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Rock Monster
Far from bitter or self-pitying, Rock Monster is an honest account of one woman’s life-changing experience in a relationship with rock legend Joe Walsh. At once envious, glamorous, debauched and disturbing, it’s her long and winding journey from life in the fast lane to sobriety and redemption.
Set in the late-eighties and nineties, these are some of Walsh’s darkest years, from spiraling addiction to a stunning comeback with the Eagles’ Hell Freezes Over tour. Loaded with true stories never before heard, Rock Monster is essential reading for classic rock fans and anyone touched by addiction. Kristin Casey pulls no punches, sharing gritty details with self-awareness, humor, and affection. Sharply written, bold and incisive, it’s the worldly-wise tome only an ex-addict, ex-stripper, and ex-rock-chick could give us.
In the tradition of women-in-rock survivor tales―by Marianne Faithfull, Crystal Zevon, or Mackenzie Phillips―Kristin Casey pulls a veil on the enduring myth of the lifestyle’s glamorous decadence. Rock Monster is a sexy, crazy, cautionary tale of two addicts in love without a single relationship skill.
Set in the late-eighties and nineties, these are some of Walsh’s darkest years, from spiraling addiction to a stunning comeback with the Eagles’ Hell Freezes Over tour. Loaded with true stories never before heard, Rock Monster is essential reading for classic rock fans and anyone touched by addiction. Kristin Casey pulls no punches, sharing gritty details with self-awareness, humor, and affection. Sharply written, bold and incisive, it’s the worldly-wise tome only an ex-addict, ex-stripper, and ex-rock-chick could give us.
In the tradition of women-in-rock survivor tales―by Marianne Faithfull, Crystal Zevon, or Mackenzie Phillips―Kristin Casey pulls a veil on the enduring myth of the lifestyle’s glamorous decadence. Rock Monster is a sexy, crazy, cautionary tale of two addicts in love without a single relationship skill.
352 pages, Paperback
Published September 8, 2020
60 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
About the author
Kristin Casey
2 books38 followersKristin Casey is a writer and recovered alcoholic and addict. Her first memoir, Rock Monster: My Life with Joe Walsh, documents their tumultuous six-year relationship and drug-fueled, train-wreck breakup. Her second, Casey Dancer: A Memoir About Dating, Stripping, and a Little Hot Yoga, chronicles her journey overcoming fear of intimacy in early sobriety.
She's survived clinical depression, numerous addictions, the panhandle of Texas, and seventeen years of Catholicism. Her writing has appeared in the Foliate Oak Literary Magazine, The Nervous Breakdown, Please Kill Me, $pread, and elsewhere. She writes about addiction, dependency, sexuality, and relationships. She resides in Austin, Texas, where she's a certified sexuality counselor and retired intimacy coach and IPSA-trained surrogate partner.
She's survived clinical depression, numerous addictions, the panhandle of Texas, and seventeen years of Catholicism. Her writing has appeared in the Foliate Oak Literary Magazine, The Nervous Breakdown, Please Kill Me, $pread, and elsewhere. She writes about addiction, dependency, sexuality, and relationships. She resides in Austin, Texas, where she's a certified sexuality counselor and retired intimacy coach and IPSA-trained surrogate partner.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 18, 2018
Wow, what a fantastic memoir. Kristin is so honest and open and I felt an immediate connection to her. This is a story of a muse and a musician, a story of addiction and recovery (both drugs and love) and of a young woman finding her path. Kristin's writing is incredibly gripping, and her story has so many highs and lows - it had my heart racing at many points throughout. Cannot recommend this enough, you won't be able to put this one down!
I had the immense pleasure of talking to Kristin on my podcast Muses and Stuff. You can check out the interview here
I had the immense pleasure of talking to Kristin on my podcast Muses and Stuff. You can check out the interview here
April 23, 2018
Damn! Kristin Casey goes straight for the jugular with high-octane tales of rock and roll, addiction, a highly dysfunctional celebrity relationship, and finally recovery. Casey’s Rock Monster is so much more than a “life-changing experience in a relationship with rock legend Joe Walsh.” There’s a depth to Casey’s introspection that elevates it above your average “tell all” books. Hers is ultimately a story of survival that doesn’t disappoint. Buy this book!
April 29, 2018
Disclaimer: I know the author of this book from professional contacts. My complete review can be found on my blog.
I am one of the most musically un-hip people in Austin. Hence, I’m not one who would normally pick up a book to read it because it’s about a rock star. However, I’ve really enjoyed the blog posts of Casey’s that I’ve read in the past. I knew she was a skilled writer, so I was curious to read her book. I was not at all disappointed. As the book flap summarizes so concisely, Rock Monster is the “sexy, crazy, cautionary tale of two addicts in love without a single relationship skill.” For me, the book felt as though the masquerade ball scene from Labyrinth was taking place in the Upside Down of Stranger Things. Casey’s life with Walsh was filled with fame and luxury. She describes accompanying him on tours domestically and abroad while staying in hotels such as The Plaza. Their social lives involve contacts and friends from among the rich and famous.
Yet despite all the opulence of the seeming fairy tale of romance and fame, there was a very dark side to the life that Casey and Walsh shared that was permeated with emotional, physical and substance abuse. At one point they were living in a penthouse, but there were few usable areas in the space due to Walsh’s clutter and mess. That outward physical disorder symbolically represented the rest of their relationship as well as Casey struggled to find her place in Walsh’s life despite being soulmates. They shared a kinky sex life, but one that met his needs more than hers. Casey painfully discovers that she is not and will not be Walsh’s creative muse. Often left on the sidelines waiting for him to beckon her, Casey loses her connection to herself in favor of following Walsh in his world.
And then there are the drugs. As the relationship continues, their drug use escalates and begins to destroy Casey. Despite knowing that Casey is alive and well today, I read with trepidation as the book progressed because I knew rock bottom was coming, and I was worried about how bad it would be for her. As with most people with severe addiction issues, her rock bottom was truly horrendous, though it happened in a way I didn’t expect.
I was truly captivated by Casey’s story: I had to force myself to put Rock Monster down and go to bed on two nights before finally finishing it on the third night. As with many well-written memoirs, the prose pulls the reader into the world of the author leaving them wanting more. Learning how Casey overcame her substance abuse after hitting rock bottom is a tale that many can benefit from hearing.
©2018 Elizabeth Galen, Ph.D., GreenHeartGuidance.com
I am one of the most musically un-hip people in Austin. Hence, I’m not one who would normally pick up a book to read it because it’s about a rock star. However, I’ve really enjoyed the blog posts of Casey’s that I’ve read in the past. I knew she was a skilled writer, so I was curious to read her book. I was not at all disappointed. As the book flap summarizes so concisely, Rock Monster is the “sexy, crazy, cautionary tale of two addicts in love without a single relationship skill.” For me, the book felt as though the masquerade ball scene from Labyrinth was taking place in the Upside Down of Stranger Things. Casey’s life with Walsh was filled with fame and luxury. She describes accompanying him on tours domestically and abroad while staying in hotels such as The Plaza. Their social lives involve contacts and friends from among the rich and famous.
Yet despite all the opulence of the seeming fairy tale of romance and fame, there was a very dark side to the life that Casey and Walsh shared that was permeated with emotional, physical and substance abuse. At one point they were living in a penthouse, but there were few usable areas in the space due to Walsh’s clutter and mess. That outward physical disorder symbolically represented the rest of their relationship as well as Casey struggled to find her place in Walsh’s life despite being soulmates. They shared a kinky sex life, but one that met his needs more than hers. Casey painfully discovers that she is not and will not be Walsh’s creative muse. Often left on the sidelines waiting for him to beckon her, Casey loses her connection to herself in favor of following Walsh in his world.
And then there are the drugs. As the relationship continues, their drug use escalates and begins to destroy Casey. Despite knowing that Casey is alive and well today, I read with trepidation as the book progressed because I knew rock bottom was coming, and I was worried about how bad it would be for her. As with most people with severe addiction issues, her rock bottom was truly horrendous, though it happened in a way I didn’t expect.
I was truly captivated by Casey’s story: I had to force myself to put Rock Monster down and go to bed on two nights before finally finishing it on the third night. As with many well-written memoirs, the prose pulls the reader into the world of the author leaving them wanting more. Learning how Casey overcame her substance abuse after hitting rock bottom is a tale that many can benefit from hearing.
©2018 Elizabeth Galen, Ph.D., GreenHeartGuidance.com
July 1, 2018
An incredible book. Easily the best memoir I've read this year.
May 16, 2021
I came away really enjoying this book, though I don't have much to say to provide any sort of an in-depth review. Author Kristin Casey details her time with guitarist Joe Walsh, their relationship, their addictions, and her personal struggles. The book did feel a little long for me, but otherwise was a good read.
You get a very good sense of who the author was during this period. And I love that she didn't shy away from writing about anything, either. While Walsh certainly had his own problems (addictions, bouts of violence, unpredictable moods), Casey doesn't make herself out to be the good-guy in the story. She owns up to everything. It seems like the two often brought out just about the worst in each other.
By the end of the book, I just felt sorry for Casey. By the early '90s, Walsh had cleaned himself up but Casey was still going hard, particularly with alcohol; at this point it was clear to her that Walsh was no longer interested and was tired of her behaviour. Can't blame him. But it was incredible what she put up with from him during the years they were together.
It's books like this that really make me wish Goodreads had half stars. I'd say this is a solid 3.5. There's nothing ground-breaking about this as a memoir, but it's an enjoyable read (is enjoyable the right word considering the subject matter?), and provides some very interesting insight into Joe Walsh. Walsh is not the main focus here, so if you're expecting that you might be a bit disappointed. But hey, it's not his book.
You get a very good sense of who the author was during this period. And I love that she didn't shy away from writing about anything, either. While Walsh certainly had his own problems (addictions, bouts of violence, unpredictable moods), Casey doesn't make herself out to be the good-guy in the story. She owns up to everything. It seems like the two often brought out just about the worst in each other.
By the end of the book, I just felt sorry for Casey. By the early '90s, Walsh had cleaned himself up but Casey was still going hard, particularly with alcohol; at this point it was clear to her that Walsh was no longer interested and was tired of her behaviour. Can't blame him. But it was incredible what she put up with from him during the years they were together.
At La Toque one night, a dozen friends and acquaintances became a silent jury in the kangaroo court of our relationship, when I yanked a stray thread from the brim of Joe’s baseball cap thinking he’d prefer it not hang in his face. I was wrong and received a verbal attack while literally cornered in my seat... I stared at my plate while Joe chewed me out, berating me for my thoughtless behavior. For “obnoxiously” snipping the treasured, two-inch thread he’d “specifically arranged” to hang there. (Yes, he actually said that.) How dare you? he screamed. Idiot!
It's books like this that really make me wish Goodreads had half stars. I'd say this is a solid 3.5. There's nothing ground-breaking about this as a memoir, but it's an enjoyable read (is enjoyable the right word considering the subject matter?), and provides some very interesting insight into Joe Walsh. Walsh is not the main focus here, so if you're expecting that you might be a bit disappointed. But hey, it's not his book.
December 11, 2019
At first I thought of this as a cautionary tale--which it is, but It is more accurate to call it a guided descent into hell. This account of Ms. Casey's life during her relationship with Joe Walsh is very direct and told without pretense or indulgence. I have never read a rock-n-roll biography before, but I enjoyed movies like Almost Famous and I was curious enough about Joe Walsh (music from my childhood) to give it a shot.
I was shaken by this account of addiction and self-destruction both within and independent of relationship.The themes of destiny, reincarnation, and soul-mates are compelling. I come away with a profound curiosity about the powerful, soul level force that draws a couple together in what is surely love but becomes nothing short of mutual annihilation. . . .and in the end becomes, without the compulsion or attachment, the loving nostalgia of two ships passing. Kristen Casey’s drive to self destruct evokes awe and horror. [spoiler] She subconsciously attempts self destruction multiple times over the years until suicide by substance becomes a conscious and and (almost) all-consuming goal. This shit gets graphic.
Like Icarus to the sun, Casey is driven to annihilation. She meets her match (or nearly) in Walsh, a man twenty years her senior who is on a somewhat slower boat towards his own destruction. The ride is fun at times, harrowing at others.
I am pleased to find out that Ringo is a good guy or hear about a sweet moment and some innocent laughter with Al Green backstage. When Pete Townsend pops in with a warm hug, Bob Dylan manages a smile, or Stevie Nicks absent-mindedly moves a pile of her jewelry from room to room it gives a glimpse into their characters. Walsh it seems was a pretty well regarded guy. He and Kristen brush elbows and sometimes snort coke with a lot of well known people. Some of the stars are big-hearted and some are shallow and self-absorbed. For me it was interesting to see how the whole scene worked. I also wondered about the financial nuts and bolts--How did he afford that rock-n-roll lifestyle?
Walsh comes of as both playful and creative as well as wounded and emotionally unavailable. It may be that very unavailability which left me wanting more of a sense of his unique character and the roots of his twisted personality. Often he just comes off as stunted and adolescent.
The overwhelming impact of the book upon me was grief for this young woman who at twenty-two was heading into her second bout of dangerous addiction. At times I felt the welling of tears and even felt sick to my stomach. So what is a Rock monster? Many possible meanings came to me during the reading. The most graphic was of this young and wispy girl chasing, cooking, smoking and hoarding crack rocks. She had become a rock monster.
What turns it around? We are left to wonder. Is it that she tasted just enough of that void that she had been hell-bent on reaching? Was there some completion of past life Karma (The foxhole experience near the end)? Was it just her soul's job in this lifetime to walk to the edge, far beyond what most of us could tolerate, look deep into that abyss and report back? If it was the latter then Ms. Casey has done an admirable job of retelling. I am moved by what she has reported, and I am glad she is still with us in order to do so.
I was shaken by this account of addiction and self-destruction both within and independent of relationship.The themes of destiny, reincarnation, and soul-mates are compelling. I come away with a profound curiosity about the powerful, soul level force that draws a couple together in what is surely love but becomes nothing short of mutual annihilation. . . .and in the end becomes, without the compulsion or attachment, the loving nostalgia of two ships passing. Kristen Casey’s drive to self destruct evokes awe and horror. [spoiler] She subconsciously attempts self destruction multiple times over the years until suicide by substance becomes a conscious and and (almost) all-consuming goal. This shit gets graphic.
Like Icarus to the sun, Casey is driven to annihilation. She meets her match (or nearly) in Walsh, a man twenty years her senior who is on a somewhat slower boat towards his own destruction. The ride is fun at times, harrowing at others.
I am pleased to find out that Ringo is a good guy or hear about a sweet moment and some innocent laughter with Al Green backstage. When Pete Townsend pops in with a warm hug, Bob Dylan manages a smile, or Stevie Nicks absent-mindedly moves a pile of her jewelry from room to room it gives a glimpse into their characters. Walsh it seems was a pretty well regarded guy. He and Kristen brush elbows and sometimes snort coke with a lot of well known people. Some of the stars are big-hearted and some are shallow and self-absorbed. For me it was interesting to see how the whole scene worked. I also wondered about the financial nuts and bolts--How did he afford that rock-n-roll lifestyle?
Walsh comes of as both playful and creative as well as wounded and emotionally unavailable. It may be that very unavailability which left me wanting more of a sense of his unique character and the roots of his twisted personality. Often he just comes off as stunted and adolescent.
The overwhelming impact of the book upon me was grief for this young woman who at twenty-two was heading into her second bout of dangerous addiction. At times I felt the welling of tears and even felt sick to my stomach. So what is a Rock monster? Many possible meanings came to me during the reading. The most graphic was of this young and wispy girl chasing, cooking, smoking and hoarding crack rocks. She had become a rock monster.
What turns it around? We are left to wonder. Is it that she tasted just enough of that void that she had been hell-bent on reaching? Was there some completion of past life Karma (The foxhole experience near the end)? Was it just her soul's job in this lifetime to walk to the edge, far beyond what most of us could tolerate, look deep into that abyss and report back? If it was the latter then Ms. Casey has done an admirable job of retelling. I am moved by what she has reported, and I am glad she is still with us in order to do so.
April 20, 2018
a really excellent book on addiction & the perils of two addicts in love and incapable of taking care of themselves, much less each other.
I have a full review on the BookPeople blog: https://bookpeopleblog.com/2018/03/19...
I have a full review on the BookPeople blog: https://bookpeopleblog.com/2018/03/19...
June 5, 2018
I enjoyed this book. But be warned, this is not Joe Walsh’s story. If you’re looking for an insider’s perspective to Joe Walsh’s musical career during the 90s you’ll be a little disappointed with this book. Instead this is Ms. Casey’s story. It’s a story of rock and roll, some sex, but mostly drugs. It’s a rollercoaster ride of substance abuse – meth, cocaine, crack, and alcohol – interspersed with tales of life with a faltering rock star. Ms. Casey took it to the edge and somehow managed to step back when all else seemed lost.
This book also details some of Mr. Walsh’s own path of self-destruction. We get a taste of the rocker’s life during the time between the Eagles’ break-up and just into the reunion for the Hell Freezes Over tour. There are appearances from several of Mr. Walsh’s musical friends and family – all told from Ms. Casey’s hazy perspective.
I’m a music geek and was hoping for more musical tidbits. But this is an important account of one woman’s journey through hell and back. I listened to the audio version and was a little annoyed at several mispronunciations of names throughout the book.
It doesn’t take long once you’re into this book for it to appear like a continuing train wreck. Such details of continual drug consumption can be a bit draining at times. However, in the end Ms. Casey shakes herself free. The Phoenix rises from the ashes of what seems like an unescapable fire.
This is merely a high-level overview of Ms. Casey’s book. There are many other interwoven stories, characters, and details. But I’m not going to give it away in this review. Instead I recommend you pick up this book, strap in, and be prepared for a incredible and scary ride.
This book also details some of Mr. Walsh’s own path of self-destruction. We get a taste of the rocker’s life during the time between the Eagles’ break-up and just into the reunion for the Hell Freezes Over tour. There are appearances from several of Mr. Walsh’s musical friends and family – all told from Ms. Casey’s hazy perspective.
I’m a music geek and was hoping for more musical tidbits. But this is an important account of one woman’s journey through hell and back. I listened to the audio version and was a little annoyed at several mispronunciations of names throughout the book.
It doesn’t take long once you’re into this book for it to appear like a continuing train wreck. Such details of continual drug consumption can be a bit draining at times. However, in the end Ms. Casey shakes herself free. The Phoenix rises from the ashes of what seems like an unescapable fire.
This is merely a high-level overview of Ms. Casey’s book. There are many other interwoven stories, characters, and details. But I’m not going to give it away in this review. Instead I recommend you pick up this book, strap in, and be prepared for a incredible and scary ride.
July 21, 2018
Glad I randomly found this book. A great read
Glad I found this book as it was a great read. That's all I want to say besides so sorry it
Glad I found this book as it was a great read. That's all I want to say besides so sorry it
July 17, 2019
Riveting. I stayed up after midnight, a few nights in a row, unable to tear myself away from Kristin's story. I'd put it down, only to feel like I was withdrawing from drugs--as if experiencing a literary contact high. I've read many memoirs and biographies, and so many rock and roll bios, but Kristin's book may be one of the rawest tales of the rock world and addiction I've ever read. She shares her thought process as she spiraled into darkness...deeper and deeper. I wanted to reach in and pull her out.
Heartbreaking and fascinating.
Yes, Joe is an important part of the book. But this is her story. She places no blame. Makes no excuses. On these pages, she's torn open her heart, her fears, her hopes and dreams.
This isn't a book you'd read for a few laughs, so I was happily surprised to read a kooky experience involving Joe Walsh, Burton Cummings and Zak Starkey. I wrote to Kristin the next morning. I know Burton and Zak! This happened? It's not just a rock and roll myth? My husband, a friend and former band mate of Burton's, confirmed--"Oh yeah. That happened."
Thank you for such an honest book and incredible story. What a life!
I highlighted and saved many excerpts I found worth saving to ponder.
This one really got me:
"I shut down inside, unaware that in detaching from pain, I would lose touch with joy and therein plant the seeds of my alcoholism."
That's really insightful.
This idea works for life in general, when we avoid feeling life and all its ups and downs--thinking, dealing, facing anything difficult--we also avoid the ability to feel happiness. Without the dark there is no light.
Life is yin and yang. Without feeling it ALL, life can become gray. Or, in some lives, completely colorless.
In "Rock Monster," you WILL read what daily life in the rock star world is like. But here's how Kristin experienced it...up close and extremely personal.
Heartbreaking and fascinating.
Yes, Joe is an important part of the book. But this is her story. She places no blame. Makes no excuses. On these pages, she's torn open her heart, her fears, her hopes and dreams.
This isn't a book you'd read for a few laughs, so I was happily surprised to read a kooky experience involving Joe Walsh, Burton Cummings and Zak Starkey. I wrote to Kristin the next morning. I know Burton and Zak! This happened? It's not just a rock and roll myth? My husband, a friend and former band mate of Burton's, confirmed--"Oh yeah. That happened."
Thank you for such an honest book and incredible story. What a life!
I highlighted and saved many excerpts I found worth saving to ponder.
This one really got me:
"I shut down inside, unaware that in detaching from pain, I would lose touch with joy and therein plant the seeds of my alcoholism."
That's really insightful.
This idea works for life in general, when we avoid feeling life and all its ups and downs--thinking, dealing, facing anything difficult--we also avoid the ability to feel happiness. Without the dark there is no light.
Life is yin and yang. Without feeling it ALL, life can become gray. Or, in some lives, completely colorless.
In "Rock Monster," you WILL read what daily life in the rock star world is like. But here's how Kristin experienced it...up close and extremely personal.
May 27, 2021
I’m a big Joe Walsh fan. And since he doesn’t have a biography, I decided to give this a whirl. It ends when the Eagles ask him to rejoin them for the Hell Freezes Over tour on the condition he get sober. I was disappointed that the Joe Walsh story ended abruptly when it got to the part I like best.
The author was a stripper, druggie girlfriend of Joe’s, who lived with him the last of his wild days.
“I go to parties sometimes until four
It's hard to leave when you can't find the door
It's tough to handle this fortune and fame
Everybody's so different, I haven't changed.”
He got help. Later she got help. It’s amazing she has the memory for a memoir. She writes well.
“Life’s been good to me.”
The author was a stripper, druggie girlfriend of Joe’s, who lived with him the last of his wild days.
“I go to parties sometimes until four
It's hard to leave when you can't find the door
It's tough to handle this fortune and fame
Everybody's so different, I haven't changed.”
He got help. Later she got help. It’s amazing she has the memory for a memoir. She writes well.
“Life’s been good to me.”
March 6, 2023
This book probably deserves more than two stars, as the writing is tight and the last fifty pages are as gripping a tale of redemption as you'll read in an over-populated genre of There But for the Grace of God rock and roll recovery stories, but for the six years she dated Joe Walsh, the same thing happened over and over again. That being said, there's something gripping about someone who can down FOUR BOTTLES OF SUTTER HOME a day, or slam six double shots of tequila before an eight-hour shift and live to tell about it that is immensely readable. Not to mention the crack.
Screw it. It's a three-star book. (Really? Sutter Home? Shudder.)
Screw it. It's a three-star book. (Really? Sutter Home? Shudder.)
July 16, 2021
“I had many demons. There was no shortage of devils at my shoulder. Now and then I’d spy an angel in the background, but that is where they stayed.” — Kristin Casey
February 15, 2021
I recently finished reading "Rock Monster: My Life with Joe Walsh" by Kristin Casey. Kristin was Joe's girlfriend from 1987 to about 1994, which was during the commercial low point of Joe's music career. It was also a personal low point for Joe, as he (and Kristin) had fallen deep into alcohol and drug addiction, so the stories here are harrowing.
Gone are the glitz and glamour of the infamous Eagles “Third Encore” parties. Instead, we get tales of a middle-aged rock star struggling to function, on any level, without the presence of cocaine and vodka. Before this book, most articles and rock biographies would skip over this part of Walsh's career, and now I can understand why. Simply put, the ugliness of addiction overshadows every aspect of both his personal and professional life.
Given her firsthand experience, Ms. Casey does an excellent job describing not just the spectacular end of addiction, but also the mundane side as well. There's no shortage of drug-fueled rock'n'roll antics, but there's also vivid descriptions of the crushing boredom and malaise that always follow those highs.
And then there's the inevitable "rock bottom" moments, which are always hard to read. The last couple chapters of this book are both heart-breaking and terror-inducing, as Ms. Casey describes her post-Joe years. I haven't read a rock bio this painful since Mackenzie Phillips' "High on Arrival" (although nothing will reach the depravity found in that story).
The final pages of the book thankfully provide some relief for the reader, as at some points beforehand, you can’t help but wonder if you’re somehow reading a book that was written from beyond the grave. Kristin is a survivor (as is Joe), and she is very effective in guiding the reader through *exactly* what she survived.
If you’re a fan of Joe Walsh, I can’t recommend this book enough. And if the sex & drugs make you uncomfortable, then at least stick around for the rock and roll. Joe Walsh fans *finally* get an inside look at his time partying in Australia with the Herbs, his tours with Ringo’s All-Starr band (and a so-called supergroup called “The Best”), as well as his initial reaction to the Eagles approaching him with reunion plans. And rest assured, the accounts here aren’t mean-spirited gossip meant paint Joe as some sort of “Monster”. If anything, they humanize him.
Ultimately, Kristin Casey’s story is fascinating. Even the parts without Joe. Actually, *especially* the parts without Joe. The true horror story begins after they split! And remember, she wasn’t a “fly on the wall” journalist who just followed Joe around at parties. She was an active, dynamic part of Joe’s story, and she is finally here to claim ownership of that. Before this book, I had never heard of her, but after finishing it, I will never forget her. Great read.
Gone are the glitz and glamour of the infamous Eagles “Third Encore” parties. Instead, we get tales of a middle-aged rock star struggling to function, on any level, without the presence of cocaine and vodka. Before this book, most articles and rock biographies would skip over this part of Walsh's career, and now I can understand why. Simply put, the ugliness of addiction overshadows every aspect of both his personal and professional life.
Given her firsthand experience, Ms. Casey does an excellent job describing not just the spectacular end of addiction, but also the mundane side as well. There's no shortage of drug-fueled rock'n'roll antics, but there's also vivid descriptions of the crushing boredom and malaise that always follow those highs.
And then there's the inevitable "rock bottom" moments, which are always hard to read. The last couple chapters of this book are both heart-breaking and terror-inducing, as Ms. Casey describes her post-Joe years. I haven't read a rock bio this painful since Mackenzie Phillips' "High on Arrival" (although nothing will reach the depravity found in that story).
The final pages of the book thankfully provide some relief for the reader, as at some points beforehand, you can’t help but wonder if you’re somehow reading a book that was written from beyond the grave. Kristin is a survivor (as is Joe), and she is very effective in guiding the reader through *exactly* what she survived.
If you’re a fan of Joe Walsh, I can’t recommend this book enough. And if the sex & drugs make you uncomfortable, then at least stick around for the rock and roll. Joe Walsh fans *finally* get an inside look at his time partying in Australia with the Herbs, his tours with Ringo’s All-Starr band (and a so-called supergroup called “The Best”), as well as his initial reaction to the Eagles approaching him with reunion plans. And rest assured, the accounts here aren’t mean-spirited gossip meant paint Joe as some sort of “Monster”. If anything, they humanize him.
Ultimately, Kristin Casey’s story is fascinating. Even the parts without Joe. Actually, *especially* the parts without Joe. The true horror story begins after they split! And remember, she wasn’t a “fly on the wall” journalist who just followed Joe around at parties. She was an active, dynamic part of Joe’s story, and she is finally here to claim ownership of that. Before this book, I had never heard of her, but after finishing it, I will never forget her. Great read.
January 31, 2022
Couldn’t put it down! Kristin’s writing is descriptive and engaging. The whole book from start to finish enthralled me, never a dull moment and it never dragged. Yes, the drug use was repetitive, but it came with their own fascinating stories and I believe it was necessary to understand how it greatly contributed to the intensity of their saga. Anyone who has experienced drugs and alcoholism and the depletion, distancing and dependence that comes with it can relate to the darkness Kirstin describes throughout especially when combined with their deep love for each other. There are waves of glorious highs, big names and rock n roll luxury and then the lowest of lows where she battles life threatening addiction and intense heartbreak. Kirstin somehow manages to come out the other side alive to tell the tale. The story she told of being in NZ, my home, was particularly interesting and about Dilworth of the Herbs (my childhood friend’s dad), his kind words and advice to her made me smile and reminded of how wonderful our people really are.
Humorous and light at times and serious and heavy at others, you will feel every emotion throughout. She doesn’t expect sympathy and she doesn’t claim innocence, she lived how she wanted, not fearing the consequences. We’ve all been young and a lot of us having been there so it was easy to resonate and connect with her on some level. Highly recommend.
Humorous and light at times and serious and heavy at others, you will feel every emotion throughout. She doesn’t expect sympathy and she doesn’t claim innocence, she lived how she wanted, not fearing the consequences. We’ve all been young and a lot of us having been there so it was easy to resonate and connect with her on some level. Highly recommend.
December 27, 2019
"Rock Monster My life with Joe Walsh" is Author Kristin Casey's incredible true account
of her 6 year relationship with Rock Legend and "Ordinary Average Guy"Joe Walsh,
from her years as a young stripper to her detour living life in the Rock & Roll Fast lane.
Sex, Drugs. and Rock & Roll? This book has it in abundance!
it is also has many fascinating stories of Rock & Roll Luminaries who happen to be friends
of Joe's and Author Casey's as well as some of the wild tour antics and hotel trashing's that
make Joe Walsh the "Life's Been good"Rock and Roll Wild Man everyone loves!
but much more than this it is the story of Love between Author Casey and the Legendary guitarist
and their mutual love of cocaine & Alcohol that eventually became a severe addiction!
"Rock Monster" had me rooting for love and fighting along with Author Casey as she battled her drug fueled inner demons for her sanity and life!!! finally defeating them and coming out the other side. From the first moment I opened this book I found it hard to put down! If you are a Joe Walsh Fan this book is a must!! If you love Rock & Roll and want to hear a great story this book is for you!
of her 6 year relationship with Rock Legend and "Ordinary Average Guy"Joe Walsh,
from her years as a young stripper to her detour living life in the Rock & Roll Fast lane.
Sex, Drugs. and Rock & Roll? This book has it in abundance!
it is also has many fascinating stories of Rock & Roll Luminaries who happen to be friends
of Joe's and Author Casey's as well as some of the wild tour antics and hotel trashing's that
make Joe Walsh the "Life's Been good"Rock and Roll Wild Man everyone loves!
but much more than this it is the story of Love between Author Casey and the Legendary guitarist
and their mutual love of cocaine & Alcohol that eventually became a severe addiction!
"Rock Monster" had me rooting for love and fighting along with Author Casey as she battled her drug fueled inner demons for her sanity and life!!! finally defeating them and coming out the other side. From the first moment I opened this book I found it hard to put down! If you are a Joe Walsh Fan this book is a must!! If you love Rock & Roll and want to hear a great story this book is for you!
February 15, 2021
Fantastic read. Met the author when I worked at a doctors office back in Austin TX and we got to talking about music and I was going through a big joe Walsh phase (who doesn’t?). At this time I had no clue who she was or that she had any connection to him whatsoever over. When I found out that she not only knew him, but knew him well, well I can’t say on goodreads what really went through my mind, especially at that point in my life since I was going through my “joe Walsh phase” but I was... stumped. Excellent book. Excellent writing that is just the right amount of laid back to where you feel like you’re reading your own journal from years ago reminiscing on old times. The good and the bad.
April 3, 2019
An excellent read
This book is so honest, interesting, and heart wrenching. Thank you for sharing your story. It kept me reading whenever I could. I am impressed that the author really shared from so deep it was scary at times. I just say, I am disappointed that super star Joe Walsh didn't lift a finger to pay for any of the mess he caused. The author was very sweet and kind about it all. You can read between the lines that Joe Walsh walked away and didn't take any real responsibility for what he had done. I am so very glad about the outcome of recovery with no help from self-absorb Walsh.
This book is so honest, interesting, and heart wrenching. Thank you for sharing your story. It kept me reading whenever I could. I am impressed that the author really shared from so deep it was scary at times. I just say, I am disappointed that super star Joe Walsh didn't lift a finger to pay for any of the mess he caused. The author was very sweet and kind about it all. You can read between the lines that Joe Walsh walked away and didn't take any real responsibility for what he had done. I am so very glad about the outcome of recovery with no help from self-absorb Walsh.
April 22, 2022
Vivid snapshot of Joe Walsh in the late 80s/early 90s, as told by his five-year stripper turned crackhead girlfriend. Some good stuff here. It captures a time period for the 70s classic rockers that is rarely discussed, the cocaine hangover years when many of them were aimlessly drifting and struggling to maintain relevance in a changing music landscape. This is the post-Eagles period for Joe, when he too was lost in a blizzard of cocaine and endless parties, endless touring. Lots of name-dropping and interesting side stories, too. Maybe a classic?
June 12, 2018
Interesting only in that it provides a rare semi-glimpse into Joe Walsh's private life. Otherwise a well-written but typical tale of two people in the entertainment business who had nothing in common in a relationship other than lust and drugs.
January 10, 2020
Long Time Coming
A fierce and deep self reflection. I don't know how she handled the life she chose for herself, but can see how she got herself there. It was gut wrenching, honest and real.
A fierce and deep self reflection. I don't know how she handled the life she chose for herself, but can see how she got herself there. It was gut wrenching, honest and real.
July 20, 2020
Kristin Casey
The book was about her time with Joe which was about 7 years. It was interesting and sad at the same time with the excesses of the rock life style and the stresses of touring that can take a toll on a relationship.
The book was about her time with Joe which was about 7 years. It was interesting and sad at the same time with the excesses of the rock life style and the stresses of touring that can take a toll on a relationship.
May 13, 2021
If you're a Joe fan don't buy this book!
This is the type of nut I avoid at all costs. I hated this book, and her sly ways to make Joe out to be a freak really bothered me. I am amazed he put up with her for more than a week.
This is the type of nut I avoid at all costs. I hated this book, and her sly ways to make Joe out to be a freak really bothered me. I am amazed he put up with her for more than a week.
March 26, 2019
Wow!
Spoiler alert: she lived. It’s amazing that anyone who participated in such a self-destructive life, remained coherent enough to tell such a gripping story.
Spoiler alert: she lived. It’s amazing that anyone who participated in such a self-destructive life, remained coherent enough to tell such a gripping story.
December 29, 2019
Sadly the fights, drugs, indulgences, over-reactions, emotional breakdowns and hurtfulness palled after a while.
January 24, 2020
What a story!
A very honest and painful story of life at the top with an egotistical rock star. Who ever said sex, drugs and rock and roll was a good thing?!
A very honest and painful story of life at the top with an egotistical rock star. Who ever said sex, drugs and rock and roll was a good thing?!
June 3, 2022
Well written, above average memoir.
November 25, 2022
Not terribly written, but I was hoping for an insight into the artist. What I got was more a stripper/cokehead's travelogue. Joe comes off as sympathetic, the author much less so.
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