A review by anitalouise
Prelude by Venona Keyes, Shira Anthony

4.0

So much of what happens to us as children and young adults follows us into adulthood and informs your actions, almost without realizing it. Like the others in this series, the music takes center stage alongside the MCs. I dug out my dusty, warped CDs (yes, CDs! so what!) and played the Sibelius violin concerto referenced in the book. So haunting, so lovely. Just love the way the author weaves the music throughout the words. It surrounds the actions and reinforces and supports the romance. "...evoked the distant thunder of the timpani. The smooth line of Alex’s jaw became the sound of the woodwinds, the slight hollow of his cheeks the violas, the arch of his brow the cellos. David heard the orchestra as if it resonated from Alex’s soul." I found myself alternately understanding David's issues and wanting to clobber him with Alex' bow. Oh my goodness how frustrating and exasperating. Took way longer for him to pull his head out of his ass. Both Alex and David are solid characters, well drawn, adult in their actions. No games but still trying to come to terms with what they have and how too get those feelings back. As always, strong writing and enjoyable situations. Have to admit - the music is the best part of the books in the Blue Notes series!!