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Dark Tide #1
Down Beat
Some call him a rock god.
Others a celebrity bad boy.
Me? I call him the arrogant bastard who stole my concert venue.
His apology? To take me and my violin on tour with the band.
It’s an offer I can’t refuse, even if it does come with strings attached.
Because Rey Thomas isn’t who he seems.
Life isn’t pretty behind the deviant frontman’s facade.
It’s raw, ugly, and at times downright painful.
But it’s real.
And far better than the lie he presents to the world.
The man behind the face of Dark Tide is beautiful in his chaos.
All I have to do is keep him alive long enough to see that too.
Nobody ever said loving a rock star would be easy.
Others a celebrity bad boy.
Me? I call him the arrogant bastard who stole my concert venue.
His apology? To take me and my violin on tour with the band.
It’s an offer I can’t refuse, even if it does come with strings attached.
Because Rey Thomas isn’t who he seems.
Life isn’t pretty behind the deviant frontman’s facade.
It’s raw, ugly, and at times downright painful.
But it’s real.
And far better than the lie he presents to the world.
The man behind the face of Dark Tide is beautiful in his chaos.
All I have to do is keep him alive long enough to see that too.
Nobody ever said loving a rock star would be easy.
ebook
First published May 18, 2018
362 people are currently reading
991 people want to read
About the author
Max Henry
52 books1,011 followersFacebook -> http://bit.ly/2F4XrG3
Instagram -> http://bit.ly/2ruERF3
Newsletter -> http://www.maxhenryauthor.com/newsletter
Born and raised in Canterbury, New Zealand, Max now resides with her family in beautiful and sunny Queensland, Australia. Life with two young children can be hectic at times and, although she may not write as often as she would like, Max wouldn’t change a thing.
An avid lover of stories from a young age, she enjoys nothing more than to get lost in the pages while the characters dictate what direction she takes. Her favourite genre to write is new adult and the events in her stories may or may not be related to real life experiences (only she will ever know for sure).
In her down time, Max can be found at her local gym brainstorming through a session with the weights. If not, she’s probably out drooling over one of many classic cars on show that she wishes she owned.
Instagram -> http://bit.ly/2ruERF3
Newsletter -> http://www.maxhenryauthor.com/newsletter
Born and raised in Canterbury, New Zealand, Max now resides with her family in beautiful and sunny Queensland, Australia. Life with two young children can be hectic at times and, although she may not write as often as she would like, Max wouldn’t change a thing.
An avid lover of stories from a young age, she enjoys nothing more than to get lost in the pages while the characters dictate what direction she takes. Her favourite genre to write is new adult and the events in her stories may or may not be related to real life experiences (only she will ever know for sure).
In her down time, Max can be found at her local gym brainstorming through a session with the weights. If not, she’s probably out drooling over one of many classic cars on show that she wishes she owned.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
May 14, 2018
This book blew me away.
I was drawn to this book because I love a good rocker with an attitude and went into it knowing the topic it covered. I did not expect the book I got. Down Beat is so much more than its genre or its topic.
It's an exquisite journey through love and hate, hope and despair.
It's about characters who showed me their heart and soul, layer by painful layer.
It's about a man with flaws that most wouldn't survive.
And a woman who loved him regardless.
I laughed.
I got mad.
I held my breath with hope.
I cheered them on and rooted for Rey so damn hard.
And I cried. I ugly cried.
I never ugly cry. Max made me cry by laying Rey out and revealing his beautiful, damaged soul to me. She didn't need death or shock or any of that stuff some books rely on to make us feel... She simply wrote the hell out of a story that is real life for so many. She gave me new eyes. You see, I've seen mental illness through the same eyes as Rey's mother. Max has now given me the gift of seeing it through Rey's eyes.
If you love books that draw you in from the very first page with characters that come to life in ways that make you feel like you really know them, and books that dig their way deep into your heart and don't let go, this is the book for you. Even if you don't really read rockstar books, this is the book for you.
Thank you, Max, for giving me such a beautiful story.
I was drawn to this book because I love a good rocker with an attitude and went into it knowing the topic it covered. I did not expect the book I got. Down Beat is so much more than its genre or its topic.
It's an exquisite journey through love and hate, hope and despair.
It's about characters who showed me their heart and soul, layer by painful layer.
It's about a man with flaws that most wouldn't survive.
And a woman who loved him regardless.
I laughed.
I got mad.
I held my breath with hope.
I cheered them on and rooted for Rey so damn hard.
And I cried. I ugly cried.
I never ugly cry. Max made me cry by laying Rey out and revealing his beautiful, damaged soul to me. She didn't need death or shock or any of that stuff some books rely on to make us feel... She simply wrote the hell out of a story that is real life for so many. She gave me new eyes. You see, I've seen mental illness through the same eyes as Rey's mother. Max has now given me the gift of seeing it through Rey's eyes.
If you love books that draw you in from the very first page with characters that come to life in ways that make you feel like you really know them, and books that dig their way deep into your heart and don't let go, this is the book for you. Even if you don't really read rockstar books, this is the book for you.
Thank you, Max, for giving me such a beautiful story.
January 8, 2023
Me esperaba mucho más.
May 12, 2018
It's not often that I read the work of a friend.
I'm a harsh critic, which can make for an uncomfortable situation.
And Max is a friend.
She's an awesomely close friend who I speak to daily. So yes, this review could be considered biased but I'm not writing it as a reader to another potential reader. I'm writing as an author to my author friend.
I'm writing because I've been moved by this book. My foundation has been rocked, my soul has been touched, and my emotional heartstrings have been plucked over and over.
I LOVED this book.
Every chapter.
Every page.
Every word.
This book touches on hard topics that authors don't normally dare to dabble in. It delves into depression and bipolar. It's deep, it's gritty, yet there's contrasting humor and sarcasm.
It's a kaleidoscope - there's light in the darkness and happiness in the sorrow. There's raw emotion and sexual intensity.
It's the perfect mix of turmoil and brilliance, with a heartfelt message so intricately woven within the pages that I'm just flawed by Max's mastery.
I can't recommend this book enough and I hope everyone reading this will check it out.
Read the blurb.
Download the preview.
Then buy the damn book.
You won't regret it.
I'm a harsh critic, which can make for an uncomfortable situation.
And Max is a friend.
She's an awesomely close friend who I speak to daily. So yes, this review could be considered biased but I'm not writing it as a reader to another potential reader. I'm writing as an author to my author friend.
I'm writing because I've been moved by this book. My foundation has been rocked, my soul has been touched, and my emotional heartstrings have been plucked over and over.
I LOVED this book.
Every chapter.
Every page.
Every word.
This book touches on hard topics that authors don't normally dare to dabble in. It delves into depression and bipolar. It's deep, it's gritty, yet there's contrasting humor and sarcasm.
It's a kaleidoscope - there's light in the darkness and happiness in the sorrow. There's raw emotion and sexual intensity.
It's the perfect mix of turmoil and brilliance, with a heartfelt message so intricately woven within the pages that I'm just flawed by Max's mastery.
I can't recommend this book enough and I hope everyone reading this will check it out.
Read the blurb.
Download the preview.
Then buy the damn book.
You won't regret it.
May 22, 2018
Max Freaking Henry, girl…just…no words…. JOKING! I’m an author, I’ve always got words.
Firstly, I applaud any author brave enough to take a sensitive subject, like mental illness, and be real with it. That’s exactly what Max delivered with Down Beat. She didn’t shy away from the hard truths, she breathed real, raw, gritty, flawed emotions into these characters. Max showed the world just how much of a battle mental illness can be, and she did it with such class and respect. Down Beat will take you on a journey of life, but not everyone lives this kind of life and those who don’t live it, generally don’t get it. Rey and Tabitha’s story will open your eyes and your heart. It will leave you breathless, it will leave you ugly crying, it will leave you swooning, to put it quite simply, it will leave you feeling. Five big, beautiful, sparkling stars!
Firstly, I applaud any author brave enough to take a sensitive subject, like mental illness, and be real with it. That’s exactly what Max delivered with Down Beat. She didn’t shy away from the hard truths, she breathed real, raw, gritty, flawed emotions into these characters. Max showed the world just how much of a battle mental illness can be, and she did it with such class and respect. Down Beat will take you on a journey of life, but not everyone lives this kind of life and those who don’t live it, generally don’t get it. Rey and Tabitha’s story will open your eyes and your heart. It will leave you breathless, it will leave you ugly crying, it will leave you swooning, to put it quite simply, it will leave you feeling. Five big, beautiful, sparkling stars!
September 30, 2018
A real roller-coaster of emotions, raw, edgy and honest, not your usual feel good romance, but a bitter sweet love story.
"It's okay to say your not okay" ❤️
"It's okay to say your not okay" ❤️
April 19, 2020
Love me, hold me.
Tell me you're here to fix me.
Love me, hold me.
Tell me baby, please,
Tell me you can fucking save me.
~ Descent of my Mind (Dark Tide)
A poetic masterpiece.
I'm stripped bare and raw, my emotions are all over the place, I drained myself out of tears and my heart is just so f*cking full.
The highs and lows, the ups and downs, I'm consumed by every word, every thought, and every emotion. I have no idea how Max Henry came up with those lyrics, but it hurt, they hurt, the words danced off the pages and like a knife straight into your heart and stabbed you in the soul. That's what Rey Thomas did to me.
"...they can't see what I can.
A man who makes a career out of his cry for help."
Down Beat is a story about the struggle with mental illness and its effect on yourself and the people around you. How it felt to lose control and slip into a coma that will free you from the spiral, told through Rey and Tabitha's point of view, it was brutal, honest and absolutely devastating, nothing could prepare me for the way it changed my life and opened my eyes to the struggle and knowing the backstory of what inspired this novel had me weeping, with tears of sadness, understanding and most of all, admiration.
"I am my mental illness, but my mental illness is not me."
I love Rey for Rey. My heart ached for him.
I love Tabby for being the one who noticed his aching cries for help and made the hardest decision with consequences she will have to face.
Rockstar romance with a soul, stage dive into this series if you're into a dose of reality and angst.
I will religiously stalk the rest of the series now because I am just so captivated by all the members of the band!
Reviewed by,
Natasha @ Dreamland Book Blog
Tell me you're here to fix me.
Love me, hold me.
Tell me baby, please,
Tell me you can fucking save me.
~ Descent of my Mind (Dark Tide)
A poetic masterpiece.
I'm stripped bare and raw, my emotions are all over the place, I drained myself out of tears and my heart is just so f*cking full.
The highs and lows, the ups and downs, I'm consumed by every word, every thought, and every emotion. I have no idea how Max Henry came up with those lyrics, but it hurt, they hurt, the words danced off the pages and like a knife straight into your heart and stabbed you in the soul. That's what Rey Thomas did to me.
"...they can't see what I can.
A man who makes a career out of his cry for help."
Down Beat is a story about the struggle with mental illness and its effect on yourself and the people around you. How it felt to lose control and slip into a coma that will free you from the spiral, told through Rey and Tabitha's point of view, it was brutal, honest and absolutely devastating, nothing could prepare me for the way it changed my life and opened my eyes to the struggle and knowing the backstory of what inspired this novel had me weeping, with tears of sadness, understanding and most of all, admiration.
"I am my mental illness, but my mental illness is not me."
I love Rey for Rey. My heart ached for him.
I love Tabby for being the one who noticed his aching cries for help and made the hardest decision with consequences she will have to face.
Rockstar romance with a soul, stage dive into this series if you're into a dose of reality and angst.
I will religiously stalk the rest of the series now because I am just so captivated by all the members of the band!
Reviewed by,
Natasha @ Dreamland Book Blog
May 14, 2018
Erase everything you have read when it comes to a Rockstar Romance, because Max Henry just changed the game, in the best of ways. With a dash of depth and a sprinkle of unique characters, and just a pinch of imperfectly perfect Lead Vocalist, whose name is Rey.
Rey and Tabitha are two total opposites. Rey, Rock God, celebrity Bad Boy and Tabitha broke up and coming violinist. Tabitha loses her concert venue when Dark Tide Publicist Rick, pays double for the famous rock group to perform in her place after he screws up flight plans.
Tabitha-
I LOVE her. She does not have a weak bone in her body. She is everything I love in a female lead.
-If they want to forget what it was like to start out, to have to drench yourself in sweat and blood and tears to earn a name for yourself, then like hell I'm going to lie back and let them walk all over me. Fuck that nobody sets fire to my dreams and gets away with it. -
Rey and Tabitha meet and it isn't all sparks and butterflies...
" You never answered my question, Tabitha. Or can I call you Tabby, since you're like a wild cat, all claws and snarl." - Rey
On a crazy turn events leads Tabitha to be Dark Tide's opening act.
- I just have an insane need to prove that my epic music is what the people want, not her vintage bullshit.- Rey
" Do you really think you'd be no good as an opener? " Rey
" Rock fans don't usually dig classical music." Tabitha
" So, sell it to them. " Rey
This book was a slow simmer, and I don't normally like them, but this book was so well written I wasn't worried about my usual preferences.
..." No matter what you do, you can't win over everyone. as long as you're confident you brought your best game, then so what if you get a shitty review or some troll on your social media the next day? Make yourself proud, and then the confidence will come naturally."
- Some of the words journalists used to describe the self made musician who packed up everything he owned at age nineteen and moved halfway across the country with nothing but his like-minded brother and a dream. His attitude makes you think he's been gifted everything on a silver platter, but reading his biography shows his history has been anything but easy. - Tabitha
I don't want to go into too much detail because I don't want to spoil anything. I always like to highlight my favorite lines in the book, but the whole dang thing is nearly highlighted, the words were amazing and it is a definitely a one click book.
" Talk later, Kitty." My stomach ties itself in knots when he blows me a cheeky kiss before ending the call. Rey Thomas just blew me a goddamn kiss. I may as well have French kissed the guy on the red carpet for how I feel in this moment. - Tabitha
" You fucking label me before I have a chance to do it myself, so yeah, this is a little your fault. I never was the good kid was I? " Rey
I don't like Rey, the lead singer of Dark Tide. He's arrogant, loud, and careless. I like Rey, the guy who loves to play his guitar and sing about the things that torture him the most. I like Rey the artist.... Now I want to know Rey the man. - Tabitha
" Twenty seven years of hell. Almost three decades of pain before I'm finally gifted you. " Rey
An ABSOLUTE MUST READ!
Rey and Tabitha are two total opposites. Rey, Rock God, celebrity Bad Boy and Tabitha broke up and coming violinist. Tabitha loses her concert venue when Dark Tide Publicist Rick, pays double for the famous rock group to perform in her place after he screws up flight plans.
Tabitha-
I LOVE her. She does not have a weak bone in her body. She is everything I love in a female lead.
-If they want to forget what it was like to start out, to have to drench yourself in sweat and blood and tears to earn a name for yourself, then like hell I'm going to lie back and let them walk all over me. Fuck that nobody sets fire to my dreams and gets away with it. -
Rey and Tabitha meet and it isn't all sparks and butterflies...
" You never answered my question, Tabitha. Or can I call you Tabby, since you're like a wild cat, all claws and snarl." - Rey
On a crazy turn events leads Tabitha to be Dark Tide's opening act.
- I just have an insane need to prove that my epic music is what the people want, not her vintage bullshit.- Rey
" Do you really think you'd be no good as an opener? " Rey
" Rock fans don't usually dig classical music." Tabitha
" So, sell it to them. " Rey
This book was a slow simmer, and I don't normally like them, but this book was so well written I wasn't worried about my usual preferences.
..." No matter what you do, you can't win over everyone. as long as you're confident you brought your best game, then so what if you get a shitty review or some troll on your social media the next day? Make yourself proud, and then the confidence will come naturally."
- Some of the words journalists used to describe the self made musician who packed up everything he owned at age nineteen and moved halfway across the country with nothing but his like-minded brother and a dream. His attitude makes you think he's been gifted everything on a silver platter, but reading his biography shows his history has been anything but easy. - Tabitha
I don't want to go into too much detail because I don't want to spoil anything. I always like to highlight my favorite lines in the book, but the whole dang thing is nearly highlighted, the words were amazing and it is a definitely a one click book.
" Talk later, Kitty." My stomach ties itself in knots when he blows me a cheeky kiss before ending the call. Rey Thomas just blew me a goddamn kiss. I may as well have French kissed the guy on the red carpet for how I feel in this moment. - Tabitha
" You fucking label me before I have a chance to do it myself, so yeah, this is a little your fault. I never was the good kid was I? " Rey
I don't like Rey, the lead singer of Dark Tide. He's arrogant, loud, and careless. I like Rey, the guy who loves to play his guitar and sing about the things that torture him the most. I like Rey the artist.... Now I want to know Rey the man. - Tabitha
" Twenty seven years of hell. Almost three decades of pain before I'm finally gifted you. " Rey
An ABSOLUTE MUST READ!
April 6, 2019
Thought Provoking
June 10, 2018
Verified Purchase
Format: Kindle Edition
Most of us read Rock Star books for the escape or fantasy of the bigger than life profession, oh to be adored and have your words be immortalized. This book looks at the downside, the pressure to live up to the hype, the expectations to always be "ON" pair that with feelings of being the black sheep in the family, that seems "normal" which can only mean that you are the problem, so you do everything to prove that theory correct.. The timing of this story for me was eerily appropriate, considering the real life headlines this past year and sadly this past week. Bravo Ms Henry for making an uncomfortable subject the forefront on a story that doesn't sugarcoat, or better yet falsely cure with a magical 3 month stint. For taking Rey and Tabby on a realistic journey down a rabbit hole that many deal with daily.
This book while not the typical is very important and should be read. There's an HEA - Hope Ever After.
June 10, 2018
Verified Purchase
Format: Kindle Edition
Most of us read Rock Star books for the escape or fantasy of the bigger than life profession, oh to be adored and have your words be immortalized. This book looks at the downside, the pressure to live up to the hype, the expectations to always be "ON" pair that with feelings of being the black sheep in the family, that seems "normal" which can only mean that you are the problem, so you do everything to prove that theory correct.. The timing of this story for me was eerily appropriate, considering the real life headlines this past year and sadly this past week. Bravo Ms Henry for making an uncomfortable subject the forefront on a story that doesn't sugarcoat, or better yet falsely cure with a magical 3 month stint. For taking Rey and Tabby on a realistic journey down a rabbit hole that many deal with daily.
This book while not the typical is very important and should be read. There's an HEA - Hope Ever After.
Want to read
January 29, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/10/2020)! 🎁
May 19, 2018
It's taken me a while to process this book and get my thoughts into some semblance of order. The first thing to say is that this book features mental health struggles as its main theme. There are warnings aplenty from the author at the start of the book, so if it's a trigger, then this is not the book for you.
That said, this is a masterpiece of a book. The story centres around Rey, lead singer of an up and coming rock band, Dark Tide. A scheduling issue forces him into the path of Tabitha, a classical violinist.
Their burgeoning friendship/relationship is set against the backdrop of Rey's illness - he's a rapid cycling bipolar sufferer, meaning his mood cycles turn quickly and can rapidly spiral out of control. The pain, the anguish and sometimes sheer hopelessness of his illness is quite breathtaking to read, it's that well written. I felt his anguish and despair to the point of holding my breath and a twist forming in my gut. My heart broke for him as he struggled to stay on the right path for Tabitha.
In her turn, she freely admitted that she wasn't a therapist and wasn't able to fix him, but she would be there to support him while he tried to fix himself. He fell long and hard on his way to rock bottom. My heart broke yet again for this character.
The book doesn't wave a magic wand at the end promising miracle cures and happy ever afters. What it does give you is a real, practical ending full of cautious optimism and hope. A happy right now, if you will. And the book is much better for it.
I really cannot recommend this book enough. There is an informative postface from the author at the end, followed by the mother of all playlists inspired by and listened to while she wrote the book. I love this book and I love it's characters, and the best thing is that this is the start of a series. I'm already champing at the bit for the next one.
That said, this is a masterpiece of a book. The story centres around Rey, lead singer of an up and coming rock band, Dark Tide. A scheduling issue forces him into the path of Tabitha, a classical violinist.
Their burgeoning friendship/relationship is set against the backdrop of Rey's illness - he's a rapid cycling bipolar sufferer, meaning his mood cycles turn quickly and can rapidly spiral out of control. The pain, the anguish and sometimes sheer hopelessness of his illness is quite breathtaking to read, it's that well written. I felt his anguish and despair to the point of holding my breath and a twist forming in my gut. My heart broke for him as he struggled to stay on the right path for Tabitha.
In her turn, she freely admitted that she wasn't a therapist and wasn't able to fix him, but she would be there to support him while he tried to fix himself. He fell long and hard on his way to rock bottom. My heart broke yet again for this character.
The book doesn't wave a magic wand at the end promising miracle cures and happy ever afters. What it does give you is a real, practical ending full of cautious optimism and hope. A happy right now, if you will. And the book is much better for it.
I really cannot recommend this book enough. There is an informative postface from the author at the end, followed by the mother of all playlists inspired by and listened to while she wrote the book. I love this book and I love it's characters, and the best thing is that this is the start of a series. I'm already champing at the bit for the next one.
April 22, 2020
Hero 4🌟
Heroine 4🌟
Story 5🌟
Writing 4🌟
Steam 3🌟
Romance 4🌟
Angst 4🌟
Secondary Characters 4🌟
Drama 4🌟
Action 4🌟
Recommend - Yes I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
Heroine 4🌟
Story 5🌟
Writing 4🌟
Steam 3🌟
Romance 4🌟
Angst 4🌟
Secondary Characters 4🌟
Drama 4🌟
Action 4🌟
Recommend - Yes I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
May 17, 2018
When a book is this intense, when it affects me as much as this one did, I usually like to take a few days before writing my review, so I can sort out my feelings and be objective about the book as a whole, and not just how it made me feel.
That won’t work here. I am writing this literally minutes after finishing the last page. I want my review to be raw, to show just how well Max Henry captured and portrayed these emotions. So often we read books where one of the main characters has a mental illness and it’s glamourised, for lack of a better word. This book was gritty and raw, painful and so utterly heartbreaking that I actually had to take a break a few times.
This is by far one of my top reads of 2018. Not because it’s easy to read. It’s not. Not because it’s all flowers and romance. Again, it’s not. But in my opinion, the best books are the ones that take you outside of our comfort zone, that make you feel things you’re not used to and challenge you to learn about something that doesn’t make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. This book did all that and more. And I’m so very glad I took the time to read it and am honoured to have been given an Advanced copy.
That won’t work here. I am writing this literally minutes after finishing the last page. I want my review to be raw, to show just how well Max Henry captured and portrayed these emotions. So often we read books where one of the main characters has a mental illness and it’s glamourised, for lack of a better word. This book was gritty and raw, painful and so utterly heartbreaking that I actually had to take a break a few times.
This is by far one of my top reads of 2018. Not because it’s easy to read. It’s not. Not because it’s all flowers and romance. Again, it’s not. But in my opinion, the best books are the ones that take you outside of our comfort zone, that make you feel things you’re not used to and challenge you to learn about something that doesn’t make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. This book did all that and more. And I’m so very glad I took the time to read it and am honoured to have been given an Advanced copy.
May 24, 2018
I loved it, I really did. This would be a perfect 5 for me if not for a couple of rather banal things. 1) This work is highly personal, you can tell, to great effect, but unfortunately our American characters don't sound all together American. They sound British, or Australian, or like New Zealanders, just by the way they word things. It took me out of the action occasionally.
and 2) I'm a bit of a music snob and some of the choices for the begining of the chapters took me out of it. Papa Roach? Not for me. This one is more a stupid personal thing on my end, but again it made me break immersion with the book.
Anyway, if you can get past the triggers, which I did, but heed them, this really is a moving novel.
and 2) I'm a bit of a music snob and some of the choices for the begining of the chapters took me out of it. Papa Roach? Not for me. This one is more a stupid personal thing on my end, but again it made me break immersion with the book.
Anyway, if you can get past the triggers, which I did, but heed them, this really is a moving novel.
June 10, 2018
Thought Provoking
Most of us read Rock Star books for the escape or fantasy of the bigger than life profession, oh to be adored and have your words be immortalized. This book looks at the downside, the pressure to live up to the hype, the expectations to always be "ON", pair that with feelings of being the black sheep in the family, that seems "normal" which can only mean that you are the problem, so you do everything to prove that theory correct. The timing of this story for me was eerily appropriate, considering the real life headlines this past year and sadly this past week. Bravo Ms Henry for making an uncomfortable subject the forefront in a story that doesn't sugarcoat, or better yet falsely cure with a magical 3 month stint. For taking Rey and Tabby on a realistic journey down a rabbit hole that many deal with daily.
This book while not the typical is very important and should be read. There's an HEA - Hope Ever After.
Most of us read Rock Star books for the escape or fantasy of the bigger than life profession, oh to be adored and have your words be immortalized. This book looks at the downside, the pressure to live up to the hype, the expectations to always be "ON", pair that with feelings of being the black sheep in the family, that seems "normal" which can only mean that you are the problem, so you do everything to prove that theory correct. The timing of this story for me was eerily appropriate, considering the real life headlines this past year and sadly this past week. Bravo Ms Henry for making an uncomfortable subject the forefront in a story that doesn't sugarcoat, or better yet falsely cure with a magical 3 month stint. For taking Rey and Tabby on a realistic journey down a rabbit hole that many deal with daily.
This book while not the typical is very important and should be read. There's an HEA - Hope Ever After.
May 9, 2018
Rey holds no punches, “eff, kitty.” I wrap a hand around the back of her head and pull her in for a better kiss, a more heated kiss. The kind that tells her I really like her too. “You make me feel like a h**ny effing teenager all over again: awkward and a little bit insane.” There are times I think Tabby and Rey's 'open book' have different meanings, "...I catch a glimpse of his naked butt in the mirror when he steps in the shower. “I’m being an open book, kitty,” he calls back. “That’s what you wanted, wasn’t it?” I really liked this book, Rey took us on an emotional journey.
May 18, 2018
Can she save his dying heart? Well this book captured mine!
How can I write a review that will even give justice to this story about Rey and Tabitha? Well, I know I’m not the only one to ask that!
Max Henry has written a book that readers will be talking about for a long time - once we get over out stunned mullet silence at the heavy content written is such a way as to be brave and inspiring. It is raw and energetic, and right from the first chapter I got to see the volatility of Rey’s personality, until I got to reading the lyrics of his songs. They broke my heart as I got a first look into Rey’s mind, and then I got the full gamut of emotions from heartbreak to full on brilliant humour in a matter of seconds, almost as though I was mirroring the see-saw of moods that Rey goes through in his life.
Tabitha is a strong and gorgeous character who was there for a man she admired, through thick and thin, and I loved the unconditional friendship that she had with Kendall. That girl rocked, and even though she didn’t agree with Tabby’s choices, she supported her friend to the hilt. I hope we see more of her.
I have to say, that this book really got to me on a personal level. Heavy metal/rock is my genre of choice, and the words Rey sang, called to me. Right to the playlist, these are all songs that I not only recognise, but describe me as a person. It’s also easy to see that music is important to Max Henry, as she’s written not only the lyrics that Rey sings, the ones that breaks not only Tabby’s heart, but mine as well, but she also describes the beat as the guys play it – I can almost hear it literally.
The crescendo builds and moves as I got my way into Rey and Tabitha’s story, until at the crest, Tabby does what no one else in Rey’s camp had been brave enough to do. I felt like throwing up in worry right along with her. My heart was in my mouth, and it beat along to the tempo of the music that each chapter is headed by. The tension in the story kept building until I thought my chest would burst. This is what reading and experiencing a book is about – the FEELS, the EMOTION, and, the message that the author is getting across to us.
Music is my life, and I knew the songs, the moods that Max Henry captured perfectly as I read through Down Beat. This is easily a book that I would highly recommend to anyone who loves not only the rocker genre, but who wants to see characters conquer and overcome their life’s difficulties. 5 Stars and a huge thank you to Max Henry for daring to write this book and it’s POV. I hope it changes the way people think.
How can I write a review that will even give justice to this story about Rey and Tabitha? Well, I know I’m not the only one to ask that!
Max Henry has written a book that readers will be talking about for a long time - once we get over out stunned mullet silence at the heavy content written is such a way as to be brave and inspiring. It is raw and energetic, and right from the first chapter I got to see the volatility of Rey’s personality, until I got to reading the lyrics of his songs. They broke my heart as I got a first look into Rey’s mind, and then I got the full gamut of emotions from heartbreak to full on brilliant humour in a matter of seconds, almost as though I was mirroring the see-saw of moods that Rey goes through in his life.
Tabitha is a strong and gorgeous character who was there for a man she admired, through thick and thin, and I loved the unconditional friendship that she had with Kendall. That girl rocked, and even though she didn’t agree with Tabby’s choices, she supported her friend to the hilt. I hope we see more of her.
I have to say, that this book really got to me on a personal level. Heavy metal/rock is my genre of choice, and the words Rey sang, called to me. Right to the playlist, these are all songs that I not only recognise, but describe me as a person. It’s also easy to see that music is important to Max Henry, as she’s written not only the lyrics that Rey sings, the ones that breaks not only Tabby’s heart, but mine as well, but she also describes the beat as the guys play it – I can almost hear it literally.
The crescendo builds and moves as I got my way into Rey and Tabitha’s story, until at the crest, Tabby does what no one else in Rey’s camp had been brave enough to do. I felt like throwing up in worry right along with her. My heart was in my mouth, and it beat along to the tempo of the music that each chapter is headed by. The tension in the story kept building until I thought my chest would burst. This is what reading and experiencing a book is about – the FEELS, the EMOTION, and, the message that the author is getting across to us.
Music is my life, and I knew the songs, the moods that Max Henry captured perfectly as I read through Down Beat. This is easily a book that I would highly recommend to anyone who loves not only the rocker genre, but who wants to see characters conquer and overcome their life’s difficulties. 5 Stars and a huge thank you to Max Henry for daring to write this book and it’s POV. I hope it changes the way people think.
October 1, 2019
One of the most phenomenal book I've read this year!
May 19, 2018
My first from this author and overall this was a decent enough book. I liked the premise of an out of control upcoming rock star who needs someone in his life to be his stability when his thoughts of suicide and/or self-destruction become too great for him to handle.
Rey finds his balm in the form of Tabitha and from the moment they meet, they are truly fire and ice. However, as we watch as Rey stumbles and falls more than once with Tabitha there to try to pick up the pieces, I never could sense any real chemistry between them. Maybe their love affair progressed too quickly? Or maybe his bi-polar nature felt too dragged out? Either way, I wasn't convinced these two had a true love between them.
I applaud the author for writing something very personal to her in the form of mental illness. But sadly, I couldn't embrace everything being thrown both at me or at Tabitha. I'm sure the depictions are spot on but the execution was all over the place. It just didn't flow well for me. And as much as I liked Rey and the rest of the band, Tabitha was not the woman for him. At 24, she acted very much like a teenager at times with her reactions and her hasty decisions. I felt nothing for her and didn't quite understand their connection.
I would be interested in hearing more from some of the other members of the band and even from Tabitha's bestie in Kendall. She seemed more in tune with the world and her feelings and thoughts were for the most part, welcomed.
Never one to turn down a rocker book, I'm hopeful the rest in the series will be better for me.
Rey finds his balm in the form of Tabitha and from the moment they meet, they are truly fire and ice. However, as we watch as Rey stumbles and falls more than once with Tabitha there to try to pick up the pieces, I never could sense any real chemistry between them. Maybe their love affair progressed too quickly? Or maybe his bi-polar nature felt too dragged out? Either way, I wasn't convinced these two had a true love between them.
I applaud the author for writing something very personal to her in the form of mental illness. But sadly, I couldn't embrace everything being thrown both at me or at Tabitha. I'm sure the depictions are spot on but the execution was all over the place. It just didn't flow well for me. And as much as I liked Rey and the rest of the band, Tabitha was not the woman for him. At 24, she acted very much like a teenager at times with her reactions and her hasty decisions. I felt nothing for her and didn't quite understand their connection.
I would be interested in hearing more from some of the other members of the band and even from Tabitha's bestie in Kendall. She seemed more in tune with the world and her feelings and thoughts were for the most part, welcomed.
Never one to turn down a rocker book, I'm hopeful the rest in the series will be better for me.
May 19, 2018
It's not very often that I say this about a rock star book but this one just bored me. There was nothing that really stood out or drew me into this story, which was disappointing for me. I really wanted to like the story and I was impressed that a cellist could play with a rock band. That was a great mix but I just couldn't connect with the characters.
May 13, 2018
“My moment where I realize that this fairy tale? This sweet love? It’s never been anything but an illusion, a show put on by one of the industry’s best performers. I merely had to stop believing to see it.”
Distorted and twisted; like a reflection on the surface of still water, a thrown pebble sends ripples through the reality making it hard to decipher, our eyes trying to convince our minds that what you know isn’t the truth and that’s how Rey lives his life constantly. It’s a battle and it’s all consuming. It’s exhausting and invisible only the effects seen not the cause. Fire fighting the symptoms without addressing the root lets the wild fire take over and Down Beat captures this struggle beautifully, hauntingly and perfectly. Rey defines himself with his diagnosis, colours himself with his perceptions, judging himself before others can and is so insular that he just can’t break from his self destructive cycle. Part of a successful rock band, he’s the lead singer who uses music to release his pain into the world yet it’s never enough to soothe his demons for long. A chance meeting, a series of unfortunate events, brings together his band with a struggling artist and soon he feels that he just can’t live without her...
This story is one filled with destruction and devastation, Rey is a whirlwind of mental health issues that impact on everyone around him. The love in this story is immeasurable and yet for Rey it can’t fix what’s broken. My heart broke for the man who couldn’t see past his own labels to appreciate those that love him and the glimpses of the man he is when he embraces himself completely shattered me. This is a battle for survival, of acceptance and acknowledgement that has left me emotional, reflective and thoughtful.
I’m at a loss for words to adequately describe this story so all I can say is read it for yourself, be open minded, embrace it and try to just get swept up along for the ride. It’s worth it! Both Rey and Tabitha are amazingly strong characters and I loved all the band members and truly hope they each get there own story as Try’s mental health has impacted on all of them too so I feel the journey is only just beginning. It’s ok not to be ok!
A five star #endthestigma read.
~*~ Reviewed on behalf of Obsessed by a Books ~*~
Distorted and twisted; like a reflection on the surface of still water, a thrown pebble sends ripples through the reality making it hard to decipher, our eyes trying to convince our minds that what you know isn’t the truth and that’s how Rey lives his life constantly. It’s a battle and it’s all consuming. It’s exhausting and invisible only the effects seen not the cause. Fire fighting the symptoms without addressing the root lets the wild fire take over and Down Beat captures this struggle beautifully, hauntingly and perfectly. Rey defines himself with his diagnosis, colours himself with his perceptions, judging himself before others can and is so insular that he just can’t break from his self destructive cycle. Part of a successful rock band, he’s the lead singer who uses music to release his pain into the world yet it’s never enough to soothe his demons for long. A chance meeting, a series of unfortunate events, brings together his band with a struggling artist and soon he feels that he just can’t live without her...
This story is one filled with destruction and devastation, Rey is a whirlwind of mental health issues that impact on everyone around him. The love in this story is immeasurable and yet for Rey it can’t fix what’s broken. My heart broke for the man who couldn’t see past his own labels to appreciate those that love him and the glimpses of the man he is when he embraces himself completely shattered me. This is a battle for survival, of acceptance and acknowledgement that has left me emotional, reflective and thoughtful.
I’m at a loss for words to adequately describe this story so all I can say is read it for yourself, be open minded, embrace it and try to just get swept up along for the ride. It’s worth it! Both Rey and Tabitha are amazingly strong characters and I loved all the band members and truly hope they each get there own story as Try’s mental health has impacted on all of them too so I feel the journey is only just beginning. It’s ok not to be ok!
A five star #endthestigma read.
~*~ Reviewed on behalf of Obsessed by a Books ~*~
May 12, 2018
I went into this after reading the blurb thinking “ooooh, angsty brooding rockstar! GIMMIE” and I will say there is most definitely angsty brooding rockstar, but that just scratches the surfaces of what Down Beat truly is. Yes, you still get an epic romance. Yes, you still get steamy deliciousness. But I want to say the most important thing you get out of Rey and Tabby’s story is the raw, true, powerfully emotional look at living with mental illness.
As people slowly, and I mean really friggin’ slowly, start to accept mental illness as something that shouldn’t be swept under the rug I still feel like there aren’t many truly relatable characters out there especially in romance that some one dealing with a mental illness can read and think “I get that. I’ve been there. I’m not alone. This character has my voice.” Max Henry gives us that in Rey. More importantly she gives Rey to people who don’t know what it’s like to feel that way and that is something I’m truly grateful for. I don’t have the exact same diagnosis as this character, but frankly it doesn’t matter. With the stigma still surrounding all mental illness I’ve spent the vast majority of my life since I was a young teenager with my diagnosis used as a joke. I personally have OCD and a separate anxiety disorder. Two terms that are now so casually used as a laughing way to describe everyday habits that no one really understands what living with the weight of it is. So while I personally don’t feel the same struggle as Rey, I fully feel his feelings of being misunderstood and a burden.
Rey and Tabby’s story is so emotionally charged. Epic highs and epic lows giving you a deeper understanding of not just Rey’s struggles but the struggles of loving him and learning together how to get through life. These two have a true, bone deep, love that moved me to tears more than once. Most of the time I find myself reading romance for the “fairytale” aspect of it. I’m an alpha loving instalove junkie, the sweeter the better. But Down Beat will go forever on my all time favorites list because even though this book gave me all I love about romance it was REAL. There is no making this pretty or softening the truth in this book, just real,powerful ,flawed, yet endlessly beautiful love.
As people slowly, and I mean really friggin’ slowly, start to accept mental illness as something that shouldn’t be swept under the rug I still feel like there aren’t many truly relatable characters out there especially in romance that some one dealing with a mental illness can read and think “I get that. I’ve been there. I’m not alone. This character has my voice.” Max Henry gives us that in Rey. More importantly she gives Rey to people who don’t know what it’s like to feel that way and that is something I’m truly grateful for. I don’t have the exact same diagnosis as this character, but frankly it doesn’t matter. With the stigma still surrounding all mental illness I’ve spent the vast majority of my life since I was a young teenager with my diagnosis used as a joke. I personally have OCD and a separate anxiety disorder. Two terms that are now so casually used as a laughing way to describe everyday habits that no one really understands what living with the weight of it is. So while I personally don’t feel the same struggle as Rey, I fully feel his feelings of being misunderstood and a burden.
Rey and Tabby’s story is so emotionally charged. Epic highs and epic lows giving you a deeper understanding of not just Rey’s struggles but the struggles of loving him and learning together how to get through life. These two have a true, bone deep, love that moved me to tears more than once. Most of the time I find myself reading romance for the “fairytale” aspect of it. I’m an alpha loving instalove junkie, the sweeter the better. But Down Beat will go forever on my all time favorites list because even though this book gave me all I love about romance it was REAL. There is no making this pretty or softening the truth in this book, just real,powerful ,flawed, yet endlessly beautiful love.
May 10, 2018
Never, have I ever had to take a few minutes to compose myself after a reading a book! I always get to a point in a book where I think “finally, I relate to you”. Stranger for me on this one is, it’s not Tabitha. Rey! I saw so much of myself in Rey. Even the trigger warning was not going to stop me from reading this.
Rey is a broken soul and latches onto you after he feels you offer a little of bit love and affection. He loves you whole heartedly, because you are his cure. But loving himself is something is not something he is able to do.
Tabitha, Tabby, Kitty, she is his cure…or is she? Rey, loves her with all his being and she loves him back. But she needs one thing – she needs him to love himself. She needs him to see his life is worth so much more than he wills himself to believe.
Sitting at my desk writing with blood shot eyes. Not from no sleep (even though that is part of the reason). I have been in tears…heavy tears. Never have I related to a character the way I have related to Rey. I see myself in him. I see the troubles he goes through. I see the pain he puts his friends and family through.I see them because I have been there.
Thank you Max. Thank you for bringing Rey to us! Thank you for brining awareness to mental illness!
Rey has a tiny little home in the corner of my heart…one he won’t be leaving for a years to come!
Rey is a broken soul and latches onto you after he feels you offer a little of bit love and affection. He loves you whole heartedly, because you are his cure. But loving himself is something is not something he is able to do.
Tabitha, Tabby, Kitty, she is his cure…or is she? Rey, loves her with all his being and she loves him back. But she needs one thing – she needs him to love himself. She needs him to see his life is worth so much more than he wills himself to believe.
Sitting at my desk writing with blood shot eyes. Not from no sleep (even though that is part of the reason). I have been in tears…heavy tears. Never have I related to a character the way I have related to Rey. I see myself in him. I see the troubles he goes through. I see the pain he puts his friends and family through.I see them because I have been there.
Thank you Max. Thank you for bringing Rey to us! Thank you for brining awareness to mental illness!
Rey has a tiny little home in the corner of my heart…one he won’t be leaving for a years to come!
May 18, 2018
I really don't know where to begin with this review. I don't know how to express the feeling that it provoked and just how to put it all down on paper. But I need for people to realise what a fantastic thought provoking book this is. Some say we all have our demons and we do but some of us have a disease that we can never escape from. One that plays with us in the worst ways, these diseases are ones that have more access to us than any other. Especially when its your own mind that you can't escape from.
This is one of the hardest books I have read, an example that with the world at your feet, you still feel like you are nothing, mental illness has no preference, it sees no creed, colour or status. Rey is perfect example that no one is untouchable. Rey and Tabitha's story is just beautiful, even with all the demons that run through these pages and try to ruin it.
This is a rock star book with a difference and I think Max Henry handle every word and situation with kindness, compassion and incredible knowledge. I don't want to spoil this book at all and explain what happens as it needs to be experience first hand. But the saying is true. If you love someone enough let them go, if they come back they are yours forever and that is what else I will take from this book.
This book is a huge recommend from me but it's not for the faint of heart or mind. This book covers some serious and painful things so be warned. Max Henry you have done yourself and those of us that suffer proud. And maybe more than a few rock star who couldn't face another day too.
This is one of the hardest books I have read, an example that with the world at your feet, you still feel like you are nothing, mental illness has no preference, it sees no creed, colour or status. Rey is perfect example that no one is untouchable. Rey and Tabitha's story is just beautiful, even with all the demons that run through these pages and try to ruin it.
This is a rock star book with a difference and I think Max Henry handle every word and situation with kindness, compassion and incredible knowledge. I don't want to spoil this book at all and explain what happens as it needs to be experience first hand. But the saying is true. If you love someone enough let them go, if they come back they are yours forever and that is what else I will take from this book.
This book is a huge recommend from me but it's not for the faint of heart or mind. This book covers some serious and painful things so be warned. Max Henry you have done yourself and those of us that suffer proud. And maybe more than a few rock star who couldn't face another day too.
November 3, 2018
4 & a 1/2 stars
This book is based upon mental illness and how it effects not only the sufferer but those who love them too! It’s very real and often treated as nothing or just as attention seeking, something made up. The tough topic of suicide is the main catalyst in this book. The person who attempted to commit suicide shares there POV, whilst the family members and friends share their grief. Whilst I enjoy this book and the message it delivers being married to a sufferer of depression I try to remain positive. In all honesty I’m feeling left feeling very flat.
Dark Tide are an upcoming band on tour and there agent has booked them a spot in a theatre. However Tabitha is a violinist who has been eagerly waiting to perform at the same theatre on the same night. Her agent tells her it’s been canceled and they won’t be able to rebook for three months. She’s not going to take this lying down so she attend the theatre to collect her things but lets the band know she is not impressed by the bullying behaviour. Lead singer Rey and his drummer brother Toby follow her to the coffee shop for answers. When they ask her to perform prior to them she had no idea how much her life would be thrown into turmoil.
This book is based upon mental illness and how it effects not only the sufferer but those who love them too! It’s very real and often treated as nothing or just as attention seeking, something made up. The tough topic of suicide is the main catalyst in this book. The person who attempted to commit suicide shares there POV, whilst the family members and friends share their grief. Whilst I enjoy this book and the message it delivers being married to a sufferer of depression I try to remain positive. In all honesty I’m feeling left feeling very flat.
Dark Tide are an upcoming band on tour and there agent has booked them a spot in a theatre. However Tabitha is a violinist who has been eagerly waiting to perform at the same theatre on the same night. Her agent tells her it’s been canceled and they won’t be able to rebook for three months. She’s not going to take this lying down so she attend the theatre to collect her things but lets the band know she is not impressed by the bullying behaviour. Lead singer Rey and his drummer brother Toby follow her to the coffee shop for answers. When they ask her to perform prior to them she had no idea how much her life would be thrown into turmoil.
May 12, 2018
Rey is the singer of the successful rock band Dark Tide. His persona is the selfish, rude, bad boy “rock god” that gets everything he wants, when he wants it. But when his management arrange his band to play in a surprise venue, after canceling the previous artists booking, Rey’s discovers his life is about to change.
Tabitha Reeves is a classical violinist. She’s ready for her second concert, the venue has been booked....then it is cancelled, for a rock band. She’s furious and plans to state her case and make her grievances know.
What she meets is a broken man, who’s haunted by his tortured life, constantly fighting his inner demons and covering it over with over the top bad boy rock star behaviour. Their shaky start brings a friendship and more importantly becomes a life line for Rey.
A very emotional story. Rey and Tabitha had a very rocky relationship, there was plenty of ups and downs, but Tabitha aways stayed to try and smooth things out.
A marvellously written story, I enjoyed it very much.
Tabitha Reeves is a classical violinist. She’s ready for her second concert, the venue has been booked....then it is cancelled, for a rock band. She’s furious and plans to state her case and make her grievances know.
What she meets is a broken man, who’s haunted by his tortured life, constantly fighting his inner demons and covering it over with over the top bad boy rock star behaviour. Their shaky start brings a friendship and more importantly becomes a life line for Rey.
A very emotional story. Rey and Tabitha had a very rocky relationship, there was plenty of ups and downs, but Tabitha aways stayed to try and smooth things out.
A marvellously written story, I enjoyed it very much.
May 20, 2018
This is my first novel from this author and I can officially say I have a new favorite author!!!
The music... Just wow, it's awe inspiring...
The characters and the message that this storyline sends, sucks the reader in, so much so you are invested in their lives.
'Unaware of what she can do to save this dying heart.' Rey is going through the motions and is lost until a chance encounter with Tabitha blows everything he ever knew, up.
Tabitha is far across the spectrum with her violin, from his rockstar life.
Two unlikely pair that make perfect sense.
My favorite parts of this story is how strongly the readers captures the full emotions behind such a strong diagnosis. It shines through the pages and really makes the reader feel the depth of the trials that come with it.
It's an amazing novel that I would love to read over and over again!
**Review by Sallie**
The music... Just wow, it's awe inspiring...
The characters and the message that this storyline sends, sucks the reader in, so much so you are invested in their lives.
'Unaware of what she can do to save this dying heart.' Rey is going through the motions and is lost until a chance encounter with Tabitha blows everything he ever knew, up.
Tabitha is far across the spectrum with her violin, from his rockstar life.
Two unlikely pair that make perfect sense.
My favorite parts of this story is how strongly the readers captures the full emotions behind such a strong diagnosis. It shines through the pages and really makes the reader feel the depth of the trials that come with it.
It's an amazing novel that I would love to read over and over again!
**Review by Sallie**
May 17, 2018
What an incredible journey this book took me on. I have never read anything quite like it!!!!
Raw emotion at its finest. If you plan on reading this book, make sure you download the music playlist that comes with it, it’s a must and takes your whole reading experience to an entire new level. Listen to the song that is set for each chapter, it puts you in the characters emotional and psychological mind set, for-warning – it’s not always a good feeling but what a mind-blowing experience!!!
I take my hat off to you Max Henry, Down Beat is brilliant!!!!
Raw emotion at its finest. If you plan on reading this book, make sure you download the music playlist that comes with it, it’s a must and takes your whole reading experience to an entire new level. Listen to the song that is set for each chapter, it puts you in the characters emotional and psychological mind set, for-warning – it’s not always a good feeling but what a mind-blowing experience!!!
I take my hat off to you Max Henry, Down Beat is brilliant!!!!
dnf
November 24, 2020this is another DNF from me without a rating… which means that my sister J read it before me and said I won’t like it… so I am not picking it up at all, hence no rating since I didn’t actually read any pages :) J said it’s a dark and very emotional story and because of that it was hard to read… which doesn’t make this a bad book, it’s just not a story for me… but I do highly encourage you to read some other reviews, and there are plenty of amazing ones out there, so you can decide for yourselves if it’s a story for you :)
XOXO
A
XOXO
A
June 18, 2018
A very powerful and thought-provoking book. Not subjects that I know much about - bipolar, depression and suicide. The things that these characters experience, both as a couple and the hero’s family and band members, are so heartbreaking and debilitating. This was one emotional roller coaster as the author portrays Rey and Tabitha’s love story with heartfelt honesty and beautiful writing. Wow! There’s not much more I can say other than to read this book. It will open your eyes and quite possibly you will shed some tears. Now I have read some other works by this author...
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