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Luminescent Juliet #4
Rock My Heart
This story can be read as a standalone.
Raised in poverty and violence, Gabe Reed wears a could-care-less attitude like a shield. He expects life to suck. It always has, and he is usually the one to screw it up even more. Drumming for the college band Luminescent Juliet started as a way to release the built up rage inside of him. But when the band signs with a label, Gabe begins to envision a different life. He just needs to stay out of trouble and follow the court orders of his probation.
April Tanner knows most people view her as perfect. From her icy looks to her college four point, she cultivates the persona since it helps keep people at a distance. Because behind her perfection, April constantly struggles with a past that she is trying to atone for but can’t face.
Though Gabe and April seem worlds apart, fate throws them together and forces them to see beyond the fronts they each present. But even an emerging friendship mixed with a growing lust might not be able to overcome the walls built of guilt and insecurity and abuse that stand between them.
*New Adult for language and sexual situations.
Raised in poverty and violence, Gabe Reed wears a could-care-less attitude like a shield. He expects life to suck. It always has, and he is usually the one to screw it up even more. Drumming for the college band Luminescent Juliet started as a way to release the built up rage inside of him. But when the band signs with a label, Gabe begins to envision a different life. He just needs to stay out of trouble and follow the court orders of his probation.
April Tanner knows most people view her as perfect. From her icy looks to her college four point, she cultivates the persona since it helps keep people at a distance. Because behind her perfection, April constantly struggles with a past that she is trying to atone for but can’t face.
Though Gabe and April seem worlds apart, fate throws them together and forces them to see beyond the fronts they each present. But even an emerging friendship mixed with a growing lust might not be able to overcome the walls built of guilt and insecurity and abuse that stand between them.
*New Adult for language and sexual situations.
279 pages, Unknown Binding
First published June 5, 2015
18 people are currently reading
448 people want to read
About the author
Jean Haus
13 books530 followersWhen Jean Haus isn't writing, she's usually reading. Anything from young adult to historical fiction as long as there’s at least a bit of romance, she'll load it on her Kindle. She also loves to cook. And someday she will create the world’s best potsticker.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 15, 2015
4.5 Stars
Ever since I was first introduced to this fantastic series a couple years ago, I've been waiting for Gabe's book. Something about the silently brooding and manwhorish drummer has always called to me. And after finishing his book, I gotta say that Jean Haus has definitely saved the best for last. I absolutely loved it!
While you may technically read this book as a standalone, I highly recommend you read the series in order to truly get the appreciation for all the side characters. The author does a fantastic job of giving all the background without making it be redundant for those that have been following the series; but it's definitely best read as a series. Jean Haus is one of those authors that I wish more readers knew about. Her ability to weave music into her writing always gives an additional layer to her books. It's actually one of the things I've grown to love most about her writing. She doesn't just write a rockstar romance, she gives you the music element to go along with it.
Gabe Reed is the drummer for Luminescent Juliet. He's a man of little words and barely contained violence. His less than favorable childhood pretty much assures this...
His band is on the route to true fame, but his position in it isn't quite as guaranteed. His anger issues and short fuse to violence has given him a record. And although he's not quite as threatened by Romeo's girlfriend for the position of a drummer that he had originally lost to her now that she has her own band, he's still filled with doubt. The last thing he needs is the presence of the ice princess at his court mandated group meetings...
April Tanner isn't what she appears. Keeping a tight reign on her facade is the only thing that keeps her from coming apart at the seams.
While she may understand that the perception of what she seems to be is what causes the look of contempt on Gabe's face every time he sees her, it doesn't help her fight her attraction to him any more. When Gabe walks into her group therapy meetings, she's forced to deal with the tension between them head-on and it's not long before the spark between them fly.
As different as Gabe and April are, somehow together they make perfect sense. Their road to a relationship is rocky at best and filled with dark secrets and tragic pasts. But it's also beautiful and emotional. As cold as April comes off on the outside, inside is she's shattered.
Her friendship with Romeo and ties to the band hurt her as much as they help her for reason that are trickle fed to the reader. She keeps such a tight control on her life and her emotions, and yet at the same time she's punishing herself for a tragic past and attempting to atone for it.
Gabe has issues of his own. He definitely doesn't make it easy on April with his assumptions of good girls like her being too good for the likes of him. As much as he fights it, he also can't help the bond he soon begins to feel for her. When he offers to complete a bucket list from April's cousin that passed away tragically young is the catalyst for their unlikely relationship.
I have to say that I absolutely loved these two together. As much as neither of them are perfect, together they made perfect sense. Rock My Heart was the perfect combination of emotional and sexy. It's everything I've come to love about NA and wish more books in the genre had. It's not the typical cliche ridden romance. The characters and their stories have so much depth; and that goes even more so for this book. I absolutely loved it and would recommend for any lovers of NA or rockstar romances.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
This intensity, this desperation, this is what I want from him. His fierceness send music in my veins, the notes a fast, rhythmic crescendo that exposes his need for me, and drives my need to equal the wildness of his. Together, we're a flying, building tempo, our sensual energy changing to prestissimo- the fastest tempo- in an instant.
Ever since I was first introduced to this fantastic series a couple years ago, I've been waiting for Gabe's book. Something about the silently brooding and manwhorish drummer has always called to me. And after finishing his book, I gotta say that Jean Haus has definitely saved the best for last. I absolutely loved it!
While you may technically read this book as a standalone, I highly recommend you read the series in order to truly get the appreciation for all the side characters. The author does a fantastic job of giving all the background without making it be redundant for those that have been following the series; but it's definitely best read as a series. Jean Haus is one of those authors that I wish more readers knew about. Her ability to weave music into her writing always gives an additional layer to her books. It's actually one of the things I've grown to love most about her writing. She doesn't just write a rockstar romance, she gives you the music element to go along with it.
Gabe Reed is the drummer for Luminescent Juliet. He's a man of little words and barely contained violence. His less than favorable childhood pretty much assures this...
His band is on the route to true fame, but his position in it isn't quite as guaranteed. His anger issues and short fuse to violence has given him a record. And although he's not quite as threatened by Romeo's girlfriend for the position of a drummer that he had originally lost to her now that she has her own band, he's still filled with doubt. The last thing he needs is the presence of the ice princess at his court mandated group meetings...
April Tanner isn't what she appears. Keeping a tight reign on her facade is the only thing that keeps her from coming apart at the seams.
While she may understand that the perception of what she seems to be is what causes the look of contempt on Gabe's face every time he sees her, it doesn't help her fight her attraction to him any more. When Gabe walks into her group therapy meetings, she's forced to deal with the tension between them head-on and it's not long before the spark between them fly.
As different as Gabe and April are, somehow together they make perfect sense. Their road to a relationship is rocky at best and filled with dark secrets and tragic pasts. But it's also beautiful and emotional. As cold as April comes off on the outside, inside is she's shattered.
Her friendship with Romeo and ties to the band hurt her as much as they help her for reason that are trickle fed to the reader. She keeps such a tight control on her life and her emotions, and yet at the same time she's punishing herself for a tragic past and attempting to atone for it.
Gabe has issues of his own. He definitely doesn't make it easy on April with his assumptions of good girls like her being too good for the likes of him. As much as he fights it, he also can't help the bond he soon begins to feel for her. When he offers to complete a bucket list from April's cousin that passed away tragically young is the catalyst for their unlikely relationship.
I have to say that I absolutely loved these two together. As much as neither of them are perfect, together they made perfect sense. Rock My Heart was the perfect combination of emotional and sexy. It's everything I've come to love about NA and wish more books in the genre had. It's not the typical cliche ridden romance. The characters and their stories have so much depth; and that goes even more so for this book. I absolutely loved it and would recommend for any lovers of NA or rockstar romances.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
June 24, 2015
Title: Rock My Heart
Series: Luminescent Juliet #4 Can be read as a standalone
Author: Jean Haus
Release Date: 6 June, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Cliffhanger:. No
HEA:
From the time I’ve read first book in Luminescent Juliet series, I was smitten with the whole band – Jean Haus clearly knows how to catch readers’ attention and create swoon worthy, panty melting rock star heroes, so I’ve been highly anticipating every new addition to this series. I just love musicians! And even though I’ve have read my share of rock star romances, and it’s really hard to surprise me, I always find time to read Jean Haus’s books. She’s really a good writer.
Rock My Heart grabbed me for the beginning. First chapter was enough to tell me that I’m going to enjoy reading this story and I was not mistaken. Jean Haus created ‘perfect’ story about ‘imperfect people’, which not only was heartbreaking at a few points but also sweet and adorable.
Gabe is the last band member to get his own book. He’s the drummer for Luminescent Juliet and the most closed of the guys. He’s broody, a tad bit aggressive, which is connected to his miserable childhood and a bit untrustworthy. So it’s really hard for him to open up to people and let go of his insecurities. Due to his ‘bad temper’ he feels that his spot in the band is endangered. He really wants to get past his anger, so he goes to group therapy meetings. Unfortunately for him, he is in the same group as April, a friend of the band. In his eyes she’s nothing more than a preppy, rich ice queen.
April is anything but. She has her own demons and has no idea how to get past them. Rich family or not, she really isn’t the perfect girl that everyone see when they look at her. She’s full of shame and guilt… my heart broke for her.
"I have issues. Tons of them. Most people do. I'm just far, far better than most at hiding them. The root of my issues, the real reason, the burden I live with every day, will never come out...Not in the future. Just not ever."
I really liked Gabe and April as a couple, even though their relationship was not easy as both of them had to deal with some serious issues. Despite them, however the book was still very arousing and sexy. The banter between main characters made me laugh, as both of them were witty, stubborn and funny.
"I stand on my tiptoes and let him drink me in like he did the whiskey, only this isn't a quick shot, it's a slow, slow sip, that leaves a burn for more."
You can read this book as a standalone, but as this whole series is worth recommending, I would say it’s worth to invest and meet properly all band and their girlfriends. The group dynamics has important role in this series, and it’s really nice to get to know all the characters.
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March 12, 2017
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable read. I am extremely disappointed in the ending though! I was going to rate it 3.5 stars, but just the abruptness of the ending and lack of closure made me drop it to 3 stars. I liked the characters, I felt like we got into their characters a sufficient amount, and I felt their connection to each other. It probably won't be all that memorable in the long run, and it won't go on my favorites shelf -- but it was good for what it was ;)
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is April and Gabe's story. They've met though mutual friends and Gabe's band members. They don't necessarily like each other, but something brings them together to make them see each other in a new way. Gabe ends up helping April work though some stuff, and they end up spending more time together and forming a friendship. That friendship turns into more and they fall in love. They both have a lot of emotional baggage to deal with, but after some sweet moments and sexy times...they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between April and Gabe's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the abrupt ending. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Gabe. I liked him, but he said some pretty nasty things to the h that I'm not quite sure he made up for tbh.
h rating: 4 stars. April. I liked her. She was dealing with a lot of guilt, and was pretty messed up because if it. I liked the way she loved the H.
Sadness level: Moderate. I teared up a few times, but never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a really abrupt ending with not nearly enough closure for me. I had a lot of unanswered questions in the end, and the couple didn't have any concrete commitments. I would call it a HFN ending.
How I got it: It was part of my scribed subscription.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers.
Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable read. I am extremely disappointed in the ending though! I was going to rate it 3.5 stars, but just the abruptness of the ending and lack of closure made me drop it to 3 stars. I liked the characters, I felt like we got into their characters a sufficient amount, and I felt their connection to each other. It probably won't be all that memorable in the long run, and it won't go on my favorites shelf -- but it was good for what it was ;)
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is April and Gabe's story. They've met though mutual friends and Gabe's band members. They don't necessarily like each other, but something brings them together to make them see each other in a new way. Gabe ends up helping April work though some stuff, and they end up spending more time together and forming a friendship. That friendship turns into more and they fall in love. They both have a lot of emotional baggage to deal with, but after some sweet moments and sexy times...they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between April and Gabe's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the abrupt ending. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Gabe. I liked him, but he said some pretty nasty things to the h that I'm not quite sure he made up for tbh.
h rating: 4 stars. April. I liked her. She was dealing with a lot of guilt, and was pretty messed up because if it. I liked the way she loved the H.
Sadness level: Moderate. I teared up a few times, but never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a really abrupt ending with not nearly enough closure for me. I had a lot of unanswered questions in the end, and the couple didn't have any concrete commitments. I would call it a HFN ending.
How I got it: It was part of my scribed subscription.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers.
June 6, 2015
Find This and Other Reviews At Craves The Angst.
I received this eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
5 “Rock My Heart” Stars!
Wonderfully Intense and Filled With Addictive Tension That Made My Heart Melt!
The Review:
Rock My Heart is the fourth book in the Luminescent Juliet series. This is Gabe's story!
We met Gabe in book one and you could tell right away he had a chip on his shoulder. He’s silent and intense but also combative and angry. But he joins the band and though he’s a background figure throughout the series, he’s the guy you keep your eye on because there’s just something about him that screams “look at me”. He’s hot, he’s built, he pounds the drums like he’s beating the world's problems away and when he looks at you, your mouth waters and you beg for your mind to escape the fog before you do something stupid.
Which is exactly what April does her first time alone with Gabe. We met April in book one as well and she came off as snooty and aloof and we weren’t sure where her loyalties lie when it came to Romeo and Riley. I wasn’t sure I was going to like her. But Jean Haus spins magic and immediately I found myself cheering in April’s corner.
In the beginning, Gabe and April can’t stand each other and I loved the slow, agonizing build to something more. This book had everything I love in a romance.
First, it had broken, damaged characters, two opposites who were betrayed by life, just trying to find their way. April and Gabe are both in a vicious cycle. April is drowning in blame and guilt. Gabe is consumed by violence and fear. Neither think they are worthy of the other and this book had a perfect balance of push-pull along with some swoon-worthy, butterfly inducing, sweet, sexy scenes. Gabe and April were brilliant together, even when they weren't getting along because the sexual tension was Right. There!
April and Gabe have some real struggles ahead of them and they have a lot to overcome. For both of them, their present is riddled with a painful past. But together they find redemption it in each other. They find love, they find acceptance, and they find understanding. With Gabe's acceptance and love April is able to find her music again and with April’s understanding and patience Gabe is able to find some semblance of peace.
I absolutely love this couple. I loved their story and I loved how their connection felt real and how I could connect with them on a personal level.
It also had recurring characters from the previous books, specifically my favorites. There is plenty of Romeo and Riley, who were, up until this book, my favorites from the series. Now April and Gabe are running in a tie with them.
I was thrilled to see the band get along. In the last book, they were fighting and bumping heads over everything. I honestly could not foresee how they were going to make it with the upcoming fame and success headed their way, which comes with its own stress. But they found a way to get along and work together and that made me very happy.
Side note about Romeo and Riley... I was ecstatic we got to see how their lives were progressing. In the first book, their story felt incomplete to me. But in this book we see Riley moving forward, doing what she loves and working at her own pace. She's just enjoying life with Romeo at her side. Romeo seems to have found his center and has loosened up some. The other couples are happy and drama free. Things are good and life is happening for all of them and the author did a phenomenal job tying up loose ends and giving them all there HEA... with room to grow if she chooses.
The Wrap Up:
This book was brilliant and I wish I could give it more than five stars! I loved every minute of it and stayed up all night just to finish it. In short, it was perfect!
I received this eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
5 “Rock My Heart” Stars!
Wonderfully Intense and Filled With Addictive Tension That Made My Heart Melt!
The Review:
Rock My Heart is the fourth book in the Luminescent Juliet series. This is Gabe's story!
We met Gabe in book one and you could tell right away he had a chip on his shoulder. He’s silent and intense but also combative and angry. But he joins the band and though he’s a background figure throughout the series, he’s the guy you keep your eye on because there’s just something about him that screams “look at me”. He’s hot, he’s built, he pounds the drums like he’s beating the world's problems away and when he looks at you, your mouth waters and you beg for your mind to escape the fog before you do something stupid.
Which is exactly what April does her first time alone with Gabe. We met April in book one as well and she came off as snooty and aloof and we weren’t sure where her loyalties lie when it came to Romeo and Riley. I wasn’t sure I was going to like her. But Jean Haus spins magic and immediately I found myself cheering in April’s corner.
In the beginning, Gabe and April can’t stand each other and I loved the slow, agonizing build to something more. This book had everything I love in a romance.
First, it had broken, damaged characters, two opposites who were betrayed by life, just trying to find their way. April and Gabe are both in a vicious cycle. April is drowning in blame and guilt. Gabe is consumed by violence and fear. Neither think they are worthy of the other and this book had a perfect balance of push-pull along with some swoon-worthy, butterfly inducing, sweet, sexy scenes. Gabe and April were brilliant together, even when they weren't getting along because the sexual tension was Right. There!
April and Gabe have some real struggles ahead of them and they have a lot to overcome. For both of them, their present is riddled with a painful past. But together they find redemption it in each other. They find love, they find acceptance, and they find understanding. With Gabe's acceptance and love April is able to find her music again and with April’s understanding and patience Gabe is able to find some semblance of peace.
I absolutely love this couple. I loved their story and I loved how their connection felt real and how I could connect with them on a personal level.
It also had recurring characters from the previous books, specifically my favorites. There is plenty of Romeo and Riley, who were, up until this book, my favorites from the series. Now April and Gabe are running in a tie with them.
I was thrilled to see the band get along. In the last book, they were fighting and bumping heads over everything. I honestly could not foresee how they were going to make it with the upcoming fame and success headed their way, which comes with its own stress. But they found a way to get along and work together and that made me very happy.
Side note about Romeo and Riley... I was ecstatic we got to see how their lives were progressing. In the first book, their story felt incomplete to me. But in this book we see Riley moving forward, doing what she loves and working at her own pace. She's just enjoying life with Romeo at her side. Romeo seems to have found his center and has loosened up some. The other couples are happy and drama free. Things are good and life is happening for all of them and the author did a phenomenal job tying up loose ends and giving them all there HEA... with room to grow if she chooses.
The Wrap Up:
This book was brilliant and I wish I could give it more than five stars! I loved every minute of it and stayed up all night just to finish it. In short, it was perfect!
July 1, 2015
Emotional, intense, sexy, and sweet. Loved Gabe review to come.
Want to read
May 28, 2015GABE'S STORY!!!! I'M SO FUCKING EXCITED FOR HIS BOOK!! A DAY AFTER MY B-DAY HELL YEA!!!!
June 6, 2015
4 Anger Filled Stars!
Source: eARC for Honest Review Courtesy of Author
Why do we do the things we do? Is it because of our past? Our guilt? Our shame? Our need? Our want? Our anger? Our hurt?
For April and Gabe they may be polar opposite but are fed by their pasts which is dictating their present and future.
To Gabe, April's a spoiled girl who doesn't belong to their group of friends. For the life of him he doesn't know why Romeo ever dated her. Unfortunately for him Riley and Romeo are good friends with April so she's now part of their group.
For Gabe he's just plain angry.
His anger has landed him time at group therapy, where he runs into April.
April has her own demons behind her perfectly polished shell. Yet she's a bit of a dichotomy to Gabe.
"You want people to think you're perfect, yet you don't care what they think."
The last thing April wants is for Gabe to find out her secret but she doesn't know how to get the placement she needs with her school at the same time get away from group therapy and Gabe. Fortunately for both Gabe and April they start to receive the benefits of group therapy and the tasks involved with it.
~ I'm slowly coming to terms that hiding my past isn't solely about keeping me from depression. It has also been about being afraid of how people view me. ~
The more Gabe and April hang out the more they start to feel for each and the more they can't deny each other. Unfortunately for them their demons cause tons of angst for them within themselves and each other. Now its a journey to try and heal and move forward. Either on their own or with each other.
"And though I do understand why you've felt guilty, you also have to have the courage to forgive yourself."
Gabe's anger is hard to take at times but you know he has such a soft heart underneath, that you're just rooting for him to see the light in the midst of all that rage. Thankfully he has drumming, which is his outlet and April even though he's still a bit torn of how this relationship has potential.
~This is starting to kill me. His stubbornness is breaking my heart.~ (Me too)
Gabe and April don't have an easy time being together but they seem to work when Gabe gets his head out his ass long enough.
" ... But together, we're less screwed up. Together we're stronger, better people, like you said, brand new."
Now their pasts are coming to the present and they both have to deal with him if they want to find a HEA with each other.
"That the trying is what makes us better, even if it's twisted fuckery. It might not get you to the finish line, but it gets you closer."
From the beginning I have loved this series and I'm a bit sad to see the end but all good things come to an end sometime or another. All of the Luminescent Juliet's have a place in my heart but especially Gabe. His character's journey is harsh but hopeful. Great Series. Great Book.
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June 30, 2015
Thank you to Jean Haus for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jean Haus manages to blend two things I’m not typically a fan of—New Adult and rockers—and make me fall in love with the story and characters every time. Rock My Heart is the fourth (and I think final) book in the Luminescent Juliet series. While this book can be read as a standalone, the first three books in this story are worth the read, and I think Romeo (the lead male in the first book) and his take charge, level-headed personality really sets the tone for the following books.
Rock My Heart is the story of Gabe and April, two people who, like all of us, have scars from their pasts and are taking it day by day as they try to live with them. Gabe is the drummer for an up and coming hot band called Luminescent Juliet who finally feels like he has something worth fighting for, and April is a psychology student clinging to the perfect persona she’s created in an effort to keep her sanity together.
I absolutely loved both of these characters. Almost against their will, they recognized something in each other that pulled them together. They played it close to the vest as far as emotions were concerned, but had a hard time bluffing with each other. It’s Gabe convincing April to complete her deceased relative’s bucket list with his help that brings them together, and through their endeavor, April realizes Gabe isn’t as indifferent as he tries to be, and the ‘ice queen’ Gabe sees April as begins to thaw. There was a constant push and pull as they struggled with finally learning to share their burdens, and I love the way it happened so naturally. I liked watching Gabe struggle to find his place in the world. He was never sure where he belonged. Even with the band, he was their second choice for drummer and that only added to his feeling of unworthiness. I thought the pacing of this book was perfect. Nothing felt rushed to me, but there was always something happening that was pushing the plot along. There were so many romantic moments in this story, and the steamy scenes were hot!
I had a few issues with the book – first of all, we heard very little about the suicide that rocked April’s life and was what ultimately drove this plot. It was something she agonized over, but we didn’t really read about the event very much. I feel like that would have been constantly plaguing her and would have expected to read more about it. Also, the end seemed to be drag out a little bit. On the other hand, I thought the epilogue was wonderful and gave us a nice glimpse into the future of all the members of Luminescent Juliet. I liked the way that portion was wrapped up.
As for the series overall, I absolutely loved it and can’t recommend it enough. Romeo’s story was the perfect beginning; it set the tone for the entire series. He was incredibly driven and professional, and it was his mindset that got the band to where they were in the last book. It was also what kept them all in line and not over-the-top crazy. I felt like the drama in this series was well-written and not overdone. It also dealt with some serious social issues in a very sensitive way, including depression, mental illness, and bullying. I loved the covers for the first two, In the Band and Ink My Heart. I think they are enticing and would make me pick up the book to read the blurb. The last two, With the Band and Rock My Heart, are the exact opposite for me. My eye would just glide right over them without stopping. I wish the cover style had remained the same for the series.
Rock My Heart was a wonderful story of healing and of learning that your past is only part of what defines you. If you like a sweet love story minus crazy drama, this story would be perfect for you.
This review was originally posted at Badass Book Reviews.
Jean Haus manages to blend two things I’m not typically a fan of—New Adult and rockers—and make me fall in love with the story and characters every time. Rock My Heart is the fourth (and I think final) book in the Luminescent Juliet series. While this book can be read as a standalone, the first three books in this story are worth the read, and I think Romeo (the lead male in the first book) and his take charge, level-headed personality really sets the tone for the following books.
Rock My Heart is the story of Gabe and April, two people who, like all of us, have scars from their pasts and are taking it day by day as they try to live with them. Gabe is the drummer for an up and coming hot band called Luminescent Juliet who finally feels like he has something worth fighting for, and April is a psychology student clinging to the perfect persona she’s created in an effort to keep her sanity together.
I absolutely loved both of these characters. Almost against their will, they recognized something in each other that pulled them together. They played it close to the vest as far as emotions were concerned, but had a hard time bluffing with each other. It’s Gabe convincing April to complete her deceased relative’s bucket list with his help that brings them together, and through their endeavor, April realizes Gabe isn’t as indifferent as he tries to be, and the ‘ice queen’ Gabe sees April as begins to thaw. There was a constant push and pull as they struggled with finally learning to share their burdens, and I love the way it happened so naturally. I liked watching Gabe struggle to find his place in the world. He was never sure where he belonged. Even with the band, he was their second choice for drummer and that only added to his feeling of unworthiness. I thought the pacing of this book was perfect. Nothing felt rushed to me, but there was always something happening that was pushing the plot along. There were so many romantic moments in this story, and the steamy scenes were hot!
I had a few issues with the book – first of all, we heard very little about the suicide that rocked April’s life and was what ultimately drove this plot. It was something she agonized over, but we didn’t really read about the event very much. I feel like that would have been constantly plaguing her and would have expected to read more about it. Also, the end seemed to be drag out a little bit. On the other hand, I thought the epilogue was wonderful and gave us a nice glimpse into the future of all the members of Luminescent Juliet. I liked the way that portion was wrapped up.
As for the series overall, I absolutely loved it and can’t recommend it enough. Romeo’s story was the perfect beginning; it set the tone for the entire series. He was incredibly driven and professional, and it was his mindset that got the band to where they were in the last book. It was also what kept them all in line and not over-the-top crazy. I felt like the drama in this series was well-written and not overdone. It also dealt with some serious social issues in a very sensitive way, including depression, mental illness, and bullying. I loved the covers for the first two, In the Band and Ink My Heart. I think they are enticing and would make me pick up the book to read the blurb. The last two, With the Band and Rock My Heart, are the exact opposite for me. My eye would just glide right over them without stopping. I wish the cover style had remained the same for the series.
Rock My Heart was a wonderful story of healing and of learning that your past is only part of what defines you. If you like a sweet love story minus crazy drama, this story would be perfect for you.
This review was originally posted at Badass Book Reviews.
June 17, 2015
Daaaaamn, book...
June 8, 2015
Anyone that knows me can attest to how huge a fan I am of music/musicians. So I absolutely love books that tell the stories of the colorful life I presume most artist live. The Luminescent Juliet series is one of my favorites. Each book tells the story of a band member: lead guitar, lead singer, bassist, and drummer. This is Gabe the drummers story. Lord knows I love the drummer.
Gabe doesn't try to hide or sugarcoat the hell he was raised in. His mother left him when he was just six years old with an abusive father. His father's girlfriend Sharon is the closest he's ever had to a mother and when Gabe is old enough and big enough to stand up to his dad it's no surprise it's to protect her. He became hugely protective of woman in general .Never able to stand by and watch a man take out his aggressions on a lady. In his attempt to avoid confrontation with his dad, Gabe has always had girlfriends that could give him a place to stay. I'd add selfless and generous to his list of admirable qualities. His pride may be his most notable flaw but I'd prefer that over an egotistical man-whore.
April happens to be really good friends with Riley who was the lead female character in book one and at one time she even dated Romeo, the bands lead guitarist. Gabe has made it pretty clear he doesn't like her. She is his complete opposite. She tells no one about her self imposed punishment or what drives her to be a psychologist. She keeps her talents and family life very private. She is close to graduating with a degree in psychology but her very insightful professor pushes her to participate in group therapy and now April and Gabe's paths outside of the band have crossed and neither are very happy about it.
One of the biggest surprises about Gabe is how self aware he is. He's super smart and intuitive. When he joins group therapy to try and get control of his temper and aggressive behavior, he's afraid that April could make it difficult for him to openly participate. His biggest fear of being kicked out of the band could become a reality. I found myself often thinking that Gabe had more potential to be a counselor than April. She can't be completely honest with anyone including herself and that's like a prerequisite for someone who wants to counsel others.
The magic happens as they gradually become friends and their mutual attraction gets harder to hide. Gabe leads April to her truth and she becomes the calm in his storm. My wish for this story would be that it had continued with an epilogue that went a little further into their future. Or even better would be a novella that gives us a look at where the whole band ends up in a couple of years. My point is that I can't get enough of these characters. 5 stars across the board for Luminescent Juliet.
Favorite Quotes
"Though I cling to pride like a motherfucker, I'm not stupid. So when he brought Riley in, I swallowed pride like a heroin addict prostitute swallows in a back alley--without a blink of an eye, even as their insides have to be retching like hell. Drumming is my heroin, Romeo my pimp, and Riley my pusher." -Gabe, Loc378
"Damn. I want her. Badly. Though I admitted my attraction to her internally, I kept the actual possibility of being with her as a not-going-to-ever-fucking-happen. Until she dragged her hot mouth across my rain wet skin and turned me on so hard, I wanted to screw her in a puddle on that wet basketball court." Gabe, Loc1143
Gabe doesn't try to hide or sugarcoat the hell he was raised in. His mother left him when he was just six years old with an abusive father. His father's girlfriend Sharon is the closest he's ever had to a mother and when Gabe is old enough and big enough to stand up to his dad it's no surprise it's to protect her. He became hugely protective of woman in general .Never able to stand by and watch a man take out his aggressions on a lady. In his attempt to avoid confrontation with his dad, Gabe has always had girlfriends that could give him a place to stay. I'd add selfless and generous to his list of admirable qualities. His pride may be his most notable flaw but I'd prefer that over an egotistical man-whore.
April happens to be really good friends with Riley who was the lead female character in book one and at one time she even dated Romeo, the bands lead guitarist. Gabe has made it pretty clear he doesn't like her. She is his complete opposite. She tells no one about her self imposed punishment or what drives her to be a psychologist. She keeps her talents and family life very private. She is close to graduating with a degree in psychology but her very insightful professor pushes her to participate in group therapy and now April and Gabe's paths outside of the band have crossed and neither are very happy about it.
One of the biggest surprises about Gabe is how self aware he is. He's super smart and intuitive. When he joins group therapy to try and get control of his temper and aggressive behavior, he's afraid that April could make it difficult for him to openly participate. His biggest fear of being kicked out of the band could become a reality. I found myself often thinking that Gabe had more potential to be a counselor than April. She can't be completely honest with anyone including herself and that's like a prerequisite for someone who wants to counsel others.
The magic happens as they gradually become friends and their mutual attraction gets harder to hide. Gabe leads April to her truth and she becomes the calm in his storm. My wish for this story would be that it had continued with an epilogue that went a little further into their future. Or even better would be a novella that gives us a look at where the whole band ends up in a couple of years. My point is that I can't get enough of these characters. 5 stars across the board for Luminescent Juliet.
Favorite Quotes
"Though I cling to pride like a motherfucker, I'm not stupid. So when he brought Riley in, I swallowed pride like a heroin addict prostitute swallows in a back alley--without a blink of an eye, even as their insides have to be retching like hell. Drumming is my heroin, Romeo my pimp, and Riley my pusher." -Gabe, Loc378
"Damn. I want her. Badly. Though I admitted my attraction to her internally, I kept the actual possibility of being with her as a not-going-to-ever-fucking-happen. Until she dragged her hot mouth across my rain wet skin and turned me on so hard, I wanted to screw her in a puddle on that wet basketball court." Gabe, Loc1143
June 6, 2015
"Damn. I want her. Badly. Though I admitted my attraction to her internally, I kept the actual possibility of being with her as a not-going-to-ever-fucking-happen. Until she dragged her hot mouth across my rain wet skin and turned me on so hard, I wanted to screw her in a puddle on that wet basketball court."
Jean Haus' Luminescent Juliet series is that series you wish more people would read because you know if they started it they would be as completely enthralled with it as you are. I fell in love with this band of characters when I stumbled upon Rock The Band on Audilble one day and I am forever happy that I gave it a shot. Each book in this series is a standalone and can be enjoyed by itself but I do highly recommend reading the whole series and watching these characters develop over time from a popular college band to being on the verge of breaking out and signing with a record label.
"One thing is for sure. My body wants him. It wants him real bad."
Gabe has taking over drumming in the up and coming band Luminescent Juliet and while he loves the music his anger and temper issues are threatening not only his role in the band but now that he has been arrested for assault they are threatening his freedom. Court ordered group therapy seems like an easy solution until he shows up and his band mate Romeo's current friend/ former girlfriend, Ice Queen April. Gabe has not made his disliking of April a secret and he seems to be the one person who can get under perfect April's skin.
"Button fly jeans. Hot, hot, hot. Thank you jean makers somewhere in the world."
April makes suppressing her past and putting out a perfect persona a full time job. She has demons she keeps buried so deep that no one knows and when Gabe decides to make a pet project out of helping her come out of her shell they quickly move from a relationship based on disliking one another to a true friendship. But when you mix true friendship, emotional turmoil and an attraction that both are fighting hard and you get a book I couldn't put down.
"I stand on my tiptoes and let him drink me in like he did the whiskey, only this isn't a quick shot, it's a slow, slow sip, that leaves a burn for more."
Jean Haus has a way of taking a typical rocker book and making it so much more. April and Gabe grow right before our eyes. Well written and drenched with angst, humor and love Rock My Heart is a book that will grab you with the sexy rocker and pull you in with the heart wrenching story of two lost souls who are desperate to move forward while stuck in the past.
4.5 Smooches
~miranda
Jean Haus' Luminescent Juliet series is that series you wish more people would read because you know if they started it they would be as completely enthralled with it as you are. I fell in love with this band of characters when I stumbled upon Rock The Band on Audilble one day and I am forever happy that I gave it a shot. Each book in this series is a standalone and can be enjoyed by itself but I do highly recommend reading the whole series and watching these characters develop over time from a popular college band to being on the verge of breaking out and signing with a record label.
"One thing is for sure. My body wants him. It wants him real bad."
Gabe has taking over drumming in the up and coming band Luminescent Juliet and while he loves the music his anger and temper issues are threatening not only his role in the band but now that he has been arrested for assault they are threatening his freedom. Court ordered group therapy seems like an easy solution until he shows up and his band mate Romeo's current friend/ former girlfriend, Ice Queen April. Gabe has not made his disliking of April a secret and he seems to be the one person who can get under perfect April's skin.
"Button fly jeans. Hot, hot, hot. Thank you jean makers somewhere in the world."
April makes suppressing her past and putting out a perfect persona a full time job. She has demons she keeps buried so deep that no one knows and when Gabe decides to make a pet project out of helping her come out of her shell they quickly move from a relationship based on disliking one another to a true friendship. But when you mix true friendship, emotional turmoil and an attraction that both are fighting hard and you get a book I couldn't put down.
"I stand on my tiptoes and let him drink me in like he did the whiskey, only this isn't a quick shot, it's a slow, slow sip, that leaves a burn for more."
Jean Haus has a way of taking a typical rocker book and making it so much more. April and Gabe grow right before our eyes. Well written and drenched with angst, humor and love Rock My Heart is a book that will grab you with the sexy rocker and pull you in with the heart wrenching story of two lost souls who are desperate to move forward while stuck in the past.
4.5 Smooches
~miranda
August 2, 2015
Rock My Heart is an almost 72,000 word new adult contemporary romance novel that follows Gabe Reed, the misunderstood bad-boy drummer of the popular band Luminescent Juliet, and April Tanner, the straight-laced preppy psychology student with a hidden secret. As the best friend of Romeo, the leader of Luminescent Juliet, April spends a lot of time with the bandmates, but Gabe and April share a mutual hatred towards each other. The hatred only grows when Gabe walks into the supposedly “safe” space of April’s group therapy session one day—a group she meticulously picked for its distance from her home, assuming no one she knows would ever find her there. Gabe was court-ordered to participate in that group after two charges of assault and battery because of his anger issues caused by his abusive father, and although they both want the other to find a different group, neither can make that happen.
Gabe is convinced that April is only there for her psychology degree and that she thinks she is above everyone and their problems. His suspicions change, however, when April finally opens up in therapy about her cousin, Rachel, committing suicide and how she left behind an unfinished bucket list. In order to deal with April being in the group, Gabe confronts his issues with her head on; he volunteers to help April complete the bucket list. Since the counselor thinks it’s a wonderful idea, and April needs the counselor to tell her psychology adviser that she’s making progress so that she can be cleared to get her master’s and eventually be a counselor herself, she reluctantly agrees to let Gabe help.
As Gabe and April hang out together, crossing several items off the list, a bit of sexual tension and lust arises. They come from completely different backgrounds, however, and their bond is tested more than once.
Rock My Heart evokes sadness, passion, and hope. Although the romance is a center focus, the important issues of abuse and suicide are not undermined by the sex scenes. The characters and the issues are real and relatable, and that is definitely a strength of this novel. Although Rock My Heart is the fourth novel in a series, this book can easily be enjoyed alone, although the reader will not be able to get enough of Jean Haus’ writing.
July 19, 2015
I fell in love with Romeo and Riley in the first of this series. The second and third books caught my attention, but not my love. I almost did not read the fourth simply because I was wondering why the writing had changed from the first to the second and third. I was so pleased with Gabe and April's story--the writing, the character development, the drama. It was all back to who and what I saw in the first of the series. I want to be entertained and FEEL when I read, and Haus delivered with this one.
June 10, 2015
lovely story while i gave 4 instead 5 for a few reasons. The chapter was not well balanced with april and gabe - too many chapters from april's point of view made gabe a minor role in this book. and too many nonsenses about who is better, who deserves whom, who is more messed up than the other...
June 3, 2015
4.5 stars. review to come on red cheeks reads.
February 15, 2021
This is one of a series of books. I was not aware of this fact until I finished the book. Having not read the prior books, I was able to read this book and enjoy the story. A young man tries to deal with his demons and becomes part of a band. There's plenty of twists to keep the reader interested in the story. At times, I was surprised at Gabe's ability to withstand the events of his life.
June 6, 2017
Loved this series from the very start and straight through to the end. Gabe and April were absolutely perfect for each other. My only problem is now I want more!
August 17, 2017
Overall a very entertaining series. Great characters and nostalgic. A good idea for a summer read.
July 6, 2018
I liked the book but Gabe and April didn’t grow on me like other characters in similar books.
April 28, 2020
A really good story with drama and love. Maybe not the top one in this quality serie of books but worth five stars for everything.
June 13, 2015
Has anyone else been dying for Gabe's book??? I know I can't be the only one itching to get my fingers on this one. I love the Luminescent Juliet series and have been dying to get Gabe's story! And what a story he has. The drummer of the bad with the giant chip on his shoulder and attitude to match. He has been arrested, in fights with bandmates, and kinda a player.... and now we will know why he is all of these things!
Gabe is the silent and brooding type of leading man. He is troubled and keeps to himself. Even though he is part of the band, he is still a loner and likes it that way. If you read the other books in the series, you know Gabe is a hot head and gets in his fair share of fights. One of thee fights has now landed Gabe into trouble with the law and now he is in court ordered group therapy.
April is a friend of the band's. She is also a psych student and is in the same group sessions as Gabe. April has her own deep and dark secrets that have motivated her to do things she does. She is also a loner and keeps her past and secrets buried.
When Gabe and April start opening up slowly to each other, their friendship flourishes and leads to more. Their past becomes their present when everything starts to catch up with them....
This story was a great story about love, trust and Gabe as a whole. I think I have a new favorite member of Luminescent Juliet!!
Gabe is the silent and brooding type of leading man. He is troubled and keeps to himself. Even though he is part of the band, he is still a loner and likes it that way. If you read the other books in the series, you know Gabe is a hot head and gets in his fair share of fights. One of thee fights has now landed Gabe into trouble with the law and now he is in court ordered group therapy.
April is a friend of the band's. She is also a psych student and is in the same group sessions as Gabe. April has her own deep and dark secrets that have motivated her to do things she does. She is also a loner and keeps her past and secrets buried.
When Gabe and April start opening up slowly to each other, their friendship flourishes and leads to more. Their past becomes their present when everything starts to catch up with them....
This story was a great story about love, trust and Gabe as a whole. I think I have a new favorite member of Luminescent Juliet!!
December 21, 2015
I'm assuming this is the last book of the series and I hate to say it wasn't my favorite. Gabe is the hot-tempered drummer that lost out to Riley but then later replaced her. April is the ex-girlfriend turned friend of band leader and lead guitarist, Romeo.
This book was not about the band at all and that was very disappointing. April has a wee crush on Gabe but sour face Gabe puts off some serious back off vibes. But the two actually start to form a friendship when they attend the same therapy session - Gabe for his court-appointed anger management and April for her required therapy hours for her psychology degree. But she also has a secret.
When we learn about April's "cousin's" bucket list the rest of the story turned into completing that. Learning April has some musical talent of her own should have been explored more in my opinion. That was the most interesting part of the book.
None of the books in the series have topped In the Band but it ended on a good note. It was okay.
This book was not about the band at all and that was very disappointing. April has a wee crush on Gabe but sour face Gabe puts off some serious back off vibes. But the two actually start to form a friendship when they attend the same therapy session - Gabe for his court-appointed anger management and April for her required therapy hours for her psychology degree. But she also has a secret.
When we learn about April's "cousin's" bucket list the rest of the story turned into completing that. Learning April has some musical talent of her own should have been explored more in my opinion. That was the most interesting part of the book.
None of the books in the series have topped In the Band but it ended on a good note. It was okay.
January 3, 2016
Great end to the series, somewhere in the description it says this is a stand alone book. I would recommend that it not be. The characters from the first three books are prominent throughout this one and the connection to Gabe and April, for me, was built through reading the first three. Great read, good characters, and a great ending.
October 3, 2015
Loved the story, but it definitely needed an editor. Lots of tiny mistakes.
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