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Rye
She's sworn off musicians. He's a rock star trying to go country. What could go wrong?
Darian Mercer’s rock career crashed and burned with his band Reverend Sister. Now he’s hiding out in Nashville, playing dive bars and trying to forget everything that went wrong. The last place he expects to find his next song is at The Songbird, where venue owner Rye Hayes has spent three years keeping other people’s dreams alive while burying her own.
Rye doesn’t perform anymore. She books acts, pours drinks, and raises her ten-year-old daughter. When Darian takes her unfinished melody and turns it into something she couldn’t write herself, she’s pissed. She’s also intrigued.
Their collaboration starts as one song, one session. But music has a way of breaking down walls neither of them meant to build. When Darian’s past catches up and the industry comes knocking, they’ll have to decide what matters playing it safe or taking the risk that could destroy them both.
Some songs are worth the fight. Some aren’t.
Darian Mercer’s rock career crashed and burned with his band Reverend Sister. Now he’s hiding out in Nashville, playing dive bars and trying to forget everything that went wrong. The last place he expects to find his next song is at The Songbird, where venue owner Rye Hayes has spent three years keeping other people’s dreams alive while burying her own.
Rye doesn’t perform anymore. She books acts, pours drinks, and raises her ten-year-old daughter. When Darian takes her unfinished melody and turns it into something she couldn’t write herself, she’s pissed. She’s also intrigued.
Their collaboration starts as one song, one session. But music has a way of breaking down walls neither of them meant to build. When Darian’s past catches up and the industry comes knocking, they’ll have to decide what matters playing it safe or taking the risk that could destroy them both.
Some songs are worth the fight. Some aren’t.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2025
25 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Heidi McLaughlin
130 books7,453 followersHeidi McLaughlin is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of The Beaumont Series, The Boys of Summer, and The Archers.
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 3, 2025
Second chances aren't always about romantic love. Sometimes it is about the music. For Darian, it is a new beginning in Nashville after the band, Reverend Sister, did him and his sister, Zara, dirty. He drives across country watching Hollyhood fade in the rearview mirror.
Infront of him is the unknown of Nashville. He is leary about his future. He is going to a place where he isn't well known. A new beginning aways. His future is in his hands, but his past lingers. Baby steps start with an apartment above Rattlesnake Guitars. Darian's musical journey pulled me in. I didn't expect to feel the excitement, the thrills, but I loved every minute of his journey.
From the moment he walked into The Songbird I was completely hooked. I could feel the way Rye and Darian just clicked. His determination to break down her walls, to make her shine was super swoony. He saw what was there even if she denied it. His determination was inspirational.
She wouldn't allow herself to have success. Her daughter was all that mattered. She would give her anything, including lessons from Darian, the one man she wouldn't allow herself. Darian and Rye's slowburn romance had me devouring page after page. When would she give in? Would he give up? What would his next move be? When others started butting in, encouraging, manipulating the story got really intersting. The pages steamed. The music flowed. The words created a beautiful love story.
Infront of him is the unknown of Nashville. He is leary about his future. He is going to a place where he isn't well known. A new beginning aways. His future is in his hands, but his past lingers. Baby steps start with an apartment above Rattlesnake Guitars. Darian's musical journey pulled me in. I didn't expect to feel the excitement, the thrills, but I loved every minute of his journey.
From the moment he walked into The Songbird I was completely hooked. I could feel the way Rye and Darian just clicked. His determination to break down her walls, to make her shine was super swoony. He saw what was there even if she denied it. His determination was inspirational.
She wouldn't allow herself to have success. Her daughter was all that mattered. She would give her anything, including lessons from Darian, the one man she wouldn't allow herself. Darian and Rye's slowburn romance had me devouring page after page. When would she give in? Would he give up? What would his next move be? When others started butting in, encouraging, manipulating the story got really intersting. The pages steamed. The music flowed. The words created a beautiful love story.
December 3, 2025
We all deserve second chances in our lives. Darian is hiding in Nashville, his career has tanked, and what a better place for a rock star to hide. Rye, former singer/songwriter, current manager of The Songbird helping others realize their dreams. She is also raising her 10year old daughter.
But as Darian takes her unfinished melody, and turns it into a song, she is less than pleased, but also curious. As one song becomes more, and walls begin to crumble. Will they take the risk on this second chance?
This story had me hooked, it would have been a one sitting read, but I needed to sleep. I found myself rooting for these two, to find what they needed.
Thank you to Booksprout and the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
But as Darian takes her unfinished melody, and turns it into a song, she is less than pleased, but also curious. As one song becomes more, and walls begin to crumble. Will they take the risk on this second chance?
This story had me hooked, it would have been a one sitting read, but I needed to sleep. I found myself rooting for these two, to find what they needed.
Thank you to Booksprout and the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
December 2, 2025
Slow Burn Romance
With this being the second book in the Nashville Nights series, we now find that Darian has followed his sister to Nashville. This is where he meets Rye who slings drinks and is the manager at The Songbird. She’s been burned twice so is now focusing on her daughter and staying away from men…until Darian. Darian has trust issues as well when he was betrayed by those he trusted most. This all adds up to be a slow burn, amazing love story that I couldn’t get enough of.
With this being the second book in the Nashville Nights series, we now find that Darian has followed his sister to Nashville. This is where he meets Rye who slings drinks and is the manager at The Songbird. She’s been burned twice so is now focusing on her daughter and staying away from men…until Darian. Darian has trust issues as well when he was betrayed by those he trusted most. This all adds up to be a slow burn, amazing love story that I couldn’t get enough of.
December 5, 2025
Wow, the book was absolutely fantastic. I loved how to characters involved during the story. It was full of different emotions. A fantastic read, and would definitely recommend the author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2025
Rye's sworn off musicians. Darian's a rock star trying to go country. What could go wrong?
Darian Mercer’s rock career crashed and burned with his band Reverend Sister. Now he’s hiding out in Nashville, playing dive bars and trying to forget everything that went wrong. The last place he expects to find his next song is at The Songbird, where venue owner Rye Hayes has spent three years keeping other people’s dreams alive while burying her own.
Rye doesn’t perform anymore. She books acts, pours drinks, and raises her ten-year-old daughter Lily. When Darian takes her unfinished melody and turns it into something she couldn’t write herself, she’s pissed. She’s also intrigued.
Their collaboration starts as one song, one session. But music has a way of breaking down walls neither of them meant to build. When Darian’s past catches up and the industry comes knocking, they’ll have to decide what matters playing it safe or taking the risk that could destroy them both.
Some songs are worth the fight. Some aren’t.
Tropes: Rockstar, Country Music, Rebuilding Careers, Bar, Second Chance Career, Collaboration, Pasts Catching Up, Industry Comes Knocking, Nashville, Dive Bars, Music, Slow Burn, Angst, Tension, Redemption, Heartbreak, Heartache, Sliver Linings, Devastation, Sorrow, Grief, Disappointment, Serenade of the Soul, Found Family, Melodies, Returning Home, Betrayal,
Rye is the 2nd book in the Nashville Nights Series by Heidi McLaughlin.
In life some second chances don’t come in the form of romance. Sometimes second chances come in the form of music. Darian’s second chance is found in Nashville after his band Reverend Sister, betrayed not only him but also his sister Zara. Now he’s driven across the country wanting to see the Hollywood Sign fade away in his rear-view mirror.
Now Darian finds himself in Nashville, a place of the unknown for him. He has no idea what the future holds for him now. He’s in a place where his name isn’t known and he’s ready to start fresh. He’s taking his future into his own hands, yet his past isn’t done with him yet. Darian knows he has to start slowly and it starts with baby steps and an apartment above Rattlesnake Guitars.
Stories with musical themes always pull me in and just enthrall me and Darian’s journey to musical redemption is no different. And honestly, I never expected to feel all the excitement and the thrills and yet I loved every second of his journey to redemption.
The first moment that Darian walked into The Songbird I knew that there was no going back, I knew I wasn’t going to be able to shut this book. And then the way that from their first meeting Rye and Damian just clicked and you could feel their connection. Darian was bound and determined to break down all Rye’s walls, he wanted to see her shine in the spotlight and this made me want to swoon over him. I loved how Darian was there even when Rye didn’t want him there, even when she denied that he was there. I found his determination to be inspiration to be honest.
Rye was denying herself success. All that was important to her was her daughter Lily. She wouldn’t deny Lily a single thing if it was in her power to give it to her. So, she made sure Lily got lessons from the one man that Rye denied herself.
The romance between Rye and Darian was this sweet, torturous, tension filled slow burn. And I quickly found myself unable to stop turning page after page. I needed to know when Rye was going to give in to Darian, or was Darian going to give up on Rye? What was Darian’s next move going to be?
And then other people start to insert their opinions into Darian and Rye’s lives, encouraging them, trying to manipulate them, and that’s honestly when the story started to get really interesting and I found myself personally invested. I found the pages getting steamier and I could hear the music flowing through the words and all that together created such a beautiful love story.
For me, as someone who grew up with music all around me, this book was like returning home, back to my youth, and I could hear my mom’s voice once again. And after losing her this past February, hearing her voice flowing in my head through this book’s music was so beautiful.
This book reminded me that with every heartbreak and heartache there is going to be a silver lining. Heidi did such a stunning job of plunging into all the emotion and devastation with both Darian and Rye. From sorrow, grief, and disappointment we find that Rye is the perfect serenade of the soul. Telling the story of two lost hearts who are searching for their own place to call home, their true home. There are bumps and bruises along the way but through it all, you hear a melody being revealed.
The hope you feel from both Darian and Rye is haunting and their redemption is so worth the risk they both take and it’s worth your wait.
Thank you, Heidi, for the music, for bringing my mom’s voice back to me, and for helping me remember how important music has always been to me. I loved this book so much.
If you love music, slow burns, angst, tension, then this is the book that you’ve been searching for.
Darian Mercer’s rock career crashed and burned with his band Reverend Sister. Now he’s hiding out in Nashville, playing dive bars and trying to forget everything that went wrong. The last place he expects to find his next song is at The Songbird, where venue owner Rye Hayes has spent three years keeping other people’s dreams alive while burying her own.
Rye doesn’t perform anymore. She books acts, pours drinks, and raises her ten-year-old daughter Lily. When Darian takes her unfinished melody and turns it into something she couldn’t write herself, she’s pissed. She’s also intrigued.
Their collaboration starts as one song, one session. But music has a way of breaking down walls neither of them meant to build. When Darian’s past catches up and the industry comes knocking, they’ll have to decide what matters playing it safe or taking the risk that could destroy them both.
Some songs are worth the fight. Some aren’t.
Tropes: Rockstar, Country Music, Rebuilding Careers, Bar, Second Chance Career, Collaboration, Pasts Catching Up, Industry Comes Knocking, Nashville, Dive Bars, Music, Slow Burn, Angst, Tension, Redemption, Heartbreak, Heartache, Sliver Linings, Devastation, Sorrow, Grief, Disappointment, Serenade of the Soul, Found Family, Melodies, Returning Home, Betrayal,
Rye is the 2nd book in the Nashville Nights Series by Heidi McLaughlin.
In life some second chances don’t come in the form of romance. Sometimes second chances come in the form of music. Darian’s second chance is found in Nashville after his band Reverend Sister, betrayed not only him but also his sister Zara. Now he’s driven across the country wanting to see the Hollywood Sign fade away in his rear-view mirror.
Now Darian finds himself in Nashville, a place of the unknown for him. He has no idea what the future holds for him now. He’s in a place where his name isn’t known and he’s ready to start fresh. He’s taking his future into his own hands, yet his past isn’t done with him yet. Darian knows he has to start slowly and it starts with baby steps and an apartment above Rattlesnake Guitars.
Stories with musical themes always pull me in and just enthrall me and Darian’s journey to musical redemption is no different. And honestly, I never expected to feel all the excitement and the thrills and yet I loved every second of his journey to redemption.
The first moment that Darian walked into The Songbird I knew that there was no going back, I knew I wasn’t going to be able to shut this book. And then the way that from their first meeting Rye and Damian just clicked and you could feel their connection. Darian was bound and determined to break down all Rye’s walls, he wanted to see her shine in the spotlight and this made me want to swoon over him. I loved how Darian was there even when Rye didn’t want him there, even when she denied that he was there. I found his determination to be inspiration to be honest.
Rye was denying herself success. All that was important to her was her daughter Lily. She wouldn’t deny Lily a single thing if it was in her power to give it to her. So, she made sure Lily got lessons from the one man that Rye denied herself.
The romance between Rye and Darian was this sweet, torturous, tension filled slow burn. And I quickly found myself unable to stop turning page after page. I needed to know when Rye was going to give in to Darian, or was Darian going to give up on Rye? What was Darian’s next move going to be?
And then other people start to insert their opinions into Darian and Rye’s lives, encouraging them, trying to manipulate them, and that’s honestly when the story started to get really interesting and I found myself personally invested. I found the pages getting steamier and I could hear the music flowing through the words and all that together created such a beautiful love story.
For me, as someone who grew up with music all around me, this book was like returning home, back to my youth, and I could hear my mom’s voice once again. And after losing her this past February, hearing her voice flowing in my head through this book’s music was so beautiful.
This book reminded me that with every heartbreak and heartache there is going to be a silver lining. Heidi did such a stunning job of plunging into all the emotion and devastation with both Darian and Rye. From sorrow, grief, and disappointment we find that Rye is the perfect serenade of the soul. Telling the story of two lost hearts who are searching for their own place to call home, their true home. There are bumps and bruises along the way but through it all, you hear a melody being revealed.
The hope you feel from both Darian and Rye is haunting and their redemption is so worth the risk they both take and it’s worth your wait.
Thank you, Heidi, for the music, for bringing my mom’s voice back to me, and for helping me remember how important music has always been to me. I loved this book so much.
If you love music, slow burns, angst, tension, then this is the book that you’ve been searching for.
December 1, 2025
RYE is the second instalment in Heidi McLaughlin’s contemporary, adult NASHVILLE NIGHTS romance series. This is musician and singer Darian Mercer, and single mother, and former song writer and venue manager Rye Hayes’ story line. RYE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Darian Mercer is the sister of Zara Phillips-Austin (Sangria #1)
SOME BACKGROUND: Having formed the rock band Reverend Sister in their teens, Rye Hayes, his sister Zara and their band went on to fame and infamy when the brother-sister duo were betrayed by the people they trusted. Zara moved to Nashville, and with quite a bit of prodding, Darian Mercer would eventually follow.
Told from dual first person perspective (Darian and Rye) RYE follows Darian Mercer’s arrival in Nashville, and a need to find himself, and the muse he no longer trusted. An open mic night at a local bar catches the eye of Rye Hayes, former singer and song-writer but a woman who was burned by another musician, years before. Dancing around one another, Darian was struggling to get past the walls Rye Hayes built around her heart, walls that threaten any chance for happiness with someone else but once a musician, always a musician, and the allure of the song called both back into the world they left behind.
The world building follows Darian as he struggles to move on from the betrayal by the people he trusted, and the members of his band. Having lost his desire to sing and write, an open mic night will become the catalyst to a new career, and a possible future with the woman that would call to his heart.
The relationship between Darian and Rye is one of immediate attraction but Rye’s first priority is her ten year old daughter Lily, a young child whose interest in music is sparked with the help of our story line hero. Convincing Rye to give him a chance, give their relationship a chance, Darian often finds himself on the outside looking in as Rye struggles to get past a previous betrayal. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters are energetic and entertaining including the return of Darian’s sister Zara, and her husband Levi Austin. We are introduced to music shop owner Benny; Rye’s daughter Lily, and bar manager Jovie.
RYE is a story of second chances, betrayal and determination, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is edgy and captivating; the characters are animated, sassy and determined; the romance is spirited yet emotional.
copy supplied for review
SOME BACKGROUND: Having formed the rock band Reverend Sister in their teens, Rye Hayes, his sister Zara and their band went on to fame and infamy when the brother-sister duo were betrayed by the people they trusted. Zara moved to Nashville, and with quite a bit of prodding, Darian Mercer would eventually follow.
Told from dual first person perspective (Darian and Rye) RYE follows Darian Mercer’s arrival in Nashville, and a need to find himself, and the muse he no longer trusted. An open mic night at a local bar catches the eye of Rye Hayes, former singer and song-writer but a woman who was burned by another musician, years before. Dancing around one another, Darian was struggling to get past the walls Rye Hayes built around her heart, walls that threaten any chance for happiness with someone else but once a musician, always a musician, and the allure of the song called both back into the world they left behind.
The world building follows Darian as he struggles to move on from the betrayal by the people he trusted, and the members of his band. Having lost his desire to sing and write, an open mic night will become the catalyst to a new career, and a possible future with the woman that would call to his heart.
The relationship between Darian and Rye is one of immediate attraction but Rye’s first priority is her ten year old daughter Lily, a young child whose interest in music is sparked with the help of our story line hero. Convincing Rye to give him a chance, give their relationship a chance, Darian often finds himself on the outside looking in as Rye struggles to get past a previous betrayal. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters are energetic and entertaining including the return of Darian’s sister Zara, and her husband Levi Austin. We are introduced to music shop owner Benny; Rye’s daughter Lily, and bar manager Jovie.
RYE is a story of second chances, betrayal and determination, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is edgy and captivating; the characters are animated, sassy and determined; the romance is spirited yet emotional.
copy supplied for review
December 2, 2025
It's been a minute since I have read a book that drew me in and really made me want to ignore the world around me. This second chance story is heartbreaking, soul searching and the fear to try again it bleeds off the pages.
Darian has found his way to Nashville for a new start, still reeling after the breakup of his band Reverand Sister, but he needs to start somewhere. This will bring him closer to his sister and her family. Music is just as much the heart of Nashville as it is LA so his second love will still be close. Unsure of what is next, but taking slow small steps.
Rye has put all she has into running the Songbird for the past 3 years. Giving these musicians a place to give voice to their songs. Though she has closed that part of herself off so deep it might never surface again. When her 10 year old daughter starts to plant the seeds, slowly finding her love for music, the natural understanding and building of a bridge, she might not be able to hid it any longer.
When Darian finds the Songbird and watches Rye from across the room, the connection is there strong and meaningful. But he represents everything she swore she would never let in again. Will Darian be able to break down her walls? Will his calm presence be what is needed to get her to open up and give love a try again? Could their draw and chemistry be what is needed to bring the music alive again?
Grab your copy and let the notes and bridges draw you in to this beautiful slow burn, healing and opening of the souls.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review ***
Darian has found his way to Nashville for a new start, still reeling after the breakup of his band Reverand Sister, but he needs to start somewhere. This will bring him closer to his sister and her family. Music is just as much the heart of Nashville as it is LA so his second love will still be close. Unsure of what is next, but taking slow small steps.
Rye has put all she has into running the Songbird for the past 3 years. Giving these musicians a place to give voice to their songs. Though she has closed that part of herself off so deep it might never surface again. When her 10 year old daughter starts to plant the seeds, slowly finding her love for music, the natural understanding and building of a bridge, she might not be able to hid it any longer.
When Darian finds the Songbird and watches Rye from across the room, the connection is there strong and meaningful. But he represents everything she swore she would never let in again. Will Darian be able to break down her walls? Will his calm presence be what is needed to get her to open up and give love a try again? Could their draw and chemistry be what is needed to bring the music alive again?
Grab your copy and let the notes and bridges draw you in to this beautiful slow burn, healing and opening of the souls.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review ***
December 3, 2025
3.5 Stars
This is book 2 of the series and follows the brother of Zara from book 1. Darian moves to Nashville for a new start and to be closer to his sister. He is a little lost like a ship in a storm at this point. Not sure what he wants to do. He happens upon the street music scene in Nashville. Those artists hoping to be noticed but playing for the love of music.
Rye owns a bar that hosts these wanna be musicians as a way to get their music heard. Although there is instant attraction between Darian and Rye, we spend a LOT of the book in angst and back and forth between the two. I put this one down a few times before I finished it.
I love a good single parent trope, but even little Lily did not capture my attention much in this one. The last quarter of the book picked up the pace and was a bit more interesting. Rye was the star character for me. I enjoyed watching her come back to herself again. I did love the 1st book in this series. I am hoping this is a one off by this author.
Looking forward to reading more about the Nashville music scene.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is book 2 of the series and follows the brother of Zara from book 1. Darian moves to Nashville for a new start and to be closer to his sister. He is a little lost like a ship in a storm at this point. Not sure what he wants to do. He happens upon the street music scene in Nashville. Those artists hoping to be noticed but playing for the love of music.
Rye owns a bar that hosts these wanna be musicians as a way to get their music heard. Although there is instant attraction between Darian and Rye, we spend a LOT of the book in angst and back and forth between the two. I put this one down a few times before I finished it.
I love a good single parent trope, but even little Lily did not capture my attention much in this one. The last quarter of the book picked up the pace and was a bit more interesting. Rye was the star character for me. I enjoyed watching her come back to herself again. I did love the 1st book in this series. I am hoping this is a one off by this author.
Looking forward to reading more about the Nashville music scene.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 2, 2025
Rye is book 2 in the Nashville Nights series and features Fry and Darian. Darian is the brother of Zara who was in book one. After following his sister to Nashville and leaving Hollywood behind, Darian is looking for a fresh start in life and music. Rye is a single mom who manages The Songbird and slings drinks while making others peoples dreams come true and repressing her own.
Although Rye doesn't perform anymore, she can't help but find herself drawn to Darian after he takes ones her unfinished melodies and makes magic with it. What starts as one session turns into so much more. While Darian has struggled to get past Rye's mile high walls, music has a way of breaking them down whether you want them gone or not.
Their romance was a slow burn in the best way possible. When Darian's past comes knocking on Nashville's door, they have to decide is their connection and the music enough to take the risk or not. Heidi did a phenomenal job of weaving all the emotion, devastation and grief into these two souls that were just searching for their home.
Although Rye doesn't perform anymore, she can't help but find herself drawn to Darian after he takes ones her unfinished melodies and makes magic with it. What starts as one session turns into so much more. While Darian has struggled to get past Rye's mile high walls, music has a way of breaking them down whether you want them gone or not.
Their romance was a slow burn in the best way possible. When Darian's past comes knocking on Nashville's door, they have to decide is their connection and the music enough to take the risk or not. Heidi did a phenomenal job of weaving all the emotion, devastation and grief into these two souls that were just searching for their home.
January 1, 2026
Rye swore she would never date another musician especially being burned by two others. The first was her boyfriend who said she would come back to her after his band tour. Then he found out she was pregnant and wanted nothing to do with the baby. The next she wrote songs with him and then he stole her music. Now she runs a business that books singers and raises her 10 year old daughter.
Then in walks Darian who’s hiding in Nashville after his band fell apart. He notices Rye right away but she wants nothing to do with him. He has to take things slowly with her because she has trust issues because everyone has walked away from her. As they start to write songs something changes but Rye still isn’t convinced Darian will leave. Rye gives her daughter guitar lessons not knowing who she was. Lily thinks Darian is the coolest and wants to continue getting lesson from Darian.
Rye who has feeling for Darian slowly starts to let him in but at her speed. Darian gets an offer of a line time but is he willing to lose Rye and Lily in the process because now he’s in love with her.
Then in walks Darian who’s hiding in Nashville after his band fell apart. He notices Rye right away but she wants nothing to do with him. He has to take things slowly with her because she has trust issues because everyone has walked away from her. As they start to write songs something changes but Rye still isn’t convinced Darian will leave. Rye gives her daughter guitar lessons not knowing who she was. Lily thinks Darian is the coolest and wants to continue getting lesson from Darian.
Rye who has feeling for Darian slowly starts to let him in but at her speed. Darian gets an offer of a line time but is he willing to lose Rye and Lily in the process because now he’s in love with her.
December 17, 2025
"This is a song I wrote with someone who wouldn't let me hide."
Oh my god! This book is outstanding! I can hardly find the words, it's so good. We have Darian, brother of Zara from "Sangria" who I totally loved. He's in a bad place emotionally and career-wise after everything that happened in "Sangria". I won't get into how messed up everything was. Now he's in Nashville, trying to move on with his life. I so very much wanted him to find a love like his sister did with Levi. If I was asked to describe the perfect woman for him, I don't think it would have been Rye. She came out of nowhere for both me and him, and yet, she ended up being exactly who he needed. And honestly, she needed him just as much. These two are like words and music coming together in a perfect song and I'm telling you, you need to read this book. It's so good. And these people will stay with you long after you reach the last page.
Oh my god! This book is outstanding! I can hardly find the words, it's so good. We have Darian, brother of Zara from "Sangria" who I totally loved. He's in a bad place emotionally and career-wise after everything that happened in "Sangria". I won't get into how messed up everything was. Now he's in Nashville, trying to move on with his life. I so very much wanted him to find a love like his sister did with Levi. If I was asked to describe the perfect woman for him, I don't think it would have been Rye. She came out of nowhere for both me and him, and yet, she ended up being exactly who he needed. And honestly, she needed him just as much. These two are like words and music coming together in a perfect song and I'm telling you, you need to read this book. It's so good. And these people will stay with you long after you reach the last page.
November 28, 2025
Rye by Heidi McLaughlin is the second book in the Nashville Nights series. After all the drama in book one Darian has left Los Angeles to follow his sister to Nashville and to figure out what comes next for him. At a small venue in downtown he finds Rye the manager of the venue that hosts songwriter’s showcases. Darian realizes this might be just what he’s been looking for. Though the sparks are flying everywhere whenever they’re in the same vicinity Rye is taking the phrase Once bitten, twice shy to double time. She’s been bitten by two different singer/songwriters and needs to protect not only her heart but her daughters too.
This book drew me right in and kept me there until the very end. There’s a great storyline, interesting side characters, an adorable 10 year old, plus family from book one. I hope there’s a book three in the horizons (Jovie maybe? Hint hint).
This book drew me right in and kept me there until the very end. There’s a great storyline, interesting side characters, an adorable 10 year old, plus family from book one. I hope there’s a book three in the horizons (Jovie maybe? Hint hint).
December 4, 2025
Listen. If Heidi writes a rockstar romance, I'm going to read it.
Hands down one of my favorite authors in this genre.
Darian moves to Nashville after his old band did him and his sister wrong. He's a songwriter at heart, and is trying to find himself again and open his heart. When he sees Rye across the room at the bar she owns, he feels a pull. And when he puts lyrics to her melody, she's anything but happy.
Rye is a single mom to a ten year old, who has given up on making music. She's sworn off musicians, but can't help the pull she feels toward Darian.
I loved these two. How they navigated through life, both together and on their own, figuring out what to do and where to go. Seeing them get through the trials and tribulations to be together and make music was everything I needed.
Rye is book 2 in the Nashville Nights series, but can be read as a standalone.
Hands down one of my favorite authors in this genre.
Darian moves to Nashville after his old band did him and his sister wrong. He's a songwriter at heart, and is trying to find himself again and open his heart. When he sees Rye across the room at the bar she owns, he feels a pull. And when he puts lyrics to her melody, she's anything but happy.
Rye is a single mom to a ten year old, who has given up on making music. She's sworn off musicians, but can't help the pull she feels toward Darian.
I loved these two. How they navigated through life, both together and on their own, figuring out what to do and where to go. Seeing them get through the trials and tribulations to be together and make music was everything I needed.
Rye is book 2 in the Nashville Nights series, but can be read as a standalone.
December 11, 2025
Music has always played a starring role in Darian’s life but when he is betrayed by those he thought he could trust he moves to Nashville in part to be close to his sister and in part to get a fresh start. As he tries to find a new voice he meets Rye, who manages a local spot, and he is drawn to her by their mutual love of music, but she doesn’t make it easy.
At one time Rye had plans for a career in music but a couple betrayals and now she does what she can to help others with their careers. She is focused on her daughter and isn’t ready to let any many close and it especially won’t be a musician.
Both Darian and Rye are facing challenges when it comes to their careers and their personal lives which does create some complications, but Darian knows that Rye is special and is willing to be patient while he shows her that he is the one musician and man she can count on.
At one time Rye had plans for a career in music but a couple betrayals and now she does what she can to help others with their careers. She is focused on her daughter and isn’t ready to let any many close and it especially won’t be a musician.
Both Darian and Rye are facing challenges when it comes to their careers and their personal lives which does create some complications, but Darian knows that Rye is special and is willing to be patient while he shows her that he is the one musician and man she can count on.
December 3, 2025
Darian and Rye's story is about second chances, redemption and a love that they both deserve. When Darian's world as he knows it falls apart he moves to Nashville to hide and be near his sister. Rye a former singer/songwriter, now the Manager of The Songbird and also a single mum, is helping others reach their dreams. From the moment these two meet you can feel the chemistry and the connection that draws them together. As these two find a rhythm, the melodies and songs begin to flow between them. Their story is filled with angst and tension and at times will have you on the edge of your seat and unable to put their story down. This is a slow burn and one that will have you holding on for every word. It is emotional and one that will have you hoping that they realize this second chance is so worth the risk.
December 2, 2025
Rye is book two in the Nashville Nights series. Darian moves to Nashville to be with his sister after their former band breaks up. Darian is trying to find his place not only in music but within himself. Rye is a single mother burnt one two many times by men in her life.
Darian & Rye meet at her bar and there is an instant connection. Where not only music comes to life between them but something more.
Rye is in defense mode. Complacent in her life with running the Songbird and being a mom. But Darian invokes her musical talent and before she realize they are writing music drawing up feelings for each other.
A nice slow burn that is full of tension and angst but also full of hope and heartfelt
Darian & Rye meet at her bar and there is an instant connection. Where not only music comes to life between them but something more.
Rye is in defense mode. Complacent in her life with running the Songbird and being a mom. But Darian invokes her musical talent and before she realize they are writing music drawing up feelings for each other.
A nice slow burn that is full of tension and angst but also full of hope and heartfelt
December 3, 2025
Bravo Heidi!! I really enjoyed this slow burn romance so much!!
Read the blurb - if that does not hook you, I don't know that any review will.
I don't even know what to say. LOL I love stories with music as part of their lives. And Heidi blended the romance, the music and the emotions perfectly with this book.
I really enjoyed Darian and Rye's journey. I love that Darian never gave up on Rye. His determination to break down her walls only endeared me to him even more. And Rye - her daughter was her world and she gave up everything for her.
That is all I am saying before I just blurt the whole book out.
Heidi wrote a perfect story for me. I could not put this down and did not want to.
A highly recommended read!!
Read the blurb - if that does not hook you, I don't know that any review will.
I don't even know what to say. LOL I love stories with music as part of their lives. And Heidi blended the romance, the music and the emotions perfectly with this book.
I really enjoyed Darian and Rye's journey. I love that Darian never gave up on Rye. His determination to break down her walls only endeared me to him even more. And Rye - her daughter was her world and she gave up everything for her.
That is all I am saying before I just blurt the whole book out.
Heidi wrote a perfect story for me. I could not put this down and did not want to.
A highly recommended read!!
December 4, 2025
Received an advance copy in exchange for an honest spoiler-free review.
A slow burn to Darian and Rye's journey. Both are fighting a past that has thrown them into another orbit. Together, they find their place and see what the present and future can look like.
Rye's path changes when there are two pink lines. Her world changes, and her path becomes something she thought she would need to give up. Her daughter comes first, but at a cost she didn't even know she could still have.
Darian leaves LA in the rearview mirror. He struggles to find his place in a new city. What he does know is that music is in his veins, and when he takes a chance, he sees an opportunity he thought he would never have again.
A slow burn to Darian and Rye's journey. Both are fighting a past that has thrown them into another orbit. Together, they find their place and see what the present and future can look like.
Rye's path changes when there are two pink lines. Her world changes, and her path becomes something she thought she would need to give up. Her daughter comes first, but at a cost she didn't even know she could still have.
Darian leaves LA in the rearview mirror. He struggles to find his place in a new city. What he does know is that music is in his veins, and when he takes a chance, he sees an opportunity he thought he would never have again.
December 8, 2025
A great second chance, slow burn story. Darian is trying to figure out where he belongs in life. His former band broke up, after about bandmate did him and his sister wrong. Now he is in Nashville and at loose ends. He goes to the Songbird, a bar that has an open mic night unlike any other he has been too, but he also sees Rye, the owner of the bar, and he is intrigued. Rye is a single mother who is complacent in life, but Darian sparks something in her.
I liked the slow burn of their relationship and how they brought something missing out of each other. There is angst, emotion and heartfelt moments throughout this book that kept me turning the pages. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
I liked the slow burn of their relationship and how they brought something missing out of each other. There is angst, emotion and heartfelt moments throughout this book that kept me turning the pages. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
November 28, 2025
𝐑𝐲𝐞 is the second book in the Nashville Nights series by Heidi McLaughlin featuring a must-read music-infused romance for rocker Darian and single mom Rye that speaks to second chances and finding one’s voice again while reaching for dreams. I’ve been hoping for Darian’s story ever since I met him in his sister Zara’s story, 𝘚𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘢, and this was worth the wait! Nashville was definitely where this former rockstar belonged, as he reconnected to the craft of songwriting while falling in love in such an organic and magical way through the music. Yes, there was some angst and drama, given Rye’s past and distrustful nature, but I just loved the chemistry, the connection, and the melody of the found family vibe! The moments with Darian and Rye’s daughter were sweet as pie, and I loved the bond between Darian and Zara that shone brightly again, as well as Rye’s friends at the bar! I’m hoping we’ll get more from this engaging world of compelling characters and lyrics of love!
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
December 2, 2025
This is the second book in this impressive series, and this is Darian and Rye’s story.
Darian is hiding out in Nashville, playing in dive bars after his rock carer crashed and burned, while Rye is a single mom to her 10-year-old daughter, and is owner on a venue, which helps keep other people’s dreams alive while burying her own.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, with family, friendships, emotions, heartbreak, tension, collaborations, second chances, healing, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Darian is hiding out in Nashville, playing in dive bars after his rock carer crashed and burned, while Rye is a single mom to her 10-year-old daughter, and is owner on a venue, which helps keep other people’s dreams alive while burying her own.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, with family, friendships, emotions, heartbreak, tension, collaborations, second chances, healing, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
December 6, 2025
Rye
What an amazing, exciting and full of unexpected events for this story! Raising your daughter on your own, not having alot if faith in the opposite sex, sticking around when needed. Dariun is back in Nashville trying to re- invent his life figure out what/ where to go next. Not having alot of trust in his previous group, feelings of loss, being let down. Meeting a club owner, then have a connection, yet both are clear, leary to commit. This story is about starting over, trust, making you path, with someone one step At a time. Beautiful story ❤️ .
What an amazing, exciting and full of unexpected events for this story! Raising your daughter on your own, not having alot if faith in the opposite sex, sticking around when needed. Dariun is back in Nashville trying to re- invent his life figure out what/ where to go next. Not having alot of trust in his previous group, feelings of loss, being let down. Meeting a club owner, then have a connection, yet both are clear, leary to commit. This story is about starting over, trust, making you path, with someone one step At a time. Beautiful story ❤️ .
December 16, 2025
Heidi sure knows how to write rockstar romances. You will always fall in love with her leading men. Darian is no different. Darian will captivate you even when he isn’t on stage…or at least he captivates a particular venue owner.
I could picture myself as Rye. Scared. Keeping it safe. Sometimes you have to trust that someone will be there to catch you when you fall.
You will have to read to find out if Rye and Darian learn to dance in time with each other or go back to their normal lives.
Don’t just read Rye to read but because the characters have more to say than what is written.
I could picture myself as Rye. Scared. Keeping it safe. Sometimes you have to trust that someone will be there to catch you when you fall.
You will have to read to find out if Rye and Darian learn to dance in time with each other or go back to their normal lives.
Don’t just read Rye to read but because the characters have more to say than what is written.
November 27, 2025
When dreams are shattered and hearts are broken from not only the ones you trust, but everything and everyone that matters. This story weaves heartbreak, lies, deceit with rebuilding trust, relationships and family.
Rye and Darian learn to navigate their new friendship slowly. It's not an easy task with both of their pasts haunting them.
This is a slow burn romance full of angst and dreams that musicians and those unlucky in love can relate to.
3 stars. I love Heidi's stories.
Rye and Darian learn to navigate their new friendship slowly. It's not an easy task with both of their pasts haunting them.
This is a slow burn romance full of angst and dreams that musicians and those unlucky in love can relate to.
3 stars. I love Heidi's stories.
December 2, 2025
Rye is the second book of the series. Darien is looking to put his past behind him and start fresh. Rye is looking to make the best life for her and her daughter and isn’t interested in dating a musician.
Music helps break her down and bring them closer together. It’s a slow process but she falls for Darien, until his past catches up with him and Rye has to decide if it’s worth risking her heart.
Heidi brings out all the emotions in this one.
Music helps break her down and bring them closer together. It’s a slow process but she falls for Darien, until his past catches up with him and Rye has to decide if it’s worth risking her heart.
Heidi brings out all the emotions in this one.
December 2, 2025
This is Book 2 of the Nashville Nights series. A story about redemption and love.
The plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was solidly drawn. The characters drove the storyline and they were complex, complicated and totally perfect together. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was solidly drawn. The characters drove the storyline and they were complex, complicated and totally perfect together. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 16, 2025
Stop pushing
Heidi uplifted the heck out of women in this book. This truly gave, "No one puts Rye in the corner", vibes. Her guard was up and rightfully so for herself but she focused on giving others a space.
With truthism from her daughter, Darian, and her bestie our flower blooms again. I couldn't put this book down even though I had to work.
Another winner in the Nashville Nights series.
Heidi uplifted the heck out of women in this book. This truly gave, "No one puts Rye in the corner", vibes. Her guard was up and rightfully so for herself but she focused on giving others a space.
With truthism from her daughter, Darian, and her bestie our flower blooms again. I couldn't put this book down even though I had to work.
Another winner in the Nashville Nights series.
November 23, 2025
Every heartache has a silver lining. McLaughlin dives into the trenches of emotion with Darian and Rye to find it. From the disappointments of life to the heartbreak of love, Rye is a duet of the soul. Two lost hearts searching for a place to call home. Through the bumps and bruises, a melody is revealed. The burn is real and the hope is haunting, but the redemption is well worth the risk.
December 8, 2025
Like the lyrics to your favorite love song - Heidi McLaughlin blends a love story and a strong contemporary fiction in one to make the perfect story. This story exudes hope for love, refinding passion and following your heart
Love these rockstars and can’t wait to read more about these characters
Love these rockstars and can’t wait to read more about these characters
December 5, 2025
Rye is book 2 in the Nashville Nights series by Heidi McLaughlin. This is Darian & Rye’s story that is a slow burn beautifully written love story. Their story is an emotional journey of two lost souls looking for a second chance at life, love & music.
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