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Shooting Star
EVERYONE OVERLOOKS HER BUT HIM.
Peace Jinkins prefers books and music to people. Unlike her famous parents and her twin sister, Peace is painfully shy. She has no friendships outside her family.
Until she meets Bo.
EVERYONE SEES HIM AS TROUBLE BUT HER.
Robert ‘Bo’ Jackson is good at one thing. He is an amazing guitarist like his father. Not that his father will ever admit it. They don’t get along. In fact, like most people, Bo’s father thinks he is a lost cause. Bo hides his hurt behind a wall of bad attitude. He doesn’t let anyone close.
Until he meets Peace.
Bo confronts his critics head on, sometimes violently. Peace quietly retreats from them. But with their fathers being in the same rock band, they understand each other and form an unlikely friendship.
What happens when external pressures almost immediately conspire against them? Will they become enemies? Can they remain friends? What about the forbidden attraction between them? Will confessing their secret desires to each other make them closer or will it ultimately destroy them in the end?
Shooting Star is a Tempest next generation friends to lovers romance with sizzling tension and heart-twisting emotion.
Peace Jinkins prefers books and music to people. Unlike her famous parents and her twin sister, Peace is painfully shy. She has no friendships outside her family.
Until she meets Bo.
EVERYONE SEES HIM AS TROUBLE BUT HER.
Robert ‘Bo’ Jackson is good at one thing. He is an amazing guitarist like his father. Not that his father will ever admit it. They don’t get along. In fact, like most people, Bo’s father thinks he is a lost cause. Bo hides his hurt behind a wall of bad attitude. He doesn’t let anyone close.
Until he meets Peace.
Bo confronts his critics head on, sometimes violently. Peace quietly retreats from them. But with their fathers being in the same rock band, they understand each other and form an unlikely friendship.
What happens when external pressures almost immediately conspire against them? Will they become enemies? Can they remain friends? What about the forbidden attraction between them? Will confessing their secret desires to each other make them closer or will it ultimately destroy them in the end?
Shooting Star is a Tempest next generation friends to lovers romance with sizzling tension and heart-twisting emotion.
- GenresRomance
485 pages, Unknown Binding
Published January 23, 2025
63 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Mankin
65 books1,280 followersMICHELLE MANKIN is the New York Times bestselling author of over 40 romance novels.
Romance that Rocks.
Her individual books are FREE in kindleunlimited. Link to them on her author page on Amazon:
http://author.to/MyAuthorPage
BRUTAL STRENGTH trilogy
completed series
TEMPEST
a fan favorite and a completed series
FIND ME
a completed trilogy
ROCK STARS, SURF AND SECOND CHANCES
a completed series
STORM is a #1 bestselling standalone spin-off from the Rockstars, Surf, and Second Chances series
GIRLS RANKING THE ROCK STARS (Rock F*ck Club)
a completed series
IN HIS EYES is a standalone spin-off from the RFC
ONCE UPON A ROCK STAR
4 books planned ending with The Right Song
ADDY"S ROLLERCOASTER ROMANCE
Getting it Wrong
Getting it Right
NO QUARTER
Hot Summer School Night
Breaking Her Bad
MAGIC series
a completed paranormal series
Romance that Rocks.
Her individual books are FREE in kindleunlimited. Link to them on her author page on Amazon:
http://author.to/MyAuthorPage
BRUTAL STRENGTH trilogy
completed series
TEMPEST
a fan favorite and a completed series
FIND ME
a completed trilogy
ROCK STARS, SURF AND SECOND CHANCES
a completed series
STORM is a #1 bestselling standalone spin-off from the Rockstars, Surf, and Second Chances series
GIRLS RANKING THE ROCK STARS (Rock F*ck Club)
a completed series
IN HIS EYES is a standalone spin-off from the RFC
ONCE UPON A ROCK STAR
4 books planned ending with The Right Song
ADDY"S ROLLERCOASTER ROMANCE
Getting it Wrong
Getting it Right
NO QUARTER
Hot Summer School Night
Breaking Her Bad
MAGIC series
a completed paranormal series
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
January 20, 2025
ARC review I liked this book it was my first by Michelle Mankin and it was good. If you like rockstar romance, found family, a bit of forbidden romance as well then you will like this book.
Peace is shy, likes to read and is an introvert. Bo is loud, rebellious and a rock star himself. They meet as teenagers because of their dad’s being in the same rock band and there is a connection. They are dealing with fame and a relationship it is definitely a slow burn.
The writing kind of got stagnant for me at times and there were things that both characters did that got on my nerves I really wish the characters would have sat down and had a conversation
Peace is shy, likes to read and is an introvert. Bo is loud, rebellious and a rock star himself. They meet as teenagers because of their dad’s being in the same rock band and there is a connection. They are dealing with fame and a relationship it is definitely a slow burn.
The writing kind of got stagnant for me at times and there were things that both characters did that got on my nerves I really wish the characters would have sat down and had a conversation
January 31, 2025
DNF @ 130 p.
Okay, so this was... really bad. I expected so much more from this book, because both the annotation and the tropes were really promising. But I was really disappointed with it.
The writing style was bad, but I've seen worse. It was not really deep and detailed. The author tried to make the main characters deep and make the readers feel their pain, but in my eyes, their reasons to be mad at the world were just kind of ridiculous. That aside, I found out that there was series about all the people in the group, because there were a lot of references about that, but honestly, after what I've read, I don't feel curious enough to read the books about them.
There were too many details about things that weren't very important for the main story and some of the different scenes throughout the book felt very repetitive.
I could connect with the characters at all and I couldn't feel their connection too, because I felt their relationship really forced.
I think that the story had a really big potential and I liked the idea behind of it. Also, there were some good scenes, but they were not enough at all.
Okay, so this was... really bad. I expected so much more from this book, because both the annotation and the tropes were really promising. But I was really disappointed with it.
The writing style was bad, but I've seen worse. It was not really deep and detailed. The author tried to make the main characters deep and make the readers feel their pain, but in my eyes, their reasons to be mad at the world were just kind of ridiculous. That aside, I found out that there was series about all the people in the group, because there were a lot of references about that, but honestly, after what I've read, I don't feel curious enough to read the books about them.
There were too many details about things that weren't very important for the main story and some of the different scenes throughout the book felt very repetitive.
I could connect with the characters at all and I couldn't feel their connection too, because I felt their relationship really forced.
I think that the story had a really big potential and I liked the idea behind of it. Also, there were some good scenes, but they were not enough at all.
January 12, 2025
Rounded up. An angsty, emotional childhood friends to lovers journey! Peace and Bo, the 13/14yo children of rockstars, meet and immediately recognise in the other a kindred spirit. Both have been battling exclusion and pressure, one perceived as failing to meet expectations, the other as the outsider of their high-performing family; yet they ‘see’ each other and a bond is forged… one that will have to endure many barriers, misperceptions, and misunderstandings in this saga. The story is told in dual POV, enabling us to see Peace and Bo’s inner struggles to stay true to themselves whilst figuring out who they actually want to be, and facing conflicts within and without.
I enjoyed the way we also saw the MCs’ relationships with others evolve, including with their parents, Peace’s twin sister, and Bo’s ‘found family’ of ‘brothers’.
Loved this line: “Holding onto your anger hurts you the most, not him. That anger leaves a hole inside you where love can’t grow.”
The MCs were compelling characters, though I found Peace a bit too mild at times, given all the resources and support within her reach (fortunately she strengthens somewhat by the end). What was never in doubt was that these two were meant for each other, from their recognition of the other’s pain and need, to tender moments and sacrificial acts.
“To the rest of the world, I’m an arrogant asshole, but in your eyes, I’m a prince.” “You are my prince. The rest of the world doesn’t know you like I do.”
This is a very slow burn romance, and I felt it was a tad too long (I just wanted to sit them down in a room together and give a talk on effective communication!). The upshot was being given so many glimpses of the MC’s friendship, tracking its evolution from childhood to adulthood.
For fans of Mankin’s earlier works, Bo and Peace are the next generation of characters from the Tempest series, many of whom appear.
Thanks to Grey’s Promotions and the author for the ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed the way we also saw the MCs’ relationships with others evolve, including with their parents, Peace’s twin sister, and Bo’s ‘found family’ of ‘brothers’.
Loved this line: “Holding onto your anger hurts you the most, not him. That anger leaves a hole inside you where love can’t grow.”
The MCs were compelling characters, though I found Peace a bit too mild at times, given all the resources and support within her reach (fortunately she strengthens somewhat by the end). What was never in doubt was that these two were meant for each other, from their recognition of the other’s pain and need, to tender moments and sacrificial acts.
“To the rest of the world, I’m an arrogant asshole, but in your eyes, I’m a prince.” “You are my prince. The rest of the world doesn’t know you like I do.”
This is a very slow burn romance, and I felt it was a tad too long (I just wanted to sit them down in a room together and give a talk on effective communication!). The upshot was being given so many glimpses of the MC’s friendship, tracking its evolution from childhood to adulthood.
For fans of Mankin’s earlier works, Bo and Peace are the next generation of characters from the Tempest series, many of whom appear.
Thanks to Grey’s Promotions and the author for the ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
January 24, 2025
The author succeeded to surprise me again. In the best way possible.
That story is the best case of idiots to lovers I have ever read. It could have been more of a comedy but no, all those misunderstandings are tragic, they have consequences and they broke my heart.
And it's a next gen book. Not one with your beloved previous characters living their best life being the best parents possible. Nope, they screw up and it's painful.
Until the most needed HEA, that book broke me and gave me all the feels.
That story is the best case of idiots to lovers I have ever read. It could have been more of a comedy but no, all those misunderstandings are tragic, they have consequences and they broke my heart.
And it's a next gen book. Not one with your beloved previous characters living their best life being the best parents possible. Nope, they screw up and it's painful.
Until the most needed HEA, that book broke me and gave me all the feels.
January 23, 2025
Bo and Peace
How do you follow up an awesome rock romance series…you give us a second-generation book. The kids are now taking center stage and their story is just as amazing. I loved watching the struggle of Bo and Peace making this book a big page turner. As always, this author did not disappoint.
How do you follow up an awesome rock romance series…you give us a second-generation book. The kids are now taking center stage and their story is just as amazing. I loved watching the struggle of Bo and Peace making this book a big page turner. As always, this author did not disappoint.
January 24, 2025
The back and forth between Peace and Bo gave me too much whiplash. Should they, shouldn’t they; I need/want, I don’t need/want. Just pick one and deal with it. Peace was pretty much a doormat for most of the book too. The girl needed to find her spine and put her big girl panties on
December 2, 2024
I’m beyond stoked to share this next generation Tempest novel with you!
January 16, 2025
ARC Review: Shooting Star - A Rock 'n' Roll Romance!
This is the first book I've read by Michelle Mankin, and Shooting Star is a next generation book based on a previous series of hers (I believe the Tempest series). You do not need to read the previous series to read this novel!
Michelle Mankin's Shooting Star invites you to dive headfirst into a world of rock star royalty and forbidden love. Peace, the quiet bookworm, and Bo, the rebellious guitar hero, find their paths intertwined as they navigate the complexities of family, fame, and first love.
Mankin sets the stage for a story with immediate chemistry between the main characters. The "forbidden" element adds a layer of intrigue, and the slow-burn romance definitely keeps things interesting. But be warned, the book has a few missed notes.
While I enjoyed the overall premise and the exploration of Peace and Bo's connection, I did find a few things that threw me off-key. Sometimes it felt like the author forgot how old Peace and Bo were supposed to be, and their actions seemed a little out of tune with their age. And okay, maybe the story could have used a slightly faster tempo – there were moments where I found myself wanting to skip ahead to the good parts.
Despite these minor hiccups, Shooting Star offers a sweet and angsty romance with a rock 'n' roll twist. If you're looking for a light read with a dash of drama and a whole lot of heart, this one might just hit the right note for you.
This is the first book I've read by Michelle Mankin, and Shooting Star is a next generation book based on a previous series of hers (I believe the Tempest series). You do not need to read the previous series to read this novel!
Michelle Mankin's Shooting Star invites you to dive headfirst into a world of rock star royalty and forbidden love. Peace, the quiet bookworm, and Bo, the rebellious guitar hero, find their paths intertwined as they navigate the complexities of family, fame, and first love.
Mankin sets the stage for a story with immediate chemistry between the main characters. The "forbidden" element adds a layer of intrigue, and the slow-burn romance definitely keeps things interesting. But be warned, the book has a few missed notes.
While I enjoyed the overall premise and the exploration of Peace and Bo's connection, I did find a few things that threw me off-key. Sometimes it felt like the author forgot how old Peace and Bo were supposed to be, and their actions seemed a little out of tune with their age. And okay, maybe the story could have used a slightly faster tempo – there were moments where I found myself wanting to skip ahead to the good parts.
Despite these minor hiccups, Shooting Star offers a sweet and angsty romance with a rock 'n' roll twist. If you're looking for a light read with a dash of drama and a whole lot of heart, this one might just hit the right note for you.
February 1, 2025
This book was absolutely amazing!! It has the perfect amount of angst, sweetness and an added element of innocence that I was immediately obsessed with Shooting Star. It’s a second-generation story centered around the children of rock stars Warren “War” Jinkins and Bryan “Bullet” Jackson of the world-famous band, Tempest. War and Bullet have been best friends since high school when they started Tempest. It’s Christmas time and the band has all gathered for the holiday at the Jinkins house as they are preparing to record a new album.
It’s here that Peace Jinkins will meet Bo Jackson. There is an immediate attraction to each other with an inquisitiveness to know more about each other. The two couldn’t be more different but also shared similar problems with their dads. While Bo dad had issues with Bo’s attitude, he never taken the time to get to the bottom of what was going on with Bo. Sadly, this led to feelings that he would never be good enough to please his dad. Peace on the other hand was extremely shy, a bookworm spending most of her time at home in her room. She was also unfortunately being so shy she was often the victim of bullying. Again, pressure from her parents to be more like her twin made her feel alienated from them, especially since they were both celebrities and outgoing.
Needless to say, it doesn’t take long for Peace and Bo to come up with a plan to spend time together. It was amazing just how easy the two were being around each other. Confiding in each other Bo was quick to let Peace know that he had issues with his dad, but he loved to play guitar like his dad did. Not only did he play guitar but that he was really good at it. He also revealed that he was dyslexic and had a hard time reading but once again his dad had not taken the time to understand what Bo was going through because of it. Peace was quiet and a bookworm. Peace loved to read and write poetry yet found she and Bo also shared a deep love of music. The connection between Bo and Peace came naturally with this connection to music. Oh my heart, was it ever so endearing when Peace read to Bo. It was just so sweet!!
Through a series of missteps by both Peace and Bo in their dad’s eyes the time in Seattle ended abruptly. Peace was restricted by her dad and Bo eventually ended up being sent to a military school by his dad. Furthermore, Bo was told to no longer have ANY contact with Peace. But as you know where there’s a will, there’s a way and Peace and Bo were back in contact. While Bo is still not happy about where he is he has started a band with his roomie and a couple of other friends. Peace, still bullied at school and continues to withdraw even more into herself. Bo and Peace phone calls help them both get through difficult times. Not only that but with Bo will sharing his music with Peace (which of course she loves), while Peace shares writing from her journals with him. Both find a connection that makes them both content even though they can’t be together. At least not until their dad’s Battle of the Bands happens, when they plan to meet up again.
It's time for Tempest’s Battle of the Bands is here which both Bo and Peace are looking forward to seeing each other again. Since Tempest will be touring and Peace’s mom and twin sister are going away to make a movie this kind of leaves Peace in limbo. When things don’t go as planned for Peace and Bo she begins to realize that Bo has moved on with his life, making friends while she hadn’t. As painful as it was Bo once again let her know that he wasn’t good for her and to make new friends. AND my heart broke for Peace.
It would be four more years before Peace and Bo would see each other again. During this time Peace had lived in LA with her Uncle Alex and his husband while Bo had been in Texas. During this time Peace continued to stay to herself, spending much time writing in her journal. Bo and his band, Shooting Star had finally gotten their chance at the big time, ironically signing with the same label as Tempest!
After a four-year absence from Seattle Peace returns to celebrate her 18th birthday with her family and friends. Unaware if her dad knows Peace is keeping it close to her chest the fact that she has landed an internship with Black Cat label. Not only had she accepted the job but she would be working with Bo’s band taking care of the bands needs as well as the social media aspect of it. Knowing that she would be leaving in a few days to begin her new job she hadn’t planned on running into Bo at her party.
Of course their past history was hard for her yet soldiering on would she be able to keep her feelings at bay?
Furthermore, what would happen once Bo found out that she is going to be on tour with the band?
The big question is will they be able to keep the flame burning this time?
“Hot like summer.” He says low.
“Sweet like honey. Warm like the sun. Salty like the ocean.”
“You’re the moon. I’m the tide. I want you and have dreamed of you touching me like this,”
I confess “Nearly every night..”
PS Hope to see a book #2 for Harmony and Carson!!
It’s here that Peace Jinkins will meet Bo Jackson. There is an immediate attraction to each other with an inquisitiveness to know more about each other. The two couldn’t be more different but also shared similar problems with their dads. While Bo dad had issues with Bo’s attitude, he never taken the time to get to the bottom of what was going on with Bo. Sadly, this led to feelings that he would never be good enough to please his dad. Peace on the other hand was extremely shy, a bookworm spending most of her time at home in her room. She was also unfortunately being so shy she was often the victim of bullying. Again, pressure from her parents to be more like her twin made her feel alienated from them, especially since they were both celebrities and outgoing.
Needless to say, it doesn’t take long for Peace and Bo to come up with a plan to spend time together. It was amazing just how easy the two were being around each other. Confiding in each other Bo was quick to let Peace know that he had issues with his dad, but he loved to play guitar like his dad did. Not only did he play guitar but that he was really good at it. He also revealed that he was dyslexic and had a hard time reading but once again his dad had not taken the time to understand what Bo was going through because of it. Peace was quiet and a bookworm. Peace loved to read and write poetry yet found she and Bo also shared a deep love of music. The connection between Bo and Peace came naturally with this connection to music. Oh my heart, was it ever so endearing when Peace read to Bo. It was just so sweet!!
Through a series of missteps by both Peace and Bo in their dad’s eyes the time in Seattle ended abruptly. Peace was restricted by her dad and Bo eventually ended up being sent to a military school by his dad. Furthermore, Bo was told to no longer have ANY contact with Peace. But as you know where there’s a will, there’s a way and Peace and Bo were back in contact. While Bo is still not happy about where he is he has started a band with his roomie and a couple of other friends. Peace, still bullied at school and continues to withdraw even more into herself. Bo and Peace phone calls help them both get through difficult times. Not only that but with Bo will sharing his music with Peace (which of course she loves), while Peace shares writing from her journals with him. Both find a connection that makes them both content even though they can’t be together. At least not until their dad’s Battle of the Bands happens, when they plan to meet up again.
It's time for Tempest’s Battle of the Bands is here which both Bo and Peace are looking forward to seeing each other again. Since Tempest will be touring and Peace’s mom and twin sister are going away to make a movie this kind of leaves Peace in limbo. When things don’t go as planned for Peace and Bo she begins to realize that Bo has moved on with his life, making friends while she hadn’t. As painful as it was Bo once again let her know that he wasn’t good for her and to make new friends. AND my heart broke for Peace.
It would be four more years before Peace and Bo would see each other again. During this time Peace had lived in LA with her Uncle Alex and his husband while Bo had been in Texas. During this time Peace continued to stay to herself, spending much time writing in her journal. Bo and his band, Shooting Star had finally gotten their chance at the big time, ironically signing with the same label as Tempest!
After a four-year absence from Seattle Peace returns to celebrate her 18th birthday with her family and friends. Unaware if her dad knows Peace is keeping it close to her chest the fact that she has landed an internship with Black Cat label. Not only had she accepted the job but she would be working with Bo’s band taking care of the bands needs as well as the social media aspect of it. Knowing that she would be leaving in a few days to begin her new job she hadn’t planned on running into Bo at her party.
Of course their past history was hard for her yet soldiering on would she be able to keep her feelings at bay?
Furthermore, what would happen once Bo found out that she is going to be on tour with the band?
The big question is will they be able to keep the flame burning this time?
“Hot like summer.” He says low.
“Sweet like honey. Warm like the sun. Salty like the ocean.”
“You’re the moon. I’m the tide. I want you and have dreamed of you touching me like this,”
I confess “Nearly every night..”
PS Hope to see a book #2 for Harmony and Carson!!
January 25, 2025
Peace and Bo
It isn't easy being the children of famous parents.
Peace Jenkins is the daughter of Tempest's lead singer and has an academy award winning actress for a mother. She also has an outgoing twin sister named Harmony who is an aspiring actress. Peace is a shy, reserved girl who prefers to spend her time with her nose in a book. She is often overlooked when her twin is around and feels invisible to her parents when they keep urging her to attempt to blend in.
Robert "Bo" Jackson is the son of Tempest's lead guitarist and his mother is a clothing designer. Bo also doesn't have the best relationship with his parents. They don't know how to deal with his fiery temper and dyslexia. He is often involved in altercations at school. He doesn't start the fights, but finishes them.
One fateful Christmas, the Tempest gang and their families meet up to discuss the bands new album. Peace and Bo are instantly drawn to each other. They feel truly seen and understood for the first time in their lives. Peace is 13 and Bo is only a year older. He is awed by her and the two share some late night conversations about life and their dreams. Bo speaks through songs and
Peace prefers to journal. Bo wants nothing more than to prove himself to his father and they break a rule by going into the studio. Peace's father decides that Bo is a bad influence on her and tries to keep them apart. Bo's father ships him off to a military academy.
The two keep in constant contact through phone calls. Peace is now being bullied almost constant!y at school and starts to shrink into herself even further. Bo has started a small band with some friends at the academy. When he isn't with them he is letting his temper and smart mouth get the best of him and continues to get into fights. While Bo shares his music, Peace shares lyrics from her journals. Their conversations are the lifelines for each other.
Another year older, the two meet in person again at a Tempest battle of the bands. Tempest is going on tour and Peace's mother and sister are going to be away on a movie set. Peace will be sent to LA to live with her uncle. Bo will be in South Texas. Their brief reunion turns sour after some unfortunate events. They end up going their separate ways and don't speak for 4 long years.
During the years apart, Peace never returns to live with her family. Bo and his band are an up and coming band that has signed with the same label as Tempest. Peace does return home for her 18th birthday and will be an intern at the record label. Her assignment will be to handle social media for Bo's band.
Can two misfits who were once each other's everything find their way back to where they were? Will their connection once again burn bright, or have the years apart done irreparable damage? Will the parents and children ever bridge the gap and forgive each other for the past?
This book is another Michelle Mankin masterpiece. She weaves the angst, heartbreak and tension perfectly. You root for the characters and want to scream at them at the same time. The start of the second generation Tempest series is all that I hoped it would be. I highly recommend that you read this as well as the 7 original Tempest books.
It isn't easy being the children of famous parents.
Peace Jenkins is the daughter of Tempest's lead singer and has an academy award winning actress for a mother. She also has an outgoing twin sister named Harmony who is an aspiring actress. Peace is a shy, reserved girl who prefers to spend her time with her nose in a book. She is often overlooked when her twin is around and feels invisible to her parents when they keep urging her to attempt to blend in.
Robert "Bo" Jackson is the son of Tempest's lead guitarist and his mother is a clothing designer. Bo also doesn't have the best relationship with his parents. They don't know how to deal with his fiery temper and dyslexia. He is often involved in altercations at school. He doesn't start the fights, but finishes them.
One fateful Christmas, the Tempest gang and their families meet up to discuss the bands new album. Peace and Bo are instantly drawn to each other. They feel truly seen and understood for the first time in their lives. Peace is 13 and Bo is only a year older. He is awed by her and the two share some late night conversations about life and their dreams. Bo speaks through songs and
Peace prefers to journal. Bo wants nothing more than to prove himself to his father and they break a rule by going into the studio. Peace's father decides that Bo is a bad influence on her and tries to keep them apart. Bo's father ships him off to a military academy.
The two keep in constant contact through phone calls. Peace is now being bullied almost constant!y at school and starts to shrink into herself even further. Bo has started a small band with some friends at the academy. When he isn't with them he is letting his temper and smart mouth get the best of him and continues to get into fights. While Bo shares his music, Peace shares lyrics from her journals. Their conversations are the lifelines for each other.
Another year older, the two meet in person again at a Tempest battle of the bands. Tempest is going on tour and Peace's mother and sister are going to be away on a movie set. Peace will be sent to LA to live with her uncle. Bo will be in South Texas. Their brief reunion turns sour after some unfortunate events. They end up going their separate ways and don't speak for 4 long years.
During the years apart, Peace never returns to live with her family. Bo and his band are an up and coming band that has signed with the same label as Tempest. Peace does return home for her 18th birthday and will be an intern at the record label. Her assignment will be to handle social media for Bo's band.
Can two misfits who were once each other's everything find their way back to where they were? Will their connection once again burn bright, or have the years apart done irreparable damage? Will the parents and children ever bridge the gap and forgive each other for the past?
This book is another Michelle Mankin masterpiece. She weaves the angst, heartbreak and tension perfectly. You root for the characters and want to scream at them at the same time. The start of the second generation Tempest series is all that I hoped it would be. I highly recommend that you read this as well as the 7 original Tempest books.
January 22, 2025
Michelle Mankin is a step above most authors out there. Her characters are complex with real issues. Her books aren’t sunshine and roses. They take me out of my comfort zone and make me feel uncomfortable as I get into the characters. Those are things I love about Michelle Mankin’s writing style. I have been a fan since I opened the pages of Oceanside and fell in love with her Ashland Keys. I do love a surfer boy.
Shooting Star did not disappoint. It is written as POV with short chapters that make the story flow quickly and before I knew it, the book was done.
Robert “Bo”, Peace and Harmony are the children of rock royalty. Their fathers (War-lead singer and Bryan-lead guitarist) are part of the rock band, Tempest, and these kids have grown up together. When the families get together every year for the Christmas holiday, the kids are reunited again.
Peace and Harmony, twins, couldn’t be more different. Harmony wants to be an actress like her mother. She craves the spotlight. Peace wants to read her books and hide in the shadows. She has also become a target for bullies, one of them being a boy who has latched onto Harmony and Harmony is too into herself and her own needs to see her twin is hurting. Bo is very insightful. He is a sad character having a father who judges him harshly and is so critical. Bo wants to follow in his father’s footsteps and Bryan fights him every step. Bo is good and has potential but is constantly put down. Even though War and Bryan appear to be tight, I felt tension that goes back to a girl in their past (see the Tempest series).
This story sucked me in immediately. I always love an underdog story. Peace is fragile and needs support. She has been overlooked by her parents who are more in tune to Harmony but then Harmony is the type of girl who demands attention and they give it to her. The verbal and physical bullying is disturbing. Shame on her parents. Like any good love story, Bo and Peace will make it.
If you want a funny, fluffy rom-com, move on. If you want a book that will make you think and feel for the characters, this is for you. I always feel a bit different during and after reading a Michelle Mankin book. They are emotional and moving. I only wish I could give it more than 5 stars. Ms. Mankin has another hit for her amazing catalog of books. Thank you for sharing your skills with us. Bravo!
Shooting Star did not disappoint. It is written as POV with short chapters that make the story flow quickly and before I knew it, the book was done.
Robert “Bo”, Peace and Harmony are the children of rock royalty. Their fathers (War-lead singer and Bryan-lead guitarist) are part of the rock band, Tempest, and these kids have grown up together. When the families get together every year for the Christmas holiday, the kids are reunited again.
Peace and Harmony, twins, couldn’t be more different. Harmony wants to be an actress like her mother. She craves the spotlight. Peace wants to read her books and hide in the shadows. She has also become a target for bullies, one of them being a boy who has latched onto Harmony and Harmony is too into herself and her own needs to see her twin is hurting. Bo is very insightful. He is a sad character having a father who judges him harshly and is so critical. Bo wants to follow in his father’s footsteps and Bryan fights him every step. Bo is good and has potential but is constantly put down. Even though War and Bryan appear to be tight, I felt tension that goes back to a girl in their past (see the Tempest series).
This story sucked me in immediately. I always love an underdog story. Peace is fragile and needs support. She has been overlooked by her parents who are more in tune to Harmony but then Harmony is the type of girl who demands attention and they give it to her. The verbal and physical bullying is disturbing. Shame on her parents. Like any good love story, Bo and Peace will make it.
If you want a funny, fluffy rom-com, move on. If you want a book that will make you think and feel for the characters, this is for you. I always feel a bit different during and after reading a Michelle Mankin book. They are emotional and moving. I only wish I could give it more than 5 stars. Ms. Mankin has another hit for her amazing catalog of books. Thank you for sharing your skills with us. Bravo!
January 24, 2025
Peace Jinkins, twin sister to Harmony, is a shy girl who prefers books to people. Her parents are famous and Harmony is outgoing. Peace is easily picked on at school and in her life. Then she meets Robert “Bo” Jackson, the son of her father’s bandmate. Everyone else thinks Bo is nothing but trouble, except Peace. Everyone tells Bo to stay away from Peace, that he’ll ruin her. But they are drawn to each other and form a friendship. Even when they are far apart, they talk. They understand each other in a way that no one else understands them. Then they take a break. And after years apart, they find themselves working together – him as a musician, her as an intern. But what happens when there’s outside forces? Are they able to admit to each other how they really feel? Or will something traumatic break them apart?
Wow – what a book! It’s taken a bit to wrap my thoughts and feelings around this one because I have so many of them. I’ll start with this: there is something so relatable about Peace Jinkins, and I think she may be relatable to a lot of us readers. I too prefer books over people most of the time. On top of that, both her and Bo use music to express themselves and it’s one of the things that I’ve always said and always believed: music is the greatest form of expression (at least for me). I feel and hear music differently than a lot of other people, and Bo and Peace do as well. So while I related to her on that level, I was also a bit jealous of her that she found someone who understanded her.
The level of chemistry and understanding between Bo and Peace was amazing. They brought out the best in each other. But they each got into their own heads. Yes, it was frustrating at times. But it was important to remember the ages of the characters to put yourself in their shoes and remember when you were that age too. Are you really mature enough at 19 to have a sit down conversation about feelings? Or did you keep some of them inside? The way the situations were handled were appropriate for their ages.
There were some also very complicated familial relationships in this book as well. For me, those were also relatable. While I have different reasons, not be accepted by family is a very real feeling. I think Mankin did a great job handling these situations. They were messy and sometimes trying failed – just like in real life.
Then there is the spice! And lots of it! My ONLY wish is that I wish that Peace’s first time was a little sweeter. Otherwise, nothing wrong with the spice here.
Romance readers are going to love this one!
Wow – what a book! It’s taken a bit to wrap my thoughts and feelings around this one because I have so many of them. I’ll start with this: there is something so relatable about Peace Jinkins, and I think she may be relatable to a lot of us readers. I too prefer books over people most of the time. On top of that, both her and Bo use music to express themselves and it’s one of the things that I’ve always said and always believed: music is the greatest form of expression (at least for me). I feel and hear music differently than a lot of other people, and Bo and Peace do as well. So while I related to her on that level, I was also a bit jealous of her that she found someone who understanded her.
The level of chemistry and understanding between Bo and Peace was amazing. They brought out the best in each other. But they each got into their own heads. Yes, it was frustrating at times. But it was important to remember the ages of the characters to put yourself in their shoes and remember when you were that age too. Are you really mature enough at 19 to have a sit down conversation about feelings? Or did you keep some of them inside? The way the situations were handled were appropriate for their ages.
There were some also very complicated familial relationships in this book as well. For me, those were also relatable. While I have different reasons, not be accepted by family is a very real feeling. I think Mankin did a great job handling these situations. They were messy and sometimes trying failed – just like in real life.
Then there is the spice! And lots of it! My ONLY wish is that I wish that Peace’s first time was a little sweeter. Otherwise, nothing wrong with the spice here.
Romance readers are going to love this one!
January 27, 2025
Shooting Star is an epic coming of age story between two souls who were made for each other. This novel is full of angsty miscommunications, lack of conversations, and big new feelings. (I ate up every bite!) Shooting Star is the first in a spin of series from Michelle Mankin that features the next generation, I have not read the aforementioned series-this is the first Mankin novel I have read. This felt like an easy entry point into Mankin's universe, and it definitely made me curious about the parents series. I found Mankin's writing to be clear, well paced and to really embrace the right tone and feel for this new adult romance. The characters felt true to me, they made me anxious, they made me frustrated, and they made me smile and wish the best for them.
This novel has a truly epic appeal to it, we meet both Bo and Peace at as young teenagers, we see that both of them are struggling with bullying and feeling like an outsider, and we see them connect in a truly lovely way. But the complications of controlling families, misconceptions and untruths create many barriers for them along the way as they grow into adults and they fall a part. Their romance is a journey of growth, learning who you are, learning to trust, learning to sacrifice, and learning to understand. The angst and frustrations are not only coming from Bo and Peace but from their fathers who lack an understanding and empathy for their children. It comes from the uncertainty of youth and being bold enough to stand or ask for what you need and want. So this romance is really the journey that Bo and Peace must go on together and separately before they can truly embrace and understand what they need.
This novel is an emotional journey with ups and downs, but Mankin truly does a wonderful job being understanding and caring around the difficult topics and explorations she takes her characters on. This novel feels like a lifetime (even though it is really just a few years) but we see these characters go through so much, we see them grow. This novel is hard, it's sexy, it's heartbreaking, it's gratifying, it is so many things wrapped up into the truly beautiful journey of two people discovering each other.
I very highly recommend this novel if you are interested in two young people at a time in their lives where decisions are large, change can be hard, and communication unclear. This is a beautiful romance that left me with hope in my heart and a desire to explore more of Mankin's works.
Thank you so much to Grey's Promotions for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This novel has a truly epic appeal to it, we meet both Bo and Peace at as young teenagers, we see that both of them are struggling with bullying and feeling like an outsider, and we see them connect in a truly lovely way. But the complications of controlling families, misconceptions and untruths create many barriers for them along the way as they grow into adults and they fall a part. Their romance is a journey of growth, learning who you are, learning to trust, learning to sacrifice, and learning to understand. The angst and frustrations are not only coming from Bo and Peace but from their fathers who lack an understanding and empathy for their children. It comes from the uncertainty of youth and being bold enough to stand or ask for what you need and want. So this romance is really the journey that Bo and Peace must go on together and separately before they can truly embrace and understand what they need.
This novel is an emotional journey with ups and downs, but Mankin truly does a wonderful job being understanding and caring around the difficult topics and explorations she takes her characters on. This novel feels like a lifetime (even though it is really just a few years) but we see these characters go through so much, we see them grow. This novel is hard, it's sexy, it's heartbreaking, it's gratifying, it is so many things wrapped up into the truly beautiful journey of two people discovering each other.
I very highly recommend this novel if you are interested in two young people at a time in their lives where decisions are large, change can be hard, and communication unclear. This is a beautiful romance that left me with hope in my heart and a desire to explore more of Mankin's works.
Thank you so much to Grey's Promotions for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 30, 2025
A deeply emotional and angsty journey from childhood friendship to true love, this story follows Peace and Bo—two kids born into rockstar families who find solace in each other when the rest of the world fails to understand them. From the moment they meet as young teens, they form an unshakable connection, drawn together by their shared struggles—one fighting to prove their worth in a high-achieving family, the other feeling like an outsider who doesn’t quite fit. But their bond is tested time and again, through years of miscommunication, heartache, and the pressures of their complicated lives.
Told from dual perspectives, the novel gives us a glimpse into both Peace and Bo’s inner battles as they navigate their emotions, their families’ expectations, and the difficulty of figuring out who they truly are. Their relationship isn’t just about romance—it’s about support, growth, and finding someone who sees you when no one else does. The slow-burn nature of their love story makes their eventual happiness all the more rewarding.
Beyond their own struggles, the book also delves into the evolving dynamics between them and the people around them—parents, siblings, and Bo’s close-knit group of friends who become like brothers to him. Peace’s relationship with her twin sister adds another layer of depth, as does Bo’s ongoing battle for acceptance from a father who refuses to believe in him.
The writing captures the raw emotion of their journey beautifully, with powerful lines that resonate deeply. The message of self-worth and finding love despite life’s challenges is at the heart of this story, making it a compelling read.
That said, there were moments of frustration—mainly with the way some of the parental figures behaved. The lack of support for Bo’s struggles and the dismissiveness toward Peace’s feelings felt unnecessarily harsh. It was difficult to understand why they wouldn’t do more to help their kids when they had the means to do so.
Despite some pacing issues and the occasional wish for better communication between the main characters, the story as a whole was deeply moving. It’s not a lighthearted romance—it’s an emotional rollercoaster that makes you feel every moment of longing, heartbreak, and love. Bo and Peace’s journey is a testament to the power of connection, proving that some people are simply meant to find their way back to each other, no matter the obstacles.
Told from dual perspectives, the novel gives us a glimpse into both Peace and Bo’s inner battles as they navigate their emotions, their families’ expectations, and the difficulty of figuring out who they truly are. Their relationship isn’t just about romance—it’s about support, growth, and finding someone who sees you when no one else does. The slow-burn nature of their love story makes their eventual happiness all the more rewarding.
Beyond their own struggles, the book also delves into the evolving dynamics between them and the people around them—parents, siblings, and Bo’s close-knit group of friends who become like brothers to him. Peace’s relationship with her twin sister adds another layer of depth, as does Bo’s ongoing battle for acceptance from a father who refuses to believe in him.
The writing captures the raw emotion of their journey beautifully, with powerful lines that resonate deeply. The message of self-worth and finding love despite life’s challenges is at the heart of this story, making it a compelling read.
That said, there were moments of frustration—mainly with the way some of the parental figures behaved. The lack of support for Bo’s struggles and the dismissiveness toward Peace’s feelings felt unnecessarily harsh. It was difficult to understand why they wouldn’t do more to help their kids when they had the means to do so.
Despite some pacing issues and the occasional wish for better communication between the main characters, the story as a whole was deeply moving. It’s not a lighthearted romance—it’s an emotional rollercoaster that makes you feel every moment of longing, heartbreak, and love. Bo and Peace’s journey is a testament to the power of connection, proving that some people are simply meant to find their way back to each other, no matter the obstacles.
January 30, 2025
Shooting Star is truly a love letter of sorts from Michelle Mankin to the Tempest and Brutal Strength faithful. I started my reading experience with this talented author all those years ago, falling hard for the rockers and the women who tried to tame them. With this second generation opening up a whole new world of angst, disappointment and true love, I dove in head first and never looked back.
Bo Jackson (Bryan and Lace’s son) and Peace Jinkins (War and Shaina’s daughter) find a kindred spirit when they were merely young teenagers. But during one Christmas holiday, both find they each get one another like no one ever has. With Bo as the misunderstood dyslexic child who is always ready for a fight, it becomes apparent that the shy Peace becomes a surprising balm to all the strife within him. The early chapters give us a glimpse into their chaotic and lonely lives as both sets of parents are more often angry than not. And it was a great way to start this journey.
As someone who met the men of Tempest way back when and truly adored how they became better for having a wonderful other half that could soften the jagged edges, color me shocked at how they handled their children. Nothing seemed to make sense as War and Bryan were nothing more than bullies with no patience whatsoever, causing both Peace and Bo to remain miserable. Not to mention, my own disappointment in their mothers, who seemingly stood by or shook their heads when faced with something that didn’t go with their carefully crafted lives.
Peace and Bo are not bad young people. They just had families who continued to ignore the real issues plaguing them and treated them like strangers. At least that’s how it felt to me. These were not the remarkable rockers I met and loved. These were arseholes who didn’t deserve any sort of forgiveness later on in the book for their non-stop reactions.
The story progresses in real time as Bo makes it big as his own band is beyond successful, with a group of misfits, much like Tempest, yet still can’t seem to get his father’s approval. That part of the story is what truly bugged me the most. How Bryan couldn’t take one minute to realize just how talented his own son was, rivaling his own stellar talent. I would have thought as time went on, that he would have had Lace help him understand. But again, the wives/mothers were weak substitutes for the bad a$$ women they were once upon a time.
I’m not sure what Mankin was trying to portray here but for this long-time reader, this was not what I wanted. Sure you need angst, especially when Bo and Peace want to be together at the young age of 18, but holy moly, give these characters a damn backbone already! Stop making it so hard to find a path to happiness.
But please know that I really liked Bo and Peace together. They had plenty of missteps, mostly due to their immaturity. Especially with Bo’s temper and rash reactions to anyone coming near Peace. Not to mention, Peace’s continually questioning everything she does, needed to do or what Bo might have said or done. But they fit. They appreciate the other’s talents and feel safe when most around them only give them grief.
The other members of the band were true highlights and I can only guess that Mankin will be giving us their stories next. I also loved getting to see Black Cat Records with a new CEO and a visit with Avery Jones Anthony, even though my man Marcus was missing from this reunion.
My overall feelings of sadness that this didn’t live up to my expectations are mine and mine alone. I’m sure many will love this complicated romance that finally finds its footing closer to the end. But I feel as if it was a bit too long. There was too much discontent. And I wanted just a bit more in terms of an epilogue. But then I’m sure with future books in the series, readers will get more scenes with Bo and Peace to satisfy that curiosity.
I’m not sure I will continue on should there be more from the guys of Shooting Star. But hope all the guys find their happy and get rid of that manwhore persona when the right person comes along.
2.5 stars.
Bo Jackson (Bryan and Lace’s son) and Peace Jinkins (War and Shaina’s daughter) find a kindred spirit when they were merely young teenagers. But during one Christmas holiday, both find they each get one another like no one ever has. With Bo as the misunderstood dyslexic child who is always ready for a fight, it becomes apparent that the shy Peace becomes a surprising balm to all the strife within him. The early chapters give us a glimpse into their chaotic and lonely lives as both sets of parents are more often angry than not. And it was a great way to start this journey.
As someone who met the men of Tempest way back when and truly adored how they became better for having a wonderful other half that could soften the jagged edges, color me shocked at how they handled their children. Nothing seemed to make sense as War and Bryan were nothing more than bullies with no patience whatsoever, causing both Peace and Bo to remain miserable. Not to mention, my own disappointment in their mothers, who seemingly stood by or shook their heads when faced with something that didn’t go with their carefully crafted lives.
Peace and Bo are not bad young people. They just had families who continued to ignore the real issues plaguing them and treated them like strangers. At least that’s how it felt to me. These were not the remarkable rockers I met and loved. These were arseholes who didn’t deserve any sort of forgiveness later on in the book for their non-stop reactions.
The story progresses in real time as Bo makes it big as his own band is beyond successful, with a group of misfits, much like Tempest, yet still can’t seem to get his father’s approval. That part of the story is what truly bugged me the most. How Bryan couldn’t take one minute to realize just how talented his own son was, rivaling his own stellar talent. I would have thought as time went on, that he would have had Lace help him understand. But again, the wives/mothers were weak substitutes for the bad a$$ women they were once upon a time.
I’m not sure what Mankin was trying to portray here but for this long-time reader, this was not what I wanted. Sure you need angst, especially when Bo and Peace want to be together at the young age of 18, but holy moly, give these characters a damn backbone already! Stop making it so hard to find a path to happiness.
But please know that I really liked Bo and Peace together. They had plenty of missteps, mostly due to their immaturity. Especially with Bo’s temper and rash reactions to anyone coming near Peace. Not to mention, Peace’s continually questioning everything she does, needed to do or what Bo might have said or done. But they fit. They appreciate the other’s talents and feel safe when most around them only give them grief.
The other members of the band were true highlights and I can only guess that Mankin will be giving us their stories next. I also loved getting to see Black Cat Records with a new CEO and a visit with Avery Jones Anthony, even though my man Marcus was missing from this reunion.
My overall feelings of sadness that this didn’t live up to my expectations are mine and mine alone. I’m sure many will love this complicated romance that finally finds its footing closer to the end. But I feel as if it was a bit too long. There was too much discontent. And I wanted just a bit more in terms of an epilogue. But then I’m sure with future books in the series, readers will get more scenes with Bo and Peace to satisfy that curiosity.
I’m not sure I will continue on should there be more from the guys of Shooting Star. But hope all the guys find their happy and get rid of that manwhore persona when the right person comes along.
2.5 stars.
January 21, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh my wow! I could not put this books down! I was so incredibly invested in this story, its characters, the romance, and what was going to happen next! Bo and Peace were such a sweet and amazing couple even if they both had their own baggage to sift through, their friendship was unshakable and their hard fought romance was beautiful! So if you’re looking for a book with an amazing plot, main characters that will latch onto your soul, side characters that you won’t be able to help falling in love with, and a roller coaster of emotions ending with a hard won happily ever after than Shooting Star is definitely the book for you!
Peace feels like the black sheep of her famous family. A mother whose an amazing actress, a father who is the lead singer of a world renowned rock band, and a sister who is following in their social butterfly footsteps while Peace is happy to sit back and watch the world move around her, she’s got her love for books and her passion for music to keep her company… even if her family can’t understand why she’d prefer backstage to center stage. Peace realizes she may not be the only black sheep around though when her family hosts the entire Tempest band family for Christmas and in walks Robert Jackson, otherwise known as Bo. And within just one conversation Peace feels like she’s found her missing half in Bo. He doesn’t judge her, he thinks her reading is cool, and he looks at her as if he truly sees her. The feelings are not one sided though as Bo also feels an immediate connection to Peace. He feels like her protector, while she is calm in the chaos, his anchor in the storm of his life. And all is well for a smidge of time and they try to make their friendship work even as the world tries to tear them apart. Eventually though they get older, and growing pain also creep into their friendships until theirs nothing left… that is of course until that once unbreakable friendship sparks back but maybe this time those sparks may have ignited an inferno blazing towards love instead. Love won’t come without its own for share of ups and downs though, and their happily ever after may only come after a few hard fought battles. All of that to say this story is a must read! And I highly recommend grabbing a copy ASAP!
HAPPY READING 📖
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh my wow! I could not put this books down! I was so incredibly invested in this story, its characters, the romance, and what was going to happen next! Bo and Peace were such a sweet and amazing couple even if they both had their own baggage to sift through, their friendship was unshakable and their hard fought romance was beautiful! So if you’re looking for a book with an amazing plot, main characters that will latch onto your soul, side characters that you won’t be able to help falling in love with, and a roller coaster of emotions ending with a hard won happily ever after than Shooting Star is definitely the book for you!
Peace feels like the black sheep of her famous family. A mother whose an amazing actress, a father who is the lead singer of a world renowned rock band, and a sister who is following in their social butterfly footsteps while Peace is happy to sit back and watch the world move around her, she’s got her love for books and her passion for music to keep her company… even if her family can’t understand why she’d prefer backstage to center stage. Peace realizes she may not be the only black sheep around though when her family hosts the entire Tempest band family for Christmas and in walks Robert Jackson, otherwise known as Bo. And within just one conversation Peace feels like she’s found her missing half in Bo. He doesn’t judge her, he thinks her reading is cool, and he looks at her as if he truly sees her. The feelings are not one sided though as Bo also feels an immediate connection to Peace. He feels like her protector, while she is calm in the chaos, his anchor in the storm of his life. And all is well for a smidge of time and they try to make their friendship work even as the world tries to tear them apart. Eventually though they get older, and growing pain also creep into their friendships until theirs nothing left… that is of course until that once unbreakable friendship sparks back but maybe this time those sparks may have ignited an inferno blazing towards love instead. Love won’t come without its own for share of ups and downs though, and their happily ever after may only come after a few hard fought battles. All of that to say this story is a must read! And I highly recommend grabbing a copy ASAP!
HAPPY READING 📖
January 15, 2025
"Shooting Star" by Michelle Mankin is a second-generation rockstar romance featuring Bo Jackson, the son of Tempest guitarist Bryan Jackson, and Peace Jenkins, the daughter of War Jenkins, the lead singer of the same rock group Tempest. Peace and Bo first met at Christmas when she was 14, instantly feeling a connection rooted in their shared experience of being the rejected ones who disappointed their parents. While spending time together during that holiday, they went outside and saw a shooting star, a moment that cemented their friendship, which would be challenged over the years.
Bo longed for his father Bryan’s approval and support, but because of his dyslexia, his dad perceived him as weak, leading to Bo’s constant rebellion. Peace, an introverted girl who is a voracious reader that
stands in sharp contrast to her outgoing actress twin sister. Her father believed that if Peace made friends like her twin, she wouldn’t need to isolate herself in the world of books. War did not unconditionally appreciate his daughter Peace’s unique quirks, which led to her enduring bullying at school, which even her twin was unaware of, happening daily among classmates. Bo attended private military schools for misfits until he found an escape with three friends who formed a band called "Shooting Star," which brought them some hard-earned fame. "Shooting Star" follows Bo and Peace as they navigate their lives from ages 14 to 18 and beyond, sometimes as soulmates and other times with wounded hearts trying to protect each other. Fireworks and simmering passion either bubbled beneath the surface or erupted whenever they spent time together. Michelle Mankin composed beautiful songs for her characters to write and sing in the book. These are songs that musicians should record today for a hit record. "Shooting Star" by Michelle Mankin is a rockstar romance that meets the highest standards, deserving a million stars rating instead of the paltry five stars being the highest value one can give.
Bo longed for his father Bryan’s approval and support, but because of his dyslexia, his dad perceived him as weak, leading to Bo’s constant rebellion. Peace, an introverted girl who is a voracious reader that
stands in sharp contrast to her outgoing actress twin sister. Her father believed that if Peace made friends like her twin, she wouldn’t need to isolate herself in the world of books. War did not unconditionally appreciate his daughter Peace’s unique quirks, which led to her enduring bullying at school, which even her twin was unaware of, happening daily among classmates. Bo attended private military schools for misfits until he found an escape with three friends who formed a band called "Shooting Star," which brought them some hard-earned fame. "Shooting Star" follows Bo and Peace as they navigate their lives from ages 14 to 18 and beyond, sometimes as soulmates and other times with wounded hearts trying to protect each other. Fireworks and simmering passion either bubbled beneath the surface or erupted whenever they spent time together. Michelle Mankin composed beautiful songs for her characters to write and sing in the book. These are songs that musicians should record today for a hit record. "Shooting Star" by Michelle Mankin is a rockstar romance that meets the highest standards, deserving a million stars rating instead of the paltry five stars being the highest value one can give.
January 30, 2025
Peace Jinkins is very introverted and very shy. She first meets Bo when she is 13. She is nothing like her father, who is in the band Tempest. Bo's father is also in the same band. Peace loves to read and write in her journals. Her twin, Harmony loves the spotlight. Peace always feels that she's an outsider in her family as she's not like her movie star mom, or her rock star dad. They don't understand her, they judge her for reading so much and retreating into her books into her world. Peace is very fragile. She needs reassuring that you like her, that she's doing good. She has been bullied every year every day in school but Harmony never picks up on that? Even in college she gets bullied by a boy who thinks she's just easy prey. She won't do anything to stick up for herself.
Robert ‘Bo’ Jackson is 14 yrs old, he's been in and out of several schools already. Now his rock star dad wants him out and is sending him to a military school for troubled youth down in Texas. His dad puts so much pressure on him to be 'good' and get good grades. Yet Bo has dyslexia and needs help, but no one is willing to help him. Down at the new school in Texas Bo gets in with a few new boys, Carson 'Car' and a few others a start playing music together, the one good thing that happened to Bo after he left his family.
Peace lands and internship with Black Cat label. Now she is being assigned to work as an intern and travel with the band to keep Bo in line, and keep the other band members in line on the tour. This puts Peace and Bo in close proximity with each other. Faith doesn't think Bo likes her like she likes him. She's in her head too much and doesn't communicate with Bo her feelings.
Bo is very territorial of Peace. Other men can't ever shake her hand with him giving them a dirty look or growling at them. He think his band mates are trying to take advantage of her right in front of him.
I did receive a free ARC Book. I am freely leaving an honest review.
Robert ‘Bo’ Jackson is 14 yrs old, he's been in and out of several schools already. Now his rock star dad wants him out and is sending him to a military school for troubled youth down in Texas. His dad puts so much pressure on him to be 'good' and get good grades. Yet Bo has dyslexia and needs help, but no one is willing to help him. Down at the new school in Texas Bo gets in with a few new boys, Carson 'Car' and a few others a start playing music together, the one good thing that happened to Bo after he left his family.
Peace lands and internship with Black Cat label. Now she is being assigned to work as an intern and travel with the band to keep Bo in line, and keep the other band members in line on the tour. This puts Peace and Bo in close proximity with each other. Faith doesn't think Bo likes her like she likes him. She's in her head too much and doesn't communicate with Bo her feelings.
Bo is very territorial of Peace. Other men can't ever shake her hand with him giving them a dirty look or growling at them. He think his band mates are trying to take advantage of her right in front of him.
I did receive a free ARC Book. I am freely leaving an honest review.
January 24, 2025
There is so much relatable goodness in this storyline with complex characters that take on real life issues. Peace is a twin. She is introverted and prefers reading to dealing with other people. It does not help that she is constantly bullied. Her parents have a difficult time understanding her and in their attempt to “help,” sometimes they wind up causing more inadvertent harm than good. Her sister, Harmony, takes after their famous parents as she is extroverted and likes attention. Bo is the son of Peace’s father’s best friend and bandmate. Everyone has little faith in Bo’s abilities except for Peace. Bo has been warned away from Peace but they are drawn to each other. They understand each other in a way no one else does and they are best friends. However, unfortunate circumstances have them separating only to reconnect years later when Peace gets an internship and Bo is a musician for a music label. Can these two handle everything life throws their way? Will they ever be able to express how they really feel to each other or will the fissures in their friendship be severed for good?
OMG this book! It will have you feeling all kinds of emotions as the pages turn. You cannot help but feel for Peace and everything she is subjected to. Bo is a product of his environment who struggles because the people that are supposed to believe in him do nothing but tear him down any chance they get and that leaves some deep wounds to have to overcome. Overall, this is one moving storyline fueled with emotion that will make you think not just about the words you choose to use but also how you treat others and the lasting impression it can leave.
OMG this book! It will have you feeling all kinds of emotions as the pages turn. You cannot help but feel for Peace and everything she is subjected to. Bo is a product of his environment who struggles because the people that are supposed to believe in him do nothing but tear him down any chance they get and that leaves some deep wounds to have to overcome. Overall, this is one moving storyline fueled with emotion that will make you think not just about the words you choose to use but also how you treat others and the lasting impression it can leave.
January 24, 2025
What a wonderful story with two really relatable characters! I loved the angst and pinning between them and how we got their whole story from childhood. I was instantly hooked and didn't want to stop reading for anything.
Peace really resonated with me. As an extremely shy person who would choose books over people I could totally see where she was coming from. Same goes for being the outcast of the family. I could feel everything she did because I have been there as well. I liked that we got to see her progression from when she was 14 to now and how much she grew as a character.
I really liked Bo. He was a little wild but had a good heart. He actually reminded me a lot of my husband when he was younger. He had a quick temper but he would look to me to center him again, just like Bo does with Peace. I kept forgetting that they were still pretty young because they were handling pretty grown-up situations so I had to cut him some slack because nobody is perfect at that age.
This was a sweet and heartfelt story about resiliency and staying true to yourself. Don't change for anyone and do what makes you happy. I understand the parents wanted the best for their kids but I wanted to slap them a few time so they would mind their own business. The writing was exceptional and had a lyrical flow that fit the musical theme perfectly. All the secondary characters were interesting and I would definitely be up for reading their stories as well. I would definitely recommend Shooting Star!!!
Peace really resonated with me. As an extremely shy person who would choose books over people I could totally see where she was coming from. Same goes for being the outcast of the family. I could feel everything she did because I have been there as well. I liked that we got to see her progression from when she was 14 to now and how much she grew as a character.
I really liked Bo. He was a little wild but had a good heart. He actually reminded me a lot of my husband when he was younger. He had a quick temper but he would look to me to center him again, just like Bo does with Peace. I kept forgetting that they were still pretty young because they were handling pretty grown-up situations so I had to cut him some slack because nobody is perfect at that age.
This was a sweet and heartfelt story about resiliency and staying true to yourself. Don't change for anyone and do what makes you happy. I understand the parents wanted the best for their kids but I wanted to slap them a few time so they would mind their own business. The writing was exceptional and had a lyrical flow that fit the musical theme perfectly. All the secondary characters were interesting and I would definitely be up for reading their stories as well. I would definitely recommend Shooting Star!!!
January 23, 2025
If there is one thing Michelle Mankin knows how to write, it is engaging, character driven, angst filled rockstars. This book does not disappoint. Shooting Star has big shoes to fill, following on from The Tempest series. This is the story of Bo and Peace, second generation of Tempest band members.
This book is friends to lovers with Bo and Peace meeting at age 14 and becoming firm friends. Both are misunderstood by their families and find a soul deep connection in their friendship. Both are able to face their adversities with their shared love of music and phone calls to get them through. Peace is shy and incredibly talented. She is bookish with a love for poetry and songwriting. Bo is a dedicated guitarist but is mainly angry. He is labelled as trouble and can never meet his father's high standards. He cannot beat the label so he embraces it. His only redeeming feature is his love for Peace. But he gets in his own way, feeling like he isn't good enough.
This book covers several years of their friendship and how it evolves. It is beautiful and frustrating and simmering with sexual tension. This book would have been a lot shorter had the two MCs just had an open and honest conversation. But where would the romance fun be in that?
Another fab rockstar romance from Michelle Mankin. And I'm kinda liking this second generation even more than the OGs. So much potential for where the stories could go.
This book is friends to lovers with Bo and Peace meeting at age 14 and becoming firm friends. Both are misunderstood by their families and find a soul deep connection in their friendship. Both are able to face their adversities with their shared love of music and phone calls to get them through. Peace is shy and incredibly talented. She is bookish with a love for poetry and songwriting. Bo is a dedicated guitarist but is mainly angry. He is labelled as trouble and can never meet his father's high standards. He cannot beat the label so he embraces it. His only redeeming feature is his love for Peace. But he gets in his own way, feeling like he isn't good enough.
This book covers several years of their friendship and how it evolves. It is beautiful and frustrating and simmering with sexual tension. This book would have been a lot shorter had the two MCs just had an open and honest conversation. But where would the romance fun be in that?
Another fab rockstar romance from Michelle Mankin. And I'm kinda liking this second generation even more than the OGs. So much potential for where the stories could go.
January 25, 2025
Shooting Star by Michelle Mankin is the second generation rockstar romance. This series follows the children or the main charachters from The Tempest series.
Peace Jinkins, is super shy, introvert who loves to read. Her twin sister Harmony and the rest of her family are all outgoing. Sometimes Peace doesn’t feel she belongs anywhere - not even in her own home. That is until Christmas break when all of her dads bandmates and families get together to celebrate the holiday. Thats when she meets rebellious Bo Jackson.
Bo is the son of Tempest guitarist Bryan Jackson. Bo hasn’t had much luck in school, friends or really anything. Everyone sees him as a trouble maker. But Peace sees something else. Something different. She’s drawn to him and he is drawn to her. But with everyone telling her to stay away from Peace, will their friendship be able to turn into more.
Its a rocky road for these two characters -
their parents don’t want them around each other for good reasons. And they struggle to maintain the friendship that means so much to them. Can they survive being more than friends, will their families accept them? Or will they lose the one person that feels like home to them?
This book contains a lot of relatable family dynamics and is a wonderful slow building read. I enjoyed the relationship of Peace and Bo - although Bo has alot of issues he needed to deal with by the end I enjoyed hom so much! Highly recommend!
Peace Jinkins, is super shy, introvert who loves to read. Her twin sister Harmony and the rest of her family are all outgoing. Sometimes Peace doesn’t feel she belongs anywhere - not even in her own home. That is until Christmas break when all of her dads bandmates and families get together to celebrate the holiday. Thats when she meets rebellious Bo Jackson.
Bo is the son of Tempest guitarist Bryan Jackson. Bo hasn’t had much luck in school, friends or really anything. Everyone sees him as a trouble maker. But Peace sees something else. Something different. She’s drawn to him and he is drawn to her. But with everyone telling her to stay away from Peace, will their friendship be able to turn into more.
Its a rocky road for these two characters -
their parents don’t want them around each other for good reasons. And they struggle to maintain the friendship that means so much to them. Can they survive being more than friends, will their families accept them? Or will they lose the one person that feels like home to them?
This book contains a lot of relatable family dynamics and is a wonderful slow building read. I enjoyed the relationship of Peace and Bo - although Bo has alot of issues he needed to deal with by the end I enjoyed hom so much! Highly recommend!
January 23, 2025
Reviewed by Donna for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner
This is a new to me author. And my god, will I continue to read this author from now on. I need to go back and read the connected series of their parents. This book started when Peace and Bo were teenagers and spanned years.
Peace and Bo have a connection like no other, but it wasn't plain sailing. It wasn't all hearts and flowers and certainly wasn't even pleasant at times but in the bones of this story. There is a love that is ingrained, pure, and special.
It's so hard to go into detail with this story as a lot of people are a part of it. Some are to blame for the fall out with these two, and some are just a solid part of this story. I can not say any more than I have as I would hate to spoil anything. Just know it's special and beautiful.
This book is a huge recommend from me.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
This is a new to me author. And my god, will I continue to read this author from now on. I need to go back and read the connected series of their parents. This book started when Peace and Bo were teenagers and spanned years.
Peace and Bo have a connection like no other, but it wasn't plain sailing. It wasn't all hearts and flowers and certainly wasn't even pleasant at times but in the bones of this story. There is a love that is ingrained, pure, and special.
It's so hard to go into detail with this story as a lot of people are a part of it. Some are to blame for the fall out with these two, and some are just a solid part of this story. I can not say any more than I have as I would hate to spoil anything. Just know it's special and beautiful.
This book is a huge recommend from me.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
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January 22, 2025
Bo and Peace are made for each other. They are both awkward and misunderstood by classmates and family alike when they meet in middle school. The instant connection they both feel is unlike anything either has known before. They just both know they have found someone special.
Bo is sent away due to family issues, and Peace decides to live with her uncles in LA during the next four years. When they meet again, they get that amazing feeling of coming home and that they are exactly where they should be. But is this real? Do they deserve each other? Is there any way it can work out?
The stresses of being in an up-and-coming rock band and being a handler for the band are tough, especially for a couple so young. Bo and Peace's journey through their issues of anger management, confidence, etc is amazing to watch, but as expected, can be painful too. Michelle Mankin will make you cry and make your heart soar with Shooting Star! This one will give you so many feels, but check your trigger warnings, because this one is also intense!
Loved, loved, loved this one! 10/10...highly recommend!
Bo is sent away due to family issues, and Peace decides to live with her uncles in LA during the next four years. When they meet again, they get that amazing feeling of coming home and that they are exactly where they should be. But is this real? Do they deserve each other? Is there any way it can work out?
The stresses of being in an up-and-coming rock band and being a handler for the band are tough, especially for a couple so young. Bo and Peace's journey through their issues of anger management, confidence, etc is amazing to watch, but as expected, can be painful too. Michelle Mankin will make you cry and make your heart soar with Shooting Star! This one will give you so many feels, but check your trigger warnings, because this one is also intense!
Loved, loved, loved this one! 10/10...highly recommend!
January 22, 2025
A slow burn, but many years in the making, love story between two souls who were always going to be each other's safe harbour. We follow Peace and Bo from their early teens, which gives us a great insight into their lives, the people around them, and the struggles to gain acceptance, which are so formative. I did find myself very frustrated by their parents. Both Bryan and War were so reactive rather than nurturing, particularly Bryan, whose tattoo Bo was puzzling. Yes, he's rebellious, but he didn't ask himself why, nor did he truly try to build a relationship with him. I was confused by War and his attitude towards Peace. She is a shy introvert, a difficult combination, but his reactions towards her left me scratching my head at times and wanting to shake him. And the mothers? Where were they?
Apart from this, I have to say I fell in love with these two. They are fabulous. Mind you, a few proper conversations might have helped 😊, but that aside, they are a magical combination of intellingence, talents and personalities. They share a rare bond that should have been celebrated rather than fought against. A good read that I have truly enjoyed. 💖💖💖💖
Apart from this, I have to say I fell in love with these two. They are fabulous. Mind you, a few proper conversations might have helped 😊, but that aside, they are a magical combination of intellingence, talents and personalities. They share a rare bond that should have been celebrated rather than fought against. A good read that I have truly enjoyed. 💖💖💖💖
January 22, 2025
Reviewed For Saucy Review
On Kinky Korner
This is a new to me author. And my god, will I continue to read this author from now on. I need to go back and read the connected series of their parents. This book started when Peace and Bo were teenagers and spanned years.
Peace and Bo have a connection like no other, but it wasn't plain sailing. It wasn't all hearts and flowers and certainly wasn't even pleasant at times but in the bones of this story. There is a love that is ingrained, pure, and special.
It's so hard to go into detail with this story as a lot of people are a part of it. Some are to blame for the fall out with these two, and some are just a solid part of this story. I can not say any more than I have as I would hate to spoil anything. Just know it's special and beautiful.
This book is a huge recommend from me.
On Kinky Korner
This is a new to me author. And my god, will I continue to read this author from now on. I need to go back and read the connected series of their parents. This book started when Peace and Bo were teenagers and spanned years.
Peace and Bo have a connection like no other, but it wasn't plain sailing. It wasn't all hearts and flowers and certainly wasn't even pleasant at times but in the bones of this story. There is a love that is ingrained, pure, and special.
It's so hard to go into detail with this story as a lot of people are a part of it. Some are to blame for the fall out with these two, and some are just a solid part of this story. I can not say any more than I have as I would hate to spoil anything. Just know it's special and beautiful.
This book is a huge recommend from me.
January 25, 2025
Shooting Star is a roller coaster ride of emotions. Bo and Peace are the children of rock stars, who meet as young teenagers, and bond over what they have in common. This is a dual POV book which allows us to see the internal struggles and their bond. Their relationship endures many barriers, misperceptions, and misunderstandings. I think that with the pressures from her parents and the strictness of her father, Peace was drowning and the best decision she made was to live with her uncle.
This was a very slow burn second chance romance that at times felt to slow. However, it did give us more time with the characters, allowing us to get to know them better and see into their friendship and bond. After all the obstacles Peace and Bo go through they end up together, and it is obvious that they belong together. There is a lot going on in this story but I felt as though they became better people.
Received ARC in exchange for voluntary honest review from Michelle Mankin and Grey's Promotions.
This was a very slow burn second chance romance that at times felt to slow. However, it did give us more time with the characters, allowing us to get to know them better and see into their friendship and bond. After all the obstacles Peace and Bo go through they end up together, and it is obvious that they belong together. There is a lot going on in this story but I felt as though they became better people.
Received ARC in exchange for voluntary honest review from Michelle Mankin and Grey's Promotions.
January 24, 2025
First I have to say, I have not read the Tempest series so I promise you can totally enjoy this without background. The story spans several years... Peace and Bo's relationship evolves from childhood friendship while trauma bonding over their truly horrendous parental figure into a relationship that feels epic and sweeping and almost fated. (Their fathers are Bryan Jackson and War Jinkins from Tempest an earlier series).
Bo and Peace faced so many personal challenges that I honestly started to worry they weren't going to get an HEA but that just made it that much sweeter when they finally get there. Highly recommend if you love angst and obstacles that keep the MMC and FMC apart. These two both
Y'all, I have to say I can't imagine how the first generation characters could possibly be likable in an earlier series because I hated almost all of them in this book. But you better believe I've added that series to my binge list for this year :)
angst
childhood friends to lovers
second chance romance
hurt/comfort
second generation
family drama
tortured hero
Pining
past/present
rockstar romance
Bo and Peace faced so many personal challenges that I honestly started to worry they weren't going to get an HEA but that just made it that much sweeter when they finally get there. Highly recommend if you love angst and obstacles that keep the MMC and FMC apart. These two both
Y'all, I have to say I can't imagine how the first generation characters could possibly be likable in an earlier series because I hated almost all of them in this book. But you better believe I've added that series to my binge list for this year :)
angst
childhood friends to lovers
second chance romance
hurt/comfort
second generation
family drama
tortured hero
Pining
past/present
rockstar romance
January 23, 2025
Review:
✨Shooting Star✨
By Michelle Mankin
✨ Rockstar Romance
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Slow Burn Romance
⭐ 5/5
Peace and Bo
This is so much more than a love story set in a rockstar romance world.
Bo and Peace are part of the same world since their fathers are both in the same band. So they are forming a friendship as teenagers. Where Peace feels unseen, Bo has his own, different issues with his dad.
But these two get each other. But they also have to go through a lot of their own crises. With each other as well as with everything else.
This story is a lot about finding out about your own life. What to do, who to be and finding a way to handle struggles and issues. With friends and family and life.
It is very beautiful to see their journey to their happy end, seeing as their story is a slow burn one.
But they got their well deserved and hard fought happy end.
✨Shooting Star✨
By Michelle Mankin
✨ Rockstar Romance
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Slow Burn Romance
⭐ 5/5
Peace and Bo
This is so much more than a love story set in a rockstar romance world.
Bo and Peace are part of the same world since their fathers are both in the same band. So they are forming a friendship as teenagers. Where Peace feels unseen, Bo has his own, different issues with his dad.
But these two get each other. But they also have to go through a lot of their own crises. With each other as well as with everything else.
This story is a lot about finding out about your own life. What to do, who to be and finding a way to handle struggles and issues. With friends and family and life.
It is very beautiful to see their journey to their happy end, seeing as their story is a slow burn one.
But they got their well deserved and hard fought happy end.
January 23, 2025
This is shy, introvert Peace, and rebellious Robert / Bo’s story.
Peace and Bo’s fathers are in the same famous rock band, and neither meets their famous father’s expectations, with Peace preferring books and music to people, and Bo a guitarist, who has a bad attitude and is not afraid to confront his critics head-on. These two are misunderstood and kindred spirits, and a unique friendships developed between them since they were teenagers.
This is a well written story which is emotionally charged, with family, friendships, opposites attract, angst, challenges, friends / lovers, bullying, tension, drama, soulmates, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, and compelling addictive page turner, which tugs at the heartstrings throughout.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Peace and Bo’s fathers are in the same famous rock band, and neither meets their famous father’s expectations, with Peace preferring books and music to people, and Bo a guitarist, who has a bad attitude and is not afraid to confront his critics head-on. These two are misunderstood and kindred spirits, and a unique friendships developed between them since they were teenagers.
This is a well written story which is emotionally charged, with family, friendships, opposites attract, angst, challenges, friends / lovers, bullying, tension, drama, soulmates, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, and compelling addictive page turner, which tugs at the heartstrings throughout.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
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