All Strings Attached: A 90s Rockstar Romance Duet

by Randi Mae

A spicy, slow-burn, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance set against the backdrop of the 90s rock scene. All Strings Attached is the first part of a duet and does NOT end in a HEA (happily ever after) until Book 2. All 5 books in the series are interconnected and follow an overarching, chronological plot. For the best experience, reading in order is recommended.

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Zak Parker is determined to make a name for herself in the music industry. But all her dreams come to a screeching halt when her band’s lead singer overdoses months before Saint of Spades is scheduled to star in a televised battle-of-the-bands competition.

She’s ready to say goodbye to the breakout opportunity of a lifetime—a recording contract, tour, and prize money—when a sequence of bad luck leads her to a party she doesn’t want to be at, the stuck-up jock she thought she’d never have to see again… and his unexpectedly amazing voice.

Chase Payton is done dreaming. Drafted to the pros before he could toss his graduation cap, hockey was his entire life. Until a career-ending accident derailed everything he imagined for his future.

Lost and detached, Chase is just beginning to leave his house again when he runs into the one who would have gotten away… if he ever had her in the first place. Talented, witty, and stubborn as hell, Zak may be exactly what he needs to find a new direction. And to find himself again.

Genres: Romance

447 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 31, 2024

Reviews

[Stacey T · Rating 3 out of 5]

Zak became emancipated at 16 to leave her broken family behind and fulfill her dream of becoming a musician. She has found a family in her cobbled together band only to have their chance at fame ripped away before it begins with a death. Chase had hockey in his blood from a young age, but an injury leads to the end of his professional hockey career and now he struggles to figure out what is next. Chase is reunited with Zak at a school reunion and still finds her the fantasy of his dreams, but she only sees the guy that has always had a good life. In a moment of karaoke fun, she witnesses the possible future of her band achieving success but now she needs to make amends. Can Chase see a future for himself in a rock band with a woman he’s always wanted? Can Zak take this broken band, help them overcome loss and still succeed? This is a new author to me, and the writing was great. The characters each came with their own issues, not just the MC’s, but the other band members as well. I wished a little bit more of the book had been dedicated to getting more from the supporting players, but I get it. It was just a very long, long book to be focused on just the two MC’s and their same inner turmoil again and again with glimpses from the others. It read very slowly and was too focused on daily happenings like jobs, practice and eventually the reality show filming. Although this doesn’t end in a cliffhanger, if you want to find out what becomes of the band, then you must read the next book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[KGillespie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall it was good but I had a hard time pushing through to the end. I thought the middle part of the book was slow. Once I got towards the end I thought the story picked up and got interesting. I would read another book by this author.

I received a copy of the book via Voracious Readers Only

[Judie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book tore at my heart like broken glass and I can’t wait for book two! Chase is an ex hockey player and Zak is a musician. She is desperate to find a replacement lead singer after an accident leaves her band without one.

Chase is trying to find purpose after his leg is amputated and he can no longer play hockey. Zak hears him sing karaoke and knows he’s the one to replace their lead singer going into a major televised competition.

Chase has always loved Zak since high school, but she has real trust issues since her emancipation at 16 and won’t risk the band for romance. However, she thinks a friends with benefits won’t have as dire of consequences, and she couldn’t be more wrong.

She is waiting for the next shoe to drop and is expecting nothing less. He is out to win her over at all costs. The rest of the band is headed for an implosion. Oh yeah and her father is a famous musician and hasn’t seen her in 16 years!

This is a great book, but I hope book two comes fast because Zak needs to come clean about the meaning of the song she wrote and I am rooting for the HEA!

[Ben · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I started reading this book I didn’t realise there would be a part 2 and wondered why the story was moving along quite slowly. Was very pleased when I got to the end to find the story of Chase & Zak will continue.

I really enjoyed this book although there were a few parts that did drag on a bit. Loved the plot line of 2 high schoolers, Chase who has a big crush on Zak and Zak who obviously likes Chase but won’t allow herself to. Fast forward a few years and we catch up with them both. Chase’s big hockey dream is over and Zak is still trying to make it with her band . The band are on the verge of stardom getting to the finals of a reality show, however their lead singer tragically dies and in comes chase to save the day.

I found the book gritty and ‘real’ dealing with addiction, abusive parents and abandonment. It also had romance, more so from the middle onwards.

I’m eagerly looking forward to book 2.

I received an advance copy of this book for free and leave this review voluntarily.

[Melissa Cantrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tough girl, Zack Parker has lived a rough life. She moved away from home when she was a juvenile, and started working as a bar tender and became the lead guitarist in a band. The band's lead singer, Link, overdoses of drugs right before they are scheduled to perform. Zack goes to karaoke to try and find a last minute lead singer. When she hears Chase Payton sing, she knows that he is the one that can fill in for Link and join the band, or if he doesn't want to join the band, just stand in as a temporary. Chase Payton played hockey professionally until he was injured. The sepsis in his leg caused doctors to amputate his leg. Permanently out of commission with hockey, Chase Payton had a great deal of free time to practice and sing with the band. He agrees to join the band.

When wealthy Chase Payton is introduced to Zack's band life he is put off. Chase encounters the band apartment in the slums of Los Angeles, and the rough neighborhoods where there are gun shots and drug deals night and day. Not only is the band environment toxic, but also the artistic egos of each member are so eccentric that working together and practicing with emotionally driven artists seems nearly impossible. The reason why Chase stays around is because he secretly likes Zack. Zack, unfortunately is married to the band Saint of Spades, and considers Chase only as a friend.

While dealing with alcoholic tempers of the band and Zack's need to be in control, Chase gets a job interview to be assistant coach of the Atlanta Raptors. The band starts to fight about Link's death. Chase is tired of drinking and after hooking up with Zack, he is considering returning to his sports career. Rather than lose Chase to sports, Zack agrees to a casual relationship. As Zack and Chase continue to hook up, the band continues to have issues with drugs and alcohol. After the competition, will Zack choose her band or will she ditch the band for her lover, Chase?

[buecherwurm · Rating 5 out of 5]

"All Strings Attached" captivated me from the primary page with its energetic depiction of two souls weaved by destiny in the midst of the violent background of the 90s shake scene. This book isn't fair a sentiment; it's a sincere travel of self-discovery and moment chances that cleared out me absolutely entranced.

The characters, Zak Parker and Chase Payton, are perfectly created with layers that unfurl like a flawlessly organized orchestra. Zak's assurance to prevail the music industry in spite of misfortunes reverberated profoundly with me, whereas Chase's battle to rethink himself after a career-ending mishap brought tears to my eyes. Their complex relationship advances from adversaries to companions and eventually significant others, weaving a story of passion and strength that's as strongly because it is inspiring.

The author's composing fashion is nothing brief of brilliant, consistently mixing reminiscent exposition with crude feelings that pull at the heartstrings. Each scene is strikingly delineated, transporting me easily into the world of concerts, backstage shows, and enthusiastic changes. The pacing is faultless, keeping me energetically turning pages long into the night.

Whereas "All Strings Attached" doesn't offer a conventional happily-ever-after in Book 1, this as it were increased my expectation for the continuation. The interconnecting of the series promises a wealthy, cohesive storyline that I'm enthusiastic to take after through all five books.

In rundown, "All Strings Attached" could be a perfect work of art of modern sentiment, advertising perusers an extraordinary travel of cherish, misfortune, and recovery. I profoundly suggest it to anybody looking for a profoundly fulfilling examined that rises above the boundaries of sort and takes off a enduring impression. 

[Nathan Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

All Strings Attached delivers a compelling and emotional journey set against the vibrant backdrop of the 90s rock scene. The story of Zak Parker, a determined musician facing the collapse of her band, and Chase Payton, an ex-hockey player grappling with the loss of his career, unfolds with a great blend of tension and slow-burning romance.

Zak’s world is turned upside down when her band’s lead singer overdoses, threatening to derail their chances at a major competition. Enter Chase, who, despite his own struggles with a career-ending injury, possesses an unexpectedly amazing voice that could save the band. Their dynamic, filled with past grudges and newfound respect, evolves beautifully throughout the narrative.

The transformation from enemies to friends to lovers is excellently portrayed, with nuanced character development that keeps the reader deeply invested. Mae excels at capturing the raw emotions and struggles of her characters, adding depth to this steamy romance and making it feel authentic and relatable. The chemistry between Zak and Chase is palpable, and their journey is as much about personal growth as it is about their evolving relationship. The 90s setting adds a nostalgic charm, enhancing the story's overall atmosphere. Supporting characters, while not as deeply explored, provide a rich backdrop that complements the main storyline.

While the story doesn't conclude with a happily ever after, it sets the stage for an anticipated sequel, leaving me eager for more. Highly recommended for fans of contemporary romance looking for a story with substance and heart.

[Eduardo · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engaging and intense romance novel set against the backdrop of the 1990s rock scene. It follows Zak, a determined guitarist, and Chase, a talented singer, in a slow-burn romantic relationship. The narrative delves into their evolving connection as they navigate the challenges of the music industry. Zak grapples with trust issues stemming from her past, while Chase adjusts to a new life path, adding layers of complexity to their relationship. Both characters are well-developed, each with their own dreams and vulnerabilities. The book explores important themes, such as ambition, redemption, identity, trust, and vulnerability, weaving them into the characters' journeys. Zak's determination and resilience in the face of setbacks resonate throughout the story, alongside Chase's quest for personal growth and reconciliation. Fans of authors like Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher, or Kristen Callihan will find similarities in the emotionally intense romance and character-driven narrative of the book. It's a compelling read that captures the challenges and passions of the music world with realism and authenticity.

[Christoph Bad Guy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me rocking out with its 90s vibes and yearning for a second chance. Zak, the fierce and talented lead guitarist, had her band's future riding on a televised battle of the bands. But with their lead singer out of commission, her dreams seemed to be fading faster than a cassette tape rewinding. Enter Chase, the brooding ex-hockey star with a voice like hidden treasure. Let me tell you, their meet-cute at a party was anything but cute – more like a clash of high school memories and simmering resentment. This slow-burn romance was all about the build-up. You could practically feel the tension crackling between Zak's ambition and Chase's lost dreams. Now, full disclosure, this is just the first part of a duet, so get ready for a cliffhanger! The ending left me wanting more, but it also hinted at a bigger plot brewing with interconnected characters across the series. It definitely feels like the first act of a larger story. If you crave character development with a side of steamy tension, all set to a 90s rock soundtrack, then this book is your jam. Just be prepared to grab the next book because this first taste leaves you wanting a rockin' happily ever after!

[K_Athene · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will do my best to summarize my thoughts on All Strings Attached without direct spoilers.

First, I'm an avid music lover and musician that's also enjoyed time on stage. While I am not a rock star, I can certainly understand the rush of performing for an audience as a means of escape from troubles of life. What also stuck out to me were the very real challenges of everyday life, such as family background or potential romance. Many of these facets hit close to home, but the relatability made it that much more bittersweet as I devoured each page. Overall I'm very pleased with how each character came to their own. They all had their moments to shine with dialogue and action (or lack there of), unraveling the complex history of the group. Both as musicians, and friends.

This book made me excited, made me sad, but most of all I look forward to seeing where the journey takes me with the rest of the series!

(I received this book for free and post this review willingly.)

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do not put this one down. I repeat....keep going. I almost stopped this one shortly into it because of how the main characters were portrayed as "losers" Buuuut......I did not expect so much character development to occur in a Rockstar romance book. This turned into one of my favorite reads so far this year.

All Strings Attached deals with characters who are used to be let down by the world. Zak (fmc) and her band mates are dealing with the recent loss of their lead singer, who passed away from "recreational use". Chase (mmc) is struggling with finding himself after a hockey accident took his career, and his leg, from him.

The chemistry between these two is off the charts, and the slow burn was almost painful...but in a good way.

I can't wait to read the conclusion of their story in part 2.

[Grinning Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not your typical feel good crazy rockstar romance. The people in this book are very real, raw, and unfiltered. They deal with genuine issues including substance abuse, death of a friend, and living life as an amputee. None of this is easy for them.
I liked the main characters and very quickly became invested in their story. I loved the’90s part of the setting in particular because it took me back to an era with less technology, better clothes, and in which I was still a size four and could stay up all night without consequence.
The middle portion of the book did get a little slower. I am death on duets because I think most duets could be edited down to become one volume, but I’m on the fence about this one. I will have to see what the second book is like to decide. But so far, I recommend this book experience.

[Melissa Houpt · Rating 4 out of 5]

The tension between Zak and Chase started in high school. Chase has always had a crush on Zak and Zak never gave Chase a chance because she always looked at him having the perfect life. Years later after the death of their previous lead singer, Chase comes back into her life as the new lead singer of her band. Right off the bat, Zak falls back in her old habits of judging Chase and keeping him at a distance. It doesn’t take long before she realizes her mistake and that he’s not at all what she made him out to be. The tension and chemistry between the two is 🔥🔥I can’t wait to read the second book and see what happens in Chase and Zak’s story, I need their HEA.

[Heather Dudley · Rating 5 out of 5]

All Strings Attached, I throughly enjoyed reading this book and looking forward to reading the next book to find out if Zak and Chase have a happy ending. I thought the author Randi Mae did a fantastic job on starting the tale of Zak and Chase. I love how the author has the female character being in a rock band and the male being an athlete turned singer. Now I’m not going to give any details about the story because I don’t want to ruin the first part of Zak and Chase’s story. However, I would recommend this book to others. I can’t wait to read more books written by Randi Mae.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nora · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I know, I know, it isn't RH but rockstar romance called my name really in this one. After reading many RH I do enjoy an MF romance every once in a while and couldn't put this one down. Trying to find a new leadsinger to the band Zak is doing her best and finds one after hearing a performance at a high school reunion. Love that! It also happens to belong to a former NHL player Chase Payton. He has always had a crush on Zak so tries to keep his feelings in check but how long will that last? I am excited for the next one.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
All Strings Attached is a wonderful rock romance that is set in the 90s. Zak is a guitarist of the band, Saint of Spades. When their lead singer passes, they scramble to find someone else. When Chase, who went to school with Zak, performs an Aerosmith song during karaoke, Zak knows they have found a new frontman. The band goes through some drama on the way and during a televised battle of the bands.

[Gina Mundy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an awesome romance and I love how it is set in the 90s rock scene, which were my high school years. I loved how the story was full of emotions, music, and second chances. I like how both characters were derailed at the beginning by life changing events, but the author is brilliant and makes you like the characters from the beginning. While the romance is brewing, you want them to succeed or beat the odds – together. The romance between Zak and Chase builds slowly but is worth the wait. However, be prepared for a cliffhanger, as there is a second book. I have not read the second book, but it is next on my list for sure. This is a great read if you love romance and the rock music scene of the 90s. The author did an excellent job on this book and looking forward to reading the second book.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book was such a fun journey and only makes me excited that there is much much much more planned ahead

Randi did such an amazing job building up this gaggle of musicians that you generally care for and want to succeed in their endeavors. Of course, we can’t forget the romance scenes that were QUITE memorable.

Can’t wait to move on to book 2!

[V · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read!
Really enjoyed following Zak as she struggled to keep Saints of Spades afloat, especially after the death of their lead singer. Her and Chase's relationship was SO sweet (I love a pining man) and I am very excited to see how their relationship develops in Book 2!

[Maria]

FREE today (May 28, 2025) on Amazon.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a GREAT rock romance novel but the cliffy is rough! Zak is the epitome of a hard rock girl with a right hook to be envious of. With that being said I spent half of the book wondering when she was going to extract her head from her behind and learn to enjoy snuggling😂. Great part 1 to the duet!