Audacity Book Club: July Read

By Nic Daniels

TW: Racism (it’s the 1960s)

Hello, audacious readers!

I hope you’re staying cool because July is ramping up and so is Hot Love Summer! Last month we enjoyed uncompromising regency love in Most Ardently: A Pride & Prejudice Remix by Gabe Cole Novoa. This month, we’re going to 1960’s New York for a heart pounding, opposites attracts romance in The Songbook of Benny Lament by Amy Harmon.

With his father’s deep ties to the mob, Benny Lament knows a lot about loyalty and how much it can cost you. Because of this, he lives as a nomad, jumping from city to city as a composer for some of the hottest music acts in the country. Yet, his life comes to an abrupt stop when his dad asks him for a favor. He thinks nothing of it until he hears Esther Mine sing.

Despite her small stature, her voice is a powerhouse, and her wit is undeniable. Her voice combined with his songs make a perfect match. And while it would be easier to walk away, especially considernig she’s black and he’s white, Esther refuses to ignore the magic between them, daring Benny to step into the spotlight by her side.

Once convinced, Benny is determined to make her and her band a success. However, Esther and Benny have a long road ahead of them. Between, racism and a haunting secret, there are people that will stop at nothing to bring them down. Still, one thing is for sure: Benny and Esther won’t go down without a fight.

The Songbook of Benny Lament is a romance that showcases the power of love, music, and daring to make the “impossible” happen. This book is available wherever books are sold and in your local library or Libby app. I hope you enjoy it, and I will see you at the end of the month for the full review.

Until then, don’t forget to read audaciously!