What do you think?
Rate this book
The Storyhill Musicians #1
Love Me Like a Love Song
She used to be on top of the music world. He’s desperate to get there.
Unable to compose since the death of her rock star husband, Grammy award-winning songwriter, Grace O’Connor is terrified the tabloids are right: she’s nothing without her famous husband. But when she’s ordered to help a pompous pretty-boy finish his album or be blacklisted, Grace can’t give up on her love of music—no matter how infuriating her new partner.
Andrew Hayes is crumbling under the weight of his ambition. Determined to prove himself to his hypercritical father, his attempts to write the songs for his band’s first original LP are rapidly unraveling. When his record label sticks him with a washed-up celebrity, the future seems clear: he’s going to let his band down and finally prove his father right.
Forced into an unwilling partnership, the frustration is as thick as the sexual tension. With the deadline looming, Grace and Andrew agree to a temporary truce, only to uncover a far more dangerous threat—a crazy-hot attraction that can’t be denied. But Andrew’s terrified romance will spoil his chances of creating the album that’ll put him on the map and Grace worries she’s fading into the shadow of a charismatic performer—again.
Will they take a chance at a love that could catapult them both to the top of the charts or will this complicated couple allow fear to tear them apart?
"Love Me Like a Love Song" is the first book in the Storyhill Musicians contemporary romance series. If you like strong women, starry-eyed dreamers, and unquenchable chemistry, then you’ll adore Annmarie Boyle’s enemies-to-lovers, slow burn, rock star romance.
Unable to compose since the death of her rock star husband, Grammy award-winning songwriter, Grace O’Connor is terrified the tabloids are right: she’s nothing without her famous husband. But when she’s ordered to help a pompous pretty-boy finish his album or be blacklisted, Grace can’t give up on her love of music—no matter how infuriating her new partner.
Andrew Hayes is crumbling under the weight of his ambition. Determined to prove himself to his hypercritical father, his attempts to write the songs for his band’s first original LP are rapidly unraveling. When his record label sticks him with a washed-up celebrity, the future seems clear: he’s going to let his band down and finally prove his father right.
Forced into an unwilling partnership, the frustration is as thick as the sexual tension. With the deadline looming, Grace and Andrew agree to a temporary truce, only to uncover a far more dangerous threat—a crazy-hot attraction that can’t be denied. But Andrew’s terrified romance will spoil his chances of creating the album that’ll put him on the map and Grace worries she’s fading into the shadow of a charismatic performer—again.
Will they take a chance at a love that could catapult them both to the top of the charts or will this complicated couple allow fear to tear them apart?
"Love Me Like a Love Song" is the first book in the Storyhill Musicians contemporary romance series. If you like strong women, starry-eyed dreamers, and unquenchable chemistry, then you’ll adore Annmarie Boyle’s enemies-to-lovers, slow burn, rock star romance.
305 pages, ebook
Published November 8, 2020
137 people are currently reading
1428 people want to read
About the author
Annmarie Boyle
7 books62 followersAnnmarie Boyle, author of the award-winning Storyhill series, is an unapologetic believer in the transformative power of love, friendship, and enduring bonds. Known for writing relatable characters, witty dialogue and engaging interaction, Annmarie weaves together stories that make you laugh, think a little, and occasionally shed a tear.
Outside of writing, she can be found on a quest for the perfect vanilla oat milk latte or the most decadent coffee-flavored cupcake. She’s also a sucker for a good interior design show, so if you find a touch of “home make-over” vibes sneaking into her stories, now you know why!
Ultimately, it is her wish that every turn of the page brings a new adventure and every story is a passport into a world where grace is found in struggle, and love always prevails.
Visit her online at www.annmarieboyle.com
Outside of writing, she can be found on a quest for the perfect vanilla oat milk latte or the most decadent coffee-flavored cupcake. She’s also a sucker for a good interior design show, so if you find a touch of “home make-over” vibes sneaking into her stories, now you know why!
Ultimately, it is her wish that every turn of the page brings a new adventure and every story is a passport into a world where grace is found in struggle, and love always prevails.
Visit her online at www.annmarieboyle.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
February 23, 2022
My introduction to this author – and Boyle's uplifting novel held my interest from start to finish. The plot is filled with a perfect balance of anxiety, distress, hope and second chances. More importantly, there's also plenty of chemistry, witty banter and sizzle -- certainly enough to satisfy the romantics without being overpowered by graphic descriptions. A well-written and heartwarming tale about life, love, loss and the next chapter.
An age gap romance between Grace, a 44-year-old widow striving to move beyond her devastating past and Andrew, a 35-year-old wildly hot country singer trying to make it big in the music industry. Their story is compelling and the characters multi-faceted. Each have their personal demons to overcome.
The secondary cast that includes friends, bandmates and family pulls it weight with their loyalty, support and love. The interaction between the group is hilarious at times adding snarky comical relief when the situation calls for it. I think we’ll be seeing some of these enticing characters get their own personal stories told in future books.
A charming romance and a true delight to read!
August 14, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up
Grace was always the brilliant composer in the shadows, behind her musician husband's fame. Now a widow, she has been unable to write. But she's brought on to assist the songwriter of an up and coming band. He wants nothing to do with her initially, but sparks eventually fly...
This was a cute older woman/younger man romance that's easy to read. Late in the book we start getting more about the heroine's grief, but I would have liked to see that start earlier. How is she feeling about the possibility of this new person? etc. That said, I love to see a mutually supportive relationship!
Grace was always the brilliant composer in the shadows, behind her musician husband's fame. Now a widow, she has been unable to write. But she's brought on to assist the songwriter of an up and coming band. He wants nothing to do with her initially, but sparks eventually fly...
This was a cute older woman/younger man romance that's easy to read. Late in the book we start getting more about the heroine's grief, but I would have liked to see that start earlier. How is she feeling about the possibility of this new person? etc. That said, I love to see a mutually supportive relationship!
March 10, 2021
3,5 🌟
Love Me Like a Love Song is a funny, emotional, hopeful book. It is written fluently and is a real page-turner.
I love the fact that there's such an emphasis on personal development. Grace really develops throughout the story and it's beautiful to see her trying to find herself.
Andrew is a funny (although at times arrogant) man. He really adds a funny note to the story and his chemistry with Grace is lovely to read. The two of them together really make for a fun duo.
This could be considered as a spoiler so open this at your own risk:
Overall, I really enjoyed this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Love Me Like a Love Song is a funny, emotional, hopeful book. It is written fluently and is a real page-turner.
I love the fact that there's such an emphasis on personal development. Grace really develops throughout the story and it's beautiful to see her trying to find herself.
Andrew is a funny (although at times arrogant) man. He really adds a funny note to the story and his chemistry with Grace is lovely to read. The two of them together really make for a fun duo.
This could be considered as a spoiler so open this at your own risk:
Overall, I really enjoyed this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 31, 2021
I need to start with something completely and amazingly BADASS about this book. Because all reviews are "here's the blurb", "here's what I liked", "here's my rating" and I need to acknowledge some awesomeness before you start skimming...
Grace is 44 years old and was married to her late husband for 20 years before his recent death (this isn't a spoiler—you know it from the first chapter) and not once does the author ever feel the need to over-explain why Grace doesn't have kids. It's never even mentioned and THAT is a beautiful thing. It's not a factor. No need to let the reader know why. It just is. I think we need MORE of that in books (and life)!
Okay, now back to the usual review mumbo jumbo.
Grace and Andrew are FIRE. I love their snarky enemy banter, love their instant sexual chemistry, and love how their characters both grow and change as the story unfolds. These characters are complex snd flawed and so damn lovable.
The steamy scenes are HOT. You'll never look at homemade pizza making the same way again. 😉🍕
I loved that there are supportive and genuine friendships throughout this book with all genders. I can't wait to read more of this series and see some of those friends find their HEA!
This book is everything. Sweet, sexy, steamy, snarky, and swoony. ALL THE *S* WORDS. I loved it and I think you will too.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: death of spouse, cancer, emotionally distant parent
FEELS-O-METER: 3/5 *touches on some heavy topics, but not too sad.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/39qjCIb (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
Grace is 44 years old and was married to her late husband for 20 years before his recent death (this isn't a spoiler—you know it from the first chapter) and not once does the author ever feel the need to over-explain why Grace doesn't have kids. It's never even mentioned and THAT is a beautiful thing. It's not a factor. No need to let the reader know why. It just is. I think we need MORE of that in books (and life)!
Okay, now back to the usual review mumbo jumbo.
Grace and Andrew are FIRE. I love their snarky enemy banter, love their instant sexual chemistry, and love how their characters both grow and change as the story unfolds. These characters are complex snd flawed and so damn lovable.
The steamy scenes are HOT. You'll never look at homemade pizza making the same way again. 😉🍕
I loved that there are supportive and genuine friendships throughout this book with all genders. I can't wait to read more of this series and see some of those friends find their HEA!
This book is everything. Sweet, sexy, steamy, snarky, and swoony. ALL THE *S* WORDS. I loved it and I think you will too.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: death of spouse, cancer, emotionally distant parent
FEELS-O-METER: 3/5 *touches on some heavy topics, but not too sad.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/39qjCIb (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
November 30, 2020
Moving forward in love and life:
This was an enjoyable book. I liked that it showed a different side to the music industry and it wasn't just your usual rock star story. I appreciated that there was depth and emotion to the story, although I did find that it dragged a bit towards the end.
My heart went out to poor Grace who was trying to find her place in life again after loosing her husband to cancer and it was great seeing her emerge from her cocoon. I liked Andrew with his insecurities yet confidence too. When Andrew and Grace were first forced to write songs together they clashed but over time the pull between them became too strong for them to resist. They had barriers to overcome but it was lovely seeing the growth that they both experienced. Their relationship felt natural and I enjoyed the banter between them.
Overall a good story which is sure to connect with many different readers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was an enjoyable book. I liked that it showed a different side to the music industry and it wasn't just your usual rock star story. I appreciated that there was depth and emotion to the story, although I did find that it dragged a bit towards the end.
My heart went out to poor Grace who was trying to find her place in life again after loosing her husband to cancer and it was great seeing her emerge from her cocoon. I liked Andrew with his insecurities yet confidence too. When Andrew and Grace were first forced to write songs together they clashed but over time the pull between them became too strong for them to resist. They had barriers to overcome but it was lovely seeing the growth that they both experienced. Their relationship felt natural and I enjoyed the banter between them.
Overall a good story which is sure to connect with many different readers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 29, 2025
Reli. E amei tudo de novo.
————-
Vou começar falando dos protagonistas.
Ela, Grace, uma fodona da indústria musical, ganhadora de muitos Grammys, compositora, 44 anos, viúva e em crise pessoal, com o luto, com sua carreira, com a composição.
Ele, Andrew, cantor em uma banda a capela country, prestes a lançar o primeiro álbum com músicas próprias e com uma gravadora, 30 e poucos anos. Suas composições são boas, mas não muito e a gravadora coloca ele na parede para trabalhar com a premiada Grace.
Ela e ele vão trabalhar juntos.
A química deles, o desenvolvimento da relação, profissional e pessoal, é sensacional.
Os personagens secundários são muito bem desenvolvidos e são tão apaixonantes quanto oa dois.
Eu amei e recomendo muito com 5⭐️ muitos ♥️ e um tanto de 🔥
————-
Vou começar falando dos protagonistas.
Ela, Grace, uma fodona da indústria musical, ganhadora de muitos Grammys, compositora, 44 anos, viúva e em crise pessoal, com o luto, com sua carreira, com a composição.
Ele, Andrew, cantor em uma banda a capela country, prestes a lançar o primeiro álbum com músicas próprias e com uma gravadora, 30 e poucos anos. Suas composições são boas, mas não muito e a gravadora coloca ele na parede para trabalhar com a premiada Grace.
Ela e ele vão trabalhar juntos.
A química deles, o desenvolvimento da relação, profissional e pessoal, é sensacional.
Os personagens secundários são muito bem desenvolvidos e são tão apaixonantes quanto oa dois.
Eu amei e recomendo muito com 5⭐️ muitos ♥️ e um tanto de 🔥
January 30, 2021
Whew!!! Where can I find an Andrew, Annmarie??? Seriously!
I didn’t want this book to end... I need more. This was such a sexy read. Can’t remember the last time I read a fiction as quickly as this. Add it to your “To Read” list already.
Completely understand how Grace feels. So nice to have a friend like Annie
Immediately after finishing this, I had to subscribe to the community. I don’t want to miss out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I didn’t want this book to end... I need more. This was such a sexy read. Can’t remember the last time I read a fiction as quickly as this. Add it to your “To Read” list already.
Completely understand how Grace feels. So nice to have a friend like Annie
Immediately after finishing this, I had to subscribe to the community. I don’t want to miss out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 9, 2023
Love Me Like A Love Song is the first book in the Storyhill Musicians series, and it's a great opener. Grace is an award winning songwriter. She's experienced writer's block since the death of her pop star husband. Andrew is an up and coming musician. He has been struggling to compose the songs for his group's first album. Both are experiencing a crisis of confidence. When the music label forces them to collaborate, they immediately begin sniping at each other. Grace is asked to spend time in the studio with Andrew and to accompany the band on tour. In working together and observing each other, they begin to develop respect for each other's talent and sincerity and to enjoy each other. As Grace's best friend tells her, the line between passion and anger is very thin.
While both main characters are enormously creative and talented, each is troubled by deep insecurities. Grace's professional accomplishments were achieved in the shadows of her late husband's success, and the media has questioned if she is washed up without her muse. Andrew's father has been extremely critical of his son's career choice and has made him worry about failure. I really liked how both characters supported each other and helped each other question damaging assumptions.
This is an age gap romance, with Grace 9 years older than Andrew. While it's mentioned, this is not overly emphasized or made to become an obstacle.
While both main characters are enormously creative and talented, each is troubled by deep insecurities. Grace's professional accomplishments were achieved in the shadows of her late husband's success, and the media has questioned if she is washed up without her muse. Andrew's father has been extremely critical of his son's career choice and has made him worry about failure. I really liked how both characters supported each other and helped each other question damaging assumptions.
This is an age gap romance, with Grace 9 years older than Andrew. While it's mentioned, this is not overly emphasized or made to become an obstacle.
February 22, 2022
I will confess right up front that I’m not a big fan of the ‘recent widow’ theme; if the character was happily married (especially for a long time which in this case is 20 years), I believe it would take more than two years to be ready to love again (at least, in the romance happily-ever-forever way). But as a musician and a capella fan, I wanted to read it. And, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this story! From the banter to the unusual friends they both had, to the build-up of attraction and light sexy scenes – as well as the age gap and *especially* that the ‘grand gesture’ came from the heroine rather than the hero. The obstacles are all internal and holding both characters back from their potential, and I enjoyed both their journeys (although Andrew’s dad’s sudden about-face was a little jarring). There was one thing that bugged me, though, and that was the fact that they made an entire album (12+ songs) without once having the other band members in the studio – and it’s an a capella group! Perhaps another reader won’t care, but I wanted the author to do just a little research and make a little more effort to make their jobs (which are also their identities) more believable.
January 14, 2022
The story
Grace lost her rock star husband Jax two years ago to cancer, and she has finally ticked off the list of things she needed to do. With her to-do list completed, she isn’t sure where to turn. She wrote Jax’s songs, but seems to have lost her mojo since his death. When she receives a call from the record label asking her to write with the Storyhill band’s bass player Andrew, she is furious. He is just as furious. But the attraction and chemistry is so strong between the two. Not even the fact that he is another attractive musician receiving adoring advances from females and being ten years younger than her can stop them from being together.
My thoughts
I read the eARC of the second book in this series back in July 2021 and have had this book in my TBR since then! The new book in the series Finely Tuned has just been released but I wanted to read this one first. It’s a romance, there is lots of music, travel and more importantly, quite a bit of emotional work to be done by both Andrew and Grace. I just loved the way that despite the scariness of a new relationship, Andrew kept showing up and refused to give up on Grace. I loved that so often there is just touching and holding involved. Nothing steamy but being close ❤️ This is such a lovely read ❤️
Grace lost her rock star husband Jax two years ago to cancer, and she has finally ticked off the list of things she needed to do. With her to-do list completed, she isn’t sure where to turn. She wrote Jax’s songs, but seems to have lost her mojo since his death. When she receives a call from the record label asking her to write with the Storyhill band’s bass player Andrew, she is furious. He is just as furious. But the attraction and chemistry is so strong between the two. Not even the fact that he is another attractive musician receiving adoring advances from females and being ten years younger than her can stop them from being together.
My thoughts
I read the eARC of the second book in this series back in July 2021 and have had this book in my TBR since then! The new book in the series Finely Tuned has just been released but I wanted to read this one first. It’s a romance, there is lots of music, travel and more importantly, quite a bit of emotional work to be done by both Andrew and Grace. I just loved the way that despite the scariness of a new relationship, Andrew kept showing up and refused to give up on Grace. I loved that so often there is just touching and holding involved. Nothing steamy but being close ❤️ This is such a lovely read ❤️
March 13, 2021
What first caught my attention from this book was the font cover art (definitely judged a book by its cover). After that, I read the excerpt and I was hooked.
I enjoyed reading this book mainly because of the characters. This book shows us people dealing with difficult situations, especially Grace grieving her first husband. But it also manages to be a fun, light book filled with humor and people who truly care for each other. I also really enjoyed the banter between the main characters and between friends.
I also really enjoyed Annmarie Boyle’s writing and how the story flowed. This was a very nice read and I’ll definitely pick up the next book in the series once it comes out.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun read.
I gave this book 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5️⃣
Pair with coffee ☕️☕️☕️☕️! Grace will thank you for it.
**NOTE: I received a free ARC of this book via @BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed reading this book mainly because of the characters. This book shows us people dealing with difficult situations, especially Grace grieving her first husband. But it also manages to be a fun, light book filled with humor and people who truly care for each other. I also really enjoyed the banter between the main characters and between friends.
I also really enjoyed Annmarie Boyle’s writing and how the story flowed. This was a very nice read and I’ll definitely pick up the next book in the series once it comes out.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun read.
I gave this book 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5️⃣
Pair with coffee ☕️☕️☕️☕️! Grace will thank you for it.
**NOTE: I received a free ARC of this book via @BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved this book. I instantly connected to the characters, the emotional journeys they were on individually and together and it kept my attention. There were enough new plot points to keep me engaged and I was invested in their outcomes.
I appreciated the way the author invited us into Grace’s grief not by way of comparison of her two partners but in how she received them both, emotionally.
I also enjoyed the friendships and platonic relationships in the book. It added depth to the characters and my commitment to them.
My only feedback is that there were a lot of typos which I found distracting and brought me out of the story.
I look forward to reading other books by this author and hope the other band mates get HEAs.
I loved this book. I instantly connected to the characters, the emotional journeys they were on individually and together and it kept my attention. There were enough new plot points to keep me engaged and I was invested in their outcomes.
I appreciated the way the author invited us into Grace’s grief not by way of comparison of her two partners but in how she received them both, emotionally.
I also enjoyed the friendships and platonic relationships in the book. It added depth to the characters and my commitment to them.
My only feedback is that there were a lot of typos which I found distracting and brought me out of the story.
I look forward to reading other books by this author and hope the other band mates get HEAs.
November 19, 2020
Love, Love, Love!!!
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end! Fun characters that made me smile, laugh, swoon, and cheer! I hope there are future stories about the single members of the group.
The ONLY complaint I have is that there is no epilogue!!! I wanted to read more about Andrew and Grace and the beautiful music they make.
*I received this book in exchange for my honest review. Here it is- I loved it. Can’t wait to read more!
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end! Fun characters that made me smile, laugh, swoon, and cheer! I hope there are future stories about the single members of the group.
The ONLY complaint I have is that there is no epilogue!!! I wanted to read more about Andrew and Grace and the beautiful music they make.
*I received this book in exchange for my honest review. Here it is- I loved it. Can’t wait to read more!
November 22, 2020
Excellent Book
This is my first book from this author. I love age gap romances where the woman is a bit older. That didn't figure too heavily in the plot, the main conflict was past events that kept the couple from opening their hearts completely. Andrew is sexy and Grace is strong with a great sense of humor. I hope we see more of the Storyhill musicians.
This is my first book from this author. I love age gap romances where the woman is a bit older. That didn't figure too heavily in the plot, the main conflict was past events that kept the couple from opening their hearts completely. Andrew is sexy and Grace is strong with a great sense of humor. I hope we see more of the Storyhill musicians.
November 29, 2020
I don't usually read Romance novels, but I did enjoy this one. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
December 14, 2020
I enjoyed Andrew & Grace's book. It gave me all the feels. And was a new author for me. I received a free copy of the book. And am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
September 30, 2021
a sweet and quick read. i enjoyed the characters and their chemistry, though i wish we saw some more of the music and their writing process.
December 4, 2020
Grace was still finding herself after her husband passed away. So being just about blackmailed into songwriting for a group did not sit well with her, especially while she was doubting her ability to find the words again. Then she met Andrew, years younger than she and songwriter for the group Story Hill who was none too happy about someone interfering with his work. And quickly the antagonism between them turned into attraction. But could they take a chance to act on it or will they risk too much? I just loved this book, it kept me hooked from the first page. The wit of the characters, the chemistry between them was written perfectly within the pages of the book. An excellent read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2020
A beautifully written story with likable characters and wonderful dialogue, with heart. I knew in the first paragraph that the writing style was witty and fun. Not porny or crass, but plenty hot, this is a slow burn with an older heroine and younger hero. A lovely read.
December 3, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I really enjoyed reading this book. Grace lost her rockstar husband to cancer but more importantly she’d lost herself. She had always been as talented as her husband but she was hiding her talents and in a way blamed him. Two years later she’s dragged back into the business kicking and screaming. When she meets the lead singer and song writer of Storyhill she can feel the chemistry. This story is about two people with issues that have shaped their lives and fixing them to they can move on and give love a chance. My only complaint is that it lags a bit because of the conversations with the kids and her friend. Still it’s a good story and I recommend it and I gave it four stars.
December 4, 2020
She used to be on top of the world. He’s desperate to get there. Can two wounded musicians resolve their dissonance and find perfect harmony?
An enjoyable music romance that has depth, emotions and romance. The characters are easy to get to know, engaging and you can't help but fall in love with them. The story pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages as you follow their romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An enjoyable music romance that has depth, emotions and romance. The characters are easy to get to know, engaging and you can't help but fall in love with them. The story pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages as you follow their romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 3, 2020
Grace O’Conner is still grieving the loss of her singer husband when she’s forced to tour and write songs for a country a cappella group Storyhill. Andrew Hayes accidentally spilled coffee on at her at their first meeting and he doesn’t want a co-writer for his band’s songs. They both have baggage, she resentful of the famous life and endless touring with her musician husband and he a father who thinks he threw his life away for music, There’s a lot of back and forth attitude and sparks in this steamy older woman younger man singer songwriters romance.
February 16, 2021
This book had a unique concept and the writing pulled me in immediately. I wanted to see the journey that Grace and Andrew would take. The positives of this book is that it was a quick read with a decent ending for these characters.
My only disclaimer is that I felt the author needs to grow a bit in how she moves from scene to scene and in the progression of the story. There were parts where I felt the scene jumped or we were forcibly moved in a specific direction without letting the reader experience how the characters got to that point. However, the story as a whole was good, with a satisfying, and there were not noticeable grammatical issues.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My only disclaimer is that I felt the author needs to grow a bit in how she moves from scene to scene and in the progression of the story. There were parts where I felt the scene jumped or we were forcibly moved in a specific direction without letting the reader experience how the characters got to that point. However, the story as a whole was good, with a satisfying, and there were not noticeable grammatical issues.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 11, 2022
I love books that involve music/musicians, so I just had to read this one and I wasn’t disappointed at all! The book was easy to read, without any boring or overly long drama parts. I love the way it is written. Throughout the book, I fell in love with the characters and really enjoyed going on this journey with them.
At some parts I was close to getting annoyed with Grace but luckily we had Annie and I never reached that point. Andrew is such a sweetheart.
I got all the feels from reading this book and can absolutely only recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
At some parts I was close to getting annoyed with Grace but luckily we had Annie and I never reached that point. Andrew is such a sweetheart.
I got all the feels from reading this book and can absolutely only recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 9, 2023
I so enjoyed this novel and really liked the main character - Grace - who is strong, funny, and whip-smart. Oh and the romance element in this book is awfully satisfying, too! The first book in The Storyhill Musicians series. Be sure to read them all!
August 14, 2022
My first introduction to this author. I enjoyed it but I wasn’t blown away. It was very predictable
December 21, 2020
Love Me Like a Love Song by Annemarie Boyle
Excuse me while I absolutely swoon over this melodious contemporary romance.
Annemarie Boyle has marked a permanent spot in my heart this year with Love Me Like a Love Song. This sweet contemporary romance with a musical twist gave me all the romance and swoony feels that I just adore!
Love Me Like a Love Song introduces us to Grace O’Connor who has for the past year and a half been adapting and learning to live her life as a widow. Her musician husband passed away due to cancer. She was his songwriter, not only that a Grammy winning songwriter that he made sure to snag for him and only him.
After months of having writers block, Grace feels at a loss for inspiration. She has been struggling to piece together songs and matching melodies. Grace is clearly feeling a fog due to the loss of her husband. She also clearly fears that this once on-fire-songwriter has fizzled out and cannot keep up with her fazed out career. But there is a strong voice in her head behind all that fog, reminding her that this talent of hers rumbles beneath it all, she must fight out of the faze and win herself back.
Enter this ultimatum that sets Grace in a tizzy. The music executives of the label that she is signed to MAKE her partner with this up and coming group. She has to suffer (insert exaggerated rolly eyes) a forced partnership with the group’s lead writer Andrew Hayes.
Andrew Hayes is a dreamy, sexy, burly, bearded, flannel wearing (you get where I am taking you with this.) lead writer. He is super annoyed and angry with the record label execs that have forced this partnership with Grace. The decision is a hit to his ego, he was hoping to be able to write this debut album for his band on his own, all while blowing the executives mind. When they throw Grace into the mix he goes ballistic. Making their interactions super heated. Both him and Grace do not back down from their awkward and heated interactions. Making this forced-proximity-partnership super delicious to read.
Will all this competitive song writing tension lead to the all needed confession of feelings, or even better act on these feelings? Ah, you will have to read for yourself to see how this plays out.
Love Me Like a Love Song by Annemarie Boyle was a beautiful written love story. I want to consider it a second chance romance because Grace must find the will within herself to love again, but not only that, to write again. Her passion and purpose are so heavily tied into song writing, it is so explicitly written and felt in this book. As the reader you root for her breaking through the writer’s fog with the same tenacity as hoping she lets love in again. As for Andrew, as the reader you swoon over his yumminess and live for him taking a backseat to Grace’s experience. #girlboss
I highly recommend Love Me Like a Love Song for those searching for a romance that inspires hope in love. For those that love when a woman finds her voice and strength and for the second chance a LOVE.
This review originally appeared on LitBuzz.
Excuse me while I absolutely swoon over this melodious contemporary romance.
Annemarie Boyle has marked a permanent spot in my heart this year with Love Me Like a Love Song. This sweet contemporary romance with a musical twist gave me all the romance and swoony feels that I just adore!
Love Me Like a Love Song introduces us to Grace O’Connor who has for the past year and a half been adapting and learning to live her life as a widow. Her musician husband passed away due to cancer. She was his songwriter, not only that a Grammy winning songwriter that he made sure to snag for him and only him.
After months of having writers block, Grace feels at a loss for inspiration. She has been struggling to piece together songs and matching melodies. Grace is clearly feeling a fog due to the loss of her husband. She also clearly fears that this once on-fire-songwriter has fizzled out and cannot keep up with her fazed out career. But there is a strong voice in her head behind all that fog, reminding her that this talent of hers rumbles beneath it all, she must fight out of the faze and win herself back.
Enter this ultimatum that sets Grace in a tizzy. The music executives of the label that she is signed to MAKE her partner with this up and coming group. She has to suffer (insert exaggerated rolly eyes) a forced partnership with the group’s lead writer Andrew Hayes.
Andrew Hayes is a dreamy, sexy, burly, bearded, flannel wearing (you get where I am taking you with this.) lead writer. He is super annoyed and angry with the record label execs that have forced this partnership with Grace. The decision is a hit to his ego, he was hoping to be able to write this debut album for his band on his own, all while blowing the executives mind. When they throw Grace into the mix he goes ballistic. Making their interactions super heated. Both him and Grace do not back down from their awkward and heated interactions. Making this forced-proximity-partnership super delicious to read.
Will all this competitive song writing tension lead to the all needed confession of feelings, or even better act on these feelings? Ah, you will have to read for yourself to see how this plays out.
Love Me Like a Love Song by Annemarie Boyle was a beautiful written love story. I want to consider it a second chance romance because Grace must find the will within herself to love again, but not only that, to write again. Her passion and purpose are so heavily tied into song writing, it is so explicitly written and felt in this book. As the reader you root for her breaking through the writer’s fog with the same tenacity as hoping she lets love in again. As for Andrew, as the reader you swoon over his yumminess and live for him taking a backseat to Grace’s experience. #girlboss
I highly recommend Love Me Like a Love Song for those searching for a romance that inspires hope in love. For those that love when a woman finds her voice and strength and for the second chance a LOVE.
This review originally appeared on LitBuzz.
December 18, 2020
I actually quite liked this book. I recently finished another book that was also about a romance in the music business, and of the two, "Love Me Like A Love Song" was definitely the far superior, IMHO. I don't know much about the music industry, myself, but the parts about touring, writing, and recording rang fairly true to me - at least, true enough that I could suspend any disbelief and get lost in the story.
I felt the like the premise of the story was creative, and I especially liked that the heroine was different from those in most romance novels. She was smart, sassy, and independent, and she got to be the one in charge in many scenes in the book, instead of being weak or the "damsel in distress" that the Hero needed to swoop in and rescue. So in that way, it was an original plotline, too.
There was good character development throughout with both the H and h. We see the H move from kind of a too-independent grouch to a more open, softer, individual. And the h moves on from grieving widow status and recognizes strengths in herself, too. I really enjoyed the supporting characters, as well. Each one had a very well-developed personality of his or her own, that was separate and distinct from the others, so they each stood out as "real" people. Too often, background or supporting players are tropes or stereotypes, but that was not at all the case here. You really got the sense that these might be real people you could be friends with!
If there was anything that kept this from being a 5-star book for me, it was some kind of odd moments in the relationship build-up that never seemed to have been totally resolved for me. For instance, the h makes a vow to herself that she is never going to get involved with someone in the music business again, and she eventually decides that, OK, she will - but how did she get to that conclusion? There's a lot of vacillating back and forth throughout the story, but then when we get to the final decision, I don't feel like the pros and cons were ever really laid out to justify her making the decision she did. I'm not saying it was the wrong decision - just that it would have been nice to have more light shed on that particular aspect, especially since it was such a big deal, earlier in the story.
And, the sexy time scenes were just OK. Some of them were really good, but other times, they were just kinda "meh."
My breakdown goes like this:
Plot: 4
World building: 5
Character growth: 4.5
Sexy times: 3
Main Characters: 4
Supporting Characters: 5
Romance: 3
Dialogue: 4
Average: 4
All said, I would definitely read another book by this author. I feel like she has real promise, and that if she can build such believable worlds and characters with interesting storylines as this one, the rest will surely fall into place in some future book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I felt the like the premise of the story was creative, and I especially liked that the heroine was different from those in most romance novels. She was smart, sassy, and independent, and she got to be the one in charge in many scenes in the book, instead of being weak or the "damsel in distress" that the Hero needed to swoop in and rescue. So in that way, it was an original plotline, too.
There was good character development throughout with both the H and h. We see the H move from kind of a too-independent grouch to a more open, softer, individual. And the h moves on from grieving widow status and recognizes strengths in herself, too. I really enjoyed the supporting characters, as well. Each one had a very well-developed personality of his or her own, that was separate and distinct from the others, so they each stood out as "real" people. Too often, background or supporting players are tropes or stereotypes, but that was not at all the case here. You really got the sense that these might be real people you could be friends with!
If there was anything that kept this from being a 5-star book for me, it was some kind of odd moments in the relationship build-up that never seemed to have been totally resolved for me. For instance, the h makes a vow to herself that she is never going to get involved with someone in the music business again, and she eventually decides that, OK, she will - but how did she get to that conclusion? There's a lot of vacillating back and forth throughout the story, but then when we get to the final decision, I don't feel like the pros and cons were ever really laid out to justify her making the decision she did. I'm not saying it was the wrong decision - just that it would have been nice to have more light shed on that particular aspect, especially since it was such a big deal, earlier in the story.
And, the sexy time scenes were just OK. Some of them were really good, but other times, they were just kinda "meh."
My breakdown goes like this:
Plot: 4
World building: 5
Character growth: 4.5
Sexy times: 3
Main Characters: 4
Supporting Characters: 5
Romance: 3
Dialogue: 4
Average: 4
All said, I would definitely read another book by this author. I feel like she has real promise, and that if she can build such believable worlds and characters with interesting storylines as this one, the rest will surely fall into place in some future book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2021
Holy Macaroni!!! A country a cappella group. Who knew?
Grammy award-winning songwriter and widow Grace O’Connor is facing the future without her famous rock star husband. The music business thinks she’s all washed up because she lost her muse and she is starting to believe them until she is forced to collaborate with Andrew Hayes, the sexy hot singer/songwriter of the country a cappella group, Storyhill. It’s either help or be blackballed by her arrogant music executive where she won’t be able to get a job in the industry ever again. Of course, no one wants their artistic expression criticized by another and Grace has her hands full with angry Andrew who thinks she’s stealing his thunder. Angry she can deal with, it’s the attraction to him that gets her in trouble.
Grace is tired of being referred to as Jax Jensen’s widow. Sure she chose to stay in the background as her husband’s songwriter, but now she wants to prove she can do it on her own. And now she is thrown together with another musician to help him improve his songwriting. Though reluctant at first, her attraction for Andrew grows as well as her sense of independence. Can she have a relationship and a career at the same time?
Andrew didn’t need saving. But he can’t help his attraction to the smart, talented, and beautiful Grace O’Connor. Nope. He can’t mix business with pleasure, but this woman is “literally his saving Grace. From his music to his family, she made everything easier.”
There is nothing better than being completely immersed in a wonderful story about the music world. And what a great idea to have a country a cappella group! Of course, Grace and Andrew are ideal for a relationship with songwriting backgrounds, their passion for music, and the drive to be the best in their profession. I was completely invested in these two from the first moment they butted heads. Their wonderful playful and sexy banter is a hoot as they both give as good as they get. Not to mention the great sex. Gracie and the Cowboy. Can you say, heat? Apparently, everyone around them saw it. Yum!!!
Speaking of supporting characters, the friends and family are many and steal the show. From Grace’s hilarious friend Annie and her adorable girls to Andrew’s bandmates who I hope to see in future books of the series. At one time Grace funnily refers to the band as The Village People: Matt the Rhinestone Cowboy, Nick with the lumber-sexual thing (think hot lumberjack), Bull Market Blake (think sexy office guy), and Joe, the classic bad boy (think crazy post-sex hair).
What’s not to love about this book? It has two of my favorite tropes: enemies-to-lovers and older woman/younger man. It’s about bringing closure to your past and moving forward with your life. The story also includes a multitude of fun characters, witty dialogue, and playful sexy moments which kept me reading well into the night. Highly recommend.
Grammy award-winning songwriter and widow Grace O’Connor is facing the future without her famous rock star husband. The music business thinks she’s all washed up because she lost her muse and she is starting to believe them until she is forced to collaborate with Andrew Hayes, the sexy hot singer/songwriter of the country a cappella group, Storyhill. It’s either help or be blackballed by her arrogant music executive where she won’t be able to get a job in the industry ever again. Of course, no one wants their artistic expression criticized by another and Grace has her hands full with angry Andrew who thinks she’s stealing his thunder. Angry she can deal with, it’s the attraction to him that gets her in trouble.
Grace is tired of being referred to as Jax Jensen’s widow. Sure she chose to stay in the background as her husband’s songwriter, but now she wants to prove she can do it on her own. And now she is thrown together with another musician to help him improve his songwriting. Though reluctant at first, her attraction for Andrew grows as well as her sense of independence. Can she have a relationship and a career at the same time?
Andrew didn’t need saving. But he can’t help his attraction to the smart, talented, and beautiful Grace O’Connor. Nope. He can’t mix business with pleasure, but this woman is “literally his saving Grace. From his music to his family, she made everything easier.”
There is nothing better than being completely immersed in a wonderful story about the music world. And what a great idea to have a country a cappella group! Of course, Grace and Andrew are ideal for a relationship with songwriting backgrounds, their passion for music, and the drive to be the best in their profession. I was completely invested in these two from the first moment they butted heads. Their wonderful playful and sexy banter is a hoot as they both give as good as they get. Not to mention the great sex. Gracie and the Cowboy. Can you say, heat? Apparently, everyone around them saw it. Yum!!!
Speaking of supporting characters, the friends and family are many and steal the show. From Grace’s hilarious friend Annie and her adorable girls to Andrew’s bandmates who I hope to see in future books of the series. At one time Grace funnily refers to the band as The Village People: Matt the Rhinestone Cowboy, Nick with the lumber-sexual thing (think hot lumberjack), Bull Market Blake (think sexy office guy), and Joe, the classic bad boy (think crazy post-sex hair).
What’s not to love about this book? It has two of my favorite tropes: enemies-to-lovers and older woman/younger man. It’s about bringing closure to your past and moving forward with your life. The story also includes a multitude of fun characters, witty dialogue, and playful sexy moments which kept me reading well into the night. Highly recommend.
July 20, 2021
I don’t know where these @annmarieboyleauthor stories have been hiding but damn am I glad I found them! Let’s jump right in and talk about Grace O’Connor, our heroine. She’s beautiful, talented, rich, snarky and 44. 44 you say? Speak into my good ear? 👂? Gracie had been the songwriter of a singer songwriter duo with her late husband for twenty years before he died. Her husband got all of the glory while Grace hid all of her considerable music talents in the shadows, telling herself that partnership has many forms.
Two years after his death, her recording contract has come to roost and her label orders her to co-write an album with Storyhill, an up and coming country band that needs a bit of polish before putting out their debut album and going on tour.
Cue Andrew Hayes, the 35 year old bass singer (did I mention they’re a capella) in the band and the current songwriter. He wants to do everything on his own to show everybody he really can have his dream and make it big. He’s got that cocky leading man charisma but this river of doubt and insecurity. Needless to say, Grace and Andrew do not get along and the sparks fly as they trade barbs left and right.
But their anger at their situations and at eachother burns away and what’s left is just a really smoking hot couple trying to figure out what it all means, in terms of their career goals and what they’d be like together.
This was a quick fun read. It was empowering to read about a hot 44 year old widow getting the goddamn groove back into her life. Grace rose up above sorrow and grief to come into her own, with or without Andrew, and Andrew became a steadfast, loyal, enthusiastic partner for his talented lover, not intimidated by her, but content to let her shine even while moving forward with his own music.
I’m not sure how I feel about Country A Capella (ok to be fair, I do know how I feel and it’s BAD), but I’m eagerly looking forward to reading the next books in the series anyway.
PS. Andrew and Grace are appropriately horny, the banter is top notch, and the sex scenes a solid 3.5 on the smutometer.
Two years after his death, her recording contract has come to roost and her label orders her to co-write an album with Storyhill, an up and coming country band that needs a bit of polish before putting out their debut album and going on tour.
Cue Andrew Hayes, the 35 year old bass singer (did I mention they’re a capella) in the band and the current songwriter. He wants to do everything on his own to show everybody he really can have his dream and make it big. He’s got that cocky leading man charisma but this river of doubt and insecurity. Needless to say, Grace and Andrew do not get along and the sparks fly as they trade barbs left and right.
But their anger at their situations and at eachother burns away and what’s left is just a really smoking hot couple trying to figure out what it all means, in terms of their career goals and what they’d be like together.
This was a quick fun read. It was empowering to read about a hot 44 year old widow getting the goddamn groove back into her life. Grace rose up above sorrow and grief to come into her own, with or without Andrew, and Andrew became a steadfast, loyal, enthusiastic partner for his talented lover, not intimidated by her, but content to let her shine even while moving forward with his own music.
I’m not sure how I feel about Country A Capella (ok to be fair, I do know how I feel and it’s BAD), but I’m eagerly looking forward to reading the next books in the series anyway.
PS. Andrew and Grace are appropriately horny, the banter is top notch, and the sex scenes a solid 3.5 on the smutometer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews