The switching back and forth between the present and past also helps to move the story along and retain your attention. The flashbacks allow us to see the early days of Callie and Des’ relationship, which in turn, helps us to better understand their current dynamic. At first, I was unsure about this format, but it grew on me. Another notable aspect of the narrative is that it alternates between present day and seven years in the past when Des and Callie first met. Like our protagonist, we are witnessing events unfold in real time. It also imbues the story with an element of the unknown, as we are as in the dark as Callie with regard to what will happen next. The story is written in the first-person and present tense from Callie’s point of view, which allows the reader to more readily imagine themselves in the thick of things. The narrative style complements the plot and increases the book’s overall enjoyability. The scene where Des asks Callie to finish watching the Harry Potter series with him – a hearken back to the early days of their relationship – had me grinning from ear to ear. You can tell that they truly care for one another and enjoy each other’s company.

Sexual tension aside, their relationship also has a sweet, endearing side to it. You know that they will end up together it is just a matter of when, which is what keeps you turning the pages. The two have palpable chemistry that jumps off of the pages. The romance between Callie, the protagonist, and Des, the Bargainer and King of the Night, is why you read this book. Nonetheless, it is highly entertaining, owing to its easy-to-read writing and swoon-worthy love interest, who bears a striking resemblance to one of the fantasy genre’s most beloved male characters, Rhysand from the A Court of Thorns and Roses series. It is not the most well-written novel, nor is the plot particularly fleshed out. Rhapsodic is a true guilty pleasure read.

TLDR: If you love the A Court of Thorns and Roses series and are looking for another steamy fantasy romance, give this one a try.

Rhapsodic by laura thalassa