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Scorned Women's Society #2
The Treble With Men
As far as Green Valley is concerned, Kim Dae disappeared into the Wraiths a decade ago. They were sort of right. Kim has spent her life since Jethro fighting her curious nature and trying to blend into the background. Unfortunately for her, a mysterious Maestro comes to town and takes quick notice of her for reasons unknown to anybody.
The masked conductor, known simply as Devlin, was already a source of much gossip thanks to his reputation for getting fired. Now, his sudden interest in the quiet fourth chair cellist has added fuel to the rumor fire. The new conductor of the symphony needs to learn to control his temper and finish his latest musical masterpiece and only the reluctant star of his symphony can help him do that. If Devlin can’t convince Kim to help to finish his latest composition he’ll lose everything.
Can Devlin and Kim compose without losing composure?
The masked conductor, known simply as Devlin, was already a source of much gossip thanks to his reputation for getting fired. Now, his sudden interest in the quiet fourth chair cellist has added fuel to the rumor fire. The new conductor of the symphony needs to learn to control his temper and finish his latest musical masterpiece and only the reluctant star of his symphony can help him do that. If Devlin can’t convince Kim to help to finish his latest composition he’ll lose everything.
Can Devlin and Kim compose without losing composure?
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2020
About the author
Piper Sheldon
18 books896 followersVisit me at pipersheldon.com and sign up for my newsletter here!
Piper Sheldon writes Contemporary Romance and Paranormal Romance. Her books are a little funny, a lotta romantic, and with just a little twist of something more. She lives with her husband, daughter, and two needy dogs at home in the desert Southwest. She finds writing bios in the third person an extreme sport of awkwardness.
Piper Sheldon writes Contemporary Romance and Paranormal Romance. Her books are a little funny, a lotta romantic, and with just a little twist of something more. She lives with her husband, daughter, and two needy dogs at home in the desert Southwest. She finds writing bios in the third person an extreme sport of awkwardness.
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Want to read
May 11, 2020
** NOW IN KINDLE UNLIMITED **
PEOPLE! You can grab ‘The Treble With Men’ by Piper Sheldon in Kindle Unlimited! WOOT WOOT! I'm so excited GO FORTH AND READ THE THING!
** LINKS **
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/38j9pKK
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2u7p4Om
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2RAgRKv
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2NIubeK
** BLURB **
As far as Green Valley is concerned, Kim Dae disappeared into the Wraiths a decade ago. They were sort of right. Kim has spent her life since Jethro fighting her curious nature and trying to blend into the background. Unfortunately for her, a mysterious Maestro comes to town and takes quick notice of her for reasons unknown to anybody.
The masked conductor, known simply as Devlin, was already a source of much gossip thanks to his reputation for getting fired. Now, his sudden interest in the quiet fourth chair cellist has added fuel to the rumor fire. The new conductor of the symphony needs to learn to control his temper and finish his latest musical masterpiece and only the reluctant star of his symphony can help him do that. If Devlin can’t convince Kim to help to finish his latest composition he’ll lose everything.
Can Devlin and Kim compose without losing composure?
January 7, 2021
OMG, Phantom of the Opera retelling with a moody motorcycle club conductor, a shy cellist and a best friend clarinet player? Silent scream!!!! This was so, so good. My inner music nerd wanted to fly within the pages and live inside Green Valley for this one, or maybe start singing along to each of my favorite Phantom songs, because oh the references. This is a great book for anyone who loves Phantom and also loves the SmartyPants Romance universe.
Christine/Kim is a cellist who was on course to go to Julliard as a teen until pressure and a few bad choices changed the course of her life. She’s also in the Scorned Women Society—Jethro Winston’s former girlfriends. Erik/Devlin/The Devil of the Symphony (our Phantom) is hiding his true identity as an ex pop star behind a mask he wears to rehearsal. He’s not exactly winning most popular conductor of the year and has a few nasty orchestra members to contend with. Piper Sheldon gets the details right in this one, all the little stuff from how an orchestra really applauds to the fact that skilled musicians can play on their own without a conductor. It’s a great read, made even more so with a racy cello lesson and a midnight thunderstorm thrown in. Loved these two and can’t wait to see the next member of the Scorned Women Society.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
Christine/Kim is a cellist who was on course to go to Julliard as a teen until pressure and a few bad choices changed the course of her life. She’s also in the Scorned Women Society—Jethro Winston’s former girlfriends. Erik/Devlin/The Devil of the Symphony (our Phantom) is hiding his true identity as an ex pop star behind a mask he wears to rehearsal. He’s not exactly winning most popular conductor of the year and has a few nasty orchestra members to contend with. Piper Sheldon gets the details right in this one, all the little stuff from how an orchestra really applauds to the fact that skilled musicians can play on their own without a conductor. It’s a great read, made even more so with a racy cello lesson and a midnight thunderstorm thrown in. Loved these two and can’t wait to see the next member of the Scorned Women Society.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
April 26, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
Richard Firmin and Andrew Gill were the co-presidents of the SOOK… Nobody else called them Andy-Dick, but as they were a package deal, it was just easier.
He pulled his baton from his coat jacket like it was Harry Potter’s wand…
“I hate guys like that. Don’t worry. If you want, I'll kick his ass.” He flexed and kissed his biceps. “These guns haven’t lost their bullets.”
If you ever tell anybody I screamed like that, they’ll never find your body.
I’ll never agree to anything without hearing it first. That’s how people end up with a tattoo of a platypus on their ass.
Sleep had hit me so hard, I woke up in the same exact position I’d fallen asleep in, wondering what year it was.
My Review:
I enjoyed this installment twice as much as the first one, it was a wicked funny, multi-faceted, slow-burn romance. The multiple storylines were actively paced and written in my favorite dual POV featuring extremely complicated and oddly fractured characters who were struggling with themselves and each other. Both were ducking for cover from their pasts by using dual personas while doing a rather pitiable job of functioning as either one. They were intelligent people who were living in their heads and essentially emotional and social idiots. I’m curious to see where this series goes next.
Richard Firmin and Andrew Gill were the co-presidents of the SOOK… Nobody else called them Andy-Dick, but as they were a package deal, it was just easier.
He pulled his baton from his coat jacket like it was Harry Potter’s wand…
“I hate guys like that. Don’t worry. If you want, I'll kick his ass.” He flexed and kissed his biceps. “These guns haven’t lost their bullets.”
If you ever tell anybody I screamed like that, they’ll never find your body.
I’ll never agree to anything without hearing it first. That’s how people end up with a tattoo of a platypus on their ass.
Sleep had hit me so hard, I woke up in the same exact position I’d fallen asleep in, wondering what year it was.
My Review:
I enjoyed this installment twice as much as the first one, it was a wicked funny, multi-faceted, slow-burn romance. The multiple storylines were actively paced and written in my favorite dual POV featuring extremely complicated and oddly fractured characters who were struggling with themselves and each other. Both were ducking for cover from their pasts by using dual personas while doing a rather pitiable job of functioning as either one. They were intelligent people who were living in their heads and essentially emotional and social idiots. I’m curious to see where this series goes next.
Want to read
May 11, 2020You can now grab ‘The Treble With Men’ by Piper Sheldon in #KindleUnlimited! WooHoo! We’re so happy we can make our new Spring Launch releases available to the KU audience while also giving readers on other platforms a chance to grab them, too! Fear not, if you missed TTWM before the KU switcheroo, check back when it comes back out…in about 3 months.
** LINKS **
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/38j9pKK
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2u7p4Om
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2RAgRKv
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2NIubeK
** BLURB **
As far as Green Valley is concerned, Kim Dae disappeared into the Wraiths a decade ago. They were sort of right. Kim has spent her life since Jethro fighting her curious nature and trying to blend into the background. Unfortunately for her, a mysterious Maestro comes to town and takes quick notice of her for reasons unknown to anybody.
The masked conductor, known simply as Devlin, was already a source of much gossip thanks to his reputation for getting fired. Now, his sudden interest in the quiet fourth chair cellist has added fuel to the rumor fire. The new conductor of the symphony needs to learn to control his temper and finish his latest musical masterpiece and only the reluctant star of his symphony can help him do that. If Devlin can’t convince Kim to help to finish his latest composition he’ll lose everything.
Can Devlin and Kim compose without losing composure?
Read
December 30, 2020The SWS is back! Kim and Devlin are ready to rock your world!
April 6, 2020
I was blown away by this novel!! The Treble With Men is easily one of my top reads of 2020 and probably my favorite SmartyPants romance novel yet. I really liked Piper’s writing in her for book but it really escalated in this one. I fell hard for Devlin and Kim/Christine. Both of these characters were trying to move on from difficult things in their past and had a passion for music that brought them together. Their chemistry was undeniable and you could feel their attraction.
Phantom of the Opera is my favorite play so I was really excited to read this but didn’t really know what to expect. The Treble With Men went beyond my expectations. I loved the undertone of the Phantom love story. It was also ironic to be reading about a man in a mask when we are all wearing masks now in society. This book was the exact escape I needed from reality at the moment. I couldn’t put it down and read it in less than 24 hours. I also loved catching up with the SWS and can’t wait to read the next book.
Phantom of the Opera is my favorite play so I was really excited to read this but didn’t really know what to expect. The Treble With Men went beyond my expectations. I loved the undertone of the Phantom love story. It was also ironic to be reading about a man in a mask when we are all wearing masks now in society. This book was the exact escape I needed from reality at the moment. I couldn’t put it down and read it in less than 24 hours. I also loved catching up with the SWS and can’t wait to read the next book.
April 7, 2020
4.75 stars!!
If you are looking for a Phantom of the Opera retelling with a unique spin, then Piper’s The Treble with Men is right up your alley. It took me a minute to get into it just due to my scrambled brain at the moment, but I read My Bare Lady last year, and I knew I could trust Piper to take me there. I love seeing her growth as a writer, and she did an amazing job weaving all the mystery, intrigue, sexual tension, and a vulnerability between the characters in a real way. I love how both characters learn to forgive and move on from past mistakes. I don’t want to spoil anything because there are some things, trust me. I just love what SmartyPants Romance is doing showcasing these amazing authors, and giving them a chance to let their writing light shine! Bravo!
If you are looking for a Phantom of the Opera retelling with a unique spin, then Piper’s The Treble with Men is right up your alley. It took me a minute to get into it just due to my scrambled brain at the moment, but I read My Bare Lady last year, and I knew I could trust Piper to take me there. I love seeing her growth as a writer, and she did an amazing job weaving all the mystery, intrigue, sexual tension, and a vulnerability between the characters in a real way. I love how both characters learn to forgive and move on from past mistakes. I don’t want to spoil anything because there are some things, trust me. I just love what SmartyPants Romance is doing showcasing these amazing authors, and giving them a chance to let their writing light shine! Bravo!
Read
March 15, 2020I mean, it's Piper Sheldon. Of course it's good.
February 26, 2020
Emerald Book Reviews
The Treble With Men by Piper Sheldon
‘“All you need to do is watch me.” When he spoke his mask hardly moved; nobody would know he spoke at all. My gaze locked on his as it smoldered with intensity. “It’s you and me.”’
When I’m not losing myself in a good book, I can generally be found belting out musical show tunes in my kitchen, because the acoustics in it are amazing and offer me up the illusion that I’m obviously wasted talent, not treading the boards. So when I discovered author Piper Sheldon was working Phantom of the Opera into her Scorned Women Society series, for Smartypants Romance, my little nerdy heart started beating triple time with excitement, anticipation and expectation.
But, let me just stop right here. For the simple fact is, that although I may have watched and sang and lamented over the Phantom too many times to count, author Piper Sheldon has created, imagined, transformed and expanded upon a wonderful, hauntingly familiar storyline, converting it into something profoundly beautiful, soul-stirring, modern and intricate with a breathtaking happy-ever-after. She adds a credible depth to her characters, brings them to life, gives them substance, value and heart. So, although you may *think* you know the tale, let me assure you that Piper has given readers something spectacular and original, that will have you falling in love, hard and fast, within the first chapter. Even those who have never known the story of the Phantom of the Opera, will be charmed and begging for more.
Heroine, Christine Day, also known as troubled cellist Kim Dae, was fascinating, I adored and sympathised with her right from the get go. Although the Devil of the Symphony openly hid behind his mask, cloaked himself in darkness, I found the parallels between Kim and he, compelling. Both protagonists were shielding themselves from past mistakes. Two very different people, in the spotlight and behind closed doors. Each of them were hiding in some form or other, isolating and concealing their true selves, living only half lives. Kim held herself accountable for so many things, always striving for perfection, refusing to really feel. Playing her music but not allowing herself to be swept up and moved by it. She was an inferno of passion, trapped behind a glass wall, yet it takes the mystery and provocation of the Devil of the Symphony to break that glass, to push her, antagonise her. For me, the writing here was exceptionally moving, beautifully descriptive and lyrical. How Piper describes the music, the movement, the instruments, the flair and drive that goes behind an orchestra - the music becomes this huge, living, breathing entity and cements itself as the third main character of the book.
As Devlin and Kim begin to make music together, letting the swell and emotion of the melodies stir them, both masks start to slip and we are therefore introduced to a more human version of the Devil. Before, in movies and stories, the Phantom is portrayed as an almost exaggerated caricature, like a magic mist, a fable, but in The Treble With Men, Piper Sheldon has humanised him, made him harsh and stoic, shy, funny and sweet. He’s truly captivating and full of layers. Just when you think you have him figured out, another piece is revealed and what you’re left with is a magnificent collage of very real feelings and wants and needs. Devlin is the epitome of a well-written, complex and sexy hero. He will make you mad, have you laughing, sighing, wanting and leave you breathless, because when the man turns on the charm, he turns on the charm. The other side of that coin is, when he hurts, you hurt along with him. Again, being able to extract such an array of emotions from readers, is a gift that every writer wishes they possessed. Piper Sheldon is certainly in possession of some magnificent word magic.
‘I couldn’t let her see how deeply she’d cut me. How much she’d hurt me. That was her song. That was my soul on paper again for her and she wouldn’t accept it.’
The writing in The Treble With Men is truly remarkable, sweet and seductive, emotive and powerful- full of passion and rage, hurt and lust and love. It’s also full of great humour, friendship, brotherly love and family. And as always, the ladies of the SWS had me laughing so hard with their banter and support and love for one another. I’m seriously excited for whichever lucky lady is up next, because they all have me invested in their lives and if the next books in the series are written half as well as author Piper Sheldon’s previous, then we’re all in for a very big treat.
The Treble With Men by Piper Sheldon
‘“All you need to do is watch me.” When he spoke his mask hardly moved; nobody would know he spoke at all. My gaze locked on his as it smoldered with intensity. “It’s you and me.”’
When I’m not losing myself in a good book, I can generally be found belting out musical show tunes in my kitchen, because the acoustics in it are amazing and offer me up the illusion that I’m obviously wasted talent, not treading the boards. So when I discovered author Piper Sheldon was working Phantom of the Opera into her Scorned Women Society series, for Smartypants Romance, my little nerdy heart started beating triple time with excitement, anticipation and expectation.
But, let me just stop right here. For the simple fact is, that although I may have watched and sang and lamented over the Phantom too many times to count, author Piper Sheldon has created, imagined, transformed and expanded upon a wonderful, hauntingly familiar storyline, converting it into something profoundly beautiful, soul-stirring, modern and intricate with a breathtaking happy-ever-after. She adds a credible depth to her characters, brings them to life, gives them substance, value and heart. So, although you may *think* you know the tale, let me assure you that Piper has given readers something spectacular and original, that will have you falling in love, hard and fast, within the first chapter. Even those who have never known the story of the Phantom of the Opera, will be charmed and begging for more.
Heroine, Christine Day, also known as troubled cellist Kim Dae, was fascinating, I adored and sympathised with her right from the get go. Although the Devil of the Symphony openly hid behind his mask, cloaked himself in darkness, I found the parallels between Kim and he, compelling. Both protagonists were shielding themselves from past mistakes. Two very different people, in the spotlight and behind closed doors. Each of them were hiding in some form or other, isolating and concealing their true selves, living only half lives. Kim held herself accountable for so many things, always striving for perfection, refusing to really feel. Playing her music but not allowing herself to be swept up and moved by it. She was an inferno of passion, trapped behind a glass wall, yet it takes the mystery and provocation of the Devil of the Symphony to break that glass, to push her, antagonise her. For me, the writing here was exceptionally moving, beautifully descriptive and lyrical. How Piper describes the music, the movement, the instruments, the flair and drive that goes behind an orchestra - the music becomes this huge, living, breathing entity and cements itself as the third main character of the book.
As Devlin and Kim begin to make music together, letting the swell and emotion of the melodies stir them, both masks start to slip and we are therefore introduced to a more human version of the Devil. Before, in movies and stories, the Phantom is portrayed as an almost exaggerated caricature, like a magic mist, a fable, but in The Treble With Men, Piper Sheldon has humanised him, made him harsh and stoic, shy, funny and sweet. He’s truly captivating and full of layers. Just when you think you have him figured out, another piece is revealed and what you’re left with is a magnificent collage of very real feelings and wants and needs. Devlin is the epitome of a well-written, complex and sexy hero. He will make you mad, have you laughing, sighing, wanting and leave you breathless, because when the man turns on the charm, he turns on the charm. The other side of that coin is, when he hurts, you hurt along with him. Again, being able to extract such an array of emotions from readers, is a gift that every writer wishes they possessed. Piper Sheldon is certainly in possession of some magnificent word magic.
‘I couldn’t let her see how deeply she’d cut me. How much she’d hurt me. That was her song. That was my soul on paper again for her and she wouldn’t accept it.’
The writing in The Treble With Men is truly remarkable, sweet and seductive, emotive and powerful- full of passion and rage, hurt and lust and love. It’s also full of great humour, friendship, brotherly love and family. And as always, the ladies of the SWS had me laughing so hard with their banter and support and love for one another. I’m seriously excited for whichever lucky lady is up next, because they all have me invested in their lives and if the next books in the series are written half as well as author Piper Sheldon’s previous, then we’re all in for a very big treat.
June 10, 2020
3,5 stars
I still adore that all of Jethro's ex-girlfriends have a club...
This is my favorite spin-off idea for a series!!
I still adore that all of Jethro's ex-girlfriends have a club...
This is my favorite spin-off idea for a series!!
April 9, 2020
"Everything that led us to this moment was worth it. If I had to stay away a hundred years just for five minutes of your time, I'd take whatever I could get."
Love this Phantom of the Opera retelling from Piper Sheldon!
Devlin - the masked conductor - wears a mask to hide himself and to avoid making connections with people. He has this great composition he's working on but he needs the help of Kim to make it happen.
Kim Dae - who now goes by Christine Day in an attempt to put distance from her past - is a very talented cellist but she tends to hide herself. The guilt she feels from what happened in the past has marred her reality. When she's playing the cello, she holds back because she doesn't want to be in the spotlight. In the words of Devlin, "You [Kim] went from this bright, ambitious cello player to this grayed-out shape of a person."
Devlin knows she is capable of more. When Kim lower her guards down, that is when her passion shines through while she's playing. He helps her gain more confidence and he keeps reminding her that while it's okay to have fears and guilt from the past, she needs to learn to let go in order to grow. They grow closer as they work on Devlin's composition together during their weekend practices.
It warms my heart seeing Kim rekindle her passion for playing the cello!! The way Piper Sheldon writes about the scenes with the music made me feel the emotions pouring out from the pages.
I love that both Kim and Devlin have a good and supportive family!! It's nice to see their different family dynamics and they definitely added to the fun moments in the book. There's a conversation between Kim and her parents right around the end of the book that has so many good life lessons.
Growth is seen through Kim and Devlin as they learn to accept and let go of their past. It's also seen with the Scorned Women's Society (the SWS), Kim's friend group who came together out of anger at first but turned into this healthy friendship filled with love and support for each other. Now that we've got Suzie's (My Bare Lady) and Kim's story, I can't wait for the rest of the ladies!
A bonus in this book: that cameo from one of the Winston brothers <3
ARC provided by author.
April 15, 2020
The Treble With Men is SO GOOD! I completely fell in love with the smart, funny and just slightly quirky heroine.
The story pays homage to The Phantom Of The Opera with it’s own Devil Of The Symphony, the mysterious mask-wearing, Maestro Devlin.
“Devlin had a brother? Why did this information come as such a shock to me? It conflicted with the image I had of him as a solitary grump that sprung from the earth and dwelled in the cold basements of buildings.”
As a gifted cellist, Kim Dae was heading towards Juilliard and a bright musical future until her plans derailed. After a stint in rehab she changed her name to Christine Day, moved back with her parents and toned down her life.
“I grayed out until I faded into the background. I toned down and tuned out. That was fine. I was fine. I was existing. Until now.”
Each Smartypants Romance is a standalone. Christine/Kim’s friends in the Scorned Women’s Society make appearances but with no spoilers and we do get a cameo by a certain reformed bad boy Winston brother. ;) This story is one of my favorites and I plan to grab the audiobook for a reread.
-5+ Stars!-
-Diane-
The story pays homage to The Phantom Of The Opera with it’s own Devil Of The Symphony, the mysterious mask-wearing, Maestro Devlin.
“Devlin had a brother? Why did this information come as such a shock to me? It conflicted with the image I had of him as a solitary grump that sprung from the earth and dwelled in the cold basements of buildings.”
As a gifted cellist, Kim Dae was heading towards Juilliard and a bright musical future until her plans derailed. After a stint in rehab she changed her name to Christine Day, moved back with her parents and toned down her life.
“I grayed out until I faded into the background. I toned down and tuned out. That was fine. I was fine. I was existing. Until now.”
Each Smartypants Romance is a standalone. Christine/Kim’s friends in the Scorned Women’s Society make appearances but with no spoilers and we do get a cameo by a certain reformed bad boy Winston brother. ;) This story is one of my favorites and I plan to grab the audiobook for a reread.
-5+ Stars!-
-Diane-
April 7, 2020
WOW
Look, I don’t know how it happened, but these two totally sucked me in! I know the story behind the Phantom of the Opera. I mean who doesn’t, right? But this was fresh and new and even more exciting. There were times throughout this book that I questioned my knowledge LOL That’s the spin the author put on the story. It was glorious! I loved it! WELL DONE!
Look, I don’t know how it happened, but these two totally sucked me in! I know the story behind the Phantom of the Opera. I mean who doesn’t, right? But this was fresh and new and even more exciting. There were times throughout this book that I questioned my knowledge LOL That’s the spin the author put on the story. It was glorious! I loved it! WELL DONE!
April 23, 2020
This book is a retelling of the Phantom of the Opera, and Piper pulled it off flawlessly. The love for music in this book, it spoke to my soul.
I can say with certainty, this book will be a top book of 2020 for me. This story was THAT well written, these characters are THAT amazing.
I love how Kim talks about how exes shouldn't be grouped together to compare to the new relationship. That's unfair to both the exes, and the new relationship. I was full on cheering, YES!
There is so much chemistry between Devlin and Kim, it just jumps off the pages. Kim was not confident in her choices, due to her previous bad choices - which was completely understandable, those choices landed her in rehab. Both Devlin and Kim had some major hurdles to overcome, and those hurdles were from their own past. By letting go of the past, their own failures, learning their lessons, but moving on, they were able to end that cycle of self doubt.
And Jethro - I love how he is still getting redeemed from his past, even now in Piper's books, with each of his exes. You'll have to read the book to find it, but absolutely worth it.
I loved the ladies of the Scorned Women's Society, can't wait to see who's book is next!
Now Available on Kindle Unlimited!!
I can say with certainty, this book will be a top book of 2020 for me. This story was THAT well written, these characters are THAT amazing.
I love how Kim talks about how exes shouldn't be grouped together to compare to the new relationship. That's unfair to both the exes, and the new relationship. I was full on cheering, YES!
There is so much chemistry between Devlin and Kim, it just jumps off the pages. Kim was not confident in her choices, due to her previous bad choices - which was completely understandable, those choices landed her in rehab. Both Devlin and Kim had some major hurdles to overcome, and those hurdles were from their own past. By letting go of the past, their own failures, learning their lessons, but moving on, they were able to end that cycle of self doubt.
And Jethro - I love how he is still getting redeemed from his past, even now in Piper's books, with each of his exes. You'll have to read the book to find it, but absolutely worth it.
I loved the ladies of the Scorned Women's Society, can't wait to see who's book is next!
Now Available on Kindle Unlimited!!
March 21, 2022
Okay, so we have a bit of a take-off from the Phantom of the Opera. Not one of my favorite movies, but that's just me. All that dark, brooding guy who kidnaps a young girl. Nope.
But this story isn't exactly like that. Ummm. Not exactly.
So, our hero wears a mask and is a famous conductor known for his temper. Our heroine plays the cello and is trying to get past some stuff that happened in her past. She is known as being a bit of a mouse, except for when she is with her friends, the other members of the SWS.
Good story with a lot going on. That may be why there are times when the characters aren't as real as they could be. Still, I loved it and want more of the Scorned Women's Society.
But this story isn't exactly like that. Ummm. Not exactly.
So, our hero wears a mask and is a famous conductor known for his temper. Our heroine plays the cello and is trying to get past some stuff that happened in her past. She is known as being a bit of a mouse, except for when she is with her friends, the other members of the SWS.
Good story with a lot going on. That may be why there are times when the characters aren't as real as they could be. Still, I loved it and want more of the Scorned Women's Society.
April 23, 2020
It takes a great deal of bravery to take on the world's most popular musical and retell it as contemporary romance. Author Piper Sheldon rises to that challenge and delivers her own, beautiful work of art in 'The Treble with Men,' which is easily one of the best books of 2020.
I could feel, and almost hear, the music coming out of the pages, an amazing testament to Sheldon's skill with the written word. I couldn't set this book down and simultaneously never wanted the story to be over. It flowed well, had good pacing, wonderful characters and an engaging story.
*****
The Treble With Men, an all-new standalone contemporary romance from Piper Sheldon, is LIVE!
As far as Green Valley is concerned, Kim Dae disappeared into the Wraiths a decade ago. They were sort of right. Kim has spent her life since Jethro fighting her curious nature and trying to blend into the background. Unfortunately for her, a mysterious Maestro comes to town and takes quick notice of her for reasons unknown to anybody.
The masked conductor, known simply as Devlin, was already a source of much gossip thanks to his reputation for getting fired. Now, his sudden interest in the quiet fourth chair cellist has added fuel to the rumor fire. The new conductor of the symphony needs to learn to control his temper and finish his latest musical masterpiece and only the reluctant star of his symphony can help him do that. If Devlin can’t convince Kim to help to finish his latest composition he’ll lose everything.
Can Devlin and Kim compose without losing composure?
‘The Treble with Men’ is a full-length contemporary romance, can be read as a standalone, and is book #2 in the Scorned Women’s Society series, Green Valley World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
See more at kindledsouls.wixsite.com/bookblog
I could feel, and almost hear, the music coming out of the pages, an amazing testament to Sheldon's skill with the written word. I couldn't set this book down and simultaneously never wanted the story to be over. It flowed well, had good pacing, wonderful characters and an engaging story.
*****
The Treble With Men, an all-new standalone contemporary romance from Piper Sheldon, is LIVE!
As far as Green Valley is concerned, Kim Dae disappeared into the Wraiths a decade ago. They were sort of right. Kim has spent her life since Jethro fighting her curious nature and trying to blend into the background. Unfortunately for her, a mysterious Maestro comes to town and takes quick notice of her for reasons unknown to anybody.
The masked conductor, known simply as Devlin, was already a source of much gossip thanks to his reputation for getting fired. Now, his sudden interest in the quiet fourth chair cellist has added fuel to the rumor fire. The new conductor of the symphony needs to learn to control his temper and finish his latest musical masterpiece and only the reluctant star of his symphony can help him do that. If Devlin can’t convince Kim to help to finish his latest composition he’ll lose everything.
Can Devlin and Kim compose without losing composure?
‘The Treble with Men’ is a full-length contemporary romance, can be read as a standalone, and is book #2 in the Scorned Women’s Society series, Green Valley World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
See more at kindledsouls.wixsite.com/bookblog
May 3, 2020
(ARC REVIEW) This is the story of two people (Maestro and hidden-virtuoso) who have to learn to take of their masks (literal and figurative) in order to truly understand how to love and be loved in returned.
The book is laid out much like one of Devlin's compositions, with soaring highs and devestating lows, all held together with love, family, bits of humor, and pent up emotions. You do have to suspend belief just a little over the masked "devil of the symphony" situation but once you get over that its smooth sailing.
Green Valley was only a minor character this time, but we did get a Jethro scene so it's always a plus when a Winston stops by. Highly recommended- 4.5/5 stars!
Full blog tour with excerpt: https://romancereviewed.com/2020/04/2...
The book is laid out much like one of Devlin's compositions, with soaring highs and devestating lows, all held together with love, family, bits of humor, and pent up emotions. You do have to suspend belief just a little over the masked "devil of the symphony" situation but once you get over that its smooth sailing.
Green Valley was only a minor character this time, but we did get a Jethro scene so it's always a plus when a Winston stops by. Highly recommended- 4.5/5 stars!
Full blog tour with excerpt: https://romancereviewed.com/2020/04/2...
March 26, 2020
The Treble with Men
I do not even know where to begin with this romance. I also do not feel like it’s out of line to state that this is one of the best novels I’ve read in the last year, if not, many years.
I must preface this review- I’ve never actually seen the “Phantom of the Opera” (blasphemy, I know!), but I know the general gist. This story is a lose re-telling with a twist, but it is absolutely unique and the characters are incredible.
Our heroine is Kim Dae (stage name Christine Day), the only child of older parents and a member of the Scorned Women Society. She plays the Cello in the SOOK. Kim is recovering from brokenness and trying so hard to just stay safe. This ultimately means she’s not truly living her life. Her past, while heartbreaking, is also inspiring.
Our hero, the Devil of the Symphony is Devlin. He wears a mask and keeps his own brokenness close to his chest.
These two together are everything. Two broken people trying to figure out the world and overcome their pasts.
Kim’s blunt honesty and fears made for such an enticing heroine. You want her to win. You are rooting for her from the get go. Her inner monologue and even the things she says aloud to Devlin had me laughing out loud at times. Her friends at the SWS are the same inspiring women we have come to love (and I cannot wait to read more of these women’s stories).
Devlin is someone who keeps any emotions that are non-combative tucked closely to himself, and you get to see him slowly open up himself. He is brusque and you just know deep down there is a man who needs acceptance and love. He is simultaneously tough to love and such a swoony hero. You want him to win her heart. He has a family that I wish was my family (and I am blessed with one of the great ones). They are open and honest and loving and it’s everything you love to read for a broken hero.
The sexual tension was, I mean like FIRE. It was slow, burning, and there were multiple moments where I was like “maybe this is it?” only for it to be drawn out a smidge more, but not in a frustrating way at all. It was necessary for their scars and the professional boundaries they were trying to maintain. When they come together, you just know. This is it. This is love.
This was hands down one of the most touching, riveting stories I’ve read in years. This is the third book by Piper Sheldon that I’ve had a hard time setting down. I went about my day, my tablet in hand, until it was complete. I don’t even know where to go after this book. If I could give it 6 stars, I would.
Smartypants Romances continue to raise the bar on what it means to be a “smart romance”, and I truly look forward to every single release.
I do not even know where to begin with this romance. I also do not feel like it’s out of line to state that this is one of the best novels I’ve read in the last year, if not, many years.
I must preface this review- I’ve never actually seen the “Phantom of the Opera” (blasphemy, I know!), but I know the general gist. This story is a lose re-telling with a twist, but it is absolutely unique and the characters are incredible.
Our heroine is Kim Dae (stage name Christine Day), the only child of older parents and a member of the Scorned Women Society. She plays the Cello in the SOOK. Kim is recovering from brokenness and trying so hard to just stay safe. This ultimately means she’s not truly living her life. Her past, while heartbreaking, is also inspiring.
Our hero, the Devil of the Symphony is Devlin. He wears a mask and keeps his own brokenness close to his chest.
These two together are everything. Two broken people trying to figure out the world and overcome their pasts.
Kim’s blunt honesty and fears made for such an enticing heroine. You want her to win. You are rooting for her from the get go. Her inner monologue and even the things she says aloud to Devlin had me laughing out loud at times. Her friends at the SWS are the same inspiring women we have come to love (and I cannot wait to read more of these women’s stories).
Devlin is someone who keeps any emotions that are non-combative tucked closely to himself, and you get to see him slowly open up himself. He is brusque and you just know deep down there is a man who needs acceptance and love. He is simultaneously tough to love and such a swoony hero. You want him to win her heart. He has a family that I wish was my family (and I am blessed with one of the great ones). They are open and honest and loving and it’s everything you love to read for a broken hero.
The sexual tension was, I mean like FIRE. It was slow, burning, and there were multiple moments where I was like “maybe this is it?” only for it to be drawn out a smidge more, but not in a frustrating way at all. It was necessary for their scars and the professional boundaries they were trying to maintain. When they come together, you just know. This is it. This is love.
This was hands down one of the most touching, riveting stories I’ve read in years. This is the third book by Piper Sheldon that I’ve had a hard time setting down. I went about my day, my tablet in hand, until it was complete. I don’t even know where to go after this book. If I could give it 6 stars, I would.
Smartypants Romances continue to raise the bar on what it means to be a “smart romance”, and I truly look forward to every single release.
April 8, 2020
This is part of the Smartypants romance series which is connected to the Winston brothers series by Penny Reid.
This series is based on the ex girlfriends of Jethro Winston.
Good story.
Well written.
Grumpy Hero.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Small other man drama and small history revealed between Jethro and the heroine.
HEA.
This series is based on the ex girlfriends of Jethro Winston.
Good story.
Well written.
Grumpy Hero.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Small other man drama and small history revealed between Jethro and the heroine.
HEA.
April 7, 2020
In a time when I couldn’t concentrate on anything, this book had me riveted.
Kim and Devlin both started off as great mysteries, and as we slowly learned their backstories and their connections, I loved them even more. As two characters that were hiding so much from themselves and others that they couldn’t even use their real names, it was wonderful to experience their growth as individuals and a couple in the book. Stripping off the masks, both figuratively and literally, they love each other in the most fundamental way.
I feel like Piper’s quote “Exterior beauty was never a good indication of the quality of content inside.” Is such a mantra for the entire Smartypants Romance series, and so fitting here. Piper’s writing makes you feel like you are actually there, living the story, and not just reading it. She describes a stormy night and it’s so visceral, you get a little scared, and then she throws in some levity like “I screamed. We both screamed ... but there was no ice cream.” And, everything is ok again.
I loved the connection back to the women of SWS and how their friendships are so enduring. And, I liked the how Jethro popped in for some redemption at the end too. I’m glad, because I like him.
Great characters, great story, great series. Can’t wait to see whose story is next in the SWS.
Kim and Devlin both started off as great mysteries, and as we slowly learned their backstories and their connections, I loved them even more. As two characters that were hiding so much from themselves and others that they couldn’t even use their real names, it was wonderful to experience their growth as individuals and a couple in the book. Stripping off the masks, both figuratively and literally, they love each other in the most fundamental way.
I feel like Piper’s quote “Exterior beauty was never a good indication of the quality of content inside.” Is such a mantra for the entire Smartypants Romance series, and so fitting here. Piper’s writing makes you feel like you are actually there, living the story, and not just reading it. She describes a stormy night and it’s so visceral, you get a little scared, and then she throws in some levity like “I screamed. We both screamed ... but there was no ice cream.” And, everything is ok again.
I loved the connection back to the women of SWS and how their friendships are so enduring. And, I liked the how Jethro popped in for some redemption at the end too. I’m glad, because I like him.
Great characters, great story, great series. Can’t wait to see whose story is next in the SWS.
April 12, 2020
My first thought after finishing this book was “Oh my heart!!!” The second thought was “I MUST READ THIS BOOK AGAIN!” Admittedly, I’m a huge fan of this author, the other two books she has out right now were great reads and i loved them. So my expectations were already high for this book. Piper Sheldon took those expectations and blew them out of the water! This book.....this book is everything!! The love, the music, the emotion, the life lessons...all so beautifully written and wrapped up in a gorgeous package (this book cover?? COME ON!!!). This book will leave you satisfied with the best book hangover ever. I can safely say this is one of my all time favorite reads to date.
April 15, 2020
The Treble With Men is SO GOOD! I completely fell in love with the smart, funny and just slightly quirky heroine.
The story pays homage to The Phantom Of The Opera with it’s own Devil Of The Symphony, the mysterious mask-wearing, Maestro Devlin.
“ The realization that this was in fact a bathroom sunk in as I belatedly registered that a person stood hunched over the sink, gripping the basin, head hanging. Not just any person. A painfully sexy, naked, male person. Let me repeat that for those in the back. Naked man. Standing nakedly without clothes on his undressed figure … bare. The man who was my Maestro, and composer. YUP. That one.”
-5++ Stars!!-
My full review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The story pays homage to The Phantom Of The Opera with it’s own Devil Of The Symphony, the mysterious mask-wearing, Maestro Devlin.
“ The realization that this was in fact a bathroom sunk in as I belatedly registered that a person stood hunched over the sink, gripping the basin, head hanging. Not just any person. A painfully sexy, naked, male person. Let me repeat that for those in the back. Naked man. Standing nakedly without clothes on his undressed figure … bare. The man who was my Maestro, and composer. YUP. That one.”
-5++ Stars!!-
My full review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
March 31, 2020
Kim was trying to piece her life back together one day at a time but lived in constant fear. Devlin had his own fears as well. Add in their connected pasts as well. What a great book about letting go, trusting yourself and living! Loved these two found each other!!
March 28, 2020
I just have no words. I was having a hard time concentrating but this book pulled me into it immediately and I adored it. Kim and Devlin are brought to life brilliantly by Piper Sheldon. I just loved this book so very much. I cannot wait for more in this series and I just recommend everyone read this as soon as you can.
April 21, 2020
Piper Sheldon a I've have never laughed and cried so hard in my life!! This book has to go in my top 10 books of the year!!
April 23, 2020
I received an ARC for an honest opinion.
It was a beautiful story and it had some wonderful life lessons within it.
I definitely recommend this book, this series, and this author.
It was a beautiful story and it had some wonderful life lessons within it.
I definitely recommend this book, this series, and this author.
March 15, 2020
Just Keep Playing!
Oh my - so many feels in this book. At first I’m like why the mask - this is kinda weird. In full disclosure, and at risk of outing myself, I’ve never scene the Phantom of the Opera. Yes I’ve been living under a rock! Or something. But Piper Sheldon did such an amazing job bringing the emotion and passion of this book’s characters to life that I can see why so many people do embrace the magic of musicals.
Piper also did an amazing job playing homage to role that Jethro played in Kim’s life and I absolutely loved how she linked Jethro in the story’s conclusion.
I loved this book. Another solid win in the SmaryPants world of winners.
I can’t wait for more goodness from Piper and all the amazing SmartyPants writers.
Oh my - so many feels in this book. At first I’m like why the mask - this is kinda weird. In full disclosure, and at risk of outing myself, I’ve never scene the Phantom of the Opera. Yes I’ve been living under a rock! Or something. But Piper Sheldon did such an amazing job bringing the emotion and passion of this book’s characters to life that I can see why so many people do embrace the magic of musicals.
Piper also did an amazing job playing homage to role that Jethro played in Kim’s life and I absolutely loved how she linked Jethro in the story’s conclusion.
I loved this book. Another solid win in the SmaryPants world of winners.
I can’t wait for more goodness from Piper and all the amazing SmartyPants writers.
April 8, 2020
4.5 stars! I loved this book! I went into it blind, knowing nothing of the story, only that I knew I had to read it because I loved this author's first book in this series My Bare Lady. Devlin is a mystery from the start, as he wears a mask/bandana to conceal his identity and he seems angry, cold and distant. Kim is just trying to do her job...play her cello, keep to herself and not garner any special attention. But she is drawn to the mysterious Devlin and when he asks her for help with a special project, she agrees. I fell hard and fast for Devlin, he is the quintessential mysterious bad boy. I really like Kim as well but I wanted to shake her a few times, so that she would wake up and see her worth and make her own decisions. But as the story progressed, I came to realize why she leaned so heavily on her old friend, Roddy, and loved seeing her realize that things that happened in the past weren't her fault and be able to move past it. There are a couple special scenes featuring our old friend from The Winston Series, Jethro, which I loved. This book is sexy, has love, heartbreak and healing and the ending is just perfect! I highly recommend this book!
April 8, 2020
This was such an enthralling story. Piper has once again given me characters that have depth, are real, have so much personality but also she takes the time to show their real side with the faults, insecurities and mistakes. Kim and Devlin will bring to life their version of the Phantom of the Opera . These characters each have their demons and pasts that still haunt them. Their love of music has always been their common ground and love . It made them aware of one another as teenagers and then has once again connected them on a whole new level as adults. I absolutely loved their world and the way that Piper brought them to life .
~~Michele McMullen ~~
~~Michele McMullen ~~
April 7, 2020
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“‘I think the past is tricky. It shapes so much of who we are. Mistakes, especially. But they’re necessary, you know? It’s a fine line between learning from them and being indebted to them […] But you can’t let it hold you prisoner. It was just a lesson, not a life sentence.'”
You know when you read a book that you love to your toes, and you become so effusive about it that it overwhelms the words for your review? Well, this reader/blogger is there. To say that I’m incredibly impressed with Piper Sheldon is an understatement. When I read the first book of her Scorned Women Society series for SmartyPants Romance, My Bare Lady, I appreciated two facets of it: her reworking of the My Fair Lady story and her sense of her self as a writer. I enjoyed that book, titillated by the fact that she chose one of my favorite stories to retell in the context of Penny Reid’s Winston Brothers universe. However, there were a few moments in her story that felt a little slow. I had a grand appreciation for that book, but I wouldn’t say that I would gush profusely over it.
Then, she wrote The Treble with Men. And I’m done.
This second book of her Scorned Women Society series is exponentially better than My Bare Lady. It is a treatise on control. Some of us struggle with embracing the message behind the popular Disney film, Frozen, in “letting go” of life, embracing the moments to connect and improve and feel a passion for life. This is the essence of The Treble with Men. Sheldon nestles this lesson within the world of Reid’s Tennessee and the world of music. Even more, like her My Bare Lady, she utilizes the vehicle of The Phantom of the Opera story to give it life. In doing so, she reimagines this oft-loved tale with a different ending, one that feels wildly better than the original. All of these attributes conspire to scream at the ingenuity of Sheldon’s storytelling. It is all of this and more that should compel you to “one-click” this book.
“I’d shown her my love in the lessons. In the music. I could tell her everything. I could tell her the truth of my love for her, but then what? It would still be me choosing for her. She needed to make a choice about her own life. I wouldn’t be another person telling her what to do. I wouldn’t hamper her growth. I loved her too much.”
What is it about The Treble with Men that makes it worthy of your time and energy? Here’s the list:
*At the most basic level, Piper Sheldon has the best cover of the SmartyPants Romance world. Bar none.
*Her retelling of The Phantom of the Opera is done in such a way to challenge our notions about the original. For many of us, the ending of that story is bittersweet, as we want Christine to choose the Phantom, but she doesn’t. <<
“‘I think the past is tricky. It shapes so much of who we are. Mistakes, especially. But they’re necessary, you know? It’s a fine line between learning from them and being indebted to them […] But you can’t let it hold you prisoner. It was just a lesson, not a life sentence.'”
You know when you read a book that you love to your toes, and you become so effusive about it that it overwhelms the words for your review? Well, this reader/blogger is there. To say that I’m incredibly impressed with Piper Sheldon is an understatement. When I read the first book of her Scorned Women Society series for SmartyPants Romance, My Bare Lady, I appreciated two facets of it: her reworking of the My Fair Lady story and her sense of her self as a writer. I enjoyed that book, titillated by the fact that she chose one of my favorite stories to retell in the context of Penny Reid’s Winston Brothers universe. However, there were a few moments in her story that felt a little slow. I had a grand appreciation for that book, but I wouldn’t say that I would gush profusely over it.
Then, she wrote The Treble with Men. And I’m done.
This second book of her Scorned Women Society series is exponentially better than My Bare Lady. It is a treatise on control. Some of us struggle with embracing the message behind the popular Disney film, Frozen, in “letting go” of life, embracing the moments to connect and improve and feel a passion for life. This is the essence of The Treble with Men. Sheldon nestles this lesson within the world of Reid’s Tennessee and the world of music. Even more, like her My Bare Lady, she utilizes the vehicle of The Phantom of the Opera story to give it life. In doing so, she reimagines this oft-loved tale with a different ending, one that feels wildly better than the original. All of these attributes conspire to scream at the ingenuity of Sheldon’s storytelling. It is all of this and more that should compel you to “one-click” this book.
“I’d shown her my love in the lessons. In the music. I could tell her everything. I could tell her the truth of my love for her, but then what? It would still be me choosing for her. She needed to make a choice about her own life. I wouldn’t be another person telling her what to do. I wouldn’t hamper her growth. I loved her too much.”
What is it about The Treble with Men that makes it worthy of your time and energy? Here’s the list:
*At the most basic level, Piper Sheldon has the best cover of the SmartyPants Romance world. Bar none.
*Her retelling of The Phantom of the Opera is done in such a way to challenge our notions about the original. For many of us, the ending of that story is bittersweet, as we want Christine to choose the Phantom, but she doesn’t. <<
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