Once upon a time, my life was a fairytale. Engaged to a beautiful woman, we were planning our perfect future. Then, the sick act of an obsessed man ruined everything. Alone, disfigured, and betrayed, I fled to LA to focus on my work as a paleontologist.
It was there I met Declan.
The gorgeous Viking of a man awakens feelings within me I never knew existed. But how can I let myself get close to him when no one could ever see beyond my scars?
Declan
Savion is unlike anyone I’ve ever met. The pain of his past allows him to understand my upbringing in a way no one has before. As I get to know him, I’m awakened to the possibility that I’m bi.
I know a relationship with me would be a lot for him to endure. Not only am I much older than him, but my life in the limelight comes with a lot of media attention that can feel stifling. Even so, there’s something about Savvy that makes me ache to protect him.
Whether he realizes it or not, I'm in deep and already hooked. For him, I will risk it all to prove my love. Will the stars align for us or burn out far too soon?
When the Stars Align is a book in the multi-author Road to Rocktoberfest 2024 series. Each book can be read as a standalone, but why not read them all and see what antics our bands get into next? Hot rockstars and the men who love them, what more could you ask for? Kick back, load up your kindle and enjoy the men of Rocktoberfest!
"Their journey from strangers, to friends, to the moment they realize they've fallen for someone they never expected to love. That's the heart of this story." [sic]
This is the story of Savion, a 30-year-old paleontologist with visible scars and a tragic past, and Declan, 42-year-old musician, whose scars are on the inside, but has a heart of gold. The two men meet at a museum fundraiser, where Dec is a guest and Savvi is working; they strike up a friendship which in turn becomes more.
I devoured this story in two reading sessions, spread across less than 12 hours, which is no small feat as the book is 382 pages long. Savion and Declan are both complex characters, and I loved how their stories were revealed over time, adding a bit of suspense to the novel. Their struggles with their sexualities and discovering new attractions at their adult ages were beautifully written, and I loved the ever-supportive side characters, namely Dec's band mates and Savvi's best friend. Of course, anytime an unknown person gets involved with a celebrity, some drama occurs, and I actually like how the author managed to make me angry on the characters' behalf for what they had to go through and what some people around them were saying! The main story (epilogue aside) takes place over a few months, but the relationship never felt rushed, and I adored how patience and verbal consent were so important in their relationship. There's a really dramatic turn near the end of the story and I really liked how that played out!
I really want to give this story 5⭐. The plot, the drama, the character developments, were all absolutely amazing!!! That being said, there were some minor errors and inconsistencies and perhaps some jumps that were a bit jarring to me. Of course, ARCs are not finalised and these could still be picked up in a final revision—so for now, I'm giving this story 4.5⭐.
I received an eARC If this book in exchange for an honest review.
Declan Mercer is forty-two and rhythm guitarist for Orion Skye. The band has returned from a gig in NYC. Now, he was hoping to just have time to focus on himself. The only family he truly has is the bandmates of Orion Skye. But even with sold-out concerts, rehearsals, and parties, he still felt a loneliness. He’s prepared himself to make a much needed change in his life. Erin may have had her reasons for loving him but, it just wasn’t him. He’s ready to tell her it’s over. They weren’t on the same page and she never really knew him. He just never met the right person that fit with him.
The bandmates of Orion Skye all had their own quirks, but they were loyal. Lennon is the lead singer and plays guitar. His long time lover is Skye. Skye wasn’t a band member but in their teenage years she wrote songs for the band and the band is named for her. Lars played drums, and Jazz played bass. Their manager is Crystelle, seems she always bringing bad ideas from Hank a major investor.
Dec has other important things in his life he want’s to get back too. One is his studio where a blank canvas awaits him. He was happy once with his art work that hangs on his walls. One painting he’ll always treasure is of his late mother. He finished that painting on the seventeenth anniversary of her death. He had lost the inspiration to paint and can only hope it may have been due to the involvement with the wrong person. Maybe now with the change in his life he could find the inspiration to paint again. But something was still missing in Dec’s life.
Savion Hayes at thirty works with the Natural History Museum and is a paleontologist. He is very much an introvert and is trying to put a traumatic experience behind him. He just doesn’t carry the memory, but he physically wears the scars. The scars had changed his life and he lost someone he thought loved him. He’s lonely but not totally, he has a best friend and roommate Kelly, who lends him needed support.
On the night of the Museum fundraiser, Savion becomes very noticeable as he attracts Dec, while standing in-front of the giant skeleton, Gigantoraptor. When Dec and Savion meet there’s a spark between them. Dec is more than interested to by-pass the fundraiser and have Savion give him a tour of the museum. Despite his scars and the whispers, Dec makes him feel like he’s no longer invisible.
After a few days, Savion and Dec meet again. They find a new friendship that grows between them. They find things to do even if they are new experiences for them both. The friendship takes a turn and starts to grow into new feelings of their sexuality. For Savion he still can’t believe a man such as Dec is even interested in him. He also struggles to trust and feel safe with Dec. Dec is always mindful of Savion’s feelings and worries. He never pushes Savion and always tries to give him the respect and space that he needs.
As the relationship grows, Savion still struggles with the world of Dec. He’s not used to all the public notoriety. With the ups and downs in this new budding relationship, Savion has no idea how careful he needs to be. The horror of his past may come back to haunt him. In the midst of it all, Savion is deceived and the bureaucracy and broken system put his life back in danger. Will all faith be lost or will Dec and the band mates of Orion Skye find a way to Savion?
Denver Shaw creates a powerful story of various emotions with “When Stars Align” for “The Road to Rocktoberfest 2024”. It’s a story of self awakening and the reality of a new sexuality for both Dec and Savion. Savion really struggles through with the memories of his trauma. He suffers an on going emotional time and can’t find a way to feel safe and trust again. He can’t believe someone like Dec would want him as he deals with the physical scars. Even in the growing relationship between Dec and Savion, there’s hesitancy. Dec is a solid support for Savion. He doesn’t push Savion and respects the space he needs. He’s willing to move at Savion’s pace to give him the chance to build feelings of security and trust.
The supporting band mates of Orion Skye: Lars, Lennon, and Jazz really come through and show their support and friendship that they give to Dec and Savion.
I highly recommend “When Stars Align” another installment to “The Road to Rocktoberfest 2024”. It’s a love story of a new sexual awakening, that’s heartbreaking, sad, but hopeful and still has positivity, humor and love. This is a nicely written story by Denver Shaw, and she really digs deep to express all the feelings between Dec and Savion. Well done!
I have been choosing more absolutely beautiful love stories to read lately, and this one joins the group. These two characters grabbed me from the first pages and had me hooked all the way through, anxious to see how they would get together and deal with their questions, their doubts, their confusion on the unexpected feelings they felt for each other out of nowhere — we’re straight, aren’t we? Declan is a famous rock star, but he is missing that special someone in his life, someone who is his, someone to love and love him back.
Savion is a paleontologist with the Natural History Museum, a young man physically scarred in the past, by someone he knew and trusted, and trust is a huge issue for him, along with hiding his scars as much as possible to not stand out. When the two meet at a museum fundraiser, sparks move between them, leading both to wonder, what is that, what is going on. When they meet a few days later, they hit it off, finding conversation flows and there is a feeling of comfort in each other’s company, and a feeling of safety for Savion.
With both never having had these feelings for a man before, it is a long road to building a physical relationship but it does progress with hesitancy, with mingled hopes and fears on both sides, tenderness, and a longing for promises of more. But building a relationship between a rockstar and a very insecure nerd isn’t easy, and Declan is mindful, only moving at a pace that Savvy feels comfortable with. It seems each time all seems to be going well, a stumbling block looms, raising doubts again especially on Savvy’s part — is he good enough for Dec? When Savvy’s past comes back to haunt him, Declan must do everything he can to support and protect him, making sure he knows he is wanted and loved.
Supporting characters add to the relationship for both characters, great world building around the rock band, there is the obligatory villian, some nail-biting scenes, emotional ups and downs, and finally a very happy ending.
The picture built of Savvy, his trauma, the aftermath years later, and the emotional toll it has on him is realistic and heartbreaking. You just want to see him get a break with someone he can trust, depend on, and feel safe with, and Declan gives his all to be that guy, but getting past all the self doubt and what-ifs is difficult for Savvy. The special times they both create for each other demonstrate the care for each other, all the sides they see of each other, and the things they would appreciate and need.
A beautiful love story, painful, heartbreaking, tearful and sad, but also positive, hopeful, with laughter, and uplifting. I couldn’t put it down, reading it in one sitting. I think this one will be on my To Reread list, and is one I would recommend. An engrossing and emotional read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Recently, I have started picking out more exquisitely lovely love stories to read, and this one is no exception. I was captivated by these two characters from the very beginning and couldn't put the book down. I couldn't wait to find out how they would face the challenges that came with their sudden and unexpected love for each other. After all, we're both straight, aren't we? Even though Declan is a well-known rock musician, he longs for the company of a soulmate—someone who can truly be his and return his love. Savion works as a paleontologist for the Natural History Museum. He is a young guy who was physically injured in the past by someone he trusted, which has made him very vulnerable emotionally and physically. He tries very hard to hide his scars so that they don't draw attention to them. Their unexpected meeting at a museum fundraiser ignites a spark, leaving them both to question what's happening. A few days later, they finally meet, and they immediately click. Savion feels protected, the talk flows easily, and they both find solace in each other's company. The path to a physical connection is long and winding, filled with trepidation, mixed emotions (hopes and concerns), tenderness, and a want for more, as neither of them has ever felt these things for a guy before. Relationship development between a rockstar and an extremely insecure nerd isn't simple, but Declan is careful to move at Savvy's pace. It appears that every time things are looking up, a problem pops up, casting doubt on Savvy's abilities—is he good enough for Dec? Declan must do all in his power to shield Savvy from the repercussions of his past while also assuring him of his love and support. Great world building surrounding the rock band, supporting characters who enrich the relationship between the two leads, the stereotypical villain, thrilling action sequences, roller coaster emotions, and a happy conclusion fill out the plot. The depiction of Savvy, his trauma, and the impact it continues to have on him even after all these years is both accurate and tragic. Even though Declan tries his hardest to be the kind of guy Savvy needs—someone he can trust, rely on, and feel secure around—overcoming Savvy's self-doubt and what-ifs is no easy feat. They show how much they care for one another, how they recognize each other's best qualities, and what they would value and require through the unique experiences they plan for one another. A lovely love story that is at once hopeful, humorous, upbeat, and tragic; it is also agonizing, devastating, crying, and sad. Reading it in one sitting was impossible for me. Without a doubt, this is one that I will be adding to my list of books to reread. An emotionally charged and riveting read.I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
When Stars Align by Denver Shaw is a poignant and beautifully crafted romance that explores the depths of love and healing against the backdrop of personal scars—both physical and emotional. The story centers on Savion, a paleontologist grappling with the aftermath of a traumatic experience that has left him disfigured and emotionally wounded. His life takes an unexpected turn when he moves to LA to escape his past and focus on his career, only to encounter Declan, a captivating man who challenges his perceptions of beauty and connection.
Savion’s journey is one of self-discovery and resilience. Shaw portrays his struggle with self-acceptance in a sensitive manner, delving into the complexities of living with scars that go beyond the physical. The contrast between Savion's troubled past and Declan's vibrant presence adds depth to their relationship. Declan, a charismatic and protective figure, embodies strength and vulnerability, as he too grapples with his identity and feelings for Savion. The exploration of Declan’s burgeoning bisexuality adds an authentic layer to the narrative, showcasing how love can inspire self-acceptance and growth.
The chemistry between Savion and Declan is palpable, marked by tender moments and emotional intensity. Shaw’s writing shines in the way it captures the nuances of their relationship—the hesitations, the longing, and the moments of vulnerability that draw them closer. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing readers to savor their connection while maintaining a sense of urgency as they navigate their individual challenges.
Shaw does an excellent job of portraying the impact of external pressures, such as media scrutiny and societal expectations, on their relationship. The stakes feel real, as both men confront the fears and insecurities that threaten to pull them apart. The themes of protection, acceptance, and the courage to embrace love despite the risks resonate throughout the story, making it an emotionally rich read.
When Stars Align is not just a romance; it’s a celebration of resilience, understanding, and the transformative power of love. Denver Shaw has crafted a heartfelt narrative that will leave readers rooting for Savion and Declan as they navigate their complicated worlds. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates stories of healing and the beauty of finding love in unexpected places.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When the Stars Align by Denver Shaw is a beautifully crafted romance that takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster. This book is part of the multi-author Road to Rocktoberfest 2024 series, but it stands out with its unique blend of heartfelt storytelling and complex characters. Each book in the Road to Rocktoberfest 2024 series can be read as a complete standalone.
The story revolves around Savion, a paleontologist whose life was once almost perfect. Engaged to a beautiful woman, his world was shattered by the traumatic act of an obsessed man, leaving him disfigured and emotionally scarred. Seeking solace, Savion moves to LA, where he meets Declan, a charismatic man who awakens feelings within him that he never knew existed.
Declan is a man who has always lived in the limelight. His life as a public figure comes with its own set of challenges, including intense media scrutiny. Despite being much older than Savion, Declan finds himself drawn to Savion’s vulnerability and strength. As Savion's and Declan's connection strengthens they both begin to explore their dynamic chemistry.
Their romance is a journey of healing and self-discovery. Savion’s past pain allows him to understand Declan’s struggles in a way no one else can. The chemistry between them is palpable, and their relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding. Declan’s protective nature and Savion’s courage to open up again create a dynamic and heartwarming love story.
The author masterfully addresses themes of self-acceptance, healing, and the courage to love again. The backdrop of the vibrant music world and Declan’s band mates add an exciting and dynamic element to the narrative, making it not just a love story but a celebration of life, friendship and music.
I was drawn into the world this author creates, rooting for Savion and Declan as they navigate their fears and insecurities. The book is a testament to the power of love to heal and transform, and it left me with a warm, hopeful feeling.
When the Stars Align is truly a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-written romance with depth and heart. Denver Shaw has truly outdone herself with this one, delivering a story that is both touching and unforgettable.
Declan is a rockstar and is enjoying an amazing career. The band is his family. He always has that familial love and there are always people to support him, but there is still something missing in his life. Worse yet, he has lost his muse and can’t seem to find the creativity needed to write lyrics or paint. He didn’t know what was missing, but he knew when he found it, things would click.
Savion is introverted now. He wasn’t always this way, but after the attack, he didn’t trust, didn’t love, and had no real interest in being with people. When he is approached by someone who seems more interested in his mind and his life and not the way he looks. He doesn’t trust him or his own feelings.
Finding each other and realizing that they actually needed each other is a surprise to them both and requires a lot of self-reflection, trust, and understanding. Somehow, they figure out how to make it work for them.
OPINION: I loved so much of this book. The story of these two coming together is heartfelt and so enjoyable. The only place I was a little unsure about was where they rescued Savvy, creating a whole situation that really felt weird like we had slipped into some other story. With that said, it was so wonderful seeing these men figuring out their own identities and traversing these new feelings, both physical and emotional, together. I thought both characters were so much fun, and even with the trauma, I found myself completely drawn into the story and wanting to find out what happened next. I appreciated finding out what actually happened to Savvy. There was such pure love between these two, which was amazing. The friend group is so much fun, especially Kelly. And there are some very sensual, spice scenes that give the book a wonderful flow. This is the only book I have read from the Rocktoberfest series, but I picked a good one. I highly recommend this story—even with the interesting ending—the book is a great read with some really wonderful characters.
This is an MM romance that explores unexpected feelings, past trauma, lifestyle differences, and a lurking danger. Savion is a paleontologist who loves his job but struggles to cope with the trauma from his past. The heartbreak of his broken engagement, due to betrayal and harm caused by his supposed best friend, makes him wary of trusting anyone new. Declan, on the other hand, is a guitarist for Orion Skye, a popular rock band, but he longs for a true connection with someone, and his artistic expression is suffering as a result. When these two meet, they initially become friends, but it isn’t long before deeper feelings begin to emerge—feelings that everyone around them can see, but they remain oblivious to. As Savion and Declan grow closer, they must face the challenges posed by the spotlight on a rockstar, Savion’s own inner demons, and a menacing figure from the past. Will they be able to survive these challenges and become the healing influence they each desperately need, or will their relationship end in flames before they can uncover how the stars have aligned to bring them together? This book is not the first I’ve read by this author, but it is by far the most enjoyable one yet. I have a soft spot for rockstar romances, and I appreciated the exploration of the characters' different lifestyles, as well as the traumas they've each endured. I do think the story could have benefited from more editing in certain areas, as some parts felt overly detailed while others seemed lacking. The chemistry between the characters was strong, and their friends were the kind of supportive figures everyone wishes they had. However, the rapid acceptance of their new feelings for each other seemed a bit unrealistic. Overall, I enjoyed the story, particularly the drama toward the end, but I believe it could have been even better. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Declan has been searching for something. He has been uninspired in his creative life as an artist and a musician and he just can’t seem to find someone he truly connects with. But that all changes when he meets Savion. He doesn’t understand the connection he has with him at first. But everything just seems to be so easy between them. Savion treats him like a normal person and not like a famous rockstar. And there is just something so beautiful about him inside and out that calls to Declan. Savion has been hurt before. Both physically and mentally. And he has scars for both to prove it. Ever since the attack, he has been doing his best to blend in and not draw attention to himself. He knows every time he is around people, they are staring and whispering about his scars. But not Declan. Declan never stares and never asks. He’s patient and kind and he is inspiring feelings Savion has never had toward a guy before. He may be scared to form any bond with someone after what he has been through but there is something about Declan that makes him want to try. I adored these two. I loved the connection they had and how they slowly had to figure out it was more than just a friendship. They both had their moments of why now and how did I not know about this about themselves. But in the end, they just knew that this connection between them was special and worth pursuing. Both have been through so much and deserve their happy ending. It’s hard won after everything they have been through in the past and in their time together. I couldn’t put this story down! You definitely don’t want to miss this one.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“Every scar, every mark it’s part of what makes you extraordinary. You’ve fought through so much to be standing here, and that’s what I admire. You’re not just beautiful; you’re a warrior.” - Declan
"With Declan, everything else falls away. The past, the hurt, the fear it all dissolves, leaving just this moment. Just us." - Savion
From the start Savion saw Declan as a person and not as a famous artist and Declan always treated Savion with a lot of respect and patience, he saw Savion, a person. Savion has scars and is sadly used to people saying mean things or staring at him because of that. He has a hard time believing that he deserves love and that he is beautiful and Declan gladly tells him that he is beautiful, as many times as he needs to hear those words, he helps him be more comfortable in his own skin. And he also helps Savior with his panic attacks in a good way, he just always listen and makes sure that he is okay.
I really loved that they gave each other time to explain parts of themselves, they treated each other with so much care and love. And the small changes in Savion’s confidence were written beautifully. Him choosing to not wear makeup around Declan because he realized that Declan would never say anything negative about his looks and that Declan makes him feel safe. And Declan telling Savion a personal story very early on in the book because Savion makes him feel safe enough to open up without judgment.
This book had definitely some unexpected twists but I loved reading their story. Double bi-awakening & age gap (12 years). I received an copy of this book.
Character Development: 4/5 • Savion and Declan were very well thought out characters. Both with traumas so deep that still needing healing years after. I loved watching their friendship grow into love. They were such beautiful men.
Plot: 4/5 • The plot was well written. This story was about healing and finding someone to accept you as you are.
Writing Style: 4/5 • The book was well written, with no grammatical or spelling errors. Things were explained in a way that didn't feel like overkill.
Spice Level: 2.5/5 • The intimate moments between Savion and Declan were so passionate and well written. I would not classify it as "smut". It was more romantic in their interactions when in Savion's POV. In Declan's POV it was definitely more raw, however both were beautiful. Both POV's matched the personalities of the men.
Overall Rating: 4/5 • This book was so heartfelt, sweet and emotional. Two broken men finding each other when they least expect it. This was more than just a meet cute. This was romance at it's finest.
Tropes: • Age Gap (12 years) • Rockstar MC • Double Bi-awakening • Hurt/Comfort • Found Family • HEA
Cheating: Third-act breakup: POV: Dual POV (First Person POV) I received an advance review copy from Gay Romance Reviews, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Once upon a time, Savion's life was a fairytale. He was engaged to a beautiful woman and planning their perfect future. Then, the sick act of an obsessed man ruined everything. Alone, disfigured, and betrayed, he fled to LA to focus on his work as a palaeontologist. It was there he met Declan. The gorgeous Viking of a man awakens feelings within Savion that he never knew existed. But no one could ever see beyond his scars, so how could he let himself get close to him? Savion is unlike anyone Declan ever met. The pain of his past allows him to understand Declan's upbringing in a way no one has before. As he gets to know him, he's awakened to the possibility that he's bi. He knows a relationship with him would be a lot for Savion to endure. Not only is he much older than him, but his life in the limelight comes with a lot of media attention that can feel stifling. Even so, there’s something about Savvy that makes him ache to protect him. Whether he realizes it or not, Declan is in deep and already hooked. For him, he will risk it all to prove his love. Will the stars align for them or burn out far too soon?
This was such a sweet story with a lot of emotions around Savvy after his unprovoked attack. I loved that Declan constantly told him that he was beautiful and really meant it. Their trips to see the stars were very romantic. Easy to read, feel and understand you will be swept away by the story of these two men. This was an MM story with mature content.
Declan and Savion didn't realize that they were looking for each other but once they meet, the stars truly aligned.
So often books bi-awakening stories are awkward or rushed and unrealistic. So, having a story where both main characters are straight at the start, I was hesitant to even try it. But I read the sample chapters and was immediately drawn to both Declan and Savion, so I decided to give it a chance. I'm so glad I did!
Nothing in this book is rushed. Dec and Savion become friends first before anything romantic begins. They are both confused over their feelings for each other and every step is hesitant. They both act exactly like you would expect a straight man who finds himself desiring another man for the first time in their life would act. I think the reality is, they each found their soul mate who just happened to be another man.
While there is a lot of focus on healing at its heart, this is a true love story. Watching these two fall for one another was beautiful and romantic. It was wonderful.
The reason I only gave it four stars is because of all the continuity errors. There were so many and more than once it completely disrupted the flow of the story.
Otherwise this was a wonderful story, just the thing to read if you want a real steamy but jot overly explicit romance that leaves you smiling and happy at the end.
I really enjoyed this story. I thought it was an amazing read that kept you hooked from the beginning. I love all of the books I have read by Denver Shaw and haven't been disappointed yet.
Savion used to have the best life that he was living. He had his best friend, his fiance and the best job of being a paleontologist so he couldn't ask for anything better. Then one day all of it changed for him after someone decided to disfigure his face. He is now alone and has nobody. He figures that's the best for him seeing how all everyone does he stare at him. He didn't expect to meet Declan and can't understand what the draw is to him.
Declan has had a rough time especially growing up. He has been struggling growing up but his life change around for him when he was able to meet the group he did and now they are all together. He considers them his family. When he meets Savion, he can't help but be drawn to him and just wants to keep hanging out with him. He doesn't understand it but he knows that he will keep trying to find him.
Savion & Declan's story is one that will forever stick with you. So many emotions that are deep felt that you can't help but feel as you are there with them. These two have a lot of things to overcome but also figure out. They can do most of it together but sometimes, it's not easy seeing the truth. These two were meant to be when he stars aligned.
*I received an ARC through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.*
When Stars Align by Denver Shaw is a poignant romance that delves into themes of love and healing amidst personal scars, both physical and emotional. The story follows Savion, a paleontologist coping with trauma and disfigurement, who moves to LA to start anew. There, he meets Declan, a charismatic man who challenges Savion’s views on beauty and connection.
Savion's journey of self-acceptance is intricately portrayed, emphasizing the complexities of living with scars that extend beyond the surface. Declan’s vibrant presence and his own struggles with identity, particularly his emerging bisexuality, add depth to their relationship. Their chemistry is palpable, marked by tender, emotionally charged moments as they navigate their individual challenges and the pressures from society.
Shaw skillfully captures the nuances of their bond, balancing moments of vulnerability with the urgency of their circumstances. The story highlights the stakes of external scrutiny and the fears that threaten their connection, ultimately celebrating resilience, acceptance, and the transformative power of love.
“When Stars Align” by Denver Shaw is a beautiful double bi-awakening with many amazing elements that work well together. Savion (I just love this name) is coming off of a recent tragedy that left him mentally and physically scarred. Declan is a hulking Viking of a man with a beautiful heart and horrible memories from his childhood. They meet randomly at a museum event and click instantly. Neither of them has had a relationship with a man before. I think this aspect made the book. These two started on even ground and learned how to heal and grow together.
I was slightly apprehensive about the Rockstar aspect of this book. I've read so many rockstar romances and a lot of them focus solely on that part of the plot. But in this book it was kind of a low background story. We knew he was a rockstar and were part of some of the day to day but it didn't take over.
I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys MM, bi-awakening, steamy and sweet romance books. It has it all.
DISCLAIMER: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved Savvy and Declan's story. I'm a huge fan of age gap romances and it was nice here to see the rock star being the older one in the couple. Also huge props for making Savvy a paleontologist and letting these two meet at a museum fundraiser. The hurdles of being the significant other for a popular musician might be too high for many people, but they are particularly challenging for Savvy who tries to avoid any attention being placed on him because of the scars and the trauma associated with them. As these two realize they might really have found the person for them, they have to take things slowly and figure out to fit their lives together emotionally and just from a practical standpoint. When an old villain reappears, there is also an imminent threat that must be dealt with. This is one of the best entries I've read over the years in the Rocktoberfest series both for the suspense plot and for the two characters and the development of their relationship.
This is a Road to Rocktoberfest novel, although the actual Rocktoberfest is almost an afterthought and has very little to do with the plot.
This is a fantastic story of the rockstar who meets the paleontologist (both of whom thought they were completely straight) & fall in love. The love story is not easy, considering the baggage both of them carry. The paleontologist carries physical scars from an attack that occurred 4 years previously, making it hard for him to trust that anyone would love him/be able to see past the scars. The rockstar carries bad memories of a horrible childhood full of violence.
The kidnapping plot that happens during the last third of the book had me on the edge of my seat - despite knowing that this HAD to end with an HEA.
Fantastic writing, great characters, & a story I really got involved with (very hard to put down).
A sweet love story between physically scarred paleontologist Savion and and the gorgeous older rockstar Declan. Each man has trauma in his past, but while Declan is more open to moving forward, Savion is held back by the physical as well as emotional evidence of his pain. And when the man who hurt him in both ways resurfaces and threatens what both men have fought for so hard, we feel the horror both men struggle with and their determination to weather this final "perfect storm" to reach their HEA. Although the story is part of the Roctoberfest series, there's not much set in the actual music festival as I had expected. That didn't really weigh too much with me because we do get to see Declan in his element with his fellow rockers at rehearsals. Equally, we also see Savion in his element, doing the job he loves.
Emotion grabbing. Savion, was on the cusp of happiness when the next minute a stalker changed everything leaving him emotionally and physically scarred. Savion and Declan meet and click. Savion's low self esteem prevent him form feeling he is worthy. Declan, feels they have much in common and had found he root of empathy. Declan, is enchanted by Savy and his largest concern is if Savy can take the high profile relationship. Both men are surprised and grateful for the attraction. Good story finding what one didn't know was lost. Touching and tender. The journey, makes the read fulfilling and enjoyable. Great characters! Emotion building ending in a tight hug. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A book that pulled at all my heartstrings, when you wish this character was someone real in your orbit that you could support. Real emotional reactions to the written word are a sign of a great story, characters and wonderful writing.
Each chapter in this book was a step in a whole world of discovering that none of us know what's just around the corner, things we think we know about ourselves don't have to be true.
This is a story, not just about love but about finding that one person you're meant to be with, who just gets you, knows what you need in that moment even before you know it yourself and who loves you, flaws and all.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I truly enjoy reading books written by Denver Shaw. You never know what she is going to throw at you next.
Rockstar Bi-awakeing Hurt/comfort Opposites attract Age Gap
Savion is a heart broken, disfigured palenteogolist, whose financee left him after an attact that changed his life. Declan is the older gentleman Rockstar, that is constantly in the limelight. He is hooked on Savion and doesn't want to let him go.
How do they figure out how they feel for the other one? Do they end up in a relationship? What happens to Savion's mind set? How does the band react to the new information? What do the fans say? Does Savion get to go to South Africa for the big dig? How do they handle time apart due to the dig and the tour? Let's finish reading to find out!
This book broke my heart and mended it back together beautifully. Savion possesses strength he is not aware he has, and it is amazing to see him realize and accept that strength and discover his incredible beauty along the way. There could not be a better partner for him than Declan. These two wounded souls formed a profoundly beautiful bond.
The connection between Savion and Declan was obvious from the beginning and it was heartwarming watching their journey unfold. They were surrounded and supported by a fantastic found family. This story had a perfect balance of emotion, humor, strength, drama, suspense, and spice.
I often don’t love rock star romance, but this one was quite wonderful. I loved Savvy and Declan together and especially that Dec is a more authentic and rounded character than the usual rock star MC. These are such beautifully characters, and the author has given both Savvy and Declan pretty harrowing backgrounds that we learn over time. So, the healing payoff is really satisfying. I loved how the author was able to fill this with so much emotion, romance, and bit of drama, and suspense, making this such an engaging read. I loved these characters a bunch!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
A chance meeting at a museum fundraiser threw Savion and Declan into an orbit of their own. Each have had traumatic events happen to them and each have their nightmares to contend with. It was overcoming the horror and finding their forever that is related in this book. Some times were not easy, but their saving grace was being there for each other. Denver Shaw has a way with words that puts you at ease one minute, going with the flow, then wham, your feet are kicked out from under you and you hang on for the ride. The lack of the last * was because of the blasphemy. I received a copy from Book Sirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.
The compelling plot, particularly the captivating ending, and the charming characters, Savvy and Dash, were definite highlights. The strong chemistry and supportive friend group added to the enjoyment. However, the writing often felt repetitive and lacked a sense of forward momentum, hindering the overall flow. While the story's drama was engaging, some pacing issues and a slightly rushed romantic development detracted from its potential. With more focused editing, this could have easily been a higher-rated book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a lovely read about two men who met at what seemed like not the right time what really was. I found it to be a touching and genuine journey to romance for them Savion with his scars that have left him feeling over noticed and rejected at the same time. But with Declan it is different. Declan just simply connects to him, no questions or concerns with this past and his scars. Declan has emotional scars of his own that Savion seems to sooth. Love sometimes just happens and it is inspiring!
This was a good book! I liked the story, middle angst with some intense moments, and the characters, both very complexe, strong and sweet. Their chemistry is high, the relationship development very real. I loved how Dec is there and so patient with Savion, without judgement.
That being said, some inner monologues were really too long for my taste and somehow repetitive. Also, I am not convinced about the necessity of the last twist plot, for me it was one too much and could have been avoided.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such a yummy book. If you are looking for a hurt comfort oh boy is this it. This was filled with all my faves. Rocker/nerdy boy with with all of the nerdy ness and all the fans. This was such a sweet story of two people who feel alone in the world finding their person and looking beyond the outside layers getting to the most important parts. I wish there was a little bit more to the smexy times, but it was ok. Great found family
For future me. Dual pov Switch Almost break Relationship before smexy Where are the brown people!!!!
A beautiful novel, loved that the two completely cared for and cherished each other through their traumas and doubts as they overcame and fixed their own personal demons together rather than struggling alone. The spicy scenes were so intimate and caring that it gave me butterfly's in my stomach. It's rare yo see a couple that value each other so specially and made it a really good read. I also liked that neither one was a stereotypical role, they moved outside their 'role' as cool guy and nerd, making them more realistic as humans and drew me in more to the story and characters.