Light Me Up

Rock U #4

by Christie Gordon

Sparks fly when a cynical rocker recovering from trauma meets a vibrant, upbeat man. But will an ex who’s determined to exploit their past wounds rip them apart?

Silas Brown
I’m the rhythm guitar player in a pop-punk band and I’m tired of being called a hero.
I’m also done with crazy.
After taking down a mass shooter, I’m trying to survive and recover.
Then out of nowhere, this colorful dude pleas for help and what do I do? Save him. Of course, he’s really attractive and probably crazy. Now he’s found me at work, wants to meet for coffee and so much more.
Do I lower my defenses and let him in?

Cash Phillips
After a childhood of neglect and foster care, I’ve defeated my past and clawed my way to happiness.
Now I’m ready to meet Mr. Right and I know he’s out there.
He might even be Silas, the one who saved me from being robbed. He’s cranky and oh so adorable and I know he’s the yin to my yang.
How can I make him see I’m not the crazy man he thinks I am?
When Silas’ ex comes at us with her brand of emotional abuse, Silas tries to shield me. But when she’s the one needing help, will it tear us apart or bring us all together?

Light Me Up is the fourth book in the Rock U series and is part of the Mesa Boys universe. This novel features a grumpy man falling for another who’s all sunshine, hurt/comfort, and a bad-boy rocker recovering from past trauma and emotional abuse. It guarantees an HEA and has no cliffhangers. It features a cynical college student with a big heart, and a man who’s perpetually positive and knows what he wants. Each book features a different couple and can be read as a standalone or as part of the series in order.

Genres: M M Romance, Audiobook, LGBT

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 22, 2023

About the author

Christie Gordon is a bestselling MM romance author who writes steamy, emotional love stories filled with messy feelings, found family, unexpected love, and happily ever afters worth fighting for.

Her interconnected romance world spans MM hockey romance, MM football romance, rockstar romance, skater boys, rivals, teammates, best friends, forbidden relationships, bi awakenings, second chances, and men who have a habit of falling for exactly the person they never saw coming.

Christie began publishing MM romance in 2010, then stepped away from writing for several years while raising her two sons. She returned in 2021 with Say the Words, and one story quickly grew into a sprawling world of connected series, familiar faces, and side characters who refuse to stay on the sidelines.

In March 2025, Christie left the high-tech world behind to become a full-time author—and now spends her days doing what she loves most: creating high-heat, high-emotion MM romance with a little humor and a hard-earned HEA.

When she isn’t writing, Christie can usually be found watching boys-love dramas, creating digital art, drinking far too much coffee, or dreaming up the next couple destined to make terrible decisions before falling hopelessly in love. She lives in the Phoenix metro area and is the proud mom of two grown sons who still provide plenty of inspiration for fictional chaos.

For information about her and her work, please visit her website at: www.christiegordon.com
Sign up for her Newsletter for free reads, updates and give aways: https:www.ChristieGordon.com/newsletter
Join her Reader’s Group for exclusive content: Christie’s Cocktale Cafe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chris...

To friend or follow:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristieGord...
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/chris...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christiegor...

Reviews

[Bol.D.]

Sweet and captivating love story.
Silas and Cash's love story epitomises "love at first sight." From their very first encounter, their connection is undeniable. As they navigate the initial stages of their relationship, shadows from their pasts, including childhood traumas and a vengeful ex, threaten to disrupt their happiness. However, with the unwavering support of their close-knit circle of family and friends, they face each challenge with love, trust and head-on, leading to their HEA.

Pro:
Eloquently Crafted: The book is well written, offering readers an effortless and engaging experience. It is easy to read, making it the perfect pick for a chill day when you want to unwind and escape the daily grind.
Subtle Handling of difficult themes: While the narrative touches upon intense and real-life issues like past traumas, emotional abuse, suicide attempt and a troublesome ex, with the help of their friends and family, love shines through, ensuring the narrative doesn't get too heavy. The romance stays front and center at all times, making it a feel-good read.
Intimate Narration: The first-person perspective offers a window into the innermost thoughts and feelings of the main characters, enriching the reading experience.
Engaging Dialogue and Pacing: Despite its linear storytelling, the narrative remains captivating, thanks to its well-constructed dialogues and consistent rhythm.
The steamy and passionate scenes add intensity and break the monotony of a straightforward storyline.
Part of a Series: While this book stands on its own, reading the earlier books within the series can give you a richer understanding of the supporting characters and their dynamics.
Cons
Tonal Limitations: This narrative might not resonate with those who prefer darker, dramatic, and conflicting storylines that stir profound and intense emotions.
Final Thoughts:
This novel encapsulates the essence of pure love, camaraderie, family and the power of healing. Its engaging narrative and balanced approach to severe topics leave readers with a comforting warmth. This book is worth reading.
Disclaimer: This review reflects my independent and genuine thoughts on the book I received as an ARC. I've appraised it in the context of the romance genre, drawing parallels with other romance titles I've read.

[Angel_2822]

Light Me Up by Christie Gordon is the fourth book in the Rock U series and it shines brilliantly with a compelling and emotionally charged story.

Silas, hailed as a hero after a harrowing mass shooting, deals with trauma and an abusive past relationship. Cash, an optimist who emerged from the foster care system with resilience, enters Silas’s life when the latter saves him from a robbery. Their connection is instantaneous, sparking a powerful and uplifting romance.

The author masterfully delves into sensitive topics such as child abuse, partner abuse, stalking, and suicidal thoughts, offering an angsty yet heartfelt story. Both Silas and Cash are refreshingly open about seeking therapy, highlighting the importance of mental health support.

Silas and Cash’s love story is a beautiful exploration of healing, support, and found family. Silas’s grumpy exterior conceals a sweet and vulnerable heart, while Cash exemplifies how therapy and a loving family can help overcome trauma. The supportive relationships, whether among Silas’s bandmates or Cash’s family, add depth and warmth to the story.

Light Me Up is a captivating MM romance that blends heartache and hope, making it impossible to put down. While it can be read as a standalone, it’s even more enjoyable if you’ve read the previous books in the series. They are amazing books, and you first meet Silas in them.

This book is an absorbing read that leaves a lasting impression. It is a must read, but be aware of the triggers. I truly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it.

I received an ARC from the author for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation. 

[Babara-Anne]

SWOON WORTHY GRUMPY/ SUNSHINE WITH STALKER EX ROMANCE!

The fourth book of the Rock U series is just swoon worthy and delicious!

Two perfect puzzle pieces that just fit together that is Silas and Cash- total opposites but they just fit by how they bring the best out of each other- Cash lights up Silas and brings out his playful side.
Silas grounds Cash and makes him feel protected and noticed…

Their journey to happiness is not smooth as it is riddled with obstacles like a stalker suicidal psycho ex, survivors remorse and depression which is depicted and captured beautifully in this poignant, funny, sweet story.

I loved their dynamic and how they stood by each other with the help of their found family and friends!
I loved their namesakes and how it just proved they were meant to be!

I voluntarily received an ARC for an honest non biased review.

[Saskia Veldhuis]

Reread through audiobook. Excellent narration, this could easily become a favourite narrator for me. I already really enjoyed the story and hearing it made it even better.
4.5 stars ebook review. There are quite a lot of external issues for these MCs, but that made it all the better that they could be there for each other. The relationship developed really quickly but it didn't feel too fast. It's especially good that both are in therapy and allowed to be vulnerable, and that all their friends support this. I really felt how awful it must be to have a stalker and the twist in the ending there was really well done.

[Dinoh (Akari)]

Well, I have to say that I'm increasingly happy for having decided to continue reading this author. Although I always liked her stories, from the first one I read, at first it was difficult for me to read them because I felt that she didn't achieve continuity from one paragraph to the next, or that she jumped from one thing to the other. In each of her stories, she makes reference to some sensitive topic, and although she does not go too deep into them, she does so in such a way that they are really well described, and that you can feel the emotions that the characters feel when pass through them.

In this case, we have Silas, who also appeared in previous books and who is not only having problems due to a traumatic situation that he experienced with his bandmates and friends, but also has just gotten out of a relationship where his ex was emotionally abusive, and who is still pursuing him. Silas meets Cash in another troublesome situation, saving him from being robbed and sparks fly between them.

Cash is the complete opposite. Although his early childhood years were troubled, he became a person who saw the good in others, someone who was cheerful and colorful, and who quickly sensed that there was much more to Silas than his grumpy exterior. He convinces him to give that connection they feel a chance, which soon turns into an insta love situation. Perhaps the pace is a bit rushed, but it leaves room for the problems they must face external to their relationship, which makes it stronger and more solidified, since Cash gives him unconditional support and Silas can finally let his guard down and start to enjoy his life.

Beautiful story of love and friendship, since it is not only Cash who is there for Silas, but all of his friends, who are always present. Also, have you seen the cover? Absolutely gorgeous!

I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Megan McGrath]

Love the found family Cash has in his history. His foster family sounds amazing. The love they clearly all share among their family helped shape Cash into the incredible person we see in this story. Silas comes into this story already with a "hero" type background from book 2. To have his meet-cute with his soulmate in a heroic situation as well is quite fitting, even if he fought the instantaneous feelings he had for Cash.

I really liked that we get to see the softer side of so many of the characters in these stories. Giving Cash & Silas the chance to volunteer at the rewarding non-profit gave us the sweet, healing moments both characters needed to understand the feelings they had for one another.




**Spoiler Ahead**
Covering the real issue of attempted suicide is very difficult, but it was handled here well, and luckily ended in a positive manner. The real antagonist of this story is the mental struggles from abuse, transferring from Mia's mom to Mia, who then took it out on Silas. Cash is an amazing partner to Silas and supported him 100% when things started to get complicated and broken down.

You'd do yourself a disservice if you don't read at least books 2 & 3 before diving into this one.

Audiobook:
As always, Finnley Cole appears to have an uncanny ability to adjust his voice to represent different characters. Although Devin & Axel's voices are probably the most distinctive among them, it was incredibly easy to follow who was speaking and whose POV we were in for each chapter. It's impressive. The audiobook is an awesome experience if you enjoy your books in that way.

I received an authorized copy of this story/audiobook and am volunteering my honest review

[Gabbi Grey]

Two hearts (an audio review)

I’ve really enjoyed listening to the Rock U series by Christie. Each band member is so much more than just a musician. Silas, though, has been one of the more enigmatic characters to watch as he’s evolved. He took down a mass shooter. But that comes with all kind of guilt because his friend was injured. Because people died. Then, he has another opportunity to step in and help someone in distress. Of course he helps. He’s Silas. He doesn’t know how to do anything else.

Turns out he helped Cash who, in turn, finds reasons to get to know Silas better. But Silas as got problems. One in particular. A nasty ex-girlfriend who is just…awful. Almost caricature like in her meanness. With a toxic mother to boot. Silas needs to get out from under that situation, but he finds it hard to extricate himself. Enter Cash to offer support.

The guys are good together, but when Silas’s past reappears yet again, it’s Cash who steps up and does the right thing. I’ll say that I dislike people who are manipulators (have one or two in my life). The extreme in this book was pretty sharp. But it gave Cash and Silas the opportunity to bond. The grumpy to the sunshine. The foster kid with the loving family to the band member whose family is also almost entirely found.

This was a great listen and I enjoyed it immensely. I’ve enjoyed all the books in the series. I’ll also say Finnley Cole is a good narrator and I really enjoy what he’s done with these books. Well worth a listen.

[LeeAnn]

Oh my goodness!!
I just love Cash and Silas's story.
How they met, became a hot couple, were there for each other in every way possible.
Everything about this book showed the love they eventually feel for each other.
Tragic events helped shape these two men. How they overcome them with the help of each other was beautifully shown.
Silas has two families. One he was born into and one he chose to create with his band mates/best friends.
Cash too has had a tragic past but with the love and support of his adoptive parents and the family they created he is able to overcome his past and see in Silas the warm wonderful, caring man he is.
Silas cannot believe someone so happy almost all the time can be interested in a cranky guy like himself. However, he is eternally grateful to find this man, love this man and be loved by this man.
Together they are the cutest couple.
There is a lot going on in this book. Many great side characters, in the form of Silas's bandmates and their significant others as well as both Silas and Cash's parents.
I am not going to give anything away but be ready to be charmed, fall in love with these boys, need a fan and meet 2 people who need serious help to be ok.
The things I experienced were delight, surprise, sadness, anger, woo it's hot in here, annoyance, aww moments and a very satisfying HEA for the boys.

I give this book 5/5 fluffy kitties.

Looking forward to the next in this series.

[Katriana]

Silas is the one who stopped that madman in the shooting, everyone calls him a hero. He doesn't feel like he is, and he doesn't believe it either. In fact he believes he could've done more, could've saved more people. One night he ends up helping a man about to be mugged, and the man he saved changed his life for the better.

Cash grew up in the foster care system and had a rough time while being there. Thankfully he did get adopted into a wonderful and loving family that's full of love and plenty of siblings. When Silas helps him from being mugged, he knows Silas is it for him. He'll just have to make Silas see it.

I thought Silas and Cash's story was good, it was written well. There was drama in the story, due to Silas's ex, there was plenty of supportive family feels throughout the book. As well as a very powerful message; that message being, it's okay to get help. It takes strength to reach out and ask for help and to accept it. I really appreciate that Christie really made that message sing in this book. I adored Cash's family, along with Silas's band family. They all care about each other and have one another so backs when it's needed.

I don't know quite how to feel about how Silas and Cash got together. I mean it was pretty quick, and while I do think it's good that they just did what felt right to them, it was definitely giving off an insta-love vibe. I'm interested in seeing where Christie continues to take this series.

[Kurohagi]

Always a pleasant appointment with the rest of this series.
Once again, the protagonists fall in love at first sight.
I think Silas is one of my favorite characters in this band. I love his rough and tough side on the outside while, as Cash says so well, he's only soft and sweet on the inside.
I liked knowing how he experienced the shooting, and how he experienced the aftermath. I really find him very endearing. I understand why Cash is crazy about him.
Cash is also an endearing character, after everything he has experienced, his good humor and his determination are just magical.
A beautiful love story that talks about the importance of communication, and struggle to acceptance.
Don't hesitate to read it like the whole series!

---

Un rendez-vous toujours agréable avec la suite de cette série.
Encore une fois, les protagonistes tombent amoureux au premier regard.
Je crois que Silas est un de mes personnages préférés de cette bande. J'adore son côté brut et gros dur en façade alors que comme le dit si bien Cash, il n'est que douceur à l'intérieur.
J'ai aimé savoir comment avait vécu la fusillade, et comment il vivait la suite. Je le trouve vraiment très attachant. Je comprends pourquoi Cash est dingue de lui.
Cash est un personnage attachant également, après tout ce qu'il a vécu, sa bonne humeur et sa détermination sont juste magiques.
Une belle histoire d'amour qui parlent encore de l'importance de la communication.
A lire avec toute la série !

[Donna]

Silas is the next member of the rock band Knot Me to find his forever person in the Rock U series. Silas is still dealing with the aftermath of a shooting where another band member was injured, having trouble being called a hero for his actions that day. When he steps in to rescue the victim of an attempted robbery, that word comes up again— HERO. Cash is so upbeat, sunshiny, over the top, Silas doesn’t know how to take him, but he quickly finds himself pursued by this happy, crazy guy, and his cranky, grumpy outlook is constantly challenged. When problems with his ex threaten his new relationship with Cash, Cash and the band give him the support he needs to get thru it and come out a happier, more confident person in himself. Characters from the previous books are there, new ones appear that might play an ongoing part (maybe Jack can connect with one of the remaining guys), there are kittens, another Silas/Cash pair, true blue friends, and supportive families to continue to add to the small world revolving around this rock band. Some triggers for past trauma, emotional abuse, stalking, and self harm by a nonMC, hurt/comfort, and a dual POV to take us on this emotional ride. Looking forward to the next book on the band.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving this voluntary review.

[Sheena]

This is the 4th in the Rock U series, and I feel like I've spent so much time with these boys that I know them all by now. This is Silas and Cash's story, and Cash is a new character although we've met Silas in the previous books. This is grumpy/sunshine which is my absolute kryptonite, it's probably my favourite trope. Silas is going through a lot, getting over severe trauma with the help of therapy, not helped by an ex who won't let go and borders on stalking. He's closed off and grumpy most of the time when we meet him.

Cash is a joy, he's sunshine personified and straight away breaks down all of Silas' barriers mostly by simply ignoring them. It's so wonderful to see these two get so close, so quickly and how good they are for each other. This isn't just one sided, they each bring something to the relationship and although it's so fast for them both, it works for them, I think. There's the complication of Silas' ex though, and that doesn't go away until it comes to a head. I loved how protective Cash was of Silas and him enrolling the help of the band family was great - I love found family too.

I really enjoyed this story, it was hot, sweet and just a lot of fun.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Rachel]

3.5 stars
The Rock U series is a spin-off of the Mesa Boys series, and this fourth book of the series is pretty good although the insta-love in this story was really intense and fast; they fell in love quickly and confessed it to each other during what I think was their second weekend together. It was a pretty good story overall, especially since the MCs were less immature than they often were in the Mesa Boys series. They weren't too awkward with each other even at the beginning of their relationship although Silas was a little put off by Cash at first impression. Anyway, as was the case for the other books of this series, the interior monologues of these MCs weren't as awkward (maybe cringey is a better word) or dramatic as the interior monologues of most of the MCs of the guys in the Mesa Boys series. In any case, so far, this series feels less like a YA romance series masquerading as an adult romance series unlike the Mesa Boys series. It's not just the presence of open-door sex scenes that separate YA romance from adult romance for me but also how the characters think and behave. Anyway, after four books that actually feel like I'm reading about men over twenty rather than high schoolers, I think I'm confident enough to say that is an adult romance series.

[Jozey]

Light me up
Rock U #4
By Christie Gordon

Contains: college rock band player, rich/poor, narcissist ex, difficult youth, adopted, sunny, grumpy

TW: Abusive ex, mass shøøting trauma (bk2), suicid@l attempt, overdøse

This book is so different from the others. It's full of fluff, flamboyant positive gay twink with depress grumpy rock band member. It is dose so well. It is sweeter when compared to the previous book in the series, but still with a dose of something planning, waiting, a disaster you apprehend to happen. It keeps us until the very end. Otherwise, the line story is along the romantic feeling between them.
The chemistry between the MCs are hot. Their relationship start odd but get clearer and clearer. I kinda fell the inevitable really long before it happened.
The only Negative point: the author seems to paint a slightly homophobic father without emotion, only to deconstruct this idea and say that he resembles the main character, i.e. grumpy ... that's it. It was brushed over too easily for what we're led to believe at first. It was too whiplash for me.

**This is my honest opinion**

[Erica]

Audio Review: Light Me Up by Christie Gordon is the continuation of the Rock U Series where this story focuses on Silas and Cash. Silas, the rhythm guitarist in Knot Me met Cas while stopping him from being robbed. Cash, feeling like this time maybe someone will love him for who he is and not just a one and done. As Cash and Silas start dating, he has an ex-girlfriend who he left after being emotionally abusive when he needed her support after the mass shooting that left him traumatized.
Cash knows what it is like to have someone abuse you like his birth parents did. Cash will do anything to help Silas through everything he is going through. I like this story because it shows that therapy and putting yourself first helps with your mental health as well as a loved one being there when they need you the most. Cash is sweet to Sila’s grumpiness and is the perfect combination to bring Silas back from the dark and into the light. As always Finney Cole & Christie captures the characters and the storytelling with his beautiful voice and her wonderful characters that makes this audiobook great.

[Sunshine]

LIGHT ME UP

This is the first book I have read by Christie Gordon and I was pleasantly surprised by both the storyline and characters.

I think the book was enjoyable from start to finish. Each character had a lot of depth, and there was great humor and a lot of love between the families and Silas and Cash. It had some interesting characters aside from the band members, and the ex-girlfriend Mia was really written well.

I love the inclusion of the volunteer work at the cat rescue and how Silas was helping them with his CPA knowledge! And of course, the importance of the foster parents that were so special to Cash and Jack. Meeting their siblings was also great for the interaction between all of them. Christie thought to include everyone! As they said, they had their families and their band family.

Overall, if you are looking for a book that has an actual storyline and believable characters, then you will enjoy Light Me Up by Christie Gordon. I will look forward to reading some of the other books in this series.

[Mommysuz]

This story centers around Cash, who is as sweet and determined as they come, and Silas, the grumpy guitarist from Knot Me. From the moment Cash sets eyes on Silas, there's an undeniable attraction.

Both characters come with baggage—Silas is still dealing with the trauma of a shooting, and Cash dealing comes from the foster care system. Despite these challenges, Cash knows exactly what he wants, and that’s Silas. His persistence and genuine warmth slowly break through Silas’s tough exterior.

I have to admit, I read/listened to the series out of order. It didn’t take away from the enjoyment of this book. Each book in the series focuses on a different couple, and they all have their own unique journey to a happily ever after.

A special shoutout to Finnley Cole,
the narrator. His narration truly brought the characters to life, capturing the essence of both Cash's sweetness and Silas's gruffness perfectly.

If you're a fan of opposites-attract romances, this book is a must-read/listen. And if you enjoy audiobooks, Finnley Cole's narration is not to be missed!

[Anne Harris]

I have got to say this series has been brilliant, and this book is no different.

I couldn’t believe the difference in Silas when he had Cash by his side. My heart broke for Silas going through so much abuse and trauma with the shooting, and with his ex Mia, who sadly has her own story of abuse. She just misdirected it at Silas. Cash and Silas are like soulmates they are perfect for one Another. Silas is the ying to Cash’s yang. The passion that they share for one another is off the charts, but it’s that deep connection that really shone through for me. It was nice catching up with everyone as well.
I will admit I saw Cash becoming an interior designer after speaking to Silas’s mum. He’s definitely got that flare of colour and energy which has brought out Silas from his black surroundings.
An Absolutely brilliant read this is an easy five star review and I cannot wait for next book in the series.
I received an ARC and this is me leaving my honest review.

[Heather MMRomanceReviewed]

I've been waiting for Silas to get his HEA - from the mass shooting to his ex-girlfriend, he's had very little to smile about and I am so happy that Cash provided the balance and the sunshine to Silas' grumpy and sad exterior. The relationship itself has very little angst, but Silas' past features prominently.

This book was a page turner in the best way - steamy and sweet romance with great friends and family support and some aha moments for the characters. It also has some dark and difficult parts that balance the sunshine - and this is where reading the trigger warnings is important - there are a lot of positives that come out of the trauma situations, but there is a lot of past and present trauma in the storyline. As with the rest of the series, I was fully engaged from start to finish and I can't wait to see where we go next! While this book could be read standalone, you would understand it better as part of the series.

[Crystal]

4.5/5 stars. Every book I've read in this series I've loved. This book was just as good as the previous ones and I look forward to the next book! I also like how she covers the trauma the characters deal with following the shooting they were involved in and the hero complex Silas is dealing with. How he feels he didn't do enough during the shooting and how it bothers him when people praise him for what he did. This book was a little personal to me with the toxic situation Silas is dealing with his ex-girlfriend and how he is trying to recover from the abuse he dealt with during and even after the relationship had ended. She covers heavy topics very respectfully and it is one reason I have enjoyed this series so much. If you enjoy grumpy sunshine characters finding their person who treats them like they deserve to be treated and male male pairings I highly recommend this series. I was provided a free arc to review and these views are my own opinions.

[Joan]

I just finished Light Me Up, and it was a wonderful story of unexpectedly finding your one. This is Silas’ story and how by coming to the aid of someone being mugged he encounters a man that will rock his world. Cash never expected to be a victim of a robbery, but Silas comes to Cash’s rescue, and it was fate. This book takes us on their journey of discovering love, dealing with crazy ex-girlfriends, band family and learning that healing needs to happen after traumatic events impact your life and if the right person is there supporting you and loving you then nothing is impossible. This melted my heart and by the end I was even thawing to Mia, the stalker as she faces up to her challenges in the end. This is Book 4 of the Rock U series and I highly recommend both this book and series as these guys find the loves of their lives.

[Elaine Gray]

In the latest addition to the 'Rock U' series, the focus is on Silas, a character who has appeared in previous books. Silas is struggling to come to terms with the trauma of his past and the aftermath of an emotionally abusive relationship. One day, he finds himself in a difficult situation where Cash, a stranger known for his kindness and cheerfulness, saves him from a robbery. Silas and Cash feel an immediate connection, and despite the obstacles they encounter, they quickly form a deep and meaningful relationship. Cash's unwavering support helps Silas overcome his fears and find happiness. Along with the emphasis on the importance of love and friendship, Silas's friends also play a significant role in his life. The book is also sweet, and romantic, with great characters and I enjoyed it.

[Jeanette Buck]

This is the fourth book in the Rock U series. Silas has had a tough year. Having been involved in mass shooting and recovering from a toxic relationship. His ex still won't leave him alone. When he sees Cash being mugged he steps in to help him. Cash has a big crush on Silas and is determined to take Cash out on a date as a thank you. Silas does feel drawn to him and they have an instant connection, although Silas' ex-girlfriend makes it difficult for them. But when they both realise that her mental health is declining rapidly they help her. It makes them stronger and Cash helps Silas see that he needs to work on his traumas too. It was quite an emotional read but they were a sweet couple too.

[Ida Umphers]

I am a fan of the grumpy sunshine trope and stories where there is an ex- with an axe to grind trying to mess things up, so this one was right up my alley. Poor Silas, despite his attempts to be cranky and standoffish, he just keeps getting involved with people who need his help in some scary situations and he responds beautifully. Cash knows exactly the kind of family he's always wanted, and he's determined to find the right man to build that with. It's fairly clear quickly that man is Silas - if he can convince Silas and if they can get some help for themselves and others to find some emotional equilibrium. Loved watching these two figure out their relationship and get the wonderful HEA they both deserve.

[Ζωή Παππά]

This is the fourth book in the series but it can be read as a standalone. Each book follows a different member of a rock band. In this book the main character is Silas, the rhythm guitar player, and his love interest is Cash.
Silas is a grumpy person and Cash is pure sunshine. Both men are recovering from past trauma and one of the things I really loved in this book was that it really showed the importance of being in therapy.
It was a bit too insta love for my personal taste but I still enjoyed it very much. I finished it in a day, the pacing was great, and I liked the chemistry between Silas and Cash.
The narrator was brilliant, he really brought the characters to life and the audiobook quality was excellent. I can't wait to read more books in the series.

[Reed]

I’m reviewing the audio edition.
When Cash is getting robbed, luckily Silas saves him.
Silas has so much going on in his life. He feels burdened by being labeled as a hero when he feels his actions are what anybody should do. He also is being stalked by his abusive ex Mia who he has not figured out how to deal with that situation. He is gaining the reputation of being totally cynical about life.
Then there is Cash. He has had his share of problems but has learned to sort of deal with them. When faced with his savior Silas, there is this instant attraction between them that Cash just won’t let go of.
This is such an entertaining story. Two different personalities that somehow fit. I really enjoyed the narration by Finnley Cole. I hope to listen to more in this series.

[Nicole A]

Light Me Up is book 4 of the Rock U series. It’s a grumpy/sunshine mm romance.
Silas is a hero. He tackled a shooter and saved a bunch of people. But he’s suffering from trauma and abuse at the hands of his ex.
Cash is a happy and confident person. He had suffered trauma from his past but, with therapy and a supportive adopted family, Cash looks at everything in a positive light.
Silas and Cash meet when Silas saves Cash from a mugging. There is an instant connection. Silas tries to fight it but Cash pushes to get together again. There is an instalove attraction and deeper connection and Cash isn’t willing to let it go. At first, Silas thinks he’s crazy because he is so insistent and seemingly so happy all the time, but he can’t stop thinking about Cash.
This is a beautiful story of love and finding your person, of support and comfort, of found family. The characters are what make this story great! Silas is so sweet behind the grumpy exterior and Cash is a wonderful example of how therapy and support can bring a person beyond their trauma. Of course it’s great to see Silas’ fellow band mates from Knot Me. The love and support they have for each other is what family means. I really enjoyed Cash’s family. They were so supportive and caring and all his siblings were as wonderful as he is.
Light Me Up is a wonderful mm romance full of love and support. I can’t wait for more from Rock U!

[Tina]

I have been curious about Silas since the first book in this series. His story does not disappoint! Note: You don't have to read the first 3 books in the series, but it would help to understand what Silas and his friends have endured to get to where they are.

Silas and Cash have an unconventional meet cute. Silas was a bit wary of Cash after there first encounter, yet enthralled as well... not that he was going to admit that. Cash and Silas had every reason why they shouldn't jump into a relationship right away, but it seemed like that wasn't an option when the attraction was so strong. When Silas' ex makes it a point to interfere with Silas' happiness, will he cower or will he fight for what he wants?

I enjoyed this story very much. Each book in this series keep getting better and better. I look forward to the next in the series.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Rhonda Boone]

I really enjoyed Silas and Cash's story. Cash's personality is so happy, funny and your drawn to him in the story. While Silas struggles with the hero worship/helping complex...his grumpy disposition is tolerated by his circle of friends. Their journey does has struggles they have to deal with...emotions, outside people harassment that brings up some past issues... I love Christie's writing on sensitive matters..I highly recommend this book...the writer does heal the heart in unexpected ways...💖

I received this as an ARC for free and leaving my honest review.

[Anne]

Wow, I absolutely loved this book! The meeting of our hero who doesn't believe he is one, Silas, and Cash is so out of the norm, but seems typical for these two. How they work together to solve a situation or work through a feeling, proved they were meant to be together and nothing life could throw at them, would break them apart.
Compassion for humans and kittens, to heeding inner warning signs of someone in distress, provides us with people we wish we had in out everyday lives.
I received a copy and this is my honest and voluntary review.