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Heartbreak Mixtapes #1
(Not So) Simple Lyrics: Heartbreak Mixtapes, Book 1
He was my first love. My first heartbreak.
The boy who made the one mistake I’ll never forgive.
Roderick Wilder and I grew up side by side—two kids tangled up in music, mixtapes, and lyrics that felt like they belonged only to us. Then he destroyed everything we had and disappeared, chasing a future without me.
Twelve years later, he’s back.
Not the rising star I remember, but a man who’s broken, scarred, and desperate to rewrite his story.
The problem? I’ve already started falling for someone else—an anonymous stranger I trade late-night messages with, sharing lyrics and reliving the bands that shaped us. He feels safe. He feels new. He feels like everything Roderick isn’t.
But soon I might need to choose between the stranger who makes me believe again . . .and the boy who once destroyed me.
From USA Today bestselling author Claudia Burgoa comes a nostalgic second-chance romance of mixtapes, dial-up confessions, and the one boy who broke her heart before the world ever knew his name.
(Not So) Simple Lyrics is an emotional, nostalgic second chance which features your favorite
Slowburn
Rockstar
Bad boy
First love, childhood crush, it’s always been you
Wounded/Damaged/Tortured Hero
Epistolary novel
Redemption
The boy who made the one mistake I’ll never forgive.
Roderick Wilder and I grew up side by side—two kids tangled up in music, mixtapes, and lyrics that felt like they belonged only to us. Then he destroyed everything we had and disappeared, chasing a future without me.
Twelve years later, he’s back.
Not the rising star I remember, but a man who’s broken, scarred, and desperate to rewrite his story.
The problem? I’ve already started falling for someone else—an anonymous stranger I trade late-night messages with, sharing lyrics and reliving the bands that shaped us. He feels safe. He feels new. He feels like everything Roderick isn’t.
But soon I might need to choose between the stranger who makes me believe again . . .and the boy who once destroyed me.
From USA Today bestselling author Claudia Burgoa comes a nostalgic second-chance romance of mixtapes, dial-up confessions, and the one boy who broke her heart before the world ever knew his name.
(Not So) Simple Lyrics is an emotional, nostalgic second chance which features your favorite
Slowburn
Rockstar
Bad boy
First love, childhood crush, it’s always been you
Wounded/Damaged/Tortured Hero
Epistolary novel
Redemption
Audible Audio
Published December 30, 2025
173 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Claudia Y. Burgoa
141 books6,415 followersClaudia is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author.
She writes alluring, thrilling stories about complicated women and the men who take their breath away.
She lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and her youngest two children. She has a sweet Bichon, Macey, who thinks she's the ruler of the house. She's only partially right.
When Claudia is not writing, you can find her reading, knitting, or just hanging out with her family.
At night, she likes to binge watch shows with her equally geeky husband.
Instagram: http://bit.ly/ClaudiasIG
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CBstiktok
Bloggers/Influencers: https://geni.us/CBBloggers
Newsletter: https://geni.us/CBNewsletter
She writes alluring, thrilling stories about complicated women and the men who take their breath away.
She lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and her youngest two children. She has a sweet Bichon, Macey, who thinks she's the ruler of the house. She's only partially right.
When Claudia is not writing, you can find her reading, knitting, or just hanging out with her family.
At night, she likes to binge watch shows with her equally geeky husband.
Instagram: http://bit.ly/ClaudiasIG
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CBstiktok
Bloggers/Influencers: https://geni.us/CBBloggers
Newsletter: https://geni.us/CBNewsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews
January 10, 2026
This book is perfect for people who think music peeked in the 80s and 90s.
It’s a depressing book about second chances and the music industry in the 90s. So many artists and songs were discussed that sometimes it got overwhelming
It’s a depressing book about second chances and the music industry in the 90s. So many artists and songs were discussed that sometimes it got overwhelming
January 5, 2026
“Because some people are stitched into your story before the first page. Star-crossed. Written in. Written deep. And no matter how far you run, how long you stay apart, you find each other again.”
My first read of 2026 and it was a 5 star read!! This book spoke to who I am as a person, it spoke to my soul. I’ve never been in situations as the main characters, but I’ve never connected more to characters that were so different from me.
As teenagers, Roderick and Kit had an amazing connection. They were first loves. He broke that, broke her heart. Now it’s 12 years later and he’s just got out of rehab and he’s back, wanting to get his career on track. They are pulled to each other, but try to keep their distance. Kit’s current boyfriend is “safe.” She starts talking on message boards to DeadStrings and she forms a connection with him. We feel their connection through their messages. She knows that Roderick isn’t good for her, he broke her heart once, she’s sure he will do it again. How does Kit choose between the boy who has had her heart forever, and someone she’s never met, but gives her hope?
The title of this books lets you know that this is a very music heavy book. The messages that are sent back and forth between Kit and DeadStrings discuss a lot of music – the songs, the sounds, what they mean, how they make them feel. THIS here is why I connected to the book so much. For me, music is the greatest form of expression. I LOVE finding songs that describe how I feel, especially when I can’t put my feelings into words. Through these messages, through the shared songs, the shared explanations for picking those songs, their souls connect and they feel seen like never before. It was SO beautiful.
There are some tough topics discussed in here, addiction and abuse. The author handles these topics with care. Honestly, when we learn more throughout the book, I wanted to go into the book and hug Roderick. This book made me FEEL (though, I did not cry).
I could go on and on gushing about the book, but I won’t put any spoilers here. So I’ll just say this, the ending was PERFECT. This is my first time reading this author, but it certainly won’t be my last.
My first read of 2026 and it was a 5 star read!! This book spoke to who I am as a person, it spoke to my soul. I’ve never been in situations as the main characters, but I’ve never connected more to characters that were so different from me.
As teenagers, Roderick and Kit had an amazing connection. They were first loves. He broke that, broke her heart. Now it’s 12 years later and he’s just got out of rehab and he’s back, wanting to get his career on track. They are pulled to each other, but try to keep their distance. Kit’s current boyfriend is “safe.” She starts talking on message boards to DeadStrings and she forms a connection with him. We feel their connection through their messages. She knows that Roderick isn’t good for her, he broke her heart once, she’s sure he will do it again. How does Kit choose between the boy who has had her heart forever, and someone she’s never met, but gives her hope?
The title of this books lets you know that this is a very music heavy book. The messages that are sent back and forth between Kit and DeadStrings discuss a lot of music – the songs, the sounds, what they mean, how they make them feel. THIS here is why I connected to the book so much. For me, music is the greatest form of expression. I LOVE finding songs that describe how I feel, especially when I can’t put my feelings into words. Through these messages, through the shared songs, the shared explanations for picking those songs, their souls connect and they feel seen like never before. It was SO beautiful.
There are some tough topics discussed in here, addiction and abuse. The author handles these topics with care. Honestly, when we learn more throughout the book, I wanted to go into the book and hug Roderick. This book made me FEEL (though, I did not cry).
I could go on and on gushing about the book, but I won’t put any spoilers here. So I’ll just say this, the ending was PERFECT. This is my first time reading this author, but it certainly won’t be my last.
did-not-finish
December 21, 2025Thank you to the author for the gifted eARC.
Did Not Finish.
I knew there was a betrayal leading to the break-up between Roderick and Kit, I just hoped it would be something that I could get past.
I loved the “You’ve Got Mail” feel, with them talking through forums and message boards and eventually direct messages. Their dissection of music and creating lists really spoke to my soul.
But like I mentioned at the beginning, the betrayal that broke them up was something I knew I’d constantly judge the character for, that I would never forgive them. So alas, not for me.
Did Not Finish.
I knew there was a betrayal leading to the break-up between Roderick and Kit, I just hoped it would be something that I could get past.
I loved the “You’ve Got Mail” feel, with them talking through forums and message boards and eventually direct messages. Their dissection of music and creating lists really spoke to my soul.
But like I mentioned at the beginning, the betrayal that broke them up was something I knew I’d constantly judge the character for, that I would never forgive them. So alas, not for me.
January 4, 2026
#Review: *(Not So) Simple Lyrics* - Claudia Burgoa - ARC/ALC [18+]
4.7/5✨
3/5🌶️
Roderick and Kit had a cute love story at a fragile age, until his rockstar life came between them and destroyed everything.
Unfortunately, after being apart for many years, Roderick was back into Kit's life, but she didn't know where her heart was at anymore. Especially because she felt like she was falling for a complete stranger, with whom she was sharing anonymous messages about their shared passion for music. That felt completely different from what she experienced with Rod, but will that be enough to make her forget about her first love? Will she be able to ignore that broken version of the man she used to love?
This was a super emotional story, which was so beautiful thanks to all those music references. I'm also a huge music lover, being addicted to it, so it hit pretty hard on me. It brought a smile on my face to see all those little interactions from that online page, which connected to people by their pure love for music. I liked the analysis of all those songs, showing all those hidden emotions behind each one of them. It was something unique to me and I truly loved the idea. Of course that I was captivated by the entangled story of Roderick and Kit, dying to know what happened between them that broke their beautiful love story. It was hard to swallow all those shady things that happened out there and how many consequences were brought upon Roderick and many other people. It was nice to follow that reunion of two lost soulmates and to see all that tension and those strong feelings, which were still very much present between Kit and Rod.
One emotional and heartbreaking story, which captivated me by it's unique way of praising music and the way it was strongly connected to the love story of our characters. It was nice to see how they found peace and healing in that simple thing of listening to music and finding solace in the messages behind the songs. It was a story full of angst and there were some triggers which may affect you, so please take a look at that list before reading this book.
Super grateful for receiving this e-ARC and ALC from Hambright Pr. Thank you so much!
✨Tropes
▫️Rockstar
▫️Second Chance Romance
▫️Mental Health
▫️Angst
▫️Bad Boy
▫️First Love / Childhood Crush
▫️Best Friend's Older Brother
▫️Tortured Hero
4.7/5✨
3/5🌶️
Roderick and Kit had a cute love story at a fragile age, until his rockstar life came between them and destroyed everything.
Unfortunately, after being apart for many years, Roderick was back into Kit's life, but she didn't know where her heart was at anymore. Especially because she felt like she was falling for a complete stranger, with whom she was sharing anonymous messages about their shared passion for music. That felt completely different from what she experienced with Rod, but will that be enough to make her forget about her first love? Will she be able to ignore that broken version of the man she used to love?
This was a super emotional story, which was so beautiful thanks to all those music references. I'm also a huge music lover, being addicted to it, so it hit pretty hard on me. It brought a smile on my face to see all those little interactions from that online page, which connected to people by their pure love for music. I liked the analysis of all those songs, showing all those hidden emotions behind each one of them. It was something unique to me and I truly loved the idea. Of course that I was captivated by the entangled story of Roderick and Kit, dying to know what happened between them that broke their beautiful love story. It was hard to swallow all those shady things that happened out there and how many consequences were brought upon Roderick and many other people. It was nice to follow that reunion of two lost soulmates and to see all that tension and those strong feelings, which were still very much present between Kit and Rod.
One emotional and heartbreaking story, which captivated me by it's unique way of praising music and the way it was strongly connected to the love story of our characters. It was nice to see how they found peace and healing in that simple thing of listening to music and finding solace in the messages behind the songs. It was a story full of angst and there were some triggers which may affect you, so please take a look at that list before reading this book.
Super grateful for receiving this e-ARC and ALC from Hambright Pr. Thank you so much!
✨Tropes
▫️Rockstar
▫️Second Chance Romance
▫️Mental Health
▫️Angst
▫️Bad Boy
▫️First Love / Childhood Crush
▫️Best Friend's Older Brother
▫️Tortured Hero
December 31, 2025
Claudia's books have always been a hit or miss to me and unfortunately, this one is a miss. The first half of the book is pretty much told in the format of email exchanges between the main characters (almost 20 years ago) with TONS of song references from the '90s that I personally am not familiar with at all so paired with the lack of actual interaction in present time, I honestly had to force myself to continue reading this book...especially when the book itself is close to 600 pages.
Thankfully, the pace of the story picked up in the second half of the book and the ending, of course, was a well-deserved HEA for both protagonists. The author did do a lot of research on the songs and she undoubtedly put great effort into the aforementioned emails since I could tell from the detailed interpretation of the lyrics/tones/narratives of each song listed between the main characters; sadly, I still found it hard to resonate with any of them due to my lack of understanding in that specific area so the problem was 100% me.
That being said, I believed this book would be a good fit for those who were into some oldies but goodies music reference and second chances. Oh, another thing I couldn't possibly get myself to fully enjoy the story was the VERY REASON the male main character broke the female MC's heart all those years ago. No matter what excuses he had, nope, that was practically my bottom line when it came to romantic relationships so yeah, sorry not sorry. Anyways, please consider yourself warned!
***Thanks to Hambright PR and the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
Thankfully, the pace of the story picked up in the second half of the book and the ending, of course, was a well-deserved HEA for both protagonists. The author did do a lot of research on the songs and she undoubtedly put great effort into the aforementioned emails since I could tell from the detailed interpretation of the lyrics/tones/narratives of each song listed between the main characters; sadly, I still found it hard to resonate with any of them due to my lack of understanding in that specific area so the problem was 100% me.
That being said, I believed this book would be a good fit for those who were into some oldies but goodies music reference and second chances. Oh, another thing I couldn't possibly get myself to fully enjoy the story was the VERY REASON the male main character broke the female MC's heart all those years ago. No matter what excuses he had, nope, that was practically my bottom line when it came to romantic relationships so yeah, sorry not sorry. Anyways, please consider yourself warned!
***Thanks to Hambright PR and the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
January 13, 2026
(Not So) Simple Lyrics was my second book from romance author Claudia Burgoa and it was quite a challenging read with some heavy themes. I wasn’t sure if it was going to be for me early on, but as I got to know the MCs I became very invested in their story and ended up really enjoying it.
Set against the backdrop of the music world, Roderick Wilder has just been released from rehab after an overdose that nearly ended his life. His bandmates are no longer speaking to him, he’s estranged from his controlling parents and he has destroyed his relationship with the woman he loved.
It’s been twelve years since Kit last saw Roderick and she’s finally moving on with her life after being left broken and devastated. In fact, she’s beginning to fall for a stranger with who she shares late night online chats about music and the bands and songs that shaped their lives. This anonymous man feels safe and everything that Roderick is not. How will she choose between this stranger who makes her believe in love again and the boy who shattered her?
(Not So) Simple Lyrics is part of the ‘90s themed Heartbreak Mixtape series and it’s a heartbreaking and challenging story exploring addiction, betrayal and healing. There is a lot of time spent inside these two MCs heads and reading their thoughts was pretty dark at times, so please check triggers warnings on Claudia’s website. However, the musical chats scattered throughout the story really lifted this book and gave hope for something better, as well as providing a good dose of nostalgia. If you’re an ‘80s and ‘90s music fan you will love reading all the song references and analysis of lyrics.
I listened to the audiobook which was superbly narrated by Jason Clarke and Erin Mallon. Thanks to @claudiaburgoa and @hambright_pr for the gifted ALC.
Set against the backdrop of the music world, Roderick Wilder has just been released from rehab after an overdose that nearly ended his life. His bandmates are no longer speaking to him, he’s estranged from his controlling parents and he has destroyed his relationship with the woman he loved.
It’s been twelve years since Kit last saw Roderick and she’s finally moving on with her life after being left broken and devastated. In fact, she’s beginning to fall for a stranger with who she shares late night online chats about music and the bands and songs that shaped their lives. This anonymous man feels safe and everything that Roderick is not. How will she choose between this stranger who makes her believe in love again and the boy who shattered her?
(Not So) Simple Lyrics is part of the ‘90s themed Heartbreak Mixtape series and it’s a heartbreaking and challenging story exploring addiction, betrayal and healing. There is a lot of time spent inside these two MCs heads and reading their thoughts was pretty dark at times, so please check triggers warnings on Claudia’s website. However, the musical chats scattered throughout the story really lifted this book and gave hope for something better, as well as providing a good dose of nostalgia. If you’re an ‘80s and ‘90s music fan you will love reading all the song references and analysis of lyrics.
I listened to the audiobook which was superbly narrated by Jason Clarke and Erin Mallon. Thanks to @claudiaburgoa and @hambright_pr for the gifted ALC.
January 1, 2026
Rockstar romance ✔️ Second chance ✔️ First Love ✔️ Tortured MMC ✔️ 90’s Music Scene ✔️ Nostalgic AF ✔️ Online Chats ✔️ Emotional, Angsty and full of yearning ✔️
TW: this book follows some dark themes, also talks of addiction and alcohol abuse.
What a fabulous introduction to Claudia’s writing. I absolutely ate this one up, and couldn’t stop listening or reading at every possible chance I got.
Jason & Erin’s performance as Roderick and Kit was absolutely phenomenal, hypnotic and kept me right on the hook the whole time, and reading at the same time helped things stick in my brain 😂 I’m a visual person okay?
Their story was full of heartbreak, of trauma, of grieving for what once was. It was heavy and emotional, and I definitely cried multiple times throughout. Seeing the characters stumble upon each other in an anonymous forum without knowing who they were talking to was a whole unique twist in their story, their connection to music, the playlists, the late night emails. I loved it.
Their reconnection IRL was also explosive, knowing what had happened in their past, but neither of them being able to deny that soul deep connection. My heart broke for Kit and how much he had hurt her, but also knowing that Roderick was trying so hard to keep his head above water, fighting his demons sometimes on an hourly basis, to try and prove to her and himself that he was worthy of that second chance.
I pretty much went into this blind aside from knowing the tropes and I’m so glad i did. I cannot wait to continue this series and I’m so grateful for the chance to arc read.
What a fantastic book to end 2025 on 🥹❤️🩹
- cross posting on multiple sites - arc copy in exchange for honest review -
TW: this book follows some dark themes, also talks of addiction and alcohol abuse.
What a fabulous introduction to Claudia’s writing. I absolutely ate this one up, and couldn’t stop listening or reading at every possible chance I got.
Jason & Erin’s performance as Roderick and Kit was absolutely phenomenal, hypnotic and kept me right on the hook the whole time, and reading at the same time helped things stick in my brain 😂 I’m a visual person okay?
Their story was full of heartbreak, of trauma, of grieving for what once was. It was heavy and emotional, and I definitely cried multiple times throughout. Seeing the characters stumble upon each other in an anonymous forum without knowing who they were talking to was a whole unique twist in their story, their connection to music, the playlists, the late night emails. I loved it.
Their reconnection IRL was also explosive, knowing what had happened in their past, but neither of them being able to deny that soul deep connection. My heart broke for Kit and how much he had hurt her, but also knowing that Roderick was trying so hard to keep his head above water, fighting his demons sometimes on an hourly basis, to try and prove to her and himself that he was worthy of that second chance.
I pretty much went into this blind aside from knowing the tropes and I’m so glad i did. I cannot wait to continue this series and I’m so grateful for the chance to arc read.
What a fantastic book to end 2025 on 🥹❤️🩹
- cross posting on multiple sites - arc copy in exchange for honest review -
January 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎶(Not So) Simple Lyrics by Claudia Burgoa is a nostalgic, emotionally charged rock romance that blends second chances, first love, and the power of music.
Roderick Wilder and the heroine grew up intertwined by music, mixtapes, and shared dreams. He was a rising rock star raised in the industry; she was his manager’s daughter. Their love was intense, complicated, and ultimately shattered by a betrayal that changed everything.
Twelve years later, Roderick returns—no longer the star he once was, but a broken man searching for redemption. At the same time, she’s formed a deep connection with an anonymous stranger in an online music chat room, bonding over lyrics, bands, and late-night conversations. The contrast between past heartbreak and new hope creates a steady emotional pull throughout the story.
The book moves between timelines, allowing readers to fully experience the depth of their first love and the weight of what was lost. Themes of identity, forgiveness, family expectations, and rebuilding after rock bottom are woven beautifully into a story steeped in ’90s music nostalgia.
**Important note for sensitive readers:** there is cheating, but it is an intentional part of the story and handled in a way that serves the overall arc.
Overall, this was a heartfelt and engaging read, especially for music lovers and fans of second-chance romances. I’m looking forward to continuing the Heartbreak Mixtapes series.
🎶(Not So) Simple Lyrics by Claudia Burgoa is a nostalgic, emotionally charged rock romance that blends second chances, first love, and the power of music.
Roderick Wilder and the heroine grew up intertwined by music, mixtapes, and shared dreams. He was a rising rock star raised in the industry; she was his manager’s daughter. Their love was intense, complicated, and ultimately shattered by a betrayal that changed everything.
Twelve years later, Roderick returns—no longer the star he once was, but a broken man searching for redemption. At the same time, she’s formed a deep connection with an anonymous stranger in an online music chat room, bonding over lyrics, bands, and late-night conversations. The contrast between past heartbreak and new hope creates a steady emotional pull throughout the story.
The book moves between timelines, allowing readers to fully experience the depth of their first love and the weight of what was lost. Themes of identity, forgiveness, family expectations, and rebuilding after rock bottom are woven beautifully into a story steeped in ’90s music nostalgia.
**Important note for sensitive readers:** there is cheating, but it is an intentional part of the story and handled in a way that serves the overall arc.
Overall, this was a heartfelt and engaging read, especially for music lovers and fans of second-chance romances. I’m looking forward to continuing the Heartbreak Mixtapes series.
December 30, 2025
This is the first in a new series, and this is Roderick and Kit’s story.
Rod was Kit’s first love, first heartbreak, and he left her behind to follow his dreams. Now 12-years later, Rod is back, nothing like the man she though he would be, he is broken and scarred, and desperate to rewrite his story, but Kit is falling for an anonymous man whom she is exchanging late night messages with. When Kit’s family life implodes, Rod is there for her.
This is a well written, slow burn, easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, angst, rockstar / bad boy, dial up confessions, second chances, redemption, making choices, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Rod was Kit’s first love, first heartbreak, and he left her behind to follow his dreams. Now 12-years later, Rod is back, nothing like the man she though he would be, he is broken and scarred, and desperate to rewrite his story, but Kit is falling for an anonymous man whom she is exchanging late night messages with. When Kit’s family life implodes, Rod is there for her.
This is a well written, slow burn, easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, angst, rockstar / bad boy, dial up confessions, second chances, redemption, making choices, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
December 27, 2025
Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for the advanced listener copy of Claudia Burgoa’s upcoming book, (Not so) Simple Lyrics. This book had some of my favorite elements and tropes- second chance romance, enemies to lovers, secret identity, rockstar, family drama, and 90’s music references. My two favorite things from this book were the online chat conversations between the two main characters (so sweet and pure-) and all of the song references throughout the story (this music lover adores that).
Synopsis: When two kids grow up in musical royalty, it’s inevitable they will also go down the music path. Is it also inevitable that they will fall in love and have their romance destroyed by the excess that gets thrown their way? Possibly. 12 years later these former lovers meet again, but not in any way they would imagine. Late night messages through an online chat helps them both feel free to share music, lyrics, heartbreak, and more. Is there a way for them to be honest about who they really are and create a new future?
Synopsis: When two kids grow up in musical royalty, it’s inevitable they will also go down the music path. Is it also inevitable that they will fall in love and have their romance destroyed by the excess that gets thrown their way? Possibly. 12 years later these former lovers meet again, but not in any way they would imagine. Late night messages through an online chat helps them both feel free to share music, lyrics, heartbreak, and more. Is there a way for them to be honest about who they really are and create a new future?
December 28, 2025
the cover of the book really makes you think this is a fun and light read but oh boy, it’s not (but in a good way).
It’s about two people who somehow find their way back to each other again and it was written beautifully. If you don’t like books that lean more on the poetic side, this book may not be for you. this is also not a light read. I wouldn’t say it’s overly heavy but it touches on a lot of difficult topics. this book is for you if you love music as song recommendations is the core of their story. overall, this was an enjoyable listen.
thank you hambright pr for the advanced listening copy.
It’s about two people who somehow find their way back to each other again and it was written beautifully. If you don’t like books that lean more on the poetic side, this book may not be for you. this is also not a light read. I wouldn’t say it’s overly heavy but it touches on a lot of difficult topics. this book is for you if you love music as song recommendations is the core of their story. overall, this was an enjoyable listen.
thank you hambright pr for the advanced listening copy.
January 2, 2026
Roderick and Kit's second chance romance is one full of heart and emotions. I was instantly hooked within the first few chapters with some of the one liners that these characters were saying!
❤️🩹Second chance
❤️🩹Rockstar romance
❤️🩹Best friend's brother
❤️🩹Bad boy
❤️🩹First love
❤️🩹Tortured MMC
Kit and Rod had a whirlwind romance when they were younger, until circumstances and choices tore them apart. Now we are over a decade later, and they are back in each others proximity.
This book is written a lot in email communication between the MCs, that don't realize they are talking to one another. So we get to see them fall back in love with one another without knowing it.
❤️🩹Second chance
❤️🩹Rockstar romance
❤️🩹Best friend's brother
❤️🩹Bad boy
❤️🩹First love
❤️🩹Tortured MMC
Kit and Rod had a whirlwind romance when they were younger, until circumstances and choices tore them apart. Now we are over a decade later, and they are back in each others proximity.
This book is written a lot in email communication between the MCs, that don't realize they are talking to one another. So we get to see them fall back in love with one another without knowing it.
December 22, 2025
I’m still reeling from this incredible story by Claudia Burgoa! It’s a uniquely layered second-chance romance that I couldn't put down. The voice acting is top-tier, making Rodrick and Kit’s world feel incredibly real and raw. I loved the contrast of their anonymous connection against the heavy realities they were facing individually. It’s a powerful journey of healing and rediscovered love—absolutely a must-read!
Thank you Hambright PR for this ALC & eARC!
Thank you Hambright PR for this ALC & eARC!
December 31, 2025
One word: RUINOUS. Because this book just completely ruined me, and I was a sobbing mess from start to finish. This book took the “It’s always been you trope” to the highest levels and I devoured it all in ONE SITTING. This book tells the story of two beautiful people who broke each other but find their way back together through unconventional ways. Some may even call it, fate. We get 2 very different perspectives so things don’t really make sense at the start. Rodrick has been through one screw up after the other and is finally wanting to make a change after getting out of rehab. However, most of his POV really is just yearning for his ex girlfriend, who basically still owns his soul after 12 years apart. This man is guilt and yearning to the maximum degree because his POV had me bawling, he very literally cannot breathe without her (and he hasn’t been truly breathing for 12 years). However, Kits PoV is so so different, because she portrays Rodrick as the man who betrayed and broke her… unbeknownst to them… they weren’t really the ones who broke each other and there are larger forces in play. This brings us to the intensity of this plot, I was crying my way through most of this, screaming quite a bit and there were so many plot twists that had me going “WHAT IN THE JESUS CHEIST WAS THAT?!?!?!”. This book is a largely epistolary novel as lots of teh story are told through “anonymous” messages. As the reader, we a severe sense of dramatic irony, as DeadStrings and StringTheory connect with their love and loss through music. That part also had me screaming and crying, because the midnight confessions and encouragement had me feeling everything. Also this book has so much strength. Both Kit and Rodrick show so much strength through their differing yet equally challenging journeys and how they unknowingly supported each other through it was devastatingly beautiful. The ending was just perfect, the best full circle moment with a super emotional ending. This book quite literally destroyed me. It was an emotional masterpiece and for sure one of the best second chance romances I have ever read! If you want your heart wrecked but your soul so freaking full, read this book. Full on 6/5
Read
January 7, 2026This story isn’t a second‑chance romance so much as a reclamation—of self, of music, of the kind of love that survives the wreckage. Roderick Wilder and Kit Dempsey grew up believing they were inevitable, two prodigies orbiting the same broken rock‑royalty universe. Life, addiction, and the sins of the generation before them blew that apart spectacularly.
What I loved is that this book doesn’t pretend healing is pretty. Roderick’s fall is messy, humiliating, and painfully human, and his climb back up is slow, grounded, and full of the kind of work most rock‑star romances skip. Volunteering at shelters, calling the people he hurt, learning to live with consequences—this is a man rebuilding himself brick by brick, not for applause, but because he’s finally tired of being broken.
And then there’s the anonymous online friendship—DeadStrings and StringTheory27—two musicians trading playlists like lifelines. Their conversations feel like late‑night therapy sessions wrapped in song recommendations, and the emotional intimacy that grows there is the quiet heartbeat of the book. It’s tender, vulnerable, and strangely domestic, even before they know who’s on the other side of the screen.
Kit, for her part, is carrying her own grief, guilt, and exhaustion, and the book gives her space to unravel and rebuild too. When their paths finally cross again in the real world, it’s not fireworks—it’s recognition. Two people who once loved each other at nineteen meeting again at thirty, bruised but wiser, and choosing to see each other clearly.
This isn’t a slow burn; it’s a no burn until suddenly everything is warm again. The romance is gentle, almost shy, built on forgiveness, accountability, and the quiet joy of finding someone who knows your ghosts and stays anyway. And yes, Otis the dog and Allegra the cat absolutely steal scenes.
In the end, it’s a story about choosing a quieter life, a healthier love, and a future that doesn’t look anything like the past. Soft, redemptive, and unexpectedly comforting.
What I loved is that this book doesn’t pretend healing is pretty. Roderick’s fall is messy, humiliating, and painfully human, and his climb back up is slow, grounded, and full of the kind of work most rock‑star romances skip. Volunteering at shelters, calling the people he hurt, learning to live with consequences—this is a man rebuilding himself brick by brick, not for applause, but because he’s finally tired of being broken.
And then there’s the anonymous online friendship—DeadStrings and StringTheory27—two musicians trading playlists like lifelines. Their conversations feel like late‑night therapy sessions wrapped in song recommendations, and the emotional intimacy that grows there is the quiet heartbeat of the book. It’s tender, vulnerable, and strangely domestic, even before they know who’s on the other side of the screen.
Kit, for her part, is carrying her own grief, guilt, and exhaustion, and the book gives her space to unravel and rebuild too. When their paths finally cross again in the real world, it’s not fireworks—it’s recognition. Two people who once loved each other at nineteen meeting again at thirty, bruised but wiser, and choosing to see each other clearly.
This isn’t a slow burn; it’s a no burn until suddenly everything is warm again. The romance is gentle, almost shy, built on forgiveness, accountability, and the quiet joy of finding someone who knows your ghosts and stays anyway. And yes, Otis the dog and Allegra the cat absolutely steal scenes.
In the end, it’s a story about choosing a quieter life, a healthier love, and a future that doesn’t look anything like the past. Soft, redemptive, and unexpectedly comforting.
January 12, 2026
(Not so) Simple Lyrics is an MF second chance romance mixed with lots of nineties nostalgia.
This was the second book by Claudia Burgoa I‘ve read and I‘m quickly becoming a huge fan of her. Whether it’s quirky or sad, she has this way of writing about emotions that really gets to me.
This book hurt so good. It’s full of longing and wistfulness. It‘s for the music lovers, who sit there and listen to the same songs over and over again. Picking them apart, getting lost in the music.
I couldn‘t help myself reading this book with Spotify open and listening to the songs Kit and Roderick were talking about.
The chats between these two were my favorite parts of the story, followed by the character development. Both Kit and Roderick had so much depth; they weren‘t perfect, but they tried to become perfect for themselves and each other.
I‘m not a huge fan of second chance romances (don‘t believe in it in real life, so I don‘t believe in it in books) and the reason why Kit forgave Roderick was a bit windy to me. It made things too easy for him (though he also did really try to be a better person for her). As I didn‘t read the book for the romance but rather for the sentimentality, it was only a minor bump in an otherwise really enjoyable book.
To all the Nineties babies and music lovers out there, this is your book!
I listened to parts of this on audio and Jason Clark and Erin Mallon did both a great job. Erin Mallon is one of my absolute favorite narrators; I love her voice! The feelings she‘s able to express with her voice alone are insane. But while I can recommend the audiobook in theory, I personally enjoyed reading the book more. It‘s much easier to pause and look up the songs the characters are talking about that way.
Thank you to Claudia Burgoa and Hambright PR for sending me an ALC and an ARC. All opinions are my own.
This was the second book by Claudia Burgoa I‘ve read and I‘m quickly becoming a huge fan of her. Whether it’s quirky or sad, she has this way of writing about emotions that really gets to me.
This book hurt so good. It’s full of longing and wistfulness. It‘s for the music lovers, who sit there and listen to the same songs over and over again. Picking them apart, getting lost in the music.
I couldn‘t help myself reading this book with Spotify open and listening to the songs Kit and Roderick were talking about.
The chats between these two were my favorite parts of the story, followed by the character development. Both Kit and Roderick had so much depth; they weren‘t perfect, but they tried to become perfect for themselves and each other.
I‘m not a huge fan of second chance romances (don‘t believe in it in real life, so I don‘t believe in it in books) and the reason why Kit forgave Roderick was a bit windy to me. It made things too easy for him (though he also did really try to be a better person for her). As I didn‘t read the book for the romance but rather for the sentimentality, it was only a minor bump in an otherwise really enjoyable book.
To all the Nineties babies and music lovers out there, this is your book!
I listened to parts of this on audio and Jason Clark and Erin Mallon did both a great job. Erin Mallon is one of my absolute favorite narrators; I love her voice! The feelings she‘s able to express with her voice alone are insane. But while I can recommend the audiobook in theory, I personally enjoyed reading the book more. It‘s much easier to pause and look up the songs the characters are talking about that way.
Thank you to Claudia Burgoa and Hambright PR for sending me an ALC and an ARC. All opinions are my own.
December 30, 2025
This book was emotional in the sweetest, most rhythmic way—the kind that’ll have you beating on your chest and humming all day long . Not So Simple Lyrics is a beautiful blend of second chances, healing, and the kind of love that meets you exactly where you are, scars and all.
Roderick Wilder is the kind of redemption arc you’re not sure will survive the damage already done. The kind where you’re constantly asking yourself, Is this man actually capable of doing the right thing?—especially when it comes to Kit.
And listen… I was cussing him OUT through a good chunk of this book. Full-on “ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!” moments had me putting the book down just to breathe 😤.
But that’s what made this story work so well.
This was raw, emotional, messy, and painfully honest. Roderick had a lot to unpack—pride, regret, self-sabotage—and watching him slowly confront his flaws instead of running from them was frustrating in the best way. Kit, on the other hand, was strong, grounded, and absolutely justified in protecting her heart.
The push and pull.
The history.
The music.
The growth.
It all came together beautifully. Claudia Burgoa delivered a love story that doesn’t gloss over pain but instead lets healing take its time—and lets the music guide you through your emotions.
Emotional, heartfelt, and deeply satisfying.✨
Roderick Wilder is the kind of redemption arc you’re not sure will survive the damage already done. The kind where you’re constantly asking yourself, Is this man actually capable of doing the right thing?—especially when it comes to Kit.
And listen… I was cussing him OUT through a good chunk of this book. Full-on “ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!” moments had me putting the book down just to breathe 😤.
But that’s what made this story work so well.
This was raw, emotional, messy, and painfully honest. Roderick had a lot to unpack—pride, regret, self-sabotage—and watching him slowly confront his flaws instead of running from them was frustrating in the best way. Kit, on the other hand, was strong, grounded, and absolutely justified in protecting her heart.
The push and pull.
The history.
The music.
The growth.
It all came together beautifully. Claudia Burgoa delivered a love story that doesn’t gloss over pain but instead lets healing take its time—and lets the music guide you through your emotions.
Emotional, heartfelt, and deeply satisfying.✨
January 4, 2026
First love, shattered dreams, and a soundtrack that "hurts so good". 🎶💔
Roderick and Kit fell in love. Young, pure and fragile, until his rockstar life blew everything apart. Years later, Roderick reappears carrying all that damage, while Kit is also falling for a mysterious stranger through anonymous music messages. Same passion, very different feelings—and the tension works.
What truly made this story shine for me was the music. The references, lyrics, and emotional breakdowns of songs were woven beautifully into the story. As a massive music lover, I adored how music wasn’t just background noise but the heartbeat of the story, especially those intimate online exchanges fueled by shared songs.
Shout out to Erin Mallon and Jason Clarke. They absolutely nailed the audiobook. Their performances were a pleasure to listen to, as always, but this time the raw emotion hit especially hard. Every ache, every longing pause, every vulnerable moment came through in their voices, adding so much depth to the story. They didn’t just narrate it, they made you feel it.
The angst is heavy, the reunion is messy, and the emotions are raw. This is a nostalgic, music soaked love story about heartbreak, healing, and finding comfort in songs when everything else falls apart. If music means everything to you, this one will hit hard. 🎧✨
Thank you to Hambright PR, Claudia Burgoa for this ALC/ARC. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Roderick and Kit fell in love. Young, pure and fragile, until his rockstar life blew everything apart. Years later, Roderick reappears carrying all that damage, while Kit is also falling for a mysterious stranger through anonymous music messages. Same passion, very different feelings—and the tension works.
What truly made this story shine for me was the music. The references, lyrics, and emotional breakdowns of songs were woven beautifully into the story. As a massive music lover, I adored how music wasn’t just background noise but the heartbeat of the story, especially those intimate online exchanges fueled by shared songs.
Shout out to Erin Mallon and Jason Clarke. They absolutely nailed the audiobook. Their performances were a pleasure to listen to, as always, but this time the raw emotion hit especially hard. Every ache, every longing pause, every vulnerable moment came through in their voices, adding so much depth to the story. They didn’t just narrate it, they made you feel it.
The angst is heavy, the reunion is messy, and the emotions are raw. This is a nostalgic, music soaked love story about heartbreak, healing, and finding comfort in songs when everything else falls apart. If music means everything to you, this one will hit hard. 🎧✨
Thank you to Hambright PR, Claudia Burgoa for this ALC/ARC. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 25, 2026
I couldn’t decide if I thought this was all pretentious muso posturing or if I loved it.
I’m a child of the era. The music featured is the sound track to my teenage years. Did I agree with some of the thoughts on particular songs? Why, yes I did. Did it need pages and pages of waffle to describe what Kit or Roderick thought and felt about a song? Probably not.
I do love a destroyed rocker redeeming themselves (I’m happy to go back to my Kellan Kyle or Jake Wethers era).
Roderick Wild broke Kit Dempsey’s heart, then he broke himself with drugs, booze and women. It took a brush with death for him to turn it around. He wants Kit back but she is not ready for forgiveness.
Kit finds herself exchanging messages about songs with a stranger in a chat room. The songs! This might be the book with the best play-list ever. Give me all the Depeche Mode and Erasure. I can’t believe there wasn’t some Billy Joel and a bit more REM. I demand more REM especially Find The River. Mostly the songs were chefs kiss - even Hall and Oates.
It could have done with a crop though. Some of the waffle on songs was soooooo long and didn’t always add much to the story.
I’m a child of the era. The music featured is the sound track to my teenage years. Did I agree with some of the thoughts on particular songs? Why, yes I did. Did it need pages and pages of waffle to describe what Kit or Roderick thought and felt about a song? Probably not.
I do love a destroyed rocker redeeming themselves (I’m happy to go back to my Kellan Kyle or Jake Wethers era).
Roderick Wild broke Kit Dempsey’s heart, then he broke himself with drugs, booze and women. It took a brush with death for him to turn it around. He wants Kit back but she is not ready for forgiveness.
Kit finds herself exchanging messages about songs with a stranger in a chat room. The songs! This might be the book with the best play-list ever. Give me all the Depeche Mode and Erasure. I can’t believe there wasn’t some Billy Joel and a bit more REM. I demand more REM especially Find The River. Mostly the songs were chefs kiss - even Hall and Oates.
It could have done with a crop though. Some of the waffle on songs was soooooo long and didn’t always add much to the story.
December 31, 2025
This book broke me. Burgoa writes THE best angst filled love stories.
Roderick and Kit were such beautiful and complicated characters. Thus they needed more time and words to share their tale. I took my time reading, wanted to absorb everything.
Having personal experience with a family member who is a professional musician and another that’s struggled with addiction, this book hit home, in a big way. Some authors get too deep into the weeds with recovery and others gloss over it. Burgoa hits all the right notes, lingering where needed and skipping ahead rather than be too repetitive. Both Wilder & Dempsey suffered so much, seeing them heal and fall forward was wonderful.
If you love:
80’s/90’s music
Heavy angst
Slow burn, I mean at a snail pace
Dysfunctional families
This is a great book for you. I loved it.
Roderick and Kit were such beautiful and complicated characters. Thus they needed more time and words to share their tale. I took my time reading, wanted to absorb everything.
Having personal experience with a family member who is a professional musician and another that’s struggled with addiction, this book hit home, in a big way. Some authors get too deep into the weeds with recovery and others gloss over it. Burgoa hits all the right notes, lingering where needed and skipping ahead rather than be too repetitive. Both Wilder & Dempsey suffered so much, seeing them heal and fall forward was wonderful.
If you love:
80’s/90’s music
Heavy angst
Slow burn, I mean at a snail pace
Dysfunctional families
This is a great book for you. I loved it.
January 13, 2026
This was a beautiful story. I really enjoyed the plot and the characters. The way Claudia writes about music and the songs was absolutely poetic. I am a lover of music so I really got into the playlists the characters shared and the reasons behind each song. I thought that was beautiful. The characters are also really beautifully written. I enjoyed their dynamic and the being placed in the mid 90s felt so nostalgic for me with the chat and no cellphone, etc. It felt like a blast from the past.
The reason I'm rating this a 3 star review is because I did feel like some parts of the story drug on. Like there was so much soliloquy that I didn't feel was necessary and it was just pretty filler to make the book longer. I also didn't like how the last part when they reconciled and got together felt so rushed. You had this 100+ chapter buildup and a 3 chapter resolution and seeing them be a couple. Really anticlimactic. I'm more excited to find out what happens with Cleo, Barrett and Eddie.
The reason I'm rating this a 3 star review is because I did feel like some parts of the story drug on. Like there was so much soliloquy that I didn't feel was necessary and it was just pretty filler to make the book longer. I also didn't like how the last part when they reconciled and got together felt so rushed. You had this 100+ chapter buildup and a 3 chapter resolution and seeing them be a couple. Really anticlimactic. I'm more excited to find out what happens with Cleo, Barrett and Eddie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2026
I really enjoyed this read. It shows the raw side of addiction and recovery. I loved that the MCs sent each other playlists based on what was going on in their lives. The storyline kept my attention and wanting more until I turned the last page.
I want to be seen like that. I want to feel like that. I want someone who loves me to the point of losing himself, someone who wants to fuck me like I'm oxygen and also hold me like I might disappear mid-kiss.
Someone who can't help but write songs about the way my body hums under his touch, about the sound I make when I come undone, about the way I bury my face in his neck after.
I want to be seen like that. I want to feel like that. I want someone who loves me to the point of losing himself, someone who wants to fuck me like I'm oxygen and also hold me like I might disappear mid-kiss.
Someone who can't help but write songs about the way my body hums under his touch, about the sound I make when I come undone, about the way I bury my face in his neck after.
December 27, 2025
"(Not So) Simple Lyrics" by Claudia Y. Burgoa is the first book in the "Heartbreak Mixtapes" series.
Thank you Hambright PR for the ARC and ALC.
Opinions from this review are completely my own.
On the surface, this is a second chance romance, but it is also about a second chance at life in general.
Roderick was part of a famous band, but he struggles with addictions and is recently out of rehab.
He and Kit were together 12 years ago, before he hit rock bottom.
I loved listening to the audiobook narrated by Erin Mallon and Jason Clarke.
Erin is great as Kit and she managed to bring out all the emotions.
But Jason is perfect as Roderick. There is so much monologue and you can feel Roderick's struggles and feeling though Jason's voice.
His performance is amazing and I could listen to him speak all day.
Don't expect a sweet romance as this book will make you hurt a bit (but they get a happy ending).
The writing, character development and overall plot are well written and there is a lot of talk about music.
The author managed to balance the drama, emotions and slow burn romance.
I'll definitely read the next book in the series.
Thank you Hambright PR for the ARC and ALC.
Opinions from this review are completely my own.
On the surface, this is a second chance romance, but it is also about a second chance at life in general.
Roderick was part of a famous band, but he struggles with addictions and is recently out of rehab.
He and Kit were together 12 years ago, before he hit rock bottom.
I loved listening to the audiobook narrated by Erin Mallon and Jason Clarke.
Erin is great as Kit and she managed to bring out all the emotions.
But Jason is perfect as Roderick. There is so much monologue and you can feel Roderick's struggles and feeling though Jason's voice.
His performance is amazing and I could listen to him speak all day.
Don't expect a sweet romance as this book will make you hurt a bit (but they get a happy ending).
The writing, character development and overall plot are well written and there is a lot of talk about music.
The author managed to balance the drama, emotions and slow burn romance.
I'll definitely read the next book in the series.
December 30, 2025
Audiobook Review
Recovery and redemption, second chance at love and life and healing, self discovery and finding your own happiness. 90s throwback. All of these are in this story in spades and make this angsty book a must listen/read.
Jason Clarke and Erin Mallon were the perfect cast as Roderick and Kit. Their voices really complement each other whilst giving the characters personality.
Recovery and redemption, second chance at love and life and healing, self discovery and finding your own happiness. 90s throwback. All of these are in this story in spades and make this angsty book a must listen/read.
Jason Clarke and Erin Mallon were the perfect cast as Roderick and Kit. Their voices really complement each other whilst giving the characters personality.
January 4, 2026
Simple Lyrics
Wow, what an intense, interesting story told through song verses. Two heartbroken people, struggling with their lives, families and their pasts. Trying to find themselves and dealing with who they are now and how they can get back some semblance of hope and forgiveness of what they inflicted on others. Beautifully written story.
Wow, what an intense, interesting story told through song verses. Two heartbroken people, struggling with their lives, families and their pasts. Trying to find themselves and dealing with who they are now and how they can get back some semblance of hope and forgiveness of what they inflicted on others. Beautifully written story.
January 7, 2026
Epistolary type romance which I just can't resist!
Add to that the sizable playlist along with mood/song description by the MC's, 90's vibe, old school chat rooms, second chance (rock star) romance, It was so hard to put down! I dare you to read without reminiscing or giving the songs a listen if you do not already know them.
One 🌶 Lots of email back and forth mostly about music and feelings so if that's not your thing this might be boring for you.
Add to that the sizable playlist along with mood/song description by the MC's, 90's vibe, old school chat rooms, second chance (rock star) romance, It was so hard to put down! I dare you to read without reminiscing or giving the songs a listen if you do not already know them.
One 🌶 Lots of email back and forth mostly about music and feelings so if that's not your thing this might be boring for you.
February 12, 2026
3.5⭐️
this book is so fun! it’s chock full of 90s music & nostalgia! while i was born in ‘93 im a tiny bit young for the references, i still enjoyed it!
you have these two childhood friends who have grown up in the industry. they’ve been there for each other & wrote songs together…fell in love & then had their hearts broke. years later, rodrick is clean & trying to start his life over & they find themselves once again talking…but as secret pen pals!!
ah the pining, the longing of these two to have someone for them-someone that understands them. there was so much depth in this one. going between timelines you really see how much these two have experienced together. you truly get to see both sides of each of them. the majority of the present timeline is told through emails and aim chats between these two. they don’t know it’s the other person and the i loved seeing how open and honest these two were able to be by basically only writing playlists to each other.
my main issue with this book & the reason it gets 3.5 instead of a full 4 is that there were sooooo many song lists and musical references. i think that if you’re a HUGE 80s & 90s music buff you’ll really love this, but it was a bit much for me. also, like i wanted a rockstar romance…but this wasn’t that. we get basically no rockstar moments so that was a little annoying.
🎧the audiobook was good! narrated by jason clarke and erin mallon, im never disappointed with these 2! the only thing that would have made it better would be if there was singing. 5/5🎙️
*listened via bookfunnel at 2.2x
🫶🏼 thank you so much to hambright pr & the author for the free audiobook!
read if you love…
-childhood friends to enemies to lovers
-pen pals
-MUSIC
-90s nostalgia
-grittier topics
-open door
this book is so fun! it’s chock full of 90s music & nostalgia! while i was born in ‘93 im a tiny bit young for the references, i still enjoyed it!
you have these two childhood friends who have grown up in the industry. they’ve been there for each other & wrote songs together…fell in love & then had their hearts broke. years later, rodrick is clean & trying to start his life over & they find themselves once again talking…but as secret pen pals!!
ah the pining, the longing of these two to have someone for them-someone that understands them. there was so much depth in this one. going between timelines you really see how much these two have experienced together. you truly get to see both sides of each of them. the majority of the present timeline is told through emails and aim chats between these two. they don’t know it’s the other person and the i loved seeing how open and honest these two were able to be by basically only writing playlists to each other.
my main issue with this book & the reason it gets 3.5 instead of a full 4 is that there were sooooo many song lists and musical references. i think that if you’re a HUGE 80s & 90s music buff you’ll really love this, but it was a bit much for me. also, like i wanted a rockstar romance…but this wasn’t that. we get basically no rockstar moments so that was a little annoying.
🎧the audiobook was good! narrated by jason clarke and erin mallon, im never disappointed with these 2! the only thing that would have made it better would be if there was singing. 5/5🎙️
*listened via bookfunnel at 2.2x
🫶🏼 thank you so much to hambright pr & the author for the free audiobook!
read if you love…
-childhood friends to enemies to lovers
-pen pals
-MUSIC
-90s nostalgia
-grittier topics
-open door
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a difficult review for me to write. I almost didn't finish this. But Ms Burgoa is one of my go to authors and I didn't want to give up on it. It wasn't until 60% that I finally started really enjoying this story. It wasn't until 60% that I really started to like Roderick and Kit. Side note.. I really hope to like Cleo better in her story because while she was a great sister (a caring sister) I think she was a horrible best friend. Now I need to give credit to the research that went into this book. The list of songs/authors was immense and really thought out. But I started to drown it in. It got to be to much after awhile. I know they were building a friendship but I got bored way to soon. Also the inner monolog in the first half got to be so repetitive that I kept forgetting what I was reading. It seemed to take two pages before we even got one sentence of outer monolog. I needed more. But as I said once we hit 60% I was all in. I was finally invested in their second chance. I love the strength that Kit found to finally stand up for herself. I love the way she was finally true to herself. I loved watching Roderick grow. I love seeing him finally let his past pain go. These two finally got the HEA they deserved and I loved seeing them happy. It was just hard waiting so long for them to finally come back together.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
December 31, 2025
(Not So) Simple Lyrics, Claudia Burgoa
5 Stars
Received as an ARC and I couldn’t be more thrilled!!
We have MMC Roderick who is a former famous rock star who has hit rock bottom and trying to navigate life post rehab and readjust to this life of sobriety and all the ripples his journey to this point have caused.
Then we have our FMC Kit, who is working through feelings of resentment and if she was ever good enough through Roderick’s eyes and her father’s eyes!
A story of soulmates who are destined to be in each others lives. The author did a great job of connecting these two through heartache and pain and even having them reconnect as strangers.
This is a story with 90s nostalgia, heartbreak, addiction, a kick ass playlist, hope, forgiveness, family drama, healing, second chances and forgiveness.
This story was so sad to listen too but the author did a great job of putting my heart back together again.
Favorite Quotes: “the wrong people benefit from silence, the right ones won’t.”
“Don’t live the same year 75 times and call it a life.”
5 Stars
Received as an ARC and I couldn’t be more thrilled!!
We have MMC Roderick who is a former famous rock star who has hit rock bottom and trying to navigate life post rehab and readjust to this life of sobriety and all the ripples his journey to this point have caused.
Then we have our FMC Kit, who is working through feelings of resentment and if she was ever good enough through Roderick’s eyes and her father’s eyes!
A story of soulmates who are destined to be in each others lives. The author did a great job of connecting these two through heartache and pain and even having them reconnect as strangers.
This is a story with 90s nostalgia, heartbreak, addiction, a kick ass playlist, hope, forgiveness, family drama, healing, second chances and forgiveness.
This story was so sad to listen too but the author did a great job of putting my heart back together again.
Favorite Quotes: “the wrong people benefit from silence, the right ones won’t.”
“Don’t live the same year 75 times and call it a life.”
December 31, 2025
I loved this book! The playlist for every season, every feeling, every event happening! I love it. There is truly a song for everything.
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