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Drumline
Traditions are important. Especially in the South. College football. Rivalries. Tailgating. Halftime shows. Some things just don’t change. Until Reese Holland shows up with her long legs and no-bullsh*t attitude to audition for the prestigious all-male Rodner University snare line. It doesn’t matter how much hazing she has to endure from Laird Bronson, with his narrowed green eyes and arrogant smirk. She wants that damn spot, and she’s more than good enough to earn it. She expects there to be tension. Even friction. But not sparks hot enough to burn the entire campus down. ***Drumline is a standalone college romance.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2017
687 people are currently reading
3389 people want to read
About the author
Stacy Kestwick
12 books1,047 followersUSA Today Bestseller Stacy Kestwick is a Southern girl who firmly believes mornings should be outlawed.
Her perfect day would include puppies, carbohydrates, and lounging on a hammock with a good book. No adulting, cleaning, or bacon allowed.
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Her perfect day would include puppies, carbohydrates, and lounging on a hammock with a good book. No adulting, cleaning, or bacon allowed.
Social Media:
www.facebook.com/StacyKestwickAuthor
Reader Group on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Stacy...
Newsletter (with a free monthly download in 2017/early 2018): https://www.stacykestwick.com/mailing...
Website (see where I'm signing, buy signed paperbacks, see what books I recommend): www.stacykestwick.com
Twitter:
www.twitter.com/stacykestwick
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www.instagram.com/stacykestwick
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 646 reviews
January 17, 2018
4 stars
Drumline is Stacy Kestwick’s debut novel, and I’ve been wanting to read it since it’s release. I love NA books and I thought it would be interesting to read a drumline book opposed to the normal football, hockey etc.
Reese Holland is a college freshman AND the only girl trying out for the elusive Drumline. There has never been a girl to make this spot, but Reese is determined to be the first. She is an independent and sometimes stubborn heroine, but I loved her for it!
Laird Bronson is a senior and captain of the line. He’s taken with Reese from the first moment he meets her, but there are a lot of complications there. Dating Reese could cause some tension with the line, and Reese doesn’t want any exceptions being made for her. She’s not that type. It’s a struggle for these two to find their way, even though they are pretty perfect together!
I listened to the audio book of Drumline and I really enjoyed the narration. Both Stephen Dexter and Tracy Marks did an excellent job. The quality of the audio book was good, and it was a fun experience listening. I think some books are meant to be ‘read’ and others translate better into audio- I feel like this book fell into the later category. It was fun to listen to!
Drumline was sexy and had just enough angst to keep me hooked! It was typical NA in a lot of ways, but I loved that it was a bit different than your normal sports romances. It was an easy to listen to story that was fast paced and fun!
Audiobook provided by Audiobookworm Promotions.
Drumline is Stacy Kestwick’s debut novel, and I’ve been wanting to read it since it’s release. I love NA books and I thought it would be interesting to read a drumline book opposed to the normal football, hockey etc.
Reese Holland is a college freshman AND the only girl trying out for the elusive Drumline. There has never been a girl to make this spot, but Reese is determined to be the first. She is an independent and sometimes stubborn heroine, but I loved her for it!
Laird Bronson is a senior and captain of the line. He’s taken with Reese from the first moment he meets her, but there are a lot of complications there. Dating Reese could cause some tension with the line, and Reese doesn’t want any exceptions being made for her. She’s not that type. It’s a struggle for these two to find their way, even though they are pretty perfect together!
I listened to the audio book of Drumline and I really enjoyed the narration. Both Stephen Dexter and Tracy Marks did an excellent job. The quality of the audio book was good, and it was a fun experience listening. I think some books are meant to be ‘read’ and others translate better into audio- I feel like this book fell into the later category. It was fun to listen to!
Drumline was sexy and had just enough angst to keep me hooked! It was typical NA in a lot of ways, but I loved that it was a bit different than your normal sports romances. It was an easy to listen to story that was fast paced and fun!
Audiobook provided by Audiobookworm Promotions.
November 24, 2017
"His dick was huge. The story he told me earlier about how he acquired Oscar flitted through my mind. That was definitely a prize-winning specimen."
dnf at 32%
It was like drinking orange juice right after brushing your teeth.
It was like stepping on a lego piece.
It was like watching someone eat pizza with a knife and fork.
_______________
The Plot
The story had so much potential, but I really could not get behind the chemistry, or the characters. The whole drumline plot was so unique and different to all other New Adult stories out there, I was looking forward to reading it!
Although, I would not class it as 'insta-love', it felt like it. The main characters felt too much and wanted too much from each other in just a week of knowing each other!! There is a significant difference in physical attraction / lust to love. We have little Laird over here already imagining their fucking kids within seeing her for three days.
Straight off the bat, I found the writing to be very mediocre and it just did not rub off the right way. There were some lines that were said, that was so cringey and unrealistic - especially within the age group and demographic of the characters.
I really felt like this could go a long way if the execution had been better. This was my first Stacy Kestwick novel, and although it was a bust - I am not completely put off in reading her future novels.
dnf at 32%
It was like drinking orange juice right after brushing your teeth.
It was like stepping on a lego piece.
It was like watching someone eat pizza with a knife and fork.
“As captain, I’ll go first. And, Marco, since I know how much you’re threatened by Reese’s dick being bigger than yours, I’ll take her.”
_______________
The Plot
The story had so much potential, but I really could not get behind the chemistry, or the characters. The whole drumline plot was so unique and different to all other New Adult stories out there, I was looking forward to reading it!
Although, I would not class it as 'insta-love', it felt like it. The main characters felt too much and wanted too much from each other in just a week of knowing each other!! There is a significant difference in physical attraction / lust to love. We have little Laird over here already imagining their fucking kids within seeing her for three days.
Straight off the bat, I found the writing to be very mediocre and it just did not rub off the right way. There were some lines that were said, that was so cringey and unrealistic - especially within the age group and demographic of the characters.
"Today, I was fucking cranky.... frustrated because I hadn’t been laid in the last month and my balls were aching to empty themselves somewhere other than down the shower drain."
- Chapter One.
(great start ladies and gentlemen)
I really felt like this could go a long way if the execution had been better. This was my first Stacy Kestwick novel, and although it was a bust - I am not completely put off in reading her future novels.
September 10, 2017
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I hate being in the minority!! I wonder sometimes if I read the same books! I didn't love it. I did enjoy some of it, but overall it felt a little lackluster and slow. I found myself going on Facebook, Amazon, and goodreads just because I wasn't all that into it. That alone tells me that it wasn't working for me. I'm happy I finished it though, because I'm so darn behind on my my reading challenge this year! The hazing was a little eye roll inducing, the drama felt like it wasn't given the full depth it needed -- especially when , and both of their problems with their parents seemed to be glossed over as well (and they were pretty big problems!). While I enjoyed the H -- I didn't ever really get into the h, and I wasn't fully feeling their connection to each other (other than lust -- that I got). Just kind of...meh 😐
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Reese and Laird's story. They meet when Reese is trying out for the male dominated drum line at her new college. Laird is the hot captain of said drum line, and they are instantly drawn to one another. Reese has a tough road ahead of her by being the only female, and Laird struggles with the fact that she doesn't want to be given an advantage because of their attraction. They can no longer fight their attraction and start a secret relationship, and do end up falling in love. There is a good bit of hazing, some hot sexy times, and some unexpected connections for the couple...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Reese and Laird's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good for the most part. It did feel like the ending was abrupt, but otherwise I never skimmed.
Instalove: Kind of. For the amount of actual time they are supposed to have spent together, it develops pretty quickly.
H rating: 4 stars. Laird. I was frustrated when he wasn't as forthcoming with the h as I would've preferred, but overall I liked him. He was possessive, hot, sweet, and the right amount of alpha.
h rating: 3 stars. Reese. She was...ok. Yep, that's all I have to say about her.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. Very mild D/s dynamics.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not imo
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had what I would call a HFN ending. It did feel kind of abrupt, as it left me with some unanswered questions
How I got it: I got it with my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Overall Opinion: I hate being in the minority!! I wonder sometimes if I read the same books! I didn't love it. I did enjoy some of it, but overall it felt a little lackluster and slow. I found myself going on Facebook, Amazon, and goodreads just because I wasn't all that into it. That alone tells me that it wasn't working for me. I'm happy I finished it though, because I'm so darn behind on my my reading challenge this year! The hazing was a little eye roll inducing, the drama felt like it wasn't given the full depth it needed -- especially when , and both of their problems with their parents seemed to be glossed over as well (and they were pretty big problems!). While I enjoyed the H -- I didn't ever really get into the h, and I wasn't fully feeling their connection to each other (other than lust -- that I got). Just kind of...meh 😐
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Reese and Laird's story. They meet when Reese is trying out for the male dominated drum line at her new college. Laird is the hot captain of said drum line, and they are instantly drawn to one another. Reese has a tough road ahead of her by being the only female, and Laird struggles with the fact that she doesn't want to be given an advantage because of their attraction. They can no longer fight their attraction and start a secret relationship, and do end up falling in love. There is a good bit of hazing, some hot sexy times, and some unexpected connections for the couple...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Reese and Laird's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good for the most part. It did feel like the ending was abrupt, but otherwise I never skimmed.
Instalove: Kind of. For the amount of actual time they are supposed to have spent together, it develops pretty quickly.
H rating: 4 stars. Laird. I was frustrated when he wasn't as forthcoming with the h as I would've preferred, but overall I liked him. He was possessive, hot, sweet, and the right amount of alpha.
h rating: 3 stars. Reese. She was...ok. Yep, that's all I have to say about her.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. Very mild D/s dynamics.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not imo
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had what I would call a HFN ending. It did feel kind of abrupt, as it left me with some unanswered questions
How I got it: I got it with my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
September 4, 2017
So, as of *looks at watch* right this second, I've read 122 books so far in 2017. That's a few, right? And I loved Drumline. Like a lot. So I figured I have to go back through those 122 books and pick out my favourites, just to see how Drumline compared.
There were 20 books on the favourites list, and Drumline is easily in the top 3. Just let that sink in for a minute. TOP 3 PEOPLE!
The characters, the story, the banter, the balance between sweet and sexy, the connections between past and present, the addictive nature vs the intrigue of breaking tradition. Throw in the strength and the vulnerability that both of the main characters portrayed so excellently. All of it. Perfection. I loved every single word.
I now need to:
1. Reread this book
2. Learn how to play the drums
3. Watch a college halftime show and focus on the Drumline
4. Conquer the world.
This was so much more than I could've possibly expected it to be. I've had a crap time lately with reading, nothing's been grabbing my attention, and I just felt uninspired. But then Drumline popped up out of nowhere and Stacy's like, "Don't worry girl, I got you", and here we are. I feel the need to flail and dance around and sing with the Von Trapp family.
Laird was amazing, of course, and he was quite equally matching with Reese being the little firecracker that she was. They complimented each other so perfectly while kicking butt in the process. Now don't get me wrong, everyone loves a good hero (and Laird really does take the cake) but just look at Reese for a second, will you? Tradition, smadition. She fought through challenges that took down men twice her size. She fought, she scraped, she clawed, and she did it all with sass, wit, and a smile on her face. She knew what she wanted and she came to the school to get exactly that. She proved that she has what it takes to not only be worthy of the iconic drumline, but to silence the doubters as well.
And who says that being in the band can't be sexy? Because if this is what a band book is like, I don't think I'll ever need to read another football romance! Quarterback? Who Cares? I'm more interested in the snare captain. ;)
This is the perfect book to grab your attention from the get go. It's detailed, alluring, deliciously dirty and addicting. I could NOT put it down, and had the biggest, cheesiest smile on my face at the beginning. I loved the heroine's spunk and the heroes cocky, can do attitude. But underneath, they both had something that was so sweet and alluring. The chemistry between the two was undeniable, their personal time was scorching, and their relationship as a whole is the stuff girls dream about. Bravo Stacy. And sorry to my future boyfriends, because I've now got Laird as a reference. Better step up, boys.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
There were 20 books on the favourites list, and Drumline is easily in the top 3. Just let that sink in for a minute. TOP 3 PEOPLE!
“You always this prickly? There a cactus somewhere in your family tree?”
The characters, the story, the banter, the balance between sweet and sexy, the connections between past and present, the addictive nature vs the intrigue of breaking tradition. Throw in the strength and the vulnerability that both of the main characters portrayed so excellently. All of it. Perfection. I loved every single word.
“I wasn’t lost.”
“But I was, Reese.” I opened my eyes and searched her face. “I didn’t know where you were, so I was.”
I now need to:
1. Reread this book
2. Learn how to play the drums
3. Watch a college halftime show and focus on the Drumline
4. Conquer the world.
I’m going to tell Oscar to expect you. Don’t be late. He’s perfected the sad puppy dog look.”
“I’d hate to disappoint your dog.” Her voice was muffled from the blanket but the sarcasm came through loud and clear.
“There’s nothing worse than an unhappy wiener,” I agreed.
This was so much more than I could've possibly expected it to be. I've had a crap time lately with reading, nothing's been grabbing my attention, and I just felt uninspired. But then Drumline popped up out of nowhere and Stacy's like, "Don't worry girl, I got you", and here we are. I feel the need to flail and dance around and sing with the Von Trapp family.
“I shouldn’t be here.” My voice sounded weak and a bit defensive as I looked at his neck, his chin, his nose—anywhere but his kryptonite green eyes.
“Wrong. This is exactly where you should be. [...] Right here. With me. In my arms.”
Laird was amazing, of course, and he was quite equally matching with Reese being the little firecracker that she was. They complimented each other so perfectly while kicking butt in the process. Now don't get me wrong, everyone loves a good hero (and Laird really does take the cake) but just look at Reese for a second, will you? Tradition, smadition. She fought through challenges that took down men twice her size. She fought, she scraped, she clawed, and she did it all with sass, wit, and a smile on her face. She knew what she wanted and she came to the school to get exactly that. She proved that she has what it takes to not only be worthy of the iconic drumline, but to silence the doubters as well.
"Yeah, this wasn’t a girl who’d let me do the dirty work for her, slay her dragons while she cowered in the ivy-covered tower. Reese would be on the front lines, carving her own path and wielding her own sword. And I wanted to be the one to have her back on the journey."
And who says that being in the band can't be sexy? Because if this is what a band book is like, I don't think I'll ever need to read another football romance! Quarterback? Who Cares? I'm more interested in the snare captain. ;)
This is the perfect book to grab your attention from the get go. It's detailed, alluring, deliciously dirty and addicting. I could NOT put it down, and had the biggest, cheesiest smile on my face at the beginning. I loved the heroine's spunk and the heroes cocky, can do attitude. But underneath, they both had something that was so sweet and alluring. The chemistry between the two was undeniable, their personal time was scorching, and their relationship as a whole is the stuff girls dream about. Bravo Stacy. And sorry to my future boyfriends, because I've now got Laird as a reference. Better step up, boys.
“Laird,” I started, but his eyes closed and his whole body relaxed. “I—”
“Say it again,” he interrupted.
“Say what again?”
“My name,” he growled. “Say my fucking name.”
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
December 24, 2017
➳A story filled with emotions and passion all in one... Loved it from the very start to the end...
➳A college romance all in one, and I devoured it! The passion that Laird and Reese have is something that I have not seen or read in a college romance in such a long time. Not since reading from the OFF CAMPUS series by Elle Kennedy. I am so glad I took a choice in reading this baby, cause I will defiantly be reading it again just for fun in the future!
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➳A college romance all in one, and I devoured it! The passion that Laird and Reese have is something that I have not seen or read in a college romance in such a long time. Not since reading from the OFF CAMPUS series by Elle Kennedy. I am so glad I took a choice in reading this baby, cause I will defiantly be reading it again just for fun in the future!
➳Order Links:
iBooks ♕ B&N ♕ Kobo ♕ Amazon ♕ Amazon Paperback
➳Follow Me On:
Blog ♕ Instagram ♕ Facebook ♕ Twitter
September 10, 2017
NA romance perfection. And with marching band members? #speakingmylanguage.
Stacy Kestwick hit every right note (see what I did there?). Humor, banter, angst, emotions, computer apps (yes, apps!) and hot sexy times. Loved.
Stacy Kestwick hit every right note (see what I did there?). Humor, banter, angst, emotions, computer apps (yes, apps!) and hot sexy times. Loved.
July 1, 2018
I’m going to give this five stars for two reasons: first, I love Reese. She’s so strong and I believe that strong is beautiful (yes, I quoted a shampoo commercial). Physically, she can handle all her equipment and play like a champ. She can also keep up with all the training and let’s not forget that she’s a survivor. Hooray for strong women! The second reason would have to be Eli 💔
Laird’s cool too but I often find myself rolling my eyes because of his actions. He makes up for it by being sweet to Reese and I like his speech on consent. But overall, I was rooting for Reese all the way.
Laird’s cool too but I often find myself rolling my eyes because of his actions. He makes up for it by being sweet to Reese and I like his speech on consent. But overall, I was rooting for Reese all the way.
Read
September 16, 2017Giving up @ 18%
Can't get on with this :(
Can't get on with this :(
October 20, 2017
NA
College stuff...you know...
yeah, I'm like a moth to a flame concerning certain tropes, this being one of them...
BUT
This story was a bit different and yet the same!
anyhow, it had a "forbidden/fraternization" sign all over it, it was angsty yet warmhearted and sweet, the storyline was interwoven with a heavy subject of dealing with loss, hurt, pain, disease and yet it delivered hope, strength and love from a very starting point-at the beginning, there was an audition for the drummers to be picked for the 'drumline'.
Tipically, being mostly a guys' activity, one of the auditioners was an 18 year old Reese, a strong, bold and independant young woman and she instantly gets noticed by the current captain of the drumline team-Laird Bronson but not wanting to be looked at differently, she fights off his attempts on getting close...until she realizes that he truly is NOT that kind of a guy. His motives are pure, intense and passionate...and when they bond over a realization of the fact that they are conected through each other's pasts by the same impact of a mortal disease...that protective bond and connection gets stronger by the minute as there's no time to be wasted on trivial nuisance...
Hmmm, i was surprised, really, in a good way, even though I didn't know anything about the whole drumline business this was quite an interesting education experience among other things.
The pacing was on a slower side but it didn't deter me from enjoying the flow of the storyline, I loved the emotional aspect of the background settings and the layers of posture that were peeled off the characters by each minute...while they figured out how to deal and cope with their pasts, experiences, loss and pain over a common fate.
I liked it. 😉
College stuff...you know...
yeah, I'm like a moth to a flame concerning certain tropes, this being one of them...
BUT
This story was a bit different and yet the same!
anyhow, it had a "forbidden/fraternization" sign all over it, it was angsty yet warmhearted and sweet, the storyline was interwoven with a heavy subject of dealing with loss, hurt, pain, disease and yet it delivered hope, strength and love from a very starting point-at the beginning, there was an audition for the drummers to be picked for the 'drumline'.
Tipically, being mostly a guys' activity, one of the auditioners was an 18 year old Reese, a strong, bold and independant young woman and she instantly gets noticed by the current captain of the drumline team-Laird Bronson but not wanting to be looked at differently, she fights off his attempts on getting close...until she realizes that he truly is NOT that kind of a guy. His motives are pure, intense and passionate...and when they bond over a realization of the fact that they are conected through each other's pasts by the same impact of a mortal disease...that protective bond and connection gets stronger by the minute as there's no time to be wasted on trivial nuisance...
Hmmm, i was surprised, really, in a good way, even though I didn't know anything about the whole drumline business this was quite an interesting education experience among other things.
The pacing was on a slower side but it didn't deter me from enjoying the flow of the storyline, I loved the emotional aspect of the background settings and the layers of posture that were peeled off the characters by each minute...while they figured out how to deal and cope with their pasts, experiences, loss and pain over a common fate.
I liked it. 😉
September 14, 2017
Holy shit. I loved this book. I’m changing my Facebook Status to MARRIED to this BOOK!
This was my very first Kestwick book – from the cover, I was ready to one-click. Toss in the numerous early readers and their “I was up all night” status updates, I just knew I was going to enjoy this experience. I was not disappointed.
Laird. For fuck sakes, has there ever been a more perfect character? No, I don’t think so. And whoever you are thinking about right now, nope – wrong. Laird is it. The whole shebang.
Drumline was a kick start to my heart. I wasn’t ready to admit I was in a book funk, but I was. I was half-heartedly spending my nights with those easy & quick reads, not ready to dive into anything that was going to push me emotionally. I didn’t want to try harder. I just wanted to be. By the end of the first chapter, I knew it was going to be an all-nighter.
The story starts off with Laird gearing up for the auditions for the Drumline. He’s a senior, the team captain and this team has a lot of pressure to live up to. When he spots the odd-man out in the audience, he’s certain she’s in the wrong place. It’s not like the team is all boys by a rule – it’s just always been that way. But Reese wanted that spot on the team, she knew it was going to be tough, she knew she’d have to struggle with the rampant sexism and breaching the boys club was not going to be an easy road. But it was a road she was willing to push herself to travel.
The sparks fly instantly between these two – but don’t think hot chemistry means insta-love. No, these two push & pull. Laird knows he wants her, he knew it instantly. But for Reese, rumors about her and the team captain aren’t going to win her any fans and she struggles with wanting to make sure she earns her place. But her attraction to Laird isn’t her only concern. Marco, a complete asshole, has her in his sights and he isn’t going to go easy on her – in fact, he’s in full on attack mode. For fuck’s sake. I hated that guy. I wanted to castrate him.
Toss in a great side character in Smith & Eli– and the flow of these characters instantly drew you in.
I expected an angsty NA read. I got that. But this story was one of those stories that breaks your heart just to build you back up. As you piece together the parts of Reese and Laird’s pasts, you start to believe in fate. Tragedy can sometimes set the stage for something so beautiful it hurts to look at it. And make no mistake, Reese & Laird’s story was pure beauty – amplified by all of their dents and scratches. In fact those scars just made them shine that much brighter.
Drumline makes the TOP READS LIST for 2017, and in one of the top five spots. One of those books where you instantly need to buy a paperback of just so you can hold it, squeeze it and love it.
September 25, 2017
3.75 stars.
Overall I really liked this.
I don't read to many college romances any more as I feel that the characters have a certain immaturity that I can do without, even if it is age appropriate and fits well with the storyline.
I did however like the idea of a story based on the college's marching band and hence the title "Drumline".
It was made more poignant by the main characters experiences with cancer. Reese having had childhood leukemia and Laird's brother dying as a child from cancer. She as a result grew into a strong, independant and caring woman that wanted to fight her own battles and not receive any special attention or treatment.
Laird had his own battles too. Not only did he lose a beloved brother at a young age but his mother left soon afterwards and his father's coping mechanism when he was growing up was to ignore or to treat harshly his remaining son.
My only personal criticism of this story if I really have one is that there were almost too many detailed love scenes included and I think that it took away a little from a really good story but other readers might not agree with me on this.
My first book by Stacy Kestwick and I am certainly up for more reads by this author.
Overall I really liked this.
I don't read to many college romances any more as I feel that the characters have a certain immaturity that I can do without, even if it is age appropriate and fits well with the storyline.
I did however like the idea of a story based on the college's marching band and hence the title "Drumline".
It was made more poignant by the main characters experiences with cancer. Reese having had childhood leukemia and Laird's brother dying as a child from cancer. She as a result grew into a strong, independant and caring woman that wanted to fight her own battles and not receive any special attention or treatment.
Laird had his own battles too. Not only did he lose a beloved brother at a young age but his mother left soon afterwards and his father's coping mechanism when he was growing up was to ignore or to treat harshly his remaining son.
My only personal criticism of this story if I really have one is that there were almost too many detailed love scenes included and I think that it took away a little from a really good story but other readers might not agree with me on this.
My first book by Stacy Kestwick and I am certainly up for more reads by this author.
dnf
September 15, 2017*****
*****
November 28, 2017
DRUMLINE was a refreshing surprise for college-aged romance. You could say there was little new about the background trope here but the execution was very good and it felt fresh. Clearly, the premise for the MCs in this book centres around a percussion band that are front and centre during intervals of sports games for Rodner University.
Laird was a slightly complex but good guy, he had integrity, there was no jerk to be seen and he won my respect pretty quickly. There is an unknown but background connection between Laird and Reese. Reese was a strong young woman trying to trailblaze her gender in the drumline. She had personality and tenacity; again she was someone I could like easily. The chemistry between Laird and Reese was convincing and over time, I felt their emotional connection most genuinely.
There are some excellent side characters. I hated Marco but he made for good reading and Smith was a piece of fresh air, not cliche and a damn good friend. Eli and Amelia were special. There was the odd medical inconsistency along the way but I felt able to forgive that.
The storyline was interesting, not overly predictable and I bought into this NA completely. I’m generally fatigued by NA, so the blurb has to really call to me to want to dip my toe in.
I’m impressed by my first read by Stacy Keswick and I look forward to seeing if she can repeat the goodness found in DRUMLINE.
Laird was a slightly complex but good guy, he had integrity, there was no jerk to be seen and he won my respect pretty quickly. There is an unknown but background connection between Laird and Reese. Reese was a strong young woman trying to trailblaze her gender in the drumline. She had personality and tenacity; again she was someone I could like easily. The chemistry between Laird and Reese was convincing and over time, I felt their emotional connection most genuinely.
There are some excellent side characters. I hated Marco but he made for good reading and Smith was a piece of fresh air, not cliche and a damn good friend. Eli and Amelia were special. There was the odd medical inconsistency along the way but I felt able to forgive that.
The storyline was interesting, not overly predictable and I bought into this NA completely. I’m generally fatigued by NA, so the blurb has to really call to me to want to dip my toe in.
I’m impressed by my first read by Stacy Keswick and I look forward to seeing if she can repeat the goodness found in DRUMLINE.
September 7, 2017
Esse livro me fez ter vontade de ter 18 anos de novo. O que falar? Me apaixonei por ele. Chorei como uma criança lendo, e amei os personagens.
Primeiro livro que leio dessa autora. Ela está de parabéns!!!!!!!!
Primeiro livro que leio dessa autora. Ela está de parabéns!!!!!!!!
June 22, 2019
There's stubborn...and then there's too stubborn
****3.5 Stars****
Not a lot wrong with the storyline in Drumline if you're looking for a typical college romance. The main characters are at college for the right reason...to get an education. I really liked the hero, Laird and found him to be mature and extremely caring. It was nice to get his POV so that we understood where his motivation and determination comes from. The heroine, Reese is a wee bit stubborn. I understood where she was coming from but sometimes her determination to be independent and judged on her own merit lead her to be a little too stubborn.
Where this one went wrong for me was that Reese allowed herself to be hurt and manipulated just to be part of the Snare Line. I'm all for her determination to be treated equally, but she should NEVER have kept quiet when her safety was in jeopardy. Not keeping Laird informed, especially considering he was the Captain of the snare line, made me even madder. The worst part was the instigator was a DOUCHEWAFFLE and did not deserve his elevated position.
I'm all for angst in college romance but it makes me sad to see characters put themselves at risk to be part of the 'gang'.
Unfortunately, the female narrator didn't work for me. I have listened to Tracy Marks narrate before and actually enjoyed it, but this one, not so much. I can't pinpoint exactly where it went wrong but by the end, I was looking forward to Laird's chapters more than Reese's.
Stephen Dexter could have easily done this one on his own and I would have enjoyed it more.
I liked Drumline and I would definitely consider reading or listening to another Stacy Kestwick in the future. I guess I just wasn't in the mood for college angst, douchewaffles taking advantage of their positions, and stubbornness that leads to safety issues.
I guess I'll have to change my bookshelf from Romance Package to Audbile Escape. Let's hope that the name change is the only difference. I've absolutely loved using it so far and would be disappointed if the quality or range diminished.
****3.5 Stars****
Not a lot wrong with the storyline in Drumline if you're looking for a typical college romance. The main characters are at college for the right reason...to get an education. I really liked the hero, Laird and found him to be mature and extremely caring. It was nice to get his POV so that we understood where his motivation and determination comes from. The heroine, Reese is a wee bit stubborn. I understood where she was coming from but sometimes her determination to be independent and judged on her own merit lead her to be a little too stubborn.
Where this one went wrong for me was that Reese allowed herself to be hurt and manipulated just to be part of the Snare Line. I'm all for her determination to be treated equally, but she should NEVER have kept quiet when her safety was in jeopardy. Not keeping Laird informed, especially considering he was the Captain of the snare line, made me even madder. The worst part was the instigator was a DOUCHEWAFFLE and did not deserve his elevated position.
I'm all for angst in college romance but it makes me sad to see characters put themselves at risk to be part of the 'gang'.
Unfortunately, the female narrator didn't work for me. I have listened to Tracy Marks narrate before and actually enjoyed it, but this one, not so much. I can't pinpoint exactly where it went wrong but by the end, I was looking forward to Laird's chapters more than Reese's.
Stephen Dexter could have easily done this one on his own and I would have enjoyed it more.
I liked Drumline and I would definitely consider reading or listening to another Stacy Kestwick in the future. I guess I just wasn't in the mood for college angst, douchewaffles taking advantage of their positions, and stubbornness that leads to safety issues.
I guess I'll have to change my bookshelf from Romance Package to Audbile Escape. Let's hope that the name change is the only difference. I've absolutely loved using it so far and would be disappointed if the quality or range diminished.
October 17, 2017
Originally posted at Booklovers For Life
Drumline was my first Stacy Kestwick book – I usually don’t read new authors without heavy recommendations from people I trust, but I just couldn’t resist a new adult college romance. It feels like it’s been forever since the last time I read a college romance, so Drumline came at the perfect time. I enjoyed it – it took me by surprise in a good way. If you love anything related to new adult, I highly recommend you give this book a try! It’s sweet, sexy, and just an overall fun read.
Laird Bronson is captain of the snare line, and as its his last year at school, he needs the band to go out with a bang. What he doesn’t expect is for a spitfire of a woman to audition for the previously all-male Rodner University snare line. He’s utterly enthralled by Reese Holland and can’t seem to resist her. She’s tough, gorgeous, ambitious, determined, and gives as good she gets. I fell a little in love with her myself right alongside Laird.
In spite of the wild attraction she feels for Laird, Reese isn’t about to let her feelings for the band’s captain get in the way of her earning her spot in the snare line. But Laird isn’t like any college boy she knows – he’s as sweet as he is alpha, and incredibly supportive of her ambitions. She tries to keep her distance but can’t help herself to the sexy wonder that is Laird.
I LOVE that this was about the marching band rather than the athletes, etc. because how many books are there about football players? And how many books are there about the drummers of a marching band? Because Drumline is the first I’ve read of them. We need more band geek romances!
I have to say that while I was a big fan of the romance, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the drama in Drumline, especially when it had to do with the antagonist. I could’ve done with less of it, but that’s just me. I’m sure many won’t have the same problem, but this was just the reason why I couldn’t fully love the story like I wanted to.
Drumline is full of sexual tension, sweet romance, and did I mention a snare line!? It was such a unique take on a college romance so I have to give props to the author. I may have to check out her other books now, but I do hope she writes more college romances in the future!
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version.
Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/2xc9t0r
Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/2vNXwxy
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Drumline was my first Stacy Kestwick book – I usually don’t read new authors without heavy recommendations from people I trust, but I just couldn’t resist a new adult college romance. It feels like it’s been forever since the last time I read a college romance, so Drumline came at the perfect time. I enjoyed it – it took me by surprise in a good way. If you love anything related to new adult, I highly recommend you give this book a try! It’s sweet, sexy, and just an overall fun read.
Laird Bronson is captain of the snare line, and as its his last year at school, he needs the band to go out with a bang. What he doesn’t expect is for a spitfire of a woman to audition for the previously all-male Rodner University snare line. He’s utterly enthralled by Reese Holland and can’t seem to resist her. She’s tough, gorgeous, ambitious, determined, and gives as good she gets. I fell a little in love with her myself right alongside Laird.
I wanted to know her everything.
I wanted to fucking be her everything.
In spite of the wild attraction she feels for Laird, Reese isn’t about to let her feelings for the band’s captain get in the way of her earning her spot in the snare line. But Laird isn’t like any college boy she knows – he’s as sweet as he is alpha, and incredibly supportive of her ambitions. She tries to keep her distance but can’t help herself to the sexy wonder that is Laird.
I LOVE that this was about the marching band rather than the athletes, etc. because how many books are there about football players? And how many books are there about the drummers of a marching band? Because Drumline is the first I’ve read of them. We need more band geek romances!
I have to say that while I was a big fan of the romance, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the drama in Drumline, especially when it had to do with the antagonist. I could’ve done with less of it, but that’s just me. I’m sure many won’t have the same problem, but this was just the reason why I couldn’t fully love the story like I wanted to.
Drumline is full of sexual tension, sweet romance, and did I mention a snare line!? It was such a unique take on a college romance so I have to give props to the author. I may have to check out her other books now, but I do hope she writes more college romances in the future!
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version.
Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/2xc9t0r
Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/2vNXwxy
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September 17, 2017
3.5 stars!
Read
July 13, 2020DNF @27%
It's not the book, it's me...
Also, I didn't get what Reese was auditioning for, it had something to do with drums and running, so I would have appreciated it if the author had given us more insight on whatever that was. Also the Insta-love and weird coincidences like Laird being everywhere Reese was and Laird just happening to see the bruise (don't ask) or both of them being at the same hospital or even the same deli were too many 'coincidences' for me.
Anyways, maybe I'll pick it up another time, just not today.
It's not the book, it's me...
Also, I didn't get what Reese was auditioning for, it had something to do with drums and running, so I would have appreciated it if the author had given us more insight on whatever that was. Also the Insta-love and weird coincidences like Laird being everywhere Reese was and Laird just happening to see the bruise (don't ask) or both of them being at the same hospital or even the same deli were too many 'coincidences' for me.
Anyways, maybe I'll pick it up another time, just not today.
November 14, 2017
AMAZING LUVD EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS 💞💞💞
THAT COVER IS JUST HOT
THAT COVER IS JUST HOT
August 30, 2017
***5 Why Are There Not Anymore Words?’ stars***
No.
Seriously.
Why are there not any more words?
I want...no NEED more words. I don't want to say goodbye to these characters...well, one I can definitely do without, but I want more time with them. Which is funny considering I waffled over reading this one and waited until the 11th hour to make my decision (And, Yes, I loved the movie Drumline which helped get my butt in gear), but it was a one of the best decisions I’ve made this year. This book was everything I expected it to be and a whole lot more. The FEELS in this one are real and intense, yet well balanced throughout the book and these characters worm their way under your skin and into your heart and make putting the book down practically impossible.
I wasn’t even 15% into the book and I was already falling into adoration with Laird and Reese. They’ve both lived through more than most at their ages and that has caused them to mature a little faster than most, but they haven’t been made older because of it. There is still that lightness of youth they both carry about them.
Laird is simply a good guy, which I know to some is like saying someone is “nice” but he just is. He’s smart, talented and hot as all get out, and he’s got that “thing” about him that cause people to want to be in his orbit. He’s sweet and yet has an alpha male’s determination and innate sexyness. He also eats his steak the right way (huge bonus points right there). Reese is a force, and not because she wants to be one, but because she knows what she wants and is more than willing to earn it, she just wants an equal shot at the prize. I loved her snark, sass and heart and though I didn’t always agree with her decisions I had to admire her need to handle things in her own way.
There was no doubt in my mind that Laird and Reese’s journey to their HEA would be a bumpy one, just based on the synopsis alone it was a given. But even with the bumps, or because of them, there was always that undeniable truth that there was something simmering beneath the surface between them that, if they both went for it, could become something epic. And can I just say that Laird is all kinds of alpha AF smexy (Have your B.O.B. and/or ice bath ready) and Reese ain’t no slouch either so they were very well matched on that front. As for the big roadblocks in their journey, those were pretty heavy and kinda painful, I thought they were well thought out and I liked how they both worked through them individually and as a couple.
Despite having one of Ms. Kestwick’s books on my Kindle and hearing about her books from many of the authors I follow religiously, this is my first time reading her and it was an experience. From start to finish I was hooked on her voice and writing style. She tackles some pretty heavy issues, but does it with grace and respect and without going to extremes. I liked the fact that she kept the characters on more on the adult side of NA, but still showed the emotional struggles we all faced as we evolved from teenagers into adults. And though I was not a band geek, I’ve always had a thing for drummers, so it was cool to get a little peak into that world. And as I said in the beginning, these characters will get under your skin and though I adored Laird and Reese to no end, I adored Smith just as much and am crossing my toes that he may get his own HEA one day?? :D If you love NA romances this is a must read. If you’re iffy about them, this is still a must read. You won’t be sorry.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
No.
Seriously.
Why are there not any more words?
I want...no NEED more words. I don't want to say goodbye to these characters...well, one I can definitely do without, but I want more time with them. Which is funny considering I waffled over reading this one and waited until the 11th hour to make my decision (And, Yes, I loved the movie Drumline which helped get my butt in gear), but it was a one of the best decisions I’ve made this year. This book was everything I expected it to be and a whole lot more. The FEELS in this one are real and intense, yet well balanced throughout the book and these characters worm their way under your skin and into your heart and make putting the book down practically impossible.
I wasn’t even 15% into the book and I was already falling into adoration with Laird and Reese. They’ve both lived through more than most at their ages and that has caused them to mature a little faster than most, but they haven’t been made older because of it. There is still that lightness of youth they both carry about them.
Laird is simply a good guy, which I know to some is like saying someone is “nice” but he just is. He’s smart, talented and hot as all get out, and he’s got that “thing” about him that cause people to want to be in his orbit. He’s sweet and yet has an alpha male’s determination and innate sexyness. He also eats his steak the right way (huge bonus points right there). Reese is a force, and not because she wants to be one, but because she knows what she wants and is more than willing to earn it, she just wants an equal shot at the prize. I loved her snark, sass and heart and though I didn’t always agree with her decisions I had to admire her need to handle things in her own way.
There was no doubt in my mind that Laird and Reese’s journey to their HEA would be a bumpy one, just based on the synopsis alone it was a given. But even with the bumps, or because of them, there was always that undeniable truth that there was something simmering beneath the surface between them that, if they both went for it, could become something epic. And can I just say that Laird is all kinds of alpha AF smexy (Have your B.O.B. and/or ice bath ready) and Reese ain’t no slouch either so they were very well matched on that front. As for the big roadblocks in their journey, those were pretty heavy and kinda painful, I thought they were well thought out and I liked how they both worked through them individually and as a couple.
Despite having one of Ms. Kestwick’s books on my Kindle and hearing about her books from many of the authors I follow religiously, this is my first time reading her and it was an experience. From start to finish I was hooked on her voice and writing style. She tackles some pretty heavy issues, but does it with grace and respect and without going to extremes. I liked the fact that she kept the characters on more on the adult side of NA, but still showed the emotional struggles we all faced as we evolved from teenagers into adults. And though I was not a band geek, I’ve always had a thing for drummers, so it was cool to get a little peak into that world. And as I said in the beginning, these characters will get under your skin and though I adored Laird and Reese to no end, I adored Smith just as much and am crossing my toes that he may get his own HEA one day?? :D If you love NA romances this is a must read. If you’re iffy about them, this is still a must read. You won’t be sorry.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
October 19, 2017
This was OK but certainly not great.
Pros:
This was light and fun to read and sometimes you just need a book like this every now and then. There was also amazing sexual tension with some OK steamy scenes with a dirty talking hero. The female MC also had to prove herself worthy of her position in the drumline (an exclusively male position) and did an awesome job of rising to that challenge.
Cons:
The story for me just did not flow well. There were so many things going and I found myself forgetting bits of information here and then there throughout the book. The hero also at times had little moments where he would either walk away or stand up the heroine when he was upset. Mind you he was upset with other people , not the heroine herself. That was very frustrating.
There was also a side character Eli who was supposed to be 8 years old but talked and acted at minimum like a 12 or 13 year old. The fact that this 8 year old by was so interested in girls and had such a mature understanding of adult issues was quite annoying. It just didn't make sense.
Overall this was OK but I would have been OK not reading this one.
3 Stars
Contemporary New Adult Romance
POV: Dual
Heat Level: Moderate
HEA
Pros:
This was light and fun to read and sometimes you just need a book like this every now and then. There was also amazing sexual tension with some OK steamy scenes with a dirty talking hero. The female MC also had to prove herself worthy of her position in the drumline (an exclusively male position) and did an awesome job of rising to that challenge.
Cons:
The story for me just did not flow well. There were so many things going and I found myself forgetting bits of information here and then there throughout the book. The hero also at times had little moments where he would either walk away or stand up the heroine when he was upset. Mind you he was upset with other people , not the heroine herself. That was very frustrating.
There was also a side character Eli who was supposed to be 8 years old but talked and acted at minimum like a 12 or 13 year old. The fact that this 8 year old by was so interested in girls and had such a mature understanding of adult issues was quite annoying. It just didn't make sense.
Overall this was OK but I would have been OK not reading this one.
3 Stars
Contemporary New Adult Romance
POV: Dual
Heat Level: Moderate
HEA
September 7, 2017
Drumline appealed to me for several reasons: first, Kestwick's books are awesome-sauce. Second, I was a band nerd and I love stories about other band nerds. I connected with the characters right away because even though I wasn't a drummer, I was in band and thought that everything Kestwick wrote about various instruments and the people who play them were spot on. It was like a flashback to high school. I didn't continue on in college, but I imagine it was exactly like high school except more...everything.
Laird wasn't quite the asshat I was expecting. He falls for Reese quick and doesn't dance around it. Reese is obviously hesitant because he is the captain and she doesn't want the gossip. But, Laird is persistent! Holy moly are these two combustible. There is so much sexual tension between them. HAWT!
Laird and Reese are also deep characters. Both have pain in their past that has shaped who they are and who they plan to become. I particularly loved Laird's backstory and his desire to be someone his brother would be proud of. Drumline gives you all kinds of feels-super steamy, deep emotional, and pure anger/hatred! Kestwick has a way with writing characters who seem so real yet so perfect they can't possibly be real. Its kind of magical.
Smith is the kind of character everyone wants as a friend. I am hopeful we will get his story sometime ;) (Please Stacy, we need it!). I could have kept reading about Laird and Reese forever because both of them are so damn likable. They didn't have the usual miscommunication, drama-llama traps you find in most new adult romance and for that, I am eternally grateful!
POV: dual 1st
Tears: some!
Trope: college, marching band, secret relationship
Triggers:
Series/Standalone: stand alone
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
Seriously swoony heroes like Jockblocked by Jen Frederick, Anti-stepbrother by Tijan, Embody by SE Hall...then you will probably like Drumline!
Drumline
See full review on The Book Disciple
September 30, 2017
DNF 19%
College romances are not for me, I should know better. I don't know why I started reading this one. The problem is that the characters lusting after each other takes 80% of the words. I did not count but it feels like a whole lot.
Book suffers from a lot of problems other NA romances have:
1) guy goes all jealous when other guys check out the main girl
2) all the other girls in the book are there to sleep with the drummers (or athletes in other novels)
3) girl gets drunk, guy takes her back to her dorm (he did not try anything - thank you!) but watches her sleep because he is making sure she is ok. Still creepy.
4) depth for the characters is something overly done, like cancer, addiction, abuse, or rape.
College romances are not for me, I should know better. I don't know why I started reading this one. The problem is that the characters lusting after each other takes 80% of the words. I did not count but it feels like a whole lot.
Book suffers from a lot of problems other NA romances have:
1) guy goes all jealous when other guys check out the main girl
2) all the other girls in the book are there to sleep with the drummers (or athletes in other novels)
3) girl gets drunk, guy takes her back to her dorm (he did not try anything - thank you!) but watches her sleep because he is making sure she is ok. Still creepy.
4) depth for the characters is something overly done, like cancer, addiction, abuse, or rape.
May 7, 2018
Drumline by Stacy Kestwick
Narrated by Tracy Marks and Stephen Dexter
New Adult Standalone
I am not usually a lover of New Adult books. Reading about someone my son’s age gets a little weird sometimes. But being a band mom, and knowing Stacy was going to be at Wicked Book Weekend I grabbed Drumline on audio. I have never read a book about marching band or drumline, so I immediately liked the unique premise, and the story did not disappoint.
Reese was a kickass heroine. I loved that she was one of the rare women to try out for an all-male team known for hazing and she whooped ass at it! She went in expecting there to be issues with her sex, but what she didn’t expect was to have crazy chemistry with one of the heads of the snare line, Laird Bronson. (The unsexy name ruined him a little for me).
When one of the other guys gave her shit, she stood right up to him.
“Here’s the thing.” Reese spoke softly, stopping me in my tracks, and Marco was forced to lean in closer to hear her. “When I sleep with someone, I don’t want him to still need practice at it. I prefer my men to already know what the fuck they’re doing in the bedroom.”
Silence descended on our group as her words hung in the air.
I might have fallen in love with her. Just like that.
She was independent, sometimes stubborn, but so determined to be the first female on the team, nothing would stand in her way.
"Yeah, this wasn’t a girl who’d let me do the dirty work for her, slay her dragons while she cowered in the ivy-covered tower. Reese would be on the front lines, carving her own path and wielding her own sword. And I wanted to be the one to have her back on the journey."
They knew getting involved could be a problem, but Laird, that dirty talking hottie, was pretty irresistible.
“Don’t tease me, Reese. I’m completely serious when I say I plan on ruining you for every other guy, fucking you hard and fast, slow and deep, and every combination in between.” He paused for a minute to let that sink in before he continued. “And then there’s all those other sexy fantasies I’ve had about you. I’ve been dreaming of us for two weeks now. Get your rest tonight. You’re gonna need it, because my imagination is one horny motherfucker.”
There was a great balance of humor, sexiness, conflict, angst and romance in this story, and I very much enjoyed the listen!
Likes:
•Totally unique premise.
•Humor and banter.
•A kickass, strong heroine.
•A villain you love to hate.
•A romantic, dirty-talking hero.
•A heroine you want to hang with.
Dislikes:
•Kind of an abrupt ending.
•A few lines made me cringe a little, but maybe because of the age thing.
•Though I believe in instalove, I would have liked the to see the connection build a little more.
•There was a whole background part of the story, a connection they had, that I would have loved to have seen expanded upon.
The Narration:
Tracy Marks and Stephen Dexter were perfect for their roles. I think the book translated very well to audio, and the narrators made it even better.
The Down and Dirty:
I really loved the unique premise of Drumline, and it was very clear the author knew what she was talking about. This was a really nice change from the NA sports romances out there and I truly enjoyed the change. And please, who doesn't love a book with humor, romance, angst, sexy times, a strong female heroine and a romantic dirty talking hero?
Rating: 4 Stars, 4 Heat, 5 narration
Purchase Drumline by Stacy Kestwick
September 7, 2017
Drumline was my VERY FIRST Stacy Kestwick book, and I was AMAZED.
It's been awhile since I read a REALLY GOOD college romance, and this was IT.
I have a new BFF and her name is Reese. She was HILARIOUS that I kept laughing out loud. I wanted to applaud her for her comebacks. I loved seeing her hold her own around a bunch of guys. Here's one of the many MANY funny things that came out of her mouth...
"Dear fearless gravity-defying Jesus walking on water."
I've personally never have known a hot "band geek", ESPECIALLY not a "band God" such as Laird. He was the WHOLE package. AND he had a dachshund. It was nice seeing someone else besides my family have a love for wieners. ;)
I, at one point slowed down at reading because I NEVER wanted it to end. I am curious if a certain relationship evolved. I'm imagining it did though. I absolutely CAN'T WAIT to read more from Stacy!!!
Read
October 9, 2017I just don't think I'm in the mindset to deal with a mostly male cast of characters/setting, their sexism/objectification, and the exceptional female trope. I've realized I have a huge problem with books/male POVs that pretty much open with the guy getting a boner the SECOND he lays eyes on the woman. Like. Come on. Authors, please do better by your female characters. Expect better from your men, too. I love romance, I love smut, but can we maybe...humanize our female characters first, and make them matter more than just how hard they make the men's dicks??
September 24, 2021
Cute NA story
Overall, this was cute. I had super high expectations and it didn’t blow me away but it was interesting and entertaining nonetheless. I loved Laird, he definitely was the swooniest. I liked Reese as well although she frustrated me at times. Regardless, she was definitely a strong and cool heroine. The epilogue was all sorts of cute.
Overall, this was cute. I had super high expectations and it didn’t blow me away but it was interesting and entertaining nonetheless. I loved Laird, he definitely was the swooniest. I liked Reese as well although she frustrated me at times. Regardless, she was definitely a strong and cool heroine. The epilogue was all sorts of cute.
not-happening
March 8, 2019Not rating, not reading. I was all excited about this book until I discovered the ritual. A chick, of course someone the H has banged in the past, feels each player's junk to place them in order by size. Are you freaking kidding me? As if that isn't so sluttily tacky on its own, said chick then spends extra time handling the H. Oh, but its okay because the h discreetly "gave permission" for H to participate because they're keeping their relationship a secret. A REAL H wouldn't give a shit, hell, he'd never ask her to be okay with it, but would instead not let another woman, again, one with intimate knowledge of him which makes it EVEN worse, something I didn't think possible, touch him. (See this review for details - bit.ly/2u4gugd.)
October 9, 2017
I absolutely LOVE, LOVED, LOVED this sooooo hard!!!!
September 25, 2017
"No, if I knew my girl, she was fuming on the other end, because nobody help her back from doing what she wanted. Not cancer. Not a hundred and eighteen years of drumline tradition. Definitely not some insecure motherfucker who couldn't stand not being the center of attention. And--if I was right--Reese Holland wanted me almost as badly as I wanted her."
Drumline is a college romance novel. It is about Laird Bronson and Reese Holland and is from their point of views. Now this book was my first from Stacy Kestwick. I'm trying so hard not to write spoilers in my review.. so I'm going to try with this one as well. It was such a good book and boy am I in love with Laird.
Laird is a great guy--sweet, sexy, loyal, and smart. Basically he is the dream boyfriend for most girls. Whereas Reese is a very stubborn and independent girl. But she is completely relatable and hardworking. She is completely awesome--I have nothing to complain about her. Or him.
I loved every character. I loved the story. I loved everything.
Go read this book.
PS. When I saw the title of this book I automatically kept thinking about the actual movie called Drumline. I need to stop thinking about movies when I read books.
Drumline is a college romance novel. It is about Laird Bronson and Reese Holland and is from their point of views. Now this book was my first from Stacy Kestwick. I'm trying so hard not to write spoilers in my review.. so I'm going to try with this one as well. It was such a good book and boy am I in love with Laird.
Laird is a great guy--sweet, sexy, loyal, and smart. Basically he is the dream boyfriend for most girls. Whereas Reese is a very stubborn and independent girl. But she is completely relatable and hardworking. She is completely awesome--I have nothing to complain about her. Or him.
I loved every character. I loved the story. I loved everything.
Go read this book.
PS. When I saw the title of this book I automatically kept thinking about the actual movie called Drumline. I need to stop thinking about movies when I read books.
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