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Cover of The Songbook of Benny Lament

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The Songbook of Benny Lament

by Amy Harmon

2021 · 444 pages · Lake Union Publishing

Forced ProximityForbidden Romance
4.5Goodreads
4.6Amazon

Ratings link to their original sources; spice is sourced from romance.io, Hotlist readers, or clearly marked estimates.

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💬 Mentioned in 10+ Reddit threads

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About this book

When a talented piano man from a mob-connected family meets a powerhouse vocalist with a voice that stops him cold, their musical chemistry becomes undeniable—and dangerously irresistible. Set in 1960s New York, Benny and Esther's collaboration catapults them to stardom, but their partnership threatens to expose secrets and draw unwanted attention from people who'd rather keep them apart. As their professional success soars, so does the personal connection between them, forcing them both to decide what they're willing to risk for love and music. This is a sweeping, emotional love story about two artists who find their perfect harmony in each other, even when the world tries to keep them in separate keys.

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yearningsophisticatedbittersweetrestrainedvintage

Jazz-infused romance with 1960s sophistication—think sultry vocals, vintage piano, and the bittersweet ache of forbidden connection. Smoky, restrained passion with orchestral undertones. Artists like Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Chet Baker capture this era's longing and elegance.

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