Still Life with Strings

by L.H. Cosway

My name is Jade Lennon and I stand still for money.


The night I saw Shane Arthur watching me everything changed. A man in a suit always catches my eye, but it was the way he looked at me that was different. Like he knew me or something. He didn’t know me, especially not in my costume. My sobriety rests on staying away from men, but there was something about him that made me throw caution to the wind.


After all, I was never going to see him again, right?


Wrong.


Standing still isn’t the only way I make my money. I also bartend at a concert hall. Never in my wildest dreams did I think Shane was going to show up there. Not only that, but he’s the most recent addition to the orchestra. So now on a daily basis I have to resist one of the most beautiful men I’ve ever met and he plays the violin. For me that’s one hell of a deadly cocktail.


He wants me to teach him how to live. I’m not sure how much a twenty-six year old recovering alcoholic who works in a bar and moonlights as a living statue can teach a world class concert violinist, but I’m sure going to try.


Still Life with Strings is a story of music, art, sex, magical realism, and romance that you will never forget.


** Not suitable for readers under 18 years. Contains strong language and sex scenes. **

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, New Adult, Music, Adult, Erotica

280 pages, Paperback

First published March 22, 2014

About the author

L.H. Cosway lives in Ireland. Her inspiration to write comes from music. Her favourite things in life include writing stories, food, musical comedy, and of course, books. She thinks that imperfect people are the most interesting kind. They tell the best stories.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LHCosway

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LHCosway

Mailing List: https://lhcoswayauthor.com/newsletter/

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lhcosway13/

Website: www.lhcoswayauthor.com

Reviews

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Believing, Bluebird, Magical Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
There are times when you just read for pleasure... the love of it and whether you review or not doesn't matter. You start because a dear friend tells you how much they loved it (Thank you,Jahy)... decide to see what it is and just go for it.

I really had very little knowledge about this book and started blind. As I read the note from the author explaining how small the city of Dublin is and how interconnected things could really be without stretching the truth... I saw it was the same author of The Nature of Cruelty and Painted Faces. It was if I had been smacked... I loved those books and sang their praises to all just in the same way my friend did about this....So I knew from the start I was about to experience a surprise treat.

This book covers so much and so well. There is a serious and real presentation of addiction... this one being alcoholism; there is the open pain of loss, be it from death, cheating or opportunity. All of these things are done with a sure hand; with humor, warmth and a brute accuracy which cuts through to the heart.

In addition to all of these ways of tell this story, there is another layer which is magical. Yes, really there is feeling of special moments throughout the book which will just astound you and cause you to stop and think for a moment... to just take it all in....

The main characters were so real to me, I could feel their need from the first moments ... the descriptions of emotions... all of them hit me. Their frustrations were mine.....Their pleasure was mine... Their pain hurt as deeply as if it had been inflicted on me.

This is a unique read... I know I haven't really said much... except to advise you... please read the blurb... see if it strikes a chord...because if it does... I promise, you will have an amazing experience.... then who knows... you might become like my friend and now me...wishing all of your friends to read Still Life With Strings, too.

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Lucia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shining diamond among contemporary romance novels, Still Life With Strings is a perfect combination of romance, art, steam and realism. L.H. Cosway wrote another unforgettable story. A must-read!

My Jade and Shane:


Jade lives colorful but difficult life. Recovering alcoholic, living statue performer, bartending at concert hall, taking care of her younger siblings. Straightforward with no time for games, one night she has a quick "shag" with handsome stranger.

"I think I might have dreamt you,"
What a romantic thing to say to a woman who let you shag her just minutes after you just met.

But when mysterious stranger becomes a permanent feature at one of her work places, they develop extraordinary friendship. With a strict no-relationships rule, how long will Jade be able to fight her attraction to Shane?

L.H. Cosway has a talent of taking me to the most exciting and enthralling secluded places with her books, places that are not usual part of my life. This book is no exception. Art, music, performances and unconventional fascinating characters. Still Life With Strings is truly magical and senses-provoking romance story.

I love how author depicted this raw and primal attraction between Jade and Shane. It was incredibly hot, yet simultaneously breathtakingly beautiful and earth-shatteringly intense. They were walking fine line between friends and lovers. And it brought huge amount of anticipation, sweet torture and sexual tension into the story. I absolutely loved that.

And the best part of this book? In depth characters. It seemed like they were real people living their lives in Dublin, not just on pages of this exceptional novel.

Tough reality made quite a complicated person out of Jade. With so many responsibilities and pressure on her shoulders, I totally understood her reasons for everything she did in this book, good or bad. But most importantly, I admired Jade and the fact that after everything she had to go through in her life, she never became a bitter person. She is exactly the kind of character I love to read about - mentally strong and genuinely (and realistically) nice person.

Shane was absolutely amazing. Sexy confident and talented man with hints of shyness. I loved how L.H. Cosway was able to combine such opposite characteristics in one person and made it work perfectly. Author took human's vulnerability and turned it into something beautiful. Shane was broken but truly adorable character. I would definitely want him to "Colin all over my Farrell", he was that yummy.



Still Life With Strings is emotional story about hardships that real life brings along, about social differences, about fate and destiny. I cannot recommend it enough, this novel touched my heart and I know for sure I will be coming back to relive Jade's & Shane's story.

*ARC provided by author as an exchange for honest review*

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[Kristin (KC) · Rating 2 out of 5]

*3 stars*...

Still Life With Strings is a feel good love story infused with humor and some pretty solid messages of self-perception and overcoming.

What makes this story stand out for me is its creativity; our heroine is a living-statue street performer and our hero, an accomplished concert violinist. This alone presents an interesting foundation upon which to build a story. The plot largely focuses on fate and redemption, and extends a heartwarming twist.

However, although this is a love story, I did wish certain additional elements were further explored, as a lot of this story particularly underscores the physical and sexual connection.

Jade and Shane are equally broken and emotionally battered, although they stem from entirely different worlds. Shane is sheltered from reality and nursing a broken heart, and Jade—a recovering alcoholic with a new zest for life and a strong will—offers him life in its most vibrant form.
And Shane truly wants to live again.

An attraction was quick to ignite but their relationship was more of a slow burn. The sexual tension was piled on thick, and I loved the contrast of Jade's halfhearted refusal to Shane's full-on persistence. The two made quite a pair, and I honestly grew to adore them together.

There were some moments in the plot that felt a little too carefully conducted; as though everything unraveled a bit too perfectly, which is probably the reason I never fully lost myself in the story.

Book Stats:
▪ Genre/Category: Romance. New Adult.
▪ Steam Caliber: Ample amount of steam.
▪ Romance: Quick start, but slow burn.
▪ Characters: Broken and sweet hero. Strong and lively heroine.
▪ Plot: A unique love story surrounding fate and redemption.
▪ Writing: Fluid and humorous.
▪ POV: 1st Person: Heroine
▪ Cliffhanger: None/Standalone
▪ HEA? Yes!

*Arc provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4-4.5 Bluebird stars!!!


To be a muse is to be a wonder in someone else’s eyes, flaws and all.

Full of beauty, music and love, Still Life with Strings is a wonderful contemporary romance you won’t want to miss out on.
Are some people supposed to meet? Is everything coincidence, or are some things fate?

One fateful evening, Shane see’s a woman in blue posing on the street. He approaches her, just feeling this need to be near her. They don’t know anything about one another, but they both feel it. This connection, attraction.

Jade is a 26 year old woman with the weight of the world on her shoulders. She is fun and spunky, but she has a lot of responsibility. Life hasn’t handed her the easiest hand. She takes care of her three younger siblings and works full time as a server at the orchestra. Shane’s life is dramatically different. He is a 29 year old violinist. Growing up as a prodigy, music has been his life.



Shane is the newest violinist where Jade works. Both of them are shocked to see one another. Shane hasn’t been able to get Jade out of his head. He wants to pursue something with her, go out, get to know her. As much as Jade is attracted to Shane, she can’t be in relationships. With everything going on in her home life, and things that have happened in her past, it’s not a risk she can afford to take. There is something about Jade. Shane wants her in his life, even if it’s just as friends. He desperately needs a friend. He wants to learn to live for real, and Jade is just the person to teach him.

I’ve a feeling that having this sad, lonely, lovely man in my life is going to change it irrevocably.



Jade enjoys Shane’s company. But the attraction that continues to grow between them doesn’t make it easy on her.

I didn’t anticipate how hard it would be to stay platonic with a man I’m this strongly attracted to . There’s an underlying note of sex in everything we do.

Jade was my kind of heroine. A little quirky, funny and strong. There were times I wanted to tell her to just take a chance on Shane, but I understood her reasons for staying away so long, so it didn’t annoy me much.
Shane was a beautiful and soulful man. I enjoyed everything about his character. He was a little shy and awkward due to his upbringing, but I found him to be endearing. He wasn’t perfect, he had some issues, but so did Jade.



I loved watching the tension and attraction between Jade and Shane build. Shane was sweet and shy a lot of the book, but when he came out of his shell, he was sexy.

“How are you so good at this?”

“Maybe I spent a little too much time imagining doing it to you.���

Okay, that was the best answer.
The. Best. Answer.

And I was happy that there was some humor in the story as well. As many lovely and beautiful lines as there were, this comical line may have been my favorite. Because lest face it- it’s the truth!

Anything that feels this perfect needs to be vocalized with a couple shits and fucks.

The story its self was smart, interesting and unique in many ways. I enjoyed both of the main characters and the unpredictable twists and turns. L.H. Cosway has an incredible way with words. The books of her’s I’ve read almost have a magical quality. It was a touching and beautiful story I would recommend.

It's not like I haven’t spent half of my life imagining fantasies to try to escape the darkness. I remember him telling me he felt like he dreamt me the first night we met. Perhaps he feels the same way. Perhaps I’m just as much as a miracle to him as he is to me.

*ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review*

[Lady Vigilante (Feifei) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Live early! >> http://amzn.to/1hcr6t4 <<

3.5 ‘BLUEBIRD’ STARS

[5 stars for the first half
2.5 stars for the second half]

Overall it's a wonderful feel-good romance! Sprinkled with humor and rooted in reality, this book took a much overused premise and turned it into a story that entices the reader into wanting to know more about the plot and characters. I was never bored while reading and though the plot is quite simplistic, I never found any scenes to be mundane.



Jade is such an admirable and refreshing female lead. I can’t tell you how many times I gave up on a book because the heroine is a weak, sniveling character but Jade isn’t like that. She’s responsible, loyal, daring, and witty; a recovering alcoholic and acting as a parent to her younger siblings, Jade’s character really appealed to me and I admire her resilient personality.

Shane is not your typical hero. He’s shy but can be possessive and attentive. He’s experienced betrayal in the past and his childhood was quite cold and lonely so meeting Jade was like finding buried gold. What made this book really work for me was how the author portrayed Jade and Shane’s relationship that went from friends to lovers: convincing and believable.

There is a strong musical element to the book and without it, the story would not be the same. Part of what makes Shane and Jade connect on such a deep level is his music and I loved the way the author weaved the musical aspect into the story so when I read it, I didn’t feel like it dominated the plot, but instead, supported, gave weight, and helped validate their relationship.



Another thing I have to point out: this author KNOWS how to make the little things count. Often times I read a book and minute details are glazed over and not given much thought, but this book was rich in setting description, character quirks, and that in itself helped deliver an additional layer to the story and helped me connect with the book on a deeper level. Example being: there is this emotionally powerful scene at 40% that completely stole my breath. I did not expect it to affect me so much but it did so props to the author for achieving that.

As much as I loved the book I also had some major problems with the second half of the story.

1. “His face moves to my hair as he sucks in a deep breath, scenting me.” Sorry, the term “scenting” doesn’t do it for me. It totally kills my ladyboner.



2. The sexual tension hindered the plot. Normally I love feeling how palpable the tension is but in some cases, Jade’s reluctance to give in for even an millimeter made me angry. It’s like...they’re having a great scene where they really connect and then Jade pulls up her ice-cold wall defenses again and the moment is ruined. RUINED I say! This happens multiple times and I walked away rolling my eyes! What is wrong with Jade...



3. This is probably my biggest complaint of all. At precisely 76% I considered slapping a DNF on the book and walking away. Mind you, it’s not cheating. What went through my head (besides WTF) was why is this added in? It certainly helped explain why earlier chapters in the book didn’t really make sense until this revelation came out, but with this fact revealed, it made me question the believability of the characters and the story as a whole. You see, what was uncovered should’ve brought forth a lot more turmoil and emotion than was described in the book, but Shane and Jade’s blasé reaction towards it not only undermined the point of adding this in the first place, but also tainted the realism and convincing portrayals of their characters in the first 50%, hence, ruining the book for me.



I really struggled with my feelings for the book as it was so evenly split into two: first half, total enjoyment and couldn’t find a single thing wrong with it; second half was a downward spiral and ended up as a big let down compared to the beginning. Perhaps if the events at 76% were taken out, this could’ve made a solid 4 or 4.5 star read for me, but unfortunately it didn’t make the 4 star mark.

To take a sentence from the book, “close...but not close enough.”

ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

For more reviews, freebie lists, & giveaways visit my blog!

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★★☆ 4.5 stars!



Still Life with Strings was a wonderfully original story that very hard to put down once I started reading it. As with all of L.H. Cosway's books that I've read so far, the characters were very unique, fascinating and a bit unconventional which made them all the more interesting. This author has become an auto-buy for me and with this story she's once again proven to be able to write some very easy to read, spellbinding standalone romances that with not too much angst and the perfect combination of humor and smut.

Jade Lennon is a girl with a very troubled past. Ever since her mother died five years ago, she's been the one taking care of her three younger siblings. Her mother's death was also the event that led her to kicking her alcohol habit and after five years of sobriety she still holds strictly to the rule that if she lets another man into her heart, he will once again drive her to the comfort of alcohol. So she keeps them at a distance. But when she meets Shane Arthur, her whole life might get turned upside down...

"I think I might have dreamt you."

After their explosive first meeting, Jade discovers Shane is the newest member of the orchestra at the music hall where she works. And so, what was supposed to be a one-time-chance meeting turns out to be a fast evolving friendship between two people who are broken by their past but who might be able to heal each other with their presence. Shane himself has had his fair share of heartbreak that he's still recovering from. He was endearingly sweet and adorable while Jade was a very straightforward, refreshingly independent heroine, which made them complement each other perfectly.



From the moment they meet, Jade and Shane have this instant connection and powerful chemistry (with lots of sexual tension!). But because of some events in the past, Jade is reluctant to start a relationship so she suggests they become friends instead. And even though they both want more, Shane is happy with finally having a new friend. Because of his sheltered life as a famous musician, he doesn't really have any true friends. He's always sacrificed his social life in order to perfect his musical skills, but Jade is the one that teaches him it's possible to have both a career and a social life.

"It's better than being sheltered. You live in the real world, Jade, and you don't know how desperate I am to join you."

Jade and Shane teach each other what's it's like to live again, the two of them meeting is also catatonic in a way, but to divulge further into that would spoil too much of the story. Let's just say that there was a certain twist near the end of the story that I didn't see coming but that made their connection all the more profound although it did seem a bit too coincidental that she's the one he saw on the news all those years ago and decided to write an entire album about...but, it wasn't so farfetched that it bothered me in any way either.



If you're looking for a unconventional, inspiring friends to lovers story with a high entertainment value and some dialogue that will make you laugh out loud, I would highly recommend giving this one a try! ;)

Standalone.

**ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

[Patrycja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Still Life with Strings
Series: Standalone.
Author: L.H Cosway
Release Date: March, 2014
Rating: 5 + stars
Cliffhanger:.No
HEA: Yes




I really liked other Cosway’s book – Painted Faces, I thought it was a great read. But Still Life with Strings was perfection in every little detail. The story of Jade and Shane was amazing, sensual, moving, beautiful, bewitching…. I can go on and on. From start to finish I was mesmerized by the author’s fabulous storytelling.



I literally don’t know how to explain what this book did to me. I’m speechless. Have you ever loved something so much that finding words that would summarize simply didn’t exist in your vocabulary ? Writing a review when I’m still replaying in my head all those incredible scenes is almost painful. I want to scream out loud that I loved it and recommend it to all my friends, but if someone would ask me why? I think I could only it’s perfection, just try it.



This novel is incredibly bewitching, beautiful story that captivated my soul. In a matter of pages I feel in love with this breathtakingly stunning novel. I’m still under the charm of L.H Cosway’s wonderful writing and complex characters.





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[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars.

Healing a broken body is easier than healing a broken heart...



Still Life With Strings isn’t your typical boy-meets-girl and they fall in love kind of story. I think I would struggle to accurately put together a fully coherent review, outlining just how enjoyable this book is, without leaving massive spoilers, but I am going to try.

Picture Fantasia for adults if you will (and check out my updates while reading for more pictorial interpretations of what I was seeing whilst reading).



Jade Lennon and Shane Arthur are from completely different backgrounds, their upbringings and current day-to-day lives couldn’t be more different. Somehow these differences are what make them fit together, Shane has lead a sheltered and somewhat closeted life, while Jade has pretty much been balls-to-the-wall from her early teens. Shane wants Jade to teach him how to live, and Jade just wants to avoid her reality as much as she possibly can. Both are tortured souls, but don't be mistaken in thinking this is your usual angst-fest that seems to be the norm in books lately.

What follows, and their story is wholly different from anything I have read previously in this type of genre, is simply intoxicating! Two people looking to live their lives as best they can, and deal with the cards that they have been dealt, whilst once in a while looking to remove themselves from familial pressures, expectations and obligations, and the echoes from their pasts that don’t seem to want to go away.

“What is perfect anyway?”
“Whatever you want it to be. Think of it more as a feeling. I think perfect is just feeling content with your lot.”

The coincidences that tie Jade and Shane together are inspired and unexpected; I did not see any of them until right up to the point of actually reading.

Jade uses her mind and imagination as a form of escapism and you are at points in the story taken away by the lyrical, descriptive and totally engrossing writing of L. H. Cosway’s imagination -

My head wanders as I become enraptured by the music. I hardly see or hear any of the other musicians, my attention solely on this intriguing man. Musical notes float out of his strings in a cacophony of colours and textures. They fly up into the air. A treble clef drifts to me, catching onto the edge of my shirt. I pick it up and smooth it beneath my fingers, fold it in half, and stick it in my pocket for safekeeping.



I literally got lost in this book; it is so full of colour, and sound and imagery that it really does take you away to the places and people contained in its pages. If you are looking for a book that offers escapism, while being tied up in a pretty spectacular storyline, then Still Life In Strings is definitely one you need to read.

My thanks go to L. H. Cosway, for generously providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for the above honest review.

[Amy | Foxy Blogs · Rating 4 out of 5]

**4.5 Strings stars**

STILL LIFE WITH STRINGS is a slow burn romance between a street performer/bartender and concert violinist.

Jade has been handed the hard knocks of life. She's had a rough childhood that led her to become an alcoholic who now is 5 years sober. Jade is the guardian for her teen siblings after her mother passed away. Currently, her life consist of being a full time responsible adult.

Shane has been sheltered his whole life because he's a musical prodigy. He's lived a privileged life with everything revolving around him performing. After some major life changes he's ready for something that will make him feel alive.

A chance meeting on a street corner leads to an undeniable attraction between these two. Jade is scared to trust her heart to a man she barely knows especially when she the stable person in her siblings life.

Still Life with Strings is my second book by L.H. Cosway. My first was Painted Faces which made my top favorites list of 2013. I enjoy the writing style by Ms. Cosway.

Overall Still Life with Strings is an intriguing story line for classical music lovers who want a setting in Ireland with a friends to lovers romance.



Standalone

**Complimentary copy courtesy of Romance Beckons from Harlequin via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**

[Mo · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars

It was just an ordinary night. He didn’t think anything extraordinary would happen. Until it did. Turning a corner onto the bustling night time street, he saw her all in blue. The woman from his painting was a living, breathing thing… and she was so completely still.

This was the story of Jade and Shane. Two Dubliners from opposite social standings. She was from The Liberties, he was from Dalkey. I suppose to a non-Irish person, that won’t really make sense but one thing about this book is that the author did her “Irish” right. One small quibble and this is total nit-picking on my behalf – she called a taxi a “cab” at one stage… but everything else was spot on.


Jade was a strong heroine. Had a tough life and it was still tough in some ways, as she was guardian to younger siblings.

”when everything else in life fails, there still has to be music”

I am not sure why it did not hit the 4 or 5 star mark for me. Shane was 29 but at times I found him a bit immature and childlike.

People are shit. The day you stop yourself expecting decency from them is the day you’ll free yourself from getting hurt

Overall a good read and it is getting some great reviews so I would recommend it.

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5 STARS

Wow this book was really beautiful!!It was romantic,hot and mysterious!!I really enjoyed it!!This is my first book of L.H. Cosway and I can say that she is very talented!!I will definitely read her other books soon!!



Shane is a musician, he plays violin.He goes to Dublin to play with the local orchestra. He wants to forget the woman he used to love... After her mother's death, Jade must look after her siblings alone and she has to deal with their problems... She works as a street performer and as a bar worker. One night after finishing her street performance she sees Shane who is watching her...

Shane and Jade are such beautiful characters, they grabbed my attention from the beginning and I thoroughly enjoyed watching their story!!Both characters have some hard times but they manage to build themselves back up!!I loved their chemistry,the tension and the pasion!!The sex scenes were really hot!!

Steamy love scenes and humor made this an enjoyable read!!It's worth to read it!!

ARC kindly provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Val ⚓️ Shameless Handmaiden ⚓️]

In case this shows up in my feed - despite me UNCHECKING the "add the my feed" box...Updated 4/18/15 to replace some gifs I noticed weren't working. Because OCD...

DNF @51%

Yeah so me and violins...



...just don't go together, I guess.

This just wasn't my thing, honestly...and I should have known better.

The main male character is a violinist...



And the female is a bartending sometime "busker" (whomp whomp) who has hallucinogenic acid trips...but without any actual acid.



The way the main female kept sending the main male mixed signals drove me nuts.

Uber annoying.

In short, this was a case of it's not you, it's me. This was just too hipster and artsy for my personal tastes.

[JaHy☝Hold the Fairy Dust · Rating 4 out of 5]

** 4 " FATEFUL" STARS****



When I think of Still Life with Strings the word "whimsical" immediately comes to mind. The writing, character development, and pace of the story felt as though I were reading a beautiful melody being performed with words. I am NOT a romance /chick lit kind of gal but when I noticed a friend (Claire) was reading this, I ran to request a copy. L.H. Cosway blew me away with Painted Faces and I was eager to see if she could do it again. SHE DID.



Still Life with Strings is a story of two very different people, whom live very different lives, allowing fate to guide them to the same path to happiness.

Shane is a 29 year old violinist whom was proclaimed a child prodigy at the tender age of 6. His mother had him home-schooled by a private tutor so that he could spend more time focusing on the violin. He had a very isolated upbringing and rarely met other kids his age, hence �� no childhood friends"to speak of. While out celebrating with his new fellow musicians he spots a street performer and cannot take his eyes off the woman in blue standing perfectly still. Shane decides to approach her and......I'm not telling, but I promise it's good *wink-wink*

Okay, okay, the woman in blue is named Jade. She's a 26 year full time employee at The National Concert Hall, who's also a street performer in her spare time. Jade is the guardian to her 3 younger siblings, Alec 21 ( he's yummy, and deserves his own book ) April 17 and Pete 15. They mean everything to her and she will do anything to protect them ...and her HEART. One day at work she runs into Shane and learns he is the musician replacing the violinist whom left for Australia (ie, they'll be working at the same place) Both are immediately enamored with each other but Jade is not looking for any relationship other than friendship (silly woman) . An enjoyable friendship is formed , sexual tension beings oozing off the pages and the most sensual scene where words are written on body parts is told in such a light it will leave you breathless. Honesty, when the scene was first introduced I thought "oh great,here comes the cheese" boy was I ever eating my words.

There is so much more I could say but I don't wish to take away from the delicate melody being told by spoiling it with my big mouth. So I shall shut up now, but first I must say..ONE -CLICK IT.

**A huge thanks to L.H. Cosway for taking a risk by gifting meanie me an ARC. You are fantastic ! **

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[Jx PinkLady Reviews ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Beautiful Bluebird Stars



L.H. Cosway sucked me into her world of Shane Arthur and Jade Lennon. I found the story to be unique in both the content and the way it was told. The author took her time delivering her story, feeding us knew information, insight and feeling all the way through the book.



It's a magical, romantic story about healing, taking risks and trusting in another person, trusting them with your heart and soul. It's about living through pain in all it’s different forms, loneliness, betrayal, loss, addiction....



It's about judgement and freedom; freedom in all it’s forms ~ of the mind and body… It’s thematically rich with lots of layers; its deep and moving but it never felt too much, it's all told with faith and a sense of truth. I believed everything that happened to the characters, everything they said and everything they felt. The impact other people can have on your life is astounding…. Most of all, for me, this is a book about love and serendipity....



Shane Arthur is a gifted world-class musician. He's polite, sexy and gorgeous; a beautiful person both inside and out, despite his upbringing and recent life experiences. He made me fall in book love with him.

Jade Lennon stands still for money, she also works at a concert hall as a bartender. Both jobs are essential to her life. She’s eccentric, selfless in her responsibilities, loyal to her family, down to earth and honest. She's been through hell and survived. It’s clear very quickly that she’s made of strong stuff and I love her for it.

Music takes her to other worldly places. Her imagination runs wild with the music.

Jade and Shane.... What can I say? You see from the blurb that they both end up at the same concert hall, Shane is the most recent addition to the orchestra. She fights her connection to him, believing he would NOT be good for her sobriety.



The characters have an equally harrowing past, they've both lived a life of pain which can sometimes be too much, but in this story it works. There's truthfulness to everything.

They have chemistry together, a force, something driving them together. And when they are together, intimately, it’s explosive, palpable, sensually hot and intense.

“His grin is intolerable, and then his tongue is on me, his fingers are inside me, and I feel like I’m going to explode.”

It made my heart beat fast. So many beautiful passages.

Could they both overcome their past and enjoy a future?

I love the way the author links the story together and intertwines lives. It’s completely and emotionally intense. Every now and again, before the start of a chapter, there’s a little curious passage. They have so much meaning, you may not know what at the time, but they’re poignant.



I LOVE this....
It feels like the universe was working to bring them together for quite some time. The story explores Soul mates.... Split moment decisions can change everything; set off a chain of happenings. Was it always meant to be this way? Did they just have to find their way? Do we have a choice or is everything written in the stars? Did they HAVE to experience pain to know true happiness? So many life questions and thoughts.



If you love beautiful, well written stories with depth of feeling and emotion, interesting characters and events, you will most certainly enjoy this book. I will definitely reach out for more from this author. Enjoy

BR with Deanna ♥

Courtesy copy provided by Romance Beckons, via NetGalley for an honest review

[Jeannine Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars (Re-Read 1/18/2018)

5 Stars (First Read 7/29/2015)

"What is perfect, anyway?"
"Whatever you want it to be. Think of it more as a feeling. I think perfect is just feeling content with your lot."

If that's the case then this novel was definitely perfect. As always Cosway's storytelling is beautiful and mesmerizing. I devoured this book in a day and like Six of Hearts it has an enchanting quality to it that leaves you believing in magic or divine intervention. There are time when I read a novel and think that all the "coincidences" are unrealistic, but it's impossible to feel that way here because of how wonderfully written it is. What you take away is that something this wonderful can actually happen in the real world, and that's one of the many things I love about this author. She puts magic in the ordinary in such a way that it leaves you with hope that mundane life can be transformed into something whimsical.

Another thing I loved (and love about all her works really) is the characters. They are so varied and interesting, and I love getting to read about a side of life I will (most likely) never experience. Jade and Shane are easily one of my favorite couples, and are individually two of my favorite characters in a series. They fit so well together and while Jade was initially scared, I never really believed that they were anything other than soulmates.

Please, please read this novel. If you've read anything by L.H. Cosway before you will not be disappointed. If, however, this is your first novel by this author then prepared to be blown away and fall in love, because her novels are ones that leave you thinking and hoping and dreaming and they are definitely not easily forgotten. <3

[Allison ❤️Will Never Conquer Her TBR❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Artistically Awesome Stars!








Jade Lennon doesn't have the easiest life. She works multiple jobs, lives in seedier part of Dublin, just trying to stay afloat while supporting her three younger siblings. It isn't the life she's dreamed of but life has given her countless challenges but she trudges on... One thing she loves is to busk as a street performer. It gives her fast cash when she needs food on the table. She dresses as a blue-winged sparrow and stands like a statue on the streets....plucking a feather to passerby's who appear to be moved by her art. This is more than a way to make cash, it's her therapy...and they call her Blue Lady.









Shane Arthur, a renowned violinist and concertmaster in the local Dublin orchestra, is passing by one late evening. He's awestruck by the bluebird standing before him. He has a sense of déjà vu. He has to meet her. And their story begins....









Shane and Jade have this connection from the start. I found their inner chemistry captivating and it carried me through the book. Yes, there's heat, a sexual pull between these two like no other but Jade fights love. She has too many people depending on her. She knows if things go bad, she will spiral into darkness again. So, they have rules, building a steady, solid friendship. Shane is enamored with Jade's strength, vitality and ability to live. He just wants to learn how to do that...live.









This is just one of those books I love to sit and turn on my classical music in the background and read. It's clear the author has a strong background in music and art and it comes through beautifully in the writing. I'd almost forgotten how much I love the writing style of this author. It's almost poetic, not overly dramatic, but beautifully written throughout. Even as an arc, the book was perfection on an editing standpoint. I enjoyed watching these two broken souls come together, building from each other's strengths and finding love along the way.

Sex....it's got a fair amount of hot sexy scenes, rest assured. I need that in my books and the author delivered. It's not overly angsty which proves how well it's written. I like a lot of drama and angst and this book was just the right balance to keep me turning the pages. If you haven't read anything by LH Cosway, I'd strongly recommend either this book or Painted Faces. Both books portraying characters with inner struggles that persevere for happiness in a world that can deal out a shitty hand. I'm not familiar with Dublin but books like this are also a way to learn of different lifestyles and culture different from that I'm accustomed.

Looking forward to more from this author!


And I thank you!







Advanced copy received by Romance Beckons Publishing via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re read October

[Jennifer Kyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Blue Lady Stars

”You live in the real world Jade, and you don’t know how desperate I am to join you.”



I just LOVED Painted Faces by L.H. Cosway but for me this story had a very slow pace. In fact, I was bored a great deal of the time. My boredom didn't have anything to do the characters or the overall story but the day to day started wearing on me and I started to wonder what is the purpose of this story?

There is beauty to be found amongst these pages and it does have a bigger meaning kind of connection in its twist reveal (felt over the top for me) but I do feel others may enjoy it much more than I did.

”It’s like some fucked-up version of serendipity or just complete and total coincidence?

Jade is the guardian of her three siblings and works to provide for them as a living statute (totally cool idea) and at the beverage bar at the orchestra. Her first encounter with the wonderful Shane totally turned me off and I pride myself on not being such a book prude. She is posing and he is taken with her and approaches offers dinner etc., she takes his hand leads him to a gross alley way and gets it on with him. (Later on in the story she says she “knows she’s clean” but serious if this is your thing how do you really know? Do you get tested regularly? Just really felt odd because she doesn't mention doing this with anyone else but seems just fine with it.) This scene didn’t add up with the girl who is in the rest of the story for me. She has been burned in by a relationship in her past and she is also a recovering alcoholic.

I’m sorry Shane but a friendship is all I have to offer you.”

The typical I don’t do relationship line in where most of this story goes. Shane runs into Jade at work and they develop a friendship because that’s what Jade wants. The chemistry heats up…

”Wow. My sophisticated concert violinist has a dirty mouth, and it thrills me.”

Shane lets Jade know all of his secrets and in return Jade does the same. The two fall deeply in love and I have to admit, I did love the music, the statute posing, the siblings and those sex scenes. Overall, this one hit a flat note for me but the writing is well done and the message was very sweet.

”Come and see the Blue Lady – you’ll get a feather for your trouble.”



ARC provided by NetGalley

[Bindi Boo · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

SO DARN SWEET! I absolutely adore this author. Every book of hers have been magical for me so far. So much feelings and emotions. Her writing is so poetic, so brilliant i only get more enthralled with each book. This book had so many moments- moments where i re-read sentences over and over, just to soak in the heroines' imagination and her emotions.

Having had a rough childhood and a hiding behind a devastating secret, Jade is a sweet, kind hearted soul who sacrifices everything for her younger siblings. An artistic street performer and a bartender at a concert hall, she juggles jobs to make ends meet and give her siblings a comfortable life. She meets Shane Arthur one night, just as her basking duties end and they share a passionate, lust- driven moment. Thinking she'll never see him again, she relives that short escapade in her mind over and over. Only until she meets him again at the concert hall she works- Shane is the new violinist to join the orchestra symphony. Over time, they form an easy friendship and although sparks fly, Jade is sure to keep him at arm's length. She is terrified of entrusting her heart to anyone. But before she knows it, despite her fighting her feelings, Jade is swept away by this shy,quiet, half-asian violin prodigy.

Shane is a musical prodigy and lives a very sheltered, rich life. Walking away from his heartbreaking past, he forms an instant connection with Jade and feels she is his dream come true. Making sure he can be trusted with her heart, Shane endeavours to capture this beautiful albeit broken girl and give her the world. They both have secrets and i loved how they worked around it. So trusting, so real and i could only admire them for their strength. And the sex scenes- holy smokes, they were completely off the charts!!

Having just the right amount of sweetness, angst and drama, this book gave me the BEST feelings. Butterflies in my stomach, holding my breath at times and some gut-wrenching twists -the kind i seek when i read a book. It helped that Jade gave back as good as she got and never cowered to anyone. I mentally high-fived her many times.

Overall, this book shoots straight into my favourites shelf and i must say i appreciate this very talented author. Will be following her very closely. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

[♥Sharon♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Absolutely Wonderful Stars



This is my first book by L.H. Cosway and I am so happy I gave her book a try. Reviews had started popping up on my feed that caught my attention and I had a feeling that I would really enjoy this story.

Jades life hasn’t been an easy one. Her mother passed away four years ago and she lost her father shortly after she was born. Without anyone else to take over, Jade assumes responsibility for her younger siblings and does whatever she needs to do in order to keep the family together. Jade works at the Concert Hall bartending and selling tickets which she enjoys. Classical music has become something she loves. In a way the music offers hope for a better life. It is her escape. She is also a living statue which is something she does to earn extra money ~ “she is a fantastical surprise”.

Shane was a beautiful man, physically and emotionally. Shane has lived what some would call a privileged life. He had all the material things he needed and opportunities were open to him because of his extraordinary talent of playing the violin. For Shane though, having all of this didn’t make his life complete. The life he was living felt lonely and as though he truly wasn’t living his life.

For both Jade and Shane, things are about to change. Shane see’s Jade while she is being her living statue and is drawn to her. When their eyes meet and the attraction takes over, Jade and Shane share an intense sexual “shag” that leaves them both breathless and with perhaps a connection that is undefined.

As the story continues Jade realizes Shane is the new member of the Orchestra at the Concert Hall she works at and their paths cross again. Shane wants to explore a “relationship” with Jade. Unable to offer more of herself to Shane, Jade offers him friendship. Shane is willing to take whatever she will give him. The friendship they share comes with ease and they both quickly fall into a relationship that feeds both of their hearts with something that has been missing for a while. As their friendship inches towards something more, it becomes harder for Jade to resists Shane’s desire for more from her and things take off.



Being with Jades nourishes Shane’s lonely life. The physical connection and emotional connection takes away some of the pain he has suffered from his childhood and his adult life. She is teaching him how to really live life and she is inspiring him to write music again. And Shane is filling an empty spot in Jade’s heart. One that maybe she hasn’t paid much attention to because she hasn’t had the time or the pain from her past was something she wasn’t yet willing to let go of until him.

I just loved this story. I really did. I truly enjoyed the writing and I adored the development of Shane and Jade’s (Bluebird) relationship. I thought the author did an amazing job at carrying me through their journey. Giving me bits and pieces yet still left me wondering. And when their pasts are exposed and their “connection” comes to light, it just struck me as magical. For me it brought these two full circle.



Thank you L.H. Cosway for writing a wonderful story. ❤

This story just fit my mood perfectly. I thought it was lovely and I will definitely be reading more for this author!

**ARC provided by author via NetGalley.**

[[~Ami~]♥Sexy Dexy♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars




Started off great with Shane and Jade having a quicky. It leads to them meeting again under different circumstances and becoming friends.

From then on the story didnt appeal to me personally. It was one of those meaningful types, Jade showing Shane "how to live". I found the twist quite random and the story would have been good without it.

This book is a good choice for those who like friends to lovers, some sexual tension and steam, with a few twists along the way. I didnt like it nor dislike it.

ARC provided by NetGalley

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 MILLION STARS!!!!!!

This.....

[aksana · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
Still Life with Strings is a story about 26 year old Jade who is a recovering alcoholic, working as a living statue and bartending at a concert hall. She is also the legal gurdian of her younger siblings. She had a troubled past which lead her to alcoholism. But after the her mother got ill she sobered up to take care of her younger siblings.

Shane is a former violin prodigy. He was home-schooled and lived a very sheltered life to concentrate on his violin carreer. He was very succesfull with his quartet but had to leave it because of personal reasons. He takes a new job at the very same concert hall where jade is bartending.

Things I loved:

-I loved Shane! He is a sophisticated, sexy and a very talented man. But he also has hints of shyness which was just adorable and in the same time he is a very passionate and sensual lover with a dirty mouth.


-Jade is a very strong woman. And still sassy, confident, funny even though life had dealt her shitty cards

-No unnecessary drama in the story
The MCs did actually communicate with each other. No misunderstandings which lead to big drama.


-I loved the



-The relationship between Shane and Jade wasn't rushed. They started as friends and turned into lovers. Their realtionship was very reliable.

Things I didn't love so much

There is a little twist at the last third of the book. I think this twist makes the story special, beautiful and more romantic. I know many readers will LOVE the twist. But IMO it made the story also less realistic.

I still enjoyed this book because it was a perfect read for me. The story was not too angsty with a lot of sexual tension and loveable MCs.



ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review

[Penny Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Longer review next week!!
It's official.
I love everything about LH Cosway, but especially her heroes and heroines. They are the biggety bomb.

[destini · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Perhaps it wasn’t that he dreamt me. Perhaps I was the one who dreamt him.”

A sweet story with art, music, and a swoon-worthy hero.
____________________________________________

  ❄︎ the story ❄︎

Jade is responsible for supporting her fractured family and so she works in a concert hall and on the streets (standing still). Never did she think she'd catch the eye of the stunning and talented Shane Arthur.
And although she would love nothing more than to explore something with him, she tries to distance herself from him in order to stay strong and sober.
He wants me to teach him how to live. I’m not sure how much a twenty-six year old recovering alcoholic who works in a bar and moonlights as a living statue can teach a world class concert violinist, but I’m sure going to try.

This was a great in-between book for me. Sweet and sexy without too much drama. My biggest complaint is the writing; in some places it didn't flow as much as I would have liked.
____________________________________________

  ❄︎ the characters ❄︎

∙ Jade Lennon ∙

The woman from his painting was a living, breathing thing... and she was so completely still.

Jade was a likable heroine but I couldn't really connect with her. I did think her job as a statue was really interesting, though. At first I really couldn't understand how the author wrote how beautiful and inspiring she was as a statue (I had never seen a 'living statue' before) but, coincidentally, I took a trip to Germany while reading this story and street performers like Jade were very popular. They're really amazing to look at, especially when they start moving to change positions... it was almost unreal.

But I digress... sometimes I grew annoyed with Jade and wanted to scream "Just give him a chance!". I understood why she was being cautious but still... I didn't have to like it.

∙ Shane Arthur ∙

“We all have to believe in something to keep going, Bluebird.”

I love you, Shane! He stole my heart in Still Life with Strings. He had this sweet, shy demeanor but throw him in the bedroom aaaannnddd... *waggles brows*
I wish I could have him all to myself... forget Jade and come to mama!
____________________________________________

  ❄︎ the romance ❄︎

“… they always fail to mention how those butterflies have wings made of steel, cutting through your insides so that all you can feel is burning.”

Because the romance was a slow burn, Still Life with Strings was filled with lots sexual tension.
Both Jade and Shane had been burned in the past and carried a lot of baggage but, little by little, they were able to heal each other.
____________________________________________

  ❄︎ overall ❄︎

A light, angst-free story with a great characters and some seriously sexy scenes! I definitely recommend giving this book a go.

“Standing at the very edge of the stage as the piece comes to its dramatic finish, Shane is watching me still. I hope he never stops.”

Final rating: 3.5 stars ★★★☆

**A copy of Still Life with Strings was generously provided by Romance Beckons via NetGalley**

[Lise *friends don't flag* · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Big Blue Stars!

“Perhaps for a moment someone will think that they’ve stepped into a world where normal is not the rule anymore, that the extraordinary is.”



The beautifully poetic detail in the writing is not something I come across often. So when I get my eyes and mind on a book like this one, I am not able to put it down until the end, which is what I did last night and into the wee hours of the morning.

What a special treat this one was to read. I adored Painted Faces by this author and was anxious to read, yet concerned I would not love it as much as PF. I will admit that the heroine’s resistance to be more than just ‘a friend’ to Shane became frustrating for me; I did get it and accepted it, because the wait was so worth it!

“How are you so good at this? Maybe I spent a little too much time imagining doing it to you.” “The. Best. Answer.”

Even though Jade and Shane come from very different backgrounds and live very different lifestyles- they are so in tune and connected in ways that you, the reader get to experience and feel through out the story with some very ‘six degrees of separation-esque’ reveals.

Jade, 26 has three younger siblings and is raising two of them, she works a lot, she is a recovering alcoholic, has a wonderful network of friends and a fantastic Jack Russell terrier, Specky.

Shane, 29 was a child prodigy and although one of privilege led a very isolated and sheltered life. He was betrayed by his friends and fiancé, and is new to the National Concert Hall Orchestra after abruptly leaving the fairly popular string quartet group, “The Bohemia Quartet”.

After meeting Jade and spending time with her, Shane wants Jade to teach him to be like her.

“I want you to teach me to be like you, to live like you”

Jade introduces Shane to her family and friends and they welcome him with open arms. When Jade meets Shane’s Mother, the welcoming is not reciprocated. There are many reasons for Mirin’s icy behavior, as you will discover. I did love the way Jade handled it and gave the attitude right back.

One of the best scenes in the journey of ‘learning to live like you’ was at the club, Ladybirds. The chemistry between Jade and Shane is off the charts and the ‘let’s just be friends’ clause was tested beyond belief.

“Stripping off in front of a bunch of strangers and baring your feelings is living?”

“Jade, you’re on your knees, and your face is right by my crotch. That’s the only thing I’m noticing right now”

Yes, people the sex scenes are intense and delicious… just be patient. Although I have to say I enjoyed the foreplay….HAWT!

I’ll end my rambling review for now and I look forward to your reading and review of this lovely piece of work.



"Perhaps it wasn't that he dreamt of me. Perhaps I was the one who dreamt him"


*Thank you, NetGalley for providing an ARC for review*

[Dali · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story about tragedy, fate and love written in a symphony of sensory stimulus. I liked Cosway’s writing style within the first few paragraphs. But I wasn’t prepared to be transported into a Mary Poppins kind of world where reality collides with fantasy through Jade’s very imaginative eyes and lyrical inner thoughts.

Jade, Still Life with Strings’heroine, is a twenty six year old “recovering alcoholic, orphan, responsible for two wayward teenagers” that moonlights and sometimes daylights as a living statue to supplement her income. One night a beautiful and mysterious man invites her to get a drink. In a bold and uncharacteristic move on her part she gives into attraction and temptation propositioning him while thinking she’ll never see him again.

"I think I might have dreamt you," he breathes… What a romantic thing to say to a woman who let you shag her just minutes after you just met.

Their attraction and initial surrender is just the beginning. Little do they know at the time that they’ll be seeing each other almost on a daily basis because they’ll be working in the same concert hall. Despite what some may see as unlikely given their very different backgrounds and upbringing, they also form a tight friendship. And together, friendship and irresistible magnetism, are the perfect ingredients for a very palpable connection that frightens Jade to her core. Will she let her past dictate her future? Or will she risk her heart for love in this compelling story that seamlessly includes music and sensual scenarios of living art and music, tragic and hurtful pasts that somehow even magically seem to be destined to meet head-on.

He takes my hand, and on each finger spells out the word “touch.” Then he turns it over and writes “me” in the center of my palm. Wow. Does that mean he wants me to touch him? I look at him, and it’s like he can read the question in my head because he answers, “All the time.”

I didn’t just enjoy the story and how it was written. I also took pleasure reading about all the characters depicted. Jade felt very real and likeable in her life complications but also her forward and forthcoming attitude. Shane has a very spicy mix of male sexuality with an adorable shyness that made him incredibly appealing.

“Jade, that man seriously wants to Channing all over your Tatum.”

This book provided an array of emotions which I will gladly and most likely revisit.

** I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review from Netgalley. The excerpts are from that copy. **

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Bluebird Stars

To be a muse is to be a wonder in someone else's eyes, flaws and all.

This was my first book by L.H. Cosway, and I can definitely tell you it won't be my last. The author has an incredible talent in allowing her words on a written page to build a vivid and living visual in your head as you're reading it. I think that may have been may favorite part of the book.

Jade is a street performer and a bartender in a concert hall. A recovering alcoholic, she uses music and art as her way to escape. One night while she's standing still on a busy street in her blue lady concert she finds a beautiful man in a suit watching her...and everything changes.

It was just an ordinary night.
He did't think anything extraordinary would happen.
Until it did.
Turning a corner onto the bustling night time street, he saw her all in blue.

Shane Arthur is a talented violinist that plays at the concert hall where Jade works. He's instantly drawn to the beautiful girl in the all blue costume and they share a stolen moment of passion within the shadows of the nigh time street.

In this moment we're base and animalistic. No reservations, no pretenses, just two people seeking relief and some small piece of a human connection.

What I truly loved about the story was that Shane wasn't some asshole player. Nope. He was a lost soul that was equal parts endearing and sweet, yet had an incredibly sexy side to him as well.

When I look at him, I see a heart that was badly broken and is only just sewing itself back together.

What begins as a friendship, soon begins to develop into something much more.
Jade isn't looking for a relationship. She has her hands full without a man taking care of her younger siblings. And the only relationships she's known were when she was drinking. But little by little Shane and his sweet and unobtrusive ways begin to chip away all the reasons she thought she had not to get involved with him.

Usually with a heroine like this, I'd find myself getting frustrated. Shane made his intentions very clear about what he wants, and plays no games. Jade was the one that wasn't looking to get involved. BUT, something about Jade just really worked for me. She was endearing and strong with not of that wishy washy, 'I want to but I can't' back and forth. I truly understood her struggle and my heart felt for her.

The author wrote a beautiful story about 2 broken people that are connected in more ways than they even realize. The subtle twists and revelations in the story were fantastic. But this is also a difficult review for me to write since considering all the elements of the book, I should have loved it. But there was also something missing for me the whole time. I'm not even sure what it was exactly. But it was just missing a certain spark, a little something that would bring up to a solid 4 star read for me.

That's not to say I didn't like it, because I really did. And I will happily read any of the author's past and future books because her writing style really captured me.

Thank you Joanna, for giving me the push that I needed to finally read this book. I can now safely say I have found a new author to add to my auto-buy list

***ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review***

For more reviews visit

[Jln · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!!

Picture yourself on a boat on a river
With Tangerine trees and marmalade skies
Somebody calls you, you answer quite slowly
A girl with kaleidoscope eyes.

Swoon, what girl wouldn't want a hot musician to compare her to a Beatle's song:) I thought this was a really sweet, enjoyable story. I think what makes L.H. Cosway's books so special is her gift for character development. Both Shane and Jade were likable and unique MC's. Shane is a concert violinist, and Jade is a still life street performer when she is free from her bartending job. I thought Jade was a fun heroine, and I could feel the emotional connection and chemistry between her and Shane.

I loved the art and music aspect of this book, the visit to the artist's house was my favorite chapter. I was prepared for the book to be slow based on reviews, but I personally was never bored reading this. The book started out with a very memorable scene, wink wink, that set up some impressive sexual tension. I also love the Dublin backdrop and the Irish phrases, it makes you feel like you're travelling to a new place for awhile. The storyline wasn't earth shattering, in fact, I found the "twist" to be a little unbelievable, but somehow that didn't affect my enjoyment of the book. I love the fact that her novels are character driven, because for me that's what makes a book great.

If anyone reading this hasn't read Painted Faces, I can't recommend it highly enough. I have yet to recommend it anyone who didn't love it. The cover and blurb don't really do it justice, but it's one of my all time favorites:)

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first experience reading a book by L.H. Cosway and I can’t help but wonder why the fuck it took me so long. When I saw the cover and the blurb for this book floating around on Facebook it caught my attention instantly.



Jade is an orphan, four years ago she lost her mother and a lifetime ago her father. Taking on the responsibility of being the parent of her younger siblings she does what she can to make ends meet. Working at the Concert Hall selling tickets and bartending then transforming into a piece of art on the street corner. That’s when she sees him. She is adorned in her blue dress, blue feathers and white paint when the man catches her eye. He’s watching her as she stand still, her attention off in another world until their eyes meet.

Shane is a prodigy, his fingers have mastered the art of manipulating the strings on a violin, but he has not mastered the art of living. Something about the woman that stands as still as a statue has him in awe of the life he sees pouring from her soul. The woman on the street, the woman that had seen him through his darkest days appearing as if she was a mirage.

When these two strangers escape into a dark alley, lost in the heat of their touches, they have no idea how their lives are about to cross, how their lives had already crossed. But when Jade finds the Shane sitting at the bar in the concert hall and she learns that he is the newest addition to the orchestra keeping her distance becomes impossible. Unable to risk what a relationship could cost her, she opens her heart to him as a friend. Guiding him on a journey to show him how to experience life, love and so much more.



This story was absolutely beautiful. I don’t know if I fell more in love with the writing, the characters or the transition from reality into fantasy. I was completely bewitched by the imagination of Jade as she allowed the experiences to wash over her. I absolutely adore stories that have little twists of fate woven into them. Moments of the past that that affect both characters differently by their own experiences with them, but at the same time affecting each other with the same life changing impact.

L.H. Cosway did a brilliant job bringing these two characters crashing together. From Shane’s awkward shyness at first to his unleashed sensuality... the way he could blush but then when he had Jade within arm’s length, his inability to deny his desire.

Jade was a strong heroine, that although was sure she could not handle more than a friendship, she wasn’t stubborn to the point of frustration. She knew the danger and saw all the warning flags, but she couldn’t resist the pull to this man, even knowing the risks.



I absolutely loved this book. I needed a book like this. Something that had a story with beauty and depth that you could drown in and allow it to consume you with every page.