All Things Beautiful by Alaina Erdell

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The details…

  • Title ‏ : ‎ All Things Beautiful 
  • Author ‏ : ‎ Alaina Erdell
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bold Strokes Books 
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 16, 2024
  • Available formats‏ : ‎ ebook, paperback 
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 1333 KB
  • Print Length ‏ : ‎ 312 pages
  • Genres ‏ : ‎ Contemporary romance
  • Themes ‏ : ‎ the art scene, New York City, artists, friendship, motherhood, children, abusive relationships, family, found family, love, women loving women, sapphic relationships, lgbtq relationships, bisexuality, Financial gap/Class disparity, Blue Collar families
  • Tropes ‏ : ‎ student-teacher romances, friends to lovers

The blurb from the publisher…

Leighton Vaughn’s prestigious fine art atelier—and her life—appear to be settling down after a messy divorce. She prioritizes her daughter, art, and, teaching—that is until gifted Casey Norford joins the close-knit New York academy.

Casey didn’t receive the artistic education she expected from her degree, but a spot at Atelier Vaughn will remedy that. Even more than the opportunity to study with the famed Leighton Vaughn, Casey wants to give her son a stable childhood that won’t resemble her own. She’s not sure of the true extent of her artistic talent, but she’s keenly aware of her attraction to her instructor, and that attraction appears mutual.

Their sticky teacher-student relationship puts the future of the atelier in jeopardy, and Leighton’s obsessive ex tracks her down. Will they sacrifice everything to be together?

My thoughts…

All Things Beautiful by Alaina Erdell is a mesmerizing novel that effortlessly combines romance and art, providing readers with a unique and impressionable tale. The book’s smartly-crafted prose and well-developed characters lend themselves to an enjoyable and captivating read, one that hooks readers from beginning to end.

The novel centers around two likable main characters. Their chemistry is strong, and readers are invested in their romance immediately. The engaging narrative follows Leighton Vaughn, a renowned artist and teacher, and Casey Norford, a talented artist and mother, as they navigate the complexities of their love amidst a complicated teacher-student relationship. Erdell’s intricate portrayal of their teacher-student relationship adds complexity and depth to the romance, immersing readers into the lives of these two women. Leighton and Casey’s struggles are emotionally involved, delving into personal aspirations and family responsibilities, making the storytelling not only relatable but engrossing. 

This immersive tale offers a compelling perspective on the complicated interplay between desire and sacrifice. This, of course, is the foundation for the love these women share. Leighton and Casey’s journey to HEA traverses pain and hardship, but it ultimately leads them to a deeper understanding of themselves and the human experience. Erdell does a nice job showcasing this within her narrative; readers experience the resilience and transformative power of love, along with the true beauty that can be found within it. 

Erdell’s ability to create romantic tension while capturing the inherent beauty of art is as fascinating as it is seductive. Her well-crafted descriptions of the painting process, along with all its nuances, capture the essence of art and make it come alive for the reader. However, one does not need to be an art enthusiast to appreciate the story world Erdell has created. Through a gentle introduction of technique and terminology, readers are afforded a window into the world of art. Her ability to do this is commendable. Still, those familiar with her work should not be surprised. Her debut book, Fire, Water, and Rock, achieved much of the same, making a story’s subtext inviting and accessible for all to explore.

Final remarks…

Filled with the complexities of life, the beauty of art, and the joy of finding true love, this heartwarming love story is an absorbing and enjoyable read. Leighton and Casey’s journey, though encumbered with setbacks and hardship, ultimately leads them to a deeper understanding of character, commitment, love, and family. Sapphic readers will no doubt be enchanted by this lovely, immersive tale.

Strengths…

  • Solidly written
  • Well-developed characters 
  • Engaging romance 
  • Intriguing story world 
  • Compelling secondary characters
This book is available from…

A bit about the author…

Alaina Erdell lives in Ohio with her partner and their three crazy but adorable cats. She has a degree in psychology from Gonzaga University. Prior to writing, she worked as a chef. When she’s not focused on writing lesbian fiction, she enjoys painting, cooking for friends and family, experimenting with molecular gastronomy, reading, kayaking, snorkeling, traveling, and spoiling her beloved nephews.

Want to learn more about Alaina Erdell? Check out her website and social media. 


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