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Heartbreak Mixtapes #3
Every Shattered Note
From USA Today bestselling author Claudia Burgoa comes a slow-burn, mistaken-identity romance about hidden fame, second chances at life, and the woman who accidentally falls for a rockstar in disguise.
I plan other people’s love stories for a living. Perfect nights. Perfect moments. Perfect control.
So when my guitarist cancels an hour before a high-profile event, I do what any professional would do—panic quietly and pray for a miracle.
Then he walks in.
Late. Soaked from the rain. Incredibly handsome. Unapologetically charming.
A man I absolutely shouldn’t notice.
He plays music like the storm outside taught him how to feel.
He saves the night. And without meaning to, he starts unraveling mine.
I don’t know that he’s a world-famous musician in hiding.
I only know that when he looks at me, the world stops spinning.
I build love stories for other people. It’s chaotic, but it’s always strategic, straight-forward.
But this time, the one falling—hard, fast, and completely unplanned—is me.
There’s no seating chart that can contain, or explain, the storm that is Dexter Vaughn. But maybe his humor, guitars, and big heart is exactly what I need to build my own breathtaking love story.
I plan other people’s love stories for a living. Perfect nights. Perfect moments. Perfect control.
So when my guitarist cancels an hour before a high-profile event, I do what any professional would do—panic quietly and pray for a miracle.
Then he walks in.
Late. Soaked from the rain. Incredibly handsome. Unapologetically charming.
A man I absolutely shouldn’t notice.
He plays music like the storm outside taught him how to feel.
He saves the night. And without meaning to, he starts unraveling mine.
I don’t know that he’s a world-famous musician in hiding.
I only know that when he looks at me, the world stops spinning.
I build love stories for other people. It’s chaotic, but it’s always strategic, straight-forward.
But this time, the one falling—hard, fast, and completely unplanned—is me.
There’s no seating chart that can contain, or explain, the storm that is Dexter Vaughn. But maybe his humor, guitars, and big heart is exactly what I need to build my own breathtaking love story.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2026
About the author
Claudia Y. Burgoa
142 books6,444 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 171 reviews
May 20, 2026
4.5🌟, 3🌶️
ARC Review 📖
This was a beautifully written story about love, healing, and second chances.
Alyssa and Dexter meet in the most chaotic way, but what follows is a tender slow-burn romance between two people who feel wonderfully real. I especially loved watching Alyssa step into her own story instead of always putting everyone else first.
The chemistry between them was undeniable, but what stood out most was the emotional honesty in their relationship. Their banter was fun, their vulnerable moments felt genuine, and the challenges of Dexter’s fame added just enough tension without overshadowing the heart of the story.
This romance struck the perfect balance between sweet, emotional, and swoony. Their journey felt authentic, emotional, and incredibly rewarding.
I finished this book feeling completely content and excited to continue the series.
~~~~
ALC Review (Audiobook) 📖
The audiobook was an absolute delight, and the duet narration added so much depth to the story. Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes brought Alyssa and Dexter to life with warmth, emotion, and incredible chemistry. Their performances made the romance feel even more intimate and immersive, and I highly recommend listening to this one if you get the chance.
~~~~
I was lucky enough to receive both an ARC and an ALC, and being able to immersive read and listen to this story made the whole experience even more special.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Claudia Y. Burgoa & The Author Agency for the ARC & ALC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
ARC Review 📖
This was a beautifully written story about love, healing, and second chances.
Alyssa and Dexter meet in the most chaotic way, but what follows is a tender slow-burn romance between two people who feel wonderfully real. I especially loved watching Alyssa step into her own story instead of always putting everyone else first.
The chemistry between them was undeniable, but what stood out most was the emotional honesty in their relationship. Their banter was fun, their vulnerable moments felt genuine, and the challenges of Dexter’s fame added just enough tension without overshadowing the heart of the story.
This romance struck the perfect balance between sweet, emotional, and swoony. Their journey felt authentic, emotional, and incredibly rewarding.
I finished this book feeling completely content and excited to continue the series.
~~~~
ALC Review (Audiobook) 📖
The audiobook was an absolute delight, and the duet narration added so much depth to the story. Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes brought Alyssa and Dexter to life with warmth, emotion, and incredible chemistry. Their performances made the romance feel even more intimate and immersive, and I highly recommend listening to this one if you get the chance.
~~~~
I was lucky enough to receive both an ARC and an ALC, and being able to immersive read and listen to this story made the whole experience even more special.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Claudia Y. Burgoa & The Author Agency for the ARC & ALC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
May 29, 2026
Aly is an event planner who feels held together with duct tape and hope. She and her friend June run their business while sharing an apartment, and you can feel how Aly lives in a constant state of stress — juggling contracts, invoices, backup plans, and disasters waiting to happen.
One of those disasters hits when the wedding band falls apart and she’s still missing a guitarist. She storms into the venue lobby, sees a drenched guy with a guitar case, and immediately scolds him into getting presentable in five minutes. From his smirk, I knew he wasn’t the guitarist. Later we learn he’s Dexter Vaughn, and honestly, he handles the whole thing like a champ. He steps in, plays beautifully, and completely floors her. He loves the quiet, intimate setting — no chaos, no crowds, just music. He even tells her to call him again, and she pretends she’s not impressed.
Aly has deep abandonment issues, so she refuses to get attached. Dex comes from a famous musical family, but his life has been loud, messy, and numbed with booze and drugs. He’s convinced he doesn’t deserve anything good, especially not someone like her. Still, they keep emailing and texting, and he keeps showing up as her substitute wedding singer. His friends roast him nonstop, especially Eddie, who warns him that hiding the truth will blow up eventually.
Dex falls first; Aly falls slower and with a lot more hesitation.
When he finally tells her who he really is, she’s shocked and hurt because he made her feel safe. He convinces her to get away for a couple of days, flying her to his grandparents’ place in Baja California. It’s luxurious, and the truth comes out — she’s shaken, but she adjusts. They have a lovely weekend… until a phone call drags Dex back into the nightmare he’s been running from.
We finally learn the whole story: a family scandal, courtesy of his father, and a stepbrother who resurfaces whenever he wants money or attention. This time, Dex decides he’s done hiding and he goes to fix things, asking Ally to wait for him.
The romance is lovely, and I really liked how honest they were once they let themselves open up. Dex hides his identity, but his feelings for Ally are always real. Ally is scared, but she never pretends otherwise.
My biggest issue is the excessive emotional description. Because Dex is a musician, everything is described in musical metaphors — his guitar vibrating with feelings, sensations layered on sensations. It gets overwhelming, and sometimes the actual story gets buried under all the poetic babble. I also felt like we never got the full backstory for either of them. We see the symptoms — Ally overworking, Dex haunted by his past — but not the deeper roots. I skimmed parts because the emotional overload slowed things down.
Still, their connection is sweet, steady, and worth rooting for. Once they choose each other, they don’t let go.
One of those disasters hits when the wedding band falls apart and she’s still missing a guitarist. She storms into the venue lobby, sees a drenched guy with a guitar case, and immediately scolds him into getting presentable in five minutes. From his smirk, I knew he wasn’t the guitarist. Later we learn he’s Dexter Vaughn, and honestly, he handles the whole thing like a champ. He steps in, plays beautifully, and completely floors her. He loves the quiet, intimate setting — no chaos, no crowds, just music. He even tells her to call him again, and she pretends she’s not impressed.
Aly has deep abandonment issues, so she refuses to get attached. Dex comes from a famous musical family, but his life has been loud, messy, and numbed with booze and drugs. He’s convinced he doesn’t deserve anything good, especially not someone like her. Still, they keep emailing and texting, and he keeps showing up as her substitute wedding singer. His friends roast him nonstop, especially Eddie, who warns him that hiding the truth will blow up eventually.
Dex falls first; Aly falls slower and with a lot more hesitation.
When he finally tells her who he really is, she’s shocked and hurt because he made her feel safe. He convinces her to get away for a couple of days, flying her to his grandparents’ place in Baja California. It’s luxurious, and the truth comes out — she’s shaken, but she adjusts. They have a lovely weekend… until a phone call drags Dex back into the nightmare he’s been running from.
We finally learn the whole story: a family scandal, courtesy of his father, and a stepbrother who resurfaces whenever he wants money or attention. This time, Dex decides he’s done hiding and he goes to fix things, asking Ally to wait for him.
The romance is lovely, and I really liked how honest they were once they let themselves open up. Dex hides his identity, but his feelings for Ally are always real. Ally is scared, but she never pretends otherwise.
My biggest issue is the excessive emotional description. Because Dex is a musician, everything is described in musical metaphors — his guitar vibrating with feelings, sensations layered on sensations. It gets overwhelming, and sometimes the actual story gets buried under all the poetic babble. I also felt like we never got the full backstory for either of them. We see the symptoms — Ally overworking, Dex haunted by his past — but not the deeper roots. I skimmed parts because the emotional overload slowed things down.
Still, their connection is sweet, steady, and worth rooting for. Once they choose each other, they don’t let go.
May 20, 2026
4.5⭐️
This book completely surprised me in the best way 🥹
I went in expecting a typical rockstar romance, but what I got instead was something much softer, more emotional, and beautifully grounded. It’s less about chaos and drama and more about two people quietly rebuilding themselves while slowly learning how to love again.
Dex, the rockstar dealing with pressure, identity, and expectations, and Alyssa, the exhausted event planner who’s been living for everyone except herself, both felt very real and layered.
Their connection builds in such a natural, unforced way. It’s not loud or overly angsty—it’s tender, steady, and deeply human. I loved how their relationship grew from an unexpected meeting into something comforting and emotionally safe.
The romance itself had such a cozy, calming feel to it. Not a lot of big twists or dramatic turns, just two people genuinely showing up for each other and healing together 🥹🤍
✨ what to expect ✨
🎸 Rockstar romance
🤍 Quiet, emotional love story
🌧️ Slow burn connection
💞 Healing & self-growth
🎶 Found emotional balance
✨ Mature romance vibes
This was soft, sweet, and genuinely heartwarming. A perfect reminder that sometimes the quietest love stories hit the deepest 🤍
This book completely surprised me in the best way 🥹
I went in expecting a typical rockstar romance, but what I got instead was something much softer, more emotional, and beautifully grounded. It’s less about chaos and drama and more about two people quietly rebuilding themselves while slowly learning how to love again.
Dex, the rockstar dealing with pressure, identity, and expectations, and Alyssa, the exhausted event planner who’s been living for everyone except herself, both felt very real and layered.
Their connection builds in such a natural, unforced way. It’s not loud or overly angsty—it’s tender, steady, and deeply human. I loved how their relationship grew from an unexpected meeting into something comforting and emotionally safe.
The romance itself had such a cozy, calming feel to it. Not a lot of big twists or dramatic turns, just two people genuinely showing up for each other and healing together 🥹🤍
✨ what to expect ✨
🎸 Rockstar romance
🤍 Quiet, emotional love story
🌧️ Slow burn connection
💞 Healing & self-growth
🎶 Found emotional balance
✨ Mature romance vibes
This was soft, sweet, and genuinely heartwarming. A perfect reminder that sometimes the quietest love stories hit the deepest 🤍
May 20, 2026
Great Addition to Heartbreak Mixtapes
This is a great story of mistaken identity filled with emotion and is a slow burn rock romance. When Alyssa’s guitarist shows up late the first man she sees with a guitar is who she thinks he is only she has no idea he really is a rockstar. His playing at this wedding is cathartic to him and Alyssa becomes someone he believes could be his. Even though he didn’t let on who he actually was, Alyssa is drawn to him as well.
I loved how this author took two broken souls and made them into a couple who can heal with each other in their lives. Happiness doesn’t come easy but with Dex and Alyssa they know that they will have to fight for the HEA and it will be more than worth it. This book deserves five stars.
This is a great story of mistaken identity filled with emotion and is a slow burn rock romance. When Alyssa’s guitarist shows up late the first man she sees with a guitar is who she thinks he is only she has no idea he really is a rockstar. His playing at this wedding is cathartic to him and Alyssa becomes someone he believes could be his. Even though he didn’t let on who he actually was, Alyssa is drawn to him as well.
I loved how this author took two broken souls and made them into a couple who can heal with each other in their lives. Happiness doesn’t come easy but with Dex and Alyssa they know that they will have to fight for the HEA and it will be more than worth it. This book deserves five stars.
May 27, 2026
Dex and Aly, theirs is a romance that shouldn’t work but does. He’s a rockstar from a music legacy family, she’s an overworked event planner desperately trying to hold everything together. Their “meet cute” is a mistaken identity, she doesn’t know who he is, assumes he’s the wedding musician who is late and rips him a new one. He plays the gig to prove a point – yes, he does know who Hall & Oates are – and it builds from there.
This was not your typical rockstar romance story. It was soft and quiet, truly heartwarming and emotional, as these two made room to fit the other into their life. Aly says it best, “It happened gradually. Then all at once. Like I looked up one day and couldn’t remember what it felt like not to have you in my life.”
It wouldn’t be a Claudia Burgoa story without angst and drama and we get that as well in the form of Dex’s past rearing it’s ugly head and threatening to undo all he’s strived for since the bands breakup.
I really enjoyed this, it was very different from the first two in the series but still has the strong found family themes, healing and personal growth, and this broken rockstar moving into another stage of his life having found the person who just fits.
“He might’ve mentioned my shattered notes, but I think it’s his that are now falling into place – one by one, in the quiet between us – until the song finally becomes ours.”
This was not your typical rockstar romance story. It was soft and quiet, truly heartwarming and emotional, as these two made room to fit the other into their life. Aly says it best, “It happened gradually. Then all at once. Like I looked up one day and couldn’t remember what it felt like not to have you in my life.”
It wouldn’t be a Claudia Burgoa story without angst and drama and we get that as well in the form of Dex’s past rearing it’s ugly head and threatening to undo all he’s strived for since the bands breakup.
I really enjoyed this, it was very different from the first two in the series but still has the strong found family themes, healing and personal growth, and this broken rockstar moving into another stage of his life having found the person who just fits.
“He might’ve mentioned my shattered notes, but I think it’s his that are now falling into place – one by one, in the quiet between us – until the song finally becomes ours.”
May 20, 2026
Dex and Alyssa's romance offers a perfect balance of heart, poignancy, humor, emotion and feelings that has you falling hard for this couple. I loved how splashes of humor helped provide ease to these broken characters while creating steppingstones for them to connect and to build their relationship off of. Sometimes cute, always heartfelt and lush with genuineness and honesty, I believed in these two from the start.
May 31, 2026
I’m always impressed how well the author writes addiction and recovery. The emotional fall out for the individual and their loved ones is massive.
Dexter is another member of Dead Moth Parade to have suffered through addiction and rehab. When he meets Aly, quite by accident, he finds himself longing for more than what he has endured.
Aly is an interesting character. I wish we had learned a bit more about her backstory.
The teasing and banter via text…. sigh.
It’s always satisfying to see the hero step up and do the work, to grow, not just fake it.
Only one more story left, Alec’s. Can’t wait.
Dexter is another member of Dead Moth Parade to have suffered through addiction and rehab. When he meets Aly, quite by accident, he finds himself longing for more than what he has endured.
Aly is an interesting character. I wish we had learned a bit more about her backstory.
The teasing and banter via text…. sigh.
It’s always satisfying to see the hero step up and do the work, to grow, not just fake it.
Only one more story left, Alec’s. Can’t wait.
May 20, 2026
Universal
Alyssa's guitarist is late, and it's about to cause a major problem at this wedding that she's planned. Then he walks in, drenched, looking like he hasn't a care in the world, and she's...annoyed? Charmed? Attracted? All three and more. But Rafe isn't exactly who she had thought, and when she finds out just who he really is, it may unravel everything they've started to build between them.
Dexter's been running for so long, hiding his pain, that he isn't quite sure what to think when a beautiful woman assumes he's someone else. But she's the first person he's been drawn to in so long that he can't bring himself yet to reveal his true identity. Alyssa is blunt, she's bossy, and she doesn't care he's a rockstar in hiding. Or maybe she will care, when he finally tells her who he is. He wants her to love him for his true self, but in telling her that, will he lose her?
Though painful at times, Aly and Dex's story is so heartfelt and so beautiful that it made me shed a few tears. There's something about a hidden/mistaken identity story that always gets to me, but here, it's even better because the real identity is so raw and yet Dex is so hopeful that Aly can love him for that person he truly is. I always love Claudia's writing, but I think Every Shattered Note is so lyrical that it's poetic. That's it - this is a lyrical poem disguised as a love story.
ARC provided by the author for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
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May 30, 2026
Every Shattered Note: An Emotional, Intense 5-Star Rockstar Masterpiece!
Claudia Y. Burgoa has completely outdone herself with Every Shattered Note! This book is an emotional, high-stakes, intense ride that I absolutely could not put down. Don't worry, I'm not ashamed to admit it—I definitely had to keep a box of tissues right next to me for this one! The beautiful blend of mistaken identity, hidden fame, and explosive slow-burn chemistry completely stole my heart and earned a glowing, passionate 5 stars. 🎸🌧️✨
🎶 A Stormy Night, A Rockstar in Disguise, and a Scrambled Strategy
I plan other people’s love stories for a living. Perfect nights, perfect moments, and absolute, perfect control. It's a chaotic job, but it’s always highly strategic and straightforward. So when my guitarist cancels an hour before a high-profile event, I do what any professional would do—panic quietly and pray for a literal miracle. 📋💼
Then he walks in. Late. Soaked from the rain. Incredibly handsome and unapologetically charming—a man I absolutely shouldn’t notice. He plays his music like the storm outside taught him how to feel, completely saving the night. But without meaning to, he starts unraveling mine. 🌧️🎼
What I don't know is that he is actually Dexter Vaughn, a world-famous musician hiding out from the grueling spotlight. I only know that when he looks at me, the world completely stops spinning. For the first time in my life, I am the one falling hard, fast, and completely unplanned. There is no seating chart or strategy that can contain the absolute storm that is Dexter, but his humor, his guitars, and his massive heart might be exactly what I need to build my own breathtaking love story. 🗺️🧱❤️
🎸 Why This Rockstar Romance Left Me Shattered:
Unbelievably Intense Emotion: Claudia Burgoa knows exactly how to dig deep into your soul. The heavy emotional layers and the sheer intensity of Dexter and his heroine's journey had me reaching for the tissues constantly. It is a profoundly moving story about second chances at life. 🥺💧
The Perfect Slow Burn: The text builds the romantic tension beautifully. Because it's a hidden identity romance, every single interaction carries this delicious, high-octane underlying heat that keeps you glued to the pages. 🔥👀
A Rockstar with a Heart of Gold: Dexter is everything you want in a hero. He’s charming, incredibly talented, and possesses a big, protective heart that contrasts beautifully with his public rockstar persona. 🌟💖
🎧 Audio Performance Review
The Narrators: Angela Rocca & Oscar Reyes 🎙️🏆
An Absolute Premium, Immersive Listen! Even on the go, this spectacular audio production kept me completely locked into the story. Both of these narrators are completely new to me as authors/performers! Although Oscar’s name looked incredibly familiar on the cover, his voice didn't instantly click as someone I’ve heard before—but wow, did they both deliver a flawless performance! 🌟👑
Angela Rocca captured the hyper-organized, strategic, yet secretly panicking energy of the heroine perfectly, infusing her with so much wit and vulnerability. Oscar Reyes brought a deeply resonant, effortlessly charming, and layered cadence to Dexter, capturing both the world-famous rockstar presence and the gentle, hiding soul beneath the fame. Their vocal chemistry was outstanding, giving vibrant, beautiful life to Claudia Burgoa's incredible words and making this audiobook an absolute luxury to listen to while clearing my backlog. 🎧🔥
My Final Verdict
Every Shattered Note earns a glittering, emotional 5 stars from me! It is a breathtaking, high-octane rockstar romance that will completely shatter your heart and piece it back together again. Angela Rocca and Oscar Reyes’ spectacular narration elevates the entire experience, making this audiobook a truly wonderful, comforting place to lay your head. It is an absolute must-listen! 🎸🏟️💖
There is nothing better than a 5-star rockstar romance that forces you to pull out the tissues
Claudia Y. Burgoa has completely outdone herself with Every Shattered Note! This book is an emotional, high-stakes, intense ride that I absolutely could not put down. Don't worry, I'm not ashamed to admit it—I definitely had to keep a box of tissues right next to me for this one! The beautiful blend of mistaken identity, hidden fame, and explosive slow-burn chemistry completely stole my heart and earned a glowing, passionate 5 stars. 🎸🌧️✨
🎶 A Stormy Night, A Rockstar in Disguise, and a Scrambled Strategy
I plan other people’s love stories for a living. Perfect nights, perfect moments, and absolute, perfect control. It's a chaotic job, but it’s always highly strategic and straightforward. So when my guitarist cancels an hour before a high-profile event, I do what any professional would do—panic quietly and pray for a literal miracle. 📋💼
Then he walks in. Late. Soaked from the rain. Incredibly handsome and unapologetically charming—a man I absolutely shouldn’t notice. He plays his music like the storm outside taught him how to feel, completely saving the night. But without meaning to, he starts unraveling mine. 🌧️🎼
What I don't know is that he is actually Dexter Vaughn, a world-famous musician hiding out from the grueling spotlight. I only know that when he looks at me, the world completely stops spinning. For the first time in my life, I am the one falling hard, fast, and completely unplanned. There is no seating chart or strategy that can contain the absolute storm that is Dexter, but his humor, his guitars, and his massive heart might be exactly what I need to build my own breathtaking love story. 🗺️🧱❤️
🎸 Why This Rockstar Romance Left Me Shattered:
Unbelievably Intense Emotion: Claudia Burgoa knows exactly how to dig deep into your soul. The heavy emotional layers and the sheer intensity of Dexter and his heroine's journey had me reaching for the tissues constantly. It is a profoundly moving story about second chances at life. 🥺💧
The Perfect Slow Burn: The text builds the romantic tension beautifully. Because it's a hidden identity romance, every single interaction carries this delicious, high-octane underlying heat that keeps you glued to the pages. 🔥👀
A Rockstar with a Heart of Gold: Dexter is everything you want in a hero. He’s charming, incredibly talented, and possesses a big, protective heart that contrasts beautifully with his public rockstar persona. 🌟💖
🎧 Audio Performance Review
The Narrators: Angela Rocca & Oscar Reyes 🎙️🏆
An Absolute Premium, Immersive Listen! Even on the go, this spectacular audio production kept me completely locked into the story. Both of these narrators are completely new to me as authors/performers! Although Oscar’s name looked incredibly familiar on the cover, his voice didn't instantly click as someone I’ve heard before—but wow, did they both deliver a flawless performance! 🌟👑
Angela Rocca captured the hyper-organized, strategic, yet secretly panicking energy of the heroine perfectly, infusing her with so much wit and vulnerability. Oscar Reyes brought a deeply resonant, effortlessly charming, and layered cadence to Dexter, capturing both the world-famous rockstar presence and the gentle, hiding soul beneath the fame. Their vocal chemistry was outstanding, giving vibrant, beautiful life to Claudia Burgoa's incredible words and making this audiobook an absolute luxury to listen to while clearing my backlog. 🎧🔥
My Final Verdict
Every Shattered Note earns a glittering, emotional 5 stars from me! It is a breathtaking, high-octane rockstar romance that will completely shatter your heart and piece it back together again. Angela Rocca and Oscar Reyes’ spectacular narration elevates the entire experience, making this audiobook a truly wonderful, comforting place to lay your head. It is an absolute must-listen! 🎸🏟️💖
There is nothing better than a 5-star rockstar romance that forces you to pull out the tissues
Review of advance copy
A LOVE STORY THAT HITS LIKE THE PERFECT SONG LYRIC
Claudia Burgoa absolutely captivated me with Dexter and Alyssa’s story. This wasn’t just a romance…it felt like a song you can’t stop replaying, emotional, addictive and impossible to put down.
Every chapter built like music..soft verses of longing, rising tension and a crescendo of passion that hit right in the heart.
From the moment Dexter walks in drenched in rain, guitar in hand and intensity in his eyes, their mistaken-identity meet cute strikes the opening chord of something unforgettable.
What begins in chaos quickly becomes a slow-burn symphony of humor, vulnerability and undeniable chemistry that sizzles off the page.
Dexter Vaughn completely stole my heart.
Rockstar.
Songwriter.
Guarded, magnetic and devastatingly sexy.
He felt like a love song written too beautifully to survive reality. The chemistry between him and Alyssa was electric from the start…like a quiet guitar riff building under your skin before exploding into a full blown rock anthem of emotion and desire.
I absolutely adored Alyssa.
Hardworking, caring and so dedicated to creating love stories for others, she was impossible not to root for.
I loved her friendship with her business partner Jules and the warmth it brought to her world.
Watching Alyssa slowly become the heroine of her own love song instead of orchestrating everyone else’s felt like the sweetest kind of harmony.
And the spice? Absolutely exquisite.
The slow burn tension was masterfully done, building like a simmering bassline under a love song, steady, irresistible, impossible to ignore.
Every lingering touch, heated glance and moment of emotional vulnerability added another layer, like instruments slowly joining until the track becomes overwhelming in the best way.
When these two finally gave in to their attraction, it was like the music crashing into its most powerful chorus, emotional, consuming, sensual and beautifully intimate.
Claudia Burgoa writes chemistry in a way that feels both breathtakingly romantic and deeply authentic.
One of my favorite parts is Dexter’s bond with his best friends/bandmates. It felt like reuniting with a favorite band on tour…loyal, powerful and full of heart.
When the media tried to condemn him for the shadows of his father’s past, his friends stood beside him like the steady drumbeat keeping him grounded.
Watching Dexter finally break free and reclaim his life was incredibly moving.
🎧✨And the audiobook narration? Absolutely phenomenal. 🎧✨
Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes brought these exceptionally profound and intense characters to life so vividly that it felt like listening to a live performance.
Every ounce of longing, heartbreak, passion, humor, vulnerability and emotional depth poured through their delivery flawlessly.
Oscar Reyes perfectly captured Dexter’s magnetic rockstar charisma and hidden emotional pain, while Angelina Rocca gave Alyssa so much warmth, strength, passion and heart.
Together, they made this audiobook completely immersive and impossible to stop listening to.
Let just say it landed like music straight to the soul.
Dexter and Alyssa’s romance plays like the perfect emotional ballad…messy, passionate, heartfelt and unforgettable.
The third book in the Heartbreak Mixed Tapes series is every bit as electric and emotionally charged as the first two and now I’m desperately waiting for Never After Us because I need Alec’s story next.
Claudia Burgoa absolutely captivated me with Dexter and Alyssa’s story. This wasn’t just a romance…it felt like a song you can’t stop replaying, emotional, addictive and impossible to put down.
Every chapter built like music..soft verses of longing, rising tension and a crescendo of passion that hit right in the heart.
From the moment Dexter walks in drenched in rain, guitar in hand and intensity in his eyes, their mistaken-identity meet cute strikes the opening chord of something unforgettable.
What begins in chaos quickly becomes a slow-burn symphony of humor, vulnerability and undeniable chemistry that sizzles off the page.
Dexter Vaughn completely stole my heart.
Rockstar.
Songwriter.
Guarded, magnetic and devastatingly sexy.
He felt like a love song written too beautifully to survive reality. The chemistry between him and Alyssa was electric from the start…like a quiet guitar riff building under your skin before exploding into a full blown rock anthem of emotion and desire.
I absolutely adored Alyssa.
Hardworking, caring and so dedicated to creating love stories for others, she was impossible not to root for.
I loved her friendship with her business partner Jules and the warmth it brought to her world.
Watching Alyssa slowly become the heroine of her own love song instead of orchestrating everyone else’s felt like the sweetest kind of harmony.
And the spice? Absolutely exquisite.
The slow burn tension was masterfully done, building like a simmering bassline under a love song, steady, irresistible, impossible to ignore.
Every lingering touch, heated glance and moment of emotional vulnerability added another layer, like instruments slowly joining until the track becomes overwhelming in the best way.
When these two finally gave in to their attraction, it was like the music crashing into its most powerful chorus, emotional, consuming, sensual and beautifully intimate.
Claudia Burgoa writes chemistry in a way that feels both breathtakingly romantic and deeply authentic.
One of my favorite parts is Dexter’s bond with his best friends/bandmates. It felt like reuniting with a favorite band on tour…loyal, powerful and full of heart.
When the media tried to condemn him for the shadows of his father’s past, his friends stood beside him like the steady drumbeat keeping him grounded.
Watching Dexter finally break free and reclaim his life was incredibly moving.
🎧✨And the audiobook narration? Absolutely phenomenal. 🎧✨
Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes brought these exceptionally profound and intense characters to life so vividly that it felt like listening to a live performance.
Every ounce of longing, heartbreak, passion, humor, vulnerability and emotional depth poured through their delivery flawlessly.
Oscar Reyes perfectly captured Dexter’s magnetic rockstar charisma and hidden emotional pain, while Angelina Rocca gave Alyssa so much warmth, strength, passion and heart.
Together, they made this audiobook completely immersive and impossible to stop listening to.
Let just say it landed like music straight to the soul.
Dexter and Alyssa’s romance plays like the perfect emotional ballad…messy, passionate, heartfelt and unforgettable.
The third book in the Heartbreak Mixed Tapes series is every bit as electric and emotionally charged as the first two and now I’m desperately waiting for Never After Us because I need Alec’s story next.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Excellent Story & Narration🎧Engaging & Heartfelt!
Every Shattered Note
Heartbreak Mixtapes, Book 3
By: Claudia Burgoa
Narrated by: Angelina Rocca, Oscar Reyes
Claudia Burgoa blows me away with another amazing and emotionally moving novel set in her “Heartbreak Mixtapes” series, an enthralling mistaken-identity rockstar romance. I loved everything about this book, from Burgoa’s incredible writing style to the wonderful characters and storylines she created, all realistic and relatable. Alyssa, a party planner, and there is never a dull moment in her business, and she is waiting on the musician hired for her current event, a last-minute replacement that was cutting it close to the start time. When he finally arrives, he is late and drenched, and she has some choice words for him, but comes through and does an impressive job entertaining the partygoers. A flood in Dexter “Dex” Vaughn’s building has him moving to a hotel suite, and it was just him and his irreplaceable guitar, Rosey, walking in when she approached him, all full of sass and mistaking him for someone else, Rafe, but she intrigued him so he just went with it. Luckily, no one recognized him, including Alyssa, and it was refreshing for Dex to be himself and have a great in for him to stay in touch with her to get to know her better. I loved how their relationship started and then watching it morph into something so much more, even after he comes clean with her. When his past comes back to haunt him, he does the noble thing: distance himself from her to keep her out of the spotlight and not bring trouble to her door. Burgoa’s dialogue and way with words is brilliant, and her masterfully crafted, multi-layered story has the perfect balance of drama, angst, profound emotions, and a slow-burn, but so worth the wait romance. Claudia Burgoa, thank you for another amazing story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Burgoa always chooses the perfect cast to bring her characters and story to life. Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes are talented voice artists, and they did an excellent job voicing the characters and delivering a spot-on portrayal of each. Rocca nailed it as Alyssa, grasping every aspect of her personality, including her fierceness, strength, and determination. Reyes did the same in Dexter’s role and was just as fabulous at showcasing his personality. Both were fantastic performing the roles of the side and secondary characters too. By capturing the full range of the characters’ emotions, their expressive performance not only set the right tone for the story but also made you feel every emotion. They are entertaining storytellers and their enthralling performance rivets you to the story.
Every Shattered Note
Heartbreak Mixtapes, Book 3
By: Claudia Burgoa
Narrated by: Angelina Rocca, Oscar Reyes
Claudia Burgoa blows me away with another amazing and emotionally moving novel set in her “Heartbreak Mixtapes” series, an enthralling mistaken-identity rockstar romance. I loved everything about this book, from Burgoa’s incredible writing style to the wonderful characters and storylines she created, all realistic and relatable. Alyssa, a party planner, and there is never a dull moment in her business, and she is waiting on the musician hired for her current event, a last-minute replacement that was cutting it close to the start time. When he finally arrives, he is late and drenched, and she has some choice words for him, but comes through and does an impressive job entertaining the partygoers. A flood in Dexter “Dex” Vaughn’s building has him moving to a hotel suite, and it was just him and his irreplaceable guitar, Rosey, walking in when she approached him, all full of sass and mistaking him for someone else, Rafe, but she intrigued him so he just went with it. Luckily, no one recognized him, including Alyssa, and it was refreshing for Dex to be himself and have a great in for him to stay in touch with her to get to know her better. I loved how their relationship started and then watching it morph into something so much more, even after he comes clean with her. When his past comes back to haunt him, he does the noble thing: distance himself from her to keep her out of the spotlight and not bring trouble to her door. Burgoa’s dialogue and way with words is brilliant, and her masterfully crafted, multi-layered story has the perfect balance of drama, angst, profound emotions, and a slow-burn, but so worth the wait romance. Claudia Burgoa, thank you for another amazing story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Burgoa always chooses the perfect cast to bring her characters and story to life. Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes are talented voice artists, and they did an excellent job voicing the characters and delivering a spot-on portrayal of each. Rocca nailed it as Alyssa, grasping every aspect of her personality, including her fierceness, strength, and determination. Reyes did the same in Dexter’s role and was just as fabulous at showcasing his personality. Both were fantastic performing the roles of the side and secondary characters too. By capturing the full range of the characters’ emotions, their expressive performance not only set the right tone for the story but also made you feel every emotion. They are entertaining storytellers and their enthralling performance rivets you to the story.
May 22, 2026
Every Shattered Note reminded me exactly why I enjoy Claudia Burgoa’s books so much.
I’ve read her work before and have always loved the way she writes emotional relationships, and this book was no exception.
From the very beginning, I was completely invested in Alyssa and Dexter’s story.
This is a slow burn romance done incredibly well. The connection between Alyssa and Dexter develops naturally, allowing readers to truly experience every moment of their growing relationship. Nothing felt rushed, and because of that, every emotional milestone carried even more weight.
The chemistry between them was fantastic. Whether they were exchanging playful banter or sharing quieter, more vulnerable moments, their interactions felt genuine and engaging. Their conversations flowed naturally, making them feel like real people rather than simply characters on a page.
One thing I especially appreciated was how authentic their relationship felt. The emotional moments weren’t overly dramatic or exaggerated. Instead, they reflected the kind of vulnerability, uncertainty, and connection that many real relationships experience, which made their story easy to connect with emotionally.
Dexter was such a lovable MMC. Beneath the charm and humor was a man carrying his own struggles, and watching him slowly open up throughout the story added so much depth to his character.
Alyssa was equally wonderful to follow. Her strength, heart, and ability to remain open despite life’s challenges made her easy to root for from beginning to end.
I was fortunate enough to experience this story through both the ARC and ALC, and the audiobook elevated the experience even further. The narrators brought Alyssa and Dexter to life beautifully. The emotional scenes felt incredibly authentic, and the vulnerable moments hit even harder hearing them performed aloud. The chemistry, tension, humor, and heartfelt conversations all translated wonderfully through audio.
This was a beautifully written romance filled with heart, healing, chemistry, and emotional depth that kept me invested from beginning to end.
If you enjoy:
🎸 Slow burn romance
🎶 Musician MMC
💕 Authentic relationship development
✨ Emotional vulnerability
🫶 Heartfelt character growth
🎤 Celebrity romance elements
💬 Great banter
❤️ Emotional contemporary romance
🎧 Excellent audiobook narration
then Every Shattered Note is definitely worth picking up.
⭐️ Overall Rating: 4.5/5
🔥 Burn Level: 4/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3.5/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 4.5/5
Thank you to The Author Agency, Claudia Burgoa, and the audiobook team for the ARC and ALC opportunity. All opinions are my own.
I’ve read her work before and have always loved the way she writes emotional relationships, and this book was no exception.
From the very beginning, I was completely invested in Alyssa and Dexter’s story.
This is a slow burn romance done incredibly well. The connection between Alyssa and Dexter develops naturally, allowing readers to truly experience every moment of their growing relationship. Nothing felt rushed, and because of that, every emotional milestone carried even more weight.
The chemistry between them was fantastic. Whether they were exchanging playful banter or sharing quieter, more vulnerable moments, their interactions felt genuine and engaging. Their conversations flowed naturally, making them feel like real people rather than simply characters on a page.
One thing I especially appreciated was how authentic their relationship felt. The emotional moments weren’t overly dramatic or exaggerated. Instead, they reflected the kind of vulnerability, uncertainty, and connection that many real relationships experience, which made their story easy to connect with emotionally.
Dexter was such a lovable MMC. Beneath the charm and humor was a man carrying his own struggles, and watching him slowly open up throughout the story added so much depth to his character.
Alyssa was equally wonderful to follow. Her strength, heart, and ability to remain open despite life’s challenges made her easy to root for from beginning to end.
I was fortunate enough to experience this story through both the ARC and ALC, and the audiobook elevated the experience even further. The narrators brought Alyssa and Dexter to life beautifully. The emotional scenes felt incredibly authentic, and the vulnerable moments hit even harder hearing them performed aloud. The chemistry, tension, humor, and heartfelt conversations all translated wonderfully through audio.
This was a beautifully written romance filled with heart, healing, chemistry, and emotional depth that kept me invested from beginning to end.
If you enjoy:
🎸 Slow burn romance
🎶 Musician MMC
💕 Authentic relationship development
✨ Emotional vulnerability
🫶 Heartfelt character growth
🎤 Celebrity romance elements
💬 Great banter
❤️ Emotional contemporary romance
🎧 Excellent audiobook narration
then Every Shattered Note is definitely worth picking up.
⭐️ Overall Rating: 4.5/5
🔥 Burn Level: 4/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3.5/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 4.5/5
Thank you to The Author Agency, Claudia Burgoa, and the audiobook team for the ARC and ALC opportunity. All opinions are my own.
May 31, 2026
Loved this - Every Shattered Note by Claudia Burgoa is book three in the Heartbreak Mixtapes series about the members of the rock band Dead Moth Parade. This time we have the mistaken identity romance between guitarist Dexter and wedding planner Alyssa. It is a heartfelt, slow burn. opposites attract, hidden fame tale which is captivating and entertaining. The author takes us on an emotional rollercoaster as this couple fight their feelings even though their chemistry is undeniable right from the start. Dexter is a wonderfully tortured hero who falls first but keeps his true identity a secret and Alyssa is the woman who accidentally falls for the rockstar in disguise. This is a story which examines all the hope and fear involved in a relationship, and the way the past can effect the future.
Alyssa is used to fixing everything for everyone else and works hard planning the weddings she organises. She is determined every couple gets a perfect day and makes sure all their dreams come true. She’s exhausted trying to secure the future for her wedding planning company and is pushed to her limits with her current clients. Then while desperately waiting for her guitarist to turn up, she sees a rain soaked guy with a guitar enter the hotel and immediately assumes he is her guy.
At the start Dexter is a mysterious character with the author dropping hints about the life he has led. He loves that she hasn’t recognised him and assumed who he was so can be himself with her. The chemistry sizzles and they slowly get to know each other. Their banter was great and I loved his teasing. He finds it immensely amusing being the anonymous wedding singer because he’s used to everybody knowing who he is; the famous rockstar, record label owner and member of Dead Moth Parade. His singing really affects her and he enjoys playing with no expectations.
Both are complex with layers of issues neither have addressed properly. He turned to drink and drugs in an effort to cope with his life but is now keeping to his sobriety. Alyssa began trying to fix everything for everyone else, taking control and forgetting about herself. They both suffered parental problems which led to her facing responsibilities early on and him having to live with the pressure of who his father and grandfather were. He was born to run his family’s legacy and she has worked hard to build hers.
They share things about themselves and Dex is shocked he is letting her see the man he has hidden from everyone else. Suddenly it looks like her own love story may be coming true but what will happen when she finds out he has hidden his true identity from her. Dex knows it won’t last but wonders if he could deserve her. There was good character development and my heart went out to Dexter for all he had been through. We see their vulnerable side and insecurities as they learn to trust each other and I loved their chats and all the little things in their relationship. It was lovely how he cooks for her and dances with her at the weddings.
The bubble he has created around them bursts when his two lives come together and I loved all his grovelling to make it up to her. Could they stay together when everyone else in their lives has left them and they are used to anything good in their lives disappearing. Will she forgive him and recover from his betrayal. Aly struggles with if he is worth staying for. I absolutely loved Dexter and all the emotions the author poured into this book. Really looking forward to Alex’s story.
Alyssa is used to fixing everything for everyone else and works hard planning the weddings she organises. She is determined every couple gets a perfect day and makes sure all their dreams come true. She’s exhausted trying to secure the future for her wedding planning company and is pushed to her limits with her current clients. Then while desperately waiting for her guitarist to turn up, she sees a rain soaked guy with a guitar enter the hotel and immediately assumes he is her guy.
At the start Dexter is a mysterious character with the author dropping hints about the life he has led. He loves that she hasn’t recognised him and assumed who he was so can be himself with her. The chemistry sizzles and they slowly get to know each other. Their banter was great and I loved his teasing. He finds it immensely amusing being the anonymous wedding singer because he’s used to everybody knowing who he is; the famous rockstar, record label owner and member of Dead Moth Parade. His singing really affects her and he enjoys playing with no expectations.
Both are complex with layers of issues neither have addressed properly. He turned to drink and drugs in an effort to cope with his life but is now keeping to his sobriety. Alyssa began trying to fix everything for everyone else, taking control and forgetting about herself. They both suffered parental problems which led to her facing responsibilities early on and him having to live with the pressure of who his father and grandfather were. He was born to run his family’s legacy and she has worked hard to build hers.
They share things about themselves and Dex is shocked he is letting her see the man he has hidden from everyone else. Suddenly it looks like her own love story may be coming true but what will happen when she finds out he has hidden his true identity from her. Dex knows it won’t last but wonders if he could deserve her. There was good character development and my heart went out to Dexter for all he had been through. We see their vulnerable side and insecurities as they learn to trust each other and I loved their chats and all the little things in their relationship. It was lovely how he cooks for her and dances with her at the weddings.
The bubble he has created around them bursts when his two lives come together and I loved all his grovelling to make it up to her. Could they stay together when everyone else in their lives has left them and they are used to anything good in their lives disappearing. Will she forgive him and recover from his betrayal. Aly struggles with if he is worth staying for. I absolutely loved Dexter and all the emotions the author poured into this book. Really looking forward to Alex’s story.
May 28, 2026
My review is written voluntarily after listening to the audio version of this book.
I have been hooked by the Heartbreak Mixtapes series since listening to the first book. I love that they are all interconnected, but each one can stand on its own merits and is about a member of or someone associated with the rock band Death Moth Parade. This third book, Every Shattered Note, tells Dexter's story. He's got a colourful past and grew up as a member of a musical dynasty, whilst she's an up-and-coming event planner in Seattle. Their story began when Aly mistook Dex for a missing guitarist at a wedding. He's intrigued from the start by her sassy, take-no-prisoners attitude and decides to play along. He pays off the guitarist and the other band members who recognised him, and stays to play at the event.
Dex enjoys the anonymity and playing music simply for the joy of it; he especially enjoys spending time and messaging with Aly, who still has no idea of his true identity. But eventually, he is forced to reveal his true identity to her before they become more involved. At first, she's hurt that he lied to her, but forgives him and agrees to give their relationship a chance to grow.
But then a scandal from Dex's past, when he was just seventeen, resurfaces, a scandal that threatens not only his reputation but the livelihoods of his employees and anyone connected with him. In the past, he would have hidden until everything blew over, but now he has more to lose, and with Aly's belief in him and the hope of a future together, he decides to fight and prove his innocence. Both he and Aly must decide whether their relationship can survive relentless media scrutiny and personal challenges.
No more spoilers from me. What I will say is that I loved both Aly and Dex together; they found something special, something rare that not all of us are lucky enough to find, and they had the courage and strength of personality to fight for it. I fell in love with Dex. I loved how he fought his demons and didn't fall back into his old habits. I loved how much he was prepared to give to prove his devotion to Aly, even though at first he didn't feel worthy.
This book is the third in the Heartbreak Mixtapes series. It's narrated beautifully by Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes, both of whom capture and bring to life every emotion felt and all the drama contained in this wonderfully moving story.
I have been hooked by the Heartbreak Mixtapes series since listening to the first book. I love that they are all interconnected, but each one can stand on its own merits and is about a member of or someone associated with the rock band Death Moth Parade. This third book, Every Shattered Note, tells Dexter's story. He's got a colourful past and grew up as a member of a musical dynasty, whilst she's an up-and-coming event planner in Seattle. Their story began when Aly mistook Dex for a missing guitarist at a wedding. He's intrigued from the start by her sassy, take-no-prisoners attitude and decides to play along. He pays off the guitarist and the other band members who recognised him, and stays to play at the event.
Dex enjoys the anonymity and playing music simply for the joy of it; he especially enjoys spending time and messaging with Aly, who still has no idea of his true identity. But eventually, he is forced to reveal his true identity to her before they become more involved. At first, she's hurt that he lied to her, but forgives him and agrees to give their relationship a chance to grow.
But then a scandal from Dex's past, when he was just seventeen, resurfaces, a scandal that threatens not only his reputation but the livelihoods of his employees and anyone connected with him. In the past, he would have hidden until everything blew over, but now he has more to lose, and with Aly's belief in him and the hope of a future together, he decides to fight and prove his innocence. Both he and Aly must decide whether their relationship can survive relentless media scrutiny and personal challenges.
No more spoilers from me. What I will say is that I loved both Aly and Dex together; they found something special, something rare that not all of us are lucky enough to find, and they had the courage and strength of personality to fight for it. I fell in love with Dex. I loved how he fought his demons and didn't fall back into his old habits. I loved how much he was prepared to give to prove his devotion to Aly, even though at first he didn't feel worthy.
This book is the third in the Heartbreak Mixtapes series. It's narrated beautifully by Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes, both of whom capture and bring to life every emotion felt and all the drama contained in this wonderfully moving story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every Shattered Note by Claudia Burgoa is the first title I have read by this author and it was a great read.
As a slow burn, rockstar, mistaken-identity, second chance at life romance and having read the blurb, I was looking forward to reading this story and by the end I wasn't disappointed. The way the author introduced the main characters, Dexter and Alyssa, and then developed them as the story progressed had me hooked quickly and invested in their journey.
Alyssa, the event planner, was often white knuckling the chaos and management of other people's stories and holding her business together. This left little time for her own life but as she had insecurities and doubts on a personal level, the lack of a connection or relationship meant that she didn't have to experience the hurt when people walked away or left her.
Dexter, rockstar, more often made headlines off stage than on, has battled with self doubt and self worth for a long time and the chance meeting of Alyssa, mid event and with mistaken identity working in his favour, the immediate sparks for both were real and refreshing.
Their chemistry was instant despite the initial combative nature of their first meeting but Dexter's big heart made him lean in to the opportunity to know more of Alyssa.
Their interactions right from the start, both face to face and electronically, were entertaining and as the connection between them deepened it came across realistically both as natural and vulnerable, dependent on the circumstance, as both opened up their hearts, voiced their hopes and laid their feelings on the line for the other.
Despite it feeling a quiet story most of the time exploring Alyssa and Dexter's emotional journeys, the drama that presents itself threatening to derail the blossoming relationship had me captivated and invested in the resolution for them. The leap of faith it takes to trust and let someone in, giving them distance when needed and hoping it isn't a goodbye, especially considering the experiences that both characters have had in the past, had me tearing up a couple of times which made this a lovely, heart warming story to read. I am eager to go and read the earlier titles in this series now and I look forward to next one coming out.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As a slow burn, rockstar, mistaken-identity, second chance at life romance and having read the blurb, I was looking forward to reading this story and by the end I wasn't disappointed. The way the author introduced the main characters, Dexter and Alyssa, and then developed them as the story progressed had me hooked quickly and invested in their journey.
Alyssa, the event planner, was often white knuckling the chaos and management of other people's stories and holding her business together. This left little time for her own life but as she had insecurities and doubts on a personal level, the lack of a connection or relationship meant that she didn't have to experience the hurt when people walked away or left her.
Dexter, rockstar, more often made headlines off stage than on, has battled with self doubt and self worth for a long time and the chance meeting of Alyssa, mid event and with mistaken identity working in his favour, the immediate sparks for both were real and refreshing.
Their chemistry was instant despite the initial combative nature of their first meeting but Dexter's big heart made him lean in to the opportunity to know more of Alyssa.
Their interactions right from the start, both face to face and electronically, were entertaining and as the connection between them deepened it came across realistically both as natural and vulnerable, dependent on the circumstance, as both opened up their hearts, voiced their hopes and laid their feelings on the line for the other.
Despite it feeling a quiet story most of the time exploring Alyssa and Dexter's emotional journeys, the drama that presents itself threatening to derail the blossoming relationship had me captivated and invested in the resolution for them. The leap of faith it takes to trust and let someone in, giving them distance when needed and hoping it isn't a goodbye, especially considering the experiences that both characters have had in the past, had me tearing up a couple of times which made this a lovely, heart warming story to read. I am eager to go and read the earlier titles in this series now and I look forward to next one coming out.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2026
Ahhh, I loved Dexter in this book! I liked Aly as well, together they really did make a good match.
Dexter was the guitarist/singer for an internationally famous band, but after years of playing shows and doing the rockstar lifestyle, things started to fall apart. He went to rehab several times. The headlines loved to paint him as villain, and after his traumatic childhood he succumbed to the thinking that he wasn't deserving of love or good things for his life.
Then he meets Aly in a strange twist of fate; she's waiting on a young guitarist to show up for a wedding she's running, and Dexter just happens to walk in with his guitar case when the regular door to his building was blocked. She sees the guitar case and assumes he's the one she's looking for! They have a delightful (for Dexter and the readers😂) little banter session where Aly is being a little snarky and Dexter is wholly amused, realizing she has no idea who he is.
Aly is also used to people leaving. She's a wedding planner and lives her life by holding everyone else's together. She's guarded and independent. But there's just something about Dexter.... she can't stay away. She feels calm and safe with him. Free to be herself. When Dexters past rears its ugly head, can their fragile relationship make it to the other side?
I loved Dexter from the get-go but had to warm up to Aly just a bit. Mostly because I just didn't understand how her intense feelings for Dexter came to be. It makes complete sense to me that Dexter was intrigued and amused by a fiery woman who didn't know who he was, didn't associate him with his past. But Aly meets him, is annoyed by him, and then... ? Is totally smitten and thinking about him all the time and the feelings he gives her? I liked their chemistry a lot once the book got going, but I wish there was a little bit more about why she was so taken with him immediately. His story arc is *muah* The writing did get a little bit repetitive; around halfway through the book during their first real spicy scene, where he says he "guides her backward until her back hits the counter", but two paragraphs later he says "I walk her backward [...] her back hitting the cool wall behind her" and another 2 paragraphs later he says "I grip her hips, walk her backward until her spine brushes the wall" Every single one of these statements is then followed up with the same "she gasped and-" There is a lot of introspection in the book as well, which is nice to see in a character but it was very heavy on the frequency.
Overall I did enjoy this one! Dexter had me all up in his feels and I'm so happy he got his HEA. He deserved it 🥹 Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read and review!!
Dexter was the guitarist/singer for an internationally famous band, but after years of playing shows and doing the rockstar lifestyle, things started to fall apart. He went to rehab several times. The headlines loved to paint him as villain, and after his traumatic childhood he succumbed to the thinking that he wasn't deserving of love or good things for his life.
Then he meets Aly in a strange twist of fate; she's waiting on a young guitarist to show up for a wedding she's running, and Dexter just happens to walk in with his guitar case when the regular door to his building was blocked. She sees the guitar case and assumes he's the one she's looking for! They have a delightful (for Dexter and the readers😂) little banter session where Aly is being a little snarky and Dexter is wholly amused, realizing she has no idea who he is.
Aly is also used to people leaving. She's a wedding planner and lives her life by holding everyone else's together. She's guarded and independent. But there's just something about Dexter.... she can't stay away. She feels calm and safe with him. Free to be herself. When Dexters past rears its ugly head, can their fragile relationship make it to the other side?
I loved Dexter from the get-go but had to warm up to Aly just a bit. Mostly because I just didn't understand how her intense feelings for Dexter came to be. It makes complete sense to me that Dexter was intrigued and amused by a fiery woman who didn't know who he was, didn't associate him with his past. But Aly meets him, is annoyed by him, and then... ? Is totally smitten and thinking about him all the time and the feelings he gives her? I liked their chemistry a lot once the book got going, but I wish there was a little bit more about why she was so taken with him immediately. His story arc is *muah* The writing did get a little bit repetitive; around halfway through the book during their first real spicy scene, where he says he "guides her backward until her back hits the counter", but two paragraphs later he says "I walk her backward [...] her back hitting the cool wall behind her" and another 2 paragraphs later he says "I grip her hips, walk her backward until her spine brushes the wall" Every single one of these statements is then followed up with the same "she gasped and-" There is a lot of introspection in the book as well, which is nice to see in a character but it was very heavy on the frequency.
Overall I did enjoy this one! Dexter had me all up in his feels and I'm so happy he got his HEA. He deserved it 🥹 Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read and review!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 Stars✨
2 Spices🌶️
4.5 Stars🎧
This book was quite a ride. Every band member has a distinct story to tell, and I've been really enjoying this series. This book is more than just a romance. Dex and Alyssa's story also examines the implications of public perception, suggesting that identity can be constructed, manipulated, and consumed. It's romantic, thought-provoking, angsty, seductive, and a bit tragic all at once. The perfect elements to produce a harmonious combination.
Every Shattered Note is the third book in the Heartbreak Mixtapes series. It follows the story of Alyssa Stone, a feisty, resilient, hardworking event planner. Her mundane life takes an extraordinary turn when she encounters Rafe at a wedding event, who turns out to be Dexter Vaughn, a former rock star. Dex helping out Alyssa on some event issues she's managing sparks an unconventional love story fraught with moments of wit, vulnerability, and the complications of fame.
Dexter is a walking dream with his guarded, magnetic charm, balancing his taut public persona with his private longing for genuine connection and peace. Meanwhile, Alyssa is effortlessly relatable, combining compassion with a touch of vulnerability. Their relationship unfolds with a slow burn and organic charm. Making it even more compelling by the beautiful chemistry and the turmoil that arises, threatening to derail the blossoming relationship of this couple.
Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes gave these characters depth. You can feel the longing, the pain, and the passion of Alyssa and Dexter with their vocal prowess, making the listening experience remarkable.
At its heart, Every Shattered Note is a perfect, harmonious mix of emotional depth, heartbreak, and romance. A novel that reminds us of the beauty of unexpected connections and the fearlessness it takes to pursue love against the odds.
Receiving a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) and Advanced Listening Copy (ALC) of this book was an honour, and I'm presenting my candid opinion based on my own experience. I am eternally grateful to Claudia Burgoa and Team for entrusting me with reading this book beforehand.
2 Spices🌶️
4.5 Stars🎧
This book was quite a ride. Every band member has a distinct story to tell, and I've been really enjoying this series. This book is more than just a romance. Dex and Alyssa's story also examines the implications of public perception, suggesting that identity can be constructed, manipulated, and consumed. It's romantic, thought-provoking, angsty, seductive, and a bit tragic all at once. The perfect elements to produce a harmonious combination.
Every Shattered Note is the third book in the Heartbreak Mixtapes series. It follows the story of Alyssa Stone, a feisty, resilient, hardworking event planner. Her mundane life takes an extraordinary turn when she encounters Rafe at a wedding event, who turns out to be Dexter Vaughn, a former rock star. Dex helping out Alyssa on some event issues she's managing sparks an unconventional love story fraught with moments of wit, vulnerability, and the complications of fame.
Dexter is a walking dream with his guarded, magnetic charm, balancing his taut public persona with his private longing for genuine connection and peace. Meanwhile, Alyssa is effortlessly relatable, combining compassion with a touch of vulnerability. Their relationship unfolds with a slow burn and organic charm. Making it even more compelling by the beautiful chemistry and the turmoil that arises, threatening to derail the blossoming relationship of this couple.
Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes gave these characters depth. You can feel the longing, the pain, and the passion of Alyssa and Dexter with their vocal prowess, making the listening experience remarkable.
At its heart, Every Shattered Note is a perfect, harmonious mix of emotional depth, heartbreak, and romance. A novel that reminds us of the beauty of unexpected connections and the fearlessness it takes to pursue love against the odds.
Receiving a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) and Advanced Listening Copy (ALC) of this book was an honour, and I'm presenting my candid opinion based on my own experience. I am eternally grateful to Claudia Burgoa and Team for entrusting me with reading this book beforehand.
May 20, 2026
Book three in the Heartbreak Mixtapes, Every Shattered Note is a slow burn emotional romance that I think will surprise many readers. As always, I recommend reading a series in order to get the most out of it, while each book can be read as a standalone in an interconnected world, reading in order really enhances the storyline.
Dex and Alyssa come into each other's lives with nothing but chaos. Dex is a rockstar, one that struggles with the fame and the dual identities that it gives him. He used to live for the music, the rush of the connection of the fans through the music, now the pressure to be more, to do things differently has him questioning more than just his love for music. Alyssa on the other hand has lived her life for others for so long she has lost her way, or more like never found it. As a event planner she spends her time making other people's dreams come true, but has grown so used to the controlled chaos of her life she can’t remember the last time she had a real connection with another person. That all changes when Dex walks into her life.
Every time I finish one of Claudia’s books, I think this is my favorite book, and then the next release arrives and I’m doubting myself. This author can weave stories and characters like a painter and their masterpiece. Dex and Alyssa’s story is so real, the emotions so raw that you're left almost empty when the book finishes. As their story progresses from met cute to the more serious parts, to the humor that they bring out in one another you can’t help but smile. As Dex and Alyssa work through their struggles and come out the other side you can’t help but root for them. The storyline flows well and is easy to keep up with, and as always the spice is just perfect even for a slow burn romance. For fans of this author, Dex and Alyssa are sure to be yet another amazing read.
5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
Tropes
🎸 Rockstar romance
🔥 Slow burn
❤️🩹 Healing & Self Love
🎶 Emotional Damage
Dex and Alyssa come into each other's lives with nothing but chaos. Dex is a rockstar, one that struggles with the fame and the dual identities that it gives him. He used to live for the music, the rush of the connection of the fans through the music, now the pressure to be more, to do things differently has him questioning more than just his love for music. Alyssa on the other hand has lived her life for others for so long she has lost her way, or more like never found it. As a event planner she spends her time making other people's dreams come true, but has grown so used to the controlled chaos of her life she can’t remember the last time she had a real connection with another person. That all changes when Dex walks into her life.
Every time I finish one of Claudia’s books, I think this is my favorite book, and then the next release arrives and I’m doubting myself. This author can weave stories and characters like a painter and their masterpiece. Dex and Alyssa’s story is so real, the emotions so raw that you're left almost empty when the book finishes. As their story progresses from met cute to the more serious parts, to the humor that they bring out in one another you can’t help but smile. As Dex and Alyssa work through their struggles and come out the other side you can’t help but root for them. The storyline flows well and is easy to keep up with, and as always the spice is just perfect even for a slow burn romance. For fans of this author, Dex and Alyssa are sure to be yet another amazing read.
5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
Tropes
🎸 Rockstar romance
🔥 Slow burn
❤️🩹 Healing & Self Love
🎶 Emotional Damage
Review of advance copy received from Author
Alyssa is an event planner waiting for the guitarist to show up for a wedding she’s organized, so when a man walks in from the rain, holding a guitar, she assumes it’s the one she’s looking for. From the moment he gets on stage she’s mezmerized, and he re-writes every part of her world with his haunting melodies. For once, the woman who has never trusted people not to leave begins to think someone might stay, but when she finds out his secret, it could change everything.
Dexter never planned to deceive Alyssa, but when she mistakenly assumed he was her late guitarist, he didn’t correct her. And for the first time in over a decade, he got to play for himself, not for crowds or labels or other people’s expectations. In Alyssa he finds the quiet he didn’t know he was searching for, away from the chaos and fame that have been chasing him for longer than he’s been an adult. But his life has never been one for peace, and when the past comes back to claim him, it puts everything in jeopardy, including the one real thing he’s been afraid to let himself feel.
I was given an opportunity to do an early immersive read by the author and I have to say I think it’s my favourite in the series so far. Alyssa is someone who has learned that trust has to be earned, and even then it can be easily broken, so while she is at first shocked when she finds out Dexter’s true identity, she allows herself to trust in what they’ve been building to see where things can lead. Dexter has lived his entire life based on others’ expectations, and the first time he finds something for himself, he refuses to let anyone tear it away. This was a story of love and longing, but also healing from past wounds, and realizing that letting someone hold you through it doesn’t make you weak. The writing is poetry in motion, with every shattered piece of Ally and Dexter creating the most beautiful melody.
Dexter never planned to deceive Alyssa, but when she mistakenly assumed he was her late guitarist, he didn’t correct her. And for the first time in over a decade, he got to play for himself, not for crowds or labels or other people’s expectations. In Alyssa he finds the quiet he didn’t know he was searching for, away from the chaos and fame that have been chasing him for longer than he’s been an adult. But his life has never been one for peace, and when the past comes back to claim him, it puts everything in jeopardy, including the one real thing he’s been afraid to let himself feel.
I was given an opportunity to do an early immersive read by the author and I have to say I think it’s my favourite in the series so far. Alyssa is someone who has learned that trust has to be earned, and even then it can be easily broken, so while she is at first shocked when she finds out Dexter’s true identity, she allows herself to trust in what they’ve been building to see where things can lead. Dexter has lived his entire life based on others’ expectations, and the first time he finds something for himself, he refuses to let anyone tear it away. This was a story of love and longing, but also healing from past wounds, and realizing that letting someone hold you through it doesn’t make you weak. The writing is poetry in motion, with every shattered piece of Ally and Dexter creating the most beautiful melody.
Review of advance copy
After reading Lyrics Remain Unchanged by this author earlier this year, I was really excited to see this new release heading our way.
I was so happy that we didn't have to wait too long for this third book in the Heartbreak Mixtapes series - however, that does mean that I still haven't had chance to catch up with the first book that I missed.
Still, this book follows a new set of characters and worked really well as a standalone read.
I loved the way that Alyssa and Rafe (Dexter) meet at the start of this story.
Event planner, Alyssa, mistakes the man in the foyer with a guitar case as her missing musician, Rafe and proceeds to give him a piece of her mind for being late and messing up her meticulous planning.
Intrigued by this feisty woman, Dexter, former rockstar, decides to take to the stage to get to know her better.
I was a little surprised that nobody at the event recognised Dexter at all and I knew that pretending that he was the down on his luck, Rafe, would cause issues.
But still, I was really rooting for the pair anyway.
I really liked the backstory that followed Dexter and really felt for him.
Having such a legacy following him around - and not a good one - must have been so difficult for him and left him unable to really trust anyone.
The fact Alyssa liked him just for being himself - not the rockstar - was just the thing he needed to let his walls down and I loved how the relationship developed through the book.
Once again, I was sucked into this world and raced through the pages - I couldn't put it down.
I'm still planning to catch up with book 1 - but also cannot wait to get hold the next book soon too.
I was so happy that we didn't have to wait too long for this third book in the Heartbreak Mixtapes series - however, that does mean that I still haven't had chance to catch up with the first book that I missed.
Still, this book follows a new set of characters and worked really well as a standalone read.
I loved the way that Alyssa and Rafe (Dexter) meet at the start of this story.
Event planner, Alyssa, mistakes the man in the foyer with a guitar case as her missing musician, Rafe and proceeds to give him a piece of her mind for being late and messing up her meticulous planning.
Intrigued by this feisty woman, Dexter, former rockstar, decides to take to the stage to get to know her better.
I was a little surprised that nobody at the event recognised Dexter at all and I knew that pretending that he was the down on his luck, Rafe, would cause issues.
But still, I was really rooting for the pair anyway.
I really liked the backstory that followed Dexter and really felt for him.
Having such a legacy following him around - and not a good one - must have been so difficult for him and left him unable to really trust anyone.
The fact Alyssa liked him just for being himself - not the rockstar - was just the thing he needed to let his walls down and I loved how the relationship developed through the book.
Once again, I was sucked into this world and raced through the pages - I couldn't put it down.
I'm still planning to catch up with book 1 - but also cannot wait to get hold the next book soon too.
May 20, 2026
Aly and Dexter are without a doubt perfect for each other, even if their relationship started out with a little white lie and a whole lot of chaos.
Aly, the event planner who has everything scheduled to the second and fixes problems with the wave of her magic clipboard. The only thing she is missing from her life is the ability to care for herself and her needs. But she can’t, because life has shown her that the other shoe will always drop.
And Dexter, the former rockstar with a less than stellar reputation who does his best to rise like a phoenix from the ashes of his past life. But, life has constantly shown him that actions, not even those made by him, have consequences that will follow him every step of the way. This makes him scared to fully open himself up to those who could care for him because he doesn’t want to drag them into his drama.
When these two finally collide, their worlds begin to shift in the most poetic way possible. While they couldn’t be more different on the surface, their small similarities pull them together like magnets. All it takes is persistence, trust, and a quick vacation to show these two what was missing from their lives.
This books shows what is possible when you allow yourself to be completely open and honest with another person. To allow them to be your safe space and take care of you, even when you feel you don’t deserve it. This books also shows that while your past is a part of you, it doesn’t have to hold you back. That your past can be the thing that gives you the courage to be stronger and take life one day at a time.
My only critique with this book is I wish there would have been more of a deep dive into the family dynamics of each character, especially Aly.
Aly, the event planner who has everything scheduled to the second and fixes problems with the wave of her magic clipboard. The only thing she is missing from her life is the ability to care for herself and her needs. But she can’t, because life has shown her that the other shoe will always drop.
And Dexter, the former rockstar with a less than stellar reputation who does his best to rise like a phoenix from the ashes of his past life. But, life has constantly shown him that actions, not even those made by him, have consequences that will follow him every step of the way. This makes him scared to fully open himself up to those who could care for him because he doesn’t want to drag them into his drama.
When these two finally collide, their worlds begin to shift in the most poetic way possible. While they couldn’t be more different on the surface, their small similarities pull them together like magnets. All it takes is persistence, trust, and a quick vacation to show these two what was missing from their lives.
This books shows what is possible when you allow yourself to be completely open and honest with another person. To allow them to be your safe space and take care of you, even when you feel you don’t deserve it. This books also shows that while your past is a part of you, it doesn’t have to hold you back. That your past can be the thing that gives you the courage to be stronger and take life one day at a time.
My only critique with this book is I wish there would have been more of a deep dive into the family dynamics of each character, especially Aly.
May 21, 2026
I have really been enjoying this series, and Every Shattered Note by Claudia Burgoa was no exception. This story slowly sneaks up under your skin, and before you know it, you're completely attached to these characters, which is no surprise when you're a seasoned Burgoa reader. I was hooked immediately by the mistaken identity trope. Dexter and Alyssa’s connection felt completely natural, and I loved the slow burn. It gave their relationship room to actually breathe instead of forcing everything too quickly.
Dexter was especially interesting because underneath the rockstar image, he was tired, guarded, and most importantly, human. Alyssa didn’t fall for his fame or celebrity. She fell for the real version of him that existed outside all of that, and I think that’s what made their relationship so much more interesting.
Alyssa was also incredibly easy to root for. She spends her life creating special moments for everyone else while quietly holding herself together, so seeing someone finally show up for her felt warm, emotional, and genuinely satisfying.
As always, the audiobook narration raised the experience even more. Both Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes were fantastic casting choices for these characters. Angelina Rocca brought out the warmth and steadiness in Alyssa that made her feel genuine, while Oscar Reyes especially captured Dexter’s emotional restraint really well. Together, they made this story feel immersive and rich.
This story had heart, chemistry, and vulnerability. Adding in the tension I love so much to keep me fully engaged the entire time, this was easily one of my favorites in the Heartbreak Mixtapes series so far. Thanks to the author and The Author Agency for both the ARC and ALC.
Dexter was especially interesting because underneath the rockstar image, he was tired, guarded, and most importantly, human. Alyssa didn’t fall for his fame or celebrity. She fell for the real version of him that existed outside all of that, and I think that’s what made their relationship so much more interesting.
Alyssa was also incredibly easy to root for. She spends her life creating special moments for everyone else while quietly holding herself together, so seeing someone finally show up for her felt warm, emotional, and genuinely satisfying.
As always, the audiobook narration raised the experience even more. Both Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes were fantastic casting choices for these characters. Angelina Rocca brought out the warmth and steadiness in Alyssa that made her feel genuine, while Oscar Reyes especially captured Dexter’s emotional restraint really well. Together, they made this story feel immersive and rich.
This story had heart, chemistry, and vulnerability. Adding in the tension I love so much to keep me fully engaged the entire time, this was easily one of my favorites in the Heartbreak Mixtapes series so far. Thanks to the author and The Author Agency for both the ARC and ALC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
💜🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW💜🎧
Claudia is always a MUST read or listen to author for me. I have never been disappointed in anything she has written. This series has been AMAZING and I have to say this might be my favorite book in this series. I fell in LOVE with Dexter & Alyssa! This book had me laughing, swooning like crazy, smiling so much my cheeks hurt, had me blushing, put me through some emotions and then gave me a wonderful ending!
The narrators Angelina Rocca & Oscar Reyes were absolutely FANTASTIC!! I couldn't have asked for better narrators to tell Dexter & Alyssa's story! I love their voices and they kept me entertained and held my attention the entire time I listened to this book!
Alyssa is an event planner and when one of the musicians is late so when she finds a man walking in from the rain holding a guitar she assumes he's the guy there to play. Well she couldn't be more wrong but he isn't going to tell her that so he just plays along. When these two start talking and getting to know each other Alyssa slowly starts letting her walls down but once she finds out his secret can she still learn to trust Dexter?
Dexter is the kind of man you swoon over! This man will do anything for Alyssa! Dexter and Alyssa both have pasts so they will have some ups and downs but sometimes that just makes people stronger and better for each other.
I loved listening and reading this book! You can't help but do both because it's that good. If you want a feel good story that will give you all the feels this is the book for you!
Thank you Claudia Burgoa for allowing me to read this ARC and listen to this ALC for my honest opinion!
Claudia is always a MUST read or listen to author for me. I have never been disappointed in anything she has written. This series has been AMAZING and I have to say this might be my favorite book in this series. I fell in LOVE with Dexter & Alyssa! This book had me laughing, swooning like crazy, smiling so much my cheeks hurt, had me blushing, put me through some emotions and then gave me a wonderful ending!
The narrators Angelina Rocca & Oscar Reyes were absolutely FANTASTIC!! I couldn't have asked for better narrators to tell Dexter & Alyssa's story! I love their voices and they kept me entertained and held my attention the entire time I listened to this book!
Alyssa is an event planner and when one of the musicians is late so when she finds a man walking in from the rain holding a guitar she assumes he's the guy there to play. Well she couldn't be more wrong but he isn't going to tell her that so he just plays along. When these two start talking and getting to know each other Alyssa slowly starts letting her walls down but once she finds out his secret can she still learn to trust Dexter?
Dexter is the kind of man you swoon over! This man will do anything for Alyssa! Dexter and Alyssa both have pasts so they will have some ups and downs but sometimes that just makes people stronger and better for each other.
I loved listening and reading this book! You can't help but do both because it's that good. If you want a feel good story that will give you all the feels this is the book for you!
Thank you Claudia Burgoa for allowing me to read this ARC and listen to this ALC for my honest opinion!
May 25, 2026
I had the absolute pleasure to receive an ARC and ALC from the author of the book and am leaving an honest review of an immersive read.
Talk about swoony men? Surprise! Dexter Vaughn has entered the chat!!
This story follows Dexter Vaughn and Alyssa Stone, who meet in the most unexpected way. After his apartment floods, Dexter finds himself rain soaked and carrying Rosie into the hotel he will be staying, only to be scolded by Alyssa for being late. Suddenly he is intrigued by her and wants to stay in her orbit, delivering an incredible performance as a wedding singer. What happens after is swoony material. The man completely sees this hyper independent, competent, magical woman and wants to help her. Wants to take care of her. Wants to give her everything she needs so she puts herself first. And Alyssa? She can’t believe she deserves a hot man that wants to stick around. They both have difficult pasts, but in this book their love story shines.
This story is filled with mischief, incredible chemistry and vulnerable moments. It’s beautiful.
Narrators: Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes.
Who did a perfect job? These narrators!!! Oscar completely captured Dexter’s golden retriever personality. And Angelina, made me believe Alyssa is a woman who’s built a life around control. They blended beautifully together and gave us great emotional moments. I just couldn’t stop listening, giggling, swooning and laughing along.
Overall, I would totally recommend this book to anyone who loves rockstar romances with a mistaken identity and lots of mischief.
Thank you Claudia, for letting me be on this ARC/ALC Team.
Talk about swoony men? Surprise! Dexter Vaughn has entered the chat!!
This story follows Dexter Vaughn and Alyssa Stone, who meet in the most unexpected way. After his apartment floods, Dexter finds himself rain soaked and carrying Rosie into the hotel he will be staying, only to be scolded by Alyssa for being late. Suddenly he is intrigued by her and wants to stay in her orbit, delivering an incredible performance as a wedding singer. What happens after is swoony material. The man completely sees this hyper independent, competent, magical woman and wants to help her. Wants to take care of her. Wants to give her everything she needs so she puts herself first. And Alyssa? She can’t believe she deserves a hot man that wants to stick around. They both have difficult pasts, but in this book their love story shines.
This story is filled with mischief, incredible chemistry and vulnerable moments. It’s beautiful.
Narrators: Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes.
Who did a perfect job? These narrators!!! Oscar completely captured Dexter’s golden retriever personality. And Angelina, made me believe Alyssa is a woman who’s built a life around control. They blended beautifully together and gave us great emotional moments. I just couldn’t stop listening, giggling, swooning and laughing along.
Overall, I would totally recommend this book to anyone who loves rockstar romances with a mistaken identity and lots of mischief.
Thank you Claudia, for letting me be on this ARC/ALC Team.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC/ALC review
Take a wedding planner who mistook a former rockstar for a college kid that was supposed to play at a wedding and you get what happened to Alyssa and Dexter. Dexter, being intrigued by Alyssa, ends up playing at the wedding without disclosing he isn't the college kid that was supposed to play. When Alyssa is hiring a new band for her events Dexter decides to seize the opportunity to play again. While Alyssa and Dexter work together they find themselves drawn to each other.
I absolutely loved the start of this book. The scene at the wedding where Dexter was imposing as the college kid was gold! It had me cackling.
The way how Alyssa and Dexter grow from strangers to lover is full of twists, humor and vulnerable moments. Alyssa and Dexter felt so cute together, I was rooting for them from the start, it was satisfying to see that they came together in this slow burn romance. I loved the focus on music and the wedding planning setting felt like a unique backdrop for this book. Both characters had healing to do and music played a big part in this.
The way this book is written made me laugh out loud more than once.
Audio book 5 stars
The audio book is narrated by Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes. They both did an excellent job. Angelina manages to capture Alyssa's strengths, determination but also her vulnerability. While Oscar made Dexter feel like the emotional and rough feeling former rockstar he is.
The back and forth between these two is so good. It is as they are in the same room (maybe they where?). Listening to this book adds another dimension to the book and I highly recommend it.
Take a wedding planner who mistook a former rockstar for a college kid that was supposed to play at a wedding and you get what happened to Alyssa and Dexter. Dexter, being intrigued by Alyssa, ends up playing at the wedding without disclosing he isn't the college kid that was supposed to play. When Alyssa is hiring a new band for her events Dexter decides to seize the opportunity to play again. While Alyssa and Dexter work together they find themselves drawn to each other.
I absolutely loved the start of this book. The scene at the wedding where Dexter was imposing as the college kid was gold! It had me cackling.
The way how Alyssa and Dexter grow from strangers to lover is full of twists, humor and vulnerable moments. Alyssa and Dexter felt so cute together, I was rooting for them from the start, it was satisfying to see that they came together in this slow burn romance. I loved the focus on music and the wedding planning setting felt like a unique backdrop for this book. Both characters had healing to do and music played a big part in this.
The way this book is written made me laugh out loud more than once.
Audio book 5 stars
The audio book is narrated by Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes. They both did an excellent job. Angelina manages to capture Alyssa's strengths, determination but also her vulnerability. While Oscar made Dexter feel like the emotional and rough feeling former rockstar he is.
The back and forth between these two is so good. It is as they are in the same room (maybe they where?). Listening to this book adds another dimension to the book and I highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into this expecting an emotional ride because… Claudia Burgoa never plays around with feelings 😭 But I wasn’t ready for how deeply this one was going to get under my skin. This story follows a rockstar dealing with survival, grief, and trying to find peace after a devastating event, and you can feel that emotional weight all the way through.
This is a story about healing, guilt, second chances, and learning how to live when parts of you still feel broken. Those are always the books that stay with me the longest.
The chemistry and emotional connection felt so natural too. It wasn’t just instant attraction — it was two people carrying pain, trying to hold themselves together, and slowly finding comfort in someone they never expected. Those quieter moments honestly hit me just as hard as the bigger emotional ones. The slow burn kept me on the edge of my seat.
And the emotions in this book?? RUDE. One minute my heart hurt for these characters and the next I was smiling like an idiot, then suddenly I was stressed all over again 😭 Claudia Burgoa somehow always finds a way to make you emotionally attached and then completely destroy you before putting you back together.
I genuinely flew through this because I couldn’t stop thinking about these characters and needed to know how everything was going to unfold. Heartbreaking, beautiful, emotional, and one of those stories that just stays with you long after you finish.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a story about healing, guilt, second chances, and learning how to live when parts of you still feel broken. Those are always the books that stay with me the longest.
The chemistry and emotional connection felt so natural too. It wasn’t just instant attraction — it was two people carrying pain, trying to hold themselves together, and slowly finding comfort in someone they never expected. Those quieter moments honestly hit me just as hard as the bigger emotional ones. The slow burn kept me on the edge of my seat.
And the emotions in this book?? RUDE. One minute my heart hurt for these characters and the next I was smiling like an idiot, then suddenly I was stressed all over again 😭 Claudia Burgoa somehow always finds a way to make you emotionally attached and then completely destroy you before putting you back together.
I genuinely flew through this because I couldn’t stop thinking about these characters and needed to know how everything was going to unfold. Heartbreaking, beautiful, emotional, and one of those stories that just stays with you long after you finish.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 28, 2026
I've read the previous installments in this series and started looking forward to this next one right away. I jumped right back into the Heartbreak Mixtapes world. I enjoyed this story so very much!
Alyssa and Dexter's journey pulled me in! Dexter is a rockstar and Alyssa is an event planner. These two have quite the memorable first meeting. What Alyssa doesn't know is who Dexter really is. Can these two end up being everything for each other's hearts?
Dexter and Alyssa had me quickly invested in their story! I enjoyed the different way they were brought together and the music of it all. I loved the fact that Alyssa was a wedding planner and that Dexter was a rockstar. It was wonderful seeing these two connect, taking on truths, being human, and feelings shining bright between them.
Alyssa and Dexter had me feeling every bit with them from beginning to end! Their connection and them truly getting each other got me right in the chest. Dexter and Alyssa's chemistry was fantastic! You never know what can happen when you meet another soul.
It was awesome being back in the Heartbreak Mixtapes world!
With Every Shattered Note, Claudia Burgoa has created a great mistaken identity romance that brought rockstar x wedding planner, love and relatability, and feels that get to the heart! 💜🎵
I can't wait for book four! Check this series out!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Audiobook -
I couldn't wait to listen to this audiobook! I dived right back I to the Heartbreak Mixtapes world with this listen. I really enjoyed this audiobook so very much!
Having listened to Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes before it brought me joy that they were narrating Every Shattered Note! I adored Oscar as Dexter and Angelina as Alyssa! With their performances they really captured the realness of these characters, the intensity of truths, the back and forth between them, the undeniable chemistry, the rockstar x wedding planner of it all, and the love! I didn't want to stop listening.
Alyssa and Dexter got to my heart all over again with this listen! Check out this audiobook and series today! 🎧💜🎵
*I volunteered to listen and review a copy of this audiobook from the author*
Alyssa and Dexter's journey pulled me in! Dexter is a rockstar and Alyssa is an event planner. These two have quite the memorable first meeting. What Alyssa doesn't know is who Dexter really is. Can these two end up being everything for each other's hearts?
Dexter and Alyssa had me quickly invested in their story! I enjoyed the different way they were brought together and the music of it all. I loved the fact that Alyssa was a wedding planner and that Dexter was a rockstar. It was wonderful seeing these two connect, taking on truths, being human, and feelings shining bright between them.
Alyssa and Dexter had me feeling every bit with them from beginning to end! Their connection and them truly getting each other got me right in the chest. Dexter and Alyssa's chemistry was fantastic! You never know what can happen when you meet another soul.
It was awesome being back in the Heartbreak Mixtapes world!
With Every Shattered Note, Claudia Burgoa has created a great mistaken identity romance that brought rockstar x wedding planner, love and relatability, and feels that get to the heart! 💜🎵
I can't wait for book four! Check this series out!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Audiobook -
I couldn't wait to listen to this audiobook! I dived right back I to the Heartbreak Mixtapes world with this listen. I really enjoyed this audiobook so very much!
Having listened to Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes before it brought me joy that they were narrating Every Shattered Note! I adored Oscar as Dexter and Angelina as Alyssa! With their performances they really captured the realness of these characters, the intensity of truths, the back and forth between them, the undeniable chemistry, the rockstar x wedding planner of it all, and the love! I didn't want to stop listening.
Alyssa and Dexter got to my heart all over again with this listen! Check out this audiobook and series today! 🎧💜🎵
*I volunteered to listen and review a copy of this audiobook from the author*
May 23, 2026
Claudia Burgoa is new to me, and I’ll admit, I hadn’t ventured into her books before this one. But duet narration is my weakness, so I took a chance. A mistaken identity rockstar romance set in the early 2000s? Sold. I loved it.
I completely fell for Dexter Vaughn. He’s layered, flawed, charming, and Oscar Reyes delivered an outstanding performance that made every emotion land harder.
What stood out for me?
The email correspondence:
The messages between Dexter and Alyssa offered such a strong glimpse into who they are beneath the surface. There’s flirting, vulnerability, humor, and a deeper understanding of their emotional baggage. Those moments made their connection feel authentic.
The audiobook performance:
Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes absolutely worked for this story. The energy, emotion, and chemistry elevated the experience. Five star narration performance for me.
The nostalgia factor:
The late 1990s and early 2000s music references gave this story a distinct atmosphere. The retro vibes felt immersive enough that I finished wanting to dig out old CDs and make a mixtape.
This is Book 3 in the series, but I listened without reading the first two books and never felt lost. It easily worked as a standalone.
If you enjoy:
✔️ Rockstar romance
✔️ Mistaken identity trope
✔️ Emotional characters with depth
✔️ Nostalgic early 2000s vibes
✔️ Outstanding duet narration
…this audiobook is worth adding to your TBR.
Book: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The biggest surprise? I started for the duet narration and stayed for Dexter Vaughn.
I completely fell for Dexter Vaughn. He’s layered, flawed, charming, and Oscar Reyes delivered an outstanding performance that made every emotion land harder.
What stood out for me?
The email correspondence:
The messages between Dexter and Alyssa offered such a strong glimpse into who they are beneath the surface. There’s flirting, vulnerability, humor, and a deeper understanding of their emotional baggage. Those moments made their connection feel authentic.
The audiobook performance:
Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes absolutely worked for this story. The energy, emotion, and chemistry elevated the experience. Five star narration performance for me.
The nostalgia factor:
The late 1990s and early 2000s music references gave this story a distinct atmosphere. The retro vibes felt immersive enough that I finished wanting to dig out old CDs and make a mixtape.
This is Book 3 in the series, but I listened without reading the first two books and never felt lost. It easily worked as a standalone.
If you enjoy:
✔️ Rockstar romance
✔️ Mistaken identity trope
✔️ Emotional characters with depth
✔️ Nostalgic early 2000s vibes
✔️ Outstanding duet narration
…this audiobook is worth adding to your TBR.
Book: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The biggest surprise? I started for the duet narration and stayed for Dexter Vaughn.
May 24, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audio Rating: 🎧🎧🎧🎧
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
Author: Claudia Burgoa
Narrator(s): Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes
Narration Type: Duet
Tropes:
💜Mistaken Identity
🎸Rockstar Romance
💜Opposites attract
🎸Celebrity romance
💜Wounded hero
🎸Vacation romance
Review:
Thank you to Claudia Burgoa and The Author Agency for the ALC! 🩷🖤
Narrated by Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes in duet POV. This is why I love audiobooks. The narrator's really bring the characters alive! Always love narration by Angelina but Oscar was a new narrator for me.
The book was such an emotional read 🖤
This is definitely more of an emotionally driven romance than a super spicy one, but honestly? The connection between Dexter and Alyssa made the slower burn completely worth it.
I really appreciated that the relationship development felt genuine. Nothing felt rushed or forced just for the sake of getting the characters together quickly. Instead, you slowly watch the connection build between them piece by piece, which made the emotional moments hit so much harder when they finally happened.
And because the story takes its time, you actually believe in their relationship and understand why they gravitate towards each other.
This book definitely leans heavier on emotion, healing and connection rather than spice, so if you are looking for something deeply emotional with a slow burn romance at its core, this really delivers.
By the end, I was fully invested in Dexter and Alyssa and just wanted them to finally get their happiness 🥹
Audio Rating: 🎧🎧🎧🎧
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
Author: Claudia Burgoa
Narrator(s): Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes
Narration Type: Duet
Tropes:
💜Mistaken Identity
🎸Rockstar Romance
💜Opposites attract
🎸Celebrity romance
💜Wounded hero
🎸Vacation romance
Review:
Thank you to Claudia Burgoa and The Author Agency for the ALC! 🩷🖤
Narrated by Angelina Rocca and Oscar Reyes in duet POV. This is why I love audiobooks. The narrator's really bring the characters alive! Always love narration by Angelina but Oscar was a new narrator for me.
The book was such an emotional read 🖤
This is definitely more of an emotionally driven romance than a super spicy one, but honestly? The connection between Dexter and Alyssa made the slower burn completely worth it.
I really appreciated that the relationship development felt genuine. Nothing felt rushed or forced just for the sake of getting the characters together quickly. Instead, you slowly watch the connection build between them piece by piece, which made the emotional moments hit so much harder when they finally happened.
And because the story takes its time, you actually believe in their relationship and understand why they gravitate towards each other.
This book definitely leans heavier on emotion, healing and connection rather than spice, so if you are looking for something deeply emotional with a slow burn romance at its core, this really delivers.
By the end, I was fully invested in Dexter and Alyssa and just wanted them to finally get their happiness 🥹
May 24, 2026
I’m always going to dive for Claudia’s books. Her rockstar romances make me so nostalgic!
Tropes:
🎸 Rockstar x Wedding Planner
🎸 Hidden Identity
🎸 Early 2000s Nostalgia
🎸 Email Chats
🎸 Vacation Romance
Dexter’s band is done, but still misses performing. He bribes a kid to perform at a wedding, where Aly catches his eye. He can’t seem to stay away, and decides to play into it when she thinks he’s the wedding performer she hired. He continues to try and get gigs for her weddings, while they have great banter over email. Eventually…his true identity has to come out, and he has to try and convince Aly to give him a chance.
Claudia’s books are so fun for me to read because I was so obsessed with music during the time most of her books take place, and her characters have the best discussions on music, whether it’s in a chat room or over email. I loved the hidden identity piece with Dexter, and how he took Aly on a well deserved vacation to help her get to know him. The drama that comes into play with Dexter was really interesting and unexpected. This continued their communication over email, which I loved.
I just didn't get into this one as much as Claudia's previous books. I think my issue was more personal - just not liking the murder coverup investigation storyline. I felt like the story was disconnected, and made it hard for the characters to really develop a relationship. It felt rushed for me.
🌶️🌶️
Thank you, Claudia and TAA, for sending me a copy of this book!
Tropes:
🎸 Rockstar x Wedding Planner
🎸 Hidden Identity
🎸 Early 2000s Nostalgia
🎸 Email Chats
🎸 Vacation Romance
Dexter’s band is done, but still misses performing. He bribes a kid to perform at a wedding, where Aly catches his eye. He can’t seem to stay away, and decides to play into it when she thinks he’s the wedding performer she hired. He continues to try and get gigs for her weddings, while they have great banter over email. Eventually…his true identity has to come out, and he has to try and convince Aly to give him a chance.
Claudia’s books are so fun for me to read because I was so obsessed with music during the time most of her books take place, and her characters have the best discussions on music, whether it’s in a chat room or over email. I loved the hidden identity piece with Dexter, and how he took Aly on a well deserved vacation to help her get to know him. The drama that comes into play with Dexter was really interesting and unexpected. This continued their communication over email, which I loved.
I just didn't get into this one as much as Claudia's previous books. I think my issue was more personal - just not liking the murder coverup investigation storyline. I felt like the story was disconnected, and made it hard for the characters to really develop a relationship. It felt rushed for me.
🌶️🌶️
Thank you, Claudia and TAA, for sending me a copy of this book!
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