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Doesn't Count
Ashton Crawford lands a chance to prove herself to the Chief Editor of Musical Genius, LLC when the Company announces their newest project - the Musical Genius Tours.
Always choosing morals over risk, her boss is hesitant to hand over an assignment with one of the most famous pop artists in the world and instead she finds herself touring with a band she’s never heard of; Night’s Deadly Deeds.
Now stuck on a tour bus for six months and documenting the band’s life on the road, Ashton quickly becomes very familiar with what it means to take more risks. Especially, when the lead singer Khaos despises her the moment they meet.
Forced to get to know one another, they slowly uncover each other’s past. From heartbreak and loss to depraved secrets and a hidden identity, Ash and Khaos navigate a tremulous journey.
Will the couple make it through Khaos’ lies or will the demons of his past tear them apart?
Always choosing morals over risk, her boss is hesitant to hand over an assignment with one of the most famous pop artists in the world and instead she finds herself touring with a band she’s never heard of; Night’s Deadly Deeds.
Now stuck on a tour bus for six months and documenting the band’s life on the road, Ashton quickly becomes very familiar with what it means to take more risks. Especially, when the lead singer Khaos despises her the moment they meet.
Forced to get to know one another, they slowly uncover each other’s past. From heartbreak and loss to depraved secrets and a hidden identity, Ash and Khaos navigate a tremulous journey.
Will the couple make it through Khaos’ lies or will the demons of his past tear them apart?
436 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2025
28 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
July 3, 2025
Doesn't Count contains some triggering situations such as dub-con, violence, murder, drugs, loss, explicit sex scenes, ention of forced necrophilia, torture, mental illness, psychiatric hospitalization, sacrilege and religious extremism.
Doesn’t Count is a dark romance with a happily-ever-after. The book also explores themes of rockstar romance, masked men, enemies-to-lovers but they're really childhood sweethearts. But it also has darker themes which is religiously linked.
I rated this book 5* I loved the characters (mostly) and the plot, the band was definitely superb with the way the was written, they all just gave me Sleep Token vibes for the whole book and I loved it, the men in the book band are all named after Greek God's which suit their personality's. I just had one disagreement and it was with the way Satanism was used to support the villians intentions (which horror films do too much and it just gets boring), as it isn't an accurate representation of the whole religion however it did fit in with the book and explained how Khaos is how he is.
Khaos definitely became one of my favourite characters once you learnt why he is the way he is, the backstory definitely isn't something I was expecting either. He definitely becomes so much of a stronger character towards the end of the book and I love it, the man needs to heal! Hypnos was my favourite straight away, the way him and Ash interact to get a rise out of Khoas was just too entertaining, he's just a delightful character. Ash slowly became a favourite especially when she just accepted the situation she was in with a certain man, and her development after the dark part was just a complete changed but I loved it! She became so much stronger as a person, it was just sad that her and Khaos went through what they did.
Justina, Blane definitely need to be humbled... they are both vile people. The cult also needs to face retribution like I hope they all suffer and get what's coming to them...
I'd definitely recommend this book to those not out off by the triggers, as it is a dark book in places but the romance is all so sweet.
Doesn’t Count is a dark romance with a happily-ever-after. The book also explores themes of rockstar romance, masked men, enemies-to-lovers but they're really childhood sweethearts. But it also has darker themes which is religiously linked.
I rated this book 5* I loved the characters (mostly) and the plot, the band was definitely superb with the way the was written, they all just gave me Sleep Token vibes for the whole book and I loved it, the men in the book band are all named after Greek God's which suit their personality's. I just had one disagreement and it was with the way Satanism was used to support the villians intentions (which horror films do too much and it just gets boring), as it isn't an accurate representation of the whole religion however it did fit in with the book and explained how Khaos is how he is.
Khaos definitely became one of my favourite characters once you learnt why he is the way he is, the backstory definitely isn't something I was expecting either. He definitely becomes so much of a stronger character towards the end of the book and I love it, the man needs to heal! Hypnos was my favourite straight away, the way him and Ash interact to get a rise out of Khoas was just too entertaining, he's just a delightful character. Ash slowly became a favourite especially when she just accepted the situation she was in with a certain man, and her development after the dark part was just a complete changed but I loved it! She became so much stronger as a person, it was just sad that her and Khaos went through what they did.
Justina, Blane definitely need to be humbled... they are both vile people. The cult also needs to face retribution like I hope they all suffer and get what's coming to them...
I'd definitely recommend this book to those not out off by the triggers, as it is a dark book in places but the romance is all so sweet.
February 18, 2025
Book Review: Doesn’t Count by Phoebe Farrow
"Doesn’t Count" by Phoebe Farrow is a gripping and emotionally charged read that dives deep into themes of love, identity, and the dark sides of human nature. This novel masterfully weaves together elements of cult exploitation, kidnapping, and the complexities of family dynamics, all while exploring the intricate web of relationships shaped by trauma and healing.
The story centers around the male protagonist who, after escaping a traumatic past marked by a controlling cult, must navigate his way through the complexities of trust and love. And the female protagonist who tries to uncover the mystery of the male protagonist, while also facing her trauma and finding love and healing along the way.Farrow does an incredible job of capturing the emotional turmoil that comes with such an experience, making the character's journey of healing feel incredibly real and relatable.
At the heart of the story is a dark romance that unfolds between childhood friends who get a second chance at love. The male lead, whose obsession with the protagonist adds an intense layer to the narrative, is portrayed with depth and nuance. His feelings for her are raw and genuine, and as he grapples with his own past, readers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions. The dynamic between them is electric, and Farrow beautifully captures the tension between love and obsession.
The plot thickens as social media plays a critical role in the characters' lives, especially as a reporter becomes involved in uncovering the truth behind the protagonist's ordeal. This adds a modern twist to the story, highlighting how public perception can affect personal relationships and healing processes.
Farrow's writing is immersive, drawing readers into the characters' experiences and emotions. Especially as the characters confront their shared history and the scars of their past. The themes of trauma and healing are explored with sensitivity.
Overall, "Doesn’t Count" is a captivating read that blends dark romance with elements of suspense and emotional depth. It touches on important issues like obsession, the effects of childhood trauma, and the journey toward healing and self-acceptance. This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat while exploring the complexities of love and relationships. I was left thinking about the characters long after I turned the last page, and I can’t wait to see what Phoebe Farrow creates next!
Now for the Q&A
Would I recommend this book?
Yes
Was the spice SPICY?
Yes
Was the plot TWISTING?
Yes
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
"Doesn’t Count" by Phoebe Farrow is a gripping and emotionally charged read that dives deep into themes of love, identity, and the dark sides of human nature. This novel masterfully weaves together elements of cult exploitation, kidnapping, and the complexities of family dynamics, all while exploring the intricate web of relationships shaped by trauma and healing.
The story centers around the male protagonist who, after escaping a traumatic past marked by a controlling cult, must navigate his way through the complexities of trust and love. And the female protagonist who tries to uncover the mystery of the male protagonist, while also facing her trauma and finding love and healing along the way.Farrow does an incredible job of capturing the emotional turmoil that comes with such an experience, making the character's journey of healing feel incredibly real and relatable.
At the heart of the story is a dark romance that unfolds between childhood friends who get a second chance at love. The male lead, whose obsession with the protagonist adds an intense layer to the narrative, is portrayed with depth and nuance. His feelings for her are raw and genuine, and as he grapples with his own past, readers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions. The dynamic between them is electric, and Farrow beautifully captures the tension between love and obsession.
The plot thickens as social media plays a critical role in the characters' lives, especially as a reporter becomes involved in uncovering the truth behind the protagonist's ordeal. This adds a modern twist to the story, highlighting how public perception can affect personal relationships and healing processes.
Farrow's writing is immersive, drawing readers into the characters' experiences and emotions. Especially as the characters confront their shared history and the scars of their past. The themes of trauma and healing are explored with sensitivity.
Overall, "Doesn’t Count" is a captivating read that blends dark romance with elements of suspense and emotional depth. It touches on important issues like obsession, the effects of childhood trauma, and the journey toward healing and self-acceptance. This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat while exploring the complexities of love and relationships. I was left thinking about the characters long after I turned the last page, and I can’t wait to see what Phoebe Farrow creates next!
Now for the Q&A
Would I recommend this book?
Yes
Was the spice SPICY?
Yes
Was the plot TWISTING?
Yes
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
March 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
This was a wild ride and the first rockstar romance I've read.
A story of two lovers destined to find each other in the end after one makes the mistake of professing their love and the other runs from it...literally.
This is a beautiful story of overcoming grief and frighting ones demons and the trauma of the past.
The relationship of Ash and Khaos is romantic and dark in an enemies to lovers style writing, he pushes her away and makes her hate him but still they find Solace in each other behind closed doors.
The spice is spicin' in this one for sure with rough and ready scenes and some Dub Con thrown into the mix.
Khaos' past helps the reader to understand the reason for his personality and the reasons behind his lyrics as lead singer of the band that Ash is reporting on.
The twist that comes in the last 3rd of the book is incredible and the full circle back to Khaos' past was perfectly written in.
Well done Phoebe Farrow for this story, you had me hooked from the start!
What to expect.
🔮Enemies to Lovers
🌑Dub Con
🔮Bully
🌑Forced Proximity
🔮Twisty
🌑Cults
🔮Devil Worship
🌑Trauma
🔮Secrets
🌑Spice
🔮HEA
🌶🌶🌶
This was a wild ride and the first rockstar romance I've read.
A story of two lovers destined to find each other in the end after one makes the mistake of professing their love and the other runs from it...literally.
This is a beautiful story of overcoming grief and frighting ones demons and the trauma of the past.
The relationship of Ash and Khaos is romantic and dark in an enemies to lovers style writing, he pushes her away and makes her hate him but still they find Solace in each other behind closed doors.
The spice is spicin' in this one for sure with rough and ready scenes and some Dub Con thrown into the mix.
Khaos' past helps the reader to understand the reason for his personality and the reasons behind his lyrics as lead singer of the band that Ash is reporting on.
The twist that comes in the last 3rd of the book is incredible and the full circle back to Khaos' past was perfectly written in.
Well done Phoebe Farrow for this story, you had me hooked from the start!
What to expect.
🔮Enemies to Lovers
🌑Dub Con
🔮Bully
🌑Forced Proximity
🔮Twisty
🌑Cults
🔮Devil Worship
🌑Trauma
🔮Secrets
🌑Spice
🔮HEA
February 8, 2025
Doesn’t Count
By Phoebe Farrow
All thoughts and opinions shared within this review are my own.
If you go into this book expecting another average rockstar romance, you would be severely underestimating this authors abilities. Doesn’t Count provides us with a story that explores so many different dynamics behind the psychology of denial and how trauma influences us to use denial as a coping mechanism. Phoebe explores the ways that major traumatic events change us as people and how impossible is it to return home once certain lines have been crossed. The intricacies that make us who we are, who we’ve been and who we will become are so deeply explored in this story in such an incredibly thought provoking way. I continued to be more and more impressed with this debut novel the deeper I got sucked in and it tickled my cerebrum. She did a remarkable job of exploring the internal conflict of that which motivates us. This story was beautifully written, intensely emotional, perfectly balanced, and intriguingly intellectual. 5⭐️ 4🌶️
By Phoebe Farrow
All thoughts and opinions shared within this review are my own.
If you go into this book expecting another average rockstar romance, you would be severely underestimating this authors abilities. Doesn’t Count provides us with a story that explores so many different dynamics behind the psychology of denial and how trauma influences us to use denial as a coping mechanism. Phoebe explores the ways that major traumatic events change us as people and how impossible is it to return home once certain lines have been crossed. The intricacies that make us who we are, who we’ve been and who we will become are so deeply explored in this story in such an incredibly thought provoking way. I continued to be more and more impressed with this debut novel the deeper I got sucked in and it tickled my cerebrum. She did a remarkable job of exploring the internal conflict of that which motivates us. This story was beautifully written, intensely emotional, perfectly balanced, and intriguingly intellectual. 5⭐️ 4🌶️
June 17, 2025
warning for spoilers
I sobbed at the end!! Normally I be screaming that the characters need therapy that they never get but they get therapy and I’m so happy!!! I see where the British band influences come in but it’s so much more after you get past that. It’s really not just another rockstar romance and that’s awesome!
One small plot point that I have an issue with is how did the MC open bank accounts and such if his parents declared him dead. He woulda needed all of his info to do so. Like also no managers or record labels would be able to pay him without him being able to do taxes. He was 13 when kidnapped so I doubt he knew all of him important info
2/5🌶️
I sobbed at the end!! Normally I be screaming that the characters need therapy that they never get but they get therapy and I’m so happy!!! I see where the British band influences come in but it’s so much more after you get past that. It’s really not just another rockstar romance and that’s awesome!
One small plot point that I have an issue with is how did the MC open bank accounts and such if his parents declared him dead. He woulda needed all of his info to do so. Like also no managers or record labels would be able to pay him without him being able to do taxes. He was 13 when kidnapped so I doubt he knew all of him important info
2/5🌶️
June 12, 2025
Rockstar romances are a not-so-guilty pleasure of mine. So when I saw a newer one available, I jumped headfirst into it.
I can tell one particular band was an inspiration for the band itself and was nervous at first because of it but then the whole plot line shifted in a way I wasn’t prepared for. This book was so trauma-ridden, gritty and sad in moments but that made it an absolute joy to read. I loved this book so much when I didn’t expect to. I devoured it so quickly and, even though it does have a HEA, I want more of the main characters’ story of after.
I can tell one particular band was an inspiration for the band itself and was nervous at first because of it but then the whole plot line shifted in a way I wasn’t prepared for. This book was so trauma-ridden, gritty and sad in moments but that made it an absolute joy to read. I loved this book so much when I didn’t expect to. I devoured it so quickly and, even though it does have a HEA, I want more of the main characters’ story of after.
February 16, 2025
wow
Minor spoilers below
I absolutely loved this book. The push and pull between Kaos and Ash was just perfect - plenty of sarcasm, love/hate vibes, underlying and simmering attraction. I ate it up.
One unique thing about this story was the trauma resolution. The characters worked to heal, the author didn’t just brush past it with a “love heals all” ending.
Minor spoilers below
I absolutely loved this book. The push and pull between Kaos and Ash was just perfect - plenty of sarcasm, love/hate vibes, underlying and simmering attraction. I ate it up.
One unique thing about this story was the trauma resolution. The characters worked to heal, the author didn’t just brush past it with a “love heals all” ending.
April 21, 2025
Dark, delicious, with the just the right amount of spice. The religious trauma and that backstory... perfection!
August 2, 2025
the prologue gives away the twist so please avoid it. and ladies, if a man EVER treats you this way when you’ve just met him, RUN AND DON’T LOOK BACK.
November 10, 2025
Loved it
November 11, 2025
Hello dark rockstar romance full of sleep token vibes. I will be recommending you to everyone I know, and even people I don’t know.
The angst. The banter. And the spiiiiice. Omfg.
The angst. The banter. And the spiiiiice. Omfg.
November 19, 2025
Started this book yesterday around lunch, I have a full time job, I’m a mother, I cleaned, cooked dinner, and slept, and finished this book by 1pm today.
I
Love
This
Book.
😭🖤 I need more.
I
Love
This
Book.
😭🖤 I need more.
March 7, 2025
Doesn't Count is a captivating, heart throbbing, suspenseful romance! I was hooked from the prologue! Phoebe did an absolutely amazing job with this work. Her writing style is captivating, detailed, smooth, and oh so descriptive! Her ability to not only write an amazing book but to do it in a way that allows the reader to vividly picture each scene is just *chef's kiss*! I literally could NOT stop reading because I just had to know what would happen next and where everything would lead. When I finally finished Doesn't Count, I had such bad reader withdrawals, constantly finding myself thinking about parts of the book and the characters. If you're looking for a rockstar dark romance that will keep you engaged through the entire book, this is the one! I would give 10 stars if I could! Just *GAH*!!
September 7, 2025
Doesn't Count easily sits in the top ten of my all time favorite books. The characters are flawed, the vibes are dark and I became addicted to the push and pull of the two love interested. The twist was *chef's kiss* and the fall out was so good. I could not put this book down and my only wish is that I could have it wiped from my memory so that I can read it again. THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews