Blood & Bone

Blood & Bone #1

by Paula Dombrowiak

Jack O’Donnell is a living legend—

And the most insufferable man I’ve ever met.

I came to LA for the story. An exclusive interview with the elusive, infuriating, wickedly sexy rockstar. The one that could make my career.

He slams the door in my face.

Then chaos hits. And I find myself in a coffee shop, sitting across from a man who once ruled the world with a guitar in his hand and destruction in his wake.

Jack O’Donnell is raw. Unfiltered. A mess of contradictions wrapped in leather and regret.

Every word is a challenge.

Every glance, a dare.

But the more he reveals, the harder it is to look away.

Because beneath the headlines is a man still haunted by the past.

By a love that shattered him. By a heartbreak he never recovered from.

And when it’s time for me to go home—

Will either of us be ready to let go?


Blood & Bone is the first novel in the Blood & Bone series which must be read in order for the best reader experience. If you enjoy angst-fuelled romance, dangerously addictive love triangles, and second chances, don’t miss this steamy, intensely emotional slow burn rockstar romance.

Content Warning: This book also contains some sensitive subjects about abuse, addiction and suicide. Please take care while reading.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Second Chance, Contemporary Romance, Music, Friends To Lovers, Musicians

405 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2021

About the author

Paula Dombrowiak grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois but currently lives in Arizona. She is the author of Blood and Bone, her first adult romance novel which combines her love of music and imperfect relationships. Paula is a lifelong music junkie, whose wardrobe consists of band T-shirts and leggings which are perpetually covered in pet hair. Music is what inspires her storytelling.

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Reviews

[... Lost Bookland... · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a rock star looks magical and glamorous. Playing music, traveling, and performing in front of people may seem like fun, but how hard is that journey to the dark world of fame? To live to the fullest, parties, entertainment, popularity ... but what happens when the lights go out? What is really behind all that glamor?
If you are also interested in finding out, then you definitely should not miss the story ‘Blood and Bone’ by Paula Domrowiak. A story in which the author very skillfully mixes the past and the present and leads us through the life of Jack O'Donnell. It starts with an interview. A journey through Jack’s past where he shares his truths about the rise and fall of his band Mogo and the bond between himself and Mia Stone. Interview about his path to success, as well as the people who are or have been a part of his life, every up and down of his life. But what will happen when the connection between him and the journalist begins to deepen? When his story full of love, pain, happiness, and sadness awakens a wave of unexpected emotions in her ... How will it all end?
It must be admitted that this story is a very interesting mix, as you turn the pages you feel like you are reading two different stories, which happen at different times, and yet are somehow inextricably linked. What also amazed me was the talent of this author to pay attention to the depth and detail of the characters. Jack, a seemingly spoiled rock star, with a harsh exterior is a very layered person. A person who is still suffering from the consequences of the past and yet who hides tenderness and kindness. A person who remembers his truths like how he felt confident when he performed only for Mia's ears. We learn about his life, about every secret, and truth, love, pain, the price of mistakes and repentance. And somehow we empathize with him. This broken hero enters into our hearts, and we cheer for his happiness. And somehow while reading, it seems that it is not a classic romance, but a book that focuses on deeper research on quite serious topics such as drug and alcohol addiction, physical abuse, the aftermath of traumatic events...
This book is a beautiful, well-woven story between the present and the past that hides many truths behind skillfully fitted sentences. A slightly predictable but interesting life story, mixed with a perfect dose of romance that will not leave you indifferent. A great choice for every reader.

[The Avid Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

Is this really a debut novel? Cuz the narration is really suave and the story seems to flow so smoothly. The plot progressed so fluidly that I was totally sucked in.

The characters brought up my emotions and I felt so sympathetic for Jack. His character was done so well that reading his story was an emotional rollercoaster.

I loved the ending. It was the perfect emotionally satisfying end to a whirlwind of an emotional read.

[⭐Toonasa⭐ •Romance Book Lovers' Haven• · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will Make an Awesome Movie!
A Heartbreaking Emotional Realistic Love Story of The Ups & Downs of Life, Love, Bonds, Choices that Change us Forever, Loss, and Above All..HOPE.
THIS STORY DESERVES TO BE READ!
I loved the cast of characters, though they did have moments where my hate came more easily, but all's worth it. I DEVOURED this in around 8hrs.
I can't believe this is Paula's debut novel! She contacted me to read this & give a honest Review, & I've to say, reading the blurb (Which is perfect!), I knew there'd be lots of tears. I was right.

Jack is an aging Rockstar who has went through a lot in life WHILE Erin is a journalist tasked with writing a feature on him.
Their 1st meet was Filled with Bickering & his Caution BUT A very Special photo causes a Series Events & her being at the right place at the Right time leads to Jack opening up.

We get more Jack's PoV as This IS his Story.
To her, he seemed Charming BUT Shallow, Assholish & Selfish BUT as he tells his story, we (& She) see his Vulnerability, Emotions, Guilt, Sadness, Darkness, Stubbornness, Bouts of Happiness, Wit, Flaws & All that makes him Human & Deserving of redemption. Erin's life experiences make her understand him on a deeper level & Her reactions were Fun. Their growing connection as he told his story is lovely.
It's told in Alternative Timelines (Jack's Past + Erin & Jack's Present), I'm glad, as the present was a Breath of Fresh air & otherwise I'd have Emotional overload *Chuckle*.

In Jack's life, Music & His bond with Mia (His Everything, J+M write Lyrics together), Wade & Cash (Friends, Bandmates), Amber (On-Off lover, Model) were a constant, Some we see in present too & I loved it.
His story starts with their High School antics, we see How they all met & Became Friends.
When J's Abusive Alcoholic Dad goes too far. J chooses to go to Los Angeles to try & make it big. Only Mia goes with him as School hadn't ended.

Mia was the one who saw him at his lowest; Even as just Friends, J+M's bond was the strongest.
The Struggles they went through in the later Years, Made them closer. We see It takes a lot to make it big & gladly they do!
When the band Reunites, Drama & Fun happens. One-Night "Mistake" b/w Jack+Amber leads to a pregnancy neither expected, Mia & Jack finally take the leap of Desire & for some time all are happy, Jack's Scared for fatherhood but One look at his daughter Hayley..She becomes his life.

BUT Addiction Breaks them apart.
Nothing b/w J+M is same after his rehab. Years pass, Jack's with Amber, Mia's with Cash. Hayley's cute, BUT Then Friendships are tested, Bonds Fracture, Hearts Break & as it all Crashes down, The Band Ends, so does His & Amber's marriage.

"..No one was meant to penetrate the bubble that was Jack and Mia. Anyone who did was collateral damage.." ~Amber

BUT Loyalty Brings them together.
10 years pass, Jack's Choices have cost him everything but his music.
Then..The news of Jack's dying dad brings Mia & Jack together again as she's still the only one who's always there for him in need.

“You’re an easy person to love and a very hard person to hate.” ~Mia (Finally we get I love yous!!)

Later, when Chaos comes in her life, Jack's there for her. Mia leaves her old life & She+Jack make a Swoony new life together.
I'm really happy that these two had 5 Happy years together before Tragedy Strikes *Sobbing*.

Jack & Mia were the focal point here. This is by far not a normal Love story, it's so much more. Even Erin agrees. I liked how the story ended in Present; Yup, Jack & Erin Did end up succumbing to their need. Even though they made no promises, their Connection makes me hope that one day they'll be more. As Erin will now be working with him to write a book on his story!
And that epilogue..I'm so glad that Jack's trying to re-connect with Hayley.

Even as I was writing this review, Tears welled up in my eyes..So much happens..I won't ever have to reread This story as it'll be alive in my mind for a long time.
P.S. I do hope Wade gets a novella (He's Gay, fell in love & got married in this book!) + I'm very excited for Hayley's Book!
**ARC Received for a Honest Review.**
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[B. C. Booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soul ripper, heart tripper, mind blowing and brutally honest, this is Blood and Bone. I couldn't help but cry some ugly tears with its emotional portrayal of the trainwreck that was rockstar Jack O'Donnell's difficult life, beginning as a broken unwanted teen and ending as the damaged, flawed but gifted and sought after older musician he became.  Past meets present as he reflects back on the struggles and turns in his life with regret, guilt, hope and ultimately, resignation and healing in this memorable story.  Even as I read on, shocked with some of the terrible choices Jack made at times, in the end, I found myself liking him, flaws and all. You may love him or hate him but you certainly won't forget him...he's going to be engraved in my heart for a long time to come.

It's hard to believe that new to me author, Paula Dombrowiak, has touched me with her talent in such a profound way with what looks to be her debut novel. Blood and Bone has triggers that might be too much for some, but definitely wasn't that way for me. This beautiful telling of Jack's tragic story is just the kind of book I love to discover and devour completely.  It touched me so deeply- addictive, dark, angsty, unpredictable and at times, was hard to bear, but in the end, I've discovered a new author to follow and more books to anticipate... coming soon, I hope!!

[Corinne [hiatus] · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an emotional journey this debut novel was for me.
Told in 3rd person POV, the book alternates between past and present to give us a story of love, hope, betrayal, addiction and abuse and what happens behind the curtains in the music industry.
Jack from the present is a broken, aging Rockstar that comes to reflect on his life choices after Erin, a journalist, is thrown in his path at just the right time.
Jack tells his story to Erin, starting with his father's abuse, the creation of his rock band Mogo and rise to stardom and his relationships with Mia, his musical soul-mate and Amber, his wife. I hated Jack as times and yet I wanted to see him be happy and I think this is what makes a good writer. That you can hate but root for the broken hero to find his way.
Erin is an equally broken soul who is an unique position to understand Jack's past turmoil and relate to his experiences and pain. She is his chance to mend fences.
I really enjoyed the author's writing style. I was deeply moved by this book as it is one of those reads you ponder on long after you finished.

[Doris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!!

OMG I cannot believe that this is the first book for this author because she blew me away. She did a superb job at taking me on a heartbreaking journey on the life of troubled rockstar Jack. Now’s the time to tell his story and he does that with journalist, Erin.

Hearing Jack’s story ripped my heart out and Erin was doing something no journalist should do…she was falling for the man in her interview.

What an amazing book so if you love books that pull you in and keep you enthralled throughout this is the book for you. I’m really looking forward to what this author comes up with next.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding Debut

It's been a while since I could not put a book down, especially in the rockstar genre. What a fantastic debut story, everything sucked me in from the characters to the conflicts, Ms Dombrowiak managed to capture a realistic view of wanting fame and fortune and the perils that comes with it. Jack O'Donnell is the perfect anti - hero, you want to sympathize with and kill him just within a few sentences. Because this book started out with journalist Erin Langford setting out to do a feature on the "aging" rocker, the story is told by Jack's POV with flashback chapters brilliantly done. All I can say is wow. While this story doesn't end on a cliffhanger, it actually will have more books in the series and that can't happen soon enough for me.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really awesome debut book. I think it's an awesome story about the history of a band and also a huge story about Jack's life. Jack is lead singer of Mogo. His turbulent life of creative and talented musical artistry along with his addictions make it a full story.

The secondary characters are awesome. They've known each other from high school.
Exception was Erin, the journalist who fell into the whole story, literally.

Pretty good 👍 read!!!

[Bewaji · Rating 2 out of 5]

No Moral Compass..

The hero of this book did not have any moral compass. All his lovers were with his friends before he started sleeping with them. A cheater, man whore, drug addict even before he became famous. This book was about him and other women. His involvement with Erin the heroine was like 2% of the whole book. Just no, thank you.

[Emily | bookswith.emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review posted on https://bookswithraven.wordpress.com/...

Music brought Jack and Mia together. Growing up in a small town for these two was very damaging for them. As teenagers, they decided to move to LA to pursue their music career. They finally found their break with help from their other school friends, Wade and Cash. Being in a band is all they ever wanted but it comes with its downfalls. Jacks addiction tore them apart and it left cracks in his relationship with Mia. Their lives changed forever.

Erin is a journalist who has been sent out to write an interview about Jack and his life as a rockstar. She ends up being at the right place at the right time when going to speak with Jack but it puts her in a difficult position. Jacks tells her his long and complicated story about his past. This piece for the magazine might be more than she was expecting to write.

This book is written as Erin is learning about Jack's life in her interview. She is exploring Jack's life in the band with all the details. The chapters are all different parts of Jack's life, and there are mini chapters which switch between past and present in the main chapters. I loved how the relationship between Erin and Jack developed throughout the book. Obviously, Erin being a journalist and Jack being an ex-rock star, he is not a fan of her interviewing him in the beginning. Although, they become friends as they begin to know each other personally. The duo are thrown into an intense situation at the start of the book which brings them together.

Some of the present chapters were written in both Jack and Erin's perspective which I enjoyed reading about as it showed how they were both thinking and feeling at the time of finding out new information. I loved both of these characters. Jack comes across as a mean rockstar who is not interesting in fans or journalist but he turns out to be caring and loving. I feel Erin is naive about the interview and how much she is going to find out.

This story flowed so well with the past and present being mixed together. It is like the reader is finding about Jack's rock star life at the same time as Erin is. The story line is so interesting to learn about and how damaging this lifestyle really is. It felt like I was reading two stories with the two timelines. It was very well written, the chapters changing gave the book depth as we could meet some new characters. We got to see those who were important in Jacks past life and now in his present life. He made some mistakes while in the band but now he has realised what he needs to do.

Thank you Paula for sending me this book. I really enjoyed the story line and the characters. It was such an interesting read and the layout was well thought out. I liked the adult romance that the book had, it was very entertaining and emotional.

[Naaytaashreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Being with Mia felt more like home than anything he'd ever known. Without her as his anchor, he was like a ship lost at sea."

This is, guys; I'm going on a binge to read rockstar romance only now.
This was beautifully written, and it taps into so many issues of plotline that there was so much exploration depth of story that unraveled each page.

While this was a romance read, Trigger's warning touches upon the main character's life of chaos and trauma.

There were addiction, trauma, death, suicide, toxic relationships, abuse, and family issues.

The dual pov was written in such a good balance.
For each of the characters, Jack and Erin, we get a good balance of their own story and the indirect chemistry they had.
Each plotline didn't take away or overtake one of the others.

The back and forth of the present and past takes you on a journey like watching a movie.
I could visualize everything. It was so raw and honest; all the chaos, and dark depressive moments give such an emotional and vulnerable moment that makes you connect with them.


"You have me, body and soul, blood and bone.""

[Heather Barksdale · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Blood & Bone” introduces Jack O’Donnell, an aging rock star, as he recalls his past in order to come terms with his present. Jack reflects on his life: the choices, mistakes, successes, and his path of finding and losing love.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story. The parts of the tale told from the past point of view are so intriguing that I found myself not wanting to put the story down. The things that Jack went through as a young man were heartbreaking and the challenges that he encountered as an adult were magnified through these previous traumas. The thing that really drew me in to this story was the relationship between Jack and Mia. The tale was like Romeo & Juliet meets Kurt Cobain & Courtney Love. Their tale was just so romantic and tragic at the same time… I couldn’t help but keep turning the page.

The full blog post can be found here: https://heatherlbarksdale.com/blog/bl...

I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.

[Garry Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poignant. This was the first word I thought after finishing Blood and Bone and I felt like that’s not powerful enough to describe this outstanding debut. I love character driven plots and this book was an exemplary model of how it should be done. (Paula- I hope you don’t mind, but I took some notes).

Their pain, affliction and love for one another was the driving force of the story. Some books tend to sugar coat certain aspects of what makes characters’ flaws real, but Blood and Bone dealt with those front and center. No pretense, just honest story telling and the result was a breathtakingly raw story.

People will make mistakes and those who are the closest to us will hurt us the most, but love forgives and understands. This is the moral of this book and I encourage you to give this book a try as it’s not your typical romance story.

[Joy Avery Lovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

☆☆☆☆☆
Blood and Bone was an incredibly emotional journey to get on but I really enjoyed it. Paula Dombrowiak really pulled out all the stops for her debut novel.
Jack O’Donnell is a middle aged rockstar who has so many ups and downs in his life. He comes across rough on the outside and the public wants his story. Erin Langford works as a seasoned journalist for a popular music website and it’s become her job to write his story.
Present life for Jack is told interchangeably with his past as he relays his 25 years as a rockstar. My emotions were put through the ringer while reading this story. The dark side of fame is portrayed honestly. My heart went out to Jack. I had to put the book down more than once due to crying. I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5.0

Raw, real, and romantic, "Blood and Bone" is a beautiful ballad of flawed people running from inner demons and searching for love.

Read full review in the 2021 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Elsa Gomes (BookishAurora) · Rating 4 out of 5]

➳ Rate: 4/ 5 stars

Okay but the way this book was written was so interesting. I kind of went into this one blind. I only knew that it was a rockstar romance so I was pretty surprised when I started seeing things unfold. What a story. What a ride.

The story is told in two timelines. One follows the hero's past and how his band came to be, from his upbringing to the making of the band to him making it in Hollywood to everything else including his romantic relationships. The second timeline follows the hero in the present as he tells his story to a reporter, and deals with a tragic event and its fallout. There is also romance in the present timeline, a bit of an insta love but I really enjoyed their connection; it felt right. I kind of wished there had been a little more of those two together.

I really enjoyed this book. His story was so emotional and tragic, it really broke my heart. And it made me feel a lot of things for our hero. I hated that he didn't have a better relationship with his daughter. I really hope that will change after she reads the book.

➳Paperback kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.

➳ Order at: Amazon US
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[Eleven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Refreshingly realistic, gritty and flawed. Superb writing and seamless transition from past to now and back, which is usually hard to achieve. Epic story spanning several decades. Unapologetic and raw. Loved every second of it.

[Erin Cataldi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick and engaging read about the what goes on behind the "glamorous life" of a rock musician. When Erin Langford is sent from New York to LA to interview Jack O'Donnell, the famous rock guitarist, she has no idea what kind of scoop she is going to get. She goes from getting a door slammed in her face to having Jack jump in her car demanding she drive to the hospital where his ex-wife has overdosed. Against his better judgement, Jack starts lowering his guard around Erin and opening up to her. In less than a day he decides to finally tell her the story of his band, Mogo. The rise, the fall, and all the dark bits. It's a story of betrayal, addiction, redemption, hope, and love. Torn between two women for most of his life Jack constantly made the wrong decisions. Bouncing back and forth between Amber, the mother of his daughter and his musical muse and collaborator, Mia. Telling Erin the truth of his past may be the thing Jack needs to move forward, heal, and forgive. Told in alternating timelines - the present with Erin and his past starting when he was sixteen. Based on the cover I thought this book would steer more toward erotica but I was pleasantly surprised that it didn't. There were a handful of steamy scenes, but those were few and far between. Fans of "Daisy Jones & the Six" and other fictionalized rock and roll memoirs will eat this up.

[Irma *Irma The Book Whisperer* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!! This book was a page-turner in every sense of the word. I became so involved in the story and the characters, I actually hate that it ended.

Blood & Bone is not your typical Rock Star Romance and I loved that. It's emotional, heart-breaking and filled with regrets from the past. It's a romance, heartbreak, friendship and family all wrapped up in one.
Author did an amazing job of giving us a taste of the dark side in the music business. The thoughtful exploration of addiction, recovery, and passionate love is so powerful.

Great story, amazing writing, wonderful characters - the whole package. Highly recommend!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book. It was a rockstar book with a difference. One that is totally raw and a story that is laid wide open. One that revolves around a character that impacts so many lives. At the start Jack is vulnerable, has a rough life but as the story turns and times move. He becomes a selfish addict that really can't help but mess up time and time again.

In saying that I absolutely loved this broken man. His character, yes has flaws but all that surround themselves know what they're getting with him. All the characters bring so much to the table and most of them especially the woman are effected by Jack. This book starts with 5 friends, all have hang ups and flaws. And ends with shattered and broken lives. But not all hope is lost.

I totally recommend this book. It takes you on a journey that weaves between the decades. Going back and forth as Jack opens his heart to Erin about his past mistakes. I've only mentioned predominantly Jack. But I haven't named anyone else from the past. I feel that you need to discover those relationships yourself. This is a brilliant and clever debut. I look forward to the next book in this series.

[Michelle Mastandrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

A completely raw and utterly honest story of an aging rockstar where the memories of the past collide with the present reality.

Told through past and present memories and multiple POV'S, Blood and Bone is ultimately the journey and tale of Jack O'Donnell. A man reflecting on his past choices and actions as he reveals his story to a reporter. His story is one of heartbreak, pain, addiction, regret, and loss. How his choices and actions not only effected himself but, those closest to him. A hard pill to swallow as the realization of those choices and actions caused consequences which are hard truths to face. Through his regrets and acknowledgements, he paves the way for the possibility of beginning anew and healing. Not only for himself but, his family as well and in that action brings hope.

This was a deeply emotional read with a character that you will love at times, hate at times, and even sympathize with. His story was hard to experience and will stay with you long after you've reached the ending. I was very moved by Jack's story and happy to have experienced it.

Despite the dark themes and situations this was an epic and enlightening story that is definitely worth the read that I suggest putting it on your TBR NOW.

*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review *

[Mar · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

This was... wow. A roller-coaster of a story.
This was everything I wish Daisy and the six was and more. I really like the way this is written. It grabs you from the first page on. I liked Jack as a narrator (I wish Mia had a pov though) he was raw and honest. His story moved me. I had to admite i did teared up a little a couple of time but this was a very emotional book.
Now, side characters i loved Cash and Wade and i hated Amber, especially after the divorce.
Hayley... she was so unnecessary mean and horrible to Jack it made me dislike her, especially in the end. I wanted to punch her in the end.
Overall I had a fantastic experience reading this. It reminded me of my childhood. Absolutely amazing.

[Suki Helman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gripping and heartwrenching, sexy and intriguing, and a wonderful read that left me wanting more.

[Lizzie Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book blew me away.

It's achieved something difficult in the rock star romance genre: it's DIFFERENT. There is nothing like it out there that I've ever come across. There are no sugar coatings, and it's unpredictable in the best way.

The characters are by no means idealised. They are portrayed as flesh and blood humans, warts and all, and that contributes to a sense of this book being something special. This is a masterclass in realism, and I strongly recommend it.

I can't wait for the next installment.

[Navss (read.yourbooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒑𝒊𝒆𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒖𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒆.” 𝑱𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅. “𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒕.”

Give me a few months and I'll be able to explain better, but this book absolutely destroyed me. Completely. Totally.

This book is as real as a fictional story can be. My heart is not okay and this is one of the most deepest books in the romantic sense which isn't dark.

I mean, THIS is @PaulaDombrowiak 's first book? GODDAMN FANTASTIC THIS IS.

The continuous switch between the past and the present is amazing. It's smooth and impactful. I felt like everything was happening in front of me and I couldn't tear my eyes away.

You know that cool, calm, kind of comfortable feeling? SERENE. Yes. That's what I felt. This is soul destroying and it's limit is not making me crying, but creating tears that threaten to fall. I've been wanting to cry but couldn't.

The beginning, the middle, the end. Every part held on to me and I don't think I can ever replace this book with any other of my favourites.

This is Jack's story with tiny bits of Erin too. Jack and Erin, Jack and Mia, Jack and Amber. So many important females, all having a different connection but major impact. Romantic relation? I won't tell you who has it and who had it better.

Jack and Mia had this invisible, kind of unhealthy but very passionate connection and I'm not talking about sex. There was this translucent line which they wanted to cross but at the same time didn't want to take the first step. The heartache, the need for freedom and the weak but strong opinions in their minds, everything affected me.

Jack and Amber are tricky. There's a lot at stake and too much past, present and future. You think she's the bitch? Just wait and finish.

Jack and Erin? They are something different. They had the perfect relationship (maybe?) which opened and closed quickly and easily.

𝗔 𝗠𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 ×𝟵𝟭𝟵𝟱𝟬𝟮𝟲

⭐Definitely more than 5 stars⭐

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love love love this book its sexy and hit a treat 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 I love the characters and plot. Great read. Highly recommend

[•*KES*• · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐!

I'm going to completely honest… when I initially saw that this book was written in third-person, I was wary. It's a tricky narration to do well. But Paula Dombrowiak nailed it.

I've read a lot of rock star romances that, after awhile, all seem like variations of the same story. This one, however, felt fresh with the way the story spanned over Jack's entire career as he reminisced his past to Erin.

I'm not going to lie… there were parts of the story where I didn't know who I wanted to get their HEA with Jack and parts where I wasn't even sure if Jack deserved one. Mia, Erin, and even Amber all spoke to me differently and that's a true testament to how well-written this book was.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends

Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars



Reader Disclosure: Expect everything and anything that fame and fortune bring to complicate life - destruction, and abuse of all kinds: alcohol, drugs, addiction, suicide, and physical violence.

Jack O'Donnell is a music artist who has come a long way with many untold stories that everyone wanted to get a hold of. Deemed as a "has been," Jack, a divorcee by then, is at a loss on what to do with his life as he finds himself alone and dissociated with people who used to care about him - family, friends, fame, fans, etc. His daughter hates him. He keeps going back to his ex-wife even when they are "toxic" to each other. He sees an old picture that rattled his present and made him realize how he needs to finally take charge of his life and explain himself to the world on his own terms through Erin.

Erin Langford is a New York journalist sent to Los Angeles to get the story of a lifetime - Jack's. When she went to see Jack for the interview, she got a door slammed to her face. It was not a pretty sight and was desperate. Who knew that a few moments later, she would be the one giving Jack a ride and the start of a wild adventure of getting to know this washed-up rockstar.

This book talks about the past, missed chances, unseverable connections, and complicated emotions. I had my apprehensions in starting this book from merely reading the synopsis. I knew I would be crying ugly in this book. The POV is on both Erin and Jack's sides.

Both characters are as broken as they come, even with different backgrounds, with Jack's story at the forefront of the book. One big observation is the way the author juxtaposes the "inflicter" versus the "receiver." Jack has the fortunate opportunity to "rehearse" how he wants to change his life through Erin. Erin is his redemption to get back his family and his life together again - after so many years.

Jack is a ruined, broken man when Erin found herself at his doorstep. He is still relevant as an artist (and a tabloid content provider), but he preferred to stay away from the world. He has experienced much pain, disappointments, and yet, persevered and be resilient to a fault. His success from the sacrifices he had to make was also the reason for his downfall - too entitled to everything by the time he realized he was in "too deep."

You are an easy person to love and very hard person to hate.
— Mia, Blood and Bone

Jack's flashbacks were woven intricately into the story that everything flowed organically. Jack's stories rode me out like a freefall that I couldn't and wouldn't stop. It was easy to relate and get emotionally involved. Jack vividly described the scenes like it all just happened yesterday when he started trusting Erin. The breaks between the flashbacks are a welcome reprieve, enabling readers to absorb what happened. All the flashbacks account for Jack's outlook on everything turned from fun and loving to cynical and demanding.

Jack had already known this was his path and Erin was his tool, he just didn’t know he would like her so much.
— Jack, Blood and Bone

Erin has her share of loss, family issues, and pain that she can relate to Jack's situation.
Since meeting Jack and listening to his stories, Erin faces her unresolved feelings about her traumatic past. Her family's music background helps Jack see the common factor they have, which could be the reason for Jack's tolerance and patience with her.
Somewhere along the way, she and Jack connected to share stories to understand each other better and trust each other.

This place is full of stories waiting to be told.
— Erin, Blood and Bone

The friends Jack keeps before Erin came along are as thick as thieves. They are loyal to a fault even when you think it is the reason for the disbanding - it's not all that you think. They supported Jack in all his "moments" - good or bad. I do not know anyone who might do that after being hurt, but these people stick with him - Case, Wade, Mia, and Amber. Without them, Jack would have probably not existed as long as he had in the story and later made him realize how much they love him in their unique ways.

Is there a HEA with so many tragic things going on? I asked this also to the author before I even got the book. She couldn't tell me straight out but said that it's "a book about hope." That is genuinely an excellent description of the book. I do not see the book ending in any other way, but what the author had written. I would describe it as such but also a more "positively wrapped ending."
The quote below best describes how I felt coming to the end.

She felt the weight of his trust like a building upon her shoulders. Her love of music had brought her to this place in life and her genuine interest in wanting to tell Jack’s story. Trust was a burden only a few could carry. She would have to see this through, even if she did not like the ending.
— Erin, Blood and Bone

Overall, the writing grabs and enticing readers. The POVs were clear and helped readers focus on Jack's trials and tribulations with his kind of grit and resilience as a starving artist. Readers will empathize with Jack's plight, even if he was an a**hole so many times over, as he claws through the music scene (and his personal life) with nothing on his back but himself, his Fender guitar, and Mia beside him. It was exhausting, gut-wrenching as readers will see him spiral into nothingness.

He always wanted Mia even if it burned down everything in his f*cking way, he would never stop wanting her.
— Jack, Blood and Bone

I warn you that you will not be able to put the book down once you start. It will grab and hook you until the end. It is a genuine story about relationships and their evolution - perfect, imperfect, and unique to many people, not only in the music industry.

Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that, and Mia was his light.
— Jack, Blood and Bone

[thehotmesslibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blood and Bone by Paula Dombrowiak tells the story of Jack O’ Donnell, an aging Rockstar whose led a turbulent life. When he is approached by reporter Erin Langford for an interview about his old band, he finds himself on a journey of his life both past and present. The book takes us on a rollercoaster ride into the dark side of music as well as exploring when the spotlight ceases to be on you.

The book delves into different parts of Jack’s life weaving the past and the present together whilst showing the development of the relationship between Jack and Erin as the story progresses, highlighting vulnerabilities and difficulties as Erin learns more about Jack and being a reporter and Jack taps into his vulnerabilities, mistakes and often selfish moments that he has had throughout his career and life.

This was a wonderfully written book with some complex characters and illustrating the harshness and darkness that often comes with fame. Jack is a complicated character who has complicated relationships, but he definitely wins you over. This is a deeply emotional book and deals with quite a lot of things which could be triggers for some readers. If you like emotionally charged Rockstar books with complex characters, then this is the read for you!

ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊

More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com

[Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not the type of book I gravitate towards but I’m so glad I read it. It’s the story of a middle-aged rockstar, Jack O’Donnell, whose life was a rollercoaster ride of success and pain. It touched on abuse, addiction, homelessness, unconditional love and so much hurt… my head and heart exploded reading this one. It bounced back and forth between present time and the past and told 25 years worth of story. I’m in awe of how Paula Dombrowiak worked all of this into one book in such a full, cohesive way.

It is most definitely NOT your typical “romance” book but it is an incredibly beautiful story that, for me, opened my eyes to see beyond the judgement I can so easily have toward addiction and poor choices. There is always, ALWAYS so much more to everyone’s life that we can ever truly understand.

If you’re looking for something deep with lots of layers and kind of dark, and something that is a change from your normal romance reads, I highly recommend Blood & Bone. And, I’m looking forward to reading more when available!