More Than An Encore

The Crooked Souls #1

by Jessa Hart

Five years ago, rockstar Jay Wyler walked out of Ava Davenport's life. She spent every day since becoming someone who didn't need him: a successful ER doctor, fiercely independent, and completely over it.

Or so she thought--until the night Jay's twin brother collapses onstage and she finds Jay at her hospital, barely holding himself together. One night unravels five years of distance. And the songs he wrote for her while they were apart make it very hard to pretend she ever stopped caring.

Jay has spent a year clawing back from rock bottom. He's managed to stay sober, but between panic attacks, a demanding band, a family in crisis, and the weight of a life lived too loudly, his stability is crumbling. Still, Ava holds him through it. That's what she'd always done.

But then she finds the empty bottle and realizes she's lived this before. She knows how this story ends.

This time, she has to decide if loving him is worth losing herself again. And Jay has to decide if the man he's becoming is someone who deserves to stay.

Set against Nashville's gritty alternative music scene, More Than An Encore is a raw, emotionally charged romance about loving someone through mental illness and addiction--and learning that saving them might mean letting go.

Book one in The Crooked Souls Trilogy.

Genres: Romance

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 6, 2026

About the author

I write messy love stories with jaded rockstars, emotional wreckage, and just enough angst to make you text your ex (don’t). I’ve always been obsessed with words and emotionally complex characters. My stories blend swoony romance with backstage drama, bad decisions, and the kind of love that feels like sitting alone in your car, crying to a 2000s emo playlist.

When I’m not writing, I work as a librarian, edit part-time, and proudly hold the title of The Emo Historian™. I live in Nashville, TN with my husband, toddler, and three cats, surviving on caffeine and nostalgia.

I believe every good story needs a little heartbreak and someone worth staying for after the encore.

Reviews

[nooked_ina_book]

My heart, oh my heart, what an incredible story!

The opening, hit the ground running, and the pacing through the rest of the book was phenomenal. I went on the journey with these characters, the problems, the solutions, the hopes, the dreams, reality crashing into them, the failures, the losses.

This is the way you write a chracter drive rockstar romance.

I loved the way that the love story came together but also the return to an original found family. Everyone deserves that safe place to have, no matter what that family is composed of.

This is what I want when I say I want emotional damage and Jessa Hart delivered! I can not wait to read the second and third books.

[Gabby]

3.5/5

I am a sucker for a rockstar romance and even more so if we sprinkle some second chance in there. For a debut novel, I will say this one was not bad. Jay and Ava had so much history and finally seeing each other after 5 years apart, you know that it was never going to be anyone but them in the end.

Jay was so self destructive in this book. He is that character that feels like he can’t save everyone around him but literally didn’t see what was going on because he wasn’t dealing with his own trauma.

Ava was a healer through and through. She really wanted to save Jay but she couldn’t save someone who didn’t want or know how to save himself.

This book is about addicting, not just the drinking and drugs variety but the addiction of a person. How just wanting to love them and keep them, no matter what, is the addiction.

[Su2108]

Crikey

'Try Rockstar Romance' someone said. 'You'll love it' they said. 'It's good for the soul'

Admittedly, all of the above is true. But, what nobody tells you is that your every emotion gets thrown in to overdrive and the book hangovers are the worst!

And 'More Than An Encore" is no exception. Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down and literally devoured it in a day.

Immersing the reader in some hard-hitting topics, this beautifully written, hauntingly emotional book portrays the second-chance story of frontman Jay and Eva. His first love, the one he walked away from, the one he let get away.

This book has just enough of everything to keep the reader intrigued. Humour, heart-break, tension, joy and spice.

I really enjoyed it.

You try it.... You won't regret it

[Kitt Fiona]

Reading this story made me ache in the best way. There’s was so much I related to and my heart aches for the characters.
Jessa makes you care about the characters and you feel every bit of their highs and lows. The beginning pulls you in immediately and you’re just racing to get to the next page and see what happens next.
I cannot wait for the next books!

[Jess]

4.5/5
This book was captivating from the first chapter. I enjoyed getting to read about Ava & Jay’s second chance love. It was easy to empathize with each character with Hart’s fantastic detailed writing. Such a quick, enjoyable read and I am anxiously awaiting the 2nd book! Way to go, Jessa!

[Tiffiny Lipford]

ARC Review: I couldn’t put the book down. Reading about Jay and Ava’s story - wanting to know what happens next. Love them! And looking forward to the other books in this series. And my love for Nashville and music! Great book!

[Leanne Jones]

That was emotionally heart breaking. It was so good to read, I couldn’t put it down but emotionally it ruined me. Jessa really got both sides of addiction and it was beautiful and very sad to read at the same time. It was a really good story but Check your triggers.

[Melissa Leininger]

ARC Review- Absolutely loved this book! Was an easy read that kept the interest alive!

It's been awhile since I've dived head first into a romance, but this second chance romance genre might have me hooked, and I cant wait for books 2 and 3 of this Trilogy.

The back and forth between past and present really made Jay and Ava's story feel real, and gives the reader an easy to follow along with backstory. The second chance at an intense love- you could feel the emotion through each character through every page.

This book touches on some tough subjects- Mental health, addiction, domestic and child abuse, etc, but it was so sensitively written and not just thrown out there for the drama. It was very carefully written, and eloquently depicted real-life struggles.

[Chelsea Clark]

ARC Review:

Rating: 4.5 ⭐️ 1.5 🌶️

This was a great read. Second chance romance is becoming one of my favorite sub genres!

Jay and Ava are the epitome of “it’s always been you.” But his mental health struggles make him push her away. 5 years later he finds her again in one of his darkest moments. Their story is one of love, loss, and they truly have to go through a lot to get their HEA! I am also really excited for the rest of the trilogy, seeing all the siblings get their HEA after all they’ve been through will be so fun! 🥰

This book has some hard topics: addiction, abuse, anxiety, overdoses, alcoholism, PTSD, depression, etc. please check your triggers before reading!

[Lindsey Meyer]

I just finished this debut novel and WOW—I am absolutely blown away. I had the chance to read it as an advanced reader copy, and I feel so lucky to have experienced it early.
This second-chance romance had all the feels in the best way possible. The emotional depth, the tension, the way the past and present were woven together… I couldn’t put it down.
The characters felt so real and raw. You can truly feel the author’s heart on every page.
If you love stories about love, growth, and finding your way back home—this one is a must-read. I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.

[Rebecca Elder]

This book was so much more than a rockstar romance. It was raw, haunting, and devastatingly beautiful in a way that settled deep in my chest and refused to let go. There were multiple moments where I found myself physically clutching my heart as it ached for these characters and everything they were carrying. I wanted to wrap almost every single one of them in a hug… and then there were a couple of characters who absolutely deserved to be launched into hell. They know exactly who they are. 👀

What struck me most was how authentically this story portrayed healing and sobriety. It never tried to romanticize recovery or make it feel easy. It showed the ugly, messy, exhausting reality of it all. All the setbacks, the fear, the guilt, the constant choice to keep going even when it hurts. The story handled the lifelong struggle of sobriety with so much care and honesty, emphasizing that recovery is never linear and love alone cannot magically fix someone.

But what this book did so beautifully was show that healing beside someone, having people willing to stand in the wreckage with you, can make the road feel a little less impossible to walk.

This was not a “happy” book in the traditional sense, but honestly, that’s part of what made it so impactful. It hurt in all the right ways. And despite all the heartbreak woven through these pages, the ending left me with such a powerful sense of hope. Hope for these characters, hope for what’s to come, and excitement for where the rest of this trilogy is headed. I already know this story is going to stay with me for a very long time.

[Samantha Butterfield]

It's been awhile since I read a book that actually made me cry. I'm talking real tears, but this book did just that. (in a good way!!)

The plot was driven and pact full of moments that had me flipping the next page hungry for more. It tackled tough subjects with ease and grace. Had me deep in my feelings. As someone who shares a lot of similar issues with the main character Jay, I felt deeply moved with how his issues were handled.

Speaking of Jay, he had me pulling at my hair in frustration one moment, then laughing, then crying and finally just wanting to give him a hug. He is a complex character that I relate to more than I should. I just love the dude, but sometimes I wanted to smack him in the back of the head. (or flick him behind the ear!)

Ava was strong and brave. I loved how firm she was in her thought process. She is a pro at reading between the lines. I applaud how she was written as a strong female, but with a softness that made her able to put up with Jay's problems. I adored her!

Overall this story moved me. It was an emotional roller coaster, and at times I was heart broken, but by the end I was happy with the outcome.

Highly recommend this story to anyone who loves drama, pain, and healing.

10/10 would recommend.

[Kiana]

ARC Reader:

This book took me on an emotional trip I didn’t even know I needed. It’s been a long time since I’ve read a story that made me feel so deeply connected to its characters. I laughed, I cried, and there were definitely moments when I wanted to throw hands on their behalf. That’s how real these people felt to me.

Jessa does a phenomenal job bringing her characters, their relationships, and the themes of the story to life in a way that feels honest and relatable. The imagery is so vivid and accurate that it’s easy to picture every scene — especially if you’re from Nashville. The city isn’t just a backdrop; it’s woven into the emotional fabric of the story.

What resonated with me most was how authentically she portrays mental health. As someone who has navigated the complexities of panic attacks, anxiety, and depression, seeing those experiences reflected on the page felt raw, real, and deeply validating. She doesn’t sensationalize it or gloss over it — she writes it the way it feels.

This book took me through sadness, anxiety, joy, and hope at exactly the right time. It reminded me how powerful storytelling can be when it’s honest and human. I truly enjoyed this read, and I can’t wait to see how the trilogy progresses!

[Calie]

I had the privilege and pleasure of reading this advanced copy via Book Funnel and the lovely author herself. This is not my usual go-to genre, but when I heard the premise of the book and its nostalgic pull towards my own emo roots, my interest was absolutely peaked. From the opening chapter, I was absolutely invested in this story; it is both compelling and readable. I loved the story of Jay and Ava and found them to be relatable, realistic, and actually likable characters. Their story tugged on heartstrings that I frankly thought didn't exist and incorporated a lot of real-to-life challenges that people face without being a trauma encyclopedia (which I feel a lot of stories fall victim to these days). I cheered them both on as individuals and as a couple. Jessa Hart created a story that I believe will speak to a lot of people and give you all the feels. Definitely give it a try, even if it isn't your usual genre of choice, as its a well-written, strong story that packs a lot of emotional depth.

Thank you again to Jessa Hart for the privilege of being an early reader! I can't wait for more from the Wylers.

[L.P. Brooks]

First and foremost, thank you Jessa for trusting me with your book baby, “More Than an Encore”, and the amazing opportunity to ARC your first book!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 🌶️.5

"To making it."
Such a beautiful theme for a deep and emotionally raw book. You carefully crafted a story about the highs and lows embedded in the human experience. Jay and Ava's second-chance romance felt like watching a movie about your favorite characters, where you rooted for their love one moment and ached with heartbreak the next. The emotional roller coaster was real, but in the best way! There are some heavy topics, but they were treated with care and sensitivity.

I was not only whisked away into a fictional tale but also pulled in deep on a personal level. I felt like I knew each of these characters as if they were real, and very much wanted to punch a few in their imaginary faces (you know what you did!).

It's hard to believe that this is your first published book because you have certainly set the stage for a deep and dark series — I can't wait for book 2!

[D.M. Randall]

I read this book in a day! Really didn't put it down, what a story. One of triumph and defeat, of healing and regret.

First of all, I really loved Jay, even in all the ways he's imperfect. He's got so much to work through and he's only really just begun by the end of the book but it's just right, I think.

And Dr. Davenport is that kind, tender person we all hope to meet, hope to find, even when we surely don't deserve it.

I won't get too much into the rest of the story or characters to avoid spoilers, but to suffice to say, it was moving, funny, enraging, heartbreaking, and just lovely! Well written, thoughtful, with many endearing moments. I especially loved the spice in this book, the way it was handled, the way it conveyed the emotions and kept us in the elements of the physical!

I wholeheartedly recommend this wonderful book! A shoutout to a fellow Nashville girl, you smashed it!

[Taylor Powell]

I absolutely love a good romantic drama, and being a Nashville native, who grew up listening to all kinds of music, this book really hit home for me in the best possible way. From page one I was drawn into the messy and relatable world of Jay and Ava, and could not put this book down.

I loved all of the sprinkles of Nashville lore and nostalgia throughout and all of the IYKYK innuendos.

What I Loved:
Themes: Romance, Drama, and Crisis are well balanced
Pacing: Wonderful and keeps you on the edge wanting more
Writing Style: Engaging and Suitable for all adult age groups

Reader Recommendation:
Definitely for Late Teen to Adult Readers
Have a box of tissues ready and there are emotionally tough chapters.

Overall a wonderful book to read, looking forward to the next two books in the series.

[Amy]

This was a seat of my pants read! I received this copy as an ARC from the author. She has put a lot of musical knowledge into this book and it flows so well.
This story starts off with so much trauma and angst that I was genuinely worried it wouldn't be a HEA with all the drama these characters were dealing with. I loved the main characters and their personal journeys. I loved that this was music-themed and took place in Nashville, but wasn't country music. That was refreshing and I thought it gave the city some great representation of diversity. I think anyone who likes modern and very realistic problems will relate to this book and enjoy the path that Jay and Ava take as individuals, partners, and with their families.
I think it should have had the recipes for roti and meatloaf included at the end! Great debut from an author who loves music and put her heart into these pages.

[Haley Hewson]

**mild spoilers warning***
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EMOTIONAL DAMAGE
but like…in a good way?😂 I’ll admit I was livid about a potential third act breakup because WHY CANT FICTIONAL CHARACTERS JUST BE HAPPY. But I’m so glad I kept reading because I’m a sucker for a HAE.

I laughed, I cried, and panicked right along with the characters. The writing was so easy to just slip into the Jay or Ava’s shoes and feel what they were feeling. The character growth? *chef’s kiss*

Proud of my girl Ava remembering who tf she is. And proud of my guy Jay for getting over his professional sad boy self to remember not everything is his fault 😂 These characters are so relatable and lovable.

I loved the local Nashville references, reading this felt like walking around town when I went to college there and it felt like home.

I am anxiously/excitedly waiting for books two and three!

To making it!

[Blair Ryker]

Thank you Jessa Hart for the ARC copy of this books!

This debut by Jessa Hart is everything a pop punk emo girlie could want. The characters are relatable. Their struggles grounded in reality and things I think we can all relate to in some way. I laughed, I cried, and often said "Oh, Jay! What are you doing?!"
If you're a Nashville native you'll love the details and local setting. Even the side characters wind their way into your heart with their stories and personalities. I am so excited to see which member of the Wyler siblings gets to tell their story in book 2!

This is not a Hallmark movie book,(but its got a HEA) this is a raw and touching second change romance full of found family and healing.

[Rachel Petty]

Advanced Reader Copy provided by the author. Thanks, Jessa!

A second-chance romance meant for the elder emos! Jay Wyler is a rockstar dreamboy that had my “I can fix him!” alarm going off immediately, and I was invested in his and Ava’s relationship from the start. My favorite romances are ones that expand beyond the main relationship, and this debut novel does just that by tactfully exploring themes of addiction, generational trauma, family dynamics, and what it means to show up for yourself and the people you love. This made me ache in the best way!

Bonus points for: cross-stitching, journal entries, birthday cards, a cat, Nashville written by a Nashville Native, it’s-always-been-you.

I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!

[Tashareadsfiction]

I absolutely LOVE THIS book. It exceeded my expectations. Jessa Hart is a fantastic writer - revealing the BARE-NAKED truth about trauma, substance abuse, and loving someone trying to dig themselves out of the trenches. (read with caution)
I loved Jay & Ava. Their second chance at love, the yearning, and the chemistry that seeps from the pages. At times I wanted to just shake Jay and tell him to wake the heck up!
Our FMC Ava is a saint! She is strong, smart, and resilient. It was really great to see her evolve and heal throughout the book.
I definitely found myself crying a few times, very emotional and raw. Getting that kind of emotional reaction from a book is a huge plus for me. I would recommend More Than An Encore for sure.

[Erin Lawson]

I really enjoyed this story. Rocker romances are very quickly becoming one of my favorite genres and this book did not disappoint.

I am lucky to have never been in a situation where I was an addict or was involved with one, but the author did a phenomenal job of capturing the difficulties and dark thoughts that come with addiction. I felt everything they were feeling. My heart broke with them and I was cheering along with their successes.

Jay and Ava were such a dynamic pair who each needed each other and wanted to help each other. How they were brought back together was heartbreaking, but it showed there can be silver linings to every tragic situation.

I cannot wait to see what happens next to the Wyler family in the rest of the trilogy?

[Danielle]

ARC Review:

I loved how the story moves between past and present — it made the relationship feel deeper and more emotional because we actually get to see their history unfold. It added so much weight to what’s happening in the present.

I also appreciated how sensitively addiction was handled. It felt honest and thoughtful, not just added for drama.

Overall, a heartfelt second-chance romance with real emotional depth. Thank you to Jessa Hart and her team for the advanced copy.

[Hailey Corona]

This is such a raw, real book written with clear intentions of these characters. From addiction, scorned love, and longing, this book perfectly depicts real emotions and struggles. One of my favorite parts is the depiction of Nashville, Tennessee that gives readers a glimpse into a different side of a buzzing town. I highly recommend reading!

[Valerie Dukes]

This is such a great read. The characters grab you immediately and you want to yell at them and hug them at the same time. The story moves at a great pace and you find yourself getting immersed in their narrative. Highly recommend for those who want a little escape from the daily grind or a good vacation read. Looking forward to the rest of the series!

[Jordan Robinson]

I was very excited to read this book from a local indie author as I also live near Nashville. She did not disappoint. I could feel the emotions of the characters coming through the pages and yelled out loud at Jay, the male main character, several times when he was about to make bad decisions. I'm looking forward to reading book two already.

[Heather]

ARC Review (thank you!)

This was such a well-rounded read! Consistent pacing, lovable / hateable / love-to-be-hateable characters, hard topics that are addressed in ways that don't feel stereotypical, and believable second-chance romance. In short: the story feels REAL. I am really looking forward to more of this world.

[Emily Anderson]

I love a second-chance romance, especially a rockstar one. Jay and Ava’s story is complicated but beautiful, you understand how much they love each other and root for their happy ending. This book deals with tough issues but I think they did it so well. Definitely recommend this book.

[Monika Wiser]

**ARC REVIEW**

This is a beautiful story of two people who got a second chance at love. It is based in my hometown which made it that much more relatable. A beautiful story of over coming an addiction and not becoming your past.