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A review by phoenixfaie
Not Another Rockstar by Kate Callaghan
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
I was very lucky to get an ARC of this through Netgalley after seeing the author post about it on threads.
I was initially drawn in by the synopsis :
"After her rockstar fiancé's tragic accident, Phoebe Fletcher is hit with false accusations and relentless media spotlight once the video of the car crash is released. Thrust into the spotlight, the budding artist becomes the focus of obsessive fans, putting both her life and aspirations in jeopardy.
To ensure her safety, Phoebe seeks refuge with her ex's band, the Brothers of Anarchy, where she forms a bond with the brooding drummer, Axel Adler. Despite the forbidden nature of their growing attraction, Axel's unwavering care and encouragement sparks a fiery connection between them.
In the midst of fame, betrayal, and illicit love, Phoebe and Axel must navigate a web of lies and treachery, or risk losing all they hold dear. "
The only spoiler that I will give is that there is cheating in the first few chapters of this story and it is referenced throughout as it is significant to the plot.
I enjoyed the development of Phoebe and Axels relationship, while I could understand people saying she moved on too quick, I think its important to remember that she had found out that her ex had been having an affair for a significant amount of time and looking back at his behaviour and actions she could see that their relationship was over long before the accident, whereas Axel wasn't "just there" and convenient, he was There For Her, him silently and loudly supporting her is what made them fit together.
I worked out the twist very early on, although briefly I was torn between three people because one friend seemed slightly suspicious 🤔 but it wasn't long before they were off my suspect list. The final reveal was intense, I was actually holding my breath whilst I was reading.
I would say that there is mild to moderate spice, there isn't a lot but it packs a punch without being overwhelming.
I have to say, I was left with more questions when I finished, I want to know why Cillian started the affair in the first place, why Axel was so drawn to Phoebe from the moment he saw her (aside from the pink hair, red dress and paint on her hands).
This is the first time I have actually read anything by Kate Callaghan (although I do have one of her books on my tbr) and I have to say I really enjoyed it. As someone with chronic pain and disabilities I love how she wrote it into the novel in such a natural way. I will definitely be checking out more of Kates books in the future.
I was initially drawn in by the synopsis :
"After her rockstar fiancé's tragic accident, Phoebe Fletcher is hit with false accusations and relentless media spotlight once the video of the car crash is released. Thrust into the spotlight, the budding artist becomes the focus of obsessive fans, putting both her life and aspirations in jeopardy.
To ensure her safety, Phoebe seeks refuge with her ex's band, the Brothers of Anarchy, where she forms a bond with the brooding drummer, Axel Adler. Despite the forbidden nature of their growing attraction, Axel's unwavering care and encouragement sparks a fiery connection between them.
In the midst of fame, betrayal, and illicit love, Phoebe and Axel must navigate a web of lies and treachery, or risk losing all they hold dear. "
The only spoiler that I will give is that there is cheating in the first few chapters of this story and it is referenced throughout as it is significant to the plot.
I enjoyed the development of Phoebe and Axels relationship, while I could understand people saying she moved on too quick, I think its important to remember that she had found out that her ex had been having an affair for a significant amount of time and looking back at his behaviour and actions she could see that their relationship was over long before the accident, whereas Axel wasn't "just there" and convenient, he was There For Her, him silently and loudly supporting her is what made them fit together.
I worked out the twist very early on, although briefly I was torn between three people because one friend seemed slightly suspicious 🤔 but it wasn't long before they were off my suspect list. The final reveal was intense, I was actually holding my breath whilst I was reading.
I would say that there is mild to moderate spice, there isn't a lot but it packs a punch without being overwhelming.
I have to say, I was left with more questions when I finished, I want to know why Cillian started the affair in the first place, why Axel was so drawn to Phoebe from the moment he saw her (aside from the pink hair, red dress and paint on her hands).
This is the first time I have actually read anything by Kate Callaghan (although I do have one of her books on my tbr) and I have to say I really enjoyed it. As someone with chronic pain and disabilities I love how she wrote it into the novel in such a natural way. I will definitely be checking out more of Kates books in the future.