Runaway Rock Star

by C.J. Anthony

Just hours before Brandon Harris is supposed to head home to Cincinnati for a Labor Day family picnic, his boss at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame forces him into giving a private tour to bratty British pop-rock star Lucas Black. Before he knows it, he finds himself swept up in a whirlwind road trip through Ohio with Lucas riding shotgun.

Lucas grabs hold of this wild opportunity to run away—even for a few precious days—from the gilded cage that is his carefully managed life. He's just looking for a little fun and freedom as a normal person. From roller coasters to a college football game, Brandon begins to see the real Lucas Black buried under the famous persona. But by the time he and Lucas discover their mutual attraction, they only have one night left before both of them have to go back to their real lives. The fun is over...unless Lucas can run away for real this time and keep their adventure going.

States of Stories of romance that span every corner of the United States.

Genres: Romance, M M Romance, Contemporary, Short Stories, Fiction, Novella, Road Trip

87 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 10, 2017

About the author

C. J. Anthony grew up watching soap operas and reading piles of books. She attributes her love of reading and romance to her mother who not only taught her to read but also made countless trips to the library lugging those piles of books home for her to read. It wasn’t a far jump to start writing her own stories, early childhood tales about flower families and travelling to the moon with her best friend.

C. J.’s favorite stories to read and write include “opposites attract” pairings—couples who might appear to be an odd couple to the rest of the world, but to each other fit together perfectly, finding their own happy ever after with a little hard work and a whole lot of love.

Not surprisingly, C. J. is a big lover of rom coms—she’ll gladly take Julia Roberts standing in front of Hugh Grant asking him to love her, over car crashes and shoot-em up movies any day. She also watches way too much TV and every singing reality show there is. She loves music and musicians of all genres and attending live concerts.

She spends most of her time juggling a day job and a commute and freelance design work on the side and falling asleep on her couch, dreaming of a day when she can work all day in her pajamas while living in a house by the beach.

Reviews

[Sara]

4 Hearts

There are a few things that can guarantee my excitement and that is rock stars, boys in the closet and road trips. This book has all of the above and they gave me all that I could have wanted in a short story.

Brandon Harris loves working at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame museum. His love for music gave me all the feels because I am a self-proclaimed music nerd. When Brandon is given the task of guiding a British pop star on a solo tour that shut down the museum, he is less than thrilled. While Brandon loves music, his tastes don’t lend the pop charts and what he knows of Lucas Black, it’s nothing worth writing home about.

But… things aren’t always as they seem and while the British pop star starts off as annoying they soon change as the men find common ground in what else, music. When they hit the tour and come to John Lennon’s piano, the age old question of who Brandon prefers – Beatles or Stones – is asked and the young men start to let guards down and allow perceptions to fall away.

Being the music nerd that I am I loved going on the tour with Brandon and Lucas. When Lucas invited Brandon to his show that night, I felt for him because he was supposed to be heading home for a family barbeque but he gives in and goes. He has an attraction to Lucas that he can’t deny but tabloids etc. have pinned Lucas as straight so Brandon allows this new possibility of friendship evolve. I did like that while Lucas pop music isn’t Brandon’s bag, he could appreciate the level of showmanship of Lucas on stage live and how the man not only owned the stage but his love of performing was evident. When Lucas slips Brandon a note inviting him backstage, I thought things would get sexy but really, they didn’t because they became more mysterious as Lucas asks Brandon for a ride and then dons a disguise and off they go on an adventure.

The way you make me feel. I know it’s crazy, and we’ve only known each other for a weekend. But I couldn’t walk away from this. I want us to give it a go, see where the road takes us.

The road tip aspect of the story was fun but due to page length it was also short but then again, they were only driving a matter of a few hours to each stop each day so what could they really do. The road trip allowed Brandon to see Lucas as more than the pop idol that he’d become and get to know the young man whose father took his talent as a cash cow opportunity and how lonely and controlled Lucas’ life really is.

Now I love that both men have a thing for Ryan Adams because Heartbreaker is one of my all-time favorite albums and “Come Pick Me Up” is one of my favorite songs but I have to admit that my crush on a pop idol had me picturing Lucas as well, Harry Styles. Don’t shoot me but… chin length hair, green eyes, long limbs, British, pop star who truly wants to make REAL music, dating Taylor Swift for two weeks and having a closet full of beards??? I mean, just those few things alone to me scream Harry and then the music… if you haven’t heard the type of music Harry currently makes as a solo artist and compare it to what Lucas writes during their trip… I am just saying. Lucas is Harry to me and that my friends makes a huge difference because I adore Harry. So much.

Anyway.

As Lucas gets Brandon to go along on this road trip adventure he gets himself caught up in the life of Lucas Black and finds himself wishing that things could be different. Oh but they totally could if either of these young men knew how to flirt or pick up signals! It was frustrating and yet incredibly endearing to see Lucas throwing things out there that went way over Brandon’s head and thank goodness for ex-boyfriends, Halsey concerts and jealousy because they made for one hell of a hot first kiss.

Yup, they finally get there but man it was so freaking bittersweet to know that both Lucas and Brandon wanted more than one night could or would give them but neither of them knowing how to find ad app that could steer them in the right direction for this road trip of romance and life. Le sigh. Le freaking sigh.

I have to say that the end was super satisfying and I would love to catch up with these two again. They were fun and so adorable with their slow burn road trip romance. This book and these two men truly made my Sunday better for spending it with them.

[Jules Lovestoread · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Another enjoyable read from the States of Love series. I was glad I jumped on for the little Ohio road trip! I think you guys will like it, too.

See my full review here! http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.75 stars

Runaway Rock Star is the first story I have read by C.J. Anthony and I am already impressed by her attention to detail, in terms of characterization and her story’s setting. Runaway Rock Star is part of Dreamspinner Press’ States of Love collection, so naturally, Ohio plays a large part and Anthony gives her reader a strong sense of the state’s diversity. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame introduces us to Ohio’s rich musical history and then Brandon and Lucas’ drive across the state allows Anthony to reveal the tourism and fun at Cedar Point, the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World”; the landscape of Lake Erie; the student body in Columbus; and the Amish and farming communities. Although I could not quite believe Lucas is British and did not recognize the smell of cow manure, I really liked the fact that Anthony takes her time with the geographical descriptions, perhaps an irony in a story which is only 87 pages long. In my opinion, Anthony’s presentation of Ohio in Runaway Rock Star will evoke fond memories in those that have visited the state and those readers who haven’t been will want to go.

As important as the setting is in Runaway Rock Star, Lucas and Brandon as protagonists are equally vital. Brandon appears to be serious and straightforward when we first meet him, though his passion for music is apparent. Sadly, he prejudges Lucas, presuming that the media’s version of the pop star is the man he will meet in person.

Read Kirsty’s review in its entirety here.

[Evette · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun road trip romance, so unbelievable you wish it were true. Lucas is the loner rock star, has real talent but is being made to tow the line. Everybody is telling him what to do, this llittle foray into the real world with Brandon is exactly what he needs.

Brandon is fantastic, a true music lover and mama's boy. What started as a holiday weekend in his hometown becomes a whirlwind that he never expected. Together Lucas and Brandon both open themselves up to what could be the best future ever, but taking that step will give them both a shot at happiness.

This was a fun read, not sure anyone can make Ohio beautiful or memorable yet this story sure does try.

[Dzura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Road trip romance, Tells of the road trip of two men, the famous Rock Star and mama's boy. Both of whom travel to a vacation spot, which ends up as a curiosity from each man.

[Rafa Brewster · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars
ROAD TRIP ROMANCE! Surreal and sweet.

Review to come on Just Love closer to release.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

[Kirsty Bicknell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review originally published at Joyfully Jay Reviews

After studying for a business degree but wanting to work in the music industry, Brandon Harris is an assistant at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. On the afternoon prior to Brandon driving home to Cincinnati for Labor Day weekend, Brandon is told by his boss that the museum will be closing early so pop sensation Lucas Black can visit for a private tour. Brandon is even more unhappy that he is the one chosen to escort the man he presumes to be arrogant and clueless around the museum. However, Brandon is surprised by Lucas’ genuine excitement and openness, so much so that he finds it difficult to turn down Lucas’ offer of a free ticket for his concert that evening. Brandon still plans on the four-hour drive home afterward and Lucas asks Brandon if he can hitch a ride. It doesn’t take long for Brandon to realize that Lucas is running away and the two men embark on a road trip: riding rollercoasters, watching football – and sharing hotel rooms.
Runaway Rock Star is the first story I have read by C.J. Anthony and I am already impressed by her attention to detail, in terms of characterization and her story’s setting. Runaway Rock Star is part of Dreamspinner Press’ States of Love collection, so naturally, Ohio plays a large part and Anthony gives her reader a strong sense of the state’s diversity. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame introduces us to Ohio’s rich musical history and then Brandon and Lucas’ drive across the state allows Anthony to reveal the tourism and fun at Cedar Point, the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World”; the landscape of Lake Erie; the student body in Columbus; and the Amish and farming communities. Although I could not quite believe Lucas is British and did not recognize the smell of cow manure, I really liked the fact that Anthony takes her time with the geographical descriptions, perhaps an irony in a story which is only 87 pages long. In my opinion, Anthony’s presentation of Ohio in Runaway Rock Star will evoke fond memories in those that have visited the state and those readers who haven’t been will want to go.
As important as the setting is in Runaway Rock Star, Lucas and Brandon as protagonists are equally vital. Brandon appears to be serious and straightforward when we first meet him, though his passion for music is apparent. Sadly, he prejudges Lucas, presuming that the media’s version of the pop star is the man he will meet in person.
In opposition to Brandon’s simplicity, Anthony gives her reader the tumultuous character that is Lucas. Theirs is a pairing that the reader knows is inevitable, but it is the anticipation Anthony builds that carries us through the novella. Lucas’ sexuality is ambiguous, particularly when he talks about dating female celebrities, though we have the impression that the two men are flirting with one another. The level of sexual chemistry between Lucas and Brandon grows due to the intensive period of time that they spend together. The fact that Lucas and Brandon do not kiss within the first few chapters was not a disappointment to me, but when the story reaches that point, I was ready for it and Wow! THE moment between these guys is super hot.
Runaway Rock Star‘s ending is a fairytale one, but the romance and happiness made me want to throw my hands in the air and shout ‘yay’! Up to this point, we have understood that Brandon has greater aspirations than working at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Anthony has ensured we empathize with Lucas because every facet of his career has been decided for him and he wants to be more than a puppet.
Runaway Rock Star should be high on anyone’s ‘to read’ list in my opinion because Anthony uses certain tropes of male/male romance to her advantage and writes and enjoyable and entertaining story.
A review copy of this book was provided by Dreamspinner Press.

[The Novel Approach · Rating 4 out of 5]

~ 3.5 Stars ~

Road trip books are always so fun. And, when there’s a bromance of some kind involved, they’re even better! I can’t think of a single road trip book I’ve read that I haven’t enjoyed on some level, and CJ Anthony’s Runaway Rock Star is no exception. This installment of the States of Love series takes us through Ohio, and shows us what might happen when you pair an earnest Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Museum employee with a fed-up rock star with an agenda.

When Brandon gets stuck giving Lucas Black—once described by his father, then manager, as ‘the British Justin Bieber’—a private tour of the museum, he is definitely less than thrilled. He was supposed to be headed home for the holiday weekend, and his family’s annual Labor Day picnic, but instead is dealing with a somewhat pissy popstar with an attitude. After his initially unenthusiastic response, Lucas starts to turn it around, though, and actually engages with Brandon and gets into some of the exhibits. I loved even the tiny glimpses we got to see of the genuine Lucas—not the unhappy Lucas who has been pigeonholed by his father and the record label, and forced to continue creating music he hates.

The real Lucas slowly emerges during the drive to Cincinnati with Brandon. The ride he fibbed his way into, and then completely hijacked. That’s right…Brandon thinks he’s simply giving Lucas a ride to his next gig, that they’re just taking the I-71 on the boring four-hour drive to Cincy. But, Lucas has something entirely different in mind. In fact, he’s not being straight up with Brandon at all. He didn’t just want a break from his tour bus—he’s actually going AWOL. And so, the road trip begins. From Cedar Point to Buckeye Country, and finally to Brandon’s family’s home, the barriers gradually come down, and Lucas opens up to Brandon about who he really is and who he wants to be.

I liked these guys a lot. Throughout the weekend, as they discuss music and their lives, it becomes apparent that their tastes are very similar, and that they may have a good basis for a real connection. As is sometimes a problem with books this length, however, I ended up feeling like we needed more. The romance was extremely slow to get going. I’m glad it wasn’t rushed like so many feel they need to do in novellas; I’d rather the slow burn than an unrealistic insta-love situation. But, I would have liked an inkling of something to have begun before the seventy-five percent mark.

What I think I would have really liked is about twenty-five more pages. That way we could have had a little more of Brandon and Lucas together, and could have avoided that crazy abrupt ending! I’m talking abrupt, y’all. It was like *poof*! It’s over. That being said, I was still feeling them as a couple at the end. They were a good fit.

So, another enjoyable read from the States of Love series. I was glad I jumped on for the little Ohio road trip! I think you guys will like it, too.

Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach

[Lena Grey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brandon Harris loves his job at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, but he is less than thrilled with the idea of giving Lucas Black, who he figures is an overindulged, spoiled rock star, a private tour. It will also mean that Brandon will be getting a late start to his Labor Day weekend vacation. Since Lucas is so high-profile, it's not possible to refuse, at least, if Brandon wants to keep his job.

Brandon, Lucas, and his manager begin the tour with Brandon showing his best smile. Even though he's doing it through gritted teeth, he is determined to give Lucas and his manager the most impressive tour ever. At the beginning, Lucas appears to be exactly as Brandon expects him to be; as the tour continues, particularly after dismissing his manager and his annoying cell phone, Brandon watches the “glitter” fall away and the real Lucas appear. What surprises Brandon even more is that they begin to find common ground, musically speaking at least. Lucas surprises him by asking Brandon to attend his concert later on that night, then sends Brandon a note inviting him backstage. When Lucas gets him alone, he befuddles Brandon even more when he asks if he can go with him to Cincinnati where his next concert is being held.

Lucas is intent on “stealing” a bit of freedom and making the most out of this road trip. He begins to act as navigator, directing Brandon to Cedar Point Amusement Park. When Brandon learns that Lucas has never even been to an amusement park, or ridden a roller coaster, he begins to understand why Lucas would need to be normal, not always “on” with his every move planned. Brandon enjoys not only the amusement park but everything he and Lucas do on their trip, as he sees it through Lucas's eyes. While driving Lucas explains that being a rock star is not all that it seems to be. His every move is controlled by either his father or his manager—what to wear, what to eat, where to go, who to go with, even what type of music he can play. His creativity, much less his personality, is totally crushed under all these demands. Lucas finds no satisfaction in his chosen profession, only a long line of tours and pretending to be someone he isn't. When the trip comes to an end, reality sets in even though neither man is ready to let go of the other.

I really liked Brandon and Lucas as they had experiences that Lucas is never allowed to participate in and enjoying each one to the fullest. My heart broke for Lucas and his stiffing existence. Money isn't everything is a theme which rings loud and clear. If you are not happy, the rest of it is meaningless. Thanks, C.J., for the entertaining tale.

NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.

[Serena Yates · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bratty pop star, his reluctant guide on an unexpected tour of Ohio, and lots of banter, snark, and revelations of the personal kind kept me entertained while reading this story. It all starts in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, where Brandon works and Lucas, rumored to be arrogant and selfish, wants a private tour. It all sounded pretty bad for Lucas – until I got to see his side of the story. As so often with celebrities, the “real” person underneath the public persona is a totally different story, and I enjoyed watching Brandon eel back the layers as they get better acquainted.

Brandon is basically blackmailed into giving the tour by his boss, and he is none too happy about it. He has a lot of preconceived notions about Lucas, all obtained by believing what “the media” has to say about the teen idol who has now grown up to be a pop-rock star. Lucas’s initial behavior confirms Brandon’s worst fears – but then he discovers Lucas’s sense of humor, his disdain for having to write the kind of music that sells, and his views about other people in the public limelight. That opens Brandon’s eyes to what may lie underneath the mask Lucas presents to the public, and Brandon’s curiosity is piqued.

Lucas may be famous and rich and all that – but he hates his life. He has no personal freedom, is “managed” by people only interested in the cash he can make for them, and he is more than ready to drop the entire façade and live life in the real world. Unfortunately Lucas has not had an opportunity or reason to change things so far, but when he meets Brandon, he is intrigued and everything suddenly changes. Lucas is not quick to trust anyone, but a few days exploring tourist attractions with Brandon does wonders.

The two men do not get off to a good start. Preconceived notions and a lot of assumptions on Brandon’s side and a protective wall a mile thick around Lucas’s heart stop them from truly seeing each other. Curiosity, a shared love of music that neither of them expected, and a few days spent having fun change everything. Not to mention a physical attraction that sizzles between them once they begin to open up on the personal front. But the decision of what to do with that newfound understanding is not an easy one, and it was definitely an interesting journey for both men.

If you like stories where fist appearances are deceiving and the characters turn out to be quite different from what you assumed, if you want to get a good feel for the treasures Ohio has to offer, and if you’re looking for a read that is entertaining, sometimes hilarious, contains lots of revelations, and offers hope to celebrities everywhere (should they want to escape the image some manager/company has created for them, then you will probably like this novella. I think the ending is particularly cute!


NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads

I adored this short story! I've never read anything by CJ Anthony before but I'm putting them on my "watch for this author" list.
Lucas Black is the hot pop star of the year. He's coined as the british Justin Beiber and he's on a mega stadium tour stopping in Ohio. Brandon Harris is an administrative assistant at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. It just so happens Lucas Black wants a tour of the hall while on Brandon's shift. Brandon's boss thinks he's the best man for the job being they are around the same age group. Brandon is not sure he's up for the task as he is more of a "classic rock dude" than a pop music fan but, hey, it's part of the job. In walks Black in all his pop star glory with his ray banes and lean body, tight pants, and that chin length hair and Brandon cant help but admire the package. Surprisingly the two hit it off and Brandon realizes there's more to Lucas than the bratty pop star. Lucas is being controlled by his father and manager and record studio and he just wants to let loose a bit. Lucas convinces Brandon to give him the ultimate Ohio tour while running away from the demands of his career & father. I loved the Ohio references throughout the book (i'm from Michigan) and the fun road trip vibe of the story. The two have some definite sparks between them and it all comes to a head after an evening of drinking & jealousy. The pages flew by and the story unfolds in perfect timing. Thoroughly enjoyed!

[Lioness7 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had so much fun reading this book. I am so glad that having to read a book about a road trip came up as a category. I don't know if I would have found this otherwise.

There were several things that I liked about this work. I loved that it was set in Ohio. I grew up there and knew about the places visited. I have been to them. It made the book resonate with me a lot more than it would have being set somewhere else. I also loved the characters. Brandon and Lucas were so much fun.

I started out thinking this was going to be full of angst and stuff, but it was just fun. It wasn't heavy on the romance. I didn't mind that. I liked reading about someone breaking away from his normal life and having a great time while he is doing it. I am so happy that Brandon was willing to go on that road trip.

[Ami · Rating 3 out of 5]

I LOVED the road trip - I would love for the road trip sessions to be longer. Brandon's family -- they showed up late in the game -- also sounded cool. But because of the short time they spent, I wasn't completely sold on Brandon and Lucas as a couple.

Plus, Lucas is a total cliche of a misunderstood young rock star character; as in he can't do anything he likes because his life is controlled by his dad as his manager, and that he wants to do a different music, and that he's in the closet and his dad arranges for his female dates. I mean, I am sure that it happens in real life indeed, but it feels repetitive theme for me. I guess that's probably why I am not too fond to read romantic fiction about famous people...

[Rissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

New to me author, I'm glad I took a chance because that was lovely! :)

Of course, I wish it was longer! I would definitely want to read more about Brandon and Lucas! <3

But what I really liked was that Ohio was prominent. I don't think I've read any other States of Love book but I will be very interested now if they are the same to this one.

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ah, short stories. I have a hard time giving them anything over 3 stars unless I get emotionally invested. You know laugh out loud, cry, mad (for the right reasons of course). This one didn't do that for me. It was cute, granted, but I think it could have used an epilogue or a confrontation directly with dear old dad.

[Pixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up. Cute. I like a road trip.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great road trip story and how to stick up for yourself in order to get the most out of life. I loved It.

[Kai · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,75 stars

[Tracy~Bayou Book Junkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brandon works as an administrative assistant at the Rock~N~Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. He is just a few hours away from heading to his parents home near Cincinnati, for their annual Labor Day picnic, when his boss approaches him to ask that he give the pop-rock sensation, Lucas Black, a private tour of the museum. Brandon despises Lucas on sight. He's a right spoiled British twat, but by the end of the tour Lucas's persona slips and Brandon discovers that Lucas is much more than just the entitled pop star he pretends to be.

When the tour is over, Lucas thanks Brandon and offers him a front row ticket to his concert that night, and although Lucas's music isn't really his thing, Brandon knows his boss will have his head if he refuses the offer. Backstage after the concert, Lucas asks Brandon if he can catch a ride with him to the next concert venue, under the pretense of a broken loo on the tour bus. Brandon agrees not realizing that Lucas is running away. Therein begins their hilarious adventure across Ohio.

This was a really enjoyable read. It had me laughing from almost the first page of the book and Lucas's antics, along with the witty banter between Lucas and Brandon kept me laughing throughout the story. This story was not only entertaining, but as a music fan, the musical facts the author slips into the story were interesting to read about. I've read a few of these states of love stories, and until this one, I have never been left with the desire to visit the state the book is set in.

This was an enjoyable sweet, funny and mostly light read. It's filled with humor and sweetness with just a touch of heartbreak thrown in. Although the book takes place over just one weekend, it felt longer than that and we are left with a solid HFN, and a picture of what the future may hold for Brandon and Lucas as a couple. I walked away from this book satisfied, but I definitely wouldn't say no to more Brandon and Lucas in the future. Highly recommended!!

*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn’t a requirement.*

[CrabbyPatty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Brandon Harris loves working at Cincinnati's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, even when his boss makes him delay his Labor Day plans to give a private tour to Lucas Black, an obnoxious pop star who owns a glow-in-the-dark Fender and sings drivel like “Ooh baby, your love drives me crazy. Goin’ insane, can’t get you outta my brain.” Turns out Lucas isn't as shallow as his PR makes him out to be, and Lucas convinces Brandon to take him on an Ohio road trip.

While this book has a fun light premise, it feels cliched - misunderstood rock star meets nice guy who encourages him to go for his dreams. Both MCs are young - early 20's - and there isn't enough character development to get a sense of their chemistry or lack thereof. After Brandon spends most of the book wondering if Lucas is gay, there is one sex scene around 85% and the book ends quickly with a HFN. I guess I needed a few more scenes in the book to flesh out the characters and an epilogue after the hurried ending. I liked the author's writing style and would definitely read another of her books, but "Runaway Rock Star" did not work for me. 3 stars.

I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!

[Mollien Fote Osterman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Runaway Rock Star
Series: States of Love
Author: C. J. Anthony
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: May 10, 2017
Genre(s): Male/Male Romance
Page Count: 98 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:

Just hours before Brandon Harris is supposed to head home to Cincinnati for a Labor Day family picnic, his boss at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame forces him into giving a private tour to bratty British pop-rock star Lucas Black. Before he knows it, he finds himself swept up in a whirlwind road trip through Ohio with Lucas riding shotgun.

Lucas grabs hold of this wild opportunity to run away—even for a few precious days—from the gilded cage that is his carefully managed life. He's just looking for a little fun and freedom as a normal person. From roller coasters to a college football game, Brandon begins to see the real Lucas Black buried under the famous persona. But by the time he and Lucas discover their mutual attraction, they only have one night left before both of them have to go back to their real lives. The fun is over...unless Lucas can run away for real this time and keep their adventure going.


States of Love: Stories of romance that span every corner of the United States.

Review:
This is the third book in the States of Love series that I have read. It looks like each book is written by a different author and the setting is almost as important as the main characters. I am beginning to really like this series. The featured state is Ohio and after reading this book, I think I want to make a trip and follow the road trip taken by Brandon and Lucas. Brandon Harris loves music. Unable to carry a tune or play an instrument. Brandon has followed his dream of working in the music industry by working in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Lucas has been a rock star since his father started posting videos of him alla Justin Bieber. When Lucas shows up at The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for a private tour, Brandon much to his dismay is asked to give the tour. As much as Brandon loves music, he doesn’t love the music that Lucas has made famous. He also has no love for the bratty musician either. As the tour progresses, Brandon starts to see something in Lucas that he didn’t expect. Hoping to get on the road as soon as the tour is over. Brandon is talked into attending Lucas’s concert and then into a road trip that takes a roundabout trek from Cleveland to Cincinnati. The heat of this story takes place at the near end of the story, but it is so fitting. I loved the pacing of this laugh out loud story. The banter between Lucas and Brandon is hilarious. The ending was really good, but I wish that the book had continued just a little more. As the story progresses we learn about the characters from not only what is said, but the is left unsaid. I really enjoyed this story and I look forward to reading more from this series.




PLOT: 4 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 3 Stars
PACING: 5 Stars
ENDING: 4 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars



Review Copy of Runaway Rock Star provided by the Dreamspinner Press I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club

[Levi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review at :

OptimuMM - Home of MM Book Reviews



This series is reminding me of the Harlequin Series I read when I was … let’s say a long time ago 😉

Even though this is a short story, you will find yourself enjoying every word of it.

The story takes place in Ohio, where the data entry Brandon, who works for a Rock and Roll museum, is asked to give a private tour to the spoiled rock star: Lucas Black. Brandon is not a fan of Lucas. In his opinion, Lucas’s music is cheap and commercial. But his boss is warning him, that he must give the million-dollar tour, in order to have the young star glowing in the dark guitar.

As Brandon expected, Lucas is a spoiled brat. When he arrives with his manager following him, he has the attitude of every star. Lucas seems bored out of his mind, so Brandon gives him the five-cent tour, keeping on his fake smile. But when Lucas, in a very rude manner, sends his manager out of the museum, his attitude is changed a bit, and he talks about rock legends with awe.

At the end of the tour, Brandon is stunned when he got invited to the backstage of Lucas’s concert. His boss’ death stare gave him no other option but to accept the invite.

After the concert, Lucas invites him in his room and asks him a favor, a favor Brandon will learn to like it very much. Not at the beginning though. Lucas asks Brandon to take him to Cincinnati, the next city on his tour. Lucas is not an easy travel companion, and he has his plans. But then Brandon comes to know Lucas more, and the more he learns about this very beautiful, young man, the more he can’t refuse his requests.

I loved every bit of this story, from the very begging to the last word. If you are looking for a funny, quick read, this is the book you are looking for!



***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***

[Anu Vaarama · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and quite intense story of a frustrated rock star, who is in closet.. also with his music making. He finds a way out and way to happiness, if he only can take a final leap. All happened in very short time span which made the story more non-realistic, otherwise it was a very enjoyable little book.
Lyhyt ja tiivis, vähän hassukin tarina rocktähdestä joka on jumittunut kaappiin. Onneksi sieltä löytyy tie ulos, kun vain uskaltaa. Mukava ja sujuva rakkaustarina, joskin aikajänne on mahdottoman lyhyt kaikelle kirjassa tapahtuvalle.