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My Rock Star Neighbor
When a wary rock star and a cynical reporter fake date to bury a scandalous rumor, will true love be exposed as the real story?
Nick: I do my best songwriting while playing my guitar on the fire escape. Unfortunately, my in-bed-at-ten next-door neighbor, Maddie, is not a fan of my music. She clambers out on the fire escape to yell at me about making "noise.” In bunny slippers, no less. But then she trips and falls into my arms.
That photo of Maddie plastered all over me hits the papers, just as my dream recording company wants to sign my band. Which is a problem, because an obsessed fan is claiming that I’m her boyfriend and now the media is blowing up that I’m two-timing them both. Good-bye recording contract, unless….
Maddie: I’m supposed to cover the story. Not be the story! But when Nick begs me to fake date, I can’t resist the chance to be Nick’s girlfriend—even if fake—the opposite of my life as a city desk reporter. But my ex said I’m a terrible kisser, and there’s no way I want Mr. Hot Rock Star saying the same thing. Hence, clause 11 in our There will be absolutely no physical contact.
When Maddie receives a threatening photo of the two of us with an X over her face, my desire to protect her suddenly feels all too real. It’s either a troll or her undercover investigation has been compromised. With both our careers at stake, is breaking up the only way to keep Maddie safe?
Nick: I do my best songwriting while playing my guitar on the fire escape. Unfortunately, my in-bed-at-ten next-door neighbor, Maddie, is not a fan of my music. She clambers out on the fire escape to yell at me about making "noise.” In bunny slippers, no less. But then she trips and falls into my arms.
That photo of Maddie plastered all over me hits the papers, just as my dream recording company wants to sign my band. Which is a problem, because an obsessed fan is claiming that I’m her boyfriend and now the media is blowing up that I’m two-timing them both. Good-bye recording contract, unless….
Maddie: I’m supposed to cover the story. Not be the story! But when Nick begs me to fake date, I can’t resist the chance to be Nick’s girlfriend—even if fake—the opposite of my life as a city desk reporter. But my ex said I’m a terrible kisser, and there’s no way I want Mr. Hot Rock Star saying the same thing. Hence, clause 11 in our There will be absolutely no physical contact.
When Maddie receives a threatening photo of the two of us with an X over her face, my desire to protect her suddenly feels all too real. It’s either a troll or her undercover investigation has been compromised. With both our careers at stake, is breaking up the only way to keep Maddie safe?
- GenresRomance
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2025
3 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Kathy Strobos
17 books298 followersKathy Strobos is a writer living in New York City with her husband and two children, amid a growing collection of books, toys and dollhouses. Born and raised in Manhattan, she loves writing about New York City and her smart heroines who live and fall in love there, amidst its vibrant energy and the aroma of homemade chocolate chip cookies. She is the award-winning author of: A Scavenger Hunt for Hearts, Partner Pursuit, Is This for Real?, Caper Crush, My Book Boyfriend, Love Is an Art, My Secret Snowflake, and My Rock Star Neighbor. Her books have been translated into multiple languages.
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December 23, 2025If you're looking for a fake dating, forced proximity, rock star, closed door romantic comedy set in New York City...
October 2, 2025
Kathy Strobos is not a writer I've come across before. However, I was persuaded to read My Rock Star Neighbor by the amusing blurb which sounded like a fake-dating romcom that would very much appeal to me. And it did!
I loved Maddie's character from the minute I met her. She is well-drawn and very relatable, with many of the qualities I personally admire. After her last boyfriend ends their relationship, Maddie does not feel worthy of a new relationship, least of all with Nick, whose career is just beginning to take off. Nick is a rock star in the making and secretly holds a torch for Maddie. Circumstances force him to ask her to fake-date, and after much consideration Maddie agrees.
I thought the story would centre on the fake-dating but was delighted to find Maddie, as a journalist, was conducting an investigation which added an element of intrigue and danger.
My Rock Star Neighbor is written in the first person from the points of view of both Maddie and Nick. I particularly like that the reader can hear their thoughts as well as see their actions. I liked the pacing of the story and was completely satisfied with the ending which was exactly what I wanted.
I very much enjoyed this story and would recommend My Rock Star Neighbor to readers who enjoy a mystery wrapped up in a romcom and I have made a note to look out for more books from this author.
I loved Maddie's character from the minute I met her. She is well-drawn and very relatable, with many of the qualities I personally admire. After her last boyfriend ends their relationship, Maddie does not feel worthy of a new relationship, least of all with Nick, whose career is just beginning to take off. Nick is a rock star in the making and secretly holds a torch for Maddie. Circumstances force him to ask her to fake-date, and after much consideration Maddie agrees.
I thought the story would centre on the fake-dating but was delighted to find Maddie, as a journalist, was conducting an investigation which added an element of intrigue and danger.
My Rock Star Neighbor is written in the first person from the points of view of both Maddie and Nick. I particularly like that the reader can hear their thoughts as well as see their actions. I liked the pacing of the story and was completely satisfied with the ending which was exactly what I wanted.
I very much enjoyed this story and would recommend My Rock Star Neighbor to readers who enjoy a mystery wrapped up in a romcom and I have made a note to look out for more books from this author.
October 9, 2025
romcom and mystery
Maddie and Nick´s story is an entertaining combination of romcom and mystery I enjoyed very much.
Maddie and Nick´s story is an entertaining combination of romcom and mystery I enjoyed very much.
October 5, 2025
A charming and very romantic story (“I pick you forever”) with great worldbuilding, lots of twists, and lovely characters. A well crafted and thoroughly entertaining book.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
September 22, 2025
Maddie & Nick ❤️
🎸Maddie’s a journalist for a local New York City newspaper. She’s working on a story about corruption in the city official offices, but finding the culprit is proving tricky.
🎸When Maddie’s musician neighbor Nick plays music until all hours, it drives her crazy, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t enjoy his friendship. When Nick is photographed with Maddie, she’s mistaken for being his girlfriend.
🎸Now the pair are fake dating. Nick’s helping Maddie in her investigation and she’s giving him a cover as his girlfriend. But maybe there is more to this that neither is admitting.
✏️Kathy Strobos’s stories tend to use the city backdrop as a side character and the city really sparkles in this latest instalment. Late night meetings on the fire escape, singing at the local bar, eating dumplings with friends all add to the charming setting. There’s a whole whodunnit happening in the story, and Nick is as much of that part of the story as his own backstory. I loved how this cute couple support each other, put each others needs at the forefront and fit seemlessly in with each other’s friends and family. It’s another cutie from the author ❤️
Read an eARC copy courtesy of the author
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pub Date 10 October 2025
Connect with me: http://www.instagram.com/read.athon2021
🎸Maddie’s a journalist for a local New York City newspaper. She’s working on a story about corruption in the city official offices, but finding the culprit is proving tricky.
🎸When Maddie’s musician neighbor Nick plays music until all hours, it drives her crazy, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t enjoy his friendship. When Nick is photographed with Maddie, she’s mistaken for being his girlfriend.
🎸Now the pair are fake dating. Nick’s helping Maddie in her investigation and she’s giving him a cover as his girlfriend. But maybe there is more to this that neither is admitting.
✏️Kathy Strobos’s stories tend to use the city backdrop as a side character and the city really sparkles in this latest instalment. Late night meetings on the fire escape, singing at the local bar, eating dumplings with friends all add to the charming setting. There’s a whole whodunnit happening in the story, and Nick is as much of that part of the story as his own backstory. I loved how this cute couple support each other, put each others needs at the forefront and fit seemlessly in with each other’s friends and family. It’s another cutie from the author ❤️
Read an eARC copy courtesy of the author
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pub Date 10 October 2025
Connect with me: http://www.instagram.com/read.athon2021
October 11, 2025
I have enjoyed the books in this series so far, and remember the issues that Maddie was having with her rock star neighbor from those. So it was fun to get their story.
Of course how could someone not have a crush on a hot rock star? And one who was really nice, and flirty. But Maddie had her career that was most important to her. In a way, so did Nick, it was why he hadn’t really dated for a while. That and his ex-girlfriend, who just so happened to be a reporter, like Maddie, had used him. Maddie was on the verge of a really big local government corruption story. One that was affecting people and their living in government housing. The whole way the case unraveled, the clues left in miniature scenes on Instagram posts. The envelopes in books. There were so many different directions that kept Maddie on her toes trying to figure out who was actually doing the dirty stuff. And if maybe others were trying to figure it out like she was?
But more than the danger from the case, she had to deal with a nemesis at work, a fellow reporter who tried to scoop her as well as being friends with the new lead at the paper that was trying to force Maddie out. And then Nick had a psycho fan try to claim she was dating him and Nick had to nip that in the bud and the way it ended up happening was fake dating Maddie. Only as it always goes in a romance book, the two had always been attracted to each other, maybe liked the other that way, but knew that the other didn’t like them that way. I mean, they were wrong about that, but it’s what they thought. Also as it always goes, it all became real as they spent more time together.
First it was being seen together in public to help promote their relationship for Nick’s image. Then it was as they both would put on disguises to follow people to get information for Maddie’s case. The danger became more real when someone broke into Maddie’s apartment, but that also drove them closer as they both moved to a friend’s apartment where they were now living together. Even if they could each have their own bedrooms, at that point, they didn’t want them anymore.
Things came to a head when their fake dating contract was leaked, and then there was the issue of PR for Nick’s record company, and people at Maddie’s newspaper not thinking it showed that she was good reporter if she’d lied about that. There was a bit of a brief breakup, but it didn’t last long, and wasn’t overly dramatic in the way that normally bugs me. It was done in a way that made sense, and their making up was done perfectly as well.
There were two chapter that seemed like they should be epilogues, and then an epilogue at the end. I enjoyed this story, and look forward to reading more by this author in the future!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
Of course how could someone not have a crush on a hot rock star? And one who was really nice, and flirty. But Maddie had her career that was most important to her. In a way, so did Nick, it was why he hadn’t really dated for a while. That and his ex-girlfriend, who just so happened to be a reporter, like Maddie, had used him. Maddie was on the verge of a really big local government corruption story. One that was affecting people and their living in government housing. The whole way the case unraveled, the clues left in miniature scenes on Instagram posts. The envelopes in books. There were so many different directions that kept Maddie on her toes trying to figure out who was actually doing the dirty stuff. And if maybe others were trying to figure it out like she was?
But more than the danger from the case, she had to deal with a nemesis at work, a fellow reporter who tried to scoop her as well as being friends with the new lead at the paper that was trying to force Maddie out. And then Nick had a psycho fan try to claim she was dating him and Nick had to nip that in the bud and the way it ended up happening was fake dating Maddie. Only as it always goes in a romance book, the two had always been attracted to each other, maybe liked the other that way, but knew that the other didn’t like them that way. I mean, they were wrong about that, but it’s what they thought. Also as it always goes, it all became real as they spent more time together.
First it was being seen together in public to help promote their relationship for Nick’s image. Then it was as they both would put on disguises to follow people to get information for Maddie’s case. The danger became more real when someone broke into Maddie’s apartment, but that also drove them closer as they both moved to a friend’s apartment where they were now living together. Even if they could each have their own bedrooms, at that point, they didn’t want them anymore.
Things came to a head when their fake dating contract was leaked, and then there was the issue of PR for Nick’s record company, and people at Maddie’s newspaper not thinking it showed that she was good reporter if she’d lied about that. There was a bit of a brief breakup, but it didn’t last long, and wasn’t overly dramatic in the way that normally bugs me. It was done in a way that made sense, and their making up was done perfectly as well.
There were two chapter that seemed like they should be epilogues, and then an epilogue at the end. I enjoyed this story, and look forward to reading more by this author in the future!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
November 7, 2025
My Initial Thoughts
I was excited to read a fake dating romance again and was pulled in straight away by the plot. I didn’t realise that this is actually book 4 in the New York Sparks series. I’m not sure if anything interconnects but I didn’t feel like I missed anything.
Plot
I did somewhat enjoy the plot. Mainly I enjoyed Maddie’s investigation and everything that came along with it. I felt like the romance element was a bit predictable and repetitive, always focusing on why they can’t work instead of why it could. That being said, I did enjoy the ending and the way they got their happily ever after.
Characters
The characters are very mind strong and nothing stands in their way of getting what they want especially when it comes to their careers. Which is a great character trait to have. Nick is very focused on becoming big and famous. Where Maddie is a reporter who just wants to learn the truth.
Recommend
If you like rockstar romances with a hint of investigation solving, you may like this.
Favourite Quote
“You don’t blend in with the crowd for me Maddie… I’ve found your face every time you’ve been at a concert – when the lights aren’t blinding me.”
Favourite Chapter/s
My favourite chapters were 21 and 36.
Summed up in one sentence
A investigation that brings the fake dating into reality.
Overall Wrap up
Firstly please remember that reading is subjective so this was only my own personal thoughts. I just felt like something was missing, nothing grabbed at me and made me want to read through the book quickly. I found it a struggle to get through at times and the way they kept themselves apart just didn’t quite hit the mark. I just felt like it was always the same reason and not enough fight for each other, until the end of course which I actually enjoyed.
Stars & Spice – 2 stars and this is a closed door romance.
Dates read – 13th October till 19th October 2025.
Book Information – My Rockstar Neighbor by Kathy Strobos
Genre – Romance
Pages – 349 pages.
Tropes –
Fake dating.
Rockstar x journalist.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – This is not available on kindle unlimited,
Available Formats – Available on kindle and paperback.
Publishing Information – Published on 10th October 2025 by Strawbundle Publishing.
Format in Which I Read – I read this on kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from Rachel’s Random Resources.
POVs – This is written in Dual POV – Maddie and Nick.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in first person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – This ends on a happily ever after.
Series or Standalone – This is book four of The New York Sparks series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
I was excited to read a fake dating romance again and was pulled in straight away by the plot. I didn’t realise that this is actually book 4 in the New York Sparks series. I’m not sure if anything interconnects but I didn’t feel like I missed anything.
Plot
I did somewhat enjoy the plot. Mainly I enjoyed Maddie’s investigation and everything that came along with it. I felt like the romance element was a bit predictable and repetitive, always focusing on why they can’t work instead of why it could. That being said, I did enjoy the ending and the way they got their happily ever after.
Characters
The characters are very mind strong and nothing stands in their way of getting what they want especially when it comes to their careers. Which is a great character trait to have. Nick is very focused on becoming big and famous. Where Maddie is a reporter who just wants to learn the truth.
Recommend
If you like rockstar romances with a hint of investigation solving, you may like this.
Favourite Quote
“You don’t blend in with the crowd for me Maddie… I’ve found your face every time you’ve been at a concert – when the lights aren’t blinding me.”
Favourite Chapter/s
My favourite chapters were 21 and 36.
Summed up in one sentence
A investigation that brings the fake dating into reality.
Overall Wrap up
Firstly please remember that reading is subjective so this was only my own personal thoughts. I just felt like something was missing, nothing grabbed at me and made me want to read through the book quickly. I found it a struggle to get through at times and the way they kept themselves apart just didn’t quite hit the mark. I just felt like it was always the same reason and not enough fight for each other, until the end of course which I actually enjoyed.
Stars & Spice – 2 stars and this is a closed door romance.
Dates read – 13th October till 19th October 2025.
Book Information – My Rockstar Neighbor by Kathy Strobos
Genre – Romance
Pages – 349 pages.
Tropes –
Fake dating.
Rockstar x journalist.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – This is not available on kindle unlimited,
Available Formats – Available on kindle and paperback.
Publishing Information – Published on 10th October 2025 by Strawbundle Publishing.
Format in Which I Read – I read this on kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from Rachel’s Random Resources.
POVs – This is written in Dual POV – Maddie and Nick.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in first person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – This ends on a happily ever after.
Series or Standalone – This is book four of The New York Sparks series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
October 26, 2025
I always enjoy reading Kathy Strobos’ novels, feel-good romantic tales set in New York City, and so I picked this up when I heard she had a new one coming out.
Maddie is a young, ambitious newspaper reporter clawing her way up from entertainment filler pieces to hard-hitting city beat stories. Currently, she’s investigating a possible city government bribery story that could just give her the big break she needs. If only it weren’t for her rockstar next door neighbor cutting into her sleep with his songwriting.
Nick is an aspiring rock musician, who keeps his life financially afloat as a parttime accountant. He and his band are getting a lot more attention, and appear to be on the verge of signing with an important label, until one false move jeopardizes that success. Luckily, a “girl next door” girlfriend could polish his image. Can he get Maddie to agree?
This is a fun fake dating romcom that doubles as a mystery. It was fun to watch Maddie and Nick grow closer as they support one another in their careers. And, like all Strobos novels, New York makes a fun backdrop. A highly enjoyable read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy - all thoughts are my own.
Maddie is a young, ambitious newspaper reporter clawing her way up from entertainment filler pieces to hard-hitting city beat stories. Currently, she’s investigating a possible city government bribery story that could just give her the big break she needs. If only it weren’t for her rockstar next door neighbor cutting into her sleep with his songwriting.
Nick is an aspiring rock musician, who keeps his life financially afloat as a parttime accountant. He and his band are getting a lot more attention, and appear to be on the verge of signing with an important label, until one false move jeopardizes that success. Luckily, a “girl next door” girlfriend could polish his image. Can he get Maddie to agree?
This is a fun fake dating romcom that doubles as a mystery. It was fun to watch Maddie and Nick grow closer as they support one another in their careers. And, like all Strobos novels, New York makes a fun backdrop. A highly enjoyable read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy - all thoughts are my own.
October 15, 2025
This is a sweet romance with a bit of suspense. It’s very low spice level, pretty much closed door with just kissing on page. But still a very enjoyable story, really held my attention and kept me wrapped up in it. The book is part of a series but is a complete standalone. Characters from previous books make an appearance but there are no spoilers. If you’ve read prior books in the series, you met Maddie and are familiar with her aggravation with her rock star neighbor whose music keeps her up at night. I loved how Maddie and Nick’s story came together and the way things resolved.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2025
3.5 stars
My Rockstar Neighbour is a really fun romance with a nice mystery included as part of Maddie’s investigation. I loved the chemistry between her and Nick, and the alternating chapters between their voices flowed really well.
I felt the journalistic story was an interesting part of the story and loved seeing Maddie’s tenacity in getting her story. With backup from Nick and support from her friends, it really made for a great addition to the romance.
My Rockstar Neighbour is a really fun romance with a nice mystery included as part of Maddie’s investigation. I loved the chemistry between her and Nick, and the alternating chapters between their voices flowed really well.
I felt the journalistic story was an interesting part of the story and loved seeing Maddie’s tenacity in getting her story. With backup from Nick and support from her friends, it really made for a great addition to the romance.
September 27, 2025
Wow!
I couldn't put this book down. My poor dogs had to wait to eat!
Kathy's characters are like people I want to hang out with--- pure fun! And she puts them in situations that always feel different than the usual rom-c0ms.
I haven't read a book this good in a long time!
And as an added bonus and a major one --Seriously if you like NYC or want to know what it is like to live there her descriptions of the city are spot on amazing.
I couldn't put this book down. My poor dogs had to wait to eat!
Kathy's characters are like people I want to hang out with--- pure fun! And she puts them in situations that always feel different than the usual rom-c0ms.
I haven't read a book this good in a long time!
And as an added bonus and a major one --Seriously if you like NYC or want to know what it is like to live there her descriptions of the city are spot on amazing.
October 15, 2025
I stayed up far too late reading this because I just couldn't put it down!
It starts innocently enough - a classic, implausible scenario leading to a fake relationship. And yet, it quickly reveals itself as so much more. Firstly and unusually for fake relationships, Maddie and Nick are already friends - if you can call ongoing friction over late night practice sessions 'friends'. They already know each other, giving their romance - both fake and real - additional layers, even as they grew closer. Second, Maddie's a reporter on the trail of a story about city corruption - and this addition had me hooked. It was a delight to see Nick and Maddie develop feelings as they interviewed public servants and hid behind dumpsters, rather than the usual public galas. It was woven together so well and helped their relationship grow in a wonderfully natural way, helped of course by a veritable legion of matchmaking friends.
Not only was I impressed by how the author made a compelling story about municipal corruption and handyman kickbacks, but she creates an incredible sense of place. I have no doubt that were I to go to New York City, I could walk in Nick and Maddie's footsteps
Fiction is meant to be fun, and let me tell you, this book delivered! For a delightful romance driven by a genuinely intriguing mystery, check out My Rock Star Neighbour.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out my blog!
It starts innocently enough - a classic, implausible scenario leading to a fake relationship. And yet, it quickly reveals itself as so much more. Firstly and unusually for fake relationships, Maddie and Nick are already friends - if you can call ongoing friction over late night practice sessions 'friends'. They already know each other, giving their romance - both fake and real - additional layers, even as they grew closer. Second, Maddie's a reporter on the trail of a story about city corruption - and this addition had me hooked. It was a delight to see Nick and Maddie develop feelings as they interviewed public servants and hid behind dumpsters, rather than the usual public galas. It was woven together so well and helped their relationship grow in a wonderfully natural way, helped of course by a veritable legion of matchmaking friends.
Not only was I impressed by how the author made a compelling story about municipal corruption and handyman kickbacks, but she creates an incredible sense of place. I have no doubt that were I to go to New York City, I could walk in Nick and Maddie's footsteps
Fiction is meant to be fun, and let me tell you, this book delivered! For a delightful romance driven by a genuinely intriguing mystery, check out My Rock Star Neighbour.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out my blog!
October 15, 2025
Kathy Strobos strikes a delightful chord with My Rock Star Neighbor, a romantic comedy that blends fake dating, media mayhem, and unexpected vulnerability into a heart-thumping, laugh-out-loud love story.
The novel kicks off with a fire escape meet-cute that’s equal parts chaotic and charming. Nick, a brooding rock star with a penchant for midnight guitar sessions, finds himself face-to-face with Maddie, his no-nonsense neighbor who prefers silence and slippers to serenades. When a paparazzi photo of their accidental embrace threatens Nick’s recording deal and Maddie’s journalistic integrity, the two strike a deal: a fake relationship to silence the rumors.
Strobos explores fame, privacy, and the cost of public scrutiny with a light touch, never losing sight of the romance. The book balances humor (bunny slippers and fire escapes!) with suspense (threatening photos and compromised investigations), making it more than just a rom-com—it’s a story about trust, healing, and finding love in the most unexpected places.
My Rock Star Neighbor is a pitch-perfect blend of swoon-worthy romance and sharp wit. Fans of fake dating tropes, opposites-attract dynamics, and stories with a dash of danger will find themselves hooked. Whether you're here for the rock star fantasy or the emotional depth, this novel delivers a satisfying encore.
The novel kicks off with a fire escape meet-cute that’s equal parts chaotic and charming. Nick, a brooding rock star with a penchant for midnight guitar sessions, finds himself face-to-face with Maddie, his no-nonsense neighbor who prefers silence and slippers to serenades. When a paparazzi photo of their accidental embrace threatens Nick’s recording deal and Maddie’s journalistic integrity, the two strike a deal: a fake relationship to silence the rumors.
Strobos explores fame, privacy, and the cost of public scrutiny with a light touch, never losing sight of the romance. The book balances humor (bunny slippers and fire escapes!) with suspense (threatening photos and compromised investigations), making it more than just a rom-com—it’s a story about trust, healing, and finding love in the most unexpected places.
My Rock Star Neighbor is a pitch-perfect blend of swoon-worthy romance and sharp wit. Fans of fake dating tropes, opposites-attract dynamics, and stories with a dash of danger will find themselves hooked. Whether you're here for the rock star fantasy or the emotional depth, this novel delivers a satisfying encore.
October 13, 2025
I discovered this gem on Book Sirens and I'm so glad I took a chance on it! As a new-to-me author, this book was a wonderful introduction to their writing.
What I loved most was Maddie's character—she's relatable, cynical in the best way, and her journey from buttoned-up reporter to someone willing to take a risk on fake dating was so much fun to watch. The dual POV format really enhanced the story, letting us see both Nick and Maddie's perspectives as their fake relationship started blurring into something real.
I'm a sucker for fake-dating-turns-real tropes, and this delivered! The premise is engaging: a rock star accidentally creates a media scandal with his neighbor, and to save his recording contract, they agree to fake date. The setup is both funny and believable, with great chemistry between the leads.
The story balances the romance with some genuine tension—Maddie's undercover investigation and the threatening fan situation add stakes that kept me invested. The bunny slippers meet-cute and Clause 11 ("no physical contact") are particularly charming touches that made me smile.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with rockstar heroes, fake dating hijinks, and characters you can't help but root for, definitely give this one a try!
What I loved most was Maddie's character—she's relatable, cynical in the best way, and her journey from buttoned-up reporter to someone willing to take a risk on fake dating was so much fun to watch. The dual POV format really enhanced the story, letting us see both Nick and Maddie's perspectives as their fake relationship started blurring into something real.
I'm a sucker for fake-dating-turns-real tropes, and this delivered! The premise is engaging: a rock star accidentally creates a media scandal with his neighbor, and to save his recording contract, they agree to fake date. The setup is both funny and believable, with great chemistry between the leads.
The story balances the romance with some genuine tension—Maddie's undercover investigation and the threatening fan situation add stakes that kept me invested. The bunny slippers meet-cute and Clause 11 ("no physical contact") are particularly charming touches that made me smile.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with rockstar heroes, fake dating hijinks, and characters you can't help but root for, definitely give this one a try!
November 21, 2025
This is my first time actually reading a book by Kathy, and I have to tell you really did enjoy this book and it isn't something that I would normally read.
Maddie and Nick first start of by being neighbours who really just can't seem to like each other, at night time he enjoys the fire escape scene to write and play his music whereas Maddie just enjoys her pillow to much and would rather her sleep.
Watching these two characters bloom together is really enjoyable, from fake dating to not so fake.
This story was really cute, well written while also make you feel like your in the book and not reading it. a bonus for this was how Maddie and Nick both did amazing at supporting each other and always being there for one another, while they also knew how to have a good time.
It was a lovely book and I am off to read other books by this author now. And also thank you so much NetGalley and Kathy for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Maddie and Nick first start of by being neighbours who really just can't seem to like each other, at night time he enjoys the fire escape scene to write and play his music whereas Maddie just enjoys her pillow to much and would rather her sleep.
Watching these two characters bloom together is really enjoyable, from fake dating to not so fake.
This story was really cute, well written while also make you feel like your in the book and not reading it. a bonus for this was how Maddie and Nick both did amazing at supporting each other and always being there for one another, while they also knew how to have a good time.
It was a lovely book and I am off to read other books by this author now. And also thank you so much NetGalley and Kathy for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
October 8, 2025
Fun New York City Rom - Com with Wonderful Characters, Setting and Even a Mystery
This was a great book from start to finish - all of the characters were likable and well developed and both the will they / won't they fake to real romantic plot along with the mystery Maddie is hoping to solve for her news story kept the pages turning and I couldn't put the book down. I enjoyed the dual POV so the reader understands both of their growing feelings as well as their "found family" group of friends who were all there to support them. The New York background was also fun to revisit as a former resident - I felt like I was back in the heart of the city again. It is part of a series but it easily read as a standalone. I look forward to reading the next book from this author.
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This was a great book from start to finish - all of the characters were likable and well developed and both the will they / won't they fake to real romantic plot along with the mystery Maddie is hoping to solve for her news story kept the pages turning and I couldn't put the book down. I enjoyed the dual POV so the reader understands both of their growing feelings as well as their "found family" group of friends who were all there to support them. The New York background was also fun to revisit as a former resident - I felt like I was back in the heart of the city again. It is part of a series but it easily read as a standalone. I look forward to reading the next book from this author.
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
October 27, 2025
Such a fun book to read.
Journalist Maddie lives next door to Nick, an up and coming musician, and all round nice guy, prone to playing his guitar late at night when she needs to sleep. Maddie is investigating corruption in an area of New York, wary of putting herself in danger, but determined to get her story. Nick needs a girlfriend to keep away a dodgy woman who claims to be just that.
Maddie and Nick team up to help each other. But when real life chemistry sneaks into their fake relationship, what's to be done?
I loved the characters of Maddie and Nick. They're real and relatable, and there's great humour too. The corruption mystery adds depth and danger to the story. As always, Kathy brings the real New York - and New Yorkers - to life. Most enjoyable and I highly recommend reading all of her stories.
Journalist Maddie lives next door to Nick, an up and coming musician, and all round nice guy, prone to playing his guitar late at night when she needs to sleep. Maddie is investigating corruption in an area of New York, wary of putting herself in danger, but determined to get her story. Nick needs a girlfriend to keep away a dodgy woman who claims to be just that.
Maddie and Nick team up to help each other. But when real life chemistry sneaks into their fake relationship, what's to be done?
I loved the characters of Maddie and Nick. They're real and relatable, and there's great humour too. The corruption mystery adds depth and danger to the story. As always, Kathy brings the real New York - and New Yorkers - to life. Most enjoyable and I highly recommend reading all of her stories.
October 13, 2025
Kathy Strobos hits all the right notes in My Rock Star Neighbor—a sparkling, fake-dating rom-com brimming with banter, heart, and heat. When clashing neighbours noise-averse, lark reporter Maddie and guitarist rock star night owl Nick are caught in a compromising photo, a fake relationship is the only way to control the media narrative. But with chemistry this electric, keeping things 'strictly pretend' doesn’t stand a chance.
The enemies-to-lovers tension is delicious, the humour sharp, and the emotional depth gives the story real soul. Maddie’s insecurities and Nick’s quiet, present protectiveness make this lovable duo easy to root for, while the danger element adds a tingling edge.
Verdict: A witty, warm, and wonderfully addictive romance that deserves an encore.
The enemies-to-lovers tension is delicious, the humour sharp, and the emotional depth gives the story real soul. Maddie’s insecurities and Nick’s quiet, present protectiveness make this lovable duo easy to root for, while the danger element adds a tingling edge.
Verdict: A witty, warm, and wonderfully addictive romance that deserves an encore.
October 21, 2025
Nick is lead singer for the Orchard Folly band. His father was a musician who left them and Nick's mother resents Nick playing in a band. A stalker grabs Nick and claims she is his girlfriend and she is all over social media. Nick's band tells him he needs a fake girlfriend and the only one he would trust is Maggie, his friend and next-door neighbor. Maggie is a journalist and finally agrees to Nick's plan. He is invested in Maggie's career as well and accompanies her on her trips to prove government corruption in New York City. Great characters and story. It has it all, romance, music, family relationships, great friends and mystery.
December 2, 2025
My Rock Star Neighbor is a charming, high-energy romcom that blends celebrity chaos with genuine vulnerability. The dynamic between Nick and Maddie is instantly fun fire escape arguments turning into reluctant partnership, then into something warmer and deeper. The fake dating setup works beautifully here, especially with the added pressure of public scrutiny, a dangerous fan, and two careers on the line. The story balances humor, tension, and tenderness, delivering a romance that feels both playful and emotionally grounded. A lively, satisfying read for fans of music-themed love stories and opposites attract chemistry.
October 19, 2025
Maddie is an investigative reporter, working on uncovering corruption. Except now she's suddenly mistaken as her neighbour and friend girlfriend. The problem is he's an up and coming band member. Between late night gigs, nights with friends Nick is helping Maddie to investigate. The trouble as always is what happens when fake becomes normal and when do you realise it's no longer fake. This is another great addition to this series. A brilliant fake romance with just as much mystery. Such an easy book to read
October 25, 2025
I received a digital ARC of this book. I have loved the entire series! This book can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend the whole series. What could go wrong with fake-dating her neighbor? He's annoying, but so cute.... and she might have a crush on him... and who wouldn't want to fake date a hot guy. This cute story has the storyline that pulls you in from the start and you won't want to stop turning the pages. There's love, mystery, slight danger and found family. You will be routing for Maggie and Nick to figure things out!
November 7, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It gave Hallmark vibes and was a very cozy read, nothing crazy. I’ve been in a book slump and saw this come up as an ARC so I grabbed it as I’ve read the first 3 in this series already. The writing across all books in the series is consistent and blends all characters into each book well enough to remind you of previous books as you read.
* I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
* I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 31, 2025
Glad to have read this amazing book! Thanks, BookSirens!
A fun, feel-good romance with celebrity charm and emotional grounding. The chemistry between this rock star and the reporter is playful, the pacing smooth, and the romance balances fantasy with genuine emotional moments.
Nick and Maddie's love story was written in the stars, the fake relationship was so far from fake! I could easily see how, despite their efforts, they care for one another. Oh, and his protector side... so swoony ♥
A fun, feel-good romance with celebrity charm and emotional grounding. The chemistry between this rock star and the reporter is playful, the pacing smooth, and the romance balances fantasy with genuine emotional moments.
Nick and Maddie's love story was written in the stars, the fake relationship was so far from fake! I could easily see how, despite their efforts, they care for one another. Oh, and his protector side... so swoony ♥
October 29, 2025
Look it is me not you. The lack of humor was apparent. The two heroes live by themselves in one room apartments in New York City the struggle is real but they are doing very well for themselves.. I do not live in NYC but the author thinks I do. These two are not together today they broke up over a disagreement about the correct way to order a flat white at that coffee shop.
October 10, 2025
The banter between Maddie and Nick is an absolute joy, I really loved spending time with them and watching them get together. This is a great feel-good escapist story, it's easy to read, entertaining and just delightful.
October 24, 2025
This was a unique rockstar romance. It featured a rockstar with a kind heart and a mystery that kept you guessing whodunit. The characters Maddie and Nick are a perfect match. I was given an advance reader copy from NetGalley and am leaving an honest review.
November 16, 2025
This book was LOVELY.
You can never go wrong with a book that has a cute cartoon couple on the front!
The story was great, the perfect mix of feet kicking romance as well as a little bit of mystery crime solving!
The characters were super lovable.
Amazing book!
You can never go wrong with a book that has a cute cartoon couple on the front!
The story was great, the perfect mix of feet kicking romance as well as a little bit of mystery crime solving!
The characters were super lovable.
Amazing book!
December 8, 2025
4.5 stars ~ I absolutely loved both of the main characters from the very beginning and to see their chemistry blossoming through the fake-dating was very enjoyable. Maddie’s character was fleshed out well and she felt very relatable. I also really enjoyed Nick’s character as he was very different from the typical upcoming rockstars (the bad boys) that are usually portrayed in romance books. Understanding and learning parts of their backstories made me root for them both even more!
Although this is a fake-dating romcom, I enjoyed that the story wasn’t just focused on that aspect. I like how Maddie’s story of being a reporter and conducting an investigation throughout the romance was well done. The romance made me feel giddy and the intrigue and danger from the investigation was a nice balance for the plot.
The book is written in first-person with each chapter being from either Maddie or Nick’s perspective and I like how the reader was able to hear their thoughts alongside seeing the actions play out. I felt more connected with both characters through this style of writing.
The pacing of this book is good throughout and I was really happy with how the story ended. I was rooting for both characters from the very start, therefore I was very satisfied with how Strobos brought it all together at the end.
I have definitely already had a look at the other books in this series so I may end up reading some of them in the future! I’m so glad this blog tour allowed me to discover a new author who I would definitely read from again. If you are someone who loves a good romcom mixed with a mystery element then I would definitely recommend checking this one out.
Although this is a fake-dating romcom, I enjoyed that the story wasn’t just focused on that aspect. I like how Maddie’s story of being a reporter and conducting an investigation throughout the romance was well done. The romance made me feel giddy and the intrigue and danger from the investigation was a nice balance for the plot.
The book is written in first-person with each chapter being from either Maddie or Nick’s perspective and I like how the reader was able to hear their thoughts alongside seeing the actions play out. I felt more connected with both characters through this style of writing.
The pacing of this book is good throughout and I was really happy with how the story ended. I was rooting for both characters from the very start, therefore I was very satisfied with how Strobos brought it all together at the end.
I have definitely already had a look at the other books in this series so I may end up reading some of them in the future! I’m so glad this blog tour allowed me to discover a new author who I would definitely read from again. If you are someone who loves a good romcom mixed with a mystery element then I would definitely recommend checking this one out.
January 16, 2026
This is an entertaining book about reporter Maddie and Nick, who is an aspiring rockstar. They are neighbours in N.Y.City who agree to fake-date in order to help Nick‘s career (and because both are secretly attracted to each other). While Nick helps Maddie to uncover more about a scandal she‘s writing an article about they get to know each other better and the fake-dating doesn‘t feel so fake anymore…
I liked reading the story and the main characters, even though it had some unbelievable elements but overall it‘s a very entertaining story. The book is part of a series but it can absolutely be read as a stand-alone. If you have read the other books you will meet a lot of characters again which is something I always enjoy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked reading the story and the main characters, even though it had some unbelievable elements but overall it‘s a very entertaining story. The book is part of a series but it can absolutely be read as a stand-alone. If you have read the other books you will meet a lot of characters again which is something I always enjoy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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