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Running with Scissors
Eighteen months ago, drummer Jude Colburn made the biggest mistake of his life when he walked away from his band just as they were on the brink of success. Now, he’s got a second chance. The band’s bassist just quit, and Jude plays bass almost as well as he plays drums. The other band members aren’t thrilled, but they are desperate.
Running with Scissors needs him, but there’s one no hooking up with bandmates. That’s what ruined things eighteen months ago, after all. Jude’s on board, but no one warned him about the drummer who replaced him. A.J. Palmer is shy and unassuming . . . until he hits the stage. He gets Jude’s attention from the first beat, and suddenly that “no hookups” rule isn’t so easy to follow.
Keeping secrets on a tour bus isn’t easy either, and it’s only a matter of time before the band catches on. When everything hits the fan, Jude has to a second chance at the career he’s always regretted leaving, or a shot at the man of his dreams?
Word 82,300; page 313
Running with Scissors needs him, but there’s one no hooking up with bandmates. That’s what ruined things eighteen months ago, after all. Jude’s on board, but no one warned him about the drummer who replaced him. A.J. Palmer is shy and unassuming . . . until he hits the stage. He gets Jude’s attention from the first beat, and suddenly that “no hookups” rule isn’t so easy to follow.
Keeping secrets on a tour bus isn’t easy either, and it’s only a matter of time before the band catches on. When everything hits the fan, Jude has to a second chance at the career he’s always regretted leaving, or a shot at the man of his dreams?
Word 82,300; page 313
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2015
51 people are currently reading
486 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Witt
217 books2,702 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
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August 22, 2015~DNF @ 40%~
I wanted to finish this one. I made a heartfelt attempt. But this story just didn't draw me in.
It was slow, mild, and unexciting, like a sip of warm milk when you were expecting a mojito.
I wanted more drama, more sex, more ROCKSTARS, baby!
There was too much back and forth, and I wasn't feeling the connection between the MCs.
I won't rate this one, because the writing is strong; the plot has a definite arc; and I can absolutely see its appeal for certain readers.
I have loved many of Witt's stories, including:
and
My favorite M/M rockstar series to date remains Piper Vaughn's Lucky Moon series, particularly book 2:
Thanks to Riptide Publishing for providing me with an ARC.
I wanted to finish this one. I made a heartfelt attempt. But this story just didn't draw me in.
It was slow, mild, and unexciting, like a sip of warm milk when you were expecting a mojito.
I wanted more drama, more sex, more ROCKSTARS, baby!
There was too much back and forth, and I wasn't feeling the connection between the MCs.
I won't rate this one, because the writing is strong; the plot has a definite arc; and I can absolutely see its appeal for certain readers.
I have loved many of Witt's stories, including:
and
My favorite M/M rockstar series to date remains Piper Vaughn's Lucky Moon series, particularly book 2:
Thanks to Riptide Publishing for providing me with an ARC.
August 20, 2015
3.5 Stars!
I can't decide whether to round up or down. Initially, I was going to round up but the more I wrote in my review the more it seemed to warrant a rounding down. It was a definite 3.5 star read for me, but alas Goodreads doesn't allow half stars. I really just found this one to be a bit of a let-down.
For starters....LOW STEAM?
Ms. Witt....what are you doing to me? I can always count on you for the smut. Always! I think there were two scenes. Maybe.
Secondly....I think the MCs were actually a couple maybe 10% of the book.
I hate when the MCs aren't together the majority of the boook.
I like a good rock-star book and maybe I should have seen where this one was going based on the blurb.
Guy leaves the band after a relationship with a band member goes bad. Another bad relationship results in another guy leaving the band, therefore they need the first guy back. He comes back and....what do you know, sleeps with another band member.
It was the same thing over and over again.
It was low angst in the relationship sense. But again, see above...there was angst elsewhere.
Maybe some steam would have helped....
I can't decide whether to round up or down. Initially, I was going to round up but the more I wrote in my review the more it seemed to warrant a rounding down. It was a definite 3.5 star read for me, but alas Goodreads doesn't allow half stars. I really just found this one to be a bit of a let-down.
For starters....LOW STEAM?
Ms. Witt....what are you doing to me? I can always count on you for the smut. Always! I think there were two scenes. Maybe.
Secondly....I think the MCs were actually a couple maybe 10% of the book.
I hate when the MCs aren't together the majority of the boook.
I like a good rock-star book and maybe I should have seen where this one was going based on the blurb.
Guy leaves the band after a relationship with a band member goes bad. Another bad relationship results in another guy leaving the band, therefore they need the first guy back. He comes back and....what do you know, sleeps with another band member.
It was the same thing over and over again.
It was low angst in the relationship sense. But again, see above...there was angst elsewhere.
Maybe some steam would have helped....
November 3, 2015
*2.5 stars*
I've said it before, but I can't resist a L.A. Witt book. I just can't! My ratings range from 1 to 5 stars with her stuff (and I've read dozens of her books), but I can't resist taking the chance that the next L.A. Witt book will be a favorite. This book... meh, not in the favorite's pile, that's for sure.
I've read a lot of rock star books. A lot. I've loved them (Perfect Imperfections, Black Hurricane), I've hated them (The Curtis Reincarnation), and everything in between. This book was in between.
My issue with this book had a lot to do with the pacing. It was really slow and a little hard to get into. I found my attention wandering while trying to read, which is never a great sign for me.
I also didn't really feel the plot. There is a ton of bickering back and forth between the characters, lots of secrets and hiding and fighting, which isn't really my scene. I don't like books that have a negative vibe, and I wasn't feeling this one.
It wasn't all bad, though. I liked that the romance was slow burn over time, and that there was a lot of character development throughout the story. It also had a nice rocker-vibe, which fit with the theme. However, I've read rock star books that were much more compelling in the past, and I'm sure I won't be re-reading this one any time soon.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I've said it before, but I can't resist a L.A. Witt book. I just can't! My ratings range from 1 to 5 stars with her stuff (and I've read dozens of her books), but I can't resist taking the chance that the next L.A. Witt book will be a favorite. This book... meh, not in the favorite's pile, that's for sure.
I've read a lot of rock star books. A lot. I've loved them (Perfect Imperfections, Black Hurricane), I've hated them (The Curtis Reincarnation), and everything in between. This book was in between.
My issue with this book had a lot to do with the pacing. It was really slow and a little hard to get into. I found my attention wandering while trying to read, which is never a great sign for me.
I also didn't really feel the plot. There is a ton of bickering back and forth between the characters, lots of secrets and hiding and fighting, which isn't really my scene. I don't like books that have a negative vibe, and I wasn't feeling this one.
It wasn't all bad, though. I liked that the romance was slow burn over time, and that there was a lot of character development throughout the story. It also had a nice rocker-vibe, which fit with the theme. However, I've read rock star books that were much more compelling in the past, and I'm sure I won't be re-reading this one any time soon.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
November 2, 2016
Running with Scissors tells the story of Jude Colburn and his childhood rock band named Running with Scissors. Running with Scissors has recently made the big time, signing with a record label and landing a headliner tour. A littler under two years ago, Jude abruptly left the band after having a falling out with his boyfriend, lead singer and childhood friend Connor. He never got to experience the fame of making it big and currently works a unfulfilling 9 to 5 job in an office.
Meanwhile, Running With Scissors' lead singer Connor has made another romantic mistake, this time with bass guitarist Wyatt. Wyatt leaves the band in the middle of the tour and Running with Scissors finds themselves begging Jude to come to their rescue and fill in for Wyatt. Jude is hesitant because of his fractured relationship with Connor but misses his friends and the music. On the conditions that he sign as a long-term bass guitar sub so he is able to work on their next album, and with a promise that he will not become romantically involved with any member of the band, Jude quits his 9 to 5 job and re-joins the band.
When Jude returns, he gets a chilly reception from his friends and band mates because of the way he abandoned the group over a year ago. Jude knows he needs to gain their trust again and knows it won't happen overnight. A.J. Palmer, the drummer that took Jude's place after he left, becomes a comfort and friend to Jude during this turbulent time. The two men are incredibly attracted to one another, but both know of the no-hookup rule and keep their feelings hidden from one another for the sake of the band. Of course, that doesn't last very long and eventually these boys slam each other into bed, throwing caution to the wind.
I loved the romance focused on Jude and A.J. The sexual tension leading up to their first coupling was thick and delicious and when these two finally hit the sheets, the sex was hot and dirty and wonderful. Their feelings for one another soften pretty quickly and they share tender, intimate moments that I loved reading.
The Running with Scissors band mates drove me nuts. All of them, with the exception of A.J., acted like a bunch of teenaged kids, bitching and moaning about every little thing. They all had very cantankerous personalities and I began to wonder how any of them were actually enjoying themselves. When Jude and A.J.'s relationship is finally discovered, his band mates are outraged and would not listen to either man's explanation of their feelings for one another. I just did not buy the emotions these people were presumed to have for one another. There was no joy. No love. Not an inkling that these friends had grown up together.
But the romance between A.J. and Jude saved the book for me. If there had been more understanding and love between the band mates, I would be giving this one 5 stars. But they all just rubbed me the wrong way and sapped a bit of my enjoyment from the book.
Recommended.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
September 13, 2015
The writing was strong, but the pacing was WAY too slow and the characters and their drama not quite interesting enough to hold my attention for 300+ pages. I felt like there was a lot of repetition in the conversations between the band and Jude, and between A.J. and Jude; I think this book would have been better served by some cutthroat edits that made this novella-length instead.
Read
August 20, 2015DNF 30%
I'm going to throw in the towel. Sigh...
I have tried getting into this book multiple times. I've set it aside twice and read other books with the hopes that a small break will help me get into it. Sadly, it just didn't catch my interest. The writing wasn't bad- it just didn't click for me. I would like to thank Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to read it, I'm sorry that I couldn't finish it. I will refrain from rating it since I didn't read the whole book.
I'm going to throw in the towel. Sigh...
I have tried getting into this book multiple times. I've set it aside twice and read other books with the hopes that a small break will help me get into it. Sadly, it just didn't catch my interest. The writing wasn't bad- it just didn't click for me. I would like to thank Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to read it, I'm sorry that I couldn't finish it. I will refrain from rating it since I didn't read the whole book.
August 31, 2015
Full release day review originally posted at Sinfully...Addicted to All Male Romance
While this wasn’t the raucous, hard-partying, rocker book I was expecting, and it definitely was more of a slow burn and lower on the steam factor than some other L.A. Witt books, I really enjoyed it. The story focuses less on the rock star lifestyle and more on the personal relationships among the band members, most of whom have been together since they were kids.
Ever since musical prodigy Jude abruptly quit the band, Running with Scissors, 18 months ago on the heels of a bad breakup with his boyfriend Connor, their volatile lead singer, he has regretted that decision. They replaced him with a new drummer and now they’ve released an album and are touring as the opening act for a popular rock band. When the band’s manager calls him to fill-in after their bassist (another of Connor’s boyfriends) quits, Jude reluctantly agrees to join the band on their tour. While he will be living out his dream, the way he left Connor and the band guarantees him an icy reception.
Although A.J. has been the band’s drummer since Jude quit, he still feels like an outsider to the tight group of friends and is in a panic that Jude’s return is going to result in him losing his position. A.J. is the peacekeeper in the group, he is quiet and doesn’t like to speak out for himself, but being on the road is lonelier than he thought it would be and Jude is more of a distraction than A.J. could have imagined.
There is an instant attraction, but the biggest rule Jude was given on returning was to keep his dick out of the other band members. Jude fully accepts the blame for his prior actions and intends to honor his new commitment. What Jude didn’t count on was effect A.J. the quiet drummer who replaced him would have. Their attraction quickly grows, and A.J. makes his interest known, but the two manage to hold back. They spend time together as friends and it becomes obvious that they are very in sync both musically and personally. Their chemistry eventually leads to a sizzling backstage kiss but both agree it’s a bad idea to get involved and try to leave it at that. It’s somewhat easy to live with the simmering attraction and keep a distance when they’re all living together on a tour bus, but when the tour ends, and privacy becomes a possibility everything changes and Jude and A.J. are soon risking their careers with the band to be together.
L.A. Witt infuses the first part of this book with a lot of sexual tension. I loved the scenes of musical foreplay between the men and when they do get together, it was definitely worth the wait. The side of A.J. that is unleashed on stage and in bed is at complete odds with the quiet man we first see. While the sex is hot, I loved the quiet moments between them as well. It is clear that they would do anything not to jeopardize the band, but also quite clear that their feelings toward each other ran deeper than just the sex.
Of course they can’t keep things hidden forever and when everything comes out, Jude’s flight instinct once again tries to take over. Not wanting to have a repeat of his and Connor’s falling out, Jude and A.J. try to make a professional, adult decision and put the band’s interests first. The pain that decision causes is evident and the dual point of view really worked for me here and had me wanting to wrap A.J. up in a hug.
The romantic relationship is not the only focus of the story. The band members have known each other since elementary school. There is a lot of history and a lot of bad blood between them, and nobody is quick to forgive or accept Jude’s return, adding another layer of tension to every decision Jude and A.J. make. While everyone tiptoes around Connor, the common denominator in both Jude and Wyatt leaving, they have no problem jumping all over Jude for his actions. Jude knows he made bad decisions previously and resolves not to let something like that happen again, but the toxic atmosphere also has him wondering if it is worth it and his desire to protect A.J. is also something new to deal with.
This was another winner for me from L.A. Witt. I’m not sure if she ever plans to tell Connor or Richie’s story, but I wouldn’t mind spending some more time with the band.
While this wasn’t the raucous, hard-partying, rocker book I was expecting, and it definitely was more of a slow burn and lower on the steam factor than some other L.A. Witt books, I really enjoyed it. The story focuses less on the rock star lifestyle and more on the personal relationships among the band members, most of whom have been together since they were kids.
Ever since musical prodigy Jude abruptly quit the band, Running with Scissors, 18 months ago on the heels of a bad breakup with his boyfriend Connor, their volatile lead singer, he has regretted that decision. They replaced him with a new drummer and now they’ve released an album and are touring as the opening act for a popular rock band. When the band’s manager calls him to fill-in after their bassist (another of Connor’s boyfriends) quits, Jude reluctantly agrees to join the band on their tour. While he will be living out his dream, the way he left Connor and the band guarantees him an icy reception.
Although A.J. has been the band’s drummer since Jude quit, he still feels like an outsider to the tight group of friends and is in a panic that Jude’s return is going to result in him losing his position. A.J. is the peacekeeper in the group, he is quiet and doesn’t like to speak out for himself, but being on the road is lonelier than he thought it would be and Jude is more of a distraction than A.J. could have imagined.
There is an instant attraction, but the biggest rule Jude was given on returning was to keep his dick out of the other band members. Jude fully accepts the blame for his prior actions and intends to honor his new commitment. What Jude didn’t count on was effect A.J. the quiet drummer who replaced him would have. Their attraction quickly grows, and A.J. makes his interest known, but the two manage to hold back. They spend time together as friends and it becomes obvious that they are very in sync both musically and personally. Their chemistry eventually leads to a sizzling backstage kiss but both agree it’s a bad idea to get involved and try to leave it at that. It’s somewhat easy to live with the simmering attraction and keep a distance when they’re all living together on a tour bus, but when the tour ends, and privacy becomes a possibility everything changes and Jude and A.J. are soon risking their careers with the band to be together.
L.A. Witt infuses the first part of this book with a lot of sexual tension. I loved the scenes of musical foreplay between the men and when they do get together, it was definitely worth the wait. The side of A.J. that is unleashed on stage and in bed is at complete odds with the quiet man we first see. While the sex is hot, I loved the quiet moments between them as well. It is clear that they would do anything not to jeopardize the band, but also quite clear that their feelings toward each other ran deeper than just the sex.
Of course they can’t keep things hidden forever and when everything comes out, Jude’s flight instinct once again tries to take over. Not wanting to have a repeat of his and Connor’s falling out, Jude and A.J. try to make a professional, adult decision and put the band’s interests first. The pain that decision causes is evident and the dual point of view really worked for me here and had me wanting to wrap A.J. up in a hug.
The romantic relationship is not the only focus of the story. The band members have known each other since elementary school. There is a lot of history and a lot of bad blood between them, and nobody is quick to forgive or accept Jude’s return, adding another layer of tension to every decision Jude and A.J. make. While everyone tiptoes around Connor, the common denominator in both Jude and Wyatt leaving, they have no problem jumping all over Jude for his actions. Jude knows he made bad decisions previously and resolves not to let something like that happen again, but the toxic atmosphere also has him wondering if it is worth it and his desire to protect A.J. is also something new to deal with.
This was another winner for me from L.A. Witt. I’m not sure if she ever plans to tell Connor or Richie’s story, but I wouldn’t mind spending some more time with the band.
August 14, 2015
4.5 Running with Scissors Stars!!
Gorgeous musical prodigy Jude Colburn and shy and soft spoken A.J had sizzling chemistry, I was hooked from their first meeting. When Jude returns to his old band a year after he left them in the dust because of a complicated and hurtful break up, he meets his replacement drummer A.J. And so touring, music, sex, drama and a whole lot more follow.
They both develop a unexpected connection and friendship and so the story goes on from there…It was awesome to watch A.J.’s insecurities unravel about being the drummer and see him seek solace from the last person he’d expect.
The forbidden aspect just made it that much more intense and passionate, I loved that the romance and characters were well developed and slow-burn. Nothing irks me more than insta-love…I just couldn’t find a fault whilst reading it, it had angst, it had cutesy moments and it was smoking hot at times. The writing had the perfect amount of everything.
I wasn’t very optimistic going in because I have a love hate relationship with musician romances, they just don’t work for me 99% of the time! I don’t know if it is a attitude thing or something else. This was brilliant though. If any of my GR friends are looking for a M/M romance that is well written and not rushed, look no further!
As usual a biiiiiiig big thank you to RipTide Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this fantastic book, this is the second amazing ARC they’ve sent me and I feel so blessed!
This title was generously provided by (RipTide Publishing) via NetGalley for a honest review!
Gorgeous musical prodigy Jude Colburn and shy and soft spoken A.J had sizzling chemistry, I was hooked from their first meeting. When Jude returns to his old band a year after he left them in the dust because of a complicated and hurtful break up, he meets his replacement drummer A.J. And so touring, music, sex, drama and a whole lot more follow.
They both develop a unexpected connection and friendship and so the story goes on from there…It was awesome to watch A.J.’s insecurities unravel about being the drummer and see him seek solace from the last person he’d expect.
The forbidden aspect just made it that much more intense and passionate, I loved that the romance and characters were well developed and slow-burn. Nothing irks me more than insta-love…I just couldn’t find a fault whilst reading it, it had angst, it had cutesy moments and it was smoking hot at times. The writing had the perfect amount of everything.
I wasn’t very optimistic going in because I have a love hate relationship with musician romances, they just don’t work for me 99% of the time! I don’t know if it is a attitude thing or something else. This was brilliant though. If any of my GR friends are looking for a M/M romance that is well written and not rushed, look no further!
As usual a biiiiiiig big thank you to RipTide Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this fantastic book, this is the second amazing ARC they’ve sent me and I feel so blessed!
This title was generously provided by (RipTide Publishing) via NetGalley for a honest review!
August 17, 2015
It's been a long time since I've read a great MM musician/rock band book, and I've missed it like crazy! I loved everything about this book, the characters, the story line, the angst, the conflict, the love story, the chemistry...I could go on and on and never finish finding things to love. This might be the best rock band love story I've read, ever!
Jude is the founder of Running With Scissors, a band formed by him together with his childhood friends, but he's also no longer a part of the band. The personal relationship between him and the lead singer burnt up in flames, and he disappointed the whole band by giving up on them right before they made it big. Two years later he's miserable working a 9 to 5 job, and when a call comes from the band's manager asking him for help, he takes the second chance he's been given, even knowing the relationship between his old friends and him will be tense and full of grudges at best. There's a lot of bad blood, lots of conflict and buried emotions that will need to come out in the open before things change for the better. The one condition Jude was given to join the band? Keep his dick away from fellow band members' asses; but that shouldn't be a problem now that he learned from past mistakes.
Insert AJ, the drummer who took Jude's place on the band, and all Jude's good intention go down the drain. AJ is everything Jude loves in a man, and the difference between AJ the man and AJ the drummer drives Jude crazy in the best ways. The chemistry between these two burns bright from the first time they meet, and I could't wait for them to take it between the sheets. That didn't happen right away, which was a good thing, because the sex didn't seem gratuitous; it was intense and rewarding, all that pent-up desire resulted in some very hot sex. Slow-burn is the way to go!!!
The story is told from both AJ and Jude's pov, so we get to know both of their perspectives when it comes to the band and the relationship between them. I liked the secondary characters as well, but at times I wanted to smack a few of them around for giving Jude such a hard time. In the end, it was all worth it, and I loved how the situation between Jude and his ex got resolved.
I really really really want Connor to get his own book; he is a temperamental ass, but for some reason I like him and would love to read his own love story.
Jude is the founder of Running With Scissors, a band formed by him together with his childhood friends, but he's also no longer a part of the band. The personal relationship between him and the lead singer burnt up in flames, and he disappointed the whole band by giving up on them right before they made it big. Two years later he's miserable working a 9 to 5 job, and when a call comes from the band's manager asking him for help, he takes the second chance he's been given, even knowing the relationship between his old friends and him will be tense and full of grudges at best. There's a lot of bad blood, lots of conflict and buried emotions that will need to come out in the open before things change for the better. The one condition Jude was given to join the band? Keep his dick away from fellow band members' asses; but that shouldn't be a problem now that he learned from past mistakes.
Insert AJ, the drummer who took Jude's place on the band, and all Jude's good intention go down the drain. AJ is everything Jude loves in a man, and the difference between AJ the man and AJ the drummer drives Jude crazy in the best ways. The chemistry between these two burns bright from the first time they meet, and I could't wait for them to take it between the sheets. That didn't happen right away, which was a good thing, because the sex didn't seem gratuitous; it was intense and rewarding, all that pent-up desire resulted in some very hot sex. Slow-burn is the way to go!!!
The story is told from both AJ and Jude's pov, so we get to know both of their perspectives when it comes to the band and the relationship between them. I liked the secondary characters as well, but at times I wanted to smack a few of them around for giving Jude such a hard time. In the end, it was all worth it, and I loved how the situation between Jude and his ex got resolved.
I really really really want Connor to get his own book; he is a temperamental ass, but for some reason I like him and would love to read his own love story.
August 20, 2015
I was really impressed with Running with Scissors, and I'm going to fan girl a bit for this review. I simply love LA Witt's books, and this is going to go down as one of my favorites from her. Boy can the girl write! This book had a perfect balance of angst and romance, and the intense chemistry between Jude and AJ will downright set your ebook on fire.
I don't think you can get a more complicated situation than what Jude is facing, but you have to admire him because he definitely steps up to the plate to handle the mess of his own creation when it comes to the band. Unfortunately, things are not exactly easy for him and the tension is so thick you can cut it with a knife. He promised Kristy, the band's manager, that he wouldn't engage in a relationship with any of his fellow band mates for the sake of the band, but the draw to AJ is more than either of them can take. Seriously guys, the sexual tension between these two is pretty heady stuff, and once they give in it is pure, carnal, and so much more than just a simple case of lust. But when the band finds out what has been going on behind their backs, Jude's impulsive behavior is going to be the least of his problems.
I couldn't get enough of this book, and I'm seriously hoping that we will get a series out of this. I want the to see the other band mates fall in love and what complications that is going to bring to them as a group. I think the most deserving though is Connor. That scene there at the end cemented it for me that he deserves his own book. So pretty please can we have more with Running with Scissors????
*I received a review copy from the publisher/author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
Check this and more of my reviews out on my blog Blending Perspectives Book Reviews
I don't think you can get a more complicated situation than what Jude is facing, but you have to admire him because he definitely steps up to the plate to handle the mess of his own creation when it comes to the band. Unfortunately, things are not exactly easy for him and the tension is so thick you can cut it with a knife. He promised Kristy, the band's manager, that he wouldn't engage in a relationship with any of his fellow band mates for the sake of the band, but the draw to AJ is more than either of them can take. Seriously guys, the sexual tension between these two is pretty heady stuff, and once they give in it is pure, carnal, and so much more than just a simple case of lust. But when the band finds out what has been going on behind their backs, Jude's impulsive behavior is going to be the least of his problems.
I couldn't get enough of this book, and I'm seriously hoping that we will get a series out of this. I want the to see the other band mates fall in love and what complications that is going to bring to them as a group. I think the most deserving though is Connor. That scene there at the end cemented it for me that he deserves his own book. So pretty please can we have more with Running with Scissors????
*I received a review copy from the publisher/author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
Check this and more of my reviews out on my blog Blending Perspectives Book Reviews
May 25, 2016
I saw a review on this story and snagged it. Even though it wouldn't be one I would grab on my own in the normal scheme of things, there were points made that drew me in. I enjoy reading about flawed characters who screwed things up royally get a second chance to make good and maybe find happiness and love in the restoration process. That's what I got with this rocker who had to learn the hard way how to fix his mistakes while not making new ones along the way.
The story opens with Jude Colburn stuck in a cubicle job and dying slowly inside full of regret and guilt and despair that he threw away all that was good in his life and hurt so many others in the process. Everyone else moved on and finally achieved their dreams without him and no thanks to him after he cheated on his boyfriend and left his best friends and the band right when they needed him most. Now he is a true musician stuck in a drone job.
But then Kristy his old manager calls. His old band needs a bassist. Jude was the drummer, but he was replaced. He can play anything and is the only one who knows the songs well enough to jump in and save the tour from disaster. But Kristy warns him that nobody has forgiven him and he has to toe the line- no getting involved with other band members after what happened between him and Connor and then Connor and Wes which caused all the trouble. Jude misses the drums, but will take anything. This is his second chance to repair the damage that he did and to get his own dream.
AJ replaced the larger than life Jude Colburn and has been the drummer for the last year and a half. But now that they need a bassist, AJ is terrified that Jude will come back and end his hopes. Everyone hates Jude for the trouble in the past, but will it be enough for them to want to keep AJ? But then AJ gets one look at Jude and realizes his job isn't the only thing in jeopardy. Everything about Jude is a temptation and fascination. The band is in turmoil and on edge especially the explosive Connor about his ex returning, but they have to do well on this tour and into the recording studio and Jude is the key. AJ can only hope the smoldering, sensual man can right the past and keep things from a repeat even as AJ finds it harder and harder to resist being with Jude.
The author did a good job of bringing the world of a rock band on tour and work in the studio to life even while telling a story of emotional restoration and romance for the prodigal black sheep who returns to the band. I abhor cheating and cheaters in a story and avoid stories that have them, but still I picked up this one and enjoyed watching Jude's shaky and volatile road back from such big mistakes as cheating on his on again off again boyfriend and best friend of years and then compounding it by leaving the band right when they are set to play before a big name record label because he can't handle what he stupidly did by cheating. I was glad that the author told it in such a way that the mistakes carried weight and long lasting effect so it felt natural.
This natural angst and conflict was there for much of the story and made it heavier on the emotions. I didn't realize how heavy it felt until stuff resolved at the end and the heaviness lifted for a lighter finish. There was wall to wall conflict. Not just Jude and his thoughts or Jude and Connor, but the whole band was a ball of conflict. Talk about artistic temperaments. Band managers do not get paid enough was what I have taken away from all this. haha!
This was a slower-paced character driven plot by necessity since it centers around Jude's comeback and need to show remorse and make up for his mistakes. It's actually more focused on that than romance. However, the romance development wasn't short-changed. AJ and Jude became friends and that strong attraction going on under the surface slow-burned until they became the inevitable secret lovers. They were good together. I enjoyed it that they shared the narrative.
AJ is the peacemaker of the band and really the glue even if he feels like the guy on the outside. AJ observes all the others and quietly resents that they make decisions without him or listen when he does talk. This is what draws him to Jude even though Jude is the one he fears because Jude is the one the others hate, but also the one who has the greatest talent and ability to push AJ out of the band. Jude is the first to give AJ his focus and encourage him. Surprisingly, Jude is the one to have his back even when Jude is still figuring out his own issues.
And Jude, he screwed up bad, but I never could hate him. I felt sorry for him and then I found myself cheering him on to work through everything and get his life back on track. And as the reader, it wasn't long before it became obvious that Jude might have made the worst mistakes and took all the blame, but the others contributed their fair share. It helped that he really was trying to do right by everyone and especially AJ. I felt bad for him that most of the time his efforts weren't appreciated or were misconstrued.
All in all, this would be a hit among those who enjoy rocker romances and romances that are heavy with angst and character growth. It was slow, but sure and I can recommend it to m/m contemporary romance fans.
My thanks to Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story opens with Jude Colburn stuck in a cubicle job and dying slowly inside full of regret and guilt and despair that he threw away all that was good in his life and hurt so many others in the process. Everyone else moved on and finally achieved their dreams without him and no thanks to him after he cheated on his boyfriend and left his best friends and the band right when they needed him most. Now he is a true musician stuck in a drone job.
But then Kristy his old manager calls. His old band needs a bassist. Jude was the drummer, but he was replaced. He can play anything and is the only one who knows the songs well enough to jump in and save the tour from disaster. But Kristy warns him that nobody has forgiven him and he has to toe the line- no getting involved with other band members after what happened between him and Connor and then Connor and Wes which caused all the trouble. Jude misses the drums, but will take anything. This is his second chance to repair the damage that he did and to get his own dream.
AJ replaced the larger than life Jude Colburn and has been the drummer for the last year and a half. But now that they need a bassist, AJ is terrified that Jude will come back and end his hopes. Everyone hates Jude for the trouble in the past, but will it be enough for them to want to keep AJ? But then AJ gets one look at Jude and realizes his job isn't the only thing in jeopardy. Everything about Jude is a temptation and fascination. The band is in turmoil and on edge especially the explosive Connor about his ex returning, but they have to do well on this tour and into the recording studio and Jude is the key. AJ can only hope the smoldering, sensual man can right the past and keep things from a repeat even as AJ finds it harder and harder to resist being with Jude.
The author did a good job of bringing the world of a rock band on tour and work in the studio to life even while telling a story of emotional restoration and romance for the prodigal black sheep who returns to the band. I abhor cheating and cheaters in a story and avoid stories that have them, but still I picked up this one and enjoyed watching Jude's shaky and volatile road back from such big mistakes as cheating on his on again off again boyfriend and best friend of years and then compounding it by leaving the band right when they are set to play before a big name record label because he can't handle what he stupidly did by cheating. I was glad that the author told it in such a way that the mistakes carried weight and long lasting effect so it felt natural.
This natural angst and conflict was there for much of the story and made it heavier on the emotions. I didn't realize how heavy it felt until stuff resolved at the end and the heaviness lifted for a lighter finish. There was wall to wall conflict. Not just Jude and his thoughts or Jude and Connor, but the whole band was a ball of conflict. Talk about artistic temperaments. Band managers do not get paid enough was what I have taken away from all this. haha!
This was a slower-paced character driven plot by necessity since it centers around Jude's comeback and need to show remorse and make up for his mistakes. It's actually more focused on that than romance. However, the romance development wasn't short-changed. AJ and Jude became friends and that strong attraction going on under the surface slow-burned until they became the inevitable secret lovers. They were good together. I enjoyed it that they shared the narrative.
AJ is the peacemaker of the band and really the glue even if he feels like the guy on the outside. AJ observes all the others and quietly resents that they make decisions without him or listen when he does talk. This is what draws him to Jude even though Jude is the one he fears because Jude is the one the others hate, but also the one who has the greatest talent and ability to push AJ out of the band. Jude is the first to give AJ his focus and encourage him. Surprisingly, Jude is the one to have his back even when Jude is still figuring out his own issues.
And Jude, he screwed up bad, but I never could hate him. I felt sorry for him and then I found myself cheering him on to work through everything and get his life back on track. And as the reader, it wasn't long before it became obvious that Jude might have made the worst mistakes and took all the blame, but the others contributed their fair share. It helped that he really was trying to do right by everyone and especially AJ. I felt bad for him that most of the time his efforts weren't appreciated or were misconstrued.
All in all, this would be a hit among those who enjoy rocker romances and romances that are heavy with angst and character growth. It was slow, but sure and I can recommend it to m/m contemporary romance fans.
My thanks to Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2015
This is a great story. Deliciously tension filled in some places but with a smooth and satisfying conclusion. It is a really lovely story of growth, maturity, reconciliation and love.
I did enjoy this. It is overflowing with all kinds of tensions and group dynamics and a relationship that develops between two people who are doing their best not to 'rock the boat'.
18 months ago Jude broke off his relationship with Connor and walked out of Connor's life and out of the band - Running with Scissors - that they had been in together since childhood. His departure cost the band their chance to be signed up by a major record company and ended his career as a drummer.
18 months later Running with Scissors have recovered from this split, have signed up to a smaller record company and are touring as a supporting band. Unfortunately Conner's love life bites the dust again and this time his new lover (who is also the group's bass player) leaves the band part way through a tour. Jude is surprised when he is asked to rejoin the band as a temporary bass player. He thought his former band mates hated him and they do more or less, but they are desperate and Jude is hugely talented. Jude seizes the opportunity to rejoin the band and to leave his stifling desk job and he returns to the band grateful for his break but with much trepidation.
And the trepidation is spot on because his former band members are hurt, wary, distant and suspicious and Connor is brewing with resentment and anger over their shared past but there is one member of the band who wasn't there when the rift first occurred and he thinks Jude is fabulous, hot and talented, and the two of them are deeply attracted to each other. A.J is the new band member and the drummer who replaced Jude when Jude first left the band. He is worried that Jude's return will see him out of a job even though Jude has returned as a bassist. A.J is in awe of Jude's talent and torn between wanting to be friends and being nervous about his own long term position in the band. He is also really attracted to Jude. Despite the tensions in the group AJ has always been the person to pour oil over troubled waters and he does so this time but as his feelings for Jude become stronger he is caught between the tensions of the band members, the pressures of performance and his desire to hold onto his drumming position.
What happens when attraction spills over into friendship, sex and love?
Can this new relationship survive all the tensions and pressures in the band?
Who has to lose and who has to leave?
Once again Ms Witt has written a really great story that just springs into life and into my imagination with the first sentence. It is not just the characters that drew me in but also the very realistic portrayal of a band on the road. The push and pull between the band members is fantastic and kept me on my toes. As Jude seeks forgiveness from his childhood friends and band members he also finds a deep and enduring love in A.J but is this a love that can flourish in the midst of those strained relationships and professional pressures? The story just has so much. At its heart is a romance story between two band members but theirs is not a simple relationship. It is a romance that grows in a hotbed of tension, group dynamics, petty politics and the inability to forgive and let go of past hurts. It is also a sacrificial love and the author does a great job of portraying both a developing relationship and the aftermath of a broken relationship.
A.J is the 'innocent' bystander caught up in the push and pull of this strain in the group. He likes Jude and admires him but at the same time he doesn't want Jude to take over his role as drummer. He is timid, the newbie very much on the edge of things and really grateful for his chance to break through into the big music scene but his heart is wrenched by his desire for Jude, his desire to play the drums and his desire to fit in.
The author has done a brilliant job of portraying this and capturing the resentment and festering anger that some of the group members have towards Jude. From the beginning the tension between the group mates and the intense attraction between Jude and A.J simmer alongside each other and the anticipation of both boiling over was simply delicious.
And it was this tension that held my attention from the beginning to end. It was only at the end that I could give a big exhale and breathe with ease.
I think this story is just so enjoyable because it is totally realistic and shows the talents of the author. This was a really great read about a group of people in love and out of love who need to work closely together to overcome the hurts of the past so that they can focus on their talents and professional futures.
Excellent writing and beautiful in the way the way the story all holds together.
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I did enjoy this. It is overflowing with all kinds of tensions and group dynamics and a relationship that develops between two people who are doing their best not to 'rock the boat'.
18 months ago Jude broke off his relationship with Connor and walked out of Connor's life and out of the band - Running with Scissors - that they had been in together since childhood. His departure cost the band their chance to be signed up by a major record company and ended his career as a drummer.
18 months later Running with Scissors have recovered from this split, have signed up to a smaller record company and are touring as a supporting band. Unfortunately Conner's love life bites the dust again and this time his new lover (who is also the group's bass player) leaves the band part way through a tour. Jude is surprised when he is asked to rejoin the band as a temporary bass player. He thought his former band mates hated him and they do more or less, but they are desperate and Jude is hugely talented. Jude seizes the opportunity to rejoin the band and to leave his stifling desk job and he returns to the band grateful for his break but with much trepidation.
And the trepidation is spot on because his former band members are hurt, wary, distant and suspicious and Connor is brewing with resentment and anger over their shared past but there is one member of the band who wasn't there when the rift first occurred and he thinks Jude is fabulous, hot and talented, and the two of them are deeply attracted to each other. A.J is the new band member and the drummer who replaced Jude when Jude first left the band. He is worried that Jude's return will see him out of a job even though Jude has returned as a bassist. A.J is in awe of Jude's talent and torn between wanting to be friends and being nervous about his own long term position in the band. He is also really attracted to Jude. Despite the tensions in the group AJ has always been the person to pour oil over troubled waters and he does so this time but as his feelings for Jude become stronger he is caught between the tensions of the band members, the pressures of performance and his desire to hold onto his drumming position.
What happens when attraction spills over into friendship, sex and love?
Can this new relationship survive all the tensions and pressures in the band?
Who has to lose and who has to leave?
Once again Ms Witt has written a really great story that just springs into life and into my imagination with the first sentence. It is not just the characters that drew me in but also the very realistic portrayal of a band on the road. The push and pull between the band members is fantastic and kept me on my toes. As Jude seeks forgiveness from his childhood friends and band members he also finds a deep and enduring love in A.J but is this a love that can flourish in the midst of those strained relationships and professional pressures? The story just has so much. At its heart is a romance story between two band members but theirs is not a simple relationship. It is a romance that grows in a hotbed of tension, group dynamics, petty politics and the inability to forgive and let go of past hurts. It is also a sacrificial love and the author does a great job of portraying both a developing relationship and the aftermath of a broken relationship.
A.J is the 'innocent' bystander caught up in the push and pull of this strain in the group. He likes Jude and admires him but at the same time he doesn't want Jude to take over his role as drummer. He is timid, the newbie very much on the edge of things and really grateful for his chance to break through into the big music scene but his heart is wrenched by his desire for Jude, his desire to play the drums and his desire to fit in.
The author has done a brilliant job of portraying this and capturing the resentment and festering anger that some of the group members have towards Jude. From the beginning the tension between the group mates and the intense attraction between Jude and A.J simmer alongside each other and the anticipation of both boiling over was simply delicious.
And it was this tension that held my attention from the beginning to end. It was only at the end that I could give a big exhale and breathe with ease.
I think this story is just so enjoyable because it is totally realistic and shows the talents of the author. This was a really great read about a group of people in love and out of love who need to work closely together to overcome the hurts of the past so that they can focus on their talents and professional futures.
Excellent writing and beautiful in the way the way the story all holds together.
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Read
June 21, 2021I actually red this ages ago, when it first came out. I picked it up on audio, because it was Michael F, and he did not disappoint. This was one of the books that eventually had me writing rock stars.
September 6, 2017
After reading a bunch of books and being disappointed in them, I tried switching up genres and going for a M/M. Now I’ve always been a fan of L.A. Witt’s writing, but just reading the first chapter of this book pulled me out of that horrible reading slump I was in. There was something I immediately liked about Jude’s character. The book starts off with him at his boring old nine to five job. He is unhappy, only looking forward to when the workday ends and his multiple cigarette breaks. It’s driving him absolutely crazy. Jude wants nothing more to get back on the road, playing his heart out every night in front of a crowd. Or at least be able to play drums like he used to.A gift happens in the form of his old manager calling him up out of the blue. Apparently one of their members has unexpectedly quit and they need a replacement. All is good because Jude would love to get back in. The only thing is, the member who left is a bass player, not a drummer and Jude hasn’t played bass in a long damn time. With some begging, Jude agrees, quitting his job to get back on the road.
Things begin to get interesting when Jude meets his replacement. A.J. Palmer isn’t your typical drummer. He’s a little more reserved and I really liked that about him. The dynamic between Jude and A.J. was just perfect. What I like about Witt’s writing is that she writes the male perspective very well. Like I mentioned earlier, in just the first chapter I was able to connect with Jude’s character and once that happens, you’ve hooked your reader until the very end. Witt creates very intriguing characters so when they are paired with their partner, they really become better as a unit. I found that especially true with Jude and A.J.
I’m not usually big on the whole rockstar trope but I think because this is M/M and the romance that occurs happens between two members of the band, it makes it that much more interesting. Add to the fact that A.J. has taken Jude’s spot in the band and you’ve got conflict that is unique and intriguing. I loved the level of tension Witt put in this one. It was just the right amount.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
November 9, 2017
*** 4,5 ROCK ME STARS! ***
You know what I always love about L.A. Witt'S books?
Everything is put on the right place, at the right time, even the sex.
Sometimes, all you need is patience to get there.
The sexual tension is so frustrating, and it was 'there', you now. Killing you slowly.
Oh but I'm a patient girl, and I got my reward after 47% the story and voila...the rock star sex was there!
Oh how I loved seeing the tension among the three guys, Connor (I hated him at first, and became liking him at the end of the book),A.J and Jude.
Jude was an asshole in his relationship with Connor 1,5 years ago, now he came back. And he never expected he would fall for a new hottie drummer, A.J.
I liked the conflict, and I liked A.J, Jude, even Connor whose not trapped into a rock star's life style. And at some point I need to read about Connor's. He's actually a victim here, and he lost the love of his life forever (slide glare to Jude).
He need his happy ending too, Lori !
Recommended!
You know what I always love about L.A. Witt'S books?
Everything is put on the right place, at the right time, even the sex.
Sometimes, all you need is patience to get there.
The sexual tension is so frustrating, and it was 'there', you now. Killing you slowly.
Oh but I'm a patient girl, and I got my reward after 47% the story and voila...the rock star sex was there!
"Jude cursed. “How do you have . . . that much . . .” He shivered. “Control?”
A.J. laughed, his warm breath giving Jude goose bumps all the way down to his toes.
“How do I have this much control?” A.J. leaned down, wrapped his arm around Jude’s waist, and kissed the side of his neck. “It’s easy when the reward is hearing you lose control.”
“Fucking sadist.”"
Oh how I loved seeing the tension among the three guys, Connor (I hated him at first, and became liking him at the end of the book),A.J and Jude.
Jude was an asshole in his relationship with Connor 1,5 years ago, now he came back. And he never expected he would fall for a new hottie drummer, A.J.
I liked the conflict, and I liked A.J, Jude, even Connor whose not trapped into a rock star's life style. And at some point I need to read about Connor's. He's actually a victim here, and he lost the love of his life forever (slide glare to Jude).
He need his happy ending too, Lori !
Recommended!
April 30, 2021
3.5 Stars ~ I often find myself drawn to rock band stories and since I haven't got an ounce of musical talent, I can't exactly explain why. Maybe it was being a teenager in the early 80s with the big hair bands? I do know I have a lot of fun reading these books and the description for 'Running with Scissors' had me thinking there was going to be plenty of angst to keep me happy.
Jude left the band six months before they were signed - yep, seriously stupid move - but considering he and Connor, the lead singer, fought constantly, Jude felt it was his only choice. Imagine his surprise when he gets a call that the bassist has left because lo and behold he and Connor were involved and it all went to hell in a hand basket. Seeing as Connor is the common denominator here, I was inclined to take Jude's side from the get-go. I felt Jude's pain though, returning to his band mates as he had known them for more than twenty years - all except A.J. that is - childhood best friends with a ton of history who hadn't spoken in a year and a half.
"Everything about Jude threw him. For God’s sake, this afternoon he’d picked up a bass and played almost every one of the band’s songs with all the ease of playing a scale. Even the songs Wyatt had struggled with, the ones he’d rehearsed until his fingers bled, were nothing for Jude. And allegedly, the bass wasn’t even his strongest instrument. If he ever touched the drums . . .
No, A.J. wasn’t intimidated in the slightest."
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Jude left the band six months before they were signed - yep, seriously stupid move - but considering he and Connor, the lead singer, fought constantly, Jude felt it was his only choice. Imagine his surprise when he gets a call that the bassist has left because lo and behold he and Connor were involved and it all went to hell in a hand basket. Seeing as Connor is the common denominator here, I was inclined to take Jude's side from the get-go. I felt Jude's pain though, returning to his band mates as he had known them for more than twenty years - all except A.J. that is - childhood best friends with a ton of history who hadn't spoken in a year and a half.
"Everything about Jude threw him. For God’s sake, this afternoon he’d picked up a bass and played almost every one of the band’s songs with all the ease of playing a scale. Even the songs Wyatt had struggled with, the ones he’d rehearsed until his fingers bled, were nothing for Jude. And allegedly, the bass wasn’t even his strongest instrument. If he ever touched the drums . . .
No, A.J. wasn’t intimidated in the slightest."
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
October 11, 2015
2.75 stars I don't know what happened to L.A. Witt this time around. I was looking for a good musical story about a band but I got a whole lot of arguing over some shit that happened two years ago that should have been squished back in the day. I understand that Jude and Connor weren't mature enough to talk out their problems but so the hell what. MOVE ON. Jude and A.J. didn't really have a good chance to make a go of their relationship because of the other bullshit from the past. Read at your own risk.
January 15, 2019
Recensione in ANTEPRIMA
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3.5 - Voto
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Jude Colburn ha passato la sua vita a scappare dalle situazioni che lo mettono a disagio ma, costretto a svolgere un noioso lavoro d’ufficio per guadagnarsi uno stipendio mediocre, sa di essere arrivato alla fine della corsa. Musicista nell’anima, Jude sembra ormai condannato a vivere una vita priva dei colori della musica, e sapeva di poter incolpare solo se stesso. Tutto cambia quando riceve una telefonata da parte della manager della band che aveva abbandonato, i Running with Scissors. Nonostante li abbia piantati in asso, hanno bisogno di un bassista. Data la grigia alternativa, la scelta sembrava semplice, se non fosse stato per un piccolo particolare: avrebbe dovuto affrontare l’ex da cui era scappato! Eppure lui avrebbe fatto di tutto per una seconda chance con la band.
Le condizioni poste dalla manager sembravano ragionevoli: avrebbe semplicemente dovuto tenerselo nei pantaloni ed evitare di abbandonarli di nuovo. Assicuratosi che sarebbe rimasto nella band per più di un tour, Jude accetta.
A.J. Palmer è l’ultimo arrivato. Quando i Running with Scissors dovettero cercare un nuovo batterista, fu lui ad aggiudicarsi quella posizione. Quando però anche il bassista lascia la band, a seguito di uno screzio col loro cantante, l’unica opzione è rivolgersi al solo musicista che abbia dimestichezza coi loro brani. Il tour è imminente. A.J. aveva sentito parlare di Jude come un genio della musica e quando lo vede al basso eseguire a orecchio le loro canzoni, senza nemmeno usare il suo strumento prediletto, non può che sentirsi minacciato. Eppure non ha il coraggio di dire nulla. Decide di mettere da parte le sue insicurezze, ma, da bravo pacificatore, si riversa su di lui il peso di stemperare la tensione fra Jude e gli altri compagni. Essendo l’unico che non voleva strozzare il bassista, i due finiscono col trascorrere rari momenti di quiete l’uno con l’altro.
Le cose si fanno complicate quando si ritrovano a suonare tutti insieme sul palco. Mentre Jude è un prodigio musicale in grado di adattarsi senza problemi a più strumenti, A.J. è un vero animale da palcoscenico. Tutta la sua timidezza e incertezza si vaporizzano nel nulla quando suona, e Jude è incapace di staccare gli occhi da quella bestia che colpisce la batteria con la stessa intensità che avrebbe voluto graziasse il suo corpo nudo…
Avranno il coraggio di correre con le forbici in mano?
Running with Scissors porta il marchio inconfondibile di L.A. Witt, autrice che non ha bisogno di presentazioni. Il suo tocco lo si avverte nel tessuto narrativo della storia, armonico e forte della sua semplicità, così come nella prosa fluida e scorrevole. La storia, pur priva di eventi eclatanti, è in grado di accompagnarti fino alla fine senza troppe difficoltà. Questo titolo risulta più particolareggiato di altri grazie al tema musicale.
Jude è un protagonista caratterizzato egregiamente. La sua dipendenza dalla musica la si avverte costantemente, è parte di lui, delle sue abitudini, dei suoi pensieri. La storia funziona grazie a lui, se non soprattutto a lui; è un personaggio da conoscere e con una voce tutta sua. A.J., l’interesse amoroso, ha una personalità propria e buone motivazioni che lo guidano. Di fronte a una personalità viscerale come quella di Jude, lui ha qualità più moderate e complementari, e solo la musica è in grado di dargli il coraggio di essere se stesso senza freni. Pur non essendoci veri archi narrativi dedicati ai personaggi, i due protagonisti crescono dall’inizio alla fine. Non ritroviamo fra le pagine situazioni drammatiche pesanti, tuttavia la tensione è sempre giustificata, risparmiandoci falsi fraintendimenti e situazioni risibili. Degno di menzione è il tema musicale, che risulta convincente e non stereotipato. Non ci ritroviamo davanti alla classica immagine delle rock star maledette, bensì davanti a un cast di personalità talvolta eccentriche che lavorano duramente per diventare una band di successo. La musica dunque ha il suo perché ed è essenziale nella storia. Forse un tentativo simile dalla penna di altri autori sarebbe stato insoddisfacente, ma grazie alle qualità distintive che la Witt infonde nelle sue opere, ci troviamo davanti a un buon libro.
Ammetto però che la valutazione in numeri è stata difficoltosa, perché non è tutto oro quel che luccica. Questo titolo, infatti, con le sue trecentoventotto pagine, presenta numerose dilatazioni nella narrazione, con punti fermi che durano troppo e accadimenti sbrigativi. Questo di fronte a una totale assenza di sotto trame. A.J., inoltre, ci mette troppo tempo a distinguersi dai personaggi secondari. La relazione romantica manca di profondità e non presenta particolari messaggi, come se i due fossero ragazzini che parlano di amore senza sapere cosa sia. Un numero inferiore di parole avrebbe portato a una narrazione più concentrata e a un ritmo meno pesante, tanto che avrebbe funzionato più come novella (mi ha ricordato Giro di prova della stessa autrice a livello di struttura narrativa).
Running with Scissors, pur nella sua semplicità, rimane una lettura piacevole con personaggi interessanti e uno sfondo musicale intrigante. Si tratta di una lettura che consiglierei senza dubbio ai fan di L.A. Witt, a chi preferisce relazioni a “lenta combustione” e anche come introduzione al music romance. Non mi sentirei però di consigliarla a chi cerca un romance più intenso a livello sentimentale, coppie che rimangono sotto la pelle e colpi di scena.
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Antea - per RFS
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3.5 - Voto
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Jude Colburn ha passato la sua vita a scappare dalle situazioni che lo mettono a disagio ma, costretto a svolgere un noioso lavoro d’ufficio per guadagnarsi uno stipendio mediocre, sa di essere arrivato alla fine della corsa. Musicista nell’anima, Jude sembra ormai condannato a vivere una vita priva dei colori della musica, e sapeva di poter incolpare solo se stesso. Tutto cambia quando riceve una telefonata da parte della manager della band che aveva abbandonato, i Running with Scissors. Nonostante li abbia piantati in asso, hanno bisogno di un bassista. Data la grigia alternativa, la scelta sembrava semplice, se non fosse stato per un piccolo particolare: avrebbe dovuto affrontare l’ex da cui era scappato! Eppure lui avrebbe fatto di tutto per una seconda chance con la band.
Le condizioni poste dalla manager sembravano ragionevoli: avrebbe semplicemente dovuto tenerselo nei pantaloni ed evitare di abbandonarli di nuovo. Assicuratosi che sarebbe rimasto nella band per più di un tour, Jude accetta.
A.J. Palmer è l’ultimo arrivato. Quando i Running with Scissors dovettero cercare un nuovo batterista, fu lui ad aggiudicarsi quella posizione. Quando però anche il bassista lascia la band, a seguito di uno screzio col loro cantante, l’unica opzione è rivolgersi al solo musicista che abbia dimestichezza coi loro brani. Il tour è imminente. A.J. aveva sentito parlare di Jude come un genio della musica e quando lo vede al basso eseguire a orecchio le loro canzoni, senza nemmeno usare il suo strumento prediletto, non può che sentirsi minacciato. Eppure non ha il coraggio di dire nulla. Decide di mettere da parte le sue insicurezze, ma, da bravo pacificatore, si riversa su di lui il peso di stemperare la tensione fra Jude e gli altri compagni. Essendo l’unico che non voleva strozzare il bassista, i due finiscono col trascorrere rari momenti di quiete l’uno con l’altro.
Le cose si fanno complicate quando si ritrovano a suonare tutti insieme sul palco. Mentre Jude è un prodigio musicale in grado di adattarsi senza problemi a più strumenti, A.J. è un vero animale da palcoscenico. Tutta la sua timidezza e incertezza si vaporizzano nel nulla quando suona, e Jude è incapace di staccare gli occhi da quella bestia che colpisce la batteria con la stessa intensità che avrebbe voluto graziasse il suo corpo nudo…
Avranno il coraggio di correre con le forbici in mano?
Running with Scissors porta il marchio inconfondibile di L.A. Witt, autrice che non ha bisogno di presentazioni. Il suo tocco lo si avverte nel tessuto narrativo della storia, armonico e forte della sua semplicità, così come nella prosa fluida e scorrevole. La storia, pur priva di eventi eclatanti, è in grado di accompagnarti fino alla fine senza troppe difficoltà. Questo titolo risulta più particolareggiato di altri grazie al tema musicale.
Jude è un protagonista caratterizzato egregiamente. La sua dipendenza dalla musica la si avverte costantemente, è parte di lui, delle sue abitudini, dei suoi pensieri. La storia funziona grazie a lui, se non soprattutto a lui; è un personaggio da conoscere e con una voce tutta sua. A.J., l’interesse amoroso, ha una personalità propria e buone motivazioni che lo guidano. Di fronte a una personalità viscerale come quella di Jude, lui ha qualità più moderate e complementari, e solo la musica è in grado di dargli il coraggio di essere se stesso senza freni. Pur non essendoci veri archi narrativi dedicati ai personaggi, i due protagonisti crescono dall’inizio alla fine. Non ritroviamo fra le pagine situazioni drammatiche pesanti, tuttavia la tensione è sempre giustificata, risparmiandoci falsi fraintendimenti e situazioni risibili. Degno di menzione è il tema musicale, che risulta convincente e non stereotipato. Non ci ritroviamo davanti alla classica immagine delle rock star maledette, bensì davanti a un cast di personalità talvolta eccentriche che lavorano duramente per diventare una band di successo. La musica dunque ha il suo perché ed è essenziale nella storia. Forse un tentativo simile dalla penna di altri autori sarebbe stato insoddisfacente, ma grazie alle qualità distintive che la Witt infonde nelle sue opere, ci troviamo davanti a un buon libro.
Ammetto però che la valutazione in numeri è stata difficoltosa, perché non è tutto oro quel che luccica. Questo titolo, infatti, con le sue trecentoventotto pagine, presenta numerose dilatazioni nella narrazione, con punti fermi che durano troppo e accadimenti sbrigativi. Questo di fronte a una totale assenza di sotto trame. A.J., inoltre, ci mette troppo tempo a distinguersi dai personaggi secondari. La relazione romantica manca di profondità e non presenta particolari messaggi, come se i due fossero ragazzini che parlano di amore senza sapere cosa sia. Un numero inferiore di parole avrebbe portato a una narrazione più concentrata e a un ritmo meno pesante, tanto che avrebbe funzionato più come novella (mi ha ricordato Giro di prova della stessa autrice a livello di struttura narrativa).
Running with Scissors, pur nella sua semplicità, rimane una lettura piacevole con personaggi interessanti e uno sfondo musicale intrigante. Si tratta di una lettura che consiglierei senza dubbio ai fan di L.A. Witt, a chi preferisce relazioni a “lenta combustione” e anche come introduzione al music romance. Non mi sentirei però di consigliarla a chi cerca un romance più intenso a livello sentimentale, coppie che rimangono sotto la pelle e colpi di scena.
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Antea - per RFS
October 3, 2015
The story was at best an okay read, it didn’t grab me like some of Lori Witt's previous books. The best thing of the story was the cover. Bummer!
January 15, 2019
Leggi qui la mia RECENSIONE:
https://bit.ly/2McOa3k
https://bit.ly/2McOa3k
August 31, 2015
My Review:
I don't know what I expected going into this book, but it was so much more and better than I expected.
Running with Scissors was a band that was made up of childhood friends. Within that group were Conner and Jude. Once they hit high school, their friendship morphed into more, but Conner isn't an easy guy. He's very passionate, very artistic, and he's not the easiest guy to live with. As a result, their romance was on and off constantly and very explosive. Until Jude had enough and self-destructed what they had left by cheating. He knew there was no coming back from that and left...left Conner, left the band, left his friends. He lost it all and has spent the last 18 months regretting that.
AJ took his place in the band, but he was the one outsider within this tight-knit group of friends. He's never really been accepted by them. They tend to not see or consider in group discussions and he doesn't force it, fearing if he rocks the boat, they'll simply kick him out. So he sits at the side trying to blend in with the environment most of the time.
When Conner decides to get romantically involved with another band member, it puts the band in a lurch. They are in the middle of a concert tour and their bassist just left. They have to find a replacement now. Jude is a musical savant..he can play any instrument, and can pick up music after hearing it only once or twice. He knows Running with Scissors style and music so their manager comes to him hoping that he can save the band. He's been miserable so he jumps at the chance.
But just like AJ, Jude is an outcast. He's lost the band's trust when he left and screwed them. The guys are also both drummers. They connect over both these issues and then what started out as just a physical attraction morphs into so much more.
This story is fabulous. It's a slow build, but so wonderfully done. These two cannot get involved. Both of them are in precarious positions with the band already. To do something together would ruin everything and get at least one of them kicked out. The chemistry and suspense between them is fantastic and made for a wonderfully sexy read.
But more than that, this is a book about friendship and what responsibilities friends have to one another. There are a lot of personal failures in this book, which is true to life in real friendships and relationships, too. Every single person in this book has been hurt by at least one other person in the story. The band is having to live in very close quarters under less than ideal circumstances most the year. That makes things tough. Both AJ and Jude are barely hanging on to their sanity in it all, but I felt for Conner and the band, too. No one person is at fault with what has happened in this group.
While I didn't agree with a lot of the band's response to certain things, this book was a great study in how a group dynamic can shift and evolve if everyone can learn to respect...something they didn't have at the beginning of the book. I truly loved the book and would love to see future stories for Conner (definitely) and even Richie would be interesting just because his character is asexual in this book and it could be interesting to see how he dealt with it when he meets someone that challenges that aspect of him...someone that piques him sexually.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review, but immediately after finishing the book, I got online and pre-ordered a print copy of the book for my keeper shelf.
I don't know what I expected going into this book, but it was so much more and better than I expected.
Running with Scissors was a band that was made up of childhood friends. Within that group were Conner and Jude. Once they hit high school, their friendship morphed into more, but Conner isn't an easy guy. He's very passionate, very artistic, and he's not the easiest guy to live with. As a result, their romance was on and off constantly and very explosive. Until Jude had enough and self-destructed what they had left by cheating. He knew there was no coming back from that and left...left Conner, left the band, left his friends. He lost it all and has spent the last 18 months regretting that.
AJ took his place in the band, but he was the one outsider within this tight-knit group of friends. He's never really been accepted by them. They tend to not see or consider in group discussions and he doesn't force it, fearing if he rocks the boat, they'll simply kick him out. So he sits at the side trying to blend in with the environment most of the time.
When Conner decides to get romantically involved with another band member, it puts the band in a lurch. They are in the middle of a concert tour and their bassist just left. They have to find a replacement now. Jude is a musical savant..he can play any instrument, and can pick up music after hearing it only once or twice. He knows Running with Scissors style and music so their manager comes to him hoping that he can save the band. He's been miserable so he jumps at the chance.
But just like AJ, Jude is an outcast. He's lost the band's trust when he left and screwed them. The guys are also both drummers. They connect over both these issues and then what started out as just a physical attraction morphs into so much more.
This story is fabulous. It's a slow build, but so wonderfully done. These two cannot get involved. Both of them are in precarious positions with the band already. To do something together would ruin everything and get at least one of them kicked out. The chemistry and suspense between them is fantastic and made for a wonderfully sexy read.
But more than that, this is a book about friendship and what responsibilities friends have to one another. There are a lot of personal failures in this book, which is true to life in real friendships and relationships, too. Every single person in this book has been hurt by at least one other person in the story. The band is having to live in very close quarters under less than ideal circumstances most the year. That makes things tough. Both AJ and Jude are barely hanging on to their sanity in it all, but I felt for Conner and the band, too. No one person is at fault with what has happened in this group.
While I didn't agree with a lot of the band's response to certain things, this book was a great study in how a group dynamic can shift and evolve if everyone can learn to respect...something they didn't have at the beginning of the book. I truly loved the book and would love to see future stories for Conner (definitely) and even Richie would be interesting just because his character is asexual in this book and it could be interesting to see how he dealt with it when he meets someone that challenges that aspect of him...someone that piques him sexually.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review, but immediately after finishing the book, I got online and pre-ordered a print copy of the book for my keeper shelf.
September 17, 2015
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
When Jude Colburn receives a call from his former band’s manager, asking him to come back to the band, this time as their bassist, he doesn’t hesitate to agree. He’d left the band, Running With Scissors, after a breakup with his lover and longtime friend, Connor, a year and a half-ago. He was their drummer, but Jude is one of those gifted musicians who can play anything, so he’s okay with switching.
But, as he finds out when he gets there, most of the band members are not okay with him coming back. The turmoil they’d lived with as Jude and Connor fought was unnerving, but the fact that he’d walked out on them just as they were going to sign a recording contract, makes him #1 on their shitlist. Since his actions nearly broke them up, he’s persona non grata for quite a while when he gets back. One of the only people who is open and friendly with him is AJ, the man who replaced him as the band’s drummer. It doesn’t help that AJ is sweet, quiet, friendly and hot. Jude knows he can’t screw around with any bandmates ever again. After all, the reason he was invited back is due to the fact that Wyatt, another band member and friend, also stormed out after he and Connor broke up. Two disastrous flings with band members is two too many, and no one will tolerate another.
All is well during rehearsals, but when the band takes the stage for a live show, Jude is blown away by AJ’s outstanding performance. He’s not only dynamite on the drums, he’s become a completely different, absolutely hot and sexy wild man, and Jude virtually melts when, after the show, he stumbles upon AJ, and AJ, still hot and high on adrenaline from the show, grabs him and tongue-fucks him as if his life depended on it. Needless to say, Jude is hooked after that, and though they manage to refrain from acting on their attraction, they are attracted and are also fast becoming friends.
So what happens when one irresistible force meets another once the tour is over, and they are living at home while working on the album? And then what happens when their bandmates and manager find out? Heartache, angst, and an unexpected catalyst to start the process of healing unresolved issues.
This is more than just the usual rock band story. It’s really an introspective look at how one man makes the journey from selfish, immature bad boy to loving, supportive partner and friend. And it both explores and resolves underlying issues and problems which can escalate when a group of people who know each other so well for so many years suddenly find themselves faced with coworkers and friends who have grown up when they weren’t looking.
I really enjoyed this story for all the reasons stated above. It was deliciously hot and it was angsty, but I enjoyed Jude’s journey as he finally changed the way he reacted to emotional issues and became a mature man worthy of lasting love and friendship. I highly recommend this one to lovers of contemporary romance, musicians, hot tattooed men, and to those who want to explore more than just the surface of the romance when two men fall in love.
When Jude Colburn receives a call from his former band’s manager, asking him to come back to the band, this time as their bassist, he doesn’t hesitate to agree. He’d left the band, Running With Scissors, after a breakup with his lover and longtime friend, Connor, a year and a half-ago. He was their drummer, but Jude is one of those gifted musicians who can play anything, so he’s okay with switching.
But, as he finds out when he gets there, most of the band members are not okay with him coming back. The turmoil they’d lived with as Jude and Connor fought was unnerving, but the fact that he’d walked out on them just as they were going to sign a recording contract, makes him #1 on their shitlist. Since his actions nearly broke them up, he’s persona non grata for quite a while when he gets back. One of the only people who is open and friendly with him is AJ, the man who replaced him as the band’s drummer. It doesn’t help that AJ is sweet, quiet, friendly and hot. Jude knows he can’t screw around with any bandmates ever again. After all, the reason he was invited back is due to the fact that Wyatt, another band member and friend, also stormed out after he and Connor broke up. Two disastrous flings with band members is two too many, and no one will tolerate another.
All is well during rehearsals, but when the band takes the stage for a live show, Jude is blown away by AJ’s outstanding performance. He’s not only dynamite on the drums, he’s become a completely different, absolutely hot and sexy wild man, and Jude virtually melts when, after the show, he stumbles upon AJ, and AJ, still hot and high on adrenaline from the show, grabs him and tongue-fucks him as if his life depended on it. Needless to say, Jude is hooked after that, and though they manage to refrain from acting on their attraction, they are attracted and are also fast becoming friends.
So what happens when one irresistible force meets another once the tour is over, and they are living at home while working on the album? And then what happens when their bandmates and manager find out? Heartache, angst, and an unexpected catalyst to start the process of healing unresolved issues.
This is more than just the usual rock band story. It’s really an introspective look at how one man makes the journey from selfish, immature bad boy to loving, supportive partner and friend. And it both explores and resolves underlying issues and problems which can escalate when a group of people who know each other so well for so many years suddenly find themselves faced with coworkers and friends who have grown up when they weren’t looking.
I really enjoyed this story for all the reasons stated above. It was deliciously hot and it was angsty, but I enjoyed Jude’s journey as he finally changed the way he reacted to emotional issues and became a mature man worthy of lasting love and friendship. I highly recommend this one to lovers of contemporary romance, musicians, hot tattooed men, and to those who want to explore more than just the surface of the romance when two men fall in love.
August 31, 2015
As a fan on L.A. Witt's work I could not pass up the chance to read this title. Hello!!! Rock stars! It's no secret I've enjoyed my fair share of rock star romances and I'm glad to say that this one didn't disappoint either.
What I enjoyed most about this story was the connection between Jude and AJ. Of course, they had great chemistry--the kind that was always present in their every interaction. But for me it was their connection that stood out the most and made this whole story (and band drama!!!) worthwhile. In this regard, LA Witt didn't miss a beat. From the very beginning, she made sure to establish that connection. Quiet conversations here and there, heated looks, time spend away from the band--every one of these help to further strengthen that connection until I found myself cheering them on and yelling at them to get their sh*t together!
I liked Jude. I admired his love for the band and the band members even if did commit the same mistake twice. He was caring and loyal and a complete mess when it came to the feelings AJ arose in him. I enjoyed him with AJ, who treated him kindly and with respect. AJ was a great character too. He was shy and kept mostly to himself yet he was strong-willed and sure of his feelings for Jude. I think they complemented each other fairly well and I would have loved to see more of them as a couple.
Although this story is tamer than what I've come to expect from this author, I think it worked for these characters and their situation. The sexual tension and the longing between these two were a palpable presence throughout which I think enhanced this element of the story, making those times they were together that much more enticing.
All in all, a very enjoyable read.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
What I enjoyed most about this story was the connection between Jude and AJ. Of course, they had great chemistry--the kind that was always present in their every interaction. But for me it was their connection that stood out the most and made this whole story (and band drama!!!) worthwhile. In this regard, LA Witt didn't miss a beat. From the very beginning, she made sure to establish that connection. Quiet conversations here and there, heated looks, time spend away from the band--every one of these help to further strengthen that connection until I found myself cheering them on and yelling at them to get their sh*t together!
I liked Jude. I admired his love for the band and the band members even if did commit the same mistake twice. He was caring and loyal and a complete mess when it came to the feelings AJ arose in him. I enjoyed him with AJ, who treated him kindly and with respect. AJ was a great character too. He was shy and kept mostly to himself yet he was strong-willed and sure of his feelings for Jude. I think they complemented each other fairly well and I would have loved to see more of them as a couple.
Although this story is tamer than what I've come to expect from this author, I think it worked for these characters and their situation. The sexual tension and the longing between these two were a palpable presence throughout which I think enhanced this element of the story, making those times they were together that much more enticing.
All in all, a very enjoyable read.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
September 10, 2015
So I will admit that I mostly skimmed this book.
I LOVE the idea. LOVE the author. LOVE the cover. But I didn’t love the outcome.
Jude left his band high and dry and when he returns he’s told absolutely no hook-ups will be tolerated with other band members. So of course… he and AJ find themselves having to hide their developing love for each other and that causes lots of strife and on again/off again angst. Turns out Jude had a “thing” with another band member and there are unresolved feelings between the two to this day.
I didn’t really like Jude all that much and kinda felt AJ was a bit wishy-washy. So their “passion” was just as uneventful for me. In fact, I thought the most passionate thing in the book was the violent reaction to the hook-up the other band members had rather than the love between our two MCs. (The women in particular were pretty screechy.)
I was kinda hoping for this “super shy on the tour bus” guy to become this totally “hot and madly passionate” guy with his beau but it was kinda luke-warm instead. Usually LA Witt is full of hawt and sexy love scenes sometimes a little on the kinky side, but this was pretty white bread.
I think, had I not had high expectations because of my fandom for the author I wouldn’t have felt as let down, because it is still a “good” book, just not as great as I’d come to expect. (As you can tell from my previous review of Static – I am a big fan of this author.)
So, with that… I give it a fair 3 of 5 stars.
I LOVE the idea. LOVE the author. LOVE the cover. But I didn’t love the outcome.
Jude left his band high and dry and when he returns he’s told absolutely no hook-ups will be tolerated with other band members. So of course… he and AJ find themselves having to hide their developing love for each other and that causes lots of strife and on again/off again angst. Turns out Jude had a “thing” with another band member and there are unresolved feelings between the two to this day.
I didn’t really like Jude all that much and kinda felt AJ was a bit wishy-washy. So their “passion” was just as uneventful for me. In fact, I thought the most passionate thing in the book was the violent reaction to the hook-up the other band members had rather than the love between our two MCs. (The women in particular were pretty screechy.)
I was kinda hoping for this “super shy on the tour bus” guy to become this totally “hot and madly passionate” guy with his beau but it was kinda luke-warm instead. Usually LA Witt is full of hawt and sexy love scenes sometimes a little on the kinky side, but this was pretty white bread.
I think, had I not had high expectations because of my fandom for the author I wouldn’t have felt as let down, because it is still a “good” book, just not as great as I’d come to expect. (As you can tell from my previous review of Static – I am a big fan of this author.)
So, with that… I give it a fair 3 of 5 stars.
November 26, 2015
Darn. Well I really liked the cover! And the premise was very promising. Have always enjoyed reading about bad boy rockers, and this author is usually a big win for me, but this book ended up being about a 3 star from me.
I think the biggest issue I had was to do with why and how Jude just walked away. It felt like such an immature thing, and he still didn't seem that mature even the year later, even though I could see the author 'tried' to make him seem sorry, I just didn't feel it much.
...and I actually felt bad for the other band members. The whole incident/situation sucked. I'm thinking the only way this could be redeemed for me is if the guy he was best friends with, grew up with AND messed over, had a story of his own that showed him how much Jude just wasn't all that.
As for the other MC, A.J. the young, sweet, shy drummer that 'replaced' Jude, well he just could never get ahead I don't think. The whole prodigy thing that Jude had going on made it feel like he'd never ever learn to love playing the bass guitar, and, well, it just felt so mediocre. I didn't really feel the chemistry, and I guess I was hoping for more depth from both characters.
I did enjoy the band on the road aspect, and it was interesting learning how singers basically have to be silent to rest their voices before a gig. A good time to have a discussion with one, when they really can't talk back!!
I can recommend this book for lovers of bad boy rockers, and those that like to read about bands touring and on the road, but I don't think this will ever be on a reread shelf for me.
I think the biggest issue I had was to do with why and how Jude just walked away. It felt like such an immature thing, and he still didn't seem that mature even the year later, even though I could see the author 'tried' to make him seem sorry, I just didn't feel it much.
...and I actually felt bad for the other band members. The whole incident/situation sucked. I'm thinking the only way this could be redeemed for me is if the guy he was best friends with, grew up with AND messed over, had a story of his own that showed him how much Jude just wasn't all that.
As for the other MC, A.J. the young, sweet, shy drummer that 'replaced' Jude, well he just could never get ahead I don't think. The whole prodigy thing that Jude had going on made it feel like he'd never ever learn to love playing the bass guitar, and, well, it just felt so mediocre. I didn't really feel the chemistry, and I guess I was hoping for more depth from both characters.
I did enjoy the band on the road aspect, and it was interesting learning how singers basically have to be silent to rest their voices before a gig. A good time to have a discussion with one, when they really can't talk back!!
I can recommend this book for lovers of bad boy rockers, and those that like to read about bands touring and on the road, but I don't think this will ever be on a reread shelf for me.
August 30, 2015
Very sexy, a good read, though I can't say that very much of the story stood out for me whenever I put the book down (which was more often than usual for me.)
October 4, 2021
- 3 stelle ⭐⭐⭐ -
September 5, 2015
4.25 stars
August 31, 2015
review to come
May 10, 2019
I rounded up on this due to the fact the author packs in the emotion but there were issues. Jude and his best friends formed a band together out of high school that was just beginning to be successful when it imploded from within. Jude left the band and the remaining members cobbled together the leftovers with enough to success to get a record deal. Jude is working a cubicle job with massive regret and gets a phone call out of the blue. The band is desperate for a bass and Jude knows all the songs. He can get up to speed quicker than anyone. Can he help out even though it's not his preferred drummer job? Jude jumps at the chance even though it will be hard to win over the band. Except Jude manages to win over the new drummer right away. Screwing around with a band member is what caused the problems in the first place so a bad idea all around.
The premise was fine except Jude was just too damn apologetic the whole time. There were TWO members of that band involved and for some reason Jude bore the burden. Colin was a straight up turd and the other members were almost as bad. A.J. the new drummer was treated pretty poorly by the rest of them as well. The angst was too drawn out. Considering the massive favor Jude was doing I thought they should have been a bit more grateful.
The premise was fine except Jude was just too damn apologetic the whole time. There were TWO members of that band involved and for some reason Jude bore the burden. Colin was a straight up turd and the other members were almost as bad. A.J. the new drummer was treated pretty poorly by the rest of them as well. The angst was too drawn out. Considering the massive favor Jude was doing I thought they should have been a bit more grateful.
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