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Blame It on Fame #3
Take the Lead
Two can keep a secret—right?
After a one-night stand from hell, Nellie Reid has hit her breaking point. She’s broke, aimless, living with her parents, and now, some guy just fell asleep underneath her. Meanwhile, her brother is living the dream on tour as the bassist for his best friend, country superstar Riley Coleman.
When Riley hears about Nellie’s frustrations, he invites her to tag along on tour with him and his band as their concert photographer. Nellie’s never even held a professional camera before, but she can’t resist the promise of free travel, a paycheck, and a shot at figuring her life out.
The only rule? She has to stay far, far away from Ethan, the band’s insanely hot drummer, who has apparently fallen into bed with every girl he’s ever met. But Nellie’s never been one for rules. In fact, she thinks Ethan could teach her a thing or two.
Meanwhile, Ethan’s been given his own Don’t even think about it.
But Nellie can keep a secret, and Ethan’s never been able to say no to a pretty girl asking for some hands-on lessons. It’s a purely physical, no-strings attached relationship…they just have to keep it between them.
After a one-night stand from hell, Nellie Reid has hit her breaking point. She’s broke, aimless, living with her parents, and now, some guy just fell asleep underneath her. Meanwhile, her brother is living the dream on tour as the bassist for his best friend, country superstar Riley Coleman.
When Riley hears about Nellie’s frustrations, he invites her to tag along on tour with him and his band as their concert photographer. Nellie’s never even held a professional camera before, but she can’t resist the promise of free travel, a paycheck, and a shot at figuring her life out.
The only rule? She has to stay far, far away from Ethan, the band’s insanely hot drummer, who has apparently fallen into bed with every girl he’s ever met. But Nellie’s never been one for rules. In fact, she thinks Ethan could teach her a thing or two.
Meanwhile, Ethan’s been given his own Don’t even think about it.
But Nellie can keep a secret, and Ethan’s never been able to say no to a pretty girl asking for some hands-on lessons. It’s a purely physical, no-strings attached relationship…they just have to keep it between them.
- GenresRomance
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 25, 2025
1 person is currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Lilah Morris
3 books41 followersLilah Morris is a fresh voice in the contemporary romance arena, bringing a vibrant and original perspective to the genre. She specializes in new adult, celebrity romances with low angst and lots of banter. She's a recent college graduate and is now back home in the American south, pursuing her dreams of becoming a full-time romance author. Strike a Pose is her first novel!
Connect with her on Instagram: @lilahmorrisauthor or visit her various other links here: https://linktr.ee/lilahmorrisauthor
Connect with her on Instagram: @lilahmorrisauthor or visit her various other links here: https://linktr.ee/lilahmorrisauthor
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 29, 2025
DNF at about 40%
Based off the blurb, I really thought I was going to like this book. But when it comes down to it, there was nothing that really kept me interested in the story :(
I wasn't feeling it with either of the main characters, let alone any chemistry between them. The sex lesson bet literally came out of nowhere, so it felt so inorganic within their relationship. I held on to at least see if the spice was good, but that was just alright.
I called it quits when, after Nellie started "lessons" with Ethan, he slept with someone else. Yeah, they're trying to keep it casual and hush hush, and yeah, I don't mind a cheating trope (not that this would be considered cheating, I guess), but that just didn't feel right to me. There's a difference between a manwhore and a manwhore who becomes monogamous after the first time he so much as says hello to the female love interest, which wasn't the case here.
Maybe the story gets better, and I'm sure Ethan comes around and sweeps Nellie off her feet at some point for a HEA, but this just wasn't for me
Based off the blurb, I really thought I was going to like this book. But when it comes down to it, there was nothing that really kept me interested in the story :(
I wasn't feeling it with either of the main characters, let alone any chemistry between them. The sex lesson bet literally came out of nowhere, so it felt so inorganic within their relationship. I held on to at least see if the spice was good, but that was just alright.
I called it quits when, after Nellie started "lessons" with Ethan, he slept with someone else. Yeah, they're trying to keep it casual and hush hush, and yeah, I don't mind a cheating trope (not that this would be considered cheating, I guess), but that just didn't feel right to me. There's a difference between a manwhore and a manwhore who becomes monogamous after the first time he so much as says hello to the female love interest, which wasn't the case here.
Maybe the story gets better, and I'm sure Ethan comes around and sweeps Nellie off her feet at some point for a HEA, but this just wasn't for me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2025
I LOVE LOVE LOVEEE this book! It completely pulled me out of a reading slump, and I can’t thank Lilah Morris enough for the eARC!
⭐️ 5/5 | 🌶️ 3.5/5
Read if you like:
- Celebrity romance
- Brother’s best friend
- Forbidden romance
I’ve always enjoyed Lilah Morris’s writing, but Take the Lead honestly hit differently. This book has a romance that feels a bit more dangerous, full of tension, longing, and that forbidden edge that keeps you glued to the pages. The plot was unique, fun, and had me gasping multiple times (especially during the spicy scenes 👀)
Nellie was such a badass. I loved her bold, adventurous energy. She’s confident and unafraid to speak her mind, but also has a sweet and vulnerable side that makes her so easy to root for. And then there’s Ethan. My absolute favorite character in this book. His character development was so well done, and there’s just something about the way Lilah writes her MMCs that makes them impossible not to fall for. Ethan definitely stood out to me! I cared about him so much by the end!
I also loved the band dynamic and how we got to experience that glamorous yet chaotic celebrity life again in this series. The podcast-style “intervention” chapter was such a creative touch, and the dual POVs made both characters shine. I loved how even the side characters felt so alive!
The found family energy in this series is so heartwarming and adds so much depth to the story. It’s also very fast-paced, so I flew through this book in one go without even realizing it.
If you love celebrity romances, Take the Lead is an absolute must-read. It’s the perfect mix of tension, heart, and escapism, the kind of story that pulls you right in and doesn’t let go. Highly, highly recommend!
⭐️ 5/5 | 🌶️ 3.5/5
Read if you like:
- Celebrity romance
- Brother’s best friend
- Forbidden romance
I’ve always enjoyed Lilah Morris’s writing, but Take the Lead honestly hit differently. This book has a romance that feels a bit more dangerous, full of tension, longing, and that forbidden edge that keeps you glued to the pages. The plot was unique, fun, and had me gasping multiple times (especially during the spicy scenes 👀)
Nellie was such a badass. I loved her bold, adventurous energy. She’s confident and unafraid to speak her mind, but also has a sweet and vulnerable side that makes her so easy to root for. And then there’s Ethan. My absolute favorite character in this book. His character development was so well done, and there’s just something about the way Lilah writes her MMCs that makes them impossible not to fall for. Ethan definitely stood out to me! I cared about him so much by the end!
I also loved the band dynamic and how we got to experience that glamorous yet chaotic celebrity life again in this series. The podcast-style “intervention” chapter was such a creative touch, and the dual POVs made both characters shine. I loved how even the side characters felt so alive!
The found family energy in this series is so heartwarming and adds so much depth to the story. It’s also very fast-paced, so I flew through this book in one go without even realizing it.
If you love celebrity romances, Take the Lead is an absolute must-read. It’s the perfect mix of tension, heart, and escapism, the kind of story that pulls you right in and doesn’t let go. Highly, highly recommend!
November 25, 2025
This was such a good book. I 10/10 recommend reading this book.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 25, 2025
Take the Lead was such a fun, trope-filled ride. Brother’s best friend, celebrity romance, forbidden tension, forced proximity, this one has it all!! Nellie joining the band as their photographer was the perfect setup, and her chemistry with Ethan was instant and addictive…. I neeeeeed more!
I loved the banter, the band craziness, and watching Ethan actually grow and show up for her. Nellie’s journey out of her comfort zone made her easy to like, and the whole friend group added so much charm.
You can read this as a standalone, BUT please read Lilah’s other books, because they’re so good! I’m still trying to decide which is my favorite.
Thank you Lilah for letting me be apart of your ARC readers again! I can’t wait to read what you have coming next!
I loved the banter, the band craziness, and watching Ethan actually grow and show up for her. Nellie’s journey out of her comfort zone made her easy to like, and the whole friend group added so much charm.
You can read this as a standalone, BUT please read Lilah’s other books, because they’re so good! I’m still trying to decide which is my favorite.
Thank you Lilah for letting me be apart of your ARC readers again! I can’t wait to read what you have coming next!
November 25, 2025
my most chaotic yet ❤️🔥
November 9, 2025
SO. FUCKING. GOOD. seriously go read this right now!!!! I absolutely adore Lilah Morris and the characters she creates, Ethan and Nellie are a match made in heaven and I giggled so many times at their respective senses of humor!! also special shout-out to Ernie 🫡
October 9, 2025
Unexpected and hilarious. Her best yet!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 stars!
Lilah Morris’s Blame it on Fame series is a favorite of mine, even though it only has 2 installments so far, so I was thrilled to be able to read an ARC of her latest, Take the Lead! I loved Ethan’s character in Strike a Pose, so of course I was excited to see him return in a more prominent role. He is genuinely depraved and often an example of shocking immaturity, yet he manages to display so much heart within one short book. As is expected when a character graduates from supporting to main, we get to learn so much more about them and their motivations. Ethan’s inner life is purposefully opposed to the persona he puts forward, and it was so fun to get to read about Nellie breaking through his shtick to uncover who he really is. (Low key ethan is living the life of a showgirl thank you Taylor Swift)
And Nellie! What a fun character. She is highly relatable to anyone who has ever reached the age of their early 20s. The plot begins with her just being along for the ride, but she shines in every scene (so much so that the ride is perhaps just along for her). I loved her willingness to try new things without being good at them, as well as wanting to learn as much as she can. I also loved getting to see Willow and Heena again!! Those two are so much fun, and I hope that Heena gets a book of her own, seeing how frequently she was mentioned in this one. Anyways, back to Nellie. I loved that this book ended without her “finding her way” or “discovering herself” or any trite conclusion like that. The point is, you don’t have to! And her journey was one of finding personal peace rather than feeling fulfilled by a career or a partner or anything else.
This book was a trip to read – equal parts comedic and heartwarming, I loved getting to dive back in to the exploits of the band and the lovable cast of characters that comes along with that. Morris is exceptional at creating standout side characters who capture your attention and your heart. In this one, this character was Ernie! What a highlight. I will always love a forbidden romance trope, especially when it is STEEPED in mark sloan/lexie grey vibes. The off limits sister?? Gets me every time. Keep up the good work, Ms. Morris, you have an adoring fan in me. I had a blast reading this book, and the friends that badgered her to write it? By god were they on to something!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 stars!
Lilah Morris’s Blame it on Fame series is a favorite of mine, even though it only has 2 installments so far, so I was thrilled to be able to read an ARC of her latest, Take the Lead! I loved Ethan’s character in Strike a Pose, so of course I was excited to see him return in a more prominent role. He is genuinely depraved and often an example of shocking immaturity, yet he manages to display so much heart within one short book. As is expected when a character graduates from supporting to main, we get to learn so much more about them and their motivations. Ethan’s inner life is purposefully opposed to the persona he puts forward, and it was so fun to get to read about Nellie breaking through his shtick to uncover who he really is. (Low key ethan is living the life of a showgirl thank you Taylor Swift)
And Nellie! What a fun character. She is highly relatable to anyone who has ever reached the age of their early 20s. The plot begins with her just being along for the ride, but she shines in every scene (so much so that the ride is perhaps just along for her). I loved her willingness to try new things without being good at them, as well as wanting to learn as much as she can. I also loved getting to see Willow and Heena again!! Those two are so much fun, and I hope that Heena gets a book of her own, seeing how frequently she was mentioned in this one. Anyways, back to Nellie. I loved that this book ended without her “finding her way” or “discovering herself” or any trite conclusion like that. The point is, you don’t have to! And her journey was one of finding personal peace rather than feeling fulfilled by a career or a partner or anything else.
This book was a trip to read – equal parts comedic and heartwarming, I loved getting to dive back in to the exploits of the band and the lovable cast of characters that comes along with that. Morris is exceptional at creating standout side characters who capture your attention and your heart. In this one, this character was Ernie! What a highlight. I will always love a forbidden romance trope, especially when it is STEEPED in mark sloan/lexie grey vibes. The off limits sister?? Gets me every time. Keep up the good work, Ms. Morris, you have an adoring fan in me. I had a blast reading this book, and the friends that badgered her to write it? By god were they on to something!
November 21, 2025
This book was..... fine. I had pretty high hopes after reading the blurb. Rockstar/Celebrity trope? Check. Forced proximity? Check.
I actually enjoyed the pacing of it, but there were way too many things I found it hard to get past.
Let's start with the bet. It came out of nowhere - no chemistry build up, no background (unless you count the first three sentences of the book?). It felt so forced for something that could have happened so naturally given the forced proximity trope that was completely overlooked by the author. And let's be clear - they weren't lessons anyway. There was no teaching happening except for an offhanded comment after the fact.
I'm all for a little spice, but the entirety of this book was about sex. And not in a good way. From the very first sentence of the book, every conversation, innuendo, mishap was about sex. But the sex scenes? Nearly non-existent. If you're going to make a book about sex, make it about sex. It was all sex talk, which really took away from the development of the characters and their relationship build (which felt also non-existent). There were very few conversations that didn't revolve around sex jokes. The MCs went from sex lessons every once in a while to in love in about 2 pages. Feelings and emotions didn't seem to be part of the story that was told. We just had to guess.
Which is also my next point - because of that, most (not all) of the characters seemed to act like highschoolers instead of young adults in their mid/late twenties (with the exception of the MFC, who I guess was acting more her age). But they all acted so inappropriately in front of guests or audiences. It was just too cringe for me.
And one last point - wth was with the podcasters intermittently getting their own chapters? They weren't characters in the story and they added absolutely NOTHING to the storyline. Were they just word fillers? And they were insufferable, too. Completely useless to the story and should have been left out completely.
I cannot really recommend this to anyone. And, honestly, I'm not sure that I even enjoyed it enough to check out any of her other works.
**Thank you Lilah Morris for sending this book for review. All opinions are my own.**
I actually enjoyed the pacing of it, but there were way too many things I found it hard to get past.
Let's start with the bet. It came out of nowhere - no chemistry build up, no background (unless you count the first three sentences of the book?). It felt so forced for something that could have happened so naturally given the forced proximity trope that was completely overlooked by the author. And let's be clear - they weren't lessons anyway. There was no teaching happening except for an offhanded comment after the fact.
I'm all for a little spice, but the entirety of this book was about sex. And not in a good way. From the very first sentence of the book, every conversation, innuendo, mishap was about sex. But the sex scenes? Nearly non-existent. If you're going to make a book about sex, make it about sex. It was all sex talk, which really took away from the development of the characters and their relationship build (which felt also non-existent). There were very few conversations that didn't revolve around sex jokes. The MCs went from sex lessons every once in a while to in love in about 2 pages. Feelings and emotions didn't seem to be part of the story that was told. We just had to guess.
Which is also my next point - because of that, most (not all) of the characters seemed to act like highschoolers instead of young adults in their mid/late twenties (with the exception of the MFC, who I guess was acting more her age). But they all acted so inappropriately in front of guests or audiences. It was just too cringe for me.
And one last point - wth was with the podcasters intermittently getting their own chapters? They weren't characters in the story and they added absolutely NOTHING to the storyline. Were they just word fillers? And they were insufferable, too. Completely useless to the story and should have been left out completely.
I cannot really recommend this to anyone. And, honestly, I'm not sure that I even enjoyed it enough to check out any of her other works.
**Thank you Lilah Morris for sending this book for review. All opinions are my own.**
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2025
"I feel transported to an alternate universe where all that exists are me, him...."
Nellie's stuck in a rut and when she was offered to be the official photographer of Riley Coleman's tour, she jumped on it and met Ethan, the band's drummer and that started their whirlwind romance.
Imma be honest and that I read this to be my 'palate cleanser' book while reading another book, because I know Lilah will deliver.
Now, I honestly did not know anything about the characters aside from the MMC being in the band and the FMC as the younger sister of the one man in the band. So I guess that started my disconnect with them because I really didn't know them much.
However, as the story goes on, I did appreciate the depth we encountered with the characters. From superficial and barely there to them having their own soul in the book. Sadly, still I wasn't able to relate to either of the character but I was rooting for them.
Plot-wise, not my favorite especially the spicy lessons. Don't get me wrong, the author handled that with care, establishing boundaries and consent on either side of the MCs but it kinda threw me off guard as to why they reached that point. Kinda appeared out of nowhere. I wished we saw more insecurities physically in Nellie, or her thought process as to why she approached Ethan with it.
With that said, the first maybe 40%, I wasn't feeling much of the book. I was pretty disconnected with the charactes like I said then started the physical aspects of it. Though, once I got past that, it became easier to read because they started talking and seeing each other beyond the mask they show the world.
I did love being on them on a journey of a band tour, getting to know more characters in the band and seeing the Jordans, and even Heena.
Overall, not my favorite book in the series (that's book 1 and maybe book 2 too), but I had a fun time and flew through the book.
Nellie's stuck in a rut and when she was offered to be the official photographer of Riley Coleman's tour, she jumped on it and met Ethan, the band's drummer and that started their whirlwind romance.
Imma be honest and that I read this to be my 'palate cleanser' book while reading another book, because I know Lilah will deliver.
Now, I honestly did not know anything about the characters aside from the MMC being in the band and the FMC as the younger sister of the one man in the band. So I guess that started my disconnect with them because I really didn't know them much.
However, as the story goes on, I did appreciate the depth we encountered with the characters. From superficial and barely there to them having their own soul in the book. Sadly, still I wasn't able to relate to either of the character but I was rooting for them.
Plot-wise, not my favorite especially the spicy lessons. Don't get me wrong, the author handled that with care, establishing boundaries and consent on either side of the MCs but it kinda threw me off guard as to why they reached that point. Kinda appeared out of nowhere. I wished we saw more insecurities physically in Nellie, or her thought process as to why she approached Ethan with it.
With that said, the first maybe 40%, I wasn't feeling much of the book. I was pretty disconnected with the charactes like I said then started the physical aspects of it. Though, once I got past that, it became easier to read because they started talking and seeing each other beyond the mask they show the world.
I did love being on them on a journey of a band tour, getting to know more characters in the band and seeing the Jordans, and even Heena.
Overall, not my favorite book in the series (that's book 1 and maybe book 2 too), but I had a fun time and flew through the book.
November 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Lilah Morris knows how to pull her readers in and keep them intrigued. Take the Lead is filled with a forbidden love that escalates the tension and longing with every page turn. Lilah never fails to write characters that drive the story so well and cause readers to connect and resonate with. The MCs in this book are full of passion and the emotion they each feel is raw and easy to feel through the pages.
I loved how Lilah wrote Nellie, our FMC. So many times someone who doesn’t follow the path that most people deem “normal” is portrayed as lost and incomplete. The path that works for some is not what works for all. Nellie is outspoken, confident in her life choices, and unapologetically her. At the same time there is a vulnerability that she isn’t afraid to show either that makes her extremely relatable.
Ethan was introduced in an earlier book and it was great getting to know him on a deeper level in this book. The more that was revealed about him, the more the reader realizes there is a lot going on under the surface. He puts on a persona for people, afraid to show the real him. But Nellie begins to cut through this act with ease and helps Ethan not be afraid to show the real him.
Lilah effortlessly ties in the reminder that everyone is on their own journey and there is no right or wrong way to do said journey. You must do what is right for you. Balancing this story between romance, comedy, and a bit of drama made it easy to read, but heartfelt. As always, her side characters bring a layer to her stories that add complexity and depth. They are a vital part of her stories. The entire series Blame It On the Fame is a great read and each can be read as a stand alone.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🎸Forbidden Romance
🧡Forced Proximity
🎸Drummer MMC
🧡Photographer FMC
🎸Spice Lessons
🧡No 3rd Act Breakup
Lilah Morris knows how to pull her readers in and keep them intrigued. Take the Lead is filled with a forbidden love that escalates the tension and longing with every page turn. Lilah never fails to write characters that drive the story so well and cause readers to connect and resonate with. The MCs in this book are full of passion and the emotion they each feel is raw and easy to feel through the pages.
I loved how Lilah wrote Nellie, our FMC. So many times someone who doesn’t follow the path that most people deem “normal” is portrayed as lost and incomplete. The path that works for some is not what works for all. Nellie is outspoken, confident in her life choices, and unapologetically her. At the same time there is a vulnerability that she isn’t afraid to show either that makes her extremely relatable.
Ethan was introduced in an earlier book and it was great getting to know him on a deeper level in this book. The more that was revealed about him, the more the reader realizes there is a lot going on under the surface. He puts on a persona for people, afraid to show the real him. But Nellie begins to cut through this act with ease and helps Ethan not be afraid to show the real him.
Lilah effortlessly ties in the reminder that everyone is on their own journey and there is no right or wrong way to do said journey. You must do what is right for you. Balancing this story between romance, comedy, and a bit of drama made it easy to read, but heartfelt. As always, her side characters bring a layer to her stories that add complexity and depth. They are a vital part of her stories. The entire series Blame It On the Fame is a great read and each can be read as a stand alone.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🎸Forbidden Romance
🧡Forced Proximity
🎸Drummer MMC
🧡Photographer FMC
🎸Spice Lessons
🧡No 3rd Act Breakup
October 21, 2025
This is the 3rd book in the series that I have enjoyed so much. So I was really looking forward to reading this ARC!
Nellie has no real purpose in life. Her brothers seem to have all their ducks in a row, but she hasn’t finished college, doesn’t know what she wants to be when she grows up, and is not enjoying her waitress job.
When her brother Nash offers her a job as the tour photographer for the band he plays with, she is reluctant at first. She doesn’t know anything really about photography. Lead singer Riley’s supermodel gf Willow and her bestie Heena’s give Nellie a crash course, and she’s got the gig.
Travelling with the band means long hours, and close encounters with the rest of the band. But as Nash’s lil’ sis she is out of bounds to them.
Which proves a problem when Nellie sets her sights on gorgeous drummer Ethan and wins a bet so he has to give her sex lessons.
When bro finds out the shit hits the fan, obvs.
All ends well and they live happily ever after.
I liked the book, but didn’t love it as much as the others in the series. Just felt it was all a bit cliche and surreal. She wins a bet so he gives her sex lessons even though he shouldn’t? Just say no dude. Or just own up straight away that you do want to and stand by your decision.
The podcast girls were funny and gave good background info in the first two books, but I felt it didn’t really add anything here.
The spicy scenes are well written but I ended up skipping some of it as it wasn’t much different from other books.
I would give it 3.5 out of 5.
Nellie has no real purpose in life. Her brothers seem to have all their ducks in a row, but she hasn’t finished college, doesn’t know what she wants to be when she grows up, and is not enjoying her waitress job.
When her brother Nash offers her a job as the tour photographer for the band he plays with, she is reluctant at first. She doesn’t know anything really about photography. Lead singer Riley’s supermodel gf Willow and her bestie Heena’s give Nellie a crash course, and she’s got the gig.
Travelling with the band means long hours, and close encounters with the rest of the band. But as Nash’s lil’ sis she is out of bounds to them.
Which proves a problem when Nellie sets her sights on gorgeous drummer Ethan and wins a bet so he has to give her sex lessons.
When bro finds out the shit hits the fan, obvs.
All ends well and they live happily ever after.
I liked the book, but didn’t love it as much as the others in the series. Just felt it was all a bit cliche and surreal. She wins a bet so he gives her sex lessons even though he shouldn’t? Just say no dude. Or just own up straight away that you do want to and stand by your decision.
The podcast girls were funny and gave good background info in the first two books, but I felt it didn’t really add anything here.
The spicy scenes are well written but I ended up skipping some of it as it wasn’t much different from other books.
I would give it 3.5 out of 5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2025
Take the lead by Lilah Morris
Story of Nellie and Ethan
•Best friends sister
•off limits
•bands spunky photographer
•playboy drummer
•forced proximity
🌶️2.5
⭐️4
Nelly is the little sister of one of the band members she is in her early twenties working in a salon
she's a little bored and stuck in her life and seeing all her friends starting families or the next chapter in their life and made worse by the fact that the last guy she slept with fell asleep with her still on top bringing her self esteem even further down
Her brother offers for her to go on tour with the band as the tour photographer and she accepts
Nellie is so full of life and willing to try something new she isn't shy to speak her mind and adventures which draws Ethan in from the start unable to resist her outgoingness and the way she's just straight to the point with what she wants
Ethan is the bands drummer he is know for his one night stands a new conquest in every city and told to keep his hands to himself and that Nellie is off limits but he just can't resist the explosion that walks on to the tour bus and is drawn in instantly
But of course these two can't resist what started off as a bet Ethan now has to give her sex lessons and from there the fun begins
Received this as a ARC copy and my review is that of my own
Story of Nellie and Ethan
•Best friends sister
•off limits
•bands spunky photographer
•playboy drummer
•forced proximity
🌶️2.5
⭐️4
Nelly is the little sister of one of the band members she is in her early twenties working in a salon
she's a little bored and stuck in her life and seeing all her friends starting families or the next chapter in their life and made worse by the fact that the last guy she slept with fell asleep with her still on top bringing her self esteem even further down
Her brother offers for her to go on tour with the band as the tour photographer and she accepts
Nellie is so full of life and willing to try something new she isn't shy to speak her mind and adventures which draws Ethan in from the start unable to resist her outgoingness and the way she's just straight to the point with what she wants
Ethan is the bands drummer he is know for his one night stands a new conquest in every city and told to keep his hands to himself and that Nellie is off limits but he just can't resist the explosion that walks on to the tour bus and is drawn in instantly
But of course these two can't resist what started off as a bet Ethan now has to give her sex lessons and from there the fun begins
Received this as a ARC copy and my review is that of my own
October 26, 2025
This is the third book in the Blame it on the Fame series. You could absolutely read this as a standalone, but the first two are so good I would highly recommend it.
Ethan made his first appearance in Strike a Pose, and I’m so happy he got his own story.
Nellie’s opening scene of her catastrophic one-night stand honestly made me chuckle, however, it has left her questioning her own “skills”. On top of that, she’s living with her parents and is too broke for that to change anytime soon. Her brother Nash, on the other hand, plays in a famous band and is about to go on tour, so when he offers her the job of band photographer, it doesn’t take much to persuade her to accept.
As a protective brother, Nash only has one rule, stay away from Ethan, the band’s drummer who, let’s just say, has a girl in every state almost (a few more to scratch off!). Nellie has never been one to follow rules, so maybe Ethan could be the one to show her a few new skills 😉
As for Ethan, it’s clear he cannot get involved with Nellie, she’s off-limits. When Nellie wagers him over a game of pool, thinking he won’t lose, he accepts, but that’s not the case, and now starts the secret rendezvous.
The spice was very good, it wasn’t predictable, which was refreshing. As for their characters, Nellie really brought the best out in Ethan; he had such growth throughout the book.
I’m not personally a fan of the podcast girls, even more so in this book.
I loved the ending, won’t give any spoilers, but their last show was 👌🏻
Thank you, Lilah Morris, for the ARC, all opinions expressed are my own.
Ethan made his first appearance in Strike a Pose, and I’m so happy he got his own story.
Nellie’s opening scene of her catastrophic one-night stand honestly made me chuckle, however, it has left her questioning her own “skills”. On top of that, she’s living with her parents and is too broke for that to change anytime soon. Her brother Nash, on the other hand, plays in a famous band and is about to go on tour, so when he offers her the job of band photographer, it doesn’t take much to persuade her to accept.
As a protective brother, Nash only has one rule, stay away from Ethan, the band’s drummer who, let’s just say, has a girl in every state almost (a few more to scratch off!). Nellie has never been one to follow rules, so maybe Ethan could be the one to show her a few new skills 😉
As for Ethan, it’s clear he cannot get involved with Nellie, she’s off-limits. When Nellie wagers him over a game of pool, thinking he won’t lose, he accepts, but that’s not the case, and now starts the secret rendezvous.
The spice was very good, it wasn’t predictable, which was refreshing. As for their characters, Nellie really brought the best out in Ethan; he had such growth throughout the book.
I’m not personally a fan of the podcast girls, even more so in this book.
I loved the ending, won’t give any spoilers, but their last show was 👌🏻
Thank you, Lilah Morris, for the ARC, all opinions expressed are my own.
November 12, 2025
Take the Lead is a lovely read built around the best friend’s sister trope. It can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone, but it’s actually the third book in the Blame It on Fame series. Characters from the previous books make solid supporting appearances here, so if you’ve read the earlier ones, you’ll love seeing them pop up again—especially in those fun “extra epilogue” moments.
This story focuses on Ethan, the drummer of the band and the co-writer/producer behind Riley’s biggest hits. Ethan is your classic unapologetic flirt, a proud ladies’ man who fully enjoys his fame and the attention that comes with it. Then there’s Nellie, Nash’s younger sister, who’s adored by all the guys in the band and treated like family. She’s going through a rough patch in life with no clear career direction, so when Nash and Riley offer her a job as the band’s photographer on their upcoming tour, she reluctantly agrees. Ethan is warned to stay far away from Nellie—but of course, life (and a few bad decisions) have other plans.
I really enjoyed this book! I finished it in just two days—only because I had to work, or I would’ve devoured it in one sitting. Lilah Morris never disappoints. Her books are the perfect blend of humor, heart, and romance—true comfort reads for romcom lovers.
This story focuses on Ethan, the drummer of the band and the co-writer/producer behind Riley’s biggest hits. Ethan is your classic unapologetic flirt, a proud ladies’ man who fully enjoys his fame and the attention that comes with it. Then there’s Nellie, Nash’s younger sister, who’s adored by all the guys in the band and treated like family. She’s going through a rough patch in life with no clear career direction, so when Nash and Riley offer her a job as the band’s photographer on their upcoming tour, she reluctantly agrees. Ethan is warned to stay far away from Nellie—but of course, life (and a few bad decisions) have other plans.
I really enjoyed this book! I finished it in just two days—only because I had to work, or I would’ve devoured it in one sitting. Lilah Morris never disappoints. Her books are the perfect blend of humor, heart, and romance—true comfort reads for romcom lovers.
October 18, 2025
Lilah Morris's wit and humor shine through in Take the Lead, the third installment of the Blame It on Fame books. There are so many one-liners that took me off guard and made me giggle out loud. Word to the wise: if you're reading this in public, you might get some stares from those surrounding you, wondering why you are laughing softly to yourself. Blame Morris!
The budding relationship between Nellie and Ethan feels so authentic and soars off the page. In the acknowledgments, I read that the author wasn't even planning to write this romance, but her friends had begged. They couldn't look away from the undeniable chemistry that was bound to brew between these two, and I don't blame them.
It's obvious by the clever and enticing writing that Morris' passion for this project fuels its success. The tropes are freshly executed, the characters experience vivid inner lives of their own, and the ensemble cast makes me feel like I'm riding along with Ernie and the gang on the tour bus.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced reader copy! I am grateful that I was able to get my hands on it before the world surely takes it by storm.
The budding relationship between Nellie and Ethan feels so authentic and soars off the page. In the acknowledgments, I read that the author wasn't even planning to write this romance, but her friends had begged. They couldn't look away from the undeniable chemistry that was bound to brew between these two, and I don't blame them.
It's obvious by the clever and enticing writing that Morris' passion for this project fuels its success. The tropes are freshly executed, the characters experience vivid inner lives of their own, and the ensemble cast makes me feel like I'm riding along with Ernie and the gang on the tour bus.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced reader copy! I am grateful that I was able to get my hands on it before the world surely takes it by storm.
November 18, 2025
Take The Lead, Blame it on Fame book #3.
Best friend’s sister, forced proximity.
Ethan and Nellie are drawn to each other from the moment they meet, when she’s riding along with the band as their official concert photographer. She accepted that job because she wasn’t happy with the life she was living, and a bit jealous of others who knew what they wanted in life.
I loved the banter between the friends, and the way Ethan changed from being a one-night stand guy into one that’s committed to his girl.
I haven’t read the previous books, but didn’t have the feeling of missing out, and I absolutely enjoyed this story. I loved all characters, and the hilarious moments this tight knit group of friends had. It makes me want to go back and read books #1 and 2 of this series as well.
~~“… Now take off your shirt and get on your knees.”~~(Ethan)
~~I’m leaving this tour with a new skill, deeper friendships, and a partner who matches me step for step. I still don’t really know where I’m going next, but at least I have plenty of people cheering me on as I take the lead.~~ (Nellie)
I received an arc of this ebook and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Best friend’s sister, forced proximity.
Ethan and Nellie are drawn to each other from the moment they meet, when she’s riding along with the band as their official concert photographer. She accepted that job because she wasn’t happy with the life she was living, and a bit jealous of others who knew what they wanted in life.
I loved the banter between the friends, and the way Ethan changed from being a one-night stand guy into one that’s committed to his girl.
I haven’t read the previous books, but didn’t have the feeling of missing out, and I absolutely enjoyed this story. I loved all characters, and the hilarious moments this tight knit group of friends had. It makes me want to go back and read books #1 and 2 of this series as well.
~~“… Now take off your shirt and get on your knees.”~~(Ethan)
~~I’m leaving this tour with a new skill, deeper friendships, and a partner who matches me step for step. I still don’t really know where I’m going next, but at least I have plenty of people cheering me on as I take the lead.~~ (Nellie)
I received an arc of this ebook and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
December 2, 2025
Take the Lead by Lilah Morris is a delightful surprise. The pacing is spot-on, keeping me engaged and turning the pages without feeling overwhelmed. I found myself deeply connected to Nellie and Ethan. Their chemistry is natural, and I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing their growth both individually and collectively. There were moments when I genuinely couldn’t help but smile at their interactions.
Despite being the third book in the Blame It on Fame series, I never felt lost. While it does include a few spoilers for the first two books, it did not take away from my enjoyment. If anything, it made me curious about the earlier books.
Overall, this book truly resonated with me. It’s warm, engaging, and brimming with character moments that linger in your mind.
Thank you to BookSirens and to Lilah Morris for the advance review copy. I received it for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Despite being the third book in the Blame It on Fame series, I never felt lost. While it does include a few spoilers for the first two books, it did not take away from my enjoyment. If anything, it made me curious about the earlier books.
Overall, this book truly resonated with me. It’s warm, engaging, and brimming with character moments that linger in your mind.
Thank you to BookSirens and to Lilah Morris for the advance review copy. I received it for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 24, 2025
Would have to say this was a fun read. Nellie was bored with where she was stuck in life and knew she needed to find a job. She was moaning about find a job, work when she was offered a photographer’s position for Riley and his band. Nash, Riley’s best friend and Nellie’s brother was a member of the band, too. With the author’s writing I felt part of the crowds at their concerts and enjoyed that part of the story.
Ethan, the hot good looking drummer and Nellie fell for each other, making their secret dating a fun read, too. Lots of antics between all the band members, Riley and Nellie. Enjoyed the solid storyline throughout, especially the ending.
I received an early, free copy and am giving my honest, free and voluntary
Ethan, the hot good looking drummer and Nellie fell for each other, making their secret dating a fun read, too. Lots of antics between all the band members, Riley and Nellie. Enjoyed the solid storyline throughout, especially the ending.
I received an early, free copy and am giving my honest, free and voluntary
November 25, 2025
4 stars, I LOVE Lilah and love this series 🤭
Brothers best friend
Celebrity romance
Forbidden
Forced prox
It’s all the tropes you want out of a smutty little book, I’m obsessed!
Lilah does such a great job building characters and keeping the plots fun and enjoyable, with a good backstory and drama - without being so hard to follow!
I think her writing style is shown a bit differently in this one compared to others but it’s so great and I love her writing in general!
This is book three but could be read as a standalone!
Thanks to our Queen Lilah for an advanced copy 🩶 was so blessed to get this one bc I ADORED this series!
Brothers best friend
Celebrity romance
Forbidden
Forced prox
It’s all the tropes you want out of a smutty little book, I’m obsessed!
Lilah does such a great job building characters and keeping the plots fun and enjoyable, with a good backstory and drama - without being so hard to follow!
I think her writing style is shown a bit differently in this one compared to others but it’s so great and I love her writing in general!
This is book three but could be read as a standalone!
Thanks to our Queen Lilah for an advanced copy 🩶 was so blessed to get this one bc I ADORED this series!
October 14, 2025
A lighthearted story of friend's little sister romance. Our MFC ends up as the photographer for her brother's band. And while there is an understated rule to not touch her, our MMC falls first and falls hard unable to abide by said rule. What follows is a great and light story of how sometimes even the worse people at relationships can find their own partner where they least expect it. The sparks are sparking and easy to read. The story is great to follow, and I loved to read about these characters.
November 1, 2025
Get ready to fall in love with this cutest romantic comedy!
Ethan and Nellie were a treat to read, infact all characters were so good that I never wanted this book to end. The banter was something else and I really enjoyed it.
Ethan is a drummer in the band which is leaving for a tour and they need a photographer. Enter Nellie who is looking for jobs after finishing college. She is also the little sister of bassist Nash in the band. Ethan has few rules in life and one of them is friend's sister is always no go area. But soon he has to bend his rules for Nellie.
Definitely a fun read!
Ethan and Nellie were a treat to read, infact all characters were so good that I never wanted this book to end. The banter was something else and I really enjoyed it.
Ethan is a drummer in the band which is leaving for a tour and they need a photographer. Enter Nellie who is looking for jobs after finishing college. She is also the little sister of bassist Nash in the band. Ethan has few rules in life and one of them is friend's sister is always no go area. But soon he has to bend his rules for Nellie.
Definitely a fun read!
November 24, 2025
thank you so much for giving me an arc to review.
i’ve enjoyed the books in this series so far so i was looking forward to this one. which unfortunately led to a bit of a disappointment here as i just didn’t feel much connection with the characters as a couple but that could’ve just been me being turned off by the fact that the mmc slept with someone after being in what i’d feel like is a kind of intimate relationship with the fmc. i’ve enjoyed him in the past but this kinda ruined it for me :/
thank you again for the arc!
i’ve enjoyed the books in this series so far so i was looking forward to this one. which unfortunately led to a bit of a disappointment here as i just didn’t feel much connection with the characters as a couple but that could’ve just been me being turned off by the fact that the mmc slept with someone after being in what i’d feel like is a kind of intimate relationship with the fmc. i’ve enjoyed him in the past but this kinda ruined it for me :/
thank you again for the arc!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2025
Take the Lead is a fun, flirty, and empowering romance set against a backdrop of ambition and self-growth. Lilah Morris writes sparkling dialogue and undeniable chemistry as two driven characters learn to balance passion and personal dreams. The banter is fantastic, the pacing brisk, and the emotional payoff truly satisfying. A lively, uplifting romance that’s impossible to put down.
November 17, 2025
I think this book is my favorite from the series <3
December 8, 2025
It’s the way Ethan is somehow the man of my dreams and I didn’t even know it until now. Thank you Lilah for showing me what I needed in my life 🙏🏼. I loved this book so much from beginning to end!!
November 25, 2025
What a pleasant surprise. This was one entertaining novel. A disastrous date, Nellie is in a slump. Her brother and his best friend comes through with a solution and the action starts from there. Now that i have read this book I need to read the first two. this is a definite read. Thank you Book Sirens for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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