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From the author of the bestselling Near Miss rock star romance series comes another ticket for an emotional rollercoaster ride. This time, following Murderous Crows, the latest up-and-coming band in the crosshairs of Blackmore Records. Will they rise to face the challenges? Or trip on the pitfalls of fame?

This first book, Coda, focuses on finding your inner strength to go on after tragedy strikes and allowing yourself the love you deserve. This book is not for the faint of heart.

When the music stops, love begins.

Live fast and die young has always been the rock ‘n roll dream. For Murderous Crows front man, Jake Townsend, it just became an actual nightmare. Jake has screwed up before. Hell, his whole life has been a long string of screw-ups mashed together. But this? This is beyond epic, even for him.

Cassidy Young just lost her brother. Her twin. Her best friend. She needs someone to blame, and her late brother's best friend, Jake, is awfully convenient and might genuinely be at fault.

Will the fledgling band crash and burn on takeoff when a fatal accident claims their drummer?

Can Cassidy and Jake find their way to forgiveness? Maybe even something more?

The Rhapsody Series books are standalone rock star romances with a little edge. All books in all series are standalones within the same connected universe.
Coda
Reprise
Overture
Waltz
Sustain

8 pages, Audible Audio

First published May 30, 2023

223 people are currently reading
1118 people want to read

About the author

Amy Booker

21 books91 followers
Amy Booker is a full-time author and former musician now living her passion of writing complex contemporary romances that immerse readers into the realities—both beautiful and gritty—of life on stage and behind the scenes. Most feature rockstars, while some venture into the glitz of Vegas.

With over a dozen novels under her belt, Amy draws from her own experience to pen authentic plots and multidimensional characters. Never one to shy away from tough topics, her books tackle real situations with emotional depth.

When she's not crafting her next book, you can find Amy embarking on thrilling travels, getting lost in audiobooks, catching Arsenal matches, or tuning into the Critical Role D&D show. She shares her home with rescue pup Gunner and has an adult son with special needs who fills her days with both challenges and immense love.

Stay up-to-date with Amy’s latest heartfelt releases on www.amybookerauthor.com.

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5 stars
131 (45%)
4 stars
94 (32%)
3 stars
49 (16%)
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13 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
Profile Image for Doris.
3,613 reviews139 followers
May 25, 2023
Heartbreakingly Good!!

Wow!!! Coda tugged at my heartstrings with this story dealing such tragedy. Jake and Cassidy have had their lives turned upside down. It was a huge page turner that I couldn’t put down. What a great rock romance book. I look forward to more books from this author.
Profile Image for Christina's Library.
1,307 reviews32 followers
January 9, 2024
This was entertaining. I did not feel it was extraordinary. I am kind of backtracking though, I read the third one first accidentally, so I think that may have ruined a few things for me. Good story though
Profile Image for Meenal.
1,020 reviews27 followers
May 27, 2023
Drop everything now; y'all need to read this ASAP. If you liked Daisy Jones and The Six, you should try this.

This was my most anticipated book in May, and it lived up to the hype.

I like the memorable title. Coda is an actual word meaning "a concluding event, remark, or section." It's an interesting choice of title for the first book in a series. The blurb promises glamour and drama.

I like the picture of concert attendees in the word Coda on the cover. I also like the crow tattoos on the male model with long blond hair. Don't we all want a rockstar boyfriend like Jake? Sigh.

This romance book also talks about experiencing grief over the loss of a loved one, battling your love for someone through the grieving process, being bold in your career and your relationships, the repercussions addicts inevitably have to face, the downfalls of chasing fame, and remaining kind in spite of manipulative close relationships (Emily and Duncan, I'm looking at you). It starts on a tragic note with mentions of self-harm, car accidents, death, and severe drug abuse. If you're a recovering addict or have any other triggers, you might wanna skip this one.

Duncan is a jerk for thrusting himself upon Cassidy at the hour of Andy's death; they show that when a woman is done, she's done. Cassidy's questioning of whether she can still be called a twin when her twin has died will make you cry. The band's first song, which Jake wrote, was about Cassidy. This is one of those "it's always been you" romances. Andy's birthday cake antics, the little moment in the courtroom, the Elvis graduation photos, the angst in chapter sixteen, horse-riding for self-care, and that moment when he had her cornered against the wall are so good. The part about a creative finding it difficult to accept their creations are done and continuing to put out art despite losing a cheerleader who is louder than the voice in your head is very well expressed.

The well-paced plot, writing, and editing are impeccable. Swifties, here's a Jake who did it right. Another novelty factor are the two epilogues, the length of one of which will have you screaming.

If you've read it, do you think Nyx's disappearance is a loophole, or will she reappear in future books? I hope we see more of Cooper.
Profile Image for Anij.
1,327 reviews12 followers
June 11, 2023
“Life isn’t fair, so there’s no reason for us to think death would be.”

You know how sometimes you read a book and there’s something about a character that just grabs you and won’t let go? That how I felt about Jake. From the moment he woke up the hospital he had me. I was with him no matter what, irregardless of where the story was going to take him. He was such a complex mix, not the least bit like the stereotypical rockstar I thought he was based on the way he acted in Almost. In some ways he was a quiet introvert, which makes sense as he was raised in foster care. I so very much wanted him to have the love he so desperately wanted and needed.

It’s hard to know what to say without spoiling the plot which I wouldn’t think of doing. Just be prepared for a story that focuses more on emotions than action and on romantic love than physical love. Oh, and make sure you have a fresh box of tissues. I promise you’re going to cry…more than once.
Profile Image for Angie.
601 reviews7 followers
April 29, 2023
This is one of my all time favorite genres. I love a good Rockstar romance. This story did not disappoint. 
Jake and his band mates are getting ready to sign their first record deal when everything falls to peices. After celebrating with the band at a party. Some members decide to head out to the desert. Nothing will ever be the same after that night.
Cassidy hasn't been home for quite some time but comes back when she learns something terrible has happened in her family.  Nothing plan prepare her for the loss of her twin brother.
This heartbreakingly beautiful story will totally comsume you.  The back and forth between the characters is phenomenal. 
Though it is super sad, their are some incredibly hot and sexy scenes and of course an amazing hea.
5stars.
Profile Image for Crystal.
1,148 reviews15 followers
May 27, 2023
Coda is the first in the series and does a great job introducing us to Murderous Crows and their tumultuous story. This book touches on a lot of sensitive topics and it's best to read the content warnings prior to diving in. Cassidy and Jake have both experienced a horrendous loss after an accident, Jake losing his best friend who was Cassidy's twin brother. This a beautifully written story of the struggle with loss, guilt, friendship, love and recovery. Cassidy and Jake find their way back to each other through a shared hurt and a past that they can't really break free from. The audiobook was so good. Samantha Brentmoor will forever be a favorite narrator of mine, I could literally listen to her for hours. Aaron Shedlock did a great job narrating for Jake and portraying all the emotion of his character.
702 reviews
May 23, 2023
Audiobook Review

Coda by Amy Booker is tragically beautiful. This is a story of loss and grief but also of love and believing in oneself.
Cassidy and Jake were great friends when they were young but eventually life sent them their separate way and they lost contact however there was always one person that connected them, Cassidy’s twin and Jake’s best friend, Andy. Recklessness and immaturity get together one fateful day and all changes forever when Andy dies in a tragic car accident and Jake is severely injured.
The way their new relationship develops was incredibly beautiful specially when they are both dealing with the death of one of the most important people in their lives. Cassidy was such a strong, positive influence in Jake’s life and never gave up on him, unlike other people around him, and fought for what she believed was true and right.

Aaron Shedlock and Samantha Brentmoor bring Cassidy and Jake’s love story to life with their amazing and brilliant narration.
Profile Image for Flor Espinoza Sanchez ♡.
310 reviews3 followers
May 30, 2023
The fact that this book had me feeling every up and downhill this story had should tell you how amazing this book is. I genuinely wanted to punch Nyx and Duncan in the face because they were cock blocking this wondering chemistry between Jake and Cassidy. I just about ugly cried like a baby when Jake finally went to talk to Andy's grave for permission. "I would like your blessing" "I know I don't deserve it. Don't deserve her." AHHHHH 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 My fucking heart just about broke. I like to think they if Cassidy and Jake ever have kids they've give their kids both of their last names to honor Andy :(. I'd love to read about their future or possibly one of the other members of the band 👀


I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Mandy Foley.
432 reviews
June 3, 2023
Wow, what a story, such an emotional roller coaster, strong characters, page turning storyline, unexpected twists, this book has it all, what a start to this series. The depth of emotion on display as Jake and Cassidy try to sort out their lives after an accident turns everything upside down. Trying to navigate their grief, the attraction neither has admitted to and the consequences of that fateful night, while trying to find a way forward, can they help each other or cause more pain?? Can’t wait for the next book!!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jocelyne.
4,907 reviews22 followers
June 29, 2023
This is the first book in the Rhapsody Series, a Rock Star Romance. Cassidy and Jake's story is beautifully written, emotional, and engaging, filled with angst, grief, and twists and turns. Some scenes are tragic and heartbreaking. The supporting characters are interesting. Samantha Brentmoor and Aaron Shedlock did an excellent job bringing this story to life. I enjoyed it. Looking forward to listening to Reprise, the next book in the series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. #Booksprout
Profile Image for BeaC.
377 reviews4 followers
May 17, 2023
Heartbreaking but beautiful story!

This is a standalone that tells the story of Jake and Cassidy, two friends that find themselves in one the most sad moments of their lives. They are just kindred spirits who found their way.

This was a page turner for me, so realistic and touching, my heart broke several times and I cried my eyes out, even though it has a HEA and its incredible heartwarming.

Please be aware this book shows very sensitive topics such as death of a family member, reckless driving and drugs so if your mental health is not the strongest at the moment this book might not be for you.
365 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2023
Good and sad

It made me hate this band. How they treated Jake was terrible. I would have wanted a different band from the way he was treated. They just aren't a family. I got ticked on the legal stuff as it wasn't the way it would have gone. They had to prove the driver. The romance was took forever to begin. It was strange that one chick just took off. Can't wait for he next one to see what happens next
626 reviews4 followers
June 12, 2023
Cassidy and Andy are twins. Andy’s best friend, Jake, is intertwined in their lives. Jake, Andy, and a couple more fellas created a rock group, and were just about to sign for the big times. A late-night drive results in tragedy. Jake is blamed, as it was his car, but was he actually at fault? Cassidy and Jake comfort each other, but it grows into something more.
This was a sweet, but emotional story. I loved she kept believing in Jake even though others did not.
Narration was well done.

I received a free copy of this audiobook, and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Profile Image for Sarah Mitcham.
1,296 reviews8 followers
June 14, 2023
Unconditional.

MF, Friends to Lovers, Best Friends Sister, Rock, Contemporary, Romance. The first book in a series of stand-alone's sharing a connected universe. What was meant to be an hour's reading before bed led to several emotional tearjerker hours reading the entire book and seeing the sunrise and kids TV start before I finally was able to have a sleep at 06.30 am. A total binge read and worthy of five stars all day and night lol. Guaranteed HEA.
1,150 reviews22 followers
July 25, 2023
Heartbreakingly Amazing!!!

Be prepared to have your heart break and then pieced back together again with this read. Also clear your schedule because you will not be able to put it down! This was a read I wish I could read the first time - 1 million different times. I cried, I laughed and I happy sighed with this book and now I want more!.

This is the first time I have read anything from this author but she has now become a 1 click purchase for me!!!
Profile Image for Whit.
3,650 reviews51 followers
August 4, 2023

Absolutely love this captivating and heart-tugging page turner!

Imagine hanging out with your band mates, Andy and Logan, only to wake up in the hospital, to discover that Andy is dead and you are being blamed for it. Your band mates, your friends and even your record label, all abandon you. Poor Jake can't catch a break!

Cassidy, Andy's twin sister, is the only one that stands by his side. And this causes huge problems with Andy's parents.

Can this situation get any worse? Of course it can! But when the truth of what really happened is revealed, " it is shaking my head" SHOCKING!!!!!!
Profile Image for Geneva.
90 reviews
May 2, 2025
WOW, what a read! I am fairly certain I used a box of Kleenex on this one - BUT PLEASE DO NOT LET THAT DETER YOU! This is a great book and I just loved Jake and Cassidy so much. I hope in the other books in this series we get a chance to see what they are up to later on! Sorry Spoiler Alert - yes the guy gets the girl! But it is not an easy catch and they have gone through hell to get there. The def deserve a happy ending!
Profile Image for Karen.
5,385 reviews74 followers
April 26, 2023
One star off for the ridiculous scene where someone with broken ribs and just out of hospital goes "missionary'"on someone who just lost her brother. Geez, that has to hurt and it's ridiculous...the whole scene.

Otherwise I powered through a tough subject (reckless driving death) and a poorly paced plot (but good).

ARC from Book Sirens
4,561 reviews19 followers
June 3, 2023
This story was amazing. I loved it from the start. The first person point of view was really fitting. Cannot wait for the next one in the series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
176 reviews
June 1, 2023
Oh boy, does this book take you through a whole heap of emotions from the very beginning. I loved the chemistry between Jake and Sid. I wanted to punch Duncan for being a twat. Another lovely book from Amy that has depth in both the characters and the background story. Loved it.
304 reviews
August 5, 2023
I read book #2 first and enjoyed it and went right to book #1 when I finished. Read it all in 1 day. Used more tissues than I have in a long time. Good characters good writing and left me wanting more. I recommend both books in this series.
496 reviews
June 19, 2023
sweet

A wonderful story of friendship and grief with amazing characters that capture your attention. Loved the book and have to backtrack to Amy’s earlier books
4,012 reviews35 followers
May 2, 2023
Coda by Amy Booker is a good, and enjoyable rock star friends to lovers romance read. The story has a great story line with a realistic plot. This story is a well written read. The characters are great, and they have great chemistry. This story is a very entertaining page turning romance read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
3,154 reviews47 followers
July 2, 2023
This story has suspense, drama, angst and romance.
Lucas and Delilah are drawn together by a shared tragedy. Jake losing his best friend who was Cassidy's twin brother. This a beautifully story of the struggle with loss, guilt, friendship, love and recovery.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,172 reviews5 followers
August 15, 2023
4 stars

4 stars
Surprisingly good rock star romance
Not as cliched as one might think.
Jake was in a band with his best friend forever and on the cusp of a breakthrough.
One drunken night. One terrible accident. And he loses his best friend and maybe his band. And maybe his sanity.
Cassidy is the twin sister, and she and Jake have loved each other, unbeknownst to the other, their entire lives.
There’s a lot of drama and tension. Grief does that.
It was really good and I look forward to the next in series.
1,529 reviews13 followers
August 6, 2023
This is an awesome book. Jake and Cassidy tugged at by heartstrings. I won’t say anything to give away the plot but… wow, my heart went out to the situation that they were in.
I could not put this book down.
This book is a MUST read!
Profile Image for Ves Pringle.
236 reviews7 followers
May 31, 2023
Emotionally Charged Rock Star Romance - Unforgettable Performances

Amy Booker takes readers & listers alike, on yet another exhilarating and emotional rollercoaster ride through the tangled web of fame, tragedy, and the power of love. Narrated by the talented duo of Aaron Shedlock and Samantha Brentmoor, this audiobook brings to life the compelling characters of Jake Townsend and Cassidy Young in a way that will leave you breathless, spellbound and wanting to wrap your arms around them and fill them with solace and serenity. This story is not for the faint of heart and takes on some dark themes, and I'm all about the emotional journeys, especially when it's a unicorn author like Amy - I adore her.

The story revolves around the Murderous Crows, a rising band caught in the crosshairs of Blackmore Records. As they face the challenges and pitfalls of fame, the band's frontman, Jake Townsend, finds himself in a nightmare he never imagined. He has always been familiar with screw-ups, but the magnitude of his latest mistake surpasses anything he has ever experienced.

In the midst of Jake's turmoil, Cassidy Young is grieving the loss of her twin brother, her best friend. Seeking someone to blame, she turns to Jake, her brother's best friend, as a convenient target. The tension between them is palpable, and the stakes are higher than ever.

Amy Booker masterfully weaves a tale of strength and resilience in the face of tragedy. Coda delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of forgiveness, self-discovery, and the healing power of love. With each chapter, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where the music stops, and a new journey begins—one that leads to unexpected connections and profound transformations.

The chemistry between Jake and Cassidy is electrifying, and their journey towards forgiveness and understanding is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. Amy Booker's writing delves into the complexities of human emotions, presenting flawed yet relatable characters who captivate your heart from the very beginning.

The performances by Aaron Shedlock and Samantha Brentmoor are exceptional. Aaron brilliantly portrays Jake Townsend, capturing the essence of his internal struggles and external charisma. Samantha brings Cassidy Young to life with her emotive and nuanced performance, allowing listeners to feel the depth of Cassidy's pain and her journey towards healing.

Coda is not for the faint of heart, as it delves into raw emotions and tackles sensitive subjects. However, it is precisely these qualities that make this a standout in the rock star romance genre. Amy’s ability to balance intense emotions with a compelling narrative is a testament to her skill as a storyteller and I adore her for it!

Overall, Coda is a five-star masterpiece that will resonate with fans of rock star romances and anyone who appreciates a captivating and unforgettable emotional journey of love, loss, forgiveness, and second chances. Amy's exquisite storytelling, combined with the exceptional performances by Aaron Shedlock and Samantha Brentmoor, make this an absolute must-listen. Prepare to be swept away in a symphony of love, forgiveness, and the power of music. **Audiobook review**
Profile Image for Bette.
3,292 reviews24 followers
December 15, 2023
This Audiobook Rocks!! Fantastic Story & Narration🎧Riveting & Emotional!

Coda
Rhapsody Series, Book 1
By: Amy Booker
Narrated by: Aaron Shedlock, Samantha Brentmoor

Amy Booker pens another fantastic rock star romance novel and wow, not only is it a beauty of a story, but it is one heck of an emotional rollercoaster ride, too. The story follows Jake Townsend, the lead singer of the up-and-coming rock band, Murderous Crows, and starts off with a tragic accident and loss of one of his bandmates, Andy, who was his best friend. Andy’s twin sister, Cassidy, became an entertainment lawyer and works in L.A., she comes home for the funeral and finds out they are blaming Jake for Andy’s death. She senses something is not right, and goes to him and sees how messed up he is, from the accident and from the loss of his closest friend. I loved how everything played out in this book, it is a wonderfully written and plotted with plenty of drama, angst, heartfelt emotions and a slow burn friends to lovers romance. The character growth and world development are amazing too. Amy Booker, thank you for entertaining me with this story that captivated my attention from start to end, escapism at its finest. 

🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Amy Booker cast the perfect narrators to bring her characters and story to life. Aaron Shedlock and Samantha Brentmoor are superbly talented voice artists and they understood the characters they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting and believable. Shedlock nailed it as Jake, grasping every aspect of his personality and his every emotion, from his inner turmoil, to his grief and sorrow, to his caring side, and Brentmoor did the same as Cassidy, delivering an equally moving performance. Both were fantastic performing the roles of the secondary characters too. These versatile voice artists are entertaining storytellers and they enhanced this already amazing story to the next level. Thank you for another wonderful listen. 
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