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Concerto Amour #1
Forbidden Melody
Emma Harvey is a brilliant and gifted young pianist, accepted into one of the most prestigious music conservatories in the country and prepared to do whatever it takes to accomplish her dreams of playing professionally. With a renowned jazz musician for a father and a world-famous mentor growing up, she is convinced her path is easy. Until her world is suddenly silenced when she loses her hearing.
Juliet Hamilton is a prodigy violinist. First chair for nearly fifteen years in the New York Philharmonic and a professor at the conservatory, she is engulfed in her career with no time for distractions. Especially not a beautiful young graduate student with a spirited personality that challenges her every step.
When Emma and Juliet’s paths cross in the classroom, their connection is undeniable. When their music comes together, it is unstoppable. The bond they begin to form threatens to challenge more than just their opinions of music. Friendships, ethics, and careers are tested as Emma and Juliet find themselves lost in a concerto of fiery passion and heartbreak.
105,000 words
Juliet Hamilton is a prodigy violinist. First chair for nearly fifteen years in the New York Philharmonic and a professor at the conservatory, she is engulfed in her career with no time for distractions. Especially not a beautiful young graduate student with a spirited personality that challenges her every step.
When Emma and Juliet’s paths cross in the classroom, their connection is undeniable. When their music comes together, it is unstoppable. The bond they begin to form threatens to challenge more than just their opinions of music. Friendships, ethics, and careers are tested as Emma and Juliet find themselves lost in a concerto of fiery passion and heartbreak.
105,000 words
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2018
248 people are currently reading
947 people want to read
About the author
Magnolia Robbins
19 books120 followersMaggie is a bestselling queer romance author from the west coast. When she isn't writing, you'll almost always find a cup of coffee in her hands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
December 10, 2018
Okay read!
Way too much detail about music plus it's importance in the Philharmonic and other musical stage industry -- okay relationship,friendship and romantic storyline.
2.5stars!
Way too much detail about music plus it's importance in the Philharmonic and other musical stage industry -- okay relationship,friendship and romantic storyline.
2.5stars!
January 22, 2019
This book deserves all the attention it's getting, it is one of the best romance out there, it should be read by anyone who loves love. The playlist generously supplied by Ms.Robbins would be a great company when you read this instead of the background sound from the TV. Thank you Kara, for the info on the Forbidden Melody's playlist on Spotify. When I read this, I didn't think of Spotify, YouTube was my search engine. I rated it 4 at first, due to Juliet's father but every great romance needed a villain so 5 stars allocated by Goodreads and all the stars in the galaxy for the story and the music. Ms.Robbins, thank you for this extraordinary book.
I think this is my first forbidden romance read in Lesfic. Okay you know the blurb, now let me try my best to wave my magic wand and tell you why I have mix feelings about this story. Emma Harvey is a natural born musician, she's diagnosed with a disease that causes her to loose her hearing but that does not stop Emma to soar higher than the others. I admire her character, she is strong, determine, talented, swoony and despite being younger she's much more confident in pursuing the forbidden relationship with Juliet Hamilton.
Juliet Hamilton, another brilliant musician, a violinist. Her father is an original asshole and have been controlling her life since forever. Through him Juliet and Emma meet and from the first meeting, the spark is there and the anticipation gets bigger and bigger as they connect through their love in music and the uncontrollable attraction that they have for each other. Reading their scenes especially when they're playing their instruments where they bare their souls and connect through the music is truly amazing. I'll let Ms.Robbins describe it.
"It was almost as if we were the only two people, in a room of nearly a hundred, playing together. Just a piano and a violin. Two instruments that were meant to be heard together."
I'm running out of ideas, read this book. It's available on KU and only USD5 if you're curious.
I think this is my first forbidden romance read in Lesfic. Okay you know the blurb, now let me try my best to wave my magic wand and tell you why I have mix feelings about this story. Emma Harvey is a natural born musician, she's diagnosed with a disease that causes her to loose her hearing but that does not stop Emma to soar higher than the others. I admire her character, she is strong, determine, talented, swoony and despite being younger she's much more confident in pursuing the forbidden relationship with Juliet Hamilton.
Juliet Hamilton, another brilliant musician, a violinist. Her father is an original asshole and have been controlling her life since forever. Through him Juliet and Emma meet and from the first meeting, the spark is there and the anticipation gets bigger and bigger as they connect through their love in music and the uncontrollable attraction that they have for each other. Reading their scenes especially when they're playing their instruments where they bare their souls and connect through the music is truly amazing. I'll let Ms.Robbins describe it.
"It was almost as if we were the only two people, in a room of nearly a hundred, playing together. Just a piano and a violin. Two instruments that were meant to be heard together."
I'm running out of ideas, read this book. It's available on KU and only USD5 if you're curious.
January 20, 2019
Second Read
I liked it better the second time around.
But this time I felt that some of the descriptions of music at the philharmonic and a sex scene could have been cut down a bit to help the story flow better in those spots.
---------------
I am in love
So, I read this. I may be ruined for books going forward.
Magnolia Robbins, who even ARE you? Why am I married? Why haven't we met and fallen for each other? :)
Music and words and feelings. This was everything. The way emotion was demonstrated through movement and measures and songs and looks and... Let's just say that I felt it.
Also, the recommendation to listen to the music associated with each chapter really added to the experience as promised. I have never ventured into classical listening before. But I will be now.
Ok, so Juliet is one of the best violinists in the world and plays for the philharmonic in NYC. Her big influential father owns her. Makes her teach at the Bard. Enter Emma who auditions for the Bard. They don't quite start off on the right foot. The rest is musical romantic genius and I will never be OK again.
May not be everyone's cup of tea if you are the type that can't feel music and don't understand that music is the soundtrack of our lives.
But if you are like me and physically ache and get moved by music, then you will enjoy this.
I liked it better the second time around.
But this time I felt that some of the descriptions of music at the philharmonic and a sex scene could have been cut down a bit to help the story flow better in those spots.
---------------
I am in love
So, I read this. I may be ruined for books going forward.
Magnolia Robbins, who even ARE you? Why am I married? Why haven't we met and fallen for each other? :)
Music and words and feelings. This was everything. The way emotion was demonstrated through movement and measures and songs and looks and... Let's just say that I felt it.
Also, the recommendation to listen to the music associated with each chapter really added to the experience as promised. I have never ventured into classical listening before. But I will be now.
Ok, so Juliet is one of the best violinists in the world and plays for the philharmonic in NYC. Her big influential father owns her. Makes her teach at the Bard. Enter Emma who auditions for the Bard. They don't quite start off on the right foot. The rest is musical romantic genius and I will never be OK again.
May not be everyone's cup of tea if you are the type that can't feel music and don't understand that music is the soundtrack of our lives.
But if you are like me and physically ache and get moved by music, then you will enjoy this.
May 5, 2021
This was fantastic ! And in case you haven't caught the blurb, it's the professor / student trope.
I have no idea why I haven’t heard of this book before. This was so good, I couldn’t put it down. The professor / student trope appeals to me so I knew I was going to like it before I even cracked open my kindle but I didn’t expect to feel this crazy about it. Especially since both characters are music prodigies and I know next to nothing about music.
And yet my body tingles...
The way music was used to convey unspoken feelings was, I admit, fascinating and the push-pull between the characters generated a certain chemistry that was... oh my, entirely off-the-charts.
When it comes to stories like these, I tend to gravitate towards the older, more mature character because that’s how I like them, but I found myself liking the younger Emma even more. She’s a hearing-impaired graduate music student living on a limited stipend. But not once had she allowed any of it to hold her back. She’s feisty, independent and she has pride. And she can hold her own against the older, arrogant music professor, Juliet so they are equals in that sense. Not once had her disability felt like a disability. Juliet plays an equal part in this normalcy too and I love how Juliet fits right into Emma’s world where even signing is second nature to her.
I was less pleased with Juliet who seems consistently fixated on fixing problems but failing miserably. And I hate how much of a hold her father had over her and how she couldn’t break out of it, which was disappointing. But it wasn't enough to turn me away.
I love this so much. I really do. Robbins surprised me with this one.
I have no idea why I haven’t heard of this book before. This was so good, I couldn’t put it down. The professor / student trope appeals to me so I knew I was going to like it before I even cracked open my kindle but I didn’t expect to feel this crazy about it. Especially since both characters are music prodigies and I know next to nothing about music.
And yet my body tingles...
The way music was used to convey unspoken feelings was, I admit, fascinating and the push-pull between the characters generated a certain chemistry that was... oh my, entirely off-the-charts.
When it comes to stories like these, I tend to gravitate towards the older, more mature character because that’s how I like them, but I found myself liking the younger Emma even more. She’s a hearing-impaired graduate music student living on a limited stipend. But not once had she allowed any of it to hold her back. She’s feisty, independent and she has pride. And she can hold her own against the older, arrogant music professor, Juliet so they are equals in that sense. Not once had her disability felt like a disability. Juliet plays an equal part in this normalcy too and I love how Juliet fits right into Emma’s world where even signing is second nature to her.
I was less pleased with Juliet who seems consistently fixated on fixing problems but failing miserably. And I hate how much of a hold her father had over her and how she couldn’t break out of it, which was disappointing. But it wasn't enough to turn me away.
I love this so much. I really do. Robbins surprised me with this one.
April 17, 2021
Review of Forbidden Melody by Magnolia Robbins, Audiobook narrated by Joan Dukore
This book was right up my street. I’ve been hearing great things about this novel for a while and I’m glad that I’ve decided to listen to the audiobook as I’ve absolutely loved it.
Emma Harvey is a gifted deaf pianist studying in one of the most prestigious conservatories in the US. Juliette Hamilton is the first chair at the NY Philharmonic and professor at that conservatory. Soon both women discover that they are outstanding at creating music together and that their connection goes beyond music to ignite an unstoppable passion.
There are many lesfic books about musicians but not many of them have such emphasis on the music itself. That’s what made Forbidden Melody
a fantastic listening experience in more ways than one. Each chapter of this book starts with a list of musical works that are related to the chapter’s content. I strongly suggest that you listen to them, at least excerpts as they are very related to the story. It will make your reading experience so much richer and complete. If you can’t be bothered with so much music, at least listen to Elgar’s Salut d’Amour (love letter). It’s short, beautiful, and describes Emma and Juliette’s relationship perfectly.
Some readers mentioned that this book has too many music descriptions. I don’t personally agree with that but be warned that I have a postgraduate degree in music so what’s heaven for me might be hell for others. Admittedly, the book is quite long (possibly started as fanfic) and it could have benefitted from deleting some scenes, music-related and not. However, if you are a classical music or jazz enthusiast I’m sure that you will enjoy it immensely.
Both main characters are fleshed out beautifully and their chemistry together is epic. Ms. Robbins describes both their musical and personal connection with incredible depth. As a matter of fact, all the descriptions are very photographic, so much so that the reader (or listener) can see the story develop in their mind’s eye.
This is the first audiobook that I’ve listened to by voice actor Joan Dukore who doesn’t seem to have narrated much lesfic. It’s a pity because she did a fantastic job with both diversity of voices and range of emotions. My only minor complaint is her subpar pronunciation of foreign language terms (which are a lot in music), especially French. However, the rest was flawlessly executed. It made the whole listening experience much richer. 5 stars.
Length: 11 hrs and 36 mins
This book was right up my street. I’ve been hearing great things about this novel for a while and I’m glad that I’ve decided to listen to the audiobook as I’ve absolutely loved it.
Emma Harvey is a gifted deaf pianist studying in one of the most prestigious conservatories in the US. Juliette Hamilton is the first chair at the NY Philharmonic and professor at that conservatory. Soon both women discover that they are outstanding at creating music together and that their connection goes beyond music to ignite an unstoppable passion.
There are many lesfic books about musicians but not many of them have such emphasis on the music itself. That’s what made Forbidden Melody
a fantastic listening experience in more ways than one. Each chapter of this book starts with a list of musical works that are related to the chapter’s content. I strongly suggest that you listen to them, at least excerpts as they are very related to the story. It will make your reading experience so much richer and complete. If you can’t be bothered with so much music, at least listen to Elgar’s Salut d’Amour (love letter). It’s short, beautiful, and describes Emma and Juliette’s relationship perfectly.
Some readers mentioned that this book has too many music descriptions. I don’t personally agree with that but be warned that I have a postgraduate degree in music so what’s heaven for me might be hell for others. Admittedly, the book is quite long (possibly started as fanfic) and it could have benefitted from deleting some scenes, music-related and not. However, if you are a classical music or jazz enthusiast I’m sure that you will enjoy it immensely.
Both main characters are fleshed out beautifully and their chemistry together is epic. Ms. Robbins describes both their musical and personal connection with incredible depth. As a matter of fact, all the descriptions are very photographic, so much so that the reader (or listener) can see the story develop in their mind’s eye.
This is the first audiobook that I’ve listened to by voice actor Joan Dukore who doesn’t seem to have narrated much lesfic. It’s a pity because she did a fantastic job with both diversity of voices and range of emotions. My only minor complaint is her subpar pronunciation of foreign language terms (which are a lot in music), especially French. However, the rest was flawlessly executed. It made the whole listening experience much richer. 5 stars.
Length: 11 hrs and 36 mins
May 10, 2019
I was literally gobsmacked after reading Magnolia Robbins' "Forbidden Melody." Still am, tbh! Still reeling after days of contemplation, pondering and reflecting. Thanks to a rec from Ms. Aten c/o TLR (cheers, K!), and a ringing endorsement from a GR mate (cheers, Bethany!), I have finally found a story in lesfic that was written in the essence, spirit and rhythm of music vibrating behind each and every word crafted in its literary language as it flowed through every page. Having music...classical music, to be exact, so ingrained in me since childhood, aurally and practically, its mere sound is like blood flowing through my veins. Yes, in that deep, I am. And being an avid lesfic reader, I always wish there were one special story that meshed effortlessly its literary words with the beauty of classical music used as a conduit to its content, purpose and significance of its characters. My wish finally came true (and then some!) with this staggeringly arresting, hauntingly evocative, breathtakingly intoxicating, hypnotically all-consuming forbidden love story between two musical prodigies that not only Robbins masterfully weaved, she further epitomised it with a playlist of classical masterpieces that breathed life to every emotion, every nuance, every feeling that she skilfully distinguished in her two star-crossed souls.
A tour de force. Truly unforgettable. For me.
Full commentary here.... In Bugs' Own Words
A tour de force. Truly unforgettable. For me.
Full commentary here.... In Bugs' Own Words
July 9, 2018
So many wonderful points to make about this book. It’s the kind of writing that makes you want to read and re-read again and again to savor every moment. A young graduate student and her much older professor fall in love, getting all kinds of grief over the obvious violation of ethics on the part of the teacher. The author takes her time and delicately weaves a profound story of friendship and human connection that is just too sweet and tender to believe. There’s fire and passion as their romance builds, but it’s never overdone. The subtleties are beautiful—the tiniest of gestures between Emma and Juliet, the specific pieces of music (please listen to them on your headphones while you’re reading each chapter because...well, you’ll see), the sense of place. I read Forbidden Melody off of Kindle Unlimited but I’m buying a physical copy because this one is for my shelves and although I’ve never been a fan of classical music, I think this book just opened a door for me.
July 10, 2018
This was a pleasant surprise for me. I had never heard of this author before but figured "what the heck, it's free on KU." Whenever I'm in need of a nice beachy romance, i'm looking this author up. And why not, most of her books are on KU, so makes sense to "buy" them.
The premise was the oft used teacher/student trope which apparently I have yet to get sick of. Emma is a prodigy like pianist, doing her graduate work at the Bard Conservatory where Juliet is a music instructor and world renown violinist. Cue the fiery sparks and push/pull relationship and we are off to the page turning races.
Extremely well written, likable/thoroughly developed characters, and hoochie mama sex scenes. What else do you need out of a romance book? And did I mention it's FREE FREE FREE FREE. Frankly, after spending $9-$10 recently on some "meh" books, it was nice to get a free one that was really quite good.
P.S. you will feel the urge to download much classical music after reading this one.
The premise was the oft used teacher/student trope which apparently I have yet to get sick of. Emma is a prodigy like pianist, doing her graduate work at the Bard Conservatory where Juliet is a music instructor and world renown violinist. Cue the fiery sparks and push/pull relationship and we are off to the page turning races.
Extremely well written, likable/thoroughly developed characters, and hoochie mama sex scenes. What else do you need out of a romance book? And did I mention it's FREE FREE FREE FREE. Frankly, after spending $9-$10 recently on some "meh" books, it was nice to get a free one that was really quite good.
P.S. you will feel the urge to download much classical music after reading this one.
December 8, 2018
As this is the first time I hear or read this author, I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. So for me it’s a solid 4.
The reason why it’s not 3: oh god how I loved the connection between those 2 characters! You could really feel the love!
Reason why it’s not 5: too much music details for me. Could’ve been a bit shorter..
The reason why it’s not 3: oh god how I loved the connection between those 2 characters! You could really feel the love!
Reason why it’s not 5: too much music details for me. Could’ve been a bit shorter..
March 17, 2020
This book makes me want to lock myself in a dark room, listen to classical music and cry for like a week, in other words, I loved it, it was amazing, incredible, fantastic, wonderful, A WORK OF ART.
June 25, 2018
4.25
I love a good romance that features music or prodigies and with this book I got both.
Magnolia Robbin’s descriptions of the songs and their motion, as well as the way the two characters played together really painted a picture in my mind. Some of the songs I recognized, having heard them before or even currently own. There were others that the author painted so well in my head that I was forced to search for the music online so I could listen. I also liked that the author really went into detail to explain what the music would “feel” like to someone who is deaf. It gives you a lot of insight to an entirely new world of perceptions when one sense is lost.
I did like the characters despite my usual dislike of people doing something illicit that they “just can’t help”. I thought Emma was sweet and fiery and I loved that she wasn’t afraid to buck tradition when she played her music, adding embellishments and making the beloved pieces solely her own. I did think she was a little immature in her approach and to the situation, but then I had to remember the age gap between them. Juliet is about 15 or 16 years older than Emma, and about as reserved as the younger woman is fiery. And while they may come across as opposites on so many levels, the music they play together is beautiful.
Robbin’s has an easy to read style with steady pacing throughout the book. The chapters are written in first person, alternating every other one between Juliet and Emma. There is the occasional slight bit of overlap between chapters but it almost seemed as though those moments were overlapped by the author on purpose to really highlight the importance of those particular scenes.
I did find a few small editing mistakes while reading the novel but the majority of what I didn't care for about the novel were personal preference items. I'm not typically a fan of age gap romance, nor am I a fan of illicit affairs between students and instructors. Despite that I found this novel to be a thoroughly engaging read and well worth my time. The way the author writes not just the character’s emotions but the music itself really sold me on the entire thing. Well done!
This ARC was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
I love a good romance that features music or prodigies and with this book I got both.
Magnolia Robbin’s descriptions of the songs and their motion, as well as the way the two characters played together really painted a picture in my mind. Some of the songs I recognized, having heard them before or even currently own. There were others that the author painted so well in my head that I was forced to search for the music online so I could listen. I also liked that the author really went into detail to explain what the music would “feel” like to someone who is deaf. It gives you a lot of insight to an entirely new world of perceptions when one sense is lost.
I did like the characters despite my usual dislike of people doing something illicit that they “just can’t help”. I thought Emma was sweet and fiery and I loved that she wasn’t afraid to buck tradition when she played her music, adding embellishments and making the beloved pieces solely her own. I did think she was a little immature in her approach and to the situation, but then I had to remember the age gap between them. Juliet is about 15 or 16 years older than Emma, and about as reserved as the younger woman is fiery. And while they may come across as opposites on so many levels, the music they play together is beautiful.
Robbin’s has an easy to read style with steady pacing throughout the book. The chapters are written in first person, alternating every other one between Juliet and Emma. There is the occasional slight bit of overlap between chapters but it almost seemed as though those moments were overlapped by the author on purpose to really highlight the importance of those particular scenes.
I did find a few small editing mistakes while reading the novel but the majority of what I didn't care for about the novel were personal preference items. I'm not typically a fan of age gap romance, nor am I a fan of illicit affairs between students and instructors. Despite that I found this novel to be a thoroughly engaging read and well worth my time. The way the author writes not just the character’s emotions but the music itself really sold me on the entire thing. Well done!
This ARC was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2019
Very well written with lovable characters. This has the potential to become a go-to comfort read for me. Music is front and center, carrying the plot forward, and I appreciated the list of pieces at the beginning of each chapter. In some cases, I stopped to pull them up and listen to them. It was a lovely reading experience. I'm only sorry I didn't start reading this book the first day I put it on my 'up-next' shelf.
December 9, 2018
This is the beautiful story of Emma, a gifted, deaf young pianist and Juliet a violin prodigy turned NY philharmonic lead and conservatoire professor, who becomes Emma's teacher. Juliet is completely focussed on her music, to the exclusion of everything else in her life. She is not a people person, or it seems, particularly interested in teaching. Her parents own the conservatory where she works as a professor and her father rules her life completely and without love. Emma, the deaf prodigy, challenges everything in Juliet's life, and they have a deep connection from when they first meet. Their growing love plays out in the music they make together, and it is a love that you can see (or hear) growing, rather than being told about it. I am not sure that they actually ever talk about their love. It is there. A thing. Something real and tangible that neither of them can live without. But unless Juliet can finally free herself from the dominance of her father and realise that there is more to life than music, they are doomed to a life of misery apart.
I loved this book. It had me captivated from the start and it still resonates with me some hours after I finished reading it. Is it perfect? Nope. But I think it is a measure of the brilliance of the story telling when things that would normally drive you up the wall, don't register as a big bother. Here, it starts off with a few odd uses of words (including nevertheless) and has a few typos and grammatical errors. I didn't knock off any stars for that, because I would not enjoy a book just for the perfect spelling or grammar. I am also unconvinced that you really get cases of Ehler Danos syndrome leading to complete deafness as experienced by Emma (it can cause hearing impairments) in the absence of a single other symptom relating to the syndrome. Again, I didn't knock off any stars for that, although it would usually annoy me. I did very nearly knock off a star for the repeated and unrepentant use of ... moist...... in otherwise quite sexy scenes.
The story - and part of the conflict and angst - revolves around the frowned upon student/ professor relationship. I am not usually a big fan of this plot line. As a professor, I find this usually really...icky. And, frankly, students having a crush is weirdly awkward, rather than any kind of wonderful. In this instance though we have a graduate student and a professor who seem much more like equals and there is nothing weird about this relationship, even though it is against the rules of the conservatoire.
The love that plays out though music is beautiful. The pieces they play together are described vividly and you can almost hear them being played. I love classical music, so this really spoke to me. I haven't the faintest idea whether a deaf pianist really could play so beautifully. But within the narrative I was entirely willing to believe it.
I think I was gushing here, but it really is a beautiful story. Told from both MCs point of view. With love that you can believe and that sings.
I loved this book. It had me captivated from the start and it still resonates with me some hours after I finished reading it. Is it perfect? Nope. But I think it is a measure of the brilliance of the story telling when things that would normally drive you up the wall, don't register as a big bother. Here, it starts off with a few odd uses of words (including nevertheless) and has a few typos and grammatical errors. I didn't knock off any stars for that, because I would not enjoy a book just for the perfect spelling or grammar. I am also unconvinced that you really get cases of Ehler Danos syndrome leading to complete deafness as experienced by Emma (it can cause hearing impairments) in the absence of a single other symptom relating to the syndrome. Again, I didn't knock off any stars for that, although it would usually annoy me. I did very nearly knock off a star for the repeated and unrepentant use of ... moist...... in otherwise quite sexy scenes.
The story - and part of the conflict and angst - revolves around the frowned upon student/ professor relationship. I am not usually a big fan of this plot line. As a professor, I find this usually really...icky. And, frankly, students having a crush is weirdly awkward, rather than any kind of wonderful. In this instance though we have a graduate student and a professor who seem much more like equals and there is nothing weird about this relationship, even though it is against the rules of the conservatoire.
The love that plays out though music is beautiful. The pieces they play together are described vividly and you can almost hear them being played. I love classical music, so this really spoke to me. I haven't the faintest idea whether a deaf pianist really could play so beautifully. But within the narrative I was entirely willing to believe it.
I think I was gushing here, but it really is a beautiful story. Told from both MCs point of view. With love that you can believe and that sings.
June 16, 2018
A beautiful romantic love story that will have you captivated to the end!
I don’t know how one person can write so many beautiful books on so many wide ranging subjects.The way she intertwines the chosen music and conveys the passion all musicians need too perform is unbelievable,I know quote a lot of the pieces in the book and the descriptions are so perfect I can hear them in my mind.The story is a rollercoaster of emotions love,longing and heartbreak as well as some very erotic love scenes.Another couple of late nights to finish but WELL WORTH IT.Congratulations!! Again Magnolia on another great storyXX
I don’t know how one person can write so many beautiful books on so many wide ranging subjects.The way she intertwines the chosen music and conveys the passion all musicians need too perform is unbelievable,I know quote a lot of the pieces in the book and the descriptions are so perfect I can hear them in my mind.The story is a rollercoaster of emotions love,longing and heartbreak as well as some very erotic love scenes.Another couple of late nights to finish but WELL WORTH IT.Congratulations!! Again Magnolia on another great storyXX
September 29, 2019
5 Stars
I am late to this party and oh my goddess, no wonder you all were raving about this book. It is exceptional. It's been a while since a story has touched me so profoundly. What a journey.
Firstly, I must compliment Magnolia Robbins on her phenomenal writing skills. I was completely immersed in the story from the first page and profoundly invested in characters. At times the writing was almost poetic. I came into this book with high expectations and it sure delivered.
Now the story itself was also fantastic. The romance between a world renowned violinist/college professor and her deaf student created so much tension for potential heartbreak. Their shared love of music danced across every page. With both their careers at stake it left me on the edge of my seat and rooting for their happy end.
Those of you who recommended this story insisted that I listen to the soundtrack as I read. You all were correct once again. It's one thing to read words on a page, but another to experience a story with music. It created a visceral reaction within me that left me reeling for days. The music elicited the same emotions as the characters, so I was feeling what they were feeling. It made the book more real, more tangible. Robbins did a wonderful job choosing the music to accompany the story.
I must thank the specific people who insisted I read this. So thanks Jules, Bugs, Tere, and F/F Fiction for the push I needed to begin.
If you haven't read this story I suggest you start right now.
I am late to this party and oh my goddess, no wonder you all were raving about this book. It is exceptional. It's been a while since a story has touched me so profoundly. What a journey.
Firstly, I must compliment Magnolia Robbins on her phenomenal writing skills. I was completely immersed in the story from the first page and profoundly invested in characters. At times the writing was almost poetic. I came into this book with high expectations and it sure delivered.
Now the story itself was also fantastic. The romance between a world renowned violinist/college professor and her deaf student created so much tension for potential heartbreak. Their shared love of music danced across every page. With both their careers at stake it left me on the edge of my seat and rooting for their happy end.
Those of you who recommended this story insisted that I listen to the soundtrack as I read. You all were correct once again. It's one thing to read words on a page, but another to experience a story with music. It created a visceral reaction within me that left me reeling for days. The music elicited the same emotions as the characters, so I was feeling what they were feeling. It made the book more real, more tangible. Robbins did a wonderful job choosing the music to accompany the story.
I must thank the specific people who insisted I read this. So thanks Jules, Bugs, Tere, and F/F Fiction for the push I needed to begin.
If you haven't read this story I suggest you start right now.
September 11, 2018
This book is by far the best that Robbins has written. I loved the music portion and listened to a good number of the songs which further enhanced the reading experience. I also liked Juliet; for some reason I enjoy these somewhat bitchy, aloof characters who end up being softies on the inside. Great read.
August 24, 2021
A forbidden age-gap love affair between a professor/prodigy violinist Juliet Hamilton and student/gifted pianist Emma Harvey. The love affair which Juliet’s father is so against right from the start till the very end. Frederick Hamilton had Juliet wrapped around his finger just because he is a selfish old man who wanted something that he can’t have and didn’t deserve. I thought Forbidden Melody will be an easy read with some angst along the way. How hard can it be right? I thought wrong. There’s just so much to feel in FM, so many emotions involved. The music set the tone for the story; passionate, emotional, heartbreaking, romantic, and longing.
Me getting emotional is entirely my fault. Now, I’m not a classical enthusiast but I do have my moments and do listen to those haunting melodies every once in a while. I insisted on looking up the playlist in FM. Big mistake… cos I ended up feeling way too much and had to use one tissue too many.
Other songs came to mind when I read FM:
At 36%, I was thinking of Kiss the Rain https://youtu.be/XLOq-FRj9A4
At 75%, Love story came to mind https://youtu.be/XA6WSrazyRs. Nothing tragic in FM but it was just as sad
That’s just my 2-cents worth, I really enjoyed Forbidden Melody and I thought it was so beautifully written. The accompanying songs/playlist made it all the better… for me. Solid 5 ⭐️
Me getting emotional is entirely my fault. Now, I’m not a classical enthusiast but I do have my moments and do listen to those haunting melodies every once in a while. I insisted on looking up the playlist in FM. Big mistake… cos I ended up feeling way too much and had to use one tissue too many.
Other songs came to mind when I read FM:
At 36%, I was thinking of Kiss the Rain https://youtu.be/XLOq-FRj9A4
At 75%, Love story came to mind https://youtu.be/XA6WSrazyRs. Nothing tragic in FM but it was just as sad
That’s just my 2-cents worth, I really enjoyed Forbidden Melody and I thought it was so beautifully written. The accompanying songs/playlist made it all the better… for me. Solid 5 ⭐️
August 17, 2018
When I see so many positive reviews for a book I did not care for I often wonder: did I miss something? Normally I like it when there is a character who is either full-on "ice queen," or at least mostly so, but here it just does not work for me...nor do the dynamics between the two main characters and how quickly they react to each other right from the start.
Maybe I have completely lost my romantic side, but it takes a lot in fiction for me to believe in things happening instantly the moment two people meet and it just does not work for me here. I found myself troubled by this read in a way I cannot quite put my finger on.
Maybe I have completely lost my romantic side, but it takes a lot in fiction for me to believe in things happening instantly the moment two people meet and it just does not work for me here. I found myself troubled by this read in a way I cannot quite put my finger on.
July 17, 2018
Again a very nice read. I have several books by Magnolia Robbins, but have not read them all. She writes well. Her books are comfortable to read. So was this one. The idea of a deaf concert pianist intrigued me and made me decide to buy this book(where I live we don’t have KU😔). It was well worth the price, enjoyed it very much. One small criticism: the end felt a bit rushed.
July 24, 2022
Beautifully written, the characters were well fleshed out. I really enjoyed listening to the music at the beginning of each chapter while reading.
I did not like the narration of the audiobook at all so I switched to the Kindle edition.
I did not like the narration of the audiobook at all so I switched to the Kindle edition.
January 28, 2019
This was a wonderful read. I love books revolving around the arts: be it dance, music, singing, acting, painting, etc.... And when done right, such books can make you look at an entire art form differently... the art envelops, as well as engulfs, your soul. You can feel it resonate in your entire being.
I only had one issue with the book, regarding the sole antagonist. It seemed contrived and unnecessary.
Having said that, I simply loved it. The chemistry between the two main characters was off the charts.
4.5
I only had one issue with the book, regarding the sole antagonist. It seemed contrived and unnecessary.
Having said that, I simply loved it. The chemistry between the two main characters was off the charts.
4.5
March 19, 2019
Well, that was just lovely! I took the fantastic advice of other reviewers and listened to all of the musical pieces that are mentioned throughout the story. DO THIS and you will appreciate the story so much more. Incorporating both senses of hearing and seeing made for an enriching reading experience that I won't soon forget.... nor will my spouse, who would occasionally look over at me on the couch as I cried my eyes out with my headphones on, so moved by the music as she watched old episodes of ER (pretty sure just for Juliana Margulies, but I so don't blame her. Go forth, girl).
A sure-fire way to make me cry is to plop me down at a live symphony, where the waterworks usually start within the first 5 minutes. So the content of this book drew me in at page 1.. MC Juliet is a first-chair violinist with the NYC Philharmonic (gaaawwwwddddd yes.). MC Emma is a prodigal pianist in graduate studies at the Bard, where Juliet is her professor. Age gap, check: by about 15 years I think....Mid-20s to late-30s.
The heat and attraction between the two is remarkable because so much of it is through the bond of music. When they play together, I believe that they are transcended to another plane somehow. It opens up something inside each of them that is new and exciting and undeniable. I loved this, and hearing the pieces they were playing just made these moments that much more magical.
Though I love me a good teacher/student romance (ADULT teacher/student....as in college and up! Adults! Consenting adults, people! And yes I totally realize there are ethics involved here, but humour me....) this story had a few issues. Nothing super major, but enough to need to comment on.
We are to believe Juliet is standoff-ish and aloof, and is so dedicated to her craft, she practices up to 15 hours/day. No time for anything else, not love, not kids, not her jerk-o parents, and little time for friends. Yet in walks pianist Emma and all of a sudden Juliet turns into a bumbling teenager who can't reign in her emotions. Neither of them can. The "stealing glances" in front of entire classrooms of students was exasperating, especially when there are rumours flying between students, colleagues and friends. I read with disbelief the many moments of zero discretion between the two, especially considering how much time the author took to describe how out-of-this-world talented each were, and how both their careers would be affected/damaged. Not that I felt the relationship shouldn't have grown, but more maturity and discretion may have kept the mystery up and made the story richer.
I think this is Juliet's first relationship. There is no alluding to any previous romances with men, but she made one mention of being surprised she was so drawn to "another woman." But wow did she know exactly what to do in the bedroom! Score! The sparks between these two were off the charts..... I mean come on, beautiful musicians who so passionately love their respective crafts, together? Let your imagination run. A good 4.5/5 heat scale.
So, Juliet's father.....ugh. For him to be so cold and unfeeling through the whole book without much of an explanation still nags at me.
As with other reviewers, the ending was not great, though I wasn't as disappointed as I set myself up to be. It could have been much stronger. Overall, a solid 3.5/5, and I would recommend it if you listen to the music. I thank Ms. Robbins for creating such a memorable experience for me. I really look forward to reading more of her work!
A sure-fire way to make me cry is to plop me down at a live symphony, where the waterworks usually start within the first 5 minutes. So the content of this book drew me in at page 1.. MC Juliet is a first-chair violinist with the NYC Philharmonic (gaaawwwwddddd yes.). MC Emma is a prodigal pianist in graduate studies at the Bard, where Juliet is her professor. Age gap, check: by about 15 years I think....Mid-20s to late-30s.
The heat and attraction between the two is remarkable because so much of it is through the bond of music. When they play together, I believe that they are transcended to another plane somehow. It opens up something inside each of them that is new and exciting and undeniable. I loved this, and hearing the pieces they were playing just made these moments that much more magical.
Though I love me a good teacher/student romance (ADULT teacher/student....as in college and up! Adults! Consenting adults, people! And yes I totally realize there are ethics involved here, but humour me....) this story had a few issues. Nothing super major, but enough to need to comment on.
We are to believe Juliet is standoff-ish and aloof, and is so dedicated to her craft, she practices up to 15 hours/day. No time for anything else, not love, not kids, not her jerk-o parents, and little time for friends. Yet in walks pianist Emma and all of a sudden Juliet turns into a bumbling teenager who can't reign in her emotions. Neither of them can. The "stealing glances" in front of entire classrooms of students was exasperating, especially when there are rumours flying between students, colleagues and friends. I read with disbelief the many moments of zero discretion between the two, especially considering how much time the author took to describe how out-of-this-world talented each were, and how both their careers would be affected/damaged. Not that I felt the relationship shouldn't have grown, but more maturity and discretion may have kept the mystery up and made the story richer.
I think this is Juliet's first relationship. There is no alluding to any previous romances with men, but she made one mention of being surprised she was so drawn to "another woman." But wow did she know exactly what to do in the bedroom! Score! The sparks between these two were off the charts..... I mean come on, beautiful musicians who so passionately love their respective crafts, together? Let your imagination run. A good 4.5/5 heat scale.
So, Juliet's father.....ugh. For him to be so cold and unfeeling through the whole book without much of an explanation still nags at me.
As with other reviewers, the ending was not great, though I wasn't as disappointed as I set myself up to be. It could have been much stronger. Overall, a solid 3.5/5, and I would recommend it if you listen to the music. I thank Ms. Robbins for creating such a memorable experience for me. I really look forward to reading more of her work!
June 23, 2018
Just beautiful
This book is so well-written I can't even stand it. I've never played violin or piano but the way the author describes the music makes me want to give it a try. The story flows, just like the music Emma and Juliet play together, and the connection between the two of them is so intimate and real. There are so many emotions, ups and downs, that I couldn't put it down until I read the whole thing. I highly recommend this book if you love a good slow-build romance that sizzles with passion until the very end.
This book is so well-written I can't even stand it. I've never played violin or piano but the way the author describes the music makes me want to give it a try. The story flows, just like the music Emma and Juliet play together, and the connection between the two of them is so intimate and real. There are so many emotions, ups and downs, that I couldn't put it down until I read the whole thing. I highly recommend this book if you love a good slow-build romance that sizzles with passion until the very end.
June 23, 2019
Beautiful romance amidst a classical music setting. The author has either performed in an orchestra herself or did quite a bit of research, because this book came across as very authentic to me.
This book is heavy on the performance arts setting and I loved it for that. The writing style was lovely and atmospheric as well. This is definitely a must read for classical music lovers.
The reviews that said this book was too heavy on the musical setting just made me want to read this more. I wasn't disappointed.
This book is heavy on the performance arts setting and I loved it for that. The writing style was lovely and atmospheric as well. This is definitely a must read for classical music lovers.
The reviews that said this book was too heavy on the musical setting just made me want to read this more. I wasn't disappointed.
December 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.75 stars)
This book really gripped me and didn’t let me go.
I’m sitting here hours after having finished reading it and I have been contemplating what to write in this review.
To start off, I want to say that I love how Magnolia Robbins listed the specific music that was mentioned in each chapter. I had so much fun actually researching the songs and listening to them while reading this book and it really added so much more emotion and dimension to this story!!
Moreover, since we’re already at the topic of music, I loved how both of the characters and their networks of friends had a musical background and generally the whole setting for this story was amazing! Even while reading I felt like I was part of the book even though I had no prior knowledge about classical music or compositions etc. Besides, our main characters, Emma and Juliet, are SO well written! With so much depth and realness that they swept me off my feet in an instant. I loved how their story developed and how music was a way of communicating, a love language and their passion all in one. And the premise of Juliet being Emma’s professor at the beginning added another layer of tension and forbidden love that I really appreciated (even if part of my mind wished for more ethical considerations from, at least the side characters).
I really liked Juliet as a character, however I wish I would’ve known more about her background and when the story has the time jump, I desperately wished for more detail on her side besides the bit of context that we were given. I also think that the story in general was layered and paced perfectly and in such a way that the book never felt tiresome or boring. It always kept me on my toes and made me want to read more, know more about the characters and story.
The writing was great too!! Even as a person who has no prior knowledge of classical music in general, I could follow the story easily and wasn’t too caught up researching the different musical styles or topics.
Overall, a great book that I give solid 4.75 stars. I will definitely add this to my pile of rereads when I need a angsty forbidden love type of romance which has amazing characters and layers.
This book really gripped me and didn’t let me go.
I’m sitting here hours after having finished reading it and I have been contemplating what to write in this review.
To start off, I want to say that I love how Magnolia Robbins listed the specific music that was mentioned in each chapter. I had so much fun actually researching the songs and listening to them while reading this book and it really added so much more emotion and dimension to this story!!
Moreover, since we’re already at the topic of music, I loved how both of the characters and their networks of friends had a musical background and generally the whole setting for this story was amazing! Even while reading I felt like I was part of the book even though I had no prior knowledge about classical music or compositions etc. Besides, our main characters, Emma and Juliet, are SO well written! With so much depth and realness that they swept me off my feet in an instant. I loved how their story developed and how music was a way of communicating, a love language and their passion all in one. And the premise of Juliet being Emma’s professor at the beginning added another layer of tension and forbidden love that I really appreciated (even if part of my mind wished for more ethical considerations from, at least the side characters).
I really liked Juliet as a character, however I wish I would’ve known more about her background and when the story has the time jump, I desperately wished for more detail on her side besides the bit of context that we were given. I also think that the story in general was layered and paced perfectly and in such a way that the book never felt tiresome or boring. It always kept me on my toes and made me want to read more, know more about the characters and story.
The writing was great too!! Even as a person who has no prior knowledge of classical music in general, I could follow the story easily and wasn’t too caught up researching the different musical styles or topics.
Overall, a great book that I give solid 4.75 stars. I will definitely add this to my pile of rereads when I need a angsty forbidden love type of romance which has amazing characters and layers.
October 17, 2021
2.5 stars. I don't want to spend too long dunking on a book that was like, objectively fine, so I'll try to keep this short. This didn't really work for me. I really liked the beginning, with their fantastic tension and animosity, the enemies to lovers vibes. It's not often that we get a romance with a disabled main character, and that was lovely, especially when combined with all the music in the book, and how much playing and performance meant to them both. But this also hit a dozen of my writing nit-picks (most of which are really minor but nevertheless really annoy me) and we didn't get enough of the enemies to lovers imo. They fell for each other so quickly, the L-word comes out of nowhere, and then the rest of the book just felt kinda soap opera-esque and exaggerated. Very little about this felt romantic; instead, it was just... dramatic. There's very little that irritates me more than a villainous character who's villainous for seemingly no reason. The last quarter of the book made me roll my eyes almost non-stop.
Mileage will obviously vary; I do think this is just a me thing. But after the first 30% or so, I steadily started losing all connection I had with these characters, (and tbh I never really got to like Juliet; her snobbishness and jealousy just got on my nerves) the chemistry was super flat, and events later in the book just took certain turns that I don't like.
So it's a me thing. The book is fine. (I guess.)
Mileage will obviously vary; I do think this is just a me thing. But after the first 30% or so, I steadily started losing all connection I had with these characters, (and tbh I never really got to like Juliet; her snobbishness and jealousy just got on my nerves) the chemistry was super flat, and events later in the book just took certain turns that I don't like.
So it's a me thing. The book is fine. (I guess.)
May 12, 2021
4.75 ⭐ - lovely romance with MCs that share an passionate love of music and an intense connection to each other.
I started this book as an audible audiobook and switched to reading it myself and greatly increased my enjoyment of the story. The narrator was not my cup of tea and made some very strange voice choices for secondary characters that really threw me out of the story. Also just her reading style really sucked the intensity out of the scenes and I was feeling kinda meh about it. The minute I started reading it for myself I could not put it down.
I thought it was really good and highly recommend it to anyone.
I created Spotify playlist of all the music mentioned in the book. It's mostly from the pieces mentioned in the chapter headings but there are some additional pieces mentioned while reading as well. I tried to keep it in order, but if it was a song mentioned while reading it will be at the end. Also, if I couldn't figure out the exact piece, I just made my best guess. I feel like it really enhanced my reading experience. Let me know if you enjoyed it too.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1GW...
I started this book as an audible audiobook and switched to reading it myself and greatly increased my enjoyment of the story. The narrator was not my cup of tea and made some very strange voice choices for secondary characters that really threw me out of the story. Also just her reading style really sucked the intensity out of the scenes and I was feeling kinda meh about it. The minute I started reading it for myself I could not put it down.
I thought it was really good and highly recommend it to anyone.
I created Spotify playlist of all the music mentioned in the book. It's mostly from the pieces mentioned in the chapter headings but there are some additional pieces mentioned while reading as well. I tried to keep it in order, but if it was a song mentioned while reading it will be at the end. Also, if I couldn't figure out the exact piece, I just made my best guess. I feel like it really enhanced my reading experience. Let me know if you enjoyed it too.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1GW...
May 3, 2021
Absolutely Fabulous!
I don’t really have the words to review this book in the way it deserves. First you have a writer who successfully combines the love of the violin and piano in a love story. Add in that the violin master is about eighteen years older than the young piano student. Then notice the piano prodigy is deaf and the violin master is a perfectionist and rule follower. When they are thrown together, neither dealing with the fact that there obvious dislike has to do with their subconscious attraction. This story has so many intricate layers but yet, there was nothing to hide their obvious feelings bubbling over with the school and its instructors and students watching it unfold. Then add in the fact that each chapter has the title of the classical music that coincides with its story. As I said there are no words, just read it!!!!
I don’t really have the words to review this book in the way it deserves. First you have a writer who successfully combines the love of the violin and piano in a love story. Add in that the violin master is about eighteen years older than the young piano student. Then notice the piano prodigy is deaf and the violin master is a perfectionist and rule follower. When they are thrown together, neither dealing with the fact that there obvious dislike has to do with their subconscious attraction. This story has so many intricate layers but yet, there was nothing to hide their obvious feelings bubbling over with the school and its instructors and students watching it unfold. Then add in the fact that each chapter has the title of the classical music that coincides with its story. As I said there are no words, just read it!!!!
June 28, 2018
Magnolia Robbins writes unsatisfying conflict resolution.
June 26, 2019
What a lovely read! I was looking for something similar to The Music and the Mirror because I very much miss that world, and whereas this book was about music, I thought the environment had a similar feel to what TM&TM offered. Classical music fans would love this book.
While this was much deserving of the 5 stars, there were still things about it that could've been better:
1) Details about the musical aspects were better off shortened.
2) I wish there were more push and pull between the two MCs before they developed feelings for each other. Their attraction happened a tad too soon, IMO.
3) I badly wish there were a more satisfying way the author handled Frederick Hamilton. Such a despicable man shouldn't be let off the hook that easily.
Despite the stuff mentioned above, this book gave a wonderful narrative of two women who were as much in love with each other as they were in their craft. I loved all the heartfelt and intimate moments. I hope to read more books similar to this one.
While this was much deserving of the 5 stars, there were still things about it that could've been better:
1) Details about the musical aspects were better off shortened.
2) I wish there were more push and pull between the two MCs before they developed feelings for each other. Their attraction happened a tad too soon, IMO.
3) I badly wish there were a more satisfying way the author handled Frederick Hamilton. Such a despicable man shouldn't be let off the hook that easily.
Despite the stuff mentioned above, this book gave a wonderful narrative of two women who were as much in love with each other as they were in their craft. I loved all the heartfelt and intimate moments. I hope to read more books similar to this one.
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