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Three Quarter Time
Rose in Three Quarter Time
Some people marry for love; others marry for music...
Rose McNeil is rising the ranks at the Mozarteum in Salzburg as a violinist to watch. Her musical Nova Scotian heritage has loaned an unparalleled technique to her interpretation of some of the most beautiful compositions in the world. The opportunity of a first chair assignment to the Rainer Quartet under the tutelage and baton of Oliver Thorne is a dream come true--- until her student visa expires and the threat of leaving Vienna looms. As much as she grieves the prospect of leaving Vienna and the quartet, it is Oliver—with his dry sense of humour and unexpected charm- she will miss most.
British ex-pat Oliver Thorne’s recent appointment as conductor to the Rainer Quartet make him the youngest in the role during its prestigious history. But it wasn’t the path he wanted. A tragic accident years ago forbade him from ever playing his beloved cello again. Now he spends his life conducting for premiere orchestras at the Musikverein. When he first hears Rose McNeil play, all the dreams he left by the wayside are reborn with her unexpected talent. When Rose learns she may have to leave Vienna, Oliver has to come up with a solution. Losing his first violinist is unfortunate, losing her is unimaginable.
So he comes up with a crazy idea: A marriage on paper only. She’ll take his name and his citizenship. They’ll split rent money and coin toss to decide who takes the bed or the futon every night. They’ll keep their secret from the orchestra. She’ll play and he’ll conduct and, most importantly...she’ll stay.
Unbeknownst to each other, Rose is in love with Oliver and Oliver is in love with Rose. They might even find a happy ending, if only their pesky marriage doesn’t get in the way.
Rose McNeil is rising the ranks at the Mozarteum in Salzburg as a violinist to watch. Her musical Nova Scotian heritage has loaned an unparalleled technique to her interpretation of some of the most beautiful compositions in the world. The opportunity of a first chair assignment to the Rainer Quartet under the tutelage and baton of Oliver Thorne is a dream come true--- until her student visa expires and the threat of leaving Vienna looms. As much as she grieves the prospect of leaving Vienna and the quartet, it is Oliver—with his dry sense of humour and unexpected charm- she will miss most.
British ex-pat Oliver Thorne’s recent appointment as conductor to the Rainer Quartet make him the youngest in the role during its prestigious history. But it wasn’t the path he wanted. A tragic accident years ago forbade him from ever playing his beloved cello again. Now he spends his life conducting for premiere orchestras at the Musikverein. When he first hears Rose McNeil play, all the dreams he left by the wayside are reborn with her unexpected talent. When Rose learns she may have to leave Vienna, Oliver has to come up with a solution. Losing his first violinist is unfortunate, losing her is unimaginable.
So he comes up with a crazy idea: A marriage on paper only. She’ll take his name and his citizenship. They’ll split rent money and coin toss to decide who takes the bed or the futon every night. They’ll keep their secret from the orchestra. She’ll play and he’ll conduct and, most importantly...she’ll stay.
Unbeknownst to each other, Rose is in love with Oliver and Oliver is in love with Rose. They might even find a happy ending, if only their pesky marriage doesn’t get in the way.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2018
42 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
Rachel McMillan
30books1,165followersRachel McMillan is the author of over 20 novels including the bestselling The London Restoration and The Mozart Code and the upcoming Operation Scarlet. She has also co-written The Liberty Scarf and The Castle Keepers with Aimie K Runyan and J'nell Ciesielski. Her works of non-fiction include Dream, Plan and Go: A Travel Guide for Independent Adventure and the upcoming: An Aim at Eternity: The Life of Christopher Wren. Rachel lives in Toronto where she works as a literary agent and is always planning her next trip to Vienna.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
September 18, 2018
Yes, Klaus and Evelyn Bauner make a cameo ;)
I know... giving your own book five stars is lame. HOWEVER.... I am giving FIVE stars to the delicious amount of FUN and delight I had writing this book which is probably my personal favourite of my works to date <3
I know... giving your own book five stars is lame. HOWEVER.... I am giving FIVE stars to the delicious amount of FUN and delight I had writing this book which is probably my personal favourite of my works to date <3
September 27, 2018
I can't think of a single thing about this story that isn't beautiful. The setting, the music, even the hurts the characters have experienced are turned beautiful with time and intention. The love story is exceptionally well drawn, especially considering the shortened format of a novella. The writing itself it a joy to read, as musical as Vienna itself. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this book and can't wait for more in this series. Rachel McMillan, you were born to write.
October 12, 2018
This story provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of classical music and its performance. I loved the Austrian setting and the romance of Vienna, which the author skillfully described with subtlety and charm. Rose and Oliver's relationship is a complicated one- there is a foundation of genuine friendship there, yet he is the conductor of the group she plays violin with, which makes him a boss figure. The strict moral code of the historic "quartet" (there are actually more than four musicians) prohibits Rose and Oliver from a romantic relationship, making their marriage of convenience also a secret one. There are deeper issues preventing Oliver from admitting his true feelings for Rose, even to himself. I loved their rapport and the way they support and encourage each other. Over time, both Oliver and Rose become conflicted over the future, their careers, relationship, and roommate status. The emotions run high and tension abounds when their secret is revealed and they must find a way to find a satisfactory resolution for the opposition between their jobs and a future together.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
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February 13, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/13/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Some people marry for love; others marry for music...
Rose McNeil is rising the ranks at the Mozarteum in Salzburg as a violinist to watch. Her musical Nova Scotian heritage has loaned an unparalleled technique to her interpretation of some of the most beautiful compositions in the world. The opportunity of a first chair assignment to the Rainer Quartet under the tutelage and baton of Oliver Thorne is a dream come true--- until her student visa expires and the threat of leaving Vienna looms. As much as she grieves the prospect of leaving Vienna and the quartet, it is Oliver—with his dry sense of humour and unexpected charm- she will miss most.
British ex-pat Oliver Thorne’s recent appointment as conductor to the Rainer Quartet make him the youngest in the role during its prestigious history. But it wasn’t the path he wanted. A tragic accident years ago forbade him from ever playing his beloved cello again. Now he spends his life conducting for premiere orchestras at the Musikverein. When he first hears Rose McNeil play, all the dreams he left by the wayside are reborn with her unexpected talent. When Rose learns she may have to leave Vienna, Oliver has to come up with a solution. Losing his first violinist is unfortunate, losing her is unimaginable.
So he comes up with a crazy idea: A marriage on paper only. She’ll take his name and his citizenship. They’ll split rent money and coin toss to decide who takes the bed or the futon every night. They’ll keep their secret from the orchestra. She’ll play and he’ll conduct and, most importantly...she’ll stay.
Unbeknownst to each other, Rose is in love with Oliver and Oliver is in love with Rose. They might even find a happy ending, if only their pesky marriage doesn’t get in the way.
Blurb:
Some people marry for love; others marry for music...
Rose McNeil is rising the ranks at the Mozarteum in Salzburg as a violinist to watch. Her musical Nova Scotian heritage has loaned an unparalleled technique to her interpretation of some of the most beautiful compositions in the world. The opportunity of a first chair assignment to the Rainer Quartet under the tutelage and baton of Oliver Thorne is a dream come true--- until her student visa expires and the threat of leaving Vienna looms. As much as she grieves the prospect of leaving Vienna and the quartet, it is Oliver—with his dry sense of humour and unexpected charm- she will miss most.
British ex-pat Oliver Thorne’s recent appointment as conductor to the Rainer Quartet make him the youngest in the role during its prestigious history. But it wasn’t the path he wanted. A tragic accident years ago forbade him from ever playing his beloved cello again. Now he spends his life conducting for premiere orchestras at the Musikverein. When he first hears Rose McNeil play, all the dreams he left by the wayside are reborn with her unexpected talent. When Rose learns she may have to leave Vienna, Oliver has to come up with a solution. Losing his first violinist is unfortunate, losing her is unimaginable.
So he comes up with a crazy idea: A marriage on paper only. She’ll take his name and his citizenship. They’ll split rent money and coin toss to decide who takes the bed or the futon every night. They’ll keep their secret from the orchestra. She’ll play and he’ll conduct and, most importantly...she’ll stay.
Unbeknownst to each other, Rose is in love with Oliver and Oliver is in love with Rose. They might even find a happy ending, if only their pesky marriage doesn’t get in the way.
October 8, 2018
I started this novella with trepidation in large part due to the fact that I normally find authors' attempts at describing the classical music world to be inaccurate at best and purple at worst. Ms. McMillan's writing was fairly successful but also more purple than I usually enjoy. She made an adequate effort at highlighting the life of a struggling classical violinist. The h's need to take all of those odd jobs in order to make ends meet was realistic and pretty hilarious. Her second chair trying to seize the concertmaster chair for her own was pretty spot on, albeit leaving her character decidedly one-sided and undeveloped. I liked the details of Viennese life and the beginning of this novella promised me slightly quirky but adorable banter between the MCs.
However, this quickly devolved into a mess where the H was too much of a scaredy cat to declare his feelings for the h. Don't get me wrong. The H was a genuinely good guy. I wanted to love him for being a gentleman, for never entertaining thoughts of anyone else, but unfortunately he was too beta for me. I did like that the h wasn't sure of her feelings in the beginning, but was completely open about them with him once she was. Unfortunately, the H wasn't willing to meet her halfway until the very end of the story.
The angst dragged on for a while, but the the jumps in time helped. I didn't love this story nor did I hate it. I appreciated that it was clean, but the ending was abrupt and left me unsatisfied.
However, this quickly devolved into a mess where the H was too much of a scaredy cat to declare his feelings for the h. Don't get me wrong. The H was a genuinely good guy. I wanted to love him for being a gentleman, for never entertaining thoughts of anyone else, but unfortunately he was too beta for me. I did like that the h wasn't sure of her feelings in the beginning, but was completely open about them with him once she was. Unfortunately, the H wasn't willing to meet her halfway until the very end of the story.
The angst dragged on for a while, but the the jumps in time helped. I didn't love this story nor did I hate it. I appreciated that it was clean, but the ending was abrupt and left me unsatisfied.
December 26, 2021
Re-read, December 2021: Although I’m occasionally flummoxed by the syntax and word choice, I still enjoy the characters, the story, the dreamy setting, and the shout-out to an obscure song from Brigadoon!
—ĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔ�
UPDATE 2018: I'm retroactively pushing this to 4 stars, because it's been sticking in my mind, and that makes it special.
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I don't think I've ever read a marriage-of-convenience story set in the modern day. This one was pretty nice. Both the people are genuinely likeable, and the setting in Vienna is beautiful. This is a short read, more like a novella.
—ĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔ�
UPDATE 2018: I'm retroactively pushing this to 4 stars, because it's been sticking in my mind, and that makes it special.
----------------------
I don't think I've ever read a marriage-of-convenience story set in the modern day. This one was pretty nice. Both the people are genuinely likeable, and the setting in Vienna is beautiful. This is a short read, more like a novella.
October 1, 2018
Oh friends, where to start? From first pages to last, I was thoroughly captivated by this story! I knew from Love in Three Quarter Time that the elegance and enchantment of Vienna would probably sweep me away again, but I wasn't expecting to be so thoroughly immersed into the music. From that first description of Rose's playing through every single hypnotizing moment thereafter, my heart was caught! Rose and Oliver's instantaneous connection (in music and in heart), I understood it. I craved it. It swept me away so completely that it felt like I could feel the beats and the pure emotion of every bar of music. Especially during one specific scene when I fell just as hard for Oliver as Rose did! :)
Ms. McMillan's characters always seem to make me love them pretty much from chapter one and Oliver and Rose did precisely that. I think it was that they simply understood each other so inherently, so completely, yet they were so hopeless at seeing the heart of the other that was falling so madly! A good marriage of convenience story convinces me that these two people will fit, even as they slowly learn the same thing. And Oliver and Rose? Oh do they ever fit each other! Even the flaws and idiosyncrasies that flare up naturally in them they somehow find endearing about the other! If they were real, I might just find them a bit sickeningly sweet, but on the page? My heart just wanted more!
Endearing, charming, delightful, I could spend paragraphs expounding on how there aren't enough adjectives to describe my LOVE of this story. I could gush about every detail, yet I acknowledge that the greatest pleasure is found in discovering the gem for yourself! So go do that, friends. Drop whatever other book you've started, rush out and buy this one immediately, and then fall in love just as I did! Oliver and Rose and the music of their hearts are worth it. Trust me! :)
**I received a copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ms. McMillan's characters always seem to make me love them pretty much from chapter one and Oliver and Rose did precisely that. I think it was that they simply understood each other so inherently, so completely, yet they were so hopeless at seeing the heart of the other that was falling so madly! A good marriage of convenience story convinces me that these two people will fit, even as they slowly learn the same thing. And Oliver and Rose? Oh do they ever fit each other! Even the flaws and idiosyncrasies that flare up naturally in them they somehow find endearing about the other! If they were real, I might just find them a bit sickeningly sweet, but on the page? My heart just wanted more!
Endearing, charming, delightful, I could spend paragraphs expounding on how there aren't enough adjectives to describe my LOVE of this story. I could gush about every detail, yet I acknowledge that the greatest pleasure is found in discovering the gem for yourself! So go do that, friends. Drop whatever other book you've started, rush out and buy this one immediately, and then fall in love just as I did! Oliver and Rose and the music of their hearts are worth it. Trust me! :)
**I received a copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 27, 2019
A most delightful reading experience spent in the romantic classical music city of Vienna. Canadian author, Rachel McMillan, returns readers to locations and characters previously introduced in while introducing a new romance that emotionally captures hearts and hopes.
Fully engaged reading.
A great selection for my participation in the
#24in48 readathon 2019
#wintersrespite
Fully engaged reading.
A great selection for my participation in the
#24in48 readathon 2019
#wintersrespite
September 23, 2018
"I chose Vienna because it is gloriously beautiful, but it also knows what it is like to be torn apart."
Former- cellist-turned-conductor Oliver Thorne is deemed a maestro, leading his musicians to the pinnacle of a performance with appropriate amounts of brilliance and perfection. On the other hand, his tragic past has severely marred Oliver's ability to openly play his emotions in front a living, breathing person. Until Rose. Vibrant, unpredictable, prodigious Rose, whose violin becomes a glorious extension of herself when she plays, and he wanted her . . . for his orchestra.
"THE OLIVER THORNE IS HERE", Rose excitedly texts her friend. Casual conversation ensues and "Rose felt curiously comfortable. Like she was walking with someone, but also by herself". For Oliver "was just a man with manners and a shy smile". During quiet traverses around a beautiful city, neither of them could have predicted the depth to which this companionship would take them . . . . all while memories whisper quietly in Rose's ear, "Whatever you do, Rapunzel . . . . .Marry for friendship".
What a rhapsody of love!
I received a copy of this short story from the author. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
Former- cellist-turned-conductor Oliver Thorne is deemed a maestro, leading his musicians to the pinnacle of a performance with appropriate amounts of brilliance and perfection. On the other hand, his tragic past has severely marred Oliver's ability to openly play his emotions in front a living, breathing person. Until Rose. Vibrant, unpredictable, prodigious Rose, whose violin becomes a glorious extension of herself when she plays, and he wanted her . . . for his orchestra.
"THE OLIVER THORNE IS HERE", Rose excitedly texts her friend. Casual conversation ensues and "Rose felt curiously comfortable. Like she was walking with someone, but also by herself". For Oliver "was just a man with manners and a shy smile". During quiet traverses around a beautiful city, neither of them could have predicted the depth to which this companionship would take them . . . . all while memories whisper quietly in Rose's ear, "Whatever you do, Rapunzel . . . . .Marry for friendship".
What a rhapsody of love!
I received a copy of this short story from the author. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
September 5, 2018
Rose in Three Quarter Time is an exquisitely gorgeous love story. Set against the romantic backdrop of Vienna, Oliver and Rose traverse hot chocolate, friendship, and a witty and wonderful marriage of convenience for the sake of their passions: music. What neither expects, to the reader's sheer delight, is to realize their mutual love is romantic in nature. Their journey is full of the details that make up everyday life, from loss to joy to selfless choices and 12 kinds of cereal. The references to music and composing alone are brilliant and work wonderfully in a world of timeless classical music. (You will want to read this with YouTube open to have a deeper "listening" experience for all of the works referenced.)
Oliver and Rose are endearing and charming with their flaws and virtues. Oliver's story of personal loss and Rose's pursuit of a dream intersect and act as a catalyst that deepens their relationship's common ground. Add Godiva chocolate, plenty of whipped cream, knee-weakening kisses, and a Shirley Temple or two, and their time together unfurls like the sweetest symphony of romance borne of friendship.
This is a book I will reread again and again, savoring it with some whipped cream and Mozart of my own.
Readers and fans of the first novella of the Three Quarter Time series will be ecstatic to see Klaus and Evelyn on occasion! Oh, and this story features one of my favorite fictional cats ever: Parcheesi. <3
Thank you to the author for an advance copy of this novella. This review is my honest opinion.
Oliver and Rose are endearing and charming with their flaws and virtues. Oliver's story of personal loss and Rose's pursuit of a dream intersect and act as a catalyst that deepens their relationship's common ground. Add Godiva chocolate, plenty of whipped cream, knee-weakening kisses, and a Shirley Temple or two, and their time together unfurls like the sweetest symphony of romance borne of friendship.
This is a book I will reread again and again, savoring it with some whipped cream and Mozart of my own.
Readers and fans of the first novella of the Three Quarter Time series will be ecstatic to see Klaus and Evelyn on occasion! Oh, and this story features one of my favorite fictional cats ever: Parcheesi. <3
Thank you to the author for an advance copy of this novella. This review is my honest opinion.
March 6, 2019
Enchanting! There are so many things that I loved about this book. The author did a great job describing the setting, the music, and the emotions. I almost felt like I had stepped into Vienna and could see the sights, smell the food, and hear the music. Also, the emotion surrounding Oliver’s injury and inability to play music felt so realistic. Then, my favorite part was the romance between Oliver and Rose. It was truly sigh-worthy. Modern day marriage of convenience stories are hard to pull off, but this one was done beautifully. I think this story will stay with me for a while.
December 15, 2018
Rose in Three-Quarter Time by Rachel McMillan | Book Review
THE STORY | Playing in a respected orchestra is something Rose McNeil has the talent to achieve. With the values instilled in her by her grandparents, she works hard while working in Vienna. Things change when a talented maestro hears one of her performances, and decides she must be in his orchestra.
Once upon a time, Oliver Thorne was a premier violinist. But an accident changed everything and forced him to direct his talent elsewhere. This is why when he hears Rose, he knows she’s the perfect fit for his quartet. They set plans into motion, and all goes well until Rose’s visa is revoked. This inspires Oliver to do something drastic, and propose a marriage of convenience. Their goal is to see Rose installed in the orchestra, but what they don’t count on is the personal feelings of their new arrangement.
REVIEW | Anytime you pick up a story by Rachel McMillan, you are going to hear and “see� her personality in every nuance. Like her hometown-set historical novels, her contemporary Vienna romances are full of passion. Passion that you “see,� “feel� and “touch� because of Rachel’s extensive travel and interest in the subjects she writes about. Like its precursor, Love in Three-Quarter Time, ‘Rose� is another visual experience readers won’t want to miss.
Inside these pages rests a story that enchants and charms. It’s full of romantic nuances, many of which I know were missed in my first read-through. It’s the kind of story that’s mature without being typical secular fiction. There’s a classy quality that’s evident from the moment the author takes us on a stroll through Vienna. Whether it’s local delicacies or the historical and musical underpinnings, there’s a “life like� quality to each movement.
The characters have layers and are rich with personality, plus the love story teems with real romance. The kind that makes you root for these character without reservation. Oliver is a unique character who I think will reveal more in a re-read, and Rose is the more outgoing co-partner who we cannot help but love. If you like contemporary romances or are looking for something short and sweet, consider Rose in Three-Quarter Time. Its charms are sure to shake you out of a reading slump, or more importantly, give you a story that will make you smile.
Sincere thanks to Rachel for kindly providing an e-ARC copy of this novel; no review was required, and all thoughts are my own.
September 18, 2018
What a sigh-worthy book! Such a beautifully written love story.
Guess what? Marriages of Convenience are my absolute least favorite trope. Can't stand them. I can always find a dozen different reasons why they are preposterous and wouldn't work in the real world. But guess what again? I really, really liked this book.
The MOC is so well done, it actually turns the trope on its ear. Instead of a couple who either don't know each other or can't stand each other getting married and then having to fake to everyone that they are in love, these two genuinely like each other and are attracted to each other and can't tell anyone that they are married. Brilliant premise and it made me endeared to the characters and the story much more than I would have otherwise.
The music is such an integral part of the story, I looked up many of the composers and music pieces online and listened to them while reading. What a way to enhance the experience of this book. It made me appreciate all of the chamber orchestra and symphony performances I have attended over the years. I know the intense work that these musicians put into making the performance sound seamless, which made me admire Rose and Oliver's dedication even more.
I also loved that Klaus and Evelyn (From Love in Three Quarter Time) make multiple appearances, I was so excited to see what was going on with them.
As with the first book in this series, Vienna has a starring role, and if you don't want to visit after reading the book, you didn't read carefully enough. The sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the city are so vividly portrayed, this book is as much about the setting as it is the characters.
I'd also be remiss if I didn't mention that gorgeous cover, wow!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own. However, I did also purchase a copy because readers, it's only $2.99 (free on KU) and well worth the cost for such a beautiful romance story. If you like romance you will not be disappointed.
Guess what? Marriages of Convenience are my absolute least favorite trope. Can't stand them. I can always find a dozen different reasons why they are preposterous and wouldn't work in the real world. But guess what again? I really, really liked this book.
The MOC is so well done, it actually turns the trope on its ear. Instead of a couple who either don't know each other or can't stand each other getting married and then having to fake to everyone that they are in love, these two genuinely like each other and are attracted to each other and can't tell anyone that they are married. Brilliant premise and it made me endeared to the characters and the story much more than I would have otherwise.
The music is such an integral part of the story, I looked up many of the composers and music pieces online and listened to them while reading. What a way to enhance the experience of this book. It made me appreciate all of the chamber orchestra and symphony performances I have attended over the years. I know the intense work that these musicians put into making the performance sound seamless, which made me admire Rose and Oliver's dedication even more.
I also loved that Klaus and Evelyn (From Love in Three Quarter Time) make multiple appearances, I was so excited to see what was going on with them.
As with the first book in this series, Vienna has a starring role, and if you don't want to visit after reading the book, you didn't read carefully enough. The sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the city are so vividly portrayed, this book is as much about the setting as it is the characters.
I'd also be remiss if I didn't mention that gorgeous cover, wow!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own. However, I did also purchase a copy because readers, it's only $2.99 (free on KU) and well worth the cost for such a beautiful romance story. If you like romance you will not be disappointed.
September 29, 2019
This modern marriage of convenience story was sweet and lovely to read. The author did justice to the beauty of Vienna and Salzburg (I went there just last month!) and I enjoyed being back there in my imagination. I also liked how Evelyn and Klaus were part of the story. I’m excited to read the next book in the series!
December 21, 2019
I'm always on the lookout for books with something unique. Rose in Three Quarter Time hit the mark is every possible way. Loved the unique setting. Loved the dialogue. Loved the twist on the marriage of convenience theme. Oliver and Rose are delightful together. Perfect book to read during the holidays when life is a little crazy and we need something both meaningful and fun.
November 28, 2018
I so enjoyed Love in Three Quarter Time when it released last year, and have been eagerly anticipating the release of Rose in Three Quarter Time. While reading it, I looked forward each night to traipsing across the ocean to Vienna through this story's pages. The setting was completely immersive-- Rachel McMillan spins magic into her storyworld, and it's a magic that comes from her own living, breathing love for that place. Such authenticity permeates the pages. It's a waltz of light, music, history, wit, chemistry-- everything a story should be. So smart (lines like "patrons and trustees would recognize him...and hoist their unmarried daughters on him like he had just let Netherfield Park), completely arresting when it comes to the music world (is the author secretly also a Maestro? She wrote it all so expertly!), and the words themselves were beautiful. How I loved Oliver and Rose-- both individually and together. Their journeys, their personalities, their gifts and ghosts (past and present hurts)-- it all worked together seamlessly to have me cheering for their friendship, and then for their love. And everything-- from the music, to the architecture, and everything in between-- tells a story. Symbolism completely organic, and completely arresting. Brava, Rachel!! Can't wait for the next one! Encore!
November 16, 2018
Overall I enjoyed the plot and romance, but the writing style was too awkward for my taste. In addition to noticeable spelling errors, many of the sentences and descriptions just didn't make sense to me. It often was like reading someone else's thoughts without the context needed to understand those thoughts. For example, (in describing Oliver) "His chin had a groove that in Kirk Douglas would have been a cleft and in Sir Laurence Olivier a dimple, but to Oliver was just a slight print for a grandmother to press the pad of a finger into like a thumbprint cookie for a Christmas concert."
I ended up finishing the book by just reading it as quickly as possible, rather than dwell on the writing style too much.
I ended up finishing the book by just reading it as quickly as possible, rather than dwell on the writing style too much.
December 20, 2020
It’s been months since I read and rated a novel five stars. I’ve been in a reading slump. I couldn’t find a story that I felt invested in until I read this one last night. I read it in one setting. I set in down in need of sleep twice and couldn’t stop the scenes playing out in my minds eye. So I kept reading and was rewarded with a lovely story start to finish. I’m not even sure how long this has been in my Kindle app on my phone. I saw the high ratings but just assumed it was set during the early 20th century. I had no idea it was contemporary, a pleasant surprise. The setting was new and fresh for me. It was very much part of the life of this book. The plot was well done. Music is wound beautifully and skillfully into the storyline. Oliver and Rose stole my heart. Their chemistry is apparent from the first chapter. This is not a full length novel but it was perfect for me and just want I needed. Highly recommend to romance enthusiasts!
December 25, 2018
Rose and Oliver's unconventional marriage of convenience cement my conviction that this is the type of romance McMillan was born to write -- a swoon-worthy love letter to Vienna and romantics at heart everywhere.
February 22, 2019
That was so darn CUTE. Full review to come.
September 27, 2018
Breathless. This book literally stole my breath. It made my heart soar and hurt. I was sighing in happiness and leaning forward in anticipation of how things would play out. At one point I was literally clutching my hair, feeling every emotion that the characters were. It is so hard to put into words the beauty that is this book. The way it is written is unlike anything else I’ve read. It makes me long for a place I’ve never been and hadn’t really given thought to before reading it. How can you feel homesick for a place you have never seen? But that’s the only way to describe the way I felt, wanting to go back to a place I’d only visited in a book. This author’s ability to truly transport you somewhere else is second to none.
I adored Oliver, he was selfless, kind, patient, and a hopeless romantic. The way he kept going when an accident took the most important thing from his life, and the sacrifices he made for Rose without a second thought made me deeply admire him. That he was willing to live in a name-only marriage with a person he was starting to care deeply for not knowing whether she'd ever come to love him the same way, enough to make any woman melt.
The fact that this was a marriage of convenience story just made me love it all the more since that is my favorite trope. Watching their relationship unfold from a maestro listening to a violinist, to friends, to husband and wife, to being in love with each other was absolute perfection.
I know nothing about music beyond that fact that I like to listen to it but the way the author writes about it makes me feel it in every part of me, her descriptions making everything come to life.
This story was quite simply stunning and it will stay with me forever.
I adored Oliver, he was selfless, kind, patient, and a hopeless romantic. The way he kept going when an accident took the most important thing from his life, and the sacrifices he made for Rose without a second thought made me deeply admire him. That he was willing to live in a name-only marriage with a person he was starting to care deeply for not knowing whether she'd ever come to love him the same way, enough to make any woman melt.
The fact that this was a marriage of convenience story just made me love it all the more since that is my favorite trope. Watching their relationship unfold from a maestro listening to a violinist, to friends, to husband and wife, to being in love with each other was absolute perfection.
I know nothing about music beyond that fact that I like to listen to it but the way the author writes about it makes me feel it in every part of me, her descriptions making everything come to life.
This story was quite simply stunning and it will stay with me forever.
September 15, 2018
After reading the first book in this series, I've been waiting not-so-patiently for Rose. She and Oliver didn't disappoint! In three words, this story is intelligent, lyrical, and (absolutely) stunning. Rose and Oliver's marriage of convenience is fresh and engaging, as Rachel plays with the age-old trope and draws true-to-life characters with freckles and cat pajamas. Their love story will leave you reaching for your own, rather than pining over Mr. Darcy. Somehow--and this is true of all Rachel's work--she manages to make magic not by escapism from "real" life, but rather, through a deeper entry into it. These two characters who are living the question "what happens when your dreams fail you?" will enrapture you even as they enrapture each other.
But I would be remiss if I did not point out this is also a romance written for a city, written with a song, and written with a very deep implication for the allowances of music and story. Rachel masterfully ties in a complex yet subtle commentary on the movability of art--whether from page to page or note to note. And yet, even within this rising-above-the-text, art is always under a certain measure of control... no matter how masterfully one conducts.
Love, on the other hand, is not.
So brilliant. Very accessible, whether you're just looking for a sweet romance or want a very interesting engagement regarding the limitations of the "texts" all around us (beauty, story, song). Simply lovely, all the way around.
But I would be remiss if I did not point out this is also a romance written for a city, written with a song, and written with a very deep implication for the allowances of music and story. Rachel masterfully ties in a complex yet subtle commentary on the movability of art--whether from page to page or note to note. And yet, even within this rising-above-the-text, art is always under a certain measure of control... no matter how masterfully one conducts.
Love, on the other hand, is not.
So brilliant. Very accessible, whether you're just looking for a sweet romance or want a very interesting engagement regarding the limitations of the "texts" all around us (beauty, story, song). Simply lovely, all the way around.
February 27, 2019
I’m a little conflicted about this book. There are some obvious flaws. Most glaring is the grammatical errors. The plot is also a little choppy, especially at first, and very much focused on the evolution of the main character’s relationship. This is not a bad thing, but I felt it was almost to the exclusion of getting to know them as individuals.
I did enjoy the main characters and thought they were well done. The heroine’s change of heart toward the hero was mentally jarring, being quite sudden and unexpected. Side characters were very much of secondary importance. They were quite bland and uninteresting, only lending themselves toward moving the main character’s relationship along.
Another of the redeeming qualities is that it has some good themes. I’m pretty much a sucker for a good theme. The ones here were obvious without being too heavy handed.
2.5 stars
I did enjoy the main characters and thought they were well done. The heroine’s change of heart toward the hero was mentally jarring, being quite sudden and unexpected. Side characters were very much of secondary importance. They were quite bland and uninteresting, only lending themselves toward moving the main character’s relationship along.
Another of the redeeming qualities is that it has some good themes. I’m pretty much a sucker for a good theme. The ones here were obvious without being too heavy handed.
2.5 stars
October 1, 2018
Rachel McMillan is a fabulous writer. I love her ability to jump into the character's emotions and allow me to experience them with the character. She really understands how to dive deep into the characters and make them stand out in my imagination. She also does a fabulous job at inviting me into the setting and allowing me to experience the world of Vienna with the characters. Her latest novella, "Rose in Three Quarter Time", does exactly those things. Rose and Oliver jump from the page with their common love for music. I adore McMillan's ability to showcase her love for Vienna and music and allow it to flow seamlessly from her characters. This novella is a contemporary romance, which isn't my first choice, but McMillan knows the conventions of the genre and applies them to this short and sweet story. The plot moved fast, sweeping me along in Rose and Oliver's love story. This novella was a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours, and I highly recommend anything by McMillan.
I received a complimentary copy of "Rose in Three Quarter Time" by Rachel McMillan, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of "Rose in Three Quarter Time" by Rachel McMillan, but the opinions stated are all my own.
October 13, 2018
I’ll be honest; contemporary romance is not my favorite genre. I read it from time to time, mostly when I’m in a rut and need something light to read or if it has some element that really grabs my attention. In this case, that element was the book’s author. I love Rachel McMillan’s writing. Her fast pace and witty lines will keep you turning pages.
I like Rose and Oliver. At first, I wasn’t so sure about Oliver, but the more I read, the more I realized why he was so popular with other readers. He is sweet and thoughtful to Rose. Not many guys would think to do some of the things he did for Rose. While he may not have been my all-time favorite hero, I thought he was an all-around good character. Rose was fun. She’s a little quirky and whimsical and she gets very excited about things, mainly music. And I love her taste in socks. She’s someone that would be loads of fun to be friends with.
The other main character in this book is Vienna. And it does shine. You can clearly see McMillan’s love for this city in the pages of Rose in Three Quarter Time. Her descriptions of “gold and whipped cream� buildings and enjoying the delectable treats the city has to offer will definitely make readers want to travel to this European city of ladies and gentlemen and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate piled with loads of whipped cream…preferably with a sweet cat like Parcheesi at their side.
All in all, I thought Rose in Three Quarter Time was a nice read. Fans of contemporary romance who love music and marriage of convenience tales will enjoy this book.
I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars.
I like Rose and Oliver. At first, I wasn’t so sure about Oliver, but the more I read, the more I realized why he was so popular with other readers. He is sweet and thoughtful to Rose. Not many guys would think to do some of the things he did for Rose. While he may not have been my all-time favorite hero, I thought he was an all-around good character. Rose was fun. She’s a little quirky and whimsical and she gets very excited about things, mainly music. And I love her taste in socks. She’s someone that would be loads of fun to be friends with.
The other main character in this book is Vienna. And it does shine. You can clearly see McMillan’s love for this city in the pages of Rose in Three Quarter Time. Her descriptions of “gold and whipped cream� buildings and enjoying the delectable treats the city has to offer will definitely make readers want to travel to this European city of ladies and gentlemen and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate piled with loads of whipped cream…preferably with a sweet cat like Parcheesi at their side.
All in all, I thought Rose in Three Quarter Time was a nice read. Fans of contemporary romance who love music and marriage of convenience tales will enjoy this book.
I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars.
October 14, 2018
First of all, Oliver 😍😍😍. If we're talking book boyfriends, he's a great one! While he's not perfect, I loved everything about him. His love for Rose is palpable, and as she fell for him, so did I.
I loved Oliver so much that I really, really, really wanted to love this book. While I liked it, I can't really say that I loved it. Part of that has to do with me and what gives me a hangup with books: grammar and proofreading errors. Especially in the first quarter of the book—before I was completely swept into the plot—every sentence fragment and missing comma jolted me out of the story. Also, I felt like I got a great handle on Oliver as a character, but I can't say the same for Rose. Sometimes her actions puzzled me a bit because they didn't jibe with what I thought I knew of her as a character.
I really did enjoy the plot—this is a great example of a modern marriage of convenience—and my love for Oliver gets me to overlook some things. There are some truly humorous moments, and I loved the pop culture references! 3-1/2 stars.
I loved Oliver so much that I really, really, really wanted to love this book. While I liked it, I can't really say that I loved it. Part of that has to do with me and what gives me a hangup with books: grammar and proofreading errors. Especially in the first quarter of the book—before I was completely swept into the plot—every sentence fragment and missing comma jolted me out of the story. Also, I felt like I got a great handle on Oliver as a character, but I can't say the same for Rose. Sometimes her actions puzzled me a bit because they didn't jibe with what I thought I knew of her as a character.
I really did enjoy the plot—this is a great example of a modern marriage of convenience—and my love for Oliver gets me to overlook some things. There are some truly humorous moments, and I loved the pop culture references! 3-1/2 stars.
September 30, 2018
I am in the very happiest of happy places. If you could see me right now, you would see a soft smile of contentment that lingers between gentle sighs that are half sweet memories of the story and half regret that the story is finished and I’ve been forced to return to reality. I didn’t know it, but this is the novella I have always wished someone would write: Vienna, music, romance, a marriage of convenience, and two characters who feel deeply and love deeply. *sigh* Can I just sit here and sigh happily and make that my review? *sigh*
Truly, this is a gorgeous novella. Vienna comes alive with all its history and romance—and the music! For a music-lover like myself, it was impossible not to pick out a few soundtracks to enhance the reading experience. But at the centre of it all are Rose and Oliver, who are now two of my favourite characters. Oliver, the quietly intense, Shostafreakinkovich-loving conductor working hard to be satisfied with second-best, and Rose, the bright breath of fresh air who captures Oliver from the third bar of Bach’s Partita No 2.
It was simply delicious to watch their friendship blossom, to feel the tension growing as their feelings deepened beyond their expectations and beyond what their circumstances allowed. I can’t believe I’m actually going to say this, but I was as one with Barry Manilow: “When will this strong yearning end?� Lol. But as corny as that sounds, this story was anything but. I was completely swept up and swept away. Sorry, I’m going to need to sigh again. *sigh*
Music, romance, Vienna, and the very capable pen of Rachel McMillan. What’s not to love?
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Truly, this is a gorgeous novella. Vienna comes alive with all its history and romance—and the music! For a music-lover like myself, it was impossible not to pick out a few soundtracks to enhance the reading experience. But at the centre of it all are Rose and Oliver, who are now two of my favourite characters. Oliver, the quietly intense, Shostafreakinkovich-loving conductor working hard to be satisfied with second-best, and Rose, the bright breath of fresh air who captures Oliver from the third bar of Bach’s Partita No 2.
It was simply delicious to watch their friendship blossom, to feel the tension growing as their feelings deepened beyond their expectations and beyond what their circumstances allowed. I can’t believe I’m actually going to say this, but I was as one with Barry Manilow: “When will this strong yearning end?� Lol. But as corny as that sounds, this story was anything but. I was completely swept up and swept away. Sorry, I’m going to need to sigh again. *sigh*
Music, romance, Vienna, and the very capable pen of Rachel McMillan. What’s not to love?
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 25, 2018
Thank you Rachel McMillan for writing this utterly beautiful story! This is one of the most romantic stories I have ever read! I literally loved everything about it! I have always liked marriage of convenience stories and this is one of my absolute favorites!
So, what do I love about it? I love the setting - so wonderfully romantic, I love that we get to meet up again with Klaus and Evelyn from Love in Three Quarter Time, I love that Rose and Oliver start out as friends, I love Rose, I love Oliver, and I love them together, they are perfect! Oliver is one of a kind! He’s honorable, talented, and oh so romantic! There are so many great romantic scenes in this story - my three favorites involve cereal, allergy medicine, and a slight change in a musical composition. Sigh...Highlighted scenes that I’m sure I’ll read over and over again! You must read this story! Cannot wait for the next one!
Thank you so much Rachel for letting me read this early! Especially after I kinda begged you! No review was required and all thoughts are my own.
So, what do I love about it? I love the setting - so wonderfully romantic, I love that we get to meet up again with Klaus and Evelyn from Love in Three Quarter Time, I love that Rose and Oliver start out as friends, I love Rose, I love Oliver, and I love them together, they are perfect! Oliver is one of a kind! He’s honorable, talented, and oh so romantic! There are so many great romantic scenes in this story - my three favorites involve cereal, allergy medicine, and a slight change in a musical composition. Sigh...Highlighted scenes that I’m sure I’ll read over and over again! You must read this story! Cannot wait for the next one!
Thank you so much Rachel for letting me read this early! Especially after I kinda begged you! No review was required and all thoughts are my own.
April 11, 2020
I devoured this in one afternoon! A sweet romance set in gorgeous Vienna with so many lovely musical moments and descriptions! Perfect for fans of Montgomery's "the Blue Castle" or Ibbotson's "The Morning Gift" - if you loved either of those two books, you NEED this one. I wish I could read it for the first time all over again! Exactly what I needed in these glum quarantine days.
January 19, 2021
This story tugged at my emotions in much the same way the best kind of music will. Each chapter pulled me to the next, moving from moments that swelled with joy, to others that throbbed with sadness or loss, to quiet whispers of vibrating tension. A truly lovely story of music, friendship and selfless love.
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