Out-of-work violinist Erica Timberly decides enough is enough. She leaves her abusive boyfriend and flees the big city, but then her car breaks down in the middle of the night. Though wary of men, she accepts help from Dylan Haynes, a stranger driving by on the road, and soon recognizes him as the sexy former drummer of her favorite indie rock band. Maybe, just maybe, her run of bad luck is … finally turning around.Music teacher Dylan Haynes knows Erica is in trouble, and her black eye is only the first clue. The stubborn yet vulnerable woman needs a friend, but he’s determined to give her everything she deserves. Will Erica listen to the music in her heart and trust Dylan, or will her past always threaten her future?
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Lyrical Embrace (Deerbourne Inn) was a great read by Amber Daulton. Erica is an out-of-work violinist who has decided to leave her abusive boyfriend. On her way out of the big city, her car breaks down in the middle of the night. She accepts help from Dylan, who stopped to help her. She soon recognizes his as the drummer of her favorite band. Dylan is now a music teacher who knows that Erica is in a lot of trouble. He knows that she is running from something because of the black eye that she has. I really enjoyed reading Erica and Dylan’s story and I can’t wait to read more by the author.
First, I want to thank Amber Dalton for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
Lyrical Embrace by Amber Dalton was an incredibly fun read that intertwined my love for celebrity musicians and romance.
What luck would it be to have car trouble and your ultimate favorite musician be the one to rescue you from a storm and offer to fix your car?! To me that would be a dream come true! Plus, the guy actually be interested in you physically and wanting to get to know you! I LOVED this storyline!!
My heart broke for Erica with the horrid relationship she just got out of!
This was another winner from Amber Dalton!
When Erica’s car breaks down after fleeing from her abusive boyfriend, she never expects to be rescued by her favorite indie band drummer. Dylan, the ex-drummer of a popular band, is immediately enthralled by the vulnerable Erica, but Erica has no intention of staying in town. Can Dylan convince Erica that her future is with him? Can Erica trust that Dylan’s intentions are true?
I love the romance between Erica and Dylan. They meet when her car dies, and he finds her stranded on the side of the road. Their chemistry is instant, and it only grows. Erica and Dylan both have pasts that follow them, both figuratively and literally, and I like how they help each other process their feelings about life, loss, and more. They have such a lovely bond, and their ease with, and attraction to,, each other is fantastic. When some couples meet, they immediately know they’ve found their soul mate, and this is certainly the case for Erica and Dylan. Their shared love of music, similar values, and intense attraction for each other make for a great love story.
The relationship between Dylan and Erica is not without its obstacles. Erica’s abusive ex-boyfriend is a real threat, and Erica lives in fear of being found by him. She is also starting over, which proves challenging when her car needs repair, and she has nowhere to work and live. Erica has a lot on her plate, and she doesn’t wholly trust herself and others. I like how Dylan is supportive of Erica without being overbearing. He shows her what a caring and supportive relationship is supposed to be like, and it is very different from what she is used to.
The setting, which takes place in a small town in Vermont, sounds idyllic and charming. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows everyone else, and it contrasts greatly with the big city Erica comes from. I loved learning more about the town and its inhabitants. From lakeside rendezvous, family picnics, and town events, the town exudes charm and sounds like a peaceful and positive place that I’d love to visit.
Dylan’s family and other people from town are also interesting and well-developed. I love the close relationship Dylan has with his siblings and parents. They have such a strong familial bond, and they enthusiastically welcome Erica into their fold. This is so different from what Erica is used to, and it is just what she needs. Running from a troubled past, Erica thrives under the protection and love of this wonderful family.
This is a sweet and sexy addition to the Deerbourne Inn series, and though it is the second in the series, it can totally be read as a standalone. That being said, I loved seeing characters from the first book and learning more about them. I think readers who like quick contemporary romances with great characters, a bit of suspense, and a sexy love story will enjoy this read, and I am so thankful to Amber Daulton for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
This is the perfect read for anyone who loves a small-town romance. Dylan’s backstory will pique readers’ interest as they learn why he left his band to return to his Vermont hometown and a new career as a music teacher. Erica’s strength leaps off the pages as she forces herself to remain resolute in her choice to leave an abusive situation despite the trauma and fear that continue to haunt her. Readers will root for her to allow Dylan and the warm welcome from his family and close-knit community to rebuild her trust in people. Dylan and Erica are three dimensional characters brought to life beautifully by the author. Be prepared to become invested in their journey to happiness, love, and a new path in life.
Erica is on the run leaving her abusive boyfriend. Her car broke down in the middle of nowhere. Along comes Dylan. She was reluctant at first when he offered help. It ended up she would have to stay for a few weeks while her car was being repaired. Will her ex boyfriend find her? Will she be safe here? Erica and Dylan romance evolves.
Georgia Allens narration was very good. I enjoyed listening to this story.
Wonderful Story & Listen Sweet & Heartfelt!
Lyrical Embrace
By: Amber Daulton
Narrated by: Georgia Allens
I enjoyed this book immensely, Amber Daulton is a gifted author, the story she created is original and interesting, it grabbed my attention right from the start and captivated it straight to the end. The storylines and characters are realistic and easy to relate to. I adored both lead characters, there were some great secondary characters too. Erica Timberly had enough, she needed out of an abusive relationship and she took the courageous step to get away. She packed her bags, no plan in mind and drove north. Unfortunately her car broke down while in Vermont. Fortunately for her, a local resident, Dylan Haynes was driving home and stopped to assist her. She is hesitant at first but accepts a ride to the local lodging, the Deerbourne Inn. During the ride she realized who Dylan was, the drummer of her favorite band, Fortune’s Glory. Dylan lived the life of a rocker, played venues, had his share of women but he is happy to be done with it and to be back home. He likes Erica but he sees she is running from something. Erica is liking the small town charm and decides to stay, figuring it was a good place to hide from her abusive ex. Dylan has been super sweet and helpful, she likes him but is afraid to trust. But the two can not deny the chemistry that is between them. The only problem is Erica’s ex, Phil, he finds out where she is and goes after her. This novella sized book packs a lot of story, it is cleverly plotted and there is never a dull moment. There is plenty of drama, some angst, some thrilling and suspenseful moments, heartfelt moments and a sweet romance. Amber Daulton, thank you for this wonderfully enjoyable and entertaining story.
I listened to the Audible edition narrated by Georgia Allens. She did a great job portraying the characters, bringing them to life and humanizing them with their voice, personality and emotions, which is reflected in her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this great listen
Enjoyed this book. Erica Timberly flees her abusive boyfriend, in search of a fresh start. During her exodus, her car breaks down in the middle of the night; Dylan Haynes, former indie rock band drummer, stops to lend her a hand. This meeting just may be the beginning of a new song for the both of them…if they can truly escape the ex-boyfriend and Erica can learn to trust again.
**Audiobook Review** I was given a copy of this audio book for an honest review. I really enjoyed listening to this book. It is well written by Amber Daulton & narrated beautifully by Georgia Allens. Captivating from the first page. The characters are complex and authentic with depth and traits that blend and flow, transforming into genuinely relatable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions creating a colorful backdrop that makes the storyline pop.
Lyrical Embrace is the story of Dylan, a rock musician who once pushed life to its extremes but came up empty-handed, and Erica, a violinist who, to survive, has left her home, job, friends, and possessions behind. Their passion for playing music is a strong bond, but Dylan’s hard-won wisdom and loyalty combined with Erica’s good humor and courage to embrace love without whining, make them a couple we root for
Observing from the sidelines, is Phil, the sort of sociopath we meet too often in life; and convinced that dominance is love, and violence the perfect answer, he’s determined to destroy the budding love story.
Although description could be tightened and refined, and a few modifiers certainly need clarifying, Lyrical Embrace is a fast-paced romance with a very satisfying ending.
I knew by its title that Lyrical Embrace was going to be melodious and full of yummy connections. Amber Daulton does a fabulous job of recreating the town and inn—Deerbourne Inn—in this series that is a collaboration by authors and set in the small fictional town of Willow Springs, Vermont. The setting is a bonus, giving it a vacation vibe even as real-life drama is going on. This undertaking is a challenge in itself, one that Amber met with brilliance, in my opinion.
Right away, Amber’s writing pulls me into the car with her character, Erica Timberly. I’m hooked as she sprinkles tidbits about the past Erica is escaping. The vivid imagery has me standing next to Erica in the dark, broken down on the side of the road. And I shiver as I read, “The taillights lit up the tall, broadshouldered figure like a demon coming out of the storm.”
Luckily, the tall figure is Dylan Haynes, sexy former drummer of Erica’s favorite indie rock band. “Raindrops dripped slowly, almost sensually down the defined muscles of his forearms.” But is he a good guy? Are there still good guys left?
Erica is a full-blown character who jumps off the page, strong-willed and sassy. She can handle herself. Even though she ends up in trouble and needs rescuing in the moment, she only allows it in an independent, badass woman sort of way. Dylan is trustworthy—a music teacher by day, who moonlights as a volunteer firefighter. He is also droolworthy, because not only is he hot, he sees straight through Erica’s BS to the point that their connection makes me get goose bumps.
This is one of my favorite quotes from Lyrical Embrace:
“As she chuckled, he flashed her an arrogant, knee-weakening grin. ‘I should warn you, Erica. I’m going to kiss you again tonight.’”
Erica didn’t swoon as I might have expected, instead, she came right back with a comeback of her own. You’ll have to read to find out what it was
Dylan is overwhelmed by what he’s feeling, and sees Erica in a way all of us romantics long for. “The moon shone from behind her, darkening her front half, but lit strands of her blonde hair to a silvery-gold.” He thinks she’s beautiful, no matter what.
Erica and Dylan’s story portrays the doubts that rise up in a new relationship after experiencing an abusive one—the angst of leaving, the painful steps of healing. Healthy love still has conflict, which sparks real conversations between the characters, adding just enough tension in all the right places. “A part of me thinks we’re moving too fast, but another part says to jump in with both feet.” The buildup of suspense sparks some deep soul healing, all as the story twines perfectly into the setting of Deerbourne Inn. The author paints a picture of the inn and town using all five senses, so well that I’m transported there. Add the lush Vermont landscape to the depth of the characters, with their past heartaches and future dreams, and you have a five-star read.
I highly recommend this sexy, suspenseful book that will transport you straight to Vermont and the sleepy town of Willow Springs. And thanks to Amber Daulton, I really do believe that gentlemen do still exist.
She has had enough of her abusive boyfriend and she flees but she breaks down in the night. She is saved by a stranger but he a rock star. He wants to help her overcome everything. Will he be able to help her? Will she get a better life? See if she will
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Heartwarming, touching and brilliantly crafted!
Lyrical Embrace is an absorbing, character-driven novel that immerses you in a beautifully written tale about letting go of the past, forgiving one’s self, surviving, taking chances and moving on.
The writing is vivid and eloquent. The characters are flawed, supportive, lovable and real. And the story is the perfect mix of hope, heart, drama and steamy hot moments.
Overall, I found this to be an engrossing story that reminds us that life is often a messy journey complete with pain, tears, smiles and happiness.
3.5 stars is what I have for this read. I love this author’s style but I had a problem with the insta-love feel this had after Erica’s experience. While it’s no secret I am not a big fan of insta-love I can give it its due when it’s done well. This was a really good read and yea being a small town helps. I love the sense of community and support they offer and this read brings that point home. I really would have enjoyed more suspense since that’s what it’s categorized as but the small part that it had didn’t really meet the mark. While Erica and Dylan and all of the supporting cast keep this read alive and make it soothing to the soul it really is a romance and a tease of suspense. It doesn’t make it a bad book it just doesn’t hit the mark on suspense, but the heat and passion truly fits the romance category. I can’t wait to try the recipes the author added at the end of the book.
This new book Lyrical Embrace has Erica Timberly leaving New York and her not so good boyfriend. She ends up stuck in the mud in a small town in Vermont where Dylan Haynes, works and lives. He gives her a ride to the local B&B and it is there with better lighting that she realizes he was a member of a band that she used to listen to and follow. The two of them are drawn to one another and throughout the story, you learn both of the pasts. You also come to find out that she can play the violin and is eventually offered a job at the family’s music store teaching lessons. The story between the two main characters is nice, but you also have the ex-boyfriend who has been looking for her and you wonder what will happen when he finds her? A very good story with good characters from Dylan’s family, to the different people in town. A fast read and has a little bit of suspense and romance for everyone. I received this book from the author. I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at http://www.1rad-readerreviews.com
Ready for a sweet romance story with a rockstar, strong female with a touch of suspense? That is this book right here. This is the story of Erica who is running from an abusive ex boyfriend. Her car breaks down in a small town and ex-rockstar Dylan comes to her rescue. Erica has been a major fan of his for years but isn’t a crazy fan girl. Right away they have a connection. They go from strangers to friends to something deeper. It was so much fun watching their relationship unfold. But at the back of my mind the whole time I was waiting for her ex Phillip to strike. This story had me hooked from page one to the end. I loved all the characters and I wanted to visit this town! And there are plenty of surprises in store for the reader. I highly recommend this book
A steamy, thrilling read.
My first Amber Daulton read, Lyrical Embrace, part of the Deerbourne Inn series, presents the reader with a great slice of small town life. Ms. Daulton’s descriptions of the various townspeople are real and memorable and her dialogue authentic.
Erica, a violinist, is running from an abusive ex and lands in Willow Springs, Vermont courtesy of her car breaking down. She is wary of Dylan who sees her stranded and as she’s all alone she shouldn’t trust a strange man. Then she realizes he is the drummer of one of her favorite bands. From there, the relationship takes off fast to the point where I wanted to tell her go slower. But this time she’s chosen wisely and Dylan is a good man.
Maybe it’s because I used to work in this field (as a lawyer repping women on the run or trying to get child support from abusive exes but Ms. Daulton resolves the abuse issue a little too neatly.
But the antagonist is well drawn and it’s a thrilling, steamy read with the main characters love of music a sweet connection leading a satisfying HEA. 4.5 stars
Out of work violinist Erica Timberly flees the big city and her abusive boyfriend only to have her car break down in the middle of the night. Enter good samaritan and music teacher Dylan Haynes who stops to help. He looks familiar but…
Lyrical Embrace is a great addition to the multi-author Deerbourne Inn Series, set in small town Willow Springs, Vermont. Ms. Daulton sets up the small town atmosphere perfectly making you feel like the quirky characters living in Willow Springs could be your friends and neighbors. If of course you lived in Willow Springs. LOL
The story is a wonderful character-driven novel about new beginnings, spicy romance, and second chances. Daulton touches on the effects of physical and emotional abuse, and the healing power of love. She does an excellent job.
I love a book that takes me on the characters’ journey with vivid descriptions and realistic, well-rounded characters, interactions and down-to-earth dialog. The author sprinkles a bit of mystery and suspense through the book keeping things exciting. I highly recommend Lyrical Embrace and the entire Deerbourne Inn Series.
Amber Daulton delivers a romantic addition to the Deerbourne Inn series with her novel Lyrical Embrace. The storyline of the small town in Willow Spring continues, keeping some characters in the previous books. The main character Erica Timberly is one lucky girl to run into her crush, band member Dylan Haynes when her car breaks down. The dialogue between them is natural and flows easily. As Dylan and Erica develop feelings for each other, Erica finds that she likes the normalcy of Dylan’s family and town and envisions herself staying there. The danger of her abusive former boyfriend is a threat in her mind from the beginning and intensifies right up to the dramatic ending. There is plenty of romance woven in to make one hot love story. Daulton delivers a cozy read everyone will love.
Running from her abusive boyfriend, Erica’s older car breaks down in the rain on a muddy road. She is rescued and taken into town by a hunky firefighter – who turns out to be a drummer from a rock band she used to follow. And then the fun begins.
Willow Springs might be just the place to start her life over – and Dylan might be the guy to start over with. Erica will be able to teach the music she loves and live her life the way she wants. Then her former boyfriend shows up to spoil her plans.
Amber Daulton writes spicy romance with great characterizations.
I enjoyed this book! It was sweet with likable characters and a bit of suspense thrown in. Erica and Dylan meet one evening while her car breaks down on the road. She is fleeing an abusive ex and looking to start over. The relationship between these two grows as they get to know each other. Erica and Dylan had good chemistry and a love of music in common. It was easy to build a relationship based on their common intrests. Unfortunately, Erica has someone after her and all of Dylan’s protective instincts come out. My only issue was that I thought after everything Erica went through with her ex, she should have been more wary and cautious about jumping into another relationship so soon. I believe that would have made her a more believable character. Despite that small issue I had, I did enjoy this book and would not be opposed to reading more of this author. I loved how this author writes about small town and family. Dylan’s family was a breath of fresh air. I would love to read more about them and the Deerbourne Inn in the future.
I especially loved the ending and was so relieved that it was a happy one!
This is mu honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it. 🙂