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Sweeter than Fame
Ein Rockstar nebenan
Ani Bennett ist in ihre beschauliche Heimatstadt zurückgekehrt, um endlich etwas Ruhe zu finden. Doch ihr Plan geht nicht auf – denn ihr neuer Nachbar ist kein anderer als der gefeierte Rockstar Garrett Hayes, der nach dem Tod seiner Frau einen Rückzugsort sucht. Ani gibt sich alle Mühe, das Fangirl in sich zu unterdrücken, doch als Garrett sie um Hilfe bittet und sie mehr und mehr Zeit miteinander verbringen, wirft ihre innere Selbstbeherrschung schnell das Handtuch. Aber welche Chancen hat ein Mädchen aus der Kleinstadt bei einem weltberühmten Rockstar?
Ani Bennett ist in ihre beschauliche Heimatstadt zurückgekehrt, um endlich etwas Ruhe zu finden. Doch ihr Plan geht nicht auf – denn ihr neuer Nachbar ist kein anderer als der gefeierte Rockstar Garrett Hayes, der nach dem Tod seiner Frau einen Rückzugsort sucht. Ani gibt sich alle Mühe, das Fangirl in sich zu unterdrücken, doch als Garrett sie um Hilfe bittet und sie mehr und mehr Zeit miteinander verbringen, wirft ihre innere Selbstbeherrschung schnell das Handtuch. Aber welche Chancen hat ein Mädchen aus der Kleinstadt bei einem weltberühmten Rockstar?
320 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2022
141 people are currently reading
1988 people want to read
About the author
Kylie Scott
61 books17k followersKylie is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today best-selling, Audie Award winning Romance author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 503 reviews
April 13, 2022
2.5 stars
I wish I loved this more. Actually, let me amend that, I wish this book was better. I liked the synopsis and Kylie Scott is an auto-buy for me so it was a no brainer that I was gonna read this. It’s only the Kylie Scott books which make me like the whole musicians/celebrity trope.
This story though .. it was a miss on all fronts.
Relationship development? What’s that?
Character development? What’s that?
Plot? What’s that? (a bit harsh yes, but it was boring and nothing happened- yes the assortment of side characters was quirky and fun but nowhere near enough to carry a romance book)
I also have to admit I’m not a fan of dead spouse/SO as a trope in general. This book tried to walk the line where the dead wife was respected and her memory was honoured and everyone kept their love for her forever alive while the new love interest (the heroine) was given enough importance in the hero’s heart (and all other aspects of his life). In my opinion it didn’t work because of a lot of reasons. First of all Grace (the dead wife) did seem like an amazing person while our heroine didn’t really have any qualities to make her stand out (I’m not saying that she should have been in any way special or talented - not at all - but the story didn’t develop her character enough to make her relatable or to make us connect with her). I can’t give you a single reason why those two got together. Like at all! He made her horny cause he was hot. That’s it. That’s all I got.
Alsoooo, they literally met, started dating, moved in (within 48 hours of dating) got engaged and had unprotected sex which can lead to babies (and spoiler it did ) all within the first month of knowing each other. Was it fast yes,could I possible get behind it, yes - but not in their case. It made no sense. Not to mention, that he locked himself from the world and everything in it after his wife died, but he meets the heroine and BAM - his soul is resuscitated. Nah, I don’t think so.
Also, I wish their pasts got explored more. The heroine deals with some serious issues. Anxiety and OCD which are rooted in some heavy PTSD. It was like his magic d*** cured her of years of living like a shadow of herself. It was all magically solved. Damn, I wish someone would give me some of that magic to cure all my mental health issues in a couple days.
Also, same issue as in the last 2 books Kylie wrote - There is NO full physical description of the heroine!! And it drives me crazy trying to picture her in my mind. He is very detailed, we get all his abs accounted for, so why is it so hard to write the heroines eye colour or hair colour!? I think it was brown but what shade!?
I wish I loved this more. Actually, let me amend that, I wish this book was better. I liked the synopsis and Kylie Scott is an auto-buy for me so it was a no brainer that I was gonna read this. It’s only the Kylie Scott books which make me like the whole musicians/celebrity trope.
This story though .. it was a miss on all fronts.
Relationship development? What’s that?
Character development? What’s that?
Plot? What’s that? (a bit harsh yes, but it was boring and nothing happened- yes the assortment of side characters was quirky and fun but nowhere near enough to carry a romance book)
I also have to admit I’m not a fan of dead spouse/SO as a trope in general. This book tried to walk the line where the dead wife was respected and her memory was honoured and everyone kept their love for her forever alive while the new love interest (the heroine) was given enough importance in the hero’s heart (and all other aspects of his life). In my opinion it didn’t work because of a lot of reasons. First of all Grace (the dead wife) did seem like an amazing person while our heroine didn’t really have any qualities to make her stand out (I’m not saying that she should have been in any way special or talented - not at all - but the story didn’t develop her character enough to make her relatable or to make us connect with her). I can’t give you a single reason why those two got together. Like at all! He made her horny cause he was hot. That’s it. That’s all I got.
Alsoooo, they literally met, started dating, moved in (within 48 hours of dating) got engaged and had unprotected sex which can lead to babies (and spoiler it did ) all within the first month of knowing each other. Was it fast yes,could I possible get behind it, yes - but not in their case. It made no sense. Not to mention, that he locked himself from the world and everything in it after his wife died, but he meets the heroine and BAM - his soul is resuscitated. Nah, I don’t think so.
Also, I wish their pasts got explored more. The heroine deals with some serious issues. Anxiety and OCD which are rooted in some heavy PTSD. It was like his magic d*** cured her of years of living like a shadow of herself. It was all magically solved. Damn, I wish someone would give me some of that magic to cure all my mental health issues in a couple days.
Also, same issue as in the last 2 books Kylie wrote - There is NO full physical description of the heroine!! And it drives me crazy trying to picture her in my mind. He is very detailed, we get all his abs accounted for, so why is it so hard to write the heroines eye colour or hair colour!? I think it was brown but what shade!?
May 18, 2022
3.5 Love Will Find You Stars ⭐
Depending on how you look at things, on one hand Famous in A Small Town was an enjoyable read that was easy to read, yet on the other, it had no real spark and made it simply forgettable.
In a little off the grid town somewhere in North California, the locals are very much involved in each other’s life. So, it’s very big news when someone new moves in. But a celebrity musician? It’s no surprise it’s going to spread like wildfire.
Yet it comes as a big shock to Garrett Hayes that his actual neighbor has no inclination to sell him out. In fact, Ani Bennet knows firsthand how valuable privacy is when you’re hiding out yourself.
“Seems we’re both working on getting past somethings. Guess I’m interested to see if breaking your no-dating rule is one of those things.”
With a push in the same direction by some well meaning friends, these two lost souls’ team up to give friendship ago. With neither looking for any emotional ties, non-dating is a no brainer.
You seem to need some help now and then with being a friend. So, consider this me helping you,” I said. “You can pretend you never kissed me, but you do not get to pretend I don’t exist.”
He sighed. “I’m sorry.”
“Keep going.”
A man mourning the loss of his wife and a girl dealing with her own mental health issues. However, they both are unintentionally striving to be better just by hanging out together. Neither a prepared to fall but they do. I thought that Garrett and Ani were great and quite normal, and it worked. Unfortunately, the storyline itself was lackluster. Personally, I’d like to see a fresh trope by this author.
Depending on how you look at things, on one hand Famous in A Small Town was an enjoyable read that was easy to read, yet on the other, it had no real spark and made it simply forgettable.
In a little off the grid town somewhere in North California, the locals are very much involved in each other’s life. So, it’s very big news when someone new moves in. But a celebrity musician? It’s no surprise it’s going to spread like wildfire.
Yet it comes as a big shock to Garrett Hayes that his actual neighbor has no inclination to sell him out. In fact, Ani Bennet knows firsthand how valuable privacy is when you’re hiding out yourself.
“Seems we’re both working on getting past somethings. Guess I’m interested to see if breaking your no-dating rule is one of those things.”
With a push in the same direction by some well meaning friends, these two lost souls’ team up to give friendship ago. With neither looking for any emotional ties, non-dating is a no brainer.
You seem to need some help now and then with being a friend. So, consider this me helping you,” I said. “You can pretend you never kissed me, but you do not get to pretend I don’t exist.”
He sighed. “I’m sorry.”
“Keep going.”
A man mourning the loss of his wife and a girl dealing with her own mental health issues. However, they both are unintentionally striving to be better just by hanging out together. Neither a prepared to fall but they do. I thought that Garrett and Ani were great and quite normal, and it worked. Unfortunately, the storyline itself was lackluster. Personally, I’d like to see a fresh trope by this author.
June 25, 2022
Famous in a Small Town by Kylie Scott
Contemporary romance.
Ani has a new famous neighbor in her small town. Garrett moves to the small Northern California town of Wildwood, hoping to hide and grieve on his own. Ani and Garrett end up spending time together in his home and then around town. Sparks ignite.
Have you met a famous person? Could you imagine them moving in next door and you becoming friends and maybe more? Ani is careful here to not be a stalker but she’s drawn in by Garrett’s loneliness and charisma.
What I found the most interesting were personal characteristics such as a need to make sure doors and windows are all locked before going to bed. A friend trying to help but not knowing how.
Friends to lovers. Slow burn to steamy. Overall a fun romance.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook version narrated by Andi Arndt. It was a great performance with distinct voices and clear emotions. I listened to this at 1.5 for the best conversational speed.
Contemporary romance.
Ani has a new famous neighbor in her small town. Garrett moves to the small Northern California town of Wildwood, hoping to hide and grieve on his own. Ani and Garrett end up spending time together in his home and then around town. Sparks ignite.
Have you met a famous person? Could you imagine them moving in next door and you becoming friends and maybe more? Ani is careful here to not be a stalker but she’s drawn in by Garrett’s loneliness and charisma.
What I found the most interesting were personal characteristics such as a need to make sure doors and windows are all locked before going to bed. A friend trying to help but not knowing how.
Friends to lovers. Slow burn to steamy. Overall a fun romance.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook version narrated by Andi Arndt. It was a great performance with distinct voices and clear emotions. I listened to this at 1.5 for the best conversational speed.
April 6, 2022
Ani + Garrett
Ani is 30 years old and for reasons we don't yet know, she left Los Angeles four years ago and came back to her small home town in Northern California. She's working at the general store and has a great group of friends and pretty good, quiet life.
Until HE moves in next door. Her long-time super star crush: Rock Star Garrett. She knows all about his sad life - his wife died two years ago and his band basically died too. And now he's here to find some peace and quiet in this cute small town. With all its gossipy residents. LOL!
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN ...
══════════════════
ADORABLE!
You had me and you will always have me at ROCK STAR!
I just love these kinds of books.
And small towns! Ugh. I love those too!
Ani is so adorable and a bit broken too - we don't know what happened to her, but something did! But she didn't stop living, she loves her town, her friends, cheese, trivia night.
And Garrett. He's still so broken and sad and also a tiny little bit super interested in his new neighbor.
Adorable!
I just love those two together. How they agreed that they're both not ready - and never will be ready - to date again. So they just hang out together on non-dates. Those poor darlings. We all know how this will end - and we love every page on the way to that happy end!
I loved the whole setting and the cast!
The town of Wildwood is just what you want a small town to be. Amazing residents and friends and all of them interested in Ani and her new Beau. LOL!
And the rock star excitement and changes Garrett brings to town.
Of course it's not easy for both our darlings with their past to trust in this new happy life - but we'll get there!
I just loved this book!
I want more of everything!
(I also wouldn't have minded an epilogue!)
FAMOUS IN A SMALL TOWN was such an adorable small-towny rock star love story. Amazing cast, beautiful coverS - just perfect! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Garrett - this one is MINE!
💜
💜
Read
April 5, 2022I loved Kylie Scott's new one!
First of all, nobody does rock stars like Kylie. But this is also a small town book, which is not always what she writes. And, wow, I loved this small town. It was quirky and imperfect like a small town really is. Everyone is up in our heroine’s business, all the time. It’s hilarious. :)
I would characterize this book as a light read. Both Garrett and Ani have some deep scars, but somehow the book avoids turning into an angst fest, and their banter shines through.
If you need a pick-me-up, dive right in.
First of all, nobody does rock stars like Kylie. But this is also a small town book, which is not always what she writes. And, wow, I loved this small town. It was quirky and imperfect like a small town really is. Everyone is up in our heroine’s business, all the time. It’s hilarious. :)
I would characterize this book as a light read. Both Garrett and Ani have some deep scars, but somehow the book avoids turning into an angst fest, and their banter shines through.
If you need a pick-me-up, dive right in.
June 13, 2022
3.5 stars
That was cute. I love the small town and the characters. I do wish it was a little longer, the ending felt rushed to me, but overall I liked it!
That was cute. I love the small town and the characters. I do wish it was a little longer, the ending felt rushed to me, but overall I liked it!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Andi Arndt
Narration Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Contemporary (Rockstar) Romance
Length: 6 hours
April 25, 2022
Great, but a wee bit quick...
I really enjoyed Kylie Scott's, Famous in a Small Town. The characters were lovable, the storyline entertaining and the love story sweet. Honestly, the only thing I could fault was how quickly this couple went from not-dating dates to serious commitment. I get instant attraction and connection but making a lifelong commitment based on those things is not something I believe in.
I love this author and her style of writing and I would love to revisit these characters she created. Ms Scott, may I have some more, please.
I really enjoyed Kylie Scott's, Famous in a Small Town. The characters were lovable, the storyline entertaining and the love story sweet. Honestly, the only thing I could fault was how quickly this couple went from not-dating dates to serious commitment. I get instant attraction and connection but making a lifelong commitment based on those things is not something I believe in.
I love this author and her style of writing and I would love to revisit these characters she created. Ms Scott, may I have some more, please.
April 14, 2022
3.5 stars ⭐️
The middle to end felt super rushed. I adored the town and the dog though.
The middle to end felt super rushed. I adored the town and the dog though.
November 14, 2022
I think Kylie Scott will never write as good books as Stage Dive series... I am sorry to have come to this conclusion after my recent experiences.
So sorry.. so sorry about that...
*********************************************
This book has a trigger for some readers - a dead ex. One who was loved very much and whose death ruined the hero.
So, if you don't like this trope, you mustn't touch this book because for two years Garrett has been mourning for his dead wife and isolating himself from the whole world. He kinda stopped living and barely survived the days.
His love for his wife was strong and now his grief is deep and huge. Therefore, if you don't like the dead ex trope, the situation here will definitely annoy you.
I myself sometimes don't mind the dead ex trope but here, even I have found myself feeling uncomfortable about it.
*********************************************
The love story between Garrett and Ani is unbelievable. Everything gets serious in the blink of an eye. By everything, I mean EVERYTHING.
Everything I list below happens in a month.
A MONTH!
Yeah, seriously.
👇👇👇👇👇
- They meet and become friends
- They start dating
- She moves in with him (which unbelievably happens after their first date)
- She gets pregnant (because they were dumb enough to ignore the necessity of protection)
- He proposes to her
All in ONE MONTH!
So, to summarize, the guy who had such a deep grief for his dead wife finds another love of his life, dates her, decides to live with her / marry her / make family with her... blah bla all in a time period of a month.
Really?
Does the writer want us to believe that?
What was her rush?
Why couldn't she make it at least 3 or 4 months before they moved in together and at least a year before she got pregnant? What was all this rush?
I don't mind insta-love, actually I quite like it in some cases if it is written well, BUT "insta-moving together" & "insta-getting pregnant and making a family together" NEVER EVER SIT WELL WITH ME. That's why, this book wasn't my jam.
And just like rushing the couple to their happy end, Ms Scott rushes the book to its end, too, as it is only 177 pages.
*********************************************
There is a lot of information about Grace (the dead wife) in the book, which is told by Garrett himself and later by his friends. All of them involve praise and such. However, our heroine Ani, despite being sweet and likable, doesn't seem to hold a candle to her. She has PTSD and OCD because of a trauma she had years ago. And she came back to her hometown to hide and live a life of isolation herself. When Garrett came to her town, that was the only thing that was common between them as he also came there to hide. That's why, I never understood why and how Garrett got out of his grief-stricken life and wanted a life with her asap. He was living a locked-down life, for God's sake.
Well, Ani helped him when he didn't want to be recognized. She kept his secret, etc. But is that enough to suddenly fall in love with her? The writer doesn't let our heroine Ani shine. On the contrary, the dead wife shines more.
*********************************************
I am used to some hilarious banter in Kylie Scott's books but there is none here. No fun at all.
*********************************************
There are some good sex scenes that are hot. However, they didn't mean much to me because I never felt their passion or love.
*********************************************
The book is safe as far as cheating is concerned.
*********************************************
I couldn’t sleep because my brain was busy and my normal routine disrupted. But tonight there was the added bonus of another worry. That of Garrett’s dead wife.
The fact that Grace had never actually been here in this house helped me relax a little. Her ideas and style were here. But she’d run out of time and never gotten to step foot inside the place. Maybe it made me cruel, being grateful for that fact. Though I think setting some boundaries with the dead wouldn’t hurt. I was sleeping with her husband and walking through her house. However, her ownership of these things was in the past.
While it wasn’t her choice to leave, she was gone. She would always have a part of Garrett’s heart. It was a fact. And if I couldn’t make peace with it, then I might as well leave.
But there was room for me here. There had to be. I refused to be somebody’s consolation prize. And being an insecure mess all of my days over my place in his heart wouldn’t work. But the love we’d made in his bed upstairs was important and right and . . . I don’t know.
***
“I went and told her about you, you know.”
“You mean Grace?”
“Yes.” He tucked a strand of hair behind my ear and smiled. “I visited her grave and told her that I’d found someone and was happy again. That I was as gone on you as I could be. And I said goodbye. It felt more real this time somehow than it did at her funeral. More final somehow.”
“Okay.”
***
“Holy shit. I mean . . . fuck. You can’t just do that.”
“But I already did. Guess it’s your turn to freak out. It kind of makes a nice change, really.” He rose to his feet. “Deep breaths. That’s it. You’re okay.”
“You think this is funny. But you can’t just ask someone to move in when you’ve been with them for all of two days, Garrett.”
***
Lucas’s angry gaze lingered on my face before he turned away. “Shit. How can you replace Grace so easily?”
“Are you kidding me?”
“It’s only been a couple of years. Grace was . . . fuck. She was special, man.”
“Yeah. She was. And now she’s gone.” Garrett sighed. “But I’m still here, and I hope I have a lot of years of living ahead of me. I dragged my ass through every fucking day after she died. And you know it.”
So sorry.. so sorry about that...
*********************************************
This book has a trigger for some readers - a dead ex. One who was loved very much and whose death ruined the hero.
So, if you don't like this trope, you mustn't touch this book because for two years Garrett has been mourning for his dead wife and isolating himself from the whole world. He kinda stopped living and barely survived the days.
His love for his wife was strong and now his grief is deep and huge. Therefore, if you don't like the dead ex trope, the situation here will definitely annoy you.
I myself sometimes don't mind the dead ex trope but here, even I have found myself feeling uncomfortable about it.
*********************************************
The love story between Garrett and Ani is unbelievable. Everything gets serious in the blink of an eye. By everything, I mean EVERYTHING.
Everything I list below happens in a month.
A MONTH!
Yeah, seriously.
👇👇👇👇👇
- They meet and become friends
- They start dating
- She moves in with him (which unbelievably happens after their first date)
- She gets pregnant (because they were dumb enough to ignore the necessity of protection)
- He proposes to her
All in ONE MONTH!
So, to summarize, the guy who had such a deep grief for his dead wife finds another love of his life, dates her, decides to live with her / marry her / make family with her... blah bla all in a time period of a month.
Really?
Does the writer want us to believe that?
What was her rush?
Why couldn't she make it at least 3 or 4 months before they moved in together and at least a year before she got pregnant? What was all this rush?
I don't mind insta-love, actually I quite like it in some cases if it is written well, BUT "insta-moving together" & "insta-getting pregnant and making a family together" NEVER EVER SIT WELL WITH ME. That's why, this book wasn't my jam.
And just like rushing the couple to their happy end, Ms Scott rushes the book to its end, too, as it is only 177 pages.
*********************************************
There is a lot of information about Grace (the dead wife) in the book, which is told by Garrett himself and later by his friends. All of them involve praise and such. However, our heroine Ani, despite being sweet and likable, doesn't seem to hold a candle to her. She has PTSD and OCD because of a trauma she had years ago. And she came back to her hometown to hide and live a life of isolation herself. When Garrett came to her town, that was the only thing that was common between them as he also came there to hide. That's why, I never understood why and how Garrett got out of his grief-stricken life and wanted a life with her asap. He was living a locked-down life, for God's sake.
Well, Ani helped him when he didn't want to be recognized. She kept his secret, etc. But is that enough to suddenly fall in love with her? The writer doesn't let our heroine Ani shine. On the contrary, the dead wife shines more.
*********************************************
I am used to some hilarious banter in Kylie Scott's books but there is none here. No fun at all.
*********************************************
There are some good sex scenes that are hot. However, they didn't mean much to me because I never felt their passion or love.
*********************************************
The book is safe as far as cheating is concerned.
*********************************************
I couldn’t sleep because my brain was busy and my normal routine disrupted. But tonight there was the added bonus of another worry. That of Garrett’s dead wife.
The fact that Grace had never actually been here in this house helped me relax a little. Her ideas and style were here. But she’d run out of time and never gotten to step foot inside the place. Maybe it made me cruel, being grateful for that fact. Though I think setting some boundaries with the dead wouldn’t hurt. I was sleeping with her husband and walking through her house. However, her ownership of these things was in the past.
While it wasn’t her choice to leave, she was gone. She would always have a part of Garrett’s heart. It was a fact. And if I couldn’t make peace with it, then I might as well leave.
But there was room for me here. There had to be. I refused to be somebody’s consolation prize. And being an insecure mess all of my days over my place in his heart wouldn’t work. But the love we’d made in his bed upstairs was important and right and . . . I don’t know.
***
“I went and told her about you, you know.”
“You mean Grace?”
“Yes.” He tucked a strand of hair behind my ear and smiled. “I visited her grave and told her that I’d found someone and was happy again. That I was as gone on you as I could be. And I said goodbye. It felt more real this time somehow than it did at her funeral. More final somehow.”
“Okay.”
***
“Holy shit. I mean . . . fuck. You can’t just do that.”
“But I already did. Guess it’s your turn to freak out. It kind of makes a nice change, really.” He rose to his feet. “Deep breaths. That’s it. You’re okay.”
“You think this is funny. But you can’t just ask someone to move in when you’ve been with them for all of two days, Garrett.”
***
Lucas’s angry gaze lingered on my face before he turned away. “Shit. How can you replace Grace so easily?”
“Are you kidding me?”
“It’s only been a couple of years. Grace was . . . fuck. She was special, man.”
“Yeah. She was. And now she’s gone.” Garrett sighed. “But I’m still here, and I hope I have a lot of years of living ahead of me. I dragged my ass through every fucking day after she died. And you know it.”
December 31, 2022
★4.5★
Famous in a Small Town by Kylie Scott is a perfect blend of rockstar and second-chance romance. Full of passion, tenderness, and intrigue, I could not put this one down.
Garrett Hayes is a famous rock star looking for a quiet place to hide and play his music. He never expected to find interest in his quiet and slightly awkward neighbor Ani Bennet. Ani is an introvert looking for the courage to come out of her shell and start living life. Garrett is trying to recover from a major loss and doesn't have a clue about how is entire world is about to change. When these two meet, it's a wild ride of passion, tenderness, and intrigue as they both discover themselves in their newfound love for one another.
Overall, the romance between Ani and Garrett is palpable and the level of emotion in every moment is felt all the way to the core. Kylie Scott is one of my go-to authors because I know her witty writing and complex plotlines will keep me engaged the entire ride. Famous in a Small Town will appeal to anyone who enjoys a tender second-chance romance with a rockstar set in a small town!
🎧This is an audible.com read 🎧
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
April 7, 2022
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Ani Bennett moved back home to Northern California about four years ago needing the familiar stability the town provided. She had a job she loved, and great friends and family. There was a real sense of community she couldn't seem to find anywhere else. She lived in a cabin on the edge of town, where not much ever happened that was exciting. Then a new mystery neighbor moves into the old Victorian house next door. It's sat empty for years, but the new owner looked strangely familiar. When she learns it's her celebrity crush, world famous musician Garrett Hayes, she tries to play it cool and remain calm. He's super talented and stunning to look at, but she didn't need or want a man in her life. Especially a grumpy, unattainable one. She proceeds to be a good neighbor, but soon a friendship forms and their connection turns complicated.
Garrett lost his wife two years ago and is still struggling to move on. His band topped the charts for the last decade, but he was done with music and Los Angeles. His band had broken up, and his personal life was demolished. He'd disappeared from public life, and needed to remain anonymous. Looking for some privacy and a fresh start he heads to Wildwood, California. It's in the middle of nowhere, and the perfect place to hide from the outside world. He's looking forward to some peace and quiet, and wants to be left alone. Then he meets Ani who shows him the unexpected kindness he so greatly needs. Could a small town girl be the person to help him let go of the past and have a second chance at love?
-My new neighbor was a goddamn rock star.
-Along with being a talented musician, he was a visual delight.
-The man was beautiful.
-He was a walking, talking teenage dream.
Famous in a Small Town by Kylie Scott is a slow burn, small town, neighbors, friends to lovers romance about second chances and beautiful connections. About getting out of your comfort zone and facing your fears. It has humor, emotion, and fabulous banter. I really loved this story, and would like more from this world. Dying for a story for Smith, and the other bandmates! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3xchrEP
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Ani Bennett moved back home to Northern California about four years ago needing the familiar stability the town provided. She had a job she loved, and great friends and family. There was a real sense of community she couldn't seem to find anywhere else. She lived in a cabin on the edge of town, where not much ever happened that was exciting. Then a new mystery neighbor moves into the old Victorian house next door. It's sat empty for years, but the new owner looked strangely familiar. When she learns it's her celebrity crush, world famous musician Garrett Hayes, she tries to play it cool and remain calm. He's super talented and stunning to look at, but she didn't need or want a man in her life. Especially a grumpy, unattainable one. She proceeds to be a good neighbor, but soon a friendship forms and their connection turns complicated.
Garrett lost his wife two years ago and is still struggling to move on. His band topped the charts for the last decade, but he was done with music and Los Angeles. His band had broken up, and his personal life was demolished. He'd disappeared from public life, and needed to remain anonymous. Looking for some privacy and a fresh start he heads to Wildwood, California. It's in the middle of nowhere, and the perfect place to hide from the outside world. He's looking forward to some peace and quiet, and wants to be left alone. Then he meets Ani who shows him the unexpected kindness he so greatly needs. Could a small town girl be the person to help him let go of the past and have a second chance at love?
-My new neighbor was a goddamn rock star.
-Along with being a talented musician, he was a visual delight.
-The man was beautiful.
-He was a walking, talking teenage dream.
Famous in a Small Town by Kylie Scott is a slow burn, small town, neighbors, friends to lovers romance about second chances and beautiful connections. About getting out of your comfort zone and facing your fears. It has humor, emotion, and fabulous banter. I really loved this story, and would like more from this world. Dying for a story for Smith, and the other bandmates! <333
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https://amzn.to/3xchrEP
April 15, 2022
3.5 stars
Headlines:
Quick, easy read
Cute with depth
Why so fast?
I want to start by saying I really enjoyed this book despite what the rating might indicate. It came at a time I needed a really easy read and I can rely on Kylie Scott for providing that. This book had a lot of depth, dealing with one character navigating grief after the death of their partner and another with some PTSD.
The small town feels were excellent in this story. A set of warm and eclectic side characters were created to really give a back water feel but also a cosy and desirable vibe to this town. Garrett was an appealing character that we got some depth on but not quite enough. I did like how his grief was represented for most of the book. Ani was also incredibly likeable and I really enjoyed seeing the power dynamic between these two and Ani fully in control despite the fame.
Everything was wholly enjoyable in this book until about 75% in when things went all insta. This book could have been right up my street rating wise if time had been taken to stretch this into a longer and more credible move towards a relatable connection over time. It really shaved some enjoyment off where I was heading in my love for this book. However, I cannot dispute the cuteness of the couple and how it ended.
Would I recommend? Yes, you could read this in a day or afternoon even and enjoy but it won't be overly memorable for me because of the latter part of the story.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
Headlines:
Quick, easy read
Cute with depth
Why so fast?
I want to start by saying I really enjoyed this book despite what the rating might indicate. It came at a time I needed a really easy read and I can rely on Kylie Scott for providing that. This book had a lot of depth, dealing with one character navigating grief after the death of their partner and another with some PTSD.
The small town feels were excellent in this story. A set of warm and eclectic side characters were created to really give a back water feel but also a cosy and desirable vibe to this town. Garrett was an appealing character that we got some depth on but not quite enough. I did like how his grief was represented for most of the book. Ani was also incredibly likeable and I really enjoyed seeing the power dynamic between these two and Ani fully in control despite the fame.
Everything was wholly enjoyable in this book until about 75% in when things went all insta. This book could have been right up my street rating wise if time had been taken to stretch this into a longer and more credible move towards a relatable connection over time. It really shaved some enjoyment off where I was heading in my love for this book. However, I cannot dispute the cuteness of the couple and how it ended.
Would I recommend? Yes, you could read this in a day or afternoon even and enjoy but it won't be overly memorable for me because of the latter part of the story.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
April 13, 2022
I'm complete trash for all celebrity romance even more so if it's set in a small town and the celebrity MMC falls for the girl next door.
To be completely honest, this new release by Kylie Scott caught my eye but I was still wary of my experience reading her previous celebrity themed story "Fake" which didn't work for me for various reasons, the main being a lack of chemistry and build up on page between the main characters. But enough about " Fake ", "Famous in a Small Town" was a good read for me.
This has an altogether different premise, the mmc—a rockstar/widower, tortured and set to live the recluse life in a small town— moves in next door to the mfc—typical small town girl, upbeat/people person, only she has some neurotic habits too. Turns out the rockstar next door is also her long time crush so that's a level of awkward added to their exchange.
I liked Ani and Garrett a LOT. I really enjoyed the author's focus on their character development, not dishing out their whole background in one go but using it to build some kind of slow burn/friendship/trust between them but also wished she had explored some facets of their trauma more fully. Ani issues pretty much get cured at the same time Garrett comes to terms with the loss of his wife and I'm not sure how I feel about the implication of love cures all. I like my fluff but I'm still skeptical and cynical at heart.
The supporting cast was a nice touch as well as the setting in a small town.
I only regret the lack of true conflict throughout the story. Sure, there's some mild entertaining bickering between the brooding rockstar and the prickly insomniac next door but that's about it and I guess I'm a stickler for a break act in romance because I needed something with more punch than what was on offer here.
Garrett was still coming to terms with the passing of his wife two years ago and Ani was dealing with issues from a past traumatic event so there was some heavy subjects needed to be dealed with yet somehow the tone of the story remained light. It's not a bad thing, It's actually a good thing but it felt inadequate with how the author decided to wrap the story.
I LOVED the slow reckoning between them but wished the author had not make a u-turn so late in the story with the insta I-love-yous for the sake of wrapping the story.
So to conclude, I liked this one a lot but I'm disappointed by the rushed ending and absence of angst. The steam level is there, these two definitely share some chemistry and the whole premise and setting are cute enough to make of "Famous in a Small Town" an entertaining book to curl up to.
3.5 stars
To be completely honest, this new release by Kylie Scott caught my eye but I was still wary of my experience reading her previous celebrity themed story "Fake" which didn't work for me for various reasons, the main being a lack of chemistry and build up on page between the main characters. But enough about " Fake ", "Famous in a Small Town" was a good read for me.
This has an altogether different premise, the mmc—a rockstar/widower, tortured and set to live the recluse life in a small town— moves in next door to the mfc—typical small town girl, upbeat/people person, only she has some neurotic habits too. Turns out the rockstar next door is also her long time crush so that's a level of awkward added to their exchange.
I liked Ani and Garrett a LOT. I really enjoyed the author's focus on their character development, not dishing out their whole background in one go but using it to build some kind of slow burn/friendship/trust between them but also wished she had explored some facets of their trauma more fully. Ani issues pretty much get cured at the same time Garrett comes to terms with the loss of his wife and I'm not sure how I feel about the implication of love cures all. I like my fluff but I'm still skeptical and cynical at heart.
The supporting cast was a nice touch as well as the setting in a small town.
I only regret the lack of true conflict throughout the story. Sure, there's some mild entertaining bickering between the brooding rockstar and the prickly insomniac next door but that's about it and I guess I'm a stickler for a break act in romance because I needed something with more punch than what was on offer here.
Garrett was still coming to terms with the passing of his wife two years ago and Ani was dealing with issues from a past traumatic event so there was some heavy subjects needed to be dealed with yet somehow the tone of the story remained light. It's not a bad thing, It's actually a good thing but it felt inadequate with how the author decided to wrap the story.
I LOVED the slow reckoning between them but wished the author had not make a u-turn so late in the story with the insta I-love-yous for the sake of wrapping the story.
So to conclude, I liked this one a lot but I'm disappointed by the rushed ending and absence of angst. The steam level is there, these two definitely share some chemistry and the whole premise and setting are cute enough to make of "Famous in a Small Town" an entertaining book to curl up to.
3.5 stars
April 9, 2022
It was just okay. Unfortunately. The idea itself I think has been rehashed so many times by this authy that it bounds to hit a dud sometime soon. Which in this case, this book for me.
A new guy moved into a small town. He's a big rockstar from LA. Girl is a big fan of him but also respects his privacy. Guy likes that. Girl likes him too. They fell in love. And then small conflict about his celebrity life.
It's still a nice book tho with nice set of characters. I can see a whole lot of spin off coming from here.
A new guy moved into a small town. He's a big rockstar from LA. Girl is a big fan of him but also respects his privacy. Guy likes that. Girl likes him too. They fell in love. And then small conflict about his celebrity life.
It's still a nice book tho with nice set of characters. I can see a whole lot of spin off coming from here.
April 4, 2022
It’s not that I didn’t enjoy this, it’s just that it was WAY too short to do the topic justice. The overall tone is super light and low angst, with a quick, easy vibe that almost felt wholesome. That's in complete contrast to the topics at hand - famous rock star who is grieving the loss of his wife, feels wrong for even considering moving on, and a small town girl dealing with demons of her own. Their relationship stumbles along before shifting into turbo speed, and I couldn't help wanting things to simmer longer. It also didn't feel overly romantic; even the steamy scenes were more about the physicality than anything. Despite its issues, I really did like the premise, the hero, and the connection between these two. There's a ton of potential in the story, and some great moments along the way.
The story follows Ani, a woman whose new neighbor is the rock star she's swooned over for years. Ani knows all about Garrett's history, including the loss of his wife two years ago. He's been living under the radar ever since, and it's clear that he's continuing to seek out privacy by moving to a small town. Garrett is wary of strangers, but it doesn't take long for him to realize that Ani has good intentions. Though his friends are pushing Garrett to start dating again, he knows he's not ready. Instead, he appeases them by going on non-dates with Ani, who has made it clear that she's attracted to him but not interested in dating. As the two develop a friendship, their connection soon feels like more.
At around 200 pages, this absolutely flies by. We only get Ani's perspective, and she's known everything there is to know about Garrett for years, so it didn't feel like the connection was starting from scratch - at least on her end. I was surprised by how light and easy the overall vibe is; for a book that tackles some heavy topics, it wasn't angsty. We know Ani has also suffered some trauma, so they're both afraid to move forward. I guess that's why I was so surprised by the second half, let's just say that. I won't offer up spoilers, but... yeah, that's where my rating dropped. I liked the small town feel, how Garrett is a relationship guy, and I would've liked the romantic relationship to be explored further. That's where Garrett's perspective would've been helpful. For me, this felt like the skeleton of a great book - it's a little unsatisfying without some of those missing pieces. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this easygoing romance.
The story follows Ani, a woman whose new neighbor is the rock star she's swooned over for years. Ani knows all about Garrett's history, including the loss of his wife two years ago. He's been living under the radar ever since, and it's clear that he's continuing to seek out privacy by moving to a small town. Garrett is wary of strangers, but it doesn't take long for him to realize that Ani has good intentions. Though his friends are pushing Garrett to start dating again, he knows he's not ready. Instead, he appeases them by going on non-dates with Ani, who has made it clear that she's attracted to him but not interested in dating. As the two develop a friendship, their connection soon feels like more.
At around 200 pages, this absolutely flies by. We only get Ani's perspective, and she's known everything there is to know about Garrett for years, so it didn't feel like the connection was starting from scratch - at least on her end. I was surprised by how light and easy the overall vibe is; for a book that tackles some heavy topics, it wasn't angsty. We know Ani has also suffered some trauma, so they're both afraid to move forward. I guess that's why I was so surprised by the second half, let's just say that. I won't offer up spoilers, but... yeah, that's where my rating dropped. I liked the small town feel, how Garrett is a relationship guy, and I would've liked the romantic relationship to be explored further. That's where Garrett's perspective would've been helpful. For me, this felt like the skeleton of a great book - it's a little unsatisfying without some of those missing pieces. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this easygoing romance.
March 21, 2023
I forgot to mention Garrett's matchmaking great dane, Gene. Actually Gene had belonged to his first wife, so I guess I can't hate her for being first... Cause Gene is awesome!
.........................................................
I enjoyed this one but it wasn't awesome. A nicely crafted story about a moody rock star falling in love with the girl-next-door (literally).
It's a tough story in that Garret is a grieving widower who very much loved his wife and she was much loved by EVERYONE. She was in fact, perfect. And she was also pretty different from Ani.
So it made it hard to feel the romance at first.
He's been running from his grief for a couple years and finally settles in a small town in northern California where his wife had bought a house on spec. A house next to Ani's much smaller place.
Ani used to live in LA too, but something that sent her packing home to Wildwood.
It was cute, and I did think that they were in love by the end, but the last third felt kinda rushed, from newly dating to engagement etc.
I loved the characters and hope KS does more stories about the other band members... although I don't know if I want to read Smith the manho's story ; )
safety is good.
.........................................................
I enjoyed this one but it wasn't awesome. A nicely crafted story about a moody rock star falling in love with the girl-next-door (literally).
It's a tough story in that Garret is a grieving widower who very much loved his wife and she was much loved by EVERYONE. She was in fact, perfect. And she was also pretty different from Ani.
So it made it hard to feel the romance at first.
He's been running from his grief for a couple years and finally settles in a small town in northern California where his wife had bought a house on spec. A house next to Ani's much smaller place.
Ani used to live in LA too, but something that sent her packing home to Wildwood.
It was cute, and I did think that they were in love by the end, but the last third felt kinda rushed, from newly dating to engagement etc.
I loved the characters and hope KS does more stories about the other band members... although I don't know if I want to read Smith the manho's story ; )
safety is good.
December 8, 2022
3,5* ~ Das hat Spaß gemacht. Vor allen Dingen nachdem ich letzten Monat doch recht viel düsteren Stoff gelesen habe. Von Kylie Scott kenne ich einige Bücher, allen voran natürlich die Stage-Dive Reihe, die ich sehr mochte. Ihre letzten Bücher waren allerdings nicht mein Fall. Rockstar-Romance liegt ihr wesentlich besser, auch wenn die Art, wie sie mittlerweile Sex-Szenen schreibt, nicht immer meinen Geschmack trifft. Aber insgesamt hat mir Garret's und Ani's Geschichte ein paar schöne und unterhaltsame Stunden beschert, vor allen Dingen die schlagfertigen und ehrlichen Gespräche zwischen den Beiden waren ein Highlight. Das Hörbuch dazu kann ich auch empfehlen.
December 11, 2024
4 ⭐'s
I really liked the reluctant rock star and small town girl romance although his grief was a little off putting. I think it would have been so much better with his POV.
Loved the Stage Dive reference though!
I really liked the reluctant rock star and small town girl romance although his grief was a little off putting. I think it would have been so much better with his POV.
Loved the Stage Dive reference though!
March 30, 2022
It's guaranteed that a Kylie Scott romance hero will make you drool and this book is no exception.
Garrett is a grieving rockstar who moves to a small town to escape his demons.
His neighbour, Ani, is a recluse for her own reasons.
I loved the push-pull dynamic between these two anti-romantics.
And when they get together...steamy!
A quick, enjoyable read.
And please, Smith's story next. Loved him too!
Garrett is a grieving rockstar who moves to a small town to escape his demons.
His neighbour, Ani, is a recluse for her own reasons.
I loved the push-pull dynamic between these two anti-romantics.
And when they get together...steamy!
A quick, enjoyable read.
And please, Smith's story next. Loved him too!
April 14, 2022
So, the cover of this book is so freaking dumb, but the book itself is one of my favorite Scott romances. I think I’ve read almost all her books at this point—minus Flesh (just not interested)—and they have one of the most stable relationships. 😅 I do think that after all their character development and tension building, the second act was VERY rushed, but I liked Ani and ‘Gary’ a lot 😆♥️.
If you enjoy a steamy romance and a fun story, I love this one and most of Scott’s other books (some of which have equally stupid covers 🙄).
If you enjoy a steamy romance and a fun story, I love this one and most of Scott’s other books (some of which have equally stupid covers 🙄).
March 28, 2022
Rating: 4.5 stars
Garrett, the widow famous rock star hero headlining here, ended up being one awesome, protective, good guy beneath his initial upfront grumpy persona... but I got to say.. Ani, the small town, trying to heal herself too, sassy yet oh, so sweet, understanding, and caring heroine rocked this romantic tale even more so, IMHO. I absolutely loved how she conspired in a good way to be a light in the darkness for him, all while she struggled secretly in silence herself.
What is there really left to say, my fellow romance book loving friends? Other than these too destined to now be together soulmates healed each other and got their HEA. You may find yourself having to overlook the practically too perfect characterization of Garrett's deceased wife, which many still willingly want to worship at the altar of her memory. For me, I knew I just had to roll with it, for it was what it was. Garrett truly let got of her ghost eventually, so that was good enough for me.
A good supporting cast of mingling, at times meddling with good intentions sub-characters contributed a lot to the natural flow of the story line, along with the seamless writing. I did stay fully engaged and invested in this couple's romance clear up and including the sweet, but not overly surprising or dramatic conclusion.
Additional bonus here is an encore inclusion of Chapter 1 of Fake (West Hollywood Series), a previous release by this author. It features a handsome Hollywood hero in hot water and another small town leading lady that comes to his rescue. It was another entertaining read for me, folks, which I encourage you to check out, as well.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Famous in a Small Town, Author: Kylie Scott, Pages: 219, stand-alone, widow famous rock star hero, sassy yet sweet caring small town heroine, 4 or so very detailed graphic smex scenes, get to know each other first, seamless writing, not a manho, good cast of sub-characters, not overly surprisingly wrap up, romance safe for me.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not rewarded or compensated for this review. There is no relationship between this reviewer and the author, publisher, or any PR firm.)
Garrett, the widow famous rock star hero headlining here, ended up being one awesome, protective, good guy beneath his initial upfront grumpy persona... but I got to say.. Ani, the small town, trying to heal herself too, sassy yet oh, so sweet, understanding, and caring heroine rocked this romantic tale even more so, IMHO. I absolutely loved how she conspired in a good way to be a light in the darkness for him, all while she struggled secretly in silence herself.
What is there really left to say, my fellow romance book loving friends? Other than these too destined to now be together soulmates healed each other and got their HEA. You may find yourself having to overlook the practically too perfect characterization of Garrett's deceased wife, which many still willingly want to worship at the altar of her memory. For me, I knew I just had to roll with it, for it was what it was. Garrett truly let got of her ghost eventually, so that was good enough for me.
A good supporting cast of mingling, at times meddling with good intentions sub-characters contributed a lot to the natural flow of the story line, along with the seamless writing. I did stay fully engaged and invested in this couple's romance clear up and including the sweet, but not overly surprising or dramatic conclusion.
Additional bonus here is an encore inclusion of Chapter 1 of Fake (West Hollywood Series), a previous release by this author. It features a handsome Hollywood hero in hot water and another small town leading lady that comes to his rescue. It was another entertaining read for me, folks, which I encourage you to check out, as well.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Famous in a Small Town, Author: Kylie Scott, Pages: 219, stand-alone, widow famous rock star hero, sassy yet sweet caring small town heroine, 4 or so very detailed graphic smex scenes, get to know each other first, seamless writing, not a manho, good cast of sub-characters, not overly surprisingly wrap up, romance safe for me.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not rewarded or compensated for this review. There is no relationship between this reviewer and the author, publisher, or any PR firm.)
April 10, 2022
First of all this is my least fav troupe, Hero or heroine having a lover/spouse who they loved very much who has died.
For romance I struggle with it, mostly as getting the balance between moving on and not making the Hero or heroine seem like second best can be difficult.
I was hoping that as the Hero and his wife had been a famous couple it would be revealed their relationship wasn't as perfect as it had seemed but no, it seems everyone loved her.
It's been 2 years and the Hero is grumpy, brooding.
The heroine also has had some bad experiences with relationships and has some hang ups.
There is ex drama for the heroine, just small and the memory of the dead wife for the Hero and a misconstrued photo at one point.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Convo 'im clean' and it's the safe time of the month for me.
I loved the small town, the secondary characters, neighbors, community.
Other band members are introduced with various back stories so plenty of material for future books.
Hero is not a man-whore.
It does feel a bit quick once he makes up his mind.
He's a bit push/pull at first, that is the drama in the book not really the fame issue.
Spoiler
*
*
*
*
*
Very irresponsible attitude to contraception, heroine is then pregnant.
HEA implied
I imagine if the author writes the other band members we will see their HEA in those books.
For romance I struggle with it, mostly as getting the balance between moving on and not making the Hero or heroine seem like second best can be difficult.
I was hoping that as the Hero and his wife had been a famous couple it would be revealed their relationship wasn't as perfect as it had seemed but no, it seems everyone loved her.
It's been 2 years and the Hero is grumpy, brooding.
The heroine also has had some bad experiences with relationships and has some hang ups.
There is ex drama for the heroine, just small and the memory of the dead wife for the Hero and a misconstrued photo at one point.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Convo 'im clean' and it's the safe time of the month for me.
I loved the small town, the secondary characters, neighbors, community.
Other band members are introduced with various back stories so plenty of material for future books.
Hero is not a man-whore.
It does feel a bit quick once he makes up his mind.
He's a bit push/pull at first, that is the drama in the book not really the fame issue.
Spoiler
*
*
*
*
*
Very irresponsible attitude to contraception, heroine is then pregnant.
HEA implied
I imagine if the author writes the other band members we will see their HEA in those books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2022
oh boy, this was a bust... :/
I loved Kylie Scott's Stage Dive series...
So I kind of hoped this would be similar to my liking...BUT just like her recent books, they lack something - connection, bond (both in the book between the characters and between me and the characters)...*sigh*
I got none...
It was also so very INSTA...again *roll eyes*
and therefore, no time, or space for the characters' development...they just met and voila...the huge steps are taken, dating, moving in together...blah, blah...in just a snap of a finger (or in a book, in a matter of hours)
damn...what is that, really?! How does that work?! LOL
so, I don't know what to tell you? Did I enjoy it? Not really...
It was a fast read, obviously...in every aspect...and I was just left like...meh
too bad...I expected more...for sure
I loved Kylie Scott's Stage Dive series...
So I kind of hoped this would be similar to my liking...BUT just like her recent books, they lack something - connection, bond (both in the book between the characters and between me and the characters)...*sigh*
I got none...
It was also so very INSTA...again *roll eyes*
and therefore, no time, or space for the characters' development...they just met and voila...the huge steps are taken, dating, moving in together...blah, blah...in just a snap of a finger (or in a book, in a matter of hours)
damn...what is that, really?! How does that work?! LOL
so, I don't know what to tell you? Did I enjoy it? Not really...
It was a fast read, obviously...in every aspect...and I was just left like...meh
too bad...I expected more...for sure
May 20, 2022
Settle in folks, I need to rant and it ain't gonna be a short one.
Let me start out by saying that I loved Kylie Scott's Stage Dive series, not all of them were winners, but they had a certain je ne sais quoi. They had real characters, character development, plot and chemistry and moved along at a pace that kept you hooked. The writing style, the world, the characters, it was all just lovely and pulled me in and it made me put Kylie Scott on my watch list. Since then, I have pretty much read everything she has published, and let me tell you has she been lowering the bar for her own work over the years.
This instance, unfortunately, is no different. So, let's go through step by step what Kylie Scott screwed up here (just my opinion):
- Unoriginality: Scott seems to be running out of ideas for her books. Instead of trying something new, she is reverting back to her classics: rock star romance. Once again there's a huge huge rock band, once again there are four members and once again we can assume that each one of the members will get his own book (I'm calling it now FYI, Smith will end up with Ani's cousin, that is so glaringly obvious).
Now, here's the thing. If rock star romances are your thing, good for you. But at least experiment with the characters a little, because the only thing Scott did this time around was to make the rock stars in their late 30s, not their late 20s. That's it. Apart from that she only shuffled around characters she has written before and gave them different roles in the band. Don't tell me that Smith, the lead guitarist isn't a slightly calmer version of Malcolm Ericson. Don't tell me that moody and broody Lucas doesn't kind of remind you of Ben Nicolson. Don't tell me that there isn't a whole lot of Jim Ferris in Garrett, only instead of giving him a tragic drug history, he gets a tragic dead wife history.
It's just all so obviously a copy of previously done characters and settings and that pisses me off. It's like Scott isn't even trying to give her readers anything new anymore, it's a recipe of more and the same which she can pump out fairly quickly.
Apart from unoriginality, Scott also seems to have lost her chemistry mojo. I've noticed this is quite a number of books over the years. Her characters have no chemistry. At all. Not with each other and not with the reader. You're not hooked on their story. You're not on the edge of your seat, needing to know how their story ends. You're just there. Kind of following along but not really involved.
Her characters have also become increasingly boring. There literally is no plot, no character development and certainly no relationship that progresses in a realistic or at least explicable manner. Garrett literally comes out of hiding after his wife's death, looks across the street and kind of goes "alright, that one". The only reason he seems to be doing anything at all is because Smith is annoying him. That's not character motivation and certainly not enough for an entire book.
Ani was no better. She herself describes herself as mediocre in pretty much everything and that is true. BUT that wouldn't be bad if she actually were a character instead of just some unfinished superficial construct. With Ani, you truly have no idea what Scott tried to achieve and it is glaringly obvious that she is not a fleshed out and thought out character. Why do I say this? Because there are so many hints and pieces of Ani's history that are thrown in there, but none of them are actually worked out. Nothing is resolved because she ends up sleeping with a rock star and apparently nothing else matters (no, this Metallica pun was not intended, but it's nice when things work out).
So we know Ani has insomnia. She has anxiety and some almost OCD behaviour which makes her check all possible entry points of her house over and over again. She has nightmares and physically cannot stand to sleep next to someone else because she will wake up terrified. Now, all of this has to have a reason, right? There has to be a cause. And it had to have happened in LA. Now, I appreciate that Garrett never pushed for information and let her tell him everything she was ready to share in her own time, but all of these issues are never resolved. As a reader, you are left wondering what the hell happened to give her these neuroses but you don't get an answer. The only thing you know is that she's made an appointment with a therapist. And again, why should you finish your character, why should you give some sort of closure or at least answer the riddle of her character, when you can just have her have sexy times with a rock star. I cannot repeat this enough: Nothing else matters. Only sex with a rock star. That's it.
While we're at it, I do have to say Scott gave me something new in this book: Stupidity like you wouldn't believe. You have two adults in their 30s, so you'd think that at least stupidity and naivete would be at a minimum. Nope. .
Another thing I have been miffed about in many of Scott's books is her forced wokeness. Now let me be frank. I want more representation of LGBT characters. I enjoy diversity. BUT don't put it in there to check off a box and appear woke. Don't put in a gay side character just because you want all the gay people reading this to see you're totally on board. Instead of throwing around all of these superficial characters in the background who add no value to the story and are irreplaceable and forgettable, how about you actually write a romance about two men. How about you make it a female rock star who falls in love with another woman? I would respect you a heck of a lot more for that. What Scott continuously does is give the heroine a black best friend. Or a gay best friend. Or maybe it's just some lesbians living next door. Or, like this time around, additionally, to the black best friend, you have a bodyguard who apparently identifies as non-binary and, therefore, is referred to as they and some famous football player just proposed to his boyfriend. My issue is that none of these characters are on the main stage, they're all in the background and are neither fleshed out characters nor in any way memorable that they make you feel good. They're just there and obviously used as woke-props. And that is insulting.
I also want to add that this time around was the first time that I noticed how badly Scott is at describing her characters. The only thing we learn of Garrett at his first appearance is that he is a white man with dark hair. Similarly, Cézanne is a black woman. That's it. That's literally all I remember about her and doesn't that tell you all you need to know about her characters. Literally, the only characters that matter in this book are Garrett, Ani and Smith - and I am sure Smith only matters because he will be the next one of The Dead Heart band members to get his romance.
Finally, I have to say that this story and the pacing was ridiculous.
So yeah, this book left me unimpressed and sadly followed the downwards trend I have witnessed in Kylie Scott's books over the years. I can only warn anyone who has read Stage Dive to stay away, because you will probably be very disappointed with the result and I am seriously debating deleting Scott off my watch list because I do not enjoy her work anymore and I am not sure that I will come across a book of hers again that I will like.
Let me start out by saying that I loved Kylie Scott's Stage Dive series, not all of them were winners, but they had a certain je ne sais quoi. They had real characters, character development, plot and chemistry and moved along at a pace that kept you hooked. The writing style, the world, the characters, it was all just lovely and pulled me in and it made me put Kylie Scott on my watch list. Since then, I have pretty much read everything she has published, and let me tell you has she been lowering the bar for her own work over the years.
This instance, unfortunately, is no different. So, let's go through step by step what Kylie Scott screwed up here (just my opinion):
- Unoriginality: Scott seems to be running out of ideas for her books. Instead of trying something new, she is reverting back to her classics: rock star romance. Once again there's a huge huge rock band, once again there are four members and once again we can assume that each one of the members will get his own book (I'm calling it now FYI, Smith will end up with Ani's cousin, that is so glaringly obvious).
Now, here's the thing. If rock star romances are your thing, good for you. But at least experiment with the characters a little, because the only thing Scott did this time around was to make the rock stars in their late 30s, not their late 20s. That's it. Apart from that she only shuffled around characters she has written before and gave them different roles in the band. Don't tell me that Smith, the lead guitarist isn't a slightly calmer version of Malcolm Ericson. Don't tell me that moody and broody Lucas doesn't kind of remind you of Ben Nicolson. Don't tell me that there isn't a whole lot of Jim Ferris in Garrett, only instead of giving him a tragic drug history, he gets a tragic dead wife history.
It's just all so obviously a copy of previously done characters and settings and that pisses me off. It's like Scott isn't even trying to give her readers anything new anymore, it's a recipe of more and the same which she can pump out fairly quickly.
Apart from unoriginality, Scott also seems to have lost her chemistry mojo. I've noticed this is quite a number of books over the years. Her characters have no chemistry. At all. Not with each other and not with the reader. You're not hooked on their story. You're not on the edge of your seat, needing to know how their story ends. You're just there. Kind of following along but not really involved.
Her characters have also become increasingly boring. There literally is no plot, no character development and certainly no relationship that progresses in a realistic or at least explicable manner. Garrett literally comes out of hiding after his wife's death, looks across the street and kind of goes "alright, that one". The only reason he seems to be doing anything at all is because Smith is annoying him. That's not character motivation and certainly not enough for an entire book.
Ani was no better. She herself describes herself as mediocre in pretty much everything and that is true. BUT that wouldn't be bad if she actually were a character instead of just some unfinished superficial construct. With Ani, you truly have no idea what Scott tried to achieve and it is glaringly obvious that she is not a fleshed out and thought out character. Why do I say this? Because there are so many hints and pieces of Ani's history that are thrown in there, but none of them are actually worked out. Nothing is resolved because she ends up sleeping with a rock star and apparently nothing else matters (no, this Metallica pun was not intended, but it's nice when things work out).
So we know Ani has insomnia. She has anxiety and some almost OCD behaviour which makes her check all possible entry points of her house over and over again. She has nightmares and physically cannot stand to sleep next to someone else because she will wake up terrified. Now, all of this has to have a reason, right? There has to be a cause. And it had to have happened in LA. Now, I appreciate that Garrett never pushed for information and let her tell him everything she was ready to share in her own time, but all of these issues are never resolved. As a reader, you are left wondering what the hell happened to give her these neuroses but you don't get an answer. The only thing you know is that she's made an appointment with a therapist. And again, why should you finish your character, why should you give some sort of closure or at least answer the riddle of her character, when you can just have her have sexy times with a rock star. I cannot repeat this enough: Nothing else matters. Only sex with a rock star. That's it.
While we're at it, I do have to say Scott gave me something new in this book: Stupidity like you wouldn't believe. You have two adults in their 30s, so you'd think that at least stupidity and naivete would be at a minimum. Nope. .
Another thing I have been miffed about in many of Scott's books is her forced wokeness. Now let me be frank. I want more representation of LGBT characters. I enjoy diversity. BUT don't put it in there to check off a box and appear woke. Don't put in a gay side character just because you want all the gay people reading this to see you're totally on board. Instead of throwing around all of these superficial characters in the background who add no value to the story and are irreplaceable and forgettable, how about you actually write a romance about two men. How about you make it a female rock star who falls in love with another woman? I would respect you a heck of a lot more for that. What Scott continuously does is give the heroine a black best friend. Or a gay best friend. Or maybe it's just some lesbians living next door. Or, like this time around, additionally, to the black best friend, you have a bodyguard who apparently identifies as non-binary and, therefore, is referred to as they and some famous football player just proposed to his boyfriend. My issue is that none of these characters are on the main stage, they're all in the background and are neither fleshed out characters nor in any way memorable that they make you feel good. They're just there and obviously used as woke-props. And that is insulting.
I also want to add that this time around was the first time that I noticed how badly Scott is at describing her characters. The only thing we learn of Garrett at his first appearance is that he is a white man with dark hair. Similarly, Cézanne is a black woman. That's it. That's literally all I remember about her and doesn't that tell you all you need to know about her characters. Literally, the only characters that matter in this book are Garrett, Ani and Smith - and I am sure Smith only matters because he will be the next one of The Dead Heart band members to get his romance.
Finally, I have to say that this story and the pacing was ridiculous.
So yeah, this book left me unimpressed and sadly followed the downwards trend I have witnessed in Kylie Scott's books over the years. I can only warn anyone who has read Stage Dive to stay away, because you will probably be very disappointed with the result and I am seriously debating deleting Scott off my watch list because I do not enjoy her work anymore and I am not sure that I will come across a book of hers again that I will like.
May 17, 2023
Der Inbegriff einer Insta-Lovestory. Etwas kitschig und an manchen Stellen fehlt etwas Tiefgang, aber als süße Story für zwischendurch perfekt. Und vor allem genau das was ich von Kylie Scott gewohnt bin.
April 12, 2022
4 stars
March 31, 2022
3.5 STARS
This is not a bad book. It just felt like something was missing. Was it the hero’s POV? Maybe. It was enjoyable. It was like something was missing. I’ll think about it. Maybe it will hit me and I’ll come back and add it. Maybe it’s that extra sparkle to make it unique and memorable. 🤔
I voluntarily read an early copy.
This is not a bad book. It just felt like something was missing. Was it the hero’s POV? Maybe. It was enjoyable. It was like something was missing. I’ll think about it. Maybe it will hit me and I’ll come back and add it. Maybe it’s that extra sparkle to make it unique and memorable. 🤔
I voluntarily read an early copy.
March 29, 2022
Garrett is in desperate need of some time out. He wants the world to pause spinning for a bit so he can hop off and reset himself in the quiet town of Wildwood. He and his late wife bought a house there with the intention of eventually moving there until she sadly got ill and passed away. It has sat empty for two years and now the time feels right to go through with the plans they had.
Ani loves living in her quiet hometown. She moved away for a while but when she needed to escape the life she had been living, Wildwood gave her the sense of peace she was craving. She loves her little cabin and enjoys her job at the general store. She has quite a routined life but does also have a few close friends.
Everyone knows everyone in small towns which on the one hand means they all look out for each other but on the other hand not much gets past the residents of Wildwood. A new person moving in is big news. There are pies to be baked and well meaning well wishers vying to meet the newcomer. Garrett is what my family would call ‘fresh meat.’ Someone new to discover and talk to.
When Garrett moves in next door to Ani, in the middle of the night, she is initially annoyed to have someone living so close to her but when she realizes who he is she understands his need for anonymity. Garrett is the lead singer for one of the most popular rocks of today, Dead Heart. He knows his location will eventually be discovered by the paps but what he was surprised about was the lengths that the lovely people of Wildwood would go to, to protect his identity. Yep, they all love ‘Gary.’
Ani grew up having the biggest crush on Garrett but she manages to push all that aside and becomes the friend he so desperately needs. He is still grieving his late wife and Ani has sworn off relationships completely. I loved how things just felt so easy between them. As they slowly begin to peel back the layers of themselves, sharing little snippets of personal information here and there, something has seeded and is growing between them.
‘There was every chance I was a dreadful choice of not-dating friend for this man. His innate hotness hit me in the heart and groin each and every time.’
As Garrett grapples with his growing feelings for Ani, he is beginning to see that there can be light after darkness. It is okay to fall again and still honor the life he had with his wife. Ani struggles to express what she is feeling for Garrett, the physical side is out of this world and her body has truly been awakened by this incredible man. Finding the right way to show him how much he truly means to her is something she really wants to get right.
‘I wasn’t expecting you,’ he said in a more contemplative tone of voice. ‘No, ‘ I agreed. ‘I wasn’t expecting you either.’
I have missed reading Kylie’s wonderful rock star stories and this definitely delivered up everything I love about her writing. Garrett is such a lovely guy and I love how he is an ‘all in’ person. You would never doubt how he felt about you :) And, he won’t put out unless there is cuddling after… too cute! Ani was the perfect person for him to meet at this time in both their lives. Absolute heart warming perfection and I’m hoping this is just the beginning because Smith needs his own story!
Ani loves living in her quiet hometown. She moved away for a while but when she needed to escape the life she had been living, Wildwood gave her the sense of peace she was craving. She loves her little cabin and enjoys her job at the general store. She has quite a routined life but does also have a few close friends.
Everyone knows everyone in small towns which on the one hand means they all look out for each other but on the other hand not much gets past the residents of Wildwood. A new person moving in is big news. There are pies to be baked and well meaning well wishers vying to meet the newcomer. Garrett is what my family would call ‘fresh meat.’ Someone new to discover and talk to.
When Garrett moves in next door to Ani, in the middle of the night, she is initially annoyed to have someone living so close to her but when she realizes who he is she understands his need for anonymity. Garrett is the lead singer for one of the most popular rocks of today, Dead Heart. He knows his location will eventually be discovered by the paps but what he was surprised about was the lengths that the lovely people of Wildwood would go to, to protect his identity. Yep, they all love ‘Gary.’
Ani grew up having the biggest crush on Garrett but she manages to push all that aside and becomes the friend he so desperately needs. He is still grieving his late wife and Ani has sworn off relationships completely. I loved how things just felt so easy between them. As they slowly begin to peel back the layers of themselves, sharing little snippets of personal information here and there, something has seeded and is growing between them.
‘There was every chance I was a dreadful choice of not-dating friend for this man. His innate hotness hit me in the heart and groin each and every time.’
As Garrett grapples with his growing feelings for Ani, he is beginning to see that there can be light after darkness. It is okay to fall again and still honor the life he had with his wife. Ani struggles to express what she is feeling for Garrett, the physical side is out of this world and her body has truly been awakened by this incredible man. Finding the right way to show him how much he truly means to her is something she really wants to get right.
‘I wasn’t expecting you,’ he said in a more contemplative tone of voice. ‘No, ‘ I agreed. ‘I wasn’t expecting you either.’
I have missed reading Kylie’s wonderful rock star stories and this definitely delivered up everything I love about her writing. Garrett is such a lovely guy and I love how he is an ‘all in’ person. You would never doubt how he felt about you :) And, he won’t put out unless there is cuddling after… too cute! Ani was the perfect person for him to meet at this time in both their lives. Absolute heart warming perfection and I’m hoping this is just the beginning because Smith needs his own story!
March 30, 2022
“I’m with you now and that’s it for me.”
4.5 stars
Oh, what a fun read! A funny, emotional, sexy and romantic small-town, friends-to-lovers, rockstar romance. It’s full of fabulous tropes, with two amazing characters, and I loved it so much!
Ani is 30 years old and is happy living a quiet life in a very small Californian town after leaving LA in difficult circumstances four years previously. She works at the general store, has great friends and rocks at trivia night, and her life is small but happy.
Her subdued little life get shaken when Garrett Hayes moves in next door. Garrett is a rock god, and was the lead singer of the Dead Heart, but has been MIA for the last two years since the tragic death of his wife and the breakup of his band. Ani is a big fan but manages to keep her cool and doesn’t let Garrett’s celebrity impact her interactions with him – she figures he’s in her small town for some peace and quiet, so she’s going to give him that.
Her ’realness’ with Garrett intrigues him, and they slowly become friends, and with a little push from Garrett’s ex-bandmate and friend, Smith, Ani encourages Garrett to leave his house and get back into the real world, easing his way into her small community and giving him the opportunity to live a normal life. Watching him face his fears and take big steps out of his grief and isolation also encourages her to deal with her own demons, and she finds herself starting to embrace life a bit more at the same time.
It’s a fabulous friendship, full of witty banter, open and frank discussions, and random conversations that had me laughing over and over. But, of course, there’s an edge of something more, an attraction that blooms gradually and naturally. It has the feeling of a slow burn, but actually moves pretty quickly, and I loved watching their friendship develop into something neither of them were expecting.
It’s so easy between them, and you can feel that what they have is special, and with the story told entirely from Ani’s perspective, you’re never too sure what Garrett is feeling, which makes every joke, glance and touch that much more exciting.
The change from friends to lovers is beautifully done, and while it’s super sexy, there’s also a lot of emotion between them and it’s also gorgeously romantic with lots of swoon. I loved how open and honest they are with each other; as it was with their friendship, they don’t hold anything back, and it’s such an honest, emotional and playful connection that that have.
I loved watching their relationship shift and change as they fall hard and dive all in.
Ani is sensational! She’s got her vulnerabilities, but she’s brave, witty and brilliantly sarcastic. She also has zero filter and doesn’t hold back, which leads to wonderfully entertaining conversations. She’s instantly loveable and a wonderful narrator for her story, and I absolutely adore her.
Garrett’s heartbroken broodiness is irresistible, but he is so much more than the widower reclaiming his life. He is smart, sexy, and completely no-nonsense. He’s got layers but there’s no game playing, and I love that! Watching him embrace all that Ani brings to his life is so gorgeous, and he proves to be an epically sexy and swoony romantic hero.
The town of Wildwood and its inhabitants are a big part of the story, and OMG, they are so freaking funny! Scott brings the town to life in all of its quirky glory, and I loved their interactions with Ani and Garrett, and between each other, and I laughed so many times at their antics and their good intentions in pushing the two of them together.
And the boys of the band! As they were introduced, I got Stage Dive vibes, and was instantly so excited. Smith, in particular is Mal v2, and with some already fantastic dynamics and backstories for the boys, I’m so hoping we get books for all of them!
I loved this book so much. It’s funny, quirky and witty, it had me chuckling along the whole way through, and I fell in love with these characters, the town of Wildwood, and Ani and Garrett’s fun, beautiful, functional romance – and that ending left me swooning and super satisfied with a huge grin on my face.
So much fun, and such a great read – 4.5 stars!
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars
Oh, what a fun read! A funny, emotional, sexy and romantic small-town, friends-to-lovers, rockstar romance. It’s full of fabulous tropes, with two amazing characters, and I loved it so much!
Ani is 30 years old and is happy living a quiet life in a very small Californian town after leaving LA in difficult circumstances four years previously. She works at the general store, has great friends and rocks at trivia night, and her life is small but happy.
Her subdued little life get shaken when Garrett Hayes moves in next door. Garrett is a rock god, and was the lead singer of the Dead Heart, but has been MIA for the last two years since the tragic death of his wife and the breakup of his band. Ani is a big fan but manages to keep her cool and doesn’t let Garrett’s celebrity impact her interactions with him – she figures he’s in her small town for some peace and quiet, so she’s going to give him that.
Her ’realness’ with Garrett intrigues him, and they slowly become friends, and with a little push from Garrett’s ex-bandmate and friend, Smith, Ani encourages Garrett to leave his house and get back into the real world, easing his way into her small community and giving him the opportunity to live a normal life. Watching him face his fears and take big steps out of his grief and isolation also encourages her to deal with her own demons, and she finds herself starting to embrace life a bit more at the same time.
It’s a fabulous friendship, full of witty banter, open and frank discussions, and random conversations that had me laughing over and over. But, of course, there’s an edge of something more, an attraction that blooms gradually and naturally. It has the feeling of a slow burn, but actually moves pretty quickly, and I loved watching their friendship develop into something neither of them were expecting.
“As I recall, you repeatedly and emphatically said you did not want to date,” he said. “How’s that working out for you?”
“We’re turning the truth levels right up to awkward, huh?” I asked.
“Babe, when haven’t we?”
“Good point.”
“Tell me what you’re thinking.”
I set down my silverware. “Well . . . I’m sitting here wearing the fanciest dress I own, wondering if you’re going to take it off me later.”
“I’ve been wondering about that too.”
It’s so easy between them, and you can feel that what they have is special, and with the story told entirely from Ani’s perspective, you’re never too sure what Garrett is feeling, which makes every joke, glance and touch that much more exciting.
“This isn’t a mistake, Ani. I don’t know what the hell it is. But it’s not a mistake.”
“Okay.”
He winced and shook his head. “That’s a lie … I do know what this is. It’s just a big deal admitting it, you know?”
The change from friends to lovers is beautifully done, and while it’s super sexy, there’s also a lot of emotion between them and it’s also gorgeously romantic with lots of swoon. I loved how open and honest they are with each other; as it was with their friendship, they don’t hold anything back, and it’s such an honest, emotional and playful connection that that have.
“So you don’t want to have sex with me?”
“Oh, I want inside you like you wouldn’t believe. But if you think trying to make things purely physical between us is going to work, you’re kidding yourself.”
“We could try.”
“If you like,” he said, nonplussed. “But I’m warning you now, if we have sex, we’re cuddling after.”
I groaned. “Are you serious?”
“Absolutely. I’m not putting out otherwise.”
I loved watching their relationship shift and change as they fall hard and dive all in.
“I wasn’t expecting you.”
… “But here we are, making things complicated.”
Ani is sensational! She’s got her vulnerabilities, but she’s brave, witty and brilliantly sarcastic. She also has zero filter and doesn’t hold back, which leads to wonderfully entertaining conversations. She’s instantly loveable and a wonderful narrator for her story, and I absolutely adore her.
“She makes me want to keep living. She makes me want to write songs and get up in the morning and go out and actually have a fucking life. I cannot overstate her importance to me.”
Garrett’s heartbroken broodiness is irresistible, but he is so much more than the widower reclaiming his life. He is smart, sexy, and completely no-nonsense. He’s got layers but there’s no game playing, and I love that! Watching him embrace all that Ani brings to his life is so gorgeous, and he proves to be an epically sexy and swoony romantic hero.
“I’m with you now and that’s it for me,” he explained. “We can take it as fast or as slow as you like. But either way, we make this work because it’s what we want, right?”
“Right.”
“Because I’m with you.”
The town of Wildwood and its inhabitants are a big part of the story, and OMG, they are so freaking funny! Scott brings the town to life in all of its quirky glory, and I loved their interactions with Ani and Garrett, and between each other, and I laughed so many times at their antics and their good intentions in pushing the two of them together.
And the boys of the band! As they were introduced, I got Stage Dive vibes, and was instantly so excited. Smith, in particular is Mal v2, and with some already fantastic dynamics and backstories for the boys, I’m so hoping we get books for all of them!
I loved this book so much. It’s funny, quirky and witty, it had me chuckling along the whole way through, and I fell in love with these characters, the town of Wildwood, and Ani and Garrett’s fun, beautiful, functional romance – and that ending left me swooning and super satisfied with a huge grin on my face.
So much fun, and such a great read – 4.5 stars!
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2022
Ich habe schon länger kein Buch von Kylie Scott gelesen und da mich "Sweeter than Fame" neugierig gemacht hat, war ich sehr gespannt auf das Buch.
Den Anfang fand ich ehrlich gesagt ein bisschen wirr und ich habe ein bisschen gebraucht, um die Geschichte reinzufinden.
Vom Setting her hat mir die Geschichte ganz gut gefallen: ein kleiner Ort und ein berühmter Rockstar, der alles ein wenig durcheinander bringt. Das Kleinstadtsetting war ganz schön, aber atmosphärisch wäre hier deutlich mehr drin gewesen.
Auch die Handlung ist insgesamt ein wenig blass geblieben. In der Liebesgeschichte fehlten für mich die Funken und auch die Protagonisten sind ein sehr blass geblieben. Ich konnte hier leider nicht so mitfiebern wie erwartet. Die Beziehung zwischen Garrett und Ani entwickelt sich sehr schnell und konnte mich leider nicht richtig mitreißen.
Das Buch ist generell eine unterhaltsame Geschichte, der es jedoch an vielen Kleinigkeiten fehlt und mich daher nicht überzeugen konnte.
Den Anfang fand ich ehrlich gesagt ein bisschen wirr und ich habe ein bisschen gebraucht, um die Geschichte reinzufinden.
Vom Setting her hat mir die Geschichte ganz gut gefallen: ein kleiner Ort und ein berühmter Rockstar, der alles ein wenig durcheinander bringt. Das Kleinstadtsetting war ganz schön, aber atmosphärisch wäre hier deutlich mehr drin gewesen.
Auch die Handlung ist insgesamt ein wenig blass geblieben. In der Liebesgeschichte fehlten für mich die Funken und auch die Protagonisten sind ein sehr blass geblieben. Ich konnte hier leider nicht so mitfiebern wie erwartet. Die Beziehung zwischen Garrett und Ani entwickelt sich sehr schnell und konnte mich leider nicht richtig mitreißen.
Das Buch ist generell eine unterhaltsame Geschichte, der es jedoch an vielen Kleinigkeiten fehlt und mich daher nicht überzeugen konnte.
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