Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
I know what they think. They think I’m too innocent for the life I have chosen. Maybe they’re right. Maybe I am. However, sometimes a girl has to follow her instincts even if they may lead to failure. Who knows, the bigger the risk the greater the riches could be. The facts are, I have a musical gift, a new beginning and an incredible opportunity. Simon McLennan’s reputation as a taker is a well known fact. But I have a secret crush. Is the attraction mutual or am I out of my depth with someone like him? Living in the shadow of a dark and lonely past it’s my time to shine. My time to take what I want. Even if it means risking what’s safe for our few stolen moments. Oh did I mention, Simon is one of my mentors, a rock star idol and my famous adoptive father’s bandmate. "what a great story...stunning.!!" reviewer "This is a beautiful piece of writing, with so much emotion that kept me enthralled from beginning to end." reviewer " Phenomenal instalment to an impeccable series!" reviewer ,i>"Would highly recommend this - couldn't put it down but didn't want it to end." Piper can be read as a standalone book or Book 4 in relation to the Last Score Series. Last score book order Gibson's Legacy book 1 Trusting Gibson book 2 Gibson's Melody novella book 3 Piper Book 4

340 pages, ebook

Published July 30, 2018

53 people are currently reading
184 people want to read

About the author

K.L. Shandwick

54 books1,436 followers
K.L. Bio
FB group > https://bit.ly/2FyznAZ
Website > http://klshandwick.com/
K.L. Shandwick is an international bestselling author of over twenty-five novels. She writes New Adult, Contemporary Romance, and Romantic Suspense stories. Her writing is inspired by imperfect people; each striving to carve out their own piece of happiness from life. Her emotional novels have gained a loyal following for her 'real to life' characters who sometimes face challenges in their quest for love. Many readers have fallen for her book boyfriends and when K.L. isn't writing, she lives in the English countryside with her husband and enjoys live music and socializing with friends

Follow KL here:

Twitter

Facebook Author Page

Amazon Author Page

Bookbub

Website

How about a free novella?

Sign for my newsletter and receive a FREE copy of my novella, Flying Under The Radar using this link --> Sign Up Here

Available in ebook, paperback, and in some cases, audio and foreign editions:

Everything Series
Enough Isn’t Everything
Everything She Needs
Everything I Want
Love With Every Beat
Just Jack
Everything Is Yours

Exhale and Move On

The Last Score Series
Gibson’s Legacy
Trusting Gibson
Gibson’s Melody
Piper: A Last Score Spin-Off
Last Score Box Set

Ready For Flynn
Ready For Flynn, Part 1
Ready For Flynn, Part 2
Ready For Flynn, Part 3
Flying Under the Radar
Ready For Flynn Box Set

Missing Beats

Notes On Love

Free to Breathe

Souled

Another Life

LuvLuck Series
- Lucky Break
- Lucky Chance
- Lucky Star
- Lucky Valentine
- Lucky Man

Wild Romance Saga writing under Kelly Shandwick
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

Pulsetunes Rock Gods
Until Jude Book 1
Until Levi Book 2
Until Deakon - Book 3
Until Korry - Book 4
Until Greg - Book 5

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
118 (57%)
4 stars
63 (30%)
3 stars
15 (7%)
2 stars
6 (2%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,230 reviews219 followers
March 23, 2022
4.5 star review of Piper (A Last Score Spin Off) by K L Shandwick
Having just finished the Last Score series I couldn’t wait to read Piper and Simon McLennan’s story. I have said it before but it is worth repeating, no one writes a rock star story like K. L. Shandwick.
I was hooked on this story from the first chapter. Having met these characters before I was intrigued with how their story would pan out. Piper is the adopted daughter of Gibson and Chloe and is a talented singer in her own right. Simon is a member of the band along side Gibson. He is older and obviously more experienced than Piper and that will cause concerns for Gibson in particular.
However Piper knows what she wants and who she wants and she has set her mind on a career in music as well as Simon. She has also had feelings for Simon fro some time. Piper has been through a lot and my heart broke for her. She wants to make it as a singer and is determined to do it on her own without calling on Gibson to help her.
Although this can be read as a stand alone I would say that if you have the chance to read The Last Score series then I would as I believe it would enhance your enjoyment of Piper, it’s not necessary but just a suggestion.
There is definitely a connection between Piper and Simon as both have feelings for the other; their journey was rocky, angsty and passionate. Will they be able to make it work or will outside influences rip them apart? What will happen when Gibson learns of their relationship?
One click and find out.
Profile Image for Giusy  Luca.
839 reviews5 followers
May 28, 2021
https://emozionidicarta2020.blogspot....

Piper non ha avuto un'infanzia facile, la vita vissuta con Colin, il compagno della madre è stata un'esistenza fatta di abusi fisici, verbali ed emotivi, non si sarebbe mai aspettata che l'incontro con Gibson e Chloe avesse una simile evoluzione, il suo arrivo insieme alla madre alla Dignity House l'associazione per le vittime di abusi gestita dai coniugi Barclay, le ha cambiato completamente la vita, se solo sua madre fosse ancora accanto a lei.... Gibson e Chloe avevano fatto una promessa e l'avevano accolta in casa loro come una vera figlia.

Col tempo aveva imparato a vincere la sua timidezza e insicurezza e a fidarsi delle persone che la amavano. L'unico svago avuto sin da bambina era il canto, una via di fuga dalla realtà e, grazie a Gibson, poteva finalmente realizzare il suo sogno.

  «Tesoro, ti vogliamo bene. Non ci sono costi. Non ci devi nulla, se non avere il meglio di tutto quello che la vita ha da offrirti. Scegli con saggezza, rifletti bene e a lungo, ma sii impulsiva e spontanea ogni volta che puoi. Divertiti, stai al sicuro, e ricorda sempre che il nostro legame è più profondo di quello di sangue.»
Simon McLennan è il batterista degli M3rCy, la band di Gibson, ed ha messo gli occhi su Piper sin dal primo momento in cui l'ha vista nella tenuta dei Barclay, vista la giovane età però ha cercato di tenersene alla larga, insieme a Gibson gli ha fatto da mentore cercando sempre dei pretesti per andare a trovarla in Colorado dove viveva insieme hai suoi tutori legali Gibson e la moglie Chloe.

Ha fatto di tutto per ignorare ciò che provava standogli accanto, ha aspettato due anni per poter avere la possibilità di manifestare l'interesse nei suoi confronti pur rischiando l'ira di Gibson non appena l'avesse saputo, la sua reputazione non era delle migliori, la sua vita era fatta di eccessi, la sua fama con le donne lo precedeva, solo con la comparsa nella sua vita di Piper ha messo a posto tutti i suoi casini dandosi una ripulita, ma non sarà facile convincere Gibson della sua buona fede.

«Fidati di me, piccola. Ho provato a combattere questi sentimenti. Mi eccito ogni volta che ho una normale conversazione con te, e posso immaginare cosa sembri alle altre persone, ma io non vedo una ragazza di vent'anni. Quello che vedo è molto di più. Vedo una donna forte e coraggiosa, anche se un po' innoccente. Sei bellissima, la tua voce mi fa venire la pelle d'oca e il modo in cui ti muovi mi ipnotizza.»

È giunto il momento per Piper di spiccare il volo, sta per lasciare la sicurezza che ha conquistato con la sua nuova famiglia per inseguire il suo sogno, dopo una lotta estenuante con il protettivo Gibson che vorrebbe che accettasse il suo aiuto  firmando un contratto con una delle più importanti case discografiche, ma Piper vuole farcela da sola, e si trasferisce a Santa Monica dopo aver firmato con una piccola etichetta discografica, la "Gravity" che non conosce il suo legame con Gibson.

«Vedi, lo hai detto tu stesso. Un giro gratis. Non voglio essere l'orfana adottata da Gibson Barclay quando passerò in radio. Voglio essere conosciuta come Piper, la nuova fichissima scoperta che quando canta fa eccitare gli uomini con la sua voce e che per questo rende le donne invidiose di lei.»
A Santa Monica incontrerà Simon, è un ragazzo che trasuda sex appeal, fascino e carisma senza bisogno di aprire bocca. È provocante e magnetico per natura e Piper ne era rimasta affascinata dal primo momento che aveva posato i suoi occhi su di lui, è stata molto brava a nasconderlo durante gli anni passati.

Adesso è giunto il momento che Simon confessi i suoi sentimenti, non sarà facile per Piper fidarsi pienamente visto la sua fama da cattivo ragazzo, sarà dilaniata da molti dubbi e insicurezze, ma Simon è un uomo paziente, sa che Piper non ha molta esperienza e cerca in tutti i modi di non affrettare i tempi o di sopraffarla, dandole modo di assimilare la notizia.

Il libro è narrato dal punto di vista di Piper, conosceremo tutti i suoi pensieri, i dubbi, le frustrazioni, le insicurezze tipiche di una ragazza giovane che si appresta ad entrare in un mondo per certi versi corrotto.

Purtroppo ho fatto un po' fatica a fidarmi di Simon non potendo leggere il suo Pov e ciò che gli passava per la testa, ad un certo punto avrei voluto prenderlo a schiaffi, per buona parte della lettura sono stata sul chi va là pensando che da un momento all'altro ci sarebbe stata la tragedia, l'autrice è stata molto brava a creare ansia e tensione, non mancheranno mistero e colpi di scena, ho fatto notte per finirlo, non riuscivo a staccarmi dal tablet, ne volevo sempre di più.

Gibson insieme a Chloe e la piccola Melody sono stati molto presenti anche in questo ultimo capitolo confermando non solo l'amore e la complicità che li lega ma anche la loro bontà d'animo, Gibson è un personaggio straordinario, che fa di tutto per mantenere al sicuro le persone che ama preoccupandosi per loro a volte anche esagerando, ma chi ha letto la sua storia non può che apprezzare.

Un libro dove i sentimenti, quelli veri, sono al centro di tutta la storia, l'amore tra i protagonisti, ma anche l'amore di un amico, di un padre, della famiglia anche se non è quella che ti ha messa al mondo. Mi mancheranno tantissimo questi personaggi, ormai erano diventati una presenza costante e mi si stringe il cuore a lasciarli andare.

Ringrazio la Queen Edizioni per la copia ARC
Profile Image for Nese's reads.
340 reviews14 followers
July 24, 2018
What an epic love story, of two very different people.

One , a world famous rockstar, with a huge number of female fans,
and just as many conquests lingering in his past.

The other, a young girl, forced to grow up with years of abuse,
and pain and manipulation. All she knew was how to survive.
The only thing that gave her some happiness was her music and her mother.

Poles apart, but destined to meet one day.

Gibson Barclay, the lead singer of M3rCy and his wife Chloe find themselves becoming
guardians to Piper, after her mothers untimely death.
Piper moves in with Gibson and Chloe, and slowly starts on her road to recovery.
Gibson and his band mate Simon discover Piper's musical talent.
Together they help nurture and develop her knowledge and passion for singing.

Over the years Piper's confidence in her voice and song writing, and her place
in the world changes significantly.
The only troubling thought on her mind is her secret obsession with Simon.
He is so much more mature and experienced, that she worries if he ever found out
about her crush, she would die.

Simon is attracted to Piper big time.
He has never met a woman like her, she ignites such feelings in him
that if it ever came to light, Gibson would kill him.

When Piper is ready to take charge of her life, she decides to strike out on her own.
Gibson is dead set on her leaving, he wants to help shape her music career.
He is also aware of the undercurrents between Simon and Piper.
However much Piper loves Gibson and Chloe she wants to make the move to California.
After a lot of tears and heart felt confessions, Gibson gives his consent, but not
without a lot of warnings.

Simon is anxious, he is worried that another man will see what he can, and try to get close to Piper.
He will never allow that, Piper owns his heart, but how will he explain it to his friend Gibson ?

Once Piper moves in to her own place, and finally starts recording music, she is happy.
She thinks she's mature enough to handle the music world, but a few bad judgments
leaves her in a vulnerable position. Not wanting Gibson to know , she leans on Simon.

Once Simon has Piper to himself he starts to open up to her.
He tells her that she is special to him.
Piper is in shock, even though this is what she's always wanted, she cannot beleive it.
How can a woman like her, keep the interest of a man like Simon?
He is always surrounded by sophisticated women, what could he possibly see in her?
She has no social skills, and no sexual experience, but her gut is telling her to trust him.

An unexpected visit brings Simon and Gibson head to head. After a lot of shouting
and arguing Piper is forced to make a choice.
She tells Gibson that it's her life , and she trusts Simon.
After all Simon did promise not to hurt her, didn't he ?

Piper continues to record music, to make the world sit up and take notice,
she also lets Simon into her bed and her life.
Her worries will not leave her.
Why is her boyfriend not by her side, on her opening night?
Insecurities...
Jealousy...
Distance...
When some photos of Simon with another woman appear in the papers her heart crumbles.
Why did she trust a man with his track record ?
How will she ever look Gibson in the face again ?

Simon is distraught, how will he explain what he did to the woman he loves ?
He cannot lose her, he will have to lay everything out for her, and pray that
she will listen to him.
What has he done ...

l want to say how much l loved this story,
my heart was singing as Simon was telling Piper how special she was.
This is a beautiful piece of writing , with so much emotion that kept me
enthralled from beginning to end.

Also, that epilogue is to die for...
Profile Image for Feel The Book.
1,739 reviews55 followers
June 1, 2021
Recensione a cura di Aoidos per Feel the Book

Piper è forte. Determinata a farsi strada, a mettere a frutto il suo talento, a riscrivere la sua vita dopo la fuga dal patrigno violento e la morte della madre. Grata della fortuna che ha avuto a incontrare ed essere adottata da Chloe e Gibson Barclay, non vuole che il nome del divo del rock faccia credere al mondo di essere meno di quello che è. Va quindi a vivere da sola e accetta un contratto con una piccola etichetta indipendente, volendo farcela senza che l’ingombrante nome di Gibson Barclay le spiani la strada.
Ma c’è un ma: Simon McLennan, amico fraterno e cofondatore della famosa band di Gibson.

È più che un mentore, è più che un amico, è più… E non importa quanti anni lo separano da Piper, non importa che lui sia il peggior tipo di irriducibile sciupafemmine sulla faccia della terra, a Piper piace, e tanto.
Ma può una ragazzina senza esperienza e con un vissuto terribile aspirare alla rockstar nota in tutto il mondo? Come affrontare tutto senza perdersi? Senza soffrire? E Simon, che le sta vicina, che la accarezza, che l’aiuta e la sprona a rincorrere i suoi sogni, perché lo fa? E’ possibile che possa desiderare proprio lei, dopo aver avuto donne bellissime e famose?
Forse Piper deve solo osare e crederci un po’ di più…

E Gibson, paterno e apprensivo, come prenderà la storia? E Chloe, a cui Piper deve tanto?

Ero curiosa di leggere il romanzo dedicato a Piper, la ragazzina piena di forza adottata dai Barclay. Nel precedente romanzo mi era piaciuta molto. Qui, forse, commette qualche errore di troppo, per una ventenne che si butta a capofitto in una situazione più grande di lei. O forse va bene così, vengono a galla passato e insicurezze.
Quel che ho notato è, nella traduzione, qualche scelta lessicale che non mi ha convinta del tutto, ma questa storia è da leggere, per curiosità e per godere dell’evoluzione dei personaggi che abbiamo seguito fin qui. Perché la band è la band e sono sempre fantastici.

Editing a cura di Ash.
Profile Image for FS Meurinne.
Author 2 books134 followers
August 5, 2021
This rockstar forbidden romance is amazing, this is a spin-off but can be read as standalone. Piper and Simon's story is one you need to read. Gibson will not be happy and easy about this whole situation but yet things between Piper and Simon are building. Then something happens and things are on a tight thin line. The story hooked me and had me intrigued for how Simon would redeem himself. Definitely a great rockstar romance read, with strong characters and a well developed plot.




Book Enticer
Blog |BookBub | Amazon |Audible |Instagram |Twitter |Facebook |TikTok |YouTube |Pinterest |Tumblr |Bookstore

Profile Image for Nikki Costello ***Crazy Cajun Book Addicts Blog***.
2,081 reviews57 followers
July 30, 2018
Crazy Cajun Book Addicts

An absolutely amazing story, Piper totally blow me away, giving me all the feels. It was wonderfully written and one of those books you never want to end. If you have read Gibson's Legacy and Trusting Gibson you will already be familiar with Piper and Simon but please don't worry if you haven't as this book can be read as a standalone although I would highly recommend you don't miss out on getting to know Gibson Barclay.

Piper is under the guardianship of Gibson and his wife Chloe after losing her mum a couple of years earlier. Simon is Gibson's best friend as well as his band mate he and Piper are perfect for each other but under the circumstances and with a twelve year age gap a relationship isn't going to be that easy. You can only hope they can find a way to make it through and get their happily ever after.

This is a fabulous spin off from Gibson's books with an epilogue to melt your heart. My only wish is that I could give this book more that 5 stars!!
Profile Image for Kathy.
1,506 reviews13 followers
August 3, 2018
The Last Score Series has been one of my favorites and this being perhaps the last book has me sad as I always love seeing Gibson Barclay. However this book does stand on it's own merit, I loved Piper, it was very refreshing reading a 20 year old act and think like one in her situation, from trying to go out on her own merit, to navigating a relationship with an older man, who has waaaay more life experiences under his public belt, without coming off immature. Simon didn't endear me as much but like Piper learns, you can't help who you fall in love with. The epilogue was very satisfying, especially seeing Kerr have his HEA.
Profile Image for Karmen Lanza.
252 reviews2 followers
July 12, 2021
Recensione completa su https://www.allcoloursofromance.it/pi...
Buongiorno Colours, a un mese dall’uscita di Gibson’s Melody torna, sempre grazie alla Queen Edizioni, KL Shandwick con uno spin off della serie Last Score con titolo Piper.

Pronte a conoscere la storia dell’ultima arrivata in casa Barclay?


Piper quando, due anni prima, varcò le porte della Dignity House, la casa protetta per vittime di violenze domestiche fondata da Chloe e Gibson, era solo una diciassettenne con un passato fatto di abusi e violenza, vittima insieme alla madre, di un patrigno possessivo e aggressivo.


La musica era la sua unica compagna e fonte di evasione.


Quando l’arcobaleno sembrò iniziare a splendere su di loro, un nuovo uragano arrivò a oscurare il cielo della sua giovane vita.


Una malattia fulminea e senza scampo le strappa l’unico affetto rimastole ma, una promessa fatta in punto di morte dalla madre, le regala una nuova speranza e una famiglia che non esiterà un solo istante a prendersi cura di lei.


Una famiglia che vive per la musica e che, grazie a essa, ha reso, il suo capofamiglia, una rock star, ovviamente sto parlando di Gibson Barclay.


Due anni dopo, giunta a vent’anni, Piper, ha ormai deciso di prendere in mano la propria vita, le lezioni di Gibson e del suo bassista le hanno regalato quella sicurezza e conoscenza di cui aveva bisogno e ora, è giunto il momento di spiccare il volo da sola, con le sue uniche forze, senza l’ingombrante fama del suo padre adottivo.




Gibson e Simon mi avevano insegnato i segreti per il successo e mi avevano fornito la maggior parte degli strumenti necessari per riuscire in una carriera duratura nel mondo della musica. Il canto era l’unica abilità a cui, sin dalla scuola dell’infanzia, avevo prestato un’attenzione particolare, ed era stata la mia grazia salvifica nei tempi più bui.

Prendere una casa, in California, lontana dal Colorado, affidarsi a una piccola e pressoché sconosciuta casa discografica e presentarsi senza rivelare la sua vera identità, armata solo della sua unica e celestiale voce come biglietto da visita, sono solo la punta dell’iceberg della sua crescita personale e professionale.




 «Vedi, lo hai detto tu stesso. Un giro gratis. Non voglio essere l'orfana adottata da Gibson Barclay quando passerò in radio. Voglio essere conosciuta come Piper, la nuova fichissima scoperta che quando canta fa eccitare gli uomini con la sua voce e che per questo rende le donne invidiose di lei.»

Nuove incognite, però, sono pronte ad entrare nell’equazione, una tra le tante, l’irruzione nella sua vita di colui che, sin dal suo arrivo in casa Barclay, è sempre stato il suo sogno proibito con il classico fascino della rock star sexy e dannata, circondato da mille donne ma legato a nessuna di esse.


Lui è Simon McLennon il trentaduenne bassista dei M3rCy, la band di Gibson e anche lui, da quando ha messo gli occhi su Piper, due anni prima, non riesce a togliersela dalla mente.


Per lei prova dei sentimenti sconosciuti e inappropriati, non solo perché tra loro ci sono dodici anni di differenza ma anche perché Gibson, conoscendo la sua fama da donnaiolo, farebbe di tutto per screditarlo agli occhi della figlia o, gli strapperebbe le palle se arrivasse al punto di spezzarle il cuore.


Ma, adesso che Gibson è distante e lui e la sua principessa vivono entrambi nella costa occidentale degli Stati Uniti, riusciranno a resistere alla tentazione?




«Lo vedi questo?» chiese, passando il dito medio sulla mia pelle bianca chiazzata di rosso per il desiderio che mi ardeva dentro. «Questo significa tutto per un uomo. Sapere di averti fatta infuocare mi fa sentire un re, principessa.»

E, soprattutto, potranno far nascere un sentimento vero e profondo senza farlo scontrare con una carriera in ascesa e tutto quello che consegue far parte del mondo della musica e dello showbiz?


Ovviamente, per scoprire se riusciranno nel loro intendo, l’unica cosa che vi resta da fare è lasciarvi incantare dalle pagine di Piper.


Piper


Ancora una volta, l’ennesima, KL Shandwick, è stata capace di regalarci una storia forte e a tratti dolorosa, proibita e sensuale, nel quale, attraverso l’unica voce narrante di Piper diventeremo testimoni dei suoi dubbi e delle sue paure, dei suoi pensieri e delle sue insicurezze, ma soprattutto assisteremo alla nascita e all’evoluzione dei suoi sentimenti nei confronti di un uomo più adulto ed esperto di lei ma anche della sua più grande passione e valvola di sfogo: la musica.




“«Dimmi di cosa hai paura.» «Di questo... di quanto sono felice in questo momento. È che quando sono felice c’è sempre un inconveniente dietro l’angolo.»”

La musica che li unisce ma al tempo stesso li tiene lontani grazie anche alle conseguenze della notorietà e dell’esposizione mediatica.


Piper e Simon, non avranno vita facile, si dovranno scontrare con l’istinto di protezione di Gibson ma anche con i loro tumultuosi passati che hanno plasmato i loro caratteri ma anche temprato le loro anime.




Non ero mai stata baciata come mi aveva baciata Simon. Il suo bacio era intriso di impellenza, fame, attenzione e desiderio, ma senza le richieste sdolcinate di quelli che avevo sperimentato con gli adolescenti.

Dopo un inizio lento e a tratti poco scorrevole entreremo a pieno nella trama e assisteremo alla loro crescita personale e alla presa di consapevolezza dei loro sentimenti, sentimenti che per Simon, nonostante la sua esperienza e la sua maturità, sono per lo più sconosciuti e per Piper, totalmente inesplorati, ma, una volta accantonata la gelosia e le insicurezze, li condurranno, senza grandissimi drammi, al tanto sospirato lieto fine.




«Devi dirmi tu quali sono i confini e quando hai bisogno di spazio. Il mio corpo vorrebbe divorarti, ma la mia mente ha i freni tirati. Capisci cosa voglio dire?» Annuii, grata per la sua cautela, e il mio sguardo rimbalzò sulle sue labbra.

Piccola postilla a piè pagina va alla presenza di Gibson nella vita di Piper, lui, è il terzo e meritevole protagonista della storia di questo romanzo, con il suo istinto di protezione, il suo amore incondizionato e la sua benevolenza, rimane l’eroe incontrastato dell’intera serie e nelle battute finali, è stato capace anche di emozionarmi e farmi scendere una lacrimuccia.


Concludendo, secondo Voi, consiglio la lettura della storia di Piper?

Profile Image for Suzie.
564 reviews11 followers
Read
March 4, 2021
WOW full review to follow
Profile Image for Cristina La Comntesse noir .
205 reviews15 followers
June 1, 2021
Vi ricordate di quella ragazzina tanto talentuosa quanto sfortunata? Sembrava che avesse raggiunto il suo sogno, e poi il buio ha preso il sopravvento. Temeva che sarebbe rimasta da sola. La sua ancora era sprofondata nel più nero degli abissi. La ragazza, dinanzi a tanta sofferenza, abbraccia coloro che avrebbero donato la luce alla vita di quella dolce anima che non riusciva a vedere la luce infondo al tunnel. Beh miei cari. Sto parlando proprio di lei: Piper!
Sono passati circa tre anni dagli eventi narrati nel libro precedente. Abbiamo conosciuto una Piper fragile ma determinata, ed ora, a distanza di tempo, siamo dinanzi ad una giovane donna con un desiderio: raggiungere il successo, senza usufruire di una corsia preferenziale. Piper è consapevole del fatto che con l’aiuto di Gibson potrebbe raggiungere il suo obiettivo in modo molto più semplice, ma soprattutto protetto. Ragione per cui la nostra rockstar andrà su tutte le furie quando verrà a conoscenza delle intenzioni della figlia adottiva. C’è da dire che a dar man forte alla ragazza c’è l’affascinante Simon nonché amico e membro della band del famoso Gibson Barkley. L’intesa tra Piper e Simon non è un qualcosa di semplice, anzi. Il rapporto tra quest’ultimi profuma di fiori di ciliegio, e chissà… potrebbe rivelarsi qualcosa di molto più piccante e sconvolgente. Ovviamente sta a voi scoprirlo. Io mi limito a ingolosirvi.
Passiamo ora all’analisi stilistica:
L’autrice alterna capitoli dove nel testo vi è la presenza di periodi lunghi o semplici, ma mai complessi. Inoltre, anche le preposizioni subordinate e quelle coordinate si alternano in modo fluido e ordinato. La punteggiatura è semplicemente perfetta, e il lessico utilizzato è consono all’ambiente e alle caratteristiche dei personaggi presenti. Anche se un pelino volgarotto, direi che il linguaggio è tipico delle rockstar e di chi ne condivide il tipo di vita. In questo romanzo, la percentuale di descrizioni è superiore ai dialoghi, ma per il semplice fatto che l’autrice ama commentare e portare il personaggio ad auto analizzarsi e a snocciolare i propri sentimenti che prendono forma nella mente del lettore.
Purtroppo, l’unica nota stonata sta nei dialoghi e nelle descrizioni inerenti alle scene di sesso. Diciamo che non mi hanno convinto molto. Più che altro, potrei ammettere che non mi piace lo stile utilizzato per affrontare le dinamiche relative allo stesso, una mina vagante per ogni scrittore, ecco!
Nonostante ciò, mi sento di consigliare Piper, perché se si desidera sognare di un amore totale e travolgente beh, miei cari lettori, non dovete perdervelo!
Profile Image for Claire Cronin.
1,244 reviews20 followers
March 27, 2022
A spin off from the Last Score series surrounding rockstar Gibson Barclay, this one is not about him but features him in it, easily read on its own, but worth mentioning I think you would get much more from this if you read the Last Score series first so that you understand the characters better.

Gibson and his wife Chloe have ended up running a retreat for abused women and children, with Chloe having lived through this in her past. A young woman and her daughter are taken in..... this is where we meet Piper, who has suffered at the hands of her step dad for years. This turns out to be bitter-sweet as her mum is diagnosed with cancer and hasn't got long left to live. Gibson and Chloe become Piper's guardians and the welcome her into their home with open arms, loving, nurturing and caring for her. Piper dreams of becoming a singer when she is older, and Gibson helps with her voice training as she is growing.

At 20 yrs old, Piper is determined to strike out on her own and make her own way in the rock world. But she is determined to do this on her own merit, without the help of her rockstar guardian dad and his best mate band team member Simon, who Piper has grown to have a crush on.

Simon is 32 yrs old, a man of the world, a playboy by any other name, a women never far away. But him meeting Piper changes him, he is struck with the realisation that he wants her, yes she is much younger than him, but he sees her not as a child but as a grown woman with her own ambitions. Yes she is very innocent in the way of the world, but he is hoping that somehow they can connect.

This was a great read, I was very intrigued how this would play out, the very much younger girl determined to make it on her own with a crush on her 'dad's' band member - how on earth would Gibson react to that?! Well pretty much as you can imagine, his protective side going into overdrive! But Piper has talent in spades and is determined to get there on her own. Simon and Piper's relationship is not an easy one..... the age difference, the experience, the doubts, the press..... it's a rocky, angsty but passionate read about these two people as they learn to trust in one another.

The epilogue is just the icing on the cake to this series, rounds it off perfectly. A great read from start to finish.
Profile Image for KFForever.
1,053 reviews32 followers
July 30, 2018
kfforever

Four Stars ~ Reviewed by Anna Green on behalf of KindleFriendsForever

This book is a spin-off from The Last Score series featuring Simon and Piper and can be read as a standalone; a truly moving love story of two people who have the same passion and talent for music.

I haven’t read the previous books but enough information can be gathered in this story that will get you clued up. Piper, a twenty-year-old aspiring singer dealt with a lot of abuse from her stepfather, when her mother passed away she was lucky enough to be taken in by Gibson who became her guardian. Gibson and his wife Chloe are very much involved in Piper’s life and are very supportive of her dreams. Her growing attraction to a much older member of Gibson’s band causes a lot of tension within her new family.

Simon is Gibson’s bandmate, a talented musician, content enough to enjoy his life as a rock god with no commitments until Piper came into the scene. Although he is twelve years older than Piper, he seems to be too invested in her welfare and causes aggravation from Gibson. Can he prove to her that she is more than enough for him?

“Relationships are borne out of chemistry, attraction and common interests. It’s the connection between two people that counts. Some of the strongest relationships have wide age gaps. What matters is how couples treat each other and how they feel.”

This epic love story has so much passion, fire and harmony. I love that this book includes a lot of details about the music industry and makes it so interesting for the readers, technical but not boring. Narrated from Piper’s point of view, her character development is perfectly captured by the author; when reading her story I marvel at her strength and maturity but at the same time, her inner thoughts also highlight her innocence and naiveté. She is a very attractive and talented young woman who has the magnetic allure to capture the attention of a much older and famous rock icon. This tale pulsates with romance, music and family relationships. Simon is that book boyfriend that will make you swoon. If this book was a concert I’d be throwing my undies at him onstage.
Profile Image for L'angolo books di Berta.
59 reviews7 followers
June 7, 2021
Recensione a cura del blog "L'angolo books di Berta":

La differenza di età può far venire meno i sentimenti che si provano? Di certo può far riflettere, può far venire qualche paura in più ma continuo a ripetere che l'amore è amore e nulla può scalfirlo.
In questo nuovo capitolo verrà dato spazio alla giovane Piper, ormai parte integrante della famiglia di Gibson e Chloe. Una ragazza giovane ma che nella sua vita ha sofferto parecchio; ha già dovuto affrontare prove e tempeste senza arrendersi e lottando con tutte le forze a disposizione.
Adesso è pronta per inseguire il suo sogno, quello che le era stato tolto. È pronta a dimostrare, a se stessa e agli altri, quanto vale e che può trovare il suo posto nel mondo anche da sola.
Non aveva messo in conto però l'attrazione per Simon, componente della band di Gibson e uno dei suoi migliori amici.
Passione, paranoie, delusioni li investiranno in pieno. Non sarà facile andare contro i pregiudizi che si sono creati nella propria testa. Non sarà nemmeno facile fidarsi di ciò.
Simon è sicuramente quell'uomo da cui bisognerebbe stare lontani, quell'uomo che ha sempre e solo utilizzato le donne in maniera superficiale.
Piper sarà in grado di superare le dicerie? Sarà in grado di trovare la sua strada senza l'aiuto di nessuno? Sarà in grado di scoprire l'amore?
A questo punto, sono davvero combattuta tra Gibson "strappa mutande" e Simon, così passionale e istintivo. Così protettivo e accondiscendente.
La passione sarà quel tocco in più che l'autrice non farà mancare in questo romanzo.
Piper e Simon faranno fuoco e scintille.
La scrittura è fluida e coinvolgente. Pur essendo il libro un bel mattoncino, ho apprezzato tanto le descrizioni che mi hanno permesso di immaginare luoghi e situazioni in tempo reale.
È stato bello ritrovare Gibson e Chloe in nuove vesti, quelle del genitore. Gibson ha mostrato enormemente di essere un buon padre, di essere l'eroe che ha sempre rappresentato per Piper.
Ammetto che è stata dura lasciarli, tutti quanti.
È stato un gran bel percorso insieme ma i sipari si sono chiusi.
Se state cercando un libro passionale, dolce, con una protagonista forte e cocciuta, "Piper" fa al caso vostro.
Profile Image for Anna Green.
353 reviews
July 30, 2018
Four Stars ~ Reviewed on behalf of KindleFriendsForever

This book is a spin-off from The Last Score series featuring Simon and Piper and can be read as a standalone; a truly moving love story of two people who have the same passion and talent for music.

I haven’t read the previous books but enough information can be gathered in this story that will get you clued up. Piper, a twenty-year-old aspiring singer dealt with a lot of abuse from her stepfather, when her mother passed away she was lucky enough to be taken in by Gibson who became her guardian. Gibson and his wife Chloe are very much involved in Piper’s life and are very supportive of her dreams. Her growing attraction to a much older member of Gibson’s band causes a lot of tension within her new family.

Simon is Gibson’s bandmate, a talented musician, content enough to enjoy his life as a rock god with no commitments until Piper came into the scene. Although he is twelve years older than Piper, he seems to be too invested in her welfare and causes aggravation from Gibson. Can he prove to her that she is more than enough for him?

“Relationships are borne out of chemistry, attraction and common interests. It’s the connection between two people that counts. Some of the strongest relationships have wide age gaps. What matters is how couples treat each other and how they feel.”

This epic love story has so much passion, fire and harmony. I love that this book includes a lot of details about the music industry and makes it so interesting for the readers, technical but not boring. Narrated from Piper’s point of view, her character development is perfectly captured by the author; when reading her story I marvel at her strength and maturity but at the same time, her inner thoughts also highlight her innocence and naiveté. She is a very attractive and talented young woman who has the magnetic allure to capture the attention of a much older and famous rock icon. This tale pulsates with romance, music and family relationships. Simon is that book boyfriend that will make you swoon. If this book was a concert I’d be throwing my undies at him onstage.
Profile Image for Wendy Hodges.
2,904 reviews42 followers
July 30, 2018
Piper is vulnerable and innocent in some ways, I guess because of her background and age, but she is also mature in others again above her age. Her life before Gibson was hard and scary, full of worry for her safety and her mums. The maturity she has helps give her strength and understanding, patience to listen before reacting or judging for the most part to harshly even if feeling hurt by whatever situations may arise. In this story I felt she was the one who came across as the oldest character, despite anything going on at the time.

This story is emotional and in many ways inspiring, it is a bit like watching a beautiful butterfly emerge from its chrysalis, spread its wings and fly away free. It has all the elements you would expect from a romance, but you get so much more as well. It is quite a long book not one that can easily be read and taken in as it deserves in a few hours, to get the maximum enjoyment you need to get comfortable and let this story take you away. I felt I wanted to take my time and let it soak into my soul, it deserved that sort of attention and understanding. If I could I would have marked this much higher than 5 stars, there are a lot of 5 star reads out there, I know because I've read a lot myself. This demanded more than that.

The author's understanding of this character and attention to detail comes across throughout, she has written a story that grabs you and holds you captive. It is one I finished very late at night, having gone through a mass of emotions, one that left me with tears running down my face. You get angst, sweetness, love and anger in spades but you have to read it to get everything. WOW!
Profile Image for Ann-Maree.
1,112 reviews9 followers
August 2, 2018
This is my first time reading a book by this author and as it is the fourth book of the series it had me wanting more. More back-story about the wonderful characters I was reading about. I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest and voluntary review. This story is very emotional full of love, friendship, trust, and family. You can read this as a stand-alone but I am sure you would get more from this series if you read them in order to fully appreciate what the author is giving us.
Piper is a vulnerable, innocent and very determined young lady of 20 years. She had not had the best of childhood but she has a talent for singing that she wants to follow as a career without the influence of her adopted family.
Simon McLennan’s reputation as a bad boy rock star and womanizer, but he has been fighting and hiding his turn feeling for some time. Simon is a bandmate of Piper ’s guardian Gibson and they have been friends forever. Simon has been helping guide Piper in her music for the past two years.
Finally, Piper is getting what she wants and how she wants it. A music contract to do what she most loves in the world singing.
The author's attention to detail comes across in their writing style to which I sometimes found my interest wavering due to the need to know what was going to happen with the characters. Piper has a crush on an older man that she knows will go to where if he finds out. She moves away to start her music career and for the first time in her life, she is along and in power of her own life.

Profile Image for Ann (Literary Lust).
1,622 reviews25 followers
July 23, 2022
Piper is a spin-off novel from the Last Score series but can be read as a standalone if you haven’t read Gibson and Chloe’s story. K.L. Shandwick ensures that readers are aware of Piper’s history which I appreciated as it regrettably has been some time since I read Gibson’s series.

Piper is vulnerable and innocent in some ways, yet she also shows maturity beyond her years. Her childhood was tough and scary but I could see how much strength she has because of this. It also helps that she has incredible people within her close circle to love and support her. I absolutely loved seeing more of Gibson’s protective nature towards those he loves.

I love how determined Piper is to succeed on her own merit. She has so much talent and I hoped that she would find the success that she truly deserves. It’s not easy starting out in the music industry and having two very famous heartthrobs in her life brought along expected media intrusion and I hated that she had to experience this.

There are times during this narrative when I really didn’t like Simon, but then maybe I needed to have a greater knowledge and understanding of the man. Perhaps having Simon share his POV at times would have enabled me to feel differently about him. Piper’s story is told solely through her POV.

Piper is a really great story with lots of drama and uncertainties. This book has been on my Kindle for a number of years, and I’m now kicking myself for not reading it sooner.

4 stars.

Profile Image for Jan .
2,156 reviews45 followers
May 10, 2021
Great story.
I jumped into Piper's story straight after reading Last score series. I absolutely adored Gibson and Chloe's story.

Piper was a girl they had taken in, both Chloe and Gibson became her guardians after her mother died. Chloe after setting up a home for abused women became Piper's mother's comfort in her hour of need and promised to look after her teenage daughter. All of this part of the story was told in the previous books, however, Piper's own story did also reiterate this in her own.

Simon is another member of the rock group that Gibson is a part of as the lead singer and from the moment he meets piper he feels a connection, although it's only when she is older and Piper begins to make her own way in the music business with her phenomenal voice that Simon makes his move. The age gap isn't huge around seven years.

Piper is a woman with a backbone and is determined to make her own mark in the music world with her singing and not rely on Gibson who could open many doors for her.

A good story but I don't feel like I knew Simon well enough. I would have loved to know more about him, had his thoughts and feelings and his background but it was only told in Piper's pov and this was a letdown, I would have liked to feel more of a connection with Simon.

Piper is a good story with drama and ups and downs, a really good read. This book can be read as a standalone or as part of the Last Score which I recommend doing as it enhances Piper's story and Gibson and Chloe are a part of this too so it would give you a better understanding of the dynamics in their relationship as well as the connection with the other characters.





Profile Image for Lita Thomas.
1,568 reviews27 followers
March 27, 2022
Piper : Age Gap Rockstar Romance       ( Last Score Book 4) by KL Shandwick  tells Piper's story.  Now 20 she decides not to go with the record deal Gibson has set up for her with a major label but she got her own deal all by herself. It is a small independent label and she is leaving Colorado to move to Santa Monica Ca. Of course she is proud that she was able to get the deal just by the company hearing her demo and not based on Gibson's name
Gibson however is not thrilled at the ideal and feels she is to inexperienced and the business will eat her alive. Determined to make it on her own merit with anyone knowing her  relationship with Gibson except her manager, Piper finds herself in trouble not even a week in Santa Monica.  When Simon is made aware of the issue, he finds himself professing his feelings for her. Piper too has been harboring feelings for Simon but never thought anything would come of it. This is a cute story of two people trying to navigate a new relationship against several obstacles that can doom this relationship before it can really get off the ground. IE: the 12 year age gap, the fact Simon is Gibson's band mate, Simon's womanizer past and of course the tabloids and the press. Enjoyed their journey and loved their ending. 3 stars for me.
Profile Image for A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog.
2,816 reviews171 followers
July 29, 2018
What a perfect afternoon and evening this book has given me, I have sat with my feet up most of the day totally engrossed in Piper's journey. A journey of ups and downs and my emotions were right there with those ups and downs. This is a spin off from Gibson's series but can be read as a standalone. I have read the whole series so I already loved the characters that surround Piper on her journey.

Gibson is a member of the band m3rcy, he and his wife Chloe took guardianship of Piper when her Mum died. Gibson and Simon (also from m3rcy)have been mentoring Piper. She has developed a secret crush on Simon but knows he's a player and he is a lot older than her but she can't help the feelings she gets when around him, Simon is also very attracted to Piper but she's Gibson's adopted daughter and a lot younger than her so he can't go there. Can he?

This is a good read and I would definitely recommend it, it is well written and despite being a little over descriptive at times when it came to Piper's thoughts, it kept my attention. If you love a good rock romance with great characters, then this is one you should one click!
Profile Image for Mandy.
259 reviews3 followers
August 4, 2018
A brilliant rockstar romance with a difference. This one is about Piper.
Piper is a girl from a broken home but she has dreams and the words of her now deceased mother in her head. She strives to be the best that she can be and won’t bow to anyone. She had been through too much to stop now. She has a secret crush but can it remain a secret from not only him but from everyone else.
K.L Shandwick has pushed the rockstar into a new dimension with Piper and how I enjoyed it.
She dealt with everything that was thrown at her and took nothing for granted. In this book it brought me from tears and giggles and everything in between many times, I really enjoyed going along for the ride even though at times it was very bumpy and I didn’t know where it was going, I was so glad when it went in the direction it did.
I could not put it down. I could go on but would not want spoilers, so please find and love this book as I did, just knowing that you will love it as much as I did.
Profile Image for Angela Cornell.
Author 1 book34 followers
August 7, 2023
Piper: A Last Score Spin off 346 pgs ***** 1/12/19, 8/14/22, **** 8/7/23 Piper & Simon
The last book in this most awesome series was as good, if not better, than all the others.. What can I say, I am worn out from doing nothing much but reading this entire series that I couldn't put down. This book was wonderful. I got to keep reading about the previous characters, would have liked a little more of them, but the book was as good as all the others. I love Piper and Simon as well as all the other characters, old and new. There is a 12 year age gap, but it didn't seem to affect them that much. I do wish there had been more of them together, at home and on the road, it was a little rushed to me. I could have read more on all of their lives but it did give a proper ending to the series. I do, however, look forward to exploring more books of Ms. Shandwick's and I can only hope they are even remotely as good as this entire series was.
Profile Image for Ann Meemken.
349 reviews3 followers
July 30, 2018
Piper is the newest release in the last score series. I was excited to read her story.

Gibson and Chloe take custody of Piper after her mom died. Gibson and Piper share the love of music, which creates a special bond between them. Gibson is a famous rock star. Gibson and his band mate Simon help guide Piper in her music. They both think she has a special gift.

This story is amazing. Piper sets off to make her dreams a reality. She wants to make it on her own ability not just have it handed to her. She is strong willed and willing to go after what she wants. I admire her for doing it her way.

Simon becomes her confidant when things get bit rough. They have been friends for few years but this brings them a lot closer. There relationship has many obstacles standing in their way. I hope they will make all their dreams come true.
Profile Image for Helen Foster.
26 reviews2 followers
August 19, 2018
This book had me totally enthralled from the beginning, Piper and Simon both had stories to tell that had me so emotionally invested in the outcome I couldn't put it down.
There's a 12 year age gap between Piper and Simon meaning they are both in different places in their lives but they are drawn together, although the age gap causes issues for them both for different reasons Simon because of his history and Piper because of her innocence and naivety.
I have to say this book had one of the best lines I've ever read a pure comedy moment I burst out laughing, thankfully I was on my own so didn't get any funny looks lol.
This was a fabulous extension of the 'Gibson' books but can be read as a stand alone.
Profile Image for Clare Beale cook.
9 reviews3 followers
August 6, 2018

Wow!! What a amazing story that I had to reread before leaving my review. Piper is the spinoff from Gibson's Legacy and Trusting Gibson. Piper is trying to find her own way in the music industry and deal with her feelings for Simon, Gibson's best friend who happens to be 12years older than her. She knows having a relationship with Simon Isn't going to be easy and doesn't want to hurt anyone.
Simon himself is also trying to deal and accept his feelings for Piper are different than they should be. I loved Piper and Simons journey I found there love story powerful and intense. It was great seeing a different side to Simon and Piper's compassion. Well done K.L you have done it again absolutely fantastic book. You have a amazing gift!.
6 reviews
October 22, 2022
Typos should’ve been the tip off

This book had all the romance tropes I like and, unfortunately, every kind of typo imaginable - missing letters, missing words, wrong word, too many words, etc. I love alpha males, but Simon was unlikable, kind of creepy and borderline abusive. Piper needs to continue therapy and find someone like Kerr. The only chemistry/connection between Simon and Piper was her “core pulsing” when she looked at him. Don’t even get me started on the whole situation with Piper’s fame, Colin, and security - so foreseeable and the end not even remotely possible. Every manufactured situation in this book could’ve been avoided with a conversation or even a text!
Profile Image for Susan McWhinney.
626 reviews9 followers
July 31, 2023
What's not to love with Piper and her story. Having to come to terms with the death of her mother and accepting Chloe and Gibson as her Guardians sets Piper on a journey to find herself and perfect her musical career. With the help of Gibson and Simon, Piper realises her dreams and starts out on her own musical journey. The feels in this book when she accepts Simon as more than just a friend, she also has to accept his past just as Chloe had to accept Gibson's. The tumultuous journey that leads to the HEA in this story is so realistic, you cannot put the book down until fully read. I loved the entire book and found it to be full of the angst and love that is KL Shandwick's signature writing style. Well worth the 5 stars given
Profile Image for Emma Louise.
42 reviews16 followers
August 23, 2018
Standing ovation

Wow, I've got quite a gathering of Kl's books now, and reading Pipers story seemed like a perfect way to round up the Barclays story. With such a strong minded young woman I found myself screaming at the pages saying 'believe him, give him a chance'. For a stand-alone book of pipers story this read had everything for me, with the angst and suspense of Mr Gibson, to the pent up energy of a lust romance and the build of of musicians and the rollercoaster they call life. This read had everything for me, I could not put it down!! Will definitely be recommending this!!!
Profile Image for Carmel's Addictive Nighttime Reads.
273 reviews10 followers
July 7, 2019
Piper's dream is to have a music career and make her late mother proud, what with her influential guardians behind her of Gibson and Chloe Barclay anything is possible but Piper wants it all on her accredibility and merit.

With growing up with Gibson influential people are bound to be around especially the band.... including Piper's crush, Gibson's bandmate Simon McLennan.

A crush is a crush right? Surely no one of his calibre could think differently of Piper. Could this be a mutual attraction?

With having so many people against them can they rise against them all and make a risk worth everything?
Profile Image for Debbie Vanvoorhis gladitz.
82 reviews
August 31, 2021
What an amazingly well told story. If you read any of the Gibson’s series , then you know Piper is his and Chloe’s adoptive daughter. She came from an abusive step dad and her mom had passed away. Now she’s determined to make her self a career as a singer. Without the help from Gibson , she goes out on her own. Simon is Gibson’s best friend and band mate. He’s so hot and sexy. She’s had a crush on him and turns out it was the same for him. He’s a bit older (by 12 yrs. ) but he’s never pursued her until now that she’s 20. Will they be able to make it together or will the media get I. Their way of happiness. Oh and don’t forget when Gibson finds out. Lol
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.