that’s pretty much it for the Kelly family involvement.
This struck me as inconsistent with the previous books and the impression of familial closeness you are given of the Kelly’s as a whole, especially at such a difficult time in Ethan’s life. I wanted his brothers to show up, give him their support, but it is a very insular read, pretty much revolving around Ethan and his blossoming relationship with Rebecca Shore. Other factors/people do come into play as the book progresses, but no one of note, or to be honest that I liked.
”She steadies me. She inspires me. She keeps me going when I feel like I can’t.”
The time line is the other problem I had with A Seductive Melody as the bulk of the story takes place in the first three months after Ethan comes out of rehab, meeting Becca at his first NA group meeting, things quickly progress from there. I don’t profess to be knowledgeable on the area of addiction but I found it all a little too much too quickly on the back of someone getting to grips with leaving an addiction behind. It was almost as if heroin was swapped out for Rebecca.
I did still enjoy the book, and although it does deal with a lot heavier issues than its predecessors the writing, development and sexy-times were of Crista’s normal high standard. My big disappointment - WHERE WAS THE EPILOGUE, the family come together for Christmas at the end of this book, I had my happy face on expecting a kick-ass epilogue, giving the me an update on how Adam and Lia, Ben and Hailey, Caleb and Alex and Dan and Jenny are all getting on but nothing! I can only hope that it is because either Frank or Gideon is due to get their book next and it starts where this one leaves off.
”Without you I’m lost.”
I love this series, I love the Kelly brothers, and I cannot wait for the next book, fingers crossed we don’t have to wait too long for it.
ARC generously provided by the Author via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
The Kelly Brothers series continues with A Seductive Melody, I enjoyed Ethan and Becca’s story, but I will be honest and say that I was expecting more, from this one. Ethan has been elusive in his presence in the previous books, and I was looking forward to getting to grips with him, his story and his interactions with his family.
”Hi I’m Ethan, and I’m not a hugger.”
In the previous 4 books everyone in the Kelly Family is very much involved, and I liked that it gave continuity to the series as a whole, you were kept in touch with the previous couples that had already had their books and it kept everything flowing.
The only way to find peace was to give in to his muse.
Ethan finds himself in New York, after losing his best friend and band mate Tyler to a heroin overdose; he realizes he needs to make a few changes in his life. So after rehab he craves the anonymity of a new town, and NA group, and no contacts from his previous life. You do get a few conversations with his mother and Adam, but that’s pretty much it for the Kelly family involvement.
This struck me as inconsistent with the previous books and the impression of familial closeness you are given of the Kelly’s as a whole, especially at such a difficult time in Ethan’s life. I wanted his brothers to show up, give him their support, but it is a very insular read, pretty much revolving around Ethan and his blossoming relationship with Rebecca Shore. Other factors/people do come into play as the book progresses, but no one of note, or to be honest that I liked.
”She steadies me. She inspires me. She keeps me going when I feel like I can’t.”
The time line is the other problem I had with A Seductive Melody as the bulk of the story takes place in the first three months after Ethan comes out of rehab, meeting Becca at his first NA group meeting, things quickly progress from there. I don’t profess to be knowledgeable on the area of addiction but I found it all a little too much too quickly on the back of someone getting to grips with leaving an addiction behind. It was almost as if heroin was swapped out for Rebecca.
I did still enjoy the book, and although it does deal with a lot heavier issues than its predecessors the writing, development and sexy-times were of Crista’s normal high standard. My big disappointment - WHERE WAS THE EPILOGUE, the family come together for Christmas at the end of this book, I had my happy face on expecting a kick-ass epilogue, giving the me an update on how Adam and Lia, Ben and Hailey, Caleb and Alex and Dan and Jenny are all getting on but nothing! I can only hope that it is because either Frank or Gideon is due to get their book next and it starts where this one leaves off.
”Without you I’m lost.”
I love this series, I love the Kelly brothers, and I cannot wait for the next book, fingers crossed we don’t have to wait too long for it.
ARC generously provided by the Author via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
September 22, 2014
4 Making the Decision for the Right Reasons Stars * * * *
All of us have had demons of some kind at one point in our lives... some more destructive than others. What we do to block them out can take many forms... Some of us read to escape; some of us will indulge with food... and then others have used more complex tools such as alcohol or drugs. With any addiction, the substance abused must be cut out and over come....but more importantly, it is the reasons why the person used these things to escape which must be confronted and understood.
In her series of the "Kelly Boys", Christa McHugh uses the brother Ethan to approach this subject. This was my first book with this series, so my reading of it may be different then those who are familiar with the series. I had no expectations of seeing past characters or understanding of how they all interacted. I only had this story and I found it insightful to the what it was tackling.
You have the rock star... with all the of bells and whistles of fame; indulgent fans and handlers, industry pressures and the need to be with his best friend with everything... A need so strong, it blinded him from seeing how dark the path was with his friend and band mate, Tyler...Ethan experiences a deadly wake up call with the overdose and death of Tyler.... is able to use this horror to see he needs to be clean and live... but to do this without his "brother"... his band mate... leaves a hole in his heart.
Ethan does everything to remove himself from the places and things which could trigger him.... he has gone through rehab without all the pomp and circumstance other celebrities have done... he has dropped off the face of media... no one knows where he is... only a brother and parents. He has changed his appearance to fly under the radar... because being the voice and songwriter of one of the most cherished and famous bands makes being alone an impossibility.
He sits now in a old church basement in New York City, a far cry from his past life in the LA/Hollywood scene, doing the required meetings of NA and being concerned... wondering if he is going to be discovered... will his identity be sold out and paps find him....The leader of the meeting has told him he has someone he wants him to meet after the session. Ethan is skeptical but nods, ok. As he sits in the circle, waiting... he sees a vision... a woman who he would have started a conversation and hit on in nothing flat... she has it all; a presence... upscale, Park Ave, beautiful but he would assume very High Maintenance.... he catches her looking at him...and she turns away...They all stand to end the meeting with the reciting the prayer. He ends up so close to her, the scent she wears causes him to relax and feel a little better...
He is introduced to Ms.Park Ave. and told she would be a good fit for him till he found a sponsor... she would understanding his "situation" better than most....Alarms start firing in Ethan's mind... what was she told...he worked so hard to hide his addition and get clean... he is almost in panic mode when Rebecca... reaches out and says to just take it easy and this is just a meeting and she can help him... still concerned he asks what she was told about him...and it seems not much... just that she would "get" him and be a good match per the leader of the meeting.... she tells him if he comes to the next meeting... she will tell him more about herself but also reminds him the A for these meetings stand for Anonymous and that pertains to all... Ethan isn't sure what to do... and thinks about just getting through the next hour, let alone the next week.
What he will learn, if he gives Rebecca a chance, is she is a kindred soul in many ways... Society family, massive media profile; the darling out and about with the hot crowd of the moment... and paps all over her every move... pics splashed with every wardrobe malfunction or awkward pose... ending with a huge melt down at a charity ball in front of all of society. All the drugs, pressure and pain... there for all to see.
She took herself out of the picture, literally...left all of the flashy friends... focused on what she wanted to be... not all the dictates of her father... and decided to go out on her own without any support from them...She had her best friend, was able to live with her and work a meager position with a magazine as an assistant... with hopes to be a journalist of merit. She has made a life with hopes and dreams... and the understanding of how to protect herself... to be strong... she is who she is... making it on her own two feet.
These two have coffee after their meetings and tentatively forge a type of relationship... foremost, she is there for him... she wants him to succeed and will use every method she knows to make it happen... along the way... they connect deeper than both know is right... yet there is a need in both... How do to people with pasts like they have support one another... how to get through this valley of pain and emerge into the light and able to make it through... so many stumbling blocks to overcome... can he trust her... can she see her way clear to accept who he turns out to be... and can they be good for each other or are they the very thing they should avoid....
I felt this book over all gave insight to addictions; why they occur, the terror of trying to move forward and the hope and positive reassurance of coming out of this cycle. Both characters had real environments to cause a want to escape... Rebecca's was tragic as it was from her father and his need to control everything... and to assume the worst about his daughter. Ethan's was more common to his industry and became part of the music making process, robbing him of the pure joy he had from the beginning of his career. Both worked hard to make their way through and the journey was worth it in the end.
Together they were solid; they had the misunderstanding and it was crushing... but they worked through it all. Their times together felt real... nervous, wanting and then loving.
Overall this was a solid read for me and I appreciated the tale. It has made me curious about these Kelly Brothers... so I will have to go and start from the beginning...
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
All of us have had demons of some kind at one point in our lives... some more destructive than others. What we do to block them out can take many forms... Some of us read to escape; some of us will indulge with food... and then others have used more complex tools such as alcohol or drugs. With any addiction, the substance abused must be cut out and over come....but more importantly, it is the reasons why the person used these things to escape which must be confronted and understood.
In her series of the "Kelly Boys", Christa McHugh uses the brother Ethan to approach this subject. This was my first book with this series, so my reading of it may be different then those who are familiar with the series. I had no expectations of seeing past characters or understanding of how they all interacted. I only had this story and I found it insightful to the what it was tackling.
You have the rock star... with all the of bells and whistles of fame; indulgent fans and handlers, industry pressures and the need to be with his best friend with everything... A need so strong, it blinded him from seeing how dark the path was with his friend and band mate, Tyler...Ethan experiences a deadly wake up call with the overdose and death of Tyler.... is able to use this horror to see he needs to be clean and live... but to do this without his "brother"... his band mate... leaves a hole in his heart.
Ethan does everything to remove himself from the places and things which could trigger him.... he has gone through rehab without all the pomp and circumstance other celebrities have done... he has dropped off the face of media... no one knows where he is... only a brother and parents. He has changed his appearance to fly under the radar... because being the voice and songwriter of one of the most cherished and famous bands makes being alone an impossibility.
He sits now in a old church basement in New York City, a far cry from his past life in the LA/Hollywood scene, doing the required meetings of NA and being concerned... wondering if he is going to be discovered... will his identity be sold out and paps find him....The leader of the meeting has told him he has someone he wants him to meet after the session. Ethan is skeptical but nods, ok. As he sits in the circle, waiting... he sees a vision... a woman who he would have started a conversation and hit on in nothing flat... she has it all; a presence... upscale, Park Ave, beautiful but he would assume very High Maintenance.... he catches her looking at him...and she turns away...They all stand to end the meeting with the reciting the prayer. He ends up so close to her, the scent she wears causes him to relax and feel a little better...
He is introduced to Ms.Park Ave. and told she would be a good fit for him till he found a sponsor... she would understanding his "situation" better than most....Alarms start firing in Ethan's mind... what was she told...he worked so hard to hide his addition and get clean... he is almost in panic mode when Rebecca... reaches out and says to just take it easy and this is just a meeting and she can help him... still concerned he asks what she was told about him...and it seems not much... just that she would "get" him and be a good match per the leader of the meeting.... she tells him if he comes to the next meeting... she will tell him more about herself but also reminds him the A for these meetings stand for Anonymous and that pertains to all... Ethan isn't sure what to do... and thinks about just getting through the next hour, let alone the next week.
What he will learn, if he gives Rebecca a chance, is she is a kindred soul in many ways... Society family, massive media profile; the darling out and about with the hot crowd of the moment... and paps all over her every move... pics splashed with every wardrobe malfunction or awkward pose... ending with a huge melt down at a charity ball in front of all of society. All the drugs, pressure and pain... there for all to see.
She took herself out of the picture, literally...left all of the flashy friends... focused on what she wanted to be... not all the dictates of her father... and decided to go out on her own without any support from them...She had her best friend, was able to live with her and work a meager position with a magazine as an assistant... with hopes to be a journalist of merit. She has made a life with hopes and dreams... and the understanding of how to protect herself... to be strong... she is who she is... making it on her own two feet.
These two have coffee after their meetings and tentatively forge a type of relationship... foremost, she is there for him... she wants him to succeed and will use every method she knows to make it happen... along the way... they connect deeper than both know is right... yet there is a need in both... How do to people with pasts like they have support one another... how to get through this valley of pain and emerge into the light and able to make it through... so many stumbling blocks to overcome... can he trust her... can she see her way clear to accept who he turns out to be... and can they be good for each other or are they the very thing they should avoid....
I felt this book over all gave insight to addictions; why they occur, the terror of trying to move forward and the hope and positive reassurance of coming out of this cycle. Both characters had real environments to cause a want to escape... Rebecca's was tragic as it was from her father and his need to control everything... and to assume the worst about his daughter. Ethan's was more common to his industry and became part of the music making process, robbing him of the pure joy he had from the beginning of his career. Both worked hard to make their way through and the journey was worth it in the end.
Together they were solid; they had the misunderstanding and it was crushing... but they worked through it all. Their times together felt real... nervous, wanting and then loving.
Overall this was a solid read for me and I appreciated the tale. It has made me curious about these Kelly Brothers... so I will have to go and start from the beginning...
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 25, 2014
I am a huge Crista McHugh fan and I love the Kelly Brother Series. This is my favorite book in the series so far. Ethan is so deeply troubled but wanting to so the right thing that his emotions come right off the page. Rebecca is a strong woman who is determined to help Ethan through. Love the story line? Love the characters and Ethan and Rebecca are so good for each other. Best in the series so far
August 23, 2014
I received an ARC of this book. I am such a huge fan of this series. Honestly this may be my favorite so far. This story is about Ethan and Becca it is not typical in that it deals with addiction. These two have such amazing chemistry and Crista Mchugh definitely knows how to write a story that makes the reader not want to put the book down. I loved this book and highly recommend this series!!
August 21, 2014
LOVED THIS!!!! Will write my review soon...
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Crista McHugh*
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Crista McHugh*
May 16, 2015
As a huge fan of the previous Kelly Brothers books, I was a little nervous to read this one because the tone sounded too dark. While it starts out that way, it gradually becomes just as sweet and romantic as the rest of the series, while still maintaining it's dark edge.
I loved Ethan and Becca. What I loved the most about them was that they both had their own issues to get through. Yes, Becca is further along in the recovery process than Ethan, but she is by no means perfect. The book could have gone the easy route of being all about Ethan's issues and make Becca look like a saint, but it doesn't.
Also, like the other Kelly Brothers books, it can be read as a standalone. Apart from a few scattered phone calls, the rest of the family only appears in one scene of the book. While it's nice to catch up from other characters from previous books, some authors feel the need to place to spend a good portion of the book recapping or making allusions to past storylines to the point that it feels like overkill. I love that each Kelly brother has their own world of supporting characters and storylines. I look forward to seeing what the next one brings. :)
I loved Ethan and Becca. What I loved the most about them was that they both had their own issues to get through. Yes, Becca is further along in the recovery process than Ethan, but she is by no means perfect. The book could have gone the easy route of being all about Ethan's issues and make Becca look like a saint, but it doesn't.
Also, like the other Kelly Brothers books, it can be read as a standalone. Apart from a few scattered phone calls, the rest of the family only appears in one scene of the book. While it's nice to catch up from other characters from previous books, some authors feel the need to place to spend a good portion of the book recapping or making allusions to past storylines to the point that it feels like overkill. I love that each Kelly brother has their own world of supporting characters and storylines. I look forward to seeing what the next one brings. :)
August 16, 2014
A Seductive Melody is the fifth book in The Kelly Brothers series by Crista McHugh. This is the story of Ethan Kelly and Rebecca Shore. Ethan is a musician who has just lost his best friend to a heroin overdose. He’s an addict as well and has just come out of detox. While attending his first Narcotics Anonymous meeting, he’s introduced to Becca who is also a recovering addict. She has agreed to be his temporary sponsor. Becca has her own deep issues that resulted in her addiction. Their relationship is two-fold as she helps him learn to trust and deal with his friend’s loss. He’s regains his desire to write and sing his music while Ethan helps her re-establish a relationship with her family. There are several twists and turns as they both deal with their careers. Crista McHugh had me hooked from the first page as I was drawn into Ethan and Rebecca’s back stories. I couldn’t put it down and read it in one sitting. This was a fabulous book and I can’t wait to read the next installment in The Kelly Brothers series. I would like to disclose that I received an advanced copy of A Seductive Melody in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 16, 2014
What I love about Crista McHugh's books is she knows exactly the right chemistry to write a good romance. Ethan is the fifth Kelly brother, and the storyline is a little darker than the previous four in the series, tackling the subject of heroin addiction and recovery. Instead of indulging the stigma behind addiction Crista creates an empathy for Ethan and Becca and demonstrates that mistakes in a persons past doesn't necessarily mean the same for the future. I can't recommend these books any
More vehemently!
More vehemently!
August 23, 2014
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I give this book a 5 Star rating because there is not a higher one to give. This book is that good!
Ethans story is my favorite it could be that I have a sweet spot for musicians, but Crista knowa how to write a story that draws you in completely.
Ethan Kellys story is darker than the others in this series. As he is battling a Heroin addiction and is going thru the recovery process.
I very much recommend this entire series. It is one of my all time favorites!!
I give this book a 5 Star rating because there is not a higher one to give. This book is that good!
Ethans story is my favorite it could be that I have a sweet spot for musicians, but Crista knowa how to write a story that draws you in completely.
Ethan Kellys story is darker than the others in this series. As he is battling a Heroin addiction and is going thru the recovery process.
I very much recommend this entire series. It is one of my all time favorites!!
March 16, 2016
Great book! This book had me crying way more than the other books in the series. It is definitely a good read!
September 1, 2014
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
In Book Five of her Kelly Brothers Series, Crista McHugh brings us Ethan's Story. For those of you who haven't yet have the chance to follow this series, check it out, it's Crista's take on the 40's favorite, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Only it's not about a snowbound frontier family of men with not female input. Nope it's about a dynamic family of strong individuals, loved and raised by wonderful parents, though only their mother is still alive. She remains a force in each book, sometimes in the background, sometimes as an instigator but always as the woman these boys (insert oh so sexy and successful men) admire and respect.
It has to be hard to write a family such as these wonderful men. Strong, powerful, leaders in their field. We have a Businessman, an athlete, a pilot, a Doctor (and gamer) and now a musician.. The only thing harder than writing about them has to be finding the one woman who is the perfect match for each of them.
Rebecca Shore at one time put Paris Hilton to shame as far as partying socialite is concerned. But after one too many injections and a heroine overdose she finally got straight. Flying under the radar she has finished her degree and works for a magazine. Now she is being asked to sponsor a fellow NA member and she takes pride in the fact that she can be of assistance. Only problem is.. the attraction is pulling at her and Rebecca knows she has seen him somewhere. Of course the reason she was asked to sponsor him is because she understands high profile recovery.
Ethan Kelly is one of the lucky ones, his band made it big. Except overtime he forgot about the love of the music and became about the drug. The drug overcoming his natural talent and becoming his muse. When his best friend OD's Ethan knows it could have been him. After detox and moving to the opposite cost, Ethan is trying to recover, incognito as it were. More than a little confused about his sexy NA sponsor, Ethan is trying and succeeding day by day. But each day his attraction to Becca grows.
Ethan and Becca are two different people, people that fell for some reason and are trying to put their lives back together. Each at a different place in their recovery and yet discover that together they are stronger. Now they need to weather the storm of family and career.
Crista does a wonderful job bringing the realities of recovery to the page. It isn't easy, it's work. I especially liked the scene where Becca points out that maybe, just maybe, Trevor (Ethan's best friend) wasn't that good of a friend. Another damaged soul, yes but he dragged Ethan with him. Now Ethan needs to let him go, let the survivors guilt go.
Another plus is the fact that recovery isn't a solo activity and families are involved. Sometimes they are the problem and sometimes they actually hinder your recovery but they are part of your life and you need to address them.
Sounds like it could be preachy but it's not, it's enthralling
There are of course the ups and downs of a relationship that Ethan and Becca must overcome... and it too shows Ms. McHugh's talent.
Another brother down and another story to fall in love with.
Thanks Crista
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of A Seductive Melody, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on September 15, 2014
In Book Five of her Kelly Brothers Series, Crista McHugh brings us Ethan's Story. For those of you who haven't yet have the chance to follow this series, check it out, it's Crista's take on the 40's favorite, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Only it's not about a snowbound frontier family of men with not female input. Nope it's about a dynamic family of strong individuals, loved and raised by wonderful parents, though only their mother is still alive. She remains a force in each book, sometimes in the background, sometimes as an instigator but always as the woman these boys (insert oh so sexy and successful men) admire and respect.
It has to be hard to write a family such as these wonderful men. Strong, powerful, leaders in their field. We have a Businessman, an athlete, a pilot, a Doctor (and gamer) and now a musician.. The only thing harder than writing about them has to be finding the one woman who is the perfect match for each of them.
Rebecca Shore at one time put Paris Hilton to shame as far as partying socialite is concerned. But after one too many injections and a heroine overdose she finally got straight. Flying under the radar she has finished her degree and works for a magazine. Now she is being asked to sponsor a fellow NA member and she takes pride in the fact that she can be of assistance. Only problem is.. the attraction is pulling at her and Rebecca knows she has seen him somewhere. Of course the reason she was asked to sponsor him is because she understands high profile recovery.
Ethan Kelly is one of the lucky ones, his band made it big. Except overtime he forgot about the love of the music and became about the drug. The drug overcoming his natural talent and becoming his muse. When his best friend OD's Ethan knows it could have been him. After detox and moving to the opposite cost, Ethan is trying to recover, incognito as it were. More than a little confused about his sexy NA sponsor, Ethan is trying and succeeding day by day. But each day his attraction to Becca grows.
Ethan and Becca are two different people, people that fell for some reason and are trying to put their lives back together. Each at a different place in their recovery and yet discover that together they are stronger. Now they need to weather the storm of family and career.
Crista does a wonderful job bringing the realities of recovery to the page. It isn't easy, it's work. I especially liked the scene where Becca points out that maybe, just maybe, Trevor (Ethan's best friend) wasn't that good of a friend. Another damaged soul, yes but he dragged Ethan with him. Now Ethan needs to let him go, let the survivors guilt go.
Another plus is the fact that recovery isn't a solo activity and families are involved. Sometimes they are the problem and sometimes they actually hinder your recovery but they are part of your life and you need to address them.
Sounds like it could be preachy but it's not, it's enthralling
There are of course the ups and downs of a relationship that Ethan and Becca must overcome... and it too shows Ms. McHugh's talent.
Another brother down and another story to fall in love with.
Thanks Crista
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of A Seductive Melody, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on September 15, 2014
November 11, 2018
Losing his bandmate and best friend to an overdose is the wake-up call Ethan needs to get his act together, but staying clean is proving to be more of a challenge than he can handle by himself. So when he's paired up with a temporary NA sponsor who understands his need to fly under the radar and stay far from the paparazzi, Ethan reluctantly begins to open up to her — about his addiction and his heart.
After an overdose three years ago that fed the frenzied tabloids, Becca has done everything she can shed her spoiled heiress, party girl image, and while working at a magazine more interested in fashion and gossip than articles of substance may not be her dream journalism career, it's at least an independent step in the right direction. But when her editor expects her to sell out the man she's been sponsoring at NA, the one who's worked his way into her life and her heart, she's faced with betraying the man she loves or going back to the family who caused her to use in the first place.
The Verdict: While the subject matter is a little heavier than my normal reading preference, I couldn't very well pass up the chance to read the fifth book in a series I've very much enjoyed so far. I wasn't sure I was going to like the double addict angle, but I should have known better. Everything I've read from Crista McHugh has turned out to be wonderful, and this one was no exception.
Ethan was a nice surprise, a rock star going solo after his band fell apart and trying to curb his drug addiction at the same time. He could have been filled with rage, cold to anyone who tried to help him, and I guess on a certain level he was. But he was also determined and desperate to stay clean, and it was that hope that shined through at even his worst moments. Of course, a rich and famous guy who's good-looking to boot is bound to catch the attention of the woman designated to help him find his way back to a productive life, and he had a bit of the cocky swagger one might expect. But at the same time, his intentions were good. Sure, he was interested in getting her alone in a bedroom, but he put their friendship and recovery first, and before long, he was supporting her just as much as she was supporting him.
Becca was a rather interesting character as well, a wealthy and spoiled daughter of a hotel tycoon who fell into drugs and onto the pages of all the tabloids. But three years later, she was living with a roommate, working a rather unrewarding job, and making her weekly NA meetings. She was reaching out and helping Ethan before she even knew who he was, and that seemed to make their budding feelings so much more believable. I also love that the whole “no dating while in recovery” rule didn't get thrown in like I expected. I get that it's a very real thing, but so is the very human tendency to want to find love with someone who truly understands their struggles.
I wasn't so sure about the whole submissive thing she pulled in the bedroom, but the two didn't take it far enough to really delve into fetish territory — thank goodness! But it did show just how much thought the author puts into making every story and every character so much different than the last. That's actually one of my favorite things about the series, that even though I know I'll probably end up loving each book, I really have no idea what to expect when I turn to the first page.
A Seductive Melody echoes some of the seriousness that Breakaway Hearts had, and the plot is just as engaging, delivering the right amount of sweet and romance to counterbalance any angst, and this is one series in which every book can truly stand on its own. If you love contemporary romance, just grab the whole series and dive in anywhere. You won't be able to stop reading.
***FicCentral received this book from Tasty Book Tours for free in exchange for an honest review. Even so, we're far too opinionated to let a freebie influence our thoughts or the contents of the reviews we post here.
October 1, 2014
A Seductive Melody begins with Ethan struggling with the death of his best friend, and struggling with his own sobriety. And, in typical Kelly fashion, his family tries to be there for him, but he keeps pushing them away. He finally assures them that he is committed to staying clean and goes to a meeting. But when he meets his sponsor, he can’t help but think this girl would have no idea what being a junkie would be like. He truly has no clue…………
When Becca is asked to be Ethan’s sponsor, she can’t help but notice how hot he is, and how lost he looks. She knows better than most the long road to recovery. After having embarrassed her family, and herself, one time too many, she decided to get serious about her own sobriety and pursue a career in journalism. In the beginning, she and Ethan keep things light as she tries to help him stay clean. But soon enough, she realizes that “light” won’t work with him. And, wouldn’t you know it? They are extremely attracted to each other…. ;)
Ethan and Becca begin to navigate a relationship, which is difficult enough for two recovering addicts. Add to it Becca’s realization that Ethan is a rock star and Ethan’s trust issues, and you’re in for one hell of a ride. Oh, and on top of all of that, Becca’s dad is a bazillionaire jerkwad, who has all but cut her off, doesn’t have a clue who Ethan is and accuses him of being after Becca’s trust fund at Thanksgiving dinner. Yippee…………. Throw in a HUGE misunderstanding between Ethan and Becca just as they are becoming more comfortable with each other and, well, you get the picture.
A Seductive Melody is a wonderfully written story about two people dealing with their own demons, as well as each other’s. Ethan is an awesome guy with a huge heart who is struggling with not only losing his best friend, but also with losing his ability to write music. Becca is a sweet, caring soul who has made it her mission to not only keep herself clean, but to inspire Ethan to stay clean as well. There is always going to be temptation, but can these two beat the odds and inspire each other? Well, good people, you’ll have to read and find out. A Seductive Melody is ultimately about conquering one’s demons and finding redemption when all was thought to be lost. I’ll end this review by saying what I normally say at the end of a review for one of Crista’s books…..If you’re not reading the stories she’s telling, you’re seriously missing out. Well done, Crista McHugh, very very very well done!
When Becca is asked to be Ethan’s sponsor, she can’t help but notice how hot he is, and how lost he looks. She knows better than most the long road to recovery. After having embarrassed her family, and herself, one time too many, she decided to get serious about her own sobriety and pursue a career in journalism. In the beginning, she and Ethan keep things light as she tries to help him stay clean. But soon enough, she realizes that “light” won’t work with him. And, wouldn’t you know it? They are extremely attracted to each other…. ;)
Ethan and Becca begin to navigate a relationship, which is difficult enough for two recovering addicts. Add to it Becca’s realization that Ethan is a rock star and Ethan’s trust issues, and you’re in for one hell of a ride. Oh, and on top of all of that, Becca’s dad is a bazillionaire jerkwad, who has all but cut her off, doesn’t have a clue who Ethan is and accuses him of being after Becca’s trust fund at Thanksgiving dinner. Yippee…………. Throw in a HUGE misunderstanding between Ethan and Becca just as they are becoming more comfortable with each other and, well, you get the picture.
A Seductive Melody is a wonderfully written story about two people dealing with their own demons, as well as each other’s. Ethan is an awesome guy with a huge heart who is struggling with not only losing his best friend, but also with losing his ability to write music. Becca is a sweet, caring soul who has made it her mission to not only keep herself clean, but to inspire Ethan to stay clean as well. There is always going to be temptation, but can these two beat the odds and inspire each other? Well, good people, you’ll have to read and find out. A Seductive Melody is ultimately about conquering one’s demons and finding redemption when all was thought to be lost. I’ll end this review by saying what I normally say at the end of a review for one of Crista’s books…..If you’re not reading the stories she’s telling, you’re seriously missing out. Well done, Crista McHugh, very very very well done!
September 14, 2014
Loss, trauma and pain sometimes create the most beautiful of music and sometimes real life events and experiences give birth to some amazing stories of compassion, grit, will power along with the unconditional love and support of families and friends, as they stand behind their loved ones.
In the latest release of the Kelly Brothers Series, “A Seductive Melody”, Crista McHugh takes us on a journey with Ethan Kelly, the musician of the Kelly family. Ethan loses his best friend to drugs and as a last-ditch effort to save his life, goes into rehab. His journey of sobriety is not easy and he goes through pangs of pain and depravation. His only ally in this fight to stay alive is Rebecca Shores. Can he trust her with his second lease of life?
Rebecca Shores is a recovering addict, a far cry from the life of the socialite she had lived and was unsuccessful in pleasing her father. She works for a magazine waiting for that one chance to make a name for her. She ends up being Ethan’s sponsor. And right here she has the story of her career, to take her into the big leagues as she comes to know Ethan’s true identity. Can she betray Ethan’s trust?
Together they go through the turbulent times of substance depravation, anonymous meetings and temptations that may take them over the ledge of no recovery. With Becca’s unrelenting support and will power, Ethan manages to stay away from cravings and slowly starts writing music on his own. Becca on the other hand with Ethan’s support, goes through the pain of dealing with her father and their past. Crista did a brilliant job of writing Ethan and Becca.
I loved how Crista incorporated her experiences through her profession in real life and what drug addicts go through. It not only changes their lives, but also the lives of the ones around them. She also gives us a glimpse of how the people react to addicts and recovering addicts, whether it is family or strangers. She teaches us that, it takes courage, will power and compassion to overcome addiction, and it takes a whole lot than just going to a few meetings.
Another impressive and inspiring story from Crista McHugh, a definite read!
Received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
In the latest release of the Kelly Brothers Series, “A Seductive Melody”, Crista McHugh takes us on a journey with Ethan Kelly, the musician of the Kelly family. Ethan loses his best friend to drugs and as a last-ditch effort to save his life, goes into rehab. His journey of sobriety is not easy and he goes through pangs of pain and depravation. His only ally in this fight to stay alive is Rebecca Shores. Can he trust her with his second lease of life?
Rebecca Shores is a recovering addict, a far cry from the life of the socialite she had lived and was unsuccessful in pleasing her father. She works for a magazine waiting for that one chance to make a name for her. She ends up being Ethan’s sponsor. And right here she has the story of her career, to take her into the big leagues as she comes to know Ethan’s true identity. Can she betray Ethan’s trust?
Together they go through the turbulent times of substance depravation, anonymous meetings and temptations that may take them over the ledge of no recovery. With Becca’s unrelenting support and will power, Ethan manages to stay away from cravings and slowly starts writing music on his own. Becca on the other hand with Ethan’s support, goes through the pain of dealing with her father and their past. Crista did a brilliant job of writing Ethan and Becca.
I loved how Crista incorporated her experiences through her profession in real life and what drug addicts go through. It not only changes their lives, but also the lives of the ones around them. She also gives us a glimpse of how the people react to addicts and recovering addicts, whether it is family or strangers. She teaches us that, it takes courage, will power and compassion to overcome addiction, and it takes a whole lot than just going to a few meetings.
Another impressive and inspiring story from Crista McHugh, a definite read!
Received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
September 13, 2014
A Seductive Melody by Crista McHugh, fifth book in the Kelly Brothers series, was sent to me for an honest review. Thank you, Crista, for allowing me to read and review this uplifting romance.
I am a fan of this heartwarming series. I have enjoyed each and every novel, and while the stories are structured the same, each story is unique and touches upon a different topic/issue. A Seductive Melody grabbed me from the very beginning. It is the story of Ethan, a musician with a heroin addiction, and Rebecca, a recovering addict, estranged from her parents, who find each other at a Narcotics Anonymous meeting. Among the reasons I enjoyed this novel so much: (1) A bad-boy musician and a once-troubled heiress straightening out their lives makes for great drama; (2) the budding romance between Rebecca and Ethan and the growing sexual chemistry/tension between them was enthralling; (3) the strength of the hero and heroine in overcoming/recovering from an addiction is impressive; (4) the blending of two religions is portrayed in a positive manner; and (5) the way the hero and heroine resolved personal conflicts is gratifying.
I devoured the book in one evening and wish I hadn't read it so quickly because now I have to wait for the next brother’s story. I am also sad that there are only two more brothers to go! The Kelly Brothers series is about a family of seven brothers who are charming, successful in their careers, and ready to find their companions. The female protagonists are strong, intelligent, and appealing. I love how the brothers consult one another in each story. The books can each stand alone, but I suggest you read them all because they are comprised by lovable male and female protagonists, each story deals with a unique topic, and the stories handle/resolve conflicts admirably. This pleasant series includes sweet romance, steam, minimal angst, and leaves the reader feeling good about life.
I am a fan of this heartwarming series. I have enjoyed each and every novel, and while the stories are structured the same, each story is unique and touches upon a different topic/issue. A Seductive Melody grabbed me from the very beginning. It is the story of Ethan, a musician with a heroin addiction, and Rebecca, a recovering addict, estranged from her parents, who find each other at a Narcotics Anonymous meeting. Among the reasons I enjoyed this novel so much: (1) A bad-boy musician and a once-troubled heiress straightening out their lives makes for great drama; (2) the budding romance between Rebecca and Ethan and the growing sexual chemistry/tension between them was enthralling; (3) the strength of the hero and heroine in overcoming/recovering from an addiction is impressive; (4) the blending of two religions is portrayed in a positive manner; and (5) the way the hero and heroine resolved personal conflicts is gratifying.
I devoured the book in one evening and wish I hadn't read it so quickly because now I have to wait for the next brother’s story. I am also sad that there are only two more brothers to go! The Kelly Brothers series is about a family of seven brothers who are charming, successful in their careers, and ready to find their companions. The female protagonists are strong, intelligent, and appealing. I love how the brothers consult one another in each story. The books can each stand alone, but I suggest you read them all because they are comprised by lovable male and female protagonists, each story deals with a unique topic, and the stories handle/resolve conflicts admirably. This pleasant series includes sweet romance, steam, minimal angst, and leaves the reader feeling good about life.
September 25, 2014
Firstly, thank you to Crista and Lisa from Tasty Book Tours for allowing me to be part of the tour for this book. I’ve been part of the tours for the other books and after book 4 I was already anticipating A Seductive Melody.
This is the 5th book in Crista’s Kelly Brothers series and is all about gorgeous rock star Ethan Kelly. Ethan’s world has just been rocked by the tragic death of his best friend and band mate and he finds his own road becoming rocky. In a bid to get back on the straight and narrow he starts trying to pull himself together and in doing so meets Rebecca Shore.
As I said I was already anticipating this book and I’m so glad to have been able to take part with this post today! In the books that have came so far in the series we have always heard a little bit from the other Kelly brothers while the main character’s story was told. In book 4, The Heart’s Game, we were given a glimpse into the situation that Ethan is in with his best friend dying and we kind of know what’s going to be going on starting this story.
I kind of thought that Ethan was going to be my favourite brother so far because there is a lot about him that appeals to me when I’m falling for a book boyfriend! I love the tattoos and the whole music side of his personality and I love that under his bad boy image he is just as good a guy as the rest of his brothers. I would say he has the most likeness to his brother Caleb.
Becca is a strong character and is a good match for Ethan. Although she wasn’t always so strong her life experience has moulded her into the girl that she is. I loved that unlike a lot of supporting characters she actually has struggled with the same things as Ethan and I loved how she was able to help him sort through his feelings and cravings.
The story is fast pace from beginning to end. It was a real page turner for me and I had it finished within an hour so definitely an ideal weekend read! This is my favourite of the series so far, five stars!
This is the 5th book in Crista’s Kelly Brothers series and is all about gorgeous rock star Ethan Kelly. Ethan’s world has just been rocked by the tragic death of his best friend and band mate and he finds his own road becoming rocky. In a bid to get back on the straight and narrow he starts trying to pull himself together and in doing so meets Rebecca Shore.
As I said I was already anticipating this book and I’m so glad to have been able to take part with this post today! In the books that have came so far in the series we have always heard a little bit from the other Kelly brothers while the main character’s story was told. In book 4, The Heart’s Game, we were given a glimpse into the situation that Ethan is in with his best friend dying and we kind of know what’s going to be going on starting this story.
I kind of thought that Ethan was going to be my favourite brother so far because there is a lot about him that appeals to me when I’m falling for a book boyfriend! I love the tattoos and the whole music side of his personality and I love that under his bad boy image he is just as good a guy as the rest of his brothers. I would say he has the most likeness to his brother Caleb.
Becca is a strong character and is a good match for Ethan. Although she wasn’t always so strong her life experience has moulded her into the girl that she is. I loved that unlike a lot of supporting characters she actually has struggled with the same things as Ethan and I loved how she was able to help him sort through his feelings and cravings.
The story is fast pace from beginning to end. It was a real page turner for me and I had it finished within an hour so definitely an ideal weekend read! This is my favourite of the series so far, five stars!
October 24, 2014
Becca Shore is a recovering heroine junkie. She's also a recovering shop-a-holic, Upper East Side princess, and frequent Page 6 celebutante. At her local Narcotics Anonymous meeting, she is asked to sponsor another recovering heroine junkie Ethan Kelly. Ethan is still reeling from the death of his best friend and bandmate Ty, from a heroine overdose. His band, Ravinia's Rejects is the hottest band on the planet, and he is the most sought after celebrity. But in light of his recent issues, he has disappeared from the public eye.
Neither one feels like they can trust anyone, and stick with the Anonymous part of NA. Until both realize that they are attracted to the other, and since both of them lean on each other to get through the hard times, they realize that they do trust each other. They trust each other enough to let their guards down.
Through Becca's help, Ethan is able to break out of his block and start writing music again. Becca is eager to prove herself as a serious writer, but when she's given an assignment that will expose Ethan, she has two choices, write the expose, or quit her job and go crawling back to her overbearing father, who is also her biggest trigger.
The writing in this book was great, but it felt rushed. There is a reason why NA and AA don't want a recovering addict to start a new relationship before you have been sober for a year. Another rule is that you shouldn't date your sponsor. Yet here, you have two characters who are struggling to make it through the day without turning to drugs to help them make it through the day, and they fall in love.
There are two more books in the series, so I'm looking forward to seeing what Ms. McHugh has up her sleeve for the last two Kelly brothers.
Neither one feels like they can trust anyone, and stick with the Anonymous part of NA. Until both realize that they are attracted to the other, and since both of them lean on each other to get through the hard times, they realize that they do trust each other. They trust each other enough to let their guards down.
Through Becca's help, Ethan is able to break out of his block and start writing music again. Becca is eager to prove herself as a serious writer, but when she's given an assignment that will expose Ethan, she has two choices, write the expose, or quit her job and go crawling back to her overbearing father, who is also her biggest trigger.
The writing in this book was great, but it felt rushed. There is a reason why NA and AA don't want a recovering addict to start a new relationship before you have been sober for a year. Another rule is that you shouldn't date your sponsor. Yet here, you have two characters who are struggling to make it through the day without turning to drugs to help them make it through the day, and they fall in love.
There are two more books in the series, so I'm looking forward to seeing what Ms. McHugh has up her sleeve for the last two Kelly brothers.
August 20, 2014
*I received an advanced copy as a member of Crista's Street Team. Regardless, this is still an honest review.
Oh Ethan and Becca...your story was indeed seductive. I loved the interactions between both characters and the complexities of both of their lives. Typically this is where I would say that this brother is my favorite of the Kelly brothers so far...but sorry, as much as I enjoyed you Ethan, Dan is still my favorite because he's a geek and so I connected to him more. Right now my fondness for the Kelly boys can be ranked as: Dan, Ethan and Caleb, Ben, and Adam. They are all still pretty awesome guys, but obviously each reader will have certain preferences.
Anyway, back to A Seductive Melody. The attraction between the two main characters is fairly obvious right away, and I admire that they held back for a while, both because they needed to as recovering addicts and because that builds a connection that is more than just physical. Of course, considering the nature of Becca's job, I basically figured out what their big falling out would be, but it was still emotional. Becca and Ethan are so supportive of each other and I love that neither of them backs down when they know the other one needs somebody to just get in their face and push them. Also, hey, this is a romance, so let me just say that the first love-making session between the two was pretty awesome. It was interesting to see how the characters were in the bedroom as opposed to their normal dynamic outside of it. I very much enjoyed this book and I am greatly looking forward to Frank and football in the next book. It should be fun.
Oh Ethan and Becca...your story was indeed seductive. I loved the interactions between both characters and the complexities of both of their lives. Typically this is where I would say that this brother is my favorite of the Kelly brothers so far...but sorry, as much as I enjoyed you Ethan, Dan is still my favorite because he's a geek and so I connected to him more. Right now my fondness for the Kelly boys can be ranked as: Dan, Ethan and Caleb, Ben, and Adam. They are all still pretty awesome guys, but obviously each reader will have certain preferences.
Anyway, back to A Seductive Melody. The attraction between the two main characters is fairly obvious right away, and I admire that they held back for a while, both because they needed to as recovering addicts and because that builds a connection that is more than just physical. Of course, considering the nature of Becca's job, I basically figured out what their big falling out would be, but it was still emotional. Becca and Ethan are so supportive of each other and I love that neither of them backs down when they know the other one needs somebody to just get in their face and push them. Also, hey, this is a romance, so let me just say that the first love-making session between the two was pretty awesome. It was interesting to see how the characters were in the bedroom as opposed to their normal dynamic outside of it. I very much enjoyed this book and I am greatly looking forward to Frank and football in the next book. It should be fun.
September 13, 2014
A Seductive Melody by Crista McHugh is the 5th book in her wonderful Kelly Brothers series. I love this series, as each book never fails to make me smile and thoroughly enjoy. A Seductive Melody continues this trend, but it is the best one yet. Crista you have outdone yourself in this book. I loved both Ethan and Becca, as they were the perfect couple. What a sweet beautiful romance.
I had just finished reading a book that was good, but for some reason it dragged on. Not so with A Seductive Melody, as I finished it in a record time, one sitting. It was such a fun, relaxing, enjoyable read, something Crista McHugh continues to give us time after time in this series. The background storyline about two people trying to build their life, after overcoming addiction was very good, and kept my interest throughout.
Becca was a fabulous heroine; beautiful, smart, savvy, strong. Ethan was a swoonworthy rock star, who was trying to get himself clean, after losing his best friend to drugs. Becca is the one who will help Ethan get past his doubts, and together they help each other with their own issues that caused their addictions. It was so sweet to watch them fall in love, as we fell in love with both of them.
Great story, great family, great couple and wonderful book to read. If you have not read the Kelly Brothers series, what are you waiting for.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
I had just finished reading a book that was good, but for some reason it dragged on. Not so with A Seductive Melody, as I finished it in a record time, one sitting. It was such a fun, relaxing, enjoyable read, something Crista McHugh continues to give us time after time in this series. The background storyline about two people trying to build their life, after overcoming addiction was very good, and kept my interest throughout.
Becca was a fabulous heroine; beautiful, smart, savvy, strong. Ethan was a swoonworthy rock star, who was trying to get himself clean, after losing his best friend to drugs. Becca is the one who will help Ethan get past his doubts, and together they help each other with their own issues that caused their addictions. It was so sweet to watch them fall in love, as we fell in love with both of them.
Great story, great family, great couple and wonderful book to read. If you have not read the Kelly Brothers series, what are you waiting for.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
August 18, 2014
ARC Courtesy of Netgalley
This is the 5th book in the Kelly Brothers series and I have to say it is probably my fave one yet.
This is Ethan and Becca's story and even though it deals with the harsh realities of drug addiction, it truly is beautifully told.
Ethan is the lead singer of a popular rock band. When his lead guitarist and best friend dies of a heroin overdose, Ethan realises it is time to get his own life clean and honour his friend. He joins Narcotics Anonymous where he meets Becca. She agrees to be his sponsor until he finds someone else to help him out.
Becca has been clean for almost 3 years now, and her days of a party heiress with nothing better to do are over. She works as a journalist for a women's magazine, determined not to live off her father's money but to make something of herself on her own.
As she helps Ethan battle his demons, these 2 begin to get closer to each other and soon they are uncovering each others secrets, as well as falling in lover.
This is a great 5th instalment to this wonderful series about the Kelly Brothers and if you have not read any of these books, even though they can be read as stand alones, I highly recommend you start from the beginning as each brother and each story is a wonderful experience.
This is the 5th book in the Kelly Brothers series and I have to say it is probably my fave one yet.
This is Ethan and Becca's story and even though it deals with the harsh realities of drug addiction, it truly is beautifully told.
Ethan is the lead singer of a popular rock band. When his lead guitarist and best friend dies of a heroin overdose, Ethan realises it is time to get his own life clean and honour his friend. He joins Narcotics Anonymous where he meets Becca. She agrees to be his sponsor until he finds someone else to help him out.
Becca has been clean for almost 3 years now, and her days of a party heiress with nothing better to do are over. She works as a journalist for a women's magazine, determined not to live off her father's money but to make something of herself on her own.
As she helps Ethan battle his demons, these 2 begin to get closer to each other and soon they are uncovering each others secrets, as well as falling in lover.
This is a great 5th instalment to this wonderful series about the Kelly Brothers and if you have not read any of these books, even though they can be read as stand alones, I highly recommend you start from the beginning as each brother and each story is a wonderful experience.
September 6, 2014
4 Star review
This is the fifth book in McHugh's Kelly Brother series. This time around it is Ethan's turn. Ethan is the rocker brother fresh out of rehab for a heroine addiction. He gets paired up with Becca, a former addict herself. The former Becca reminds me of a Jewish Paris Hilton type of girl but she is completely different now. Initially she had no clue of Ethan's rocker history but eventually figures it out. The dilemma comes when she has to choose between keeping her job or betraying Ethan.
I really loved the first books in the series but lately they are falling a little short. For some reason I just haven't connected with the characters as much as I would have hoped. This time around the relationship seemed a little glossed over and the serious aspect of heroin addiction never came through. Like the other books, the chaos comes near the end of the book which results in a quick resolution to the HEA. I just keep hoping for more at the ending.
Interestingly, Adam continues to be a central secondary figure in this book as well. Although all the brothers and their partners get mentioned, Adam still seems to be the cornerstone figure, not that I mind as I loved Adam's story. I am guessing we will get at least one more story and am hopeful that it will be a good one.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the fifth book in McHugh's Kelly Brother series. This time around it is Ethan's turn. Ethan is the rocker brother fresh out of rehab for a heroine addiction. He gets paired up with Becca, a former addict herself. The former Becca reminds me of a Jewish Paris Hilton type of girl but she is completely different now. Initially she had no clue of Ethan's rocker history but eventually figures it out. The dilemma comes when she has to choose between keeping her job or betraying Ethan.
I really loved the first books in the series but lately they are falling a little short. For some reason I just haven't connected with the characters as much as I would have hoped. This time around the relationship seemed a little glossed over and the serious aspect of heroin addiction never came through. Like the other books, the chaos comes near the end of the book which results in a quick resolution to the HEA. I just keep hoping for more at the ending.
Interestingly, Adam continues to be a central secondary figure in this book as well. Although all the brothers and their partners get mentioned, Adam still seems to be the cornerstone figure, not that I mind as I loved Adam's story. I am guessing we will get at least one more story and am hopeful that it will be a good one.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2015
If you remember the TV show "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" and loved it, then this series is for you. Crista McHugh has given us the Kelly brothers and you will fall in love with each one. This is Ethan's story and the pain he goes through will have you wanting to reach into the book and hug him. But Becca is there to help him. They meet in NA (Narcotics Anonymous) and will help each other from falling off the cliff that will have them back to using. When Ethan finds his BFF Tyler dead from a heroine overdose, it makes him realize that he doesn't want to die. So the only thing he can do is get help. With his Mom and Adam, his oldest brother keeping tabs on him, he wants them to stop treating him like a child but he knows that they are only worried about him. When Becca and Ethan realize they have feelings for each other, will it help or push them over the cliff? And will he believe that she could ever betray him? How can she explain what she really did? If you haven't started this series yet, you need to meet Adam, Ben, Caleb, Dan, Ethan, Frank and Gideon. Each brother is sexy and has different careers that the excel at and when they love, they love hard. I can't wait for Frank and Gideon's stories.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for my honest review**
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for my honest review**
September 12, 2014
A Seductive Melody is the fifth book in The Kelly Brothers series by Crista McHugh. This is the story of Ethan Kelly and Rebecca Shore. Ethan is a musician who has just lost his best friend to a heroin overdose. He’s an addict as well and has just come out of detox. While attending his first Narcotics Anonymous meeting, he’s introduced to Becca who is also a recovering addict. She has agreed to be his temporary sponsor. Becca has her own deep issues that resulted in her addiction. Their relationship is two-fold as she helps him learn to trust and deal with his friend’s loss. He’s regains his desire to write and sing his music while Ethan helps her re-establish a relationship with her family. There are several twists and turns as they both deal with their careers. Crista McHugh had me hooked from the first page as I was drawn into Ethan and Rebecca’s back stories. I couldn’t put it down and read it in one sitting. This was a fabulous book and I can’t wait to read the next installment in The Kelly Brothers series. I would like to disclose that I received an advanced copy of A Seductive Melody in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 15, 2014
When I first started reading A Seductive Melody by Crista McHugh, I must admit that I thought she has finally written a book that I will not like. I could not have been more wrong! Yes, the two main characters are in a situation with substance abuse by their own doing and admission, but Ms. McHugh handles their recovery and continued recovering progress in a no-nonsense, sympathetic way. I became invested in both of them getting their lives clean and staying happily that way. Now A Seductive Melody is a favorite book that she has written.
The characters are flawed but extremely lovable. I felt myself pulling for talented Ethan as he finds his true muse. Also, for Becca as she continues to work out her life under her terms and not her father’s disapproval thumb. Loved that they were able to love and strengthen each other.
A Seductive Melody is such a wonderful different take on the rocker’s world. It is a must read for those who would like a candid romance involving characters who are struggling and winning against their demons.
Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
The characters are flawed but extremely lovable. I felt myself pulling for talented Ethan as he finds his true muse. Also, for Becca as she continues to work out her life under her terms and not her father’s disapproval thumb. Loved that they were able to love and strengthen each other.
A Seductive Melody is such a wonderful different take on the rocker’s world. It is a must read for those who would like a candid romance involving characters who are struggling and winning against their demons.
Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
September 24, 2014
If you haven't started reading the Kelly Brothers series by Crista McHugh stop whatever you are doing and start now. This is one family you don't want want to miss spending time with. A Seductive Melody brings a little rock star romance to this series. Ethan is recovering from losing his friend and fighting to overcome his own addiction and to try to stay out of the public eye as much as possible. Becca has never felt good enough, always trying to be the daughter her parents wanted drove her to drugs as well. She has overcome her addiction and now she vows to help Ethan as well. Neither of them in this stage of their recovery really needs to be looking for a relationship, but sometimes love doesn't follow the rules and it happens on its own time. Will Becca sell out Ethan and risk sabotaging his recovery in order to get the story she needs to launch her new career? You MUST read this book to find out.
I gave A Seductive Melody 5 Stars! I love this book and this series and can't wait for more from Crista McHugh!
Note: I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, as always any views expressed here are my own.
I gave A Seductive Melody 5 Stars! I love this book and this series and can't wait for more from Crista McHugh!
Note: I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, as always any views expressed here are my own.
August 22, 2014
I have to say I have read all of the books featuring the Kelly brothers so far. The books can be read as stand-alone novels but it is probably better to read all of the series. So far each of the Kelly brothers have been very successful in their field. While this is also true of Ethan, he is also trying to rebuild his life and fight an addiction to heroine. Battling a substance abuse problem is hard enough to deal with but he must also do so while avoiding the media, so Ethan is trying to stay in the shadows, which is hard to do when you are a famous rock star. Becca Shore is the perfect person to help him. She too is battling her addiction and notoriety as a rich party girl. Both want more from their lives than drugs and together they just might get it.
While this book dealt with a serious issue, it didn't get too heavy. It was still a very enjoyable contemporary romance that was a great addition to the series. Looking forward to the next brother's story! For me, just seeing Crista McHugh's name on a book means it will be a great read.
While this book dealt with a serious issue, it didn't get too heavy. It was still a very enjoyable contemporary romance that was a great addition to the series. Looking forward to the next brother's story! For me, just seeing Crista McHugh's name on a book means it will be a great read.
August 22, 2014
*I will try not to include spoilers.
A Seductive Melody by Crista McHugh
Ethan Kelly is a musician who lost his band mate and best friend Tyler Bransford, to a heroin overdose. Losing Tyler was a fierce wake up call to get clean. While attending a Narcotics Anonymous meeting he notices a beautiful woman trying to line him up.
Becca Shore is former addict who has been clean for several years. She not only understands the struggles of recovery from heroin, she also understands his desire to remain in hiding from the public eye. So, when asked to be his temporary sponsor until he finds his own she agrees.
Neither Ethan nor Becca are given information about each others high profile status. What started out as Becca helping Ethan, turns into them being each others rock in more ways than one.
I LOVED this book! The story line was the perfect blend of passion and realism.
Crista McHugh is one of my newly found favorite authors.
*Checkout and follow my blog:
http://wicked-blogs.blogspot.com
A Seductive Melody by Crista McHugh
Ethan Kelly is a musician who lost his band mate and best friend Tyler Bransford, to a heroin overdose. Losing Tyler was a fierce wake up call to get clean. While attending a Narcotics Anonymous meeting he notices a beautiful woman trying to line him up.
Becca Shore is former addict who has been clean for several years. She not only understands the struggles of recovery from heroin, she also understands his desire to remain in hiding from the public eye. So, when asked to be his temporary sponsor until he finds his own she agrees.
Neither Ethan nor Becca are given information about each others high profile status. What started out as Becca helping Ethan, turns into them being each others rock in more ways than one.
I LOVED this book! The story line was the perfect blend of passion and realism.
Crista McHugh is one of my newly found favorite authors.
*Checkout and follow my blog:
http://wicked-blogs.blogspot.com
September 12, 2014
Ethan Kelly is in crisis. His best friend and bandmate died from an overdose. He needs to clean up his own life. Then he meets Rebecca Stone who has known the same pain and is helping him fight his demons. They are attracted and it's explosive. They become involved which causes more tension. Can they help each other? Crista McHugh has written a powerful story of two people who are trying to overcome their addiction. Ethan is hurting. He lost his anchor. Now he needs to stand strong against powerful devils. I watch him struggle, learn to trust and finally give his heart. Becca is fighting to find a purpose in her life. She's cleaned up her life but she is still wounded by her father's attitude. I loved seeing them fall in love and turn to each other. This story touched my heart. These characters are flawed just like we all are, but they didn't give up. This is a worthy addition to the Kelly Brothers series. I couldn't put this book down. A Seductive Melody is a superior story by a talented author.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
August 22, 2014
4 1/2 stars. So far my favorite in the series
Ethan has hit rock bottom. He was the one who found his bestfriend with a needle in his arm, and he is determined not to go down the same path. Becca understands Ethan and his future struggles more than he knows.
Becca is a very strong character and by the end of the book I really admired her for the stand she took in her life. Ethan is one of seven incredible brothers. He stumbles but has the determination to get better. He is a caring soul and has a protective streak. I personally adored a speech he gave to Becca's father on Thanksgiving.
The plot was simple and more about Becca for me than Ethan. I enjoyed the few looks we got at the Kelly family. There was some confusion for me as to the time line as I think this book and the previous one about Dan seemed to have been done in parallel.
I enjoyed this soo much - I am looking forward to the next.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
Ethan has hit rock bottom. He was the one who found his bestfriend with a needle in his arm, and he is determined not to go down the same path. Becca understands Ethan and his future struggles more than he knows.
Becca is a very strong character and by the end of the book I really admired her for the stand she took in her life. Ethan is one of seven incredible brothers. He stumbles but has the determination to get better. He is a caring soul and has a protective streak. I personally adored a speech he gave to Becca's father on Thanksgiving.
The plot was simple and more about Becca for me than Ethan. I enjoyed the few looks we got at the Kelly family. There was some confusion for me as to the time line as I think this book and the previous one about Dan seemed to have been done in parallel.
I enjoyed this soo much - I am looking forward to the next.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
August 21, 2014
Firstly, I love this series. Seven Brides for Seven Brothers was one of my favourite movie musicals when I was a kid (I had a tiny bit of a crush on Russ Tamblyn playing Gideon) so the fact that someone thought to write a series based on the 7 brothers...? Inspired! Which is also why I am ecstatic to have received an advance copy so I can write this review.
Ethan's story is a tough one. He's grieving and dealing with his (many) demons when he meets Becca at an NA meeting. They both have their issues but they also understand each other's problems as they are/have been there themselves.
The chemistry between the H/h is palpable and, even though there are some "will they...won't they" moments, you know that they have what it takes. Even when they doubt each other they know the truth deep down.
I'm really looking forward to reading the rest in this series (especially Gideon...you already know why)!
Ethan's story is a tough one. He's grieving and dealing with his (many) demons when he meets Becca at an NA meeting. They both have their issues but they also understand each other's problems as they are/have been there themselves.
The chemistry between the H/h is palpable and, even though there are some "will they...won't they" moments, you know that they have what it takes. Even when they doubt each other they know the truth deep down.
I'm really looking forward to reading the rest in this series (especially Gideon...you already know why)!
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