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Sinful Serenade #2
Strum Your Heart Out
Librarian's Note: An alternate cover for this ASIN can be found here.
Moving in with your sexy, tattooed rock star best friend? No problem. Not if you're ready to give up eating, breathing, and sleeping...
College senior Kara Kendrick is not about to let lust ruin a good friendship. Yes, her rock star guitarist best friend Drew Denton is stubborn, guarded, and quick to threaten violence on anyone who hurts her. He's also trustworthy, protective, and several degrees hotter than the sun.
When Kara gets kicked out of her apartment, Drew insists she move in with him. But her crush isn't quite so manageable with him sweating through his push-ups. Or stepping out of the shower clad in only a towel. Or tackling her on the bed, tickling her to make her confess.
There's no way they can be together. Not if she wants to keep her secrets. No matter how much her body begs her to throw herself on his bed, no matter how desperately she wants to rip off his v-neck and rake her hands over his defined torso, Kara is staying just friends with Drew.
Until she's not. Until they're kissing and touching and about to do something that will change their friendship forever.
Moving in with your sexy, tattooed rock star best friend? No problem. Not if you're ready to give up eating, breathing, and sleeping...
College senior Kara Kendrick is not about to let lust ruin a good friendship. Yes, her rock star guitarist best friend Drew Denton is stubborn, guarded, and quick to threaten violence on anyone who hurts her. He's also trustworthy, protective, and several degrees hotter than the sun.
When Kara gets kicked out of her apartment, Drew insists she move in with him. But her crush isn't quite so manageable with him sweating through his push-ups. Or stepping out of the shower clad in only a towel. Or tackling her on the bed, tickling her to make her confess.
There's no way they can be together. Not if she wants to keep her secrets. No matter how much her body begs her to throw herself on his bed, no matter how desperately she wants to rip off his v-neck and rake her hands over his defined torso, Kara is staying just friends with Drew.
Until she's not. Until they're kissing and touching and about to do something that will change their friendship forever.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2020
1098 people are currently reading
1344 people want to read
About the author
Crystal Kaswell
114 books2,550 followersCrystal Kaswell is the author of the Sinful Serenade series. She writes steamy new adult romance with flawed characters. She loves police procedurals, tea, and The Hunger Games series. She lives in Portland, OR with her husband.
http://www.crystalkaswell.com/
https://twitter.com/CrystalKaswell
http://www.crystalkaswell.com/
https://twitter.com/CrystalKaswell
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
April 4, 2016
I am loving this series!! I didn't think I could like Drew and Kara's book more than the first book, but somehow I do! And I loved the first one. The tale between these two was old as time, best friend, and yet more. Nothing mind blowing plot-wise, but for me, it is how it was written. It is also just as steamy as the first book as well. If you're looking for a new rockstar romance series, take a peek at this one!
P.S. I'm so excited for Tom's book next!! AHH!
P.S. I'm so excited for Tom's book next!! AHH!
September 23, 2016
Summer catch-up review:
2.50 for fluffy goodness
I was bored out of my mind. The H loved the h, no OW drama at all. The h has issues. They get together. They fuck. A lot. He's afraid of the word girlfriend. She makes him agree to being BF/GF or its over. He says ok, you win....and then the book was over.
Yawn...
Then there was the sex clenching...yeah, you don't want to know.
SG LADIES: light and sweet and no triggers. This little confection is just for you with rockstar sprinkles.
2.50 for fluffy goodness
I was bored out of my mind. The H loved the h, no OW drama at all. The h has issues. They get together. They fuck. A lot. He's afraid of the word girlfriend. She makes him agree to being BF/GF or its over. He says ok, you win....and then the book was over.
Yawn...
Then there was the sex clenching...yeah, you don't want to know.
SG LADIES: light and sweet and no triggers. This little confection is just for you with rockstar sprinkles.
May 2, 2018
Sinful Serenade reviews
Sing Your Heart Out ❤❤❤ here
Strum Your Heart Out ❤❤❤ See below!
Rock Your Heart Out ❤❤❤❤ here
Play Your Heart Out ❤❤❤❤ here
Bonus book:
Sinful Ever After ❤❤ here
While each book is a standalone the entire series involve all the members of the Sinful Serenade and thus, you’ll meet most of the characters in each book even as secondary characters. So, while it’s not necessary to read all the books, I’d recommend it to avoid spoilers and in order to connect with them all.
The rating is more like 3.5, but since I can’t do that it didn’t feel right to round up, when some of the other books deserved that rating fair and square!
This is the story of Sinful Serenade’s lead guitarist, Drew and his long-lost crush and best friend, Kara. Drew and Kara used to be best friends, but grew apart, and now they’ve finally found each other again. When Kara’s roommate asks her to move out it aligns perfectly with Drew’s plans to move out of the Sinful Serenade Mansion, so the two of them become roommates. However, it’s clear that they both want more but something is holding them back.
I like the friend to lover aspect of the story, so that our two leads are already comfortable and (somewhat) open with each other. This allows more time for the plot, without going through the whole meet and greet. I also really liked that Kara isn’t little miss perfect. She has issues and as a way to deal, she used to cut herself when she was younger, and now she has the scars to prove it. I think that Crystal nailed her insecurities because of said scars.
However, I did feel that there was something essential missing to explain why, it was so hard for these two to become a couple. Drew and Kara were perfectly okay with screwing, a lot, but Drew wasn’t okay being together in public, and I think Crystal should have spend more time explaining this. I also feel that dual POV might have been the key, because with it only being from Kara’s POV, it left a lot of holes in the explanation.
The plot is very straight forward, and ticks off all the boxes needed for these kinds of books:
Boy meets girl
instant attraction
They get to know each other
But oh no, complications arise and misunderstandings/secrets are blown out of proportion
Someone is sorry
HEA
So, don’t get your hopes up – this is not a new spin on that. Yet, it’s still an enjoyable read.
Sing Your Heart Out ❤❤❤ here
Strum Your Heart Out ❤❤❤ See below!
Rock Your Heart Out ❤❤❤❤ here
Play Your Heart Out ❤❤❤❤ here
Bonus book:
Sinful Ever After ❤❤ here
While each book is a standalone the entire series involve all the members of the Sinful Serenade and thus, you’ll meet most of the characters in each book even as secondary characters. So, while it’s not necessary to read all the books, I’d recommend it to avoid spoilers and in order to connect with them all.
The rating is more like 3.5, but since I can’t do that it didn’t feel right to round up, when some of the other books deserved that rating fair and square!
This is the story of Sinful Serenade’s lead guitarist, Drew and his long-lost crush and best friend, Kara. Drew and Kara used to be best friends, but grew apart, and now they’ve finally found each other again. When Kara’s roommate asks her to move out it aligns perfectly with Drew’s plans to move out of the Sinful Serenade Mansion, so the two of them become roommates. However, it’s clear that they both want more but something is holding them back.
I like the friend to lover aspect of the story, so that our two leads are already comfortable and (somewhat) open with each other. This allows more time for the plot, without going through the whole meet and greet. I also really liked that Kara isn’t little miss perfect. She has issues and as a way to deal, she used to cut herself when she was younger, and now she has the scars to prove it. I think that Crystal nailed her insecurities because of said scars.
However, I did feel that there was something essential missing to explain why, it was so hard for these two to become a couple. Drew and Kara were perfectly okay with screwing, a lot, but Drew wasn’t okay being together in public, and I think Crystal should have spend more time explaining this. I also feel that dual POV might have been the key, because with it only being from Kara’s POV, it left a lot of holes in the explanation.
The plot is very straight forward, and ticks off all the boxes needed for these kinds of books:
Boy meets girl
instant attraction
They get to know each other
But oh no, complications arise and misunderstandings/secrets are blown out of proportion
Someone is sorry
HEA
So, don’t get your hopes up – this is not a new spin on that. Yet, it’s still an enjoyable read.
December 15, 2023
Alright, Kara and Drew were great. I enjoyed the book and it was a pretty light read. I adored the fact that she was the only person he could tolerate and that they had the whole boy next door thing going on from a young age. I knew I was going to love Drew when they were apartment hunting. To be honest though, I couldn't imagine the characters which I thought was a bit strange - I couldn't picture who Kara was. But besides that this book was great and all until that 3rd act 'break up' that totally did not need to be a break up. Anyways, this book was good and I enjoyed it!
3.5 Stars!
3.5 Stars!
September 24, 2017
Review to be written soon...
October 5, 2017
I thought this book was good, a bit bland and drags at parks but overall a good story line
October 18, 2021
2.5 rounded up? There was nothing particularly wrong with this book, I just felt that the excitement in the story waned after our H/h got together and then I just kept reading to finish the book. It was a very fast read, although I did end up skimming a few pages towards the middle and end.
CW/TW: past self-harm , death of a parent (in the past)
I mostly enjoyed the friends-to-lovers romance between Kara and Drew. I thought the story started off strong and I liked the obvious sexual tension between our mains! It's clear from the first time we meet her that Kara is deep into her feelings with Drew although it's not made clear until a few chapters later that Drew feels the same way about her. Once they succumb to their feelings and get together though, all that tension disappeared and I found myself quickly getting bored and frustrated by their reluctance to communicate. The story also devolves into pages of sex and I mean, that's fine, but I also wished there was a bit more to their story emotionally. I was especially irritated by Drew, who demanded everything from Kara but who continuously deflected her attempts to learn more about his tougher years as a rock star. If I'm honest, I wasn't particularly wowed by much about him and thought that Kara deserved better. Sure, he didn't react negatively to her revealing the truth about her scars and her past self-harm, unlike her previous partner who broke up with her because of it, but is that all it takes to be a good person? He ultimately still didn't treat her the best and used sex 90% of the time to avoid confronting anything. The conflict was also very quickly resolved and although there's (obviously) a HEA I wasn't quite sold on what happens in the epilogue cos it felt like too much of a quick escalation!
Overall, while I didn't think that there was anything particularly bad about the story (no OW drama or other OTT drama) it also wasn't particularly memorable. It's on Kindle Unlimited though, if you want to give it a try!
CW/TW: past self-harm , death of a parent (in the past)
I mostly enjoyed the friends-to-lovers romance between Kara and Drew. I thought the story started off strong and I liked the obvious sexual tension between our mains! It's clear from the first time we meet her that Kara is deep into her feelings with Drew although it's not made clear until a few chapters later that Drew feels the same way about her. Once they succumb to their feelings and get together though, all that tension disappeared and I found myself quickly getting bored and frustrated by their reluctance to communicate. The story also devolves into pages of sex and I mean, that's fine, but I also wished there was a bit more to their story emotionally. I was especially irritated by Drew, who demanded everything from Kara but who continuously deflected her attempts to learn more about his tougher years as a rock star. If I'm honest, I wasn't particularly wowed by much about him and thought that Kara deserved better. Sure, he didn't react negatively to her revealing the truth about her scars and her past self-harm, unlike her previous partner who broke up with her because of it, but is that all it takes to be a good person? He ultimately still didn't treat her the best and used sex 90% of the time to avoid confronting anything. The conflict was also very quickly resolved and although there's (obviously) a HEA I wasn't quite sold on what happens in the epilogue cos it felt like too much of a quick escalation!
Overall, while I didn't think that there was anything particularly bad about the story (no OW drama or other OTT drama) it also wasn't particularly memorable. It's on Kindle Unlimited though, if you want to give it a try!
October 1, 2017
1.5 Stars
Didn't like it. It was a little boring. The plot seemed weak to me. I couldn't understand what all the pushing away was from. Didn't make much sense. Felt like just a plot device to add conflict to a nonexistent plot. It lacked substance and justification. A very delicate subject was treated very casually, and it needed to address the psychological aspects and treatment needed to overcome such issue with the h. It glossed over that and focused on nonexistent emotional issues with the H. I skimmed through a lot of it due to way too many sex scenes that are really unnecessary and felt more l I keep filler. Sex doesn't make up for lack of substance and plot.
Didn't like it. It was a little boring. The plot seemed weak to me. I couldn't understand what all the pushing away was from. Didn't make much sense. Felt like just a plot device to add conflict to a nonexistent plot. It lacked substance and justification. A very delicate subject was treated very casually, and it needed to address the psychological aspects and treatment needed to overcome such issue with the h. It glossed over that and focused on nonexistent emotional issues with the H. I skimmed through a lot of it due to way too many sex scenes that are really unnecessary and felt more l I keep filler. Sex doesn't make up for lack of substance and plot.
July 27, 2021
Loved!
Was so excited for this book after all the tension and flirting in book 1. They were adorable together. The perfect bffs. With games, flirting, inside jokes, protectiveness, and always being there for the other. Loved how hot they were together. Definite steam. They both pushed one another. She pushed him to open up and realize he could have more. And he pushed her to go for what she really wanted to do in life. Loved how tom was playing matchmaker again. But once again he was over the top and tended to cause trouble. But was always there for drew and Kara individually in the end. Can’t wait for his book. Loved the ending. So adorably beautiful.
Was so excited for this book after all the tension and flirting in book 1. They were adorable together. The perfect bffs. With games, flirting, inside jokes, protectiveness, and always being there for the other. Loved how hot they were together. Definite steam. They both pushed one another. She pushed him to open up and realize he could have more. And he pushed her to go for what she really wanted to do in life. Loved how tom was playing matchmaker again. But once again he was over the top and tended to cause trouble. But was always there for drew and Kara individually in the end. Can’t wait for his book. Loved the ending. So adorably beautiful.
November 27, 2019
2.75 stars
I was really interested in Drew and Kara's story since we met them in Sing Your Heart Out, but this book fell so flat for me and to be honest gave me a headache.
This is a friends to lovers story.
For approximately the first 35% of the book, they still act like they don't like each other yet they are eye-banging every chance they get. Now they have serious secrets that they won't reveal to each other yet they try to force each other to reveal them. Once they finally get together, it gets weird and so confusing; Drew keeps saying how he ruins women and doesn't know how to do a relationship and Kara just goes along with it until, she basically snaps and can't handle it.
Drew hides their "relationship" from their friends, even though everyone already knows, but he continues to hide Kara and acts like a jealous caveman. After they get together it's basically sex every other paragraph and it was really annoying because they act sexed deprived, like they have nothing else to do but each other and when they aren't together they are thinking about sex with each other and if someone brings up Drew's name around Kara, all she can think about is sex.
I just expected more from two people who are supposedly best friends and know everything about each other, but apparently only reconnected recently after not talking for years.
The Kara and her mother situation looked like it was going to be intense, nothing happened; it was tied up in a nice bow not to be bothered with.
Unfortunately, this book was just not that intriguing for me and I couldn't wait for it to end because the repetitiveness was driving me crazy. Drew's tortured soul over Vivian (which really didn't sound like a huge deal, I was more focused on the situation with his sister), Kara's need to constantly be boned by Drew, but gets butt hurt when he won't label their relationship.
Does Kara ever see a therapist to help with overcoming the shame she feels about her scars?
One thing that shocked me, I actually like Tom in this book and I look forward to his book.
I was really interested in Drew and Kara's story since we met them in Sing Your Heart Out, but this book fell so flat for me and to be honest gave me a headache.
This is a friends to lovers story.
For approximately the first 35% of the book, they still act like they don't like each other yet they are eye-banging every chance they get. Now they have serious secrets that they won't reveal to each other yet they try to force each other to reveal them. Once they finally get together, it gets weird and so confusing; Drew keeps saying how he ruins women and doesn't know how to do a relationship and Kara just goes along with it until, she basically snaps and can't handle it.
Drew hides their "relationship" from their friends, even though everyone already knows, but he continues to hide Kara and acts like a jealous caveman. After they get together it's basically sex every other paragraph and it was really annoying because they act sexed deprived, like they have nothing else to do but each other and when they aren't together they are thinking about sex with each other and if someone brings up Drew's name around Kara, all she can think about is sex.
I just expected more from two people who are supposedly best friends and know everything about each other, but apparently only reconnected recently after not talking for years.
The Kara and her mother situation looked like it was going to be intense, nothing happened; it was tied up in a nice bow not to be bothered with.
Unfortunately, this book was just not that intriguing for me and I couldn't wait for it to end because the repetitiveness was driving me crazy. Drew's tortured soul over Vivian (which really didn't sound like a huge deal, I was more focused on the situation with his sister), Kara's need to constantly be boned by Drew, but gets butt hurt when he won't label their relationship.
Does Kara ever see a therapist to help with overcoming the shame she feels about her scars?
One thing that shocked me, I actually like Tom in this book and I look forward to his book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2021
Drew and Kara really are a great friends to lovers couple. There are so many heavy hints in the previous book. It almost seems as if they should have just been written together. Both of the main characters are great people. As a standalone book without having read any of her other books, this one is great. That's the reason for the the 5 stars. However, if I rated this based on originality, I would probably give it a 1. Unfortunately, Ms. Kaswell's books, or at least the ones I've read so far, have a recurring theme.
*****Spoilers*****
Two troubled but otherwise wonderful people come together and build a relationship. It's either a slow build where they are hiding it because someone would object or they are hiding it because they are friends with benefits and they don't officially tell people because it isn't a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship. None of them are officially boyfriend/girlfriend relationships for a large percentage of each book. The biggest difference is where the steamy scenes begin. Ms. Kaswell can certainly write some steamy scenes! Although, a little variety in the kink department might be appreciated.
I have not read the 4th book in the series. It looks to have a slightly different theme in that Pete needs a girlfriend to help his image. I have read the 2nd book in the related band series. I think I like that series because at least the 2nd book is written in dual POV. I really prefer romance books to be written that way. I also like the other band because they seem more of a family and seem to get along a little better. Two of the characters in that series are brothers. Although, two characters in this book are adopted brothers, they just aren't the family the other guys are - especially when you add in their sister.
*****Spoilers*****
Two troubled but otherwise wonderful people come together and build a relationship. It's either a slow build where they are hiding it because someone would object or they are hiding it because they are friends with benefits and they don't officially tell people because it isn't a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship. None of them are officially boyfriend/girlfriend relationships for a large percentage of each book. The biggest difference is where the steamy scenes begin. Ms. Kaswell can certainly write some steamy scenes! Although, a little variety in the kink department might be appreciated.
I have not read the 4th book in the series. It looks to have a slightly different theme in that Pete needs a girlfriend to help his image. I have read the 2nd book in the related band series. I think I like that series because at least the 2nd book is written in dual POV. I really prefer romance books to be written that way. I also like the other band because they seem more of a family and seem to get along a little better. Two of the characters in that series are brothers. Although, two characters in this book are adopted brothers, they just aren't the family the other guys are - especially when you add in their sister.
May 15, 2016
This one is hard to review, and I'm not quite sure why. There are things I liked, a lot in fact, but some things hold me back from enjoying everything about it.
The things I liked were really just the one thing--the love scenes. They were pretty hot. Drew's dirty mouth? Let's just say it was impressive. When Drew and Kara were together alone, they worked well. Friends to lovers work for me, but when they weren't alone...
I was confused often. Drew was so sweet and attentive when no one was looking, so when their friends were around, he was not. It made no sense. There was not enough of an explanation to justify why he acted so coldly. I just didn't get it. Then, someone would storm out. Words were missing explaining what the hell happened. It was weird.
I mean I liked the main characters okay, but neither were overly captivating. Seriously, I spent the entire book wondering if I was missing something. I had to re-read passages to see if there were clues I missed. It wasn't me.
The sex alone was worth the read, but I'm not sure I will indulge in another in the series. Maybe the first book explains what I'm missing, but I doubt it since the first book's characters are barely mentioned in this one.
Eh. It just wasn't my type of read, but I am not the intended audience for it.
The things I liked were really just the one thing--the love scenes. They were pretty hot. Drew's dirty mouth? Let's just say it was impressive. When Drew and Kara were together alone, they worked well. Friends to lovers work for me, but when they weren't alone...
I was confused often. Drew was so sweet and attentive when no one was looking, so when their friends were around, he was not. It made no sense. There was not enough of an explanation to justify why he acted so coldly. I just didn't get it. Then, someone would storm out. Words were missing explaining what the hell happened. It was weird.
I mean I liked the main characters okay, but neither were overly captivating. Seriously, I spent the entire book wondering if I was missing something. I had to re-read passages to see if there were clues I missed. It wasn't me.
The sex alone was worth the read, but I'm not sure I will indulge in another in the series. Maybe the first book explains what I'm missing, but I doubt it since the first book's characters are barely mentioned in this one.
Eh. It just wasn't my type of read, but I am not the intended audience for it.
June 26, 2016
This book was just a nice and easy read, with good characters and a gripping relationship that readers find themselves rooting for. It is not a very original storyline but it meets its purpose of just being a nice easy pallet cleansing book which provides readers with a new book boyfriend.
The main characters in this book are Kara and Drew; they are in the first book in this series but not very much and I am very glad they got a book of their own and that it did them justice. Kara and Drew have been friends for most of their life, since childhood but once they got to secondary school and Drew got popular the two parted ways. They joined back up later but Kara had suffered through some trying times and Drew found her to be more closed off than he’d anticipated. Now the two are desperately crushing on each other but scared of what will become of them and more than that Kara is scared to show Drew her true self.
There are only a few secondary characters but I feel they are going to get books of their own in the other books in this series.
The storyline is not unlike other books in this genre but it was very well written and the characters are very likeable. The pacing is great and it leaves it till the very last minute to let readers know the outcome of the relationship between the two main characters.
3.5 stars, a good read.
The main characters in this book are Kara and Drew; they are in the first book in this series but not very much and I am very glad they got a book of their own and that it did them justice. Kara and Drew have been friends for most of their life, since childhood but once they got to secondary school and Drew got popular the two parted ways. They joined back up later but Kara had suffered through some trying times and Drew found her to be more closed off than he’d anticipated. Now the two are desperately crushing on each other but scared of what will become of them and more than that Kara is scared to show Drew her true self.
There are only a few secondary characters but I feel they are going to get books of their own in the other books in this series.
The storyline is not unlike other books in this genre but it was very well written and the characters are very likeable. The pacing is great and it leaves it till the very last minute to let readers know the outcome of the relationship between the two main characters.
3.5 stars, a good read.
June 17, 2016
Let me start by saying this book had me from page one...I could not put it down for long. I loved Drew and Kara in the first book and knew I would like their story but I didn't expect to absolutely melt for Drew's character the way I did. He may be in a successful band but he HATES the spotlight, that is a hard thing to find especially in a rocker from a band. Drew has major commitment issues but that didn't stop him from falling for Kara (even though he didn't realize it).
Kara bless her...she put up with Drew's commitment issues for quite a long time and I was so proud when she finally put her foot down, then even more so when she did/said in San Francisco.
We got to see a lot more of Tom and Pete in this book and I REALLY like Tom...not sure if it's going to be more than Drew yet but I think it may be pretty even in the end. In the Epilogue of this book they was a tiny moment where it felt like the author was hinting at the next book.
I cannot wait to start Tom's book next especially since we heard SO much about Willow (beings as she is Drew's sister) and what happened to her when she was younger.
Kara bless her...she put up with Drew's commitment issues for quite a long time and I was so proud when she finally put her foot down, then even more so when she did/said in San Francisco.
We got to see a lot more of Tom and Pete in this book and I REALLY like Tom...not sure if it's going to be more than Drew yet but I think it may be pretty even in the end. In the Epilogue of this book they was a tiny moment where it felt like the author was hinting at the next book.
I cannot wait to start Tom's book next especially since we heard SO much about Willow (beings as she is Drew's sister) and what happened to her when she was younger.
November 17, 2015
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
I so enjoyed the first book in this series so I was pretty sure that I would enjoy book 2 but expected the story line to be pretty much the same as book 1. So I was pleasantly surprised to find that book 2 definitely has it's own story line that veered off from the main plot! Also, Ms. Kaswell was able to add even more in the development of the already existing characters! We definitely learned a whole lot more about thew H and h of book 2 but she was also able to build more on the already existing characters that we got to know in book 1. All of this and none of it felt repetitive, which can happen in a series. But none of that is going on in this series so far. I certainly am looking forward to reading ROCK YOUR HEART OUT, which is going to be Tom's story! Amazing job Ms. Kaswell, keep them coming!
I so enjoyed the first book in this series so I was pretty sure that I would enjoy book 2 but expected the story line to be pretty much the same as book 1. So I was pleasantly surprised to find that book 2 definitely has it's own story line that veered off from the main plot! Also, Ms. Kaswell was able to add even more in the development of the already existing characters! We definitely learned a whole lot more about thew H and h of book 2 but she was also able to build more on the already existing characters that we got to know in book 1. All of this and none of it felt repetitive, which can happen in a series. But none of that is going on in this series so far. I certainly am looking forward to reading ROCK YOUR HEART OUT, which is going to be Tom's story! Amazing job Ms. Kaswell, keep them coming!
May 31, 2016
3.5 stars
This book follows Kara and Drew who make brief appearances in the first book given Kara is best friends with Meg and Drew plays in the band Sinful Serenade with Miles.
Not as good as book 1 because I'm basically in love with Miles and Meg buuuuuuuut still really enjoyable. As with Sing Your Heart Out this isn't a YA novel and does include a lot (and I do mean a lot) of explicit sex scenes. Some of these felt organic but largely they seemed to be plot hole fillers.
Full review to come
This book follows Kara and Drew who make brief appearances in the first book given Kara is best friends with Meg and Drew plays in the band Sinful Serenade with Miles.
Not as good as book 1 because I'm basically in love with Miles and Meg buuuuuuuut still really enjoyable. As with Sing Your Heart Out this isn't a YA novel and does include a lot (and I do mean a lot) of explicit sex scenes. Some of these felt organic but largely they seemed to be plot hole fillers.
Full review to come
June 28, 2016
This was my favorite book in the series. I actually read this book first, then went back for #1. It still had the lack of pronoun & adverb usage, but it just seemed to fit these characters better. I really enjoyed this one; a great light rock star romance with just a teeny bit too much angst, just like I like it. High five, Crystal Kaswell.
July 31, 2016
Sinful Sequel Squandered
I enjoyed the first book but this was one had a shallow plot and I can't believe I am saying this but to much sex and not enough substance. I expected so much more from the teaser and was disappointed. That said I will check out Tom's story. The potential is there I hope Kaswell can deliver.
I enjoyed the first book but this was one had a shallow plot and I can't believe I am saying this but to much sex and not enough substance. I expected so much more from the teaser and was disappointed. That said I will check out Tom's story. The potential is there I hope Kaswell can deliver.
November 6, 2019
Loved
Absolutely loved this book! Kendra and Drew have been best friends forever. He looks out for her and is there for her when she needs him. He's caring and I enjoyed reading their story. Kendra has a dark secret that only Drew knew about, but doesn't know it continues. With thier friendship growing strong and turning into more, will she lose him when he finds out?
Absolutely loved this book! Kendra and Drew have been best friends forever. He looks out for her and is there for her when she needs him. He's caring and I enjoyed reading their story. Kendra has a dark secret that only Drew knew about, but doesn't know it continues. With thier friendship growing strong and turning into more, will she lose him when he finds out?
October 31, 2016
I finished this book but only barely. It's nothing special and by the end I was skimming it, not really into the repetitive content anymore.
May 16, 2024
It’s harder to hide your crush on your best friend once you move in with them.
Kara has been friends with Drew for a longtime. They drifted apart in high school, but now that he’s back in her life Kara is determined to not let anything ruin it, especially her crush on her best friend. It becomes harder to ignore her feelings when she loses her apartment and Drew offers to let her move in with him. It’s not long before lines begin to blur and the two friends find themselves tangled up together in bed. It’s better than any fantasy Kara could have dreamed up. Things come crashing down though as both Kara and Drew have trouble letting go of long held secrets and doubts. Will they be able to throw caution to the wind and trust in love or will they lose not just a lover, but their best friend for good.
Crystal Kaswell is a master of crafting stories where the main characters try everything not to fall in love but accidentally do so anyway. It was so much fun returning to the world of Sinful Serenade. We see plenty of Meg and Miles to see how they are doing, but it’s Kara’s turn for her own love story. Unlike Meg, Kara is experienced and more open with her body in some ways. She oozes a confidence meant to hide the hurt she feels. Her smile hides how hard she is working to hold herself together. After seeing Kara in Sing Your Heart Out it's incredible seeing how much her personality hides. I think it’s something many people can relate to. The only one who can see past her brave front is Drew. Drew is the string and silent type. The guitarist of Sinful Serenade. He’s content being in the background and letting his music speak for him (not that his fangirls had their way). He is the kind of guy who punches first and asks questions later, especially when those he cares about are hurt. The relationship between Kara and Drew is filled with so much chemistry powered forward by their jokes and honesty with each other. Readers will fall hard for this guitarist and end up screaming at the pages like me, urging the characters to take a chance on love.
Ready to see these two best friends fall headfirst into love? Then what are you waiting for? Get your copy now.
Kara has been friends with Drew for a longtime. They drifted apart in high school, but now that he’s back in her life Kara is determined to not let anything ruin it, especially her crush on her best friend. It becomes harder to ignore her feelings when she loses her apartment and Drew offers to let her move in with him. It’s not long before lines begin to blur and the two friends find themselves tangled up together in bed. It’s better than any fantasy Kara could have dreamed up. Things come crashing down though as both Kara and Drew have trouble letting go of long held secrets and doubts. Will they be able to throw caution to the wind and trust in love or will they lose not just a lover, but their best friend for good.
Crystal Kaswell is a master of crafting stories where the main characters try everything not to fall in love but accidentally do so anyway. It was so much fun returning to the world of Sinful Serenade. We see plenty of Meg and Miles to see how they are doing, but it’s Kara’s turn for her own love story. Unlike Meg, Kara is experienced and more open with her body in some ways. She oozes a confidence meant to hide the hurt she feels. Her smile hides how hard she is working to hold herself together. After seeing Kara in Sing Your Heart Out it's incredible seeing how much her personality hides. I think it’s something many people can relate to. The only one who can see past her brave front is Drew. Drew is the string and silent type. The guitarist of Sinful Serenade. He’s content being in the background and letting his music speak for him (not that his fangirls had their way). He is the kind of guy who punches first and asks questions later, especially when those he cares about are hurt. The relationship between Kara and Drew is filled with so much chemistry powered forward by their jokes and honesty with each other. Readers will fall hard for this guitarist and end up screaming at the pages like me, urging the characters to take a chance on love.
Ready to see these two best friends fall headfirst into love? Then what are you waiting for? Get your copy now.
February 4, 2024
Best friends can make the best lovers!
Kara and Drew were friends before he became famous with Sinful Serenade and now that the band’s back in LA, Drew tries to rekindle their friendship as she doesn’t treat him like he’s famous. And it works to an extent as Kara seems to keep him at arm's length. It helps that her best friend and the lead singer hit it off well, so there's more opportunity for them to be together. And with Drew putting down roots in LA he wants Kara to live with him.
It also comes out to both of them that they like each other to try something more. But Drew doesn't want labels and Kara doesn't want to lose their friendship. Especially because she knows her plan is to go back to San Francisco to work at her mom's company; something she's not looking forward to. But when Drew refuses to show any affection toward her when out in public, she gives him a time limit to come clean to his bandmates and sticks with it when he doesn't say anything.
Drew and Kara get their happy ending in this standalone book in a series.
I will eventually make my way through this whole series. This book has some triggers to it, please check them out first. It was great to see Kara attempt to not be directly in Drew's sphere by trying to find a different place to live when her roommate kicked her out before agreeing to move in with him. I wonder if Kara's mom would have supported her more when she was also going through all her pain if she had known back when Kara was in high school. And it was never clear how Drew and Kara drifted apart in school other than he became popular. But it seemed like Kara was just as popular, so that was a bit confusing.
Kara and Drew were friends before he became famous with Sinful Serenade and now that the band’s back in LA, Drew tries to rekindle their friendship as she doesn’t treat him like he’s famous. And it works to an extent as Kara seems to keep him at arm's length. It helps that her best friend and the lead singer hit it off well, so there's more opportunity for them to be together. And with Drew putting down roots in LA he wants Kara to live with him.
It also comes out to both of them that they like each other to try something more. But Drew doesn't want labels and Kara doesn't want to lose their friendship. Especially because she knows her plan is to go back to San Francisco to work at her mom's company; something she's not looking forward to. But when Drew refuses to show any affection toward her when out in public, she gives him a time limit to come clean to his bandmates and sticks with it when he doesn't say anything.
Drew and Kara get their happy ending in this standalone book in a series.
I will eventually make my way through this whole series. This book has some triggers to it, please check them out first. It was great to see Kara attempt to not be directly in Drew's sphere by trying to find a different place to live when her roommate kicked her out before agreeing to move in with him. I wonder if Kara's mom would have supported her more when she was also going through all her pain if she had known back when Kara was in high school. And it was never clear how Drew and Kara drifted apart in school other than he became popular. But it seemed like Kara was just as popular, so that was a bit confusing.
February 18, 2018
This is the second Sinful Serenade novel following the romance of the lead guitarist Drew and his best friend Kara.
This one ticks quite a few boxes for me - I love the best friends to lovers trope as it presupposes a level of intimacy and emotion which leaves more time for other plot elements - we don't have to watch these two fall in love, just realise that they are.
I love rock stars and guitarists particularly - so Drew gets a big thumbs up from me as well
I also like the idea of a scarred heroine - there's some nice depth to Kara.
However, despite all the pluses I didn't think this was nearly as strong as Sing your heart out.
One of my issues is that it's entirely written from Kara's POV with no insight into what's in Drew's head at all which is quite disappointing.
I couldn't get my head around Drew's fears of using the L word - largely this is simply because we don't get to see enough of what's in his head but it just feels a little weak and not explained nearly enough - there's not enough background trauma to explain away his behaviour.
I was also disappointed with the friends to lovers aspect - somehow this didn't deal enough with their fears that intimacy might ruin their friendship or give me any cute anecdotes about their past history other than him singing at her dad's funeral.
Over all though this one kept me engaged throughout - I love the Sinful Serenade rock world and the supporting cast - can't wait to read Tom's story.
This one ticks quite a few boxes for me - I love the best friends to lovers trope as it presupposes a level of intimacy and emotion which leaves more time for other plot elements - we don't have to watch these two fall in love, just realise that they are.
I love rock stars and guitarists particularly - so Drew gets a big thumbs up from me as well
I also like the idea of a scarred heroine - there's some nice depth to Kara.
However, despite all the pluses I didn't think this was nearly as strong as Sing your heart out.
One of my issues is that it's entirely written from Kara's POV with no insight into what's in Drew's head at all which is quite disappointing.
I couldn't get my head around Drew's fears of using the L word - largely this is simply because we don't get to see enough of what's in his head but it just feels a little weak and not explained nearly enough - there's not enough background trauma to explain away his behaviour.
I was also disappointed with the friends to lovers aspect - somehow this didn't deal enough with their fears that intimacy might ruin their friendship or give me any cute anecdotes about their past history other than him singing at her dad's funeral.
Over all though this one kept me engaged throughout - I love the Sinful Serenade rock world and the supporting cast - can't wait to read Tom's story.
February 15, 2019
Drew and Kara have been best friends for years. Although it is obvious the two share feelings for one another, they have never acted on it in fear of ruining their friendship. It isn't until Kara has to move in with Drew that their relationship starts to progress more, and eeepp I was so excited for it! I didn't expect to completely fall smitten with Drew, but I just couldn't help it, the man is a dream. He had me all hot and bothered with his teasing touches towards Kara, they were anything but innocent.
Kara is hiding secret from him, scared he would never want her once he found out. It tore at my heartstrings how much Drew obviously loved and appreciated Kara and all her scars once he saw them. I love how she was able to overcome her fears and knew what she wanted out of her relationship with Drew and didn't stop until she got it. Bless Kara's heart though because she put up with Drew's commitment issues for far longer than I would have.
This book completely captured my attention from beginning to end. Safe to say I loved this story more than the first and cannot wait to finish reading Tom's story.
4.5 Stars!
Kara is hiding secret from him, scared he would never want her once he found out. It tore at my heartstrings how much Drew obviously loved and appreciated Kara and all her scars once he saw them. I love how she was able to overcome her fears and knew what she wanted out of her relationship with Drew and didn't stop until she got it. Bless Kara's heart though because she put up with Drew's commitment issues for far longer than I would have.
This book completely captured my attention from beginning to end. Safe to say I loved this story more than the first and cannot wait to finish reading Tom's story.
4.5 Stars!
June 20, 2017
Now that I am on my computer I will write a better review and change my view on some parts of this after reading the entire series. I liked this book -I liked that Drew and Kara had a history as friends. Yes, it was an easy predictable read but I still enjoyed it. There was a lot of steam (which I love), I enjoyed the characters, and the story to an extent. I did have several issues as well. An author is entitled to write whatever they want however they want it BUT This book was beyond predictable. The way in which all of the sentences started were more like statements than complete thoughts, and so in my head as I was reading I was reading everything felt like statement rather than a complete thought. At first I thought it was intentional but after reading this whole series every book is this way. While reading this series I was excited to see how this book would be different. It was the same as the first book. The start of the relationship (though friends before), the drama, and the conclusion, it all fell exactly as the first book did.
May 21, 2018
Friends to Lovers
Who doesn't love a good friends to lovers novel?
Who doesn't love a good friends to lovers novel? Especially if the main characters are well-developed! Add a liitle extra emotional baggage pain hidden from the world, something that keeps them from being completely happy and a reader is good to go. That feeling of not being worthy is what keeps the book moving along: one person's sense of sacrifice versus another's inate goodness. Kara and Drew grew up together, Kara thinking her feelings for Drew were one-sided. Years of misunderstandings resulted in failed relationships and physical harm on both their part. Added to that trauma, their families experienced similiar tragedies: divorce, death, etc. No wonder it takes them so long to finally connect on a romantic level....
I enjoyed Strum Your Heart Out: Kara and Drew fit as couple and they made me happy to read their story as they developed their relationship.....
Who doesn't love a good friends to lovers novel?
Who doesn't love a good friends to lovers novel? Especially if the main characters are well-developed! Add a liitle extra emotional baggage pain hidden from the world, something that keeps them from being completely happy and a reader is good to go. That feeling of not being worthy is what keeps the book moving along: one person's sense of sacrifice versus another's inate goodness. Kara and Drew grew up together, Kara thinking her feelings for Drew were one-sided. Years of misunderstandings resulted in failed relationships and physical harm on both their part. Added to that trauma, their families experienced similiar tragedies: divorce, death, etc. No wonder it takes them so long to finally connect on a romantic level....
I enjoyed Strum Your Heart Out: Kara and Drew fit as couple and they made me happy to read their story as they developed their relationship.....
January 3, 2019
Quick Info
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
POV: Kara Kendrick
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Meeting the Characters
Kara Kendrick - Drew's childhood and still best friend.
Drew Denton - Guitar in the band Sinful Senerade
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What happens?
Kara has to move out of her room in her 'friends' apartment. She is trying to get through the rest of school so as Drew needs to make some space between him and his band mates he offers Kara to move in with him. He has been pretending she doesn't affect him the way he affects her but eventually the temptation is too much and he gives into it.
Final thoughts
Both have been hurt and both have family issues. Its quite sweet how they've known each other for a long long time. I fell in love with them and it was nice to see them get together.
Would I read again?: Yeah
Would I read this author again?: Yes
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
POV: Kara Kendrick
----------------------------------
Meeting the Characters
Kara Kendrick - Drew's childhood and still best friend.
Drew Denton - Guitar in the band Sinful Senerade
----------------------------------
What happens?
Kara has to move out of her room in her 'friends' apartment. She is trying to get through the rest of school so as Drew needs to make some space between him and his band mates he offers Kara to move in with him. He has been pretending she doesn't affect him the way he affects her but eventually the temptation is too much and he gives into it.
Final thoughts
Both have been hurt and both have family issues. Its quite sweet how they've known each other for a long long time. I fell in love with them and it was nice to see them get together.
Would I read again?: Yeah
Would I read this author again?: Yes
June 12, 2017
This is just an okay story. You have Kara who is in love with her best friend Drew. He has feelings for her but because of a past relationship he can't express how he feels. Kara gets kicked out of her apartment so her and Drew find a place to move into together. They go from friends to friends with benefits. She wants him to declare to his friends that he see's her as more than just a friend. He pushes her away when she tries to kiss him in front of their friends.
What kind of rock stars are these guys? They can go anywhere without fans or groupies causing a scene? Drew is afraid of attention? Excuse me, he is in a band that is all about getting attention.
It's not a bad story just very bland. Nothing really happening except sex and a book has to be more than that to be truly enjoyable.
What kind of rock stars are these guys? They can go anywhere without fans or groupies causing a scene? Drew is afraid of attention? Excuse me, he is in a band that is all about getting attention.
It's not a bad story just very bland. Nothing really happening except sex and a book has to be more than that to be truly enjoyable.
February 3, 2018
I really enjoyed Drew and Kara's story. The most of any of the recent Kaswell book I've read.
The ending was a little Hollywood, saccharine, over the top, the kind of ending that should feel satisfying but doesn't quite.
It might have punched harder if it didn't echo Miles & Meg' s ending so much.
But overall they're probably my favorite couple. I really love friends to lovers for starters and same Kara feels about her body and the trepidation she feels about literally exposing herself to Drew felt SO REAL to me. I love that Crystal uses her platform to tackle addiction, mental illness, self-mutilation in this way. I love that she gives these characters who are all tortured, a little broken, who've all been through absolute hell, well deserved, albeit sometimes cheesy, Happily Ever Afters
The ending was a little Hollywood, saccharine, over the top, the kind of ending that should feel satisfying but doesn't quite.
It might have punched harder if it didn't echo Miles & Meg' s ending so much.
But overall they're probably my favorite couple. I really love friends to lovers for starters and same Kara feels about her body and the trepidation she feels about literally exposing herself to Drew felt SO REAL to me. I love that Crystal uses her platform to tackle addiction, mental illness, self-mutilation in this way. I love that she gives these characters who are all tortured, a little broken, who've all been through absolute hell, well deserved, albeit sometimes cheesy, Happily Ever Afters
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