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I Knew You Were Trouble
He’s the world’s most famous frontman. She couldn’t care less.
Lexi is already an oscar winning documentary director at just 30-years-old. But when she is asked to ditch her current project in exchange to film Rebel Heart - a reunited boy band - she is disappointed to say the least. She didn’t work this hard to follow a boy group on tour and document their every manufactured move for teenage fans.
But after meeting Aidan, the unofficial ‘head’ of the band, something new stirs inside her. She thinks he’s egotistical, entitled, and impulsive. Equally, Aidan thinks Lexi is high-strung, secretive, and emotionally devoid.
Tensions rise, and as Lexi blends work and pleasure, she can’t let go of her difficult past with the father that abandoned her. She doesn’t expect people to stay in her life for long. Especially the lead of a boy band. But is this project about to prove all of her expectations wrong…?
A classic enemies-to-lovers story arc, for fans of Hannah Grace and Ali Hazlewood.
Lexi is already an oscar winning documentary director at just 30-years-old. But when she is asked to ditch her current project in exchange to film Rebel Heart - a reunited boy band - she is disappointed to say the least. She didn’t work this hard to follow a boy group on tour and document their every manufactured move for teenage fans.
But after meeting Aidan, the unofficial ‘head’ of the band, something new stirs inside her. She thinks he’s egotistical, entitled, and impulsive. Equally, Aidan thinks Lexi is high-strung, secretive, and emotionally devoid.
Tensions rise, and as Lexi blends work and pleasure, she can’t let go of her difficult past with the father that abandoned her. She doesn’t expect people to stay in her life for long. Especially the lead of a boy band. But is this project about to prove all of her expectations wrong…?
A classic enemies-to-lovers story arc, for fans of Hannah Grace and Ali Hazlewood.
402 pages, Paperback
Published November 21, 2024
22 people are currently reading
622 people want to read
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October 28, 2024
4 Reverse Cowgirl Stars ⭐️
Spicy Level: 🌶️.5/5
This is the second book I have read by Emma Rae and it is good. It's not amazing, but it's not bad. Given that it is related to movies, the best way to describe it would be to say it's not going to be a blockbuster or win any Oscars. But it's not going to get any Razzie Awards either. For those of you who don't know, those are the awards given to the worst of cinematic failures. It's a standard homework Christmas movie but without the Christmas. You know, a run-of-the-mill romcom that is sweet in the end and you're not going to regret reading it, but it's not going to rewrite your brain chemistry.
𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨:
Lexi Hart is an Oscar-winning documentary director who has been asked to step in to film a documentary about a boy band on their "Heartbeats" tour which is funded by the network that is funding her next project. The issue is Lexi would rather pull her teeth out without anaesthetic than do this, but she doesn't want to jeopardise her next project. So she acquiesces and she, her handy dandy cameraman (who also happens to be her ex) and her assistant fly halfway across the world to follow some men around. The issue is none of the men want anything to do with the film crew, especially Aidan McArthur, the band's UBL (unofficial band leader).
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
Lexi was very relatable as a character. I enjoyed that she felt real because she didn't have her shit together and that she was trying to do the best of the situation. She compromises her well-being for others and has this innate ability and magic that makes people's lives better without releasing it. She has this charismatic personality that people cannot help but be drawn to. She has a way of fixing people's problems or giving advice that ends up making them happy. It was through these little acts and gestures that slowly persuaded the band to like her and accept her as one of their own.
Aidan is initially a dick. You think he's not a very nice person, but as Lexi spends more time with him you realise that he is just protective of his boys and take time to open up to new people. He is VERY SLOW to trust and it does take him a while to open up to Lexi. He is an actual sweetheart at times and down to earth even though he is so famous, he ACTUALLY CARES ABOUT PEOPLE. He wants the best for his bandmates in everything they do - personal and professional. He is one of their biggest cheerleaders, the literal daddy of the group, even though he's 25. And you can see that he's just trying his best in the situation that is thrust on him.
There was a small moment where I thought the book might be missing a few chapters because Aidan and Lexi went from hardly talking to being so in lust - it almost gave Insta-lust vibes. I honestly thought that I'd skipped a couple of chapters.
But putting that aside, I will say that the writing is pretty addictive and I couldn't put the book down. It was so entertaining to see how Lexi navigated everything and I was just sucked in. THIS BOOK MADE ME SQUIRREL, (which always makes me rate a book higher because it means that ANY FREE TIME I HAD, any moment, I was opening my Kindle or iPhone and squirrelling away reading). The writing had this way of drawing you in, it flowed and effortlessly conveyed the character's emotions. Considering this is told entirely from Lexi's POV, Emma Rae did a fantastic job of portraying Aidan.
This DOES have a third-act breakup so prepare for this...
I think a lot of this book is not just about Lexi finding love with Aidan. It's about Lexi finding love in herself. She is so quick to help other people find love, that she doesn't focus on it for herself, but in this she finds friends, she finds, family and she finds love and I think that message made this book really sweet, really cute and enjoyable.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 and 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Celebrity Romance
▶Enemies Hate to Lovers
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Age Gap (Lexi 30, Aidan 24 - 5.5 Years)
▶ Backwards Cap
▶ Director X Boy Band Singer
▶ Rolled Sleeves
Overall, as mentioned, this was good. I enjoyed it and have sinched Emma Rae into my must-read author's list!
Thank you to Emma Rae, Netgalley and Hera Books for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Spicy Level: 🌶️.5/5
This is the second book I have read by Emma Rae and it is good. It's not amazing, but it's not bad. Given that it is related to movies, the best way to describe it would be to say it's not going to be a blockbuster or win any Oscars. But it's not going to get any Razzie Awards either. For those of you who don't know, those are the awards given to the worst of cinematic failures. It's a standard homework Christmas movie but without the Christmas. You know, a run-of-the-mill romcom that is sweet in the end and you're not going to regret reading it, but it's not going to rewrite your brain chemistry.
𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨:
Lexi Hart is an Oscar-winning documentary director who has been asked to step in to film a documentary about a boy band on their "Heartbeats" tour which is funded by the network that is funding her next project. The issue is Lexi would rather pull her teeth out without anaesthetic than do this, but she doesn't want to jeopardise her next project. So she acquiesces and she, her handy dandy cameraman (who also happens to be her ex) and her assistant fly halfway across the world to follow some men around. The issue is none of the men want anything to do with the film crew, especially Aidan McArthur, the band's UBL (unofficial band leader).
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
Lexi was very relatable as a character. I enjoyed that she felt real because she didn't have her shit together and that she was trying to do the best of the situation. She compromises her well-being for others and has this innate ability and magic that makes people's lives better without releasing it. She has this charismatic personality that people cannot help but be drawn to. She has a way of fixing people's problems or giving advice that ends up making them happy. It was through these little acts and gestures that slowly persuaded the band to like her and accept her as one of their own.
Aidan is initially a dick. You think he's not a very nice person, but as Lexi spends more time with him you realise that he is just protective of his boys and take time to open up to new people. He is VERY SLOW to trust and it does take him a while to open up to Lexi. He is an actual sweetheart at times and down to earth even though he is so famous, he ACTUALLY CARES ABOUT PEOPLE. He wants the best for his bandmates in everything they do - personal and professional. He is one of their biggest cheerleaders, the literal daddy of the group, even though he's 25. And you can see that he's just trying his best in the situation that is thrust on him.
There was a small moment where I thought the book might be missing a few chapters because Aidan and Lexi went from hardly talking to being so in lust - it almost gave Insta-lust vibes. I honestly thought that I'd skipped a couple of chapters.
But putting that aside, I will say that the writing is pretty addictive and I couldn't put the book down. It was so entertaining to see how Lexi navigated everything and I was just sucked in. THIS BOOK MADE ME SQUIRREL, (which always makes me rate a book higher because it means that ANY FREE TIME I HAD, any moment, I was opening my Kindle or iPhone and squirrelling away reading). The writing had this way of drawing you in, it flowed and effortlessly conveyed the character's emotions. Considering this is told entirely from Lexi's POV, Emma Rae did a fantastic job of portraying Aidan.
This DOES have a third-act breakup so prepare for this...
I think a lot of this book is not just about Lexi finding love with Aidan. It's about Lexi finding love in herself. She is so quick to help other people find love, that she doesn't focus on it for herself, but in this she finds friends, she finds, family and she finds love and I think that message made this book really sweet, really cute and enjoyable.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 and 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Celebrity Romance
▶
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Age Gap (Lexi 30, Aidan 24 - 5.5 Years)
▶ Backwards Cap
▶ Director X Boy Band Singer
▶ Rolled Sleeves
Overall, as mentioned, this was good. I enjoyed it and have sinched Emma Rae into my must-read author's list!
Thank you to Emma Rae, Netgalley and Hera Books for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 22, 2024
this book sucked, i’m sorry. i really tried hard with it but it just did not work for me for these reasons:
• the romance was sorely lacking. the relationship build-up was just not there. aiden and lexi went from enemies—him sabotaging her at every turn to calling for a truce to avoidance, to being complete horndogs for each other. it made no sense to me. there was no chemistry. all of a sudden, lexi was masturbating to the thoughts of sleeping with aiden. damn near gave me a whiplash. what was up with that? because of that, i didn’t care when they got together, i didn’t care when they argued, nor did i care when they broke up. i wasn’t emotionally invested with them at all. when they finally got together, all i could think about was: whatever.
• i had a major issue with how lexi carried herself career-wise. her lack of professionalism was laughable. i really thought that she would have tried harder to set boundaries with aiden but it didn’t take her much to grind her ass on aiden’s lap, just because she felt threatened by aiden’s groupies. mind you, they weren’t even dating at the time. i was so appalled.
• i was also annoyed with lexi for filming the members without their consent. i could buy her crap before she knew the members up close and personal but the way she kept at it until the very end was unacceptable. she didn’t even regret it—in fact, she double downed by saying it’s just how she works and that she didn’t like being told what to do. like girl? what you’re doing is against the law!!! you’re 30, not 12.
• lexi spent the better of the book going NC with her deadbeat father but forgave him so easily in the end?
honestly i have more grievances with the book, especially with the typos and the side characters but i’ll leave this at that. if you want me to be honest, this book is not worth reading.
• the romance was sorely lacking. the relationship build-up was just not there. aiden and lexi went from enemies—him sabotaging her at every turn to calling for a truce to avoidance, to being complete horndogs for each other. it made no sense to me. there was no chemistry. all of a sudden, lexi was masturbating to the thoughts of sleeping with aiden. damn near gave me a whiplash. what was up with that? because of that, i didn’t care when they got together, i didn’t care when they argued, nor did i care when they broke up. i wasn’t emotionally invested with them at all. when they finally got together, all i could think about was: whatever.
• i had a major issue with how lexi carried herself career-wise. her lack of professionalism was laughable. i really thought that she would have tried harder to set boundaries with aiden but it didn’t take her much to grind her ass on aiden’s lap, just because she felt threatened by aiden’s groupies. mind you, they weren’t even dating at the time. i was so appalled.
• i was also annoyed with lexi for filming the members without their consent. i could buy her crap before she knew the members up close and personal but the way she kept at it until the very end was unacceptable. she didn’t even regret it—in fact, she double downed by saying it’s just how she works and that she didn’t like being told what to do. like girl? what you’re doing is against the law!!! you’re 30, not 12.
• lexi spent the better of the book going NC with her deadbeat father but forgave him so easily in the end?
honestly i have more grievances with the book, especially with the typos and the side characters but i’ll leave this at that. if you want me to be honest, this book is not worth reading.
July 13, 2025
I am an easily pleased reader. This book was that bad.
January 15, 2025
4.5 stars cause it’s so entertaining! Enemies to lovers and so many love stories! Read it within 24 hours as it’s so good!
October 12, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley and Hera books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 stars rounded up!
Honestly, I selected this book on a whim, and I'm so glad I did! I read it in two sittings; I just couldn't wait to find out how Lexi and Aidan's story turned out.
Lexi is an Oscar-winning director who focuses on documentaries about some of the darker aspects of humanity, such as human trafficking and sweatshops. When her new boss decides to have her follow a boy band on tour and direct a documentary about their reunion, she's less than impressed. She and her cameraman and long-time friend, Duncan, agree with the terms that if they complete this, they'll receive funding for their next project.
Lexi doesn't expect that she'll begin to actually like the boys, who are at least five years her junior. She becomes invested in all their lives, especially Aidan, who she can't get out of her mind. Their whirlwind romance is spicy and secret (doesn't get much sexier than that). There are several romantic subplots outside their story, which I really enjoyed!
In general, I don't love third act breakups, but I thought this one was extremely well-done and allowed Lexi and Aidan to both figure out some personal issues.
The reason I took off a half star is that some of the language was cringey. I hope I never have to read a 😺 described as "plump" ever again.
4.5 stars rounded up!
Honestly, I selected this book on a whim, and I'm so glad I did! I read it in two sittings; I just couldn't wait to find out how Lexi and Aidan's story turned out.
Lexi is an Oscar-winning director who focuses on documentaries about some of the darker aspects of humanity, such as human trafficking and sweatshops. When her new boss decides to have her follow a boy band on tour and direct a documentary about their reunion, she's less than impressed. She and her cameraman and long-time friend, Duncan, agree with the terms that if they complete this, they'll receive funding for their next project.
Lexi doesn't expect that she'll begin to actually like the boys, who are at least five years her junior. She becomes invested in all their lives, especially Aidan, who she can't get out of her mind. Their whirlwind romance is spicy and secret (doesn't get much sexier than that). There are several romantic subplots outside their story, which I really enjoyed!
In general, I don't love third act breakups, but I thought this one was extremely well-done and allowed Lexi and Aidan to both figure out some personal issues.
The reason I took off a half star is that some of the language was cringey. I hope I never have to read a 😺 described as "plump" ever again.
August 30, 2025
I Knew You Were Trouble, had me singing that TS song the entire time I was reading, which was slightly problematic, considering this is about a boy band. But I digress.
Overall, enjoyable, easy to read, characters you can't help but love, Duncan, I'm looking at you. It also perfectly encapsulates the hype that surrounds boy bands.
However, as someone who reads a lot of romance, the language used during the intimate moments, was a little off putting, if I read 'my channel' one more time, I may throw something...
That being said, I did enjoy seeing Lexi find herself and allow herself to find love. As well as being wrapped up in the story of a famous boy band and the slight, look behind the curtain into that scene.
Overall, enjoyable, easy to read, characters you can't help but love, Duncan, I'm looking at you. It also perfectly encapsulates the hype that surrounds boy bands.
However, as someone who reads a lot of romance, the language used during the intimate moments, was a little off putting, if I read 'my channel' one more time, I may throw something...
That being said, I did enjoy seeing Lexi find herself and allow herself to find love. As well as being wrapped up in the story of a famous boy band and the slight, look behind the curtain into that scene.
November 2, 2024
Lexi is an Oscar-winning documentary director whose focus is on some of the darker aspects of humanity. Her new boss decides to have her follow a boy band on tour and direct a documentary about their reunion. She not so happy about it but she reluctantly agrees to it. Little did Lexi know that she'll start to actually like the boys and spending time with them, becoming invested in all their lives, especially Aidan, who she can't get out of her mind.
When I decided to pick up this book from NG, I selected it because of course most of the tropes interested me. One of the tropes I don't particularly like it's a celebrity character, but I still chose it.
And thank God I did, this book was a rollercoaster of emotions, I wanted to keep reading it all the time but at the same I was dreading nearing its end, because I knew there was going to be a third act break up, you could sense it from the way Lexi handled certain things, and I knew this break up was going to hurt and it freaking did. But, unlike most break ups, this one was needed as it helped both Aidan and Lexi to figure some things out about each other and themselves.
I enjoyed reading this book so much because I actually liked every connection Lexi formed with most of the band members while helping them out in their private lives. It is an engaging book and so well written you couldn't help but keeping on reading. You actually felt you were travelling around the world with the band, you were staying in 5 star hotels and cheap hotels, you felt jet-lagged, you felt happiness at being back stage watching the band perform, you felt anger when Aiden kept boycotting Lexi's efforts to do her job, but you inevitably felt exhilarated when he started changing his mind and give Lexi his real self and some stomach-knotting lines.
Their romance is so intense and tense, there was that push and pull that kept you wanting more and more. This is a single pov book, I didn't mind it in this contest, because it was painful not knowing what Aiden felt or thought in certain parts of the book, but that's what happens in real life. Though, I wouldn't have minded to get a glimpse of his real feelings at the beginning when he didn't want Lexi around or when they broke up. So this is my official request to Emma Rae for a couple of bonus scenes.
Thank you Hera Books and NetGalley for the ARC, the opinions are entirely my own.
When I decided to pick up this book from NG, I selected it because of course most of the tropes interested me. One of the tropes I don't particularly like it's a celebrity character, but I still chose it.
And thank God I did, this book was a rollercoaster of emotions, I wanted to keep reading it all the time but at the same I was dreading nearing its end, because I knew there was going to be a third act break up, you could sense it from the way Lexi handled certain things, and I knew this break up was going to hurt and it freaking did. But, unlike most break ups, this one was needed as it helped both Aidan and Lexi to figure some things out about each other and themselves.
I enjoyed reading this book so much because I actually liked every connection Lexi formed with most of the band members while helping them out in their private lives. It is an engaging book and so well written you couldn't help but keeping on reading. You actually felt you were travelling around the world with the band, you were staying in 5 star hotels and cheap hotels, you felt jet-lagged, you felt happiness at being back stage watching the band perform, you felt anger when Aiden kept boycotting Lexi's efforts to do her job, but you inevitably felt exhilarated when he started changing his mind and give Lexi his real self and some stomach-knotting lines.
Their romance is so intense and tense, there was that push and pull that kept you wanting more and more. This is a single pov book, I didn't mind it in this contest, because it was painful not knowing what Aiden felt or thought in certain parts of the book, but that's what happens in real life. Though, I wouldn't have minded to get a glimpse of his real feelings at the beginning when he didn't want Lexi around or when they broke up. So this is my official request to Emma Rae for a couple of bonus scenes.
Thank you Hera Books and NetGalley for the ARC, the opinions are entirely my own.
November 12, 2024
3.75/5⭐
1.5/5🌶️
Such a cute storyline! Hats off to Emma Rae! I couldn't put this down. I loved Lexi as our fiest FMC, completely unphased by our boyband. The characters are well-developed, and the scenes are written in a way that it’s easy to visualize. I also like that each boyband member gets their chance to be in the spotlight. Such a fun world tour!
I was skeptical because I usually prefer a Dual POV for enemies to lovers, but this was done so well. I'm a girls girl and was riding with Lexi every step and turn. I backed it all and still have fun peeling back Aidan's layers.
Cons: Third act break up.
Blurb:
He’s the world’s most famous frontman. She couldn’t care less.
Lexi is already an Oscar winning documentary director at just 30-years-old. But when she is asked to ditch her current project in exchange to film Rebel Heart - a reunited boy band - she is disappointed to say the least. She didn’t work this hard to follow a boy group on tour and document their every manufactured move for teenage fans.
But after meeting Aidan, the unofficial ‘head’ of the band, something new stirs inside her. She thinks he’s egotistical, entitled, and impulsive. Equally, Aidan thinks Lexi is high-strung, secretive, and emotionally devoid.
Tensions rise, and as Lexi blends work and pleasure, she can’t let go of her difficult past with the father that abandoned her. She doesn’t expect people to stay in her life for long. Especially the lead of a boy band. But is this project about to prove all of her expectations wrong…?
1.5/5🌶️
Such a cute storyline! Hats off to Emma Rae! I couldn't put this down. I loved Lexi as our fiest FMC, completely unphased by our boyband. The characters are well-developed, and the scenes are written in a way that it’s easy to visualize. I also like that each boyband member gets their chance to be in the spotlight. Such a fun world tour!
I was skeptical because I usually prefer a Dual POV for enemies to lovers, but this was done so well. I'm a girls girl and was riding with Lexi every step and turn. I backed it all and still have fun peeling back Aidan's layers.
Cons: Third act break up.
Blurb:
He’s the world’s most famous frontman. She couldn’t care less.
Lexi is already an Oscar winning documentary director at just 30-years-old. But when she is asked to ditch her current project in exchange to film Rebel Heart - a reunited boy band - she is disappointed to say the least. She didn’t work this hard to follow a boy group on tour and document their every manufactured move for teenage fans.
But after meeting Aidan, the unofficial ‘head’ of the band, something new stirs inside her. She thinks he’s egotistical, entitled, and impulsive. Equally, Aidan thinks Lexi is high-strung, secretive, and emotionally devoid.
Tensions rise, and as Lexi blends work and pleasure, she can’t let go of her difficult past with the father that abandoned her. She doesn’t expect people to stay in her life for long. Especially the lead of a boy band. But is this project about to prove all of her expectations wrong…?
November 7, 2024
An Oscar wining documentary filmmaker has to take on a studio project in order to secure funding for her next social issue film- making a tour documentary about the number one boy band in the world!
What I loved the absolute most about this book were the characters, who all felt so lived in, individualized, and fun to be around. Each of the boybanders gets their moment to shine, whether it be in love, music, or self-growth- UBL (unofficial band leader) and mother hen Aiden, sweet lovely Ravi, brash and spontaneous Cal, demure and caring JB, and man in development Miller. Our filmmaker Lexi makes some wild choices but I love the way she wants everyone around her to be happy and successful, and that she is steadfast in her vision!
Thanks so much to Emma Rae and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!
What I loved the absolute most about this book were the characters, who all felt so lived in, individualized, and fun to be around. Each of the boybanders gets their moment to shine, whether it be in love, music, or self-growth- UBL (unofficial band leader) and mother hen Aiden, sweet lovely Ravi, brash and spontaneous Cal, demure and caring JB, and man in development Miller. Our filmmaker Lexi makes some wild choices but I love the way she wants everyone around her to be happy and successful, and that she is steadfast in her vision!
Thanks so much to Emma Rae and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!
October 10, 2024
Guys, I just finished devouring my first Emma Rae book, and let me tell you, I am absolutely buzzing with excitement! I got my hands on the ARC, and "I Knew You Were Trouble" is a title that does not disappoint. The author brought Lexi and Aiden to life in the most fantastic way possible.
This book is an absolute rollercoaster of love, friendship, trust, and just the right amount of drama and spice! Picture an Oscar-winning director falling head over heels for a younger boy band member. If you're in the mood for a sizzling, heartwarming, and unputdownable romance, this book is a total game-changer. It's like a breath of fresh air and exactly what I've been craving.
A massive shoutout to NetGalley and Canelo for the ARC - you guys rock!
This book is an absolute rollercoaster of love, friendship, trust, and just the right amount of drama and spice! Picture an Oscar-winning director falling head over heels for a younger boy band member. If you're in the mood for a sizzling, heartwarming, and unputdownable romance, this book is a total game-changer. It's like a breath of fresh air and exactly what I've been craving.
A massive shoutout to NetGalley and Canelo for the ARC - you guys rock!
November 2, 2024
Overall thoughts:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Release Date: 21st November 2024
‘I don’t care how many fans he has Aidan McArthur is mine.’
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Workplace Romance, Queer Rep (Side Character), Third Act Conflict.
Lexi has made a name for herself as an Oscar winning documentary director, however without funding the documentaries she wants to film are just out of reach. In an attempt to gain said funding Lexi finds herself being forced to work on a project involving at reunited boy band as they tour the world. What could do wrong?
Interpersonal conflicts, budding relationships, lies & betrayals.. if you wanted drama here it is!
Firstly, I want to commend Emma for yet again creating a FMC & MMC that you love and hate at the same time! She has a knack for writing complex & testing characters. Not your standard copy & paste romance. There were moments in the book where I truly hated both main characters, but found myself forgiving all by the ending.
I can only describe this book as a rollercoaster, it’s intense. I think I’ve got whiplash from all the drama 😂
But what do you expect when the topic is a boy band on tour!
Overall another great book by Emma, keep doing what you’re doing!
Thank you to Emma Rae, Hera & NetGalley for the review copy in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Release Date: 21st November 2024
‘I don’t care how many fans he has Aidan McArthur is mine.’
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Workplace Romance, Queer Rep (Side Character), Third Act Conflict.
Lexi has made a name for herself as an Oscar winning documentary director, however without funding the documentaries she wants to film are just out of reach. In an attempt to gain said funding Lexi finds herself being forced to work on a project involving at reunited boy band as they tour the world. What could do wrong?
Interpersonal conflicts, budding relationships, lies & betrayals.. if you wanted drama here it is!
Firstly, I want to commend Emma for yet again creating a FMC & MMC that you love and hate at the same time! She has a knack for writing complex & testing characters. Not your standard copy & paste romance. There were moments in the book where I truly hated both main characters, but found myself forgiving all by the ending.
I can only describe this book as a rollercoaster, it’s intense. I think I’ve got whiplash from all the drama 😂
But what do you expect when the topic is a boy band on tour!
Overall another great book by Emma, keep doing what you’re doing!
Thank you to Emma Rae, Hera & NetGalley for the review copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2024
Thank you NetGalley, Hera Books and Emma Rae for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.5⭐️ I found this book really fun. I kept looking forward to when I could pick it up again.
Lexi is an Oscar winning documentary director who is forced to jump into a project covering the popular boy band, Rebel Heart. This is her nightmare- she knows next to nothing about the band and her documentaries focus on much darker topics.
Aiden is the unofficial leader of the band and super protective of the group. He leads the fight against the documentary and tries to sabotage Lexi’s efforts.
Lexi is shocked when she not only starts to enjoy the 5 members of the band but also finds a way to help several of them and make an impactful documentary. I liked the side storylines.
Third act breakups are not my favorite but this one was well done.
Open door.
Small reverse age gap.
Hidden/workplace romance.
4.5⭐️ I found this book really fun. I kept looking forward to when I could pick it up again.
Lexi is an Oscar winning documentary director who is forced to jump into a project covering the popular boy band, Rebel Heart. This is her nightmare- she knows next to nothing about the band and her documentaries focus on much darker topics.
Aiden is the unofficial leader of the band and super protective of the group. He leads the fight against the documentary and tries to sabotage Lexi’s efforts.
Lexi is shocked when she not only starts to enjoy the 5 members of the band but also finds a way to help several of them and make an impactful documentary. I liked the side storylines.
Third act breakups are not my favorite but this one was well done.
Open door.
Small reverse age gap.
Hidden/workplace romance.
August 26, 2025
Enjoyable “enemies to lovers” story which feels like it probably started out as One Direction fanfic 😂 my only gripes are (1) I’m not sure why Lexi and Aidan fancy each other as they don’t seem to have conversations, and (2) there was absolutely no need for them to keep being on-again, off-again as many times as they were
January 30, 2025
⭐️3.5
This book was EXACTLY what I was searching for atm and it’s absolutely enjoyable if you’re in the mood for a bit spicy boyband romance :)
Would like to read more by Emma Rae
This book was EXACTLY what I was searching for atm and it’s absolutely enjoyable if you’re in the mood for a bit spicy boyband romance :)
Would like to read more by Emma Rae
August 24, 2025
An enjoyable read. Easy to follow and we love love. Didn’t love this one as much as love game but very excited to read the next Emma Rae book 📕
February 22, 2025
4 ⭐️
As a big boy band fan, this book was everything I hoped for! I went in with fairly low expectations, unsure if it would be too cheesy, but the main female lead being 30 added a level of maturity and depth to both the characters and the story.
I really enjoyed learning about each band member’s story. While it was predictable and didn’t have any major twists, it delivered exactly what you’d want from a classic rom-com in book form. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking to relive their teenage fangirl days! 😂
As a big boy band fan, this book was everything I hoped for! I went in with fairly low expectations, unsure if it would be too cheesy, but the main female lead being 30 added a level of maturity and depth to both the characters and the story.
I really enjoyed learning about each band member’s story. While it was predictable and didn’t have any major twists, it delivered exactly what you’d want from a classic rom-com in book form. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking to relive their teenage fangirl days! 😂
August 7, 2025
i wouldn't wish this book upon my worst enemy
February 20, 2025
Not convinced...
- I would like to thank Netgalley for the eARC -
STANDALONE
As an oscar-winning documentary director, Lexi think she choose whatever project she wants. But when she is asked to postpone her dreams to shoot a documentary about Rebel Heart, a boy band, she is not happy. And when she meets band-member Aidan, it gets worse. He's egotistical, impulsive, untitle, and doesn't want anything to do with the documentary and her. How is she supposed to film a documentary when the band keeps making it harder for her? And why is she attracted to this unsufferable man?
I have mixed feelings about this book, to be honest. I enjoyed the beginning, to be honest. It was an intriguing start and I usually really like romances with a famous love interest. However, around the middle, some things made me almost DNF. First of, some reflexions felt slightly racist or homophobic at times, but that could simply be clumsy writing. But as it went on, I started really not liking the main character. I felt like she did really stupid things with no explanations, and I rolled my eyes a few times because it felt ridiculous. And she felt very intrusive and not safe at all several times, which the other characters forgave too fast and easily for my taste. I didn't like how she mingled in her friends' relationships when she was making a mess of her own love life. Some things felt too surreal for me and the way it was solved too easy. The writing was a bit off at times too, but that's just personal taste. All in all, I wasn't convinced by this story, mainly because the female main character was very annoying and the love interest quite bland at times. It just wasn't for me, I guess.
I don't necessary recommend this, but just because it didn't fit my vibe.
“Love will make you do irrational things. Love is a riptide, Lexi. It will pull you under and have you gasping for air. Love can suffocate you.”
TW: sexual content, misogyny (mild), homophobia (mild)
- I would like to thank Netgalley for the eARC -
STANDALONE
As an oscar-winning documentary director, Lexi think she choose whatever project she wants. But when she is asked to postpone her dreams to shoot a documentary about Rebel Heart, a boy band, she is not happy. And when she meets band-member Aidan, it gets worse. He's egotistical, impulsive, untitle, and doesn't want anything to do with the documentary and her. How is she supposed to film a documentary when the band keeps making it harder for her? And why is she attracted to this unsufferable man?
I have mixed feelings about this book, to be honest. I enjoyed the beginning, to be honest. It was an intriguing start and I usually really like romances with a famous love interest. However, around the middle, some things made me almost DNF. First of, some reflexions felt slightly racist or homophobic at times, but that could simply be clumsy writing. But as it went on, I started really not liking the main character. I felt like she did really stupid things with no explanations, and I rolled my eyes a few times because it felt ridiculous. And she felt very intrusive and not safe at all several times, which the other characters forgave too fast and easily for my taste. I didn't like how she mingled in her friends' relationships when she was making a mess of her own love life. Some things felt too surreal for me and the way it was solved too easy. The writing was a bit off at times too, but that's just personal taste. All in all, I wasn't convinced by this story, mainly because the female main character was very annoying and the love interest quite bland at times. It just wasn't for me, I guess.
I don't necessary recommend this, but just because it didn't fit my vibe.
“Love will make you do irrational things. Love is a riptide, Lexi. It will pull you under and have you gasping for air. Love can suffocate you.”
TW: sexual content, misogyny (mild), homophobia (mild)
October 20, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Lexi is an Oscar winning documentary filmmaker. Her star is on the rise, but when she’s asked to abandon her project in order to film a documentary on famous boy band, Rebel Heart, she’s disappointed to say the least. In order to get funding for her project, she must follow the band on their world wide tour and deal with the entitled unofficial head of the band, Aidan. Lexi and Aidan butt heads as tensions rise. Will they be able to make this film without killing each other?
To be honest I wasn’t feeling this one. Aidan was really immature and behaved unprofessionally in order to get Lexi fired from her job. From the beginning, he ices her out and gets the band to avoid her interviews. This leaves Lexi with no choice but to secretly tape them. I took issue with this because it didn’t seem realistic that an Oscar winner would go to such an extreme to get footage. Not to mention it wasn’t ethical at all.
I’m also not a fan of MMC’s hooking up with other women after they’ve met the FMC. It’s disappointing, and I’m not quite sure what purpose it truly serves. That’s time that would’ve been better spent building the relationship between Lexi and Aidan.
I didn’t enjoy this book at all, and it was hard for me to root for the romance. Not only is she having to deal with seeing Aidan with other women, but he treats her very poorly, and I’m just left wondering why she’s bothering. She’s an accomplished filmmaker, and frankly he’s beneath her. It’s bad enough that’s she’s got a sweet and caring ex who happens to be her camera man, and still somewhat has feelings for her. Now a second chance romance between the two of them would have been the story I would want to read.
Overall, I struggled to get through this. And after reading reviews of the author’s previous book which contains the cheating trope, I don’t think her books are right for me.
Lexi is an Oscar winning documentary filmmaker. Her star is on the rise, but when she’s asked to abandon her project in order to film a documentary on famous boy band, Rebel Heart, she’s disappointed to say the least. In order to get funding for her project, she must follow the band on their world wide tour and deal with the entitled unofficial head of the band, Aidan. Lexi and Aidan butt heads as tensions rise. Will they be able to make this film without killing each other?
To be honest I wasn’t feeling this one. Aidan was really immature and behaved unprofessionally in order to get Lexi fired from her job. From the beginning, he ices her out and gets the band to avoid her interviews. This leaves Lexi with no choice but to secretly tape them. I took issue with this because it didn’t seem realistic that an Oscar winner would go to such an extreme to get footage. Not to mention it wasn’t ethical at all.
I’m also not a fan of MMC’s hooking up with other women after they’ve met the FMC. It’s disappointing, and I’m not quite sure what purpose it truly serves. That’s time that would’ve been better spent building the relationship between Lexi and Aidan.
I didn’t enjoy this book at all, and it was hard for me to root for the romance. Not only is she having to deal with seeing Aidan with other women, but he treats her very poorly, and I’m just left wondering why she’s bothering. She’s an accomplished filmmaker, and frankly he’s beneath her. It’s bad enough that’s she’s got a sweet and caring ex who happens to be her camera man, and still somewhat has feelings for her. Now a second chance romance between the two of them would have been the story I would want to read.
Overall, I struggled to get through this. And after reading reviews of the author’s previous book which contains the cheating trope, I don’t think her books are right for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2025
🎧
such a fun, romantic, cutesy book. loved this
such a fun, romantic, cutesy book. loved this
November 13, 2024
Although I’m usually not one for celebrity romance, I found myself binge-reading this one in less than 24 hours.
The writing flows effortlessly, with a perfectly balanced pace that keeps you turning the pages without feeling rushed or dragged down.
The protagonist, Lexie, is a breath of fresh air. At thirty, she's grounded, mature, and genuinely passionate about her work. It's rare to see a character like her in this genre—not a fan caught up in the glitz, but a professional determined to do her job well. Despite her initial hesitation about the documentary project, her empathy and understanding of the challenges the band faces shine through, and she brings a depth and subtlety to her work that’s refreshing to see.
Aidan is equally compelling. His dedication to his bandmates and his mature outlook create an appealing dynamic, and his chemistry with Lexie builds in such a natural way. Together, they make a perfect match, with a romance that feels genuine.
Beyond the central love story, Rae gives us a captivating look into the band’s high-paced world, whisking readers to new places and into the chaos, joy and pain of boy-band life. The side characters, from the band members to Duncan and Meredith, add warmth and charm, creating a tight-knit family dynamic that is both endearing and believable.
This is a love story that’s charming without being overly sweet, mature while still lighthearted, and unafraid to touch on deeper themes. I Knew You Were Trouble stands out as a refreshing and thoroughly enjoyable read that I highly recommend—even if celebrity romance isn’t usually your thing.
Thank you again NetGalley and Emma Rae for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The writing flows effortlessly, with a perfectly balanced pace that keeps you turning the pages without feeling rushed or dragged down.
The protagonist, Lexie, is a breath of fresh air. At thirty, she's grounded, mature, and genuinely passionate about her work. It's rare to see a character like her in this genre—not a fan caught up in the glitz, but a professional determined to do her job well. Despite her initial hesitation about the documentary project, her empathy and understanding of the challenges the band faces shine through, and she brings a depth and subtlety to her work that’s refreshing to see.
Aidan is equally compelling. His dedication to his bandmates and his mature outlook create an appealing dynamic, and his chemistry with Lexie builds in such a natural way. Together, they make a perfect match, with a romance that feels genuine.
Beyond the central love story, Rae gives us a captivating look into the band’s high-paced world, whisking readers to new places and into the chaos, joy and pain of boy-band life. The side characters, from the band members to Duncan and Meredith, add warmth and charm, creating a tight-knit family dynamic that is both endearing and believable.
This is a love story that’s charming without being overly sweet, mature while still lighthearted, and unafraid to touch on deeper themes. I Knew You Were Trouble stands out as a refreshing and thoroughly enjoyable read that I highly recommend—even if celebrity romance isn’t usually your thing.
Thank you again NetGalley and Emma Rae for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 30, 2024
This is the second book that I have been fortunate enough to read an ARC copy of from Emma Rae. While the storyline in I Knew You Were Trouble is completely different from Love Game, some of my comments and critiques of the two books are very similar.
I'll be completely honest: there were moments when I wanted to abandon the book and leave it on my DNF list, but I pushed on for various reasons. The first is because I don't have many DNF books. I have some books that I take a hiatus on, sometimes a years-long hiatus, but I always end up returning to the book when I am in a different mindset. I also wanted to push through because the overall plot and concept of the story were interesting. I was initially drawn to the story because of the blurb and I wanted to see it through. I knew that Love Game was worth finishing when I read that a few months ago, and something told me that I Knew You Were Trouble would also be worth it.
The writing itself was fine, good actually. I still do not enjoy all the time cuts within a chapter, similar to what Emma did in Love Game, and I think some of them could have been edited out completely as the information provided in some sections wasn't too relevant to the overall plot, but it wasn't a deal breaker for me. What bothered me was the lack of evolution or insight into Aiden and Lexi getting to know each other and spending time together. Aiden's feelings for Lexi start to change at one point and, because we don't have any of the stories from his PoV, nor any scenes where they start to spend time together and see them growing closer. I think we either needed to add pages to the story and develop that part of the plot or, remove some of the sections that didn't really do anything for the overall story (was mainly just a filler) and switch it out.
I really enjoyed all of the characters. I know Aiden and Lexi are our main love interests, but the whole band of Rebel Hearts is well-written, and I love the partners that they end up with. I grew up with a lot of boybands. New Kids on the Block started when I was very very young, Backstreet Boys, NSync, 98 degrees, and, even though I was a little too old, I also experienced One Direction. This story spoke to my boyband pop groupie inside my heart and I loved it. I guess, because I read this book so soon after the death of Liam Payne, I kept thinking of One Direction throughout the whole story. Duncan and Merideth are also amazing additions to the story. I actually want there to be a second part of this book just to see how the relationships evolve and continue (please, please continue) in a few year's time.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, and I am glad NetGalley, Hera Books, and Emma Rae gave me the opportunity to read it in advance. Thank you!
I'll be completely honest: there were moments when I wanted to abandon the book and leave it on my DNF list, but I pushed on for various reasons. The first is because I don't have many DNF books. I have some books that I take a hiatus on, sometimes a years-long hiatus, but I always end up returning to the book when I am in a different mindset. I also wanted to push through because the overall plot and concept of the story were interesting. I was initially drawn to the story because of the blurb and I wanted to see it through. I knew that Love Game was worth finishing when I read that a few months ago, and something told me that I Knew You Were Trouble would also be worth it.
The writing itself was fine, good actually. I still do not enjoy all the time cuts within a chapter, similar to what Emma did in Love Game, and I think some of them could have been edited out completely as the information provided in some sections wasn't too relevant to the overall plot, but it wasn't a deal breaker for me. What bothered me was the lack of evolution or insight into Aiden and Lexi getting to know each other and spending time together. Aiden's feelings for Lexi start to change at one point and, because we don't have any of the stories from his PoV, nor any scenes where they start to spend time together and see them growing closer. I think we either needed to add pages to the story and develop that part of the plot or, remove some of the sections that didn't really do anything for the overall story (was mainly just a filler) and switch it out.
I really enjoyed all of the characters. I know Aiden and Lexi are our main love interests, but the whole band of Rebel Hearts is well-written, and I love the partners that they end up with. I grew up with a lot of boybands. New Kids on the Block started when I was very very young, Backstreet Boys, NSync, 98 degrees, and, even though I was a little too old, I also experienced One Direction. This story spoke to my boyband pop groupie inside my heart and I loved it. I guess, because I read this book so soon after the death of Liam Payne, I kept thinking of One Direction throughout the whole story. Duncan and Merideth are also amazing additions to the story. I actually want there to be a second part of this book just to see how the relationships evolve and continue (please, please continue) in a few year's time.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, and I am glad NetGalley, Hera Books, and Emma Rae gave me the opportunity to read it in advance. Thank you!
November 1, 2024
3.5 stars
Blurb
He’s the world’s most famous frontman. She couldn’t care less.
Lexi is already an Oscar winning documentary director at just 30-years-old. But when she is asked to ditch her current project in exchange to film Rebel Heart - a reunited boy band - she is disappointed to say the least. She didn’t work this hard to follow a boy group on tour and document their every manufactured move for teenage fans.
But after meeting Aidan, the unofficial ‘head’ of the band, something new stirs inside her. She thinks he’s egotistical, entitled, and impulsive. Equally, Aidan thinks Lexi is high-strung, secretive, and emotionally devoid.
Tensions rise, and as Lexi blends work and pleasure, she can’t let go of her difficult past with the father that abandoned her. She doesn’t expect people to stay in her life for long. Especially the lead of a boy band. But is this project about to prove all of her expectations wrong…?
My thoughts:
I recently finished reading I knew you were trouble by Emma Rae, which took me a little while to get into, but once I did, I found myself enjoying the story. The book brought back a wave of nostalgia from my younger years when I used to watch shows like Popstars: The Rivals and X Factor.
The dynamic between the characters Aiden and Lexi intrigued me, especially their enemies to lovers relationship as Lexi takes on the role of Director for the Rebel Hearts documentary, something they both initially oppose. I admired Lexi's strong-willed nature and her determination to get the job done no matter what.
One of the highlights of the book for me was watching Lexi connect with each member of the band individually, breaking down their walls and discovering their vulnerabilities. It was fascinating to see how she went from being the unwanted Director to becoming an integral part of the group.
Overall, I found this book to be a great easy read. The character development and plot kept me invested. If you're a fan of enemies to lovers tropes, boybands and enjoy stories of personal growth and self-discovery with a cute romance thrown in, I recommend giving this book a read.
Thank you to Emma Rae, Hera books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this eARC.
Blurb
He’s the world’s most famous frontman. She couldn’t care less.
Lexi is already an Oscar winning documentary director at just 30-years-old. But when she is asked to ditch her current project in exchange to film Rebel Heart - a reunited boy band - she is disappointed to say the least. She didn’t work this hard to follow a boy group on tour and document their every manufactured move for teenage fans.
But after meeting Aidan, the unofficial ‘head’ of the band, something new stirs inside her. She thinks he’s egotistical, entitled, and impulsive. Equally, Aidan thinks Lexi is high-strung, secretive, and emotionally devoid.
Tensions rise, and as Lexi blends work and pleasure, she can’t let go of her difficult past with the father that abandoned her. She doesn’t expect people to stay in her life for long. Especially the lead of a boy band. But is this project about to prove all of her expectations wrong…?
My thoughts:
I recently finished reading I knew you were trouble by Emma Rae, which took me a little while to get into, but once I did, I found myself enjoying the story. The book brought back a wave of nostalgia from my younger years when I used to watch shows like Popstars: The Rivals and X Factor.
The dynamic between the characters Aiden and Lexi intrigued me, especially their enemies to lovers relationship as Lexi takes on the role of Director for the Rebel Hearts documentary, something they both initially oppose. I admired Lexi's strong-willed nature and her determination to get the job done no matter what.
One of the highlights of the book for me was watching Lexi connect with each member of the band individually, breaking down their walls and discovering their vulnerabilities. It was fascinating to see how she went from being the unwanted Director to becoming an integral part of the group.
Overall, I found this book to be a great easy read. The character development and plot kept me invested. If you're a fan of enemies to lovers tropes, boybands and enjoy stories of personal growth and self-discovery with a cute romance thrown in, I recommend giving this book a read.
Thank you to Emma Rae, Hera books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this eARC.
October 24, 2024
When I was searching for my next read on Netgalley, I was immediately drawn by the blurb of this book. Celebrity romance? Enemies to lovers? Boy band? SIGN. ME. UP.
Lexi – Award winning filmmaker, grumpy, could not be impressed that she’s forced to film the world’s hottest band.
Aiden – UBL (Unofficially Band Leader) of Rebel Heart, protective, hottie and does not want this film to happen.
It starts with Lexi being voluntold that she must film the band’s documentary if she ever wants funding for her next big project from the company.
The band had already kicked out one director, and they were determined to kick out her too. However, after a few nights, Lexi ‘won’ her right to stay to film the band. She had a suspicion that the band would just show her staged, predictable moments and make as hard as they could for her and her crew. However, unknowingly to the band, she had a few questionable tricks up her sleeves to capture the not-staged moments.
Eventually, we see Lexi and Aiden slowly fall for each other. Nevertheless, it was not a smooth ride, but they did find their HEA.
Overall, the story was fine.
This is a SLOW BURN romance. It took me a few days to get into the story itself. There is a LOT of details for the first half of the book (for examples, meeting all the bandmates, background information, etc.). There’s also the fact that Lexi would use body cams and illegally film the band without their knowledge or consent. In the world of trying to go viral, privacy laws in common law or civil law* is such a big issue. I encourage anyone that would be inspired by Lexi’s method of using body cams to film to ask a legal representative about the law.
The book hooked me in about 60% in. I usually dislike third breakup acts, but it added to the story.
This was my first Emma Rae book, but not my last. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
(*Bandmates are majority all from countries that practices common law, except bandmate J.B.)
Lexi – Award winning filmmaker, grumpy, could not be impressed that she’s forced to film the world’s hottest band.
Aiden – UBL (Unofficially Band Leader) of Rebel Heart, protective, hottie and does not want this film to happen.
It starts with Lexi being voluntold that she must film the band’s documentary if she ever wants funding for her next big project from the company.
The band had already kicked out one director, and they were determined to kick out her too. However, after a few nights, Lexi ‘won’ her right to stay to film the band. She had a suspicion that the band would just show her staged, predictable moments and make as hard as they could for her and her crew. However, unknowingly to the band, she had a few questionable tricks up her sleeves to capture the not-staged moments.
Eventually, we see Lexi and Aiden slowly fall for each other. Nevertheless, it was not a smooth ride, but they did find their HEA.
Overall, the story was fine.
This is a SLOW BURN romance. It took me a few days to get into the story itself. There is a LOT of details for the first half of the book (for examples, meeting all the bandmates, background information, etc.). There’s also the fact that Lexi would use body cams and illegally film the band without their knowledge or consent. In the world of trying to go viral, privacy laws in common law or civil law* is such a big issue. I encourage anyone that would be inspired by Lexi’s method of using body cams to film to ask a legal representative about the law.
The book hooked me in about 60% in. I usually dislike third breakup acts, but it added to the story.
This was my first Emma Rae book, but not my last. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
(*Bandmates are majority all from countries that practices common law, except bandmate J.B.)
November 15, 2024
4/5🎤 this is my second ARC with emma and i can definitely say i have loved this book even more than the first i’ve read of hers. i want to thank emma, NetGalley and Hera books and for allowing me to read her ARC- i loved it!
short summary:
after finishing up an oscar-worthy documentary, lexi hart is now tasked with a job that she doesn’t think she wants: go on tour with the biggest boy band in the world, rebel heart and film their own documentary. she’s not exactly thrilled about her new endeavor, and neither are her new subjects, especially (unofficial) band leader, aiden mcarthur. while on tour, aiden and lexi find themselves being brought together, in more than one way. question is, can they put up with each other long enough for lexi to finish her job?
things i loved:
🎥the red shirt project actually sounds really cool and i hope she goes on to make that documentary 😌
🎥there were so many times i felt the nostalgia of loving a boy band -AIDEN IS A DREAM
🎥I loved how funny and also UNIQUE each band member was- the fact that they were all from different countries was so fun and along with their specific struggles, they were well rounded characters
🎥lexi being a little matchmaker for the boys was so cute, I loved all the mini HEAs for the side characters
the entire book felt like i was waiting for lexi and aiden to JUST. BE. TOGETHER. very on again off again which can be frustrating, but the author wrote it so well this time around. i felt like lexi really grew as a character through her time on tour—her life was being changed through the band and her relationship with each of them.
tropes:
enemies to lovers
filmmaker x pop star
slow burn
forced proximity
would i recommend? yes!
short summary:
after finishing up an oscar-worthy documentary, lexi hart is now tasked with a job that she doesn’t think she wants: go on tour with the biggest boy band in the world, rebel heart and film their own documentary. she’s not exactly thrilled about her new endeavor, and neither are her new subjects, especially (unofficial) band leader, aiden mcarthur. while on tour, aiden and lexi find themselves being brought together, in more than one way. question is, can they put up with each other long enough for lexi to finish her job?
things i loved:
🎥the red shirt project actually sounds really cool and i hope she goes on to make that documentary 😌
🎥there were so many times i felt the nostalgia of loving a boy band -AIDEN IS A DREAM
🎥I loved how funny and also UNIQUE each band member was- the fact that they were all from different countries was so fun and along with their specific struggles, they were well rounded characters
🎥lexi being a little matchmaker for the boys was so cute, I loved all the mini HEAs for the side characters
the entire book felt like i was waiting for lexi and aiden to JUST. BE. TOGETHER. very on again off again which can be frustrating, but the author wrote it so well this time around. i felt like lexi really grew as a character through her time on tour—her life was being changed through the band and her relationship with each of them.
tropes:
enemies to lovers
filmmaker x pop star
slow burn
forced proximity
would i recommend? yes!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2024
4.00 stars
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A celebrity enemies-to-lovers? Count me in! Lexi is a thirty-year-old Oscar-winning documentarian, leaving her as the top choice to direct a documentary on a famous boy band reunion tour: Rebel Heart. Lexi hasn't come all this way in life to film some boy band movie, but if she wants the greenlight on her next project she has no choice. From the start, it's clear that the group doesn't want her there and goes out of their way to make filming a struggle.
We meet our bandmates, including our unofficial leader, Aidan. I wasn't a huge fan of Aidan initially; he's egotistic, entitled, and will do anything to stop Lexi from filming. Our two MCs have an intense connection together. As the story goes on, Lexi becomes closer to the band and helps them come to peace with certain aspects of their life, but as a reader, you begin to question if she's doing all of it for the documentary.
I liked how this book gives you a glimpse of what a famous boy band may go through, how you're perceived due to tabloids, and how one event can shape your entire persona. I was more invested in other characters than with Aidan and Lexi...Aidan is painted in a bad light, but Lexi isn't better doing some questionable things to get footage for the documentary.
This book does include a third-act breakup, it allows for our characters to grow apart. I enjoyed reading about Lexi building rapport with her father once again, and how he dropped everything at the drop of a hat to take care of her. Overall this was a good read, please note that it does deal with some serious content and isn't a lighthearted read.
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A celebrity enemies-to-lovers? Count me in! Lexi is a thirty-year-old Oscar-winning documentarian, leaving her as the top choice to direct a documentary on a famous boy band reunion tour: Rebel Heart. Lexi hasn't come all this way in life to film some boy band movie, but if she wants the greenlight on her next project she has no choice. From the start, it's clear that the group doesn't want her there and goes out of their way to make filming a struggle.
We meet our bandmates, including our unofficial leader, Aidan. I wasn't a huge fan of Aidan initially; he's egotistic, entitled, and will do anything to stop Lexi from filming. Our two MCs have an intense connection together. As the story goes on, Lexi becomes closer to the band and helps them come to peace with certain aspects of their life, but as a reader, you begin to question if she's doing all of it for the documentary.
I liked how this book gives you a glimpse of what a famous boy band may go through, how you're perceived due to tabloids, and how one event can shape your entire persona. I was more invested in other characters than with Aidan and Lexi...Aidan is painted in a bad light, but Lexi isn't better doing some questionable things to get footage for the documentary.
This book does include a third-act breakup, it allows for our characters to grow apart. I enjoyed reading about Lexi building rapport with her father once again, and how he dropped everything at the drop of a hat to take care of her. Overall this was a good read, please note that it does deal with some serious content and isn't a lighthearted read.
November 8, 2024
I originally judged this book by its cover, but wow, Emma Rae proved me wrong. "I Knew You Were Trouble" is a delightful blend of romance, fun, and most of all, heart. The story follows Lexi, an Oscar-winning career-driven filmmaker who's determined to make artistic and deeply exploratory documentaries. Her contract, though, sends her to film a boy band's documentary as they tour across the globe. Lexi is adamant on getting the footage she needs and moving onto bigger, better projects that involve significantly fewer screaming teenage fangirls, and more amicable film subjects. But then she meets the arrogant, infuriatingly-attractive, Unofficial Band Leader, Aiden.
While the plot is predictable at times, it's the characters (especially the band) and their interactions that truly shine. The supporting cast adds depth and humor to the story, and the author's ability to capture the nuances of friendship and romantic relationships, with a touch of career and family dynamics, is heartwarming. Lexi is an authentic lead -- she struggles, she's self-centered sometimes, and she makes mistakes and not only learns from them but owns up -- and I admired her throughout the story. I especially admire how Rae wrote the character, as well as the authenticity and individuality of the entire cast.
Overall, "I Knew You Were Trouble" is a fun and lighthearted read that's perfect for anyone looking for a quick escape -- I read it in three sittings. If you're a fan of romantic comedies with strong female leads, a bit of spice, and a heartwarming, authentic cast, you'll enjoy this book.
Thanks to NetGalley for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
While the plot is predictable at times, it's the characters (especially the band) and their interactions that truly shine. The supporting cast adds depth and humor to the story, and the author's ability to capture the nuances of friendship and romantic relationships, with a touch of career and family dynamics, is heartwarming. Lexi is an authentic lead -- she struggles, she's self-centered sometimes, and she makes mistakes and not only learns from them but owns up -- and I admired her throughout the story. I especially admire how Rae wrote the character, as well as the authenticity and individuality of the entire cast.
Overall, "I Knew You Were Trouble" is a fun and lighthearted read that's perfect for anyone looking for a quick escape -- I read it in three sittings. If you're a fan of romantic comedies with strong female leads, a bit of spice, and a heartwarming, authentic cast, you'll enjoy this book.
Thanks to NetGalley for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
October 28, 2024
I Knew You Were Trouble follows Lexi, an Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker reluctantly assigned to follow Rebel Heart, a reunited boy band, on tour. Frustrated by the project, she’s surprised when she meets Aidan, the charming but infuriating frontman, and feels an unexpected connection. As she navigates the tension between her career and personal life, Lexi’s guarded heart slowly opens, challenging her expectations and forcing her to confront her past. The result is a story of unexpected love, personal growth, and a journey that neither Lexi nor Aidan saw coming.
This book is a fun and engaging read that brings a fresh twist to the enemies-to-lovers trope. The dynamics between Lexi and the Rebel Heart band members are well-written, making you feel like you’re right there on tour with them. Lexi’s character, strong-willed and ambitious, brings a unique edge to the storyline, and watching her impact each band member was one of my favorite parts of the book.
The romance between Lexi and Aidan is both tense and sweet, creating that perfect push-and-pull that keeps you invested. I would have loved to see Aidan’s perspective in a few scenes, just to get a deeper look at his thoughts and emotions, especially as their relationship develops. The plot itself has a nice balance of predictability and originality, keeping it entertaining without feeling repetitive.
Overall, I Knew You Were Trouble is a solid read with memorable characters and a cute romance. The author’s writing style is fresh and fun, and I’m excited to explore more of her work in the future.
This book is a fun and engaging read that brings a fresh twist to the enemies-to-lovers trope. The dynamics between Lexi and the Rebel Heart band members are well-written, making you feel like you’re right there on tour with them. Lexi’s character, strong-willed and ambitious, brings a unique edge to the storyline, and watching her impact each band member was one of my favorite parts of the book.
The romance between Lexi and Aidan is both tense and sweet, creating that perfect push-and-pull that keeps you invested. I would have loved to see Aidan’s perspective in a few scenes, just to get a deeper look at his thoughts and emotions, especially as their relationship develops. The plot itself has a nice balance of predictability and originality, keeping it entertaining without feeling repetitive.
Overall, I Knew You Were Trouble is a solid read with memorable characters and a cute romance. The author’s writing style is fresh and fun, and I’m excited to explore more of her work in the future.
October 10, 2024
Tropes: Enemies to lovers / Reverse age-gap / Forced proximity / Celebrity romance
The story follows Lexi, an Oscar winning filmmaker, who is forced by her company to follow and film the boyband, Rebel Heart, on their reunion tour. The band mates aren’t keen on having her around and make her presence very unwelcome, especially the unofficial band leader Aidan. She thinks he’s egotistical and rude and he thinks she’s highly strung and untrustworthy. Cue enemies to lovers 👏🏻. Will they still feel this way for the duration of the tour..? You’ll have to read to find out 🥰.
I had the BEST time reading this. Absolutely one of the most enjoyable books I’ve read in a while. Plenty of plot, great found family, open door spice 🌶️, a reverse age gap (he’s 25 and she’s 30) and a stunning array of locations around the world. Just the perfect mix of ingredients.
Any fans of One Direction, BTS or any other band will love the vibe of this. It reminded me so much of the book/film ‘The Idea of You’ and I kept picturing Nicholas Galitzine as the MMC! It was refreshing to have an older FMC and for the MMC to be emotionally mature despite his younger age. He is also a consent King, something we love to see 🙌🏻.
I Knew You Were Trouble is released on the 21st November 2024. Only a few weeks to go!
The story follows Lexi, an Oscar winning filmmaker, who is forced by her company to follow and film the boyband, Rebel Heart, on their reunion tour. The band mates aren’t keen on having her around and make her presence very unwelcome, especially the unofficial band leader Aidan. She thinks he’s egotistical and rude and he thinks she’s highly strung and untrustworthy. Cue enemies to lovers 👏🏻. Will they still feel this way for the duration of the tour..? You’ll have to read to find out 🥰.
I had the BEST time reading this. Absolutely one of the most enjoyable books I’ve read in a while. Plenty of plot, great found family, open door spice 🌶️, a reverse age gap (he’s 25 and she’s 30) and a stunning array of locations around the world. Just the perfect mix of ingredients.
Any fans of One Direction, BTS or any other band will love the vibe of this. It reminded me so much of the book/film ‘The Idea of You’ and I kept picturing Nicholas Galitzine as the MMC! It was refreshing to have an older FMC and for the MMC to be emotionally mature despite his younger age. He is also a consent King, something we love to see 🙌🏻.
I Knew You Were Trouble is released on the 21st November 2024. Only a few weeks to go!
October 25, 2024
I enjoyed this book and it quickly became one of my recent favorites! "I Knew You Were Trouble" by Emma Rae revolves around Lexi, an Oscar-winning filmmaker, who finds herself reluctantly following the boy band Rebel Heart on their reunion tour. The dynamics between Lexi and the unofficial band leader, Aidan, spark an entertaining enemies-to-lovers romance that kept me engaged from start to finish.
Lexi's journey of navigating the challenges posed by Aidan and the other bandmates is both humorous and heartfelt. Their initial animosity transforms into something deeper, and the tension is intense as they gradually learn to understand one another. The blend of a reverse age gap, forced proximity, and celebrity romance creates an enjoyable backdrop for their evolving relationship.
The book is packed with a rich plot, a wonderful found family, and plenty of open-door spice that enhances the romance. I also appreciated the stunning array of global locations, which added an exciting element to the narrative.
"I Knew You Were Trouble" is a quick and emotionally-charged read, especially for fans of boy band culture. It struck the right balance of romance, humor, and emotional depth. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a fun story!
Lexi's journey of navigating the challenges posed by Aidan and the other bandmates is both humorous and heartfelt. Their initial animosity transforms into something deeper, and the tension is intense as they gradually learn to understand one another. The blend of a reverse age gap, forced proximity, and celebrity romance creates an enjoyable backdrop for their evolving relationship.
The book is packed with a rich plot, a wonderful found family, and plenty of open-door spice that enhances the romance. I also appreciated the stunning array of global locations, which added an exciting element to the narrative.
"I Knew You Were Trouble" is a quick and emotionally-charged read, especially for fans of boy band culture. It struck the right balance of romance, humor, and emotional depth. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a fun story!
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