I was the most sought-after concert pianist in the world. Now I barely leave my apartment. Injury and addiction have taken their toll, and I can't seem to get my life back on track.
My best friend wants to send me on a month-long vacation to the Moonlight Inn to get ready to play for his wedding. In New Jersey. The place where I almost died. My friends think I should get "hot and heavy" at the Jersey shore, but I just want to be able to perform again.
I didn't anticipate meeting someone like Sean O'Neil, the owner of Moonlight Inn. He's down-to-earth and kind, and when I'm with him, I feel unaccountably safe. His quiet encouragement helps me conquer my fears and get back in front of an audience.
As my confidence grows, the world I thought closed to me, opens once more. Word spreads of my return, and people from around the globe are asking me to play for them. At last, I can get back to doing what I love most.
But the luster of touring dulls when a tragedy in Sean's life prevents him from joining me. Will I have to choose between the career I love and the man who holds my heart?
Moonlight
This touching story in the Down the Shore series pulled me right in. The main character's struggle with past challenges felt real. The setting of the Moonlight Inn, a Victorian mansion on the Jersey shore, had a comforting vibe, making it easy to picture myself there. Sean O'Neil stood out as a genuinely good person, providing a contrast to the chaos in the protagonist's life.
Their connection built slowly, which added depth. As the main character worked towards recovering, supported by Sean, the balance of highs and lows kept me reading. There's a pleasant blend of romance and personal growth, showing that love is the most powerful motivator. This was a heartfelt read that left me optimistic.
This is book 1 of a series. Recommended.