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Vox Tenor #1
Becoming Aria
A diverted plane. Three irresistible men. Morocco is the perfect place to hide.
I had no idea my husband was a powerful man in charge of a global drug cartel until I was coerced into betraying him. Knowing how I’ll be dealt with; I agree to enter Witness Protection. I’m too terrified of the alternative: a punishing and gruesome end.
When entry into WITSEC goes horribly wrong, I’m forced to flee New Orleans. Frightened and alone, my life as Embry is over and I escape with a new name—Aria.
Deprived of sleep and sick with stress, I cross paths with three gorgeous opera singers. Mateo, the melancholic gentleman Spaniard; Einar, the goofy, Viking-sized Swede; and Nikola, the take-charge gruff Bulgarian, are collectively known as Vox Tenor.
Hired as their chef in a luxurious Moroccan mansion, I have a few days to figure out how to stay on the run, if they’d leave me alone for a minute to think. They’re determined to wear down my defenses. I can’t afford to be vulnerable—my grisly secrets could get them killed.
Despite my best efforts, the sweet and protective men of Vox Tenor show me how life could be different in their arms.
If only I had the chance to find out.
I’m living on borrowed time and my worst nightmare is coming for me.
Can I ever escape being Embry and become Aria?
Becoming Aria is the first book in the Vox Tenor series. Book One ends in a cliff-hanger. If you’re ready for an epic tale of unconventional love and danger, this is your series.
PLEASE NOTE: This is a Why Choose/Reverse Harem story. The leading lady is romanced by all three men of Vox Tenor. If you’re opposed to a woman being indulged by more than one man, please do not read this book. There is no bullying, no cheating, no MM, no FF.
Content Warning: violence, torture, sexual situations, backstory account of pregnancy loss, off-page sexual assault (no description). For mature readers only. Please read with care.
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Must be read in order:
Book One: Becoming Aria
Book Two: Loving Aria
Book Three: Finding Aria
Can be read at anytime:
Vox Tenor prequel: Giselle
Giselle is a full-length standalone prequel to the Vox Tenor trilogy. Although the Vox Tenor trilogy must be read in order, Giselle can be read at any time, even while enjoying the trilogy. You can even skip Giselle and still enjoy the Vox Tenor trilogy, but why would you? You'll miss out on more details about Mateo, Einar, and Nikola, and the extravagant, busy life of being on tour with Vox Tenor.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
January 18, 2022
Hot damn!
I am in complete awe. This is a debut?!?! This is damn fine writing is what this is. The intrigue and slow building fear factor in this book was like a heart pounding, nail biting suspense movie. One where you're just waiting for something to pop out any moment. I was blown away by the writing, character development and plot in this first book. The last fourth of this book had my heart up in my throat.
I'm so deeply enthralled by these characters and this story. I absolutely cannot wait for book two. This is one I will definitely be buying for my reread library.
I am in complete awe. This is a debut?!?! This is damn fine writing is what this is. The intrigue and slow building fear factor in this book was like a heart pounding, nail biting suspense movie. One where you're just waiting for something to pop out any moment. I was blown away by the writing, character development and plot in this first book. The last fourth of this book had my heart up in my throat.
I'm so deeply enthralled by these characters and this story. I absolutely cannot wait for book two. This is one I will definitely be buying for my reread library.
December 10, 2021
What a fabulous and amazing debut novel! Leelah Renn came into the writing world with a flourish and knocked it out of the park with Becoming Aria, the first book in her Vox Tenor series. Full of mystery, intrigue, heat and stunning revelations this book is a definite must read!
This story was utterly captivating to read as it captures your attention right out of the gates with our FMC Embry’s life literally being ripped out from under her with the unsettling discovery that her husband of twenty plus years isn’t exactly who she thought he was, but rather a leader of a violent drug cartel. This revelation forces our heroine to embark on a life changing journey across countries and is a true self discovery of the heart.
After working with the feds to gather evidence against him, she is promised immunity and a new life as Ariadne—though Aria soon realizes things aren’t always what they seem. Fearing for her life, and not knowing who to trust or not, Aria finds herself on the run to London with no clear idea of what to do—only knowing that she needs to run and hide and never reveal her true identity and her secrets. However fate intervenes when she unexpectedly encounters Vox Tenor, a famous opera group touring the world, after passing out on her flight to London. With her world quickly falling apart, and another medical emergency on flight causing an unexpected stop in Morocco, Aria agrees to accept their invitation to go with them as their personal chef. What transpires next is a whirlwind of relationships between Aria and the trio of sexy men (Einar, Nikola and Mateo) as well as a new friendship with their personal doctor, Roz.
I love the location of their story and feel like the exoticness of Morocco just adds to the romance and the mystery of the story. I also love being able to see a bit into everyone’s mind with the multiple POVs as it helps you learn more about each of the characters and experience their feelings and emotions right along with them.
Renn did an fantastic job at developing relatable solid characters that each have such unique personalities and voices that you can’t help but relate and fall in love with them all. The overall depth of the plot and well thought out storyline was phenomenal as Renn truly takes us on a majestic and descriptive story throughout her carefully crafted world. From one heart-stopping moment to the next, Renn weaves a tale that you can’t help but immerse yourself in as a reader. And just when you think things are finally looking up for our brave heroine, her past comes back to destroy her…
Overall this book was a refreshing read and a journey well worth taking! I loved the diversity of the characters with a wide variety of age and ethnicity within the group. Being able to read and relate to characters in an older age range was a nice change of pace and the author did an amazing job building believable connections and relationships between all the characters. And even though this story is more of a slow burn RH romance, the wait is well worth it! And that ending?!? Super explosive! Can’t wait for more of Aria and her men! I highly recommend this to anyone who loves more mature diverse RH romances full of mystery and intrigue!
This story was utterly captivating to read as it captures your attention right out of the gates with our FMC Embry’s life literally being ripped out from under her with the unsettling discovery that her husband of twenty plus years isn’t exactly who she thought he was, but rather a leader of a violent drug cartel. This revelation forces our heroine to embark on a life changing journey across countries and is a true self discovery of the heart.
After working with the feds to gather evidence against him, she is promised immunity and a new life as Ariadne—though Aria soon realizes things aren’t always what they seem. Fearing for her life, and not knowing who to trust or not, Aria finds herself on the run to London with no clear idea of what to do—only knowing that she needs to run and hide and never reveal her true identity and her secrets. However fate intervenes when she unexpectedly encounters Vox Tenor, a famous opera group touring the world, after passing out on her flight to London. With her world quickly falling apart, and another medical emergency on flight causing an unexpected stop in Morocco, Aria agrees to accept their invitation to go with them as their personal chef. What transpires next is a whirlwind of relationships between Aria and the trio of sexy men (Einar, Nikola and Mateo) as well as a new friendship with their personal doctor, Roz.
I love the location of their story and feel like the exoticness of Morocco just adds to the romance and the mystery of the story. I also love being able to see a bit into everyone’s mind with the multiple POVs as it helps you learn more about each of the characters and experience their feelings and emotions right along with them.
Renn did an fantastic job at developing relatable solid characters that each have such unique personalities and voices that you can’t help but relate and fall in love with them all. The overall depth of the plot and well thought out storyline was phenomenal as Renn truly takes us on a majestic and descriptive story throughout her carefully crafted world. From one heart-stopping moment to the next, Renn weaves a tale that you can’t help but immerse yourself in as a reader. And just when you think things are finally looking up for our brave heroine, her past comes back to destroy her…
Overall this book was a refreshing read and a journey well worth taking! I loved the diversity of the characters with a wide variety of age and ethnicity within the group. Being able to read and relate to characters in an older age range was a nice change of pace and the author did an amazing job building believable connections and relationships between all the characters. And even though this story is more of a slow burn RH romance, the wait is well worth it! And that ending?!? Super explosive! Can’t wait for more of Aria and her men! I highly recommend this to anyone who loves more mature diverse RH romances full of mystery and intrigue!
December 20, 2021
3.5 rating rounded up to 4
Aria, formerly Embry, has gone into witness protection after assisting to gather information against her criminal husband. She soon realizes that WITSEC is not her best option and allows a “friend” to help her escape. She finds herself on a flight to London. She ends up passing out on the flight and when she awakes, she is surrounded by 3 handsome men who are the singers of Vox Tenor.
When the flight unexpectedly has to land in Morocco, she ends up taking a job as the temporary chef for Vox Tenor and their crew while they stay in Morocco.
I really enjoyed the storyline however I thought it moved very slow until about 70% of the way through. Due to the complexity of the story I understand that we, as the readers, needed some background information and to get to know the characters. But I needed a little more conflict. This is a very slow burn romance. I like a little more spice but again we needed to get to know the characters so I think the romance took a backseat to the story.
I LOVED that the FMC was over 40!! It’s very rare that I see this in reverse harems and I thought it was a great choice for the author.
The cliffhanger was great! I’m looking forward to book 2!!
Aria, formerly Embry, has gone into witness protection after assisting to gather information against her criminal husband. She soon realizes that WITSEC is not her best option and allows a “friend” to help her escape. She finds herself on a flight to London. She ends up passing out on the flight and when she awakes, she is surrounded by 3 handsome men who are the singers of Vox Tenor.
When the flight unexpectedly has to land in Morocco, she ends up taking a job as the temporary chef for Vox Tenor and their crew while they stay in Morocco.
I really enjoyed the storyline however I thought it moved very slow until about 70% of the way through. Due to the complexity of the story I understand that we, as the readers, needed some background information and to get to know the characters. But I needed a little more conflict. This is a very slow burn romance. I like a little more spice but again we needed to get to know the characters so I think the romance took a backseat to the story.
I LOVED that the FMC was over 40!! It’s very rare that I see this in reverse harems and I thought it was a great choice for the author.
The cliffhanger was great! I’m looking forward to book 2!!
June 10, 2023
I went into this wondering honestly if Id like it.⠀I read the blurb and was like HHMMMMM Im not real sure but I wanted to push myself out of the Dark Romance Vortex Ive been in. Ask @michelle_planswithbooks I was like Im about to read an Opera RH and im unsure lol.
I AM SO GLAD I DID.⠀I seriously enjoyed this book. @leelahrenn did an amazing job with this baby.⠀It wasnt at all how I pictured it to be.⠀It was sweet but still had some bite to it.⠀I loved Vox Tenor and their Dr so much.⠀The FMC is super likable but she is also kinda naive IMO for a woman her age. However I do feel like she was just legit blinded by love at a young age and was comfortable with her hubby and their life.
Okay so the FMC is in her 40s (LOVED THIS) and she is married. Her hubby is a giant ass hole.⠀She goes into WITSEC to get away from him and his "friends".⠀She ends up in Morocco with 3 opera singers (Vox Tenor) and their Dr.⠀The secrets stay uder wraps, the spice is amping up, the past is catching up to her.
I CANNOT wait for book 2.⠀The ending of this one has me like WTF how does she know that? I need answers NOW!!!
storyline 🐙🐙🐙🐙🐙
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
I AM SO GLAD I DID.⠀I seriously enjoyed this book. @leelahrenn did an amazing job with this baby.⠀It wasnt at all how I pictured it to be.⠀It was sweet but still had some bite to it.⠀I loved Vox Tenor and their Dr so much.⠀The FMC is super likable but she is also kinda naive IMO for a woman her age. However I do feel like she was just legit blinded by love at a young age and was comfortable with her hubby and their life.
Okay so the FMC is in her 40s (LOVED THIS) and she is married. Her hubby is a giant ass hole.⠀She goes into WITSEC to get away from him and his "friends".⠀She ends up in Morocco with 3 opera singers (Vox Tenor) and their Dr.⠀The secrets stay uder wraps, the spice is amping up, the past is catching up to her.
I CANNOT wait for book 2.⠀The ending of this one has me like WTF how does she know that? I need answers NOW!!!
storyline 🐙🐙🐙🐙🐙
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
January 9, 2022
Great RH with mature characters, even though some say that Aria is naive for her age I think it fits with her character since she was sheltered from the beginning of her marriage. The story was gripping from the start and I loved all the characters! But I have to say that my favorite is Nikola (all the feels and angst!). The suspense is very well built and I can barely wait for the second book.
December 4, 2021
Oh I'm in love. So so in love with all of them.
I'm usually a die hard darker than dark type girl but I wanted to give this a shot after enjoying another book with the witness protection kind of angle. Boy oh boy am I glad I did!
When she finds out her husband is a drug lord Embry agrees to give evidence against him knowing it will risk her life. When her entry into WITSEC takes a unexpected turn the newly created Aria finds herself on a diverted plane with world famous opera singers who she didn't even know existed.
When they propose she stays with them for a few days to cook for them she figures she'd use the time to regroup but ends up getting more than she expected from the three gorgeous men. Finding herself as drawn to them as they are to her she try's to fight the growing attraction. When her old life catches up to her she realises she has more than just herself to protect.
I adored the fact that these characters are older. They've lived and it shows in their interactions and reactions and it really really works. I also utterly adored the fact that not only is one of the MMC's a type one diabetic but that Leelah has clearly done her research and gets it right. As a T1 myself there's nothing more frustrating than inaccuracy when it comes to what we can and cant do or eat. So finding an author who really gets it is incredible!
This is a slower burn than I'd usually go for but the simmering tension really keeps you on your toes. One of my fave characters is in theory a side character but Roz is such a light comedic relief and executed perfectly.
There are a lot of cultural references in this book but Leelah manages to walk that fine line of explaining things without it being boring and textbook like. There's a strong undertone of female empowerment which I am absolutely here for but again without coming across as pushing an agenda or being political. It really adds to the plot.
That ending though!! Ma'am I need book 2 please and thank you
I'm usually a die hard darker than dark type girl but I wanted to give this a shot after enjoying another book with the witness protection kind of angle. Boy oh boy am I glad I did!
When she finds out her husband is a drug lord Embry agrees to give evidence against him knowing it will risk her life. When her entry into WITSEC takes a unexpected turn the newly created Aria finds herself on a diverted plane with world famous opera singers who she didn't even know existed.
When they propose she stays with them for a few days to cook for them she figures she'd use the time to regroup but ends up getting more than she expected from the three gorgeous men. Finding herself as drawn to them as they are to her she try's to fight the growing attraction. When her old life catches up to her she realises she has more than just herself to protect.
I adored the fact that these characters are older. They've lived and it shows in their interactions and reactions and it really really works. I also utterly adored the fact that not only is one of the MMC's a type one diabetic but that Leelah has clearly done her research and gets it right. As a T1 myself there's nothing more frustrating than inaccuracy when it comes to what we can and cant do or eat. So finding an author who really gets it is incredible!
This is a slower burn than I'd usually go for but the simmering tension really keeps you on your toes. One of my fave characters is in theory a side character but Roz is such a light comedic relief and executed perfectly.
There are a lot of cultural references in this book but Leelah manages to walk that fine line of explaining things without it being boring and textbook like. There's a strong undertone of female empowerment which I am absolutely here for but again without coming across as pushing an agenda or being political. It really adds to the plot.
That ending though!! Ma'am I need book 2 please and thank you
August 20, 2023
DNF at 26%
Spoilers below.
It’s just not holding my interest. I’m assuming this book to be modern day. With contemporary romance, my ability to suspend disbelief is much less and I’ve rolled my eyes so much I have a headache.
The FMC is in her 40s and acts so immature it’s really bizarre. I get that she has trauma from finding out about her ex - but the author suggests that up until that point she and her husband had a “normal”, happy marriage for over 20 years. Owned a business together with her as a chef. She would have matured during the time and learned life skills, resilience, etc. While what happened would obviously throw anyone through a loop, get them to rethink their choices and decisions, and likely trigger depression, anxiety, etc. - this pre-pubescent acting woman is not at all what I expected - or wanted - to read about.
Then you have the tenors - who see this woman on a plane, after having thrown up several times, wearing a wig that likely looks like a rats nest, is a complete and utter disaster and they—- ask her to stay with them because of a passing statement that she can cook?
Then they arrive and it’s just like… I don’t care what happens.
There didn’t seem to be any self-reflection on the FMCS part. Her inner monologue was inane.
The guys came off as caricatures to me. I could see the author trying to give them depth but all the interactions with the FMC seemed so superficial. Granted, I only made it a 1/4 the way through and concede that could have improved.
Spoilers below.
It’s just not holding my interest. I’m assuming this book to be modern day. With contemporary romance, my ability to suspend disbelief is much less and I’ve rolled my eyes so much I have a headache.
The FMC is in her 40s and acts so immature it’s really bizarre. I get that she has trauma from finding out about her ex - but the author suggests that up until that point she and her husband had a “normal”, happy marriage for over 20 years. Owned a business together with her as a chef. She would have matured during the time and learned life skills, resilience, etc. While what happened would obviously throw anyone through a loop, get them to rethink their choices and decisions, and likely trigger depression, anxiety, etc. - this pre-pubescent acting woman is not at all what I expected - or wanted - to read about.
Then you have the tenors - who see this woman on a plane, after having thrown up several times, wearing a wig that likely looks like a rats nest, is a complete and utter disaster and they—- ask her to stay with them because of a passing statement that she can cook?
Then they arrive and it’s just like… I don’t care what happens.
There didn’t seem to be any self-reflection on the FMCS part. Her inner monologue was inane.
The guys came off as caricatures to me. I could see the author trying to give them depth but all the interactions with the FMC seemed so superficial. Granted, I only made it a 1/4 the way through and concede that could have improved.
December 3, 2021
The depth in this debut novel is incredible. The storyline is complex and well thought out. My favorite books have multiple POVs, and this book had a good balance between characters. This allowed me to feel strongly for each one, to know their history, and to identify with their struggles and feelings. Embry (who becomes Aria) is a mature character at 40 something, and I really appreciate having a story that represents that age group. One of the guys is older, one is younger, and one is a widower. It's hard to find good romance books that aren't geared for the 18-22 age group, and while I enjoy reading those books, too, I like to have options that are closer to my age. This book delivers an interesting and realistic portrayal of older characters. I love Aria's relationship with Roz, and I hope she continues to be a big part of rest of the series. I cannot wait to read more because I need to know how Aria's story finds its HEA!
February 14, 2022
Amazing Debut!!! Must Read!!
This book took me on such an amazing journey. Both geographically and emotionally. Leelah immersed me in a whole new world and did a phenomenal job of making me feel what the characters were feeling. This book just swept me away. And the last few chapters had my heart beating right out of my chest. I was pacing the floor reading. And now I need to know what the heck is going on. Yes it’s a romance and there’s amazing chemistry and panty melting scenes but it’s sooooo much more than that. Not often can a contemporary story make me feel so transported.
5/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶
This book took me on such an amazing journey. Both geographically and emotionally. Leelah immersed me in a whole new world and did a phenomenal job of making me feel what the characters were feeling. This book just swept me away. And the last few chapters had my heart beating right out of my chest. I was pacing the floor reading. And now I need to know what the heck is going on. Yes it’s a romance and there’s amazing chemistry and panty melting scenes but it’s sooooo much more than that. Not often can a contemporary story make me feel so transported.
5/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶
November 28, 2021
I laughed, I cried, I fell in love aaaand I wanted to throw my kindle!
Embry's life is over.
Aria's is just beginning,
But a chance encounter with a Doctor and 3 hunky men is about to change everything.
Can she keep her secrets hidden or will her past come back to haunt her?
I absolutely loved getting to know these characters.
The bonds they share, both new and old are everything.
They each bring something different to the table and fit together perfectly.
This book has it all and I freaking LOVED everything about it.
Well almost everything,
because what the hell was that ending?!
I for one can not wait for book two because I need answers!
Embry's life is over.
Aria's is just beginning,
But a chance encounter with a Doctor and 3 hunky men is about to change everything.
Can she keep her secrets hidden or will her past come back to haunt her?
I absolutely loved getting to know these characters.
The bonds they share, both new and old are everything.
They each bring something different to the table and fit together perfectly.
This book has it all and I freaking LOVED everything about it.
Well almost everything,
because what the hell was that ending?!
I for one can not wait for book two because I need answers!
August 1, 2023
This was a good story. Book one definitely sets the stage for the rest of the story to unfold. The ending is a cliffhanger and continues in book 2 so be ready to jump into the rest of the story.
November 26, 2021
Wow this book is so different to what I usually read.
This book follows a woman who travels to london under a new identity, but becomes ill so her and a few newly made friends land in morroco.
Aria falls for not one, not two but three gorgeous men.
Nikky the serious one who is suspicious of aria
Emmy the giant with a big heart and alot of love
Mateo my fav, sweet guy with his heart on his sleeve
The cliffhanger was a bit cheeky and has now left me wondering which is a plus when starting a new series.
Cant wait for book 2
This book follows a woman who travels to london under a new identity, but becomes ill so her and a few newly made friends land in morroco.
Aria falls for not one, not two but three gorgeous men.
Nikky the serious one who is suspicious of aria
Emmy the giant with a big heart and alot of love
Mateo my fav, sweet guy with his heart on his sleeve
The cliffhanger was a bit cheeky and has now left me wondering which is a plus when starting a new series.
Cant wait for book 2
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2021
I’ve read some pretty blinding books this year and so going into December I didn’t think I’d find anything to top them. I was wrong. Becoming Aria is hands down the best book I’ve read in a long time.
Going into the book, I knew it was going to be a bit different from my usual sort of read. It’s rare I see a character hit 30, let alone Aria’s 42 years old. It was refreshing to read from the point of view of a woman who has surpassed my own years and the result is a book that feels mature but not old and staid. It’s as if reverse harem has grown up.
Underneath the complex predicament of her situation, Aria is an uncomplicated character who is incredibly relatable. She had the body worries of the average middle-aged woman and is unable to see the beauty within her, despite it being expressed by other characters. She doesn’t believe herself worthy of the second chance she’s been offered yet has an amazing capacity to love others. Aria feels desperately guilty over the fates of others in her past, beating herself up over an impossible situation where she was robbed of her control and not given a choice as to the outcome.
Along with the perspective of each man in the harem, Renn also includes the viewpoint of Roz, the group’s doctor and friend. It was interesting to see the character’s from a fifth outlook, giving not only remarkable insight into the group as a whole but a female perspective on a female main character.
The whole book is tinged with sorrow. Aria mourns the relationship she never had with her husband and the daughter they lost. Nik is haunted by the demons arising from his parent’s imprisonment as political prisoners and the disappearance of his sister. Mat mourns the loss of his second wife but remains hopeful that love will prevail. Each character carries a past that shapes their present and fuels their interactions with others. These aren’t just past events that make the characters more interesting, but ones that permeate their very essence.
Leelah Renn’s writing style is immensely descriptive. In the early chapters, she made me feel Embry’s hopelessness at the hands of her husband and the trauma of enduring the court proceedings. As the scene moves to Morocco I could feel the dry heat against my skin and the sand beneath my feet. A trip to the souk wasn’t just a quick market visit but an experience that had my wanting to smell and taste exactly what the characters were. It’s a rare thing that I feel this transported into a setting in a book. The imagery I was presented with created something entirely new in my mind instead of re-using the same old pictures that other books bring forward.
The steam level in Becoming Aria is on the lower end of the scale, being more of a rising simmer. There I was, at 25% in, rubbing my hands together with glee, anticipating some serious steam in the hammam pool when Mr Rainbow Knee Socks bursts in wearing nothing else but a bedsheet tied around his neck like a cape. I had just about resigned myself to missing the moment when things start heating up with their extra participant when Aria startles and flees. I came out of that chapter with whiplash.
I had to read another 50% of the book before seeing any more action. It worked really well, though, because it gave the story a chance to demonstrate the expansion of love and build a much stronger bond between the harem. All the better to shatter them when they find out just who Aria is. Because you know it’s going to happen sooner or later.
The book ends up on a very deceptive cliffhanger. You literally experience the calm before the storm, then even when the storm is over the hits still keep coming. Just when you think you can see the ending, Renn throws another curveball. And another. I seriously thought the book was about to end on three separate occasions, all of which brought my heart even closer to my mouth.
Becoming Aria is a beautifully tragic yet eternally hopeful story with complex interpersonal relationship dynamics. It’s magical in its setting and sensitive to culture and mythology. I can’t help feeling that if you don’t read this book, you’ll be missing out on something amazing.
WHY YOU SHOULD READ BECOMING ARIA
* It’s painfully realistic. Who hasn’t fumbled with getting dressed, changed their hair on a whim or worried about stretch marks?
* Witty and amusing moments sandwiched between whimsy and sadness.
* Beautifully descriptive writing transports you to a different world.
Going into the book, I knew it was going to be a bit different from my usual sort of read. It’s rare I see a character hit 30, let alone Aria’s 42 years old. It was refreshing to read from the point of view of a woman who has surpassed my own years and the result is a book that feels mature but not old and staid. It’s as if reverse harem has grown up.
Underneath the complex predicament of her situation, Aria is an uncomplicated character who is incredibly relatable. She had the body worries of the average middle-aged woman and is unable to see the beauty within her, despite it being expressed by other characters. She doesn’t believe herself worthy of the second chance she’s been offered yet has an amazing capacity to love others. Aria feels desperately guilty over the fates of others in her past, beating herself up over an impossible situation where she was robbed of her control and not given a choice as to the outcome.
Along with the perspective of each man in the harem, Renn also includes the viewpoint of Roz, the group’s doctor and friend. It was interesting to see the character’s from a fifth outlook, giving not only remarkable insight into the group as a whole but a female perspective on a female main character.
The whole book is tinged with sorrow. Aria mourns the relationship she never had with her husband and the daughter they lost. Nik is haunted by the demons arising from his parent’s imprisonment as political prisoners and the disappearance of his sister. Mat mourns the loss of his second wife but remains hopeful that love will prevail. Each character carries a past that shapes their present and fuels their interactions with others. These aren’t just past events that make the characters more interesting, but ones that permeate their very essence.
Leelah Renn’s writing style is immensely descriptive. In the early chapters, she made me feel Embry’s hopelessness at the hands of her husband and the trauma of enduring the court proceedings. As the scene moves to Morocco I could feel the dry heat against my skin and the sand beneath my feet. A trip to the souk wasn’t just a quick market visit but an experience that had my wanting to smell and taste exactly what the characters were. It’s a rare thing that I feel this transported into a setting in a book. The imagery I was presented with created something entirely new in my mind instead of re-using the same old pictures that other books bring forward.
The steam level in Becoming Aria is on the lower end of the scale, being more of a rising simmer. There I was, at 25% in, rubbing my hands together with glee, anticipating some serious steam in the hammam pool when Mr Rainbow Knee Socks bursts in wearing nothing else but a bedsheet tied around his neck like a cape. I had just about resigned myself to missing the moment when things start heating up with their extra participant when Aria startles and flees. I came out of that chapter with whiplash.
I had to read another 50% of the book before seeing any more action. It worked really well, though, because it gave the story a chance to demonstrate the expansion of love and build a much stronger bond between the harem. All the better to shatter them when they find out just who Aria is. Because you know it’s going to happen sooner or later.
The book ends up on a very deceptive cliffhanger. You literally experience the calm before the storm, then even when the storm is over the hits still keep coming. Just when you think you can see the ending, Renn throws another curveball. And another. I seriously thought the book was about to end on three separate occasions, all of which brought my heart even closer to my mouth.
Becoming Aria is a beautifully tragic yet eternally hopeful story with complex interpersonal relationship dynamics. It’s magical in its setting and sensitive to culture and mythology. I can’t help feeling that if you don’t read this book, you’ll be missing out on something amazing.
WHY YOU SHOULD READ BECOMING ARIA
* It’s painfully realistic. Who hasn’t fumbled with getting dressed, changed their hair on a whim or worried about stretch marks?
* Witty and amusing moments sandwiched between whimsy and sadness.
* Beautifully descriptive writing transports you to a different world.
July 18, 2023
She found her husband was a very bad man and was coerced into helping the good guy. When she’s supposed to go into witness protection there is a problem and the next thing she knows she’s on a plane and her name is Aria. She passes out and she come to three men singing to her. They take her up to their area in the plane and take care of her. An emergency landing for in Morocco. She ends up becoming a healthy cook for Eeny. Nikola, Mateo, and Eeny are he Vox Tenor and Rozelyn is the doctor to be on hand. Staying in Morocco while Eeny recuperates starts to build strong relationships, but Aria pass is dangerously following close behind her. Can she leave before she’s found and everyone is in danger? Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing book. I absolutely love Aria, Eeny, Mateo, Nikola, and Rozelyn. Great supporting characters. The twists and turns This is my first book by this author Definitely not my last. This is book One ends with questions. Book Two coming soon
January 28, 2022
LOVED IT!!!
Wow!! What a fantastic storyline with characters that I fell in love with!!! Aria is such a precious FMC and definitely deserves the love of these sweet men!! I’m dying to read the next book!!!!!
Wow!! What a fantastic storyline with characters that I fell in love with!!! Aria is such a precious FMC and definitely deserves the love of these sweet men!! I’m dying to read the next book!!!!!
December 6, 2021
Aria finds out that her husband is not the man she thought he was. She testifies against him in court and is supposed to go into WITSEC. But a mystery person puts a plan in motion to get her away from everyone, including the FBI.
While heading to her destination, there is an emergency on the plane and Aria meets three handsome Opera singers who make her an offer she can’t refuse. But what will happen when all of Aria’s secrets and lies come out to haunt her?
I have to be honest, I really wasn’t sure about this book going in. It is the first book for this newbie author and I really didn’t know what to expect. But let me tell you this, I am so damn happy that I decided to read this book!
The world building, the character development, the relationship development, the storyline, the characters, the writing, it is all freaking fantastic! I am in awe of this being the first write from this author!
I loved so many things about this book. I loved that the characters are older, more in my age grouping. I absolutely loved the characters, both the main and the side characters, they are all incredible!
I love how kind hearted and caring Aria is, I love how she stands up for what is right and wants to help those in need. I love the relationships between Aria and the guys and how they grow throughout the story. I also love the relationships that the guys have with each other.
I was quickly entranced by this book! The storyline is amazing! I loved how emotionally charged it is. The entire story is full of intrigue, suspense, mystery, and a whole lot of chemistry between the main characters! It is for sure major page turner!
I 100% Highly Recommend this book and personally consider it a Must Read! I am super excited to see where the story goes in the next book! !
While heading to her destination, there is an emergency on the plane and Aria meets three handsome Opera singers who make her an offer she can’t refuse. But what will happen when all of Aria’s secrets and lies come out to haunt her?
I have to be honest, I really wasn’t sure about this book going in. It is the first book for this newbie author and I really didn’t know what to expect. But let me tell you this, I am so damn happy that I decided to read this book!
The world building, the character development, the relationship development, the storyline, the characters, the writing, it is all freaking fantastic! I am in awe of this being the first write from this author!
I loved so many things about this book. I loved that the characters are older, more in my age grouping. I absolutely loved the characters, both the main and the side characters, they are all incredible!
I love how kind hearted and caring Aria is, I love how she stands up for what is right and wants to help those in need. I love the relationships between Aria and the guys and how they grow throughout the story. I also love the relationships that the guys have with each other.
I was quickly entranced by this book! The storyline is amazing! I loved how emotionally charged it is. The entire story is full of intrigue, suspense, mystery, and a whole lot of chemistry between the main characters! It is for sure major page turner!
I 100% Highly Recommend this book and personally consider it a Must Read! I am super excited to see where the story goes in the next book! !
January 29, 2022
This book was such a breath of fresh air! All the characters are 35+ years old. It’s so rare to find books - especially reverse harem - with older characters. And the setting is Morocco 🇲🇦 which I thought was so unique! Another unique aspect: the guys are famous singers, but they’re opera singers, not rock stars. I can only read so much about high school students committing crimes and doing kinks that most adults don’t even know are things. 😏 So Becoming Aria was a really nice change of scenery!
Embry is on the run from her husband, who turned out to be a drug lord unbeknownst to her. She flees to London under the alias Ariadne (Aria for short), but the plane gets diverted to Morocco due to a health emergency of one of the Vox Tenor - the three men who are famous opera singers. When the three men (and their personal doctor) find out Aria is a chef, they convince her to stay in Morocco with them so she can cook healthy meals for them for a short time. While in Morocco, Aria makes friends and tries to resist the growing attraction between her and the guys. She’s afraid to let herself get too attached though, since she is sure her past will catch up with her, and she doesn’t want anyone else to get caught up in it and get hurt. Aria is very compassionate and willing to help others, even strangers.
This book feels very well researched, and I learned some cultural things about Morocco that I didn’t know before. The steam level is low but there’s a lot of sensual tension, and I am betting the steaminess will rise in the next books. The twists at the end were so unexpected! This was a great debut novel - I’m excited to see where the story leads and to see Leelah Renn grow as an author!
Embry is on the run from her husband, who turned out to be a drug lord unbeknownst to her. She flees to London under the alias Ariadne (Aria for short), but the plane gets diverted to Morocco due to a health emergency of one of the Vox Tenor - the three men who are famous opera singers. When the three men (and their personal doctor) find out Aria is a chef, they convince her to stay in Morocco with them so she can cook healthy meals for them for a short time. While in Morocco, Aria makes friends and tries to resist the growing attraction between her and the guys. She’s afraid to let herself get too attached though, since she is sure her past will catch up with her, and she doesn’t want anyone else to get caught up in it and get hurt. Aria is very compassionate and willing to help others, even strangers.
This book feels very well researched, and I learned some cultural things about Morocco that I didn’t know before. The steam level is low but there’s a lot of sensual tension, and I am betting the steaminess will rise in the next books. The twists at the end were so unexpected! This was a great debut novel - I’m excited to see where the story leads and to see Leelah Renn grow as an author!
December 8, 2021
This is an amazing and well written debut novel! The story starts when Embry unexpectedly finds out her husband of twenty something years runs a violent drug cartel. She agrees to work with the FBI to gather evidence against him in exchange for immunity. After she testifies, she goes into hiding and becomes Ariadne. Fearing that her life is in danger, she escapes NOLA with the help of a mystery person and heads to London with a wig and no real plan.
She meets the famous opera group Vox Tenor on her flight to London. With her new identity, she isn’t supposed to start the same career, but she ultimately agrees to be their personal chef in Morocco for a few days after Einar has a health emergency on the plane.
I haven’t read many books with older MCs but this was a refreshing change! I also love that it’s such a unique and interesting mix of characters. Aria is American and in her early forties. Einar is a fifty something, 7 ft tall diabetic Swede with a love of sweets and jokes. Then there is thirty something Nikola with his man bun and gruff but passionate attitude. Mateo is the sweet and charismatic Spaniard who can relate to her pain. I can’t forget about Roz, their personal doctor with a larger than life personality.
I love that this story mainly takes place in Morocco. All of the detailed descriptions of their adventures and locations truly transported me there. It’s so different from other reverse harems I’ve read because of this amazing and exotic location. The characters have depth and really stand apart from each other with unique voices and personalities. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves reverse harem romance with adventure and all the feels!
She meets the famous opera group Vox Tenor on her flight to London. With her new identity, she isn’t supposed to start the same career, but she ultimately agrees to be their personal chef in Morocco for a few days after Einar has a health emergency on the plane.
I haven’t read many books with older MCs but this was a refreshing change! I also love that it’s such a unique and interesting mix of characters. Aria is American and in her early forties. Einar is a fifty something, 7 ft tall diabetic Swede with a love of sweets and jokes. Then there is thirty something Nikola with his man bun and gruff but passionate attitude. Mateo is the sweet and charismatic Spaniard who can relate to her pain. I can’t forget about Roz, their personal doctor with a larger than life personality.
I love that this story mainly takes place in Morocco. All of the detailed descriptions of their adventures and locations truly transported me there. It’s so different from other reverse harems I’ve read because of this amazing and exotic location. The characters have depth and really stand apart from each other with unique voices and personalities. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves reverse harem romance with adventure and all the feels!
January 10, 2022
This tale is full on from the first words and you are rooting for Embry/Aria immediately. And who wouldn't want to be desired by three such attractive men? The premise is the least of the plot which twists and turns and lands in Marrakesh, and land befitting the lushness of the writing. Can't wait for Book Two!
December 4, 2021
This book is unique to other Reverse Harem's I've read as all of the main characters are older, and I really loved reading about characters that I am closer in age to.
Embry discovers that the man she was married to for over 20 years is a mob boss and is supposed to enter Witness Protection after testifying against him. However something goes wrong and she ends up on the run as Aria.
Einer, Matteo, and Nickola are in famous singing group Vox Tenor, and after Aria becomes ill on a flight they are all on she is treated by their doctor and they convince her to stay with them for a while when their flight gets diverted.
I loved getting to know all the characters in this book. Aria is such a relatable character, and the men were not only gorgeous but also quite sweet (well mostly😏)
It is a slow burn romance but the chemistry between them was so intense and had me praying that Aria would finally give in to her desires, and I wasn't disappointed when she did. That scene was HOT🔥🥵
I also really enjoyed the plot of this book, the storyline is complex with plenty of twists and a cliffhanger that has left me with so many questions. I can't wait for the next book and hopefully some answers.
Embry discovers that the man she was married to for over 20 years is a mob boss and is supposed to enter Witness Protection after testifying against him. However something goes wrong and she ends up on the run as Aria.
Einer, Matteo, and Nickola are in famous singing group Vox Tenor, and after Aria becomes ill on a flight they are all on she is treated by their doctor and they convince her to stay with them for a while when their flight gets diverted.
I loved getting to know all the characters in this book. Aria is such a relatable character, and the men were not only gorgeous but also quite sweet (well mostly😏)
It is a slow burn romance but the chemistry between them was so intense and had me praying that Aria would finally give in to her desires, and I wasn't disappointed when she did. That scene was HOT🔥🥵
I also really enjoyed the plot of this book, the storyline is complex with plenty of twists and a cliffhanger that has left me with so many questions. I can't wait for the next book and hopefully some answers.
January 24, 2022
Wow... just wow..
I asked for book recommendations in a FB group. I asked for a RH with older characters. This was an author recommendation and I am beyond happy to have gotten it. It was everything I needed. And now.. I need book 2!!
I asked for book recommendations in a FB group. I asked for a RH with older characters. This was an author recommendation and I am beyond happy to have gotten it. It was everything I needed. And now.. I need book 2!!
December 11, 2021
I am a little bit in awe.
This is Leelah Renn’s first book.
It doesn’t show. Her writing shows maturity and clarity to it which is amazing to read. Her characters have a depth that makes them easy to read and fall in love with. Her world-building and character development is so on par that I couldn’t get enough.
The characters were more mature than normally found in RH romances and I am so there for it. As someone slowly reaching towards the back end of 30 I really enjoyed reading a book with these kinds of characters. As someone who isn’t perfect (Yes I know *gasp*) it was SO refreshing to read a character that has both physical and mental flaws.
This book has a nice slow burn, which would normally be a turn off for me but it only helps build the chemistry between Aria and her three Opera singers. It also allows for a nice amount of time to get to know the men a little better.
I great story – a very incomplete story – so can you please hurry up and write the next one so I can get my grubby little hands on it???
This is Leelah Renn’s first book.
It doesn’t show. Her writing shows maturity and clarity to it which is amazing to read. Her characters have a depth that makes them easy to read and fall in love with. Her world-building and character development is so on par that I couldn’t get enough.
The characters were more mature than normally found in RH romances and I am so there for it. As someone slowly reaching towards the back end of 30 I really enjoyed reading a book with these kinds of characters. As someone who isn’t perfect (Yes I know *gasp*) it was SO refreshing to read a character that has both physical and mental flaws.
This book has a nice slow burn, which would normally be a turn off for me but it only helps build the chemistry between Aria and her three Opera singers. It also allows for a nice amount of time to get to know the men a little better.
I great story – a very incomplete story – so can you please hurry up and write the next one so I can get my grubby little hands on it???
February 6, 2022
I really enjoyed the premise of this book. I feel like it gave the story a very different flavor. If you're looking for something different outside of an academy setting, or mafia (though there is an element there, just not directly with the FMC's harem). I liked that the FMC was middle aged, and that her harem had a range of ages. There was mystery and adventure. The setting was richly set in Morocco. The main characters that we follow are Aria (I'll try and not give anything away here...), Einar, Mateo and Nikola with a tangential character in Roz. What was curious is that we get some chapters in Roz's perspecitve, though she is not part of the harem (no FF in this book, nor MM). I can't say I've ever read an RH book with perspectives other than the FMC or the harem. Ms. Renn certainly writes a wicked villian, and the last chapter was hard to get through with the torture- so be prepared- the graphic violence is mentioned elsewhere, but its really THERE when its happening real time. I look forward to the next installment to see what happens next with this crew! Bravo!
December 13, 2021
“BA is one of the greatest debut novels I’ve read this year. Dark and mysterious plagued with secrets. That’s what I loved the most! Add the RH trope and it’s a must read, trust me!
I’m not gonna rephrase what the blurb says neither spoil about the story but it gave me some Criminal Minds vibe and that was enough for me to be hooked. Aside from the complicated background and everything Embry went threw and her new life we have Einar, Nikola and Mateo. I’m must confess that I’m not so into older FMCs nor MCs but this one was the exception. Not sure how to put it but somehow age was important here and why they were like that.
Back to the details this is important too because I’m no longer interested in how the city looks, places and scenarios are but in this case having Morocco’s description made me fall in love with it and wanting to know more about it too.
Back to the story, yes, it does on a cliff with lots of questions that I hope we will have some answers soon.”
I’m not gonna rephrase what the blurb says neither spoil about the story but it gave me some Criminal Minds vibe and that was enough for me to be hooked. Aside from the complicated background and everything Embry went threw and her new life we have Einar, Nikola and Mateo. I’m must confess that I’m not so into older FMCs nor MCs but this one was the exception. Not sure how to put it but somehow age was important here and why they were like that.
Back to the details this is important too because I’m no longer interested in how the city looks, places and scenarios are but in this case having Morocco’s description made me fall in love with it and wanting to know more about it too.
Back to the story, yes, it does on a cliff with lots of questions that I hope we will have some answers soon.”
December 5, 2021
I loved Aria so hard!!! When her life as Embry was ripped away and she had to start over as Aria my heart ached for her but then she meets these three amazingly sweet and sexy men along with this spunky doctor and maybe they can ease her struggle. The chemistry between our three sexy men and Aria is off the charts but Aria has secrets ones that can get everyone killed and she tries so hard to keep them at arms length but the pull is too strong. Getting to know each character and watching a relationship begin to for was fantastic. The guys have such a special bond with one another and seeing how each of them brings something to the table that fits in with Aria. Aria really does complete them all she’s what they have been missing. I can’t wait to see what is going to happen next especially after that flipping ending!
December 8, 2021
Aria has found out her husband isn't who she thought he was and goes into the witness protection program. When things go a little sideways, she finds herself as a chef for three gorgeous opera singers. She's happy with the arrangement, until her old life finally catches up with her.
Becoming Aria is such a fun story that is on the lighter side of romance. Aria's adventure is entertaining, and you can't help but hope she gets to keep all three of the men. The author's writing is great and doesn't leave any room for question on that. There are also cultural references that are explained really well by the author without being disrespectful.
While I don't care for slow burn romances, I can usually read them without issue. This one was drug out a lot, and it really didn't need to be.
The author provided a copy. This is my honest review.
Becoming Aria is such a fun story that is on the lighter side of romance. Aria's adventure is entertaining, and you can't help but hope she gets to keep all three of the men. The author's writing is great and doesn't leave any room for question on that. There are also cultural references that are explained really well by the author without being disrespectful.
While I don't care for slow burn romances, I can usually read them without issue. This one was drug out a lot, and it really didn't need to be.
The author provided a copy. This is my honest review.
November 27, 2021
Stephannie's 4 Star Review:
This isn't the typical RH because the characters are older. Embry discovers her husband is a mob boss and she has to testify against him and go into witness protection. Something odd happens at the handoff and she has a new identity Ariadne Pantea but it seems she is on the run because even the witness protection can't keep her safe. She has a chance encounter with Vox Tenor, a singing group that leads her to go to Morocco as their chef instead of London.
This was an interesting book but I didn't understand all the slag so I have difficulty understanding things at times. But the story keeps me intrigued and I finish wanting more. A good read that I enjoyed reading.
This isn't the typical RH because the characters are older. Embry discovers her husband is a mob boss and she has to testify against him and go into witness protection. Something odd happens at the handoff and she has a new identity Ariadne Pantea but it seems she is on the run because even the witness protection can't keep her safe. She has a chance encounter with Vox Tenor, a singing group that leads her to go to Morocco as their chef instead of London.
This was an interesting book but I didn't understand all the slag so I have difficulty understanding things at times. But the story keeps me intrigued and I finish wanting more. A good read that I enjoyed reading.
December 8, 2021
Loved this book very much. Older FMC which I really enjoyed. Getting away from a man she thought she knew and going into WITSEC but that didn't go as planned. Someone has other plans and now on a plane to a destination but that plane has an emergency but there are knights in shining armour making Embry choose a different name, Aria, an offer she can't resist. I enjoyed that the book has a very different setting, namely Morocco and also has an older FMC, 40+ which we don't see often in RH so I'm all for that. I also enjoyed the break from reading darker books as this is on the lighter side. Also very different with Opera singers so this makes it one of the more unique stand-out books of the year. It does end in a cliffhanger but it's so good. Read it!
December 6, 2021
I had the pleasure of reading this contemporary adult with multiple love interests or reverse harem. A woman must leave everything behind after she testifies against her husband who runs a large cartel she has been blind to for years. Going into WITSEC is not exactly as planned.
She is taken from hiding by someone who claims she must run. Circumstances provide her run in with charismatic musicians who take her in after their plane crashes. She can pose as the new her for so long. Until her wall of secrets comes out to her companions. But running doesn't mean her past doesn't find her eventually.
February 18, 2022
Absolutely amazing! This story blew me away! I binged this book in one sitting! I could not put it down once I got started. The characters in this story are in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, each bringing a vast amount of life experience, both good and bad. Embry/Aria is on the run, after her entire life crashes around her and is forced to push herself out of her comfort zone. Nikola is running from the demons of his past. Mateo is still grieving the loss of his wife, and Einar, only wanting his chosen family to be together and at peace. It is a remarkable debut novel! I cannot recommend it high enough! Book 2 cannot come soon enough!!
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