What do you think?
Rate this book
Fade to Red
Dancing in pop superstar Beckham Woods' entourage was the last thing Roxie wanted. Her life with little Leo was blissfully ordinary; she didn't have time for the drama that stirring up old memories would surely cause.
But when Roxie took a spot on an international tour with Woods and rock icon Ian Sterling, the lure of financial security and her passion for dance pulled her into an emotional storm that threatened to spin out of control and hurt the ones she loved most.
Just as she began to adjust to her new life, it became apparent that danger was in the shadows, waiting for a chance to move...
***Fade to Red is a standalone novel featuring characters from True L̶o̶v̶e̶ Story.***
99 cents for a limited time only!
But when Roxie took a spot on an international tour with Woods and rock icon Ian Sterling, the lure of financial security and her passion for dance pulled her into an emotional storm that threatened to spin out of control and hurt the ones she loved most.
Just as she began to adjust to her new life, it became apparent that danger was in the shadows, waiting for a chance to move...
***Fade to Red is a standalone novel featuring characters from True L̶o̶v̶e̶ Story.***
99 cents for a limited time only!
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2015
255 people are currently reading
1401 people want to read
About the author
Willow Aster
47 books4,606 followersWillow Aster is a USA Today Bestselling Author of emotional, angsty love stories with a side of quirk. She is co-writer of The End of Men series with Tarryn Fisher and co-writer of the G.D. Taylors series with Laura Pavlov.
Website: http://www.willowaster.com/
Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/willowastera...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/
Living in the Pages podcast with our favorite authors: https://apple.co/2FraLVV
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/WillowAster/
Reader group on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/87097...
Newsletter:
http://www.willowaster.com/subscribe/
Website: http://www.willowaster.com/
Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/willowastera...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/
Living in the Pages podcast with our favorite authors: https://apple.co/2FraLVV
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/WillowAster/
Reader group on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/87097...
Newsletter:
http://www.willowaster.com/subscribe/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
September 3, 2016
IT'S LIVE AMAZON http://amzn.to/1QrMJbH
5 STARS
"What do you want?"
"....I want you.Remember? I want everything."
Willow Aster has the ability to drown me in her stories each time I read a book of her!This time was not an exception!I devoured this story, one moment I was at 5% and when I checked again I was at 50% and I couldn't stop!I wanted more and more!I loved the romance and how it developed but what I loved more is the mystery that was in the story that kept me guessing all the time!
Beckham is a popular pop star who needs a new dancer, when he sees Roxie he is dazzled by her beauty up on the stage .From the moment these two meet you can feel their explosive chemistry.Soon she will become his dancer and she will join the big tour with Beckham and Ian.Roxie tries to stay away from him due to their past but Beckham can't stop getting close to her.
Roxie immediately became one of my favorite heroines!She could definitely be one of my friends!She is independent, strong,sweet and funny!Beckham is sweet,protective and so hot!
Beckam and Roxie had to work for their relationship,nothings comes easy and I like it because I could connected more with them!They have some issues that bother them and this is what makes them realistic.When these two are together you can feel the passion and the intensity!They have such a strong connection these two and you can feel it in the story!
If you are looking for a romance with suspense,twists and mystery then definitely this story is for you!I hope Willow will write soon another book because I really missed her writing!
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
5 STARS
"What do you want?"
"....I want you.Remember? I want everything."
Willow Aster has the ability to drown me in her stories each time I read a book of her!This time was not an exception!I devoured this story, one moment I was at 5% and when I checked again I was at 50% and I couldn't stop!I wanted more and more!I loved the romance and how it developed but what I loved more is the mystery that was in the story that kept me guessing all the time!
Beckham is a popular pop star who needs a new dancer, when he sees Roxie he is dazzled by her beauty up on the stage .From the moment these two meet you can feel their explosive chemistry.Soon she will become his dancer and she will join the big tour with Beckham and Ian.Roxie tries to stay away from him due to their past but Beckham can't stop getting close to her.
Roxie immediately became one of my favorite heroines!She could definitely be one of my friends!She is independent, strong,sweet and funny!Beckham is sweet,protective and so hot!
Beckam and Roxie had to work for their relationship,nothings comes easy and I like it because I could connected more with them!They have some issues that bother them and this is what makes them realistic.When these two are together you can feel the passion and the intensity!They have such a strong connection these two and you can feel it in the story!
If you are looking for a romance with suspense,twists and mystery then definitely this story is for you!I hope Willow will write soon another book because I really missed her writing!
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
October 6, 2015
4,5 stars
Who has never fantasized about a rock star falling in love with you?
Sharing his magical and dazzling life with you. It’s the ultimate dream come true!! The perfect dream!!
Willow Aster’s Fade to Red, which can be read as a standalone, it does include Ian & Sparrow from True Love Story…which, if you haven’t read yet..you should, because it’s an absolutely amazing book, is the ultimate story of a rock star.
Fade to Red, a beautifully-crafted, well-written story gives you a backstage pass into the world of sex, drugs and rock and roll. A dazzling lifestyle of excess, full of egos, groupies, relentless paparazzi, the limelight where you are always in the public eye, the difficulties experiencing on touring and the fickleness in the industry.
REVIEW:
The story:
Roxie Taylor auditions for a part as a back-up dancer in Beckham Woods, hot superstar’s up-coming tour.
Ian (from True Love Story) agrees to Beckham’s invitation to join his tour and also bringing his family with him…Sparrow and their baby daughter Journey.
A wild ride behind the scenes of t he tumultuous life of stardom, the chaos, the demands and even the dangers of stalkers.
And how strong and determined two people, true soulmatetes find it difficult to survive the demands this world expects.
The characters:
Roxie Taylor was such a strong and determined character. She took her responsibilities in life very seriously. She was prepared to deal with her feelings for Beckham if it meant her reaching her goal of keeping her son secure and safe.
Her attitude to life was pretty impressive. She knows what she wants in her life and is not afraid to do anything to get it. I loved her interaction with Beckham….even though at times I thought…hey, give the guy a break!!! He’s not the same person you knew then…this is now!!! But it did give Beckham a chance to do some groveling!!!! The chemistry between these two was undeniable….even if Roxie tried to resist it..
Beckham Woods, the ultimate and ultra famous rock star! Living the life he’s always dreamed for the last twenty years has come a long way since then. He has cleaned up his act, given up the mad world of drugs and drink and mindless sex and is now trying to decide what next in his life?
Leo,Roxie’s son. I fell in love with this kid. I couldn’t get enough of him. And yes, I could spend time hanging out with him too..
And yes, I cried a bit when I discovered who his father was!!!!!
Ian & SparrowI loved seeing these two again and not forgetting their little baby girl, Journey..how cool is that name?? Enjoyed how they became part of Beckham’s “family” on tour. And not forgetting some of those scenes between Ian and Sparrow. Let me tell you…the magic and sizzle is still very much there!!!!And Ian…swoon….he’s a total romantic…..
The StalkerNever saw that coming. This is a dark and disturbed character when we finally discover the identity. Cleverly written that I never ever guessed who the person was.
The romance:
This was not an insta-love relationship between Beckham and Roxie. The moments of hope dashed by doses of realities, ups and downs. Heartache. Rejection. Not giving up.
The writing:
Beautiful writing style that flows effortlessly, fresh, fantastic character development, filled with mystery and suspense, romance and a pleasure to turn page after page.
Final Thoughts:
I absolutely loved this book. I loved the story trope and characters.
And the ending was….left wide open!!! Shock, you bet!!! Is there going to be another follow-up to Beckham and Roxie??? I hope so!!
Would I read this book again? YES, YES!!
Would I recommend this book? A definite YES!!
Who has never fantasized about a rock star falling in love with you?
Sharing his magical and dazzling life with you. It’s the ultimate dream come true!! The perfect dream!!
Willow Aster’s Fade to Red, which can be read as a standalone, it does include Ian & Sparrow from True Love Story…which, if you haven’t read yet..you should, because it’s an absolutely amazing book, is the ultimate story of a rock star.
Fade to Red, a beautifully-crafted, well-written story gives you a backstage pass into the world of sex, drugs and rock and roll. A dazzling lifestyle of excess, full of egos, groupies, relentless paparazzi, the limelight where you are always in the public eye, the difficulties experiencing on touring and the fickleness in the industry.
REVIEW:
The story:
Roxie Taylor auditions for a part as a back-up dancer in Beckham Woods, hot superstar’s up-coming tour.
At the audition, Beckham feels some connection with Roxie, something stirs in his head about her but he just can’t say why. But there’s one thing he’s sure about…he wants her to be his back-up dancer…
There is a back-story about Roxie and Beckham and she knows exactly what it is….but she needs this job, she just needs to keep away from him.
Ian (from True Love Story) agrees to Beckham’s invitation to join his tour and also bringing his family with him…Sparrow and their baby daughter Journey.
A wild ride behind the scenes of t he tumultuous life of stardom, the chaos, the demands and even the dangers of stalkers.
And how strong and determined two people, true soulmatetes find it difficult to survive the demands this world expects.
The characters:
Roxie Taylor was such a strong and determined character. She took her responsibilities in life very seriously. She was prepared to deal with her feelings for Beckham if it meant her reaching her goal of keeping her son secure and safe.
Her attitude to life was pretty impressive. She knows what she wants in her life and is not afraid to do anything to get it. I loved her interaction with Beckham….even though at times I thought…hey, give the guy a break!!! He’s not the same person you knew then…this is now!!! But it did give Beckham a chance to do some groveling!!!! The chemistry between these two was undeniable….even if Roxie tried to resist it..
Beckham Woods, the ultimate and ultra famous rock star! Living the life he’s always dreamed for the last twenty years has come a long way since then. He has cleaned up his act, given up the mad world of drugs and drink and mindless sex and is now trying to decide what next in his life?
There was a vulnerability in him that endeared me to him. It wasn’t easy overcoming all the temptations he faced every day that could result in him relapsing into a downward spiral.
Leo,Roxie’s son. I fell in love with this kid. I couldn’t get enough of him. And yes, I could spend time hanging out with him too..
And yes, I cried a bit when I discovered who his father was!!!!!
Ian & SparrowI loved seeing these two again and not forgetting their little baby girl, Journey..how cool is that name?? Enjoyed how they became part of Beckham’s “family” on tour. And not forgetting some of those scenes between Ian and Sparrow. Let me tell you…the magic and sizzle is still very much there!!!!And Ian…swoon….he’s a total romantic…..
”We’ve already gone through hell, baby. It’s time for us to enjoy this heaven.”
The StalkerNever saw that coming. This is a dark and disturbed character when we finally discover the identity. Cleverly written that I never ever guessed who the person was.
The romance:
This was not an insta-love relationship between Beckham and Roxie. The moments of hope dashed by doses of realities, ups and downs. Heartache. Rejection. Not giving up.
"What do you want?"
"....I want you. Remember? I want everything."
“I want to believe I never really forgot,” he said quietly.
I loved that Beckham never gave up on Roxie. And that she was able to see the real man he was…loving, caring and yes, determined to show her his love for her….and what it meant!! Roxie admitting her feelings for Beckham…at last…
”She lived for more and when his mouth teased her lips, she stopped fighting it and kissed him with every shred of attraction, anger, and lust she felt for him.
Actually, it felt a lot more than that.
It felt like breath.
Fuel.
Home.”
The writing:
Beautiful writing style that flows effortlessly, fresh, fantastic character development, filled with mystery and suspense, romance and a pleasure to turn page after page.
Final Thoughts:
I absolutely loved this book. I loved the story trope and characters.
And the ending was….left wide open!!! Shock, you bet!!! Is there going to be another follow-up to Beckham and Roxie??? I hope so!!
Would I read this book again? YES, YES!!
Would I recommend this book? A definite YES!!
September 24, 2015
3.75 Stars
Review to come.
September 22, 2015
Title: Fade to Red
Series: Standalone
Author: Willow Aster
Release date: September 21, 2015
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA
It's been a couple of years since I've read anything from Willow Aster. I remember checking out True Love Story and really loving it. I completely fell for Willow's writing style, it's very eloquent and provoking. This time around, I discovered that Fade to Red is told in third person POV. Which for many isn't an issue. But for me personally, I've gotten used to reading first person exclusively and anytime I switch over, It doesn't feel like a natural transition to me. What really surprised me was that despite my preferences, I was still able to immerse myself right into the story without much difficulty.
This rockstar book is a great example of why I continue to read in this sub-genre. Reading about the music scene is a weakness of mine, and such a wonderful escape into that star studded world. Fade to Red had me invested-with the love story, the uncertainty that plagued their happy ending, and the foreboding I felt. Everything was presented on the glittering backdrop of a music tour with all the sights and sounds that entails.
When Roxie get the job as a dancer on Beckham's tour, she's shocked. As talented as she is, she's never been one to have the best of luck. And though she's excited, she's equally reluctant. From the beginning, we know that Roxie and Beckham have a past, one that she would rather forget. Being around him isn't going to make things easy, but she hopes she can fade into the background and avoid confrontation. What she doesn't know is that this plan is doomed. From the minute he sets eyes on her at auditions, he's drawn to her. Not only is she gorgeous, but seeing her dance left him a little awestruck. He has no clue that not only has he met her before, but he left a mark on her emotionally that never healed.
Beckham is a recovering addict. In the past few years, he's gone through a personal transformation. From a drug and alcohol addicted, selfish manwhore to a man who treats himself and others with respect. He's totally clean, and completely baffled by Roxie's antagonistic and even angry attitude towards him. The harder he tries to dig into what's causing her behavior, the faster she pushes away. I absolutely loved this part of the book. The first half we get a lot of angst and desperation on both their parts. The emotional and physical pull they had going on between them was so delicious.
I was really rooting for Beckham to break through to her. And the unanswered questions about how he hurt her in the past kept me glued to the pages. This author's writing had such moments of beauty that was pure pleasure to read. Some of the scenes between the H/h were so exquisite, I could actually feel the ache and the anticipation and craving right along with them.
He put his hands on either side of her face and kissed her. Soft and gentle, but completely turning her world upside down. Her heart like dandelion dust flying toward the sun.
Gradually we learn what occurred years ago, and the author starts to integrate the suspense aspect into the book. Not only do they have to overcome the hurt and pain the was carelessly caused between them, they have another huge conflict on their hands. There's someone sinister watching and waiting. Biding their time. I liked what this added to the story, but I have to admit, the mystery didn't manage to stump me. I guessed pretty early who was out for blood.
One thing that I found to be a special treat was the fact that we got more time with Sparrow and Ian from True Love Story. They played a huge part in this book. After joining the tour, they quickly bonded with Roxy, Beckham, and the whole entourage. The group became one big family and I enjoyed seeing that close friendship grow between them. That being said, as much as I loved the fact that we got more time with this sweet couple, I couldn't help but feel as if they were given too much time in the book. We alternated between Roxy and Beck back to Sparrow and Ian so many times it almost felt as if it was equally their book. And for me, it felt like the main couple was losing their spotlight.
Another issue I had with the book was the incident with Beckham in the last half of the book. This may be a turn off for some readers.
Overall, even though I didn't end up loving it as I did in the first half, there was a lot about it that impressed me. Willow Aster is an author that knows how to draw every emotion out of me and leave me completely wrung out. She writes from the heart and it shows in her stirring stories and memorable characters.
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
September 21, 2015
****4 Rockin' Stars****
(ARC Kindly provided by Author)
So many things about this book I loved. I was completly hooked from the moment I started reading. Fade To Red totally satisfied the craving I had for a Rockstar story but in all honesty it was so much more than that. Romantic, suspenseful and so much fun, this book is a Must Read!!
Roxie's life dream has always been to be a successful dancer, she's trained very hard over the years to achieve her goal but being a single mother has put the brakes on her dreams. Her life is pretty ordinary; working at a bank, being the mom of a smart and unique kid and raising him with the help of her sister is what keeps her occupied, leaving little room for anything else. But recently her sister has convinced her to allow herself to dream again and to chase after her goals.
Even though Roxie has put her whole heart into the audition to be part of super star Beckham Wood's concert tour, the last thing she expected was to get picked as the main dancer, because she's not used to amazing things ever happening to her.
From the moment Beckham saw Roxie dance, he knew he wanted to dance with her and make her part of his show.
Beckham has recently cleaned up his act after spending the last few years of his life in a haze of drugs, alcohol and meaningless sex. He wants to hold the reigns over his life again. Now that he's clean, his life perspectives have changed and he's decided to retire and make this tour his last.
Once rehearsals start and Beckham gets the chance to dance with Roxie, he's completely fallen for her magnetism and wants more than to just dance with her. But Roxie pretty much hated him on the spot, so he has his work cut out for him when it comes to her.
Roxie has a secret she's been keeping from Beckham and even though she feels a strong connection with him, this secret from her past is keeping her from getting closer to him.
Beckham is determined to do whatever it takes to make Roxie his. Everything about her makes him more hopeful about the future, and hope is something he's never felt before.
Ian Sterling and his wife Sparrow have joined the tour and together with Beckham, Roxie, and the rest of the wonderful and unique crew will form a little family on the road. Everything is going according to plans until someone very dangerous has caught wind of Beckham's interest in Roxie, causing big chaos for everyone.
Turns out it will prove harder for Roxie and Beckham to explore the feelings that have formed between them because it's not only themselves they'll have to fight for a chance at love.
This is a very passionate and exhilarating story that will keep you entertained from beginning to end. You will fall in love with Beckham and Roxie's romance but the thrilling events happening at every turn will keep you guessing until the very end. Another surprise about this story is the appearance of Ian and Sparrow, the main characters from Willow Aster's book True Love Story. Making Fade To Red a real treat for all of us fans of that previous book and making this new story even more special.
I love Willow Aster's books and this new novel has everything I enjoy in a good read; romance, steam and even mystery. She created a very well rounded story that was completely satisfying and absolutely memorable. I loved it!!!
My Fade To Red music playlist:
*Cheyenne by Jason Derulo
*Try Me by Jason Derule ft. Jennifer Lopez
*Girl Crush by Little Big Town
*Drive By by Train
*Stand By You by Rachel Platten
(ARC Kindly provided by Author)
So many things about this book I loved. I was completly hooked from the moment I started reading. Fade To Red totally satisfied the craving I had for a Rockstar story but in all honesty it was so much more than that. Romantic, suspenseful and so much fun, this book is a Must Read!!
Roxie's life dream has always been to be a successful dancer, she's trained very hard over the years to achieve her goal but being a single mother has put the brakes on her dreams. Her life is pretty ordinary; working at a bank, being the mom of a smart and unique kid and raising him with the help of her sister is what keeps her occupied, leaving little room for anything else. But recently her sister has convinced her to allow herself to dream again and to chase after her goals.
Even though Roxie has put her whole heart into the audition to be part of super star Beckham Wood's concert tour, the last thing she expected was to get picked as the main dancer, because she's not used to amazing things ever happening to her.
From the moment Beckham saw Roxie dance, he knew he wanted to dance with her and make her part of his show.
Beckham has recently cleaned up his act after spending the last few years of his life in a haze of drugs, alcohol and meaningless sex. He wants to hold the reigns over his life again. Now that he's clean, his life perspectives have changed and he's decided to retire and make this tour his last.
Once rehearsals start and Beckham gets the chance to dance with Roxie, he's completely fallen for her magnetism and wants more than to just dance with her. But Roxie pretty much hated him on the spot, so he has his work cut out for him when it comes to her.
Roxie has a secret she's been keeping from Beckham and even though she feels a strong connection with him, this secret from her past is keeping her from getting closer to him.
Beckham is determined to do whatever it takes to make Roxie his. Everything about her makes him more hopeful about the future, and hope is something he's never felt before.
Ian Sterling and his wife Sparrow have joined the tour and together with Beckham, Roxie, and the rest of the wonderful and unique crew will form a little family on the road. Everything is going according to plans until someone very dangerous has caught wind of Beckham's interest in Roxie, causing big chaos for everyone.
Turns out it will prove harder for Roxie and Beckham to explore the feelings that have formed between them because it's not only themselves they'll have to fight for a chance at love.
This is a very passionate and exhilarating story that will keep you entertained from beginning to end. You will fall in love with Beckham and Roxie's romance but the thrilling events happening at every turn will keep you guessing until the very end. Another surprise about this story is the appearance of Ian and Sparrow, the main characters from Willow Aster's book True Love Story. Making Fade To Red a real treat for all of us fans of that previous book and making this new story even more special.
I love Willow Aster's books and this new novel has everything I enjoy in a good read; romance, steam and even mystery. She created a very well rounded story that was completely satisfying and absolutely memorable. I loved it!!!
My Fade To Red music playlist:
*Cheyenne by Jason Derulo
*Try Me by Jason Derule ft. Jennifer Lopez
*Girl Crush by Little Big Town
*Drive By by Train
*Stand By You by Rachel Platten
October 3, 2015
3.5 - 4 ★'s
Beckham grew up in a musical family that toured together for a while and then he eventually went out on his own and made it big. And like most big rock stars, he dabbled in everything. Now sober and more mature, he's wanting to make his possible last tour the best ever even inviting Ian Sterling to tour with him.
Yes, that's Ian from TrueLove Story! I was really happy to get more Ian and Sparrow and even baby, Journey. I just didn't realize how much we would be getting of them.
The heroine is Roxie and she's a dancer selected to go on tour with Beckham. Beckham is immediately drawn to her and it's obviously that something is going on with her reaction to him. The more Beckham tries to get to know her, the more she pushes him away.
Beckham's frustrated because Roxie is friendly to almost everyone else but him. And she gets along really well with his sister, Sierra, who came along on this tour and Sparrow.
There is a lot of push and pull between the two and the sexual tension is high. S-l-o-w-l-y, we get more information on Roxie's reasons and the more we do, the closer they become.
Of course, nothing is ever private with a rock star and information AND rumors are rampant causing a whole slew of problems and for people to jump the gun. It doesn't help that the stalker is causing problems as well as someone else.
So, I'm torn about having more Ian and Sparrow. Don't get me wrong, I LOVED having them in the book but it was nerve wracking wondering if the stalker was going to turn their attentions on Ian and Sparrow or even Journey! And they really took time away from Beckham and Roxie.
My other issue is the stalker. I just wasn't a big fan of the story line and not only that but that ending? Come on!! The only positive thing about that is the possibility of another book.
But I loved Beckham and Roxie together and I really loved how Beckham couldn't quit thinking about her and would do (almost) anything for her. He had a little hiccup but it was understandable.
As I said, the ending was a little crazy, intense and sweet but definitely a cliffhanger that I could've done without. TrueLove Story is one of my favorite books and I loved reading another romance from Willow Aster. Can't wait for the next one!
Favorite quote:
♥ "I've been waiting a lifetime for you, Roxie Taylor."
Beckham grew up in a musical family that toured together for a while and then he eventually went out on his own and made it big. And like most big rock stars, he dabbled in everything. Now sober and more mature, he's wanting to make his possible last tour the best ever even inviting Ian Sterling to tour with him.
Yes, that's Ian from True
The heroine is Roxie and she's a dancer selected to go on tour with Beckham. Beckham is immediately drawn to her and it's obviously that something is going on with her reaction to him. The more Beckham tries to get to know her, the more she pushes him away.
Beckham's frustrated because Roxie is friendly to almost everyone else but him. And she gets along really well with his sister, Sierra, who came along on this tour and Sparrow.
There is a lot of push and pull between the two and the sexual tension is high. S-l-o-w-l-y, we get more information on Roxie's reasons and the more we do, the closer they become.
Of course, nothing is ever private with a rock star and information AND rumors are rampant causing a whole slew of problems and for people to jump the gun. It doesn't help that the stalker is causing problems as well as someone else.
So, I'm torn about having more Ian and Sparrow. Don't get me wrong, I LOVED having them in the book but it was nerve wracking wondering if the stalker was going to turn their attentions on Ian and Sparrow or even Journey! And they really took time away from Beckham and Roxie.
My other issue is the stalker. I just wasn't a big fan of the story line and not only that but that ending? Come on!! The only positive thing about that is the possibility of another book.
But I loved Beckham and Roxie together and I really loved how Beckham couldn't quit thinking about her and would do (almost) anything for her. He had a little hiccup but it was understandable.
As I said, the ending was a little crazy, intense and sweet but definitely a cliffhanger that I could've done without. True
Favorite quote:
♥ "I've been waiting a lifetime for you, Roxie Taylor."
September 24, 2015
3 Stars
Roxie wanted to try out for Beckham Wood's backup dancer to show herself that she still had wha it takes and to give her the courage to open her own studio if she got the job. She never planned to take the job and tour with a man she can't stand, but when she learns what the pay is, she know's it will be the best thing for her and her son.
Beckham has been clean and sober for over a year, no booze, no drugs, and no girls. Then he see's his new backup dancer and know's he needs to stay away from her tempting body. But that's easier said than done and he doesn't stay away too long. But for the first time in his life he gets turned down, which only makes him want Roxie more.
Fade to Red can be read as a standalone but features Ian and Sparrow from True Love Story and I would recommend reading that first, though it's not necessary. I absolutely loved Ian and Sparrow's book and even though it has been a long time since I read it i remember most of it and why I thought it was so amazing. So going into this book I think my expectations for something similar was a little too high and I ended up disappointing myself.
I liked the overall story and was rooting for Roxie and Beckham to finally figure their shit out but some parts lost it for me. I couldn't understand why Roxie would even tryout to be a backup dancer for someone she didn't like. I know that she wanted validation that her dancing was good enough, but she could have done that another way and not risk seeing a guy she hated. Then when it came out what exactly happened to make her hate him it made me think of her as immature, I don't know why but I just had no sympathy for that situation because .
When I first started the book I learned that Beckham was a recovering addict and it made me a little nervous because I try to avoid books with a H or h that have a past addiction. I just personally don't like to read about it. It's not always an issue but in this book it turned out to be. Let me be clear, I'm not saying the book wasn't good because of Beckham's addiction, just that it is something I personally would rather not deal with in my reading.
Overall, I did like the story and parts with Beckham trying to get Roxie were really cute. I had some issue's that made me feel pretty meh about the book, but didn't make me hate it. I would still recommend this book to anyone that likes a brooding rockstar and a heroine not willing to give in to him easily.
Roxie wanted to try out for Beckham Wood's backup dancer to show herself that she still had wha it takes and to give her the courage to open her own studio if she got the job. She never planned to take the job and tour with a man she can't stand, but when she learns what the pay is, she know's it will be the best thing for her and her son.
Beckham has been clean and sober for over a year, no booze, no drugs, and no girls. Then he see's his new backup dancer and know's he needs to stay away from her tempting body. But that's easier said than done and he doesn't stay away too long. But for the first time in his life he gets turned down, which only makes him want Roxie more.
Fade to Red can be read as a standalone but features Ian and Sparrow from True Love Story and I would recommend reading that first, though it's not necessary. I absolutely loved Ian and Sparrow's book and even though it has been a long time since I read it i remember most of it and why I thought it was so amazing. So going into this book I think my expectations for something similar was a little too high and I ended up disappointing myself.
I liked the overall story and was rooting for Roxie and Beckham to finally figure their shit out but some parts lost it for me. I couldn't understand why Roxie would even tryout to be a backup dancer for someone she didn't like. I know that she wanted validation that her dancing was good enough, but she could have done that another way and not risk seeing a guy she hated. Then when it came out what exactly happened to make her hate him it made me think of her as immature, I don't know why but I just had no sympathy for that situation because .
When I first started the book I learned that Beckham was a recovering addict and it made me a little nervous because I try to avoid books with a H or h that have a past addiction. I just personally don't like to read about it. It's not always an issue but in this book it turned out to be. Let me be clear, I'm not saying the book wasn't good because of Beckham's addiction, just that it is something I personally would rather not deal with in my reading.
Overall, I did like the story and parts with Beckham trying to get Roxie were really cute. I had some issue's that made me feel pretty meh about the book, but didn't make me hate it. I would still recommend this book to anyone that likes a brooding rockstar and a heroine not willing to give in to him easily.
September 19, 2015
4.5 Stars!
Fade to Red by Willow Aster is a contemporary romance heavily laced with mystery, intrigue and thrilling plot twists.
As always, Willow Aster produces a flawlessly written book. Her writing is clean, descriptive and flows beautifully. The story includes fan favorites, Ian and Sparrow Sterling from Aster’s first book, True Love Story. Beckham Woods is introduced as the highly popular pop star with Roxie Taylor as his new lead dancer. Their chemistry is explosive, right from the start. But not just Beckham and Roxie. The entire crew including additional dancers, a choreographer, family members and security all hit it off and make for a very diverse and dynamic cast of characters. The story heats up as a yearlong tour launches featuring both Beckham Woods and Ian Sterling. A match made in heaven for female enthusiasts. Life on the road for this group is fun and exciting.
The budding romance between Beckham and Roxie does not come easy. They both have their demons, some already slayed, some still waiting to break through the surface. Their connection is undeniable and it’s only a matter of time before the walls come crashing down.
“I just…as much as I try to fight it, I need you, Roxie. I need to touch you. I need to be with you. I just want you in my space, making yourself at home with my things.”
Escalating throughout the book are some mysterious happenings and the tease of the voice of the person responsible. It all unfolds in a perfectly executed string of events that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
“The sharp tang of blood filled her nose, everything faded to red.”
The conclusion is gripping, full of suspense and twists at every turn. Throughout it all, Aster’s character development shines. You will truly fall in love with each and every one of her well placed characters in this book. With the ultimate surprise at the very end, this book wraps up nicely, but still leaves you wondering…in a very intriguing way.
“Time to stop our thoughts and start our dreams.” Or is it?
***As a side note, I do wish True Love Story was fresher in my mind. It has been 2-1/2 years since I have read it and there were a few references to Ian and Sparrow that I just didn’t understand mainly due to lack of memory.
Fade to Red by Willow Aster is a contemporary romance heavily laced with mystery, intrigue and thrilling plot twists.
As always, Willow Aster produces a flawlessly written book. Her writing is clean, descriptive and flows beautifully. The story includes fan favorites, Ian and Sparrow Sterling from Aster’s first book, True Love Story. Beckham Woods is introduced as the highly popular pop star with Roxie Taylor as his new lead dancer. Their chemistry is explosive, right from the start. But not just Beckham and Roxie. The entire crew including additional dancers, a choreographer, family members and security all hit it off and make for a very diverse and dynamic cast of characters. The story heats up as a yearlong tour launches featuring both Beckham Woods and Ian Sterling. A match made in heaven for female enthusiasts. Life on the road for this group is fun and exciting.
The budding romance between Beckham and Roxie does not come easy. They both have their demons, some already slayed, some still waiting to break through the surface. Their connection is undeniable and it’s only a matter of time before the walls come crashing down.
“I just…as much as I try to fight it, I need you, Roxie. I need to touch you. I need to be with you. I just want you in my space, making yourself at home with my things.”
Escalating throughout the book are some mysterious happenings and the tease of the voice of the person responsible. It all unfolds in a perfectly executed string of events that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
“The sharp tang of blood filled her nose, everything faded to red.”
The conclusion is gripping, full of suspense and twists at every turn. Throughout it all, Aster’s character development shines. You will truly fall in love with each and every one of her well placed characters in this book. With the ultimate surprise at the very end, this book wraps up nicely, but still leaves you wondering…in a very intriguing way.
“Time to stop our thoughts and start our dreams.” Or is it?
***As a side note, I do wish True Love Story was fresher in my mind. It has been 2-1/2 years since I have read it and there were a few references to Ian and Sparrow that I just didn’t understand mainly due to lack of memory.
October 4, 2015
☆☆☆☆ 4.5 You Were Always Mine Stars ☆☆☆☆
Willow Aster did it again! This story started off slow but ended with an amazing bang. LOVED IT!!!
Roxie and Beck, she's a dancer and a single mom, he's a sexy rock star with a past. A past that broke Roxie's heart. A past he can't remember and she can't forget.
This is their tale of working out the past to make their future better.
Roxie never intends to fall back in love with Beck. Beck never intended to be drawn to the memories he can't quite grasp but knows Roxie is the ONE.
" “What are you asking for exactly?” she whispered.
“Everything. I’m asking for everything.”
Their connection is undeniable by everyone that watches.
Roxie is hired as Beck's lead dancer on his tour. Their lives are connected intimately, no matter how much Roxie fights the feelings and Beck. Her strength to fight the man that has always had her heart is cracking.
She has more to protect than just herself, she has her 5 year old son Leo. To protect her small family, Roxie has a secret. Beck's heart is about to be ripped out.
" “I’ve been drowning in those eyes from day one. I just didn’t realize they were going to be the death of me.”
Her secret is not the only thing threatening their connection, a stalker from within is set out to end Roxie and anyone that stands in her path to a life with Beck.
The chain of events that happens is a gripping tale of obsession gone totally wrong and lives are forever changed. No one is safe with Beck's stalker on the loose.
A love story filled darkness of evil lurking. How can this not be fabulous!!!!
Not only are Roxie and Beck fantastic characters but the casting of friends and family and one amazing little man, totally makes this book a full story treat!!!
Willow Aster did it again! This story started off slow but ended with an amazing bang. LOVED IT!!!
Roxie and Beck, she's a dancer and a single mom, he's a sexy rock star with a past. A past that broke Roxie's heart. A past he can't remember and she can't forget.
This is their tale of working out the past to make their future better.
Roxie never intends to fall back in love with Beck. Beck never intended to be drawn to the memories he can't quite grasp but knows Roxie is the ONE.
" “What are you asking for exactly?” she whispered.
“Everything. I’m asking for everything.”
Their connection is undeniable by everyone that watches.
Roxie is hired as Beck's lead dancer on his tour. Their lives are connected intimately, no matter how much Roxie fights the feelings and Beck. Her strength to fight the man that has always had her heart is cracking.
She has more to protect than just herself, she has her 5 year old son Leo. To protect her small family, Roxie has a secret. Beck's heart is about to be ripped out.
" “I’ve been drowning in those eyes from day one. I just didn’t realize they were going to be the death of me.”
Her secret is not the only thing threatening their connection, a stalker from within is set out to end Roxie and anyone that stands in her path to a life with Beck.
The chain of events that happens is a gripping tale of obsession gone totally wrong and lives are forever changed. No one is safe with Beck's stalker on the loose.
A love story filled darkness of evil lurking. How can this not be fabulous!!!!
Not only are Roxie and Beck fantastic characters but the casting of friends and family and one amazing little man, totally makes this book a full story treat!!!
September 28, 2015
2.5 Confused Stars: This is going to be a hard review for me to write because there was just so much going on in this book. I think you have to read "A True Love Story" first, to appreciate the entire story of this book. Where this book was about Beck and Roxie, it focused a tremendous amount on Ian and Sparrow from "A True Love Story".
I can't review this book without first saying how her first book gutted me. The writing was amazing and I was engrossed in Ian and Sparrow, until I was hit out of nowhere by Ian and his cheating ways, and this was not a one time cheat (which is still a cheat) but while Ian and Sparrow were, what I thought were falling in love, he was in fact involved with his cousins wife. SO, that being said "Fade to Red" had a major story line between Ian and Sparrow. I have to say I loved it. I fell all over in love with Ian and Sparrow and I absolutely know Ian's feeling for his wife and his daughter. I have no doubt. What I don't understand is why the author decided to include it in this book. At times I didn't know what I was reading more of, Beck and Roxie, or Ian and Sparrow.
I liked Beck and I liked Roxie, but their story confused me. Beck was such a strong lead, until he wasn't (I am not spoiling this). Roxie was strong and I really liked her until she became really annoying. IMO this book was not written as well as her previous book and at the end I really didn't care what happened. It was very unbelievable, and the ending even more so.
I think this book had an identity crisis. I won't spoil this, but WTH? a HUGE problem I had was
with Kenneth. He was mentioned once, who was he, why didn't Roxie contact him?
For me, I don't really trust this author anymore and this book was all over the place, so I will
have to take her off of my "must read" list. But, go decide for yourself!!!
I can't review this book without first saying how her first book gutted me. The writing was amazing and I was engrossed in Ian and Sparrow, until I was hit out of nowhere by Ian and his cheating ways, and this was not a one time cheat (which is still a cheat) but while Ian and Sparrow were, what I thought were falling in love, he was in fact involved with his cousins wife. SO, that being said "Fade to Red" had a major story line between Ian and Sparrow. I have to say I loved it. I fell all over in love with Ian and Sparrow and I absolutely know Ian's feeling for his wife and his daughter. I have no doubt. What I don't understand is why the author decided to include it in this book. At times I didn't know what I was reading more of, Beck and Roxie, or Ian and Sparrow.
I liked Beck and I liked Roxie, but their story confused me. Beck was such a strong lead, until he wasn't (I am not spoiling this). Roxie was strong and I really liked her until she became really annoying. IMO this book was not written as well as her previous book and at the end I really didn't care what happened. It was very unbelievable, and the ending even more so.
I think this book had an identity crisis. I won't spoil this, but WTH? a HUGE problem I had was
with Kenneth. He was mentioned once, who was he, why didn't Roxie contact him?
For me, I don't really trust this author anymore and this book was all over the place, so I will
have to take her off of my "must read" list. But, go decide for yourself!!!
September 30, 2018
I read it to the end ... which is already a bonus.
We have many things going on at the same time. Which makes things a bit confusing and breaks the fluency of reading.
The hero is a recovering junkie.
He does not even remember fucking her before.
She gets very angry at him for it.
Then there is doubt about the paternity of her son.
Strange things and accidents happening behind the scenes of the show.
The heroes of the previous book are also part of the story.
We have a stalker too and I confess that the outcome did not leave me satisfied.
We have many things going on at the same time. Which makes things a bit confusing and breaks the fluency of reading.
The hero is a recovering junkie.
He does not even remember fucking her before.
She gets very angry at him for it.
Then there is doubt about the paternity of her son.
Strange things and accidents happening behind the scenes of the show.
The heroes of the previous book are also part of the story.
We have a stalker too and I confess that the outcome did not leave me satisfied.
August 20, 2015
Willow Aster has created an original, suspenseful story that I devoured in a matter of hours. She weaved a mysterious romance with skeletons in closets and danger lurking in the shadows. But, in true Willow fashion, she made me smile and laugh just as often as she toyed with my mind. It was absolutely delectable and is now my favorite novel of hers to date! Grab this one as soon as it's available!
avoid
June 29, 2022Self note avoid
Recovering addict H - drugs and alcohol, he was so fucked up in the past that he doesn’t even remember the h and she had his kid.
Addicts are kinda like cheaters. Once a cheater always a cheater. Recovering addict are recovering addicts for life.
Spoiler
Later in the book, he spirals down again and starts messing with ow. He does mess around with the ow but stops it before penetration. Its still cheating.
Not for me.
Recovering addict H - drugs and alcohol, he was so fucked up in the past that he doesn’t even remember the h and she had his kid.
Addicts are kinda like cheaters. Once a cheater always a cheater. Recovering addict are recovering addicts for life.
Spoiler
Later in the book, he spirals down again and starts messing with ow. He does mess around with the ow but stops it before penetration. Its still cheating.
Not for me.
September 25, 2015
4.25 stars
August 31, 2015
so good. SO GOOD.
full review to come
full review to come
September 6, 2015
Full review to come but just know this...Willow Aster can do no wrong!
September 21, 2015
Fade to Red held a slight surprise for me in the fact that it had a bit of suspense and mystery added into the plot.
I absolutely adored Roxie and Beckham. Roxie is a dancer and has worked her way up to her dream. Beckham has been in the music industry since he was a kid with his family. These two cross paths and it's obvious that immediately there is a spark between them.
If things were only that easy though. Roxie keeps Beckham at a distance because of his past. But that's not the only issue they have. Roxie has secrets of her own. And just when things get hectic and crazy between these two, there's another problem thrown their way.
I won't say much other than we get tidbits of another character from their POV. And well, let's just say they are not quite very stable.
Willow wove together an amazing story and delivered it perfectly. Everything flowed naturally and played out really well. The story moved along at the perfect pace. With all the passion, heat, excitement and mystery - the book is a great package!
Amazing book and I look forward to reading more from Willow!
I absolutely adored Roxie and Beckham. Roxie is a dancer and has worked her way up to her dream. Beckham has been in the music industry since he was a kid with his family. These two cross paths and it's obvious that immediately there is a spark between them.
If things were only that easy though. Roxie keeps Beckham at a distance because of his past. But that's not the only issue they have. Roxie has secrets of her own. And just when things get hectic and crazy between these two, there's another problem thrown their way.
I won't say much other than we get tidbits of another character from their POV. And well, let's just say they are not quite very stable.
Willow wove together an amazing story and delivered it perfectly. Everything flowed naturally and played out really well. The story moved along at the perfect pace. With all the passion, heat, excitement and mystery - the book is a great package!
Amazing book and I look forward to reading more from Willow!
September 21, 2015
This story was gripping and exciting! Not what I was expecting. So good! Full review to come.
September 24, 2015
Whoa. This book is so good!!!! I literally had to pace myself I didn't want to finish it to fast. So good. I loooved Beckham
And i loved how much Ian was in it. Willow writes the best rockstars. <3
And i loved how much Ian was in it. Willow writes the best rockstars. <3
October 5, 2015
Fade to Red is the story of two broken people finding what they need in each other. Beckham is a pop star but he’s made his mistakes over the years and at the point that this will be his last tour, ready to retire from the celebrity lifestyle. Roxie auditions to be a backup dancer for Beckham’s upcoming tour but doesn’t expect to get the job. She dreams of being a dancer but her parents feel that it’s not the best choice with the responsibility of being a single parent. When Roxie gets the job as one of the dancers she’s planning on turning it down till she sees how much money the year-long tour will make. Enough to start her dance studio as well as support her son if only she didn’t have a past with Beckham.
Beckham doesn’t know Roxie but he’s captivated right from the start by her and is determined that she be a part of the tour. She’s also proven to be one of the best dancers that has auditioned, and deserves the spot on the tour. While Beckham may have his eye on Roxie she’s not interested in anything with him because they have a past even if he doesn’t remember the encounter as he lets on. With lots of prodding Roxie tells him about the past causing him to question if her son is his and driving a wedge between the two. Will things work out between the two or will it be doomed before it had a chance to grow? What about the trouble that Roxie is having on the tour?
I like Roxie and Beckham they each have a past with mistakes and have grown learning from those mistakes. They also haven’t found exactly what they are looking for but the tour is creating an unlikely friendship with the potential for more. I like Roxie she’s a sweetheart doing what she has to do to survive taking care of her little son as well as broken sister. Beckham also is a good guy who had a bad boy phase that he just had to grow out of. They may have a past but if they can both move on from it they may just realize that they found what they didn’t know they needed.
I picked up Fade to Red based on the synopsis it sounds exactly like my type of book and I wasn’t disappointed. I’m a sucker for broken characters finding a happy ever after which is exactly what Fade to Red is. I love the concept of a rockstar falling in love with his back up dancer it was sweet and I can totally see it happening. The characters are easy to connect with I was torn between who I enjoyed more Beckham or Roxie each one has a unique voice. The author gives us point of views from each character transitioning smoothly back and forth between the two. I really enjoyed the authors writing style it’s smooth beautifully written from start to finish it was hard to put down it just sucked me in. I haven’t read a book by this author before but I’m a quick fan and can’t wait to check out the others books. Fade to Red has everything I need in a HAE romance it was just a perfect story and I loved it as much as the characters.
Beckham doesn’t know Roxie but he’s captivated right from the start by her and is determined that she be a part of the tour. She’s also proven to be one of the best dancers that has auditioned, and deserves the spot on the tour. While Beckham may have his eye on Roxie she’s not interested in anything with him because they have a past even if he doesn’t remember the encounter as he lets on. With lots of prodding Roxie tells him about the past causing him to question if her son is his and driving a wedge between the two. Will things work out between the two or will it be doomed before it had a chance to grow? What about the trouble that Roxie is having on the tour?
I like Roxie and Beckham they each have a past with mistakes and have grown learning from those mistakes. They also haven’t found exactly what they are looking for but the tour is creating an unlikely friendship with the potential for more. I like Roxie she’s a sweetheart doing what she has to do to survive taking care of her little son as well as broken sister. Beckham also is a good guy who had a bad boy phase that he just had to grow out of. They may have a past but if they can both move on from it they may just realize that they found what they didn’t know they needed.
I picked up Fade to Red based on the synopsis it sounds exactly like my type of book and I wasn’t disappointed. I’m a sucker for broken characters finding a happy ever after which is exactly what Fade to Red is. I love the concept of a rockstar falling in love with his back up dancer it was sweet and I can totally see it happening. The characters are easy to connect with I was torn between who I enjoyed more Beckham or Roxie each one has a unique voice. The author gives us point of views from each character transitioning smoothly back and forth between the two. I really enjoyed the authors writing style it’s smooth beautifully written from start to finish it was hard to put down it just sucked me in. I haven’t read a book by this author before but I’m a quick fan and can’t wait to check out the others books. Fade to Red has everything I need in a HAE romance it was just a perfect story and I loved it as much as the characters.
September 16, 2015
Wow, I don't even know where to begin. I loved True Love Story and assumed this would be kind of similar and in a way it was but then it wasn't. There were three stories being told in this book , all intertwined though.
We have the main characters, Beckham & Roxie. Ian & Sparrow and their baby daughter, Journey. The third factor that makes up this book I will not mention so you can discover it yourself but it does cover off the dark side of fame.
Roxie is a single mother to Leo. She put aside her future plans and dreams to raise her son to give him the best she can offer him. She has been a huge fan of Beckham Woods since she was a teenager, with posters of him all over her bedroom walls. She gets the opportunity to get up close and personal with him as a dancer on his tour so how could she not take up the offer of a lifetime. What she didn't count on was just how intense it would be working with him and dealing with all the feelings that emerge.
Beckham has a very well documented career history. He used to partake in the sex, drugs and rock & roll lifestyle that was available to him as his fame grew. He has now cleaned up his act, after one too many boozy nights and naked women. He is very focused on his career and his future. All he really wants now is a quiet life and is ready to walk away from all of it if the right woman came into his life.
Beckham is very interested in his new your dancer Roxie. Every time they are around each other their senses seem heightened and on alert. She is a tough nut to crack and not willing to let her walls down, in fact she seems angry a lot of the time. He would love to know what she is hiding behind that attitude. Roxie is in fact hiding pretty much everything about herself and the more time she is in Beckham's company, the harder it is to keep her true self hidden.
Ian Sterling jumps at the chance to tour with Beckham Woods, it will do great things for his career. He brings his sweet wife Sparrow and daughter with him as they embark on this 12 month tour across the country. I loved being back in this couple's life as I remembered how they first fell in love. Nothing has changed, their love is as strong as ever.
What none of them know is that they are all being watched and they are all in danger. This puts a bit of a thriller twist to the story and will keep you on your toes because you just never know what is going to happen. This also makes for plenty of unexpected drama that I'm still not sure that I really understood. It definitely will make things interesting in the next book of this series.
We have the main characters, Beckham & Roxie. Ian & Sparrow and their baby daughter, Journey. The third factor that makes up this book I will not mention so you can discover it yourself but it does cover off the dark side of fame.
Roxie is a single mother to Leo. She put aside her future plans and dreams to raise her son to give him the best she can offer him. She has been a huge fan of Beckham Woods since she was a teenager, with posters of him all over her bedroom walls. She gets the opportunity to get up close and personal with him as a dancer on his tour so how could she not take up the offer of a lifetime. What she didn't count on was just how intense it would be working with him and dealing with all the feelings that emerge.
Beckham has a very well documented career history. He used to partake in the sex, drugs and rock & roll lifestyle that was available to him as his fame grew. He has now cleaned up his act, after one too many boozy nights and naked women. He is very focused on his career and his future. All he really wants now is a quiet life and is ready to walk away from all of it if the right woman came into his life.
Beckham is very interested in his new your dancer Roxie. Every time they are around each other their senses seem heightened and on alert. She is a tough nut to crack and not willing to let her walls down, in fact she seems angry a lot of the time. He would love to know what she is hiding behind that attitude. Roxie is in fact hiding pretty much everything about herself and the more time she is in Beckham's company, the harder it is to keep her true self hidden.
Ian Sterling jumps at the chance to tour with Beckham Woods, it will do great things for his career. He brings his sweet wife Sparrow and daughter with him as they embark on this 12 month tour across the country. I loved being back in this couple's life as I remembered how they first fell in love. Nothing has changed, their love is as strong as ever.
What none of them know is that they are all being watched and they are all in danger. This puts a bit of a thriller twist to the story and will keep you on your toes because you just never know what is going to happen. This also makes for plenty of unexpected drama that I'm still not sure that I really understood. It definitely will make things interesting in the next book of this series.
Read
January 4, 2016Review to come
September 22, 2015
Cliffhanger again.
Read
September 21, 2015DNF...sorry was not feeling it.
September 8, 2015
Fade to Red is one phenomenal read. Willow Aster proves yet again how masterful her mad writing skills are at creating a story-line like no other. She continues to give us books that not only entertain but make you think. To me that is THE perfect combination and I was riveted literally from chapter 1!
The story follows Roxie Taylor and her hope to be a dancer with Beckham Woods and his upcoming tour. Beckham is a rock god, one who Roxie would rather not have to see ever again, but feels it is her time to try to make something of a career for herself and her adorable son Leo. Upon seeing Roxie, Beckham immediately feels a connection but she'll be damned if she'll ever get involved with him. Even though it is more than obvious that these two were meant to be. You can feel it from the very first interactions, even though Roxie is nothing but cold and hard on her boss. However, there are some very sexy rehearsals that showcase the chemistry surrounding Roxie and Beckham which further prove how perfect they could be together. They seem to have this connection both past and present, and it is with much determination and growing affection that Beckham will stop at nothing to find out what the tether might be, that is strung between both their hearts.
But what gives this book that extra pop is that beneath this budding romance is a bit of a mystery. There are chapters written in a woman's POV. Someone who is hell bent on having Beckham for her very own and is obsessively determined to make that a reality. However, it is clear that this mysterious woman is suffering from wild delusion. As the book progresses, you begin to feel that dread that something horrible is going to happen and you start to play a waiting game for when that shoe will drop. The love story between Beckham and Roxie provides the perfect distraction from what most certainly is going to happen at some point down the road.
As an added bonus, Ian Sterling and his gorgeous little family, (from the wonderful True Love Story), play a major role in this book. Watching him be truly happy after such a long road to get the life he so desperately wanted, certainly was the cherry on top for me. Ian and Beckham start a tour together, become good friends and along with their bands, extended families and entourages, a genuine camaraderie is formed that was a pleasure to witness. There is no mistaking that this is Beckham and Roxie's book but the author flawlessly combines their journey with Ian's to give us one helluva great ride.
I literally want to shout from the rooftops how much I loved Fade to Red. The myriad of emotions I felt while reading this book left me breathless. Then upon the conclusion I had my hand to my mouth to muffle the loud gasp that demonstrated my surprise at where the author left us. Although it is a standalone I wouldn't mind just a bit more at some point. This is one story with supremely wonderful characters that you just don't want to end. My heart was in my throat more than once and I couldn't put my e-reader down.
This is a well-written, original and absolutely incredible book. One that will definitely be at the top of my reads for 2015!
A huge 5++++ stars for a job extremely well done.
The story follows Roxie Taylor and her hope to be a dancer with Beckham Woods and his upcoming tour. Beckham is a rock god, one who Roxie would rather not have to see ever again, but feels it is her time to try to make something of a career for herself and her adorable son Leo. Upon seeing Roxie, Beckham immediately feels a connection but she'll be damned if she'll ever get involved with him. Even though it is more than obvious that these two were meant to be. You can feel it from the very first interactions, even though Roxie is nothing but cold and hard on her boss. However, there are some very sexy rehearsals that showcase the chemistry surrounding Roxie and Beckham which further prove how perfect they could be together. They seem to have this connection both past and present, and it is with much determination and growing affection that Beckham will stop at nothing to find out what the tether might be, that is strung between both their hearts.
But what gives this book that extra pop is that beneath this budding romance is a bit of a mystery. There are chapters written in a woman's POV. Someone who is hell bent on having Beckham for her very own and is obsessively determined to make that a reality. However, it is clear that this mysterious woman is suffering from wild delusion. As the book progresses, you begin to feel that dread that something horrible is going to happen and you start to play a waiting game for when that shoe will drop. The love story between Beckham and Roxie provides the perfect distraction from what most certainly is going to happen at some point down the road.
As an added bonus, Ian Sterling and his gorgeous little family, (from the wonderful True Love Story), play a major role in this book. Watching him be truly happy after such a long road to get the life he so desperately wanted, certainly was the cherry on top for me. Ian and Beckham start a tour together, become good friends and along with their bands, extended families and entourages, a genuine camaraderie is formed that was a pleasure to witness. There is no mistaking that this is Beckham and Roxie's book but the author flawlessly combines their journey with Ian's to give us one helluva great ride.
I literally want to shout from the rooftops how much I loved Fade to Red. The myriad of emotions I felt while reading this book left me breathless. Then upon the conclusion I had my hand to my mouth to muffle the loud gasp that demonstrated my surprise at where the author left us. Although it is a standalone I wouldn't mind just a bit more at some point. This is one story with supremely wonderful characters that you just don't want to end. My heart was in my throat more than once and I couldn't put my e-reader down.
This is a well-written, original and absolutely incredible book. One that will definitely be at the top of my reads for 2015!
A huge 5++++ stars for a job extremely well done.
October 5, 2015
3.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this book. I LOVED True Love Story, and I was so glad to get to read more about Ian and Sparrow.
There were some things about this book that didn't make it 5 Stars for me. For one, this book was told in third person, which I don't necessarily mind, but it made me feel less connected with the characters. Also, there was a lot about Ian and Sparrow. I was happy about that because I was invested in those characters and I wanted to know more about their happily ever after, but there was so much about them that this felt like a dual book. One might even wonder whose book it actually was, Beckham and Roxie's or Ian and Sparrow's. When I am introduced to new couples in a book, I want to be so involved in their lives that I feel like I am living it with them. In this case, I couldn't fully do that because the book was split. I had some unresolved issues with True Love Story, but those issues weren't resolved here. Since there was so much Ian and Sparrow in this book, I almost wanted Laila to make an appearance or be mentioned, but the issues I had about her were never brought into this book. One could say it's because they have all moved on, but if you are going to make Ian and Sparrow such an integral part of this book, you might as well resolve some of the issues that many readers had with True Love Story in regards to that whole situation.
I wasn't fully able to connect with Beckham and Roxie because of the shared story, which is a shame because I think I would have liked them. I didn't feel as invested in this book, and maybe it was because I was comparing it to True Love Story, which I think readers should read before this book (even though this book could be or is a standalone) so that they understand why Ian and Sparrow responded to certain situations the way they did. I mean, if you are going to make them central figures in the story, than don't call this a standalone.
This book had mystery and suspense, but lacked in the romance. Was this a mystery or a romance? Neither genre stood out to me. Romantic suspense could work as a label for this story, but both elements were a bit underwhelming for me.
The ending makes me think that there will be a follow-up, as some issues are unresolved. I will read whatever book comes out after, as I like this author and I am invested in having issues resolved. I just hope that the next book is more robust in it's storyline and that we know who the story is about. I love storylines that have multiple players and plots, but only if they are executed well. I felt like this book was lacking in it's execution, but I still enjoyed reading it and will continue on with whatever we have to look forward to with these characters. The ending has me almost certain that we have not heard the last of these characters.
I really enjoyed this book. I LOVED True Love Story, and I was so glad to get to read more about Ian and Sparrow.
There were some things about this book that didn't make it 5 Stars for me. For one, this book was told in third person, which I don't necessarily mind, but it made me feel less connected with the characters. Also, there was a lot about Ian and Sparrow. I was happy about that because I was invested in those characters and I wanted to know more about their happily ever after, but there was so much about them that this felt like a dual book. One might even wonder whose book it actually was, Beckham and Roxie's or Ian and Sparrow's. When I am introduced to new couples in a book, I want to be so involved in their lives that I feel like I am living it with them. In this case, I couldn't fully do that because the book was split. I had some unresolved issues with True Love Story, but those issues weren't resolved here. Since there was so much Ian and Sparrow in this book, I almost wanted Laila to make an appearance or be mentioned, but the issues I had about her were never brought into this book. One could say it's because they have all moved on, but if you are going to make Ian and Sparrow such an integral part of this book, you might as well resolve some of the issues that many readers had with True Love Story in regards to that whole situation.
I wasn't fully able to connect with Beckham and Roxie because of the shared story, which is a shame because I think I would have liked them. I didn't feel as invested in this book, and maybe it was because I was comparing it to True Love Story, which I think readers should read before this book (even though this book could be or is a standalone) so that they understand why Ian and Sparrow responded to certain situations the way they did. I mean, if you are going to make them central figures in the story, than don't call this a standalone.
This book had mystery and suspense, but lacked in the romance. Was this a mystery or a romance? Neither genre stood out to me. Romantic suspense could work as a label for this story, but both elements were a bit underwhelming for me.
The ending makes me think that there will be a follow-up, as some issues are unresolved. I will read whatever book comes out after, as I like this author and I am invested in having issues resolved. I just hope that the next book is more robust in it's storyline and that we know who the story is about. I love storylines that have multiple players and plots, but only if they are executed well. I felt like this book was lacking in it's execution, but I still enjoyed reading it and will continue on with whatever we have to look forward to with these characters. The ending has me almost certain that we have not heard the last of these characters.
February 28, 2017
Step forward and take a ride on the crazy train. Definitely not what I was expecting! And that ending? WTF.
September 23, 2015
I was really surprised by this book. It took turns that I did not see coming!
For me, this was really three stories in one!
Beckham and Roxie, Ian and Sparrow AND a mysterious someone.
Ian and Sparrow
If you are a fan of True Love Story, like I am, then you'll be ecstatic to know that Ian and Sparrow's journey continues in this book.
Where are they now? How has their relationship progressed? Has Ian really changed?
LOVE!!!
Ian and Sparrow's love for each other has only gotten stronger and oh what a bonus it was to have those parts in Ian's POV!!!
Their moments together are not only about love and passion, but also filled with humor and real life.
Beckham and Roxie
Beckham is a rock god. Sexiest Man Alive. Celebrity musician since his youth and with that spotlight comes everything you'd imagine a rock star's life to entail.
Roxie is a beautiful dancer. She's talented beyond belief.. She's also struggling to provide a happy life for her family.
From the moment these two meet. sparks fly! Their chemistry is off the charts, especially when they dance on stage together.
Read Full Review
*ARC received by author in exchange for an honest review
For me, this was really three stories in one!
Beckham and Roxie, Ian and Sparrow AND a mysterious someone.
Ian and Sparrow
If you are a fan of True Love Story, like I am, then you'll be ecstatic to know that Ian and Sparrow's journey continues in this book.
Where are they now? How has their relationship progressed? Has Ian really changed?
"The broken parts that made him who he was had been welded back together. The scars were there to make him appreciate what he had, but new skin had grown in its place."
"You didn't lose the love of your life and then get her back and not learn something from it."
LOVE!!!
Ian and Sparrow's love for each other has only gotten stronger and oh what a bonus it was to have those parts in Ian's POV!!!
Their moments together are not only about love and passion, but also filled with humor and real life.
Beckham and Roxie
Beckham is a rock god. Sexiest Man Alive. Celebrity musician since his youth and with that spotlight comes everything you'd imagine a rock star's life to entail.
Roxie is a beautiful dancer. She's talented beyond belief.. She's also struggling to provide a happy life for her family.
From the moment these two meet. sparks fly! Their chemistry is off the charts, especially when they dance on stage together.
Read Full Review
*ARC received by author in exchange for an honest review
September 2, 2015
Is anybody really surprised that Willow produced a wonderful and flawless read? I’m not, so you shouldn’t be either. This isn’t just a romance novel, I promise. She made this one fun and actually kind of dark in a weird sense. There was some mystery that kept me on my toes and made me pay attention to details and I loved that about Fade to Red.
The writing was very descriptive but also very clean. I loved how there was some humor thrown in there also. I am not lying when I tell you that there is suspense either! I couldn’t believe it. It did the story so much justice and kept the creative juices flowing. I like that. It all comes together nicely and leaves you hanging on your own thoughts and what could happen.
I loved the heroine. I wish there was a way for me to love her more because trust me I would. She was so headstrong and independent and her sense of humor was witty enough for me to enjoy her. She wasn’t whiny and she wasn’t dramatic. The “love” in this story doesn’t come easy and that worked for me because I am not an insta-love type of person. I like when the characters have to work for each other and/or work for what they want.
Ian and Sparrow are back in this book (YES!). I silently praise Willow in my head all of the time for doing this. They were a great addition to this story. Not only will you fall in love with them all over again you will fall in love with each character that Willow diligently displays for us on these pages. She always makes her characters feel so real and at home with me. This book is no different.
I can’t wait to add another Willow book to my bookshelf and E-library.
The writing was very descriptive but also very clean. I loved how there was some humor thrown in there also. I am not lying when I tell you that there is suspense either! I couldn’t believe it. It did the story so much justice and kept the creative juices flowing. I like that. It all comes together nicely and leaves you hanging on your own thoughts and what could happen.
I loved the heroine. I wish there was a way for me to love her more because trust me I would. She was so headstrong and independent and her sense of humor was witty enough for me to enjoy her. She wasn’t whiny and she wasn’t dramatic. The “love” in this story doesn’t come easy and that worked for me because I am not an insta-love type of person. I like when the characters have to work for each other and/or work for what they want.
Ian and Sparrow are back in this book (YES!). I silently praise Willow in my head all of the time for doing this. They were a great addition to this story. Not only will you fall in love with them all over again you will fall in love with each character that Willow diligently displays for us on these pages. She always makes her characters feel so real and at home with me. This book is no different.
I can’t wait to add another Willow book to my bookshelf and E-library.
October 22, 2015
Fade to Red is a potentially explosive plot line. Beckham and Roxie have some powerful chemistry from the start, and the sorted past gives it even more momentum. The added friction of Roxie's son, and the additional soft personality that we see from Beckham promises for a ready made family. The destination of this story is far from hidden, but the twists and turns along the way are still vaguely mysterious. The detailed history for Roxie is kept quite for the majority of the story leading me to also anticipate the connection between Beckham and Leo, but I was bewildered by the abruptness of the switch in Beckham's personality when Leo existence is revealed. There is no hidden agenda or distrust for Roxie, so his abrasiveness was a little off putting to say the least. Follow this with his immediate dedication to time and pressure of pushing himself into Roxie and Leo's lives was a bit unrealistic to say the least. It also presents a roller coaster effect that seems a bit dramatic for my liking in some places. I really liked the majority of the story including the danger lurking just around every corner. Beckham's stalker is a twist that readers will see coming, but not sure of when the snake will strike. I would have like to have to seen more detailed and transgression for the development of a relationship without some of the theatrics. As I said at the beginning this story was never lacking potential, but I wish it would have been able to meet all of my expectations.
~BookWhisperer Reviewer Jax~
~BookWhisperer Reviewer Jax~
Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews