Queen B’s Decree: I can’t resist a taboo relationship. It’s so interesting to read how and when the relationship shifts; when they both move from platonic to more. In The Protégé, we get to hear both sides from multiple times in their past. Usually I’m not a huge fan of flashbacks – I feel they are often disruptive to the flow – but it worked well here, and honestly it felt necessary.
Laszlo is our older symphony conductor and Isabeau, his young cellist. Laszlo meets her as a young child and discovers immediately the talent she possesses. Side note – I really should look into listening to some classical music sometime. The musical references in The Protégé often went over my head.
Regarding their taboo relationship…while I think Isabeau was always searching for praise, I didn’t really see their relationship as familial. It was easy to grasp what Isabeau was looking for in her life or relationships, especially from seeing her history during the flashbacks (see! they were necessary!).
A little angst, a little sexy times, a little control and voila…you have the makings of a delicious story. Will be keeping an eye out for more from Brianna Hale!
Book: The Protégé by Brianna Hale
Series: standalone
Genre: Contemporary/Taboo
Hotness: medium salsa
Plot Devices: second chance
Author Information:
There’s nothing Brianna Hale likes more than a large, stern alpha male with a super-protective and caring streak, and when she’s not writing about them she can usually be found with a book, a cocktail, planning her next trip to a beautiful location or attending the theatre. She believes that pink and empowerment aren’t mutually exclusive, and everyday adventures are possible. Brianna lives in London.
Website: https://briannahale.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briannahalebooks
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