Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Off Key

Rate this book
One Agreement. Two friends. Three Rules.

No one gets hurt…


Brandon Kresge has it all. A hot music career. An even hotter body. And tons of adoring fans willing to…yeah. By all appearances his life is perfect. But appearances aren't always what they seem.

Years of experience have made him skilled at hiding the truth. From the media. From his friends. From his bandmates. But all that changes when he meets the one girl that can strip down all of his barriers and leave him bare.

Brynn Richer doesn't have her life figured out, but then again, how many twenty-three-year-olds do? All she wants is to dance, a decision her mother is adamantly against. Despite the cards being stacked against her, she moves to New York City to pursue her passion. One crazy decision causes her path to intersect with the sexy, troubled lead singer of Wreckless Abandon. She knows this man will break her, knows she should steer clear of him, but she's powerless to resist him.

What happens when lines between friendship and love are blurred? What happens when rules are broken, and they are forced to choose? Can they work through their struggles to find their happily ever after or are some things too damaged, too broken to be fixed?

Off Key is the first standalone rock star romance of the Wreckless Abandon series. If you like sexy, tattooed bad boys, smokin' hot sex scenes, and a happily ever after that'll melt your heart, then you'll love Off Key by best-selling author CJ Martín.

Discover Off Key and rock out with the guys of Wreckless Abandon today!

354 pages, Paperback

First published August 5, 2016

132 people are currently reading
514 people want to read

About the author

C.J. Martín

6 books221 followers
CJ Martín spends the majority of her days daydreaming, procrastinating, and longing for the day when she can quit her day job and write full time.

She loves all things romance and is a sucker for a happily-ever-after. She also loves traveling, yoga, avocados, and music. She has about a million and one playlists on Spotify that are as random as her personality.

She lives in Pennsylvania with her sweet husband (Literally! He owns an ice cream shoppe!) and twelve year-old Jug dog, Albert, who is more spoiled than most humans.

One day she will move to Paris and eat all of the wine and cheese, but until then...she dreams.


Join her Facebook group, CJ's Circle, sign up for her newsletter, or stalk her online: Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest BookBub Amazon
description


Book by CJ Martín:
⭐︎ Snowbound (Oct. 2015)
⭐︎ Off Key (Aug. 2016)
⭐︎ Knockout (2016)
⭐︎ Forever Hearts (2017)
⭐︎ Touching Down (2018)

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
159 (43%)
4 stars
138 (38%)
3 stars
47 (12%)
2 stars
13 (3%)
1 star
5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Profile Image for María.
606 reviews25 followers
August 26, 2018
La historia empieza con la sobredosis del protagonista, con lo cual pensé que iba a ser más fuerte de lo que fue. El libro se centra en la relación de Brynn y Brandon, contada por ambos, y en como por más que se resistan el amor los atrapa. Tiene un par de escenas que pueden generar controversia: una pelea que termina en un encuentro sexual un tanto violento...o algunos comentarios ultra posesivos de Brandon...
Fuera de eso, un montón de clichés que funcionan y hacen de este libro una lectura rápida y agradable.
Profile Image for LeeAnne.
491 reviews6 followers
December 13, 2016
3.5 Stars

This was an okay read for me, it really got off to a strong start but the ending felt rushed.

Brandon Kresge is the lead singer for a famous rock band, Wreckless Abandon. He’s also a recovering drug addict, he’s only a few months sober when he meets Brynn for the first time. Brynn is a professional dancer who’s trying to get her career off the ground. When she finds out that her new best friends brother is the drummer in her favorite band she tags along in the hopes of meeting the band. When Brandon and Brynn meet the attraction is off the charts and the two decide to try a “friends with benefits” type deal – with one stipulation being, don’t fall in love.

I really don’t understand why the author lets months and months go by before Brynn and Brandon get back together in the end, it just felt odd. Then once they do get back together it’s just happily ever after, it felt very rushed. The first half of the story is great and I did very much enjoy the pace and plotline. I just wish the ending had been more developed.

Read and reviewed for Cherry0Blossoms!
Profile Image for Jazmine Cabrera.
123 reviews1 follower
August 5, 2016
Somethings are better left unsaid, and broken. Others are worth fighting for. It’s those things that add to our lives and create the ups and downs we endure. That is the case with Brynn and Brandon…are those things really worth fighting for or should you just give up?

We meet Brynn Richer, beautiful girl with great dancing skills living in New York . She doesn’t know how beautiful or how much of a wonderful dancer she is because she seems to think her parents are not proud of her. She’s doing all that she can in order to prove to her parents that dancing can be a career, that it is her passion.
Then we have Brandon Kresge, sexy as sin rockstar in the band Wreckless Abandon. Women and drugs are two things he can’t live without. That is until one day it may have gone too far. Now he’s trying to stay clean for the sake of the band. Women still come and go, but one night it changes. Who he thinks is an average groupie may just turn out to be his undoing. Torn between his past and what the present may bring, Brandon is sure of one thing and that is “she's only my friend”.
At times I felt like both characters were playing hard to get. I wanted to jump into the story and tell them to quit their games and admit their feelings. Brynn was scared of pushing Brandon too far by admitting her feelings to him. Brandon was scared to admit that Brynn might actually be “the one”. Because of his stunt with the drugs he drilled into his mind that he was no good for her. Little did he know that they were meant for each other. They balanced each other out. They helped each other cope with their issues. They knew that there was more to their “arrangement” it wasn’t just about the physical attractions they felt.
Finally when Brynn has the confidence to reveal he feelings, it’s like a bomb went off. They both go their separate ways. It’s not what Brynn wanted. Will Brynn get her happily ever after or will Brandon’s past troubles interfere with their future??

I do hope the rest of the band gets their own story, and even Li too. I can’t wait for what’s to come.
Profile Image for Kaley.
11 reviews
August 5, 2016
I am obsessed to say the least. Prepare yourself for an emotional roller coaster ride with this book. CJ Martin was able to write the perfect combination of love, humor, and sadness all in one book.

Brynn Richer is just starting her dance career at a small studio in New York City, living in a shabby apartment, barely making enough money for rent and food. Brandon Kresge already has everything he could need; a band, a tour, money and of course women.

Having a friend who happens to be related to one of the members of the hottest band in town, Wreckless Abandon, is only the beginning of Brynn's story. Not only was attending a Wreckless Abandon concert not part of Brynn's plan for the evening, but being backstage and finding herself in Brandon Kresge's dressing room was DEFINITELY not how she imagined this night.

Introducing Brynn to the band members does not end how Li, Brynn's friend, imagines it will. Everyone loves Brynn, especially Brandon. Band rules state that the members can't hook up with anyone's friends or family, that includes Brynn. Brandon and Brynn struggle to understand their own feelings as well as the other persons and what to do about them.


Holding in emotions he never knew he could posses becomes a huge problem for Brandon. Brynn and Brandon can't contain themselves for long, especially once they find out just how much they both want each other. Going against all rules they try to hide their "relationship". But when that relationship isn't enough they pine for more.

CJ Martin tells a wonderful story of love and trust through these characters. The book is beautifully written and makes you feel for the characters on a real level. I am greatly anticipating her next work, and can't wait to see what her amazing imagination will create next!
Profile Image for Donna Parrott.
458 reviews6 followers
August 5, 2016
Brynn is a dancer, no not a stripper but a professional dancer who also teaches dance. She is all things good, she is relatable, loveable, caring, and independent. She is determined to make it work despite what her mother has said. With a chance meeting of Brandon, BK, the lead singer of Wreckless Abandon she didn't anticipate that she would feel strong feelings. She just thought of it as he is a rockstar and she is just aw struck.
Brandon is a rockstar fighting an addiction. He has demons from his past he fights every day, the struggle is real with him. He knows he has let his family down but sometimes his demons are just to strong. After an amazing concert he wants to be left alone but in walks this sexy woman who may be his ultimate undoing.
They have a connection and bond that no one else knows or understand. They talk to each other and share almost everything. Brynn helps Brandon realize that he is worth something more then what he is doing. Brynn is Brandon's anchor his need to be a better person, but sometimes at the end of the day you hurt the ones you love the most.
I couldn't put this book down, i loved it so very much. She is a new author to me and i wasn't disappointed. Both characters are relatable. Brynn is such a strong woman that she dosen't expect anything from Brandon except to be him, be his true self. Brandon is this strong man that just so happened to be taking to his knees because of his demons. Its fast paced from start to finish.
Profile Image for Lauren Ryan.
155 reviews1 follower
August 5, 2016
Off Key is a Wreckless Abandon novel by CJ Martin. This story follows dancer, Brynn and lead singer of the hottest band around, Brandon (a.k.a. BK). I learned so much from reading this story. Not only the power of addiction, but the power of a good friends and a good support system.
When we first meet Brynn she agreeing to pretend to be gay, which totally backfires in a big way. She is an aspiring dancer just trying to make enough to continue living in the city she loves. Enters BK, a famous lead singer in band, and someone she knows she does not need to be involved with. But does what we know in our head end up being how we feel in our hearts? What about when you have bond when said person. Sometimes friendship is just a stepping stool to getting to where we are supposed to be.
I love Brandon! He tries so hard to do right by everyone, and keep his self out of trouble. The problems we see Brynn deal with are things everyday people can relate to. In my opinion that is one of the best things about this story, it is very relatable, even if it is about rockstars. We all have our demons and this story shows us that no one has a demon that at least one other person cannot relate to. And sometimes the people who we fall for are not always the people we think we should. Sometimes it is the one you least expect that makes you open yourself up to the possibility of love!
23 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2016
Off key by CJ Martin
Five stars

CJ has written an amazing story of friendship, love and angst. This story was hard to put down. I really loved this story. You are so drawn in to the story it's unbelievable.

Brynn Richer is a young beautiful dancer trying to make it big in New York. She is working in a dance studio teaching hoping to make ends meet since moving to New York.

Brandon Kresge is a handsome cocky rock star that has risen from a garage band to a big name. Brandon is a guy that doesn't care what people think of him and lives his life on the edge. He has become a womanizer and the fans and groupies don't care as long as they get their turn. Brandon the lead singer of Wreckless Abandon. Brandon seems to have it all but no one knows the true Brandon and what he's been through, not even his closes friends and band mates.

Brynn's friend brings her to a concert to meet her brother. Who is surprisingly the drummer of the hottest band in town Wreckless Abandon. When Brynn accidentally goes into the wrong room and soon face to face with the hot lead singer of the band. There seems to be a electric connection between them.

Can they make something of a relationship? Can they be friends?
Profile Image for Dana Hopkins.
16 reviews
August 6, 2016
Off Key (A Wreckless Abandon Novel) by CJ Martin is an off and on romance between rock star Brandon Kresge and professional dancer Brynn Richer, Brandon doesn't do relationships and unfortunately for Brandon Brynn isn't that kind of girl, but how can Brandon keep away from her when she starts coming around more and more? Brynn and Brandon have a very rocky relationship through out the whole book with Brandon's commitment issues and Brynn wanting a real relationship like any other normal couple. Due to the differences they decide to remain friends and nothing more, but it's not as easy as they thought it would be especially since Alysia or Li as everyone calls her is Joey the drummer of Wreckless Abandons sister and Brynn's friend from Dance Nation the dance studio they both work at. What will Brandon and Brynn do when being just friends isn't enough? When the attraction between them begins to get out of control? Off Key by CJ Martin is a stand alone novel with a sweet HEA and an amazing rock star romance. I hope to read more of Wreckless Abandon in the future!
Profile Image for Le Ann Foster.
739 reviews5 followers
August 9, 2016
☆☆Reviewed for Hooked On Books ☆ ☆

I gave this book 4.5 stars!

Who doesn't love a book with friends with benefits but that is the only rule that neither of them will fall in love. These two have some heated passion and with each passing day Brynn falls a little more in love with Brandon. Their chemistry is off the charts. From the first meeting you could tell when these two got together it was going to be explosive.

Brynn is a dancer and living in NYC, when a friend ask if she wants to go to a concert she agrees. It's there she meets Brandon the lead singer of the band. These two fight the attraction but soon looses the battle. When they agree to become friends with bennys that agree not to fall in love. What happens when Brynn lays it all out for Brandon, will he feel the same?

I highly recommend reading this book.
Profile Image for Robin Rankin.
1,214 reviews6 followers
August 6, 2016
I could not put this book down! I started it one evening and had it finished the next day. I of course had the meeting the rock star fantasy as a teenager and love stories like this. New Romance is becoming one of my favorite genres and this book did not disappoint me in the least.
Brandon “BK” Kresge is the lead singer and guitarist of Wreckless Abandon an up and coming band. After an overdose and stint in rehab Wreckless Abandon is performing again.
Brynn Richer is a young dancer who gets invited to a Wreckless Abandon show by her friend Li who works as a set designer for the dance troupe. After the show they go back stage and Brynn accidently meets Brandon in his dressing room. Brandon is in a bit of a mood and tells her to get out until he gets a good look at her and starts flirting. After some serious sparks between them she leaves. He is intrigued and so is she.
At the after party that same evening they are unable to not find each other in the crowd, they were just drawn to one another. Eyes meet over the crowd and they end up in alley talking at Brandon’s insistence. After he teases her, she leaves but feels him watching her.
They meet up again after Brandon goes to Li’s show which Brynn happens to be dancing in. Brandon seems to want to be her knight in shining armor and invites her to audition for their latest video and gives her a contact for an audition with a better known dance troupe.
Brandon and Brynn start becoming friends during a weekend at a cabin in Lake Placid. Brandon opens up about his addiction and Brynn tell him about her family issues, all the while fighting their attraction to one another. After several weeks of getting to know one another and being warned not to hook up with Brynn, Brandon and Brynn get together.
There are some bumps in the road during the new phase of their relationship. Some are the normal with being young and in love and others are not. I’m quite pleased with how this story ends and can’t wait for her next installment.
Profile Image for Laura Furuta.
2,047 reviews28 followers
September 24, 2016
Off Key: A Wreckless Abondon Novel

By: CJ Martin

5 out of 5 stars

Off Key by CJ Martin is a romance novel that will sweep you off your feet. It is the story of Brandon, the lead singer the band Wreckless Abandon and in the dreams of every female fan. Brynn is a dancer trying to make her dreams come true. She just can’t seem to get any doors to open for her. Then in a chance meeting backstage at one of Wreckless Abandon’s concerts sparks fly. However, they both agree to just be friends. If that is the case then what are these feelings they are having toward each other? Can Brynn break down the walls that Brandon has placed between her and his heart?

This is a wonderful romantic novel. It is told from the POV of both Brandon and Brynn. You have a successful lead singer of a band who will not let anyone get close to him and doesn’t allow himself to trust anyone. You also have an aspiring dancer, who is estranged from her family and is working long hours to pay the rent and dreaming of her first big break. Both of the main characters have strong personalities, however they both have a part of their lives that has left scars on them. This story shows how when dealing with the past you can make decisions that are not wise. Complementing these main characters are their friends and fellow band members.

If you are looking for a book that will make your toes curl and have you turning up the air conditioning this book is for you. As it does deal with such topics as drug addiction and alcoholism I would recommend this book to anyone who is 18 years and older. There is also very sexy language and very steamy love scenes. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Meghan901.
1,216 reviews28 followers
August 5, 2016
4.5 Stars

Off Key by CJ Martín completely blew me away!! It is a standalone novel about a musician-Brandon Kresge, and a dancer-Brynn Richer who meet by chance and sparks fly. An agreement is made but what happens when one, or both, don’t follow the rules?

Brandon Kresge, aka BK, seems to have it all. A successful musician, good looking, and can have any female he wants. From the outside looking in, his life seems perfect. No one knows about the self hatred he feels or the truth behind his father's death. To top it off he is battling addiction behind closed doors. The instant he meets Brynn, he knows she is different. Little does he know she will become a necessity in his life.

Brynn Richer, an aspiring dancer, has finally moved to NYC to chase her dreams. She teaches dance to support herself while trying to make her dreams a reality. One night was all it took to change everything-the night she met Brandon. She knows he will break her heart but the attraction between them is hard to resist.

Brandon and Brynn establish rules so neither get hurt. While it worked for a little while, Brandon did not expect to feel such strong feelings for Brynn. The question is will Brynn give in to hers? Will they be willing to take a chance on each other or will it ruin the friendship for good?

I absolutely loved this book! It hooked me from the first page. Ms. Martin’s style of writing and her imagination is one of a kind. The way she told Brandon’s and Brynn’s story not only captivated me, but was realistic and touched on a subject most don't like to write about. All in all, the book was fabulous and I looking forward to reading more from this author!
263 reviews8 followers
August 5, 2016
FIVE STARS

OFF KEY
AUTHOR: C. J. MARTIN

OFF KEY is the first book in A WRECKLESS ABANDON SERIES by C. J. Martin. Even though it is part of a series, it can very easily be read as a stand alone. This is only the second book she has written, but I feel she is on her way to a successful writing career. My first reaction is "WOW"! This book is amazing! From beginning to end
C. J. Martin captured my attention and kept me wanting more. And, of course, this is my favorite type of book: romance with a happily ever after.

Brandon Kresge is lead singer for the super hot rock band, WRECKLESS ABANDON. He is gorgeous, sexy hot, talented, and has a body women worship. Brandon never lacks for female attention. He does, however, have a few terrible vices: drugs, alcohol and party girls. They threaten to destroy his life and career until he trades his addictions for another.

Brynn Richer is a twenty three year old beauty who is devoted to living her dream as a professional dancer. Brynn and Brandon's paths cross while she is struggling to make ends meet in New York City. A relationship is the last thing either of them want (or need) so they enter into an agreement. Friends with benefits.

Their romantic journey takes them from friends to lovers and their sexual chemistry is off the charts, and also very charming.

C. J. Martin's characters are fun and their story is captivating. Don't miss this phenomenal book and be sure and follow her promising career.
Profile Image for Carissa Anelli.
184 reviews13 followers
August 5, 2016
5 Stars
Off Key By Cj Martin
This book is every teenage fan girls dream come to life. Brynn a dancer (no not like that) meets and has an instant attraction to Brandon a big time rock star who she met in happenstance. Once Brandon laid eyes on her he could not forget her. Brandon is a recovering addict his band and his sponsor repeatedly tell him to forget her she is off limits but he can’t he sees her everywhere and as much as Brynn would love to forget him she cant.
This isn’t your modern day romance this is supposed to be your typical non-committal relationship this is supposed to be a friends with benefits situation no feelings no strings those always work right? Wrong, soon they both realize they are in love with each other and too scared to say it. Once they do everything falls apart. Brandon leaves to go on tour Brynn gets a role in a major Broadway company and leaves on tour. During the tour the lead dancer breaks her foot and Brynn who has danced with silks get promoted to the lead.
Brandon finds out and cancels the last 12 shows on his tour because he has to be there, the label agrees and reschedules for the fall and adds more dates with it. She feels him in the audience before she sees him they reconcile the best way they can again and again through the night and he proposes by the end of the book and of course she agrees!
This non-stop page turner will have you wanting to keep reading and never return to reality!
Profile Image for Michelle Deroche.
112 reviews1 follower
August 5, 2016
Off Key by CJ Martin Book Review
5/5 Stars

Brandon Kresge, a rock star with the whole world at his feet, and every woman of his choice at his beck and call. Life is perfect, or at least that's what he wants the world to think! Past actions haunt his daily life and cause him to do things to try to outrun it. He is always in control of every situation so that he can continue to guard his secret from those he allows in his circle.
Brynn Richer, twenty-three and still not sure she has life all figured out! She does know one thing to be true, and that's the fact that she wants to dance! Her dream leads her to move away from home to New York City where she can pursue her passion, much to her mother's dismay. More determined than ever to make this work and prove them wrong she struggles to make ends meet while working at a dance studio. There she meets another worker who becomes a friend in the strangest way!
When BK and Brynn's paths cross for the first time very unexpectedly, sparks fly! What starts out as flirting, leads to friends, which ultimately leads to something more. But, with Brandon setting the rules, will it be able to stay that way, or will Brynn push all the right buttons to make him reconsider the life he has always felt forced to lead? All the right lyrics and all the right moves make this a book you won't want to put down until you get to the end!
Profile Image for Hooked On Books.
1,887 reviews65 followers
August 20, 2016

I gave this book 4.5 stars!

Who doesn't love a book with friends with benefits but that is the only rule that neither of them will fall in love. These two have some heated passion and with each passing day Brynn falls a little more in love with Brandon. Their chemistry is off the charts. From the first meeting you could tell when these two got together it was going to be explosive.

Brynn is a dancer and living in NYC, when a friend ask if she wants to go to a concert she agrees. It's there she meets Brandon the lead singer of the band. These two fight the attraction but soon looses the battle. When they agree to become friends with bennys that agree not to fall in love. What happens when Brynn lays it all out for Brandon, will he feel the same?

I highly recommend reading this book.
Profile Image for Mel B..
540 reviews23 followers
June 21, 2017
Beautiful! Spot on!

This trope has been done to death, and yet here in this beautiful book we have a fresh new beat...new life. Brandon and Brynn are two fabulously fleshed out characters. Both suffer from their own demons, yes even Brynn has her demons (can we say severe insecurity). But together they weather the storm, and you can see how the story is playing out...like a trainwreck you can't stop watching, but know you have to get to the end because these two people deserve their happily ever after! You will not be disappointed with this read, and Brandon and Brynn will stay with you for a long time after you've closed the book.
611 reviews
May 8, 2017
I Iove a great rock star read. This book was well written. A friends with benefit story that has you rooting for this couple at the end. I loved the characters Brandon & Brynn along with the guys of Wreckless Abandon.
Profile Image for Amy.
357 reviews4 followers
July 1, 2017
❤️❤️❤️❤️

Good book! Fast paced! Loved Brandon & Brynn.
Friends to FWB to heartache.. Crossing the line is never easy.
He doesn't do commitment and she can't hold her feelings back!
Good story!
Profile Image for WJ Carroll.
66 reviews1 follower
October 23, 2020
4.5 friends with benefit stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I grabbed this book because it looked to be your average good and quick read. Surprise, it was better than average. It was the complex, in depth characters that made it so good. I really liked this one! Plus who doesn’t love a good steamy rockstar romance.😉
Profile Image for a collective of books.
1,524 reviews4 followers
May 11, 2017
It was a good book, well written. Slow read and very predictable, but it was enjoyable.
Profile Image for Alice Malary.
280 reviews6 followers
November 9, 2017
Reviewed for Goodreads...
I gave this book 3 stars!

Who doesn't love a book with friends with benefits. It really got off to a strong start but the ending felt rushed.
Profile Image for Kelli.
583 reviews19 followers
August 5, 2016
Book Review of Off Key

Author CJ Martin

FIVE STARS!!

Brynn and Brandon two people from different walks of life meet through a mutual friend.  Rules of the group are no one dates family or friends to keep the group from falling apart.  Brynn comes from a small town and is a dancer and instructor of dance. She is just trying to make ends meet so that she can prove to her mother that she isn't wasting her life following her dreams.

Brandon a super hot rock star is going through difficult times.  He is going through counseling for alcohol and drug abuse and is NOT ready for a relationship.  Too many years of countless groupies and meaningless sex.  

After several weeks of being friends and just hanging out together with friends and meeting up for lunches etc.  FINALLY Brandon and Brynn take the step to becomming friend with benefits.  Brynn, not the type of girl who does this kind of thing says she can do the no strings sex only thing with Brandon.  They agree to no one knowing about it.  No sleepovers. No other people sexually or otherwise while they are together. And if one of them wants out then its over.

Sounds easy..... until they both realize they can't stand to be away from each other.  Even their friends and Brynns family notice it.  After a concert one night Brandon and his band mates are supposed to go to an after party and Brynn does not think that Brandon should go because there will be drugs and alcohol there and after only 6 months she doesnt think he is ready to be around all of that.  They have a fight and things turn ugly. Brynn walks into Brandons dressing room before the concert and finds lines of Cocaine on the counter and Brandon swears to her he didnt do anything and confesses they belong to a female groupie that he has been with before yet nothing happened this time he says. Brynn loses it and tells Brandon its over and walks out.  After the concert Brandon goes back to the house where everyone is staying and tries to find Brynn.  She finally comes back and things go from bad to okay to bad again.  

Brynn and Brandon dont text or talk or see one another for 3 months.  During their time apart Brynn talks to her mother and Brandon continues talking to his counselor.  They each continue on with their lives and try to forget the other but it just isnt happening.  Brandon finds out that Brynn has landed a starring role in an upcoming Broadway production and has his producer cancel 12 shows so that he can be there the opening night of her performance.  Trying to hide in the audience so that Brynn has no idea he is there she senses him anyway and their eyes meet.  After the performance they reconnect and work things out.

Full of steamy sex and how to grow as friends.  This book kept me engrossed the entire time.  Loved watching their story unfold and watching them grow as friends and then as friends with benefits up to the point that I could tell they were more and was rooting them on.  I cried when they did and hurt for them both when they split up.  My heart rejoiced at the end of the book when they worked everything out.  Several suprize twists that I didnt go into, I dont want to give it all away.  ENJOYED this tremendously

Profile Image for Jessica.
455 reviews2 followers
August 12, 2016
Rate: 5 Stars
Title & Author: Off Key by CJ Martin
Writing: Great
Violence: None
Sex: Some
What started out just helping a friend, and being rewarded with free tickets to a sold out concert. Just turn into a first class, high speed train into new drama, and new relationships. Something that Brynn was not prepare for, nor would want on her plate at the moment.

Brynn is a professional dancer, and when her friend/ coworker asks for her help. All she has to do is play pretend with her, and she will get to attend a sold out concert. More than happy to help, Brynn was not prepared to come face to face with the lead singer of the band; Brandon. What should’ve been an easy job of pretending just got harder. When Brandon turns his attention on to Brynn, things begins to get hot and steamy. But not wanting to be another fish in his sea, Brynn turns him down. But that doesn’t stop Brandon if anything is show him that she not like any other girl he’s met. She different and he wants her, even if it’s against the rules. But Brynn wants a relationship, while Brandon not so much. Will Brynn give Brandon what he wants? Or Continue to ignore him?

“My nervous eyes dart around the room, landing on a bright neon pink bra. I can only imagine who that belongs to, how many women he has seduced in this very room. Probably tonight. Disgust coils low in my belly. For him. For me. I can’t believe I almost let my guard down, actually considered staying with him. Am I really that starstruck? I bring my eyes back to him. Finding my voice, I say, loud and strong, “Not a chance, Romeo.” I glimpse his confused expression, right as I let the door slam shut behind me.”

Yes! That's what I like to see. I mean who does he think he is? That he thinks he can treat females like an object. I love this part the most because she was just like “uh, no, think again.” This part had me shouting “Let’s Go Brynn!” I freaking love Brynn, she is wicked funny! She very sarcastic and witty. At first I was sketchy about the book since the prolog kind of had me thinking that this book would mostly be about Brandon fighting his drug habits. But no its nothing like that. You’ll be in one heck of a surprise like I was when you find out this book has so much more to show. I love how dominate Brandon is, he sure had me sipping a long glass of ice water when reading about him. If I was a princess in a distress, instead of sending me a prince I much rather you send me Brandon instead. He is hot! This is the first book that I read from CJ Martin, and I absolutely enjoyed it. You will not be disappointed, if anything you would most likely be disappointed in the fact that the book has ended. I would’ve loved for the book to never end and just continue forever, but sadly just like all good book there must be an end.
Profile Image for Alecia (The Staircase Reader).
1,111 reviews76 followers
August 5, 2016
I received an arc from the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review.
Off Key is the first book i have read by author CJ Martin and i have to say i rather enjoyed it!! I thought the story was told amazingly there were no hangups or confusion which is also a plus.I have to admit the Off Key cover drew me in. I love colorful jaw dropping covers!
Now on to the actual book review.A couple of years ago i was introduced to s.c. stephens thoughtless series. Since then i have been looking for a rockstar that tugs at my heartstrings just as Kellan Kyle did. I finally found him and he goes by the name of Brandon Kresge. ( will admit while reading Off Key i probably mispronounced that last name every single time i read it.)
Off Key has some strong sexual tension followed by scorching hot sexy time scenes! I found myself setting my tablet aside to regroup after 'certain scenes'!
Brandon is trying to fight his demons that come in the form of a drug addiction when he meets Brynn (his bandmate's little sisters best friend) the tension is stifling and it's a continuous push and pull relationship. They come to an agreement. No strings attached friends with benefits type thing. Which leads to complications because eventually the lines get blurred and heartbreak steps in.
I loved how Brandon tried to help Brynn's dreams of becoming a dancer come true by setting up auditions using his connections but then when she found out it was him that set up the connections he was cool about it as if it were no big deal.
I really loved off key.
The emotional connection the two had from the beginning was one thing that drew me in. The fear brandon showed when he started feeling true feelings towards brynn. It was heartbreaking to see his struggle.
Off key is a must read for anyone who loves rockstar romance novels!
I want to say one more thing before i end this review.
I love when authors write about issues that people face in everyday life. It sheds a new light on the subject and lets the people who have never gone through said issues get a look at the fact that stopping any addiction is not as simple as we may think. Whether it's drugs, alcohol, or sex. even when you do become sober you will live with the addiction for the rest of your life. Hats off to all the people that are recovering addicts. I admire your courage and strength.
Profile Image for booked_at_aprils .
97 reviews6 followers
August 6, 2016




Off Key
CJ Martin

4.5 ****

One Agreement…Two Friends….Three Rules

No one gets hurt.

Off Key is good girl meets bad boy.

Brandon Kresge the head singer for a popular band thinks he has everything he’s ever wanted. He could

have any girl he wants, but not all girls are like most girls. When he thinks he’s got it all figured out and

he’s perfect at hiding the truth of his entire life from the media, from his fans, and from his friends

everything changes. He meets Brynn Richer, the one that almost got away.

Brandon is used to having girls throw off their clothes for him; he’s used to having it easy. When Brynn

doesn’t melt at his words and strip naked he’s even more turned on than never before. After the first

night they met Brandon was warned to steer clear of her, and Brynn was warned to steer clear of him.

Not interested in just a fling she saw it easy to not let Brandon affect her in any way.

When seeing each other a few more times they both can’t fight the attraction to one another and it was

hard to deny what they both felt. Brandon not wanting anything more than just friends with benefits,

and Brynn trying her best to guard her heart they both come to an agreement. One agreement between

two friends with just three simple rules. No strings, no commitments, and no expectations. Sounds

simple enough doesn’t it. But it’s not; it’s actually far from that.

After time being spent together the feelings grow to an undesirable height and neither one of them can

hold back. Leading Brandon to break the one thing he vowed never to happen. A Sleepover. It’s safe to

say that since then he was off key moving forward. Brynn spills her heart to him and admits she loves

him leaving him to doge the bullet and run for the hills. Things get out of control from there and it’s like

an emotional rollercoaster between them both.

Three months that’s how long they have not seen nor spoken to each other three long gruesome

months. Sour and bitter mood swings pouring from Brandon and a piece of Brynn’s heart missing will

things work out? Are some things worth mending and working out or was it too much for reconciliation

between them? Do they get the happily ever after they both deserve?
1 of 1
Document1.docx
Displaying Document1.docx.
254 reviews4 followers
September 1, 2016
*****5 STARS!*****
Off Key by CJ Martin

There are very few books that I would give 5 stars and that I would save in order to read again later, but "Off Key" by CJ Martin is one I'm definitely holding onto. Brandon is the perfect bad boy, not willing to open himself up to anyone, rock star history, with the tattoos and lifestyle you'd expect. Brynn is in New York City following her dreams of being a professional dancer. There was an accidental meeting that through a random chain of events ended with them agreeing to have a secret "friends with benefits" affair.

For Brandon and Brynn it was all fireworks, heat, and passion with both of them ending up letting their guards down emotionally and physically. The rock star rule of not letting women spend the night at his place went out the window with the rest of the rules BK and Brynn attempted to set in the beginning. They had feelings for each other that neither wanted to admit, but that they both did an awful job of hiding from anyone and everyone that caught them looking at each other, completely undeniable love!

I wanted the "happily ever after" from the very beginning of this book and really enjoyed how the author showed the temptations of the sex, drugs, and rock n roll lifestyle. The author did a great job of describing how a person’s past can haunt them into adulthood. There were examples of catty women, jealousy, falling hard for someone, being scared to open up to the chance of being hurt, and being crushed and heartbroken before being brave enough to admit your feelings. I felt like I actually climbed inside the book, and as a music lover I even found myself thinking of different songs that should be playing at certain parts of the book.

Seriously, I found NO negatives with this book. I found myself wanting to know more and then feeling a bit disappointed that it was a "stand-alone" book. I liked the way the chapters alternated between Brandon and Brynn's point of view and I found myself looking forward to reading exactly what the other person was thinking about the events that took place. "Off Key" was great and I'm now ready to read more by CJ Martin. I would recommend picking up this book. You won't want to put it down!
Profile Image for Martha.
209 reviews4 followers
August 5, 2016
Sexy, Emotional, Frustrating, and Fantastic!!!
C J Martin has given us a rollercoaster ride of emotions! I couldn’t put this book down. It is frustrating at times and I literally yelled at my kindle screaming no, no, no, or yes, yes, yes. I loved it!!
Being the lead for a band gets you anything you could possibly want or need. The drugs, the alcohol, and girls are free flowing. Snorting a few lines every night before going on stage makes Brandon feel euphoric, energetic and ready to please the crowds with his rock and roll. After the show he knows there will be at least one or two girls waiting in his dressing room so he can take himself and them to new heights sexually. All the groupies know his rules, 1. No commitment 2. Always use protection 3. No sleepovers. All his groupies know the rules and if they break one it is bye, bye for her. It is the same night after night day after day. The next thing he knows he is spiraling out of control and he crashes and burns. To be able to pick himself up and keep his band going Brandon has to make some hard decisions and face a lot of secrets from his childhood to rebuild his life.
Professional dancing is what Brynn dreams of. She lives in a cracker box apartment with two roommates sharing the rent but every month she is broke and worried about how she will come up with her part of the rent. She is working as many hours as she can at the studio where she is employed and they let her teach dance classes. It’s just never enough for rent and groceries. Her family is not supportive of her dancing and because of it Brynn will not ask for their help. Alysia works with Brynn painting sets. When Alysia suggest they go to a concert that night, Brynn doesn’t want to go but Alysia is insistent and they go. This is where Brandon meets Brynn after the concert when she accidently went into the wrong room backstage. This is where their turmoil of a relationship begins. Can they find true love or will he only play by his own rules?
C J Martin has written a story that will make you feel as though you are sharing every emotion with the characters and not just reading words. Thank you for sharing your talents with us!

Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.