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Long Live The King
The Happy Ever After Playlist meets The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo in this dual POV, dual timeline, contemporary romance where a chance encounter between aspiring writer, Tyler Norris, and the drummer for a multi-platinum rock band, Eric Ambrose, results in Ambrose hiring Norris to pen his biography.
There is nothing Tyler regrets more than the night she spent with Eric Ambrose. Not because (despite everything she’d told herself that night) she’d caved and slept with the man they call “The King”. The man who is arguably the best rock drummer of all time. But because, despite her best efforts, she can’t stop thinking about him. And when he tracks her down three months later and offers her a job writing his memoir, she’s caught between standing her ground and keeping as much distance between them as possible, or agreeing to spend the next six months on tour with him. Following his every move and getting to know the notoriously private man on a level that not many people do. As she finds herself agreeing to his offer, she can only hope that this won’t turn into another decision involving Eric Ambrose that she regrets.
Tyler Norris is the one that got away—literally. The only woman Eric has ever taken back to his hotel room to vanish into thin air by the time he woke up the next morning. He’s spent months tracking her down, desperate to see her again for reasons he doesn’t fully understand. And when he finally finds her and offers her the opportunity to join him on tour and write his memoir, the woman he met the night they spent together is nowhere to be found. This one is guarded, shy, and hesitant. Determined to spend more time with the woman who flipped his world upside down, he agrees to whatever terms she presents—including the one he knows is going to take every ounce of self-control he has left—absolutely no sex.
A friendship forms and tension grows so tight it’s bound to snap as Tyler and Eric refuse to face the music—their chance encounter was just the beginning.
Trigger/Content Warnings: Long Live The King is a contemporary romance containing explicit sexual content, thoughts of suicide, battles with alcoholism and drug use, conversations regarding addiction, off-page overdose, off-page death of a minor character, and mention of a vehicle accident and injury. Reader discretion is advised.
There is nothing Tyler regrets more than the night she spent with Eric Ambrose. Not because (despite everything she’d told herself that night) she’d caved and slept with the man they call “The King”. The man who is arguably the best rock drummer of all time. But because, despite her best efforts, she can’t stop thinking about him. And when he tracks her down three months later and offers her a job writing his memoir, she’s caught between standing her ground and keeping as much distance between them as possible, or agreeing to spend the next six months on tour with him. Following his every move and getting to know the notoriously private man on a level that not many people do. As she finds herself agreeing to his offer, she can only hope that this won’t turn into another decision involving Eric Ambrose that she regrets.
Tyler Norris is the one that got away—literally. The only woman Eric has ever taken back to his hotel room to vanish into thin air by the time he woke up the next morning. He’s spent months tracking her down, desperate to see her again for reasons he doesn’t fully understand. And when he finally finds her and offers her the opportunity to join him on tour and write his memoir, the woman he met the night they spent together is nowhere to be found. This one is guarded, shy, and hesitant. Determined to spend more time with the woman who flipped his world upside down, he agrees to whatever terms she presents—including the one he knows is going to take every ounce of self-control he has left—absolutely no sex.
A friendship forms and tension grows so tight it’s bound to snap as Tyler and Eric refuse to face the music—their chance encounter was just the beginning.
Trigger/Content Warnings: Long Live The King is a contemporary romance containing explicit sexual content, thoughts of suicide, battles with alcoholism and drug use, conversations regarding addiction, off-page overdose, off-page death of a minor character, and mention of a vehicle accident and injury. Reader discretion is advised.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2025
46 people are currently reading
458 people want to read
About the author
Lexie Black
3 books57 followersWhen I'm not writing, you can find me in my stained glass studio listening to my favorite hard rock bands, or yelling at the TV while cheering on the Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Penguins, New Jersey Devils, or the McLaren F1 team.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
October 14, 2025
I cannot believe this is a debut novel. It had me feeling all the things. The audiobook is incredible. BRILLIANT performance by James Cassidy. The angst. The longing. The pain.
Amazing.
ALC.
Amazing.
ALC.
October 4, 2025
Reread via ALC of the audiobook, narrated by Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy! These two absolutely knocked it out of the park with their portrayals of Ty and Eric. I am in awe. They got me to fall back in love with a story and characters that I had already fallen for months ago, but in new and beautiful ways! Incredible work! 👏
—
First of all, thank you to the author, Lexie Black, for trusting me to arc read her debut novel, Long Live The King!
This was such a fun read right from the very start. It’s a rockstar romance (main male character is a drummer), and the main female character is an aspiring author! The chemistry these two had right out of the gate was soooooo delicious. They go from a one night stand to a working relationship/friendship when he hires her to write his biography. BUT the YEARNING and PINING and flirty moments between the two of them is SO GOOD. My only issue was that the miscommunication at the end of the book got a little messy for me, but maybe that wouldn’t be a big deal to other people. It certainly wasn’t enough to make me dislike the book as a whole, though!
I do want to point out that one of the main characters has a history of addiction and they use on page and reference other addicts/their history with relapse, so please take care if this is a sensitive topic for you.
Overall, I seriouslyl loved this book and can’t wait to see what else Lexie Black writes in the future! 4.75⭐️
—
First of all, thank you to the author, Lexie Black, for trusting me to arc read her debut novel, Long Live The King!
This was such a fun read right from the very start. It’s a rockstar romance (main male character is a drummer), and the main female character is an aspiring author! The chemistry these two had right out of the gate was soooooo delicious. They go from a one night stand to a working relationship/friendship when he hires her to write his biography. BUT the YEARNING and PINING and flirty moments between the two of them is SO GOOD. My only issue was that the miscommunication at the end of the book got a little messy for me, but maybe that wouldn’t be a big deal to other people. It certainly wasn’t enough to make me dislike the book as a whole, though!
I do want to point out that one of the main characters has a history of addiction and they use on page and reference other addicts/their history with relapse, so please take care if this is a sensitive topic for you.
Overall, I seriouslyl loved this book and can’t wait to see what else Lexie Black writes in the future! 4.75⭐️
February 23, 2026
I LOVE THIS SERIES. I read More Than Words as an ARC so I had to go ahead and read the first book once I was done. This is one of my favorite rockstar romance series. Top 5. The way that Eric longed for her. And i love that its not just a rockstar romance cause there is a band. True music lovers will love the music elements Lexie puts into these books. The audiobook was AMAZING. Samantha and James made this so natural, it was just fantastic.
March 30, 2026
I went into Long Live the King looking for a book narrated by James Cassidy… and came out emotionally wrecked, fully obsessed and crowning Lexie Blake as an author to watch. This debut was absolutely spectacular.
This is a rockstar romance done right. Eric Ambrose, broody, closed off drummer with a past full of scars, meets Tyler Norris, an aspiring writer, under wild circumstances that turn into a one night stand neither of them can forget. Months later, he finds her again and asks her to write his autobiography.
This audio was next level!! James Cassidy’s voice is deep, rich, and full body chills inducing. He captured Eric’s intensity, vulnerability, and quiet obsession perfectly. Then there’s Samantha Brentmoor, my forever queen, who once again proves she can do no wrong. Her emotional range, her nuance, her ability to elevate every scene, there’s a reason she’s the GOAT in my eyes.
Add in incredible side characters (yes, I am already seated for book two), a story that breathes and lingers, and narration that fully understood the assignment, and you’ve got an audiobook that demands five stars.
This one has stayed with me. And James Cassidy, this man is rapidly climbing straight to the top of my narrator list. 🎧👑
This is a rockstar romance done right. Eric Ambrose, broody, closed off drummer with a past full of scars, meets Tyler Norris, an aspiring writer, under wild circumstances that turn into a one night stand neither of them can forget. Months later, he finds her again and asks her to write his autobiography.
This audio was next level!! James Cassidy’s voice is deep, rich, and full body chills inducing. He captured Eric’s intensity, vulnerability, and quiet obsession perfectly. Then there’s Samantha Brentmoor, my forever queen, who once again proves she can do no wrong. Her emotional range, her nuance, her ability to elevate every scene, there’s a reason she’s the GOAT in my eyes.
Add in incredible side characters (yes, I am already seated for book two), a story that breathes and lingers, and narration that fully understood the assignment, and you’ve got an audiobook that demands five stars.
This one has stayed with me. And James Cassidy, this man is rapidly climbing straight to the top of my narrator list. 🎧👑
October 10, 2025
🥁🎶👏🏼🥵♥️
Receiving an advanced listener’s copy of the duet narration for Long Live The King was an absolute treat. This audiobook adaptation elevates Lexie Black’s already captivating story to new heights. The dual narration brings Eric and Tyler to life with such emotional depth and nuance that I found myself falling in love with them all over again despite already being thoroughly smitten from my first read.
From the very first chapter, the story grips you and doesn’t let go. I laughed, I cried, and I was utterly swept away. The chemistry, tension, and heartache are amplified through the performance, making this a truly immersive experience. It’s a top-tier production that enhances every twist and tender moment. I simply couldn’t get enough.
Receiving an advanced listener’s copy of the duet narration for Long Live The King was an absolute treat. This audiobook adaptation elevates Lexie Black’s already captivating story to new heights. The dual narration brings Eric and Tyler to life with such emotional depth and nuance that I found myself falling in love with them all over again despite already being thoroughly smitten from my first read.
From the very first chapter, the story grips you and doesn’t let go. I laughed, I cried, and I was utterly swept away. The chemistry, tension, and heartache are amplified through the performance, making this a truly immersive experience. It’s a top-tier production that enhances every twist and tender moment. I simply couldn’t get enough.
April 1, 2026
5 ⭐ 2 🌶️ 5 🎧
I picked this story up when book two came across my feed for an ALC sign up and thought why not? You have all the time in the world (heavy sarcasm) and it looks really interesting (no sarcasm) and I haven't been this happy after blind applying for an advanced copy in a hot dang minute. Tyler and Eric's quick to slowwww burn had me aching for more in all the best ways. This man was so freaking down bad and she had zero clue, just none—it was such a freaking journey to forever.
Eric's past is super heartbreaking, even more so once he fully tells Ty the whole of it. Addiction is such a beast.... Despite this, he's practically pure sunshine and his outlook and strength made me love him all the more. The third act is a bit tumultuous... And there's some angst, but my goodness it was so worth it.
And the audioooomgggg. So. Freaking. Good. James Cassidy. Samantha Brentmoor. Duet narration. Need I say more? I absolutely loved this listen and I can not wait for More Than Words.
I picked this story up when book two came across my feed for an ALC sign up and thought why not? You have all the time in the world (heavy sarcasm) and it looks really interesting (no sarcasm) and I haven't been this happy after blind applying for an advanced copy in a hot dang minute. Tyler and Eric's quick to slowwww burn had me aching for more in all the best ways. This man was so freaking down bad and she had zero clue, just none—it was such a freaking journey to forever.
Eric's past is super heartbreaking, even more so once he fully tells Ty the whole of it. Addiction is such a beast.... Despite this, he's practically pure sunshine and his outlook and strength made me love him all the more. The third act is a bit tumultuous... And there's some angst, but my goodness it was so worth it.
And the audioooomgggg. So. Freaking. Good. James Cassidy. Samantha Brentmoor. Duet narration. Need I say more? I absolutely loved this listen and I can not wait for More Than Words.
March 1, 2026
I went into this completely blind because a friend recommended it and I always trust her recs and let me tell you, I absolutely loved it!! And then to find out it's a debut?! Are you serious! I'm blown away. It had me all up in my feels. I LOVE a good rockstar romance. Eric Ambrose is a drummer and he meets Tyler Norris, an aspiring writer. They hit it off instantly and have the night of their lives together. Months later, he tracks her down and asks her to write his biography. These two fight their feelings for months but when they finally start admitting the truth, it's absolutely beautiful. I was rooting hard for them!!!
🎧Audio:🎧
This was a duet narration by James Cassidy & Samantha Brentmoor. This was my first audiobook by James and he was absolutely phenomenal. These two put on such a heartfelt performance and I was absolutely hooked. The emotions, the vulnerability... oh gosh, it was perfection.
🎧Audio:🎧
This was a duet narration by James Cassidy & Samantha Brentmoor. This was my first audiobook by James and he was absolutely phenomenal. These two put on such a heartfelt performance and I was absolutely hooked. The emotions, the vulnerability... oh gosh, it was perfection.
April 9, 2026
Woooow! Thanks to some friends they gave the best rockstar romance a girl could want! I both read and listened to this and was blown away by how much I loved it! Eric is a walking green flag and Ty is the cutest! This book will give you everything - insta love, humor, heartbreak all tied together in the end with a perfect HEA bow!
January 31, 2026
3.5⭐️ rounded up.
I sat on rating this because I was going to give it a fast 5⭐️, but the more I think about it the more I realize that I was giving the narration by James Cassidy and Samantha Brentmoore 5⭐️. The actual story was ok. The first 85% was a solid 4⭐️, but the ending made it 3.5⭐️.
I sat on rating this because I was going to give it a fast 5⭐️, but the more I think about it the more I realize that I was giving the narration by James Cassidy and Samantha Brentmoore 5⭐️. The actual story was ok. The first 85% was a solid 4⭐️, but the ending made it 3.5⭐️.
March 12, 2026
Holy crap! This is an authors debut story?! This was seriously one of the best well written books I have read in a long time. The push and pull from both main characters, dual POV (and duet narration for the audiobook), the way we got to hear the memoir also be written as well, the ending, and the amazing “soundtrack”, all of it seriously chefs kiss. I love this story so so much.
-dual POV
-story telling
-past and present detail (you will know when it’s the past is being talked about)
-darker themes but not a dark romance
-spicy scenes are extra spicy but not many and do not take away from the overall plot.
-dual POV
-story telling
-past and present detail (you will know when it’s the past is being talked about)
-darker themes but not a dark romance
-spicy scenes are extra spicy but not many and do not take away from the overall plot.
April 19, 2026
This wasn't bad until the ending.
He thinks she's cheating, so he breaks his sobriety, and when she finds him drunk, she coerced him to touch her and have sex.
Not surprising, he wakes up and realized he got black out drunk and he doesn't remember what he did or what he said. That pissed her off so she leaves and tells him to fuck off.
Then she hears a love song he wrote her and all way right with the world.
And if you're gonna make addiction such a huge part of the story, the last few chapters really just make his whole sobriety journey fall apart. Also she took advantage of him, that's really shitty
He thinks she's cheating, so he breaks his sobriety, and when she finds him drunk, she coerced him to touch her and have sex.
Not surprising, he wakes up and realized he got black out drunk and he doesn't remember what he did or what he said. That pissed her off so she leaves and tells him to fuck off.
Then she hears a love song he wrote her and all way right with the world.
And if you're gonna make addiction such a huge part of the story, the last few chapters really just make his whole sobriety journey fall apart. Also she took advantage of him, that's really shitty
October 31, 2025
4.5 stars
Rockstar drummer, Eric Ambrose, meets Tyler Rose while she is outside (freezing) waiting for his band’s concert. He is so taken with her and, later, after the concert, they have a steamy night together.
She’s gone the next morning, though. He spends the next three months trying to find her.
Eric hires her to write his biography and travel with the band, so we get a story within the story.
This story is so emotional. All the feels.
Read this if you like:
Story within a story
Dual POV
Rockstar romance
He falls first
I was lucky enough to listen to the advanced listener copy narrated in duet by James Cassidy and Samantha Brentmoor. It’s an amazing narration by both narrators. James absolutely slays his performance of Eric.
Thank you to the author for an advanced listener copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rockstar drummer, Eric Ambrose, meets Tyler Rose while she is outside (freezing) waiting for his band’s concert. He is so taken with her and, later, after the concert, they have a steamy night together.
She’s gone the next morning, though. He spends the next three months trying to find her.
Eric hires her to write his biography and travel with the band, so we get a story within the story.
This story is so emotional. All the feels.
Read this if you like:
Story within a story
Dual POV
Rockstar romance
He falls first
I was lucky enough to listen to the advanced listener copy narrated in duet by James Cassidy and Samantha Brentmoor. It’s an amazing narration by both narrators. James absolutely slays his performance of Eric.
Thank you to the author for an advanced listener copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 27, 2025
Obsessed with Eric and Ty! Oh my goodness this book was amazing. I was lucky enough to get to ARC read this book and man was it SSSSOOOOO good.
I love a hunky bad boy, a man who is flawed but still gives it his everything and Eric nailed that- he is hot, tattooed, talented and driven, and best of all, so swoon worthy.
Ty, sweet Ty is so much a typical girl- trying to be a boss b!tch and hold her own while completely and utterly failing at keeping it together. I resonated with her so much! She could be any girl out there, just trying to fake it until you make it- she just happened to stumble upon one hell of a ‘make it’s deal.
This book had me captivated from the first to the last page. I loved getting to know our characters in this way that felt, real. It gave me strong Almost Famous vibes with a very modern day twist (less drugs and booze 😆) and so much slow burn that I was begging for our couple to just get to it and throw down!
I am hopeful for more stories in this setting- here’s looking at Josh!
I love a hunky bad boy, a man who is flawed but still gives it his everything and Eric nailed that- he is hot, tattooed, talented and driven, and best of all, so swoon worthy.
Ty, sweet Ty is so much a typical girl- trying to be a boss b!tch and hold her own while completely and utterly failing at keeping it together. I resonated with her so much! She could be any girl out there, just trying to fake it until you make it- she just happened to stumble upon one hell of a ‘make it’s deal.
This book had me captivated from the first to the last page. I loved getting to know our characters in this way that felt, real. It gave me strong Almost Famous vibes with a very modern day twist (less drugs and booze 😆) and so much slow burn that I was begging for our couple to just get to it and throw down!
I am hopeful for more stories in this setting- here’s looking at Josh!
March 29, 2025
This book is SO good!!! While not a fairy tale, Lexie Black has brought to life the modern day Prince Charming, a kind and respectful man that has done the work and is in tune with his feelings, and yeah, and he's a rock star! This story balances all the things you want in a romance novel - well developed characters, entertaining story lines, perfect pacing, the right amount of sexual tension, and a writing style that keeps you engaged. I cannot recommend this book enough!!! Grateful for the opportunity to be an ARC reader.
January 6, 2026
Title: Long Live the King
Author: Lexie Black
Format: Audio
Rating: 4 stars
Thoughts: This was an easy read, and overall, I enjoyed the story. However, the book felt heavily focused on Eric's character. I felt like Ty and Eric were equal main characters, but the memoir interview framing led to an abundance of background on Eric (his learning the drums, how he joined the band and even multiple love interests) that didn't feel directly relevant to his developing relationship with Ty.
As for characters, I found Ty to be very relatable in the way that her defense mechanism to prevent getting hurt was to run away first. However, it became a little annoying that she could not believe he would want more from her even though they were spending every day together and he was very transparent with his feelings. This also leads into me thinking that the last conflict Ty and Eric experienced at the end was unnecessary considering Ty spent the entire book running and avoiding her feelings for Eric. I think the author did a good job representing Eric (I guess that's a natural progression since we got so much background on him) and making him charming but also human with flaws.
The biggest problem I have with this book... Eric spirals over a misunderstanding and gets drunk. As an alcoholic who had been 5 years sober - why would Ty think it's appropriate to have sex with him? She was so understanding of his struggles with sobriety and alcohol, so for her to decide that night was a good time to reconcile and have very intimate sex with him seems so irresponsible and out of character.
Recap: Ty can't believe it when she is saved from the rain by her drum playing idol from her favorite band, Eric. They immediately hit it off and she finds herself in his bed that night. However, she doesn't believe that he actually wants more than a one-night stand, so before she can get hurt, she leaves and doesn't look back. Eric finally tracks her down and gives her a job just to be able to spend time with her while he's on tour. Even though Eric tries to prove that he wants something serious with Ty, she spends the entire time together not believing it. In one last grand gesture, Ty finally realizes that Eric loves her.
Author: Lexie Black
Format: Audio
Rating: 4 stars
Thoughts: This was an easy read, and overall, I enjoyed the story. However, the book felt heavily focused on Eric's character. I felt like Ty and Eric were equal main characters, but the memoir interview framing led to an abundance of background on Eric (his learning the drums, how he joined the band and even multiple love interests) that didn't feel directly relevant to his developing relationship with Ty.
As for characters, I found Ty to be very relatable in the way that her defense mechanism to prevent getting hurt was to run away first. However, it became a little annoying that she could not believe he would want more from her even though they were spending every day together and he was very transparent with his feelings. This also leads into me thinking that the last conflict Ty and Eric experienced at the end was unnecessary considering Ty spent the entire book running and avoiding her feelings for Eric. I think the author did a good job representing Eric (I guess that's a natural progression since we got so much background on him) and making him charming but also human with flaws.
The biggest problem I have with this book... Eric spirals over a misunderstanding and gets drunk. As an alcoholic who had been 5 years sober - why would Ty think it's appropriate to have sex with him? She was so understanding of his struggles with sobriety and alcohol, so for her to decide that night was a good time to reconcile and have very intimate sex with him seems so irresponsible and out of character.
Recap: Ty can't believe it when she is saved from the rain by her drum playing idol from her favorite band, Eric. They immediately hit it off and she finds herself in his bed that night. However, she doesn't believe that he actually wants more than a one-night stand, so before she can get hurt, she leaves and doesn't look back. Eric finally tracks her down and gives her a job just to be able to spend time with her while he's on tour. Even though Eric tries to prove that he wants something serious with Ty, she spends the entire time together not believing it. In one last grand gesture, Ty finally realizes that Eric loves her.
January 15, 2026
Rating: 4.5/5
- rockstar romance
- one-night stand turned friends to lovers
- forced proximity
- he falls first
- song with each chapter
- dual timelines
- slooow burn
- dual pov
- 🌶️.5/5
- duet narration by Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy
Long Live the King surprised me in the best possible way. This is such a fresh, compelling take on a rockstar romance. Ty and Eric share a one-night stand, then he spends the next three months tracking her down to offer her a job. He wants her to join him on the road for six months and write his biography after she admits that her dream is to become an author. Ty agrees, on one condition – no touching.
That no-touching clause sets up the most delicious slow burn (because Lexie doesn’t spill any one-night stand details). Instead, we have friends-to-lovers with forced proximity – cue tension, flirty banter, and simmering chemistry.
What I really loved is that the story focuses more on Eric. Through the dual timeline, we follow his career as he recounts it for the biography. We see the band's rise, the depths of his addiction, and the heartbreak that shaped him. It gives his character so much weight and depth.
In the present timeline, his connection to Ty is woven through everything. And by connection, I mean quiet obsession and restraint 😏. When that slow burn finally ignites, Lexie adds an extra layer of angst that genuinely had me yelling at my audiobook. Don't worry, though, there's a HEA.
Speaking of audio, it's absolutely phenomenal. Samantha Brentmoor is flawless as always, and James Cassidy has officially become a new favourite. He handles Eric's emotion, vulnerability, and flirtiness so well. Together, they elevate an already fantastic debut.
- rockstar romance
- one-night stand turned friends to lovers
- forced proximity
- he falls first
- song with each chapter
- dual timelines
- slooow burn
- dual pov
- 🌶️.5/5
- duet narration by Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy
Long Live the King surprised me in the best possible way. This is such a fresh, compelling take on a rockstar romance. Ty and Eric share a one-night stand, then he spends the next three months tracking her down to offer her a job. He wants her to join him on the road for six months and write his biography after she admits that her dream is to become an author. Ty agrees, on one condition – no touching.
That no-touching clause sets up the most delicious slow burn (because Lexie doesn’t spill any one-night stand details). Instead, we have friends-to-lovers with forced proximity – cue tension, flirty banter, and simmering chemistry.
What I really loved is that the story focuses more on Eric. Through the dual timeline, we follow his career as he recounts it for the biography. We see the band's rise, the depths of his addiction, and the heartbreak that shaped him. It gives his character so much weight and depth.
In the present timeline, his connection to Ty is woven through everything. And by connection, I mean quiet obsession and restraint 😏. When that slow burn finally ignites, Lexie adds an extra layer of angst that genuinely had me yelling at my audiobook. Don't worry, though, there's a HEA.
Speaking of audio, it's absolutely phenomenal. Samantha Brentmoor is flawless as always, and James Cassidy has officially become a new favourite. He handles Eric's emotion, vulnerability, and flirtiness so well. Together, they elevate an already fantastic debut.
January 21, 2026
The first half of this book - I thought that I'm so glad that I didn't read it when I was in my fangirl era with bands. I would've gotten an one way to ticket tot delulu-land.
The second half of this book - I DON'T CARE ABOUT THE STUPID BAND! Ugh, I don't mind hearing about the backstory etc but I felt like it took precedence over the love story. When she first started to interview him, we get like a flashback but it gets interjected at times with the present time. I liked that. Where he tells her things to gauge her reaction. I thought that with every "flashback" we would get that the point of telling us all this, it would connect back to the love story. But alas, it was tedious at times. We know so much about the MMC that at the end I realised that I only know about four things about the FMC: 1. She used to work in a salon. 2. She is a writer 3. She likes the band 4. I think she has brown hair (all physical qualities of her is very briefly mentioned).I don't know why the MMC is in love with her. He knows nothing about her and so do the rest of us as well.
Overall, the story could've been deeper and spicier. I mean, he is a drummer in a famous band - just think of all the crazy fantasies that could've played out.
The second half of this book - I DON'T CARE ABOUT THE STUPID BAND! Ugh, I don't mind hearing about the backstory etc but I felt like it took precedence over the love story. When she first started to interview him, we get like a flashback but it gets interjected at times with the present time. I liked that. Where he tells her things to gauge her reaction. I thought that with every "flashback" we would get that the point of telling us all this, it would connect back to the love story. But alas, it was tedious at times. We know so much about the MMC that at the end I realised that I only know about four things about the FMC: 1. She used to work in a salon. 2. She is a writer 3. She likes the band 4. I think she has brown hair (all physical qualities of her is very briefly mentioned).I don't know why the MMC is in love with her. He knows nothing about her and so do the rest of us as well.
Overall, the story could've been deeper and spicier. I mean, he is a drummer in a famous band - just think of all the crazy fantasies that could've played out.
November 3, 2025
Long Live The King- Lexie Black
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
I cannot believe this is a DEBUT! I’m usually pretty hard and critical about debuts because everyone has room to grow but this book was *beautiful*! The growth that Eric had was so amazing! And there were times as a reader I wanted to shake Tyler for her naïveté, because I knew Eric’s side of things, but honestly I’d probably be in the same boat as her if my favorite famous rockstar was pursuing me.
This story was so emotional and angsty but so so beautiful. I encourage everyone to read it, and the audio just made it 1000x better with Sammy B and James Cassidy at the helm as Tyler and Eric. They were the perfect cast for this couple. Their ability to perform and actually act out the parts, not just reading the words on the paper is just absolutely phenomenal.
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
I cannot believe this is a DEBUT! I’m usually pretty hard and critical about debuts because everyone has room to grow but this book was *beautiful*! The growth that Eric had was so amazing! And there were times as a reader I wanted to shake Tyler for her naïveté, because I knew Eric’s side of things, but honestly I’d probably be in the same boat as her if my favorite famous rockstar was pursuing me.
This story was so emotional and angsty but so so beautiful. I encourage everyone to read it, and the audio just made it 1000x better with Sammy B and James Cassidy at the helm as Tyler and Eric. They were the perfect cast for this couple. Their ability to perform and actually act out the parts, not just reading the words on the paper is just absolutely phenomenal.
May 26, 2025
The story gripped me from the start. There was some predictability. I'm not normally a miscommunication trope girl (or no communication) but it was the basis of the story instead of something used in a third act break up so it worked better in this context. I like that Ty got to know Eric. I liked his backstory that was told through their interviews. I didn't know drums aren't recorded live anymore - if that's true that boggles my mind!
I would be excited to read more from the author. I appreciate them letting me read a digital ARC.
SPOILER
I do feel like his fall from sobriety at the end wasn't treated with the seriousness it needed to be. There needed to be a conversation that he wouldn't fall off if they had a fight or something; it was all about their miscommunication and being in love instead.
Does it end with a baby and marriage? A baby and a proposal
I would be excited to read more from the author. I appreciate them letting me read a digital ARC.
SPOILER
I do feel like his fall from sobriety at the end wasn't treated with the seriousness it needed to be. There needed to be a conversation that he wouldn't fall off if they had a fight or something; it was all about their miscommunication and being in love instead.
Does it end with a baby and marriage? A baby and a proposal
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2025
**Audio Review**
Massive thanks to Lexie for entrusting an ALC to me!
I don't know where to begin with this one, because I simply loved everything about it. Lexie's debut is a top read of the year for me. The amount of tension packed into this story had me devouring it as quickly as possible; at the same time, I didn't want the story to end. It is evident from the beginning that Lexie is passionate about music and the impact that it can have, and the song choices at the beginning of each chapter fit so perfectly with the story.
Eric Ambrose, our MMC, is the drummer in a popular rock band, Velvet Shadows. A chance encounter with a fan leads to an unforgettable night...and then she disappears. When Tyler Norris has a surprise visitor at her job a few months later, she has no idea what is in store for the next several months of her life. Tasked with writing Eric's biography, she goes on tour with the band, and tensions very quickly begin to rise.
GAH, speaking of tension! Both emotionally and physically, these two were ON FIRE. The forced proximity of a concert tour, resulting in very close quarters on a private RV, made for some electric chemistry. The way that Eric pines after Tyler had me melting into a puddle on multiple occasions...and also wanting to smack her, because HELLO MA'AM, he's literally throwing himself at her feet and she is completely clueless. Once the tension broke, it was the sigh of relief heard 'round the world.
The topics of alcohol/drug abuse and sobriety are heavy in this book, and I recommend treading cautiously if those are sensitive topics for readers. Alcohol abuse is something that personally hits very close to home; I applaud the way that Lexie handled it with care and compassion, whilst simultaneously showing the raw, unfiltered reality of how it affects every aspect of people's lives. Eric has numerous moments of vulnerability when it comes to his struggles, and they are not sugar-coated.
Onto the narration, because holy cannoli. I am a huge fan of both Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy, so I went into this audio expecting greatness...and yet, I am still blown away. Their dedication to serving these characters and their struggles is evident in every word, every nuance, every acting choice that was made behind the scenes. Their performances are passionate, heartbreaking, full of hope, and left me devastated in the very best of ways. Emotions bleed through from the pages and into our ears, and I was left in tears on several occasions. The way that James is able to translate the different aspects of musicianship into his performance is incredible. Definitely a top performance of the year for both of these lovely narrators!
Massive thanks to Lexie for entrusting an ALC to me!
I don't know where to begin with this one, because I simply loved everything about it. Lexie's debut is a top read of the year for me. The amount of tension packed into this story had me devouring it as quickly as possible; at the same time, I didn't want the story to end. It is evident from the beginning that Lexie is passionate about music and the impact that it can have, and the song choices at the beginning of each chapter fit so perfectly with the story.
Eric Ambrose, our MMC, is the drummer in a popular rock band, Velvet Shadows. A chance encounter with a fan leads to an unforgettable night...and then she disappears. When Tyler Norris has a surprise visitor at her job a few months later, she has no idea what is in store for the next several months of her life. Tasked with writing Eric's biography, she goes on tour with the band, and tensions very quickly begin to rise.
GAH, speaking of tension! Both emotionally and physically, these two were ON FIRE. The forced proximity of a concert tour, resulting in very close quarters on a private RV, made for some electric chemistry. The way that Eric pines after Tyler had me melting into a puddle on multiple occasions...and also wanting to smack her, because HELLO MA'AM, he's literally throwing himself at her feet and she is completely clueless. Once the tension broke, it was the sigh of relief heard 'round the world.
The topics of alcohol/drug abuse and sobriety are heavy in this book, and I recommend treading cautiously if those are sensitive topics for readers. Alcohol abuse is something that personally hits very close to home; I applaud the way that Lexie handled it with care and compassion, whilst simultaneously showing the raw, unfiltered reality of how it affects every aspect of people's lives. Eric has numerous moments of vulnerability when it comes to his struggles, and they are not sugar-coated.
Onto the narration, because holy cannoli. I am a huge fan of both Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy, so I went into this audio expecting greatness...and yet, I am still blown away. Their dedication to serving these characters and their struggles is evident in every word, every nuance, every acting choice that was made behind the scenes. Their performances are passionate, heartbreaking, full of hope, and left me devastated in the very best of ways. Emotions bleed through from the pages and into our ears, and I was left in tears on several occasions. The way that James is able to translate the different aspects of musicianship into his performance is incredible. Definitely a top performance of the year for both of these lovely narrators!
March 28, 2026
📚Long Live the King by Lexie Black
🎤James Cassidy & Samantha Brentmoor
DUET NARRATION
Listened on Audible
I went into this book somewhat blind, basically only knowing that multiple friends had told me I really needed to listen to this one. I knew it was a rockstar romance but MAN, OH, MAN I was not prepared for how amazing this book would be. I'm a huge sucker for rockstar but his one has a very unique twist to it and I absolutely DEVOURVED IT. I loved everything about it and the narration was off the charts, crazy good ya'll. To top it off, this is Lexi's debut!!!! Say, what? Yes, you will absolutely be blown away at how great this book is. I am anxiously waiting for her 2nd book to drop but ya'll need this on your TBR and STAT! If you live for yearning, angst, pining and HEA's, then THIS IS FOR YOU! I apologize to all my girls who kept hounding me to give this a listen. You were RIGHT, there I said it! This really is the BEST kind of rockstar romance!
Eric is the HOT drummer for a very famous rock band. He's totally closed off & emotionally ruined. He meets Tyler, an aspiring writer, under totally crazy circumstances & it turns into a very HOT one night stand that neither of them forget. He can't get her off his mind so he begins to look for her, really knowing nothing about her. After months of looking he finds her. She's absolutely shocked but the butterflies immediately start swirling around in her stomach just at the sight of him. He's come to ask her to write his autobiography. The stipulation--she has to tour with the band for 6 months while she interviews him. These two fight their feelings for each other tooth & nail but finally start admitting the truth about each other. It's beautiful, heartbreaking & absolutely one of those books that my heart was aching over but guys, THIS IS SO GOOD! Eric + Tyler forever! 🫶
🎤Let's talk audio...because ya'll this one IS SPECIAL! The duet narration by Samantha & James will leave goosebumps on your arms. These are such heartfelt performances that will grab at you and never let go. The vulnerability these two showed, especially James, was literal perfection!! This book by itself is a 5 ⭐banger but when you add the performances from these two, it's seriously ♾️ Sam has continued to be a favorite of mine but Mr. Cassidy, you have a grip on me and you have risen my friend! This man embodies Eric's character to perfection, showing pain, grief, vulnerability & longing and this is gonna be an audio that will be in my favorites for the year. Without a doubt. This is modern day prince charming, but make him a bad a$$ drummer, come to find his queen. Long Live the King INDEED! 👑
🎤James Cassidy & Samantha Brentmoor
DUET NARRATION
Listened on Audible
I went into this book somewhat blind, basically only knowing that multiple friends had told me I really needed to listen to this one. I knew it was a rockstar romance but MAN, OH, MAN I was not prepared for how amazing this book would be. I'm a huge sucker for rockstar but his one has a very unique twist to it and I absolutely DEVOURVED IT. I loved everything about it and the narration was off the charts, crazy good ya'll. To top it off, this is Lexi's debut!!!! Say, what? Yes, you will absolutely be blown away at how great this book is. I am anxiously waiting for her 2nd book to drop but ya'll need this on your TBR and STAT! If you live for yearning, angst, pining and HEA's, then THIS IS FOR YOU! I apologize to all my girls who kept hounding me to give this a listen. You were RIGHT, there I said it! This really is the BEST kind of rockstar romance!
Eric is the HOT drummer for a very famous rock band. He's totally closed off & emotionally ruined. He meets Tyler, an aspiring writer, under totally crazy circumstances & it turns into a very HOT one night stand that neither of them forget. He can't get her off his mind so he begins to look for her, really knowing nothing about her. After months of looking he finds her. She's absolutely shocked but the butterflies immediately start swirling around in her stomach just at the sight of him. He's come to ask her to write his autobiography. The stipulation--she has to tour with the band for 6 months while she interviews him. These two fight their feelings for each other tooth & nail but finally start admitting the truth about each other. It's beautiful, heartbreaking & absolutely one of those books that my heart was aching over but guys, THIS IS SO GOOD! Eric + Tyler forever! 🫶
🎤Let's talk audio...because ya'll this one IS SPECIAL! The duet narration by Samantha & James will leave goosebumps on your arms. These are such heartfelt performances that will grab at you and never let go. The vulnerability these two showed, especially James, was literal perfection!! This book by itself is a 5 ⭐banger but when you add the performances from these two, it's seriously ♾️ Sam has continued to be a favorite of mine but Mr. Cassidy, you have a grip on me and you have risen my friend! This man embodies Eric's character to perfection, showing pain, grief, vulnerability & longing and this is gonna be an audio that will be in my favorites for the year. Without a doubt. This is modern day prince charming, but make him a bad a$$ drummer, come to find his queen. Long Live the King INDEED! 👑
March 27, 2026
4.5 Stars!
I came across this author on Threads, posting about her next title. I love reading books by indie authors, so I took a look at her IG and decided to check out this book and the audiobook for it. I do not regret this decision.
If you have the chance to listen to the audiobook, I 100% recommend it. the MMC voice actor made me cry. That is difficult to make happen.
*Trigger warning - Mentions of alcoholism, addiction relapse, offscreen death of a minor character.*
I love a good slow burn but this was a rollercoaster of burns. Hot/cold/blazing/glacial/absolute inferno... type rollercoaster. lol. I was frustrated but also giggling/kicking my feet while also rolling my eyes. It was an adventure and I loved every second of it.
The pacing of the story kept me hooked. The backstory of the MMC was heartbreaking. I feel like I got to know Eric way better than Ty, though. Yeah, we got some details about her but I want to know why she constantly refused to believe he was genuinely into her. Was there some deeper reason for her to ignore alllllll the signs or was she just totally in denial bc of him just being a rock star? I am someone that is oblivious to hints of attraction so I need someone to come out and just say it, so maybe she is too? It's just something about the FMC that gnawed at me the whole time. Lol. This is not a criticism of the book/author at all, I promise. It's just one of my curiosities about the FMC. I do love when a book keeps me wondering about stuff when I finish it.
The only thing that I wasnt a huge fan of was that his relapse at the end due to his own insecurity/self-doubt was glossed over so heavily. Instead of sleeping with him, Ty should've gotten him help. Take care of him and then the hold him accountable for his actions. I would be worried that any miscommunication or disagreement could cause him to fall off the wagon. I would have liked to see mention that he preventatively went back to rehab after that. We dont need the story of it on page, but just a mention would have been nice.
Overall, I really loved this book. I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys contemporary romance, forced proximity, slow burn books. This was great and I really look forward to reading the next book!
I came across this author on Threads, posting about her next title. I love reading books by indie authors, so I took a look at her IG and decided to check out this book and the audiobook for it. I do not regret this decision.
If you have the chance to listen to the audiobook, I 100% recommend it. the MMC voice actor made me cry. That is difficult to make happen.
*Trigger warning - Mentions of alcoholism, addiction relapse, offscreen death of a minor character.*
I love a good slow burn but this was a rollercoaster of burns. Hot/cold/blazing/glacial/absolute inferno... type rollercoaster. lol. I was frustrated but also giggling/kicking my feet while also rolling my eyes. It was an adventure and I loved every second of it.
The pacing of the story kept me hooked. The backstory of the MMC was heartbreaking. I feel like I got to know Eric way better than Ty, though. Yeah, we got some details about her but I want to know why she constantly refused to believe he was genuinely into her. Was there some deeper reason for her to ignore alllllll the signs or was she just totally in denial bc of him just being a rock star? I am someone that is oblivious to hints of attraction so I need someone to come out and just say it, so maybe she is too? It's just something about the FMC that gnawed at me the whole time. Lol. This is not a criticism of the book/author at all, I promise. It's just one of my curiosities about the FMC. I do love when a book keeps me wondering about stuff when I finish it.
The only thing that I wasnt a huge fan of was that his relapse at the end due to his own insecurity/self-doubt was glossed over so heavily. Instead of sleeping with him, Ty should've gotten him help. Take care of him and then the hold him accountable for his actions. I would be worried that any miscommunication or disagreement could cause him to fall off the wagon. I would have liked to see mention that he preventatively went back to rehab after that. We dont need the story of it on page, but just a mention would have been nice.
Overall, I really loved this book. I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys contemporary romance, forced proximity, slow burn books. This was great and I really look forward to reading the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (and then some)
Okay, I finished this book two days ago and I have not known peace since. I'm dreaming about it. I'm *hallucinating* drum solos. Every time I hear music now, my brain conjures up the image of Eric Ambrose—tattoos, angst, and all—absolutely murdering it on stage like a sexy, emotionally complex metronome. I tried to Google him, only to remember: HE'S FICTIONAL. Thanks, Lexie Black, for ruining real men for me.
Long Live the King is part rockstar romance, part fictional biography, and 100% my favorite book of 2025. I don't care that it's only May. The rest of the year can pack it up. We're done here.
Eric Ambrose, drummer of Velvet Shadows and walking contradiction, meets Tyler Norris, a sweetly snarky aspiring writer hired to ghostwrite his biography. And what do we get? An *electric* love-at-first-sight moment, followed immediately by both of them panicking and clinging to the boundaries of their contract like it’s a life raft on the Titanic.
Their chemistry? Chef’s kiss. The pining? Olympic level. The emotional depth? I needed a support group. Lexie Black somehow wrote a book that’s swoony, sexy, and soul-crushing in equal measure. It has the glam of rock & roll, the intimacy of late-night confessions, and the heartbreak of two people trying so hard to be professional when all they really want is each other.
And let’s talk about Lexie Black. Debut novel? Are you kidding me? This isn’t a debut. This is someone cannonballing into the literary world with eyeliner on and drumsticks in hand. The writing is addictive, the voice is fresh, and the story hits harder than a Velvet Shadows encore.
So yes, I’m obsessed. No, I’m not okay. And yes, I will be rereading this book while dramatically pretending I’m backstage waiting for Eric to find me and admit he broke the contract too.
Long live Lexie Black. Long live Eric and Tyler. Long live this book that now lives rent-free in my heart (and apparently my dreams).
June 12, 2025
I loved this book. I’m so proud of Lexie for putting these words on paper and I’m thankful she shared the story of Eric and Ty with all of us.
Not only did I love Eric, but I loved the band Velvet Shadows. Each of the band members came to life through the pages, and the band felt real and raw. In particular, Eric’s hardships and past experiences really turned him into a man that I loved. When he hurt, my heart hurt. He was so endearing, frustrating, and lovable.
Ty was equally likable, but I wish I knew more about her. There is so little revealed about her past, and I couldn’t quite place what made her tick. She was so darn stubborn that she made me frustrated at times, and that was only compounded by the fact that we don’t know what motivates her. I need more of her backstory!
More than anything, I LOVED the soundtrack of this book. I’m not usually one who likes music playing when I read, but I played each track on repeat as I read through each chapter. There were times when the music pumped me up and there were times when the tracks mellowed me out. It brought an entirely new dimension to the story. Based on the acknowledgments, I know that one track inspired the story, but I have to know if the other tracks were added after the chapters were written or if particular songs were chosen that then inspired the writing in each chapter. I feel like the choices were on point and entwined with the storyline perfectly.
One more thing about the writing- for a first time novelist, Lexie hit this one out of the park. I am very critical of writing, especially when it comes to grammar and editing. This book flowed and the conversation felt real. I also loved the little shout outs to some of our local favorites, like Sheetz and Pour. Lexie, be proud, this one deserves a standing ovation!👏🏼 🥁 🌙
Not only did I love Eric, but I loved the band Velvet Shadows. Each of the band members came to life through the pages, and the band felt real and raw. In particular, Eric’s hardships and past experiences really turned him into a man that I loved. When he hurt, my heart hurt. He was so endearing, frustrating, and lovable.
Ty was equally likable, but I wish I knew more about her. There is so little revealed about her past, and I couldn’t quite place what made her tick. She was so darn stubborn that she made me frustrated at times, and that was only compounded by the fact that we don’t know what motivates her. I need more of her backstory!
More than anything, I LOVED the soundtrack of this book. I’m not usually one who likes music playing when I read, but I played each track on repeat as I read through each chapter. There were times when the music pumped me up and there were times when the tracks mellowed me out. It brought an entirely new dimension to the story. Based on the acknowledgments, I know that one track inspired the story, but I have to know if the other tracks were added after the chapters were written or if particular songs were chosen that then inspired the writing in each chapter. I feel like the choices were on point and entwined with the storyline perfectly.
One more thing about the writing- for a first time novelist, Lexie hit this one out of the park. I am very critical of writing, especially when it comes to grammar and editing. This book flowed and the conversation felt real. I also loved the little shout outs to some of our local favorites, like Sheetz and Pour. Lexie, be proud, this one deserves a standing ovation!👏🏼 🥁 🌙
March 16, 2026
Oh my god. What a debut novel. It doesn't even feel like a debut because holy shit what a well-written love story.
Eric is the drummer of a hard rock band who has a one night stand after one of his shows with a woman named Tyler (terrible name but we'll let it go). Except she disappears and it wasn't just a one night stand for either of them. He searches for her and hires her to write his biography while his band is on tour. He can't imagine her not being in his life and wants her with him no matter what but he says none of that because she gives off "this was a mistake" vibes the entire time.
That sounds simple but what a journey the characters go on that I get to witness. We flashback a lot to Eric's life through finding his home with the band, dealing with addiction and loss and finding his way back to himself. I also get to watch them fall in love during this tour and never do anything about it because they can't just have a conversation that's real. Miscommunication or lack of communication is my least favorite trope but I'm also willing to let it go because this was the most unique romance book I've read in a long time.
The book also contains what feels like the most accurate description of a popular band touring including the backstage time, sound check, and traveling the country. I have never been in a band playing on stage in an arena but the author captures what I would imagine it's like for someone who loves making music.
In reading the acknowledgments, it becomes clear that the Velvet Shadows (the band in the book) is inspired by the real band Nothing More and includes a cameo from rock duo Waves Apart. I have to listen to both now because I'm intrigued. I highly recommend this book.
Eric is the drummer of a hard rock band who has a one night stand after one of his shows with a woman named Tyler (terrible name but we'll let it go). Except she disappears and it wasn't just a one night stand for either of them. He searches for her and hires her to write his biography while his band is on tour. He can't imagine her not being in his life and wants her with him no matter what but he says none of that because she gives off "this was a mistake" vibes the entire time.
That sounds simple but what a journey the characters go on that I get to witness. We flashback a lot to Eric's life through finding his home with the band, dealing with addiction and loss and finding his way back to himself. I also get to watch them fall in love during this tour and never do anything about it because they can't just have a conversation that's real. Miscommunication or lack of communication is my least favorite trope but I'm also willing to let it go because this was the most unique romance book I've read in a long time.
The book also contains what feels like the most accurate description of a popular band touring including the backstage time, sound check, and traveling the country. I have never been in a band playing on stage in an arena but the author captures what I would imagine it's like for someone who loves making music.
In reading the acknowledgments, it becomes clear that the Velvet Shadows (the band in the book) is inspired by the real band Nothing More and includes a cameo from rock duo Waves Apart. I have to listen to both now because I'm intrigued. I highly recommend this book.
June 9, 2025
I had the absolute pleasure of reading an advance copy of Long Live the King. This stunning debut by Lexie Black is everything you could want in a rock star romance -- emotional, raw, and deeply musical at its core.
You can tell from the very first page how much Lexie loves music. The structure of the novel, with each chapter unfolding like a track on an album, feels intentional and immersive. With the MMC being a drummer in a band, we get a taste of their songs and lyrics. This story is a love letter to music -- its makers and fans -- and the way it shapes identity, connection, and healing.
Told in dual POV, the story centers on Eric Ambrose -- a world-famous drummer who's experienced highs and lows of stardom while staying surprisingly down to earth -- and Tyler, the woman who once idolized him from afar, only to find herself writing his biography. Eric falls first and falls hard, and watching their dynamic shift from fan and star to something much deeper is both satisfying and authentic. It had me remembering my fantasies as a teenager, ha! The interview format sprinkled throughout lets us see a layered, realistic portrayal of a rock star grappling with fame, overcoming addiction, and figuring out life. It never glamorizes his struggles, but instead offers a grounded, tender look at recovery and redemption.
Lexie Black’s writing is honest and heartfelt, with satisfyingly fun banter. Lexie hit every beat with her debut. This is only the beginning for her!
Thank you, Lexie, for letting me read this ARC. I can’t wait to see what you write next. I’ll be in the front row cheering YOU on!
You can tell from the very first page how much Lexie loves music. The structure of the novel, with each chapter unfolding like a track on an album, feels intentional and immersive. With the MMC being a drummer in a band, we get a taste of their songs and lyrics. This story is a love letter to music -- its makers and fans -- and the way it shapes identity, connection, and healing.
Told in dual POV, the story centers on Eric Ambrose -- a world-famous drummer who's experienced highs and lows of stardom while staying surprisingly down to earth -- and Tyler, the woman who once idolized him from afar, only to find herself writing his biography. Eric falls first and falls hard, and watching their dynamic shift from fan and star to something much deeper is both satisfying and authentic. It had me remembering my fantasies as a teenager, ha! The interview format sprinkled throughout lets us see a layered, realistic portrayal of a rock star grappling with fame, overcoming addiction, and figuring out life. It never glamorizes his struggles, but instead offers a grounded, tender look at recovery and redemption.
Lexie Black’s writing is honest and heartfelt, with satisfyingly fun banter. Lexie hit every beat with her debut. This is only the beginning for her!
Thank you, Lexie, for letting me read this ARC. I can’t wait to see what you write next. I’ll be in the front row cheering YOU on!
June 10, 2025
This book sings. Not softly. Not sweetly. But in the way a live wire hums before it sparks — vibrant, electric, impossible to ignore. Long Live the King isn’t just a contemporary romance — it’s a story of creative ambition, backstage chaos, and a love that’s as vulnerable as it is volatile.
Tyler Norris is an aspiring writer with a bruised heart and a single regret: the night she spent with Eric Ambrose. “The King.” Legendary rock drummer. Professional heartbreaker. Emotional recluse. Her plan was to keep her distance. His plan was to rewrite it. What follows is a dual timeline, dual POV slow-burn that dances between wistful memory and razor-sharp longing. And oh — it burns.
There’s so much to love here: the dizzying glamour of life on tour, the quiet moments where trust is built breath by breath, and a heroine whose voice is both raw and resonant. Tyler is guarded and emotionally astute, not some groupie cliché. And Eric — he’s not just a rock star, but a man fractured by fame, haunted by loss, and drawn to Tyler in a way he can’t articulate without a drum kit under his hands.
Their dynamic is magnetic. The “no sex” rule creates a tightrope of yearning that Lexie Black masterfully stretches across nearly every chapter. And because this is a story about telling stories — about truth and who gets to write it — the emotional stakes hit that much harder.
A lyrical, layered love story, Long Live the King is sexy, aching, and gloriously self-aware. If you’ve ever fallen for someone you were supposed to walk away from — or wondered if your best chapters were still unwritten — this one’s for you.
Tyler Norris is an aspiring writer with a bruised heart and a single regret: the night she spent with Eric Ambrose. “The King.” Legendary rock drummer. Professional heartbreaker. Emotional recluse. Her plan was to keep her distance. His plan was to rewrite it. What follows is a dual timeline, dual POV slow-burn that dances between wistful memory and razor-sharp longing. And oh — it burns.
There’s so much to love here: the dizzying glamour of life on tour, the quiet moments where trust is built breath by breath, and a heroine whose voice is both raw and resonant. Tyler is guarded and emotionally astute, not some groupie cliché. And Eric — he’s not just a rock star, but a man fractured by fame, haunted by loss, and drawn to Tyler in a way he can’t articulate without a drum kit under his hands.
Their dynamic is magnetic. The “no sex” rule creates a tightrope of yearning that Lexie Black masterfully stretches across nearly every chapter. And because this is a story about telling stories — about truth and who gets to write it — the emotional stakes hit that much harder.
A lyrical, layered love story, Long Live the King is sexy, aching, and gloriously self-aware. If you’ve ever fallen for someone you were supposed to walk away from — or wondered if your best chapters were still unwritten — this one’s for you.
April 19, 2026
Lexie Black’s Long Live the King is a stunning debut that hits every high note of the rockstar romance trope while offering a refreshing, heartfelt twist on the genre. The story follows Tyler Norris, an aspiring writer, and Eric Ambrose, the legendary drummer of a multi-platinum band, whose lives change forever after a single, unforgettable night together.
When Tyler vanishes the next morning, Eric spends months tracking her down, eventually offering her the job of a lifetime: joining him on tour to pen his private memoir. What follows is a captivating strangers-to-lovers journey that blends the emotional depth of a dual-timeline narrative with a perfect touch of comedy.
Eric is a standout hero—sweet, sincere, and wearing his heart on his sleeve, he is a far cry from the typical broody rockstar. His determination to reconnect with Tyler leads to a "no-sex" clause and a slow-burn friendship that builds a tension so thick it’s bound to snap.
Watching Tyler, who is guarded and skeptical, slowly lower her walls as she gets to know the man behind "The King" makes the eventual emotional payoff incredibly satisfying. The writing is so seamless and well-crafted that it’s hard to believe this is a debut; the descriptions of life on the road are vivid and immersive, making you feel as though you are right there on the tour bus.
It is the kind of story that demands to be read in one sitting, leaving you rooting for the characters from start to finish. Fans of high-stakes contemporary romance will find themselves completely invested in this beautiful, fun, and deeply moving ride.
When Tyler vanishes the next morning, Eric spends months tracking her down, eventually offering her the job of a lifetime: joining him on tour to pen his private memoir. What follows is a captivating strangers-to-lovers journey that blends the emotional depth of a dual-timeline narrative with a perfect touch of comedy.
Eric is a standout hero—sweet, sincere, and wearing his heart on his sleeve, he is a far cry from the typical broody rockstar. His determination to reconnect with Tyler leads to a "no-sex" clause and a slow-burn friendship that builds a tension so thick it’s bound to snap.
Watching Tyler, who is guarded and skeptical, slowly lower her walls as she gets to know the man behind "The King" makes the eventual emotional payoff incredibly satisfying. The writing is so seamless and well-crafted that it’s hard to believe this is a debut; the descriptions of life on the road are vivid and immersive, making you feel as though you are right there on the tour bus.
It is the kind of story that demands to be read in one sitting, leaving you rooting for the characters from start to finish. Fans of high-stakes contemporary romance will find themselves completely invested in this beautiful, fun, and deeply moving ride.
March 18, 2026
Whew. I didn’t expect this to hit me as hard as it did 😭. I listened to the audiobook and read along. James Cassidy is a VOCAL GOD 😩🫠. And Samantha Brentmoor is one of my favorite female narrators. It was narrated in duet style, and it was such a great experience.
Eric and Tyler are my babies 🥹. But I honestly, I wanted to shake these two, at times bc WTF! Just admit your feelings already 😭😂.
Eric is the greenest of all green flags. And he was OBSESSED with Tyler. She got on my last damn nerves at times, with her stubbornness 🤦🏾♀️😂. She leapt to a lot of unfair conclusions about him, when she didn’t even know him. And that was annoying tbh. But I sorta understood her hesitancy. Both of them made assumptions and couldn’t seem to be honest about their feelings. It was the “miscommunication trope”, to the extreme.
I loved how we got to read about Eric’s history and his trauma, in detail. When it got to the really hard part of his history, I was sobbing. I just wanted to hug him. He’s so strong and sweet and… devoted 🥹. That man was down bad for our girl 🥹. I mean, his tattoo for her and that epilogue tho?? BRB, currently sobbing into my pillow 🥹🥹😭😭. I love them so much.
I also loved how supportive his band was when he was going through it. “We do this together, or we don’t do it at all” 😭🫂❤️🩹.
This book made my heart feel full and I know that I’ll be re-listening/reading it, many times. And I can’t wait for the next one! Josh is a freaking trip and I can totally see him putting poor Kate through it 🤦🏾♀️😂.
Eric and Tyler are my babies 🥹. But I honestly, I wanted to shake these two, at times bc WTF! Just admit your feelings already 😭😂.
Eric is the greenest of all green flags. And he was OBSESSED with Tyler. She got on my last damn nerves at times, with her stubbornness 🤦🏾♀️😂. She leapt to a lot of unfair conclusions about him, when she didn’t even know him. And that was annoying tbh. But I sorta understood her hesitancy. Both of them made assumptions and couldn’t seem to be honest about their feelings. It was the “miscommunication trope”, to the extreme.
I loved how we got to read about Eric’s history and his trauma, in detail. When it got to the really hard part of his history, I was sobbing. I just wanted to hug him. He’s so strong and sweet and… devoted 🥹. That man was down bad for our girl 🥹. I mean, his tattoo for her and that epilogue tho?? BRB, currently sobbing into my pillow 🥹🥹😭😭. I love them so much.
I also loved how supportive his band was when he was going through it. “We do this together, or we don’t do it at all” 😭🫂❤️🩹.
This book made my heart feel full and I know that I’ll be re-listening/reading it, many times. And I can’t wait for the next one! Josh is a freaking trip and I can totally see him putting poor Kate through it 🤦🏾♀️😂.
March 26, 2026
Audiobook 5/5 ⭐️
Story 4/5 ⭐️
Long Live the King was such a fun and entertaining ride from start to finish. Blending romance with just the right touch of comedy, this strangers-to-lovers story had me hooked almost immediately. The connection between Eric and Tyler is instant and undeniable, even if both of them spend a good portion of the book trying (and failing) to convince themselves otherwise.
Eric was such a refreshing take on the rock star trope. Instead of the typical broody, reckless musician, he’s sweet, sincere, and completely wears his heart on his sleeve. It made him incredibly easy to love. Tyler, on the other hand, is much more guarded and skeptical, sometimes to the point of being frustrating, but her resistance makes the emotional payoff that much more satisfying when she finally starts to let her walls down.
Their chemistry is strong from the beginning, filled with tension, humor, and those quiet moments that show just how much they care, even when they won’t say it out loud. Watching their relationship unfold was equal parts entertaining and heartwarming.
And that HEA? Absolutely worth the journey.
The audiobook truly elevated the experience. Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy delivered phenomenal performances, bringing both Eric and Tyler to life with so much emotion and depth. Their duet narration made the story even more engaging and immersive.
Overall, Long Live the King is a charming, feel-good romance that perfectly balances humor, heart, and swoon-worthy moments.
Story 4/5 ⭐️
Long Live the King was such a fun and entertaining ride from start to finish. Blending romance with just the right touch of comedy, this strangers-to-lovers story had me hooked almost immediately. The connection between Eric and Tyler is instant and undeniable, even if both of them spend a good portion of the book trying (and failing) to convince themselves otherwise.
Eric was such a refreshing take on the rock star trope. Instead of the typical broody, reckless musician, he’s sweet, sincere, and completely wears his heart on his sleeve. It made him incredibly easy to love. Tyler, on the other hand, is much more guarded and skeptical, sometimes to the point of being frustrating, but her resistance makes the emotional payoff that much more satisfying when she finally starts to let her walls down.
Their chemistry is strong from the beginning, filled with tension, humor, and those quiet moments that show just how much they care, even when they won’t say it out loud. Watching their relationship unfold was equal parts entertaining and heartwarming.
And that HEA? Absolutely worth the journey.
The audiobook truly elevated the experience. Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy delivered phenomenal performances, bringing both Eric and Tyler to life with so much emotion and depth. Their duet narration made the story even more engaging and immersive.
Overall, Long Live the King is a charming, feel-good romance that perfectly balances humor, heart, and swoon-worthy moments.
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