Greer Rivers

I have seen several different movie versions of The Phantom of the Opera as I did like this story. Retelling of stories has become really popular again recently. Yet, this is the first retelling that I can recall reading. I really enjoyed this dark, steamy version of this story.

Sol and Scarlett are great together. I could feel the passion between them. Which as a dark romance reader I was here for it all. Scarlett may call Sol her "demon", but he is also her "savior". Scarlett does deal show more with mental health issues. In today's society I think it is great that characters are shown dealing with this as it is no longer a taboo subject, but I just wish that it was not shown as so much of a weakness. Luckily, Sol saw past this and loved Scarlett for who she is.

I am his muse, and his is mine.
My Phantom of the French Quarter.
My demon of music. show less

“My little angel is more savage than she looks. I love her innocence, but her darkness is what calls to me.”

As a huge Phantom fan I had to jump on this book. I mean it's a retelling set in modern day New Orleans with a bit of mafia thrown in. Let's not forget it's got forced proximity and some touch her and die vibes going on. I was all for it. I will admit that the book took a bit to get going I think because it was throwing so much background at us. It really sticks to some of the show more original story in parts which add this interesting element to things. I think one of the things I loved most was that Scarlett suffers from bipolar disorder and the book did such a fantastic job of showcasing the ups and downs of this. I'm just going to say that Sol is probably now one of new favorite morally gray male characters. I think the book has a solid amount of spice but I wouldn't have been opposed to more. show less

In this beautifully dark tale, we get a retelling of the Phantom of The Opera that is full of mystery, steam, and emotions so real. I devoured this in one setting because from the beginning it draws the readers in with so much intensity that you want to see what will happen. Scarlett suffers with a disorder, and it spirals her out of control, but a year later she has learned what she can and can’t do to help herself. She knows her limits, takes care of herself, yet she still has moments show more where things can spiral. Her disorder was handled beautifully because it showed us how real it is and those who have it deal with daily, it was heartbreaking at times yet the strength she showed was inspirational. Scarlett has an admirer that leaves her letters and music. This admirer gives her hope on a day-to-day basis and makes her feel, but she has never seen him so is he real or in her head? One incident led to this man to make his appearance and we meet the Phantom. What I loved about this retelling was we get the classic story with some amazing New Orleans twists and mafia undertones. Our Phantom is dark twisted and delicious. He is protective of those he loves and would do anything for his Scarlett, but will his aggressive tendencies to be with her push her away? Scarlett and Sol have this intense connection that is visceral and beautiful, yet can Scarlett fully trust him, or will she push him away when things become too much? Will Sol see that he doesn’t have to hide from Scarlett the monster he is or will he continue to live in the darkness with his demons? I can’t explain how much I enjoyed this book, but it was truly great with action, suspense, steam, and all the feelings mixed. show less

OOOOO WEEEE did this have me turning the page AND drooling! This one really had me going, let me tell you that.

Greer Rivers did a phenomenal job with character development, intertwining storylines/plots, and flawless POV changes each chapter. I fell in LOVE with the main characters by the end of the book...even the not so "good" characters. This book kept me engaged and at times, got my heart racing. I lived for the second-chance at romance for Jason and Jules. I felt my heart ache, break, show more and heal all at once through this journey with Jason and Jules.

We can't forget about the chills, nausea, and anger I experienced with poor Ellie, Sasha and fellow victims/survivors. Rivers did an immaculate job with detailing one of the many experiences human trafficking victims have without giving too many gruesome details. Far too often, books will dive far too deep into detail to get the "message across." Rivers brought so much awareness in this riveting fictional story without bringing too many dark details/depictions.

The writing style also made it effortless to read through this book. I adored the steamy/sexy scenes with the right amount of ooo-la-la and romance. It was not overbearing or, for the most part, cliche. As much as I enjoyed the sex scenes, the part that really solidified this book for me is the fact that book can stand alone and impress an audience without them.

I felt the roller coaster of emotions in this book. Greer Rivers, you pulled at ALL the strings and I'm so happy that you did.

This was my first steamy/crime book and it will not be my last. I highly recommend this to anyone and everyone. BRB while I go purchase and start the second book in this series. show less