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Wanderlust

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From the New York Times bestselling author of the Loving on the Edge series and Off the Clock, a story of sex, love, rock & roll, and a reporter who’s about to learn a new meaning for staying on top of her assignment...
 
Restaurant critic Aubrey Bordelon is never at a loss for words to describe her meals in the fancy restaurants of New Orleans. But after her magazine’s high-profile music reporter falls ill, she finds herself out of her element and in a sea of screaming fans awaiting Wanderlust’s lead singer, Lex Logan. The sound of his voice gives her goosebumps, and the stage presence of the hard-bodied rock star takes her breath away. So when he pulls her onstage for a sexy stunt, she knows she’s in real trouble.
 
Lex doesn’t want to pretend that the sparks on stage between him and Aubrey never happened, but it certainly makes the fact that she’s writing a story on his band all the more dangerous. The last thing he needs is some nosy reporter revealing their problems to the world. But the sexy Southern belle doesn’t give up easily, and soon he’s wondering if the best way to chase her off the story is to coax her into his bed…

191 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 19, 2016

83 people are currently reading
1039 people want to read

About the author

Roni Loren

45 books3,552 followers
Roni wrote her first romance novel at age fifteen when she discovered writing about boys was way easier than actually talking to them. Since then, her flirting skills haven’t improved, but she likes to think her storytelling ability has. She holds a master’s degree in social work and spent years as a mental health counselor, but now she writes full time from her cozy office in North Texas where she puts her characters on the therapy couch instead. She is a two-time RITA Award winner and a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
Profile Image for Rachel  L.
2,138 reviews2,524 followers
July 19, 2016
2 stars

Wanderlust is the story of a journalist and a rock star. Aubrey normally reviews restaurants but when one of her coworkers becomes sick, she must step in to do the interview with the famous rock band Wanderlust. The lead singer Lex isn't very thrilled with this change and forms a plan to get her to walk away from the article, but he ends up falling for her instead.

This wasn't really the book for me, I felt it lacked character development and had a very generic plot. I do think other people will enjoy this book more than I did so I encourage you to try it for yourself and come to your own conclusion.

ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Profile Image for ♥Rachel♥.
2,271 reviews923 followers
July 29, 2016
Aubrey is called in for an unexpected assignment, as a journalist for NOLA Vibe, she usually covers restaurants and food, but when a co-worker gets hurt she has to step into his assignment and follow the rock band Wanderlust. Aubrey wants nothing to do with this assignment, but her boss has made it clear to move ahead she must be willing to step in and handle any story. Entitled, conceited, bad boy rockers are not her idea of fun, but a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do. Aubrey doesn’t count on the sparks flying between her and Lex Logan, the band’s lead singer, but after a body shot stage stunt she can’t stop thinking about the instant intense attraction. Too bad she needs to keep him at arm’s length, keep things professional, and there’s no way she wants to be another notch in this manwhore’s belt. Can she fight their irresistible pull?

Lex Logan pulls a hot, sexy, woman onto his stage and can’t get her off his mind. Aubrey is nothing like the parade of groupies willing to do anything for a piece of Lex, but when he finds out Aubrey is the reporter sent for a story on his band he looks for any way to distract her from the trouble brewing between his bandmates. Lex doesn’t plan on falling for Aubrey while trying to get her kicked off the story by luring her into an inappropriate relationship, but life rarely goes as planned.

Wanderlust
sounds like just another rocker romance, which I’m usually weary of, because I have to wonder if a relationship can last the constant offers from women through the years. However, with Roni Loren writing this I had to read it. She brings heart, oodles of heat, and originality to every story. Lex and Aubrey have many facets, both sexy and vulnerable in their own way, making them come to life off the page. Both deal with their own personal dramas, and each end up lending support and a listening ear just at the right times.

I love Roni Loren’s writing! She brilliantly sets the stage for a scorching romance, building steam, layering on sexual tension and attraction, just the way I like it!

A copy was kindly provided by Intermix in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for FMABookReviews.
637 reviews400 followers
July 17, 2016
***2.5 Stars***

Audrey is a food reporter for a magazine and has been given the assignment to cover a story for another writer who is sick. She is to write an in-depth article on the popular band, Wanderlust.

Lex doesn't want her writing the story. His band is in trouble and the last thing they need is a reporter snooping around.

He tries to push her away, says and does things that will make her quit, including getting her in his bed. But having sex with her turned out to be the thing that kept him interested in her.

Sex, there's a lot of it, and I felt it overshadowed the plot. The "insta-love" was a bit much for me. I had trouble connecting with the characters and storyline. I wanted a rocker story. I wanted tension, character development, something that would get me involved in the story. Sadly, I didn't find those things.

An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review and did not influence my opinion of the book.

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Profile Image for Anna's Herding Cats.
1,274 reviews319 followers
July 3, 2016


Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.

Well let just start out by saying...imma need books for the rest of the band now. Get on it, Loren! Get on it! I'm totally not above bribing with pretty stickers. I'm really not. lol Goodness but Wanderlust was one helluva good time. Yeah. It's totally 5:46am. Not even gonna lie. I read all night. And the last 30 minutes of it with the phone plugged into the wall while I was reading. I was not putting this one down.

The quick of it is that while she usually plays the role of restaurant critic Aubrey's been pulled to cover a music gig--following around a popular band for a week and giving a behind the scenes look at their lives--the good, the bad, and the sexy. It should be a simple assignment but may end up being more than Aubrey and the lead singer bargained for...

I just loved these two. The wild rock star and the buttoned up good-girl reporter. Lex was all sexy, wicked, confident rocker and maybe a spot cocky. Yummy times 10. And Aubrey? Everything about her is about being well behaved and staying in control. Never stepping out of line or being reckless--she had very good reason for this, yall. She broke my heart and had me rooting for her at the same time. Loved seeing her break free of her chains and just live a little. She's one I wanted to just wrap up and hold tight.

They were amazing together. The chemistry zinging between them, the humor, the serious moments as they each dealt with people and things from the past. They weren't perfect people but I loved that about them. And that when they screwed up they could both suck it up and apologize. That they were able to really just be themselves around each other and let down the front they usually kept up of what was expected of them. It wasn't always pretty but it was real and amazing. They had some hardcore steam happening between them too which was fan yourself hot.

There was a nice bit of both of their jobs included which was neat to see. I loved his band and seriously hope there will be more about this group. I really wasn't lying. I'm not above bribes in order to get them. lol

And the epilogue. I don't usually mention them but holy crap can Loren write a stellar epilogue. I grinned the whole damn time. Best epilogue and perfect ending to their romance. It was so them and gah, yeah, I'm still grinning like a fool.

All in all, another knock out from Loren. I swear the lady has a golden touch. If her name is on it...it's going to be one heck of a satisfying read that's sexy, fun, and guaranteed to make your day just a little brighter for having spent time in the world she created.
Profile Image for Jenny (Reading Envy).
3,876 reviews3,711 followers
July 14, 2016
When I went to visit my family, I was looking for light and easy reads and this was just the ticket. And hey look, I read a romance novel of my own volition. I actually picked this one because the main character Aubrey is a food writer and I love foodie characters because of my own background, but in the end this was not even an element that mattered at all. She could have just as easily been an elementary school teacher, a travel agent, a politician. But the rest of the story was great, predictable and steamy, just like a romance should be. A musician with depth. A woman with a damaged past. It's the formula that will work forever, and it was just the kind of book I was in the mood for on a five hour flight with a singing toddler behind me. (Good thing he wasn't reading yet! It would not have been age appropriate!)

Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy through NetGalley.
Profile Image for Tori.
2,844 reviews474 followers
August 24, 2016
Roni Loren never fails to impress me with her dynamic characters and erotically charged romances. Laughter, tears, redemption, and love opens the door for an emotionally damaged journalist and a bad boy rock star whose main agenda to keep his band’s secrets safe from the tabloids changes when he discovers a woman for whom he would give it all up for. Though the journey is a wild unpredictable ride, the ending is well worth the price of the ticket.
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews490 followers
July 23, 2016
I have a bad case of WanderLOVE after reading Wanderlust. ← Terrible pun aside, I’m serious. Because this—my first book from Roni Loren, who has been much recommended to me—was a winner from start to finish.

I’m the first to admit, I can be a little forgetful when it comes to books. I mean, I read so many that details sometimes just…slip my mind. And, in the case of Wanderlust, what slipped my mind was the synopsis. Which meant I went into this book blind. I remember clearly thinking, ‘I MUST read this book’, but beyond that…I got nuthin’.

But, you know what? It didn’t matter. From the very first page, I was into the story of Lex Logan and Aubrey Bordelon. They were all sparkling chemistry, mischievous actions and heartbreaking pasts, and they went from lust to dislike to heat to love in a way that made me so freakin’ happy, I almost couldn't decide if I wanted to swoon or frown or laugh or smile or ALL OF THE ABOVE. For the record, I went with the latter option. And if that’s not a good recipe for a great book, then consider this:

This book had FOUR sexy rock stars, one enterprising journalist and a boatload of steamy, sexy moments that were enough to make this reviewer blush and swoon, and just generally get all…HOT. I really enjoyed each of the characters in this book, not just Lex (who was slightly grumpy and yummy on another level) and Aubrey (who wasn’t a cliché reporter, but a bruised girl with a good heart), and although Lex’s bandmates didn’t make as much of an appearance as I might have expected from a ‘normal’ rock star romance, I loved each little glimpse of Jared, Sean and Gunner.

And that means I am already lining up for more books about the boys of Wanderlust. Especially if they’re like this one—a little light and playful, with these deeper undertones that made it interesting and engaging and enjoyable, and left me with all this wanderlove bubbling over… ~ Beth, 5 stars

~~~

Aubrey Bordelon just wants a chance to make something happen in her career—to be something bigger. When given the opportunity to spend a month shadowing the band Wanderlust, Aubrey’s hoping this will be her shot. What she wasn’t counting on was the enigmatic, über sexy lead singer, Lex Logan. And she especially wasn’t counting on the sexy stunt he pulled before she even had a chance to meet him.

What’s a man to do? His band is feeling the pressure to produce a second album that will surpass their first album’s success. But there are problems—fractures in the band that, if exposed, may lead to serious repercussions. And what the band doesn’t need is to be followed by a gorgeous reporter who just may threaten both Lex’s heart and his livelihood.

Swoony rock star. Check. “Gorgeous but doesn’t act it” writer. Check. Sexy location. Check. Hot and dirty sexy times. Check. Wanderlust has all that and more. I loved the interactions between Aubrey and Lex. Every touch, every nuance, every sexy moment. And were there some sexy moments.

I also loved how Lex interacted with the band—how they worked together and against each other. Up until the very end, you never really knew what was going to happen. ~ Missy, 5 stars
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
July 19, 2016
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

Wanderlust was such a unique story from Roni Loren and with each book I read from her I grow more enamored with her storytelling. On paper the main characters in this book look like complete opposites; very different upbringings, very different places in life, and seemingly on very different paths, but somehow they are able to see past the facade they show the world and into each other's souls and in doing so the vulnerability comes through making them both balk at what they find when they are alone together. This was a complicated romance; there were many layers to each of these characters, their pasts have shaped them and left them a bit hollow, they both have hair trigger tempers and don't always think before they speak, but what they find in each other's arms proves stronger and more fulfilling than either of them ever imagined. I loved this complex and messy love story and wouldn't have changed any of the heart-wrenching and emotional moments because the joy that came when they finally figured it all out was worth every minute of the pain.

One reckless night changed Aubrey Bordelon's life forever and she's been paying for it ever since. Since that night, Aubrey lives a controlled and rigid life and she's okay with it because being out of control cost her so much. When she is tasked by her boss at NOLA Vibe to cover for their music reporter who is out on medical leave, Aubrey worries about being back in the music scene, but she knows this six part feature can also get her promoted to features so she is determined to stay in control and do her job. Her first interaction with Lex Logan the lead singer with Wanderlust is not what she expected and their second interaction results in some pretty crazy verbal sparring setting the tone for this book and everything that comes with it.

I loved how easily these two got under each other's skin from the start and yes, there was some crazy chemistry between them but it was more than that. They knew just what buttons to push and neither one was the type to back down which resulted in some hilarious and hot moments. It was enjoyable to watch them bounce off one another and try to deny there was anything between them. Lex was just so overtly sexual and while Aubrey secretly loved the attention because of her past she just wouldn't let herself enjoy it. I loved that Lex began to open up to her about his past although he hated to talk about it and when Lex saves Aubrey from a hellacious situation brought on by her parents and her ex-boyfriend I wanted to stand up and cheer. There was a lot of hurt and anguish in both their pasts and the fact that Lex was at a point in his life where he was okay with leaving it and moving forward, but Aubrey wasn't and this caused friction between them. For someone who writes songs for a living and a journalist I'll just say they really weren't the best at communicating what they were feeling to one another.

Roni Loren blew me away with her ability to write a gripping, emotional story that led these characters to grow, accept the things they cannot change, and allow them to move forward to a happiness they both deserved. Wanderlust is another must read winner from this author!

Review copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Gretchen.
1,019 reviews152 followers
July 19, 2016
This was so awesome! A great foundation was laid right from the beginning. I couldn't put it down! I pretty much blew of two days because I couldn't stop reading. Excellent story with likable characters. Really entertaining with a good mix of drama, emotion and heat! It had such a great build too, I was so drawn in as all the little details emerged, it just made for a really fantastic read.

Lex and Aubrey were wonderful characters. I loved them! I loved how Lex and Aubrey met, the sparks that flew, and the amazing chemistry they had together. They had so much playful animosity and verbal sparring happening making it fun to read. There was a lot of sexual tension between the two, bring on so much anticipation of what was to come and a bit of angst as well. I loved the build to Lex and Aubrey’s relationship, it was all laid out really well. There is a really nice amount of heat to their relationship and it's super hot. The author knows how to write a sexy scene for sure. I thought it was really just the right amount in the story.

There was a nice amount of conflict and emotion mixed in as well keeping me turning the page. There is heartache and tragedy and drama but mixed in were so many entertaining moments, I thought it had a nice mix of everything.

The writing was excellent! I was pulled in right from the beginning. I loved all the details that were laid out and thought there was perfect character development with real depth. I thought the secondary characters were well written, even the ones that aggravated me. It was all woven together really well and everything flowed nicely. The guys in the band were great and I liked the relationship they had with one another. I would love it if there were more stories with them because hello sexy rock stars!

This was a well rounded, solid story that I totally enjoyed from beginning to end. It was a pretty quick read (or maybe that's just because I couldn't put it down). It doesn't get better than well written, interesting characters, an engaging storyline, and an fantastic build that has you hooked the whole time. Incredible read!

This was my second Roni Loren book and I am so thoroughly impressed. She's a heck of story teller! I can’t wait to read more from her.

Complimentary copy received for honest review.
Profile Image for Kim.
2,443 reviews
July 24, 2016
Find this review and more at kimberlyfaye reads.

Confession: until now, I'd never read one of Roni Loren's books. I KNOW. I should be ashamed. She's been on my list of authors to try, but I wanted to wait for the right, non-series book. (Or, you know, start from the beginning of a series...) When I saw the cover and read the blurb for Wanderlust, I knew this was the one. I couldn't have made a better choice. It's just not enough to say I LOVED this book. That doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of my feels.

I'm not a huge rockstar book fan, to be honest. I read A LOT of them back in the day and kinda got sick of them. However, it'd been a really long time since I read one – I'm not even sure what the last one would've been – so I knew it was time to read another. Wanderlust was the perfect pick. It had all those things I used to love about rockstar romances back in the day and none of the clichés that used to drive me crazy. This book, with its rockstar and antagonistic romance tropes SO worked for me.

As far as the characters went, I loved both Aubrey and Lex. They might seem like a poor match on paper – restaurant critic and rock star – but that couldn't be further from the truth. Their chemistry was totally wicked and something about them totally clicked from the start. Of course, that doesn't mean they didn't try to fight it (and each other) for awhile. But the longer they were around each other, the harder it was to hide the truth. I loved that each of them was vulnerable, even if they didn't let it show. Aubrey's past made me sad (and angry, to be honest, at some of the people who were closest to her), but Lex really won me over when he began to show her she's more than just the mistakes of her past. Meanwhile, she showed him that someone could want him for HIM and not everything that comes with him.

Wanderlust was sexy as hell. It was sweet and funny, too. I loved how Aubrey and Lex played off each other in the beginning. (Well, not the onstage beginning, even though that was fun... but as they were beginning to spend time together for the interview.) I enjoyed what the other band members brought to the story, too. I don't know if there are any plans for this book to continue into a series, but I'd read each and every book if it did. This one gave me plenty of (mostly unexpected) feels and I loved every minute of it. Clearly I need to read more of Roni Loren's books.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, exchange for an honest review.

FAVORITE QUOTES
Take me. Use me. Drain me dry. I can numb your pain. Don't hide behind your life.

"No, babe. You don't get it. Your version of you isn't you. It's what all those people in your life expect you to be."

She knew how it felt to be branded by a single mistake. One weak moment could ruin how everyone looked at you for the rest of your life.

And his scent—God, it wasn't fair that a man smelled so goddamned amazing. It was like sex and sin and everything forbidden had been bottled and then rubbed all over him.

"No good girl would go through the trouble of keeping everything so smooth down here—like she's begging to be kissed and licked and tasted. I think you're naughtier than you're letting on."

"No, because you've ruined me, Aubrey Bordelon. I can't even look at another girl without aching for you."
Profile Image for lisa.
2,108 reviews304 followers
August 29, 2016
E-ARC received thanks to the publisher and Netgalley.

3.5 stars

I'm a big fan of Roni Loren's Loving on the Edge series (also still waiting for a new Off the Clock book here....) and her standalone works are just as great. I hesitated before I requested this book on NG because I haven't read much rockstar romance and I thought I have outgrown my bad-boy rockstar mc phase................but apparently not. Not when Roni writes it, I guess?

The main thing that always reels me in about Roni's books is her characters. I was immediately taken by both Aubrey and Lex (more Aubrey at first because she's so feisty I love it, and then Lex started to grow on me). I love their banter and how Aubrey takes no shit from Lex (because boy can be such an ass). And sexytimes are sexy--Roni sure knows how to pack up the heat *fans self*.

The epilogue is SO GREAT I cried.

*slams fist on table* I WANT MORE.
Profile Image for Ari .
933 reviews299 followers
July 11, 2016
Original review: The Daydreaming Bookworm

*I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*

*3.5 Stars!*


When one of her fellow colleagues requires emergency surgery, Aubrey Bordelon is asked to cover for him until he returns. The only problem is that Aubrey has made a vow to stay on the straight and narrow path and having to follow a famous rockstar around for a week is bound to land her into some trouble. Lex Logan doesn’t plan on making Aubrey’s job any easier as he doesn’t want this reporter sticking her nose where it doesn’t belong. But Audrey plans to getting her story, and she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get it.

Rockstar romances are one of my favorite types of romances, so when I read the synopsis for Wanderlust, I knew I had to check this book out. The story of Aubrey and Lex starts out funny, full of shenanigans and witty back and forth banter. I was laughing at all the crazy stunts Lex was pulling just to get Aubrey to drop the article, but her persistence slowly starts to wear him down. What I liked most about this story is that although it starts off on the lighter side, it has its moments of sadness. Aubrey is struggling to make peace with herself as everyone around her, including herself, holds her responsible for the death of her twin sister. Watching Aubrey struggle broke my heart. Having to start over was rough, and even though she doesn’t have anyone in her corner, she is still determined to become a successful reporter. You can’t help but to cheer for her!

I initially thought that since this book is written from the third-person POV, I would have a hard time connecting with characters, but I actually found myself connecting with Aubrey’s character from the start. When we first meet her, she comes off as this well put together person, but as the story goes on, we see that she’s really not. She changed her ways after her sister’s death, but no matter what she did, she never felt she was good enough. I really enjoyed seeing her character develop throughout this book as she comes to realization that you can’t please everyone and that forgiveness first starts by forgiving herself.

While I liked Aubrey, I couldn’t connect with Lex. I think the reason for this may be because of the fact that this book is on the shorter side. I wanted to see more of the band in this book and I felt like when it came to dealing with the issues surrounding the band and Lex, they were pushed to the side and only dealt with at the end. I wish they actually played a bigger role throughout the story because then I would’ve probably connected more with Lex. As for the romance, it was okay. These two definitely have great chemistry going on, BUT I wasn’t swooning over them until I read the epilogue, which is seriously the CUTEST THING EVER! I loved how the epilogue brought the story back full circle and wrapped things up quite nicely.

Despite my issues with Wanderlust, I still managed to enjoy this rockstar romance. It was a quick and easy read that made me laugh and kept me entertained for a few hours. I would definitely recommend checking this one out!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,094 reviews93 followers
July 29, 2016
* A review copy was provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley for the Blog Tour *

~ 5 Wanderlust Stars ~

FULL REVIEW Now Posted::
1 Rock Star + Roni Loren = FABULOUSLY HOT Rock star romance novel.

I was immediately drawn to Wanderlust because it was written by Roni Loren. I LOVE her books. But then I saw it was a rockstar romance….that just made it even better.

I LOVED this book. As always Roni gave us wonderful characters and an entertaining storyline. I have to say this was one of the best rockstar romance novels I have read in a long time. This story swept me away!!! I was so invested in these two characters. But I have to say I wouldn’t mind getting books on the other band members too . Especially Sean….I think there is an interesting story there ;) The pace and flow of this story worked well. I was never bored and nothing was too rushed, so I felt I might’ve missed something. What I loved the most about this book was that we got all the aspects of a rockstar romance that we love, but also all the aspects we have come to expect when reading a Roni Loren book. Who could ask for a better combination!!!

In this book we meet Lex (The lead singer of Wanderlust) and Aubrey (The good girl reporter) Talk about two people who live completely different lives, but worked so good together. The chemistry these two had melted my kindle!!! But they also had some awesome banter, that had me laughing out loud. But underneath both of the outside personas, were two people who were slightly broken. Aubrey carried around some serious guilt from a past accident, and Lex grew up in a screwed up home, vowing to not be like his dad. It was great watching these two open up to each other. Can a hardcore rockstar and an all around good girl make it work? Will Lex and Aubrey be able to figure out how to get their HEA?? You’ll have to read this book to see how it all works out. I will say this I LOVED the epilogue….couldn’t have given this book a better ending!!

This was another great read by Roni Loren. I am never disappointed when I pick up one of her books. I would definitely recommend this book to all the fans of a rockstar romance. If you are a fan of Roni’s already then you don’t want to miss this book.

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Profile Image for Shayna.
1,812 reviews615 followers
July 2, 2016
WOW! I'm on a ROLL!!! WANDERLUST was INCREDIBLE! Definitely one of the best rock star romances I've read in a very long time. I just hope this turns into a series because I WANT MORE!
This was a downright DELICIOUS read, full of scorching hot sex and witty and sexy banter with every turn of the page. Aubrey and Lex's chemistry on and off the stage was combustible! Aubrey was out of her element with this story she was stuck with, and Lex had NO PROBLEM making her feel on edge the entire time. But she did hold her own through the thick of it, and I wanted to high-five that girl on multiple occasions for some of the shit she had to put up with. Lex wanted Aubrey, when she was just the gorgeous girl he pulled on stage, but when he found out who she really was, all bets were off. He would make her run away from doing this story no matter what. He can't afford to let the world know what goes on backstage. When he finds out that Aubrey is not so easily swayed, he steps up his game and his goal is to get her in his bed.

"Tell me yes," he said, his lips brushing against the sensitive spot behind her ear. "Tell me you want me."

Things only get more complicated from there. Lex isn't the kind of guy to settle down. Or so he keeps telling himself that. But something about the little vixen has him wishing he could be that guy for her...the kind of guy that could love this woman.

"I wish I was a guy who could stick around. I could love a girl like you."

Total SWOON alert, am I right? Both Aubrey and Lex knows that there is no happily ever after in the stars for them, so why not make the best of it. But it only makes them fall deeper, which makes the goodbye that much harder.

I LOVED every single thing about this book. Roni Loren has always been a favorite of mine with her Loving on the Edge novels, but my god, giving us WANDERLUST was an amazing treat. Red HOT and bursting with emotion, makes WANDERLUST a book that should be on every romance reader's TBR!

Concert Crowd

*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Under the Covers Book Blog.
2,840 reviews1,343 followers
September 6, 2017
It is no secret that I'm a fan of Roni Loren. I think I have probably read everything she's ever released! So I was really excited when I heard about this story because it's one she's had for a while. And WANDERLUST didn't disappoint, it gave me exactly what I've come to expect with a book by this author, solid characters and a great sexy romance.

The heroine, Aubrey, works for a magazine in New Orleans as a food critic. The farthest thing from her interests are sweaty rock stars after a concert, but that's where she finds herself after the music reporter that was supposed to interview WANDERLUST falls ill. This is no regular interview, it's an all week pass to hanging with the band to get a day to day feel for their lives to include in the article. But it just so happens that the chemistry between her and the lead singer, Lex, is undeniable from the very first time they see each other.

WANDERLUST was full of sexual tension and great chemistry, mixed in with a simple but solid plot that kept me turning the pages. I found Lex to be a very centered rock star compared to the usual party boy we often see in the genre. I was happy to see that level of maturity with these characters, and that was my one fear going into this book. So very pleased in the end. Lex has so much charisma and charm, very sexy hero. And I liked that Aubrey was just feisty enough to be able to handle him.

In terms of rock star romances, this isn't the most original story. But I think WANDERLUST is all about execution. Roni Loren creates great characters and ones I usually fall for because of their many layers and depth. Even with a simple story like this. I think the potential is there to turn this into a series, and if that happens, I'll be right there reading them. I would love to know more about the band!

*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
Profile Image for Jaime Arkin.
1,477 reviews1,366 followers
July 18, 2016
I am a huge fan of Roni Loren and while I love her Loving On The Edge series, I really have found that I enjoy her stand-alone books so much!

Aubrey Bordelon works as a restaurant critic, but when the magazine’s music reporter falls ill, she finds herself filling in and definitely outside her comfort zone among the screaming fans of Wanderlust.

Lex Logan loves his band, but they’re struggling right now. He’s struggling to write and the fighting among them is getting out of hand and tearing them apart. When he pulls a random girl from the crowd onstage for a stunt, he doesn’t expect to want to know more about her… and then it’s revealed that she’s writing the article on him and the band and he’s automatically on edge.
But there’s no denying the sparks between them. Loren definitely excels at the sexy stuff and the chemistry between Lex and Aubrey was really well done and believable.

There’s nothing really ground breaking with this story, but if you’re looking for a well-written, steamy romance between total opposites, then you should definitely check this one out. Roni Loren is definitely on my trusted author list for a reason and I’m looking forward to so much more from her in the future.

Thanks to the publisher for the early copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Profile Image for Deniz.
1,204 reviews97 followers
November 4, 2016
2.5 Stars

Once more I wish GR had half stars.. alas I've wavered between rounding up and down for a bit- as always
My biggest issue with this is that it is so cliche. I mean it is packed full with all of them.
From duche-ex, upper-crust unsupportive parents, insta-everything to every other cliche- even the smut was cliche... it is all there. Literally.
Yet this is not a badly told story, and while I kept ticking every cliche out there off in my head as they were coming up, I also did actually enjoy it. (rather feel a bit guilty about it, but eh..)

So we got an ok story line, a bit flat characters, decent writing- and no shortage of cliches.

which makes this: ok but very enjoyable 2.5Stars.
Profile Image for Samantha (WLABB).
4,253 reviews277 followers
September 29, 2017
Rock star romances are not my norm, but they are always fun for a change of pace, and Wanderlust definitely delivered on the "sex, love, and rock and roll" promise.

Both Lex and Aubrey were carrying around some serious baggage, which left them slightly wounded. The scars gave them some depth, and sort of explained some of their behaviors. I thought the two had great chemistry, and Loren put them in some really fun situations. She also let them unload on each other, which is when we could really see this going from fling to something more. Getting those peeks into their hearts made me more invested in Lex and Aubrey and also made me root for them to make it as a couple.

We did get to spend quite a bit of time with the band. There were some concert scenes, and interactions with groupies, as well as writing and recording sessions, which gave us some insight into the problems Lex was dealing with. I liked getting to know the band members, and would be receptive to getting to know them better via their own books (hint, hint).

One of my favorite parts was the epilogue, because Loren gave us SUCH a good epilogue. It was a time jump, that let me know how things turned out for the band and our couple, as well as giving us an inkling as to what the future held for them. It really punctuated what I loved as these two as a couple, and I was left in quite an elated state from the ending.
Profile Image for Soany.
459 reviews22 followers
June 21, 2017
La historia de bandas no me atraen y paso de largo con ellas. Son pocas las que he leído y me han llegado a gustar y esta es una de ellas.
Por la sinopsis esta puede parecer la típica historia, una más con un chico guapo, famoso, que se cree un regalo para la vista, un dios, prepotente y que tiene a muchas groupies para tirarse, en fin que más puede desear un chico? Pues no, esta historia es distinta, la autora no toca el tema de las giras, las fiestas, las orgías y si toca temas como el dolor, la culpa y por eso me gustó tanto.
Si bien Lex si es guapo, sexy, famoso con miles de chicas queriendo estar con él, el tipo no es un imbécil, no es uno de lo que quiero lo consigo, sino al contrario es una buena persona.
Al igual que Aubrey no es una chica sin cerebro que se muere si no está con el chico guapo y sexy, que le aguanta sus cosas, no. Aubrey es centrada, madura y cuando el prota se las da de listito ella se las canta directo. Y cuando viene el drama ella no se las echa a llorar y morir sino que la chica va hacia adelante.
Otro punto a favor es que la historia no es previsible y es tomo único.
Profile Image for Gina.
2,069 reviews72 followers
June 11, 2021
Short and fun rock star romance (lead singer of the band Wanderlust meets fill-in reporter for week long in-depth story) with some surprising darker emotional elements. While I didn't think this was among Loren's best, it was a fun way to escape between longer, heavier books.
Profile Image for Deb M.
324 reviews12 followers
July 25, 2016
Roni Loren has been an auto-buy for me ever since her first Loving On The Edge novel. She shot out of the gate with beautifully written stories and well-developed characters and, even though her books were pretty damn perfect back then, each new release bears witness to the fact this author continues to hone her skills. While my personal preference is the Loving On The Edge series, I also enjoy her New Adult novels. Wanderlust may have one of those been there, done that themes, but it still shines. Because, once again, Ms. Loren has put her unique stamp on it.

We meet Aubrey Bordelon in what has to be my favorite writerly technique with which to begin a novel; tossing the reader into the middle of a scene using snappy dialogue to get things moving.

...“Look, I’m not here to get laid.”
...“I’m sorry to hear that, darlin’, but you're still not getting in.”
...“I’m supposed to interview the band. I’m from the NOLA Vibe.”
...“Problem is, you’re not on the list.”

The first few pages put me in Aubrey’s shoes right away. The beginning is witty, fun, and reveals a lot about our heroine. My first impression of Aubrey...spunky, funny, intelligent, and willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. There’s also a hint of something darker lurking around her edges. Ms. Loren is great at spicing up her romances with a little twisty turny action, so my brain immediately began calibrating to figure out the mystery. Her job as a food writer most definitely does not include doing week long, in-depth interviews with rock stars. As a matter of fact, Aubrey avoids rock concerts at all costs. When she’s ordered by her boss to cover a gig for the regular music reporter, it stirs up memories we aren't yet privy to. Following around a bunch of self-indulgent rock stars for an entire week certainly isn't on her bucket list. Wanderlust, whoever the heck they are, had better be the ticket to her promotion. She’s convinced herself it’s just an interview like any other, but when she gets a look at the lead singer, it’s lust at first sight. But it's Lex Logan’s voice that seals the deal on her naughty thoughts. How the hell is she going to make it through an entire week around this guy?
.
Lex blames himself for the fact that the band members have been at each other’s throats for weeks. They certainly don’t need their dirty laundry hanging out for everyone to read about in the NOLA Vibe. Their first album was a piece of cake. The touring and all the, ahem, perks, that go with it, the icing on that cake. But now the pressure is on to come up with another hit album. The only problem...Lex’s muse seems to have gone missing. Until one pushy, adorable reporter drops into his life. Can he trust her not to publish an article that could ruin the band? The bigger question is can he trust himself around her.

These two emit sparks from the minute they set eyes on each other. Their snarky comments and banter is hilarious, sexy fun. And when Ms. Loren takes it to the next level, so do Aubrey and Lex. Their attraction is intense and all consuming but both have demons lurking in wait to screw things up. It’s definitely a rocky road, especially when Aubrey’s ex shows up after five years. As usual, Ms. Loren’s writing is smooth and deceptively easy-going. She lures you in and takes you deeper and deeper into a story that suddenly is so much more than your typical rock star romance. I enjoyed everything about Wanderlust, right down to the secondary characters that add just the right amount of spice to the story.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,252 reviews208 followers
July 17, 2016
4 stars---

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 19 2016

Restaurant critic Aubrey Bordelon is never at a loss for words to describe her meals in the fancy restaurants of New Orleans. But after her magazine’s high-profile music reporter falls ill, she finds herself out of her element and in a sea of screaming fans awaiting Wanderlust’s lead singer, Lex Logan. The sound of his voice gives her goosebumps, and the stage presence of the hard-bodied rock star takes her breath away. So when he pulls her onstage for a sexy stunt, she knows she’s in real trouble.

Lex doesn’t want to pretend that the sparks on stage between him and Aubrey never happened, but it certainly makes the fact that she’s writing a story on his band all the more dangerous. The last thing he needs is some nosy reporter revealing their problems to the world. But the sexy Southern belle doesn’t give up easily, and soon he’s wondering if the best way to chase her off the story is to coax her into his bed…


••••••••••••

REVIEW: WANDERLUST by Roni Loren is a contemporary, adult, erotic romance storyline focusing on restaurant critic Aubrey Bordelon, and musician Lex Logan-front man and lead singer for the rock group Wanderlust.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Aubrey and Lex) WANDERLUST follows the building relationship between Aubrey Bordelon –a journalist and restaurant critic whose latest assignment finds her ‘filling in’ for the magazine’s music reporter; and rock star Lex Logan-musician, singer, manwhore-and a man determined to push Aubrey Bordelon out of his life. What ensues is the push and pull between two people from different walks of life, but whose backstories are heartbreaking and real. Aubrey presents herself as the straight and narrow, high society girl; Lex is the sexy rock-god whose reputation with the ladies needs no introduction.

Aubrey is determined to survive one week with the band but Lex is making it difficult when the sexual attraction between one another is palpable and hot. Aubrey’s life is about to take a devastating and embarrassing turn, and Lex is there to pick up the pieces but in the morning Aubrey is unable to face the walk of shame. When a member of the band spirals out of control, Lex blames Aubrey destroying any chance of happiness or a future together. The $ex scenes are erotic, intense and seductive. The sexual chemistry is unmistakable.

We are introduced to the other members of the band-Sean, Gunner and Jared, as well as their manager Pete; Aubrey’s politically connected and spiteful parents who use their daughter to their own advantage making our heroine’s life a living h*ll; and Aubrey’s ex-boyfriend who is hoping for a second chance with the girl from whom he walked away years earlier.

The world building focuses on the sex, drugs, and rock and roll; the backstage groupies and hanger-ons; as well as the destructive nature of fame and fortune.

WANDERLUST is a predictable and familiar story line between a rock star and a journalist. The premise is entertaining; the characters are colorful and energetic; the romance is seductive with a couple of missteps along the way. I am not sure if WANDERLUST will be part of a series but I am hoping Roni Loren writes a story for each member of the band. The epilogue fast forwards the story line approximately one year.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter.

www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for Kristin .
1,185 reviews166 followers
June 28, 2016
When Aubrey is sent by her boss to cover a story about a band, she's got some reservations. One, she's a food journalist, and two, she tries to stay away from the crazy kind of scene that seems to revolve around musicians. To make matters worse, due to her covering last minute, her name isn't on the backstage list and she has to wait and stand in the crowd, watch the show, and get back to talk to the band after the concert. What she wasn't planning on was the lead singer pulling her up on stage to do a body shot with as part of a stunt to get the crowd riled up or to fall in love with him.

I love musician romances. Especially when the author takes you into their world. Thankfully, we not only get to see what it's like to be a musician but we also get to see Aubrey do her thing as a journalist as well. Not to mention the dynamics between Lex and Aubrey. You see, Aubrey is this buttoned up professional who has a set of strict rules and lives by them. Meanwhile, you have Lex who is a musician who lives life to the fullest. Watching these two come together and compliment each other was what made the story so entertaining.

Of course there were complications and drama pops up to cause conflict for the characters but I think what I liked about that was that they didn't just run and hide from it all. When something popped up, they dealt with it. I have to be honest, I'm a little sick of reading about romances where one tiny misunderstanding causes such a rift between the two when all they needed to do was just talk to each other. Thankfully, that was not the case with Wanderlust.

I think my favorite part, hands down, was the epilogue. Was I surprised by it? No. But it put a shit-eating grin on my face and gave me the warm fuzzies. It was just a really cute ending that made me wish for more time with the characters. Who knows, maybe this will turn into a series and we get to read about the other band members falling in love.

Favorite quote...
"God, what the hell was she doing? Last week she was writing up an article about fried frog legs and now she was cleaning blow off a filing cabinet. If this was what music journalist was like, then maybe she should stick to food."
Profile Image for Sheyla ✎.
2,023 reviews655 followers
July 9, 2016
3.5





Aubrey Bordelon is a food critic but when her co-worker is not able to make it to the Wanderlust concert, she is sent instead. To her surprise, she's picked by the band's lead singer Lex Logan to do a body shot. Aubrey can't believe he is able to stir feelings in her she thought lost. Too bad Lex seems to be too full of himself and her job of following the band for a week can lead her into big trouble- cough- his big arms.

Lex Logan is having a hard time keeping his band together. They're having a hard time creating a new album and having the press follow them is the last thing Lex wants, even if he does want Aubrey. And make no mistake, Lex wants Aubrey.

Of course, things are never simple and there is more to what Aubrey wants in life and her past has an awful truth that she is not willing to share with anyone except maybe Lex.

I had a hard time getting into the story, not because of the writing but because of the premise of the Girl falling for the band Boy. The band boy is always a manwhore who falls in love with a sweet thing and nothing more. The insta-love is a huge turn off for me. Saying that there were parts I really liked. The other band members did intrigue me and I want to read their stories.
I do want to say that just because this story didn't click with me doesn't mean other people won't like it. I'm pretty sure it's going to be the opposite.

For me, the best part of Wanderlust was the epilogue. It was swoon-worthy!

Cliffhanger: No

3.5/5 Fangs

A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Profile Image for  Reading In Pajamas .
1,091 reviews105 followers
August 1, 2016
Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: WANDERLUST by Roni Loren http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-5Xo
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated 5 Stars

Cori 5 Stars


I loved everything about Wanderlust! It was just so much fun! A sexy rockstar hero and a good girl reporter were a great mix. This was one of those books I curled up with and didn't put down or sleep until I finished reading it. I haven't read a book by Roni Loren I haven't loved. She has a writing style that just works for me and she creates great characters. Wanderlust was another instant favorite for me with great  characters, a great plot and steamy romance. I'm really hoping the rest of the characters get their own books too!  I recommend this one for romance lovers looking for a feel good summer read. Wanderlust is a book you can pick up and get lost in for a while. 


*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.


~*~*~*~



Buy Links
Kindle: http://amzn.to/29PqUqp
Barnes & Noble: http://goo.gl/kiVccS
iTunes: https://goo.gl/bCVI19
Google Play: https://goo.gl/Qm6x0D
Kobo: https://goo.gl/bjrNHX
Profile Image for Arelys.
271 reviews
July 14, 2016
This story takes place in NOLA (New Orleans). We are introduced to Aubrey Bordelon, local politician's daughter and writer for NOLA Vibe, who just been assign to interview the music group Wanderlust when the regular reporter finds himself in the hospital. Unable to get into the venue using her credentials, Aubrey is in the crowd along with other fans when she meets the vocals of Wanderlust, Lex Logan. In a bizarre twist, Aubrey finds herself onstage with Lex. You see NOLA is known for the body shot apparently. Guess who's body Lex is taking his shot from? Yep! Talk about the crazy start of what is to be a professional relationship.

I loved these two. Lex is the quintessential Rock God. Confident. Seductive. A voice that is gravely, dark and powerful. Aubrey is the straigh-laced, never to break to rules and let loose type. You find out that Aubrey has very strong reasons to never step out of bounds. It's heartbreaking actually. The chemistry between these two as their relationship progresses was sizzling. The rest of the members of Wanderlust just added to this wonderful tale. I hope Roni Loren is busy writing more books about the other members of the band. I couldn't put my ereader down.

Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha.
Profile Image for Jaime Fiction Fangirls.
1,664 reviews153 followers
July 20, 2016
4.5 Stars
I have to admit that rockstar romances aren't always my favorite. The rockstar lifestyle tends to rub me the wrong way and so going into these type of romances is risky for me. However, if there was any author worth taking a risk for it's Roni Loren. She's been the one author who I don't mind venturing out of my safe zone for over and over and she never disappoints. I'm happy to report that Wanderlust fits in the "totally worth it" category.
This story is so much more than just a rockstar romance. It's a story about being stuck in the past and not being able to move forward, of living a life to please others. It's a story of self-discovery, pain, guilt and mistrust and eventually forgiveness, acceptance and maybe even love.
Lex and Aubrey are well-rounded characters and I was sucked into their story from the very start. Their chemistry was palpable and the banter between them quickly sealed the deal for me.
This read like a light read but it had some heavy plot points that gave it depth without feeling like forced drama. This story was sexy, sweet and even a little bit sad and I couldn't put it down.

*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Alex (HEABookNerd).
2,441 reviews
August 7, 2021
WANDERLUST was a surprisingly dirty and sexy read and I really enjoyed both Lex and Aubrey. They start out antagonistic but their attraction is too strong to keep them apart for long. I enjoyed Lex's bad boy, rock star personality and man was he swoon worthy *fans face*.

I wasn't sure about Aubrey at first because she comes across as very uptight and judgmental but you soon learn why she no longer takes risks and her character quickly grew on me.

With chemistry that jumps off the page, Lex and Aubrey's fling quickly becomes more. The source of their eventual conflict was pretty easy to see coming but that didn't detract too much from the story. As always, Roni Loren's writing is absolutely fantastic and this was a quick and easy read.


Content Warning: As a teenager, Aubrey was driving drunk and got in an accident, resulting in her sister's death; Lex had a drug addicted, abusive father
Profile Image for Jennifer.
855 reviews29 followers
January 10, 2024
So far, 2024 has been a crap year for books. So I figured I’d shake it off and go for an older book by a pretty reliable contemporary romance author I like. Her newer stuff is definitely better, this is pretty basic. But I wanted cliched and easy and breezy, so I got it. Good palette cleanser; let’s hope it does the trick.
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