Reviews
Eyes of the Beholder
On ne choisit pas ce qui nous choisit.
We do not choose what chooses us.
There are photographers. And then there is Saxon Payne.
Others use technique. Saxon simply sees. And every woman who has ever looked back at him through his camera knows the difference — that rare and exquisite experience of being truly, fully seen.
It is, of course, completely ruinous.
When Juliette Burns walks into his studio, she thinks she's there to prove herself — to her world-famous photographer father and to everyone who ever doubted her. But then she meets Saxon. What ignites between them is inevitable, sublime, and only the beginning — because Juliette is carrying a secret she doesn't know she's keeping. Before she turned eight, her mother vanished her into a desert cult. All five hundred members subsequently disappeared — no bodies, no explanation, no trace. Only Juliette was left behind.
She has never looked back.
Because she can't remember.
She is about to.
Welcome to The Dark Photography Folio — six books, one universe, one of the most singular reading experiences you will ever have. It begins here, in Eyes of the Beholder, in the heat and glamour of a fashion photography studio. It then takes you places you have never dreamed, the same voice, the same wit, the same refusal to flinch, a guide on a story that expands into territory no genre has staked a claim on.
On ne choisit pas ce qui nous choisit.
We do not choose what chooses us.
Yet we are chosen.
You have been chosen.
Read it. I dare you.
Author Swinn Daniels writes with this tantalizing fascination that draws you to his characters. The magnetism and pull to Saxon, as well as the drive, work ethic, and naiveté of Juliette underly each of these characters as their story flits across the page. A larger-than-life photographer and the lithe woman who desires to be his first assistant, “Eyes of the Beholder” is a captivating series debut. Saxon Payne is an enigma, arguably the best photographer in the world, with an innate ability to see the light in others and capture the intensity within. Having been raised by a similarly renowned photographer, Juliette Burns is up for the challenge, but she’s drawn to Payne in other ways too. Shocking him with her portfolio and her preference for the physical printing process rather than the shoot and pray digital photography of today, Saxon is similarly intrigued by her. Readers become entangled in this lusting romance between Saxon and Juliette as we begin to climax just as Saxon is taken to meet Juliette’s world-famous father for the first time. It’s this meeting where a pivotal point unfolds as we peel back the mystery and haunting of Juliette a bit more. The way Daniels sets up the structure of this book is exotically unique. The lack of chapters lends to the palpable tension and chemistry radiating off the page. Oscillating between Juliette and Saxon, Daniels knows exactly what he’s doing as he builds the forbidden, workplace romance. Angst, art, and attitude leap off the page as readers are educated on photography, lighting, and seduction amidst the folds of Swinn Daniels’ exquisite writing.
A layered, sensuous, and surprisingly introspective novel… Daniels blends high-end fashion photography with psychological suspense and romantic intensity, delivering a gripping story where passion and buried secrets collide. Juliette Burns lands the job of a lifetime as first assistant to the legendary photographer Saxon Payne, and as passion flares between them, she dares to believe she’s found a love as powerful as her ambition. But when the memory of a childhood lost to the vanished cult known as the Enlightened Path begins to surface, can she uncover the truth before her forgotten past destroys the future she’s building with Saxon? On the surface, it reads like a glamorous love story set in an elite creative world—studios humming with strobes, priceless jewels under glass, artists who understand light as if it were a living thing. But beneath that sheen lies something far more unsettling: a woman trying to reconstruct a fractured past while standing dangerously close to desire. Juliette is far more than a bright assistant dazzled by genius. She is ambitious and technically gifted, determined to succeed on her own merit. Saxon is written with magnetic precision. He could easily have become a cliché—the brooding, hyper-talented alpha creative—but instead he is controlled, disciplined, almost ascetic in his self-mastery. His sensuality is not reckless; it is contained, guided, deliberately withheld. The romance is inseparable from the psychological stakes. Saxon’s strength and control offer Juliette the stability her past denied her, but that same intensity raises a quiet question: is he her anchor, or another force pulling her under? The writing mirrors its subject matter. It is visual, tactile, aware of bodies and light. Scenes linger on texture (on the sheen of jewels, the weight of a camera, the electricity of a glance). Yet the emotional undercurrents are equally detailed. The romance simmers rather than explodes, which makes it feel earned. The cult mystery, meanwhile, expands the story beyond romance into thriller territory. The disappearance of five hundred people is an enormous shadow, and the novel wisely treats it as such. At its heart, the book is about perception. About what we see and what we miss. About how beauty can mask danger, and how memory can hide truth. A seductive and unsettling story about ambition, attraction, trauma, and the courage it takes to confront the unseen. Readers who love The Secret History by Donna Tartt and The Magus by John Fowles will find this one impossible to resist.
This novel is absolutely incredible- a page turner that's hard to put down! The story is captivating with the perfect blend of romance, intrigue and intensity. The characters, particularly Juliette Burns and Saxon Payne, are unforgettable each with a depth and complexity that makes them feel real and relatable. Their passionate relationship is electrifying and undeniably spicy, adding a thrilling layer to the plot that keeps you hooked. But brace yourself for the cliffhanger! The ending leaves you with an undeniable urge for more. As the first book in what promises to be a gripping series, it sets the bar very high! Can't wait to see where the story goes next!
Story had a fascinating blend of romance, mystery, and art. Look forward to see what happens next. Reviewed in the United States on April 21, 2024 It all began when the beauty interviewed for the photography assistant position. Instant chemistry and attraction are there from the moment the two meet. Juliette Burns had an addiction to life-changing experiences and the next one would surely come in the shape of Saxon Payne. Juliette is naturally drawn to the stunning views of photography and the strong pull towards Saxon. Soon, the attraction explodes in a fiery sexual union. An intense whirlwind romance ensues. Juliette couldn’t have been happier. There was a shining light in her. But with light comes darkness and the secrets that have been hidden in the dark soon rise to the surface. The words were eloquent and artful. At times, the read was a little long and slow, but, otherwise, this was generally enjoyable. Story had a fascinating blend of romance, mystery, and art. The best scene that I did not see coming was at the very end. Look forward to see what happens next.
This was on a completely different level and a level you don't want to miss out on! Out of my normal read but good grief it was well worth it!
I enjoyed this romance between Juliette and Saxon, with the diversity of characters in the photographic and elitist world. Who would have known about the mystery of Juliette's backstory and trauma, and the real connection between the two lovers; Saxon and Juliette. The characters are authentic and grounded, and work well between their public world where she works for Saxon and in their private, intimate world where they fall in love. I wasn't expecting the ending of the story, and would have preferred Juliette's story to be resolved. I'm not a great fan of cliffhangers, but nonetheless, it was a pleasant and entertaining read.
So many romances have similar premises, but I hadn't read one quite like this before. I enjoyed it! I did have trouble with the head-hopping at times. The author should have considered breaking up the perspectives into sections instead of just going from one to another. That's why I have it 4 stars instead of 5. Otherwise, solid read!
This was a great read, and I did not see that ending coming! Daniels has a way with words and brings a lot of humor into a very sexy story. The relationship between Juliette and Saxon is so touching as it blossoms and then heats up. There is a very real connection between the characters and it made me wish I could hang out with them in real life- especially Maxine. I have rarely experienced such intriguing backstories for characters in a romance novel, with a fascinating mystery unfolding throughout. Looking forward to the next one!!!
Eyes of the Beholder by Swinn Daniels marks the captivating start of the Dark Photography Folio series. Juliette Burns secures an exceptional opportunity as the first assistant to the renowned Saxon Payne, a true master in photography. As their professional relationship blossoms, so does their romantic involvement. Juliette’s childhood memories are shrouded in mystery before age eight until hypnotic recollections unveil her mother’s association with the Enlightened Path, a cult. Her belief in her mother’s demise shatters when an unexpected encounter brings her face to face with her. Swinn Daniels exhibits a writing style that effortlessly draws readers in. He skillfully immerses us in the world of photography without inundating us with technical jargon. While photography serves as a backdrop, the narrative encompasses a broader scope. The characters are well-defined, making it easy to distinguish between them as the story progresses. Amidst the dialogues, there are moments of valuable information exchange that prove beneficial to both the characters and the readers. I would have liked these instances to have been integrated in smaller increments or seamlessly woven into the narrative fabric to be even more effective. Although the story provides a delightful slice of life, a stronger element of tension to invest in the characters’ journeys would have elevated the engagement. The story concludes with a gripping cliffhanger, which is a treat for readers who relish the anticipation of forthcoming series developments. Swinn Daniels adeptly upholds a consistently engaging narrative pace. While there is the limited presence of significant conflict, paired with the characters’ relatively unhindered progression, this aspect only slightly inhibits complete immersion. The writing flows effortlessly in The Eyes of the Beholder and welcomes readers, holding promise for substantial growth and evolution in the upcoming installments.
Juliette Burns (27, daughter) was waiting in line with the others to test for the 1st. asst. fashion photography job at Saxon Studios. 500 had applied. Tony (Saxon Studios mgr.) would administer the final testing. Juliette Burns (27, daughter) introduced herself to Saxon Payne (Saxon Studios, famous photographer). Later, when Juliette was hired Saxon invited her to dinner & introduce her to Hervé Gallant (French, Luxaire et Fils president). The Romanov Tiara was being displayed in a photograph setting. Grace, Alderwood College of the Arts. Tony took Juliette to the Javier Vallmora (Spanish photographer) presentation. Saxon & 5 other asst. were attending also. Grace Banks (Daizu ad agency creative director) took Saxon’s portfolio & was admiring his photography. She critiqued them & handed him her business card. Prep room. Saxon & the others started to develop/form the Daizu. There were 15 smaller 16” x 20” prints. Later, what were Jack Burns (father, world famous photographer) & Saxon discussing? Ra Chi Chi restaurant/bar. Why did Juliette & Cassie meet with Maxine (hypnotist)? I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of adult content expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further. An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written romance book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great romantic movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. I’m not real sure I got the whole story content, so I m going to only rate it at 3/5 stars.