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Encore
Ross Macalester is forty-three, rich, famous, and plain worn out. Life has been nothing but sex, drugs, and rock and roll for twenty years, and he's not sure he can stomach one more minute of the party. When an invitation to his twenty-fifth high school reunion shows up, Ross decides he has nothing to lose--after all, he already lost his daughter's love and a fair amount of self-respect. So he catches a flight back to his hometown, but when he walks in the door of the high school gym, his gaze lands on someone he never expected to see again.
Carly Ellis is busy, getting by, and most days pretty happy. Life hasn't always been easy, but she has her teenage son, a good job in real estate, and an ex who doesn't cause too much trouble. Granted, she'd rather skip her high school reunion, but when your best friend is on the organizing committee, there's no getting out of it. Then she walks through the door of the high school gym and her gaze lands on someone she never expected to see again.
Once upon a time, Carly was Ross's high school prom date. One very sweet night that both of them knew didn't mean a thing. Now they have a chance to do it again. Same conditions. Same game. But after a night in Carly's arms, Ross isn't sure he wants it to end. Could she be the answer to everything he's been missing? A key to the future he secretly wants? With life offering him a second act, will Ross be able to pull off his most important encore ever?
Encore is an uplifting rockstar, second-chance, single parent, high school reunion romance with a hero who needs a little reboot, a heroine who's strong enough to give it to him, two sassy teens, a perfect HEA, and an iguana named Chuck--just because.
Carly Ellis is busy, getting by, and most days pretty happy. Life hasn't always been easy, but she has her teenage son, a good job in real estate, and an ex who doesn't cause too much trouble. Granted, she'd rather skip her high school reunion, but when your best friend is on the organizing committee, there's no getting out of it. Then she walks through the door of the high school gym and her gaze lands on someone she never expected to see again.
Once upon a time, Carly was Ross's high school prom date. One very sweet night that both of them knew didn't mean a thing. Now they have a chance to do it again. Same conditions. Same game. But after a night in Carly's arms, Ross isn't sure he wants it to end. Could she be the answer to everything he's been missing? A key to the future he secretly wants? With life offering him a second act, will Ross be able to pull off his most important encore ever?
Encore is an uplifting rockstar, second-chance, single parent, high school reunion romance with a hero who needs a little reboot, a heroine who's strong enough to give it to him, two sassy teens, a perfect HEA, and an iguana named Chuck--just because.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2020
38 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Selena Laurence
51 books910 followersRomance Author | Coffee Drinker | Breaker of Tropes | Mother of Doodles
Selena Laurence is a USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of One of a Kind Romance. She has published books in Contemporary Romance, New Adult Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Paranormal Romance. She’s also a curated contributor in non-fiction on Medium as SE Reed.
Selena lives in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado with her family, her Goldendoodle, and Demon Cat. Her favorite city is Edinburgh, her favorite color is purple, and her favorite shoes are Converse.
Selena Laurence is a USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of One of a Kind Romance. She has published books in Contemporary Romance, New Adult Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Paranormal Romance. She’s also a curated contributor in non-fiction on Medium as SE Reed.
Selena lives in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado with her family, her Goldendoodle, and Demon Cat. Her favorite city is Edinburgh, her favorite color is purple, and her favorite shoes are Converse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
September 11, 2022
Me encanta la manera tan ligera que tiene la autora de escribir.
Esta fue una historia romántica, hermosa y sin tanto drama.
Esta fue una historia romántica, hermosa y sin tanto drama.
April 1, 2020
3,5stars!
Ok so good! I don't know what to write....
It was good, love and romance, sexy and steamy, but in reality base where people have real problems. I really liked Ross (rich, famous rock star) and Carly (beautiful mid-class real estate mum) and the sexy chemistry between them.
It's the first book from this author but I think I have to try to read of hers in future.
Ok so good! I don't know what to write....
It was good, love and romance, sexy and steamy, but in reality base where people have real problems. I really liked Ross (rich, famous rock star) and Carly (beautiful mid-class real estate mum) and the sexy chemistry between them.
It's the first book from this author but I think I have to try to read of hers in future.
July 18, 2022
-Second Chance
-Single dad
-Single mom
-Small town
-Rockstar
Ross Macalester aprovecha que tiene un descanso de su gira internacional con su banda Odyssey, y asiste a una reunión para reencontrarse con sus excompañeros de escuela. Estando ahí, vuelve a conectar con Carly Ellis, una mujer con la que asistió a su baile de graduación, y la primer chica con la que tuvo🔥.
Es un libro ágil, con sus partes divertidas, de romance y otras spicy.
Me gustó mucho como se desarrolla la relación entre Ross y Carly. Como ella le ayuda a mejorar su relación con Sara.
Me gustó Chuck, la iguana. 🤣🦎
Sí me hubiera gustado que el 'conflicto' lo alargaran un poco más para que fuera más creíble. Se sintió un poco apresurado y que se arregló como con una varita mágica.
En fin, una historia linda y rápida para un fin de semana. 👌🏻
📖
"Earlier, when I said I might be more interested in being regular Ross than rockstar Ross...I meant that."
_
"I need you like I need my next breath," I rasp. "Please tell me you need me, too."
_
"You. Know. Me." His voice lowers and grows rough. "You know my heart. You know my soul. I've waited twenty-five years for someone to see me. Not the rockstar. Me. You do. Don't close your eyes now, Carly. Please."
-Single dad
-Single mom
-Small town
-Rockstar
Ross Macalester aprovecha que tiene un descanso de su gira internacional con su banda Odyssey, y asiste a una reunión para reencontrarse con sus excompañeros de escuela. Estando ahí, vuelve a conectar con Carly Ellis, una mujer con la que asistió a su baile de graduación, y la primer chica con la que tuvo🔥.
Es un libro ágil, con sus partes divertidas, de romance y otras spicy.
Me gustó mucho como se desarrolla la relación entre Ross y Carly. Como ella le ayuda a mejorar su relación con Sara.
Me gustó Chuck, la iguana. 🤣🦎
Sí me hubiera gustado que el 'conflicto' lo alargaran un poco más para que fuera más creíble. Se sintió un poco apresurado y que se arregló como con una varita mágica.
En fin, una historia linda y rápida para un fin de semana. 👌🏻
📖
"Earlier, when I said I might be more interested in being regular Ross than rockstar Ross...I meant that."
_
"I need you like I need my next breath," I rasp. "Please tell me you need me, too."
_
"You. Know. Me." His voice lowers and grows rough. "You know my heart. You know my soul. I've waited twenty-five years for someone to see me. Not the rockstar. Me. You do. Don't close your eyes now, Carly. Please."
August 28, 2022
Por qué esta portada tan fea😂
February 3, 2020
Not like typical rockstar books but sweet
February 10, 2020
3.5 stars
Ross Macalester has the live many dream about. He is the lead singer of a very successful rock band. After 25 years, he is tired. He has been an absentee father to his daughter and things are strained. During a break, he attends his high school reunion and things start to slip into place. He is connecting with old friends and his daughter. It looks like he can have life he wants. But of course nothing is that easy. Carly is a divorced real estate agent co raising her 16 year old son and his per iguana, Chuck, She is smart, independent and content with her life. when she and Ross hook up after the reunion, she thinks it's temporary. Her life is in her small town in Illinois and he has a rock star life. Cute story about getting not only a second chance at love but also at the life you want. An older couple who have lived and enjoyed their first part of life get a HEA with the second half.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ross Macalester has the live many dream about. He is the lead singer of a very successful rock band. After 25 years, he is tired. He has been an absentee father to his daughter and things are strained. During a break, he attends his high school reunion and things start to slip into place. He is connecting with old friends and his daughter. It looks like he can have life he wants. But of course nothing is that easy. Carly is a divorced real estate agent co raising her 16 year old son and his per iguana, Chuck, She is smart, independent and content with her life. when she and Ross hook up after the reunion, she thinks it's temporary. Her life is in her small town in Illinois and he has a rock star life. Cute story about getting not only a second chance at love but also at the life you want. An older couple who have lived and enjoyed their first part of life get a HEA with the second half.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2020
If you are looking for a BOOK HANGOVER then this is the book for you !! I am not sure if it is the fact that most rock star book are young men BUT this middle aged rocker will have your emotions ALL tied up in a knot !!
When Ross Macalester goes home for his 25th high school reunion he realizes what he has been feeling for the last few years .. he wants OUT .. he missed his 14rd old growing up, he misses his family and friends and he DOESN’T know what normal is !! Living on the road .. different city .. different state .. different hotel .. different bed and living out of a suit case looses it fun very very fast.
Once he sees his friends and there lives he knows what he has to do and he has his “” FRIEND”” Carly Ellis to help him. He wants Sara to see where he grow up .. the fun he had growing up in a small town not a big city like LA where she lives .. he needs dad/daughter time .. BUT can he pull it off not knowing how to care for a teenager .. BUT with Carly’s help he knows he can be the old Ross again !! And the old Ross wants his high school prom date back !!
Carly is a single mom with a teenage son and when she see and spends time with Ross again all those years apart seems like days .. but with there separate lives .. states ..bands .. concerts .. kids can they make a reunion work or will there be to many obstacles in the way ??
Everyone deserve an Encore with your first LOVE !
When Ross Macalester goes home for his 25th high school reunion he realizes what he has been feeling for the last few years .. he wants OUT .. he missed his 14rd old growing up, he misses his family and friends and he DOESN’T know what normal is !! Living on the road .. different city .. different state .. different hotel .. different bed and living out of a suit case looses it fun very very fast.
Once he sees his friends and there lives he knows what he has to do and he has his “” FRIEND”” Carly Ellis to help him. He wants Sara to see where he grow up .. the fun he had growing up in a small town not a big city like LA where she lives .. he needs dad/daughter time .. BUT can he pull it off not knowing how to care for a teenager .. BUT with Carly’s help he knows he can be the old Ross again !! And the old Ross wants his high school prom date back !!
Carly is a single mom with a teenage son and when she see and spends time with Ross again all those years apart seems like days .. but with there separate lives .. states ..bands .. concerts .. kids can they make a reunion work or will there be to many obstacles in the way ??
Everyone deserve an Encore with your first LOVE !
February 1, 2020
(SPOILERS)
I read another review that down-starred the book because it is "too real"... I understand reading for fantasy or escape, but that's not what is being advertised here. It's clearly a story of a man and a woman in the middle of their lives, rearing teens with varying success, working hard, and keeping things together with effort. They come together after a quarter century apart, having been each other's Senior prom date (and first intimate experience); the occasion is their 25th High School Reunion, and it just happens that both of them are at times in their lives where they are single, examining their lives, and open to the magic of that person who took a different branch in the path but has suddenly come back into step with them.
Hard as they try to make it simple and casual, they are both not made that way, particularly when it comes to each other. They are honest with each other, and that's good, but I did expect more from Ross and Carly than to leave their future dreams on the back burner and have to rely on the creativity and grace of their teenagers (which in real life is not always a given, they can be selfish monsters sometimes, particularly when it comes to parental intimacy). Yet, it all worked, and I was pleased with the HEA and the lack of the kind of b.s. I will drop a book in the trash for, like cheating or 300 pages of TSTL behavior that puts someone (usually the heroine) in danger.
I liked Ross and Carly, and I think you will, too. Sometimes the best kind of rock star is the one that's a rock star to the people that love him, not the public that adulates him, and that's Ross' biggest joy, in the end, that as he's lost the shine of touring life with a band, he's found a fuller, stable family and still has his music. Five stars for Ross, Carly, their son and daughter, and the iguana Chuck. ;)
I read another review that down-starred the book because it is "too real"... I understand reading for fantasy or escape, but that's not what is being advertised here. It's clearly a story of a man and a woman in the middle of their lives, rearing teens with varying success, working hard, and keeping things together with effort. They come together after a quarter century apart, having been each other's Senior prom date (and first intimate experience); the occasion is their 25th High School Reunion, and it just happens that both of them are at times in their lives where they are single, examining their lives, and open to the magic of that person who took a different branch in the path but has suddenly come back into step with them.
Hard as they try to make it simple and casual, they are both not made that way, particularly when it comes to each other. They are honest with each other, and that's good, but I did expect more from Ross and Carly than to leave their future dreams on the back burner and have to rely on the creativity and grace of their teenagers (which in real life is not always a given, they can be selfish monsters sometimes, particularly when it comes to parental intimacy). Yet, it all worked, and I was pleased with the HEA and the lack of the kind of b.s. I will drop a book in the trash for, like cheating or 300 pages of TSTL behavior that puts someone (usually the heroine) in danger.
I liked Ross and Carly, and I think you will, too. Sometimes the best kind of rock star is the one that's a rock star to the people that love him, not the public that adulates him, and that's Ross' biggest joy, in the end, that as he's lost the shine of touring life with a band, he's found a fuller, stable family and still has his music. Five stars for Ross, Carly, their son and daughter, and the iguana Chuck. ;)
January 28, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is refreshing to read about an older rock star who wants to change his ways. I can’t begin to imagine being on the road for so long at a time and not seeing your family. Now that his daughter Sarah is 14 he wants to be the father that he never was. He has always loved her, but was not around much. Of course going back to his home town to his 25 year reunion has helped him see what a wonderful life he had in his small Illinois town. Then meeting up with Carly again who was his prom date is the icing on the cake. Carly has a 16 year old son, her own real estate business, and her wonderful friends. I loved how her and Ross had feelings for each other even though they had only been friends when they were in high school. Ross is very blessed to have all his friends, especially Carly when he decides to have his daughter come live with him in this small town for a month. I loved watching him trying to do the right things to be a good dad. It made my heart feel good to see Ross and his daughter get closer. There is a twist towards the end that broke my heart. This is a good book that I encourage you to read. I was given a copy of the book and voluntarily wrote a review.
February 11, 2020
To be honest, I frequently shy away from rockstar romances because I find them to be a lot of the same. Encore, however, was such a pleasant surprise. Ross, a rockstar tired of his life after two decades on the road, returns to his hometown and reconnects with his prom date. Carly, a successful realtor and single mother, is pleasantly surprised to see the man she knew as a teenager still exists underneath the rockstar facade. This story was sweet and sexy and makes a great second chance romance.
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.
February 11, 2020
Ross Macalaster is 43 years old and is tired of his rock star lifestyle that has caused him to miss his daughter Sara growing up and now she hates him. He decides to go back to his hometown of Grove City to attend his 25th reunion as he has nothing else to lose.
Carly Ellis is a single mom to Quinn and a successful real estate agent who has always been happy living in Grove City. Her life has been dedicated to Quinn and is lucky that she gets along with his dad.
When the reunion brings Carly and Ross together for the first time since prom the two reminisce about their "no strings" prom night and wonder if they can pull off another one.
But when an incident occurs Ross must decide if he wants to give small town living a chance and maybe this can heal his lost relationships.
This was a great book about healing your heart and doing what you want to do after you've had too much of the fast pace lifestyle.
I liked Ross and I felt like he deserved to take a break after touring for so many years at the loss of a relationship with his daughter. I got why he needed to get away from it all and really needed to find a place where he felt like he belonged. I liked the comfort that he found in Grove City and being back with his best friend Craig.
Carly was a great character that I could completely relate to with being a single mom who put their kid first. She was doing a great job with Quinn and I really liked the respect that they showed each other through the book. I liked how she was also able to give Ross a different look at things when it came to his relationship with Sara. At the same time I also understood why she was super hesitant to get involved with Ross as she didn't want to end up with a broken heart.
The chemistry between Ross and Carly was apparent from the moment they saw each other at the reunion and I loved how the two just got caught up with their respective pasts and felt completely at ease with each other. When Ross is faced with a small dilemma with Sara I love what Carly suggests and how she believes it will bring Ross and Sara closer together.
At the beginning I understood why Sara was so mad as Ross had never been there for her before and had never really been a "dad" to her except in handing out the money she needed. I loved watching the relationship between Ross and Sara change from strangers to an amazing father/daughter relationship.
The "drama" with Ross's job was tough and intense at times. I understood why he was tired of being on the road with Odyssey and needed a break but the reaction he got from his band mate Stone was crazy. I did understand why Stone was upset as he had been doing it for so long and was obviously not ready to slow down but the things he threatened and did were ridiculous.
My heart broke for Ross, Sara and Carly in the aftermath of the "incident" as I knew what Ross felt like he had to do and I was so upset. I was a little mad at his ex-wife Christine as she didn't want to budge but at the same time I can say that I probably wouldn't either.
I was so proud of Sara at the end of the book for forcing Ross to do something he was afraid to do and it made me so happy that he followed her lead!! The very end was awesome and I can't wait for more!
Carly Ellis is a single mom to Quinn and a successful real estate agent who has always been happy living in Grove City. Her life has been dedicated to Quinn and is lucky that she gets along with his dad.
When the reunion brings Carly and Ross together for the first time since prom the two reminisce about their "no strings" prom night and wonder if they can pull off another one.
But when an incident occurs Ross must decide if he wants to give small town living a chance and maybe this can heal his lost relationships.
This was a great book about healing your heart and doing what you want to do after you've had too much of the fast pace lifestyle.
I liked Ross and I felt like he deserved to take a break after touring for so many years at the loss of a relationship with his daughter. I got why he needed to get away from it all and really needed to find a place where he felt like he belonged. I liked the comfort that he found in Grove City and being back with his best friend Craig.
Carly was a great character that I could completely relate to with being a single mom who put their kid first. She was doing a great job with Quinn and I really liked the respect that they showed each other through the book. I liked how she was also able to give Ross a different look at things when it came to his relationship with Sara. At the same time I also understood why she was super hesitant to get involved with Ross as she didn't want to end up with a broken heart.
The chemistry between Ross and Carly was apparent from the moment they saw each other at the reunion and I loved how the two just got caught up with their respective pasts and felt completely at ease with each other. When Ross is faced with a small dilemma with Sara I love what Carly suggests and how she believes it will bring Ross and Sara closer together.
At the beginning I understood why Sara was so mad as Ross had never been there for her before and had never really been a "dad" to her except in handing out the money she needed. I loved watching the relationship between Ross and Sara change from strangers to an amazing father/daughter relationship.
The "drama" with Ross's job was tough and intense at times. I understood why he was tired of being on the road with Odyssey and needed a break but the reaction he got from his band mate Stone was crazy. I did understand why Stone was upset as he had been doing it for so long and was obviously not ready to slow down but the things he threatened and did were ridiculous.
My heart broke for Ross, Sara and Carly in the aftermath of the "incident" as I knew what Ross felt like he had to do and I was so upset. I was a little mad at his ex-wife Christine as she didn't want to budge but at the same time I can say that I probably wouldn't either.
I was so proud of Sara at the end of the book for forcing Ross to do something he was afraid to do and it made me so happy that he followed her lead!! The very end was awesome and I can't wait for more!
February 5, 2020
An Epic Encore of What Should Have Been ❤❤❤❤❤
What if you get a chance to reboot the life you just can't stomach anymore??? That's exactly what rockstar Ross Macalester does. Tired of the road trips, groupies and even the sex, Ross takes up the invitation to go home to Grove City Illinois fit his twenty fifth class reunion for a chance to just be Ross not the rockstar. Ross has lost too much time being on the road to be a dad to his fourteen year old daughter Sara and is hoping to reconnect with her. What he doesn't expect is to see Carly Ellis, his "friend" and prom date. Carly is a real estate agent and raising her sixteen year old son Quinn along with his pet Iguana Chuck. Carly doesn't know what to expect if Ross actually shows up for the reunion and was not ready for the immediate connection that comes crashing back after ask these years. Carly and Ross lost their virginity to each other on prom night but life took them on different paths only to bring them together when the time was right...it is it. Ross is trying to reconnect with Sara and show her the real Ross and where he grew up with real friends and a real community. With the help of Carly, Quinn, Craig, Dee and others they see the change in Sara and the most significant change is when Sara calls Ross "Dad" for the first time in years. Ross is ready to make this his new life and give up the band no matter what. There's contracts and bandmates to deal with but Ross is determined for a life with Sara, Quinn and Carly . What happens when a bandmate crashes the heaven Ross has found splintering the bond between father and daughter?? Carly is crushed when Ross goes back to L.A. with Sara but understands from a parent's point of view. When love is meant to be it may take a couple of teenagers to bring their parents together for an encore of what should have been. A remarkable story that made my eyes leak and my heart flutter. The characters are real and will draw you into their lives like they are neighbors...and I love that they are of a more mature age. I just went on a Selena Laurence spending spree and can not wait to dive in. A MUST READ!!! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book via Booksprout and purchased a copy for my favorites collection.
What if you get a chance to reboot the life you just can't stomach anymore??? That's exactly what rockstar Ross Macalester does. Tired of the road trips, groupies and even the sex, Ross takes up the invitation to go home to Grove City Illinois fit his twenty fifth class reunion for a chance to just be Ross not the rockstar. Ross has lost too much time being on the road to be a dad to his fourteen year old daughter Sara and is hoping to reconnect with her. What he doesn't expect is to see Carly Ellis, his "friend" and prom date. Carly is a real estate agent and raising her sixteen year old son Quinn along with his pet Iguana Chuck. Carly doesn't know what to expect if Ross actually shows up for the reunion and was not ready for the immediate connection that comes crashing back after ask these years. Carly and Ross lost their virginity to each other on prom night but life took them on different paths only to bring them together when the time was right...it is it. Ross is trying to reconnect with Sara and show her the real Ross and where he grew up with real friends and a real community. With the help of Carly, Quinn, Craig, Dee and others they see the change in Sara and the most significant change is when Sara calls Ross "Dad" for the first time in years. Ross is ready to make this his new life and give up the band no matter what. There's contracts and bandmates to deal with but Ross is determined for a life with Sara, Quinn and Carly . What happens when a bandmate crashes the heaven Ross has found splintering the bond between father and daughter?? Carly is crushed when Ross goes back to L.A. with Sara but understands from a parent's point of view. When love is meant to be it may take a couple of teenagers to bring their parents together for an encore of what should have been. A remarkable story that made my eyes leak and my heart flutter. The characters are real and will draw you into their lives like they are neighbors...and I love that they are of a more mature age. I just went on a Selena Laurence spending spree and can not wait to dive in. A MUST READ!!! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book via Booksprout and purchased a copy for my favorites collection.
February 10, 2020
This is the story about Carly and Ross. Carly and Ross had been friends in high school and they went to Prom together and they were each other's first.
Ross left and became a Rockstar and Carly stayed in their home town of Grove City. Craig a friend of Ross's lets him know that their 25-year school reunion is coming up and ask him if he is coming? Ross decides to go to the reunion and he meets up with Carly again. The feelings they had back in school are still there and they end up spending the night together with the deal of if being just that one night. As Carly and Ross reconnect, he tells her his feelings about wanting to leave the band and staying in Grove City with her. When Ross calls the band to let them know he doesn't want to finish the tour, Stone, one of the band members gets mad and told Ross he would sue him. Things are going good for Ross and his daughter and she is throwing a party and Stone shows up to talk to Ross except Stone brings with him a reporter who questions Sara and says things that upset her. Now, Christine, Sara's mom calls Ross and tells him to bring her back to L.A. Ross has to go and tell Carly that he is leaving and he asks her what about them, she told him that there was no them. Now 6 months later, Ross asks Sara what she wants to do for the summer and she tells him, she wants to go back to Grove City. Ross asks her why and she told him that when he quit the band, he wanted 2 things - to become her dad again and to live in Grove City with Carly. Sara has come up with a plan so that he can be with Carly. He tells her that he didn't think that Carly would ever take him back and move to L.A. Sara tells him that she doesn't need him around here all the time now and that he could come back to L.A. on weekends or twice a month or so. Carly comes home from work and finds Ross and Sara in her back yard with her son Quinn talking. Carly and Ross start talking and he tells her everything and that he wants her.
Can Carly believe the things that Ross is telling her and give him a second chance?
Will Ross get Carly to give him a second chance or will he lose her?
This was a wonderful book and I would recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ross left and became a Rockstar and Carly stayed in their home town of Grove City. Craig a friend of Ross's lets him know that their 25-year school reunion is coming up and ask him if he is coming? Ross decides to go to the reunion and he meets up with Carly again. The feelings they had back in school are still there and they end up spending the night together with the deal of if being just that one night. As Carly and Ross reconnect, he tells her his feelings about wanting to leave the band and staying in Grove City with her. When Ross calls the band to let them know he doesn't want to finish the tour, Stone, one of the band members gets mad and told Ross he would sue him. Things are going good for Ross and his daughter and she is throwing a party and Stone shows up to talk to Ross except Stone brings with him a reporter who questions Sara and says things that upset her. Now, Christine, Sara's mom calls Ross and tells him to bring her back to L.A. Ross has to go and tell Carly that he is leaving and he asks her what about them, she told him that there was no them. Now 6 months later, Ross asks Sara what she wants to do for the summer and she tells him, she wants to go back to Grove City. Ross asks her why and she told him that when he quit the band, he wanted 2 things - to become her dad again and to live in Grove City with Carly. Sara has come up with a plan so that he can be with Carly. He tells her that he didn't think that Carly would ever take him back and move to L.A. Sara tells him that she doesn't need him around here all the time now and that he could come back to L.A. on weekends or twice a month or so. Carly comes home from work and finds Ross and Sara in her back yard with her son Quinn talking. Carly and Ross start talking and he tells her everything and that he wants her.
Can Carly believe the things that Ross is telling her and give him a second chance?
Will Ross get Carly to give him a second chance or will he lose her?
This was a wonderful book and I would recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2020
What did I think about ENCORE by author Selena Laurence? I absolutely ADORED it. From start to finish, this is just the sort of book that I want to read, and I loved every single page.
Although not universally true, I find that contemporary romance largely focuses on characters much younger than myself, and, while I enjoy them, I find it a bit hard to relate to them at times. Finding characters that are at midlife, and still very vital, thank you very much, Selena, is such a welcome change. Ross, Carly, and their friends are in their lives, being the parents, doing the hard work, making lives for themselves and the ones that they love. That the Universe offers them a second chance to recapture the spark that began back in high school is magical, and watching them get to their happy is a real treat.
I love the way that Selena handles the reality of these characters. Ross's weariness of a life lived in the limelight and away from the place and the people that made him who he is, his responsibility to do right by a daughter that he's had little to do with raising, the hard decisions he has to make when it comes to what he has to do versus what he'd like to do. And Carly, a mom and businesswoman in her own right, setting a solid example for her son, staying true to herself and letting go of the thing that has revived her spark, in the name of doing the right thing. Selena writes their story so very well, and I found myself totally immersed.
ENCORE was a quick read for me, mostly because I couldn't put it down, and is solidly on my 'best of' list of 2020. I would not hesitate to recommend it, and feel pretty sure that it's one that I'll go back to again, any time that I'm looking for a feel-good read. Because sometimes life gives you what you didn't know you were missing, and it's a lovely thing. ❤️
January 30, 2020
This is a second chance romance of sorts.
Ross is a rock star, in the business for 25 years, touring 300 days a year, has an ex wife and 14 year old daughter Sara, who he shows his fatherly duties via large sums of money. He's becoming jaded with his life, hitting his early 40's he realises he wants "Ross" the man back. First step - go back to his home-town for his high school 25th reunion where he unexpectedly sees his prom date, Carly and has an epiphany of sorts. Carly is divorced, a career mum and raising her 16 year old son. When she sees Ross, all the 18 year old feelings come back and they have a one night, no strings attached reunion, but it soon leads to both of them surprisingly wanting more - but they have a few blips in the road to overcome first.
I loved that Ross and Carly were in the 40's, mature and honest with themselves - no silly miscommunication and unnecessary angst. I loved that Ross had his network of friends and they were not in awe of his star status, he was still their high school bud. Carly was refreshing, she came across as genuine, comfortable with herself, but with the usual "Mum" concerns, but Ross brought out the fun side, the much needed passion and friendship that had not gone away. It was heartwarming to see Ross try and establish a relationship with his 14 year daughter and do the right thing with help from his friends, the community pulling together and supporting Sara, especially with Carly. When the "blip" eventually happens, it was believable - no drama, just sadness, but it all soon ends on a fluffy and sweet epilogue.
If I were to have a niggle, it would be Chuck the iguana, I'm not sure the comedic value added much to the story? Also, while there was interaction between Ross and his ex-wife, there was none with Sara and her ex-husband. Again, I'm not sure if it would've added much value to the story, but it just felt a bit one sided.
Overall, it was a satisfyingly enjoyable easy, low angst, read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ross is a rock star, in the business for 25 years, touring 300 days a year, has an ex wife and 14 year old daughter Sara, who he shows his fatherly duties via large sums of money. He's becoming jaded with his life, hitting his early 40's he realises he wants "Ross" the man back. First step - go back to his home-town for his high school 25th reunion where he unexpectedly sees his prom date, Carly and has an epiphany of sorts. Carly is divorced, a career mum and raising her 16 year old son. When she sees Ross, all the 18 year old feelings come back and they have a one night, no strings attached reunion, but it soon leads to both of them surprisingly wanting more - but they have a few blips in the road to overcome first.
I loved that Ross and Carly were in the 40's, mature and honest with themselves - no silly miscommunication and unnecessary angst. I loved that Ross had his network of friends and they were not in awe of his star status, he was still their high school bud. Carly was refreshing, she came across as genuine, comfortable with herself, but with the usual "Mum" concerns, but Ross brought out the fun side, the much needed passion and friendship that had not gone away. It was heartwarming to see Ross try and establish a relationship with his 14 year daughter and do the right thing with help from his friends, the community pulling together and supporting Sara, especially with Carly. When the "blip" eventually happens, it was believable - no drama, just sadness, but it all soon ends on a fluffy and sweet epilogue.
If I were to have a niggle, it would be Chuck the iguana, I'm not sure the comedic value added much to the story? Also, while there was interaction between Ross and his ex-wife, there was none with Sara and her ex-husband. Again, I'm not sure if it would've added much value to the story, but it just felt a bit one sided.
Overall, it was a satisfyingly enjoyable easy, low angst, read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2020
Fantastic. In some ways, this is a second chance romance but it’s more about a second chance at your life, reinventing or redirecting who you are later in life which is inspiring. Ross seems to have it all, he pursued his passion in music and is part of a hugely successful rock band but after 25 years, he has grown weary. Is this all there is, constant travel, hotel rooms, no real relationships? He has a 14-year-old daughter, Sara, that barely tolerates him since he has been the dad that writes checks instead of being present in her life. He decides to attend his 25-year high school reunion in his hometown, the one place that knew him before the fame. He needs to be the Ross from high school and talking to Carly, his prom date, and the girl his lost his virginity to, lets him feel like that person again. Carly is a single mom and successful real estate broker. She enjoys her life but hasn’t felt a relationship was in the cards after her divorce. Reconnecting with Ross opens something up inside Carly, a light she didn’t realize was missing. When Ross decides to bring Sara to live for a month in his hometown, it gives Carly and Ross a chance to bond as parents as well as acknowledging that they both had feelings for each other in high school. This also gives Ross the chance to connect with Sara, show her who he truly is, not just the rock star, and give her a new community to make part of their family. The challenge is what happens at the end of a month, can the rock star change the path is going down and keep this new life he so desperately wants? I loved every minute of this journey. It is inspiring to experience someone taking a chance and following their heart no matter how hard that might be.
February 4, 2020
As I have gotten older I am always searching for stories involving characters over 40. Encore gave me that as well as a second chance at love. Ross and Carly were high school friends but each had very different plans after graduation. Carly would go to college nearby their small Illinois town and Ross was heading across the country with with the dream of becoming a star in the music industry. Well it's now 25 years later and both have achieved some of their dreams but both are missing pieces. Carly loves her job, son, friends and small town. She just hopes to one day meet someone to share the rest of her life with. Ross has fame, fortune, a daughter whom he barely sees and is burnt out from the rock and roll lifestyle. He heads back home to his 25th high school reunion to catch up with the people who knew him when and figure out what he wants for the next half of his life. What he doesn't expect is to run into his prom date and have feelings pop up unexpectedly. So how are a midwestern realtor and a touring rock legend going to make a relationship work with distance and teenagers get thrown into the mix? Encore was a sweet and spicy, small town, low angst story and I loved that about it. It will bring a smile to your face and make you believe that love really does concur all! It was told from dual POV and I give it 4 1/2 heartfelt stars!
February 12, 2020
3.5 Star rating
Second chance romance, second chances at life in general, but can he get it right?
⛔SOME SPOILERS⛔
Ross has given up so much to be frontman for Odyssey, his 14-year-old daughter Sara barely knows him.
It's time for his school reunion and that reunion leads him back to Carly and she's hotter than he remembers.
One month break he buys a house in his hometown and has Sara live there and away from the LA lifestyle, it's time to build some bridges with his daughter and show her how much she's loved by him and that he wants be there every day for her.
His life is going better than planned, he just needs to win over his bandmates to go along with his future's plan.
Carly is now a single mother to Quinn and his pet iguana Chuck, she's at the reunion and the last person she thought would be there is Ross Macalester, her one who she gave her V-card. One thing leads to another and that night is being relived--one night no-strings. If only they can stick to the rules.
Will they all get the HEA they deserve? Will the bandmates throw spanner in the works?
Will Sara learn to see him as a dad and not just a cheque ever month?
Will Chuck give his approval and learn to play nice?
Second chance romance, second chances at life in general, but can he get it right?
⛔SOME SPOILERS⛔
Ross has given up so much to be frontman for Odyssey, his 14-year-old daughter Sara barely knows him.
It's time for his school reunion and that reunion leads him back to Carly and she's hotter than he remembers.
One month break he buys a house in his hometown and has Sara live there and away from the LA lifestyle, it's time to build some bridges with his daughter and show her how much she's loved by him and that he wants be there every day for her.
His life is going better than planned, he just needs to win over his bandmates to go along with his future's plan.
Carly is now a single mother to Quinn and his pet iguana Chuck, she's at the reunion and the last person she thought would be there is Ross Macalester, her one who she gave her V-card. One thing leads to another and that night is being relived--one night no-strings. If only they can stick to the rules.
Will they all get the HEA they deserve? Will the bandmates throw spanner in the works?
Will Sara learn to see him as a dad and not just a cheque ever month?
Will Chuck give his approval and learn to play nice?
February 9, 2020
This is not your classic rock star romance, and I think that’s why I loved it so much. Firstly, it stars a hero and heroine that are “past a certain age”. Ross and Carly are beyond the first blush of youth. They’ve got divorces and teenaged children as part of their emotional baggage. Ross isn’t a typical rock star in that he’s not courting the limelight and celebrity. In fact, he’s reached a point in his life where all that just tires him out. Carly isn’t the usual groupie, she’s not a groupie at all. She’s his long-ago prom date and a friend he didn’t realize was missing in his life. Where this story does follow the classic rock star romance formula is in the big angsty emotions. (Could it be a Selena Laurence title without them?) I loved that this story gets real with our lead characters. I thought the family and community dynamics were accurately portrayed and done with a gentle smoothing of the edges to still keep the story kind of light and fun. I think I’ve gone and fallen in love with Ross and Carly’s hometown. And even though everyone’s happily coupled up, I still was to read more about it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
February 4, 2020
Another amazing book from Selena Laurence
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I don't normally read books about rockstars, it's not the story line I gravitate too. So the fact that I read this and COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN is a sign of how much I love the writing/the plot. Selena brings us a story about Ross, who is slowly realizing that he's done with his rockstar career. When he returns to his childhood home he realizes two things, that he left a good life there, and that he also left a great woman behind too.
Carly is happy in her life, but it's missing something. Something that she learns is love when Ross returns home and back into her life.
How do they find their way to happiness? Especially as they have careers and children to balance. This is that story. It's beautiful, I almost cried a couple of times while reading it, its also full of the heat we expect in a Laurence book. Best of all this one has Chuck, who is always up for some mayhem.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I don't normally read books about rockstars, it's not the story line I gravitate too. So the fact that I read this and COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN is a sign of how much I love the writing/the plot. Selena brings us a story about Ross, who is slowly realizing that he's done with his rockstar career. When he returns to his childhood home he realizes two things, that he left a good life there, and that he also left a great woman behind too.
Carly is happy in her life, but it's missing something. Something that she learns is love when Ross returns home and back into her life.
How do they find their way to happiness? Especially as they have careers and children to balance. This is that story. It's beautiful, I almost cried a couple of times while reading it, its also full of the heat we expect in a Laurence book. Best of all this one has Chuck, who is always up for some mayhem.
February 13, 2020
From the outside, Ross McAllaster has it all. Looking closely, you'd find a man who has just about all the fame he wants, looking for something else in life. His friend suggests that he should go back to his 25th Class Reunion, just to see if his friends are still there and if he can still call it his home. Carly, a successful realtor and single mother to her son, Quinn, spots him at the reunion and wonders if the prom date she knew in high school, still exists under that Rockstar image. Ross is estranged from his daughter, Sara, and he now sees what the years of neglect have done to her. Carly and Ross realize that they did have feelings for one another in high school and this is their chance to make a new beginning for them. Encore is such a sweet story and it's written with wit and consistency. The characters couldn't be more delightful, especially Chuck, the guard iguana! Fabulous epilogue!
February 11, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. Sometimes in life you’re given second chances and sometimes just sometimes they bring you right back to that fork where you first made a decision. Now obviously it’ll be later, could be years and years, so things will have changed BUT sometimes you are given another chance to make either the same choice or a different one. Which will you choose?
After Ross graduated high school he left his small town to become a rock star. And he not only was he one he became the most sought after rock star there was. He achieved everything he could as a rock star BUT he failed in one event in life. Now given another chance to make things better. Things are looking good...until they aren’t.
I loved the characters and the small town!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After Ross graduated high school he left his small town to become a rock star. And he not only was he one he became the most sought after rock star there was. He achieved everything he could as a rock star BUT he failed in one event in life. Now given another chance to make things better. Things are looking good...until they aren’t.
I loved the characters and the small town!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2020
Ross has been touring as a mega rock star for 25 years. He has a daughter in LA who he loves, but he's also be a neglectful father as far as sharing himself but he's been generous with money. He's tired of touring when he accepts an invitation to his high school reunion in a rural town. There he reconnects with friends and his one time high school lover, Carly. She has a life there - a mother, successful real estate agent, and lots of roots.
There is an instant attraction between Ross and Carly, but his daughter is cold to him and is resistant to his overtures to reaching out to her. Ross and Carly have led such different lives and there are big obstacles to overcome. Can they do it?
The book is very well written. The story is told from the perspective of each of the lovers. Selena Lawrence has produced a very fun and sexy book for her readers. I recommend it.
There is an instant attraction between Ross and Carly, but his daughter is cold to him and is resistant to his overtures to reaching out to her. Ross and Carly have led such different lives and there are big obstacles to overcome. Can they do it?
The book is very well written. The story is told from the perspective of each of the lovers. Selena Lawrence has produced a very fun and sexy book for her readers. I recommend it.
February 12, 2020
Rockstar Ross is tired of his life on the road and decides to attend his 25th high school reunion, where he reconnects with Carly, his prom date from 25 years ago
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Sparks fly between the two once again, but each of them has a life to navigate before they can find any sort of happily-ever-after. They've each been married and it's important to each of them to see to their children's needs. This is nothing new for Carly, but Ross is struggling to mend fences with his teenage daughter, and it's not easy.
I loved Ross's genuineness, and Selena Laurence does a deft job of letting the reader see things from both his and Carly's points of view.
I'm not usually a rock star romance fan, but I love this story. I was immediately drawn into Ross & Carly's world and could not wait to see if they could make things work.
I received an ARC in return for an honest review which I'm happy to provide.
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Sparks fly between the two once again, but each of them has a life to navigate before they can find any sort of happily-ever-after. They've each been married and it's important to each of them to see to their children's needs. This is nothing new for Carly, but Ross is struggling to mend fences with his teenage daughter, and it's not easy.
I loved Ross's genuineness, and Selena Laurence does a deft job of letting the reader see things from both his and Carly's points of view.
I'm not usually a rock star romance fan, but I love this story. I was immediately drawn into Ross & Carly's world and could not wait to see if they could make things work.
I received an ARC in return for an honest review which I'm happy to provide.
February 13, 2020
LOVED this book! Ross is a legendary rock star and has been touring for 25 years with a teenage daughter that he barely knows. Carly is a divorced single mom of a teenage son. He goes to his HS reunion where the attraction for his "just friends" prom date reignite. This is a perfect example of how to do an over 40 romance. All of the characters have depth. There are no threads that are dangling. This story is written so that you become immersed in pages and reality is blurred - at least it was for me. Ross' words are so honest and genuine. There was no hiding behind an "alpha" demeanor - despite that basically being his profession for his entire adult life. I fell in love with the love in this town and the connection between all of the characters. I highly recommend this book. I was provided a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2020
This is a really awesome story about two mature adults who fall in love. Ross and Carly had been friends in school. Twenty five years later when they meet again the attraction is still there. Ross is at a point in his life and career where he needs to make a change to feel more fulfilled. Coming back to his roots and connecting with the things and people he left behind seems to be just what is needed. Carly is a single mom and confident career woman. She is rooted in her community and doesn’t want to change that.
The characters are wonderful and lovable. The dialogue is realistic and will keep you turning the pages. There is the opportunity to laugh out loud and to empathize with the vagaries of parenting a teen and trying to date. It is a beautifully written story that is well worth reading more than once.
The characters are wonderful and lovable. The dialogue is realistic and will keep you turning the pages. There is the opportunity to laugh out loud and to empathize with the vagaries of parenting a teen and trying to date. It is a beautifully written story that is well worth reading more than once.
February 14, 2020
You can go home again
Rocker Ross is tired. Tired of the fame, tired of the constant traveling. Just plain tired. When he goes home for the first time for his 25th High School reunion, he realizes what he’s been missing. And it’s not just the feeling of being home, but it’s the girl that he left behind. Now all he has to do is untangle his life – and become that father that he hasn’t been to his daughter back in LA.
Carly has a satisfying life. She has a good relationship with her son’s father, a successful career in real estate and some really close friends. But when she sees Ross at their reunion, she sees what’s missing, and it’s the hot rocker. But they agree that it would only be for one night, just like peon night all those years ago. But can they keep it to just once?
I’m looking forward to more from this author.
Rocker Ross is tired. Tired of the fame, tired of the constant traveling. Just plain tired. When he goes home for the first time for his 25th High School reunion, he realizes what he’s been missing. And it’s not just the feeling of being home, but it’s the girl that he left behind. Now all he has to do is untangle his life – and become that father that he hasn’t been to his daughter back in LA.
Carly has a satisfying life. She has a good relationship with her son’s father, a successful career in real estate and some really close friends. But when she sees Ross at their reunion, she sees what’s missing, and it’s the hot rocker. But they agree that it would only be for one night, just like peon night all those years ago. But can they keep it to just once?
I’m looking forward to more from this author.
Read
November 15, 2021Being of mature age I yearn for relevant. Relevant lives I can agree with, understand, commiserate... Here out hero is a swoon-worthy rock-star and our heroine, well.... she's me. Been there, done that in Normalville, Somewhere. Raising, and surviving, a teenager. I loved teenage Quinn he was so much fun and polite and loving maybe that bit isnt real life for some but we can only hope the 'terrible' teens move along quickly!! Ross our hero rock star grows with the story forging a quality relationship with a somewhat spoilt for choice, but now reformed, daughter. Carly our queen of normal life battles herself when it comes to Ross yet she also embraces what could be. Sweet, Funny, Romantic could be words to describe but mine are: Love, Lust and Sexy.
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.
February 7, 2020
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very sweet and also very sexy second chance novel. Ross is a rockstar in a Rolling Stones like band, but he’s feeling burned out. He decides to attend his 25th high school reunion during his month hiatus from touring, to be with the people that knew him before all the fame. He’s reunited with Carly his date from senior prom. Each has went their separate ways after their senior prom where they went together as friends, but now they can’t deny the incredible attraction they feel for each other. Ross wants to be with Carly but he also needs to be a father to the daughter he’s neglected for far too long. Carly wants to be with Ross but she doesn’t want to get hurt when Ross has to leave again. Great read!
This was a very sweet and also very sexy second chance novel. Ross is a rockstar in a Rolling Stones like band, but he’s feeling burned out. He decides to attend his 25th high school reunion during his month hiatus from touring, to be with the people that knew him before all the fame. He’s reunited with Carly his date from senior prom. Each has went their separate ways after their senior prom where they went together as friends, but now they can’t deny the incredible attraction they feel for each other. Ross wants to be with Carly but he also needs to be a father to the daughter he’s neglected for far too long. Carly wants to be with Ross but she doesn’t want to get hurt when Ross has to leave again. Great read!
February 10, 2020
While I would dispute that this is a rocker romance, overall it’s a good story about a man who has been so bust building his band that he hasn’t stopped to repair relationship, build relationships or understand that living his life the was he was wasn’t working for him.
I guess you can go home because Ross does, but he’s Mick Jagger level famous. Suddenly after 25 years he return to his little home town to attend a 25 year high school reunion. He runs into his high school kind of friend and senior prom date. Sparks fly, things happen and Ross, I think, leans heavily on her to help him navigate being a father to his 15 year old daughter. This isn’t a bad book, but, I’m not 100% onboard with it, I’m really neutral to be honest.
I guess you can go home because Ross does, but he’s Mick Jagger level famous. Suddenly after 25 years he return to his little home town to attend a 25 year high school reunion. He runs into his high school kind of friend and senior prom date. Sparks fly, things happen and Ross, I think, leans heavily on her to help him navigate being a father to his 15 year old daughter. This isn’t a bad book, but, I’m not 100% onboard with it, I’m really neutral to be honest.
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