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Finding His Redemption
A fallen rock star, a former fan, and a quest for redemption...
Kristoffer “West” Westberg is just out of rehab and ready to reclaim his rock-god status. But when his return to fame is threatened by a former fan turned rock magazine writer — and huge critic of him and his band — West is forced to reckon with the reality that he’ll need to prove himself before earning his redemption.
Max Marshall is feisty, a little too honest for her own good, and so not here to babysit a fallen rock star. And nobody has fallen farther in her mind that Kristoffer Westberg. So when she’s forced to catalog his so-called “apology tour,” she has little hope that it’ll be anything but a headache dealing with the entitled, washed-up rock star she used to worship before she knew better.
If West hopes to have a snowball’s chance in hell of changing Max’s — and his fans’ — minds, he’s got some serious groveling to do. Will he manage to fake it till he makes it, or will he be exposed as the lost cause everyone is convinced he is? And will he learn the real meaning of redemption in time to win Max’s trust and her heart?
Kristoffer “West” Westberg is just out of rehab and ready to reclaim his rock-god status. But when his return to fame is threatened by a former fan turned rock magazine writer — and huge critic of him and his band — West is forced to reckon with the reality that he’ll need to prove himself before earning his redemption.
Max Marshall is feisty, a little too honest for her own good, and so not here to babysit a fallen rock star. And nobody has fallen farther in her mind that Kristoffer Westberg. So when she’s forced to catalog his so-called “apology tour,” she has little hope that it’ll be anything but a headache dealing with the entitled, washed-up rock star she used to worship before she knew better.
If West hopes to have a snowball’s chance in hell of changing Max’s — and his fans’ — minds, he’s got some serious groveling to do. Will he manage to fake it till he makes it, or will he be exposed as the lost cause everyone is convinced he is? And will he learn the real meaning of redemption in time to win Max’s trust and her heart?
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2022
6 people are currently reading
779 people want to read
About the author
Melanie A. Smith
30 books298 followersMelanie A. Smith is an award-winning, international best-selling author of steamy romance with smart, self-sufficient heroines and strong, swoony book boyfriends with hearts of gold. A former engineer turned stay-at-home mom and author, when Melanie is not lost in the world of books you’ll find her spending time with her husband and son, crafting, or cross-stitching.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
November 2, 2021
What a surprisingly deep and emotional take on the rockstar trope. A story unapologetic about the pain and trauma of addiction, about the bravery it takes to face your demons, about the hard work and authenticity it requires to crawl out of rock bottom. All paired with a complicated and angsty romance - a romance that challenges our characters and changes them.
Both West and Max are imperfect in many ways - and both have a fortitude that is both admirable and at times destructive. Max’s sass and strength make her a strong heroine, but while her baggage might not be as visible or loud as West’s, she certainly has her own pains. And West has fallen into the archetype of a rockstar’s demise- mired in his own demons and the coping temptations of his lifestyle, he’s having to face his addiction, which includes the hard work of facing those he’s hurt. Owning up to the pain he’s caused, and he makes a lot of mistakes in doing that. Though it’s hard to embrace, that’s real- that’s the work of recovery. And more importantly, that’s the work of finding redemption. Even when there is no guarantee of forgiveness. The romance moved a bit slowly for me- but understandably. Their story isn’t easy, frustrating and melancholy at times because of the heaviness of West’s choices and journey, but rewarding in its evolution and beautiful in its compassion.
Both West and Max are imperfect in many ways - and both have a fortitude that is both admirable and at times destructive. Max’s sass and strength make her a strong heroine, but while her baggage might not be as visible or loud as West’s, she certainly has her own pains. And West has fallen into the archetype of a rockstar’s demise- mired in his own demons and the coping temptations of his lifestyle, he’s having to face his addiction, which includes the hard work of facing those he’s hurt. Owning up to the pain he’s caused, and he makes a lot of mistakes in doing that. Though it’s hard to embrace, that’s real- that’s the work of recovery. And more importantly, that’s the work of finding redemption. Even when there is no guarantee of forgiveness. The romance moved a bit slowly for me- but understandably. Their story isn’t easy, frustrating and melancholy at times because of the heaviness of West’s choices and journey, but rewarding in its evolution and beautiful in its compassion.
August 28, 2022
Melanie Smith delivers a most heart-wrenching book to date, but also funny at times. As is her signature, the story is realistic and clutches at your heart. Make sure you grab your tissues before reading; tears will come for so many heartbreaking and joyful moments. Be ready to experience the best HEA!
November 2, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “When we first met, I thought I couldn’t stand you. But something changed. And now … maybe I can’t stand to be without you.”
What You’ll Find:
✔️Rockstar Romance
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Feisty Heroine
✔️Banter
✔️Dual POV
Finding His Redemption is a love story about healing, forgiveness and learning what matters most.
Right from the start Wes is that playboy rockstar you hate to love. With a cocky confidence. Not a care in the world. Or so it seems. Fresh out of rehab, he’s looking to get back on the road with his band. But he’ll need to win back the hearts of his fans first. Enter Max. One headstrong, feisty rock magazine writer. She’s seriously tough as nails. Once a huge fan of Wes and his band, she’s now a huge critic. Who just so happens to find herself now in charge of restoring Wes’ imagine.
While this story is a romance, I didn’t truly feel it was the emphasis. With a strong focus in the beginning on the enemy part of this enemies to lovers, I had a bit of trouble with their transition into lovers, and feeling their connection in the end. But the journey and transformation you see in Wes is what truly drew me in. I wanted to hate him. He drove me crazy. But once you see behind his walls, you can’t help but to feel for him. And Max’s tough love was just what he needed.
This story takes its time and covers some pretty heavy topics. But there are also little rays of light and heat too. The Top Gun moment was a favourite of mine.. brought such a smile to my face. With quite a sweet ending that wrapped this one up nicely. Definitely recommend if your looking for a read that looks beyond the romance.
TW/CW: Mentions of Child Abuse (including sexual), Addiction
*Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What You’ll Find:
✔️Rockstar Romance
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Feisty Heroine
✔️Banter
✔️Dual POV
Finding His Redemption is a love story about healing, forgiveness and learning what matters most.
Right from the start Wes is that playboy rockstar you hate to love. With a cocky confidence. Not a care in the world. Or so it seems. Fresh out of rehab, he’s looking to get back on the road with his band. But he’ll need to win back the hearts of his fans first. Enter Max. One headstrong, feisty rock magazine writer. She’s seriously tough as nails. Once a huge fan of Wes and his band, she’s now a huge critic. Who just so happens to find herself now in charge of restoring Wes’ imagine.
While this story is a romance, I didn’t truly feel it was the emphasis. With a strong focus in the beginning on the enemy part of this enemies to lovers, I had a bit of trouble with their transition into lovers, and feeling their connection in the end. But the journey and transformation you see in Wes is what truly drew me in. I wanted to hate him. He drove me crazy. But once you see behind his walls, you can’t help but to feel for him. And Max’s tough love was just what he needed.
This story takes its time and covers some pretty heavy topics. But there are also little rays of light and heat too. The Top Gun moment was a favourite of mine.. brought such a smile to my face. With quite a sweet ending that wrapped this one up nicely. Definitely recommend if your looking for a read that looks beyond the romance.
TW/CW: Mentions of Child Abuse (including sexual), Addiction
*Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 2, 2021
A famous rocker, who is on the path to redemption. Trying to make things right but is it enough? This guy, I disliked him, liked him, disliked him and in the end, swooned at his grand moment. I loved loved loved seeing this guy fall head over heels for his girl, Maxi. The path to finding his redemption, quite the journey!
November 2, 2021
I enjoy rockstar romances and I've enjoyed all of the Melanie A.Smith books that I've read so far, so I had a fair idea that this was a book I would like. I was right. Unlike some rockstar romances, this book deals with star who has been famous and is now trying to find his way back to that fame. The life of sex, drugs and rock and roll just got to be too much and he ended up in rehab. West, the star in question, needs to do all he can to get his band back on top. The perfect way to do that seems to be with Max, his one-time number one fan, who now can't stand him.
Although the idea of a drug addict rock star isn't a new one, I think that it was handled particularly well in this book. West has plenty of reasons for his addiction and actions, not just his rockstar lifestyle. But, he also discovers that he is responsible for everything that he chooses to do and how that might affect other people.
I loved Max and West as a couple. She seems able to match him at every turn, challenging him to be the best that he can be. This was a great read and one that I really enjoyed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
Although the idea of a drug addict rock star isn't a new one, I think that it was handled particularly well in this book. West has plenty of reasons for his addiction and actions, not just his rockstar lifestyle. But, he also discovers that he is responsible for everything that he chooses to do and how that might affect other people.
I loved Max and West as a couple. She seems able to match him at every turn, challenging him to be the best that he can be. This was a great read and one that I really enjoyed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
November 9, 2023
I love a good troubled rock star story, especially when said rock star is fresh out of rehab and now has to deal with the consequences of his choices. As always, Smith weaves a believable narrative that is filled with real life challenges and doesn't shy away from the oft times painful introspection that MUST happen for growth. I so enjoy the tease and tension of a good enemies-to-lovers romance and Smith seamlessly blends the theme of redemption with a beautiful story of the transformative power of love.
Another must-read from Smith.
Another must-read from Smith.
Read
January 13, 2022An enemies to lovers rock star romance with plenty of banter, heaps of angst, and just the right amount of steam.
Available on all major retailers in ebook, paperback, and hardcover. For buy links and the book trailer go to https://melanieasmithauthor.com/books...
Available on all major retailers in ebook, paperback, and hardcover. For buy links and the book trailer go to https://melanieasmithauthor.com/books...
November 24, 2021
FINDING HIS REDEMPTION by Melanie A Smith is a stand alone, contemporary, adult, erotic, rock star romance story line focusing on thirty-six year old, guitarist Kristoffer ‘West’ Westberg, and journalist Max Marshall. Although FINDING HIS REDEMPTION is a stand alone, Frankie and Julian from the author’s EVERYBODY LIES (2019) cross over with a cameo appearance.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Max and West) FINDING HIS REDEMPTION follows the downward spiral, come back, and ensuing chaos of Kristoffer ‘West’ Westberg, guitarist for the rock band Violent Mood Swings. Hours out of rehab, our hero finds himself already the subject ongoing controversy when West’s seat mate on the plane, Morgan Marshall, reveals that his sister and journalist Max Marshall was once one of West’s biggest fans but his addictions and ongoing bad behavior no longer appealed to our heroine’s wants and desires. Knowing he had to meet said ‘former fan’ West and the band’s promoters prepare for an apology tour wherein journalist Max Marshall would interview and record the people West hurt the most but demons from the past send West on another downward spiral, a spiral that implodes, destroying his career, his band, and his relationship with the woman with whom he is falling in love. What ensues is the building enemies to lovers relationship between West and Max, and the fall-out as West is unable to tame the beast, allowing his addictions to control every aspect of his life.
Max Marshall knows she should hate West for everything he represents but Max carries a secret that once revealed shakes our hero when the truth is revealed. Max and West will journey together as West apologizes to family and friends but his final act of rebellion is about to explode for all the world to see.
The relationship between Max and West is an enemies to lovers although West has no idea what he did to invoke the ire of our story line heroine. Forced to work together in an effort to redeem our hero, West’s past reveals a dark and ugly history that has affected his life going forward, a life wherein West is unable to forgive himself for the pain he has caused. Kristoffer ‘West’ Westberg is a man struggling with his demons, self destructive and lost, and when his world has finally righted itself, West is forced to make a decision that will affect his entire future. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to the members of Violent Mood Swings: lead singer Ward Pierce, drummer Michael, keyboardist James and bassist Nik, as well as band manager Burke McKinley, West’s ex girlfriend Sadie, and his siblings Annika and Erik.
FINDING HIS REDEMPTION is a story of addiction and abuse, secrets and lies, betrayal and heart break, forgiveness and love. The premise is intense; the characters are broken, tragic and edgy; the romance is energetic and spicy but struggles in the face of ego and lies.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Max and West) FINDING HIS REDEMPTION follows the downward spiral, come back, and ensuing chaos of Kristoffer ‘West’ Westberg, guitarist for the rock band Violent Mood Swings. Hours out of rehab, our hero finds himself already the subject ongoing controversy when West’s seat mate on the plane, Morgan Marshall, reveals that his sister and journalist Max Marshall was once one of West’s biggest fans but his addictions and ongoing bad behavior no longer appealed to our heroine’s wants and desires. Knowing he had to meet said ‘former fan’ West and the band’s promoters prepare for an apology tour wherein journalist Max Marshall would interview and record the people West hurt the most but demons from the past send West on another downward spiral, a spiral that implodes, destroying his career, his band, and his relationship with the woman with whom he is falling in love. What ensues is the building enemies to lovers relationship between West and Max, and the fall-out as West is unable to tame the beast, allowing his addictions to control every aspect of his life.
Max Marshall knows she should hate West for everything he represents but Max carries a secret that once revealed shakes our hero when the truth is revealed. Max and West will journey together as West apologizes to family and friends but his final act of rebellion is about to explode for all the world to see.
The relationship between Max and West is an enemies to lovers although West has no idea what he did to invoke the ire of our story line heroine. Forced to work together in an effort to redeem our hero, West’s past reveals a dark and ugly history that has affected his life going forward, a life wherein West is unable to forgive himself for the pain he has caused. Kristoffer ‘West’ Westberg is a man struggling with his demons, self destructive and lost, and when his world has finally righted itself, West is forced to make a decision that will affect his entire future. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to the members of Violent Mood Swings: lead singer Ward Pierce, drummer Michael, keyboardist James and bassist Nik, as well as band manager Burke McKinley, West’s ex girlfriend Sadie, and his siblings Annika and Erik.
FINDING HIS REDEMPTION is a story of addiction and abuse, secrets and lies, betrayal and heart break, forgiveness and love. The premise is intense; the characters are broken, tragic and edgy; the romance is energetic and spicy but struggles in the face of ego and lies.
October 7, 2021
4.5 STARS
What a ride this book was, a through and through Rock Star Romance. Full Review as always on my BLOG -> my link text
November 3, 2021
This was a perfect example of what makes the Rockstar genre so good we also get the added bonus of enemies to lovers and it's a win win! West is a selfish Rockstar blinded by his own arrogance he doesn't grasp how his actions have hurt others. Max was a strong feisty woman who doesn't back down because she knows her worth. They both have baggage and flaws and this story does a beautiful job with their journey it was emotional and raw and worth reading. I definitely recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2021
Another strong book by Melanie A Smith. Finding His Redemption dives deep into the life of a recovering addict on his way to redemption and forgiveness. It took me on an emotional rollercoaster and I couldn't put it down. Both Maxi and West are both well developed characters and there was never a dull moment. Well worth the read.
November 5, 2021
This is a well written book with strong characters and an emotional story line. The author does a great job pulling you in and had me glued to the pages as she takes you on an emotional roller coaster ride. She brings the heat in this heartwarming romance. Her scenes are painted perfectly and the story flows fluidly. I enjoyed reading West and Max's story.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC on this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC on this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 1, 2021
What a fantastic rock star romance of redemption. Exactly as the title says, and boy did he find it.
I loved this couple, and Maxi was a strong leading lady who totally made West work for her love and for his future.
Loved it!
Five stars.
Bravo, Melanie.
I loved this couple, and Maxi was a strong leading lady who totally made West work for her love and for his future.
Loved it!
Five stars.
Bravo, Melanie.
November 2, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
It's been a while since I've read a rock star romance, but this one definitely hit the spot! I loved the whole enemies to lovers aspect of Max and West's relationship. I highly recommend picking up this book. Finding His Redemption by Melanie A. Smith is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
It's been a while since I've read a rock star romance, but this one definitely hit the spot! I loved the whole enemies to lovers aspect of Max and West's relationship. I highly recommend picking up this book. Finding His Redemption by Melanie A. Smith is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
November 3, 2021
If Joan Jett ever hosts a book club, Finding His Redemption would surely be her book of choice. Melanie Smith not only weaves a well crafted, original tale of Rockstar West's fall from grace but also the path back to atonement. However, with Maxi challenging West to be his true self throughout his documentary tour of making amends, he'll learn the hard way that when seeking forgiveness, the hardest person to convivence is yourself.
November 4, 2021
I love a good rockstar romance and Melanie A. Smith sure delivered with this book. Lots of angsty moments, and a protagonist I wanted to smack one moment (because he was acting like a jerk) and then hug him, because his background story was sad and everything he went through growing up lead him on a stray path.
Finding redemption after hitting rock bottom is proving to be hard work for West. Facing his demons might not be something he looks forward to but as a recovering addict that's an important step he has to take, not only for himself but also for the people he hurt along the way. Regaining their trust won't be easy.
My emotions were all over the place while reading this story. I loved the slow burn romance that developed between West and Maxi, and how they grew not only as a couple but individually as well. She was one tough cookie, always challenging West and in a way also grounding him. I really loved them both and the entire plot was great. I enjoyed this book a lot and would recommend it. Plus that cover is just gorgeous!
Finding redemption after hitting rock bottom is proving to be hard work for West. Facing his demons might not be something he looks forward to but as a recovering addict that's an important step he has to take, not only for himself but also for the people he hurt along the way. Regaining their trust won't be easy.
My emotions were all over the place while reading this story. I loved the slow burn romance that developed between West and Maxi, and how they grew not only as a couple but individually as well. She was one tough cookie, always challenging West and in a way also grounding him. I really loved them both and the entire plot was great. I enjoyed this book a lot and would recommend it. Plus that cover is just gorgeous!
October 12, 2021
I quite liked the story!! Max and West together were a blast!!
TW: There is talk of childhood abuse, though the scenes do not appear in the book.
TW: There is talk of childhood abuse, though the scenes do not appear in the book.
October 6, 2021
I received this book as an ARC and it is the first book I’ve read by this author. The story as a whole was really good, the male MC was very clearly flawed and damaged but easy to like. The female MC was tough but fair and didn’t get walked over by the male.
If you like rockstars who are damaged and self destructive then you will like this book. It touches on some darker topics but doesn’t delve deep so there shouldn’t be any big triggers to worry about.
West is a recovering addict and after 2 years sober he is returning to his band hoping they will be able to restart their careers. A chance meeting on the flight home leads him to Max. Journalist for a small rock magazine, Max was a fan of Violent Mood Swings, now however she is not a fan and West is the main reason behind that.
After their first meeting West tries to forget Max, who cares that she doesn’t like him anymore, only problem is he can’t forget her. Now his manager and PR team are pushing him to make amends for his past. His condition is that Max writes the article, if he has to do this then he’s going to drag Max along.
As Max watches West apologise for his mistakes she lets her walls down and West starts to wiggle his way in. But West isn’t taking the whole apology tour seriously he’s only doing what they are making him. Despite the success of the whole farce West destroys the progress he’s made with not only the fans but with those closest to him. Worst of all he loses Max too.
Now he has to fix all of his mistakes and himself. But will it be enough to repair what he’s broken to start again?
Happy reading.
If you like rockstars who are damaged and self destructive then you will like this book. It touches on some darker topics but doesn’t delve deep so there shouldn’t be any big triggers to worry about.
West is a recovering addict and after 2 years sober he is returning to his band hoping they will be able to restart their careers. A chance meeting on the flight home leads him to Max. Journalist for a small rock magazine, Max was a fan of Violent Mood Swings, now however she is not a fan and West is the main reason behind that.
After their first meeting West tries to forget Max, who cares that she doesn’t like him anymore, only problem is he can’t forget her. Now his manager and PR team are pushing him to make amends for his past. His condition is that Max writes the article, if he has to do this then he’s going to drag Max along.
As Max watches West apologise for his mistakes she lets her walls down and West starts to wiggle his way in. But West isn’t taking the whole apology tour seriously he’s only doing what they are making him. Despite the success of the whole farce West destroys the progress he’s made with not only the fans but with those closest to him. Worst of all he loses Max too.
Now he has to fix all of his mistakes and himself. But will it be enough to repair what he’s broken to start again?
Happy reading.
October 3, 2021
Received as an ARC and leaving my honest review. The book served as a reminder (to me at least) that it's easy to judge someone when you haven't walked in his/her shoes.
Kristoffer Westberg (West) is trying to revive his band and music career after his fall from grace due to his substance abuse and addiction. Fresh out of court mandated rehab he feels ready to get back into the limelight. He learns that a rock magazine journalist Max Marshall (Maxi) who used to be his biggest fan is now his most unforgiving critic and he wants to know why. This starts a roller coaster journey of facing his demons, learning what it means to forgive (especially himself), asking for forgiveness so as to seek redemption.
I cried buckets reading this cos I know what addiction causes to the individual and all their loved ones and it's real and unavoidable. So it's always a work in progress for an addict and it takes strength and courage of self and the support of loved ones to keep fighting and working at it. The story stayed with me long after I closed the book.
Kristoffer Westberg (West) is trying to revive his band and music career after his fall from grace due to his substance abuse and addiction. Fresh out of court mandated rehab he feels ready to get back into the limelight. He learns that a rock magazine journalist Max Marshall (Maxi) who used to be his biggest fan is now his most unforgiving critic and he wants to know why. This starts a roller coaster journey of facing his demons, learning what it means to forgive (especially himself), asking for forgiveness so as to seek redemption.
I cried buckets reading this cos I know what addiction causes to the individual and all their loved ones and it's real and unavoidable. So it's always a work in progress for an addict and it takes strength and courage of self and the support of loved ones to keep fighting and working at it. The story stayed with me long after I closed the book.
October 3, 2021
Oh! How his rock world ........ rocked😲!
‘West’ is a rock star with arrogance and an ego so big, if he was chocolate, he’d eat himself ~ that is, until the truth is staring him in the face. That truth is Max, a rock magazine journalist, and Max is so disillusioned with him, she can barely remain in the same room ~ which makes it difficult to do her job!
This is yet another compulsive read by Melanie A Smith. It’s a slow burning, angst filled journey of drugs, sex and rock n’ roll leading to finally …… finding his redemption. With words of “I don’t hate you. That would require feeling something for you, and that’s not a road I ever plan to travel down again”, it makes compelling reading to see just how Ms Smith brings this enemies-to-lovers romance together. With the twists and turns expected from this author (and a nicely introduced cameo appearance from Everybody Lies characters), it’s a highly recommended read! Definitely worth 5🌟.
I received an ARC of this book and this review is given purely voluntarily.
‘West’ is a rock star with arrogance and an ego so big, if he was chocolate, he’d eat himself ~ that is, until the truth is staring him in the face. That truth is Max, a rock magazine journalist, and Max is so disillusioned with him, she can barely remain in the same room ~ which makes it difficult to do her job!
This is yet another compulsive read by Melanie A Smith. It’s a slow burning, angst filled journey of drugs, sex and rock n’ roll leading to finally …… finding his redemption. With words of “I don’t hate you. That would require feeling something for you, and that’s not a road I ever plan to travel down again”, it makes compelling reading to see just how Ms Smith brings this enemies-to-lovers romance together. With the twists and turns expected from this author (and a nicely introduced cameo appearance from Everybody Lies characters), it’s a highly recommended read! Definitely worth 5🌟.
I received an ARC of this book and this review is given purely voluntarily.
October 24, 2021
Finding His Redemption was written by Melanie A Smith. I was delighted to find her as a new rock star romance writer. This book was original with a refreshing storyline. There had been lots of books written about a journalist writing about a fallen rock star but not one going on an apology tour and apologizing publicly to the people he has hurt. This book has character depth that exposes the raw emotions of West who is a recovering addict and the guitarist for the band Violent Mood Swing. By chance, he strikes up a conversation with a fellow seatmate on an airplane who tells him about his sister who used to be his biggest fan but now hates him. His seatmate shares that his sister Max is a journalist for a small rock star magazine and encourages West to ask her why she is no longer a fan. West embarks on a journey of self-discovery that he never expected nor wanted because he cannot imagine having a former fan that now despises him. As a result, he decides to go to the small magazine and confront the magazine journalist to find out why she no longer adores him. West thinks all things are going well since he is now sober and clean, his band is back together, and a new album has been released. After hearing from the record label that all is not well in “West-world” and that they agree with Max, that he needs to go on an apology tour that is video-documented. He agrees to debase himself to keep his record label. West begins his apologies first with his band and closest friends, then to an individual family, former girlfriend, and ends with a private concert for fans who write in and say why he or she deserves an apology for tickets to attend the concert.
Melanie Smith has written a story that held me spellbound as West revealed his self to others about his failures and his need for forgiveness. Trauma and horrific abuse shaped West’s life, but he held his past hidden from those he loved and felt the fans did not need to hear about. But was his apology tour real? What was real and what was fake? How will those he apologized to react if West was not sincere? Will West be able to stay clean if his life falls apart after 2 years of sobriety? As the apologies tour continues, West and Max’s attraction heats up from a smoldering cinder to a full-blown inferno. Is West still playing games with Max’s feelings? Was he sincere with her once he realizes how he once humiliated and hurt her? The realistic emotions of seeing West fall apart as he reaches new bottoms before he can finally get the help that can begin the healing, he desperately needs to do more than existing will shred the reader. You will need the tissues but in the end. Melanie Smith fits everything together so the whole picture makes sense with an incredible HEA. I hope to see Ms. Smith will write more books about the band Violent Mood Swing that held me enthralled from the first sentence until turning to the last page of the book at 3 am because I simply could not put it down.
Melanie Smith has written a story that held me spellbound as West revealed his self to others about his failures and his need for forgiveness. Trauma and horrific abuse shaped West’s life, but he held his past hidden from those he loved and felt the fans did not need to hear about. But was his apology tour real? What was real and what was fake? How will those he apologized to react if West was not sincere? Will West be able to stay clean if his life falls apart after 2 years of sobriety? As the apologies tour continues, West and Max’s attraction heats up from a smoldering cinder to a full-blown inferno. Is West still playing games with Max’s feelings? Was he sincere with her once he realizes how he once humiliated and hurt her? The realistic emotions of seeing West fall apart as he reaches new bottoms before he can finally get the help that can begin the healing, he desperately needs to do more than existing will shred the reader. You will need the tissues but in the end. Melanie Smith fits everything together so the whole picture makes sense with an incredible HEA. I hope to see Ms. Smith will write more books about the band Violent Mood Swing that held me enthralled from the first sentence until turning to the last page of the book at 3 am because I simply could not put it down.
November 6, 2021
I needed to keep reminding myself that the characters are in their 30's but the way they react and behave makes me think this is a young adult book.
Max, the female lead, is a former diehard fan and has been holding some lasting resentment specifically against West, the male lead. I wondered if maybe they had a past?
West is a rockstar who, after a stint in rehab, we’d think has reflected on his mistakes, actually behaved like he has not done much self reflection. How did he manage to get thru rehab? I often see cocky but lovable characters that authors try to pull off but West really needed to work on the lovable part.
—-spoiler ahead—-
One of the many plot points that I questioned were: why would West care about turning around one random person/stranger? Why would they choose Max the journalist who hates the band to cover this apology tour? No one raised their hand and rejected the idea. For tactical purposes the publicist should choose someone sympathetic to the band. Imagine that the person who’s supposed to help turn around the image and write about them also needs convincing, there’s possible bias right there. But I guess for purposes of moving this story along she needed to be close to the band so she’s the chosen journalist. It may have been more plausible if the apology tour was organised with no ties to Max, and Max's boss found out since, you know, they’re from a rock magazine anyway, assigned her to cover it, like on the road reporter. Also why would they iron out the details of the tour in front of Max, talking about who to apologise to, etc, how is Max suddenly part of the inner circle? Regardless of the NDA, she’s a stranger, they don’t really know if they can trust her. Once I started having these questions it was a bit tough to stay fully invested in the story. And I was so far only 25% in at that point.
For someone who wants to be taken seriously as a journalist, Max sure makes it a point to react with snorts and eye rolls in a professional setting. I understand the whole “I’m tough I take no BS attitude” that we love to see in our leads but that can be done by just responding thru words, not frequent eye roll like a child. It seems that every chapter has her eye rolling. Why does she have this job again?
Anyway, things escalated towards the end, West hit rock bottom after doing dumb crap that just exploded spectacularly. And this showed us that everyone in his life just pretty much abandoned him, they feel this will help him learn his lesson. His band, his best friend, his now ex gf Max, all turned their back on him. How’s that for not getting the support one badly needed to recover? (You’re on your own, man. This is the only way to slay your demons.)
Honestly, I would have felt better in the end if West managed to recover, and just moved on with his life without the band, and even Max. That would have felt more of a redemption, and growth for him.
Overall this story had potential but didn’t deliver. Felt like a slow starter. I didn’t see the connection and chemistry between West and Max. Scenes felt conveniently setup but didn’t make much sense.
Advanced copy received, and honest review provided.
Max, the female lead, is a former diehard fan and has been holding some lasting resentment specifically against West, the male lead. I wondered if maybe they had a past?
West is a rockstar who, after a stint in rehab, we’d think has reflected on his mistakes, actually behaved like he has not done much self reflection. How did he manage to get thru rehab? I often see cocky but lovable characters that authors try to pull off but West really needed to work on the lovable part.
—-spoiler ahead—-
One of the many plot points that I questioned were: why would West care about turning around one random person/stranger? Why would they choose Max the journalist who hates the band to cover this apology tour? No one raised their hand and rejected the idea. For tactical purposes the publicist should choose someone sympathetic to the band. Imagine that the person who’s supposed to help turn around the image and write about them also needs convincing, there’s possible bias right there. But I guess for purposes of moving this story along she needed to be close to the band so she’s the chosen journalist. It may have been more plausible if the apology tour was organised with no ties to Max, and Max's boss found out since, you know, they’re from a rock magazine anyway, assigned her to cover it, like on the road reporter. Also why would they iron out the details of the tour in front of Max, talking about who to apologise to, etc, how is Max suddenly part of the inner circle? Regardless of the NDA, she’s a stranger, they don’t really know if they can trust her. Once I started having these questions it was a bit tough to stay fully invested in the story. And I was so far only 25% in at that point.
For someone who wants to be taken seriously as a journalist, Max sure makes it a point to react with snorts and eye rolls in a professional setting. I understand the whole “I’m tough I take no BS attitude” that we love to see in our leads but that can be done by just responding thru words, not frequent eye roll like a child. It seems that every chapter has her eye rolling. Why does she have this job again?
Anyway, things escalated towards the end, West hit rock bottom after doing dumb crap that just exploded spectacularly. And this showed us that everyone in his life just pretty much abandoned him, they feel this will help him learn his lesson. His band, his best friend, his now ex gf Max, all turned their back on him. How’s that for not getting the support one badly needed to recover? (You’re on your own, man. This is the only way to slay your demons.)
Honestly, I would have felt better in the end if West managed to recover, and just moved on with his life without the band, and even Max. That would have felt more of a redemption, and growth for him.
Overall this story had potential but didn’t deliver. Felt like a slow starter. I didn’t see the connection and chemistry between West and Max. Scenes felt conveniently setup but didn’t make much sense.
Advanced copy received, and honest review provided.
October 9, 2021
This book started out a little hard to get into, but turned into a book that I could not put down. Giving it a 4.5 out of 5 stars, because it is an amazingly written book with hard topics that may trigger some people but once you get into the story it is TOTALLY WORTH IT!! The sexy scenes are few and far between but serve to further the story and that makes them even better. I would only give this book a rating of Jalepeno, the scenes are HOT but the tension between the two main characters is more than enough in my personal opinion. I had not read a Melanie A. Smith story before, and have to say that I am looking forward to reading more. She is a very talented writer that has a gift for words and away of addressing touchy subjects with respect and not being completely in your face with them.
This story is about a male Rock Star, Kristoff Westerberg aka West, and him finding his way back after battling addiciton. The whole thing starts from a converstion on an airplane, where West finds out that his biggest fan now hates him. Do to a compulsion to find out why she hates him, that he can't control, West finds himself face to face with Max Marshall. Max is now a journalist for a Rock Magazine and is not happy to see her least favorite person. After a few words are exchanged and West opens his mouth to his bandmates about the conversation, a ball starts rolling that can NOT be stopped. Everything that happens from then on out is a result of the one unpleasant converstion that West and Max had the first time they talk.
I would NOT recommend this book to anyone that has triggers with abuse of anykind or addiction. This story touches on these subjects and maybe hard for those people. The subjects are not fully in your face, but if you are sensitive to them please be aware. I WOULD however recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a number of tropes, that include; Rock Star romance, Second Chance romance, Bad Boy romance, and Enemies to Lovers romance.
I will be reading more of Melanie A. Smith's books in the future and hope that this has helped you find your next Tanatlizing Tome!
This story is about a male Rock Star, Kristoff Westerberg aka West, and him finding his way back after battling addiciton. The whole thing starts from a converstion on an airplane, where West finds out that his biggest fan now hates him. Do to a compulsion to find out why she hates him, that he can't control, West finds himself face to face with Max Marshall. Max is now a journalist for a Rock Magazine and is not happy to see her least favorite person. After a few words are exchanged and West opens his mouth to his bandmates about the conversation, a ball starts rolling that can NOT be stopped. Everything that happens from then on out is a result of the one unpleasant converstion that West and Max had the first time they talk.
I would NOT recommend this book to anyone that has triggers with abuse of anykind or addiction. This story touches on these subjects and maybe hard for those people. The subjects are not fully in your face, but if you are sensitive to them please be aware. I WOULD however recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a number of tropes, that include; Rock Star romance, Second Chance romance, Bad Boy romance, and Enemies to Lovers romance.
I will be reading more of Melanie A. Smith's books in the future and hope that this has helped you find your next Tanatlizing Tome!
October 27, 2021
*Heads up that the subject of child abuse including sexual abuse was touched on. There should be a disclaimer mentioning this unless I missed it*
Please note that there is a POSSIBLE SPOILER in this review.
Kristoffer 'West' Westburg has just come out of rehab, his band 'Violent Mood Swings' is back together, an album has been released and the band will be going on tour to promote their new music, he is ready to get back into the Rock star lifestyle. Max Marshall used to be a fan, she had hung around his band years ago hoping that he would notice her but she didn't go as far as acting like a groupie and try to sleep with him. Max is now working as a writer for a rock magazine, Rock Scene. When West turns up at Max's work asking to see Max she is shocked to see him. It turns out that West had briefly met Max's brother on a flight and her brother told him that Max used to be his biggest fan. West has come to see her to demand to know why Max is no longer a fan. Swirling around in her head is how he used to behave when she knew him, so full of himself and out of his head on drugs and booze. What happens next is a really manic but sad journey with West struggling to hold himself together amid a whirlwind 'apology' tour and the fallout from his admission to his band mates and Max that the apology tour was fake, it had meant nothing to him. His band mates and Max are devastated and want nothing more to do with him. West spirals out of control once more and realizes that he needs help to be able to take back control of his life. His admission that he and his siblings were abused mentally, physically and sexually by his father was difficult to read, but he felt ready to get the help he needed to enable him to put his past behind him and prove to his band mates and Max that he had finally found his redemption.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Please note that there is a POSSIBLE SPOILER in this review.
Kristoffer 'West' Westburg has just come out of rehab, his band 'Violent Mood Swings' is back together, an album has been released and the band will be going on tour to promote their new music, he is ready to get back into the Rock star lifestyle. Max Marshall used to be a fan, she had hung around his band years ago hoping that he would notice her but she didn't go as far as acting like a groupie and try to sleep with him. Max is now working as a writer for a rock magazine, Rock Scene. When West turns up at Max's work asking to see Max she is shocked to see him. It turns out that West had briefly met Max's brother on a flight and her brother told him that Max used to be his biggest fan. West has come to see her to demand to know why Max is no longer a fan. Swirling around in her head is how he used to behave when she knew him, so full of himself and out of his head on drugs and booze. What happens next is a really manic but sad journey with West struggling to hold himself together amid a whirlwind 'apology' tour and the fallout from his admission to his band mates and Max that the apology tour was fake, it had meant nothing to him. His band mates and Max are devastated and want nothing more to do with him. West spirals out of control once more and realizes that he needs help to be able to take back control of his life. His admission that he and his siblings were abused mentally, physically and sexually by his father was difficult to read, but he felt ready to get the help he needed to enable him to put his past behind him and prove to his band mates and Max that he had finally found his redemption.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 10, 2021
4.5 stars.
This is much heavier/deeper/more complex than your average romance. There's a lot of substance to this story and meditations on guilt, forgiveness, trauma, and addiction. It's a pretty unflinching look at the life of an addict and the ripples of childhood abuse through families.
I did not like West when I first met him. At all. I don't think I was supposed to. After a long series of poor choices results in a "jail or rehab" ultimatum, West has done the minimum required for a chance to get his music career back on track. When it becomes apparent that's not going to be enough, he enlists a former fan, now a journalist at a small but respected music publication, to facilitate an "apology tour" to garner sympathy and support for his comeback.
Max has been hurt by West (that was handled so well--the scenario is one I never had imagined and it was quite a punch) and is in no mood to indulge him or suffer his foolishness. Unfortunately, their small publication can't afford to pass up this opportunity, so she's stuck. The more she finds out about West, the more her understanding of him changes, but will she ever really be safe with him?
West has a lot of work to do to become someone the reader wants to root for. Watching that journey is compelling. The shift in his feelings for, and relationship with, Max felt a little under-developed--both of their motivations seemed like they might have been still coming from an unhealthy place and I'm not sure that was ever entirely hashed out. Still, I couldn't put this down and the ending felt earned.
Pick this up for a smart, substantive romance with real emotional depth!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
This is much heavier/deeper/more complex than your average romance. There's a lot of substance to this story and meditations on guilt, forgiveness, trauma, and addiction. It's a pretty unflinching look at the life of an addict and the ripples of childhood abuse through families.
I did not like West when I first met him. At all. I don't think I was supposed to. After a long series of poor choices results in a "jail or rehab" ultimatum, West has done the minimum required for a chance to get his music career back on track. When it becomes apparent that's not going to be enough, he enlists a former fan, now a journalist at a small but respected music publication, to facilitate an "apology tour" to garner sympathy and support for his comeback.
Max has been hurt by West (that was handled so well--the scenario is one I never had imagined and it was quite a punch) and is in no mood to indulge him or suffer his foolishness. Unfortunately, their small publication can't afford to pass up this opportunity, so she's stuck. The more she finds out about West, the more her understanding of him changes, but will she ever really be safe with him?
West has a lot of work to do to become someone the reader wants to root for. Watching that journey is compelling. The shift in his feelings for, and relationship with, Max felt a little under-developed--both of their motivations seemed like they might have been still coming from an unhealthy place and I'm not sure that was ever entirely hashed out. Still, I couldn't put this down and the ending felt earned.
Pick this up for a smart, substantive romance with real emotional depth!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
December 12, 2021
“Because as I taste her, as her tongue meets mine and every neuron in my brain says “more,” well, I’m pretty sure Maxi Marshall is my new drug of choice.”
Six weeks of two characters going from enemies to lovers? Oh my goodness, yes. This novel was so fricken romantic. In the most unconventional way. From beginning to end, I was swooning with this storyline. I haven’t read many rockstar romance books, but this one is definitely high in my books now. The relationship building alone in this novel is what made it worth it to me. It was a journey with these characters due to Max’s unfortunate (yet totally fortunate) assignment for work. The synopsis was the perfect amount of intrigue, and it didn’t go in the direction I thought based on the blurb, which I really liked. Also… this book is definitely a slow burn, but when these characters finally do it? DAMN - West has got moves!👀
A rockstar reporter, Max, who is a total badass and stands up to anyone; even a rockstar who she once fangirled hard over… then broke her heart. Then we have the rockstar, West, a smooth talking guy with some harsh trauma. My heart hurt for West, a former drug addict, looking for forgiveness and redemption. It doesn’t come easy though. There is a lot of arrogance that is used to cover the ongoing emotional trauma he endures. And Max takes it all like a champ, even thought she hates him. The chemistry and relationship building between these two characters was magical. I love a good enemies to lovers book, and this one was just as good!❤️
The only part of this novel that felt off to me was the steamy scenes. They felt rushed to me, and with the characters chemistry and build, I was hoping for something more gripping. If that makes sense. Don’t get me wrong the first scene had me giggling like a school girl because West is as fine as wine. I guess I just wanted more due to their chemistry.
I would give this novel 4 stars✨
Steam rating: 2🔥
🏷
#bookstagrammer #bookstagram #bibliophile #reading #reader #romancereader #raunchyromance #booklover #bookaddict #bookreview #bookworm #bookreview
Six weeks of two characters going from enemies to lovers? Oh my goodness, yes. This novel was so fricken romantic. In the most unconventional way. From beginning to end, I was swooning with this storyline. I haven’t read many rockstar romance books, but this one is definitely high in my books now. The relationship building alone in this novel is what made it worth it to me. It was a journey with these characters due to Max’s unfortunate (yet totally fortunate) assignment for work. The synopsis was the perfect amount of intrigue, and it didn’t go in the direction I thought based on the blurb, which I really liked. Also… this book is definitely a slow burn, but when these characters finally do it? DAMN - West has got moves!👀
A rockstar reporter, Max, who is a total badass and stands up to anyone; even a rockstar who she once fangirled hard over… then broke her heart. Then we have the rockstar, West, a smooth talking guy with some harsh trauma. My heart hurt for West, a former drug addict, looking for forgiveness and redemption. It doesn’t come easy though. There is a lot of arrogance that is used to cover the ongoing emotional trauma he endures. And Max takes it all like a champ, even thought she hates him. The chemistry and relationship building between these two characters was magical. I love a good enemies to lovers book, and this one was just as good!❤️
The only part of this novel that felt off to me was the steamy scenes. They felt rushed to me, and with the characters chemistry and build, I was hoping for something more gripping. If that makes sense. Don’t get me wrong the first scene had me giggling like a school girl because West is as fine as wine. I guess I just wanted more due to their chemistry.
I would give this novel 4 stars✨
Steam rating: 2🔥
🏷
#bookstagrammer #bookstagram #bibliophile #reading #reader #romancereader #raunchyromance #booklover #bookaddict #bookreview #bookworm #bookreview
November 2, 2021
Finding His Redemption is Melanie A. Smith's latest, a standalone contemporary rock star romance with an enemies-to-lovers flavor. (It's not true enemies-to-lovers, but more of a past superfan-turned-disillusioned-and-disappointed one meets her former crush and he's a raging a-hole...until he isn't.) It is loosely connected to
Everybody Lies
, but you absolutely don't have to have read that one to enjoy this book.
I have to admit--I honestly wasn't sure Ms Smith was going to be able to pull Kristopher/West out of his total a-holeness and give us a true HEA--good grief, the man was a mess. We're a bit hopeful early on as Max and he get close enough for her to get glimpses of the guy he is underneath--OMG, watching them grow closer was everything!--but then he torches everything with the world's most potent metaphoric flamethrower, and yikes. Talk about black moments...
In the end, though, she absolutely managed to pull it off--thank goodness! West had a ton of work to do on himself behind the scenes--which was a good choice, because I'm pretty sure actually watching him do the bulk of it wouldn't make very good reading--we get to see just enough of it to make readers hopeful that this time he's going to pull through. And that epilogue? So satisfying...
If you're able to read and listen to music at the same time (unlike me--I only can if it's instrumentals, otherwise I'm listening to the music instead of paying attention to my book) there is a Spotify playlist you can listen along to. Alternatively, each chapter mentions a specific song to set the mood, and you can call them up yourself on your music provider of choice--miracle of miracles, I actually knew some of them! ;)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I have to admit--I honestly wasn't sure Ms Smith was going to be able to pull Kristopher/West out of his total a-holeness and give us a true HEA--good grief, the man was a mess. We're a bit hopeful early on as Max and he get close enough for her to get glimpses of the guy he is underneath--OMG, watching them grow closer was everything!--but then he torches everything with the world's most potent metaphoric flamethrower, and yikes. Talk about black moments...
In the end, though, she absolutely managed to pull it off--thank goodness! West had a ton of work to do on himself behind the scenes--which was a good choice, because I'm pretty sure actually watching him do the bulk of it wouldn't make very good reading--we get to see just enough of it to make readers hopeful that this time he's going to pull through. And that epilogue? So satisfying...
If you're able to read and listen to music at the same time (unlike me--I only can if it's instrumentals, otherwise I'm listening to the music instead of paying attention to my book) there is a Spotify playlist you can listen along to. Alternatively, each chapter mentions a specific song to set the mood, and you can call them up yourself on your music provider of choice--miracle of miracles, I actually knew some of them! ;)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
November 2, 2021
Did I feel sorry for West when he was trying to put his career back together at the beginning of this book, heck no! Right from the beginning he seemed to think that the world revolved around him and he was on a roller coaster of self destruction and didn't care who he took down with him as he believed that his talent as a guitarist would be his salvation. So it was a bit of a shock to find out that someone who was once his biggest fan was no longer so he had to meet her to find out why.
Max is definitely shocked to find West in her office demanding to know why she no longer likes him and you have to admire her for telling him straight that he owes his fans a major apology, and he cannot expect redemption until he expresses his regret for the many ways he has disappointed his fans and his band. As the band's manager get's wind of the idea of West apologizing to his band his family and his fans the idea takes on a life of it's own and becomes a reality show putting Max in the position of having to be present as a journalist when West makes his apologies.
I enjoyed watching West squirm during the apologies except when he met his father who he had not seen for years, then suddenly what started out as somewhat of a joke suddenly became very serious.
The rest of the book was really heartbreaking as West fought with the demons that ruled his life and revealed his true self to Max. Max upon finding out that West's swagger was hiding some devastating hurts was there to support him and help him to find his way and it took a true disaster before he was truly ready to find redemption.
I had to admire Max who despite the way West had hurt her in the past was willing to try again with West the person not the rock star and to risk being hurt again. This story is a deeper and more emotional take on the bad boy rock star goes to rehab and everyone loves him again, and also an insight into how fragile a career in the music business can be. It's a good romantic and swoony love story with a good amount of angst but also a fun read.
Max is definitely shocked to find West in her office demanding to know why she no longer likes him and you have to admire her for telling him straight that he owes his fans a major apology, and he cannot expect redemption until he expresses his regret for the many ways he has disappointed his fans and his band. As the band's manager get's wind of the idea of West apologizing to his band his family and his fans the idea takes on a life of it's own and becomes a reality show putting Max in the position of having to be present as a journalist when West makes his apologies.
I enjoyed watching West squirm during the apologies except when he met his father who he had not seen for years, then suddenly what started out as somewhat of a joke suddenly became very serious.
The rest of the book was really heartbreaking as West fought with the demons that ruled his life and revealed his true self to Max. Max upon finding out that West's swagger was hiding some devastating hurts was there to support him and help him to find his way and it took a true disaster before he was truly ready to find redemption.
I had to admire Max who despite the way West had hurt her in the past was willing to try again with West the person not the rock star and to risk being hurt again. This story is a deeper and more emotional take on the bad boy rock star goes to rehab and everyone loves him again, and also an insight into how fragile a career in the music business can be. It's a good romantic and swoony love story with a good amount of angst but also a fun read.
October 10, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2
Melanie my dear, you never disappoint me. You had me up all night with this one for sure. West was a star, but with fame comes all the trappings and overindulgence in drugs, alcohol, and things that get you on the cover of tabloids. After a stint in rehab, the bands back together, they're making music, and a tour is in the works. When West learns that a writer at Rock Magazine basically was his biggest fan and now hates him, he has to know why. He goes to meet her and there is an instant attraction on both sides, but for Maxi, it started when she was 17, but oh West you did a really bad thing. She basically reads him his rights and he's pissed. They're both pissed when it's pitched he do a Redemption Tour to apologize to all those he wronged in his drug addled state and she has to travel with him and cover it for her magazine. West's wounds are more than surface level, they're bone deep, and he can't be forgiven until he stops carrying the weight of the past 20+ years.
This book is more than worth your time. I know for certain I will be rereading it. I also love that the band goes back to Frankie's Club to play and that we get to see our favorite bar owner with her new Hubs. If you haven't read Melanie's Everybody Lies...read that too. Thank you Melanie for the ARC and always giving us great escapes in your writing.
**This review is honest and true**💋💋
Melanie my dear, you never disappoint me. You had me up all night with this one for sure. West was a star, but with fame comes all the trappings and overindulgence in drugs, alcohol, and things that get you on the cover of tabloids. After a stint in rehab, the bands back together, they're making music, and a tour is in the works. When West learns that a writer at Rock Magazine basically was his biggest fan and now hates him, he has to know why. He goes to meet her and there is an instant attraction on both sides, but for Maxi, it started when she was 17, but oh West you did a really bad thing. She basically reads him his rights and he's pissed. They're both pissed when it's pitched he do a Redemption Tour to apologize to all those he wronged in his drug addled state and she has to travel with him and cover it for her magazine. West's wounds are more than surface level, they're bone deep, and he can't be forgiven until he stops carrying the weight of the past 20+ years.
This book is more than worth your time. I know for certain I will be rereading it. I also love that the band goes back to Frankie's Club to play and that we get to see our favorite bar owner with her new Hubs. If you haven't read Melanie's Everybody Lies...read that too. Thank you Melanie for the ARC and always giving us great escapes in your writing.
**This review is honest and true**💋💋
November 7, 2021
Ah, West, West, West...This character made a mess of me. I'll be honest and say, there were parts of him that I didn't really like at first. The way he talked and acted at times, I wanted to give him a good slap. But then...oh, but then this writer slowly reveals the man inside. The man no one gets to see. And on top of that she weaves in his horrific past. As a reader the light turns on and you see, yes, the things I didn't like about him make so much sense now and then you're rooting for him in every way.
This author did such a good job of making him absolutely human, that, in the end, he became one of my favorite characters she's written to date.
Then there's Max. The literal perfect yin to his yang, or maybe he was yin to her yang because she hates him, and for good reason. But their chemistry is spot on and as the book progresses the huge heart that she has, the one that she had to lock away, comes through and it's so beautiful.
As some previous reviewers have mentioned there are some really hard topics discussed in this book. But what I appreciate the most is how the author doesn't throw them in for shock value. She shows you that even when someone has endured hell, they still have a choice. A choice to let their past devour them, or to admit they need a helping hand so they can begin to heal. She gives you hope.
Gah, thanks for the emotional ride!
This author did such a good job of making him absolutely human, that, in the end, he became one of my favorite characters she's written to date.
Then there's Max. The literal perfect yin to his yang, or maybe he was yin to her yang because she hates him, and for good reason. But their chemistry is spot on and as the book progresses the huge heart that she has, the one that she had to lock away, comes through and it's so beautiful.
As some previous reviewers have mentioned there are some really hard topics discussed in this book. But what I appreciate the most is how the author doesn't throw them in for shock value. She shows you that even when someone has endured hell, they still have a choice. A choice to let their past devour them, or to admit they need a helping hand so they can begin to heal. She gives you hope.
Gah, thanks for the emotional ride!
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