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Love on the Radio #2
Don't You Forget About Me
Whoever said be careful what you wish for had a serious gift for understatement.
As one of the world's hugest musicians I'd seen and had it all. Sold out tours. Awards. Fame. Money. Women... And I'd almost lost it all. Epically.
Now I'm back home. A broken, burned out, desperate rock star...and a single father. I returned to give my son a family, stability. To figure out my life. But coming home meant seeing her.
The woman who was once my everything. Who made life in this too small town bearable. Who I loved with my whole heart...my whole body. But long held secrets forced me to leave nine years ago. Forced me to abandon her. And she's never forgiven me.
Still...
I've never forgotten her or the heat between us that burned so hot we damn near went up in flames with it. And I want it again. And again. Even knowing the past will only tear us apart once more...
As one of the world's hugest musicians I'd seen and had it all. Sold out tours. Awards. Fame. Money. Women... And I'd almost lost it all. Epically.
Now I'm back home. A broken, burned out, desperate rock star...and a single father. I returned to give my son a family, stability. To figure out my life. But coming home meant seeing her.
The woman who was once my everything. Who made life in this too small town bearable. Who I loved with my whole heart...my whole body. But long held secrets forced me to leave nine years ago. Forced me to abandon her. And she's never forgiven me.
Still...
I've never forgotten her or the heat between us that burned so hot we damn near went up in flames with it. And I want it again. And again. Even knowing the past will only tear us apart once more...
144 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2022
134 people are currently reading
625 people want to read
About the author
Naima Simone
169 books2,144 followersPublished since 2009, USA Today Bestselling author Naima Simone loves writing sizzling romances with heart, a touch of humor and snark. Her books have been featured in The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly, and described as balancing “crackling, electric love scenes with exquisitely rendered characters caught in emotional turmoil.”
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
February 5, 2023
Don't You Forget About Me is a very interesting second chance romance. I didn't really read the blurb when I requested the book from Netgalley, I just clicked request because I love Naima Simone. It's interesting too because I've read a lot of different book lengths from Simone, but this one felt like such a weird length to me. I think Simone did a lot in these pages (156) and on the one hand I absolutely loved all that she did and on the other hand, I want a 500 page book from Simone because I think she could actually make use of all of those pages.
Anyway, Don't You Forget About Me features a rock star (King) who left behind the love of his life (Lennon) without a word many years ago. Now, King is back, with a child from a woman he doesn't really remember, and Lennon is not prepared to see him. While I really liked the romance aspect of this book, Lennon's father is terrible and I... was sort of struggling with that aspect of the book. This is part of why I think if there were more pages, I would have done better with the book because if the dynamic was a little more fleshed out, I either would have been more sympathetic or I would have DNF'd it. So... YMMV, but Naima Simone definitely delivered on the spice, as always!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. Sorry that as usual it's taken me ages to actually get around to reading it... Oops.
Anyway, Don't You Forget About Me features a rock star (King) who left behind the love of his life (Lennon) without a word many years ago. Now, King is back, with a child from a woman he doesn't really remember, and Lennon is not prepared to see him. While I really liked the romance aspect of this book, Lennon's father is terrible and I... was sort of struggling with that aspect of the book. This is part of why I think if there were more pages, I would have done better with the book because if the dynamic was a little more fleshed out, I either would have been more sympathetic or I would have DNF'd it. So... YMMV, but Naima Simone definitely delivered on the spice, as always!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. Sorry that as usual it's taken me ages to actually get around to reading it... Oops.
October 15, 2022
Rated 4.5 Stars
Don’t You Forget About Me was amazing. I loved it. I devoured it in one sitting. It was sweet. It was heart wrenching. It was heartwarming. It was beautiful. It was steamy. It was an all around amazing read. I loved these characters and their journey and can’t wait for the next book in the series. I’m hoping the other books will feature the awesome cast of secondary characters, King’s band mates and Lennon’s best friend, Lena. I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Don’t You Forget About Me was amazing. I loved it. I devoured it in one sitting. It was sweet. It was heart wrenching. It was heartwarming. It was beautiful. It was steamy. It was an all around amazing read. I loved these characters and their journey and can’t wait for the next book in the series. I’m hoping the other books will feature the awesome cast of secondary characters, King’s band mates and Lennon’s best friend, Lena. I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2022
Super short and sweet read.
This is a second chance story between two high school sweethearts that is both, heartbreaking but also so sweet. I loved how the characters managed to find each other after 10 years and made it work against all the obstacles.
Don't You Forget About Me also has some of my favorite tropes, so I enjoyed it: Rockstar, second chance, single parent, small town.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a second chance story between two high school sweethearts that is both, heartbreaking but also so sweet. I loved how the characters managed to find each other after 10 years and made it work against all the obstacles.
Don't You Forget About Me also has some of my favorite tropes, so I enjoyed it: Rockstar, second chance, single parent, small town.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 23, 2022
Don’t you forget about me
By: Naima Simone
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Never should’ve been apart!
In the second book in the Love in the radio series we meet King and Lennon. And oh boy did they have a heart breaking story to tell. Her manipulative judge father at the literal head of the storm. The entire story you know the love these two share and the loss that neither deserved. It was amazing to see how they come back to one another. The author writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Whoever said be careful what you wish for had a serious gift for understatement.
As one of the world’s hugest musicians I’d seen and had it all. Sold out tours. Awards. Fame. Money. Women… And I’d almost lost it all. Epically.
Now I’m back home. A broken, burned out, desperate rock star…and a single father. I returned to give my son a family, stability. To figure out my life. But coming home meant seeing her.
The woman who was once my everything. Who made life in this too small town bearable. Who I loved with my whole heart…my whole body. But long held secrets forced me to leave nine years ago. Forced me to abandon her. And she’s never forgiven me.
Still…
I’ve never forgotten her or the heat between us that burned so hot we damn near went up in flames with it. And I want it again. And again. Even knowing the past will only tear us apart once more…
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
Thanks Netgally for letting me read and review.📚💕
By: Naima Simone
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Never should’ve been apart!
In the second book in the Love in the radio series we meet King and Lennon. And oh boy did they have a heart breaking story to tell. Her manipulative judge father at the literal head of the storm. The entire story you know the love these two share and the loss that neither deserved. It was amazing to see how they come back to one another. The author writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: Whoever said be careful what you wish for had a serious gift for understatement.
As one of the world’s hugest musicians I’d seen and had it all. Sold out tours. Awards. Fame. Money. Women… And I’d almost lost it all. Epically.
Now I’m back home. A broken, burned out, desperate rock star…and a single father. I returned to give my son a family, stability. To figure out my life. But coming home meant seeing her.
The woman who was once my everything. Who made life in this too small town bearable. Who I loved with my whole heart…my whole body. But long held secrets forced me to leave nine years ago. Forced me to abandon her. And she’s never forgiven me.
Still…
I’ve never forgotten her or the heat between us that burned so hot we damn near went up in flames with it. And I want it again. And again. Even knowing the past will only tear us apart once more…
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
Thanks Netgally for letting me read and review.📚💕
October 17, 2022
This wasn’t my favorite of her books. For being a novella, it was very angsty and there was so much in the way of secrets and anger and lying and betrayal and toxic father/daughter relationship and getting arrested and a judge who was abusing his power and a hero fresh out of rehab with a new baby. It was all too much. I did like the second chance romance aspect of it but I really hated Lennon’s dad and how he treated her, frankly, was a bit triggering for me. I just wish it had either been a full length book because there were so many issues that didn’t get the attention they deserved due to the space constraints of a novella or that there were slightly less issues overall, like maybe 1 or 2 less things. Regardless, this author is always a must read for me and despite my issues with this particular book, I read it in 1 sitting.
Content Notes: addiction, mention of rehab, toxic parental relationships, off page parental death, abuse of authority, abandonment;
ARC courtesy of publisher, review is all mine;
Content Notes: addiction, mention of rehab, toxic parental relationships, off page parental death, abuse of authority, abandonment;
ARC courtesy of publisher, review is all mine;
November 1, 2022
Don’t You forget About Me is the second book in the Love On The Radio series, and King and Lennon’s story. Naima is a one-click author for me and this book is another example of why. Not only was it beautifully written, but she brings the angst and heat and the emotion every time. Add in some of my favorite tropes, rock star, single dad, small town romance and reunited lovers and I was all over this book!
I absolutely adored King and Lennon’s heart-wrenching road to happily ever after! Their longing and pain jumped off the pages. The tension! And that email at the end! Seriously…all the swooning! I can’t wait for the next in this series!
I absolutely adored King and Lennon’s heart-wrenching road to happily ever after! Their longing and pain jumped off the pages. The tension! And that email at the end! Seriously…all the swooning! I can’t wait for the next in this series!
October 17, 2022
Quick Summary: Second chance with a rocker
My Review: Don't You Forget About Me by Naima Simone was a love of a lifetime, second chance romance. It was about King, a small town guy turned rocker with a troubled past, and Lennon, the daughter of a judge who fell hard for a perceived bad boy.
From the beginning of this story, Lennon wears her heart on her sleeve. She is young and in love with King. She has given him all of her firsts. Almost immediately, she is faced with a harsh and brutal reality. Feeling betrayed and abandoned, she tries to live her life on her own terms. A decade of settling has left her empty. She longs for more.
Haunted by his past and chasing away his demons, King returns to his roots. Soon, he has an inevitable encounter with the only woman he has ever loved. Even with knowing he should stay away from her, he can't. With secrets existing between them, he knows his true desire can never be. Still, he longs for more.
My Final Say: This romance was a total vibe. In this love story, there was innocence, first love, hurt feelings, manipulations, dysfunctional relationships, betrayals, unconditional love, and forgiveness. Readers who enjoy a love that was meant to be type of story will swoon for this one.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Level: M
Status: Short but sweet 🍬
Other: A few editing problems were noted, however, it did not detract from the overall story. Also, I noticed that the cover of the book did not seem to totally match with the identifying traits associated with King. I love the cover, but the content read as a multicultural romance. I wish the cover would have depicted that.
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher, and to NetGalley, who provided access to this title in exchange for an honest review. The words I have shared are my own and have not been influenced by the aforementioned in any way.
My Review: Don't You Forget About Me by Naima Simone was a love of a lifetime, second chance romance. It was about King, a small town guy turned rocker with a troubled past, and Lennon, the daughter of a judge who fell hard for a perceived bad boy.
From the beginning of this story, Lennon wears her heart on her sleeve. She is young and in love with King. She has given him all of her firsts. Almost immediately, she is faced with a harsh and brutal reality. Feeling betrayed and abandoned, she tries to live her life on her own terms. A decade of settling has left her empty. She longs for more.
Haunted by his past and chasing away his demons, King returns to his roots. Soon, he has an inevitable encounter with the only woman he has ever loved. Even with knowing he should stay away from her, he can't. With secrets existing between them, he knows his true desire can never be. Still, he longs for more.
My Final Say: This romance was a total vibe. In this love story, there was innocence, first love, hurt feelings, manipulations, dysfunctional relationships, betrayals, unconditional love, and forgiveness. Readers who enjoy a love that was meant to be type of story will swoon for this one.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Level: M
Status: Short but sweet 🍬
Other: A few editing problems were noted, however, it did not detract from the overall story. Also, I noticed that the cover of the book did not seem to totally match with the identifying traits associated with King. I love the cover, but the content read as a multicultural romance. I wish the cover would have depicted that.
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher, and to NetGalley, who provided access to this title in exchange for an honest review. The words I have shared are my own and have not been influenced by the aforementioned in any way.
November 5, 2022
my heart
This beautiful short and quick read by the talented naima Simone was everything I needed. I loved book one so when I saw she was writing another book in the series I couldn’t help but KU and it didn’t disappoint, I tried to prolong it so it wouldn’t end. This is a second chance romance with angst. The intensity between these two the second they see each other again has my heart leaping out of my chest. I couldn’t help fall for king because his heart was in the right place but I still wanted to scream at him. I read this book so quickly and hoping book three comes out soon. I highly recommend this book and this series. It has all the emotion you need when reading a romance book.
This beautiful short and quick read by the talented naima Simone was everything I needed. I loved book one so when I saw she was writing another book in the series I couldn’t help but KU and it didn’t disappoint, I tried to prolong it so it wouldn’t end. This is a second chance romance with angst. The intensity between these two the second they see each other again has my heart leaping out of my chest. I couldn’t help fall for king because his heart was in the right place but I still wanted to scream at him. I read this book so quickly and hoping book three comes out soon. I highly recommend this book and this series. It has all the emotion you need when reading a romance book.
October 24, 2022
I wish there was more. I wanted more depth in the story. We don’t get to see King and Lennon interact without sex or fighting. We don’t see why they like each other. Why the fell for each other. We see a little why Lennon and King are the way they are. I can’t really say much because I don’t want to give out spoilers. But more was needed.
Now I did like the overall story. I enjoyed my time reading this.
* I was give a copy of this book but this plays no part in how I felt or how I rated this book*
December 23, 2022
King and Lennon are so real and human. Even when they are separated from each other for ten years. Even with their separate lives and secrets getting in the way...they never forgot that real love that was theirs. When they met again, it was explosive!! Nobody could separated them this time, not even the Judge.🥰
November 1, 2022
If you are looking to curl up with a great book by a great author, look no further. Naima Simone always delivers. Don't You Forget About Me is a 2nd chance, small town romance of a fallen rock star and the daughter of a judge. You'll be caught up in a myriad of emotions as you watch them finding each other, forgiving each other, and moving forward with their now separate lives. This book will suck you in and not let go until it's done. A great weekend read!
October 31, 2022
You'll need a cold shower after this one and you can only hope that your Kindle doesn't spontaneously combust.....the chemistry between Lennon & King is so scorching 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 even after all these years.
There are so many other things at play in this story though.....control being a major factor. It's so well written and the emotion is off the charts.
There are so many other things at play in this story though.....control being a major factor. It's so well written and the emotion is off the charts.
November 2, 2022
love, love, love
I love this series! The books are on the shorter side, but the characters have so much depth. The stories are real, which means I’m feeling the full range of emotions! And these two. I’m so happy they found their way back to each other. They both deserved a HEA!
I love this series! The books are on the shorter side, but the characters have so much depth. The stories are real, which means I’m feeling the full range of emotions! And these two. I’m so happy they found their way back to each other. They both deserved a HEA!
April 25, 2024
I enjoyed this book!!
I love a juicy and drama-filled second chance at love romance. And King/Lennon's story is in my top 50 2024 books to read. I appreciated their back story so I could understand how deeply King and Lennon's past affected their present and possibly their future as well.
King and Lennon's story was heart-wrenching as well as it was heartwarming. The manipulation and lies that tore them from each other were so hard to read. The evil lengths people will go through to control someone. But King and Lennon fought their way back to each other and straight to an amazing HEA. This book was an awesome read. I highly recommend it.
I love a juicy and drama-filled second chance at love romance. And King/Lennon's story is in my top 50 2024 books to read. I appreciated their back story so I could understand how deeply King and Lennon's past affected their present and possibly their future as well.
King and Lennon's story was heart-wrenching as well as it was heartwarming. The manipulation and lies that tore them from each other were so hard to read. The evil lengths people will go through to control someone. But King and Lennon fought their way back to each other and straight to an amazing HEA. This book was an awesome read. I highly recommend it.
October 23, 2022
Lennon was in love with King and planned to run away with him when she graduated high school but King disappeared. He’s back now after ten years. He’s a recovering addict and a single father. He also a super rich rock star. Lennon is angry and hurt but she and King eventually pick up where they left off. Low and behold, the reason for King’s leaving comes out and devastates Lennon. If she can’t trust the man she loves then why does she need him? It’s King’s turn to prove himself to Lennon. Can he do it? Get the book and find out. Once again Naima Simone brings it…all the pain, the angst, the sexual tension, the naughtiness and love. You won’t be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2022
Don’t You Forget About Me is the second in Naima Simone’s Love on the Radio series.
So… buckle up, friends—this is quite the ride.
Lennon Ward and King Sullivan are the classic good girl/bad boy couple. They’d planned to run away together after Lennon’s high school graduation but instead King breaks Lennon’s heart.
A decade later, Lennon’s father drops the bomb during Sunday dinner that King is back in town…
Naima Simone takes us on the sweeping gamut of emotions—the pleasure of seeing someone you love, the agony of loss, the teeth-grinding frustration that only those who mean the most to us can inflict, the warm blossoming of desire, the tenacious tendrils of hope that long to burst free…
Ms Simone packs it all into this tightly told story. I read it in one sitting, with heartfelt appreciation for the lows, highs, and everything in between. Can’t wait for more in this series!
So… buckle up, friends—this is quite the ride.
Lennon Ward and King Sullivan are the classic good girl/bad boy couple. They’d planned to run away together after Lennon’s high school graduation but instead King breaks Lennon’s heart.
A decade later, Lennon’s father drops the bomb during Sunday dinner that King is back in town…
Naima Simone takes us on the sweeping gamut of emotions—the pleasure of seeing someone you love, the agony of loss, the teeth-grinding frustration that only those who mean the most to us can inflict, the warm blossoming of desire, the tenacious tendrils of hope that long to burst free…
Ms Simone packs it all into this tightly told story. I read it in one sitting, with heartfelt appreciation for the lows, highs, and everything in between. Can’t wait for more in this series!
October 17, 2022
Let me gather myself because this one really had my emotions all over the place. I loved this for me! Naima has this way of penning a romance that just has you so involved that you can't help but cheer for the HEA. But this couple had to earn it and along with finding themselves. Lennon, love her name, was in love with the "bad boy" of her small town. Her and King snuck around because her father controlled every second of her life as a teenager. Let's be honest, her dad tried to as an adult also. Lennon and King made an agreement to leave town after she graduated from high school. That's when King ghosted her for 10 years.
King comes back after getting rid of his own demons and ready to claim Lennon again. If only life would be that simple for our rock star. King and Lennon eventually find their HEA in each other but the work and reconnection is what really makes this book for me.
I loved every moment of this book.
Triggers: ghosting, controlling parent, death of a parent (Cancer), and substance abuse
I just reviewed Don't You Forget About Me by Naima Simone #netgalley
King comes back after getting rid of his own demons and ready to claim Lennon again. If only life would be that simple for our rock star. King and Lennon eventually find their HEA in each other but the work and reconnection is what really makes this book for me.
I loved every moment of this book.
Triggers: ghosting, controlling parent, death of a parent (Cancer), and substance abuse
I just reviewed Don't You Forget About Me by Naima Simone #netgalley
November 1, 2022
King Sullivan burned his bridges with Lennon Ward and then burned out trying to forget her. The rockstar lifestyle nearly does him in until one of his past mistakes slaps him in the face with reality. His return home to Pike’s End places him in Lennon’s path again.
10 years ago, Lennon’s teenage heart was shattered when King, her secret boyfriend, disappeared after graduation without a word, leaving her behind to chase his dreams of being a rockstar.
As they rediscover their passion for each other is still just as strong can she forgive him when the truth behind his leaving comes to light?
We get to bear witness to the emotional roller coaster Lennon experiences with King’s return as we watch her grow into a strong determined woman who takes charge of her life and goes after all her heart desires.
I loved reading this story and the fun play on song titles for this series.
10 years ago, Lennon’s teenage heart was shattered when King, her secret boyfriend, disappeared after graduation without a word, leaving her behind to chase his dreams of being a rockstar.
As they rediscover their passion for each other is still just as strong can she forgive him when the truth behind his leaving comes to light?
We get to bear witness to the emotional roller coaster Lennon experiences with King’s return as we watch her grow into a strong determined woman who takes charge of her life and goes after all her heart desires.
I loved reading this story and the fun play on song titles for this series.
October 13, 2022
The angst in this book settles over you like a heavy fog, permeating to your very soul! The emails that start this book set the tone, and you feel the hope and love wither and die as a young girl’s heart shatters. A decade doesn’t dull that, and everything bubbles to the surface when they meet again, even the sizzling chemistry they can’t control. They were hot together and there was no way to contain that inferno. When it all splits open and the all truths are exposed, that heavy fog, it lifts, and it is only a matter of time, and back to the emails, before these two finally get their lives back on track. Loved it, loved it, loved it, and the song from the title aptly played in my head through it all <3
October 18, 2022
I have no life experience to speak on this subject but are people really like this? Books would have you believe that someone you dated for 5 minutes in high school leaves you unable to ever truly move on a decade later... is that true? Because with most things it seems you can grow up and get past things and there’s no reason at all I can see that you would still be so hung up on someone you dated for I wanna say months or weeks back when you were 18 and now you are 28 with a fully functioning brain and you’ve never really moved on. It makes sense when teenagers are so hung up on that stuff but come on you are almost 30... Anywho I say all that to say I may have found another troupe that I hate. Nothing wrong with a second chance love but this type of thing feels nonsensical. At least to me who has never experienced such in real life. Still seems ridiculous...
So....
Obviously this is a book about a second chance love ten years and many obstacles later. King is a famous rockstar fresh out of rehab returning to the town he was desperate to escape from all his life. He’s got a baby son and his band mates decided to make the move with him cause family. Then there’s Lennon the woman left behind with a seriously unhealthy relationship with her father and a fairly recent break up from a relationship ship going nowhere. Ten years ago Lennon and King had a super secret relationship for reasons and he seemingly ditched her to move to LA and start a life of his own. Because this is in fact a romance of course there’s more to the story and the “secret” becomes obvious very quickly. Now King is back both him and Lennon are having feels cause romance.
Unnecessary secrets and lies are rather annoying to me too but that’s just me. Because you really could tell someone something even if you have to do the thing that’s going to hurt them. You could make them understand alas that takes way too much thinking for people in a romance. Another nonsense thing is why did King even come back to this town? There are small towns literally everywhere he could have gone anywhere. Instead he goes to a place he doesn’t like full of people who always looked down on him and know his whole family history. A town where his son would grow up potentially being treated the same way he was. But the answer of course is romance and really obviously because Lennon is there. Why did she never move away from this town she had been willing to leave once? Nonsense reasons.
I don’t read a lot of contemporary romance for so many reasons if there’s not something else going on some magic, supernatural, mystery or something else they are just nonsense to me. So much nonsense and predictability. Two chapters in I already know exactly how this would all go... romance comes with a stupid formula but people like it. So that said it was never going to be 5 stars for me. I wanted to read it because I haven’t read the author before but I had heard of her and seen her places so when I saw the arc I figured why not? It did seem like it could be interesting. And to be clear I don’t actually hate it, there’s a story of redemption and overcoming addiction and whatnot in there. I also didn’t hate the characters. But points off for predictability and nonsense. I still plan on reading other works by the author and this is the 2nd book in the series so I’ll check out the first too.
So....
Obviously this is a book about a second chance love ten years and many obstacles later. King is a famous rockstar fresh out of rehab returning to the town he was desperate to escape from all his life. He’s got a baby son and his band mates decided to make the move with him cause family. Then there’s Lennon the woman left behind with a seriously unhealthy relationship with her father and a fairly recent break up from a relationship ship going nowhere. Ten years ago Lennon and King had a super secret relationship for reasons and he seemingly ditched her to move to LA and start a life of his own. Because this is in fact a romance of course there’s more to the story and the “secret” becomes obvious very quickly. Now King is back both him and Lennon are having feels cause romance.
Unnecessary secrets and lies are rather annoying to me too but that’s just me. Because you really could tell someone something even if you have to do the thing that’s going to hurt them. You could make them understand alas that takes way too much thinking for people in a romance. Another nonsense thing is why did King even come back to this town? There are small towns literally everywhere he could have gone anywhere. Instead he goes to a place he doesn’t like full of people who always looked down on him and know his whole family history. A town where his son would grow up potentially being treated the same way he was. But the answer of course is romance and really obviously because Lennon is there. Why did she never move away from this town she had been willing to leave once? Nonsense reasons.
I don’t read a lot of contemporary romance for so many reasons if there’s not something else going on some magic, supernatural, mystery or something else they are just nonsense to me. So much nonsense and predictability. Two chapters in I already know exactly how this would all go... romance comes with a stupid formula but people like it. So that said it was never going to be 5 stars for me. I wanted to read it because I haven’t read the author before but I had heard of her and seen her places so when I saw the arc I figured why not? It did seem like it could be interesting. And to be clear I don’t actually hate it, there’s a story of redemption and overcoming addiction and whatnot in there. I also didn’t hate the characters. But points off for predictability and nonsense. I still plan on reading other works by the author and this is the 2nd book in the series so I’ll check out the first too.
November 1, 2022
3.75stars-DON’T YOU FORGET ABOUT ME by Naima Simone is a stand alone,contemporary, adult rock romance story line focusing on thirty year old, disgraced rock star King Sullivan, and twenty-eight year old, primary school teacher Lennon Ward.
Told form dual first person perspectives (Lennon and King) DON’T YOU FORGET ABOUT ME is a second chance romance focusing on thirty year old, disgraced rock star King Sullivan, and twenty-eight year old, primary school teacher Lennon Ward. Ten years earlier, on the day of her high school graduation, Lennon’s heart was destroyed when the boy that she loved, left without looking back. Fast forward to present day wherein King Sullivan returns to his hometown, disgraced and in recovery, having spiralled out of control on his way to the top of the rock-god charts but King’s return home is met with hurt and trepidation when the only woman he has ever loved, remains broken and destroyed by the actions, ten years before. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between King and Lennon, and the potential fall-out when Lennon must face the ultimate betrayal when the truth is revealed.
The relationship between Lennon and King is one of second chances. King was forced out of town ten years earlier, and throughout the years, his lead the cliched life of a broken rock star.Now in recovery, King is hoping to reunite with the only woman he has ever loved but a woman who is struggling with what happened and why. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.
We are introduced to King’s brother Leif, and his fellow band mates Kade, Mac and Gideon: Lennon’s father Judge Terrance Ward, and her ex boyfriend Justin.
DON’T YOU FORGET ABOUT ME is a fast paced, quick read focusing on secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control. The premise is emotional and revealing; the romance is seductive; the characters are determined and broken.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told form dual first person perspectives (Lennon and King) DON’T YOU FORGET ABOUT ME is a second chance romance focusing on thirty year old, disgraced rock star King Sullivan, and twenty-eight year old, primary school teacher Lennon Ward. Ten years earlier, on the day of her high school graduation, Lennon’s heart was destroyed when the boy that she loved, left without looking back. Fast forward to present day wherein King Sullivan returns to his hometown, disgraced and in recovery, having spiralled out of control on his way to the top of the rock-god charts but King’s return home is met with hurt and trepidation when the only woman he has ever loved, remains broken and destroyed by the actions, ten years before. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between King and Lennon, and the potential fall-out when Lennon must face the ultimate betrayal when the truth is revealed.
The relationship between Lennon and King is one of second chances. King was forced out of town ten years earlier, and throughout the years, his lead the cliched life of a broken rock star.Now in recovery, King is hoping to reunite with the only woman he has ever loved but a woman who is struggling with what happened and why. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.
We are introduced to King’s brother Leif, and his fellow band mates Kade, Mac and Gideon: Lennon’s father Judge Terrance Ward, and her ex boyfriend Justin.
DON’T YOU FORGET ABOUT ME is a fast paced, quick read focusing on secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control. The premise is emotional and revealing; the romance is seductive; the characters are determined and broken.
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 25, 2024
Am I reading the same book as everyone else?!?!?! This book had potential but failed to execute. I wanted to like it. Believe me, I really, really, really did. I just couldn’t bring myself to finish because there were so many things that I couldn’t get past (made it to about 47%). While I love a good second chance romance, the synopsis sounded interesting and the reason the MMC left could have made a really go story (though I predicted it long before it was ever disclosed), the storyline lacked depth. I’m someone who likes to be showed what’s going on and not told. And everything the MCs were saying were soooo redundant and even more cringy. Part of it probably had to do with the fact that it felt like the author was waxing poetic with metaphors that often times didn’t help further my understanding, intensify the feeling, or draw a deeper connection. It just diluted the story. While I can understand the parallels the author was trying to draw, it didn’t have the impact it was suppose to. Add to the fact that I didn’t get characters who were flat and lacked a backstory (or much of a story really). From what I read, their first chance together was lust-filled with not much else. So it made it difficult to connect with them. Then, I couldn’t actually buy the “rockstar/musician” aspect because there was none, just a quick description about the stereotypical rockstar lifestyle that led to his downfall. Also, there were weirdly placed descriptions of sex and stimulated body parts throughout *cough cough auto shop break room scene* which really cheaper the romance. Don’t get me wrong, I like a good sex scene just as much as the next person, but that first requires well-timed sexual tension/sex scenes and an actual connection. To top it all off, there were so many typos.
After writing this review… actually everything fell flat.
Sorry if my review was all over the place, I just needed to get it all out.
After writing this review… actually everything fell flat.
Sorry if my review was all over the place, I just needed to get it all out.
October 30, 2022
Lennon Ward & King Sullivan had a secret romance ten years ago, or so they thought. Yet, King left Lennon on the night of her HS graduation without any notice considering the plan was to leave together. Unbeknownst to Lennon dark forces from her inner circle forced King’s solo departure ten years ago.
Now King, lead singer/writer of his rock group is back to settle down and raise his infant son away from the Hollywood glitz, paparazzi, and drugs that almost claimed his life. King is now 6 months sober, has a 9 month old son, and lots baggage from the last 10 years. Yet when he runs into Lennon again, it’s as if he never left…except for the hurt and disappointment he reads in her eyes.
While King and Lennon embark on another ‘clandestine’ relationship, the dark forces are back at work to destroy their budding new relationship.
Once the barrier is revealed, Lennon must decide if she can be with the one lied to her, King…but she also severs ties with the one who betrayed and hurt her the most instead of protecting and strengthening her when she was hurting the most.
I loved Lennon in this story, she’s strong, independent, determined, yet she’s still a daddy’s girl…until he (daddy, the judge and jury in this case) betrays her trust completely. I grew to love King, especially as he stood firm in his decision to let Lennon drive the tempo and depth of their current day relationship. There’s a fantastic happy ending for Lennon and King.
Now King, lead singer/writer of his rock group is back to settle down and raise his infant son away from the Hollywood glitz, paparazzi, and drugs that almost claimed his life. King is now 6 months sober, has a 9 month old son, and lots baggage from the last 10 years. Yet when he runs into Lennon again, it’s as if he never left…except for the hurt and disappointment he reads in her eyes.
While King and Lennon embark on another ‘clandestine’ relationship, the dark forces are back at work to destroy their budding new relationship.
Once the barrier is revealed, Lennon must decide if she can be with the one lied to her, King…but she also severs ties with the one who betrayed and hurt her the most instead of protecting and strengthening her when she was hurting the most.
I loved Lennon in this story, she’s strong, independent, determined, yet she’s still a daddy’s girl…until he (daddy, the judge and jury in this case) betrays her trust completely. I grew to love King, especially as he stood firm in his decision to let Lennon drive the tempo and depth of their current day relationship. There’s a fantastic happy ending for Lennon and King.
November 2, 2022
3.5⭐
If you're a reader that loves when the angst is ramped up to level 1000 in a story, this is the book for you. Don't You Forget About Me has so much drama-everything from addiction, recovery, and parental woes to dirty small town politics. While I usually love all the angst in my reads, I'd have preferred this story to be a full-length book versus a novella so that all of the many issues that were introduced could get a little more closure. Also, I've pretty much never loathed a character more than I loathe Lennon's dad. That man needed a serious dressing down and while I don't think he got what he deserved, I did enjoy that Lennon recognized she should have been looking to herself for validation and respect. As for the romance, I'll say that King and Lennon had lots of chemistry, but I was missing the little interactions that made me feel as though they were a couple rekindling actual feelings for one another. It felt like I learned more about Lennon through the altercations with her father than I did from her interactions with King.
While this novella isn't my favorite by this particular author, it was still a quick and entertaining read to pass a few hours.
*One last note-the cover for this book does not match the hero description in the least, which was a little jarring. I realize the author has no control over that, but hopefully the publisher will do better about providing covers that better represent the characters.
If you're a reader that loves when the angst is ramped up to level 1000 in a story, this is the book for you. Don't You Forget About Me has so much drama-everything from addiction, recovery, and parental woes to dirty small town politics. While I usually love all the angst in my reads, I'd have preferred this story to be a full-length book versus a novella so that all of the many issues that were introduced could get a little more closure. Also, I've pretty much never loathed a character more than I loathe Lennon's dad. That man needed a serious dressing down and while I don't think he got what he deserved, I did enjoy that Lennon recognized she should have been looking to herself for validation and respect. As for the romance, I'll say that King and Lennon had lots of chemistry, but I was missing the little interactions that made me feel as though they were a couple rekindling actual feelings for one another. It felt like I learned more about Lennon through the altercations with her father than I did from her interactions with King.
While this novella isn't my favorite by this particular author, it was still a quick and entertaining read to pass a few hours.
*One last note-the cover for this book does not match the hero description in the least, which was a little jarring. I realize the author has no control over that, but hopefully the publisher will do better about providing covers that better represent the characters.
October 19, 2022
Don't You Forget About Me is a second chance romance involving King, a rockstar who has recently gotten out of rehab and has returned to his hometown ten years after he abruptly left it, and Lennon behind. Lennon is an elementary school teacher and at one time loved King more than anything, until he left her behind and broke her heart.
There was so much passion and fire between Lennon and King. They had ten years of unresolved issues and feelings and secrets. I struggled somewhat with how quickly Lennon moved beyond her anger and grief over the past and their relationship to get involved with King on a physical level. It didn't seem realistic given the depth of feelings and hurt. I did appreciate how much King seemed to have worked to turn his life around. I did think these two had some great chemstry and I could see them together. I just struggled with how quickly it happened.
This book was really fast-paced and/or it had a lot happening and it was shorter in length so it made it seemed somewhat hurried and maybe things didn't get the development they deserved. This was my first book by this author so I didn't quite know what to expect. It was engaging, I just think it wasn't completely realistic at times and it had maybe too much going on.
There was so much passion and fire between Lennon and King. They had ten years of unresolved issues and feelings and secrets. I struggled somewhat with how quickly Lennon moved beyond her anger and grief over the past and their relationship to get involved with King on a physical level. It didn't seem realistic given the depth of feelings and hurt. I did appreciate how much King seemed to have worked to turn his life around. I did think these two had some great chemstry and I could see them together. I just struggled with how quickly it happened.
This book was really fast-paced and/or it had a lot happening and it was shorter in length so it made it seemed somewhat hurried and maybe things didn't get the development they deserved. This was my first book by this author so I didn't quite know what to expect. It was engaging, I just think it wasn't completely realistic at times and it had maybe too much going on.
October 27, 2022
The storyline was actually a regular second chance romance but I liked the way the author has brought it out.
Lennon - The Female Character was love stuck with King (Hero) unfortunately due to a certain circumstance he had to leave her behind their hometown while she had countless dreams with him. I loved the way she overcame her toughest part of life and past her life my teaching at a School.
King - The Male Character was in a position to choose between the love of his life or his own brother. He took up the best choice and moved away from the town. He knew he should have never should have been apart from her and every ways he tried to pay for his mistake was actually cute.
The book actually contained everything it should possibly contain for a slow burn romance in just eleven chapters. Damn the book is a perfect mix of broken emotion, passion, love, affection, imperfections and family issues.
Tropes:-
Single Dad
Sunshine Heroine
Parent death
Small Town
Rehab
I really loved Lena (Lennon's best friend) I would have loved to see more about her in this book. Honestly I can't wait for the next book in this series.
Thanks to @netgalley and @naimasimoneauthor for giving me the ARC of this book.
Lennon - The Female Character was love stuck with King (Hero) unfortunately due to a certain circumstance he had to leave her behind their hometown while she had countless dreams with him. I loved the way she overcame her toughest part of life and past her life my teaching at a School.
King - The Male Character was in a position to choose between the love of his life or his own brother. He took up the best choice and moved away from the town. He knew he should have never should have been apart from her and every ways he tried to pay for his mistake was actually cute.
The book actually contained everything it should possibly contain for a slow burn romance in just eleven chapters. Damn the book is a perfect mix of broken emotion, passion, love, affection, imperfections and family issues.
Tropes:-
Single Dad
Sunshine Heroine
Parent death
Small Town
Rehab
I really loved Lena (Lennon's best friend) I would have loved to see more about her in this book. Honestly I can't wait for the next book in this series.
Thanks to @netgalley and @naimasimoneauthor for giving me the ARC of this book.
October 30, 2022
Being written by Naime Simone, I knew this book was going to be filled with the potent tension she excels in writing. But it was something else that I loved even more!
This is the story of Lennon and King. They were once lovers when she was in highschool, had planned to leave as soon as she finished but he just left town and never responded to her messages. Now he's a famous rock singer, an ex addict, a new father and back in their small town.
Both of them are equally lovely characters, strong, empathetic and charming. There are her friends and his friends all equally nice additions to the story. Their love is so full of heat, their encounters sizzling, there's that type of "can't leave without you" kind of love that I pretty much love :D
But what I absolutely adored about this book is Lennon's becoming, how she comes from the woman who, despite being hurt, tries to be close to her father, to the woman she chooses herself and asks for what she knows she deserves. That was pure beauty, and the way she talks to her father and even to King is a work of art: so much calm and empathy, yet so much strength. For this I loved this book and I feel it deserves all the brightest 5 stars.
I received a copy of this in order to offer my personal view on it.
This is the story of Lennon and King. They were once lovers when she was in highschool, had planned to leave as soon as she finished but he just left town and never responded to her messages. Now he's a famous rock singer, an ex addict, a new father and back in their small town.
Both of them are equally lovely characters, strong, empathetic and charming. There are her friends and his friends all equally nice additions to the story. Their love is so full of heat, their encounters sizzling, there's that type of "can't leave without you" kind of love that I pretty much love :D
But what I absolutely adored about this book is Lennon's becoming, how she comes from the woman who, despite being hurt, tries to be close to her father, to the woman she chooses herself and asks for what she knows she deserves. That was pure beauty, and the way she talks to her father and even to King is a work of art: so much calm and empathy, yet so much strength. For this I loved this book and I feel it deserves all the brightest 5 stars.
I received a copy of this in order to offer my personal view on it.
November 1, 2022
This is the 2nd book in the “Love On The Radio Series” and I must say that I am truly enjoying this series. Naima Simone does and excellent job for her readers with this fast-paced entertaining read with interesting characters, her cover is awesome, plot hold the readers captive from the 1st page to the end. Looking for an awesome read pick up book 2 in the “Love On The Radio Series” where you will go on the romantic second journey right along with Lennon and King. King and Lennon were secretly involved that is until after she and King graduated and King walked away to pursue his Rockstar career without a word. King is now a Rockstar and writer recently out of rehab and he is returning to his hometown after being away for ten years to settle down and raise his infant son. Lennon is now a school teacher. When Lennon and King’s path cross it is just like two never parted. There is so much baggage going on that two have to work out. Lennon and King are awesome together, I love their chemistry.
Can Lennon and King unpack their baggage and have a second chance at romance and finally get the HEA they both deserve?
I received an ARC via Booksprout and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Can Lennon and King unpack their baggage and have a second chance at romance and finally get the HEA they both deserve?
I received an ARC via Booksprout and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
October 16, 2022
2.5 Stars This was a very quick, easy second-chance romance about a struggling rock star and the woman he left behind. Ten years ago, Lennon was going to run away from her small hometown of Pike’s End, Washington, with her aspiring musician boyfriend, King, to LA, when he suddenly vanishes. Now, Lennon is still in Pike’s End, working as a teacher, when King returns to town to raise his infant son. Having achieved worldwide success with his band, King is now recovering from an overdose and time in rehab. He’s never forgotten the pain of leaving Lennon and can’t stay away when he sees her in town again.
This was a very quick read and is probably more of a novella than a novel. The quick pace was perfect though and kept the story interesting. I do wish we had learned a little bit more about who Lennon and King were in their ten years apart, especially Lennon since we don’t get a ton of info about what she’s done since he left other than become a teacher and have one significant relationship. The ending was sweet and just right for their second chance at happiness.
This was a very quick read and is probably more of a novella than a novel. The quick pace was perfect though and kept the story interesting. I do wish we had learned a little bit more about who Lennon and King were in their ten years apart, especially Lennon since we don’t get a ton of info about what she’s done since he left other than become a teacher and have one significant relationship. The ending was sweet and just right for their second chance at happiness.
January 25, 2023
4.75⭐/🌶🌶.5 (Quality/Quantity)
King and Lennon give us that second chance romance we need just when we need it.
Naima gave Lennon an amazing story and I was here for ALL OF IT. Exemplary black girl magic!! Oh but if I could've gone through a book and went upside someone's head, it would definitely been Lennon's dad, Judge Terrance Ward. Mr. My S#!t don't stink, high and mighty, do what I SAY or else. Can we say narcissism? Lennon is devastated when King leaves her in Pike's End without a goodbye or any explanation. For ten years, she thinks she's "not good enough," while he finds fame, falls from grace, and hits rock bottom. His return to Pike's End stirs up so much for Lennon, for himself, the band, and of course the Judge.
Not sure whether or not he should divulge his true reasons for leaving, he holds onto the few scraps, the crumbs, anything she's willing to give him without tarnishing anyone's memory of ANYONE, but does his silence make him complicit? Will Lennon be able to forgive him, again once she learns the truth?
King and Lennon give us that second chance romance we need just when we need it.
Naima gave Lennon an amazing story and I was here for ALL OF IT. Exemplary black girl magic!! Oh but if I could've gone through a book and went upside someone's head, it would definitely been Lennon's dad, Judge Terrance Ward. Mr. My S#!t don't stink, high and mighty, do what I SAY or else. Can we say narcissism? Lennon is devastated when King leaves her in Pike's End without a goodbye or any explanation. For ten years, she thinks she's "not good enough," while he finds fame, falls from grace, and hits rock bottom. His return to Pike's End stirs up so much for Lennon, for himself, the band, and of course the Judge.
Not sure whether or not he should divulge his true reasons for leaving, he holds onto the few scraps, the crumbs, anything she's willing to give him without tarnishing anyone's memory of ANYONE, but does his silence make him complicit? Will Lennon be able to forgive him, again once she learns the truth?
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