More Than Words

by Lexie Black

Kate Martin does not do spontaneous.
She color-codes her calendar, creates multi-tabbed, cross-referenced spreadsheets to plan her dinner menu, and once made a PowerPoint to decide between two shades of beige. But after a brutal breakup leaves her questioning everything, Kate decides it’s time to shake things up by accepting a job offer as the personal assistant to rock’s biggest heartthrob. For Kate, control is comfort, predictability is peace, and falling for a rockstar—particularly one who has a habit of forgetting things like names, birthdays, and, occasionally, pants—was never part of the plan.

On the outside, Josh Calloway has it all. On the inside, he’s falling apart.
Frontman for the chart-topping band Velvet Shadows, Josh is confident, charming, and used to living fast and loud. He’s always used humor to hide his flaws, but lately, the spiraling self-doubt is getting harder to ignore. Enter Kate—the quiet, capable assistant who calms his chaos with color-coded precision. She wasn’t supposed to matter. Now she’s the only thing that does.

She’s organized. He’s impulsive.
She plans her days down to the minute. He can barely remember what day it is.
On paper, they don’t add up.
But sometimes love shows up exactly when—and how—you least expect it.

Genres: Audiobook, Slow Burn, Romance

313 pages, Paperback

Published May 5, 2026

About the author

When 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.

Reviews

[Chrissy MacLaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second read (advance listening copy!: Andi Eloise & Ryan Lee Dunlap do such a phenomenal job of bringing Kate & Josh to life. Somehow they not only managed to have me laughing out loud at the one liners Lexie sprinkled throughout this book, but they also captured the emotional depth of the characters as they learn and grow together. And they spicy scenes nearly ended me!🥵😮‍💨 Trust me when I say that you’re going to want to put this book on your radar!

First of all, thanks to the author, Lexie Black, for trusting me to beta read this for her. I did NOT want to put this down and have already gone back to reread parts of it because it is just so earnest and also SO scorchingly hot. I honestly have not been able to stop thinking about it since I finished it (over two months ago!!!). Josh & Kate are going to weasel their way right into your heart! Lexie Black is now officially an autobuy author for me! 5⭐️

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Kate & Josh's story. Josh is a rockstar but not one you would expect. He's down to earth, chaotic and a little messy but has all the green flags. Kate is his amazing assistant who craves organization and is dealing with not feeling good enough thanks to an abusive ex. They are complete opposites but together they work so perfectly. I love how they show up for each other and help make each other's lives better. It started as a working relationship which shifted into a friendship that effortlessly turned into so much more. Their chemistry is undeniable and the tension... whew! I had butterflies! This was an absolutely emotional but beautiful love story that you HAVE to add to your TBR!

🎧Audio:🎧
This was a duet narration by Ryan Lee Dunlap & Andi Eloise. They absolutely nailed it. I seriously never wanted to stop listening. They brought every single emotion to life and made it feel completely real. Andi is new to me and I'm a fan!! And honestly, I need more of Ryan too! 10/10. No notes!!

What to expect:
👨🏼‍🎤Rockstar x Assistant
💕ADHD Rep
🧲Opposites Attract
✊🏻Found Family
🤐Secret Romance

4.5 ⭐

Thank you to Lexie Black for this ALC. All opinions are my own!

[Heidi Serena · Rating 5 out of 5]

More Than Words by Lexie Black is everything I want in a romance. It’s dynamic, emotional, fun, and completely consuming from start to finish.

Getting to know Kate and Josh felt like a privilege. Kate is organized, cautious, and deeply risk-averse after years of emotional and verbal abuse that chipped away at her self-worth. Watching her step outside of that fear, accepting a bold, life-changing opportunity to work as an assistant for Josh Calloway, the front man of the wildly famous Velvet Shadows, was both empowering and deeply emotional.

Josh, at first, comes off as aloof and careless, especially with his running habit of calling Kate every K-name except her actual one. But what looks like indifference is actually something much more human. Josh is chaotic, kind-hearted, and navigating unmedicated ADHD in a way that feels authentic and compassionate. When that misunderstanding comes to light, it becomes a turning point, not just in their working relationship, but in how they begin to truly see each other.

What unfolds is a beautifully balanced, yin-and-yang romance. Kate brings structure to Josh’s chaos, and Josh brings warmth and spontaneity to Kate’s carefully controlled world. Their connection builds in a way that feels natural, exciting, and deeply satisfying.

And the romance? Perfectly done. The chemistry is undeniable, the tension is delicious, and the spice is chef’s kiss, well-timed, meaningful, and never overdone. Josh strikes that perfect balance of being dominant in all the right ways while still giving Kate space to reclaim her power in a way that feels incredibly intentional and empowering.

The emotional payoff hits just as hard as the romance. When reality crashes in, the story doesn’t shy away from the storm, it leans into it. The ending was satisfying, heartfelt, and real. Josh’s epilogue was everything I wanted… and the bonus epilogue? I was in tears.

I also listened to the audiobook, and Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap absolutely nailed these roles. Their performances elevated an already incredible story into something unforgettable.

This book was a joy to read from beginning to end.

5 stars. No notes. Read it immediately.

[Jolene Herrera · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for sending me an eArc of this book! While I did enjoy it, it wasn’t my favorite. Without giving too much away some parts were really sweet and had me rooting for the main characters, but then some were really cringe and unbelievable. At times Kate was a strong independent woman, then other times I wanted to shake some sense into her! With that being said I look forward to reading more from this author and seeing her grow character development and depth.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨𝓜𝓸𝓻𝓮 𝓣𝓱𝓪𝓷 𝓦𝓸𝓻𝓵𝓭✨
𝑩𝒚 𝑳𝒆𝒙𝒊𝒆 𝑩𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒌
𝕊𝕠𝕟𝕘: Crazy By From Ashes To New
•
ℝ𝕖𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕖𝕕: May 5, 2026 (Audiobook available NOW on Audible)
# 𝕠𝕗 ℙ𝕒𝕘𝕖𝕤: 313 Pages
𝔾𝕖𝕟𝕣𝕖: Rockstar Romance
ℍ𝕠𝕨 𝕀 ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜: E-Book (arc) & Audiobook (ALC)
𝔻𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕋𝕠 ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕: 4 Days
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖: High
ℙ𝕣𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕥𝕒𝕓𝕚𝕝𝕚𝕥𝕪: Medium
•
𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤 𝕠𝕟 𝕎𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕊𝕥𝕪𝕝𝕖: Such an easy and gripping character‑driven love story with the perfect balance of emotion and spice. The pacing is smooth, the tension is delicious, and the relationship development is exactly what I look for in a modern romance.
𝔽𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 ℚ𝕦𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕤: “Because that’s what you do when you care about someone. You figure out ways to meet them where they are, not ways you can change them.”
& “Best way to get over someone old is to get under someone new.”
& “He looks like a damn sin. One, I’ve already decided I’m going to commit.”
𝔽𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤: 4 & 14 & 23 & 37 & Epilogues
𝔽𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣: Josh: so relatable and so dreamy, my rockstar GOD 🥵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨: This has officially become one of my comfort‑read romances. There’s something magnetic about Josh and Kate and the way they see each other, understand each other, and meet each other exactly where they are. 🖤
Every read reminds me why I’m so obsessed with this series. It’s addictive in the best way: the emotional beats hit hard, the romantic tension feels thick, and the spicy moments are perfectly placed to elevate the story rather than overshadow it. Lexie Black has created a world that feels both comforting and exciting. 😮‍💨
This series is absolutely a must‑read for anyone who loves romance that blends heart, heat, and genuine character growth. I’m already counting down the days until the next installment.😉

[Stress Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎵🩵🎟️ More Than Words ARC Review 🎟️🩵🎵

He lives loudly and chaotically. She lives carefully and ultra-controlled. Together, they finally live honestly.

⭐⭐⭐✨ 3.5 rounded up
🌶️🌶️🌶️

📓 More Than Words follows rockstar Josh, and Kate. She's an ultra organized woman whose carefully, meticulously controlled life unravels after a breakup leading to her to take a job as assistant to the Josh Calloway, the chaotic frontman of the famous band, Velvet Shadows. What starts as a collision between structure and spontaneity slowly becomes an emotional romance about vulnerability, self-worth, and learning how to let someone truly see you.

📘 More Than Words by Lexie Black is the kind of rockstar romance that sneaks up on you. At first glance, it looks like a fun, opposites attract setup — an anxious, hyper-organized assistant colliding with a charming disaster of a musician. But, underneath the banter and backstage chaos is a surprisingly tender story about emotional exhaustion, self-worth, and the quiet terror of letting someone care for you completely. It's funny, warm, vulnerable, and deeply human in a way that makes the romance feel less like fantasy and more like two lonely people slowly becoming each other's safe place.


🫵🏻 Read More Than Words if you:

• enjoy rockstar romances with emotional vulnerability
• enjoy competent heroines and chaotic cinnamon roll MMCs
• love opposites attract
• enjoy workplace romance dynamics
• appreciate emotionally wounded characters hiding behind humor
• love banter mixed with tenderness
• enjoy contemporary romances with strong emotional healing arcs
• love slow burn emotional intimacy


❓QOTD: What's one thing you do to try and make others feel seen?

❗AOTD: I try to remember their names, how to pronounce it, and then work it in occasionally when talking with them.

📓 Initially, I was invested and in love with the story. The opening was SO strong for me. But then I hit about mid-book and didn't love it as much. Kate said some things about other women that I didn't love, we're told some things I'd have loved to see, and their relationship changeover seemed too swift, too sudden for my tastes. I enjoyed it ok enough, but didn't love it. This is my first time reading this author's work and I'm looking forward to reading something else by Lexie.

📘 Even the title, More Than Words, ties directly into the emotional thesis of this book: love is shown through consistency, presence, patience, and care - not just attraction or declaration. That idea echoes the emotional meaning commonly associated with the phrase "more than words" itself — the belief that love is proven through action.

✍🏼 Black's prose is accessible, emotionally immersive, and very fitting for contemporary romance. It's highly readable and conversational in tone. She gives you time to absorb the emotional beats, feel character interactions/reactions, and lingers in their chemistry (not too long). For me, the prose shines most in emotionally quiet moments (caretaking, moments of exhaustion, awkward honesty, and lingering attraction hidden beneath banter). Josh's humor keeps the story buoyant , while Kate's dry competence gives conversations grounding. Their exchanges feel natural rather than overly polished.

🎙️The dialogue is excellent. It reads smoothly and naturally, and the banter is oh so good! There's a lot of emotional work in the dialogue, and I rather enjoyed that.

⏳It's a fairly quick pace, without feeling rushed. It's character driven, with emotional driving being a close second.

👥 The characters feel real and grounded in reality. I love that we get a competent heroine.

They have believable insecurities, coping mechanisms, and emotional baggage. They both grow and have nice arcs. I love the ADHD and anxiety rep. Both are handled with care and respect, and I love and appreciate that.

I was unable to connect with the characters beyond surface level, unfortunately. As a character driven reader, if I can't connect with the characters on some level, it's hard for me to love a story.

“Thanks to Dani and Tyler’s asinine plan to ‘remake me’ or whatever,” she says, using air quotes and rolling her eyes, “we’re late.”

The quote above annoyed me pretty badly, and there was at least one other line that was in that vein. I really dislike women treating other women that way. I get that maybe she said it because she was embarrassed or anxious, something along those lines. But I still really didn't like it.

🩵 I love that they don't "fix" one another. I love that we get to see their relationship slowly develop and evolve over time. I love how they seek to truly understand one another. I love the acts of attentiveness, emotional or physical.

I enjoyed the rockstar x assistant set up a lot, and loved their friendship. It seemed a bit too sudden and drastic a switch, for me. I would've loved for them to stay in longing, pining, and mentally debating it before they became more. I also would've loved to see more scenes that were told about, like they're pre-concert handshake. I would've loved to see them come up with it or do it, not just be told about it.

🌶️ There was more spice than I prefer. It fit the characters and made sense for the story, but, for me, the focus was on steamy scenes more than I prefer. The scenes were well written and realistic, so people who appreciate more spice would probably enjoy that aspect more than I did. Especially if they love a dirty talking MMC who likes to be in control.

📚 Read you liked: Seven Days in June (Tia Williams), Take a Hint, Danny Brown (Talia Hibbert), The Charm Offensive (Alison Cochrun), A Shot in the Dark (Victoria Lee), Before I Let Go (Kennedy Ryan), Weather Girl (Rachel Solomon), Funny Story (Emily Henry), The Happy Every After Playlist (Abby Jimenez), Managed (Kristen Callihan), Play (Kylie Scott), or The Idea of You (Robinne Lee).

Thank you to Lexie Black for the opportunity to read this gifted eARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and freely given.

[Amanda Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll start out by saying I received this ARC from the author a few weeks ago but only opened it a day ago. I was reading something else and it took me a full two months to finish. Safe to say it wasn’t holding my attention like More Than Words. It doesn’t help that it’s hockey season and most of my time is spent watching the games. Oddly enough, when I started this book, I missed a few games one night in favor of reading. Yes, this book is just that good. I ended up reading this in two days. I probably would’ve done it faster had it not been spring break and I had to pack and plan for everyone with our travels. Luckily airplane time means reading time.

I stumbled upon Lexie back before book one, Long Live the King, was released. I read the blurb and was hooked. I just had to get my hands on that book. She was gracious enough to allow me the ARC opportunity and I’ve been in love with her books and Velvet Shadows since. If you’ve read Tyler and Eric’s story, I’m sure you fell head over heels for Eric and how sweet he is. Have I got news for you. The tidbits you get about Josh in that book are just small breadcrumbs for who he is and I can guarantee you’ll fall even harder for him in this book.

Josh Calloway is the lead singer for Velvet Shadows. He’s also one hot SOB to anyone with eyes. He isn’t cocky, nor does he act as if he’s god's gift to the world. He’s just a down to earth guy that loves being around his friends, who he considers family. He has no intention of ever dating or falling in love again. Been there, done that. Has the divorce trauma to prove it.

Kate, well she’s a whole other story. She was in a relationship for years with the worst guy ever. Anthony was so verbally abusive to her that she still hears the ugly things he said to her even after they broke up. The impact those words have on her are deep rooted and won’t go away overnight. When Dani, her BFF, suggests she accept a job similar to hers as an assistant to one of the guys in Velvet Shadows (Josh), Kate takes a leap of faith and goes for it.

I was only 4% in when I felt the angst to my soul for the first time, which is what I love about Lexie’s writing. Getting that gut punch while reading, especially that early on, will hook me for life. Having a reader read a book is one thing. Getting the reader to immerse themselves into a story and feeling the words as if they’re the one living the situation is a talent not every author possesses.

Ok, let’s get into the deeper aspect of the book: mental health. Abuse, whether physical or verbal, will mentally affect the victim for a lifetime. At first you may read Kate’s internal dialogue and think she’s a Debbie downer but she’s not. Those thoughts were instilled into her mind through years of negative comments and verbal lashings. Why would someone stay in such a relationship you might ask. Easy. Their perpetrator isolates them so they think they have no one to turn to and nowhere to go. That’s why people stay for years. It doesn’t start immediately or at the degree it gets to if/when someone leaves. It’s a gradual process resulting in a lot of damage. So please, don't read this book and say something negative about Kate because of how she acts. I feel like until you've had someone in your life do to you what was done to her, you'll never fully understand. In situations like this, sympathy may be hard to find but empathy is standing tall, waiting to hug the other person.

Now, back to the not so deep stuff… Like how much I absolutely love all the rom-com movies they watch throughout the book. It’s made me want to rewatch them again. There were some great titles mentioned that I had totally forgotten about. Thanks for reminding me of them.

I know this was a longer review so I'll do a TL;DR for you. Don't wait to read this book, dive into it right now. Don't judge Kate until you've walked a mile in her shoes and even then, still don't judge her. Be prepared to fall deeper in love with Josh. This book is worth its weight in gold. Trust me.

[Lb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate is doing something spontaneous for once in her life after the end of a toxic relationship of several years she has accepted the job of personal assistant to one of the worlds biggest rock stars it's easy for her to fall into the habit of organization and keeping order for her rock star boss Joshua Calloway and even if he can't remember what her name is he's getting closer every day so that's a start right?

Josh is the handsome lead singer of an incredibly popular band to the world he is calm, collected, handsome and just plain cool women want to be with him, men want to be him and that's what he wants the outside world to see but inside his mind is pure chaos struggling with ADHD he goes through each day with the equivalent of a bazillion open files in his head with none of them closing so he can concentrate properly on just one thing.

Kate and Josh balance each other out perfectly what starts out as a boss x assistant relationship turns into a friendship and then so much more. Josh is down to earth and green flag boyfriend material. once These two open up to each other they help each other heal emotionally. The author does a really good job with showing both lead characters have vulnerabilities they need to work through and I think that was what made these two so easy to love they felt real and their struggles were relatable.

Between spending late nights together watching old rom-coms and talking about anything and everything their relationship turns spicy... but not wanting things out in the open due to his high profile career they keep it a secret even from their closest friends.

Kate continues to have issues with low self esteem and self doubt throughout since her ex did a number on her. While they are in a special secluded bubble together while on the road would they ever be able to make things work longer term? He is in the spot light all the time and she is used to fading in the background to the point where she's not even noticed any relationship he were to have would be criticised and examined in the media and is Kate ready for that kind of extra stress? What will their friends think about their relationship? Also Josh said he doesn't do relationships anymore... is this just a fling, and they live thousands of miles away from each other what will happen after the tour?

The narrators did a great job with bringing these characters to life and towards the end felt like listening to two good friends. I did feel that some of the story line was predictable but I felt this was a cute feel good read and loved listening to their story and plan to read any other books that come out in this series.

If you enjoy rock star romances, two broken hearts finding their other half, hot green flag boyfriends and a FMC that knows how to take charge when needed, who you would love to hang out with this book will be for you!

book blog: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...

*ALC 2026 *rockstar MMC *personal assistant FMC *High gravity audio books *Duet narration

*secret relationship *forced proximity *on the road *high profile career *opposites attract

*ADHD rep *toxic ex *some drama *cozy read *rom-com *found family *friends --> more

*State Challenge (Tennessee) *golden retriever MMC *spice *banter

[Kassie Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to High Gravity Productions for an ALC of More Than Words!

As this was an ALC, I obviously did this book as an audiobook... oh my gosh, the voice actors in this did such a phenomenal job! When I saw that it was Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap with appearances by Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy, I just KNEW it was going to be a stellar performance.

And it absolutely was! I think the listening experience for this book put it on a whole new level, and it's definitely what bumped it up to a 4-star for me.

I think Lexie set the story up in a really cool, fun way. Straightlaced Kate goes on tour with this wild rock band with a hot, swoon-worthy frontman after getting out of a long-term relationship with someone who tore her down constantly... that is a beautiful launching pad for tension, banter, and character growth. I was so excited to see it all unfold.

That being said... I really struggled with the actual story for a few reasons, but I can admit I'm obviously in the massive minority here, but here's where I'm at with it.

For a rockstar romance, we don't get a lot of action. It felt like there was a lot of exposition, telling us they did a great show, or the band did a podcast interview, all as transitional statements to get to a conversation between characters in different locations. A lot of passive statements, too. Very little actually happens on page, and I expected more since the appeal for a rockstar romance is the lifestyle. I'm sure there are plenty of people who like this version of storytelling, which is also why I feel like a 3 wouldn't be an accurate representation of the quality of the story.

I struggled with our main characters here, too... Kate feels very inconsistent to me, which is awkward because she's introduced as this super-organized, hyper-efficient, etc. person. Her back and forth between collected & in control and meek & second-guessing herself didn't land for me. And Josh is confusing, as well... charismatic front of a massively successful band in his mid-30s, and his entire personality is his ADHD? And not in a cute quirky way...

While I appreciate the attempt at neurodiversity inclusion, as someone with ADHD, I found it irksome that it's played off as one of the central conflicts and in a very, "oh gosh I just can't help it" kind of way. That's not real life, not at 35. It's not quirky or cute that you call someone you hired, that you see every day, that TEXTS you with their name attached by the wrong name for 6 weeks. And fine, you didn't like how meds made you feel, but the feigned helplessness of Josh was an ick. You mean nobody told him before that he needs to write things down, use his phone alarms and as a planner, get into a set schedule? Idk... it all rubbed me the wrong way.

All this to say, while this story wasn't something that clicked with me, I do think the right people will find this book, and they will genuinely love it!

[Elizabeth Roth · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If I could give this more than five stars, I absolutely would.
More Than Words by Lexie Black is a laugh‑out‑loud rom‑com, rock star romance—but what truly made it unforgettable for me was the ADHD representation. Josh, the chaotic, down‑to‑earth front man of Velvet Shadows, is not the perfectly polished, Grammy‑winning stereotype you’d expect. His brain is a constant whirlwind of unfinished thoughts and forgotten tasks, and Lexie Black captures that experience with near‑painful accuracy. One moment had me laughing so hard I had to pause: Josh sees dishes in the sink, starts to wash them, realizes they’re out of soap, goes to text Kate about needing soap, gets distracted by a video, scrolls into cocktail content, wants to make one… then realizes the dishes are still there. The “25 open tabs and I can’t find where the music is coming from” energy felt entirely too real. It was refreshing—and honestly validating—to see ADHD portrayed as lived experience rather than a quirky personality trait.
Kate, his type‑A assistant, is the perfect contrast. Organized, overlooked, and shaped by years of emotional and verbal abuse from her ex, she carries trauma that quietly lingers in her everyday life. The kind that makes you question your worth even when you know better. Josh truly sees her in a way no one else has, while she grounds him and helps quiet the noise in his mind. Their relationship develops beautifully from boss/assistant to friends to something deeper as they slowly open up and show their vulnerabilities. They don’t try to fix each other—they simply fit. He shows her that the traits she was taught were “too much” or “wrong” are actually the very things he falls in love with.
The banter is chef’s kiss, the spice is perfect, and the emotional depth caught me completely off guard. The audiobook deserves special praise—Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap bring Kate and Josh to life with so much range and authenticity that I laughed, teared up, and startled my dogs more than once from laughing so loud. Whether it was Josh’s ADHD coming through in his speech patterns or Kate’s quiet fear of not being good enough, every emotion landed.
I loved this book so much that I will absolutely read anything Lexie Black writes next.

[Tropes_and_Taboo · Rating 4 out of 5]

More Than Words (Velvet Shadows) by Lexie Black
⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rockstar x Assistant * Neurodivergent Rep * Emotional Abuse by Ex * Slow Burn * Mental Health * Self-Doubt * Secret Relationship * Forced Proximity * Found Family * Opposites Attract
📖 313 pages 🎧8h49
🎙️ Narrated by Andi Eloise, Ryan Lee Dunlap, Samantha Brentmoor & James Cassidy (Duet Audio)

I listened to this one on audio, and the casting was fantastic. The narrators really pulled me into the story and made it easy to stay immersed in the emotional moments as well as the chemistry between the characters. There’s a really nice balance of spice and emotion throughout, allowing the relationship to develop in a way that felt natural and believable.

This is a rockstar romance, and I believe it may be interconnected with Lexie Black’s previous story "Long Live The King", though I haven’t personally read that one yet to fully confirm. Either way, this definitely works on its own.

Since the story takes place while the band is actively on tour, I did find myself wishing we had a little more of the actual “rockstar life” shown on page. There are mentions of performances and touring life throughout, but I would’ve loved a few more scenes that fully immersed us in that atmosphere and let us really experience the band dynamics firsthand.

There was also an element regarding the MMC’s neurodivergence that I personally struggled to fully connect with at times. Some of his difficulties felt a little hard for me to fully grasp, especially from my own perspective and experiences. That said, I know neurodivergence presents differently for everyone, and I appreciated that the story attempted to showcase those challenges and the impact they can have on daily life and relationships.

The FMC was honestly my favorite part of the story. After years of emotional damage caused by her ex, you can really see how deeply self-doubt and insecurity have rooted themselves into her life. I loved the quieter moments where our MMC slowly helps dismantle those negative thoughts and replaces them with reassurance and support. It wasn’t instant or magically fixed overnight, which made their emotional journey feel all the more genuine.

[MOmo · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars | a quintessential cutie romance with a rockstar who goes all the way for his girl and an MMC rep that genuinely impressed me

More Than Words is a celebrity romance between Josh Calloway, the frontman of rock band Velvet Shadows, and Kate Martin, his personal assistant on a world tour. It is spicy, it is sweet, it is cheesy in the best possible way, and it had me genuinely smiling throughout. A comfortable and enjoyable read.

What this book does really well is its representation. Josh has ADHD and the way Lexie Black writes how he navigates the world, his scattered energy, his warmth, his humor, and the way that all of it shows up in how he falls for Kate, is handled with real care. There is a moment where he wants to wash dishes, realises there is no soap, texts Kate about it, gets distracted by something else, comes back to the dishes, and then realises again that there is still no soap and has to text her a second time. That one small moment told me everything about who Josh is and I loved him from that point forward completely.

Kate on the other hand is carrying a lot of damage from a past relationship where she was spoken down on and treated terribly and that has left deep marks on her self esteem and her sense of worth. Watching Josh, this big loud rockstar who has the whole world paying attention to him, choose to direct all of that energy toward making Kate feel seen and valued is genuinely lovely. He falls for her hard and he does not hide it and that kind of MMC never gets old for me.

My one note is that there is an attempt at a BDSM or control dynamic in the bedroom that did not quite fit the vibe of this particular romance for me. These two have such a sweet and earnest energy together that those moments felt slightly out of step with the rest of the story. It did not ruin anything but it pulled me out of the warmth the book had built up to that point.

Overall though this is a fun, warm, and cheesy in all the right ways romance that I enjoyed. If you love a rockstar romance with genuine emotional depth and an MMC who goes absolutely all in for the woman he loves this one is worth your time.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate’s leap into spontaneity marks a new chapter in her life as she transitions from a toxic relationship to a vibrant world where she becomes the personal assistant to Josh Calloway, a renowned rock star. Despite Josh’s initial struggle to remember her name, Kate’s organizational skills bring order to his chaotic world, while his magnetic charm and hidden vulnerabilities draw her in. Josh’s public persona is of a composed, enviable rock star, but internally, his ADHD leaves him juggling countless tasks with little focus. As they navigate the demanding music industry, the relationship between Kate and Josh evolves from professional to deeply personal.
Their bond is forged in shared vulnerabilities and late-night conversations, developing into a secret romance that provides solace and healing for both. Kate’s journey of overcoming self-doubt and recognising her worth parallels Josh’s struggle to find balance amidst fame’s pressures. The story beautifully captures their growth, highlighting the authenticity and relatability of their struggles. However, the looming question remains—can their love endure beyond the tour, withstand public scrutiny, and flourish despite the challenges of distance and Josh’s reluctance to commit? This tale of rock star romance and emotional healing offers a heartfelt exploration of love’s complexities and the courage it takes to fully embrace it.
This audiobook was a captivating experience, with Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap delivering performances that truly resonated with the characters’ complexities. Andi’s portrayal of Kate struck the perfect balance between her meticulous nature and her underlying vulnerability, making her a relatable and multidimensional character. Meanwhile, Ryan’s interpretation of Josh captured the essence of a charismatic rock star, while also delving deeply into the emotional challenges he faces, adding authenticity to his journey. The inclusion of a bonus epilogue performed by Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy provided a satisfying conclusion to the narrative. Overall, this audiobook offers an engaging and emotionally rich listening experience.

[Sammie's Swoony Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t even know how to properly put into words how much I loved More Than Words by Lexie Black—this is easily an infinity-star audiobook for me. The kind that leaves you with a full heart and that bittersweet ache because it’s over. I would give anything to experience it again for the first time.

Kate and Josh… where do I even begin? Kate is such a relatable, beautifully layered character. She’s your classic Type A—organized, structured, color-coded to perfection—but beneath that is a constant battle with the voice her awful ex left behind, whispering that she’s never enough. That internal struggle felt so real, and my heart ached for her while also rooting for her growth every step of the way.

And Josh? Oh, Josh. He has officially earned a permanent spot on my top book boyfriend list. Rockstar, yes—but also so much more. He’s supportive in all the ways that matter, endlessly encouraging, deeply loving, and knows exactly when to take charge. The balance of tenderness and confidence, and the fact that he falls first (my FAVORITE trope!)... Absolutely unmatched.

One of my favorite parts of this story was the ADHD representation. It was handled with so much care and authenticity, and the way Kate learned how to support Josh—how she helped quiet the chaos in his mind—was genuinely beautiful. Their connection felt intentional, healing, and so deeply emotional.

There were so many little moments woven throughout this story that had me completely swooning. The quiet ones, the intense ones, the soft ones, the spicy ones 😏—they all built something that just stayed with me. By the end, my heart felt so full, and I have no doubt anyone who picks this up will feel the same.

And the narration? Andie Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap absolutely delivered. They didn’t just tell the story—they made me feel every ounce of it. From the internal struggles to the sweetest, most heart-melting moments, their performances were flawless.

Huge thank you to Lexie Black and High Gravity Productions for this incredible ALC. This one is going to live in my head (and heart) for a long, long time. 🥰

[Brenna]

Josh Calloway is top tier book boyfriend material. Like… of all time.

Josh Calloway is top tier book boyfriend material. Like… of all time.

More Than Words by Lexie Black is the second book in the Velvet Shadows world, and Josh, the front man of the band, is anything but your typical alpha male MC. His ADHD, messy brain, squirrel-like quirks, and constant second-guessing make him feel so real. He’s chaotic, yes (self-proclaimed chaos in human form), but underneath that is this deeply thoughtful, caring man with the softest heart.

Kate is his complete opposite in the best way. She’s beautiful, hyper-organized, detail-oriented, and lives for a good spreadsheet. As Josh’s assistant, she keeps everything running smoothly, but she also sees him. Really sees him. And the way she shows up for him, like creating color-coded spreadsheets to help him manage his ADHD? That’s love. That’s effort. That’s more than words.

What starts as a friendly date to an awards benefit quickly turns into something neither of them planned, a hookup, a secret relationship, and a whole lot of feelings. But what makes their relationship stand out is how it’s built in the quiet moments. The small things. The way Josh memorizes Kate’s smiles and what each one means. The way they learn each other in a thousand tiny, meaningful ways.

Ryan Lee Dunlap as Josh is absolute perfection. He nails every insecurity, every quirky moment, every bit of emotional vulnerability. You feel Josh through his performance. Andi Eloise as Kate is just as perfect, calm, grounded, warm, and she balances Ryan’s energy beautifully.

The way these two characters love embody the title of this book perfectly. More Than Words (and honestly, this entire series) is cemented as one of my all-time favorite rockstar romance worlds. This story is soft, emotional, a little messy, and so incredibly meaningful. It proves that love isn’t just what you say, it’s what you do, every single day.

[Kady M · Rating 4 out of 5]

More Than Words was such a sweet and fun romance and I look forward to reading more from Lexie Black!

Kate Martin is my kind of MFC-she's a planner who enjoys calendars and staying organized! I can imagine her with her colorful pretty pens filling in her PHYSICAL calendar vs the calendar in her phone and that is someone I could completely get along with 🤣 Kate, recently coming out of an emotionally and verbally abusive relationship, has decided to do something that is completely unplanned AND out of her comfort zone; she has taken a job as the personal assistant to Josh Calloway - the lead singer of one of the current, most popular bands- Velvet Shadows. Poor Josh desperately needs an assistant because he has the worst time remembering things, and even though he appears to be doing great on the outside, he's a mess and full of self-doubt on the inside. To be complete opposites, they seem to mesh perfectly working together; they are exactly what the other needs.

Narration Andie Eloise & Ryan Lee Dunlap did amazingly with their duet narration of this audiobook. They had the perfect pacing, voices and energy for these characters! It was very easy to follow along and stay engaged with their narration- not a dull moment!

I really enjoyed Lexie's writing style and the way she weaved the mental health aspect into the story. Kate's experiences and traumas may be triggering to some so please take caution and make your own mental health priority.

More Than Words was a great first experience with the author and I will highly recommend this audiobook to other readers, especially rom com lovers! Josh and Kate will win your hearts over and give the HEA that us romance readers live for!

Thank you to the author and High Gravity Audio Productions for this gifted advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

More Than Words by Lexie Black is an earnest, deeply moving, and scorchingly hot romance that has stayed with me long after finishing. The story follows Kate Martin, a woman who thrives on spreadsheets and color-coded precision, as she attempts to reclaim her identity after a brutal breakup.

Seeking a fresh start, she takes a job as a personal assistant to rock’s biggest heartthrob, Josh Calloway. While Kate uses control as a shield, Josh lives a life that is fast, loud, and often chaotic. On the surface, they shouldn't work, but their natural progression from professional to deeply personal is nothing short of captivating.

The emotional core of this book is incredibly strong, particularly in how it explores Josh’s ADHD. Lexie Black provides a genuine, relatable representation of the struggles and self-doubt that can accompany it, which resonates deeply for those who have navigated similar neurodivergent paths.

Josh is a beautifully written hero who loves Kate "out loud," cheering her on and helping her glow again after she’s spent so long letting others dim her light. Their connection is built on a foundation of selfless gestures—like leaving encouraging notes—and a banter that is absolute perfection.

The audiobook experience elevates this story to another level with a stellar cast of voices. Performed in duet by Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap, with special guests Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy, the narration makes the characters' journey feel even more immersive.

Watching Kate find the courage to embrace life and stop hiding, paired with the way Josh sees her worth so clearly, is truly inspiring. This is a mature, captivating read about finding safety and love in the most unexpected places, firmly cementing Lexie Black as an absolute must-read author.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[HollyJane · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Where has this book been and why am I just now finding it?! 😭

More Than Words by Lexie Black completely stole my heart. I went into this thinking it would be a fun opposites-attract, rockstar romance… and what I got was so much more.

Kate and Josh?? I’m unwell. I loved them so much.

Kate is one of those FMCs that just feels real. She’s organized, a little anxious, craving control but underneath that is someone who just wants to be seen, accepted, and loved. She’s relatable in a way that hits you quietly but deeply.

And Josh… our chaotic, messy, golden-hearted rockstar MMC
His ADHD representation was done so well. It wasn’t just a trait it was woven into who he is, how he struggles, and how he loves. You could feel the weight of his self-doubt, but also his softness and vulnerability.

Together? They balance each other in the best way.

I loved the slow build of their relationship starting as this unlikely pairing, growing into friendship, trust, and then something deeper. It felt natural, intentional, and so emotionally satisfying. The pacing was honestly perfect. I could not put this down I basically read it in one sitting if life had allowed it.

And the found family? Absolutely everything. The support, the warmth, the sense of belonging it added so much depth to the story.

Lexi Black is a new-to-me author and yeah… I’m about to go down the rabbit hole of her entire catalog because this was THAT good.

If you love:
• opposites attract
• rockstar x assistant
• ADHD rep
• found family
• emotional growth + soft love

…this one needs to be on your TBR immediately.

[Heather Murray]

The Heart of the Story

While the backdrop of a rock band tour provides a high-energy setting, More Than Words is, at its core, a story about true love in the real world. Lexie Black moves past the typical tropes of the genre to deliver a raw, grounded look at how two people navigate their own complexities while trying to build a life together.

Characters That Feel Like Home

The strength of this novel lies in its protagonists. We meet a young woman who has spent years perfecting a "mask," hiding her true self to fit into a world that has given her nothing but negative reinforcement. Her journey toward self-acceptance is handled with incredible grace and sensitivity.

Opposite her is an intense, thoughtful man who is doing his best to navigate each day while struggling with neurodivergence. His perspective is deeply moving; he isn't a "project" to be fixed, but a man fighting his own battles with quiet strength.

Why It Works

What makes this book stand out is the depiction of their relationship:

•Fighting Inner Demons: Neither character is "cured" by love. Instead, they learn how to manage their individual struggles while showing up for one another consistently.

•Mutual Growth: This isn't just a romance; it’s a story of two people making each other better. They provide the safety net the other needs to finally stop hiding and start living.

Final Verdict

Lexie Black has written a beautiful reminder that the most "rock star" thing you can do is be vulnerably, authentically yourself. It’s intense, emotional, and deeply validating.

Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Sammie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grumpy x Sunshine (Healing Edition) / Forced Proximity
Heart-wrenching, authentic, and ultimately hopeful.
​Josh Calloway isn't your typical arrogant rockstar. Despite being the lead singer of Velvet Shadows and undeniably gorgeous, he’s grounded and fiercely loyal to his found family. He’s also carryng the weight of a messy divorce that has him convinced his heart is permanently closed for business.
​Then there’s Kate. Her journey is a raw, honest portrayal of the long-term effects of verbal and emotional abuse. The scars left by her ex, Anthony, aren't visible, but they are deep-rooted. When her best friend Dani pushes her to take a job as Josh’s assistant, it’s a terrifying leap of faith but it’s exactly the catalyst she needs.
​
​Lexie has a rare gift for immersive storytelling. The exploration of mental health here is handled with incredible nuance. Kate’s internal dialogue reflects the years of isolation and negative conditioning she endured. It’s a powerful reminder that empathy is far more important than judgment. Watching her navigate her healing while being around someone as steady as Josh was beautiful to witness.
​It's not all heavy, though! I absolutely loved the rom com movie marathons threaded throughout the story. It was such a nostalgic touch that had me wanting to pause the book and revisit some of those classic titles myself.
​
​Since I listened to an Advanced Listening Copy, I have to shout out the narrators. They truly breathed life into Josh and Kate, capturing every ounce of tension and tenderness. Their performances made an already incredible story feel even more personal.

[Sandy Belrose · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎧 Immersive Reader Review = Audiobook (ALC) + eBook 🎧

I totally fell in love with Josh and how much growth he went through in this book. I love a golden retriever MMC!! I really enjoyed the love story of Josh and Kate and even loved this book even more than book 1 in the series.

I love the fact that there was no 3rd act breakup in this book. We went on a journey with the FMC and MMC and saw them go from a working relationship to becoming friends and watching romcom movies at night even from different buses and then become lovers.

The mental health representation in this book was really present with how much Josh was struggling with his ADHD and how it made him feel as a failure sometimes and we also had the negative self esteem and negative thoughts that Kate has all the time because of her abusive ex and we get to see how she navigates that and learns to replace that mean voice in her head (her ex) with a more loving voice (Josh).

It might be triggering/frustrating a bit sometimes to see Kate put herself down all the time but I think it does represent well the struggle of people that have this negative self talk and how it affects their everyday life.

🎧 The audiobook is performed in duet narration by Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap with special appearances from James Cassidy and Samantha Brentmoor in the bonus epilogue.

The duet narration elevated this book even more by bringing to life these characters. I really felt immerse in the story and had a blast listening to them banter plus the spice was really spicing!!

Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap were perfect at playing the main characters plus all the side characters. The chemistry between the characters and the banter was next level with the duet narration. I highly recommend listening to this audiobook or do immersive reading like me with the audio and book!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Audiobook: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Audiobook Format: Duet Narration

Tropes in this book:
🎸 Rockstar Romance
🎸 Workplace Romance
🎸 Rockstar x Assistant
🎸 Opposites Attract
🎸 Secret Relationship
🎸 Friends to Lovers
🎸 Found Family
🎸 Banter + Spice
🎸 Golden Retriever MMC
🎸 No 3rd Act Breakup

Thank you to High Gravity Productions and Lexie Black for the ALC. These are my honest thoughts.

[Amanda Kreske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok WOW, I was not expecting to be so obsessed with this book but I 1000% am, this is an instant I will re-read this because I liked it so much and I will be purchasing myself a physical trophy.

The story has truly excellent ADHD representation, that made me emotional it was so true to life. The author captured the mindset many of us thusly afflicted, have about ourselves and the difficulties we experience. The characters are so relatable, you get sucked into their world quickly and you wont want to leave. I mean who doesn't love the idea of a hot rock star being their lover?

The spicy level was tré excellent, it's not common you see true passion in the spice scenes of books but this one nailed it. The writing felt so intimate at times that I'd be willing to guess that parts might be pulled from real life, which only makes it better.

It was really interesting to read about what a band experiences on tour, the non stop go, go, go of it all. I knew that was the case but I think reading about it in this way made understand and appreciate the experience they might have even more.

This story shared a lot of parallels to my own personal life so I may be a bit biased in how much I loved it but there was just so much that reminded me of my own spouse, how our own story unfolded and the ways we healed each other.

Trigger Warning: Emotional and Verbal abuse, if reading about someone recovering from that would be painful for you, maybe wait until you're in a better place for this one.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one starts off feeling fun and a little chaotic, but the deeper you get, the more emotional weight it carries.

Kate is trying to rebuild herself after a relationship that left her doubting everything about who she is, and that internal struggle feels very real. She’s structured and careful, but underneath that is someone who just wants to feel worthy again.

And Josh? Not your typical rockstar at all. He’s disorganized, a little all over the place, and unexpectedly soft in the ways that matter. What I loved most is that he doesn’t try to overpower Kate. He meets her where she is. Their dynamic is very much opposites attracting, but in a way that actually works. She steadies him, he loosens her grip on control, and together they find this really natural rhythm.

Their relationship builds so effortlessly too. It starts professional, shifts into a genuine friendship, and then slowly turns into something more. The chemistry is definitely there, but it never overshadows the emotional connection. When they show up for each other, it feels intentional and earned, not rushed.

There’s also a deeper layer here with mental health and healing that I really appreciated. Kate’s self-doubt doesn’t magically disappear, and Josh has his own struggles to navigate. The story lets them grow individually while still growing together, which made the payoff hit even harder.

If you love opposites-attract, rockstar romance with heart, and characters who genuinely make each other better you’ll want this on your TBR.

[Latasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This audiobook was such a fun and surprisingly emotional listen. Kate and Josh are complete opposites on paper—she thrives on structure and control, while he’s chaos wrapped in charm—but their dynamic is exactly what makes this story work so well. Watching Kate slowly step outside her comfort zone while Josh quietly unravels beneath the spotlight added a lot more depth than I initially expected.

Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap did a fantastic job bringing these characters to life. Andi perfectly captured Kate’s tightly wound, detail-oriented personality while still letting her vulnerability shine through. Ryan gave Josh that effortless rockstar charisma, but also layered in the emotional weight behind his struggles in a way that felt authentic. The added performances by Samantha Brentmoor and James Cassidy were a great touch and helped round out the listening experience.

The pacing kept me engaged, and the banter between Kate and Josh was one of the highlights—funny, sharp, and full of chemistry. My only reason for not giving this a full five stars is that a few moments felt a bit predictable, but honestly, the character development and narration made up for it.

This was a really enjoyable opposites-attract romance with strong performances that made it easy to get lost in the story. Perfect if you’re in the mood for something heartfelt, a little chaotic, and full of charm.

[Jenny Talbot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lexie Black just entered herself into “if she writes it, imma read it” category. Her sophomore novel, More Than Words, is a follow up to her phenomenal debut Long Live the King. Kate and Josh just raised the bar on emotional connection, healthy and restorative communication, and hot as hell spice.

More Than Words is performed in duet narration by Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap. They become Kate and Josh instantly; she’s the assistant and he’s the band’s frontman. They have a chemistry that is undeniably sweet and unabashedly sinful.

Kate Martin is a woman many of us can see ourselves in: she’s intelligent, flies under the radar, and is an empath who has had her own heart broken. Andi wraps her up in a warm hug and gives her wings in this audiobook.

When Kate begins to take flight and find her heart again, Andi does what she does so damn well. Her performance gives Kate a vulnerable, yet tangible, realness that I crave in audio performances. She is secretly sensual; a hopeless romantic who unfortunately has had her heart shattered by her ex (add Austin to the villain list).

Andi has a tone in her voice that is setting her apart in the best way — it’s a mash-up of all the things I just described, with an effervescence that is undeniable.

One of my favorite scenes is when Kate turns the tables on Josh and slips into fem-dom mode. Andi had me staring into the horny void of my imagination. Hats off to Lexie, and to Andi, for allowing Kate to find herself on her path to an unsuspecting love.

And then there’s Josh, who is portrayed with care by Ryan Lee Dunlap. He’s the frontman and is accustomed to being the center of attention. It isn’t until Kate enters the picture that he feels truly, unashamedly seen.

Josh’s vulnerability is exposed, his struggles managing his ADHD become so heavy, and he is constantly just trying to tread water. Ryan channels this energy brilliantly in his performance — he is charming and happy go lucky while straddling the line of daily survival. He has had to compensate for so much in order to maintain his career and success, and when Kate breezes in it helps to settle the noise.

Ryan is quickly becoming a performer I am craving more of — he has such a warm tone that is inviting, impassioned and iridescent as this charismatic rock star. I know that Andi and Ryan have been narration partners for many books, and the evidence is so apparent in this audio; the chemistry and command they share behind the mic reflects off each other and straight to my heart.

This story is low-angst, and still manages to pack emotional punches in pivotal scenes. These two were meant to find each other, and their relationship is built on a mutual desire to be seen. The way Josh tenderly and comfortably fits into Kate’s heart had me swooning, and their actions mirror each other in ways they don’t realize.

That’s just how it is when you truly love someone…it’s not a hardship to give your partner the daily affirmations of care and attention that are specific to their needs.

[Aubrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate enough to receive an eARC of this book and I absolutely LOVED it. This was my first book of Lexie’s but I can assure you it won’t be my last. It’s always hilarious to be pulled out of a reading slump by an amazing book only for it to leave you with a book hangover because how am I supposed to read something else that good right away?

I loved the messy, real people that the main characters are. Sometimes I feel like MMCs can be this untouchable, unreal, hero figures but that was not Josh. He was flawed, real, and imperfect and a bit of a mess.

Kate was a little broken and traumatized from a past toxic relationship and it wasn’t over the top trauma but just very realistic, mentally damaging verbal abuse that manifested in negative self talk which is so real.

I could really enjoy these characters slowly becoming better versions of themselves with each other.

The writing was beautiful. Lexie’s writing felt like a song building up to the crescendo much like Kate Stewart’s writing (to me). I appreciated the dual POV first person narrative and also that there wasn’t a third act breakup.

This book felt like a true adult love story with ups and downs and real issues to conquer. It wasn’t toxic or dark. It was beautiful and emotional and I can’t wait to read more by this incredible author.

[April A Crane · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎤𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐍 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒🎤
𝑽𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆𝒕 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒔 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Author: Lexie Black
Format: ALC
Publication Date: Available Now
Narrators: Duet style, Andi Eloise & Ryan Lee Dunlap (Bonus Epilogue narrated by Samantha Brentmoor & James Cassidy)

This was so freaking cute!!! I never knew how much I loved the pet name “sweetheart” until I read/listened to this book. Josh is the most golden retriever of all golden retrievers. When you add in his dirty mouth and dom vibes …. irresistible!!!!

Honestly, this was an all around feel good story. Yes there were heavier topics like mental health struggles and toxic/gas lighting ex-boyfriends but overall it kept me smiling 90% of the time.

“𝘐’𝘮 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘺.”

𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐄𝐂𝐓:
•Rockstar MMC
•Assistant FMC
•ADHD Rep
•Mental Health Rep
•He Keeps a List of her Likes and Dislikes
•He Gets her Period Supplies (including snacks)
•”He/She feels like home”
•Secret Relationship
•Plenty of Spice
•Sneaking Around
•They Watch Rom/Coms Together

The narrators did an absolutely incredible job. Andi was a perfect fit for Kate. She really brought out Kate’s caring/thoughtful/perfectionist personality. I really enjoyed Ryan as Josh. He was so good at depicting Josh’s ADHD and how he struggled with admitting it to Kate. I could really feel how he was trying so hard to better himself and allow Kate to help him manage his symptoms. Together they help each other realize they’re worthy of the love they’ve developed.

[Rachel Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading ‘Long Live the King’ by Lexie Black (Ms. Black if ya nasty 😏), I was immediately hooked and she became an auto-buy author for me. Receiving the opportunity to read an ARC of Part II in the Velvet Shadows universe was not only an honor in and of itself, but THE MAN THAT JOSH IS!?

HOLY - does Ms. Black know how to write a MAAAANNNNN. The dominance, the YEARNING, the mental and emotional support he not only provided but DELIVERED to and for Kate, and the vulnerability and surety he emanated into this perfect slow burnt, sexy, raw and REAL relationship was…DELICIOUS.

I felt myself giggling, kicking, squealing, grabbing my chest in yearning, hootin’, hollerin’ and cheering at full volume for the trajectory of this story spilled out between these two. You thought Eric and Tyler were King and Queen!? Josh and Kate are easily comin’ quick for that title (and your heart). The twist at the end was definitely the perfect BOW of love tied around me like a hug, forehead to forehead with it (IYKYK - Josh and Kate love their hugs with their foreheads together like the cute lil’ beans they are).

Lastly, YOU WILL NEVER LOOK AT POST-IT NOTES THE SAME EVER AGAIN 😩🖤🖤🖤

[CJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kate is looking for something new after ending her long-term relationship with her awful ex boyfriend (if he has no haters, I’m dead) and becoming an assistant to rockstar Josh seems like the perfect move. Josh is about to go on tour with his band and is struggling with keeping to his schedule, so hiring an assistant seems like the perfect solution to his problems.

Kate is struggling with her identity post breakup and Josh was the perfect person to help her rediscover herself and start to trust people again. There was such a natural progression between Kate and Josh’s dynamic that I adored so much, the banter was ✨chefs kiss✨ and the emotional connection between the main characters was undeniable.

I really loved the way Josh’s ADHD is explored, it was done so incredibly well and felt such a genuine representation of how adhd can impact your life. As an adhd girlie I really related to a lot of Josh’s struggles and I felt very represented.

I really loved Lexie Blacks writing style and the way her characters felt so genuine and i will 100% be reading more of her work 💅

A massive thank you to Lexie Black for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer Wycech · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rockstar romance
Forced proximity
RomCom
Opposites attract
He falls first
Dual POV - 1st person

Duet narration - Andi Eloise & Ryan Lee Dunlap
Wonderful combo of narrators.

Book #2 Velvet Shadows series

My first book by Lexie Black and I was not disappointed! This was a great book.

Josh is a rockstar the lead singer of Velvet Shadows, the sexiest man alive, and has some mental health issues his memory is sh*t. He is a nice guy, not all cocky and into himself. The entire world can see he is one hot hunk of man and many women want him. To him he is just a normal guy who happens to perform for thousands of people every night. He has a bad dating past and never plans to date or fall in love ever again. But his assistant Kate might change his mind.

Kate getting out of an awful relationship with her jerk of an ex she decides to try something new. Kate take a personal assistant position to Josh. She is still recovering from her ex verbally abusing her leaving deep wounds in her Psyche. Forming a friendship with Josh that turns to more, maybe he can help heal her wounds and she can heal his.

This story is equally addictive and captivating. Once I started listening I did not want to stop. The narrators did a perfect job bringing this beautiful story to life.