What do you think?
Rate this book
B-Sides #1
The One Thing I Know
Talented studio musician, Henry Cole, is offered the dream job of touring with popular rock band, the Vulgar Details. Things aren’t all rosy, though, as he is hired to replace Dell Miller, creative force behind the band, who recently flamed-out in a car accident.
Henry is all too aware that he’s no replacement for someone like Dell. He’s not the only one who feels that way, either. Terry Blackwood, band front man, has been giving him a hard time even before the tour start. He seems to resent Henry’s presence beyond all reason. What Henry doesn’t know is that Terry and Dell’s relationship was both intensely close and fraught with conflict.
Terry’s grief over Dell’s death is overwhelming and threatens to destroy not only the band but his life. It doesn’t help that the new member of the band makes him feel things he doesn’t want to. Worse, when he sings, Henry sounds just like the man Terry cared so deeply for.
With so much at stake, everything could come crashing down around them and mean the end for the Vulgar Details. Or, just maybe, Henry and Terry will find the one thing they need most.
Sometimes redemption comes from the last place you expect to find it.
Henry is all too aware that he’s no replacement for someone like Dell. He’s not the only one who feels that way, either. Terry Blackwood, band front man, has been giving him a hard time even before the tour start. He seems to resent Henry’s presence beyond all reason. What Henry doesn’t know is that Terry and Dell’s relationship was both intensely close and fraught with conflict.
Terry’s grief over Dell’s death is overwhelming and threatens to destroy not only the band but his life. It doesn’t help that the new member of the band makes him feel things he doesn’t want to. Worse, when he sings, Henry sounds just like the man Terry cared so deeply for.
With so much at stake, everything could come crashing down around them and mean the end for the Vulgar Details. Or, just maybe, Henry and Terry will find the one thing they need most.
Sometimes redemption comes from the last place you expect to find it.
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2017
3 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
Keelan Ellis
12 books45 followersKeelan Ellis is a true crime enthusiast, a political junkie, and a comedy fan. Despite a compulsion to sometimes wallow in the depths of humanity’s corruption and sadness, she considers herself a romantic at heart. The stories she really connects with are about love that’s been twisted into hatred, and she believes that with honesty and forgiveness, love can overcome. Keelan loves good bourbon and classic country music, great television and well-prepared food, especially shared with like-minded people. She’s not a fan of parties and large groups of people, but there’s nothing she loves more than a long conversation with friends. Her favorite part of the writing process is the collaborative stage, hashing out plot and characters with smart and talented friends. It’s where she truly comes to understand the people she’s writing about, and often falls in love with them. With the support and encouragement--as well as some serious editing help--Keelan has found the writing niche she’s always searched for. Sometimes she gets blocked, and when that happens, there’s only one thing she knows to do. Just like Inigo Montoya, she goes back to the beginning, writing about the characters who inspired her so much in the past.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 28, 2020
***5 Stars, 5 Stars to the tenth power***
I read this about three weeks ago and I really liked it. I procrastinated a bit before writing a review and in the ensuing weeks the story and characters kept creeping up on me at the most unexpected moments. I dug up my Gregg Allman and Stones albums and let the story simmer and steep in my bones. When I was ready to review I thought I’d check my highlights/notes and ended up rereading the whole book and loving it the second time around. Yesterday I ordered the paperback. I’ll be recommending it to every person I know, romance reader or not, rock star fan or not, M/M reader or not. I guess you can say I LOVED it.
The bulk of the story takes place in 1972, right after the Summer of Love and The Stones at Altamont, at that crossroads where the Hippie 60’s were ending and the decadent 70’s were getting started. Does that qualify as historic or period piece? I don’t know but Keelan Ellis firmly evokes time and place without fanfare. She shows people living and behaving as they did back then, unencumbered by our current mores & cares. That means people smoking, waiting to get home to get or make their phone calls, and if you were gay maybe going to a bathhouse and having sex without the specter of HIV/AIDS. The story revolves around Henry Cole a 27 y.o. talented, multi instrumentalist studio musician and Terrence Blackwood, the frontman for the Vulgar Details. Henry is that strange brew of confident and insecure. He’s justifiably self assured of his talent as a musician but is content to stay in the background only doing studio work because the spotlight doesn’t call to him. What he isn’t ambivalent about is his sexuality, but he is modest in his life expectations:
Henry has done some studio work for the Details, which in my mind were an amalgamation of The Stones, Thin Lizzy, and The Allman Brothers. At the beginning of the year Dell Miller, “skinny, pretty, long-haired country boy”, (I had Gregg Allman in mind) who was troubled but had elevated the Details from a poor man’s Stones into bonafide contenders, on the strength of his artistry and songwriting skills, unexpectedly dies in a car crash and Henry is asked to step in and go on tour with the band. He has reservations and you could say that his worst fears come true but also the dreams he never dared to have.
Terence Blackwood, Terry, is the prototypical rock n’ roll frontman, think Jagger or even Marc Bolan, theatrical and owning the stage. Walking sex. Terry is English but has long made his home in America and loves it as only a foreigner could, lured by the blues, rock, and wide open spaces. Terry and Dell had a relationship that can be described as complicated, if you’re feeling generous, fraught with pain, despair, and confusion. After Dell died Terry was left in an abyss of loss with no proper way to openly grieve, particularly because he didn’t know who he was to Dell or where he stood.
When Henry joins the tour his main concern is trying not to call too much attention to his abstinent self during the post show groupie parties, but that comes secondary to dealing with Terry’s open hostility. Terry who is full of anger and a million questions about his relationship with Dell and is none too happy to see Dell replaced in the band, particularly when Henry’s voice echoes Dell’s so beautifully. To make matters worse there’s a palpable attraction on both sides. Like in real life, nothing is easy.
The book is split into two parts. Part One is told from Henry’s P.O.V. and deals with the tour and Terry’s downward drug and alcohol spiral, how he can find no way to cope with, what for him, was Dell’s abandonment. He has been left alone and lonely under the harsh glare of fame. He’s falling apart. For his part Henry is navigating treacherous waters: not outing himself, replacing an integral member of an established band when he never even wanted to be on stage, and dealing with Terry’s opaque but open hostility. Part Two is split between Terry's & Henry's P.O.V.s and is about Terry seeing himself clearly at last and Henry allowing himself to reach for happiness.
I don’t want to rehash the whole plot because part of the beauty of this book is how the story sneaks up on you with deceptive simplicity. There are no 'a-ha' moments but rather a gradual and realistic progression of the relationship between Henry and Terry: the shitty stuff, the scary, the funny, the practical everyday things, and the romantic. I loved that despite expectations Terry, the bonafide Rock God, was the inexperienced one and also the one, who though he perhaps had the most to lose, was willing to throw caution to the wind. Once he knew he wanted Henry he was all in. I loved that the dynamics in the bedroom were not what you’d expect but that it didn’t spill over into daily life. I freakin’ loved Terry’s dry sense of humor, so English, so well done. I commiserated with Henry’s doubts and fears and his ultimate courage. I loved that there were no grand traumatic moments in the lives of either MC, that though no one was waving a PFLAG, and the dangers of being openly gay were real and evident, there was space for acceptance and happiness. I loved all the band members and their personalities. I’m eager to read the next book in the series which deals with Richard, Henry’s hedonist friend and sometime host. I had to refrain from looking up the songs that are listed for the band, I fully expected to find some YouTube clip of them performing. My heart broke for Dell. Even though he had a tragic end I would be down to read a book about him, hopefully one with an alternate trajectory. His absence was such a vibrant presence in the book that I teared up when the band performed a cover of The Stones’ “Dead Flowers" in his honor. I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone and I promise to stop saying how much and deeply I loved this book, however I feel compelled to include a beautiful passage towards the end. It’s Terry’s P.O.V. and it’s a testament to the overall hopefulness of the story and it’s beautiful:
Sexy, romantic, and funny. What more could you ask for?
Run and get your hands on this goodness.
This is my visual image of Terry and Henry:
Suggested listening: “Sticky Fingers” by The Rolling Stones
“Laid Back” by Gregg Allman
Suggested viewing: “Cocksucker Blues” an unreleased Stones documentary that brings to mind a plot point in the book. Also Cameron Crowe’s “Almost Famous” for the whole life on the road vibe.
Suggested reading: Life Keith Richard’s wonderful autobiography, particularly the section about the recording of “Exile on Main Street” for the feel of endless unhappy partying and falling to pieces while living the high life.
I read this about three weeks ago and I really liked it. I procrastinated a bit before writing a review and in the ensuing weeks the story and characters kept creeping up on me at the most unexpected moments. I dug up my Gregg Allman and Stones albums and let the story simmer and steep in my bones. When I was ready to review I thought I’d check my highlights/notes and ended up rereading the whole book and loving it the second time around. Yesterday I ordered the paperback. I’ll be recommending it to every person I know, romance reader or not, rock star fan or not, M/M reader or not. I guess you can say I LOVED it.
The bulk of the story takes place in 1972, right after the Summer of Love and The Stones at Altamont, at that crossroads where the Hippie 60’s were ending and the decadent 70’s were getting started. Does that qualify as historic or period piece? I don’t know but Keelan Ellis firmly evokes time and place without fanfare. She shows people living and behaving as they did back then, unencumbered by our current mores & cares. That means people smoking, waiting to get home to get or make their phone calls, and if you were gay maybe going to a bathhouse and having sex without the specter of HIV/AIDS. The story revolves around Henry Cole a 27 y.o. talented, multi instrumentalist studio musician and Terrence Blackwood, the frontman for the Vulgar Details. Henry is that strange brew of confident and insecure. He’s justifiably self assured of his talent as a musician but is content to stay in the background only doing studio work because the spotlight doesn’t call to him. What he isn’t ambivalent about is his sexuality, but he is modest in his life expectations:
“I need you to understand where I’m coming from,” he said quietly. “I never had any big dreams about a great romance, or anything like it. My biggest hope was that I would meet a guy some day and we’d like each other enough that we’d want to stick around together, meet our mutual friends for drinks on the weekends, rent a two bedroom apartment so his parents could maintain the polite fiction he’d told them about his roommate, possibly get a dog.”
Henry has done some studio work for the Details, which in my mind were an amalgamation of The Stones, Thin Lizzy, and The Allman Brothers. At the beginning of the year Dell Miller, “skinny, pretty, long-haired country boy”, (I had Gregg Allman in mind) who was troubled but had elevated the Details from a poor man’s Stones into bonafide contenders, on the strength of his artistry and songwriting skills, unexpectedly dies in a car crash and Henry is asked to step in and go on tour with the band. He has reservations and you could say that his worst fears come true but also the dreams he never dared to have.
Terence Blackwood, Terry, is the prototypical rock n’ roll frontman, think Jagger or even Marc Bolan, theatrical and owning the stage. Walking sex. Terry is English but has long made his home in America and loves it as only a foreigner could, lured by the blues, rock, and wide open spaces. Terry and Dell had a relationship that can be described as complicated, if you’re feeling generous, fraught with pain, despair, and confusion. After Dell died Terry was left in an abyss of loss with no proper way to openly grieve, particularly because he didn’t know who he was to Dell or where he stood.
When Henry joins the tour his main concern is trying not to call too much attention to his abstinent self during the post show groupie parties, but that comes secondary to dealing with Terry’s open hostility. Terry who is full of anger and a million questions about his relationship with Dell and is none too happy to see Dell replaced in the band, particularly when Henry’s voice echoes Dell’s so beautifully. To make matters worse there’s a palpable attraction on both sides. Like in real life, nothing is easy.
The book is split into two parts. Part One is told from Henry’s P.O.V. and deals with the tour and Terry’s downward drug and alcohol spiral, how he can find no way to cope with, what for him, was Dell’s abandonment. He has been left alone and lonely under the harsh glare of fame. He’s falling apart. For his part Henry is navigating treacherous waters: not outing himself, replacing an integral member of an established band when he never even wanted to be on stage, and dealing with Terry’s opaque but open hostility. Part Two is split between Terry's & Henry's P.O.V.s and is about Terry seeing himself clearly at last and Henry allowing himself to reach for happiness.
I don’t want to rehash the whole plot because part of the beauty of this book is how the story sneaks up on you with deceptive simplicity. There are no 'a-ha' moments but rather a gradual and realistic progression of the relationship between Henry and Terry: the shitty stuff, the scary, the funny, the practical everyday things, and the romantic. I loved that despite expectations Terry, the bonafide Rock God, was the inexperienced one and also the one, who though he perhaps had the most to lose, was willing to throw caution to the wind. Once he knew he wanted Henry he was all in. I loved that the dynamics in the bedroom were not what you’d expect but that it didn’t spill over into daily life. I freakin’ loved Terry’s dry sense of humor, so English, so well done. I commiserated with Henry’s doubts and fears and his ultimate courage. I loved that there were no grand traumatic moments in the lives of either MC, that though no one was waving a PFLAG, and the dangers of being openly gay were real and evident, there was space for acceptance and happiness. I loved all the band members and their personalities. I’m eager to read the next book in the series which deals with Richard, Henry’s hedonist friend and sometime host. I had to refrain from looking up the songs that are listed for the band, I fully expected to find some YouTube clip of them performing. My heart broke for Dell. Even though he had a tragic end I would be down to read a book about him, hopefully one with an alternate trajectory. His absence was such a vibrant presence in the book that I teared up when the band performed a cover of The Stones’ “Dead Flowers" in his honor. I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone and I promise to stop saying how much and deeply I loved this book, however I feel compelled to include a beautiful passage towards the end. It’s Terry’s P.O.V. and it’s a testament to the overall hopefulness of the story and it’s beautiful:
“There was a lot I’d have liked to say to him, but I couldn’t at that moment. I’d have liked to tell him how grateful I was to him, how beautiful he was, how unexpected his appearance in my life. I’d have explained that I never thought I could have this. He was the best thing that had ever happened to me. I loved him. He knew all these things, but I still liked to tell him. I decided to save it for the bedroom, though. That was the sort of sexy talk he liked. We were a bit different on that score. He’d tell me how he was going to make me beg for his cock, and I’d tell him how I couldn’t imagine my life without him. To each his own.”
Sexy, romantic, and funny. What more could you ask for?
Run and get your hands on this goodness.
This is my visual image of Terry and Henry:
Suggested listening: “Sticky Fingers” by The Rolling Stones
“Laid Back” by Gregg Allman
Suggested viewing: “Cocksucker Blues” an unreleased Stones documentary that brings to mind a plot point in the book. Also Cameron Crowe’s “Almost Famous” for the whole life on the road vibe.
Suggested reading: Life Keith Richard’s wonderful autobiography, particularly the section about the recording of “Exile on Main Street” for the feel of endless unhappy partying and falling to pieces while living the high life.
June 18, 2018
God that was beautiful. And how lucky I am that there is a book 2.
I really dig the way Ellis writes. Not flashy nor lyrically but truthfully. Truthful to the emotions between people without having to gild it. There’s a bit of ugliness, a bit of beauty, some cowardice and weakness, some hanging on tight to take a chance.
All of the characters have their good aspects but they all have their weaknesses too. As the story unfolds more of their character is revealed and just as in real life you realize that your first impression of them is not all they are.
This is set in the early seventies and it’s fun to live in that world when Jagger and Bowie were at their peak. Ellis does not go over the top with historical detail. Just enough to ground you in the times.
After Good Boys and this book, a fan is born.
I really dig the way Ellis writes. Not flashy nor lyrically but truthfully. Truthful to the emotions between people without having to gild it. There’s a bit of ugliness, a bit of beauty, some cowardice and weakness, some hanging on tight to take a chance.
All of the characters have their good aspects but they all have their weaknesses too. As the story unfolds more of their character is revealed and just as in real life you realize that your first impression of them is not all they are.
This is set in the early seventies and it’s fun to live in that world when Jagger and Bowie were at their peak. Ellis does not go over the top with historical detail. Just enough to ground you in the times.
After Good Boys and this book, a fan is born.
November 9, 2017
My main thought when I started reading this book was, “Oh, god, I’m going to be stuck with this narcissistic alcoholic wanker for the next 200 pages. Please kill me now.”
Terry Blackwood was pretty much the epitome of why I don’t read books about rock stars. I was all set to loathe him. He treated everyone around him like shit. His treatment of several of the “groupies” was appalling. Not to mention the crap he shoveled out towards Henry Cole. He was loathsome and I really really wanted to hate his guts from here to eternity.
And then the bastard decided to start showing that he had depth and layers.
Damn him. I had a good thing going there, man.
See, he actually has pretty good reasons (if not exactly great excuses) for being a total shitbag. Mostly centered around Dell Miller–whose death at the beginning of the story acts as a catalyst for most of the plot. Dell’s mental health issues, his drug abuse, his general asshole behavior and subsequent death has a huge impact on Terry; being forced to go on tour, with Henry replacing Dell in the band, right after Dell’s death, was only bound to make things worse. And this book does a really good job of showing the growth that Terry goes through in this story. It may not be a straight shot up, but the pitfalls only make the successes all the more impactful. Wanting to see Terry grow, as well as to see what happens with the band and with Henry, makes you keep reading.
Henry is a bit different, though. From the start you are pretty much on his side. He is just a guy trying to do a job. Henry is not focused on the fame, the celebrity. And yeah, while he isn’t all that turned off by the money, I’m not sure most anyone would be. He seems like just a down-to-earth guy. But there is more to him than meets the eye. He says all he wants are these simple things: a guy to come home to, a place to grow old in. But it is pretty clear that he kinda fears actually getting those things. Not just because he has commitment issues (but, let’s be fair, those are not helping things), but because the time in which this book is set.
1972 is not exactly a place of love and acceptance for the gay community. And realistically, Henry and Terry both have to look at the world they live in and act accordingly. Yeah the veneer of celebrity might insulate them a little, but the fact is that it is their lives and their livelihoods on the line. And Henry for all that he seems the more stable of the pair–or maybe because of it–sees the consequences, not just the rose-tinted hormones. As a realist, I get that. Even if I was sad at how often he pulled back from Terry.
I think that this book just does a great job of balancing all the little parts in order to make a highly entertaining read. The historical aspects don’t beat you over the head, but they do help ground the story in a time nearly fifty years removed from our own. Where expectations and decisions of a private and public nature were balanced on a different scale. It also doesn’t force one character to bear the burden of being the “problem child” of a story. Both Henry and Terry act like assholes at various times. But they also act like humans. You don’t get to the end of the story and go “well if X had not been a complete shithead, then everything would have been fine.” Their faults and their strengths balance out.
Plus, you know, this was just very well written. I had a lot of fun reading it. Even when I was hating on Terry. And any story that can take me from absolutely loathing a character to loving them by the end, well it’s going to get my recommendation.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Terry Blackwood was pretty much the epitome of why I don’t read books about rock stars. I was all set to loathe him. He treated everyone around him like shit. His treatment of several of the “groupies” was appalling. Not to mention the crap he shoveled out towards Henry Cole. He was loathsome and I really really wanted to hate his guts from here to eternity.
And then the bastard decided to start showing that he had depth and layers.
Damn him. I had a good thing going there, man.
See, he actually has pretty good reasons (if not exactly great excuses) for being a total shitbag. Mostly centered around Dell Miller–whose death at the beginning of the story acts as a catalyst for most of the plot. Dell’s mental health issues, his drug abuse, his general asshole behavior and subsequent death has a huge impact on Terry; being forced to go on tour, with Henry replacing Dell in the band, right after Dell’s death, was only bound to make things worse. And this book does a really good job of showing the growth that Terry goes through in this story. It may not be a straight shot up, but the pitfalls only make the successes all the more impactful. Wanting to see Terry grow, as well as to see what happens with the band and with Henry, makes you keep reading.
Henry is a bit different, though. From the start you are pretty much on his side. He is just a guy trying to do a job. Henry is not focused on the fame, the celebrity. And yeah, while he isn’t all that turned off by the money, I’m not sure most anyone would be. He seems like just a down-to-earth guy. But there is more to him than meets the eye. He says all he wants are these simple things: a guy to come home to, a place to grow old in. But it is pretty clear that he kinda fears actually getting those things. Not just because he has commitment issues (but, let’s be fair, those are not helping things), but because the time in which this book is set.
1972 is not exactly a place of love and acceptance for the gay community. And realistically, Henry and Terry both have to look at the world they live in and act accordingly. Yeah the veneer of celebrity might insulate them a little, but the fact is that it is their lives and their livelihoods on the line. And Henry for all that he seems the more stable of the pair–or maybe because of it–sees the consequences, not just the rose-tinted hormones. As a realist, I get that. Even if I was sad at how often he pulled back from Terry.
I think that this book just does a great job of balancing all the little parts in order to make a highly entertaining read. The historical aspects don’t beat you over the head, but they do help ground the story in a time nearly fifty years removed from our own. Where expectations and decisions of a private and public nature were balanced on a different scale. It also doesn’t force one character to bear the burden of being the “problem child” of a story. Both Henry and Terry act like assholes at various times. But they also act like humans. You don’t get to the end of the story and go “well if X had not been a complete shithead, then everything would have been fine.” Their faults and their strengths balance out.
Plus, you know, this was just very well written. I had a lot of fun reading it. Even when I was hating on Terry. And any story that can take me from absolutely loathing a character to loving them by the end, well it’s going to get my recommendation.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
August 16, 2017
4.5 Stars
When Dell Miller, steel player, songwriter and sometimes singer for the Vulgar Details, passes away in a fiery car crash, the band is forced to find a new steel player for their upcoming tour. The management chooses studio musician, Henry Cole. The band members are all happy with the choice, well, all except the lead singer Terry Blackwood, who shared a special bond with Dell and isn't handling his death well at all.
I love stories set in the 70's, that and the 80's are my favorite periods to read and the author did a fabulous job capturing the feel of the time. I absolutely adored Henry. He was so sweet and caring. No matter how big of an ass Terry was to him, he never stoops to his level. He, in fact, goes above and beyond to try to help Terry. Henry had almost an innocent feel about him. He truly loves music, but not for the fame or fortune. He doesn't crave the spotlight, and he isn't into drugs and doesn't even drink all that much. I loved that even with the prejudices of this time period, he wasn't ashamed of who he was or who he loved.
Although I understand that Terry is hurting, he was still a complete asshole. I wanted to throw him off the balcony of his hotel room!! But as the story progresses and I began to get to know and understand him better, I warmed up to him. I loved watching him discover himself and learning to be comfortable with his feelings for Henry and exploring his sexuality.
Watching Henry and Terry fall in love was a beautiful to witness. The chemistry between them was undeniable and the sexual tension palpable. They were hot together, both in and out of bed.
My only real complaint I have about the story is the author's writing style. Most of the story was well-written, but the story is told from alternating POV's, which I love, but it's written in the third person, which sometimes made it difficult to distinguish who the author was referring to when she used "he" or "him". Other than that, this was a fabulous read, filled with heartbreak, sadness, anger, but also love. It's a story of healing, acceptance and getting a second chance at love. Extremely enjoyable and highly recommended!
*copy provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
August 12, 2017
The one thing I know is that this is the best book I've read this summer despite the significant competition. It is the kind of book that you don't want to leave but when you have to, it doesn't leave you and your mind constantly wanders back to it, wondering what happens next.
Imagine the Rock culture of the 70s. Loud music, sex parties and addiction of all kinds becoming the backdrop of internal conflicts, intense feelings and that kind of love which is cool only as long as it is just a marketing trick. The settings are promising and when you add the main characters, everything comes alive.
Henry and Terry are like fire and water, the one is quiet, prefers to lay low and is never quite ready for anything. The other is restless, adventurous and doesn't give a rat's ass of what people think about him. I loved the intense emotions between them and the way their relationship develops. It's complicated for many reasons, personal and social, but that really kept me glued because I wanted to see how they'd overcome the hardships on the road before them.
I've read other books by Keelan Ellis and I know she's writing her characters in such a way that you can’t help falling in love with most of them and the guys from The One Thing I Know are no exception.
It is clear that the author was inspired by those times (which are not so far away as they may seem now) and did a good amount of research. It's a book I'd personally love to see as a movie with a killer soundtrack.
It's an amazing story of love, loss and redemption which I highly recommend!
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for a honest review.
Imagine the Rock culture of the 70s. Loud music, sex parties and addiction of all kinds becoming the backdrop of internal conflicts, intense feelings and that kind of love which is cool only as long as it is just a marketing trick. The settings are promising and when you add the main characters, everything comes alive.
Henry and Terry are like fire and water, the one is quiet, prefers to lay low and is never quite ready for anything. The other is restless, adventurous and doesn't give a rat's ass of what people think about him. I loved the intense emotions between them and the way their relationship develops. It's complicated for many reasons, personal and social, but that really kept me glued because I wanted to see how they'd overcome the hardships on the road before them.
I've read other books by Keelan Ellis and I know she's writing her characters in such a way that you can’t help falling in love with most of them and the guys from The One Thing I Know are no exception.
It is clear that the author was inspired by those times (which are not so far away as they may seem now) and did a good amount of research. It's a book I'd personally love to see as a movie with a killer soundtrack.
It's an amazing story of love, loss and redemption which I highly recommend!
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for a honest review.
December 31, 2017
3.4 Stars.
This book definitely improved the more I read. Set in the early 1970’s, mostly in Los Angeles, it portrayed a time period often neglected by MM authors. This, I liked.
Rock-n-Roll in all its debauched glory, front and center. Unfortunately, the creative force behind the band wraps his cars around a tree right before a national tour. In comes talented studio musician, Henry who is hesitant to join a major band and the lifestyle it entails. Terry, the lead singer takes an instant dislike to Henry. Henry does his best to ignore him and ignore the female groupies thrown his way without outing himself.
What left me a little wanting was how long it took me to warm up to Terry, the lead singer for the band. He was a total prick to Henry and his band mates. He was perpetually drunk or snorting lines of coke. Fast forward, he goes to rehab in the middle of the tour after messing around with Henry a few times.
Clean and sober, I loved Terry. Now, it’s Henry who’s the prick-and keeps being one for quite a long time. He’s scared about what being outed will mean for his career.
I liked it, but the book felt unbalanced to me. There’s an HEA, though, and I liked he references to musicians of the times.
Triggers-drug use, excessive drinking, barebacking, sexual harassment (groupies).
This book definitely improved the more I read. Set in the early 1970’s, mostly in Los Angeles, it portrayed a time period often neglected by MM authors. This, I liked.
Rock-n-Roll in all its debauched glory, front and center. Unfortunately, the creative force behind the band wraps his cars around a tree right before a national tour. In comes talented studio musician, Henry who is hesitant to join a major band and the lifestyle it entails. Terry, the lead singer takes an instant dislike to Henry. Henry does his best to ignore him and ignore the female groupies thrown his way without outing himself.
What left me a little wanting was how long it took me to warm up to Terry, the lead singer for the band. He was a total prick to Henry and his band mates. He was perpetually drunk or snorting lines of coke. Fast forward, he goes to rehab in the middle of the tour after messing around with Henry a few times.
Clean and sober, I loved Terry. Now, it’s Henry who’s the prick-and keeps being one for quite a long time. He’s scared about what being outed will mean for his career.
I liked it, but the book felt unbalanced to me. There’s an HEA, though, and I liked he references to musicians of the times.
Triggers-drug use, excessive drinking, barebacking, sexual harassment (groupies).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2017
A copy was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program.
I didn't know what to expect with this book. I like historicals (1900 and earlier), but I don't really like stories that take place before the 2000's because of safe sex concerns, plus the couple has to be in hiding - and that's not something I like to see - I want my men to get a full HEA. :)
But this story surprised me. For one, I never really felt like I was reading a book that was supposed to be taking place 70's (not in a bad way). The characters felt like they could have been living in present time because of the topics they were discussing - drug/alcohol abuse; hiding sexuality; afraid to come out because famous (that probably will never go away entirely). The struggles these men have don't just live in the 70's; they are alive today.
When Dell Miller dies, and Terry is left to live with the outcome, I can't say I am surprised by how poorly Terry reacts. From everything I read, Dell hated himself for being gay - he didn't want to be gay and he treated Terry like crap most of the time. Terry isn't much better with the fact that he is attracted to men (I think he is bisexual). I know you know that being gay in that day and age was NOT something most people accepted.
Now to talk about the story itself. This wasn't an easy story to read because of the subject matter. I thoroughly enjoyed it and in particular loved the fact that Henry wasn't star struck and simply submissive to Terry. Henry was his own man and knew what he wanted. He wasn't ashamed of being gay - he didn't run around screaming the fact, but he didn't hate himself either. It was thru Henry's strength that Terry saw what it meant to really be a gay man. Regardless of how Terry identified, he knew how he felt about Henry and was fighting himself until one night something happens to wake him up.
Terry goes into rehab, gets clean, comes out and goes after Henry (who is not really sure if he should let himself be with Terry). The majority of they story is them spending time together, talking and connecting.
I do recommend this story and would love to see a sequel to them because while the ending does show them being together, I want to see them again years down the road. I don't want them to be fighting or having trouble, I just want to see them maybe during the AIDS crisis, then beyond that to the 90's and beyond. The door is certainly open to this possibility and I would like to cast my vote in the "yes, please" column. :)
I didn't know what to expect with this book. I like historicals (1900 and earlier), but I don't really like stories that take place before the 2000's because of safe sex concerns, plus the couple has to be in hiding - and that's not something I like to see - I want my men to get a full HEA. :)
But this story surprised me. For one, I never really felt like I was reading a book that was supposed to be taking place 70's (not in a bad way). The characters felt like they could have been living in present time because of the topics they were discussing - drug/alcohol abuse; hiding sexuality; afraid to come out because famous (that probably will never go away entirely). The struggles these men have don't just live in the 70's; they are alive today.
When Dell Miller dies, and Terry is left to live with the outcome, I can't say I am surprised by how poorly Terry reacts. From everything I read, Dell hated himself for being gay - he didn't want to be gay and he treated Terry like crap most of the time. Terry isn't much better with the fact that he is attracted to men (I think he is bisexual). I know you know that being gay in that day and age was NOT something most people accepted.
Now to talk about the story itself. This wasn't an easy story to read because of the subject matter. I thoroughly enjoyed it and in particular loved the fact that Henry wasn't star struck and simply submissive to Terry. Henry was his own man and knew what he wanted. He wasn't ashamed of being gay - he didn't run around screaming the fact, but he didn't hate himself either. It was thru Henry's strength that Terry saw what it meant to really be a gay man. Regardless of how Terry identified, he knew how he felt about Henry and was fighting himself until one night something happens to wake him up.
Terry goes into rehab, gets clean, comes out and goes after Henry (who is not really sure if he should let himself be with Terry). The majority of they story is them spending time together, talking and connecting.
I do recommend this story and would love to see a sequel to them because while the ending does show them being together, I want to see them again years down the road. I don't want them to be fighting or having trouble, I just want to see them maybe during the AIDS crisis, then beyond that to the 90's and beyond. The door is certainly open to this possibility and I would like to cast my vote in the "yes, please" column. :)
November 10, 2022
No está mal, pero me dejó fría... El rockstar en cuestión se me quedó un poco corto, yo quería maldad, divismo y desenfreno, y éste enseguida se nos enamora como un corderito, meh... No consiguió emocionarme pero es una lectura agradable, me habría leído el siguiente si no estuviera descatalogado.
August 19, 2017
When you're a unit, a whole, a complete puzzle, losing a piece of what makes you, you is noticed. It's frustrating, sad, all the feelings. So, when the band Vulgar Details loses one of their own and has to replace him, it's not that easy for everyone.
Henry Cole is hired as the replacement and pretty much is accepted by the entire band. Minus the leadsinger Terry. There's always one right? It was harder for Terry than anyone else when Dell died. It felt like losing a limb and he's forced to navigate being different, feeling lost, not himself. I was sympathetic about it. I can't really judge people when in the strong hands of grief so I was able to excuse his jerkiness a few times there.
I was born in 1979. This book is set in the 70's so I can't sit here and say I felt nostalgic. I didn't live in this time but I did live in the 80's and though it was a decade of innocence for me, I will say that the 70's was a decade my parents had a hard time leaving behind. It all seemed accurate and I was wow'd by the author for doing such a great time with it. It felt really genuine.
Now, back to Henry and Terry... They have a journey in this book, one you, the reader, take with them. You will have your "I hate Terry" moments. But you need to let yourself feel it all and understand because when Henry and Terry do fall, it's stunning.
This is a book that will make you feel all sorts of emotions between happy to sad. There's stages to this story so I recommend taking them.
Henry Cole is hired as the replacement and pretty much is accepted by the entire band. Minus the leadsinger Terry. There's always one right? It was harder for Terry than anyone else when Dell died. It felt like losing a limb and he's forced to navigate being different, feeling lost, not himself. I was sympathetic about it. I can't really judge people when in the strong hands of grief so I was able to excuse his jerkiness a few times there.
I was born in 1979. This book is set in the 70's so I can't sit here and say I felt nostalgic. I didn't live in this time but I did live in the 80's and though it was a decade of innocence for me, I will say that the 70's was a decade my parents had a hard time leaving behind. It all seemed accurate and I was wow'd by the author for doing such a great time with it. It felt really genuine.
Now, back to Henry and Terry... They have a journey in this book, one you, the reader, take with them. You will have your "I hate Terry" moments. But you need to let yourself feel it all and understand because when Henry and Terry do fall, it's stunning.
This is a book that will make you feel all sorts of emotions between happy to sad. There's stages to this story so I recommend taking them.
December 18, 2017
This story starts out slow and is initially told from Henry's perspective. In Henry's opinion, he's just a nobody musician and the only thing noteworthy about him is his secret homosexuality. He's not closeted but fears being out to anyone but close friends. Once Dell's death creates the opening for him to join the band, he joins and is welcomed by all of the members except for the drama queen lead singer Terry Blackwood. From there begins a beautiful love story between two men, one fearful and the other with a battered heart.
This did start out as a 4 star read for me, right until we got the 1st person pov from Terry. That's when I knew this book it was different and worthy of 5 stars. Terry was extremely damaged but he still recognized that Henry could be really good for him. I absolutely loved getting both pov's, even if Henry's was 3rd person, because you got to see how good these two were for each other. With Henry, Terry could just let go and be himself. Terry on the other hand, is the push that Henry needs to stop being as fearful and live his life.
It was truly a pleasure to see these characters get their HEA. I was really impressed by the song "The One Thing I Know" as well, a lot of authors struggle to write songs but this one was actually good. I can't wait for Richard to get his own story. It would be a good chance to increase aromantic representation.
This did start out as a 4 star read for me, right until we got the 1st person pov from Terry. That's when I knew this book it was different and worthy of 5 stars. Terry was extremely damaged but he still recognized that Henry could be really good for him. I absolutely loved getting both pov's, even if Henry's was 3rd person, because you got to see how good these two were for each other. With Henry, Terry could just let go and be himself. Terry on the other hand, is the push that Henry needs to stop being as fearful and live his life.
It was truly a pleasure to see these characters get their HEA. I was really impressed by the song "The One Thing I Know" as well, a lot of authors struggle to write songs but this one was actually good. I can't wait for Richard to get his own story. It would be a good chance to increase aromantic representation.
August 15, 2017
I really enjoyed this.
Henry is a studio musician who enjoys playing, but has no desire to be in a band or go on tour. When a member of a band he regularly works with ends up dead, he ends up going on tour with them. Terry, the lead singer doesn't too happy bout this, but you find out that's because he's grieving. He wad closest to Dell than anyone, and they had a messed up relationship.
Terry isn't handling his grief very well, so he goes to rehab. While there, and after, he can't get Henry off his mind, so he pursues him. He acknowledges that the band needs him, and he wants him on a personal level. They do grow closer, despite Henry's insecurities thinking he's not good enough, and eventually fall in love.
This takes place in the early seventies (free love), so there seemed to be some acceptance of their relationship within the band, but no one wanted the relationship to be public knowledge. Henry was afraid he'd lose work, and the band was afraid of how the fans would react. Also, this was before AIDS, so it was wild seeing them not worry with condoms.
Overall, I thought it was a great love story and accurate portrayal of life in the 70s.
ARC provided by author
Henry is a studio musician who enjoys playing, but has no desire to be in a band or go on tour. When a member of a band he regularly works with ends up dead, he ends up going on tour with them. Terry, the lead singer doesn't too happy bout this, but you find out that's because he's grieving. He wad closest to Dell than anyone, and they had a messed up relationship.
Terry isn't handling his grief very well, so he goes to rehab. While there, and after, he can't get Henry off his mind, so he pursues him. He acknowledges that the band needs him, and he wants him on a personal level. They do grow closer, despite Henry's insecurities thinking he's not good enough, and eventually fall in love.
This takes place in the early seventies (free love), so there seemed to be some acceptance of their relationship within the band, but no one wanted the relationship to be public knowledge. Henry was afraid he'd lose work, and the band was afraid of how the fans would react. Also, this was before AIDS, so it was wild seeing them not worry with condoms.
Overall, I thought it was a great love story and accurate portrayal of life in the 70s.
ARC provided by author
August 31, 2022
Si no hubiese leído "The heart rate of a mouse" este libro me hubiese gustado, pero aunque cualquier comparación es odiosa en este caso es inevitable porque las historias son muy similares y The heart...gana por goleada.
Yo le pondría dos estrellas pero como no estoy siendo objetiva y me parecen injustas, ahí va una más de regalo!
Yo le pondría dos estrellas pero como no estoy siendo objetiva y me parecen injustas, ahí va una más de regalo!
October 18, 2018
I got stuck on a tube yesterday and managed to finish this book, and I'm so glad that I stumbled upon it., and slightly sad it's over.
Very evocative of the hedonistic 70's Terry is like an amalgam of all the british lead singers I think about from that era, Bolam, Bowie and a little of Rod Stewart and to start of with he's a wreck - drugs and booze and sadness mess with him and his judgement. Henry is the guy brought in to replace a dead band member and in his own way is a s messed up as Terry. They have instant chemistry but two messed up men remember ?
There is some tooing and frooing, and some angst (which is totally understandable) in the beginning but they both start to see the possibilities of what a relationship could be.
I thought this was fantastic, Terry and Henry were lovely together, as they worked though their issues, supported each other and became stronger and better.
I also loved Richard, Henry's best friend and all the boys in the band.
Really lovely romance
Very evocative of the hedonistic 70's Terry is like an amalgam of all the british lead singers I think about from that era, Bolam, Bowie and a little of Rod Stewart and to start of with he's a wreck - drugs and booze and sadness mess with him and his judgement. Henry is the guy brought in to replace a dead band member and in his own way is a s messed up as Terry. They have instant chemistry but two messed up men remember ?
There is some tooing and frooing, and some angst (which is totally understandable) in the beginning but they both start to see the possibilities of what a relationship could be.
I thought this was fantastic, Terry and Henry were lovely together, as they worked though their issues, supported each other and became stronger and better.
I also loved Richard, Henry's best friend and all the boys in the band.
Really lovely romance
August 30, 2017
Review also posted on the blog.
4.5 stars
I love rockstar-stories (and stories featuring musicians). So when the author asked if I wanted to review the story I jumped on it.
I was born in 1991, so I have absolutely no idea what the 70’s were like. I can’t tell you if it’s a realistic portrayal of the time. What I know of the 70’s I know from documentaries, movies or books. But throughout the story I never once felt like it wasn’t realistic.
Ellis’ writing style captured me, transported me back in time and did not let me go until I had read the last page.
What especially drew me in was the relationship between Henry and Terry. These two are outwardly complete opposites in pretty much every aspect. Henry prefers not to be in the spotlight whereas Terry needs it. He doesn’t care what people think or say about him. Henry on the other hand was comfortable being a back-up or working as a producer. But they both share the love for music.
When Henry first joins the band everyone but Terry welcomes him. And it seems like Terry is just an asshole, but it doesn’t take long until you realize that he’s just grieving the loss of Dell. He’s lost and doesn’t know how to deal with his feelings – because no one knows that he and Dell were more than just best friends. They were in a relationship – albeit a messed-up and dysfunctional one – and Terry can’t let go.
When Terry hit’s rock-bottom it’s Henry who is there for him. He helps him, and I loved seeing them not just falling in love but growing closer as friends as well. This one really hit me in the feels, but at the same time I had always hope that Terry would manage to defeat his demons and that he and Henry would make it.
This story has a whole cast of interesting characters and I’m really looking forward to reading Richard’s story. Hopefully we’ll see lots of Henry and Terry in that story too!
The One Thing I Know is an emotional story about letting go and starting new. Of accepting that you can’t change things and people as much as you want to and that you deserve a second chance. Recommended!
**a copy of this was provided by the author
4.5 stars
I love rockstar-stories (and stories featuring musicians). So when the author asked if I wanted to review the story I jumped on it.
I was born in 1991, so I have absolutely no idea what the 70’s were like. I can’t tell you if it’s a realistic portrayal of the time. What I know of the 70’s I know from documentaries, movies or books. But throughout the story I never once felt like it wasn’t realistic.
Ellis’ writing style captured me, transported me back in time and did not let me go until I had read the last page.
What especially drew me in was the relationship between Henry and Terry. These two are outwardly complete opposites in pretty much every aspect. Henry prefers not to be in the spotlight whereas Terry needs it. He doesn’t care what people think or say about him. Henry on the other hand was comfortable being a back-up or working as a producer. But they both share the love for music.
When Henry first joins the band everyone but Terry welcomes him. And it seems like Terry is just an asshole, but it doesn’t take long until you realize that he’s just grieving the loss of Dell. He’s lost and doesn’t know how to deal with his feelings – because no one knows that he and Dell were more than just best friends. They were in a relationship – albeit a messed-up and dysfunctional one – and Terry can’t let go.
When Terry hit’s rock-bottom it’s Henry who is there for him. He helps him, and I loved seeing them not just falling in love but growing closer as friends as well. This one really hit me in the feels, but at the same time I had always hope that Terry would manage to defeat his demons and that he and Henry would make it.
This story has a whole cast of interesting characters and I’m really looking forward to reading Richard’s story. Hopefully we’ll see lots of Henry and Terry in that story too!
The One Thing I Know is an emotional story about letting go and starting new. Of accepting that you can’t change things and people as much as you want to and that you deserve a second chance. Recommended!
**a copy of this was provided by the author
September 20, 2017
The One Thing I Know (ARC) was graciously provided to me by IndiGo Marketing & Design for an honest review.
"Love is you, you and me. Love is knowing we can be."
(John Lennon..Love 1970)
The One Thing I Know is one of the most heart-wrenching, heart-breaking and beautiful love stories I've read in a long time. To say that I experienced an over-abundance of emotions would be an understatement. I cheered, I melted, I laughed, and I also..bawled my eyes out. Having this book take place in the early 70's, as this is a favorite time of mine, did help with the pain that I was experiencing..a bit. But, that doesn't mean that I didn't experience massive amounts of heart-ache, and, was unable to completely read what was right in front of my face, at times, due to all of the tears. It was a tough read, one filled with bravely fought experiences, as well as, honorable end results.
The One Thing I Know, by Keenan Ellis, is a story, upon first glance, about a band. An energetic and popular band. Which is true, but, that's only part of it. As it is about a popular band, The Vulgar Details, and their struggles with survival, it's much more than that. It is definitely a love story. The beginnings of a love story between two men, during a time when it wasn't quite the norm to have different kinds of love. And so, it's a story about how to live, and how to function and how to deal with who you are and who you love, and, how to safely go through life as you wish. I'm glad that I still find myself coming across stories of this nature, pretty frequently, and as the importance of them remain paramount, they will continue to be at the top of my list of must-reads.
The One Thing I Know, is a massive story about love, about being comfortable with not only yourself, but with others, as well as with society. And..it's also about the consequences and the heart-ache of what happens when this comfort can not be completely obtained. No matter how many times one reaches out and tries to grab and latch on to what one desires, sometimes it's not enough. No matter how many times this is attempted, that warm, comfortable and soothing blanket is just still too slippery.
As this story takes place during a time when floral dresses, long hair, bell-bottomed jeans, and when great music runs rampant, it was also a time when music spoke from the heart. The kind that had you swaying side to side as you sang along with the lyrics. It was powerful music. With that, came many different types of bands and musicians. One such musician, and one of the mc's, is Henry Cole, a talented, great, and young studio musician, who loved playing back-up for different bands. Not only did he enjoy playing back-up, but, he was also a talented producer and writer, despite preferring to be in the shadows more so than in the limelight. He was a musician with a past, who wore his heart on his sleeve.
Another great musician, or mc, is Terry Blackwood. Lead singer for The Vulgar Details. Terry was a broken young man who was drifting down a very dark and narrow road, and, was beginning to show signs of destruction. During one of the times when he tried to seek comfort from different types of dangerous methods, Terry found himself drowning, and, was unable to hoist himself up onto dry land. For that reason, Terry and the band desperately needed help...
When The Vulgar Details reached out for help, they ultimately decided upon a hauntingly amazing musician, by the name of...Henry Cole. Despite having trepidations about playing in public with the band, Henry agreed to help. Throughout the story, Henry finds himself fighting his past, trying to find joy in his music, and, doing his best to try to help others..for the right reasons. And, one such individual who he sought to help was..Terry Blackwood. And, that was not easy. As Henry attempted to help and guide Terry through..his own hell, Henry also went through a lot of self-discovery, as well as, many dark clouds of self-doubt. It was beautiful to see the progression of growth when it was desperately needed.
There were many different secondary characters, and, while there wasn't a whole lot of character development nor background information with many of the characters, I still enjoyed them and would welcome seeing them again in future books.
Despite my watery, heart-felt and positive opinion of the story while reading, I hadn't always felt that way. I was, at times, frustrated and disappointed. I found myself having to frequently re-read something due to the clarity of the writing. I also found myself shaking my head as if to clear it while wondering, "wait a minute...what?" Even though the pace was pretty much smooth sailing, and there were times when I just didn't want to stop reading, it was so incredibly frustrating to have to stop and re-read something because it was confusing. I found myself also needing and hoping to read, and, actually missing the various parts which were clearly skipped over.
The One Thing I Know was a heart-breaking and beautiful story. It was a story of love, heart-ache, hope and growth. It was a story about music. About how through music, heart-felt memories will remain positive ones. My heart broke for every single person who was a broken soul, and, I felt such pain for those who were not able to love as they should have been able to love and live. Even though there were things that were lacking and had confused me, and, collectively did affect my overall rating, I was glad to have read it, and, will now go break out my records from the 70's..'cuz that was just the coolest time for music, and, I'm so glad to be able to enjoy it again..:)
*star rating: 4.35 stars*
"Love is you, you and me. Love is knowing we can be."
(John Lennon..Love 1970)
The One Thing I Know is one of the most heart-wrenching, heart-breaking and beautiful love stories I've read in a long time. To say that I experienced an over-abundance of emotions would be an understatement. I cheered, I melted, I laughed, and I also..bawled my eyes out. Having this book take place in the early 70's, as this is a favorite time of mine, did help with the pain that I was experiencing..a bit. But, that doesn't mean that I didn't experience massive amounts of heart-ache, and, was unable to completely read what was right in front of my face, at times, due to all of the tears. It was a tough read, one filled with bravely fought experiences, as well as, honorable end results.
The One Thing I Know, by Keenan Ellis, is a story, upon first glance, about a band. An energetic and popular band. Which is true, but, that's only part of it. As it is about a popular band, The Vulgar Details, and their struggles with survival, it's much more than that. It is definitely a love story. The beginnings of a love story between two men, during a time when it wasn't quite the norm to have different kinds of love. And so, it's a story about how to live, and how to function and how to deal with who you are and who you love, and, how to safely go through life as you wish. I'm glad that I still find myself coming across stories of this nature, pretty frequently, and as the importance of them remain paramount, they will continue to be at the top of my list of must-reads.
The One Thing I Know, is a massive story about love, about being comfortable with not only yourself, but with others, as well as with society. And..it's also about the consequences and the heart-ache of what happens when this comfort can not be completely obtained. No matter how many times one reaches out and tries to grab and latch on to what one desires, sometimes it's not enough. No matter how many times this is attempted, that warm, comfortable and soothing blanket is just still too slippery.
As this story takes place during a time when floral dresses, long hair, bell-bottomed jeans, and when great music runs rampant, it was also a time when music spoke from the heart. The kind that had you swaying side to side as you sang along with the lyrics. It was powerful music. With that, came many different types of bands and musicians. One such musician, and one of the mc's, is Henry Cole, a talented, great, and young studio musician, who loved playing back-up for different bands. Not only did he enjoy playing back-up, but, he was also a talented producer and writer, despite preferring to be in the shadows more so than in the limelight. He was a musician with a past, who wore his heart on his sleeve.
Another great musician, or mc, is Terry Blackwood. Lead singer for The Vulgar Details. Terry was a broken young man who was drifting down a very dark and narrow road, and, was beginning to show signs of destruction. During one of the times when he tried to seek comfort from different types of dangerous methods, Terry found himself drowning, and, was unable to hoist himself up onto dry land. For that reason, Terry and the band desperately needed help...
When The Vulgar Details reached out for help, they ultimately decided upon a hauntingly amazing musician, by the name of...Henry Cole. Despite having trepidations about playing in public with the band, Henry agreed to help. Throughout the story, Henry finds himself fighting his past, trying to find joy in his music, and, doing his best to try to help others..for the right reasons. And, one such individual who he sought to help was..Terry Blackwood. And, that was not easy. As Henry attempted to help and guide Terry through..his own hell, Henry also went through a lot of self-discovery, as well as, many dark clouds of self-doubt. It was beautiful to see the progression of growth when it was desperately needed.
There were many different secondary characters, and, while there wasn't a whole lot of character development nor background information with many of the characters, I still enjoyed them and would welcome seeing them again in future books.
Despite my watery, heart-felt and positive opinion of the story while reading, I hadn't always felt that way. I was, at times, frustrated and disappointed. I found myself having to frequently re-read something due to the clarity of the writing. I also found myself shaking my head as if to clear it while wondering, "wait a minute...what?" Even though the pace was pretty much smooth sailing, and there were times when I just didn't want to stop reading, it was so incredibly frustrating to have to stop and re-read something because it was confusing. I found myself also needing and hoping to read, and, actually missing the various parts which were clearly skipped over.
The One Thing I Know was a heart-breaking and beautiful story. It was a story of love, heart-ache, hope and growth. It was a story about music. About how through music, heart-felt memories will remain positive ones. My heart broke for every single person who was a broken soul, and, I felt such pain for those who were not able to love as they should have been able to love and live. Even though there were things that were lacking and had confused me, and, collectively did affect my overall rating, I was glad to have read it, and, will now go break out my records from the 70's..'cuz that was just the coolest time for music, and, I'm so glad to be able to enjoy it again..:)
*star rating: 4.35 stars*
October 23, 2017
Haven't read a rock star book in a while. Really enjoyed this. Takes place in 1972 before being gay was widely accepted even among musicians. Found myself saying, "yeah, but - on yeah, this takes place in 1972 or "why didn't - oh yeah, this takes place in 1972. Henry is a session musician and is rather good at his job. He is a bit of a loner because he doesn't want people to find out he's gay. He has a few good friends, notably Richard, with whom he had a sexual relationship. He finds himself a reluctant rock star when Dell, a member of the Vulgar Details, dies in a car crash and Henry is offered a job on the group's tour. Terry, the lead singer doesn't appear to like Henry very much, treating him shabbily. Terry is conflicted about his sexuality as well. He and Dell had a tortured relationship amidst Dell's drug use. During the tour, Henry and Terry have several interactions, some hostile, some not so hostile. While on the tour Terry's drug use becomes an issue, and the group has to stop touring so Terry can check into rehab. So Henry and Terry begin this odd sort of friendship with Henry tooing and froing about his feelings about Terry. This is against the backdrop of mores in the 1970's, the band's feelings about people who are gay, what being gay is like in 1970's California , etc. Henry is also dealing with Terry's unresolved feelings about Dell. Quite well done. Solid writing - this passage really captures the feelings of the time. I'll spoiler tag it since it's at the end of the book
November 5, 2017
Review can be read at It's About The Book
3.5 stars
Henry is asked to step in as a substitute while one of the brilliant but tortured band mates named Dell goes to rehab. Henry has no interest in being a rock band. He likes his job of studio work. His friend convinces him that this is a once in a lifetime chance to tour and perform so he does. Dell leaves rehab and wraps his car around a tree leaving everyone lost and in limbo about the future of the band. Henry becomes the target of the front man Terry. Terry goes off the rails partying and flaunting groupies around. Despite Terry being a jerk Henry helps him and sees the pain and need in Terry. They hook up a few times before Terry hits rock bottom and realizes he needs to go to rehab before he ends up like Dell.
I didn’t think this book was rich in details from the time it’s supposedly taking place in the 70s. I honestly wouldn’t have known until a comment 100 pages in. Given the major struggle of the book is that the guys are afraid to come out or be exposed as lovers I think this was a problem for me. It explained some of Henry and Dell’s over the top moments of panic. Dell wasn’t ever even in the book and he was the most fascinating of all the characters. Terry’s character starts off as an awful person but ended up being my favorite. The book starts off as a typical rock star book with lots of parties and over indulgence. Then morphs to a pretty sweet love story where the guys work on trusting each other and dealing with the fear of being exposed. Terry is still struggling with the death of Dell. It’s very much a personal growth story. Despite some of the heavy topics in this book I do think it has a quickie easily resolved vibe going on. I liked the couple but never felt invested in their outcome. If you like rockers this one is worth the read. There were moments that captivated me some of the secondary characters were intriguing. Overall a pretty good read.
3.5 stars
Henry is asked to step in as a substitute while one of the brilliant but tortured band mates named Dell goes to rehab. Henry has no interest in being a rock band. He likes his job of studio work. His friend convinces him that this is a once in a lifetime chance to tour and perform so he does. Dell leaves rehab and wraps his car around a tree leaving everyone lost and in limbo about the future of the band. Henry becomes the target of the front man Terry. Terry goes off the rails partying and flaunting groupies around. Despite Terry being a jerk Henry helps him and sees the pain and need in Terry. They hook up a few times before Terry hits rock bottom and realizes he needs to go to rehab before he ends up like Dell.
I didn’t think this book was rich in details from the time it’s supposedly taking place in the 70s. I honestly wouldn’t have known until a comment 100 pages in. Given the major struggle of the book is that the guys are afraid to come out or be exposed as lovers I think this was a problem for me. It explained some of Henry and Dell’s over the top moments of panic. Dell wasn’t ever even in the book and he was the most fascinating of all the characters. Terry’s character starts off as an awful person but ended up being my favorite. The book starts off as a typical rock star book with lots of parties and over indulgence. Then morphs to a pretty sweet love story where the guys work on trusting each other and dealing with the fear of being exposed. Terry is still struggling with the death of Dell. It’s very much a personal growth story. Despite some of the heavy topics in this book I do think it has a quickie easily resolved vibe going on. I liked the couple but never felt invested in their outcome. If you like rockers this one is worth the read. There were moments that captivated me some of the secondary characters were intriguing. Overall a pretty good read.
December 4, 2017
2017 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: The One Thing I Know Keelan Ellis
1) Terry Blackwood is the quintessential bad boy rocker, right down to the physical expression of his angst. He's a bastard through and through and I expected to spend most of the book disliking him intensely. Then he made the very mature decision to woo not only Henry but the reader, by accepting his faults... and then turning around to address them. As happens in real life, the fix to his problems didn't come without effort, making him a truly likeable character by the end of the book. I really enjoyed Henry's journey as well, and the expression of just how terrifying it must have been to be himself in the 70s. I also enjoyed Ellis' idea of a talented musician who didn't need to "live the life."
2) One of the best books I've read all year. The characters developed and grew over time in a way few authors manage.
3) Incredibly well-written and insightful, The One Thing I Know is a story of profound love, excruciating loss, and poignant redemption. Keelan Ellis's writing is terribly thought-provoking and emotion-wringing, all while it leaves you feeling whole. A highly recommended read.
4) I really enjoyed this book. The plot was fast paced and kept my attention. The dialogue real and the emotional struggle authintic
1) Terry Blackwood is the quintessential bad boy rocker, right down to the physical expression of his angst. He's a bastard through and through and I expected to spend most of the book disliking him intensely. Then he made the very mature decision to woo not only Henry but the reader, by accepting his faults... and then turning around to address them. As happens in real life, the fix to his problems didn't come without effort, making him a truly likeable character by the end of the book. I really enjoyed Henry's journey as well, and the expression of just how terrifying it must have been to be himself in the 70s. I also enjoyed Ellis' idea of a talented musician who didn't need to "live the life."
2) One of the best books I've read all year. The characters developed and grew over time in a way few authors manage.
3) Incredibly well-written and insightful, The One Thing I Know is a story of profound love, excruciating loss, and poignant redemption. Keelan Ellis's writing is terribly thought-provoking and emotion-wringing, all while it leaves you feeling whole. A highly recommended read.
4) I really enjoyed this book. The plot was fast paced and kept my attention. The dialogue real and the emotional struggle authintic
February 24, 2020
The moment I finished this book I moved it to my all-time favorite shelf.
Didn’t have to think about that twice. This was the best book I’ve read this year and I am certain the MC’s will be wandering through my mind for a long time after closing it. It was sooo good, and I can’t help but wonder how come not more readers are chanting about this beautiful story. EVERYONE should read this, it’s so well written and the whole story breaths the early 70’s, when this all takes place. I was only 4 in 1972, but I’ve listened to enough music from that time and seen quite some films too that I felt like I could have been there and it felt very authentic. This author knows very well how to give you that feeling. The writing is flawless, it’s never overdone, but it sneaks up on you, crawls under your skin, like Henry and Terry do.
When Henry and Terry - lead singer of a world famous band - meet, Terry is a fucked up, alcohol and drugs abuser and he behaves like an asshole around Henry. I was happy to see Henry wasn’t one to just put up with that, where Terry is used to getting what he wants whenever he wants and even his band mates keep shifting their boundaries in their efforts to keep their unpredictable, promiscuous leading man happy.
When the story unravels we learn how devastated Terry actually is about the death of his band mate Del, with whom he had a very complicated relationship. And then the asshole you thought he was, turns into a grieving human being, someone who is grieving for the death of a friend, and he’s desperately trying to sort out the feelings he had or maybe still has for Del.
Henry is such a great guy; an extraordinary musician, not wanting the fame that comes with being a member of the band after they ask him to replace Del while on tour. He does the job, but that’s all it is to him: a job.
Then things start to happen between him and Terry and his life becomes more complicated. It’s the early seventies and being gay is still not as accepted as it is nowadays, specially not among famous rockstars. Henry is afraid it will ruin both his and Terry’s career when or if people find out and I thought it was awesome how the author managed to shift the feelings of insecurity from Terry to Henry. They were also pretty hot together when it comes down to sex.
The story is mainly told from Henry’s POV, though there are a few chapters where we read Terry’s POV in first person. I loved how authentic the dialogues were, which made Henry and Terry all the more feel like they were real.
And then comes the end...those lyrics.
The one thing I know.
Get your tissues ready for that one.
I loved how they decided to perform ‘Dead flowers’ at the festival. What a beautiful gesture in remembrance of a complicated, talented, broken man whose life has turned to waste due to drugs, alcohol and the frame of mind he was in. Unfortunately we’ve seen it happen in real life much too often as well. Too many have left us way too early for the same reasons.
Really, I hope a lot more people will discover this wonderful, beautifully written story because it really, really deserves to be noticed! I almost felt sorry when I reached the last chapter because I just didn’t want this story to end yet.
Highly recommended.
Didn’t have to think about that twice. This was the best book I’ve read this year and I am certain the MC’s will be wandering through my mind for a long time after closing it. It was sooo good, and I can’t help but wonder how come not more readers are chanting about this beautiful story. EVERYONE should read this, it’s so well written and the whole story breaths the early 70’s, when this all takes place. I was only 4 in 1972, but I’ve listened to enough music from that time and seen quite some films too that I felt like I could have been there and it felt very authentic. This author knows very well how to give you that feeling. The writing is flawless, it’s never overdone, but it sneaks up on you, crawls under your skin, like Henry and Terry do.
When Henry and Terry - lead singer of a world famous band - meet, Terry is a fucked up, alcohol and drugs abuser and he behaves like an asshole around Henry. I was happy to see Henry wasn’t one to just put up with that, where Terry is used to getting what he wants whenever he wants and even his band mates keep shifting their boundaries in their efforts to keep their unpredictable, promiscuous leading man happy.
When the story unravels we learn how devastated Terry actually is about the death of his band mate Del, with whom he had a very complicated relationship. And then the asshole you thought he was, turns into a grieving human being, someone who is grieving for the death of a friend, and he’s desperately trying to sort out the feelings he had or maybe still has for Del.
Henry is such a great guy; an extraordinary musician, not wanting the fame that comes with being a member of the band after they ask him to replace Del while on tour. He does the job, but that’s all it is to him: a job.
Then things start to happen between him and Terry and his life becomes more complicated. It’s the early seventies and being gay is still not as accepted as it is nowadays, specially not among famous rockstars. Henry is afraid it will ruin both his and Terry’s career when or if people find out and I thought it was awesome how the author managed to shift the feelings of insecurity from Terry to Henry. They were also pretty hot together when it comes down to sex.
The story is mainly told from Henry’s POV, though there are a few chapters where we read Terry’s POV in first person. I loved how authentic the dialogues were, which made Henry and Terry all the more feel like they were real.
And then comes the end...those lyrics.
The one thing I know.
Get your tissues ready for that one.
I loved how they decided to perform ‘Dead flowers’ at the festival. What a beautiful gesture in remembrance of a complicated, talented, broken man whose life has turned to waste due to drugs, alcohol and the frame of mind he was in. Unfortunately we’ve seen it happen in real life much too often as well. Too many have left us way too early for the same reasons.
Really, I hope a lot more people will discover this wonderful, beautifully written story because it really, really deserves to be noticed! I almost felt sorry when I reached the last chapter because I just didn’t want this story to end yet.
Highly recommended.
October 4, 2017
This first book in the B-Sides series is a change of mood for Keelan Ellis, whose paranormal romances I am familiar with. Set in the 1970’s music scene, it concentrates on the relationship between two men, one a studio musician, Henry, who has been offered his dream job, and Terry, the band’s front man, who is still reeling from the death of Dell Miller, the band’s creative life force.
I wasn’t really sure about this book at first. The lightness of touch which makes this author’s previous books so easy to read is absent, and in its place is something much grittier. It is a romance, but there are dark elements; drug use, addiction, inter-band squabbling, soulless sex just because its available, as well as painful stints in rehab speak true of the rock n’ roll lifestyle, which really isn’t as fabulous as people like to think it is.
I had to read back a few times to remind myself that this book was set in the 1970’s. The sense of period was lost in places, with only mentions of Rolling Stone magazine and the Beatles to pull it back. As both are still relevant today, it wasn’t entirely successful. Also, Henry seemed genuinely sweet and honourable, and I found it incomprehensible that he would just drop his knees the first time Terry demanded it. For me, it was a jarring moment that made it difficult for me to believe they would find their HEA, and it took a while for the romance element to find its equilibrium again.
But despite those elements which pulled my focus away from the central story, it was a very enjoyable read, well-written and researched. It’s so refreshing to read a romance novel that doesn’t make paper cut-outs of its characters. The reader actually sees Henry and the Vulgar Details working, doing their thing, practicing their craft, not just looking great in tight jeans and sweaty hair. It definitely isn’t all about limousines and mountains of coke (although there’s plenty) but about cleaning up vomit, paying for trashed hotel rooms, having to get on stage with crashing hangovers and fighting a grief that cannot be expressed.
And it’s important to note the book also attempted to highlight the attitudes towards gay relationships in 1970’s USA. The general assumption is that the era was free love and peace for all, but in reality, that only applied to men and women. Gay men were tolerated, but there was still a massive stigma that meant Terry had to hide his grief for Dell behind outrageous outbursts, eventually ending up in rehab, and Henry lived in constant fear of his sexuality being found out, therefore jeopardising his career.
So yes, this is a rock star romance, but scratch the surface and it is so much more. I read this book a couple of weeks back but it has stayed with me, which is always a good thing. A meaty, satisfying read for those who want their characters with grit and depth, and a realistic romantic premise. A strong start to the B-Sides series.
I wasn’t really sure about this book at first. The lightness of touch which makes this author’s previous books so easy to read is absent, and in its place is something much grittier. It is a romance, but there are dark elements; drug use, addiction, inter-band squabbling, soulless sex just because its available, as well as painful stints in rehab speak true of the rock n’ roll lifestyle, which really isn’t as fabulous as people like to think it is.
I had to read back a few times to remind myself that this book was set in the 1970’s. The sense of period was lost in places, with only mentions of Rolling Stone magazine and the Beatles to pull it back. As both are still relevant today, it wasn’t entirely successful. Also, Henry seemed genuinely sweet and honourable, and I found it incomprehensible that he would just drop his knees the first time Terry demanded it. For me, it was a jarring moment that made it difficult for me to believe they would find their HEA, and it took a while for the romance element to find its equilibrium again.
But despite those elements which pulled my focus away from the central story, it was a very enjoyable read, well-written and researched. It’s so refreshing to read a romance novel that doesn’t make paper cut-outs of its characters. The reader actually sees Henry and the Vulgar Details working, doing their thing, practicing their craft, not just looking great in tight jeans and sweaty hair. It definitely isn’t all about limousines and mountains of coke (although there’s plenty) but about cleaning up vomit, paying for trashed hotel rooms, having to get on stage with crashing hangovers and fighting a grief that cannot be expressed.
And it’s important to note the book also attempted to highlight the attitudes towards gay relationships in 1970’s USA. The general assumption is that the era was free love and peace for all, but in reality, that only applied to men and women. Gay men were tolerated, but there was still a massive stigma that meant Terry had to hide his grief for Dell behind outrageous outbursts, eventually ending up in rehab, and Henry lived in constant fear of his sexuality being found out, therefore jeopardising his career.
So yes, this is a rock star romance, but scratch the surface and it is so much more. I read this book a couple of weeks back but it has stayed with me, which is always a good thing. A meaty, satisfying read for those who want their characters with grit and depth, and a realistic romantic premise. A strong start to the B-Sides series.
September 18, 2017
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I won’t bore you with a complete recap of the story since the synopsis does a decent job explaining the premise. The book takes place in the 1970s where Henry Cole is a studio musician who has laid tracks with Vulgar Details before. When their lead guitarist dies, Dell Miller, Henry is the obvious choice to replace him when the band goes on tour. Henry has never dreamed of playing in a group. He enjoys his job at the studio.
Terry Blackwood is the lead vocalist for the group and he is taking Dell’s death extremely hard. He feels it is too soon to go on tour but the band had already committed. He resents Henry for walking into Dell’s role easily. He also resents his feelings for Henry, so soon after Dell.
The book is written in two parts, which is somewhat confusing. I didn’t think there really was a need for it, but part 1 is about the tour and part 2 is Terry coming to terms with everything and getting his life under control.
The story is written very well and it kept my attention the entire time. I liked each character very much, even though there was a slight “insta-love” feel to it. Let me say, I hate insta-love, but the feeling wasn’t overpowering in this story since both characters didn’t make it easy for each other. The side characters were nicely developed and I hope that there will be other books with their story. This is my first book by the author and I feel that I definitely would read more by them.
Ultimately, for any fan of MM romances containing rock star drama, this would be a good choice for you. It is entertaining and well developed. My biggest complaint would be that it was too short.
I won’t bore you with a complete recap of the story since the synopsis does a decent job explaining the premise. The book takes place in the 1970s where Henry Cole is a studio musician who has laid tracks with Vulgar Details before. When their lead guitarist dies, Dell Miller, Henry is the obvious choice to replace him when the band goes on tour. Henry has never dreamed of playing in a group. He enjoys his job at the studio.
Terry Blackwood is the lead vocalist for the group and he is taking Dell’s death extremely hard. He feels it is too soon to go on tour but the band had already committed. He resents Henry for walking into Dell’s role easily. He also resents his feelings for Henry, so soon after Dell.
The book is written in two parts, which is somewhat confusing. I didn’t think there really was a need for it, but part 1 is about the tour and part 2 is Terry coming to terms with everything and getting his life under control.
The story is written very well and it kept my attention the entire time. I liked each character very much, even though there was a slight “insta-love” feel to it. Let me say, I hate insta-love, but the feeling wasn’t overpowering in this story since both characters didn’t make it easy for each other. The side characters were nicely developed and I hope that there will be other books with their story. This is my first book by the author and I feel that I definitely would read more by them.
Ultimately, for any fan of MM romances containing rock star drama, this would be a good choice for you. It is entertaining and well developed. My biggest complaint would be that it was too short.
September 18, 2017
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Henry, a successful studio musician, is given the opportunity to tour with the Vulgar Details after the tragic death of a band member. Henry is happy with his life as a studio musician and has no desire to be a rock star or face life on the road with a rock band. Even though he doesn’t live his life in the closet, he is concerned about being on the road and the expectations that come with the lifestyle, but this opportunity is too great to pass up. From the beginning the band’s lead singer, Terry, disregards Henry’s presence. Henry tries hard to be amenable and eventually learns Terry is deeply closeted and has been grieving the loss of his bandmate, Dell.
As the story progresses, we learn about the tumultuous relationship Terry had with Dell and how that is affecting him on tour and his reaction to Henry’s presence. Of course in true rock star fashion Terry flames out and checks into rehab. After rehab, Terry wants to have a relationship with Henry, but Henry is not quite on board with that; much wavering and mixed signaling ensue between both parties before they come to terms with the relationship they wish to have.
The story is set in early 70’s mainly in Los Angeles and reads realistic. I didn’t like all the wavering and we were trapped in Henry’s head a bit too often, but overall I enjoyed the story. It was probably more
3.5 stars for me, but I liked it enough that I rounded up. Richard was an interesting enough side character here that I am looking forward to his book.
Henry, a successful studio musician, is given the opportunity to tour with the Vulgar Details after the tragic death of a band member. Henry is happy with his life as a studio musician and has no desire to be a rock star or face life on the road with a rock band. Even though he doesn’t live his life in the closet, he is concerned about being on the road and the expectations that come with the lifestyle, but this opportunity is too great to pass up. From the beginning the band’s lead singer, Terry, disregards Henry’s presence. Henry tries hard to be amenable and eventually learns Terry is deeply closeted and has been grieving the loss of his bandmate, Dell.
As the story progresses, we learn about the tumultuous relationship Terry had with Dell and how that is affecting him on tour and his reaction to Henry’s presence. Of course in true rock star fashion Terry flames out and checks into rehab. After rehab, Terry wants to have a relationship with Henry, but Henry is not quite on board with that; much wavering and mixed signaling ensue between both parties before they come to terms with the relationship they wish to have.
The story is set in early 70’s mainly in Los Angeles and reads realistic. I didn’t like all the wavering and we were trapped in Henry’s head a bit too often, but overall I enjoyed the story. It was probably more
3.5 stars for me, but I liked it enough that I rounded up. Richard was an interesting enough side character here that I am looking forward to his book.
September 12, 2017
4 and a half stars rounded up to 5
I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Dell Miller, the creative force behind the band the Vulgar Details, is killed and Henry is hired by management to replace him in an upcoming tour. He is accepted by everyone, except Terry, who is not handling Dell’s death well.
The book is set in the 70s and the author has done an excellent job recreating the period. I adored Henry and warmed up to Terry eventually. I know that Terry was hurting so I gave him a lot of leeway. I really loved watching the relationship between Henry and Terry as it developed.
I really liked both the story and the author’s writing style and I have no hesitation in recommending this story.
This is book 1 in a series and I will be reading the rest of the series when it is published.
I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Dell Miller, the creative force behind the band the Vulgar Details, is killed and Henry is hired by management to replace him in an upcoming tour. He is accepted by everyone, except Terry, who is not handling Dell’s death well.
The book is set in the 70s and the author has done an excellent job recreating the period. I adored Henry and warmed up to Terry eventually. I know that Terry was hurting so I gave him a lot of leeway. I really loved watching the relationship between Henry and Terry as it developed.
I really liked both the story and the author’s writing style and I have no hesitation in recommending this story.
This is book 1 in a series and I will be reading the rest of the series when it is published.
April 16, 2018
I am thoroughly impressed by the book. It's theoretically a member of the gay romance genre, a genre I enjoy, but it absolutely transcends genre while fulfilling all the requirements.
This intensely emotional and character driven drama takes place in the late 60's (I think) and really captures the feel of the era. And when I say intense, I DO mean intense. It's short, but packs a punch. It's gritty, but not gross or depressing. Happy endings are mediated by a dose of realism--death, drugs, and rock'n'roll--as well as the difficulty of being gay in the 1960's. (Hell, it's no piece of cake now...)
The cover really encapsulates the emotional feel. Somehow.
I recommend this book.
This intensely emotional and character driven drama takes place in the late 60's (I think) and really captures the feel of the era. And when I say intense, I DO mean intense. It's short, but packs a punch. It's gritty, but not gross or depressing. Happy endings are mediated by a dose of realism--death, drugs, and rock'n'roll--as well as the difficulty of being gay in the 1960's. (Hell, it's no piece of cake now...)
The cover really encapsulates the emotional feel. Somehow.
I recommend this book.
May 10, 2021
This was okay. It kept my interest enough. I just don't think there is anything memorable about it. The one thing I didn't like at all was the rehab part. The timeline wasn't fleshed out and it seemed to only be a week or so between Terry entering and completing rehab. Then when he got out it didn't seem like he struggled at all.
August 21, 2017
surprisingly good!
August 21, 2017
4.5 stars - enjoyed this
September 24, 2017
Review to come soon. Posted on October 3rd on Noteworthy Book Reviews blog - https://noteworthybookreviews.com/
September 27, 2017
One of the best books I've read all year.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews