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Muse Chronicles #1
Lure of Obsession
"Lisa Kessler is an up and coming author to remember" - Sherrilyn Kenyon - #1 NYT Best Selling Author
The Prophecy - "Every generation the nine daughters of Zeus are reborn, and with their rebirth are also nine Guardians. They will be marked by the gods, and given gifts to protect his treasure. Their abilities will only be unlocked when they find their muse."
Melanie Jacoby teaches English at Crystal City High School. She's also the reborn Muse of Tragic Poetry, but she isn't prepared for the tragedy of finding her roommate dead at the bottom of the stairs.
Nate Malone is the detective assigned to the case, but as the evidence points to an accidental fall, the visions begin. He sees a killer in a gold Kronos mask.
Mel is the next target.
The Order of the Titans are eager to bring about the return of the Golden Age of Man, and they're prepared to kill the Muses to complete their mission. But Nate's desire to protect Mel is almost as strong as his hunger for her.
And tragedy isn't part of his plan.
The Prophecy - "Every generation the nine daughters of Zeus are reborn, and with their rebirth are also nine Guardians. They will be marked by the gods, and given gifts to protect his treasure. Their abilities will only be unlocked when they find their muse."
Melanie Jacoby teaches English at Crystal City High School. She's also the reborn Muse of Tragic Poetry, but she isn't prepared for the tragedy of finding her roommate dead at the bottom of the stairs.
Nate Malone is the detective assigned to the case, but as the evidence points to an accidental fall, the visions begin. He sees a killer in a gold Kronos mask.
Mel is the next target.
The Order of the Titans are eager to bring about the return of the Golden Age of Man, and they're prepared to kill the Muses to complete their mission. But Nate's desire to protect Mel is almost as strong as his hunger for her.
And tragedy isn't part of his plan.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2016
244 people are currently reading
1280 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Kessler
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Lisa Kessler is a Best Selling author of passionate, page-turning paranormal fiction. She's a two-time San Diego Book Award winner for Best Published Fantasy-Sci-fi-Horror and Best Published Romance. Her books have also won the PRISM award, the Award of Excellence, the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award, the Award of Merit from the Holt Medallion, and an International Digital Award for Best Paranormal.
Her short stories have been published in print anthologies and magazines, and her vampire story, Immortal Beloved, was a finalist for a Bram Stoker award.
She also publishes horror and thriller novels under the pseudonym, L.A. Kessler.
When she's not writing, Lisa is a professional vocalist and tarot card reader. Her first tarot deck, Practical Tarot, is being release by Beyond Words Publishing with a companion book, Practical Tarot: Learn to read tarot cards intuitively in 2025.
Follow Me on BlueSky Here
Sign up for my Newsletter
Lisa Kessler is a Best Selling author of passionate, page-turning paranormal fiction. She's a two-time San Diego Book Award winner for Best Published Fantasy-Sci-fi-Horror and Best Published Romance. Her books have also won the PRISM award, the Award of Excellence, the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award, the Award of Merit from the Holt Medallion, and an International Digital Award for Best Paranormal.
Her short stories have been published in print anthologies and magazines, and her vampire story, Immortal Beloved, was a finalist for a Bram Stoker award.
She also publishes horror and thriller novels under the pseudonym, L.A. Kessler.
When she's not writing, Lisa is a professional vocalist and tarot card reader. Her first tarot deck, Practical Tarot, is being release by Beyond Words Publishing with a companion book, Practical Tarot: Learn to read tarot cards intuitively in 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
February 5, 2022
Lure of Obsession by Lisa Kessler
Muse Chronicles series book 1. Paranormal romantic suspense.
Melanie is a teacher and also one of nine reborn muses. She and her sister muses are being hunted. Detective Nick experiences visions when investigating the murder of Melanie’s roommate which is new to him. He needs to protect Melanie and find the threat before it’s too late.
Mythological muses reincarnated in current day. Interesting and suspenseful. A mix of suspense and romance and parentless child intro.
🎧 I alternated between a paperback and audiobook. The audiobook was narrated by Gwendolyn Druyor who had a wide variety of voices. Overall, the performance wasn’t a favorite. It didn’t feel comfortable or natural which was a first for me. I tried slowing it down and then speeding it up but in the end, preferred the paperback reading experience.
Muse Chronicles series book 1. Paranormal romantic suspense.
Melanie is a teacher and also one of nine reborn muses. She and her sister muses are being hunted. Detective Nick experiences visions when investigating the murder of Melanie’s roommate which is new to him. He needs to protect Melanie and find the threat before it’s too late.
Mythological muses reincarnated in current day. Interesting and suspenseful. A mix of suspense and romance and parentless child intro.
🎧 I alternated between a paperback and audiobook. The audiobook was narrated by Gwendolyn Druyor who had a wide variety of voices. Overall, the performance wasn’t a favorite. It didn’t feel comfortable or natural which was a first for me. I tried slowing it down and then speeding it up but in the end, preferred the paperback reading experience.
September 22, 2023
Super spoilery review because you definitely should not waste your time reading this.
Any romance novel that has a half naked man on the cover is an adult book - can we all agree on that? I think so. This felt more like YA at times (crazy angst), bordering every now and then on NA (lots of sex), but very rarely did it feel Adult (the sex was always gently worded). There was actually an "I mean, I like like you." moment.
So I like the basic idea of the plot - the nine muses are reborn over and over again to inspire humanity, but some crazy dudes want to release the Titans and killing the muses will buy them more time to do so. The muses are handily appointed guardians that will protect them from something that is never revealed to the reader. Okay. I get it and I'm kinda following.
But... the titans are imprisoned in the center of the Earth, so the bad guys are deep oil drilling in an attempt to break the Titans out. I no longer follow because that makes no fucking sense. The deepest humans have ever drilled is like 7 miles; the center of the Earth is about 4,000 miles deep. We've never even gotten past the crust of the planet. How fucking long are these assholes going to drill? My calculator won't even give me recognizable numbers when I try to mathicate this shit. The author clearly expected the reader to just accept this nonsense because it's in a paranormal book, I guess.
So why do they need to kill the muses anyway? Because the muses will inspire the world to make advances in science, specifically in the tech fields of clean energy. Solar powered cars and stuff. And this is bad for the oil industry. And the bad guys need the oil industry going full throttle to earn the money necessary to continue drilling to the center of the Earth for like 8,000 years.
Again, this makes no fucking sense. We're making advances in clean energy every day and the oil industry is doing just fine. If solar powered cars were available tomorrow, the oil industry wouldn't take a hit at all. Look at how well they're doing with electric cars on the road. Industry doesn't move so quickly that somebody can be inspired, invent something spectacular, and immediately make their product available to the entire world in such large quantities that the competing industry suffers. Tesla electric cars have been available for 10 years and there are less than 80k of them on the road. In comparison, Honda sold nearly 5 million cars last year. So the idea that any advances in clean energy would destroy the oil industry before these idiots finally realize they can't actually dig a hole to the center of the Earth is beyond laughable.
I mean, it's almost offensive in its absolute stupidity. Did the author do any research at all?
I actually have plenty more to bitch about, but it's 5am and I've already wasted more than enough time on this crap, so I'm just stopping here. Don't read the book, the end.
Any romance novel that has a half naked man on the cover is an adult book - can we all agree on that? I think so. This felt more like YA at times (crazy angst), bordering every now and then on NA (lots of sex), but very rarely did it feel Adult (the sex was always gently worded). There was actually an "I mean, I like like you." moment.
So I like the basic idea of the plot - the nine muses are reborn over and over again to inspire humanity, but some crazy dudes want to release the Titans and killing the muses will buy them more time to do so. The muses are handily appointed guardians that will protect them from something that is never revealed to the reader. Okay. I get it and I'm kinda following.
But... the titans are imprisoned in the center of the Earth, so the bad guys are deep oil drilling in an attempt to break the Titans out. I no longer follow because that makes no fucking sense. The deepest humans have ever drilled is like 7 miles; the center of the Earth is about 4,000 miles deep. We've never even gotten past the crust of the planet. How fucking long are these assholes going to drill? My calculator won't even give me recognizable numbers when I try to mathicate this shit. The author clearly expected the reader to just accept this nonsense because it's in a paranormal book, I guess.
So why do they need to kill the muses anyway? Because the muses will inspire the world to make advances in science, specifically in the tech fields of clean energy. Solar powered cars and stuff. And this is bad for the oil industry. And the bad guys need the oil industry going full throttle to earn the money necessary to continue drilling to the center of the Earth for like 8,000 years.
Again, this makes no fucking sense. We're making advances in clean energy every day and the oil industry is doing just fine. If solar powered cars were available tomorrow, the oil industry wouldn't take a hit at all. Look at how well they're doing with electric cars on the road. Industry doesn't move so quickly that somebody can be inspired, invent something spectacular, and immediately make their product available to the entire world in such large quantities that the competing industry suffers. Tesla electric cars have been available for 10 years and there are less than 80k of them on the road. In comparison, Honda sold nearly 5 million cars last year. So the idea that any advances in clean energy would destroy the oil industry before these idiots finally realize they can't actually dig a hole to the center of the Earth is beyond laughable.
I mean, it's almost offensive in its absolute stupidity. Did the author do any research at all?
I actually have plenty more to bitch about, but it's 5am and I've already wasted more than enough time on this crap, so I'm just stopping here. Don't read the book, the end.
August 1, 2016
4 - "The gods were kind to me when they made me your muse..." Stars!
Lisa Kessler is an author who has been on my radar for quite some time, but every release I have seen for her lately has been a book that is part of a long running series, and I am one of those readers who has to start a series from the beginning.
As such when I saw Lure of Obsession was the first book in the authors new Muse Chronicles series, I did a small, but very rhythmic happy dance, at finally being able to see what this author was all about.
"Inspiration before intercourse."
I really enjoyed this story, it is definitely the start of a series that I think is going to need to be read in order, and potentially eight books long. Seeing as there are nine sisters (Daughters of Zeus). Unfortunately this book starts with the murder of one of them, and through its course you are introduced to the rest of the women all of whom have their own very diverse personalities and differing talents, with Melanie Jacoby; Muse of Tragic Poetry being the lead sister of the story.
He was like Superman with a gun.
After finding her flatmate dead, it falls to Detective Nate Malone and his partner to investigate the crime. With no evidence of forced entry, or clues as to why anyone would want her dead, Nate is struggling to rule the death as anything other than accidental. Apart from Mel’s insistence that it was murder there is very little to indicate that it was anything other than a tragedy. That is until he starts having unusual, and unexplained visions…
"I lost someone I should have been protecting. I’ll never let that happen again."
I won’t lie the relationship aspect between Nate and Mel goes at warp speed in this one. Even though Nate has issues with commitment, it seems the lure of being Mel’s Guardian is strong enough to make him step out of his comfort zone very quickly in order to offer her the protection she needs.
This was a sweet read, plenty of secondary characters and POV’s to keep the plot moving, and plenty of scope for the rest of the books with the villains still at large and the sisters still intent on getting their theater up and running, and I look forward to reading more books as they are released, and hopefully have the time to start some of the authors more established series at some point too.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Lisa Kessler is an author who has been on my radar for quite some time, but every release I have seen for her lately has been a book that is part of a long running series, and I am one of those readers who has to start a series from the beginning.
As such when I saw Lure of Obsession was the first book in the authors new Muse Chronicles series, I did a small, but very rhythmic happy dance, at finally being able to see what this author was all about.
"Inspiration before intercourse."
I really enjoyed this story, it is definitely the start of a series that I think is going to need to be read in order, and potentially eight books long. Seeing as there are nine sisters (Daughters of Zeus). Unfortunately this book starts with the murder of one of them, and through its course you are introduced to the rest of the women all of whom have their own very diverse personalities and differing talents, with Melanie Jacoby; Muse of Tragic Poetry being the lead sister of the story.
He was like Superman with a gun.
After finding her flatmate dead, it falls to Detective Nate Malone and his partner to investigate the crime. With no evidence of forced entry, or clues as to why anyone would want her dead, Nate is struggling to rule the death as anything other than accidental. Apart from Mel’s insistence that it was murder there is very little to indicate that it was anything other than a tragedy. That is until he starts having unusual, and unexplained visions…
"I lost someone I should have been protecting. I’ll never let that happen again."
I won’t lie the relationship aspect between Nate and Mel goes at warp speed in this one. Even though Nate has issues with commitment, it seems the lure of being Mel’s Guardian is strong enough to make him step out of his comfort zone very quickly in order to offer her the protection she needs.
This was a sweet read, plenty of secondary characters and POV’s to keep the plot moving, and plenty of scope for the rest of the books with the villains still at large and the sisters still intent on getting their theater up and running, and I look forward to reading more books as they are released, and hopefully have the time to start some of the authors more established series at some point too.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
August 15, 2019
This is the first book in the Muse Chronicles series. From the blurb I could tell this would have a little Greek Mythology thrown into this paranormal romance story and I love that kind of story.
Melanie is the holder of the muse for tragic poetry and I didn't understand exactly what that meant for a while but right from the beginning of this story bad things seem to happen around her. Which is how she meets Nate. He's her guardian and he has visions to help protect her.
Melanie and eight other women found each other, each with a different muse and they were trying to open and theatre. There's also evil people who are trying to kill all the muse's off in the name of the Titans. When the danger gets really close to Melanie, Nate has no choice but to make sure that she and the other women are safe. They aren't sure who is after them but they know someone is.
The action, danger and mystery surrounding the people who are out to get the muses, goes on for most of the book. I just knew that more tragedy would strike and Nate wouldn't be there to stop it like he had before but there are some crazy twists in this story that really ramped up the need to know what would happen.
I really liked how this ended and am looking forward to reading the other books in this series.
Melanie is the holder of the muse for tragic poetry and I didn't understand exactly what that meant for a while but right from the beginning of this story bad things seem to happen around her. Which is how she meets Nate. He's her guardian and he has visions to help protect her.
Melanie and eight other women found each other, each with a different muse and they were trying to open and theatre. There's also evil people who are trying to kill all the muse's off in the name of the Titans. When the danger gets really close to Melanie, Nate has no choice but to make sure that she and the other women are safe. They aren't sure who is after them but they know someone is.
The action, danger and mystery surrounding the people who are out to get the muses, goes on for most of the book. I just knew that more tragedy would strike and Nate wouldn't be there to stop it like he had before but there are some crazy twists in this story that really ramped up the need to know what would happen.
I really liked how this ended and am looking forward to reading the other books in this series.
August 10, 2016
(RabidReads.com) I am a fan of Lisa Kessler’s, Moon series and have read and liked all of them. So it was an easy decision to read her latest release which is part of a new series. I must admit, the paranormal element was new to me as far as reading fiction. And that element is from Greek mythology-Muses.
Mel is the Muse of Tragic Poetry, having changed at the age of eighteen. She’s still human, but embodies the Muse. Now she has not only met the other eight Muses, but is in partnership with them as they work to renovate an old theater. Their goal is to have a place for all artistic endeavors to happen there. Mel’s roommate Nia is the Muse of Astronomy. When Mel comes home one night, she finds a tragic scene in her home. Nia is dead. She meets Nate, a detective, and is pretty much immediately attracted to him. Even as she grieves. Nate doesn’t understand why he is so attracted to her either, as it goes against all his professional rules.
Mel is the complete opposite of a optimist due to her being the Muse of Tragic Poetry. Everything to her is a potential disaster, but she doesn’t act out or anything, it’s just what runs through her mind. She’s a high school English teacher, the kind of teacher that kids never forget. Nate is a handsome man, one that refuses to ever settle down. He’s good at what he does and is usually very professional. Meeting Mel, and becoming involved with her goes against everything-and he really doesn’t care as he can’t think of anything but her-and the case. What started out as just another case really ramps up when he starts having new abilities-out of the blue. It pretty much makes him think he is going crazy. Also featured is his partner, John, who doesn’t approve of Mel. Mel’s fellow muse, Callie, has a bigger part to play as Mel’s friend. There’s also an assortment of villains, all with the same agenda. An agenda that involves Mel dying.
To me, the romance and the mystery took precedence over the paranormal aspects with Mel. And there is nothing wrong with that. However other than her “glass is half empty” view of life, the reader doesn’t see much of the paranormal. It’s more of a personality thing, then something that really manifests. As far as Nate goes, his new powers seem to be more paranormal than what Mel is. However, he does have the powers because of her. And I am going to leave it at that because of spoilers. As far as the reasoning of the villains, I am still a bit unclear of the why of what they do. To be honest, that part was a bit out there for me. I hope in the next books, the villains and their reasons will be explored further.
My favorite part of the book was the romance, and the addition of a small child in Nate’s life, just made that part better.That didn’t surprise me as Lisa Kessler knows how to write a good romance. The Muse part was interesting, but I would like to see more of what the Muse’s do to change the person they inhabit. The thriller aspects were also a good part of the story, but as I said, I think I need more about the villains and why they feel the need to do what they do. I liked the characters and I will be interested to see who the next one will be about. I thought this would be a good book for adult, light paranormal romance fans. Adult due to sensual scenes and some violence.
Mel is the Muse of Tragic Poetry, having changed at the age of eighteen. She’s still human, but embodies the Muse. Now she has not only met the other eight Muses, but is in partnership with them as they work to renovate an old theater. Their goal is to have a place for all artistic endeavors to happen there. Mel’s roommate Nia is the Muse of Astronomy. When Mel comes home one night, she finds a tragic scene in her home. Nia is dead. She meets Nate, a detective, and is pretty much immediately attracted to him. Even as she grieves. Nate doesn’t understand why he is so attracted to her either, as it goes against all his professional rules.
Mel is the complete opposite of a optimist due to her being the Muse of Tragic Poetry. Everything to her is a potential disaster, but she doesn’t act out or anything, it’s just what runs through her mind. She’s a high school English teacher, the kind of teacher that kids never forget. Nate is a handsome man, one that refuses to ever settle down. He’s good at what he does and is usually very professional. Meeting Mel, and becoming involved with her goes against everything-and he really doesn’t care as he can’t think of anything but her-and the case. What started out as just another case really ramps up when he starts having new abilities-out of the blue. It pretty much makes him think he is going crazy. Also featured is his partner, John, who doesn’t approve of Mel. Mel’s fellow muse, Callie, has a bigger part to play as Mel’s friend. There’s also an assortment of villains, all with the same agenda. An agenda that involves Mel dying.
To me, the romance and the mystery took precedence over the paranormal aspects with Mel. And there is nothing wrong with that. However other than her “glass is half empty” view of life, the reader doesn’t see much of the paranormal. It’s more of a personality thing, then something that really manifests. As far as Nate goes, his new powers seem to be more paranormal than what Mel is. However, he does have the powers because of her. And I am going to leave it at that because of spoilers. As far as the reasoning of the villains, I am still a bit unclear of the why of what they do. To be honest, that part was a bit out there for me. I hope in the next books, the villains and their reasons will be explored further.
My favorite part of the book was the romance, and the addition of a small child in Nate’s life, just made that part better.That didn’t surprise me as Lisa Kessler knows how to write a good romance. The Muse part was interesting, but I would like to see more of what the Muse’s do to change the person they inhabit. The thriller aspects were also a good part of the story, but as I said, I think I need more about the villains and why they feel the need to do what they do. I liked the characters and I will be interested to see who the next one will be about. I thought this would be a good book for adult, light paranormal romance fans. Adult due to sensual scenes and some violence.
August 4, 2016
When Mels roommate turns up dead and the police doesn´t believe there´s foul play at work, she doesn´t know who to turn to. As one of the nine Muses, Mel embodies the Muse of Tragedy to the T.
Detective Nate thinks the death is an accident, until he gets a vision touching the door. Is he going mad or is there something greater at work here? When lore turns out to be reborn and real, Nate will have to decide if this is something he can do.
Something big and bad is targeting the Muses, and they need help from the Guardians.
PNR romance, suspense, action and smutty fluff in a great combo, and a great start to a new series. Can´t wait to see more from the sisters =)
Disclaimer; I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Nate thinks the death is an accident, until he gets a vision touching the door. Is he going mad or is there something greater at work here? When lore turns out to be reborn and real, Nate will have to decide if this is something he can do.
Something big and bad is targeting the Muses, and they need help from the Guardians.
PNR romance, suspense, action and smutty fluff in a great combo, and a great start to a new series. Can´t wait to see more from the sisters =)
Disclaimer; I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2019
This was a fun, light read with mystery and romance and of course, a killer on the loose wanting to kill the muses so that inspiration was snuffed out forever from mankind. The book combined Greek mythology along with a modern day murder.
Muses were the daughters of Zeus born in every generation to inspire humanity for progress and invention. They were protected by the Guardians. The bad guys from team Kronos wanted to free up the Titans from the centre if the earth. The muses presence would prevent that. Hence the murder and death of Muse of Astronomy.
My first book by Lisa Kessler was fun and easy to read. Romance weaved in the chapters was sexy and delightful. It was nice to see the muse and her guardian ramping up the heat. The characters were etched well, opposite yet similar in certain ways. Addition of a child made the book come alive with love.
This was the first in the series, it laud down the foundation for the follow up books. The other muses were pretty cool, with great bonding. With a writing that flowed and a plot which was entertaining, this was a great breakfast read.
Muses were the daughters of Zeus born in every generation to inspire humanity for progress and invention. They were protected by the Guardians. The bad guys from team Kronos wanted to free up the Titans from the centre if the earth. The muses presence would prevent that. Hence the murder and death of Muse of Astronomy.
My first book by Lisa Kessler was fun and easy to read. Romance weaved in the chapters was sexy and delightful. It was nice to see the muse and her guardian ramping up the heat. The characters were etched well, opposite yet similar in certain ways. Addition of a child made the book come alive with love.
This was the first in the series, it laud down the foundation for the follow up books. The other muses were pretty cool, with great bonding. With a writing that flowed and a plot which was entertaining, this was a great breakfast read.
July 29, 2016
***3.5 stars***
The premise of the book woke up my inner closet Greek mythology nerdgirl. I mean who doesn’t love the Greek gods and all of the stories about how they meddled and manipulated not only each other lives but those of the human’s who worshipped them? So, a story about the Muses being reborn and hunted by a fanatical group who believe that releasing the Titan’s is a good idea is definitely up my alley. And while I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to getting to know the rest of the Muse’s and seeing how they collide with their Guardians, I’m also left with wishing this book had delved a little deeper into certain aspects of the story.
I really liked Mel and Nate. Even though Mel is the Muse of Tragic Poetry, she is not a person who goes around depressed all the time. She does tend to think the worst in certain situations, but is able to catch herself before she slips into the tragic realm. I love her passion for her job as an English teacher and how she shows her students the beauty of the written word and how they can help to express yourself, hell I’d probably have adored her if she’d been my teacher.
Nate is all about protecting and serving, though and incident from his recent past and what he went through as a child make him doubt his efficiency at the protecting aspect of his job, but he perseveres. His past has shaped him also into believing that being a lone wolf is the only way to live his life, but a certain little blip in his life prove that he is wrong and show what a compassionate and sweet man is hidden underneath.
Though the situation that brings them together is not how anyone would want to being a relationship, it is the catalyst that awakens the Guardian in Nate and from that moment on they find themselves undeniably intertwined. Things do progress quickly, but much of that is due to the Guardian/Muse bond and though there is a bit of push/pull that happens neither of them can deny the unnameable force that draws them to each other and they both make the decision to not deny it and through it find that they actually like each other beyond the physical and may just be exactly what they need.
This is my first book by the author and I was hooked from the first page and, as I said, I love the premise of this series. The characters are fun and interesting and I really like how the girls have little quirks that tie them to the Muses they represent. The mystery/suspense part was done well and I liked that not only did we get Mel and Nate’s POV’s, but the baddies as well to round out the story. Now for the delving deeper thing, I do wish that there had been more detail the Golden Age of Man given and just why the Order believed it was a good thing, though being fanatics the details aren’t always necessary, as well a little more on how the girls, or at least Mel. felt about being a reborn Muse. This isn’t to say that what is in the book isn’t enough, but the nerdgirl in me didn’t feel as if it was entirely satisfied and Googled. I’m chalking this up to a “it’s not you, it’s me” thing because I did really enjoy the story and am looking forward to seeing what the next book in the series has in store for us.
~ ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~
The premise of the book woke up my inner closet Greek mythology nerdgirl. I mean who doesn’t love the Greek gods and all of the stories about how they meddled and manipulated not only each other lives but those of the human’s who worshipped them? So, a story about the Muses being reborn and hunted by a fanatical group who believe that releasing the Titan’s is a good idea is definitely up my alley. And while I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to getting to know the rest of the Muse’s and seeing how they collide with their Guardians, I’m also left with wishing this book had delved a little deeper into certain aspects of the story.
I really liked Mel and Nate. Even though Mel is the Muse of Tragic Poetry, she is not a person who goes around depressed all the time. She does tend to think the worst in certain situations, but is able to catch herself before she slips into the tragic realm. I love her passion for her job as an English teacher and how she shows her students the beauty of the written word and how they can help to express yourself, hell I’d probably have adored her if she’d been my teacher.
Nate is all about protecting and serving, though and incident from his recent past and what he went through as a child make him doubt his efficiency at the protecting aspect of his job, but he perseveres. His past has shaped him also into believing that being a lone wolf is the only way to live his life, but a certain little blip in his life prove that he is wrong and show what a compassionate and sweet man is hidden underneath.
Though the situation that brings them together is not how anyone would want to being a relationship, it is the catalyst that awakens the Guardian in Nate and from that moment on they find themselves undeniably intertwined. Things do progress quickly, but much of that is due to the Guardian/Muse bond and though there is a bit of push/pull that happens neither of them can deny the unnameable force that draws them to each other and they both make the decision to not deny it and through it find that they actually like each other beyond the physical and may just be exactly what they need.
This is my first book by the author and I was hooked from the first page and, as I said, I love the premise of this series. The characters are fun and interesting and I really like how the girls have little quirks that tie them to the Muses they represent. The mystery/suspense part was done well and I liked that not only did we get Mel and Nate’s POV’s, but the baddies as well to round out the story. Now for the delving deeper thing, I do wish that there had been more detail the Golden Age of Man given and just why the Order believed it was a good thing, though being fanatics the details aren’t always necessary, as well a little more on how the girls, or at least Mel. felt about being a reborn Muse. This isn’t to say that what is in the book isn’t enough, but the nerdgirl in me didn’t feel as if it was entirely satisfied and Googled. I’m chalking this up to a “it’s not you, it’s me” thing because I did really enjoy the story and am looking forward to seeing what the next book in the series has in store for us.
~ ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~
August 6, 2016
What a way to start a new series! It’s no secret I’m a big Lisa Kessler fan, and this book has everything I have come to love about her writing – great characters, lots of emotions, great writing, and a story that pulls you in and makes you want to be a part of it. And I just love the premise of the series – focusing on the Muses and the mythology behind them.
Nate doesn’t do relationships, but when he meets Mel all of his protective instincts kick in. When he begins having visions about the murder of Mel’s roommate, and then learns from Mel about the Muses and his status as her Guardian, he’s committed to keep her safe – but a relationship still isn’t something he thinks he’s capable of.
Although Mel is usually a glass half empty type of person, a part of her being the Muse of Tragic Poetry, with Nate she’s able to feel safe…and I loved watching her push her negative thoughts aside when it comes to him. She’s aware of Nate’s aversions to relationships but is willing to put herself out there to see what might happen. She sees his past scars as a testament to his being a survivor, and I love how she begins to help him heal. I did find her a bit reckless though – I loved her wanting to help Nate when he didn’t have backup, but it was a bit frustrating to find her putting herself in danger...she was very stubborn!
The supporting characters in the book helped set the stage for the overall series arc – something Lisa Kessler has a gift for doing. We are introduced to the other Muses and also the main players in the Order of the Titans. As the first book in a new series enough information was given about the lore and history without bogging the story down – something else that Lisa Kessler excels at.
The writing was solid and even though the romance moved a bit quickly in my opinion it fit the lore of Muses and Guardians so it didn’t come across as insta-love (which I’m not a fan of!). As I already mentioned, the plot for not only this book and the series was laid out perfectly to keep the story moving and ending with a happy ever after but leaving enough open to have me waiting for the next installment in this series.
A must read for any romance lover, but I think this would definitely appeal to any lover of mythology and suspense.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Nate doesn’t do relationships, but when he meets Mel all of his protective instincts kick in. When he begins having visions about the murder of Mel’s roommate, and then learns from Mel about the Muses and his status as her Guardian, he’s committed to keep her safe – but a relationship still isn’t something he thinks he’s capable of.
Although Mel is usually a glass half empty type of person, a part of her being the Muse of Tragic Poetry, with Nate she’s able to feel safe…and I loved watching her push her negative thoughts aside when it comes to him. She’s aware of Nate’s aversions to relationships but is willing to put herself out there to see what might happen. She sees his past scars as a testament to his being a survivor, and I love how she begins to help him heal. I did find her a bit reckless though – I loved her wanting to help Nate when he didn’t have backup, but it was a bit frustrating to find her putting herself in danger...she was very stubborn!
The supporting characters in the book helped set the stage for the overall series arc – something Lisa Kessler has a gift for doing. We are introduced to the other Muses and also the main players in the Order of the Titans. As the first book in a new series enough information was given about the lore and history without bogging the story down – something else that Lisa Kessler excels at.
The writing was solid and even though the romance moved a bit quickly in my opinion it fit the lore of Muses and Guardians so it didn’t come across as insta-love (which I’m not a fan of!). As I already mentioned, the plot for not only this book and the series was laid out perfectly to keep the story moving and ending with a happy ever after but leaving enough open to have me waiting for the next installment in this series.
A must read for any romance lover, but I think this would definitely appeal to any lover of mythology and suspense.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
June 30, 2019
Spoiler-free full review of the series HERE!
May 10, 2018
I'm going to love reading this series! I love the premise of muses being reborn and having guardians! And of course, some type of evil out to get them! So much fun and romance!
Melanie is the first muse's story we get, Melanie is the Muse of Tragic Poetry, and her roommate, who was also a muse, has died. Melanie and the other muses suspect foul play, but the police say it was accidental. Nate Malone is the detective on the scene, and when he meets Melanie strange things begin to change for him. Melanie and Nate begin to feel a pull towards each other, but both have reservations about the situation.
I love that there is a bit of mystery to the story, and I enjoyed the action scenes. Melanie and Nate have great chemistry, and are really sweet with each other. The sex scenes had just the right amount of spice and heat and emotion! Nate was a sweetheart and I liked his need to protect Melanie. Melanie was fun and tough, and I loved that she has a bit of spunk. I love that we get POV's from both Melanie and Nate, but we also get the bad guy's POV, which I would have liked a bit less of, so there was a bit more mystery, but that didn't ruin the story for me. Also, the Maggie situation was a little weird for me, I don't know why it didn't quite mesh with me because it was a sweet aspect, but something about it sat wrong for me, but that also didn't take away from my enjoyment of the rest of the book.
I love the combination of romance and suspense, so I am really looking forward to reading more books in this series! I enjoyed the other muses, and can't wait for their stories and for them to get their own guardians! I also enjoyed the writing, and look forward to reading more books by Lisa Kessler!
Melanie is the first muse's story we get, Melanie is the Muse of Tragic Poetry, and her roommate, who was also a muse, has died. Melanie and the other muses suspect foul play, but the police say it was accidental. Nate Malone is the detective on the scene, and when he meets Melanie strange things begin to change for him. Melanie and Nate begin to feel a pull towards each other, but both have reservations about the situation.
I love that there is a bit of mystery to the story, and I enjoyed the action scenes. Melanie and Nate have great chemistry, and are really sweet with each other. The sex scenes had just the right amount of spice and heat and emotion! Nate was a sweetheart and I liked his need to protect Melanie. Melanie was fun and tough, and I loved that she has a bit of spunk. I love that we get POV's from both Melanie and Nate, but we also get the bad guy's POV, which I would have liked a bit less of, so there was a bit more mystery, but that didn't ruin the story for me. Also, the Maggie situation was a little weird for me, I don't know why it didn't quite mesh with me because it was a sweet aspect, but something about it sat wrong for me, but that also didn't take away from my enjoyment of the rest of the book.
I love the combination of romance and suspense, so I am really looking forward to reading more books in this series! I enjoyed the other muses, and can't wait for their stories and for them to get their own guardians! I also enjoyed the writing, and look forward to reading more books by Lisa Kessler!
August 1, 2016
Take Greek mythology, add a modern take, have murder, mystery and a handsome, protective Guardian and Lisa Kessler has the perfect recipe for another riveting series! There are nine Muses who have had dreams that led them to an old dilapidated theatre and each other.
One of them is Melanie Jacoby, and English teacher who is the reborn muse of tragic poetry. On returning home one evening she is shocked to find it in darkness. She shares her home with Nia, the Muse of Astronomy, who always has lights on throughout their home. Mel’s worst fears come true when she discovers her friend’s body at the bottom of the stairs. She calls the police but most of them seem to assume it is a tragic accident but Nate Malone, the detective in charge of the investigation has some strange experiences, visions of events that lead him to believe it wasn’t an accident and that Mel could be the killer’s next target. The scene is set for a great murder mystery with Greek overtones and romance, too.
Both Mel and Nate are great, with additional well developed characters with plenty of background information to encourage the reader to empathise with them this is an engaging romantic suspense that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I can’t wait to read more in this enthralling new series!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
One of them is Melanie Jacoby, and English teacher who is the reborn muse of tragic poetry. On returning home one evening she is shocked to find it in darkness. She shares her home with Nia, the Muse of Astronomy, who always has lights on throughout their home. Mel’s worst fears come true when she discovers her friend’s body at the bottom of the stairs. She calls the police but most of them seem to assume it is a tragic accident but Nate Malone, the detective in charge of the investigation has some strange experiences, visions of events that lead him to believe it wasn’t an accident and that Mel could be the killer’s next target. The scene is set for a great murder mystery with Greek overtones and romance, too.
Both Mel and Nate are great, with additional well developed characters with plenty of background information to encourage the reader to empathise with them this is an engaging romantic suspense that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I can’t wait to read more in this enthralling new series!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2019
As you all by know by now, I love paranormal romances and although this one is the first book by Lisa Kessler that I read, I really need to read more of her books in the future because I loved this one.
This is the first book in a series that can be read as a standalone. It was an amazing start of a series and after reading it, I'm very curious to know more about this series and what next will happen in this world.
This novel follows Melanie and Nate in this romance that takes us right alongside the characters through a mystery and paranormal connection. It was a journey that was different, with a concept and world building that made me very curious. And although I don't want to give any spoilers about the plot, I can talk about the characters.
Mel and Nate were amazing characters. I can't help my love for detectives no matter the kind of genre the novel is, and Nate was dreamy and just an amazing character. Then there is Mel, that made me laugh because my goddaughter's name is Melanie, despite that, Mel has this personality that I could get and her past and actions were interesting and I connected with her in some ways. I loved all the moments of interaction between them, because the romance wasn't unbelievable, and the characters had dreams, plans, flaws, demons, qualities and determination and when they were together that is visible too.
Overall, I loved it. It had action, mystery, romance, paranormal qualities, Greek mythology, a plot that was difference from what I read in the past, with characters that were developed and kept growing and felt true and real. The fact that this is the first in a series means that there is much more to uncover yet, and that makes me even happier.
Lisa Kessler brought a breath of fresh air to the paranormal romance genre, or at least to my month because I needed something exciting in the genre that I love so much. So my July was perfect, not only because of all the books I have read, but especially because of this book that made my lunch breaks fantastically entertaining.
Like I said before I will be reading more of Lisa Kessler, especially because I had her books on my TBR already and after reading this book I'm even more excited and in love with the all idea and with her books. So I highly recommend then.
This is the first book in a series that can be read as a standalone. It was an amazing start of a series and after reading it, I'm very curious to know more about this series and what next will happen in this world.
This novel follows Melanie and Nate in this romance that takes us right alongside the characters through a mystery and paranormal connection. It was a journey that was different, with a concept and world building that made me very curious. And although I don't want to give any spoilers about the plot, I can talk about the characters.
Mel and Nate were amazing characters. I can't help my love for detectives no matter the kind of genre the novel is, and Nate was dreamy and just an amazing character. Then there is Mel, that made me laugh because my goddaughter's name is Melanie, despite that, Mel has this personality that I could get and her past and actions were interesting and I connected with her in some ways. I loved all the moments of interaction between them, because the romance wasn't unbelievable, and the characters had dreams, plans, flaws, demons, qualities and determination and when they were together that is visible too.
Overall, I loved it. It had action, mystery, romance, paranormal qualities, Greek mythology, a plot that was difference from what I read in the past, with characters that were developed and kept growing and felt true and real. The fact that this is the first in a series means that there is much more to uncover yet, and that makes me even happier.
Lisa Kessler brought a breath of fresh air to the paranormal romance genre, or at least to my month because I needed something exciting in the genre that I love so much. So my July was perfect, not only because of all the books I have read, but especially because of this book that made my lunch breaks fantastically entertaining.
Like I said before I will be reading more of Lisa Kessler, especially because I had her books on my TBR already and after reading this book I'm even more excited and in love with the all idea and with her books. So I highly recommend then.
August 1, 2016
The title fits perfectly because with the first words you are lured into this book and by the end you have become obsessed with this series! Or at least that is how it happened for me. I have been interested in reading this book and this series for a while and was so very not disappointed!
The whole concept of the rebirth of the nine Muses and how they are meant to inspire each new generation of humanity to move forward is fascinating and excellent for a mythological based romance, especially when you add in the prophecy of “one Guardian for each Muse”. But as you read through the book you realize that the need for inspiration is not confined to “the Arts”. Scientists and doctors and especially our youth need inspiration to continually move our world towards a better place. Imagine if the Wright Brothers had never been inspired by Da Vinci’s drawings to build an actual airplane that flew. Imagine if Da Vinci had never been inspired by the heavens above him to create all he did!
Think about all the technological advances we have made in the last 100 heck even in the last 50 or 10 years. And how those advances have not only changed how we see the world and each other, but also revolutionized medicine and physics and even music! Mel is a teacher and uses her (and her sister Muses) gifts to inspire her students. She gives them a safe place to open up that side of themselves and allows them to experiment till they find their voice. This inspires them to become better version of themselves. She also gives them a safe place to fail, and learn from this failure, to find the right path for themselves.
I enjoyed the sense of humor the author brought to this book. These characters were able to find moments to laugh even as they were experiencing tragedy, sorrow and fear. Being able to do that makes us stronger as people. And they were able to open themselves to each other and take risks, even as they were scared of the changes to come and what the final outcome would be.
Love inspires us all to be better.
The whole concept of the rebirth of the nine Muses and how they are meant to inspire each new generation of humanity to move forward is fascinating and excellent for a mythological based romance, especially when you add in the prophecy of “one Guardian for each Muse”. But as you read through the book you realize that the need for inspiration is not confined to “the Arts”. Scientists and doctors and especially our youth need inspiration to continually move our world towards a better place. Imagine if the Wright Brothers had never been inspired by Da Vinci’s drawings to build an actual airplane that flew. Imagine if Da Vinci had never been inspired by the heavens above him to create all he did!
Think about all the technological advances we have made in the last 100 heck even in the last 50 or 10 years. And how those advances have not only changed how we see the world and each other, but also revolutionized medicine and physics and even music! Mel is a teacher and uses her (and her sister Muses) gifts to inspire her students. She gives them a safe place to open up that side of themselves and allows them to experiment till they find their voice. This inspires them to become better version of themselves. She also gives them a safe place to fail, and learn from this failure, to find the right path for themselves.
I enjoyed the sense of humor the author brought to this book. These characters were able to find moments to laugh even as they were experiencing tragedy, sorrow and fear. Being able to do that makes us stronger as people. And they were able to open themselves to each other and take risks, even as they were scared of the changes to come and what the final outcome would be.
Love inspires us all to be better.
September 19, 2023
I read this book for a reading challenge task. It's not a genre that I typically read so my opinion of this book may be vastly different from someone who reads steamy romance books all the time.
I liked the overall plot and and the idea of the Muses and each having a Guardian to watch over them. I enjoyed the characters in the book and the cat and mouse chase was fun. I'm not much for steamy sex scenes but this book had them. Luckily, there was more to the story however.
This was an okay read. I tired a bit of Mel complaining about being the Muse who viewed the glass as half empty but other than that I don't have any strong complaints. The book was left on a cliff hanger so I may even be tempted to read the next one in the series!
I liked the overall plot and and the idea of the Muses and each having a Guardian to watch over them. I enjoyed the characters in the book and the cat and mouse chase was fun. I'm not much for steamy sex scenes but this book had them. Luckily, there was more to the story however.
This was an okay read. I tired a bit of Mel complaining about being the Muse who viewed the glass as half empty but other than that I don't have any strong complaints. The book was left on a cliff hanger so I may even be tempted to read the next one in the series!
February 20, 2019
A lovely romance that involves the nine muses reborn into each generation and the Titan worshipers who want to stop them. The idea is more interesting than the execution. However, it is a sweet romance.
Want to read
July 8, 2019Free on amazon 9th July 2019
July 21, 2019
Lure of Obsession is the first book in the Muse Chronicles by Lisa Kessler.
THE PROPHECY - "Every generation the nine daughters of Zeus are reborn, and with their rebirth are also nine Guardians. They will be marked by the gods and given gifts to protect his treasure. Their abilities will only be unlocked when they find their muse."
In this first book of the series, we are introduced to the 'muses'. We also learn who their enemy is and the reason that they want to wipe the muses out.
Mel is the Muse of Tragic Poetry and after her flatmate is killed she is next on the killer's list. Thankfully Nate Malone, a detective assigned to investigate her friend's death, comes to believe that what looked like an accidental death was anything but.
Nate doesn't know why, but his instincts are screaming at him that there is more to the case than meets the eye and he is determined to find out who the murderer is. More importantly, he is compelled to keep Mel safe.
The more time that they spend together, the more they seem to be falling for each other. But baggage on both sides of the relationship might just make a one night stand be all that is on offer. But before they can even cross that bridge, they have to work together to find out who killed Mel's friend, who is trying to kill her, and why?
I'll be honest, the cover on this book went a long way to me reading the blurb and deciding that I wanted to read the book. I could easily picture that gorgeous model in the heroic scenes happening in this book! I am happy to say that the content of the story was just as hot as the cover. Not just when it comes to the passionate moments between Mel and Nate either. I loved the concept of the Muses and The Order of the Titans and the drama that unfolded with the battle between the two. I also like that although this book didn't end on a cliffhanger it does neatly lead onto the next book in the series which will feature Callie. I am intrigued by this series and will definitely read each of the stories.
I really did enjoy this book and am happy to recommend it.
THE PROPHECY - "Every generation the nine daughters of Zeus are reborn, and with their rebirth are also nine Guardians. They will be marked by the gods and given gifts to protect his treasure. Their abilities will only be unlocked when they find their muse."
In this first book of the series, we are introduced to the 'muses'. We also learn who their enemy is and the reason that they want to wipe the muses out.
Mel is the Muse of Tragic Poetry and after her flatmate is killed she is next on the killer's list. Thankfully Nate Malone, a detective assigned to investigate her friend's death, comes to believe that what looked like an accidental death was anything but.
Nate doesn't know why, but his instincts are screaming at him that there is more to the case than meets the eye and he is determined to find out who the murderer is. More importantly, he is compelled to keep Mel safe.
The more time that they spend together, the more they seem to be falling for each other. But baggage on both sides of the relationship might just make a one night stand be all that is on offer. But before they can even cross that bridge, they have to work together to find out who killed Mel's friend, who is trying to kill her, and why?
I'll be honest, the cover on this book went a long way to me reading the blurb and deciding that I wanted to read the book. I could easily picture that gorgeous model in the heroic scenes happening in this book! I am happy to say that the content of the story was just as hot as the cover. Not just when it comes to the passionate moments between Mel and Nate either. I loved the concept of the Muses and The Order of the Titans and the drama that unfolded with the battle between the two. I also like that although this book didn't end on a cliffhanger it does neatly lead onto the next book in the series which will feature Callie. I am intrigued by this series and will definitely read each of the stories.
I really did enjoy this book and am happy to recommend it.
August 2, 2019
Start with some Greek Mythology (Muses, Titans, Guardians), add in some beautiful woman in modern times, an evil group trying to put an end to enlightenment, a cute kid, a hot police officer with some flaws and some steamy romance and you get an enjoyable story which just happens to be the first book in the Muse Chronicles.
When nine woman all start having the same dream about a dilapidated theatre, they all end up in Crystal City. They have the spirit of the Nine Muses inside them. When a group, who call themselves "The Order of the Titans" decide they need to destroy the muses by killing them, all their lives are in danger. Melanie Jacoby comes home from work one night and finds her roommate and sister muse, Nia, The Muse of Astronomy, dead at the bottom of the stairs. One down and Melanie is next on their radar. Can police detective Nate Malone protect her? When they begin to have feelings for one another, can her get past his flaws to find out what he really feels?
I enjoyed this story. I liked the idea of Greek Mythology coming together with modern times. Melanie is a great heroine. She is smart, caring, loving, brave and romantic. She opens her heart to everyone, even though she is the Muse of Tragic Poetry so seems to always look for the worst in every situation. Nate has a secret past which he has not shared with anyone. When he finally shares it with Mel, my heart almost breaks. He wants to be a hero, but anytime he fails someone, a little piece of his heart dies too. I love the way they come together and realize they are meant for one another, after all, fate comes into play her too. There is a great supporting cast in the story with the other muses, Nate's partner and a little girl named Maggie that adds interest and I am assuming will play a larger role in the further books in this series. Overall, this was a fun story which was a quick read. Just one warning, there are some explicit sex scenes, so be prepared. I am glad I picked this book up and look forward to seeing what is in store for the other seven muses.
When nine woman all start having the same dream about a dilapidated theatre, they all end up in Crystal City. They have the spirit of the Nine Muses inside them. When a group, who call themselves "The Order of the Titans" decide they need to destroy the muses by killing them, all their lives are in danger. Melanie Jacoby comes home from work one night and finds her roommate and sister muse, Nia, The Muse of Astronomy, dead at the bottom of the stairs. One down and Melanie is next on their radar. Can police detective Nate Malone protect her? When they begin to have feelings for one another, can her get past his flaws to find out what he really feels?
I enjoyed this story. I liked the idea of Greek Mythology coming together with modern times. Melanie is a great heroine. She is smart, caring, loving, brave and romantic. She opens her heart to everyone, even though she is the Muse of Tragic Poetry so seems to always look for the worst in every situation. Nate has a secret past which he has not shared with anyone. When he finally shares it with Mel, my heart almost breaks. He wants to be a hero, but anytime he fails someone, a little piece of his heart dies too. I love the way they come together and realize they are meant for one another, after all, fate comes into play her too. There is a great supporting cast in the story with the other muses, Nate's partner and a little girl named Maggie that adds interest and I am assuming will play a larger role in the further books in this series. Overall, this was a fun story which was a quick read. Just one warning, there are some explicit sex scenes, so be prepared. I am glad I picked this book up and look forward to seeing what is in store for the other seven muses.
July 31, 2016
This book is amazing! I love paranormal romance, and I’ve enjoyed mythology since I was a kid. When I read the description for this book, I knew I had to read it. And I literally tore through the book in less than a day. I was immediately drawn into the story and could not put it down. Melanie, the Muse of Tragic Poetry, is dealt a shocking blow (along with her fellow Muses) when she finds her roommate/sister muse dead. Detective Nate Malone is assigned to work this case, and together they learn the roommate’s death was not an accident, Melanie may also be in danger, and their pull to each other is more than just attraction.
Mel is a smart, compassionate and funny muse. Her own self-doubt and leanings towards the negative can sometimes get in her way, but also brings a little humor here and there. She is loyal to Nate and all he has overcome, and is just awesome. Now Nate… I’ve got plenty of favorite book boyfriends (Peeta Mellark, Rhysand – High Lord of the Night Court, etc.), but Nate may just take the cake! He is intelligent, fiercely protective, sensitive, caring, sexy, and unfortunately dealing with his own personal demons from the past. I loved that he was able to let his guard down and let Mel help heal his emotional wounds.
I love that this is just the start of a series. There is an organization determined to stop the Muses from contributing to the inspiration of mankind, and none of the muses are safe. Let’s just hope each muse finds their protector guardian and H.E.A. in such a way that is as sweet, funny, suspenseful, and downright sexy as Mel and Nate found each other.
Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Mel is a smart, compassionate and funny muse. Her own self-doubt and leanings towards the negative can sometimes get in her way, but also brings a little humor here and there. She is loyal to Nate and all he has overcome, and is just awesome. Now Nate… I’ve got plenty of favorite book boyfriends (Peeta Mellark, Rhysand – High Lord of the Night Court, etc.), but Nate may just take the cake! He is intelligent, fiercely protective, sensitive, caring, sexy, and unfortunately dealing with his own personal demons from the past. I loved that he was able to let his guard down and let Mel help heal his emotional wounds.
I love that this is just the start of a series. There is an organization determined to stop the Muses from contributing to the inspiration of mankind, and none of the muses are safe. Let’s just hope each muse finds their protector guardian and H.E.A. in such a way that is as sweet, funny, suspenseful, and downright sexy as Mel and Nate found each other.
Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2016
Take Greek mythology, add a modern take, have murder, mystery and a handsome, protective Guardian and Lisa Kessler has the perfect recipe for another riveting series! There are nine Muses who have had dreams that led them to an old dilapidated theatre and each other.
One of them is Melanie Jacoby, and English teacher who is the reborn muse of tragic poetry. On returning home one evening she is shocked to find it in darkness. She shares her home with Nia, the Muse of Astronomy, who always has lights on throughout their home. Mel’s worst fears come true when she discovers her friend’s body at the bottom of the stairs. She calls the police but most of them seem to assume it is a tragic accident but Nate Malone, the detective in charge of the investigation has some strange experiences, visions of events that lead him to believe it wasn’t an accident and that Mel could be the killer’s next target. The scene is set for a great murder mystery with Greek overtones and romance, too.
Both Mel and Nate are great, with additional well developed characters with plenty of background information to encourage the reader to empathise with them this is an engaging romantic suspense that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I can’t wait to read more in this enthralling new series!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
One of them is Melanie Jacoby, and English teacher who is the reborn muse of tragic poetry. On returning home one evening she is shocked to find it in darkness. She shares her home with Nia, the Muse of Astronomy, who always has lights on throughout their home. Mel’s worst fears come true when she discovers her friend’s body at the bottom of the stairs. She calls the police but most of them seem to assume it is a tragic accident but Nate Malone, the detective in charge of the investigation has some strange experiences, visions of events that lead him to believe it wasn’t an accident and that Mel could be the killer’s next target. The scene is set for a great murder mystery with Greek overtones and romance, too.
Both Mel and Nate are great, with additional well developed characters with plenty of background information to encourage the reader to empathise with them this is an engaging romantic suspense that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I can’t wait to read more in this enthralling new series!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2022
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 4
Story – 5
Grabbed me and didn’t let go.
Lure of Obsession isn’t my normal go-to kind of story but I am so glad that I listened to this. The premise of the story was interesting and I was intrigued and entertained from beginning to end. Nate is a no-relationship kind of guy. He had a terrible childhood with an abusive father; he has no desire to become romantically involved with anyone. Fate has a way of changing things though. He becomes Melanie’s protector and must save her from the people who are trying to kill her.
This story was full of action and suspense right from the beginning. It also had a nice amount of sexy time and very tender moments with a cute little girl.
This is the first audiobook that I’ve listened to performed by Gwendolyn Druyor and I thought that she did a good job. Some of the male voices didn’t really work that well for me but the main character voices were fine. I’m looking forward to listening to the next book in this series.
A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.
Overall – 5
Performance – 4
Story – 5
Grabbed me and didn’t let go.
Lure of Obsession isn’t my normal go-to kind of story but I am so glad that I listened to this. The premise of the story was interesting and I was intrigued and entertained from beginning to end. Nate is a no-relationship kind of guy. He had a terrible childhood with an abusive father; he has no desire to become romantically involved with anyone. Fate has a way of changing things though. He becomes Melanie’s protector and must save her from the people who are trying to kill her.
This story was full of action and suspense right from the beginning. It also had a nice amount of sexy time and very tender moments with a cute little girl.
This is the first audiobook that I’ve listened to performed by Gwendolyn Druyor and I thought that she did a good job. Some of the male voices didn’t really work that well for me but the main character voices were fine. I’m looking forward to listening to the next book in this series.
A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.
October 24, 2016
Mel and her muse sisters are working to restore an old theater. A dark and mysterious group seemingly appears out of nowhere and threatens their project and their lives. Enter Nate, the main male character in the book. Nate is a good guy who had a rough childhood and therefore a hard time letting others in. Mel and Nate share undeniable chemistry and are pushed together for survival in a suspenseful setting with a sinister villain.
The book was well-paced and kept me guessing. I enjoyed the Greek mythological references that were applied to modern-day people and circumstances. There's action, mythology, character growth and development, interesting secondary characters (that I assume will get their own books--- ahem ahem), and some hot romance scenes. It truly has something for everyone. I missed my subway stop while reading this book because the surrounding world disappeared and I became immersed in the author's not so imaginary world--- twice.
The book was well-paced and kept me guessing. I enjoyed the Greek mythological references that were applied to modern-day people and circumstances. There's action, mythology, character growth and development, interesting secondary characters (that I assume will get their own books--- ahem ahem), and some hot romance scenes. It truly has something for everyone. I missed my subway stop while reading this book because the surrounding world disappeared and I became immersed in the author's not so imaginary world--- twice.
November 21, 2021
I enjoyed this story very much as I don't read much about Greek mythology. Melonie is the muse of tragic poetry and she finds her best friend dead and now someone wants her dead. Det. Nate Malone comes to investigate and when he enters her house he has a vision. Turns out Nate is her guardian and he plans to protect her. Neither one want a relationship but you know, love sneaks up on them both. There is a sweet little girl Maggie and some very bad people, Order of the Titans, they keep this story moving along. I'm diving into book 2 asap.
July 28, 2016
Nate can ask for help at times, “yeah.” He slid free from her and sat up. “I’m sorry. Dammit. I’ve never forgotten before.” He looked over at her. “What do we do?” Her big, strong police detective was asking her what to do." I loved Nate he was protective as hell, and he could be sensitive.
August 2, 2016
Awesome!!!
Great story!! I can't wait to read about all the muses!!
There mates....and there HEA....its awesome!!
Mystery ...suspense...love... What more could you want.
Buy it read it!!! You will love it!!!
Can't wait for book 2!
Great story!! I can't wait to read about all the muses!!
There mates....and there HEA....its awesome!!
Mystery ...suspense...love... What more could you want.
Buy it read it!!! You will love it!!!
Can't wait for book 2!
March 5, 2023
Love this twist on fated mates!
If you like your romances with lots of page turning suspense and intrigue, Lure of Obsession is for you. Nate and Mel make the perfect team, and their chemistry is undeniable. I love the idea of muses and guardians and can't wait to see which of Mel's friends meets their guardian next!
If you like your romances with lots of page turning suspense and intrigue, Lure of Obsession is for you. Nate and Mel make the perfect team, and their chemistry is undeniable. I love the idea of muses and guardians and can't wait to see which of Mel's friends meets their guardian next!
December 26, 2017
2.5 "It just didn't click" stars
August 21, 2017
This is my first time reading Lisa Kessler, and it made me eager to read more of her work. Lure of Obsession is the first book in the Muse Chronicles and I consider it a great start to the series.What the story is aboutLure of Obsession tells the story of Melanie Jacoby and Detective Nate Malone. Melanie a high school English teacher is the reborn muse of tragic poetry. She sees the tragic side of things, but the one tragedy she was not prepared for was finding her roommate and fellow Muse dead. She knows her friend was murdered, but she is unable to convince the detectives in charge of the investigation, as the evidence points to an accidental death.Detective Nate Morgan is convinced that the death was accidental, but then he had visions, which led him to believe the death of Melanie’s friend was no accident. Now, not only does he have to solve a murder, he has to protect Mel who is the killer’s next target.The StoryThe story began on a sad but intense note. From that moment, the story pulled me in and I had a hard time putting it down. The theme of inspiration was well presented throughout the story. The idea of the rebirth of nine muses and the role they played in inspiring humanity to be their better selves made for a riveting read. However, there are persons who would rather see this inspiration snuffed out, and the Muses had to die.I enjoyed the mystery/suspense thread, which I thought was thoroughly fleshed out. It had me turning the pages as I was eager to see the direction the story would follow. One thing I appreciate about romantic thrillers/suspense is the events unfold not only through the eyes of the protagonists but also that of the antagonists. This story delivered just that, which made me privy to his plans.The title aptly describes Nate’s fascination with Mel. From the moment, he met her he felt a connection, which he could not explain and he wanted to protect her. The romance moved at an acceptable pace, given the circumstances surrounding the guardian/muse. In spite of his attraction for Mel, he did not trust his feelings, which I found to be a reasonable reaction given the issues from his past.I was pleased with the ending. The threat, however, is still imminent, which I am sure will be explored in the upcoming books.The CharactersMel being the muse of tragic poetry is used to seeing the tragic side of things. She is what one would consider an eternal pessimist. Meeting Nate proved to be a blessing as he encouraged her to view things in a positive light. I admired her strength and fortitude. She is willing to take a chance on having a relationship with Nate in spite of the risk of having her heart shattered.Nate avoids relationships at all costs. He does not feel he is capable of love, however, the more time he spent with Mel he discovered that his past did not determine his ability to love. Mel saw beyond his physical and emotional scars. Never once did she view him as a victim. What she saw when she looked at him was a survivor. I found it amusing that he being her Guardian was responsible for protecting her, but instead, she wanted to be the one who did the protecting.protecting.I enjoyed watching their interaction, which was funny, passionate and sweet. I loved that they learned to trust each other, which was a pivotal moment for Nate.Conclusion/RecommendationLure of Obsession is a well-written story with likeable characters. It was a fantastic read from start to finish and I cannot wait to find out what is in store for the other muses.
July 5, 2017
I liked the idea of the muses reborn to inspire humankind. The story was ok, a cute but a bit easy to put down. A good start to the series though. Will look for the second book
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