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Courting Chaos #1
Cross
A sexy drummer and a rock god’s daughter on tour together for the summer… what could possibly go wrong?
Opening for Kissing Cinder is the big break Cross Rhodes and his band need to get to the next level. He needs to stay focused on the tour and their future, yet can’t forget about the hot, sassy blonde he tried to kick out of the venue. She’s the off limits daughter of the man who could make or break them.
Indie Cinderstone spends the summers acting as the unofficial photographer for Kissing Cinder and spending as much time with her father as possible. She didn't plan on falling for the opening act’s drummer, Cross. Nor did she expect his bandmate to have an issue with the pictures she takes. When threats and intimidation don’t work on her, his aggression escalates until it explodes.
When your head and your heart won’t listen to each other, how do you know which one to follow?
Opening for Kissing Cinder is the big break Cross Rhodes and his band need to get to the next level. He needs to stay focused on the tour and their future, yet can’t forget about the hot, sassy blonde he tried to kick out of the venue. She’s the off limits daughter of the man who could make or break them.
Indie Cinderstone spends the summers acting as the unofficial photographer for Kissing Cinder and spending as much time with her father as possible. She didn't plan on falling for the opening act’s drummer, Cross. Nor did she expect his bandmate to have an issue with the pictures she takes. When threats and intimidation don’t work on her, his aggression escalates until it explodes.
When your head and your heart won’t listen to each other, how do you know which one to follow?
206 pages, ebook
Published June 5, 2018
306 people are currently reading
487 people want to read
About the author
Heather Young-Nichols
79 books1,720 followersHeather Young-Nichols is a USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary and paranormal romances. She writes swoony heroes and snarly heroines with a heap of romance.
When she's not writing, she's binging a show with her kids, watching baseball, or snuggling with her cuddly animals.
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When she's not writing, she's binging a show with her kids, watching baseball, or snuggling with her cuddly animals.
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June 11, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (6/11/2018)!💝
Blurb:
A sexy drummer and a rock god’s daughter on tour together for the summer… what could possibly go wrong?
Opening for Kissing Cinder is the big break Cross Rhodes and his band need to get to the next level. He needs to stay focused on the tour and their future, yet can’t forget about the hot, sassy blonde he tried to kick out of the venue. She’s the off limits daughter of the man who could make or break them.
Indie Cinderstone spends the summers acting as the unofficial photographer for Kissing Cinder and spending as much time with her father as possible. She didn't plan on falling for the opening act’s drummer, Cross. Nor did she expect his bandmate to have an issue with the pictures she takes. When threats and intimidation don’t work on her, his aggression escalates until it explodes.
When your head and your heart won’t listen to each other, how do you know which one to follow?
Blurb:
A sexy drummer and a rock god’s daughter on tour together for the summer… what could possibly go wrong?
Opening for Kissing Cinder is the big break Cross Rhodes and his band need to get to the next level. He needs to stay focused on the tour and their future, yet can’t forget about the hot, sassy blonde he tried to kick out of the venue. She’s the off limits daughter of the man who could make or break them.
Indie Cinderstone spends the summers acting as the unofficial photographer for Kissing Cinder and spending as much time with her father as possible. She didn't plan on falling for the opening act’s drummer, Cross. Nor did she expect his bandmate to have an issue with the pictures she takes. When threats and intimidation don’t work on her, his aggression escalates until it explodes.
When your head and your heart won’t listen to each other, how do you know which one to follow?
June 8, 2018
Very tightly written with rich characters and clean plot. I like Indie and Cross. I think the author offers a fair idea of rock stars touring and with a plausible plot. The bad guy was really bad too. Good reading!!
PS. Michigan was represented!!!
PS. Michigan was represented!!!
September 18, 2020
Chaos Worth Courting
I mostly enjoyed the audiobook but did occasionally switch out for the written words. Indie and Cross were a great match. She's all spitfire and very forthright and he's protective and stubborn and appreciates ALL of her attributes. They're first encounter could've put someone in the hospital for all the fire they were breathing at each other (not in the paranormal sense). It was a very heated exchange and wasn't the only one. It's comical. What wasn't comical was the bass player. He's the catalyst that pushes their relationship along at a faster click, though.
The dynamics between most of the characters were great and the narrator did a good job. I prefer two narrators when there are dual POVs but she still did good. Drinks was probably the best non-native voice. It was easily distinguished from the others.
Story: 4 stars
Narrator: 3.5 stars
I mostly enjoyed the audiobook but did occasionally switch out for the written words. Indie and Cross were a great match. She's all spitfire and very forthright and he's protective and stubborn and appreciates ALL of her attributes. They're first encounter could've put someone in the hospital for all the fire they were breathing at each other (not in the paranormal sense). It was a very heated exchange and wasn't the only one. It's comical. What wasn't comical was the bass player. He's the catalyst that pushes their relationship along at a faster click, though.
The dynamics between most of the characters were great and the narrator did a good job. I prefer two narrators when there are dual POVs but she still did good. Drinks was probably the best non-native voice. It was easily distinguished from the others.
Story: 4 stars
Narrator: 3.5 stars
August 2, 2021
This book makes me sigh in happiness!
Talk about talking a front row seat with the band. As I read this story I really felt like I was there with the Courting Chaos band. I know that a lot of the book is in Indie's POV but I really felt like this was more about cross and the boys and I loved it.
Lets talk about the bad guy... Drink... the hatred. I hate him. I want to burn him...slowly.
I was upset about the way that Cross handled him at first. I guess since he had to worry about the whole band instead of just him and Indie but I still wanted him to be a bit more upset about the whole thing.
I love how both Indie and Cross fight (unsuccessfully) to not like eachother. The build up is just right. The entire relationship just felt so right. I loved the story and the characters and can't wait for more.
Talk about talking a front row seat with the band. As I read this story I really felt like I was there with the Courting Chaos band. I know that a lot of the book is in Indie's POV but I really felt like this was more about cross and the boys and I loved it.
Lets talk about the bad guy... Drink... the hatred. I hate him. I want to burn him...slowly.
I was upset about the way that Cross handled him at first. I guess since he had to worry about the whole band instead of just him and Indie but I still wanted him to be a bit more upset about the whole thing.
I love how both Indie and Cross fight (unsuccessfully) to not like eachother. The build up is just right. The entire relationship just felt so right. I loved the story and the characters and can't wait for more.
July 12, 2019
Courting Chaos is the opening band for Kissing Cinder. This is their big break but the bases player Erik Drinkswine is a loose cannon ready to implode their big break. Indie is the daughter of Kissing Cinders founder and once she and Cross meet sparks fly. There is a lot of drama with a Eric that directly impacts the band as well as Indie and Cross. Indie is brutally honest as well as strong willed and fearless. Her interactions with Erik keep you cheering her on. This is technically a stand alone but it ends with a lot open for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 28, 2019
Another great read, with lots of chemistry and hotness. This is a well written story and hooked me from the start.This is a quick hot read, with a interesting plot and fantastic characters, great emotion and Loads of steam!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2019
This was a good read. Indie is with her dad while he is on tour. She meets Cross who mistakes her for a groupie. Things were rough at first between them. However, the more time they spent together the more they fell for each other. Thankfully by the end they decided to be in a relationship and were happy.
July 12, 2019
I volunteered to read this ARC for an honest review. I enjoyed this story about Cross and Inde. He's the drummer in a band/opening act and her dad is the guitarist from the main attraction. She goes on tour with the band every summer to spend time with her dad and taking pictures. When they meet he thinks she a groupie and she thinks he's a stage hand. When one of his band mates starts causing problems for her Cross find the need to protect Inde. Great chemistry and lots of tension. Great characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 16, 2018
Love this story of a concert tour and the romance between a rock star's photographer daughter, and the hottie in the opening band. Can't wait for Book 2!
June 16, 2018
4.5 stars
May 1, 2020
3 ⭐⭐⭐ - OK decent reads.
March 14, 2025
*4.75 stars*
June 9, 2018
This is not a standalone book but will probably be broken into several part series.
SOME SPOILERS AHEAD!!! YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!
The story follows the romance between, the drummer of Courting Chaos, Cross Rhodes and Indie Cinderstone, the daughter of Kissing Cinder's lead guitarist Vince Cinderstone. Indie is 21 years old, a photography major and is hired as a band photographer for the tour. The two love interests do not like each other when they first meet as Cross assumes Indie is a groupie looking to get some action and she thinks he is some asshole roadie who does not know her father is his employer. Cross eventually learns her identity and immediately feels bad because opening for Kissing Cinder is his band's big break and he doesn't want to ruin their chances because he was a jerk to the daughter of the one person who is helping make them famous.
The couples romance is a little bit of a slow burn which I loved because I am a fan of slow burn romances. I enjoyed their interactions with each other and I love that he took her out on a couple of dates. The sex scenes while they were good I felt like they were rushed and could have been drawn out a little more especially because the author focused more on the plot of the story and developing the relationship between the two loves interests. This isn't a bad thing but usually when you read a romance novel you look forward to the main love interests consummating their relationship and I felt like it was glossed over. Also, I felt like they had sex a little too soon for the pace the book was going. Maybe they could have fooled around a little bit before having actual sex but after having only 2 dates seemed a little quick for me especially because Indie seemed apprehensive about hooking up with him in the beginning. Plus, the tour is supposed to be 4 months long. I felt like things could have been further drawn out and I guess it left me a little unsatisfied.
Anyway, all the characters are quite likeable (Cross, Indie, Dixon, Ransom [Cross's best friend], Vince, Cody [Vince's best friend], Dean [bodyguard/security], Bellamy) and it's easy to hate the villain Eric Drinkswine AKA DRINK (funnily enough his name suits his drunken personality). He's a real slimeball of a character that preys on young women and is extremely volatile when his life style is threatened. He's the kind of character you hope gets his in the end because even though Cross does kick his ass and kick him out of the band his character is a statutory rapist who, of course, does not respect women. Hopefully the trial is covered more in the next book especially because Indie captured evidence of his indiscretions and handed that evidence over to the police.
If I do continue with this series, I'm curious to find out more about Indie's friends Maggie and Bellamy especially because at the end of the story Bellamy comes on tour to visit for 2 weeks. Is she going to hook up with Ransom? She's a fun, quirky red headed character that is supposed to be the college roommate of Indie whereas Maggie is Indie's childhood friend. However, Maggie has her own book or novella and I'm not too sure if she'll show up in this series.
I'm also curious about Vince's health. The author wrote a scene where Indie takes care of her father while he's sick with a cold. However, I have a feeling it must be more serious than that like cancer or something else especially when he mentions that both him and Cody wanted to only do small tours after this tour.
Also, I want to know more about Vince's relationship with Indie's mom. Sure, they hooked up while she was doing an internship with a rock magazine which resulted in the conception of Indie, however, it is interesting how she is brought up in the book often though she has yet to make an appearance. There's a couple instances where I wonder if Vince feels more for her than he let's on. For instance, Indie mentions how her mom and dad used to be really close while she was growing up but only remained friends. However, once she got married when Indie turned 18 he backed off and didn't communicate with her as much. Also, when Indie talks to Vince about being able to handle a relationship that's up for scrutiny and in the spotlight she mentions that her mother didn't have a problem with it. His response is that it was different because, "She didn't love me," which makes me wonder...did he love her and does he still? The reason being because he never says "we didn't love each other." It'd be interesting to see if her marriage lasts and if it's on the rocks in the next book(s) and what her and Vince are like when they interact with each other.
Overall, this book wasn't a terrible read and I enjoyed reading it but I did think this book was rushed and could have had more circumstances explained in more detail. I usually prefer standalone books for this reason and I feel like the author could have done this if she just took some more time with her novel. Hopefully, the next book is better.
SOME SPOILERS AHEAD!!! YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!
The story follows the romance between, the drummer of Courting Chaos, Cross Rhodes and Indie Cinderstone, the daughter of Kissing Cinder's lead guitarist Vince Cinderstone. Indie is 21 years old, a photography major and is hired as a band photographer for the tour. The two love interests do not like each other when they first meet as Cross assumes Indie is a groupie looking to get some action and she thinks he is some asshole roadie who does not know her father is his employer. Cross eventually learns her identity and immediately feels bad because opening for Kissing Cinder is his band's big break and he doesn't want to ruin their chances because he was a jerk to the daughter of the one person who is helping make them famous.
The couples romance is a little bit of a slow burn which I loved because I am a fan of slow burn romances. I enjoyed their interactions with each other and I love that he took her out on a couple of dates. The sex scenes while they were good I felt like they were rushed and could have been drawn out a little more especially because the author focused more on the plot of the story and developing the relationship between the two loves interests. This isn't a bad thing but usually when you read a romance novel you look forward to the main love interests consummating their relationship and I felt like it was glossed over. Also, I felt like they had sex a little too soon for the pace the book was going. Maybe they could have fooled around a little bit before having actual sex but after having only 2 dates seemed a little quick for me especially because Indie seemed apprehensive about hooking up with him in the beginning. Plus, the tour is supposed to be 4 months long. I felt like things could have been further drawn out and I guess it left me a little unsatisfied.
Anyway, all the characters are quite likeable (Cross, Indie, Dixon, Ransom [Cross's best friend], Vince, Cody [Vince's best friend], Dean [bodyguard/security], Bellamy) and it's easy to hate the villain Eric Drinkswine AKA DRINK (funnily enough his name suits his drunken personality). He's a real slimeball of a character that preys on young women and is extremely volatile when his life style is threatened. He's the kind of character you hope gets his in the end because even though Cross does kick his ass and kick him out of the band his character is a statutory rapist who, of course, does not respect women. Hopefully the trial is covered more in the next book especially because Indie captured evidence of his indiscretions and handed that evidence over to the police.
If I do continue with this series, I'm curious to find out more about Indie's friends Maggie and Bellamy especially because at the end of the story Bellamy comes on tour to visit for 2 weeks. Is she going to hook up with Ransom? She's a fun, quirky red headed character that is supposed to be the college roommate of Indie whereas Maggie is Indie's childhood friend. However, Maggie has her own book or novella and I'm not too sure if she'll show up in this series.
I'm also curious about Vince's health. The author wrote a scene where Indie takes care of her father while he's sick with a cold. However, I have a feeling it must be more serious than that like cancer or something else especially when he mentions that both him and Cody wanted to only do small tours after this tour.
Also, I want to know more about Vince's relationship with Indie's mom. Sure, they hooked up while she was doing an internship with a rock magazine which resulted in the conception of Indie, however, it is interesting how she is brought up in the book often though she has yet to make an appearance. There's a couple instances where I wonder if Vince feels more for her than he let's on. For instance, Indie mentions how her mom and dad used to be really close while she was growing up but only remained friends. However, once she got married when Indie turned 18 he backed off and didn't communicate with her as much. Also, when Indie talks to Vince about being able to handle a relationship that's up for scrutiny and in the spotlight she mentions that her mother didn't have a problem with it. His response is that it was different because, "She didn't love me," which makes me wonder...did he love her and does he still? The reason being because he never says "we didn't love each other." It'd be interesting to see if her marriage lasts and if it's on the rocks in the next book(s) and what her and Vince are like when they interact with each other.
Overall, this book wasn't a terrible read and I enjoyed reading it but I did think this book was rushed and could have had more circumstances explained in more detail. I usually prefer standalone books for this reason and I feel like the author could have done this if she just took some more time with her novel. Hopefully, the next book is better.
July 6, 2019
I really enjoyed the story and the characters were great. I loved how it played out an I would recommend it to others.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 27, 2019
Cross Rhodes and Indie Cinderstone were so interesting and their first interaction set the stage for what is going to be a rock star series I'm going to binge on.
A photographer and a rock star. Sounds simple right? Not with the twists that Heather gives it. She adds in Indie's dad being on tour with them. With added drama of groupies, fame and friendships. When did music get so complicated?
Smokin' steam that takes our leads who may start out not liking each other to a place where they can't be without the other. The journey to get to the next destination will have you hooked. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
A photographer and a rock star. Sounds simple right? Not with the twists that Heather gives it. She adds in Indie's dad being on tour with them. With added drama of groupies, fame and friendships. When did music get so complicated?
Smokin' steam that takes our leads who may start out not liking each other to a place where they can't be without the other. The journey to get to the next destination will have you hooked. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
May 28, 2023
Great Rock Romance
Wow!! I loved this rock romance with a rock star’s daughter and the drummer for an opening band on tour with them. Indie visited her dad in the summers touring the country with his band, Kissing Cinder. Cross was more than ready for his band, Courting Chaos, to take the next step.
Cross and Indie met backstage with neither of them knowing who the other was. Cross was trying to kick Indie out from back stage and she was the ever feisty young woman who wasn’t intimidated much. She was just backstage doing what she loved most and that was taking pictures.
Also backstage that day she had met Courting Chaos’ bassist, Drink. He gave her that gut feeling that she knew had never failed her yet. He was definitely a guy to stay away from.
This book was fantastic with the way it took me into the behind the scenes of not one but two rock bands. The storyline pulled me in from the get go and didn’t let go. The chemistry between Cross and Indie was blazing. I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait to read more from this series.
Wow!! I loved this rock romance with a rock star’s daughter and the drummer for an opening band on tour with them. Indie visited her dad in the summers touring the country with his band, Kissing Cinder. Cross was more than ready for his band, Courting Chaos, to take the next step.
Cross and Indie met backstage with neither of them knowing who the other was. Cross was trying to kick Indie out from back stage and she was the ever feisty young woman who wasn’t intimidated much. She was just backstage doing what she loved most and that was taking pictures.
Also backstage that day she had met Courting Chaos’ bassist, Drink. He gave her that gut feeling that she knew had never failed her yet. He was definitely a guy to stay away from.
This book was fantastic with the way it took me into the behind the scenes of not one but two rock bands. The storyline pulled me in from the get go and didn’t let go. The chemistry between Cross and Indie was blazing. I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait to read more from this series.
June 13, 2018
I just loved this story! It's very interesting and full of suspense and twists.
The first encounter between Indie and Cross isn't the best, since he tried to kick her out of the venue.
After the misunderstanding is resolved, the attraction between them is undeniable, but none of them wants to risk ruining the bands' tour. But over time they can no longer hide their attraction and finally give in to their feelings.
At the same time, Indie needs to protect herself from the threats of Eric, who doesn't like the photos she has taken during the tour.
When a threat comes from Eric, Indie and Cross come together to protect her and try to solve things.
This story is very well built and the characters very interesting.
I'm anxious for the next book in this series, I suspect it's the story of Bellamy and one of the other members of Courting Chaos. 😉
I loved it! I highly recommend the reading.
The first encounter between Indie and Cross isn't the best, since he tried to kick her out of the venue.
After the misunderstanding is resolved, the attraction between them is undeniable, but none of them wants to risk ruining the bands' tour. But over time they can no longer hide their attraction and finally give in to their feelings.
At the same time, Indie needs to protect herself from the threats of Eric, who doesn't like the photos she has taken during the tour.
When a threat comes from Eric, Indie and Cross come together to protect her and try to solve things.
This story is very well built and the characters very interesting.
I'm anxious for the next book in this series, I suspect it's the story of Bellamy and one of the other members of Courting Chaos. 😉
I loved it! I highly recommend the reading.
June 12, 2023
I really enjoyed "Cross" by Heather Young- Nichols. I received a complementary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review but I would gladly pay full price for this book. I read "Something Irish" earlier this year and ever since being introduced to these characters I've been waiting to dig into this first book in the series. Cross has the same feel as the hit show "Roadies" that I absolutely feel in love with. The behind the scenes look into the music scene was great all on it's own - but add in the fun characters and it left me with a serious book hangover when it was over. Can't wait for book 2....
If you are a fan of fun contemporary romance, then this is a great book to any to your collection.
Happy Reading...enjoy!
If you are a fan of fun contemporary romance, then this is a great book to any to your collection.
Happy Reading...enjoy!
October 8, 2018
Ever since ‘Something Irish’ I’ve been desperate to clear out my TBR list so I could get back to this book. With ‘Ransom’ just around the corner, I said “to heck with it” and made the time. The romance between Indie and Cross is just so adorably cute. Those are words I never expected to associate with rock stars on tour, but they fit. In spite of their incendiary first meeting (or maybe because of it) the pair just click. Through the whole story, it’s obvious they’ve got each other’s backs. I loved this take on backstage with a rock tour. The bands aren’t complete disasters, and they aren’t saints either. They’re people. With all the good and bad that comes with that. I am so completely looking forward to the next book now.
March 3, 2019
Fun
I enjoyed learning more about what musicians have to go through. The relationship between Indie and her father was the best. The closeness between Indie and Cross grew quickly but it felt right. I mean she spent every summer with her father she has had every opportunity to fall for a musician before but never did. I love how the author was able to make you realize how handsome & caring Dean is but also how faithful and loyal he was to his wife and to her father. The bad seed Drink caused a lot of trouble but it seemed to work out in the end. I cant wait to read the next book to get to know Ransom better you can tell he is a good guy.
I enjoyed learning more about what musicians have to go through. The relationship between Indie and her father was the best. The closeness between Indie and Cross grew quickly but it felt right. I mean she spent every summer with her father she has had every opportunity to fall for a musician before but never did. I love how the author was able to make you realize how handsome & caring Dean is but also how faithful and loyal he was to his wife and to her father. The bad seed Drink caused a lot of trouble but it seemed to work out in the end. I cant wait to read the next book to get to know Ransom better you can tell he is a good guy.
June 15, 2020
Cross (Courting Chaos Book One) Firstly, I love the cover & title as it's very tuneful. Main character's are vibrant with tranquil devine names. The synopsis leads into a fun, entertaining, witty read.The narrative is well polished along with supporting character's that are well seasoned & accentuate the romance. A slow burning romance, a bit of music, & touring on the road that leads into a suspense read with twists. I'm looking forward to reading the next novel in this series.
June 14, 2023
I've read several books written by Heather Young-Nichole; she has done a great job at writing a good book; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
July 3, 2018
Cross
A nice read with a little bit of angst, a sexy almost rock star, & some steamy sex mixed with lust @ the beginning but love in the end. Enjoyable to read however it comes to an abrupt end & feels unfinished.
A nice read with a little bit of angst, a sexy almost rock star, & some steamy sex mixed with lust @ the beginning but love in the end. Enjoyable to read however it comes to an abrupt end & feels unfinished.
October 15, 2021
Actual Rating 2.5
One thing I will say about this book and author is that her writing is easy to read and I flew through this book quickly. I'm all for a rockstar romance, but this one just didn't do it for me. Instead of the story gradually getting better for me, it really just ended up getting on my nerves and completely killed the story for me and turned into a chore.
Indie and Cross felt like very flat characters. Getting to know them was very surface level and they weren't interesting. I didn't really even feel like this was romance because there was no connection that made them falling for each other make any sense to me. For one thing Indie was a very contradicting character, doing a lot of telling and not showing. She grew up in the rockstar lifestyle and always brought up how she knew so much about the life, but didn't even know what a "medic" was and made some assumptions about Cross and his lifestyle because of it. She claimed she was close with her dad and told him everything, but the shit she should have been telling him she didn't and kept things from him "she'd normally share." I'm also all for a women standing her ground with shitty men, but there comes a point where you need to be smart and protect yourself and Indie just didn't do that. She was annoyed at her dad wanting her to have a bodyguard in Dean and the man was hardly ever around while Indie was getting cornered all the time by Courting Chao's creepy bass player Eric "Drink" Drinkswine.
Then there's Cross who was disappointing. I wish he did a better job protecting Indie, should have been creeped out by the age of the girls Eric was messing with and when it was pointed out to him he just went about his business, called Eric harmless but clearly did things that were concerning and that's exactly what people say and those "harmless" people go on to murder and commit other extreme levels of violence. He just wasn't enough.
So overall this book ended up being disappointing for me which was sad considering how easily and quickly I read this book. This speaks to how easily absorbed I got in the story. Don't have any real interest in continuing on with the story and may potentially pick up another book by this author in the future.
One thing I will say about this book and author is that her writing is easy to read and I flew through this book quickly. I'm all for a rockstar romance, but this one just didn't do it for me. Instead of the story gradually getting better for me, it really just ended up getting on my nerves and completely killed the story for me and turned into a chore.
Indie and Cross felt like very flat characters. Getting to know them was very surface level and they weren't interesting. I didn't really even feel like this was romance because there was no connection that made them falling for each other make any sense to me. For one thing Indie was a very contradicting character, doing a lot of telling and not showing. She grew up in the rockstar lifestyle and always brought up how she knew so much about the life, but didn't even know what a "medic" was and made some assumptions about Cross and his lifestyle because of it. She claimed she was close with her dad and told him everything, but the shit she should have been telling him she didn't and kept things from him "she'd normally share." I'm also all for a women standing her ground with shitty men, but there comes a point where you need to be smart and protect yourself and Indie just didn't do that. She was annoyed at her dad wanting her to have a bodyguard in Dean and the man was hardly ever around while Indie was getting cornered all the time by Courting Chao's creepy bass player Eric "Drink" Drinkswine.
Then there's Cross who was disappointing. I wish he did a better job protecting Indie, should have been creeped out by the age of the girls Eric was messing with and when it was pointed out to him he just went about his business, called Eric harmless but clearly did things that were concerning and that's exactly what people say and those "harmless" people go on to murder and commit other extreme levels of violence. He just wasn't enough.
So overall this book ended up being disappointing for me which was sad considering how easily and quickly I read this book. This speaks to how easily absorbed I got in the story. Don't have any real interest in continuing on with the story and may potentially pick up another book by this author in the future.
July 18, 2021
I love Rockstar romances! Something about the limelight, the rush of performing and the balance between the lifestyle and having genuine relationships.
Cross was not a disappointment
Indie Cinderstone is a college student spending the summer on the road with her rock star father, enjoying seeing the country and photographing everything she sees.
Cross Rhodes is the drummer for Courting Chaos, Kissing Cinder's opening act and a genuinely stand up guy. Sure, he sometimes succumbs to the temptations of stardom, but he's a genuinely good dude who takes his career and his art very seriously. In fact most of the members of the opening act are professionals seeing their opening for Kissing Cinder as the amazing opportunity it is. Except for their bass player 'Drink' who is consistently drunk, sleeping with groupies and getting himself into serious trouble, bringing the band downward with him.
Indie finds herself in a precarious situation having taken a compromising photo of Drink during his antics, putting her in danger of his instability.
What I love about this book is that neither Indie, nor Cross are majorly conflicted about how they feel for each other. Often I read books where the characters are tormented over whether they 'deserve' each other, or the past is making it difficult for them to make a connection or some other sort of deep emotional turmoil. Not these two. The conflict is entirely external allowing us to see a genuine love develop between these two.
It's also pretty awesome seeing Indie's relationship with her father. He's a world famous rockstar who indulges in the life (not excessively) yet he makes his relationship with his daughter a major priority. It's seriously heartwarming.
I gave this book five stars because its characters are so unique and so genuine. I'm definitely going to read the rest of the series. I hope that Indie's father also gets his own story, I do love me some aging hot rockstar. :)
I'm stoked I was sent a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Cross was not a disappointment
Indie Cinderstone is a college student spending the summer on the road with her rock star father, enjoying seeing the country and photographing everything she sees.
Cross Rhodes is the drummer for Courting Chaos, Kissing Cinder's opening act and a genuinely stand up guy. Sure, he sometimes succumbs to the temptations of stardom, but he's a genuinely good dude who takes his career and his art very seriously. In fact most of the members of the opening act are professionals seeing their opening for Kissing Cinder as the amazing opportunity it is. Except for their bass player 'Drink' who is consistently drunk, sleeping with groupies and getting himself into serious trouble, bringing the band downward with him.
Indie finds herself in a precarious situation having taken a compromising photo of Drink during his antics, putting her in danger of his instability.
What I love about this book is that neither Indie, nor Cross are majorly conflicted about how they feel for each other. Often I read books where the characters are tormented over whether they 'deserve' each other, or the past is making it difficult for them to make a connection or some other sort of deep emotional turmoil. Not these two. The conflict is entirely external allowing us to see a genuine love develop between these two.
It's also pretty awesome seeing Indie's relationship with her father. He's a world famous rockstar who indulges in the life (not excessively) yet he makes his relationship with his daughter a major priority. It's seriously heartwarming.
I gave this book five stars because its characters are so unique and so genuine. I'm definitely going to read the rest of the series. I hope that Indie's father also gets his own story, I do love me some aging hot rockstar. :)
I'm stoked I was sent a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
June 24, 2020
Great Story & Narration🎧Cross Rocks Indie’s Heart!
Cross
Courting Chaos, Book 1
By: Heather Young-Nichols
Narrated by: Gillian Williams
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I am a huge fan of rock star romances and Heather Young-Nichols did not disappoint one bit. The story grabbed my attention right from the start and held it captive straight to the end. The characters are realistic and easy to relate to. Cross Rhodes is the drummer for Courting Chaos, an up and coming band who just got the break they needed, they were hired to tour with and open for “Kissing Cinder”, a band who sells out large venues. Indie Cinderstone is the daughter of Vince Cinderstone, the lead guitarist of “Kissing Cinder”. The only way she gets to see and spend time with her Dad is to go on tour with him each summer. She is used to the life of a rock star and loves taking advantage of visiting different cities and getting to use her craft, photography. She arrives early to meet her Dad at the venue when she is approached by two guys questioning why she was there, she stood up to them and soon finds out who they are, two of the musicians for the opening band. Cross wasn’t all that bad but the other guy gave her the creeps, Eric Drinkswine. I loved the chemistry between Indie and Cross, they were great together and for each other. Their story is and entertaining one, and there is never a dull moment with plenty of drama, both personal and with the band, a bit of angst, some suspenseful moments, heartfelt ones and a sweet romance. Heather Young-Nichols thank you for this great story!
I listened to the Audible edition, Gillian Williams is a great narrator and voice artist. She brings the characters to life, gives each their own voice and personality. You could hear how much heart she puts into her work as she captures the character’s emotions and projects them into her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen🎧
Cross
Courting Chaos, Book 1
By: Heather Young-Nichols
Narrated by: Gillian Williams
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I am a huge fan of rock star romances and Heather Young-Nichols did not disappoint one bit. The story grabbed my attention right from the start and held it captive straight to the end. The characters are realistic and easy to relate to. Cross Rhodes is the drummer for Courting Chaos, an up and coming band who just got the break they needed, they were hired to tour with and open for “Kissing Cinder”, a band who sells out large venues. Indie Cinderstone is the daughter of Vince Cinderstone, the lead guitarist of “Kissing Cinder”. The only way she gets to see and spend time with her Dad is to go on tour with him each summer. She is used to the life of a rock star and loves taking advantage of visiting different cities and getting to use her craft, photography. She arrives early to meet her Dad at the venue when she is approached by two guys questioning why she was there, she stood up to them and soon finds out who they are, two of the musicians for the opening band. Cross wasn’t all that bad but the other guy gave her the creeps, Eric Drinkswine. I loved the chemistry between Indie and Cross, they were great together and for each other. Their story is and entertaining one, and there is never a dull moment with plenty of drama, both personal and with the band, a bit of angst, some suspenseful moments, heartfelt ones and a sweet romance. Heather Young-Nichols thank you for this great story!
I listened to the Audible edition, Gillian Williams is a great narrator and voice artist. She brings the characters to life, gives each their own voice and personality. You could hear how much heart she puts into her work as she captures the character’s emotions and projects them into her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen🎧
July 28, 2018
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it. I think the subject matter is an interesting one, with the older more established band touring together for decades and one of the band members having his daughter tour with him every Summer so they can spend time together. The daughter hits 21 and becomes interested in the drummer for the support act.
It must be a circumstance that happens, with bigger bands always touring with younger and less established artists and family members meeting and hanging out together.
Indie, the daughter, is an interesting character. She is matter of fact and plain spoken and loves her Dad and his band a lot. She is a talented photographer and takes and interest in the places the band visits on tour, getting to experience them in a way the people working on the tour never would have time for. She is privileged but she knows it and isn’t spoiled by it.
Cross, the drummer is a typical guy. He is really proud of the work his band has put in to reach this opportunity to tour with the big band. He and two friends formed the band and brought a fourth one in purely as a bass player. The bass player is a complete ass. Cross is taken with Indie straight away but they have to work through some stuff first.
I repeat, the bass player is an ass.
I’m pleased that this is the first book in a series as I really want to see what happens next for Indie and Cross, but also for the other guys in the band. A really enjoyable read.
It must be a circumstance that happens, with bigger bands always touring with younger and less established artists and family members meeting and hanging out together.
Indie, the daughter, is an interesting character. She is matter of fact and plain spoken and loves her Dad and his band a lot. She is a talented photographer and takes and interest in the places the band visits on tour, getting to experience them in a way the people working on the tour never would have time for. She is privileged but she knows it and isn’t spoiled by it.
Cross, the drummer is a typical guy. He is really proud of the work his band has put in to reach this opportunity to tour with the big band. He and two friends formed the band and brought a fourth one in purely as a bass player. The bass player is a complete ass. Cross is taken with Indie straight away but they have to work through some stuff first.
I repeat, the bass player is an ass.
I’m pleased that this is the first book in a series as I really want to see what happens next for Indie and Cross, but also for the other guys in the band. A really enjoyable read.
September 2, 2020
This is book 1 in the Courting Chaos series and I love the rock star back drop of this read / listen. This is Indie and Cross' story. Indie is used to the rock start life - her dad is a part of Kissing Cinder and Courting Chaos has been chosen to be their opening. Cross is the drummer for Courting and seems in this read to be holding the band together after their bass player goes too far - in more than one way. Cross becomes more than Indie's hero in this read and I love how he's a part of the rocker lifestyle but still separate. I also love Indie's dad, "don't be a d!ck and don't make me break your neck" I loved that line. Indie has a great banter about her and seems pretty happy go lucky. A good storyline, with a HEA and a teaser of what's to come in book 2. Narration was well done, pitch and tone changes to reflect separate characters was well done too. Well written with good flow. Looking forward to reading more on this series!
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read.
June 1, 2023
I wanted a lot more from this book. It was my introduction of Heather Young-Nichols work and that being said I will be reading more but I also was expecting more from this book. It was an absurdly quick read with little to no spice, the spice that it did contain was not detailed and lasted less than a page. The only reason I mention this is because it felt like more of a fade to black type spice than what was advertised. When you think rockstar romance you think hot and steamy, this was not that, it was far more of the cute and sexual tension type of book. I also felt as though the conflict in this book was more focused on than the romance itself, we spent more time thinking about Drink than we did about Cross and Indie. It was also supposed to be a forbidden romance book but there was little to no forbiddenness(I know its not a word but I am using it as one) and what did exist was only self imposed by the characters. I would say this is a cute and insanely quick read forced proximity romance and I will be likely reading the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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