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Lead Me Back
A twist of fate proves wildly explosive in New York Times bestselling author CD Reiss’s smart and sexy Hollywood romance about the cost of running from your past to get to your dreams.
Cutting all ties, Kayla Montgomery drives cross-country to Los Angeles. New start. New life. And an unexpected new assistant to Justin Beckett.
The Justin Beckett.
The boy band rebel with the cocky attitude and dreamy bed head who casts a spell over his fans and tests the patience of his handlers.
Now at the peak of Mount Adulthood, he has to build a clean-cut, movie star image. It’s in his contract. No partying. No attitude. No groupies.
To tie it together, he needs a normal girl.
Suddenly, Kayla’s swept up in Justin’s glamorous world, and his arms. But the most dizzying thing is Justin himself. Sweet, generous, reliable, and as eager to shed his past as Kayla is hers.
About that…
Those ties she thought she’d cut? They’ve followed her across the country with her secrets in tow, and they’re about to test Kayla’s courage, Justin’s loyalty, and a love that wasn’t part of the deal.
Cutting all ties, Kayla Montgomery drives cross-country to Los Angeles. New start. New life. And an unexpected new assistant to Justin Beckett.
The Justin Beckett.
The boy band rebel with the cocky attitude and dreamy bed head who casts a spell over his fans and tests the patience of his handlers.
Now at the peak of Mount Adulthood, he has to build a clean-cut, movie star image. It’s in his contract. No partying. No attitude. No groupies.
To tie it together, he needs a normal girl.
Suddenly, Kayla’s swept up in Justin’s glamorous world, and his arms. But the most dizzying thing is Justin himself. Sweet, generous, reliable, and as eager to shed his past as Kayla is hers.
About that…
Those ties she thought she’d cut? They’ve followed her across the country with her secrets in tow, and they’re about to test Kayla’s courage, Justin’s loyalty, and a love that wasn’t part of the deal.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2020
726 people are currently reading
3503 people want to read
About the author
C.D. Reiss
112 books9,643 followersCD Reiss is a New York Times bestselling author. She still has to chop wood and carry water, which was buried in the fine print. Her lawyer is working it out with God but in the meantime, if you call and she doesn't pick up she's at the well hauling buckets.
Born in New York City, she moved to Hollywood, California to get her master's degree in screenwriting from USC. In case you want to know, that went nowhere but it did give her a big enough ego to write novels.
She's frequently referred to as the Shakespeare of Smut which is flattering but hasn't ever gotten her out of chopping a single cord of wood.
If you meet her in person, you should call her Christine.
***NONE OF MY BOOKS ARE SAFE***
Born in New York City, she moved to Hollywood, California to get her master's degree in screenwriting from USC. In case you want to know, that went nowhere but it did give her a big enough ego to write novels.
She's frequently referred to as the Shakespeare of Smut which is flattering but hasn't ever gotten her out of chopping a single cord of wood.
If you meet her in person, you should call her Christine.
***NONE OF MY BOOKS ARE SAFE***
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 340 reviews
June 30, 2020
There is something about a celebrity romance that I gravitate toward. I don't love every one I read, but I always have to try it because when it works - there's something almost magical about it. This is actual fairytale material and my sappy little romance loving heart will never ever tire of fairytales.
C.D. Reiss got it just right.
I was sucked in immediately and then I was in. Like all in for Justin and Kayla's love story.
I'll admit, I had a moment of pause when I realized I was basically reading a Justin Bieber story. A moment where I was like -- oy, can I do this?
Turns out, I can.
And then I did.
Because it was addictive and compelling and sexy and romantic. And it was a fairytale. And, well, you already know how I feel about those.
Truly, I loved everything. The banter was on point. I loved how plucky and fierce Kayla was. I loved that she wasn't starstruck or even all that impressed with Justin at first. I loved how she made him work to win her trust and her heart. I loved how he did work for her. And how he was so genuine and generous. I loved how much surprising depth he had, and how much he cared for those he loved.
I loved that there was no unnecessary drama here. These two were so real with each other - even when it hurt.
I just...loved them! In the most unexpected and delightful ways. Lead Me Back was a fun read and it delivered all the heart flutters and sappy smiles I could ever have asked for. Definitely recommend for a fun romantic escape! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
* * *
Lead Me back was another fun C.D. Reiss story that held my attention from beginning to end. This story was full of swoons and delicious banter. Kayla and Justin were sexy and engaging and I loved this compelling celebrity romance.
While I love Reiss' usual serious and often times uber alpha stories, Lead Me Back was unique in it's own way. Justin was not like her usual alpha male heroes but he was no less addicting as a young celebrity. I also loved his banter with Kayla as their connection felt genuine. She was very real and gave as good as she got. Overall, this was a sweet and sexy read. 4 stars! ~Ratula
C.D. Reiss got it just right.
I was sucked in immediately and then I was in. Like all in for Justin and Kayla's love story.
I'll admit, I had a moment of pause when I realized I was basically reading a Justin Bieber story. A moment where I was like -- oy, can I do this?
Turns out, I can.
And then I did.
Because it was addictive and compelling and sexy and romantic. And it was a fairytale. And, well, you already know how I feel about those.
Truly, I loved everything. The banter was on point. I loved how plucky and fierce Kayla was. I loved that she wasn't starstruck or even all that impressed with Justin at first. I loved how she made him work to win her trust and her heart. I loved how he did work for her. And how he was so genuine and generous. I loved how much surprising depth he had, and how much he cared for those he loved.
I loved that there was no unnecessary drama here. These two were so real with each other - even when it hurt.
I just...loved them! In the most unexpected and delightful ways. Lead Me Back was a fun read and it delivered all the heart flutters and sappy smiles I could ever have asked for. Definitely recommend for a fun romantic escape! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
* * *
Lead Me back was another fun C.D. Reiss story that held my attention from beginning to end. This story was full of swoons and delicious banter. Kayla and Justin were sexy and engaging and I loved this compelling celebrity romance.
While I love Reiss' usual serious and often times uber alpha stories, Lead Me Back was unique in it's own way. Justin was not like her usual alpha male heroes but he was no less addicting as a young celebrity. I also loved his banter with Kayla as their connection felt genuine. She was very real and gave as good as she got. Overall, this was a sweet and sexy read. 4 stars! ~Ratula
July 7, 2020
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Kayla Montgomery is a fashion designer who leaves behind her life in New York and moves to Los Angeles for a fresh start and a simpler life. As she drives across the country she encounters a few unexpected detours and crosses paths with fallen bad boy superstar Justin Beckett. She soon finds herself tangled in his web and her welcome to LA doesn't go quite as planned. Suddenly she's his assistant, and she finds herself roped into someone else's drama. He's a complicated beautiful man, but she can't get distracted from her goals. Although she enjoys his attention, her focus has to stay on following her dreams. As she gets to know Justin better, she realizes there's more to him than meets the eye. Will she be able to resist him charms, or will she get swept up in his world and give in to the the magnetic pull between them?
Justin Beckett is a musician who found fame at a young age, and is often labeled as impulsive and immature. Lately the future is uncertain and he feels like everything is spiraling out of control. He needs to reform his bad boy ways, and improve his brand. He's ready to focus on work, and wants to get into acting. It's time for an image makeover where people will talk more about his talents than his escapades. Then he meets Kayla, and she challenges him, and makes him feel vulnerable. She's not starstruck, and doesn't play games. Can he shed his reputation and past to finally have something real and lasting?
Lead Me Back by CD Reiss is a fun, sexy Hollywood romance full of chemistry and fantastic banter. I really loved this story and these characters. Justin's a gorgeous misunderstood rock star turned movie star that will steal your heart, and Kayla is a tough, confident woman that knows her worth. Together they are pure magic!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3iCJTG8
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Kayla Montgomery is a fashion designer who leaves behind her life in New York and moves to Los Angeles for a fresh start and a simpler life. As she drives across the country she encounters a few unexpected detours and crosses paths with fallen bad boy superstar Justin Beckett. She soon finds herself tangled in his web and her welcome to LA doesn't go quite as planned. Suddenly she's his assistant, and she finds herself roped into someone else's drama. He's a complicated beautiful man, but she can't get distracted from her goals. Although she enjoys his attention, her focus has to stay on following her dreams. As she gets to know Justin better, she realizes there's more to him than meets the eye. Will she be able to resist him charms, or will she get swept up in his world and give in to the the magnetic pull between them?
Justin Beckett is a musician who found fame at a young age, and is often labeled as impulsive and immature. Lately the future is uncertain and he feels like everything is spiraling out of control. He needs to reform his bad boy ways, and improve his brand. He's ready to focus on work, and wants to get into acting. It's time for an image makeover where people will talk more about his talents than his escapades. Then he meets Kayla, and she challenges him, and makes him feel vulnerable. She's not starstruck, and doesn't play games. Can he shed his reputation and past to finally have something real and lasting?
Lead Me Back by CD Reiss is a fun, sexy Hollywood romance full of chemistry and fantastic banter. I really loved this story and these characters. Justin's a gorgeous misunderstood rock star turned movie star that will steal your heart, and Kayla is a tough, confident woman that knows her worth. Together they are pure magic!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3iCJTG8
July 4, 2020
A love story that makes you smile. A hero and heroine that go toe to toe with quick and fun banter and a redemption quality in the story that gives them each a second chance.
Justin Beckett is the bad boy rockstar, turned actor, who has to walk the line because of his past with his former band members. Kayla Montgomery is a garment designer from New York who has run from her past to LA because of an incident that has ruined her reputation. These two meet by a total bizarre and random coincident but there is something about each other that forms a spark. I must say that Louise, Justin’s grandmother, is the sweetest and cutest secondary character that shines throughout the story.
I loved the premise of the story. I loved the slow burn of the story and how the incidents of the past for both Justin and Kayla hoover throughout the story until they must be addressed and confronted. I will say that parts of the story were a little disjointed for me but the beginning and the end were strong and swoon worthy. This is a lovely contemporary romance that takes your mind off the craziness of the world because who doesn’t love a rockstar who redeems himself and a garment designer who succeeds on her own that fall in love and live happily ever after❤️
*advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
April 5, 2020
The one thing I really like about this author is that even though I'm not a particular fan of Hollywood stories, I've learned that her writing always manages to capture my attention and I find myself sucked into the book. I'm not even a big fan of the type of hero she has in this one and I still ended up loving him by the end of the book.
Nothing against Justin, just that he was young and arrogant and I tend to relate to the more mature characters. However, you do see real depth in him as the story unfolds. Behind the arrogance is a really good guy and he completely won me over by the end.
Kayla is a heroine that I adore. She's tough, but not too tough. She didn't fawn all over Justin even though there was that instant attraction. I respected her. I can't say that about many heroines so when I find one it's pure gold for me.
You won't be too surprised by the storyline but I'm going to mention again the fantastic writing this author always delivers and that's what really had me loving this book. In fact, I would love to see some spinoffs. There is some side characters that were pretty interesting.
Nothing against Justin, just that he was young and arrogant and I tend to relate to the more mature characters. However, you do see real depth in him as the story unfolds. Behind the arrogance is a really good guy and he completely won me over by the end.
Kayla is a heroine that I adore. She's tough, but not too tough. She didn't fawn all over Justin even though there was that instant attraction. I respected her. I can't say that about many heroines so when I find one it's pure gold for me.
You won't be too surprised by the storyline but I'm going to mention again the fantastic writing this author always delivers and that's what really had me loving this book. In fact, I would love to see some spinoffs. There is some side characters that were pretty interesting.
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July 7, 2020LEAD ME BACK is out now!
I loved writing this story and I hope you love it too.
Download yours today or read FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2WIWuio
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/leadmeback
Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/33W9WRX
Amazon Audio: https://amzn.to/39pgjON
Cutting all ties, Kayla Montgomery drives cross-country to Los Angeles. New start. New life. And an unexpected new job: assistant to Justin Beckett.
The Justin Beckett.
The boy band rebel with the cocky attitude and dreamy bed head who casts a spell over his fans and tests the patience of his handlers.
Now at the peak of Mount Adulthood, he has to build a clean-cut, movie star image. It’s in his contract. No partying. No attitude. No groupies.
To tie it together, he needs a normal girl.
Suddenly, Kayla’s swept up in Justin’s glamorous world, and his arms. But the most dizzying thing is Justin himself. Sweet, generous, reliable, and as eager to shed his past as Kayla is hers.
About that…
Those ties she thought she’d cut? They’ve followed her across the country with her secrets in tow, and they’re about to test Kayla’s courage, Justin’s loyalty, and a love that wasn’t part of the deal.
I loved writing this story and I hope you love it too.
Download yours today or read FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2WIWuio
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/leadmeback
Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/33W9WRX
Amazon Audio: https://amzn.to/39pgjON
Cutting all ties, Kayla Montgomery drives cross-country to Los Angeles. New start. New life. And an unexpected new job: assistant to Justin Beckett.
The Justin Beckett.
The boy band rebel with the cocky attitude and dreamy bed head who casts a spell over his fans and tests the patience of his handlers.
Now at the peak of Mount Adulthood, he has to build a clean-cut, movie star image. It’s in his contract. No partying. No attitude. No groupies.
To tie it together, he needs a normal girl.
Suddenly, Kayla’s swept up in Justin’s glamorous world, and his arms. But the most dizzying thing is Justin himself. Sweet, generous, reliable, and as eager to shed his past as Kayla is hers.
About that…
Those ties she thought she’d cut? They’ve followed her across the country with her secrets in tow, and they’re about to test Kayla’s courage, Justin’s loyalty, and a love that wasn’t part of the deal.
July 12, 2020
TITLE: LEAD ME BACK
AUTHOR: CD Reiss
SERIES: Standalone
RELEASE DATE: July 7,2020
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
THEMES & TROPES: Hollywood
RATING: 4.5 STARS
CLIFFHANGER: No
READ MY REVIEW ON THE BLOG
Ah CD Reiss writes amazingly strong heroines and Kayla is exactly my kind of girl. A straight shooter, real, relatable. I loved that Justin's celebrity status didn't make a difference to her, that she didn't let his fame take over her life. She was independent, fierce and tough without being hardened. And if anyone could be perfect for a superstar it was Kayla. She was so low maintenance, there was no huge drama with her.
“I need to live the one life I have.” Pushing against my hands, I stood up. “I can’t let you take over. I won’t.”
And Justin was a surprise. He had such a generous, kind heart that cared so much for his friends and family when you looked past all the glitz and glitter. The way he was with his hilarious, meddling grandmother was just heartwarming. Despite his celebrity he was so grounded and focused on what was important. Kayla and Justin felt realistic in a way I didn't expect in a Hollywood romance.
Doing something to make her happy, though . . . that was like a nuclear bomb of unicorns and rainbows in my heart.
I wanted to have a little more explorations of Kayla and her dad's reunion. I adored how they found their way back to each other. There is one story thread I would have liked to see being tied up neatly but these things are a personal preference. Who knows, maybe we get that story in another book. Crossing my fingers here!
CD Reiss's words are magic - she lets us take a look behind the curtain of fame in her Hollywood romance books, lets us see that being a celebrity isn't really all that fun it looks to be on the outside.
I totally enjoyed LEAD ME BACK. If you need to get out of your head? Grab this. If you're feeling blue? Grab this. If you want to laugh a little? Grab this. You get my drift. This was a delightfully cute, quick read and I really can't recommend Lead Me Back enough for everyone who needs a pick-me-up.
He would always be just a little bigger, shine just a little brighter. That was for the world, but for me? He’d always be the man my eyes sought out and my heart expanded for.
July 27, 2020
A sexy and sweet Hollywood romance, I could not resist this delectable story from one of my favourite romance writers. Kayla Montgomery decides to start a new life in LA and inadvertently becomes tangled up in more ways than one with boy band sensation Justin Beckett.
'Lead Me Back,' has all the ingredients needed to concoct a light, easy to read romance that hooks the reader in from the beginning to end. There was nothing not to love and I was super excited to read. CD Reiss pulled me into her world of make-believe by creating characters who I completely warmed to and a relationship that, from the outside looking in, seemed like a scenario that dreams are made of, which is exactly what I need in my romance novels.
Advance copy provided.
'Lead Me Back,' has all the ingredients needed to concoct a light, easy to read romance that hooks the reader in from the beginning to end. There was nothing not to love and I was super excited to read. CD Reiss pulled me into her world of make-believe by creating characters who I completely warmed to and a relationship that, from the outside looking in, seemed like a scenario that dreams are made of, which is exactly what I need in my romance novels.
Advance copy provided.
August 2, 2021
I picked up this book because of the advertised meet-cute:
"What if you changed your number and your new number was a pop superstar celebrity's old number? And the phone rang constantly?"
Admittedly this sounded like major fun and I do enjoy celebrity romances sadly this was a miss for me. Granted the meet cute was done well, the pairing of a cocky celebrity male to a woman relatively immune to his swagger held some appeal. I also want to thank grandma Louise, secondary cast she was but she made the book for me. Weeze, I love you.
It's just unfortunate the hero's brand of charm was a total loss on me. I found him too immature and juvenile. Perhaps it was the gold chains and the tank tops. I do like a hard ass heroine but Kayla almost appeared apathetic at times in her attempts to put some distance between her and Justin and her indifference—feigned or not— was communicative because I felt myself unconcerned by Justin eager puppy attempts to get her attention. I would also get pulled out of the story because of the writing style, the dialogues especially, were hard to follow.
There's a great deal of things happening in subplots to the tepid and tedious romance, most I felt were glossed over and consequently failed to hold my interest, not the real reasons behind Justin's band implosion, not what was happening to freaking Chad and his mental health, not about the celebrity gossip coverage, not about Kayla's job hunting, not even about Kayla's history of sexual assault, not about Evelyn/Eddie budding romance, not about Kayla's parents breakup... Too much drama, not enough bandwidth.
And then there's Justin vernacular, as if we needed another proof of his relative young age:
Nah.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
"What if you changed your number and your new number was a pop superstar celebrity's old number? And the phone rang constantly?"
Admittedly this sounded like major fun and I do enjoy celebrity romances sadly this was a miss for me. Granted the meet cute was done well, the pairing of a cocky celebrity male to a woman relatively immune to his swagger held some appeal. I also want to thank grandma Louise, secondary cast she was but she made the book for me. Weeze, I love you.
It's just unfortunate the hero's brand of charm was a total loss on me. I found him too immature and juvenile. Perhaps it was the gold chains and the tank tops. I do like a hard ass heroine but Kayla almost appeared apathetic at times in her attempts to put some distance between her and Justin and her indifference—feigned or not— was communicative because I felt myself unconcerned by Justin eager puppy attempts to get her attention. I would also get pulled out of the story because of the writing style, the dialogues especially, were hard to follow.
There's a great deal of things happening in subplots to the tepid and tedious romance, most I felt were glossed over and consequently failed to hold my interest, not the real reasons behind Justin's band implosion, not what was happening to freaking Chad and his mental health, not about the celebrity gossip coverage, not about Kayla's job hunting, not even about Kayla's history of sexual assault, not about Evelyn/Eddie budding romance, not about Kayla's parents breakup... Too much drama, not enough bandwidth.
And then there's Justin vernacular, as if we needed another proof of his relative young age:
"Do you like me or nah?"
Nah.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
June 18, 2025
I enjoyed Lead Me Back for a few reasons but I loved it because C.D. Reiss wrote a Hollywood story with a grandmother as a secondary character, that actually played an important roll, which she named
Louise
and gave her the nickname
Weeze
. That’s probably not going to mean a whole lot to some of you, but it doesn’t matter because there’s plenty of other reason to #oneclick this book!
This is one of those stories that reads like magic. At its core, it’s just a story of two people fumbling thru getting to know each other and trying to make a go of it with a ton of obstacles in their way. But that’s just the core. The reality is that one is a celebrity and the other is one that is averse to said limelight, hence the obstacles. They both come with baggage they’d like to shed and history they’d like to move forward from and away from and if they could just look past the trees and see the forest, they’d see the sensational future they have ahead of each other, together as a unit!
I thoroughly enjoyed the echo the story had to real life events and circumstances while also maintaining the illusion of romance fiction. This wasn’t a modern take of any tale, it was a fictional story embedded in modern day society’s circumstances and I for one enjoyed that realism. It added credibility to every action and reaction in the story and it allowed me to believe in the story wholeheartedly! Plus, the story was fun!!
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading this author’s work for many years and every time I read one of her books, I am reminded of what a powerhouse writer I believe her to be. It doesn’t matter what project she undertakes, whether it be a dark romance or a feel-good contemporary romance, they always have her signature edge to them that always keeps me on my toes while I read. They are always sexy, emotional, anticipatory, and passionate! I know I’m reading fiction but I feel enriched after I read them, every single time!
This is one of those stories that reads like magic. At its core, it’s just a story of two people fumbling thru getting to know each other and trying to make a go of it with a ton of obstacles in their way. But that’s just the core. The reality is that one is a celebrity and the other is one that is averse to said limelight, hence the obstacles. They both come with baggage they’d like to shed and history they’d like to move forward from and away from and if they could just look past the trees and see the forest, they’d see the sensational future they have ahead of each other, together as a unit!
I thoroughly enjoyed the echo the story had to real life events and circumstances while also maintaining the illusion of romance fiction. This wasn’t a modern take of any tale, it was a fictional story embedded in modern day society’s circumstances and I for one enjoyed that realism. It added credibility to every action and reaction in the story and it allowed me to believe in the story wholeheartedly! Plus, the story was fun!!
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading this author’s work for many years and every time I read one of her books, I am reminded of what a powerhouse writer I believe her to be. It doesn’t matter what project she undertakes, whether it be a dark romance or a feel-good contemporary romance, they always have her signature edge to them that always keeps me on my toes while I read. They are always sexy, emotional, anticipatory, and passionate! I know I’m reading fiction but I feel enriched after I read them, every single time!
June 27, 2020
I'm usually a huge CD Reiss fan, but this one didn't wow me like her others. I liked Kayla’s character but not Justin’s. He just seemed like a douche through most of the book and I didn't feel their connection until almost the end (emotional or physical). Also, some parts of the story were a little difficult to follow because conversations went in different directions or were choppy.
I did like Louise (Justin’s grandmother) and Kayla’s dad. They were great supporting characters. The storyline was also really unique and I always enjoy seeing mentions of characters from other books (Bodyguard, Bombshell, Shuttergirl/Starcrossed).
This one was just ok. I'd still recommend if you're looking for something fairly light to read.
I did like Louise (Justin’s grandmother) and Kayla’s dad. They were great supporting characters. The storyline was also really unique and I always enjoy seeing mentions of characters from other books (Bodyguard, Bombshell, Shuttergirl/Starcrossed).
This one was just ok. I'd still recommend if you're looking for something fairly light to read.
July 3, 2020
Kayla has really reached rock bottom when she leaves New York to start a new life in L.A. She has little money to her name, a huge passion for starting her own clothing line and a closed down theatre as a roof over her head.
On the day she arrives she receives a wrong number phone call on the phone she just had connected and not wanting to let an old lady down, she ends up delivering roses to a complete stranger. This is how she meets Justin Beckett, ex-boyband and movie star. Grandson of the wrong number caller.
It turns out Justin has recently been through a publicity nightmare, all brought upon himself, he has parted ways from his band, alcohol, drugs, women and his old phone number. After everything blew up his ‘people’ decided that cutting ties with anyone from his old life would be best. However, now that he knows someone has a lifeline to his old band, he decides having Kayla around could be beneficial. Having her working on his latest movie set gives her a job and him access to any potential calls. Thus begins a strange friendship or sorts between Justin and ‘Kaylacakes.’
Kayla’s ultimate goal is to get backing for her portfolio so she can launch her own clothing line. Working for Justin cements her desire to work for herself. When an opportunity comes up to present her ideas to a well known and lucrative backer, she is disappointed to discover that who you know doesn’t always bring the best results. It is also a reminder of why she left New York and makes her realise that running away from things doesn’t mean the problem will go away.
As her friendship with Justin moves into something more intimate and meaningful she decides that dealing with her past is the only way to move forward. However, Justin’s reaction to this decision was not what she expected it to be. It turns out that his loyalty had conditions and she will not be with someone who can’t be unconditional with her. Justin has a lot of grovelling to do if he wants this plot to end in a happy ever after.
This is a fun romance set among the Hollywood hills and the world of movies.
On the day she arrives she receives a wrong number phone call on the phone she just had connected and not wanting to let an old lady down, she ends up delivering roses to a complete stranger. This is how she meets Justin Beckett, ex-boyband and movie star. Grandson of the wrong number caller.
It turns out Justin has recently been through a publicity nightmare, all brought upon himself, he has parted ways from his band, alcohol, drugs, women and his old phone number. After everything blew up his ‘people’ decided that cutting ties with anyone from his old life would be best. However, now that he knows someone has a lifeline to his old band, he decides having Kayla around could be beneficial. Having her working on his latest movie set gives her a job and him access to any potential calls. Thus begins a strange friendship or sorts between Justin and ‘Kaylacakes.’
Kayla’s ultimate goal is to get backing for her portfolio so she can launch her own clothing line. Working for Justin cements her desire to work for herself. When an opportunity comes up to present her ideas to a well known and lucrative backer, she is disappointed to discover that who you know doesn’t always bring the best results. It is also a reminder of why she left New York and makes her realise that running away from things doesn’t mean the problem will go away.
As her friendship with Justin moves into something more intimate and meaningful she decides that dealing with her past is the only way to move forward. However, Justin’s reaction to this decision was not what she expected it to be. It turns out that his loyalty had conditions and she will not be with someone who can’t be unconditional with her. Justin has a lot of grovelling to do if he wants this plot to end in a happy ever after.
This is a fun romance set among the Hollywood hills and the world of movies.
February 2, 2022
Kayla Montgomery fashion designer leaves New York City, after hiting rock bottom because she was black balled, drives across country to LA in her beat up white van. Kayla wanted to erase her life in New York and start fresh. First thing she does is change her phone number to an LA number. To her surprise she gets a call from a grandmother who believe she was an assistant for her grandson. Kayla tried to explain she was not this person, however we all know how convincing & sweet our grandmothers can be. So Kayla is now running an errand for said grandmother. Once Kayla arrived with the gift for the birthday party she wanted her money reimbursed because Kayla just got to town, she on a budget with no job. When grandmother called grandson to the door, low a behold its the Justin Becker, lead singer to ex-boyband and now a movie star. In awe Kayla was star struck that is until he opened his mouth. Kayla now knew why Justin was bad boy going through publicity nightmare because of choices me made. Our girl Kayla the sassy herione who takes no crap from no one, a straight shooter, independent & fierce. Told Justin just where to get off.
This is where the journey start, Justin surprised that he was being told no, because no one told him no. He is now requesting that Kayla takes messages and he would pay her for her time. The love hate relationship and the friendship that started to bloom from that moment. Great read, hilarous.
This is where the journey start, Justin surprised that he was being told no, because no one told him no. He is now requesting that Kayla takes messages and he would pay her for her time. The love hate relationship and the friendship that started to bloom from that moment. Great read, hilarous.
July 7, 2020
I was so convinced I would hate this story for so many reasons. The characters' skew younger than I typically like. Meet too cute. The hero is steeped in boy bands and Justin Bieber. For any other writer, the Biebs as a muse would be a hard nope. But, this is CD Reiss. I had to see if she could manage to get me to finish it, let alone not hate it. So - long story short this started out as a grudge read.
Then, I met Kayla. And I fell in love. Wise, mouthy, and, sometimes to her detriment, kind. And on a journey I totally love. Not so much finding herself, but being herself with no apologies, and no baggage from her past. Then Justin drops into her life at the worst possible time in his. A hot mess douchebro, and headache that Kayla doesn't need. Of course there was so much more to Justin than meets the eye. It wouldn't be any other way.
Their story is so swoony and captivating in its simplicity, I couldn't put it down. Love blooms like dandelions fighting through cracks in the pavement, unexpected and tenacious. It took no time at all to be genuinely swept away and invested in their emotional push pull. I shiver thinking about how much I loved this story.
It's the sunny, sweet side of CD Reiss we too rarely see. The impeccably written, utterly delicious romantic escape we all need right now, whether the beach is open or not.
#TopReadsof2020
#perfectescape
Then, I met Kayla. And I fell in love. Wise, mouthy, and, sometimes to her detriment, kind. And on a journey I totally love. Not so much finding herself, but being herself with no apologies, and no baggage from her past. Then Justin drops into her life at the worst possible time in his. A hot mess douchebro, and headache that Kayla doesn't need. Of course there was so much more to Justin than meets the eye. It wouldn't be any other way.
Their story is so swoony and captivating in its simplicity, I couldn't put it down. Love blooms like dandelions fighting through cracks in the pavement, unexpected and tenacious. It took no time at all to be genuinely swept away and invested in their emotional push pull. I shiver thinking about how much I loved this story.
It's the sunny, sweet side of CD Reiss we too rarely see. The impeccably written, utterly delicious romantic escape we all need right now, whether the beach is open or not.
#TopReadsof2020
#perfectescape
September 29, 2022
3.5 stars
September 7, 2020
I really enjoyed this, in spite of it being centred around Hollywood. It seemed like it would stay that way. The Hero, Justin and the Heroine Kayla had great chemistry. Their meet cue was... so cute.
Justin's grandma Louise plays all innocent like, but is a major buttinski . (Butt-in-ski) not sure how to spell it, but oh well.
Kayla moves to L.A. to start over. She has so many bad breaks at the beginning of this book, I'm so glad author Christine, finally changed her luck. The scene when Kayla & Louise meet is so dang funny.
Kayla works hard , but is trying to make it big in the fashion industry.
Justin is a musician, who also had some bad breaks, but made a couple of bad choices. He's in a very dog- eat -dog competitive profession. The tabloids are constantly after Justin & whoever he's with- ( you guessed it- Kayla ) Kayla is very private, for very private reasons.
The story and characters really clicked for me toward the 30% or so mark- although, you have to watch out for Grandma Louise throughout the book.
I listened to the audio. Emma Wilder (Kayla) had a majority of the narration time.
Justin (Joe Arden does Justin's chapters), is very sweet to Kayla, but has trouble trusting women after he got burned trying to help out a friend.
There's some serious moments that were very well done. I was waiting for vindication!
I read the book too. The dialogue is great.
This is set in the L.A. area Some of the cities are very close to where I live. I still feel like I got taken away.
Justin's grandma Louise plays all innocent like, but is a major buttinski . (Butt-in-ski) not sure how to spell it, but oh well.
Kayla moves to L.A. to start over. She has so many bad breaks at the beginning of this book, I'm so glad author Christine, finally changed her luck. The scene when Kayla & Louise meet is so dang funny.
Kayla works hard , but is trying to make it big in the fashion industry.
Justin is a musician, who also had some bad breaks, but made a couple of bad choices. He's in a very dog- eat -dog competitive profession. The tabloids are constantly after Justin & whoever he's with- ( you guessed it- Kayla ) Kayla is very private, for very private reasons.
The story and characters really clicked for me toward the 30% or so mark- although, you have to watch out for Grandma Louise throughout the book.
I listened to the audio. Emma Wilder (Kayla) had a majority of the narration time.
Justin (Joe Arden does Justin's chapters), is very sweet to Kayla, but has trouble trusting women after he got burned trying to help out a friend.
There's some serious moments that were very well done. I was waiting for vindication!
I read the book too. The dialogue is great.
This is set in the L.A. area Some of the cities are very close to where I live. I still feel like I got taken away.
July 9, 2020
Kayla's finally going to be in the same state as her sister Talia. And as scary as this next adventure seems to be the she knows she's ready to make her dreams of becoming a fashion designer true.
Let me say that the beginning of this book with Justin's grandmother, Louise, had me cracking up. She is something else and I knew she would be one that I would not be able to forget. Justin left his mark on Kayla on their first encounter and as hard as she tried to forget about him she couldn't. Both had secrets and issues yet they attracted each other like magnets. The banter between them was refreshing and the chemistry, well that was BOOM. Get cozy and ready to read about love story that was denied until they until they no longer could deny it. Kara~ 4 Stars
Let me say that the beginning of this book with Justin's grandmother, Louise, had me cracking up. She is something else and I knew she would be one that I would not be able to forget. Justin left his mark on Kayla on their first encounter and as hard as she tried to forget about him she couldn't. Both had secrets and issues yet they attracted each other like magnets. The banter between them was refreshing and the chemistry, well that was BOOM. Get cozy and ready to read about love story that was denied until they until they no longer could deny it. Kara~ 4 Stars
June 20, 2020
About this book • Release date: July, 7th 2020 • Published by Montlake • 300 pages • Contemporary Romance • 2 ⭐️
This one just fell flat for me, it was just ok. I didn’t feel the chemistry and I didn’t like the main characters. And to be honest, there wasn’t anything to like about him.
This was a Netgalley Arc from the publisher and all opinions are my own. I’ve given my honest review.
This one just fell flat for me, it was just ok. I didn’t feel the chemistry and I didn’t like the main characters. And to be honest, there wasn’t anything to like about him.
This was a Netgalley Arc from the publisher and all opinions are my own. I’ve given my honest review.
July 8, 2020
It isn’t often that I get to the end of a book and then want to read it all over again because I loved it. I so want to read this one again.
The way CD Reiss writes just hits my buttons. She writes so matter of factly:
this is what happened
this is how they looked
this is what they said
It’s like she’s recounting actual events to me and then she’ll throw in a random observation about a billboard or an item of clothing and I’m there hanging on her every word.
Justin Bieber doesn’t do it for me but Justin Beckett, totally does. I love how the fact that his life exploding didn’t him stop in his tracks. Sunset Boys break up, easy go get an acting job. Stay cool. Stay classy.
Kayla is the same. New York turns against you; go to LA and live in your grandpa’s abandoned movie theatre. Use your sewing skills, get a new job.
The way the two meet through a random wrong number and the amazing side character of Louise aka Weeze is perfect happenstance. Weeze is hilarious. I wish she was my grandma.
Lead Me Back is a funny, sweet, easy breezy read with great characters and film worthy scenery. Now to go find some character inspiration and listen to Sunset Sons, who are an actual band and one of my favourites.
The way CD Reiss writes just hits my buttons. She writes so matter of factly:
this is what happened
this is how they looked
this is what they said
It’s like she’s recounting actual events to me and then she’ll throw in a random observation about a billboard or an item of clothing and I’m there hanging on her every word.
Justin Bieber doesn’t do it for me but Justin Beckett, totally does. I love how the fact that his life exploding didn’t him stop in his tracks. Sunset Boys break up, easy go get an acting job. Stay cool. Stay classy.
Kayla is the same. New York turns against you; go to LA and live in your grandpa’s abandoned movie theatre. Use your sewing skills, get a new job.
The way the two meet through a random wrong number and the amazing side character of Louise aka Weeze is perfect happenstance. Weeze is hilarious. I wish she was my grandma.
Lead Me Back is a funny, sweet, easy breezy read with great characters and film worthy scenery. Now to go find some character inspiration and listen to Sunset Sons, who are an actual band and one of my favourites.
October 1, 2021
this really couldn't get more stars, since it came out flat...
and after the previously read book, by Jewel E Ann (The naked fisherman) and the thought provoking aspects of that story, this one sounded too fluffy and puffy...
sassy, yes; cute, sure and low angsty story of a child sensation star in a boy band, now a 25 year old bad boy musician meeting a young fashion designer who ran from NY to LA to escape the bad pressing situation involving her being sexually harassed at her previous job...
Of course, she doesn't fall for the bad boy image, at first, cause she sees underneath this bad boy persona the press has made about him, but he did take advantage of it, cause well, when they think bad about you, you should prove them right, right?!
Well, there's this push and pull, truth and lies colide BUT it all low angst and with low expecations from me, I did not engage much LOL, so it was just ok...
And yeah, from the very first description, to this characters' name, the image was screaming Justin Beiber LMAO and I just couldn't escape from that one...so, tastes are different for each and every person, but I just couldn't take this character seriously LOL *shrugs*
p.s. and yeah, later in acknowledgments, the author had this planned out, this character as a mix of Justin Beiber and Shawn Mendes...LOL, well, you did a fine job portraying him like that. *wink*
and after the previously read book, by Jewel E Ann (The naked fisherman) and the thought provoking aspects of that story, this one sounded too fluffy and puffy...
sassy, yes; cute, sure and low angsty story of a child sensation star in a boy band, now a 25 year old bad boy musician meeting a young fashion designer who ran from NY to LA to escape the bad pressing situation involving her being sexually harassed at her previous job...
Of course, she doesn't fall for the bad boy image, at first, cause she sees underneath this bad boy persona the press has made about him, but he did take advantage of it, cause well, when they think bad about you, you should prove them right, right?!
Well, there's this push and pull, truth and lies colide BUT it all low angst and with low expecations from me, I did not engage much LOL, so it was just ok...
And yeah, from the very first description, to this characters' name, the image was screaming Justin Beiber LMAO and I just couldn't escape from that one...so, tastes are different for each and every person, but I just couldn't take this character seriously LOL *shrugs*
p.s. and yeah, later in acknowledgments, the author had this planned out, this character as a mix of Justin Beiber and Shawn Mendes...LOL, well, you did a fine job portraying him like that. *wink*
July 7, 2020
Lead Me Back hooked me and didn’t let me go. It’s the best book I’ve read in a while. Many books right now are just not holding my attention. It has a kicka$& heroine and a swoon worthy hero. I want to read more books like this one.
I voluntarily read an early copy.
I voluntarily read an early copy.
July 7, 2020
With Lead Me Back, CD Reiss blends a blossoming romance with some more serious topics. There is a touch of #metoo along with the judgement of social media and the paparazzi. It was all handled in a gentle way and still managed to drive home some valid points.
Justin Beckett is a rockstar who has recently decided to try his hand as an actor. He's also trying to clean up his horrible reputation. He has a questionable history that's been plastered all over social media and he's anything but proud of himself. He's locked into an agreement with his label that feels like they are trying to control every aspect of his life. He's only willing to tolerate their tactics because he feels as if he has a great deal to atone for. Kayla Montgomery has recently relocated to California looking for a fresh start. She left New York under a dark cloud and is hoping to outrun her negative experience there. Kayla's heart is in clothing design, but she settles for a job in costume alterations for a movie until she can secure funds to chase her big dream. Kayla and Justin meet completely by accident and it sparks a little chemistry right off the bat. The real challenge will be meshing their lives and histories and still being able to stay in a relationship.
This was an enjoyable read. I enjoyed seeing Justin and Kayla's stories unfold. I also have to say that Louise, Justin's grandmother was a hoot. I loved her casual matchmaking and manipulation. She had all the best intentions. It was also lovely to see Kayla and her Dad mend their relationship.
Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake Romance and CD Reiss for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Justin Beckett is a rockstar who has recently decided to try his hand as an actor. He's also trying to clean up his horrible reputation. He has a questionable history that's been plastered all over social media and he's anything but proud of himself. He's locked into an agreement with his label that feels like they are trying to control every aspect of his life. He's only willing to tolerate their tactics because he feels as if he has a great deal to atone for. Kayla Montgomery has recently relocated to California looking for a fresh start. She left New York under a dark cloud and is hoping to outrun her negative experience there. Kayla's heart is in clothing design, but she settles for a job in costume alterations for a movie until she can secure funds to chase her big dream. Kayla and Justin meet completely by accident and it sparks a little chemistry right off the bat. The real challenge will be meshing their lives and histories and still being able to stay in a relationship.
This was an enjoyable read. I enjoyed seeing Justin and Kayla's stories unfold. I also have to say that Louise, Justin's grandmother was a hoot. I loved her casual matchmaking and manipulation. She had all the best intentions. It was also lovely to see Kayla and her Dad mend their relationship.
Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake Romance and CD Reiss for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 5, 2020
**REVIEW TO COME**
July 19, 2020
NEW-ish to me author and books, review on my BLOG -> CLICK HERE
Want to read
November 17, 2020I won this book in a giveaway!
August 20, 2020
Cutting all ties, Kayla Montgomery drives cross-country to Los Angeles. New start. New life. And an unexpected new job: assistant to Justin Beckett. This book is quite a lot different from the normal books by C.D Reiss that I have read in the past so much so I had to check that it was the same author. This was a very sweet romance between two characters that were more like teenagers instead of adults, and the story line was interesting. All over this was a nice sweet read on a rainy day.
July 8, 2020
I felt almost no connection to the couple. CD's writing style is hard to get into for me, sometimes I can get past it but this time not so much. Will probably read her next book and will probably be disappointed 🤷♀️
dnf
July 8, 2020I feel like there was something missing.
July 10, 2020
This book is about two very immature people finding "love". I guess I am too old for this because the hero talked like an idiot man-child, which was a total turn off.
August 19, 2021
Wanted to like this one but the hero who was meant to be charming was just immature. Not much chemistry between the leads. It was just okay.
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