It’s not that I didn’t enjoy this, it’s just that it was WAY too short to do the topic justice. The overall tone is super light and low angst, with a quick, easy vibe that almost felt wholesome. That’s in complete contrast to the topics at hand – famous rock star who is grieving the loss of his wife, feels wrong for even considering moving on, and a small town girl dealing with demons of her own. Their relationship stumbles along before shifting into turbo speed, and I couldn’t help wanting things to simmer longer. It also didn’t feel overly romantic; even the steamy scenes were more about the physicality than anything. Despite its issues, I really did like the premise, the hero, and the connection between these two. There’s a ton of potential in the story, and some great moments along the way.
The story follows Ani, a woman whose new neighbor is the rock star she’s swooned over for years. Ani knows all about Garrett’s history, including the loss of his wife two years ago. He’s been living under the radar ever since, and it’s clear that he’s continuing to seek out privacy by moving to a small town. Garrett is wary of strangers, but it doesn’t take long for him to realize that Ani has good intentions. Though his friends are pushing Garrett to start dating again, he knows he’s not ready. Instead, he appeases them by going on non-dates with Ani, who has made it clear that she’s attracted to him but not interested in dating. As the two develop a friendship, their connection soon feels like more.
At around 200 pages, this absolutely flies by. We only get Ani’s perspective, and she’s known everything there is to know about Garrett for years, so it didn’t feel like the connection was starting from scratch – at least on her end. I was surprised by how light and easy the overall vibe is; for a book that tackles some heavy topics, it wasn’t angsty. We know Ani has also suffered some trauma, so they’re both afraid to move forward. I guess that’s why I was so surprised by the second half, let’s just say that. I won’t offer up spoilers, but… yeah, that’s where my rating dropped. I liked the small town feel, how Garrett is a relationship guy, and I would’ve liked the romantic relationship to be explored further. That’s where Garrett’s perspective would’ve been helpful. For me, this felt like the skeleton of a great book – it’s a little unsatisfying without some of those missing pieces. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this easygoing romance.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Li47mg
Blurb:
What chance does a small-town girl have with a world-famous rock star?
Two years after his wife’s death, rock star Garrett Hayes hasn’t moved on. But he has moved out of L.A. Where better to escape his past than a small town in the northern California mountains? If only he could get the townsfolk of Wildwood to leave him the hell alone.
Ani Bennet returned to her hometown for some much-needed serenity. The last thing she needs is a grumpy, too hot for his own good, rich and famous rock star living next door—and rent-free in her brain.
She set her fangirl tendencies aside and deleted his photo from her cell when they became neighbors. But when Garrett asks for help, she can’t say no. The problem is, spending time together is making those fangirl feelings resurface—and bringing them to a whole new level.
What chance does a small-town girl have with world-famous rock star? It’s time for Ani to set her fears aside and find out.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Li47mg
About the Author:
New York Times and USA Today Best Selling Author – Kylie is a long time fan of love stories, rock n roll, and B-grade horror films. Based in Queensland, Australia, she reads, writes, and never dithers around on the internet.
You can learn more about Kylie from http://www.kyliescott.com/
Follow Jeeves on social media!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases
Jeeves Reads Romance 