Score

The raw emotion that characterizes the best of bestseller Ryan’s work is on full display in her masterful second Hollywood Renaissance romance (after Reel). It’s centered around the production of the same biopic of fictional Harlem Renaissance artist Dessi Blue that was at the heart of book one, this time turning the focus onto screenwriter Verity Hill and composer Wright “Monk” Bellamy. Verity’s thrilled to be combining her passions for storytelling and African American history while shining an honest light on the life of a woman who, like her, was bisexual. The one wrinkle is that she has to work with Monk, her college sweetheart whose heart she broke 10 years before. Their passion burned bright and flamed out disastrously, and Verity has never been able to forget Monk or forgive herself for betraying him. As they work together to bring Dessi’s story to life, their old flame reignites, but Monk fears being burned again. Meanwhile, in therapy, Verity receives a diagnosis of bipolar disorder that reshapes the way she thinks about herself and her past choices. Ryan handles Verity’s mental health with a sensitive and graceful touch as Verity works through the stigma she has internalized. Verity and Monk’s sensual second chance romance is just as affecting, and the Hollywood backdrop adds allure, as does the vibrant history of the Harlem Renaissance. This is a triumph. (May)