The Love Variations

In this emotional and empowering romance from the author of A Shot in the Dark, two musicians compete to win a prestigious piano competition . . . until sparks fly. Can a fiery romance help them to heal old wounds?

“Truly worth swooning over.”—The New York Times

Goldie Gensler has always wanted to be a concert musician like her parents, who were both principal musicians in the New York Philharmonic, but after a devastating multiple sclerosis diagnosis, that dream feels more urgent than ever. The world’s most prestigious international piano competition is coming up in two months in Stockholm. It’s the perfect chance for Goldie to make her dream come true. But it won’t be easy, because Jamie Larson, with his perfect technique and gorgeous ocean blue eyes, is competing too.

After his brother’s death three years ago, Jamie just doesn’t love music like he used to, and he has always resented Goldie for her easy road to professional musicianship, paved by her wealthy and talented parents. He’s spent hours and hours studying to make it from small-town Iowa to the best music school in New York City. Yet his technical precision is no match for Goldie’s imperfect but emotionally resonant performances that make audiences swoon. Nevertheless, Jamie is determined to prove that skill and dedication are what make a virtuoso musician.

Goldie and Jamie each have their own reasons to win, but when unexpected events force them to practice—and live—together in Goldie’s apartment over the holidays, they discover a passion for far more than music.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs