Random on Tour: Los Angeles

Random #6

by Julia Kent

A STANDALONE TO HELP YOU START THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING RANDOM SERIES:

I guzzled another flute of Champagne and froze, the liquid in my throat, waiting to be swallowed.

Tyler was here.

We'd met a few times before, in passing. He was the substitute bass player for the band; I was the lead guitar player's girlfriend's best friend. In that weird sort of social circle thing where Venn diagrams get laid over different groups, Tyler and I were bound to be in the crossover once in a while.

He looked so hot. Short brown hair. A few days of beard. Bright green eyes that were more guarded than a Russian mobster's. He was sleeved, the colorful tattoos a tapestry, but every time I met him I couldn't quite see them. We only saw each other in dark concert halls, or tonight, under the stars.

He gave Sam a rare smile and a hearty handshake, forearm muscles bulging. I wondered what it would be like to have those hands on me. My fingers...

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Rom Com, Contemporary, Audiobook, Music, Adult Fiction

ebook

First published April 5, 2021

About the author

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New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Julia Kent writes romantic comedy with an edge. Since 2013, she has sold more than 2 million books, with 5 New York Times bestsellers and more than 21 appearances on the USA Today bestseller list. Her books have been translated into French, German, and Italian, with more titles releasing in the future.

From billionaires to BBWs to new adult rock stars, Julia finds a sensual, goofy joy in every contemporary romance she writes. Unlike Shannon from Shopping for a Billionaire, she did not meet her husband after dropping her phone in a men's room toilet (and he isn't a billionaire in a rom com).

She also writes romantic suspense as Meli Raine, sexy shifter romances as DJ Jennings, billionaire shifters as half of the author team Diana Seere, and co-authors with Elisa Reed.

She lives in New England with her husband and three children in a household where she is the only person with the gene required to change empty toilet paper rolls.

She loves to hear from her readers by:

Email at jkentauthor@gmail.com

Twitter @jkentauthor

Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jkentauthor

Instagram @jkentauthor

Visit her at http://jkentauthor.com

FORTHCOMING:


Love You Again (Love You, Maine, #2), July 19, 2022

Ten First Kisses (anthology with my story, Shopping for a Booty Call), August 12, 2022

Love You More (Love You, Maine, #3), October 11, 2022

Love You Now (Love You, Maine, #4), January 3, 2023


Author photo credit: Felix Rust http://www.felixrust.com

Reviews

[(NurseLisa) Square Granny from Ohio · Rating 5 out of 5]

holy wow! loved it! 4.5 *'s!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my faves this year, hands down!

[MzAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved It

I love when two damaged people find each other and manage to fall in love, in spite of their pasts.

The author does start the book out with a warning for possible triggers--the topics of rape and gang rape figure prominently in this book. It happened in the past and is discussed as memories, but is not discussed in detail. We are not told that there are two victims (or survivors, depending on how you choose to look at it)...and that one of them is male.

I've liked Maggie since her introduction in one of the previous books (I've read so many, they're starting to run together. Which one was about Liam and Charlotte?). We learn that some of the things she does (like wildly-dyed hair, contact lenses and face piercings) are Maggie's armor--to keep herself hidden and to keep others away. After seven years, Maggie is ready to fully reclaim her life... and, unbeknownst to him, she's chosen Tyler to "help" her with this.

Tyler... I think I fell in love with Tyler in this book. In other books, he was just this quiet, broody guy who filled in with the band whenever Joe couldn't play. We get to know all about him in this book... about his drunk/junkie father who is always in and out of jail, his junkie brother who robs Tyler blind, and the secret pain that he shares with Maggie.

Watching Maggie and Tyler open up to each other, fall in love with each other, and heal each other was everything. I loved their intimate moments together, especially Tyler's gentleness and care with Maggie. I'll take one of him, please and thank you!

The humor in this book was literally ROFLMAO-funny. OK...I didn't roll on the floor, but I did roll on my bed! I had actually skipped two books in the reading order, but when I got to the part in this book where Joe... let's just say ends up in the hospital... I was sure I must have missed something in a previous book, so I went back and read Random Acts of Love! Wildly funny stuff!

I loved this beautiful story.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie was raped seven years earlier. She has had all that time to build up a thick barrier of protection. Yet, she is ready to try to break through, with Tyler, “AKA, Frown”. He is a puzzle that calls to her. School is out, she returns to St. Louis to visit her family. Tyler is also from St. Louis. His family is not so welcoming. He shows up at her home with only the clothes he is wearing. He must get to LA for a gig. He needs her help. So starts their adventure and road to discovery.
Tyler hides that he too, had been forcefully, violated. As they peel back the layers during the 29 hour dive, emotions arise and walls fall. Will Tyler make the concert? Will walls fall?
I enjoyed this read, very much. The healing, the strengthening, the bonding and the break throughs, were believable and real.

[Becky A · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Random on Tour: Los Angeles" received 4 stars.

**Sigh-worthy story. Heart-melting characters. Maggie and Tyler forever.**

The novel gained *STARS* for these items:

* gained for: "The book caught my interest in first five pages."

* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."

* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."

* gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I want more!"

The novel failed to gain stars for these items:

NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author I will automatically buy anything s/he writes."

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I’m beginning to notice a bit of a pattern with this series: the mostly ridiculously funny stories seem to alternate with the deep emotional ones. This book doesn’t have scene after scene of slapstick pratfalls; this story is more the angsty dramatic type. The humor that’s in here is found in little flourishes that lighten the mood and keep us from floundering in the emotional abyss. Maggie and Tyler’s story goes to some dark places. And parts of it made me want to bawl my eyes out. This pair of survivors are perfect together and I loved reading about them.
I read this book as part of the box set.

[Sylvie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The band has been called to LA to open for another band. But,there are issues getting everyone there. Tyler (Frown) and Maggie end up on a road trip that brings them closer together and allows both of them to handle some demons.

This book had some very volatile topic matter on it. I think the author handled it quite well and with sensitivity. The characters were given the time to think and explore what they needed to and come to their own conclusions and decisions.

[Ferbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

These books are really entertaining, I cannot count how many times I laugh out so loud that my sister loook at me like I have lost my mind. It will definitely brighten you day. 

I love how the romance between Tyler and Maggie developed. They are perfect for each other.


I enjoyed every minute but I still have a problem with the endings, it ends with the couple being happy so I guess it is a HEA but it just reminds me of cliffhangers and I hate them.

 

[EvilAntie Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting and Gut Wrenching

We are all survivors. Here we meet two victims who become survivors and ultimately become winners - for true love and self fulfillment win. This was heart wrenching and at time painful to read-only yet the salvation and joy brings both the readers and characters to an incredible victory of the heart.

[Patricia Baxes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is different from the rest...😉

This book is like a kick in the gut...it's painful but you sort of glaze over it, but never forget it. Good storyline, excellent ch see actersff guy



Good storyline, excellent characters, well I









This book is really good...grab a copy today. You'll be glad you did!







developed twists and turns

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

The band get their big break at last. The only problem is everyone getting to Los Angeles in time. Tyler (Frown) gets to fill in for Joe. He has no choice but the ask Maggie for help. They take a road trip stocked up on sugar free gummy bears courtesy of Darla. The ridiculous ensues. Another crazy book by Ms. Kent. Sebastian York and Andi Arndt are brilllant as usual.

[Juliette loves Dante · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciated how the author handled the relationship of the h and H. It's bumpy and vulnerable with fits and starts and no mind reading. The h doesn't just throw off her trauma like a smelly tshirt and get naughty, and the H isn't uberconfident and carefree with knowledge he can make it right for her with one kiss.

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wow. While staying true to the Random series feel, this book still dealt with some heavy subjects. I felt it was done appropriately for the series. Nothing was ignored but it wasn't too gritty. I liked the balance.

[Campbell]

Own in The Random Series Boxed Set (Books 7-9)

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed it

Loved this story about Maggie and Frown! It was great and funny but deep! I enjoyed it!! Their journey was hilarious!

[Aileen Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my all time favorite one of this series so far.

[Glenna Stubblefield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tyler ska Frown and Maggie are souls on a collision course. Or maybe their magnets being pulled together. Either way there will be a bang-up HEA

[Jeanette montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal book!!!

I love Julia’s books, she is one of my favourite authors.

I loved this book from start to finish.

I love the characters and the story.

[Iluvbooks44 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal book!!!

I love Julia’s books, she is one of my favourite authors.

I loved this book from start to finish.

I love the characters and the story.

[K D · Rating 4 out of 5]

An echo of earlier RAOC events we have two people, with their issues, on a road trip to their HEA. I hope Maggie gets to perform on stage again.

[Coco.V]

🎁 The Random Series Boxed Set (Books 7-9) is FREE on Amazon today (11/20/2020)! 🎁

[JW David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Frown and Maggie. He takes care of her, and ensures her recovery.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Maggie and Tyler's (Frown's) story. They both have troubled pasts. She has a supportive and loving family, went to college and was gang-raped. He has no supportive family, dad is a criminal/drunk in and out of jail, his younger brother is a junkie willing to steal from his family for his next fix. He comes from the streets, trusts none and talks as little as possible, he feels words get him in trouble. He needs to get out of LA for the random acts of crazy concert in 2 days without ID, his brother stole all his stuff including his wallet, he can't fly, take a train or rent a car. Carla convinces Maggie to help Tyler and drive him across the country in 2 days. They have lots of time to talk and heal and visit many rest stops after eating tainted gummy bears. This story is well written with respect to those that have experienced sexual abuse with a side of tasteful humor. I read this when it was released in the Sweet Seduction box set, reread to write review. I love reading this author's books, have read all of them. They are well written and full of emotional and humorous moments.

[circumspect4 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel in love with Julia Kent’s Random Acts Series from book 1, Random Acts of Crazy. She writes with such humor and compassion. I was reading this book while waiting for an appointment and I was hysterically laughing out loud and people were probably thinking I was definitely there to see a shrink. Okay, drum roll please………

My review:

This is Maggie’s and Tyler’ story, written as Julia Kent does, with such amazing humor, passion, and makes you feel like you are apart of the story.Although, Maggie and Tyler came from different upbringings, they still have a past of trauma. Fate brings them together and they discover each others inner demons. Understanding, compassion and love is the only way both of them can overcome their pasts, but can Tyler really help Maggie or just hurt her more? You’ll have to read the book to find out!!

Also, making an appearance in this book, Mavis the Chicken!!!, killer gummy bears, and Mr. Fluffer, the gerbil, all of which can only be connected to Darla, Joe & Trevor!!!
I absolutely loved this book and a great addition to the series!!!

[Kristy Dean-Veen · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED it. This is still in the same Random Acts Of Crazy theme and writing. I love how Julia Kent writes. I was given this as an arc for an honest review. All I have to say is that, "Julia Kent has done it again". She takes a hard topic to talk about and finds a way to bring love back to a person(s). Even when someone's past or present could be tough to deal with, she finds that one way to show everyone that there is someone(s) that is there for you. She allows a person to see pass the walls and start to build a better life. I cant wait for more from the Random Acts of Crazy crew.
Overview. Maggie has struggled for the last 7 years to over come being gang raped. She has now decided that she is ready to move forward and hopes Tyler aka "Frown" the fill in bass player for Joe on the Random Acts Of Crazy tour. But Tyler has his own past and present that he needs to overcome. The two are force to be in a car together, for two days of crazy road events, to get Tyler to LA for the tour. What will happen in two days, you must read and laugh your way to the bands tour in LA.

[Christina Montminy · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I was reading this book I thought I'd read it before but I can't find a review of it in my file & I know I would've done one for this book. As well as all the hilarious shenanigans in this series Julia Kent always puts something deeper in her books & this one's no different. Maggie is trying to get her life back, she wants to be whole again after a brutal attack 7 yrs ago. She want to try again with backup band member Tyler(aka...Frown) but for some reason he keeps pushing her away. Tyler has had a rough upbringing with an alcoholic father, dead mother & now a junkie brother. When his big chance comes his brother tries to destroy it by rolling him for everything while he slept, but he's not going down without a fight. He goes to Maggie for help, a ride cross country to California where the band is about to open for a huge band. What happens along the way is hilarious, sad & down right heartbreaking but what starts between these two as unsure friends turns into the real thing. Definite recommend.

[ValerieC · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book title has been entered as:
Random on Tour: Los Angeles (Random, #7)
on Amazon and on the author's web site. Goodreads has it numbered as Book 6 because 'Randomly Ever After' is a novella of about 50 pages and so it is not counted as a primary book and was thus numbered as Book #4.5.

I read this before in a previously published anthology or one of those 1001 Nights books (I forget which, and don't want to take the trouble to research it right now). Anyway, be advised so you don't buy it twice since whoever listed this book (incorrectly) didn't let people know that this is re-published. Also, the author didn't mention it even though she sends out emails promoting her books. Boo... one star off.

This is a fun story about one of the band member's girlfriend's girlfriend, and how she helps substitute bass player Frown get to Los Angeles for a concert after he was robbed of all his money and property.

[Sandi Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tyler and Maggie's story I know had to be hard for Julia Kent to write but for me it is one that touched me the deepest. Who would have thought that deep down inside Frown (Tyler) would be this amazing tender young man who could reach out and heal Maggie from the horrible rape she went thru years before,

This book is not all about healing we get to know Maggie and Tyler on a whole other level and with all of Julia Kent books there are touches of humor in this one as well, just not as much as in most of her books. This is one of her must read books. In fact this is the second time I read it. I read it in the Sweet Seduction Boxed Set and again as it was released as a stand alone book. I have to have each of her books so I can go back and read them time and time again, THEY are SO Re-READABLE!

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tyler and Maggie’s flirtation in previous books sets the stage for a road trip to LA that is filled with numerous physical and emotional obstacles. There’s plenty of chaos, hilarity, and random acts of crazy but it was the love story that touched me the most. Maggie is trying to overcome a past filled with sexual violence while Tyler has secrets of his own that keep him silent and apart. Maggie’s traumatic past is just as heart wrenching as Tyler’s whose childhood was rocked with loss, and untold hardships that leave him unable to trust. I loved the naked vulnerability of both characters and the courage they showed in taking a risk for a soft place to fall. There’s plenty of chaos, hilarity, and random acts of craziness but it was the unfolding love story that touched me the most. Andi Arndt and Sebastian York were perfectly cast and their vocal performances exceeded my expectations.

[Kek219 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story wrecked me and I loved it.

While I strongly recommend reading the Random Acts series since the story is set in the same universe, it can be read as a stand-alone. Both of the main characters, Maggie and Tyler, have traumatic pasts which color how they deal with each other and those around them. Through a series of events, Maggie ends up driving Tyler from Missouri to California. Needless to say all those hours together, as well as a shared bad candy incident, lead to revelations both expected and unexpected.

I've read everything Ms. Kent has published and 'Random on Tour: Los Angeles' is hands down my favorite. Don't miss it.

**I received an advanced copy of the anthology that included this story for an honest review**