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Heart of Fame #8
Blackthorne
Josh Blackthorne never planned to follow in his father’s rock-star footsteps. But music is in his genes, and he was born into this world of fame. Finding someone who isn’t fazed by all that is unique, but the novelty of being liked for who he is by Caitlin Reynolds quickly turns to something more when he gets to know her better.
Josh makes Caitlin laugh, something she hasn’t done in a while. He’s also freaking hot, and she’s been ignoring her hormones for almost a year. But as much a she wants to melt into his arms, there’s a ghost hanging over her head—a ghost who turns out to be not-so-legally dead after all…
Each book in the Heart of Fame series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series Order:
Book #1 Love’s Rhythm
Book #2 Muscle for Hire
Book #3 Guarded Desires
Book #4 Steady Beat
Book #5 Lead Me On
Book #6 Blame it on the Bass
Book #7 Getting Played
Book #8 Blackthorne
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2014
About the author
Lexxie Couper
140 books1,142 followersLexxie’s not a deviant. She just has a deviant’s imagination and a desire to entertain readers with her words. Add the two together and you get darkly erotic romances with a twist of horror, sci-fi and the paranormal.
When she’s not submerged in the worlds she creates, Lexxie’s life revolves around her family, a husband who thinks she’s insane, a indoor cat who likes to stalk shadows, two yabbies hell-bent on destroying their tank and her daughters, who both utterly captured her heart and changed her life forever.
Having no idea how old she really is, Lexxie decided to go with 27 and has been that age for quite some time now. It's the best of both worlds - old enough to act mature, young enough to be silly.
And silly she can be. Just ask her husband who frequently has to endure her bursting into song whenever the mood strikes her, feeling him up in public (one of her favorite pastimes), or rolling around in the sand with their dog - a large mutt of dubious origins who causes almost as much havoc around the neighborhood as Lexxie herself. Or squealing her way down the slide at the local park with her daughter!
Lexxie lives by two simple rules - measure your success not by how much money you have, but by how often you laugh, and always try everything at least once. As a consequence, she's laughed her way through many an eyebrow raising adventure.
When she’s not submerged in the worlds she creates, Lexxie’s life revolves around her family, a husband who thinks she’s insane, a indoor cat who likes to stalk shadows, two yabbies hell-bent on destroying their tank and her daughters, who both utterly captured her heart and changed her life forever.
Having no idea how old she really is, Lexxie decided to go with 27 and has been that age for quite some time now. It's the best of both worlds - old enough to act mature, young enough to be silly.
And silly she can be. Just ask her husband who frequently has to endure her bursting into song whenever the mood strikes her, feeling him up in public (one of her favorite pastimes), or rolling around in the sand with their dog - a large mutt of dubious origins who causes almost as much havoc around the neighborhood as Lexxie herself. Or squealing her way down the slide at the local park with her daughter!
Lexxie lives by two simple rules - measure your success not by how much money you have, but by how often you laugh, and always try everything at least once. As a consequence, she's laughed her way through many an eyebrow raising adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 12, 2014
4 Actually Felt Stars * * * *
I was new to Lexxie Couper and her series, of Heart of Fame. Blackthorne was the 8th entry; however, my not having read any of the others did not cause me any stress....not one little bit.
This is a tale of a Rock Star and how he finally is able to capture real love... with a woman he had thought about for sometime from afar...
What was terrific about this book was the emotional sweetness of it.... mixed with a passion which fully translated to the reader. These characters came to life from the page and when they came together, it was breath-taking.... the type of feelings you dream about in real life...
We have also a very complex situation of a possible fiance missing while on mission with Doctors without Borders. Due to all of the recent news about outbreaks of disease and the sacrifice these very brave, giving humanitarians do... I was pleased to see it as a focus in this story.
If you are a fan of the series... I know you will appreciate this installment. If you were like me... in the dark of a strong series of Rock Gods and the women who become part of their lives... then please, take a moment and enjoy this book. There is music and humor galore. There are hunky men and a romance worthy of your time... yes... a definite read.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
I was new to Lexxie Couper and her series, of Heart of Fame. Blackthorne was the 8th entry; however, my not having read any of the others did not cause me any stress....not one little bit.
This is a tale of a Rock Star and how he finally is able to capture real love... with a woman he had thought about for sometime from afar...
What was terrific about this book was the emotional sweetness of it.... mixed with a passion which fully translated to the reader. These characters came to life from the page and when they came together, it was breath-taking.... the type of feelings you dream about in real life...
We have also a very complex situation of a possible fiance missing while on mission with Doctors without Borders. Due to all of the recent news about outbreaks of disease and the sacrifice these very brave, giving humanitarians do... I was pleased to see it as a focus in this story.
If you are a fan of the series... I know you will appreciate this installment. If you were like me... in the dark of a strong series of Rock Gods and the women who become part of their lives... then please, take a moment and enjoy this book. There is music and humor galore. There are hunky men and a romance worthy of your time... yes... a definite read.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 14, 2014
☆ I received an ARC via Rock Star PR in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
In this seventh installment from author Lexxie Couper, we follow the story of soccer hopeful turned mega hot rock crooner, Josh Hawthorne, and self made businesswoman, Caitlin Reynolds.
Both characters have quite the comical start, as during their first meeting of each other, Caitlin point blank calls Josh a liar and an impersonating phony for pretending to be THE "Josh Blackthorne, front man of chart topping rock band, Synergy.
The joke then turns out to be on her, as by luck would have it, Josh is well adverse with who Caitlin is and surprises her with a phone call to her uncle. Talk about fate! Hahahaha.
From there, I guess you can say, the rest is history, as we see Caitlin and Josh go forward in their relationship and eventually develop romantic feelings for one another.
But, seeing as this is a story, there a couple of obstacles that need to be addressed from past and current quandaries. The first being, Caitlin's MIA fiancée who turns out to be alive. The second to be: Josh's status and reputation. And last but not least: Josh and Caitlin's reluctance to take a chance on true love.
What will they choose? Can their sever this inexplicable connection that keeps them drawing back together? And will they ever overcome the odds set against them?
Get ready readers, as we journey with Caitlin and Josh as they make some of the most fulfilling and heart wrenching final decisions of their lives that will change the course of their futures!...♥
My thoughts: Blackthorne was more of an “okay” bordering on likable read for me as it was sweet, sensual, and filled with heart-gripping emotion. While I will be the first to admit that I had no read any of the previous book installments, other readers like me should not have a problem getting into the flow of it, as the context and story line were very easy to follow along to and gauge what had happened before.
All in all though, not bad for my very first read from this series! Now my next project should be, should I or shouldn't I backtrack and proceed with reading the preceding all six released books in the Heart of Fame series? Gah, so many good books, so little time!
In this seventh installment from author Lexxie Couper, we follow the story of soccer hopeful turned mega hot rock crooner, Josh Hawthorne, and self made businesswoman, Caitlin Reynolds.
Both characters have quite the comical start, as during their first meeting of each other, Caitlin point blank calls Josh a liar and an impersonating phony for pretending to be THE "Josh Blackthorne, front man of chart topping rock band, Synergy.
The joke then turns out to be on her, as by luck would have it, Josh is well adverse with who Caitlin is and surprises her with a phone call to her uncle. Talk about fate! Hahahaha.
From there, I guess you can say, the rest is history, as we see Caitlin and Josh go forward in their relationship and eventually develop romantic feelings for one another.
But, seeing as this is a story, there a couple of obstacles that need to be addressed from past and current quandaries. The first being, Caitlin's MIA fiancée who turns out to be alive. The second to be: Josh's status and reputation. And last but not least: Josh and Caitlin's reluctance to take a chance on true love.
What will they choose? Can their sever this inexplicable connection that keeps them drawing back together? And will they ever overcome the odds set against them?
Get ready readers, as we journey with Caitlin and Josh as they make some of the most fulfilling and heart wrenching final decisions of their lives that will change the course of their futures!...♥
My thoughts: Blackthorne was more of an “okay” bordering on likable read for me as it was sweet, sensual, and filled with heart-gripping emotion. While I will be the first to admit that I had no read any of the previous book installments, other readers like me should not have a problem getting into the flow of it, as the context and story line were very easy to follow along to and gauge what had happened before.
All in all though, not bad for my very first read from this series! Now my next project should be, should I or shouldn't I backtrack and proceed with reading the preceding all six released books in the Heart of Fame series? Gah, so many good books, so little time!
February 10, 2015
I liked this. It was nice to take a break from all the YA I've been reading lately and go for something a bit more adult.
From the start it was sexy and fun. Josh came across as being fun and quite down to Earth after the first meeting. Caitlin was quite cool too, she tried to do what was right.
One thing I wasn't so fond of was the sex. It was erotica and that isn't my favourite genre. I preferred the bits between the sex scenes as most of the relationship occurred before the sex took place.
I also feel like the book should have had an epilogue as it seemed rather abrupt how it ended.
If all the authors works are like this then I wouldn't mind reading more of her work.
From the start it was sexy and fun. Josh came across as being fun and quite down to Earth after the first meeting. Caitlin was quite cool too, she tried to do what was right.
One thing I wasn't so fond of was the sex. It was erotica and that isn't my favourite genre. I preferred the bits between the sex scenes as most of the relationship occurred before the sex took place.
I also feel like the book should have had an epilogue as it seemed rather abrupt how it ended.
If all the authors works are like this then I wouldn't mind reading more of her work.
June 7, 2020
Life always has ways to surprise you. Josh Blackthorn life is no exception. At the age of fifteen he discovers rock god Nick Blackthorn is his father. And just when he thinks his career as pro footballer is a sealed and delivered deal and injury takes that away from him. Of course music flows through his veins and he has that to fall back on become the new front man of his dad former band pushes to superstardom. Meeting the woman he’s fantasied about since the age of eighteen doesn’t go has plan. For one she’s engaged. To a national hero gone missing, presumed dead. The doctors without boarders becomes a cause from him to support if only for the love of his life to find closure. When the government tells Caitlin Reynolds they found the remains of a man with her fiancée I.D. badge and she recognizes the medical satchel she gave him before he left she can let her herself feel alive. For eight months she’s been an empty shell until the night her uncle L sends a rockstar to her doorstep. Without wanting to she comes alive, like she’s never been before, but the guilt eats away at her. For torturous weeks she tethers between the raging emotions. Giving in to her heart she opens herself to his love. Gives her own. Until the night of her not so dead fiancée return. Josh did the only thing he could even if it killed him to do it, he walked away from the woman of his dreamers. Rockstar he may be, bastard he is not. Running home for some family R&R to mend is broken heart and figure out how live a life without Caitlin by his side. The tension and emotions are beautifully portrayed and the couples reunion is just a poignant. It doesn’t take long for her fiancée to send her on her way to HEA and Caitlin does just that and the rest is history...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2014
Have you ever read a book that while rooting for the main characters you also find yourself rooting against them? That is where I was with this book. All the characters are amazing and I connected with each of them, but that twist at the end? I wanted a happy ever after for all of them, but mostly for Matt. I felt he needed one even if he broke things off with Caitlin before he left for Doctors without Borders. I wanted him to have something and someone to hold when he got back and while Caitlin did try she just couldn’t let Josh go and yes that made me happy as well as sad, because lets face it Josh is amazing. More so than a normal guy. I mean come on what guy would still stay around a girl who he loves, but knows he can never have. And what guy wouldn’t give in when said girl throws herself at them? Josh was there in any way that Caitlin needed. A shoulder to cry on, someone to hold her when she cries, a friend to talk to, and then someone to love her.
I believe that I loved this book so much because of Josh. He made this book what it was. Caitlin was great. She stayed loyal to someone that she didn’t need to because she wasn’t engaged to him anymore, even if his parents and friends didn’t know. She held on to hope that her missing exfiance would come home some day and things would then move forward, because no matter what she loved Matt. Loved him like you can only with your first love. And while that love was strong it was nothing like the kind that she felt for Josh.
The story plot is also well developed and written. The author kept us on this emotional rollercoaster where at times we wanted to get off while yelling for more. The twists throughout the book were awesome. I think I somehow knew earlier in the book that Matt was coming back, even when a body was found I knew he would be back, I mean how couldn’t he? We had all this passion and love built up for Matt from Caitlin that I knew we would be facing a decision she would have to make. Josh? or Matt? And I for one am glad I wasn’t the one having to make that decision. Both men are great in their own ways, and both love Caitlin.
This is one story you don’t want to pass up! So make sure you check it out!
I believe that I loved this book so much because of Josh. He made this book what it was. Caitlin was great. She stayed loyal to someone that she didn’t need to because she wasn’t engaged to him anymore, even if his parents and friends didn’t know. She held on to hope that her missing exfiance would come home some day and things would then move forward, because no matter what she loved Matt. Loved him like you can only with your first love. And while that love was strong it was nothing like the kind that she felt for Josh.
The story plot is also well developed and written. The author kept us on this emotional rollercoaster where at times we wanted to get off while yelling for more. The twists throughout the book were awesome. I think I somehow knew earlier in the book that Matt was coming back, even when a body was found I knew he would be back, I mean how couldn’t he? We had all this passion and love built up for Matt from Caitlin that I knew we would be facing a decision she would have to make. Josh? or Matt? And I for one am glad I wasn’t the one having to make that decision. Both men are great in their own ways, and both love Caitlin.
This is one story you don’t want to pass up! So make sure you check it out!
Did Not Finish
December 23, 2016DNF at 47%
I'm really not sure why this didn't end up being a big win for me or at the very least one I could finish and moderately enjoy. I saw this one a few years back and loved what the blurb said about it and then I let it sit on my e-reader. Lately, I've been in the mood to get to some of those that have been there a while and perked up when I saw an Australian Rocker romance.
The story starts off with a funny situation when a female night club owner doesn't recognize a popular rock star wishing to gain entry to her club. She rejects him even while everyone else is screaming in a frenzy that it's him.
But even while I found their meet-cute hilarious, there were hints already that made me cautious. It was the way the characters are described and the repetitiveness of the same description (telling instead of showing). I struggle with that because I didn't quite see the heroine, in particular, the way she was being described. The heroine is described as and wants to be seen as spitfire take no guff sort, but she's really one hot mess. I felt a little sorry for her, but not completely. There is a situation with a guy missing presumed dead that was really made out to be more complicated than it really was- the drama around that was probably the final straw for me. She bristles and tries to deny the truth and her feelings for the hero. She's got some misplaced guilt going on (see unnecessary complication above). The hero is the nice guy celebrity who fell for a woman based on a picture he saw and he's not put off at all by her come-hither eyes and back-off words.
So, I stuck with it to see if I'd shake my early disconnect, but I didn't. I wasn't angry or frustrated and I didn't think it was bad writing. I just couldn't engage with the story so I stopped.
I'm really not sure why this didn't end up being a big win for me or at the very least one I could finish and moderately enjoy. I saw this one a few years back and loved what the blurb said about it and then I let it sit on my e-reader. Lately, I've been in the mood to get to some of those that have been there a while and perked up when I saw an Australian Rocker romance.
The story starts off with a funny situation when a female night club owner doesn't recognize a popular rock star wishing to gain entry to her club. She rejects him even while everyone else is screaming in a frenzy that it's him.
But even while I found their meet-cute hilarious, there were hints already that made me cautious. It was the way the characters are described and the repetitiveness of the same description (telling instead of showing). I struggle with that because I didn't quite see the heroine, in particular, the way she was being described. The heroine is described as and wants to be seen as spitfire take no guff sort, but she's really one hot mess. I felt a little sorry for her, but not completely. There is a situation with a guy missing presumed dead that was really made out to be more complicated than it really was- the drama around that was probably the final straw for me. She bristles and tries to deny the truth and her feelings for the hero. She's got some misplaced guilt going on (see unnecessary complication above). The hero is the nice guy celebrity who fell for a woman based on a picture he saw and he's not put off at all by her come-hither eyes and back-off words.
So, I stuck with it to see if I'd shake my early disconnect, but I didn't. I wasn't angry or frustrated and I didn't think it was bad writing. I just couldn't engage with the story so I stopped.
October 1, 2014
I think this is one of Lexxie Couper's best stories, not just in the Heart of Fame series. She's always done fantastic sexual tension, but in Blackthorne she's ramped it up even more when Josh Blackthorne first meets Caitlyn and when he discovers he can't have her, that he must step away.
Lexxie wrote fully-developed characters that are easy to fall in love with. I especially loved Josh's character--saucy, sexy, and yet down-to-earth, and totally understandable considering how his family have made sure he's not let fame get to his head. Ms. Couper did a wonderful job portraying Caitlyn's struggles to resist Josh's charms.
And talk about emotion-filled. There's a scene part way through where Caitlin's worst fears are realized that had me ugly crying--big fat unstoppable tears complete with the shaky breath ugly sobs. And then when she moves on, and even when you know what is going to happen happens, they start up again.
This is one book I'm going to be reading and re-reading again and again, and purchasing it in print when it comes out to put on my keeper shelf.
Lexxie wrote fully-developed characters that are easy to fall in love with. I especially loved Josh's character--saucy, sexy, and yet down-to-earth, and totally understandable considering how his family have made sure he's not let fame get to his head. Ms. Couper did a wonderful job portraying Caitlyn's struggles to resist Josh's charms.
And talk about emotion-filled. There's a scene part way through where Caitlin's worst fears are realized that had me ugly crying--big fat unstoppable tears complete with the shaky breath ugly sobs. And then when she moves on, and even when you know what is going to happen happens, they start up again.
This is one book I'm going to be reading and re-reading again and again, and purchasing it in print when it comes out to put on my keeper shelf.
July 22, 2020
Josh was an amazing kid when we first met him in Love's Rhythm. Now a grown man and rock star, he hasn't lived the life of a monk but he is still the same good man at heart. His family from his blood relatives to his extended family of friends and bandmates have done their best to keep him grounded. All of that leads Caitlin's uncle to send Josh in her direction when he needs to get out of the US and return home to Australia for awhile.
Josh got his first glimpse of Caitlin in a picture 9 years ago and he has never forgotten it. Now that he has met her in person, he is even more intrigued and not just because she is beautiful. Her take no prisoners attitude and complete lack of regard for his celebrity are refreshing, but he can sense a loneliness in her that her uncle alluded to as well.
Caitlin has been living in limbo for the last 8 months since her fiance Matt went missing in Somalia while working with Doctors Without Borders. At this point he is presumed dead but there is no proof so she doesn't have any closure... and no one knows that they had actually broken up before he left. Josh stirs up a lot of confusing and overwhelming feelings in her, but he demonstrates time and again exactly how good a person he is with his patience and actions. When things finally reach a turning point for them, watch out! Just because he is good man doesn't mean he doesn't have some serious rock star moves and these two are just HOT together. Of course as you can see from the blurb their future plans come to a screeching halt with one unexpected return.
I loved the slow burn as Josh and Caitlin bantered their way through becoming friends and eventually more. Josh's best friend Rhys from his teenage days is still by his side and provides moments of huge comic relief, and I am glad to see that the author has given him his own novella since Blackthorne came out. Now I am off to read that one!
Josh got his first glimpse of Caitlin in a picture 9 years ago and he has never forgotten it. Now that he has met her in person, he is even more intrigued and not just because she is beautiful. Her take no prisoners attitude and complete lack of regard for his celebrity are refreshing, but he can sense a loneliness in her that her uncle alluded to as well.
Caitlin has been living in limbo for the last 8 months since her fiance Matt went missing in Somalia while working with Doctors Without Borders. At this point he is presumed dead but there is no proof so she doesn't have any closure... and no one knows that they had actually broken up before he left. Josh stirs up a lot of confusing and overwhelming feelings in her, but he demonstrates time and again exactly how good a person he is with his patience and actions. When things finally reach a turning point for them, watch out! Just because he is good man doesn't mean he doesn't have some serious rock star moves and these two are just HOT together. Of course as you can see from the blurb their future plans come to a screeching halt with one unexpected return.
I loved the slow burn as Josh and Caitlin bantered their way through becoming friends and eventually more. Josh's best friend Rhys from his teenage days is still by his side and provides moments of huge comic relief, and I am glad to see that the author has given him his own novella since Blackthorne came out. Now I am off to read that one!
July 25, 2022
From the minute 15 year old Josh walked on the page in th first book of this series, we as readers have watched him grow up and watched his life struggles, the ups and downs of being a mega rock star's "secret baby," of losing the career you want more than anything and because of that becoming bored and a bit reckless to replacing his father as front man and song writer with his bandmates renamed Synergy. Five years after becoming a rock god himself, the band is taking a break (with all of the other members pushing 50 they have wives and lives outside of rock and roll) and Josh is in Australia after his stalker in New York is released on bail. At the advice of his dad's ex-bodyguard Josh decides it's time to meet Caitlyn (the ex-bodyguard's niece) after years of thinking about her just from seeing her pictures. While Josh is a big star, he doesn't give off that spoiled rock star vibe. Between his parents and his much other band mates, they've kept him level headed (not that he hasn't partaken of some of what fame brings) and throughout this book we see that he really is just a normal guy who is in love with a woman who isn't completely available. (Just FYI there is NO cheating, there are circumstances that are not public knowledge.) This was a slow burn romance as these two spent time as friends before becoming more. Caitlyn's story is well, it's complicated and a bit crazy and because of that this is a super emotional book yet there are moments of levity (including a three legged pet lizard) to balance out the heavy. This entire series was stellar and Blackthorne takes it out on a very high not.
Read
October 31, 2019Damn. I was really excited to read this - had waited for it for what seemed like forever ... granted I didn't get too far - 10% but I was just too pissed at the heroine.
Maybe if I hadn't tried to pick up a ton of shit reads prior to this one I wouldn't have been in such a bad mood...
But the heroine is just such a bitch. I didn't ... ugh. I think it's supposed to show she's so "in charge/take charge" and I don't mind that - the violence against her ~patrons ... didn't love it but I get it ...
How she goes through her club hoping she can go through later and assault people who grab her...
Whatever. Don't love it [for a business owner] but as a person especially a woman I get it - BUT
What ANNOYED me was her ABSOLUTE CERTAINTY the guys who weren't [intentionally] causing any problems were DEFINITELY NOT exactly a) who they said they were b) actually who they were.
Because SHE KNOWS EVERYTHING. Sight unseen. She just DECIDES "nope it's not them."
And then she sees them and is all "NOPE."
Because she read some thing about them being somewhere else the other day.
Because planes don't exist?
Because people who are world renowned rock stars and superstar soccer players don't have the money to travel on a whim?
🙄
and EVEN ignoring all that ... the hero just deciding he MUST go after her and DEFINITELY WILL.
I mean, why?
It was just too much suspension of disbelief layered upon too much annoyance.
Very sad cuz I liked the previous book and had been really looking forward to Josh's book.
Maybe if I hadn't tried to pick up a ton of shit reads prior to this one I wouldn't have been in such a bad mood...
But the heroine is just such a bitch. I didn't ... ugh. I think it's supposed to show she's so "in charge/take charge" and I don't mind that - the violence against her ~patrons ... didn't love it but I get it ...
How she goes through her club hoping she can go through later and assault people who grab her...
Whatever. Don't love it [for a business owner] but as a person especially a woman I get it - BUT
What ANNOYED me was her ABSOLUTE CERTAINTY the guys who weren't [intentionally] causing any problems were DEFINITELY NOT exactly a) who they said they were b) actually who they were.
Because SHE KNOWS EVERYTHING. Sight unseen. She just DECIDES "nope it's not them."
And then she sees them and is all "NOPE."
Because she read some thing about them being somewhere else the other day.
Because planes don't exist?
Because people who are world renowned rock stars and superstar soccer players don't have the money to travel on a whim?
🙄
and EVEN ignoring all that ... the hero just deciding he MUST go after her and DEFINITELY WILL.
I mean, why?
It was just too much suspension of disbelief layered upon too much annoyance.
Very sad cuz I liked the previous book and had been really looking forward to Josh's book.
February 27, 2018
I loved it. I read the whole series and want more!
November 3, 2014
Ms. Couper's Heart of Fame series continues with this emotionally intense read as we've come full circle in the life of Josh Blackthorne as he's grown from boy to man throughout these eight books. After a career-ending sports injury he's embraced his musical genes and found fame as a rock star. While he's enjoyed the perks of fame he's never let it go to his head. He's a super sexy yet utterly charming man who's instantly attracted to Caitlin the moment he sees her picture at her uncle's house. He's drawn to the vivacious and happy woman in that picture but reality is very different. It will take all his manly talents to break through the wall she's put around her heart as guilt and sadness are now her constant companion. Josh has a playful nature, down-to-earth despite his wealth, that's immensely appealing. He's a great friend and a great boyfriend who's willing to do whatever it takes to make those he cares about happy, even if it breaks his heart.
Caitlin is a strong-willed woman very rough around the edges and living at a standstill. She's dealing with loss and guilt from other's expectations and not allowing herself happiness or the right to move on from the past. She's closed herself off and is angry at Josh for trying to get past her emotional barriers. She's drawn to him though and is at war with herself over the feelings he engenders. Their relationship starts off playfully with him surprising her by not living up to stereotypes. From the moment they meet the connection between them teems with sexual tension and witty and sensual banter. Their scenes crackled and I enjoyed seeing her come to life in Josh's presence. Their relationship doesn't progress smoothly though as the past comes back to wreck the happiness she's just discovered with Josh.
Theirs is a journey full of heartbreak that ultimately becomes stronger for all the sacrifices they both made. I enjoyed seeing the evolution of their relationship from playful friends to steamy sexual playmates to lost lovers struggling towards their HEA. The twists in this story were heartbreaking and believably depicted. Caitlin is loyal to those she cares about so I can understand why she stood by her past and it made me like her even more because of it. This story nicely balanced intense emotions with super steamy sexual interludes. It made for a beautifully flowing story that kept me fully engrossed from beginning to end. Along with a compelling main couple is a wonderful cast of secondary characters that all work in subtle ways to bring Josh and Caitlin together. I especially loved Rhys and the much-needed humor he brought to the story as well as being the impetus for Josh realizing that being single is lonely. I'd love to see more of him as he left a sexy lasting impression on me. This was a perfect addition to a well-written series that pushed all my buttons and took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. The characters were larger than life but believable in their actions and there's an overall feeling of family seeing them interact. Those who haven't read the series though will have no problem getting caught up in this story. Ms. Couper once again puts her talent on display by creating a story that put a smile on my face one moment, made me blush in the next, only to break my heart before putting it back together with a big bow at the end. If you haven't read her yet then this book and the rest of the Heart of Fame series is a great place to start!
Caitlin is a strong-willed woman very rough around the edges and living at a standstill. She's dealing with loss and guilt from other's expectations and not allowing herself happiness or the right to move on from the past. She's closed herself off and is angry at Josh for trying to get past her emotional barriers. She's drawn to him though and is at war with herself over the feelings he engenders. Their relationship starts off playfully with him surprising her by not living up to stereotypes. From the moment they meet the connection between them teems with sexual tension and witty and sensual banter. Their scenes crackled and I enjoyed seeing her come to life in Josh's presence. Their relationship doesn't progress smoothly though as the past comes back to wreck the happiness she's just discovered with Josh.
Theirs is a journey full of heartbreak that ultimately becomes stronger for all the sacrifices they both made. I enjoyed seeing the evolution of their relationship from playful friends to steamy sexual playmates to lost lovers struggling towards their HEA. The twists in this story were heartbreaking and believably depicted. Caitlin is loyal to those she cares about so I can understand why she stood by her past and it made me like her even more because of it. This story nicely balanced intense emotions with super steamy sexual interludes. It made for a beautifully flowing story that kept me fully engrossed from beginning to end. Along with a compelling main couple is a wonderful cast of secondary characters that all work in subtle ways to bring Josh and Caitlin together. I especially loved Rhys and the much-needed humor he brought to the story as well as being the impetus for Josh realizing that being single is lonely. I'd love to see more of him as he left a sexy lasting impression on me. This was a perfect addition to a well-written series that pushed all my buttons and took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. The characters were larger than life but believable in their actions and there's an overall feeling of family seeing them interact. Those who haven't read the series though will have no problem getting caught up in this story. Ms. Couper once again puts her talent on display by creating a story that put a smile on my face one moment, made me blush in the next, only to break my heart before putting it back together with a big bow at the end. If you haven't read her yet then this book and the rest of the Heart of Fame series is a great place to start!
October 28, 2014
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Sometimes reviews are really hard to write and this is one of those reviews. I’m so worried I won’t do this book justice and it is hard to write because this is the end of what has been an extraordinary series by an author who you can tell by the words she writes pours her heart and soul into her work. This is a series that has come full circle; it’s been crazy and wonderful and I have loved every minute of it.
From a moody 15 year old who finds out his dad is the famous rock star Nick Blackthorne, to the pro soccer player whose career is ended with one wrong play, to the gifted musician who is wrecking havoc on the Sydney Conservatorium of Music we’ve seen Josh grow up throughout this series. Now 25 with 5 years as the front man for his dad’s old band renamed Synergy, Josh is ready for a change in his life and when he finally meets Caitlin Reynolds the girl/woman he’s been half way in love with after seeing her pictures at her uncle’s home he knows his life will never be the same.
I love the man Josh has become despite the fact that his life has been anything but normal. He’s so grounded and being a well known rock star he doesn’t take advantage of that status. That’s not to say he hasn’t enjoyed the benefits that come with being a rock star, but between his parents and his band mates who were there every step of the way to keep him in check, he’s really pretty normal. Caitlin’s life has been in turmoil for the past year and despite the fact that she is instantly attracted to Josh and has her beloved uncle’s word that he’s a great guy she can’t let herself fall for him. I really felt for Caitlin because she was truly in limbo and Josh unleashed all kinds of feelings she felt guilty for having and while she was a huge fan those feelings had way more to do with the man than his rock star persona.
Throughout this book I found myself on an emotional roller coaster partly due to knowing this was the last book in this series but mostly due to the very complicated yet amazingly tender love story between these two. There was more than one scene that had my heart breaking in two but there were also moments of complete and utter joy. Josh and Caitlin are one of those couples that travel a really hard road to get to their happily ever after but in doing so, you know it will be a forever kind of love.
While I believe you will get more enjoyment out of this book if you’ve read the other books in this series, I have no doubt that if you pick this one up and read it you’ll fall immediately in love with these characters, their story, and this author.
In the Heart of Fame series, this author has taken us on a wild ride, given us a good look at the hazards of fame, written characters we can’t help but love, and proven that anything worth having is worth fighting for. Lexxie Couper is a talented wordsmith who has captured our hearts and souls and while Blackthorne may be the end of what has been a phenomenal series I can only imagine the wonderful things she has in store next for her readers.
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Sometimes reviews are really hard to write and this is one of those reviews. I’m so worried I won’t do this book justice and it is hard to write because this is the end of what has been an extraordinary series by an author who you can tell by the words she writes pours her heart and soul into her work. This is a series that has come full circle; it’s been crazy and wonderful and I have loved every minute of it.
From a moody 15 year old who finds out his dad is the famous rock star Nick Blackthorne, to the pro soccer player whose career is ended with one wrong play, to the gifted musician who is wrecking havoc on the Sydney Conservatorium of Music we’ve seen Josh grow up throughout this series. Now 25 with 5 years as the front man for his dad’s old band renamed Synergy, Josh is ready for a change in his life and when he finally meets Caitlin Reynolds the girl/woman he’s been half way in love with after seeing her pictures at her uncle’s home he knows his life will never be the same.
I love the man Josh has become despite the fact that his life has been anything but normal. He’s so grounded and being a well known rock star he doesn’t take advantage of that status. That’s not to say he hasn’t enjoyed the benefits that come with being a rock star, but between his parents and his band mates who were there every step of the way to keep him in check, he’s really pretty normal. Caitlin’s life has been in turmoil for the past year and despite the fact that she is instantly attracted to Josh and has her beloved uncle’s word that he’s a great guy she can’t let herself fall for him. I really felt for Caitlin because she was truly in limbo and Josh unleashed all kinds of feelings she felt guilty for having and while she was a huge fan those feelings had way more to do with the man than his rock star persona.
Throughout this book I found myself on an emotional roller coaster partly due to knowing this was the last book in this series but mostly due to the very complicated yet amazingly tender love story between these two. There was more than one scene that had my heart breaking in two but there were also moments of complete and utter joy. Josh and Caitlin are one of those couples that travel a really hard road to get to their happily ever after but in doing so, you know it will be a forever kind of love.
While I believe you will get more enjoyment out of this book if you’ve read the other books in this series, I have no doubt that if you pick this one up and read it you’ll fall immediately in love with these characters, their story, and this author.
In the Heart of Fame series, this author has taken us on a wild ride, given us a good look at the hazards of fame, written characters we can’t help but love, and proven that anything worth having is worth fighting for. Lexxie Couper is a talented wordsmith who has captured our hearts and souls and while Blackthorne may be the end of what has been a phenomenal series I can only imagine the wonderful things she has in store next for her readers.
April 9, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. It was a light, fluffy fun story about a woman, Caitlin Reynolds, learning how to love again after loss, one of my favorite types of stories, and she is learning after having met Josh Blackthorne, a soccer athlete turned rock star.
I've never read anything by Lexxie Couper, but after reading this one, I am definitely going to read more. BLACKTHORNE is the eighth installment of the Heart of Fame series, which I was unaware about until right before I started the book. Fortunately, the reading order of this series doesn't appear to matter because each book can be read as a standalone.
Our two lead characters were a lot of fun. Right from the beginning you can tell that Caitlin is a hard egg to crack, but I appreciated that about her. She was a strong woman who was coping as best she could. Couper didn't make her too needy, but she also didn't make her too standoffish to the point where she seemed like she didn't need anyone. There was a balance. And I think a lot of that had to do with the supporting cast through the book, which was also spot on.
Josh's character was fun right from the moment he's introduced. His and Caitlin's "meet cute" was very entertainment and a nice back and forth of banter, flirting, and fluttering feelings. You get a nice idea of how Couper's writing style and preferences are going to play out right in the first 30ish pages of the books. And I was okay with that. In fact, it got me more excited, as I continued to read.
One thing that Couper does with Josh is she makes him likable. Truly likable. Sure, he's a cocky bastard. He's a successful rock star, but he knows he's not above everyone. There's a humility to his character that isn't seen too often with other male rockstar leads from other books. I really enjoyed that about him. That and his intentions with Caitlin are pretty sincere. Right from the start.
Another thing I love that Couper did is that she made Caitlin's indecisiveness bearable. Yes, Caitlin hopped back and forth from wanting Josh to not wanting Josh (for reasons I will not disclose), but Couper made it tolerable. I didn't want to throw the girl across the room. I was so happy about that. Not to mention, I can sympathize with the reasons for her struggle. I think they were good reasons. Excuses, yes. But good reasons all the same.
The chemistry between our two leads is so perfect. I loved experiencing the flirting and the growing intimacy. I even loved the dramatic moments and the tense that was able to be sliced by a knife. Awkward was done well. Sadness was done well. Lust was done well. And it was all extremely believeable. I just really had fun with this one.
This is definitely a character driven story done well. There are a lot of feels through this book. Some anger, sadness, happiness, etc. You feel all of the things, but it's all necessary and it's all tolerable. I had a lot of fun with this book and I want to continue with the series.
Overall, I'd recommend this book to anyone and if Couper's writing is THIS consistent, I'm sure I'll be recommending the entire series!
I've never read anything by Lexxie Couper, but after reading this one, I am definitely going to read more. BLACKTHORNE is the eighth installment of the Heart of Fame series, which I was unaware about until right before I started the book. Fortunately, the reading order of this series doesn't appear to matter because each book can be read as a standalone.
Our two lead characters were a lot of fun. Right from the beginning you can tell that Caitlin is a hard egg to crack, but I appreciated that about her. She was a strong woman who was coping as best she could. Couper didn't make her too needy, but she also didn't make her too standoffish to the point where she seemed like she didn't need anyone. There was a balance. And I think a lot of that had to do with the supporting cast through the book, which was also spot on.
Josh's character was fun right from the moment he's introduced. His and Caitlin's "meet cute" was very entertainment and a nice back and forth of banter, flirting, and fluttering feelings. You get a nice idea of how Couper's writing style and preferences are going to play out right in the first 30ish pages of the books. And I was okay with that. In fact, it got me more excited, as I continued to read.
One thing that Couper does with Josh is she makes him likable. Truly likable. Sure, he's a cocky bastard. He's a successful rock star, but he knows he's not above everyone. There's a humility to his character that isn't seen too often with other male rockstar leads from other books. I really enjoyed that about him. That and his intentions with Caitlin are pretty sincere. Right from the start.
Another thing I love that Couper did is that she made Caitlin's indecisiveness bearable. Yes, Caitlin hopped back and forth from wanting Josh to not wanting Josh (for reasons I will not disclose), but Couper made it tolerable. I didn't want to throw the girl across the room. I was so happy about that. Not to mention, I can sympathize with the reasons for her struggle. I think they were good reasons. Excuses, yes. But good reasons all the same.
The chemistry between our two leads is so perfect. I loved experiencing the flirting and the growing intimacy. I even loved the dramatic moments and the tense that was able to be sliced by a knife. Awkward was done well. Sadness was done well. Lust was done well. And it was all extremely believeable. I just really had fun with this one.
This is definitely a character driven story done well. There are a lot of feels through this book. Some anger, sadness, happiness, etc. You feel all of the things, but it's all necessary and it's all tolerable. I had a lot of fun with this book and I want to continue with the series.
Overall, I'd recommend this book to anyone and if Couper's writing is THIS consistent, I'm sure I'll be recommending the entire series!
October 31, 2014
4.5 Stars!!!
I was so sad to read the last page of this book! I cannot believe the series is done. I am going to miss Nick Blackthorne’s world/friends/family. This series has been so awesome to read and will remain one of my favorite series of all time. With that said, I loved this book and Nicks beautiful son Josh.
All of Lexxie’s men in her books are so swoon worthy and Josh does not disappoint one bit. Josh is a cocky rock star with a sweet loving heart even when tested Josh remained “the good guy”. Josh loved quickly and fiercely. Caitlin was a tough woman caught between her past tragedy and her future with Josh. Afraid to move on it took her a little while to accept Josh. When Caitlin got her head on straight the fireworks exploded. Lexxie can write a steamy book. My heart broke for Josh and Caitlin but as with all of Lexxie’s books we did not have to wait long for the characters to get their heads on straight and move forward with happiness.
I loved Matt and Rhys and hope that they would get a novella of some sort to give them a HEA. Especially Matt, he went through the ringer and was such a good guy. He deserves a good girl. (I am just wishing again)
This book will make you laugh and feel good. I loved the three-legged Lizard Fluffy. This story is not angsty and I love that. Lexxie’s writing is smooth and flows beautifully to the very last word.
We get to see the whole gang in the book briefly and I loved the bits and pieces I got. The reason for the 4.5 stars instead of 5 is, I felt the book ended a little abruptly and there were some questions I still had in a few spots. I realize our couple will live HEA but I would have loved and epilogue maybe to wrap up the whole series (a look into the future of everyone) Then I could rest easy with one of my favorite series of all time. This was still a great book but I love my neat little bows, weddings and babies. I’m selfish that way.
I would highly recommend this book as well as the entire series. Lexxie will not disappoint you with her beautiful men and stories. I am such a huge fan of her work and looking forward to more in the future.
My Favorite Quotes:
The guy was hot. Hot with a capital oh-my-f******-God-I-want-to-have-your-babies H. – Caitlin
After thirty-two minutes, he couldn’t help but ponder how he was to walk out of her place- and her life- without leaving his heart behind. – Josh
“Then feel, babe,” he whispered, “and hear my heart as it feels with you.” – Josh
Josh hadn’t taken away her love for Matt. No one could do that. He’d given her the strength to love again.
“Josh really is kissing that girl now.” With a laugh, he raised his head from Caitlin’s and smiled down at her. “Not just that girl,” he said. “The girl.”
October 17, 2014
Not very often do you come across an author that just speaks to you in the same way that Lexxie Couper has with me. Saying that I love her work could possibly be the biggest of understatements. Let’s just put it this way. When I received my ARC of Blackthorne, I totally did a very unladylike happy dance…really, it was quite the sight to see guys. lol So anyway, back to the subject at hand. I’ve reviewed a lot of Lexxie’s books in the past, but I can honestly say that I’m beyond excited to share with you my review for Blackthorne! So with no further ado…
Absolutely amazing… that is definitely the adjective that I’d use to describe Blackthorne. Lex really outdid herself with this final book in her Heart of Fame series. Talk about going out with a bang, Lex! I’m in such a state of utter bliss and I have a total book hangover in the best way possible right now. She made me laugh and cry all while overwhelming my heart with both sadness and pure joy. As the Heart of Fame series comes to a close, it really is a bittersweet ending to a series that I have become so attached to. Each and every one of the characters is so very special to me, but I think that Lex ended the series better than it even started (and that is quite a statement given my feelings for Josh’s dad Nick in the first book Love’s Rhythm). Blackthorne was a roller coaster of emotions for me, and I couldn’t help but ball my eyes out several times while reading. In my honest opinion, Caitlin and Josh were two of the best characters that Lex has ever written. The sexual tension between them and the heated moments all combined to an emotionally charged read that will leave you craving more from this supremely talented author.
If you haven’t read the Heart of Fame series, you will still enjoy this book and not be lost at all. But on the other hand, I definitely encourage you to start from the beginning to get that same feeling overwhelming joy that I did and to truly understand the characters. As I said before, it is a bittersweet closure to characters that I hold so very dear. Maybe Lexxie will treat us with a novella or two down the road since she is known for the way she ties in her characters from her books. *winks* Looking forward to what you have in store for us in the future for sure, and I can’t wait to get my hands on what you have out next!
*I received a review copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
You can check out this and more of my reviews on
Blending Perspectives Book Reviews
Absolutely amazing… that is definitely the adjective that I’d use to describe Blackthorne. Lex really outdid herself with this final book in her Heart of Fame series. Talk about going out with a bang, Lex! I’m in such a state of utter bliss and I have a total book hangover in the best way possible right now. She made me laugh and cry all while overwhelming my heart with both sadness and pure joy. As the Heart of Fame series comes to a close, it really is a bittersweet ending to a series that I have become so attached to. Each and every one of the characters is so very special to me, but I think that Lex ended the series better than it even started (and that is quite a statement given my feelings for Josh’s dad Nick in the first book Love’s Rhythm). Blackthorne was a roller coaster of emotions for me, and I couldn’t help but ball my eyes out several times while reading. In my honest opinion, Caitlin and Josh were two of the best characters that Lex has ever written. The sexual tension between them and the heated moments all combined to an emotionally charged read that will leave you craving more from this supremely talented author.
If you haven’t read the Heart of Fame series, you will still enjoy this book and not be lost at all. But on the other hand, I definitely encourage you to start from the beginning to get that same feeling overwhelming joy that I did and to truly understand the characters. As I said before, it is a bittersweet closure to characters that I hold so very dear. Maybe Lexxie will treat us with a novella or two down the road since she is known for the way she ties in her characters from her books. *winks* Looking forward to what you have in store for us in the future for sure, and I can’t wait to get my hands on what you have out next!
*I received a review copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
You can check out this and more of my reviews on
Blending Perspectives Book Reviews
October 28, 2014
What can I say about Lexxie Couper's final book in the Heart of Fame series except, Josh Blackthorne will ROCK your world! He sure did mine since I could not stop thinking about him or this story way into the night after I had finished reading. This author is brilliant with her storytelling and her words pull me into her characters' world.
Heart of Fame series has been one of my all-time favorites ever since she created Nick Blackthorne. It seems quite fitting that this series end with his son, Josh whom we've seen in varying stages of his life throughout the series and would somehow follow in his father's rock n roll world. I love that Josh is still a sweet, caring and loving person despite his fame and it was so much fun to see him with his best friend, Rhys. Josh's encounter with Caitlin was hilarious; I really liked Caitlin who's strong, independent, sassy and vulnerable. It was great to see these two connect and start a friendship after the misunderstanding at her club. The sexual tension between Josh and Caitlin bloody well melted my screen and the sex was scorching hot, hot, hot that it left me swooning along with Caitlin. Their love story flowed quite nicely and the surprising twist was emotional and heartbreaking for all those involved and had me cursing, crying and then finally smiling. I have to say I adored Chloe and loved Josh's interaction with his baby sister and I love how close he is to his family. I also loved that Caitlin's uncle Liev appeared in this story as he was always one of my favorite heroes.
This author sure knows how to combine all the different elements to create a fabulous story. I've loved each and every one of the stories in this series and Blackthorne is special indeed as we see things come full-circle. I am happy and sad at the same time to see Josh's story and knowing that it's the last book, but it's the perfect way to end this series. Thanks Lexxie for giving me one of my favorite series that I will be re-reading over and over again.
Heart of Fame series has been one of my all-time favorites ever since she created Nick Blackthorne. It seems quite fitting that this series end with his son, Josh whom we've seen in varying stages of his life throughout the series and would somehow follow in his father's rock n roll world. I love that Josh is still a sweet, caring and loving person despite his fame and it was so much fun to see him with his best friend, Rhys. Josh's encounter with Caitlin was hilarious; I really liked Caitlin who's strong, independent, sassy and vulnerable. It was great to see these two connect and start a friendship after the misunderstanding at her club. The sexual tension between Josh and Caitlin bloody well melted my screen and the sex was scorching hot, hot, hot that it left me swooning along with Caitlin. Their love story flowed quite nicely and the surprising twist was emotional and heartbreaking for all those involved and had me cursing, crying and then finally smiling. I have to say I adored Chloe and loved Josh's interaction with his baby sister and I love how close he is to his family. I also loved that Caitlin's uncle Liev appeared in this story as he was always one of my favorite heroes.
This author sure knows how to combine all the different elements to create a fabulous story. I've loved each and every one of the stories in this series and Blackthorne is special indeed as we see things come full-circle. I am happy and sad at the same time to see Josh's story and knowing that it's the last book, but it's the perfect way to end this series. Thanks Lexxie for giving me one of my favorite series that I will be re-reading over and over again.
November 15, 2014
This book is Josh’s story and we met him in the previous book when it was decided he would take Nick’s, his dad, place in the band, Synergy.
Now he has his eye on Caitlin who runs the trendiest nightclub around. She, however, is pining for her ex-boyfriend who is missing in Somalia after going out there with a charity. All reports indicate he is dead, but she can’t move on. This means that all Josh’s charm is not going to work on woo’ing Caitlin. He’s going to have to pull out all the stops to get his girl and not just rely on being the world’s hottest rock star.
I must say that Josh comes across as very likeable. He’s not all caveman. He realises that Caitlin isn’t ready to embark on a full blown relationship and needs time to get over her ex. Her ex, whom no one knows she actually split from before he went missing! So as far as everyone is concerned, it’s her fiancé who is missing/dead.
I felt a great sadness for Caitlin. She’s obviously having a hard time keeping the amorous rock star at arm’s length. She’s gone through a great deal of emotions when her fiancé/ex went missing but she still feels disloyal to move on. It must be hard when the love of your life dies to get yourself emotional grounded enough to trust anyone enough to give your heart to. It must be like cheating on a ghost and I can only imagine the conflicting feelings Caitlin was going through.
Yet I have to say, Josh really was the good guy and although he wouldn’t give up on her, he knew when to take a step back.
Great characters, great storyline, great flow and very well written from start to finish. Not once did I want to put the book down.
I really enjoy Lexxie Couper’s style of writing. She writes with a lot of passion, and that is very evident when you read her books. You feel a connection to the characters and even if you haven’t been through what they have, you can empathise with them because of the depth of the writing.
I enjoyed this book and it was definitely worthy of full marks.
Now he has his eye on Caitlin who runs the trendiest nightclub around. She, however, is pining for her ex-boyfriend who is missing in Somalia after going out there with a charity. All reports indicate he is dead, but she can’t move on. This means that all Josh’s charm is not going to work on woo’ing Caitlin. He’s going to have to pull out all the stops to get his girl and not just rely on being the world’s hottest rock star.
I must say that Josh comes across as very likeable. He’s not all caveman. He realises that Caitlin isn’t ready to embark on a full blown relationship and needs time to get over her ex. Her ex, whom no one knows she actually split from before he went missing! So as far as everyone is concerned, it’s her fiancé who is missing/dead.
I felt a great sadness for Caitlin. She’s obviously having a hard time keeping the amorous rock star at arm’s length. She’s gone through a great deal of emotions when her fiancé/ex went missing but she still feels disloyal to move on. It must be hard when the love of your life dies to get yourself emotional grounded enough to trust anyone enough to give your heart to. It must be like cheating on a ghost and I can only imagine the conflicting feelings Caitlin was going through.
Yet I have to say, Josh really was the good guy and although he wouldn’t give up on her, he knew when to take a step back.
Great characters, great storyline, great flow and very well written from start to finish. Not once did I want to put the book down.
I really enjoy Lexxie Couper’s style of writing. She writes with a lot of passion, and that is very evident when you read her books. You feel a connection to the characters and even if you haven’t been through what they have, you can empathise with them because of the depth of the writing.
I enjoyed this book and it was definitely worthy of full marks.
October 28, 2014
Blackthorne is Josh’s story. We knew at the end of Getting Played that Josh would be taking his dad’s place in the band and that the band is now called Synergy. Blackthorne starts with Josh going on stage for the this first time and then jumps forward 5 years to the present.
Caitlin meets Josh when he is trying to jump the line to get into her club by claiming to be Josh Blackthorne along with his friend Rhys, a famous soccer player. Security called her up front because why one of the members of the most famous band in the world be at her club without security when the news was just reporting them somewhere else?
Josh has to prove who he is by calling her uncle, who is the one who brought Caitlin into Josh’s world (via pictures) and insisting that he look her up next time he is back in Australia.
The chemistry between these two is huge, even when Caitlin is fighting it, trying to remain true to her missing fiancé for no other reason than she feels it’s the right thing to do for her, for his family, etc.
Of course who can resist chemistry like that (and Josh Blackthorne) for long? In true Lexxie Couper form this book is H-O-T. The spicy scenes between these two are absolutely melt your panties amazing.
I honestly thought the antagonist in this book would be Josh’s stalker, because I went into Blackthorne without reading the blurb, I kind of wish there would have been some more related to that in the story. Even with wanting that, the book was incredible.
I really enjoyed it. Josh was the perfect rock star hero without the mega ego that wants everyone to bow at his feet. I think he is now my favorite member of the band.
All in all, great book! I read it in one day, completely engrossed, wanting to know what was going to come up against this couple and how they were going to deal with it. Great romance, awesome rock star story!
Thank you so much for my copy of Blackthorne!
Caitlin meets Josh when he is trying to jump the line to get into her club by claiming to be Josh Blackthorne along with his friend Rhys, a famous soccer player. Security called her up front because why one of the members of the most famous band in the world be at her club without security when the news was just reporting them somewhere else?
Josh has to prove who he is by calling her uncle, who is the one who brought Caitlin into Josh’s world (via pictures) and insisting that he look her up next time he is back in Australia.
The chemistry between these two is huge, even when Caitlin is fighting it, trying to remain true to her missing fiancé for no other reason than she feels it’s the right thing to do for her, for his family, etc.
Of course who can resist chemistry like that (and Josh Blackthorne) for long? In true Lexxie Couper form this book is H-O-T. The spicy scenes between these two are absolutely melt your panties amazing.
I honestly thought the antagonist in this book would be Josh’s stalker, because I went into Blackthorne without reading the blurb, I kind of wish there would have been some more related to that in the story. Even with wanting that, the book was incredible.
I really enjoyed it. Josh was the perfect rock star hero without the mega ego that wants everyone to bow at his feet. I think he is now my favorite member of the band.
All in all, great book! I read it in one day, completely engrossed, wanting to know what was going to come up against this couple and how they were going to deal with it. Great romance, awesome rock star story!
Thank you so much for my copy of Blackthorne!
November 3, 2014
4 stars
Who doesn’t love a sexy singer? This is exactly who Josh Blackthorne is. He is not only the biggest thing out there but he has the fame and fortune to go along with it; plus his sense of humor and throw in his charming good looks. He has it all. But he wants Caitlin Reynolds and has since he first laid eyes on her in her uncle’s house.
Caitlin Reynolds is a self made business woman. She owns one of the hottest bars in Sydney. It is the place to be. Her fiancé is a doctor with borders who went missing after he was in Somalia. Caitlin is holding out hope that he will return. But there is a secret that she is keeping from their families.
When Josh and Caitlin meet for the first time, the pull toward each other is undeniable. Caitlin is battling within herself, it been too long since she has had the touch of a man. She will not fall for this sex god’s looks. But her body is telling her different when she looks at him.
Josh wants to do nothing but kiss her. He does everything he can to make her laugh and get to know her. As they maneuver between this chemistry between them, they learn that sometimes you just have to give in to desire.
Caitlin has to tell Josh the truth about her fiancé. Once the trust is out, they can move forward. As their relationship forms into more than casual friendship, they both know that this is going into unchartered territory. But as all seems well, the past always has a way of coming back.
Can Caitlin and Josh’s relationship survive the past? How do you let go of past love to begin to love again?
I am enjoyed this series and love the writing of Lexxie. I can not wait to read more from her.
Who doesn’t love a sexy singer? This is exactly who Josh Blackthorne is. He is not only the biggest thing out there but he has the fame and fortune to go along with it; plus his sense of humor and throw in his charming good looks. He has it all. But he wants Caitlin Reynolds and has since he first laid eyes on her in her uncle’s house.
Caitlin Reynolds is a self made business woman. She owns one of the hottest bars in Sydney. It is the place to be. Her fiancé is a doctor with borders who went missing after he was in Somalia. Caitlin is holding out hope that he will return. But there is a secret that she is keeping from their families.
When Josh and Caitlin meet for the first time, the pull toward each other is undeniable. Caitlin is battling within herself, it been too long since she has had the touch of a man. She will not fall for this sex god’s looks. But her body is telling her different when she looks at him.
Josh wants to do nothing but kiss her. He does everything he can to make her laugh and get to know her. As they maneuver between this chemistry between them, they learn that sometimes you just have to give in to desire.
Caitlin has to tell Josh the truth about her fiancé. Once the trust is out, they can move forward. As their relationship forms into more than casual friendship, they both know that this is going into unchartered territory. But as all seems well, the past always has a way of coming back.
Can Caitlin and Josh’s relationship survive the past? How do you let go of past love to begin to love again?
I am enjoyed this series and love the writing of Lexxie. I can not wait to read more from her.
November 14, 2014
It's no big secret that I am a complete sucker for a juicy rock star story. The bad boy who can have anyone he wants but only wants the girl that he can't have. The troubles that ensue and the ultimate chemistry that eventually can't be denied. Ahh yes...I LOVE it!
This is the first book in the Heart of Fame series that I have read and I can tell you it won't be the last. We meet Josh who lost his soccer career due to an injury and decides to try his hand at being a rock star. He becomes unbelievably famous and still manages to be humble about it. I really loved his character and enjoyed his storyline. Couper did a fantastic job of making me swoon in an uncontrollable way, lol.
Caitlin is having a hard time moving on from her ex-fiancé that went to Somalia for a good cause. Now he's missing and presumed dead but the guilt of wanting to move on hits her hard. But Josh is charming, sexy and drop dead gorgeous and her resistance starts to wane rapidly. Can he convince her to let go and move on?
What happens from there will tear at your heart strings. You will be on an emotional roller coaster that you never want to get off of. Couper does a wonderful job exploring each characters feelings to a point where you can't get enough. What happens when her ex-fiancé returns???
A story that you will enjoy and most likely read again and again :) I, for one, cannot wait to read the series from start to finish!
This is the first book in the Heart of Fame series that I have read and I can tell you it won't be the last. We meet Josh who lost his soccer career due to an injury and decides to try his hand at being a rock star. He becomes unbelievably famous and still manages to be humble about it. I really loved his character and enjoyed his storyline. Couper did a fantastic job of making me swoon in an uncontrollable way, lol.
Caitlin is having a hard time moving on from her ex-fiancé that went to Somalia for a good cause. Now he's missing and presumed dead but the guilt of wanting to move on hits her hard. But Josh is charming, sexy and drop dead gorgeous and her resistance starts to wane rapidly. Can he convince her to let go and move on?
What happens from there will tear at your heart strings. You will be on an emotional roller coaster that you never want to get off of. Couper does a wonderful job exploring each characters feelings to a point where you can't get enough. What happens when her ex-fiancé returns???
A story that you will enjoy and most likely read again and again :) I, for one, cannot wait to read the series from start to finish!
November 17, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.
I am new to Lexxie Couper's work and I've never read the previous novels in this series, but let me just say -- this was stunning to read and I'm highly intrigued with her writing style and plan to read the other books in this series.
This story follows a Rock Star named Josh Blackthorne and Caitlin Reynolds. Caitlin meets Josh as he tries to come into the Chaos Room bar, but she doesn't care much for who he is. She is engaged, but not only did her fiance leave her to be a doctor in Somalia, but now he's missing. Such craziness!
I found this book to be perfect in just about every way. The characters were funny and sweet. The drama was intriguing and the romance was on point.
Caitlin is hard working, heartbroken female. She has to learn to open up and love again after "losing" her fiance which is so realistic and believable because woman go through this in the real world. As sweet as she is, she was a very indecisive character which went well with this story.
Josh was such a headstrong, likable guy. I thought I wouldn't like him because he was a cocky, but I was surprised by how wrapped up I was in his character. I love how he made something else of himself after is soccer career fell down. I loved how he treated Caitlin as well.
Overall, this was an awesome book and I definitely plan to get my hands on the other books in this series!
I am new to Lexxie Couper's work and I've never read the previous novels in this series, but let me just say -- this was stunning to read and I'm highly intrigued with her writing style and plan to read the other books in this series.
This story follows a Rock Star named Josh Blackthorne and Caitlin Reynolds. Caitlin meets Josh as he tries to come into the Chaos Room bar, but she doesn't care much for who he is. She is engaged, but not only did her fiance leave her to be a doctor in Somalia, but now he's missing. Such craziness!
I found this book to be perfect in just about every way. The characters were funny and sweet. The drama was intriguing and the romance was on point.
Caitlin is hard working, heartbroken female. She has to learn to open up and love again after "losing" her fiance which is so realistic and believable because woman go through this in the real world. As sweet as she is, she was a very indecisive character which went well with this story.
Josh was such a headstrong, likable guy. I thought I wouldn't like him because he was a cocky, but I was surprised by how wrapped up I was in his character. I love how he made something else of himself after is soccer career fell down. I loved how he treated Caitlin as well.
Overall, this was an awesome book and I definitely plan to get my hands on the other books in this series!
November 4, 2014
Lexxie Couper really knows how to tare at your heart strings!! This book is full of super emotions, one minute you are smiling with delirious delight and the next minute you want to sob!
In this story we meet Caitlin and Josh...not only did the author write these characters as if you are living their story with them, you feel every emotional roller coaster they go through within the book.
Lexxie Couper does an amazing job of making us fall in love with a rock star that she created as good looking and down to earth. He wears his heart on his sleeve, which makes just about any woman swoon over him, including me!!
You can't help but fall in love with Caitlin instantly, she has a bit of a chip on her shoulder when the book begins but you soon see why and its well deserved.
The plot line in this book flows wonderfully and the characters are developed and written with the ease and grace of a seasoned writer. The plot twists in this book were a little expected but it still didn't keep me from staying up long into the night to read it and completely fall in love with these two characters and the love story bursts from the pages.
Great Job Lexxie Couper! I can't wait for more from you!
In this story we meet Caitlin and Josh...not only did the author write these characters as if you are living their story with them, you feel every emotional roller coaster they go through within the book.
Lexxie Couper does an amazing job of making us fall in love with a rock star that she created as good looking and down to earth. He wears his heart on his sleeve, which makes just about any woman swoon over him, including me!!
You can't help but fall in love with Caitlin instantly, she has a bit of a chip on her shoulder when the book begins but you soon see why and its well deserved.
The plot line in this book flows wonderfully and the characters are developed and written with the ease and grace of a seasoned writer. The plot twists in this book were a little expected but it still didn't keep me from staying up long into the night to read it and completely fall in love with these two characters and the love story bursts from the pages.
Great Job Lexxie Couper! I can't wait for more from you!
November 15, 2014
*arc provided for an honest review *
I've never read Lexxie Couper before, this wS my first. And I can say I'm pleasantly surprised. This was a good book.
Quite the predicament our little Caitlin finds herself in in this book. She's trying to stay true to someone who's dead but falling for someone who's everything she's ever wanted. I felt for her. For her loss. For her confusion. For her situation. But Josh is there and he's so not what she expected. Not what I expected either. He's wasn't the arrogant rockstar you expect. Well he is, but he isn't. He's a good guy and how can you not fall in love with the way he treats his sister and the way he treats Caitlin.
I can also say that Lexie provided a twist in the story I didn't really see coming and not the typical twist in a rock star romance.
Lexxie has provided us great main characters but secondary characters that kick ass too. Her uncles are amazing, her second in command Zach, and even Matt are amazing compliments to the story of Josh and Caitlin. Not only do the characters fit well into the story but so does the lizard
I give this book 4 stars
I've never read Lexxie Couper before, this wS my first. And I can say I'm pleasantly surprised. This was a good book.
Quite the predicament our little Caitlin finds herself in in this book. She's trying to stay true to someone who's dead but falling for someone who's everything she's ever wanted. I felt for her. For her loss. For her confusion. For her situation. But Josh is there and he's so not what she expected. Not what I expected either. He's wasn't the arrogant rockstar you expect. Well he is, but he isn't. He's a good guy and how can you not fall in love with the way he treats his sister and the way he treats Caitlin.
I can also say that Lexie provided a twist in the story I didn't really see coming and not the typical twist in a rock star romance.
Lexxie has provided us great main characters but secondary characters that kick ass too. Her uncles are amazing, her second in command Zach, and even Matt are amazing compliments to the story of Josh and Caitlin. Not only do the characters fit well into the story but so does the lizard
I give this book 4 stars
October 29, 2014
Josh is leaving New York as his stalker is out and a danger to him. He is told to look up Caitlin by her uncle who is doing a bit of match making. Josh arrives at her club only to find that she doesn't believe he is who he says he is, but after a phone call to her uncle realizes her mistake. Josh is attracted to her from the moment he sees her and we find out later that he has crushed on her for years before coming face to face with her. Even though Caitlin is also attracted to him, she can't act on it as something is holding her back.
Josh is there for her in a moment when she needs him most. The scene in the club after he tests the acoustics was heart wrenching.
I loved Josh and Caitlin's banter. It was funny and hot and you could see their relationship grow within that. I love that Josh is all in from the beginning never giving up his pursuit of her. They also have some scorching sexy moments together that are off the charts. Especially in her office and kitchen. Holy hotness!
I loved their story.
I give Blackthorne 5 hearts!
Josh is there for her in a moment when she needs him most. The scene in the club after he tests the acoustics was heart wrenching.
I loved Josh and Caitlin's banter. It was funny and hot and you could see their relationship grow within that. I love that Josh is all in from the beginning never giving up his pursuit of her. They also have some scorching sexy moments together that are off the charts. Especially in her office and kitchen. Holy hotness!
I loved their story.
I give Blackthorne 5 hearts!
July 19, 2015
Contemporary romance set in Sydney, Australia with a hot very young bar/club owner and a rock star.
Club owner of the Chaos room, Caitlin Reynolds seems to have it all in her home town of Sydney. But there is a lot going on in her personal life because she is waiting for her lost (possibly dead) fiance to come back from Doctors without borders in Africa, when she falls in love with the rock star, Josh Blackthorne. So begins a bumpy romance which all goes down in just a couple of months.
Only thing that bothered me was that no one is going to walk around after being in a coma for 8 months, even one month there is serious muscle atrophy and don't tell me that the care was better in a tiny nowhere African hospital! So that threw me off, I really would have been ok with a amnesia plotline because it makes more sense then a dude walking around normally after an almost year long coma?! WHAT?!
So otherwise this was a sweet sexy story about falling in love as adults with lots of emotional baggage.
230 pages and kindle freebie
3 stars
Club owner of the Chaos room, Caitlin Reynolds seems to have it all in her home town of Sydney. But there is a lot going on in her personal life because she is waiting for her lost (possibly dead) fiance to come back from Doctors without borders in Africa, when she falls in love with the rock star, Josh Blackthorne. So begins a bumpy romance which all goes down in just a couple of months.
Only thing that bothered me was that no one is going to walk around after being in a coma for 8 months, even one month there is serious muscle atrophy and don't tell me that the care was better in a tiny nowhere African hospital! So that threw me off, I really would have been ok with a amnesia plotline because it makes more sense then a dude walking around normally after an almost year long coma?! WHAT?!
So otherwise this was a sweet sexy story about falling in love as adults with lots of emotional baggage.
230 pages and kindle freebie
3 stars
September 30, 2014
***ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
This is my first read in the Heart of Fame series and having not had the opportunity to read the others in the series does not at all detract from my enjoyment of this story. Reading this actually makes me curious about all the other books...
Josh is as down-to-earth as you can have for a famous rock star and Caitlin is a very serious minded, head-screwed-on-straight type of girl who first meet in a very awkward way (which was, of course, given the celebrity, tweeted and you-tubed to death). They get past that and actually have an as-close-to-normal courtship given his status and her situation of having a missing (heroic) fiance. The dialogue, both internal and external, provided a really great exploration of feelings and motivations. Their chemistry was palpable and was interwoven throughout really really well. This is a keeper.
This is my first read in the Heart of Fame series and having not had the opportunity to read the others in the series does not at all detract from my enjoyment of this story. Reading this actually makes me curious about all the other books...
Josh is as down-to-earth as you can have for a famous rock star and Caitlin is a very serious minded, head-screwed-on-straight type of girl who first meet in a very awkward way (which was, of course, given the celebrity, tweeted and you-tubed to death). They get past that and actually have an as-close-to-normal courtship given his status and her situation of having a missing (heroic) fiance. The dialogue, both internal and external, provided a really great exploration of feelings and motivations. Their chemistry was palpable and was interwoven throughout really really well. This is a keeper.
October 30, 2014
What a fantastic ending to a great series. I have loved every minute with the band. They are sexy, exciting, hot and really great guys. I'm so glad that we got to see Josh all grown up, I also liked very much that Caitlyn was brought in as his love interest, interlocking all of the characters in so many ways. I was in tears and then shock at the events that take place, I'm not going to say which ones, don't want to spoil it for everyone but let's just say, Josh is not your typical rock star and the band as well as his parents and sister have made sure of it and he proves it over and over again. I think this one will be with me for a long time, such an amazing book!
December 18, 2014
Got this as a freebie, and after reading its blurb and the attached excerpt, was intrigued enough to start reading it. I'm usually pretty anal about reading a series in order, but for this book, I decided to skip that rule.
And I'm glad I did.
It's a pretty easy read, with lots of funny moments, snappy dialogue, hot chemistry and intense emotions. The characters are pretty likable, no bad guys in this book.
Even though this is the 8th book in the series, I don't think it matters if you haven't read the previous books. But after reading this one, I might be tempted to go read the rest.
And I'm glad I did.
It's a pretty easy read, with lots of funny moments, snappy dialogue, hot chemistry and intense emotions. The characters are pretty likable, no bad guys in this book.
Even though this is the 8th book in the series, I don't think it matters if you haven't read the previous books. But after reading this one, I might be tempted to go read the rest.
December 21, 2014
I got this book because it was a freebie on ARE. The blurb sounded interesting and since the price was right, I decided to take a chance on it, and I'm so glad I did. It was romantic, with two characters I fell in love with. The story was captivating, and as their love for each other grew and manifested in sweet, hot sex, I wished I had read the series from the start. Even though I had not read the previous books in the series, it stood alone easily. I will not hesitate to read more by this author.
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