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Venus Was Her Name
Older and wiser, Joe Jarrett, who was once the lead singer of one of the biggest rock bands on the planet, has left his wild and hedonistic days behind, preferring a quieter life in his farmhouse by the sea.
Family is everything to Joe, and when his beloved son, Ace, brings his new girlfriend, Edie, to visit, things seem to be going well. But when a shocking exposé points a finger at the band, including historic claims of rape and murder, it appears everything Joe holds dear is about to be torn apart.
As Joe is forced to face the consequences of the past, threatening letters arrive at the farmhouse. A stalker is on the loose and is determined to make him pay. But who is she?
Meanwhile, newcomer Edie, is living a lie and harbours a shocking secret of her own.
When all is revealed, will Joe's life will be changed forever, and can anything be the same again?
Family is everything to Joe, and when his beloved son, Ace, brings his new girlfriend, Edie, to visit, things seem to be going well. But when a shocking exposé points a finger at the band, including historic claims of rape and murder, it appears everything Joe holds dear is about to be torn apart.
As Joe is forced to face the consequences of the past, threatening letters arrive at the farmhouse. A stalker is on the loose and is determined to make him pay. But who is she?
Meanwhile, newcomer Edie, is living a lie and harbours a shocking secret of her own.
When all is revealed, will Joe's life will be changed forever, and can anything be the same again?
- GenresContemporary
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2022
18 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Dixon
22 books173 followersPublished by Bloodhound Books
Author of -
Over My Shoulder, They Don't Know, The Secrets of Tenley House, Liars, #MeToo, Blame. The Other Woman, Coming Home, Resistance, Birthright, Venus Was Her Name, A Good Mother, Rosie and Ruby, Anna, Tilly, Grace, Destiny, The Complete Destiny Series Box Set, The Suspense Boxset.
All titles available on Amazon -
amazon.co.uk/-/e/B00I1YV2RM
Author of -
Over My Shoulder, They Don't Know, The Secrets of Tenley House, Liars, #MeToo, Blame. The Other Woman, Coming Home, Resistance, Birthright, Venus Was Her Name, A Good Mother, Rosie and Ruby, Anna, Tilly, Grace, Destiny, The Complete Destiny Series Box Set, The Suspense Boxset.
All titles available on Amazon -
amazon.co.uk/-/e/B00I1YV2RM
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 30, 2022
Fab cover and a title that I can guarantee ( whichever version you choose ) will have you singing the song every time you see it
Not sure how to describe this book tbh, a family drama with romance and adventure plus thriller?, however its described it’s a good read….we meet; a now older but still very famous rock star living in France ( amongst other places ) but roots very much in Manchester, 1 loving son, 1 wayward narcissist hellbent on causing trouble, a comfy homely cook and hubby who tend to everything in France and are as good as family…..and a past, that hurtles back into his current life in more ways than one…sex drugs and rock and roll is about to bite him but never in the ways he maybe expected
Really well written, easy to read, absorb and be ‘a part of’ and I pictured all the characters from the get go, always a bonus in a tale like this
A real enjoyable put your feet up and get into book that offers many shocks and surprises but tells a vibrant story all the way through with an OOOOO ending, my fav from this author
Also a very interesting acknowledgment piece at the end
10/10
5 Stars
Not sure how to describe this book tbh, a family drama with romance and adventure plus thriller?, however its described it’s a good read….we meet; a now older but still very famous rock star living in France ( amongst other places ) but roots very much in Manchester, 1 loving son, 1 wayward narcissist hellbent on causing trouble, a comfy homely cook and hubby who tend to everything in France and are as good as family…..and a past, that hurtles back into his current life in more ways than one…sex drugs and rock and roll is about to bite him but never in the ways he maybe expected
Really well written, easy to read, absorb and be ‘a part of’ and I pictured all the characters from the get go, always a bonus in a tale like this
A real enjoyable put your feet up and get into book that offers many shocks and surprises but tells a vibrant story all the way through with an OOOOO ending, my fav from this author
Also a very interesting acknowledgment piece at the end
10/10
5 Stars
June 29, 2022
Venus Was Her Name is a stand-alone contemporary family drama/suspense novel by an author who is new to me, but that I have noticed being recommended in recent years. I’m trying to limit new ARCs, but when a post in the Bloodhound group mentioned “ageing rock star” and “France” in the same sentence, my willpower crumbled - which was lucky as I thoroughly enjoyed it! It takes a modern look at the excesses of the 1980s rock scene, and the consequences that emerge decades later, with a mostly sympathetic group of characters.
Joe Jarrat was once the singer in the world’s biggest rock band, NorthStar, but now he lives quietly in a converted farmhouse on the Brittany coast with his gentle son Ace, his dogs and his memories of his wild days. Edie is Ace’s new girlfriend, who is visiting for the first time on a holiday to celebrate his birthday, and she’s nervous about meeting Joe and his family & friends. Then Joe learns that a new documentary is about to expose the band’s dark secrets, his manager and best friend is seriously ill, and an obsessed stalker is sending death threats. As the family are trapped inside by two storms - one media and one meteorological - the secrets which are revealed will change everything.
This was well written with chapters from various of the characters’ distinctive perspectives. Obviously I was most interested in kindly 61 year old rocker Joe (I’d love to know who he was inspired by!) but I loved sensitive photographer Ace and bossy housekeeper Nanou. I actually felt a bit sorry for much-maligned poor little rich boy Lance, so liked the way his story arc played out. The mystery was well done - I didn’t guess how the plot would turn out and liked the ending and how everything was wrapped up, even if it was all a bit convenient. Oh and the cover art is gorgeous!
The story is set either pre-pandemic, or in an alternate reality where Covid is not mentioned, while Me Too is not referenced but plays a prominent part. The only thing I didn’t like was all the cliffhanger chapter endings where the next one has jumped forward hours or more then goes back to explain what happened, it just felt unnecessarily disjointed. This is only a minor niggle and I’ll definitely be looking to read more from this author, who happily already has a solid back catalogue for me to check out.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC. I am posting this honest review voluntarily. Venus Was Her Name is published on July 18th.
Joe Jarrat was once the singer in the world’s biggest rock band, NorthStar, but now he lives quietly in a converted farmhouse on the Brittany coast with his gentle son Ace, his dogs and his memories of his wild days. Edie is Ace’s new girlfriend, who is visiting for the first time on a holiday to celebrate his birthday, and she’s nervous about meeting Joe and his family & friends. Then Joe learns that a new documentary is about to expose the band’s dark secrets, his manager and best friend is seriously ill, and an obsessed stalker is sending death threats. As the family are trapped inside by two storms - one media and one meteorological - the secrets which are revealed will change everything.
This was well written with chapters from various of the characters’ distinctive perspectives. Obviously I was most interested in kindly 61 year old rocker Joe (I’d love to know who he was inspired by!) but I loved sensitive photographer Ace and bossy housekeeper Nanou. I actually felt a bit sorry for much-maligned poor little rich boy Lance, so liked the way his story arc played out. The mystery was well done - I didn’t guess how the plot would turn out and liked the ending and how everything was wrapped up, even if it was all a bit convenient. Oh and the cover art is gorgeous!
The story is set either pre-pandemic, or in an alternate reality where Covid is not mentioned, while Me Too is not referenced but plays a prominent part. The only thing I didn’t like was all the cliffhanger chapter endings where the next one has jumped forward hours or more then goes back to explain what happened, it just felt unnecessarily disjointed. This is only a minor niggle and I’ll definitely be looking to read more from this author, who happily already has a solid back catalogue for me to check out.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC. I am posting this honest review voluntarily. Venus Was Her Name is published on July 18th.
July 15, 2022
I have read several Dixon books but this was by far my least favourite. In my opinion, not much happens, there is too much talk and the plot was stagnated by the static setting. Whilst I enjoyed returning to France, an obvious love of the author’s, I don’t think this was properly exploited and I felt claustrophobic from being stuck in a country farm house.
An unusual topic direction, this novel follows an aging rock god, Joe, who has gathered his broad family around him in celebration of step son, Ace, and his birthday. Although he doesn’t have the best of relationships with his older son, Lance, Joe is keen to see those closest to him reunite once more. However, there are skeletons in Joe’s closet that, thanks to an emerging documentary, sees Joe and his family hounded by the press and Joe forced to reveal the goings-on during his rock and roll heydays.
Told from different perspectives, I think this added a freshness to the story. I was most intrigued by Edie’s narrative but thought the revelations were lacking the gusto and surprise that I usually find in Dixon’s narratives. All the time I was expecting something more sinister and thrilling, but the book remained firmly fixed in the drama of the family, nothing more. Instead, I thought the plot was too dialogue-heavy as characters discuss the threat to their privacy from allegations made against Joe and his band. Too many times the cast of characters are debating on how to ensure Joe’s reputation remains intact and I thought this made for a bit of a repetitive plot.
On the other hand, rebellious son, Lance, and the woman in the opening chapter seemed to be the most appealing. I loved their defiant, uncontrollable natures and thought they brought an energy to the story that was absent. It was a shame that their appearances were so limited because I thought they were more interesting than the central character was himself.
A dramatic, dynamic cover from Dixon, I was puzzled throughout the story with how it was relevant to the plot. It was not until the Epilogue does Dixon explain the significance and I thought it was a touching reference to a specific character of the book. It definitely is eye-catching and makes this book stand-out, it’s just a shame the pages inside did not have this same captivating feeling.
In the end, I found myself feeling bored by the narrative. I wanted more dramatic revelations, but these were noticeably absent. In my opinion, I think this is a bit of a ‘safe’ story and not one that showcases Dixon’s captivating writing style.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
An unusual topic direction, this novel follows an aging rock god, Joe, who has gathered his broad family around him in celebration of step son, Ace, and his birthday. Although he doesn’t have the best of relationships with his older son, Lance, Joe is keen to see those closest to him reunite once more. However, there are skeletons in Joe’s closet that, thanks to an emerging documentary, sees Joe and his family hounded by the press and Joe forced to reveal the goings-on during his rock and roll heydays.
Told from different perspectives, I think this added a freshness to the story. I was most intrigued by Edie’s narrative but thought the revelations were lacking the gusto and surprise that I usually find in Dixon’s narratives. All the time I was expecting something more sinister and thrilling, but the book remained firmly fixed in the drama of the family, nothing more. Instead, I thought the plot was too dialogue-heavy as characters discuss the threat to their privacy from allegations made against Joe and his band. Too many times the cast of characters are debating on how to ensure Joe’s reputation remains intact and I thought this made for a bit of a repetitive plot.
On the other hand, rebellious son, Lance, and the woman in the opening chapter seemed to be the most appealing. I loved their defiant, uncontrollable natures and thought they brought an energy to the story that was absent. It was a shame that their appearances were so limited because I thought they were more interesting than the central character was himself.
A dramatic, dynamic cover from Dixon, I was puzzled throughout the story with how it was relevant to the plot. It was not until the Epilogue does Dixon explain the significance and I thought it was a touching reference to a specific character of the book. It definitely is eye-catching and makes this book stand-out, it’s just a shame the pages inside did not have this same captivating feeling.
In the end, I found myself feeling bored by the narrative. I wanted more dramatic revelations, but these were noticeably absent. In my opinion, I think this is a bit of a ‘safe’ story and not one that showcases Dixon’s captivating writing style.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2022
What a cracker of a book.
Patricia Dixon takes us back to France. A place she clearly loves as her words lift it off the page. If you have never been, you want to go, and if you know the places she talks about, you yearn to revisit.
Following the lives of retired rock star, Joe Jarrett, and his extended family, Venus touches on their lives as the band's wild past comes back to haunt Joe and threatens all that he holds dear.
Dixon has a knack of painting characters who fall firmly in the grey area. All of them are flawed, though some more deeply than others, but that is what makes them so interesting to read about.
A worthy and relevant tale of the times and so beautifully written. This is my favourite book of hers and one I highly recommend.
Patricia Dixon takes us back to France. A place she clearly loves as her words lift it off the page. If you have never been, you want to go, and if you know the places she talks about, you yearn to revisit.
Following the lives of retired rock star, Joe Jarrett, and his extended family, Venus touches on their lives as the band's wild past comes back to haunt Joe and threatens all that he holds dear.
Dixon has a knack of painting characters who fall firmly in the grey area. All of them are flawed, though some more deeply than others, but that is what makes them so interesting to read about.
A worthy and relevant tale of the times and so beautifully written. This is my favourite book of hers and one I highly recommend.
July 9, 2022
Another brilliant book from Patricia Dixon.
I do like her psychological thrillers but she certainly knows how to write a family saga too.
Set in France this book tells the story of a rock star who has had a chequered past but now wants to do good.
We learn about his family and whilst I knew there was a big reveal coming, it still took me by surprise.
Joe’s son Ace is a brilliant character and he really came to life for me in the descriptions of him and his ways.
I can’t say too much about Venus but you will find that her presence is felt by all in the book and the reader too.
This is a real page turner that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to read this book.
I do like her psychological thrillers but she certainly knows how to write a family saga too.
Set in France this book tells the story of a rock star who has had a chequered past but now wants to do good.
We learn about his family and whilst I knew there was a big reveal coming, it still took me by surprise.
Joe’s son Ace is a brilliant character and he really came to life for me in the descriptions of him and his ways.
I can’t say too much about Venus but you will find that her presence is felt by all in the book and the reader too.
This is a real page turner that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to read this book.
June 27, 2022
I'm always so happy when Patricia Dixon releases a new book because I am 100% certain that I'm going to enjoy it. One of the things I particularly love about her is how she deals with contentious issues in a gentle but level-headed manner without resorting to the hysterical cancel culture we seem to be surrounded by at the moment.
This is another absolute joy of a book. The storytelling is beautiful and its full to the brim with appealing characters.
This is another absolute joy of a book. The storytelling is beautiful and its full to the brim with appealing characters.
July 7, 2022
I’ll be honest here and thought I knew how the story was going to pan out from the start. I was wrong and that’s what I love about Dixon’s books. She keeps you guessing.
Even though this book highlights some hard subjects, it is done in a respectful manner. These things did happen and still do continue to happen.
There are numerous characters that you wish you could meet and story flowed perfectly.
One last thing, if the cover of this book doesn’t impact you in anyway I’ll be shocked. This is the best book cover I think I’ve seen.
Even though this book highlights some hard subjects, it is done in a respectful manner. These things did happen and still do continue to happen.
There are numerous characters that you wish you could meet and story flowed perfectly.
One last thing, if the cover of this book doesn’t impact you in anyway I’ll be shocked. This is the best book cover I think I’ve seen.
July 17, 2022
Another great book by this author.
This book takes the reader back to France for another epic family saga following the life and family of retired rock star Joe Jarre
I really enjoyed the story being told by different points of view and jumping timeliness. Although this sounds complicated it really wasn't and was easy to follow.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for this advance read.
Highly recommended.
This book takes the reader back to France for another epic family saga following the life and family of retired rock star Joe Jarre
I really enjoyed the story being told by different points of view and jumping timeliness. Although this sounds complicated it really wasn't and was easy to follow.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for this advance read.
Highly recommended.
July 19, 2022
Another thrilling story by Patricia, her fabulous books are always such addictive reading!
I loved the mystery and intrigue within this book, it really kept me guessing and very entertained.
An enthralling backstory soon hooked me into the book and I bonded with many of the characters.
Great twists in the plot kept me on my toes too.
I loved the mystery and intrigue within this book, it really kept me guessing and very entertained.
An enthralling backstory soon hooked me into the book and I bonded with many of the characters.
Great twists in the plot kept me on my toes too.
August 27, 2022
Venus Was Her Name by Patricia Dixon was an absorbing read, telling the story of Joe, the rockstar and his family and friends. I enjoyed reading this book and getting to know the characters.I found the storyline very moving at times.
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
July 6, 2022
It’s always exciting to hear that there is a new book out by Patricia Dixon. I have read them all and loved them.
Venus was Her Name is another such novel. The characters and settings all come alive in the author’s telling of the story.
At the centre of it all is the importance of family and knowing where you come from. Joe Jarrett has really lived the rock ‘n roll life style as the lead singer in Northstar but now lives in semi-retirement in La Babinais in Britanny with the previous owners Nanou and Silvestre who now act as housekeepers but are more like family. Also living with Joe is Ace, his previous partner, Jenny’s son who he treats like his own. Ace is a wonderful character who enjoys the stability his home in Britanny gives him. When Ace, a photographer meets Edie, a student in Manchester their relationship develops and she comes to stay in La Babinais before they make plans to go travelling.
Add to the characters Lance, the indulged son of Joe and his first wife, a Hollywood actress, Gus, Joe’s ailing old friend and Manager, Bobbie, Edie’s grandmother and of course Venus and the scene is set for a memorable story.
Joe’s world is about to be turned upside down as his past life style comes under scrutiny when a documentary is made exposing abusers who trafficked under-age girls to members of the rock world. Denny, one of Northstar’s band members is about to bring them all down by association but Joe is going to get the shock of his life from another unexpected source.
How can Joe redeem his reputation and show that he’s one of the good guys? With the help of family, anything is possible.
Venus Was Her Name is a book that will stay with me for a long time. It has three dimensional characters who all have their flaws but who are also lovable and I found myself absorbed in their story and wanting them to set the record straight and move on with their lives. Another 5* book from Patricia Dixon.
Venus was Her Name is another such novel. The characters and settings all come alive in the author’s telling of the story.
At the centre of it all is the importance of family and knowing where you come from. Joe Jarrett has really lived the rock ‘n roll life style as the lead singer in Northstar but now lives in semi-retirement in La Babinais in Britanny with the previous owners Nanou and Silvestre who now act as housekeepers but are more like family. Also living with Joe is Ace, his previous partner, Jenny’s son who he treats like his own. Ace is a wonderful character who enjoys the stability his home in Britanny gives him. When Ace, a photographer meets Edie, a student in Manchester their relationship develops and she comes to stay in La Babinais before they make plans to go travelling.
Add to the characters Lance, the indulged son of Joe and his first wife, a Hollywood actress, Gus, Joe’s ailing old friend and Manager, Bobbie, Edie’s grandmother and of course Venus and the scene is set for a memorable story.
Joe’s world is about to be turned upside down as his past life style comes under scrutiny when a documentary is made exposing abusers who trafficked under-age girls to members of the rock world. Denny, one of Northstar’s band members is about to bring them all down by association but Joe is going to get the shock of his life from another unexpected source.
How can Joe redeem his reputation and show that he’s one of the good guys? With the help of family, anything is possible.
Venus Was Her Name is a book that will stay with me for a long time. It has three dimensional characters who all have their flaws but who are also lovable and I found myself absorbed in their story and wanting them to set the record straight and move on with their lives. Another 5* book from Patricia Dixon.
June 28, 2022
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for this early eARC.
I think Patricia Dixon has wrote a gem of a book here, it has an array of wonderful characters, most really down to earth, likeable, believable and who you just take to heart and root for. And even the one I loathed at the beginning had grown on me by the end. The story follows a family, their lives in rural France, the secrets they are keeping, the hidden agendas some have and how one who isn’t what they appear to be. I loved, loved loved this read. The characters jumped out of the pages and I could picture a lot of the scenes in my mind when reading. When the past returns to haunt the Jarrett family can they recover from this and move on stronger together ? Or will this break them? I loved that the story was told through the different characters and from their perspectives. The author in my opinion has a wonderful way of engaging with her readers and really makes a connection with them through her writing. Her characters feelings, emotions and thoughts were expressed so eloquently, her writing so emotive at times I found I was drawn into the story right from the beginning and the author held my interest and attention right to the end. Overall, another brilliant read with a very good believable plot line. The book flowed really well throughout and came together beautifully at the end. I can’t fault this book at all, I loved everything about it.
I think Patricia Dixon has wrote a gem of a book here, it has an array of wonderful characters, most really down to earth, likeable, believable and who you just take to heart and root for. And even the one I loathed at the beginning had grown on me by the end. The story follows a family, their lives in rural France, the secrets they are keeping, the hidden agendas some have and how one who isn’t what they appear to be. I loved, loved loved this read. The characters jumped out of the pages and I could picture a lot of the scenes in my mind when reading. When the past returns to haunt the Jarrett family can they recover from this and move on stronger together ? Or will this break them? I loved that the story was told through the different characters and from their perspectives. The author in my opinion has a wonderful way of engaging with her readers and really makes a connection with them through her writing. Her characters feelings, emotions and thoughts were expressed so eloquently, her writing so emotive at times I found I was drawn into the story right from the beginning and the author held my interest and attention right to the end. Overall, another brilliant read with a very good believable plot line. The book flowed really well throughout and came together beautifully at the end. I can’t fault this book at all, I loved everything about it.
July 8, 2022
This was a lovely read. A nice change from all the gruesome things I’ve read recently! Set largely in France at the home of Joe Jarrett, a former lead singer of a highly successful rock band, and his family. Some wonderful characters, my favourites were Ace who measured up to his name, just a lovely rather innocent person and strong minded housekeeper Nanou. Lance, Ace’s brother couldn’t have been more different to Ace but I did have a teeny bit of sympathy for him. A very well written, well constructed story that had me page turning from the intriguing prologue and important first chapter to the very last page.
Briefly, having left his rock star lifestyle behind Joe is living in obscurity in a farmhouse by the sea in Brittany. But the past is catching up with him. He has been receiving menacing letters from Chicago and an exposé is about to threaten him and his family. And if all that isn’t enough Lance and Ace’s girlfriend Edie are both hiding secrets. Can Joe’s life ever return to his relative normal?
Written from the perspective of various character I found this a good, easy read with some great red herrings. The various threads all came together seamlessly and, although I though I had, I didn’t guess the ending. Very good domestic drama with great characters and intriguing storyline ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, having left his rock star lifestyle behind Joe is living in obscurity in a farmhouse by the sea in Brittany. But the past is catching up with him. He has been receiving menacing letters from Chicago and an exposé is about to threaten him and his family. And if all that isn’t enough Lance and Ace’s girlfriend Edie are both hiding secrets. Can Joe’s life ever return to his relative normal?
Written from the perspective of various character I found this a good, easy read with some great red herrings. The various threads all came together seamlessly and, although I though I had, I didn’t guess the ending. Very good domestic drama with great characters and intriguing storyline ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 5, 2022
Oh wow! The read of the summer- stunning and beautiful, I smiled and I cried: Joe is a rock star but has taken semi-retirement and lives in France. He has been married several times and has two sons- Ace whom he adores, however the other son Lance is just out for what he can get. He is deeply in debt and his mother refuses to bail him out yet again. He is trying to get the position of Joe's manager who has been ill and again is stepping back. Joe won’t hear of it- his son hasn't proved himself in any way- in fact quite the opposite. Ace has a girlfriend, someone he has taken time to get to know and has brought her over for a holiday and to meet the family. Edie has admired Joe for a long time and can't wait to get to meet him. Joe himself has been getting odd messages, something he has had before but these are a new level and appear to originate in a certain place. There's something he can't quite put his finger on.
A heart stopping and at times rather wrenching read - in a good way. As with all of Patricia’s books I quickly found myself enveloped in the pages. There's a warmth and a depth of characters and plot with phrases like “ a casserole of thoughts” made me smile and sink deeper and deeper into this wonderful story. A treasure, a gift and of a talented author- this is so beautifully written. I could picture Edie and some of her scenes with Joe and Ace which made my heart smile and ache accordingly. One of hope and dreams, highs and lows and how sometimes what you thought was buried deep may cast longer shadows than you ever imagined. A truly magnificent read to remember.
A heart stopping and at times rather wrenching read - in a good way. As with all of Patricia’s books I quickly found myself enveloped in the pages. There's a warmth and a depth of characters and plot with phrases like “ a casserole of thoughts” made me smile and sink deeper and deeper into this wonderful story. A treasure, a gift and of a talented author- this is so beautifully written. I could picture Edie and some of her scenes with Joe and Ace which made my heart smile and ache accordingly. One of hope and dreams, highs and lows and how sometimes what you thought was buried deep may cast longer shadows than you ever imagined. A truly magnificent read to remember.
July 6, 2022
There's this girl out there that broke my heart.
One big mistake one bigger regret.
Joe Jarrett a legend in the rock world with his band Northstar, his past is catching up, and someone wants him to pay the price.
The question is why?
Wild in his early days but now he lives his life in peace on his farm away from all the razzmatazz and his fears are all in jeopardy.
Edie Lowe is his son Ace new girlfriend and Joe welcome her into the family.
A very big part of me fell for Joe, a rocking legend a family man he's made mistakes and his still hot.
Totally gripped into this story shedding tears as I read.
An inspiring moving emotional that pulls at your heart.
For me this book deserves double the rating
With all the glory of taking everything you wish for if you wish hard enough it will shine through.
It's one of my most enjoyable reads this year.
One big mistake one bigger regret.
Joe Jarrett a legend in the rock world with his band Northstar, his past is catching up, and someone wants him to pay the price.
The question is why?
Wild in his early days but now he lives his life in peace on his farm away from all the razzmatazz and his fears are all in jeopardy.
Edie Lowe is his son Ace new girlfriend and Joe welcome her into the family.
A very big part of me fell for Joe, a rocking legend a family man he's made mistakes and his still hot.
Totally gripped into this story shedding tears as I read.
An inspiring moving emotional that pulls at your heart.
For me this book deserves double the rating
With all the glory of taking everything you wish for if you wish hard enough it will shine through.
It's one of my most enjoyable reads this year.
July 5, 2022
Patricia Dixon does it again - another 5 star read for me!
Joe Jarett is an aging rock star, living quietly in the French countryside. When he hears of a new documentary being released about his band, he realises his world could be about to come crashing down around him - can he keep control and come out the other side?
His son Ace has fallen in love for the first time, and brings girlfriend Edie to stay with the family. Will her secrets come out, and if so, can their relationship survive those and the massive revelations that Joe makes?
A fabulous set of characters, I loved Ace and Nanou. The exploration of different relationships was well done, and some sensitive issues were covered with care and consideration. Fabulous book!
Joe Jarett is an aging rock star, living quietly in the French countryside. When he hears of a new documentary being released about his band, he realises his world could be about to come crashing down around him - can he keep control and come out the other side?
His son Ace has fallen in love for the first time, and brings girlfriend Edie to stay with the family. Will her secrets come out, and if so, can their relationship survive those and the massive revelations that Joe makes?
A fabulous set of characters, I loved Ace and Nanou. The exploration of different relationships was well done, and some sensitive issues were covered with care and consideration. Fabulous book!
July 11, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. All the characters are so well developed, realistic, and relatable. Even the character you're meant to dislike, by the end you sympathize with them and like them. This book is so well written, and the storyline is easy to follow and keeps you interested from page one. I loved the different points of view and jumping timelines, very easy to follow and not at all confusing. Also, the cover art and book title is perfect.
Once the leading singer of one of the most well known rock bands, Joe Jarrett left his wild rocker days for low-key time with his family in his farmhouse by the sea. "But when a shocking exposé points a finger at the band, including historic claims of rape and murder, it appears everything Joe holds dear is about to be torn apart."
I have never read a Patricia Dixon book before, although having heard of her work. After this read, I am excited to read her other books!
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Once the leading singer of one of the most well known rock bands, Joe Jarrett left his wild rocker days for low-key time with his family in his farmhouse by the sea. "But when a shocking exposé points a finger at the band, including historic claims of rape and murder, it appears everything Joe holds dear is about to be torn apart."
I have never read a Patricia Dixon book before, although having heard of her work. After this read, I am excited to read her other books!
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
July 11, 2022
This book was a trip through the day in the life of a "former" rocker and his family as they traverse through love, loss and a few surprises. I was torn between a 3 and 4 star as it wasn't as "shocking" as it claimed it would be but also was a pretty solid read intertwining multiple points of views and having them all come together in their necessary ways. The ending was a bit forced to me and left me a bit disappointed but overall, a good book. Recommendation level 6/10
July 11, 2022
This book tells the story of an ageing rock star whose band led the rock and roll lifestyle, but now he wants a quiet life in France by the sea. His son’s new girlfriend is coming to stay and a lovely Summer looks to be ahead. But bring into the mix a stalker, scandals involving one of the band’s behaviour in the past set to affect everything, illness, secrets and plans for the future and you have a great book.
Thank you to the author for my advance copy of this book.
Thank you to the author for my advance copy of this book.
July 7, 2022
What a fantastic surprise of a book. I havent read any other books by this author, but I will definitely be buying some now.
I was into the book from page one and couldn't put it down. I read it in a day as I wanted to know the secret and the mystery.
Didn't disappoint
I was into the book from page one and couldn't put it down. I read it in a day as I wanted to know the secret and the mystery.
Didn't disappoint
July 2, 2022
Another cracking read from Patricia Dixon. Like her previous books it had me in tears. The characters jump off the page and wrap you in their world. I want to be part of Edie's world.
June 28, 2022
What can I say, this book made me laugh, cry, gasp and swoon. I fell in love with some of the characters, despised others and even wished I was related. Joe is a loveable rogue of a rock star and this book tells the story of him and his family, with all that that brings. I know you won’t be disappointed with any of it, it’s so well told, as you’d expect from this author.
July 18, 2022
Joe Jarrett, an aging but still very popular rock star, is trying to live a quiet life in Brittany by the sea. This despite a recent but successful legal battle against a former band member, a very poorly lifelong loyal manager Gus whom is he getting medical treatment for, a thirty-five-year-old talentless and entitled older son Lance from his first marriage, and the apple of his eye, younger son Ace from his second brief dalliance. Ace is a talented photographer and has plans to travel the world with his new girlfriend Edie, a literature graduate from England. As we meet the family, together with elderly staff Nanou and Silvestre, who are more like grandparents to Ace, Edie is travelling to France for Ace’s birthday to meet Joe for the first time. But she is hiding a big secret and has done her research well. Joe is also keeping something from everyone except Gus, in that he fears the death threat letters he has been receiving are from someone much closer to home than an obsessed fan or manic stalker. There are many things from his past that he never speaks of either, things he’s not proud of. What level of devastation will follow when these all these dark truths are unleashed and the storm of scandal that is approaching hits them all?
This is a story full of love, life, sadness, tragedy, missed opportunities and those twists of fate than can turn a life upside down in minutes. It’s brimming full of wonderful and colourful characters that immediately spring to life from the pages and whose various stories grip the reader’s heart and imagination. As always, Ms Dixon has a style that makes her books incredibly easy to dive into and remain there until the very last page with a plot that is clever, original and completely compelling, not to mention having a very topical theme. Another triumph from this author and not to be missed!! 5*
This is a story full of love, life, sadness, tragedy, missed opportunities and those twists of fate than can turn a life upside down in minutes. It’s brimming full of wonderful and colourful characters that immediately spring to life from the pages and whose various stories grip the reader’s heart and imagination. As always, Ms Dixon has a style that makes her books incredibly easy to dive into and remain there until the very last page with a plot that is clever, original and completely compelling, not to mention having a very topical theme. Another triumph from this author and not to be missed!! 5*
July 14, 2022
I always get excited and worried when I hear that Patricia Dixon has brought out a new book. Excited as I just love reading her books, and worried that I won’t enjoy it as much as the others. I needn’t have worried as this was another winner that has you gripped from the very first page … even before with that amazing cover.
Sex, drugs and rock and roll, three things we think of with older rock stars and the rock group NorthStar was no exception. Back in the heyday, girls would hang around for a chance for a look, a kiss and more, people didn’t take things seriously, but in the later years, these things come to the fore and, as we all know in recent years, these things get brought up and truth comes out.
Joe Jarrett’s band was still going strong, but as he got older, he liked nothing more than staying at his property in France and relaxing with his son, stepson, and the caretakers Nanou and Silvestre, who were like family. This is exactly how we first find him until history comes back to bite him, making his band a target for sleaze, especially one member, Denny. Not only does he find himself embroiled in deep worrying problems, with the press camped out on his doorstep, his best friend and manager Gus, who is very ill, but he also has a stalker. Bring into the mix, his stepson Ace’s girlfriend Edie who is acting very strangely, and you have a story full of blame, history, intrigue, sadness, and joy.
Yes, Patricia has captured just about every emotion possible in one book and I loved every page.
Sex, drugs and rock and roll, three things we think of with older rock stars and the rock group NorthStar was no exception. Back in the heyday, girls would hang around for a chance for a look, a kiss and more, people didn’t take things seriously, but in the later years, these things come to the fore and, as we all know in recent years, these things get brought up and truth comes out.
Joe Jarrett’s band was still going strong, but as he got older, he liked nothing more than staying at his property in France and relaxing with his son, stepson, and the caretakers Nanou and Silvestre, who were like family. This is exactly how we first find him until history comes back to bite him, making his band a target for sleaze, especially one member, Denny. Not only does he find himself embroiled in deep worrying problems, with the press camped out on his doorstep, his best friend and manager Gus, who is very ill, but he also has a stalker. Bring into the mix, his stepson Ace’s girlfriend Edie who is acting very strangely, and you have a story full of blame, history, intrigue, sadness, and joy.
Yes, Patricia has captured just about every emotion possible in one book and I loved every page.
July 16, 2022
Patricia’s Dixon’ latest novel is SENSATIONAL!!!
OH WOW, I just let my imagination run wild reading this beautiful and well thought out tale. It has all the elements of a Hollywood Blockbuster, but with plenty of the author’s northern grit to raise it far above the stars!
From the first page I was captured by Venus. A model at the top of her game with a family that loves her. But will it be enough to keep her safe.
I fell in love with Joe, who once toured the world as lead singer of the renowned group NorthStar, but now shuns the glitzy celebrated lifestyle and lives quietly on his farm in France. He has invited his family to join him to celebrate his birthday. His son Lance, a spoilt rich boy who only looks out for himself and Ace, his younger son, who is the complete opposite, being gentle and caring and only wanting the best for his father.
They are awaiting the arrival of Edie, Ace’s new girlfriend. But is she really who she says she is? Or is she about to bring about the downfall of Joe!
I so wanted to wrap Joe and Ace in cotton wool to keep them safe. As for Lance, I am still trying to work out whether I would really have thrown him to the wolves!
The author has written a brutally honest, and an extremely emotional portrayal of what happens when the secrets which have been simmering away in the background for years are finally exposed.
Do not miss out of the ultimate summer read of 2022!
OH WOW, I just let my imagination run wild reading this beautiful and well thought out tale. It has all the elements of a Hollywood Blockbuster, but with plenty of the author’s northern grit to raise it far above the stars!
From the first page I was captured by Venus. A model at the top of her game with a family that loves her. But will it be enough to keep her safe.
I fell in love with Joe, who once toured the world as lead singer of the renowned group NorthStar, but now shuns the glitzy celebrated lifestyle and lives quietly on his farm in France. He has invited his family to join him to celebrate his birthday. His son Lance, a spoilt rich boy who only looks out for himself and Ace, his younger son, who is the complete opposite, being gentle and caring and only wanting the best for his father.
They are awaiting the arrival of Edie, Ace’s new girlfriend. But is she really who she says she is? Or is she about to bring about the downfall of Joe!
I so wanted to wrap Joe and Ace in cotton wool to keep them safe. As for Lance, I am still trying to work out whether I would really have thrown him to the wolves!
The author has written a brutally honest, and an extremely emotional portrayal of what happens when the secrets which have been simmering away in the background for years are finally exposed.
Do not miss out of the ultimate summer read of 2022!
July 30, 2022
This is the best book I have read I have read in a long time. It manages to cover the seamy side of the popular music industry in a way that makes the problems clear, and offers some solutions, without beating you over the head. All this is done in the context of an entertaining and loving story.
The first part of the book feels like a bit of a slog, as there are many interlocking parts to this story, and they get introduced one after the other, while the connections don't become clear till later. Towards the end, though, as all of these pieces began to tie together, it was feeling like 4.5 stars, and I was seriously contemplating possibly awarding it my unprecedented 5-star rating.
Unfortunately two things stood in the way of achieving that.
- The first was one of my hot buttons: the heroine's potentially explosive secret was prevented from being healthily revealed by her to key people by a totally coincidental and impossibly timed event. TWICE!
- The second was the ending, where a key loose end was tied up abruptly and without explanation in a completely and unnecessarily unsatisfactory manner. It felt strongly as if the author just lost track of it, and ran out of time to make a publication deadline.
Let's hope that a second edition of this book can repair these problems at some future date, and make it worthy of a 5-star rating. Then it can be sold as a serious novel, rather than just another romance.
The first part of the book feels like a bit of a slog, as there are many interlocking parts to this story, and they get introduced one after the other, while the connections don't become clear till later. Towards the end, though, as all of these pieces began to tie together, it was feeling like 4.5 stars, and I was seriously contemplating possibly awarding it my unprecedented 5-star rating.
Unfortunately two things stood in the way of achieving that.
- The first was one of my hot buttons: the heroine's potentially explosive secret was prevented from being healthily revealed by her to key people by a totally coincidental and impossibly timed event. TWICE!
- The second was the ending, where a key loose end was tied up abruptly and without explanation in a completely and unnecessarily unsatisfactory manner. It felt strongly as if the author just lost track of it, and ran out of time to make a publication deadline.
Let's hope that a second edition of this book can repair these problems at some future date, and make it worthy of a 5-star rating. Then it can be sold as a serious novel, rather than just another romance.
July 15, 2022
As accomplished an author as Patricia Dixon is she has excelled herself with this book! A really well written book which is based predominantly in a remote farmhouse in France. This being the residence of ageing pop star Joe Garret who had brought all his family together to help celebrate his stepson, Ace's birthday. It was also an opportunity for Ace to introduce his girlfriend Edie to the family who unknowingly was harbouring a big secret. The birthday celebrations were put on the back burner as Garret and his band members murky past was about to come to the fore. Add to the mix a stalker threatening to get him made this an enthralling read.
Patricia Dixon describes each character so well you could almost visualise them and smell the aromas emanating from the kitchen. She has a wonderful knack of pushing every emotion to its absolute maximum. From laughing one minute to pulling at your heartstrings the next and then leading you to a precipice of suspense, this book has it all.
This is a truly riveting book and worth every one of the five stars I'm giving it in this review. A must read this summer.
Patricia Dixon describes each character so well you could almost visualise them and smell the aromas emanating from the kitchen. She has a wonderful knack of pushing every emotion to its absolute maximum. From laughing one minute to pulling at your heartstrings the next and then leading you to a precipice of suspense, this book has it all.
This is a truly riveting book and worth every one of the five stars I'm giving it in this review. A must read this summer.
July 18, 2022
Reading this book will be taken to a life after music of a great rock star . You are going to see and live his life in France where life is that little bit simpler , but is it ….. ?
Ace - is such a good soul , perceiving world his own way
Joe - absolute fell in love with him and his big heart
Gus - his story made me cry 😭 (soft ass I am and I don’t cry often)
Lance - deserving slap in the face from the begging 🤣
Edie - could have turn to true psycho really fast but wow she is different kind of a girl
Aces mum - I want her to be my friend with her all fun ways of dealing with life lol
But I most adore the way the book is written , the story as while , what beautiful language is used (some words needed to be translated 😅 as my English vocabulary was not so advanced , but after couple of chapter it was a smooth go)
Clever , well written , exciting and creating all kind of emotions in my head
Thank you for this book 😍
Ace - is such a good soul , perceiving world his own way
Joe - absolute fell in love with him and his big heart
Gus - his story made me cry 😭 (soft ass I am and I don’t cry often)
Lance - deserving slap in the face from the begging 🤣
Edie - could have turn to true psycho really fast but wow she is different kind of a girl
Aces mum - I want her to be my friend with her all fun ways of dealing with life lol
But I most adore the way the book is written , the story as while , what beautiful language is used (some words needed to be translated 😅 as my English vocabulary was not so advanced , but after couple of chapter it was a smooth go)
Clever , well written , exciting and creating all kind of emotions in my head
Thank you for this book 😍
July 17, 2022
When Joe an aging and reclusive rock star gathers his family together to celebrate his son's birthday, Ace brings a new girlfriend with him. But she comes with her own baggage which threatens to shake up the family.
I was slightly disappointed by this book, I found it a little slow in places, and for me the balance of the narration ( each chapter is written from a differing perspective of the characters) meant I didn't find out as much as I wanted to about some of the characters. If I could have given half stars I would have given 3.5.
Overall I enjoyed it, and am grateful to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review, I just didn't love it the way I wanted to.
I was slightly disappointed by this book, I found it a little slow in places, and for me the balance of the narration ( each chapter is written from a differing perspective of the characters) meant I didn't find out as much as I wanted to about some of the characters. If I could have given half stars I would have given 3.5.
Overall I enjoyed it, and am grateful to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review, I just didn't love it the way I wanted to.
July 21, 2022
Joe Jarrett lives a world away from the rock and roll life he once led with his band Northstar , when he had it all ...Now living in a beautiful farmhouse by the sea at Las Bambinais , he has found a kind of inner peace .But Joe is a troubled man , his son Lance is vying for the position of manager as his friend recuperates ..and he is receiving strange messages that he cannot fathom out ..When Ace , his other son with a wanderlust for life invites Edie, his girlfriend to their home ...the story really takes a hold of you ..as secrets that have been kept locked away come tumbling out... 5 stars ..so very Emotional ...Beautiful, Sublime and Tender storytelling that leaves a catch in your throat ..
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