Hitting That Sweet Spot

Rogue #3

by Lara Ward Cosio

Shay Donnelly has always been the support player. Whether it’s taking care of his irresponsible brother or being the drummer in his band, he’s always there for others—even at the expense of his own wants and needs.

Jessica Hall only ever wanted to dance. Dancing was the one place where she felt at ease, where she belonged. After being told she wasn’t quite good enough, however, she set her sights on a more mundane career. Just when she thought her life’s plan was made, the drummer for the biggest rock band in the world upended it.

Together, Shay and Jessica found a sweet spot of happiness. But when Shay’s split allegiance costs him the love of his life, he ends up at a breaking point. It’s the point at which he must finally find his own life’s rhythm.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Music, Second Chance

Unknown Binding

First published March 17, 2017

About the author

Lara Ward Cosio is the author of contemporary romances that are raw, realistic, sometimes funny, and always feature swoon-worthy men and strong-willed women.

Hula Girl: A Standalone Romance with a HEA is now available.

The Rogue Series, an angsty rock star romance saga with interconnected stories, is now complete and all books are available with KindleUnlimited.

The Rogue Series is:
★ Tangled Up In You
★ Playing At Love
★ Hitting That Sweet Spot
★ Finding Rhythm
The Rogue Series continues with these "Extras":
★ Looking For Trouble
★ Felicity Found
★ Rogue Christmas Story
★ Problematic Love
★ Rock Star on the Verge

For more information, visit larawardcosio.com
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Reviews

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just another Rock Star Romance? Not hardly, Lara Ward Cosio’s HITTING THAT SWEET SPOT isn’t about the glamor of being the girl on the arm of a rock star, it’s about the human side of love, emotions and learning to both give and take in the right measures. Two talented artists, one a drummer in one of the hottest bands going and the other who dances for the beauty of it, for how she feels complete.

Shay is shy, not the hottest in the band, but face it, the drummer can make or break a band and Shay has rhythm, he has the stamina to stay the course, giving his all to his family and friends. For Shay, “Nice Guys Finish Last,” until Jessica came into his life, clueless as to who he was, not into his music, but definitely attracted to the sweet and generous guy Shay is. But should they even start a true romance when an ocean separates them? Does Shay realize how important Jessica’s dance is to her or does he forget that she may not want to give up her life to cross an ocean into the world he calls his? Is he choking the part of Jessica that her who she is, the girl he fell in love with? Is she smart enough to know what she wants and needs in her life, besides Shay? Why should Jessica play second or third fiddle to Shay’s drug addict brother and the boys in the band?

Will they finally learn the two-part harmony that makes them so special or will fear of failure and trusting become a barrier when Jessica runs for her life, the life she needs? Love means giving as well as taking…

Lara Ward Cosio has nailed another down-to-earth romance that foregoes the glitz and glamour of being a star and instead focuses on the important things in life that can be shared between two people in love when the curtain falls and reality takes work. I absolutely loved these characters neither are high-maintenance divas, yet each has the soul of an artist and a heart longing to be accepted unconditionally.

I received this copy from Lara ward Cosio in exchange for my honest review, and honestly, I loved this romance.

Series: Rogue - Book 3
Publication Date: March 7, 2017
Publisher: Lara Ward Cosio
Genre: N/A Multicultural Romance
Print Length: 306 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[SandraBarg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lara is a fantastic visual writer! She is so descriptive that you actually feel yourself in all of the locales in this book. This has been a fabulous series, Hitting That Sweet Spot has been the icing on the cake. You will never find an author who writes better band books than Lara Ward Cosio! She writes the tightest, most cohesive band books you will ever read. The love story between the shy and quiet Shay and introverted Jessica is sweet, painful, and satisfying. Getting to revisit the couples is like catching up with old friends. This series is the truest to real life you will read about Rock stars. I highly recommend this book.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lara Ward Cosio has a way of transporting you into her stories and Hitting That Sweet Spot is no exception. Whether you are sitting next to Shay in his brand new Porsche while driving through the Irish Countryside or back in New York City on his first date with Jessica, or even at the Farmers Market with Sophie, Felicity & Celia and that bittersweet moment Conor meets Daisy. While the band dynamic is portrayed in the realistic manner that is Lara's superpower, make no mistake this is Shay's story. The unassuming, peace-maker of the Rogues has never given himself the attention he so deserves and it almost costs him everything. So follow Shay in his quest to be the man Jessica falls in love with. Learn what it means to be part of a successful rock band and become immersed in the world that is The Rogues.
Highly Recommended********

[Caryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

EMOTIONALLY SATISFYING

I can't say enough about this story. I found myself once again immersed in the lives of these Rogue men and their loves. I was so happy that we got to know Shay and his brother better as well as his "the one", Jessica! I also loved that we got updated on Conor, Felicity, Gavin, and Sophie. There were so many times I had to wipe tears from my eyes...some of joy and some of sorrow or pity. We were also introduced to a new character, Daisy.

I know I've said it before but this series is so well written that I actually felt I was with them! And I sure wish I was. They are a delightful cast of characters.

I recommend this series with no hesitation but be sure to start with Tangled Up In You!

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Drummers are HOT, often smouldering away in the background with sensual aggression. Shay, Rogue's beautifully sexy unassuming drummer is insanely HOT!!! I read this book in one night - it was highly addictive, I literally couldn't put the thing down! The third instalment in the Rogue Rockstar romance series is exquisitely satisfying. Once again, I am crushing on this author's words and am an unashamed fan girl of her books. Love your word worlds Lara! I loved the tantalizing glimpses into the lives of our other fave characters, Gavin, Sophie, Conor and Felicity. The chemistry between Shay and his girl Jess, should be bottled, it's powerful, and the sweet steamy romance between them left me feeling a lil buzzed. I really enjoyed the deep sense of family between the members of this rock band, and when they came together I literally felt like I was in the room with them. Shay's story is one of dark decadence, thrilling and beautiful all at once. He is a ridiculously decent gorgeous man for all the darkness that has befell him in his life. A yummy blissful read.

[Terri (N.J.) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Hitting That Sweet Spot book 3 in the Rogue series. Jessica and Shays story. This book was a little less dramatic but still enjoyed reading about all the couples.Shay is such a quiet soul he’s hard not to like.

[Coco.V]

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[Doris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hitting That Sweet Spot is exactly what Lara Ward Cosio did in writing Shay’s story. This is another exceptional book by this author who knows how to take you places and makes you actually feel what her characters feel. The relationship between Shay and his brother Danny Boy is one of love and responsibility to the point of heartache. Addiction leaves those who love them torn between the love of the person who used to be and the person they become with drug use.

Shay, the quiet drummer for the rock band Rogue is finally getting his chance at real love with a woman who not only has Shay enter her “normal” life but she gets the rock star lifestyle that comes with that. That lifestyle is like none she has ever known with groupies and the paparazzi. Jessica finds out that with Shay she gets his struggling brother and the Rogue family which has had its fair share of complications.

Lara Ward Cosio does an extraordinary job at giving us Shay’s story but she also gave us Gavin and Connor yet again not taking anything away from Shay. It felt like an added bonus. I cannot speak highly enough of the ability this author has to bring me another character with so many dimensions but still give me everything I was craving from her previous characters. I can’t recommend this book highly enough and as far as that goes any of her books within this series. I still need to hear more from the guys from Rogue and the people they love.

I received this book as an ARC for a freely given and honest review.

[Jamie Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 deserving stars!!

This is a wonderful addition to the Rogue Series by Lara. Each book into the series gives you a pretty good in depth look into each band member. This book is your look into the shy, sexy drummer of the band Seamus "Shay". Shay is very quiet, an introvert, and really just keeps to himself. He just wants to do his beats on the drums.
Jessica is a waitress\student\dancer. She has all but given up on her actual dream of being a ballet dancer and just settling for a degree. She meets Shay and is swept off her feet. Like all things though, they have some major hiccups a long the way. Biggest hiccup of all is Danny Boy, brother to Shay. Addiction is a scary, frustrating, heartbreaking thing to have to deal with whom or what will win!! In this book you get to revisit all the members of the band which to this reader is an amazing thing. Its like visiting old friends and maybe hint, hint meet a few new additions. This book for myself as an avid reader had some bittersweet moments, tears and some laugh out loud moments. This book also left myself with some questions that I hope the next book in this amazing series answers. Seriously highly recommend this author and book.
Thanks Jamie Nibarger Ellis

[Lara Cosio]

[BlueBug · Rating 5 out of 5]

As this author brings us through the ups and downs of each of the members of the band Rogue, I think, "This is the story I wanted to know about." And as each story is told, I find myself caught up in a new member of the band and desperate to know his story. This one focuses mainly on Shay, the quiet drummer who has kept secret some horrifying truths about his childhood and continues to find his future tied up with that past, especially when his drug addled brother, Danny Boy, keeps making his life as difficult as he possibly can at every turn.

When he meets Jessica, a waitress who has some secrets of her own, and convinces her to move to Dublin with him. But when she finds herself mixed up in the circus that is his life, and the return of Danny Boy puts a wrench in the works, she can't take it anymore. My heart went out to both of them as they pushed away from each other and continued the search for what would make them happy, wondering if they would discover that they would only find that happiness together.

It isn't until they part ways that they each discover where the problems in their relationships have stemmed from, and each of them has to do an inner examination to find out if they can make another go at it or if this is the end of something sweet.

In the meantime, Gavin is still finding his balance after the news of Sophie and Conor's one night affair. Working on his relationship with his best friend, Conor, and the woman he's always loved, Sophie, and getting over the anger a jealousy is a hurdle that isn't easy to cross. But that isn't all. Felicia isn't finding it easy to deal with how well Sophie knows Conor and the path they are choosing to take in their relationship either. She's suspicious of them and afraid of Conor going back to his old, playboy ways.

Jealousy abounds, and misunderstanding is the word of the day. And each misstep is played out in the tabloids and on social media. It's up to them to take control of their hearts and their lives as they forge through the dirt to find a path that gives them new meaning (and new song writing material).

Each book by this author is filled with the backstories and the real dirt on the characters, and she has a way of drawing the reader in, wishing we could become a part of this close knit family of sorts. And each book has me looking forward to the next story, to finding out if each of these men will finally find what they were searching for, the one thing that will make them as happy as the music they love.

[Heather Bass · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book that I have read from this amazing author and they just keep getting better. Hitting The Sweet Spot is the third book in the incredible Rogue series. The books in order are Tangled Up In You, Playing at Love and Hitting the Sweet Spot. These books take you on a journey with a major rock band called Rogue. They all have been friends since they were all kids. This book is about the hot and shy drummer Seamus ‘Shay’ and his journey on his way to love. I was put into a trance when I started to read this book and before I knew it I was done. I read this book in two short days.

Shay Donnelly is the shy and very hot drummer of the major band Rogue. This band has been together ever since they were all in school. He is always there for his friends no matter what. The other guys call him the peace keeper of the band. He is alway quiet and he loves playing the drums. He had a very hard childhood with his older brother Danny Boy. His brother is a recovering addict and it breaks his heart. Shay tries to help his brother so much he ends up losing the only person he truly loved:Jessica. When Shay meets Jessica they have an instant connection. In the beginning of their relationship it was easy and real. You could tell that they had a forever love but a huge problem made them split ways. He now thinks about Jess all the time and he now wishes he can get another chance. Shay wants to make everything right again with Jess. Will he get his dream girl back or will trouble make them split apart for good? Will he get his brother the help that he needs or will it be too late?

Jessica Hall has always wanted to be a professional ballet dancer. When her dreams are crushed she finds herself in a mediocre job waitressing. She is living her life the way she wants until a hot drummer comes into her work. She is instantly drawn to him and she does not know why. Her whole life changes in a blink of an eye. She is now a rockers girlfriend. She quickly realizes she did not know what she was getting herself into. She also has a very hard past that she keeps locked up inside. She finds out that there is one huge problem in Shay’s life and that is his older brother Danny Boy. Jessica and Shay have a fight about his brother and she finally had enough and she ends it. Now deep down she still loves him but she wants to be number one. Will she give Shay another chance or will she break his heart again? Will her dreams come true or will she live in a nightmare?

This book is amazing. I love how the author describes all of the characters feelings throughout the book. You feel the heartbreak and the healing in your own heart. I also love how the author keeps the other band members in the story and you get to see how they are doing in their relationships. You will fall in love with Shay. He is the most unselfish man I have read about thus far. All he wants is for everyone to be happy even if he is not. Jessica is a strong independent woman that you will adore. She is so kindhearted there is no way that you won't fall in love with her. This is my favorite rockstar series I have ever read. This author makes you feel like you are with the band. I can not wait to see what this talented author will do next.

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hitting That Sweet Spot (Rogue Series Book 3)
Lara Ward Cosio
5 Stars

Shay Donnelly has always been the support player. Whether it’s taking care of his irresponsible brother or being the drummer in his band, he’s always there for others—even at the expense of his own wants and needs.
Jessica Hall only ever wanted to dance. Dancing was the one place where she felt at ease, where she belonged. After being told she wasn’t quite good enough, however, she set her sights on a more mundane career. Just when she thought her life’s plan was made, the drummer for the biggest rock band in the world upended it.
Together, Shay and Jessica found a sweet spot of happiness. But when Shay’s split allegiance costs him the love of his life, he ends up at a breaking point. It’s the point at which he must finally find his own life’s rhythm.
Shay, the quiet drummer for the rock band Rogue is finally getting his chance at real love with a woman who not only has Shay enter her “normal” life but she gets the rock star lifestyle that comes with that. That lifestyle is like none she has ever known with groupies and the paparazzi. Jessica finds out that with Shay she gets his struggling brother and the Rogue family which has had its fair share of complications.
This is another exceptional book by the talented author Lara Ward Cosio who knows how to take you places and makes you actually feel what her characters feel. The relationship between Shay and his brother Danny Boy is one of love and responsibility to the point of heartache. Addiction leaves those who love them torn between the love of the person who used to be and the person they become with drug use, hurting everyone that loves them and tearing families apart.
I really loved this story and how you got Shay's story and also still have Gavin, Conor, Sophie and there newest member of Rogue, Daisy.
I highly recommend this book, and I would definitely say read the entire series, each can be read as a standalone but together they are magic.
I cannot wait to read more from this amazing talented author and continue on the ride of emotions with Rogue.

[Laura Furuta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hitting That Sweet Spot (Rogue Series Book 3)
By: Lara Ward Cosio
5 out of 5 stars

The story Hitting That Sweet Spot (Rogue Series Book 3) by Lara Ward Cosio is a multicultural/new adult romance book. The third book in the Rogue series is an amazing look at the love story between Shay Donnelly and Jessica Hall. Shay Donnelly is the drummer in the band Rogue and not one for confrontations. He is more of a soft-spoken person and is a supportive player. He is not as smooth with women as his band mates are and keeps his profile low-key. He feels responsible for his brother even when he knows that he is being taken advantage of. Shay’s life has never been easy and because his brother took care of him he feels that he just can’t say no. When he meets Jessica things start off slowly, however, these two both find that they are deeply attracted to each other. Then Jessica finds out just how far Shay would go for this brother and things seem to go down from there.

Jessica’s dream has always been to dance. After being told that she wasn’t quite good enough, Jessica left her dream and started down a different path. That is when she meets Shay. She falls for him and even makes major changes to her life to be with him. Jessica has such big dreams in her dancing and when she no longer has this dream she feels that she has lost a piece of herself. When she finds Shay, she finds herself happier than she has been in a long time. Then a situation involving Shay’s brother comes up and Jessica finds herself doubting her relationship with Shay.

This book shows through flashbacks how the relationship begins for Shay and Jessica. Also how things go wrong. Even though they are apart Shay knows that he still loves Jessica and wants another chance. However, will his brother be his downfall and squash his chances with Jessica? Will Shay and Jessica get their HEA? This story also features that characters from the first two books. I love that you are reading all about the other band members lives and it is like catching up with old friends. I felt so torn as I wanted to know what happens, however since I love reading about the characters I was a little sad to read the last page. I am hoping for another book in the series. This series is highly recommended to be read in order as each book refers back to situations that happen in the previous. This book does have adult language, references to drug use and adult situations. It would be for those 18 years or older.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hitting That Sweet Spot ( Rogue Series, Book 3 )
By Lara Ward Cosio
5/5 Stars

Hitting That Sweet spot is the third book in the Rogue series. It does leave off directly after Playing At Love ( Second book in the series. ) So I do highly recommend reading the series in order, to fully understand what is going on.
I'm not sure what it is about these characters... Irish Men in a rock band. But I can totally hear their voices in my head. They are wreaking of sex appeal and desire!!
Shay( Seamus) Gavin, Conor and Martin are in an Irish rock band. They have been friends since childhood and have pretty much grown up together.
They've been on tour for almost six months, promoting their most recent alumni, Ache & Swell. Selling around fourteen million copies and selling to sold- out crowds all over the world. They are on the top of the world. Can not get any better.
Shay is the introvert drummer in the band. He has a fascination with expensive and fast cars of all kinds. He is the quiet and sweet type.
Shay has always looked out for his older brother , Daniel ,for as long as he can remember. Daniel is five years older than Shay. Danny Boy, (as he's been called since he was a baby) has quite the heroin addiction. It started when Shay was just thirteen years old. And now, it's got frequently worse. Where Shay goes months without hearing from his brother.
Jessica caught Shay’s attention from the start. Their whirlwind romance, happened quick and with soo much passion. It was doomed from the start. They last for almost two years , when she decided she had enough.
Jessica always felt second best when it came to Daniel. Shay always bailing out Daniel and made excuses for his bad behavior. Just once, Jessica wanted to come first.
Can Shay win her back? Will love truly be enough? Or did Daniel come in between them the final time?
You must read this amazing series!! I loved all the characters so much! They all are amazing and unique in their own way. You will not be disappointed if you read these book, you'll love them just as much as I do!! Great job, Lara! Until next time...

[Lauren Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In book 3 of the Rogue Series, Hitting That Sweet Spot, by Lara Ward Cosio we get the story of an ordinary girl, Jessica, and famous drummer, Shay.
We finally get the story I have been waiting for! The quiet drummer, Shay, has always been a favorite. I love this character for the way he is always there when needed. Sometimes though always being what other people need does not mean you are being true to what you need and want out of life. Being the quiet one has worked well, but now is the time to get help from others when he needs it.
Jessica is a student and aspiring dancer. More on the student part at this intersection of his life, due to the fact her dream of being a dancer is slowly going down the drain. When she meets Shay she is swept off her feet and truly surprised that someone like him would want to be with someone normal like her. These two totally compliment each other so good. She gives Shay the normalcy he craves away from the spotlight, and she gets to live the famous life.
Too bad nothing is ever easy. Sometimes we have to make decisions to help others that are not always an ideal situation in your life. Now he must depend on the people that he gave up so much for to help him to put back together his life. Add in the complication of his love and responsibility to his brother Danny Boy and you have a pretty big mess.
This author is one of the best in the way she connects the reader to the feelings that the characters are always feeling. Each book in the series will put you through the ringer and leave you feeling happy, sad, and everything in between. The way she deals with some sensitive topics and brings them to the surface is really amazing. Addiction is a topic most would skim over, but it is a truly heartbreaking disease that damages so many relationships and lives. I highly recommend this book and series if you have not read already as these are some of the most realistic I have read so far in the realm of rock stars and their lives not being all easy and carefree!

[Meshia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in Lara Ward Cosio’s “Rogue” series. I have read the previous two novels, number one, “Tangled Up In You” and number two, “Playing At Love”. All though Ms. Cosio hits on all characters to possibly being a standalone, but I strongly recommend the reading of the first two to truly know and understand all of their backgrounds. You will fully see each character’s quirks and traits. Seeing each one as their own. Now, this one “Hitting That Sweet Spot” was even better to me as it was a perfect mixture of seeing another member of the band “Rogue” come to life. Shay Donnelly. He is the shy Irish drummer for Rogue. He is the one you would call a peacekeeper, one to tell your secrets, fears and worries too. You instantly fall in love with Shay. A friend to all. Shay has always been one to carry his fair share of burdens. Getting to see the relationships between him and his love of Jessica Hall. We get a backstory. Getting to see an insight from the first two books this one's dives into the sweet relationship I love. I LOVED seeing their history unfold and their present being told. Jess has the dealings that a lot of us are hit with of not being good enough. Following her passion of dancing is where she is hit hard but the criticism of not being good enough. After hearing how she won't make it, she sets out for a new path and that is how she meets Shay. Timing is wonderful. She really is taken aback by Shay. With every relationship there comes situations that can take a toll. This one is no different. Shay and Jess feel struggles like any other couple. Shay has a time to discover what really matters. It really is a world wind. This book’s title rings true of “Hitting that sweet spot”. Shay and Jess do just that. I loved this book more than I thought I would. I can't wait for more “Rogue” love.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hitting That Sweet Spot (Rogue Series Book 3) by Lara Ward Cosio is the third story in the Rogue series. Reading the two previous stories will help in getting background information on the characters and understanding some of the situations. If you enjoyed the other two books, you will enjoy this one too. I was excited to read this story to see what happens to the characters that I have loved reading about. This story didn't let me down with these characters and I hope to see more of them in the future. This story is full of action, romance and happiness. This story is about addiction, earning trust and loyalty. Find out what happens with this group as they travel their journey to find what they want with life.

Shay Donnelly is the drummer for Rogue and has always been the support player. He is always putting others in front of his own needs whether its his brother and his addiction or the band. When he found the love of his life, he thought that was it for him. But when loyalty costs him that love, what will he do? He can't seem to get over her and is determined to get her back. At what cost will he get what he wants? His brother seems to be there causing problems for him left and right, but it is his brother. Will he continue to support his brother? Will one night change everything for him?

Jessica Hall has only ever wanted to dance. What will she do when she is told she isn't quite good enough? Will she just give up on her dream of dance? Then she meets him. Will he upset her plan? Will she give him another chance? Will she live her dream? Can she have both, him and her dream?

Shay and Jessica's relationship starts out on even ground but when the media starts putting things out there about the band, things become a little rocky. There are so many other supporting characters in this story that they all seem to have their own drama going on. Together they make the story flow and they make Shay and Jessica's characters seem stronger. Shay is a man who seems to wear his heart on the outside, will that be what hurts him or will it help him? Jessica seems to have moved on but has she really? Is their love strong enough to fight until the end? Find out what happens with these two as they take you on a journey of ups and downs.

This is my third story by Lara Ward Cosio and I can't wait to see if there is more to this story. Lara can be found chasing her girls around or at the beach when she is not writing. Her supportive husband is the DJ of the house, so they are never without a soundtrack in their lives. Once again, this author has created a page turner that I couldn't put down. I love seeing these characters connect and how she created them so you can relate to them in some type of way. She created characters that touch your heart and true to life. You will find yourself needing to see what happens with them. I highly suggest this story as I know you will want to see how the story continues with this group of characters.

[Robin Rankin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hitting That Sweet Spot is the third book in the Rouge series. I really enjoyed Shay and Jessica’s story and getting to know him and his history. His brother Danny Boy broke my heart and how he does what he can to escape the pain and scars from his childhood.

Shay Donnelly is the drummer for Rouge has always been quiet and just tended to do his own thing and seemed to have a tough time connecting with people, even though he has been friends with Gavin. Martin and Conor since they were kids and eventually in the band. Shay’s parents left a lot to be desired when it came to parenting, though we don’t realize the extent until he finally opens up. We also see how the dynamic of the band’s friendships change over time.

Jessica Hall met Shay while she was a waitress at a restaurant in New York. She thought he was attractive from the beginning, but didn’t expect much to happen after he leaves with Conor. She walks out of the restaurant after work and finds Shay waiting for her.

After dating for two years and moving to Ireland to be with him Jessica says just can’t do it anymore. Too much going on and Danny Boy doesn’t help matters. She leaves Shay and he lets her walk out without a fight. Jessica heads back to the States to start over though they are both still very in love with one another.

I love this group of guys and really hope this isn’t the end of their stories. There are so many questions I have about their stories and their futures. This is a happy for now, but I really think since there are so many loose ends that there will be at least one more book. I recommend this entire series, I don’t think you will be sorry.

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hitting The Sweet Spot by Lara Ward Cosio is the third book in the Rogue Series and it is probably my favorite book in the series! While I loved the first two, there is just something different about Shay and Jessica. I would recommend reading the first two books in the series before starting this one but I wouldn't say you would have to. It helps develop a back story and add a little more depth. I would have to rate this book at 5 stars.

Hitting The Sweet Spot starts with Shay who is the bands drummer, he's always there for everyone, he's their rock. He helps to support this brother and take care of him. He supports his friends and goes above and beyond. When you talk about someone who sacrifices everything for others, you're describing Shay.

Enter Jessica Hall, who only feels like she belongs dancing. It's the one place she always feels like she succeeds at, but after being told she isn't quite good enough, she decides to set her sights on something simple. She thought she had a plan, but then she meets Shay, the sexy drummer who completely turns her world upside down.

Together they're happy. But Shay feels torn, he's trying to make everyone happy and at the same time he isn't worrying about himself. Will Shay break down? He's the one who is always there for everyone else, so who is going to be there for him? Can Jessica help Shay through everything or will he push her away?

This book was by far my favorite in the series. I look forward to seeing what else Lara Ward Cosio comes up with!

[Sarahe32 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hitting That Sweet Spot is book 3 in the Rogue series by Lara Ward Cosio.

Shay Donnelly is the drummer in the famous band Rogue, but he is more than that, he is the guy everyone turns to, he is the supportive one, the voice of reason. He looks after the band as well as his heroin addict brother Danny Boy. He will always put others needs in front of his own, and he always will.

Jessica Hall, has one true passion and that is Ballet, but never believing she was quite good enough she gave it all up, and it was one on the biggest mistakes of her life. Now occupying her time with a boring job, she seeks solace in the drummer from Rogue.

When Shay must make a choice, he knows he has made the wrong one but he feels he is in debt, and needs to stand by this person over the other. Realising his mistake, is he too late to undo it? will all be forgiven? Can he save everyone?

Lara Ward Cosio, has out done herself with this book, its full of passion, pain, choices, love and loyalty. I love the way we find out the story up until know though memories. I also like that we carry on getting snippets of Sophie and Gavin and Connor and Felicity. Shay has been written to be such a likeable character, and you feel his pain with his brother, his band and Jessica, you want to reach into the book and hug him and tell him, it was all work out in the end I am sure. Jessica is written like many girls, scared to fall in love, frightened not to. I loved this book and can’t wait for the next book, I feel Rogue and its boys have so much more to give. Worth every star given.

[Stefanie Carney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hitting That Sweet Spot is the third book in the Rogue Series and it leaves you just as breathless as the first two. This story takes on a darker tone though while it deals with some very touchy subjects. Ultimately though this story is about love, the love we have for family both blood and not. This is a great example of true brothers and it was an amazing thing to witness.
This story focuses mainly on Shay and his interactions with the group. Obviously where you find Shay you will inevitably find his brother Danny Boy. As we discover the root of their bond we see a private look into a world that Shay has hidden from everyone around him. The rest of the group is always present and I was amazed at how seamlessly they are weaved in and out of each other’s lives.
There is heartbreak and joy in this five-star read but not in the normal romance story way, this is about the disappointment of family and how we can overcome it. Coming from a messed-up family I related to this story more that I wanted to but I think that is one of the reasons I enjoyed it so much. There are no making excuses for the people that disappoint Shay and for that I was grateful. Lara Ward Cosio knows how to tell a tale that will grip you from the beginning and leave you always wanting more. This is no exception and I hope there is more to come.

[Kim Brewing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hit every sweet spot that I have as a reader - I loved it. I think that Lara really found her stride with story. Her descriptive writing puts you there seeing the scenery with Shay while he drives along the coast. I got a giggle out of the meeting with the Canadian tourist - he said "sorry" twice! While the story focuses mainly on Shay and Jessica we get something from everyone.

Shay has always been the quiet one of the group. He's happiest being in the background. When he meets Jessica their connection is instantaneous. Life is great for awhile until it isn't. Shay is forced to examine things he never did before. I wanted to shake Shay for how long it too him to reach out but what a catalyst is caused when he did. We gets lots of Gavin/Sophie and Conor/Felicity too. Each couple has things going on in there lives but at the end of the day they are there for each other and they are family. On a side note - I hope that Lara may someday give us a novella for Danny Boy. I really want an HEA for him. I would say the message I walk away from with this one is how important communication is.

[Roxs Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was delighted to find out that Rogue band member, Shay, was going to get his own book. I was not disappointed in his story and gladly give it 5 stars. We were given little glimpses of Shay in both Tangled Up In You and Playing At Love. We knew he was a sexy drummer, was shy, a bit uncomfortable when it came to women and flirting, and he had the biggest, kindest heart of all. I was definitely intrigued by those glimpses and anxious to read Hitting That Sweet Spot which places the main focus on Shay.

Lara Ward Cosio’s writing style with this series has been to intertwine the lives and stories of all the band members. I love this style as it allows me to keep in touch will all my favourite characters. She has continued this theme with Hitting That Sweet Spot giving us updates on the lives of Gavin and Conor, and bringing them into thick of Shay’s story.

The story takes us to many beautiful locations and Lara has opened my eyes to a world of possibilities. Her descriptions of all the places Shay and Jessica visited were so visual and enticing, I found myself googling them and imagining Shay and Jessica in those exact spots. Some places I have barely heard of and will probably never get to visit but I am very thankful to have been introduced to their beauty. Exotic places such as Morocco and Marrakesh were the perfect back drop to showcase the love affair between Shay and Jessica. Even their day-to-day surroundings of Dublin and San Francisco drew the reader in and enveloped them in the moment.

Hitting That Sweet Spot contains some real life themes that many people will resonate with and it will probably help you understand Shay. Even if you have never experienced the trauma that Shay has, you will still feel his anguish and torment and likely understand the choices he has made.

Parts of this story had me very frustrated. I didn’t always feel Shay made the right choices but Lara brings everything to the forefront and allows us to at least understand his reasons. If I were put in the same situation, I’m not sure I could be so strong. Shay is a wonderful character who was very deserving of the spotlight in this book. We see Shay’s childhood trauma exposed, the reason for his fierce loyalty to his older brother is brought to light, and we get to see the rise and fall of his complicated relationship with Jessica.

This was a fantastic addition to the series and I look forward to reading more about all the Rogue members and their extended families as they grow up and try to keep grounded as their stardom continues to rise.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sweet Spot by Lara ward cosio is another amazing book on the Rogue series. Book three is the story of Shay and Jessica and truly my favorite in the series. Her ability to make this story about Shay and Jessica but also about Gavin and Connor. Truly shows me what a great author she is with so many dimensions but not lose focus.
Shay is the shy drummer of the band ROGUE, who always seems to be the one taking care of things. He has always been there for others and often left with nothing in return. Jessica, who loves to dance, has always been told she was not good enough, finally feels her life is on the right path…then enters Shay! Together, they have happiness until his loyalty makes him lose her. He finally hits rock bottom and knows he has to make things right with many areas of his life. He must get his girl back so they both can have a sweet spot together. The path for love isn’t always easy, but once you have that love, you reach the sweet spot.
I adore this series, and adore this book. I recommend to readers that they read the first two books in the series to get a feel for all the characters in the series, you will not be disappointed in any way. The way she creates these amazing characters in the Rock and Roll world. You just fall in love with them and her amazing ability to draw you into the story is a reason that I will always come back to read books by this author. I have to say that this was one of my favorites in this series for so many reasons. I have fallen for both Shay and Jessica. Both are amazing characters alone, but when they are together, they light up the pages and I found myself not able to put the book down. I give this book 5 stars and excited to read more in this series and more by the author. Simply an amazing book to get lost in!

[Nancy J. Sandidge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Hitting That Sweet Spot (Rogue Series Book 3)
Author: Laura Ward Coslo
Stars: 5

This is the 3rd installment about the members of mega Irish band,Rogue. This is the drummer’s story, Shay Donnelly, and his love Jessica Hall. I'm always a sucker for the rock band stories, and this one didn't disappoint. Laura Ward Coslo made me have all the feels in this book.

Shay Donnelly is quiet in all aspects of his life, but when his on stage beating the drums for Rogue. He has always been the supportive person for his band, and especially for his addict of an older brother Danny Boy. His life changed the night he was out eating and had a beautiful waitress waiting on him. It seemed that Shay was finally going to get his turn at a good & happy life when Jessica Hall entered his world. They had a beautiful courtship and a passionate love blossomed. Will their love survive with Shay’s innate ability to always have the need to take care & bail out his brother? Will Shay fight for the love of his life, or just let her walk away?

Jessica Hall had a passion for dancing all her life. It is what centered her. After being told she'd never be good enough to be the principal dancer like she always dreamed of being. She decided to take on another creative career, by moving across the country to go to college in New York. She still danced at some studios to feed her love for dance. She supported herself as a waitress at a diner. She never thought that working at a diner would change her life forever. Let alone changing it with a rock star. Her love for Shay was so great that she moved all the way to Dublin to be with him. Shay even built her a dance studio in their home for her, so she could always dance. Will she feel fulfilled with her life with Shay in Dublin? Can she handle all that comes with being with a rock star? Can she deal with Danny Boy’s screw ups & Shay always jumping at a moment's notice to save his brother?

This book still lets you look into the continuing lives of the other bad mates and families. You can read this as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading the others to get the whole story. Gavin & Conner are just as addictive as Shay. I felt so much for Shay’s story. I could relate so well to him. Laura Ward Coslo has an amazing series. Each book gets better. Even though I was not a fan of Danny Boy, I would really like to hear his story.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 star review
Hitting That Sweet Spot is the third book in the Rogue Series by Lara Ward Cosio! Having read the first two books in this series I have to say it was everything I have come to expect from this author! Excellently written and beautifully detailed! I was really happy to find out that Shay was getting his own story! He has always been in the background of the other stories and seemed very shy, very quiet and for me a little bit mysterious, you never find out much about him but know that he has a story to share and what a story it was. It certainly didn’t take me long to completely hooked on his story! I liked that the other members of the band still had their own chapters in the book so that we could see their own stories continued in the background whilst we were finding out more about Shay. I really enjoy this author's writing style and her ability to intertwine stories easily and so well that you don’t find yourself confused at any point during the book. Her descriptive writing is probably about that best that I have ever read. I could totally imagine myself at some of the locations, especially in Morocco. I could see everything that she was describing and I felt like I was there right with Shay and Jessica.
I honestly really felt for Shay in this story. As his childhood was explored it was easy to see why he made some of the choices that he did, especially regarding his brother Danny Boy! I liked reading about his relationship with Jessica, how they met and what happened. I did find myself wanting to shout at him at sometimes but as you get deeper into the book his actions become clearer. We find out more about his relationship with his brother and also between him and the other guys in the band, especially Gavin and Conor.
I love Rock star romance stories but this series has just totally blown me away so far. It’s got romance, it’s got hot and steamy scenes but it also addresses serious issues that can affect anybody – famous or not. Each member of the band has their own issues but there’s one thing you can say about these characters is that they are always there for each other and offer their support at all times.
I honestly cannot recommend these books enough – they will pull you in and illicit many emotions from you as you read about the lives of this Irish rock band! I can’t wait to see what we get next in this series!

[Jilly · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Hitting That Sweet Spot” by Lara Ward Cosio is the third book in the Rogue series and continues the emotional rock n’ roll rollercoaster ride that had me addicted at the first page.

Shay Donnelly is the quiet member of Rogue that is content to stay out of the spotlight and keep the peace among his bandmates. Conflict is something he avoids, but nothing is ever that easy when falling in love.

Jessica Hall is going through the motions of life after leaving the dance world behind. Being swept off her feet by Shay tossed her into a whirlwind; allowing her to temporarily fill the void. But what will happen when reality returns and your dreams are not the same?

What I enjoy most about the story is how the characters all interact. Even though this is Shay’s story, the reader also gets continuing storylines on Gavin and Connor with varying points of view. Each book builds on each other so nothing feels one-dimensional. These characters are more than bandmates – they are family. A lot of Shay and Jessica’s story is told in flashbacks and allows the reader to see how decisions made then have altered life now. Shay’s storyline also connected with me on a personal level. At what point are you helping someone or just enabling them? Riding the fine line of tough love can be a difficult one when your instincts push you to take care of someone. So much is covered in this one that it was almost impossible to put down. There is so much I want to comment on, but I don’t want to give anything away!

Technically this book could be read as a standalone, but you will miss so much of the detailed world the author has built for her characters. If this is the first time you’ve come across this series, load all three books in your queue and get ready for a book hangover!

[Sarah Fischer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, Cosio has done it again. I enjoyed this book almost as much as the first two. There are a LOT of characters in this book. The stories from book 1 and 2 are continuing in this book and I actually love that. Cosio doesn't just wrap up the world when she reaches the last page. That's kinda like life. People's problems don't just go away and they never have just one problem. But the other thing to remember, a lot of the problems the characters go through aren't ridiculous things. In fact, they're a lot of the same things regular people who aren't in an amazing band have to deal with. I like how Cosio has brought the celebrities down to a real level. Just keep in mind that there are a lot of points of view in this book that can be a little confusing and it does take a minute to get used to. However, I got sucked into the book and I hardly noticed after a while.

[Vanessa Tomason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now that I have read the first 3 of the Rogue Series books, I must admit this one, Hitting That Sweet Spot, is my favorite! There is something almost gut-wrenching about the main character's (Shay) brother - Danny Boy. Lara Ward Cosio really seemed to understand the high's and low's of addiction and how tumultuous it is for the addict as well as the friends and family surrounding the addict. Mind you, this book wasn't primarily based on that...no, it had the heartfelt push and pull of the love between Shay and Jessica. There is a deep conflict about how men and women communicate and what they hear. The moments throughout this book reflect happy, seductive, painful and loving characters and their utmost support for one another. I am really pleased to have come across this author!