A Love Song for Ricki Wilde

Tia Williams, what am I supposed to say about this?

This book starts as a 5 stars read to me because it just speaks to my Lindy Hopper soul. While everyone raves about Taylor Swift references on books, I just can't resist to jazz, swing and Harlem in the 20's.

A love song to Ricki Wilde has a bit of everything: magic, found family, mental health representation and a beautiful love story of 2 star crossed lovers.
I loved Ricki's personality, her perseverance and how she was able to overcome her insecurities and perceived/ imprinted flaws.
Ezra was a great character as well. I loved every bit of the story where he appears, but particularly his background.

The first half of the story was brilliantly executed. I was captivated by both characters, I was engaged in their story-line and I was very curious about how everything was going to be connected. The second part though... I felt the romance lacked some tension and I ended up not loving how the story was tied up. It felt a bit rushed and silly.

My pet peeve with Tia's books is the excessive amount of clothes descriptions. This was ok on the past bits, because it helps you picture everything, and it's actually not overdone on that part... but in the present? Please save me from this. I understand she was/ is a style editor but if I wanted to read about fashion I would just buy fashion magazines. I really don't think this adds anything to the plot and it actually hurts my perception of the characters personality.

This book deserved a playlist. I'll assume this role for Tia and leave here some suggestions:
1 – In a sentimental mood - Duke Ellington
2 – Take the “A” train - Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington
3 - Caroline Shout - James P. Johnson
4 – Honeysuckle Rose – Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie
5 - Stompin at the Savoy – Benny Goodman
6 – It don't mean A Thing (if it ain-t got that swing) - Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington
7 – Ev'ry time we say goodbye – Ella Fitzgerald
8 – I'm beginning to see the light - Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington
9 – Sing, Sing, Sing – Benny Goodman
10 – Two Sleepy people – Fats Waller
11 – Exactly like you – Martha Tilton, The Carl Kresstette
I'm well aware most of this songs are from the late 30's. I love the instrumental versions from the 20's but I'm very partial to the wonder that is Ella's voice.