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Sex, Love, and Rock & Roll #3
Insatiable
Rock Star falls for Rock Goddess
Jax Sterling is a sex addict with the heart of a golden retriever puppy.
As the lead singer for the Red Letters, it’s easy to hide his loneliness behind his bad boy lifestyle…until he lands on tour with a hard rock goddess who makes him want the relationship he can never have.
Onstage, Ava’s all chains, whips and guitar licks, but the backstage confessions they share are darker than their leather.
She wants Jax, but he wants better for her than him.
But then, bad news drops that threatens the life of one of his bandmates, and the loyalty of the other. Terrified by how little he has left if he loses his best friends, Jax takes the plunge to let someone else into his life.
Until Ava finds out his ugliest sin, and it’s nothing she can forgive.
The stunning conclusion to the Sex, Love and Rock and Roll series, which follows Jax’s band from dive bars to the big time. Click to start reading now if you’re craving a tearjerker with a irresistible sense of humor.
Book 3 of the NTRWA award-winning series
**This book contains spoilers to earlier books in the series, but can be read and understood as a standalone.**
Jax Sterling is a sex addict with the heart of a golden retriever puppy.
As the lead singer for the Red Letters, it’s easy to hide his loneliness behind his bad boy lifestyle…until he lands on tour with a hard rock goddess who makes him want the relationship he can never have.
Onstage, Ava’s all chains, whips and guitar licks, but the backstage confessions they share are darker than their leather.
She wants Jax, but he wants better for her than him.
But then, bad news drops that threatens the life of one of his bandmates, and the loyalty of the other. Terrified by how little he has left if he loses his best friends, Jax takes the plunge to let someone else into his life.
Until Ava finds out his ugliest sin, and it’s nothing she can forgive.
The stunning conclusion to the Sex, Love and Rock and Roll series, which follows Jax’s band from dive bars to the big time. Click to start reading now if you’re craving a tearjerker with a irresistible sense of humor.
Book 3 of the NTRWA award-winning series
**This book contains spoilers to earlier books in the series, but can be read and understood as a standalone.**
- GenresRomance
322 pages, ebook
Published July 2, 2018
13 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Hazen
25 books456 followersMichelle Hazen is a nomad with a writing problem.
Years ago, she and her husband ducked out of the 9 to 5 world and moved into a life as digital nomads. She found her voice with the support of the online fanfiction community, and once she started typing, she never looked back.
As a result, she's written most of her books in odd places, including a bus in Thailand, an off-the-grid cabin in the Sawtooth Mountains, a golf cart in a sandstorm, a rental car during a heat wave in the Mohave Desert, a century-old Creole cottage in New Orleans, and a beach in Honduras. These days, she's writing all the romance and friendship scenes her heart can hold, while working as a freelance editor and writing coach with Sanctuary Editorial.
She's currently addicted to Shadow & Bone, rock climbing, and Tillamook cheese.
Michelle is the award-winning author of Breathe the Sky, Unbreak Me, So You Think You're a Match, and the Sex, Love, and Rock and Roll series. Find her at http://michellehazenbooks.com/ on Facebook or Instagram at @MichelleHazenAuthor, or follow her on Twitter @michellehazen.
Years ago, she and her husband ducked out of the 9 to 5 world and moved into a life as digital nomads. She found her voice with the support of the online fanfiction community, and once she started typing, she never looked back.
As a result, she's written most of her books in odd places, including a bus in Thailand, an off-the-grid cabin in the Sawtooth Mountains, a golf cart in a sandstorm, a rental car during a heat wave in the Mohave Desert, a century-old Creole cottage in New Orleans, and a beach in Honduras. These days, she's writing all the romance and friendship scenes her heart can hold, while working as a freelance editor and writing coach with Sanctuary Editorial.
She's currently addicted to Shadow & Bone, rock climbing, and Tillamook cheese.
Michelle is the award-winning author of Breathe the Sky, Unbreak Me, So You Think You're a Match, and the Sex, Love, and Rock and Roll series. Find her at http://michellehazenbooks.com/ on Facebook or Instagram at @MichelleHazenAuthor, or follow her on Twitter @michellehazen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 11, 2018
Insatiable is a beautiful story about love. There's romantic love, the love between friends, the often painful love we share with our family, and for Jax, finding the ability to love himself. While on the surface Insatiable seems to be about Jax's addictions, I think really it's about our insatiable need to be loved.
And, while I absolutely loved the book, it took me awhile to really connect with Jax, most likely because of the three members of The Red Letters, he's the most like me. And, it's because of this that Jax is easily the most complex of the three main characters in this series, which says so much about the depth of Michelle Hazen's writing because Jera and Danny are as far from simple as they come.
Insecure with an addictive personality, borderline OCD, and determined to please everyone, Jax was difficult to be around initially. In books one and two of the Sex, Love, and Rock and Roll series, it seemed like his bandmates were burdened with him. It was tough, because despite having HEAs with others, Jera and Danny were a package deal. To me, Jax felt like the outsider. No surprise that he felt the same way.
And then there's Ava. I love this new heroine from Michelle Hazen. A former child star, Ava now owns the music world. She's sexy and strong and a serious badass. She, like Jax, is holding onto a secret that's crushing her. Ava and Jax share an undeniable chemistry, yet these two find themselves falling in love at the absolute wrong time.
Pain, loss, and the inability to forgive yourself is a prevalent theme throughout Insatiable and one every reader will be able to connect with. Despite both Jax and Ava struggling with this, they find in each other exactly what they need. Finding each other allows them the chance to be real, and while it wasn't always pretty, it was true and real.
Like books one and two in this series, TRL band members are front and center. Jax's insecurities regarding Danny and Jera come to a head in Insatiable as the band faces a crisis. It broke my heart to watch Jax question his place in Jera and Danny's life, especially because I've felt that way so many times. That feeling of not being enough is so relatable.
I've really enjoyed this series (and was so excited to see there's a novella on the horizon!). These characters jump off the page and feel like friends that you'd want to spend time with. While all address some sort of sexual issue, the series is as far from formulaic as they could be. The books also shouldn't be read out of order because you would miss so many of the dynamics between the characters.
5 stars for Insatiable. Heat level: 3.5 for a freaking hot shower scene and more!
And, while I absolutely loved the book, it took me awhile to really connect with Jax, most likely because of the three members of The Red Letters, he's the most like me. And, it's because of this that Jax is easily the most complex of the three main characters in this series, which says so much about the depth of Michelle Hazen's writing because Jera and Danny are as far from simple as they come.
Insecure with an addictive personality, borderline OCD, and determined to please everyone, Jax was difficult to be around initially. In books one and two of the Sex, Love, and Rock and Roll series, it seemed like his bandmates were burdened with him. It was tough, because despite having HEAs with others, Jera and Danny were a package deal. To me, Jax felt like the outsider. No surprise that he felt the same way.
And then there's Ava. I love this new heroine from Michelle Hazen. A former child star, Ava now owns the music world. She's sexy and strong and a serious badass. She, like Jax, is holding onto a secret that's crushing her. Ava and Jax share an undeniable chemistry, yet these two find themselves falling in love at the absolute wrong time.
Pain, loss, and the inability to forgive yourself is a prevalent theme throughout Insatiable and one every reader will be able to connect with. Despite both Jax and Ava struggling with this, they find in each other exactly what they need. Finding each other allows them the chance to be real, and while it wasn't always pretty, it was true and real.
Like books one and two in this series, TRL band members are front and center. Jax's insecurities regarding Danny and Jera come to a head in Insatiable as the band faces a crisis. It broke my heart to watch Jax question his place in Jera and Danny's life, especially because I've felt that way so many times. That feeling of not being enough is so relatable.
I've really enjoyed this series (and was so excited to see there's a novella on the horizon!). These characters jump off the page and feel like friends that you'd want to spend time with. While all address some sort of sexual issue, the series is as far from formulaic as they could be. The books also shouldn't be read out of order because you would miss so many of the dynamics between the characters.
5 stars for Insatiable. Heat level: 3.5 for a freaking hot shower scene and more!
July 3, 2018
Insatiable is the final full-length novel in Michelle Hazen’s Sex, Drugs, and Rock & Roll series, and it’s an enjoyable end to the series. Although this is a standalone romance, I would recommend reading A Cruel Kind of Beautiful and Playing the Pauses first. Yes, we get a start and an end to the romance within this one, but a lot of the subplots and events relate back to the prior two books. It’s entirely up to you, but I do believe you get the best experience if you understand the other events that occur throughout this one in addition to the romance between our leads.
The events that occurred with Jax throughout Playing the Pauses had left me more than a little bit intrigued as to how this story would play out, and I was more than willing to dive into this one. I had quite high hopes, but if I’m honest this one didn’t quite hit all the right marks for me. It was enjoyable, and I kept turning the pages, yet I felt as though there was that little something extra missing to ensure I fell completely head over heels for the story.
I think my problem is that most of the emotional depth was held off until the end of the story. I found it difficult to connect to the things that were taking place, to the things that were coming out, until the last quarter of the book – at this point, it felt as though everything came together to hit you hard. I do not mind an end of story emotional punch, but I would have liked to feel something earlier in the book, too. For me, I was watching things occur but I wasn’t really feeling them.
I cannot decide if it’s because so much happened throughout this one, preventing us from going as deep as I would have liked. We get drama for everyone – see my above statement of how you should read the prior books – and this resulted in certain things feeling glossed over. There seemed to be too many time jumps, where we missed out on goodies, so we could focus on particular things, and we missed out on the small things that make a story.
Overall, it was a nice final story for the band, but I do feel as though it didn’t quite pack the punch I had hoped for.
The events that occurred with Jax throughout Playing the Pauses had left me more than a little bit intrigued as to how this story would play out, and I was more than willing to dive into this one. I had quite high hopes, but if I’m honest this one didn’t quite hit all the right marks for me. It was enjoyable, and I kept turning the pages, yet I felt as though there was that little something extra missing to ensure I fell completely head over heels for the story.
I think my problem is that most of the emotional depth was held off until the end of the story. I found it difficult to connect to the things that were taking place, to the things that were coming out, until the last quarter of the book – at this point, it felt as though everything came together to hit you hard. I do not mind an end of story emotional punch, but I would have liked to feel something earlier in the book, too. For me, I was watching things occur but I wasn’t really feeling them.
I cannot decide if it’s because so much happened throughout this one, preventing us from going as deep as I would have liked. We get drama for everyone – see my above statement of how you should read the prior books – and this resulted in certain things feeling glossed over. There seemed to be too many time jumps, where we missed out on goodies, so we could focus on particular things, and we missed out on the small things that make a story.
Overall, it was a nice final story for the band, but I do feel as though it didn’t quite pack the punch I had hoped for.
July 1, 2018
This is a story of friendships, love and of how addiction can always be there ready to bring your world crashing down. Jax was fighting to keep his head straight because he didn’t want to let his friends and fellow bandmates down yet again. Their band had just been asked to tour with the biggest female rocker and things were looking up for them. Ava was beautiful, sweet and extremely talented and had been fanning after Jax and his band for quite some time. Well, that feeling was mutual because growing up Jax had his walls covered with Ava’s pictures and now he was getting to tour with her.
There are so many things that come into to play in this story that it keeps you going just to see how everyone’s lives are affected by various events. (no spoilers here!) Will they all be able to keep it together for their yearlong tour or will the secrets come to destroy everything? I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
There are so many things that come into to play in this story that it keeps you going just to see how everyone’s lives are affected by various events. (no spoilers here!) Will they all be able to keep it together for their yearlong tour or will the secrets come to destroy everything? I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
July 4, 2018
It's closer to a five star....Jackson's character was so interesting. I really liked the whole band and we really get their love for each other. Its a tough subject. Don't do drugs or if you do then get help and find/fight with other coping methods. Jackson has a true addictive personality but the story portrays him as having a life worth celebrating.
July 2, 2018
Jax is a recovering drug and alcohol addict, current sex addict, and he manages to have the heart of a golden retriever puppy. Those who don't know Jax see a charming, flirtatious, energetic, and fun loving rockstar - but those who truly know Jax see his confidence waiver, his OCD tendencies, and the struggle he has with trying to keep control over himself and his addictions. He rides the high of his shows constantly struggling to maintain that feeling of pure bliss for the moments when everything is quiet. For the first time he is wanting more from a woman, but he is terrified of tainting her with his darkness.
Ava's public persona is full of embracing female power, elaborate costumes, an overabundance of confidence, and attitude that no one dares cross. Jax comes to know a softer and more vulnerable side of Ava. She lets Jax see her doubt, how fragile she sometimes feels, and the passion she has to offer another person. Ava wants all Jax is willing to offer her and is all in, but will she still be willing to fall with him once she knows his darkest secret?
The connection Jax and Ava have is electric. From the minute they met each other I was consumed with how they were going to survive all of their sexual and emotional tension. Ava is able to keep up with Jax's wit and sarcasm, matching him tit for tat with every blow. They both are at the breaking point of striving to be the person they present to the public, and fall into each other for the support and stability they both crave. Their sex scenes fiery and animalistic, yet passionate and all consuming at the same times. Nothing can hold a candle to their quiet moments when they relay their secrets and hopes to each other. Their final concert scene destroyed me in a good way.
Their relationships with the other characters are endearing and tumultuous, but that is how they work best. They disagree and they fight (both verbally and physically), but at the end of the day they still have so much love and respect for one another. It was nice to see Jax's relationship with his band progress with his new found sobriety, and to see how he discovers how truly important his role among them is. To see the push and pull they gave each other and how they faced tragedy together was just incredible to watch.
There is one thing I wanted from this book that I never got ... seeing things from Ava's perspective. I feel like a glimpse inside her head as all of these things are happening would have allowed a closer kinship with Ava and could have added another beautiful dynamic to their story. We see all of Jax's struggles and doubts when it comes to himself and their relationship, and I think the book would have reached a whole other level with witnessing these same accounts and feelings through Ava's eyes.
The bond and love that blossoms between Jax and Ava was beautiful. They both faced so much heartache, but at the end of the day they were able to mold perfectly together and face that heartache together. I laughed. I cried. I got angry. Then I finished with a solid crying laugh session. I'm left insatiable myself. I have an insatiable hunger for experiencing more of what Jax and Ava have to offer.
Ava's public persona is full of embracing female power, elaborate costumes, an overabundance of confidence, and attitude that no one dares cross. Jax comes to know a softer and more vulnerable side of Ava. She lets Jax see her doubt, how fragile she sometimes feels, and the passion she has to offer another person. Ava wants all Jax is willing to offer her and is all in, but will she still be willing to fall with him once she knows his darkest secret?
The connection Jax and Ava have is electric. From the minute they met each other I was consumed with how they were going to survive all of their sexual and emotional tension. Ava is able to keep up with Jax's wit and sarcasm, matching him tit for tat with every blow. They both are at the breaking point of striving to be the person they present to the public, and fall into each other for the support and stability they both crave. Their sex scenes fiery and animalistic, yet passionate and all consuming at the same times. Nothing can hold a candle to their quiet moments when they relay their secrets and hopes to each other. Their final concert scene destroyed me in a good way.
Their relationships with the other characters are endearing and tumultuous, but that is how they work best. They disagree and they fight (both verbally and physically), but at the end of the day they still have so much love and respect for one another. It was nice to see Jax's relationship with his band progress with his new found sobriety, and to see how he discovers how truly important his role among them is. To see the push and pull they gave each other and how they faced tragedy together was just incredible to watch.
There is one thing I wanted from this book that I never got ... seeing things from Ava's perspective. I feel like a glimpse inside her head as all of these things are happening would have allowed a closer kinship with Ava and could have added another beautiful dynamic to their story. We see all of Jax's struggles and doubts when it comes to himself and their relationship, and I think the book would have reached a whole other level with witnessing these same accounts and feelings through Ava's eyes.
The bond and love that blossoms between Jax and Ava was beautiful. They both faced so much heartache, but at the end of the day they were able to mold perfectly together and face that heartache together. I laughed. I cried. I got angry. Then I finished with a solid crying laugh session. I'm left insatiable myself. I have an insatiable hunger for experiencing more of what Jax and Ava have to offer.
July 2, 2018
I guess nothing much has changed since the seventies, if this book about a rock band🎸going on tour is accurate. Close quarters, no privacy, groupies, and everything is all about sex all the time, seems to be The author's go to story.
Having been involved in that lifestyle for several years back in the early seventies, I can attest to the accuracy of her writing. But I don't recall the crudeness and rudeness of the band members back then. That wasn't seen. People want their privacy, no matter where they are. So I found all this part of the book disingenuous. Especially, the married band members openly groping each other.
I just couldn't get into the book because of how the band members were portrayed by the author. It's not all about sex all the time. Most musicians🎸 are musicians because they are completely dedicated to their music. It's dedication to their 🎶 that makes them go on the road, and play in a zillion crappy, smoky bars and nightclubs. The women💃💋 are just a way to pass time between gigs or practices. They are temporary because they are never in one place long enough to form relationships.
Ok, so I've said my piece. I found the book titillating, but unbelievable and crude.
ARC Received from HG.
In the future, I'll try to avoid rock star romances if they are all like this one. The book is well written and delves into the inner world of successful bands, their management and all the baggage and organization that goes along with putting on a traveling show. It's Just not for me. Been there done that. Once upon a time....
Having been involved in that lifestyle for several years back in the early seventies, I can attest to the accuracy of her writing. But I don't recall the crudeness and rudeness of the band members back then. That wasn't seen. People want their privacy, no matter where they are. So I found all this part of the book disingenuous. Especially, the married band members openly groping each other.
I just couldn't get into the book because of how the band members were portrayed by the author. It's not all about sex all the time. Most musicians🎸 are musicians because they are completely dedicated to their music. It's dedication to their 🎶 that makes them go on the road, and play in a zillion crappy, smoky bars and nightclubs. The women💃💋 are just a way to pass time between gigs or practices. They are temporary because they are never in one place long enough to form relationships.
Ok, so I've said my piece. I found the book titillating, but unbelievable and crude.
ARC Received from HG.
In the future, I'll try to avoid rock star romances if they are all like this one. The book is well written and delves into the inner world of successful bands, their management and all the baggage and organization that goes along with putting on a traveling show. It's Just not for me. Been there done that. Once upon a time....
June 18, 2018
Insatiable by Michelle Hazen
I am voluntarily reviewing this ARC.
Book three in this series is about Jax and Ava. Both are lead singers. Both are on the same tour. Both fight their demons. Their attraction is palpable, but their friendship steals the show.
This book and book 1 are my favorites in this series. Jax is just so... human. He’s so fallable and broken, but he just keeps moving along. I just related to this character. Not that I’m a man. Or a rock star. Or a total slut. Or an addict. It’s the inner dialog that I relate to. It’s the constant negotiation, back and forth. It’s the self negativity. Watching him grow and learn that he can be himself and not just the rock star, but truly himself, and seeing his band love him, no matter what, was just so wonderful. I love Jax. I hope this book finds its way into the hands of anyone with addiction and that they don’t feel alone.
Only read this book if you like rock star romance books with no cheating and full of love, both the friendship type and the steamy type:)
Truly great read!
I am voluntarily reviewing this ARC.
Book three in this series is about Jax and Ava. Both are lead singers. Both are on the same tour. Both fight their demons. Their attraction is palpable, but their friendship steals the show.
This book and book 1 are my favorites in this series. Jax is just so... human. He’s so fallable and broken, but he just keeps moving along. I just related to this character. Not that I’m a man. Or a rock star. Or a total slut. Or an addict. It’s the inner dialog that I relate to. It’s the constant negotiation, back and forth. It’s the self negativity. Watching him grow and learn that he can be himself and not just the rock star, but truly himself, and seeing his band love him, no matter what, was just so wonderful. I love Jax. I hope this book finds its way into the hands of anyone with addiction and that they don’t feel alone.
Only read this book if you like rock star romance books with no cheating and full of love, both the friendship type and the steamy type:)
Truly great read!
June 17, 2018
A great ending to an enjoyable series. His band members had found their HEA, and now it’s time for Jax. He’d been dealing with some pain in his past, and once his career had began to sky rocket, booze and drug had taken over as his way of coping. Getting clean is a slow process and a struggle but necessary....and now he has a new addiction Ava, he just has prove to her and his friends he’s a better man.
A great story, a few unanswered questions and points involving other characters, veering of Jax and Ava’s tale but still a good read. Loved the whole Rock & Roll series and it’s characters. I highly recommend this book!
A great story, a few unanswered questions and points involving other characters, veering of Jax and Ava’s tale but still a good read. Loved the whole Rock & Roll series and it’s characters. I highly recommend this book!
June 21, 2018
Wow!! What a beautiful ending to an amazing series! Is it bad that I want more??? lol. After reading Jera's story, and the Danny's, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Jax's story! He is so much more than what you think! His pain is unbearable, his selfdoubt is heartbreaking, but his love for his friends is immense! Jax is such a beautiful soul, who's battling his demons inside of him, but with the love and support of his friends/band mates, and his new love interest, he makes it through to the other side, a changed man. He needed his HEA and he is so deserving of it!!
This book will have you crying, swearing, and laughing, but most importantly, you will FEEL the love!❤❤❤
This book will have you crying, swearing, and laughing, but most importantly, you will FEEL the love!❤❤❤
July 5, 2022
Not my favourite of the bunch but still pretty good. My eyes got misty at times even.
I would be happier if the end for the series was more well rounded, instead it had a kind of abrupt ending of previous books. I didn't feel like it was The End, you know? But hey, I had fun with these books so it's not like I'm complaining or anything.
Over and out
I would be happier if the end for the series was more well rounded, instead it had a kind of abrupt ending of previous books. I didn't feel like it was The End, you know? But hey, I had fun with these books so it's not like I'm complaining or anything.
Over and out
July 8, 2018
I read an ARC copy of this.
This was a decent read. I was a little disappointed by some of the things that happened. However, it looks like most of the band got to be happy in the end. Which was nice.
This was a decent read. I was a little disappointed by some of the things that happened. However, it looks like most of the band got to be happy in the end. Which was nice.
July 3, 2018
Excellent moving story: great book in the series even if this part can be read alone.
An excellent story of redemption that continues the story of the members of the group Red Letter. The characters are still complex, but I had immediate empathy for them, for their fragility and their desire to live something new, to change what is wrong. It's always as well written, deep and addictive than before.
Jackson, aka "Jax" is a former alcoholic and drug addict and he has been holding for more than three months, but at the slightest delay, his friends in the group doubt he has slipped back towards his addictions. His only remaining addiction is sex. He meets Ava a younger rock star, much better known than the Red Letter, whose role will be to be the openener of her tour. She seems disturbed too, but we don't really know why. However, she quickly understands Jax, and although he wants to protect her from his latest addiction, they can not help but fall in love. At the same time, the story of Danny and Kate begun in the previous books, continues.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
An excellent story of redemption that continues the story of the members of the group Red Letter. The characters are still complex, but I had immediate empathy for them, for their fragility and their desire to live something new, to change what is wrong. It's always as well written, deep and addictive than before.
Jackson, aka "Jax" is a former alcoholic and drug addict and he has been holding for more than three months, but at the slightest delay, his friends in the group doubt he has slipped back towards his addictions. His only remaining addiction is sex. He meets Ava a younger rock star, much better known than the Red Letter, whose role will be to be the openener of her tour. She seems disturbed too, but we don't really know why. However, she quickly understands Jax, and although he wants to protect her from his latest addiction, they can not help but fall in love. At the same time, the story of Danny and Kate begun in the previous books, continues.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
August 11, 2018
I’ve read every book in this series and I can’t decide which character is my favorite!
We finally get the chance to really know Jax. We already learned some basics about him from Jera & Danny’s books. Yes, he’s a bit of a rockstar playboy. Yes, he’s dealing with some demons. But those layers have been peeled back and we get to see his true beautiful, broken soul. This book was...it’s really difficult to put into words. It was an extremely emotional roller coaster ride with some great news,some devastating news, and a romance with amazing highs and lows! If I wasn’t fully invested in Jax before this book, I definitely am now. My heart actually aches for him. I love all of these characters so much that I DO NOT WANT THIS TO BE THE END! I am desperately waiting for more of The Red Letters!!!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
We finally get the chance to really know Jax. We already learned some basics about him from Jera & Danny’s books. Yes, he’s a bit of a rockstar playboy. Yes, he’s dealing with some demons. But those layers have been peeled back and we get to see his true beautiful, broken soul. This book was...it’s really difficult to put into words. It was an extremely emotional roller coaster ride with some great news,some devastating news, and a romance with amazing highs and lows! If I wasn’t fully invested in Jax before this book, I definitely am now. My heart actually aches for him. I love all of these characters so much that I DO NOT WANT THIS TO BE THE END! I am desperately waiting for more of The Red Letters!!!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
November 13, 2018
I read this book in 24 hours. Like...who needs sleep?
I loved Jacob and Danny, but I wasn't sure how I would connect with Jax. He isn't the kind of person I would be close to in real life, but of course, Michelle made me feel for him too!
He's broken and damaged and hurting, so it makes sense this book was a little darker, a little more painful to get through. He has a lot of shit to deal with. BUT...seeing through his eyes made me empathize for his behavior and see why everyone loves him, despite his troubles.
I loved him and Ava, I loved how the band made him feel loved and accepted, and I loved where everyone ended up.
And yet again, the sex was hot!lol
I loved Jacob and Danny, but I wasn't sure how I would connect with Jax. He isn't the kind of person I would be close to in real life, but of course, Michelle made me feel for him too!
He's broken and damaged and hurting, so it makes sense this book was a little darker, a little more painful to get through. He has a lot of shit to deal with. BUT...seeing through his eyes made me empathize for his behavior and see why everyone loves him, despite his troubles.
I loved him and Ava, I loved how the band made him feel loved and accepted, and I loved where everyone ended up.
And yet again, the sex was hot!lol
November 15, 2018
Wow just wow
I was not expected this conclusion. I feel like I have waited so long for Jax's story and I was not disappointed. It is definitely my favorite in the series. This boom was all about Jax's redemption. And how he over came his struggles and his secrets. I would recommend this series for sure.
I was not expected this conclusion. I feel like I have waited so long for Jax's story and I was not disappointed. It is definitely my favorite in the series. This boom was all about Jax's redemption. And how he over came his struggles and his secrets. I would recommend this series for sure.
June 21, 2018
This is an ugly cry. The raw and deep emotions broke and put me back together again.
Ok, grab some tissues and welcome to the mega tour!
When we first met AVA, she’s this super badass rock and roll princess. She’s strong, she’s in charge and she’s the boss.
When we last see Jax, he’s in his worst possible place. Off tour and still using drugs, his best friend getting married...
When we meet them again, we see all these new sides. We meet the AVA behind the stage: no make up, no costume, but still badass. Jax is in recovery, out of rehab and trying to prove to his band that he can do this.
Jax is such a puppy! He cares so much for his friends, even though he sometimes feel like the third wheel. He isn’t a bad guy, he just needs to work on his problems and this tour is very important to all of them. Inalways had a soft spot for him, but reading how he felt out of place most of the time in his own band, crushed me.
I really enjoyed that we get to see the band’s dynamic a bit more in this, and is part of Jax personallity to have them so involved in this story. We get to see how close the three of them really are, and how much they care and need each other.
AVA and Jax can complement each other very well, he can really tell most of the things AVA needs and while she is a bit noisy in Jax’s life she does want to hell him and teaches him a lot along the way too. They bond over their fears and their friendship is so sweet and pure!
Is hard to talk about the growth they both had without giving away the plot, but the emotions I had with this broke me. I had to stop and take a few days because I was really wondering how the author was going to fix them and I hate sad endings.
She touches delicates subjects, and does so in a raw way, respectful of the issues and making you care so much for these characters that we came to love.
Insatiable is about learning to love yourself and let others love you with your flaws and all. While Jax is the one who makes more of the discovery, I think we see all the characters learn and grow a little.
Michelle gives us a powerful journey, raw emotions and high intensity in this rock and roll romance.
Ok, grab some tissues and welcome to the mega tour!
When we first met AVA, she’s this super badass rock and roll princess. She’s strong, she’s in charge and she’s the boss.
When we last see Jax, he’s in his worst possible place. Off tour and still using drugs, his best friend getting married...
When we meet them again, we see all these new sides. We meet the AVA behind the stage: no make up, no costume, but still badass. Jax is in recovery, out of rehab and trying to prove to his band that he can do this.
Jax is such a puppy! He cares so much for his friends, even though he sometimes feel like the third wheel. He isn’t a bad guy, he just needs to work on his problems and this tour is very important to all of them. Inalways had a soft spot for him, but reading how he felt out of place most of the time in his own band, crushed me.
I really enjoyed that we get to see the band’s dynamic a bit more in this, and is part of Jax personallity to have them so involved in this story. We get to see how close the three of them really are, and how much they care and need each other.
AVA and Jax can complement each other very well, he can really tell most of the things AVA needs and while she is a bit noisy in Jax’s life she does want to hell him and teaches him a lot along the way too. They bond over their fears and their friendship is so sweet and pure!
Is hard to talk about the growth they both had without giving away the plot, but the emotions I had with this broke me. I had to stop and take a few days because I was really wondering how the author was going to fix them and I hate sad endings.
She touches delicates subjects, and does so in a raw way, respectful of the issues and making you care so much for these characters that we came to love.
Insatiable is about learning to love yourself and let others love you with your flaws and all. While Jax is the one who makes more of the discovery, I think we see all the characters learn and grow a little.
Michelle gives us a powerful journey, raw emotions and high intensity in this rock and roll romance.
June 27, 2018
Thank you to Barclay Publicity for giving me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was probably the story that I've been waiting for the most, out of all of them. Ever since the first book, A Cruel Kind of Beautiful, and then the two subsequent sequels after that (Playing the Pauses, Tie Me Down), there's just been something about Jackson Sterling in those previous three books that really had me feeling sympathetic for him because I just knew that there was a story there, for why he was living the stereotypical rock star lifestyle with the sex and the drugs.
To be honest, while there is a story there, personally, I would have liked there to be a bit more into Jax's background. I mean, with Insatiable, this is really just his story after he's been out of rehab for almost a year, and the struggles of an addict trying to find his place in the world without his drug of choice, as well as trying to love himself and learning how to love others, whether it's his band mates and family Danny, Jera, and Kate, or his new budding relationship with rock superstar AVA. The latter, as much as I enjoyed their journey to falling in love, I was a lot skeptical of how long it could possibly last because with addiction and getting sober, it's usually suggested that the recovering addict in question refrain from getting into relationships in their first year. I think at the time this story starts, Jax is roughly four months clean and obviously struggling.
Now, that's not to say that a newly recovering addict can't find love in his first sober year. I'm sure it happens more than we know, but considering how unready Jax seemed throughout most of the book, I think I would have preferred a longer separation until Jax was able to get his shit together, not just for Ava or Jera or Danny or Kate, but for himself too.
As for Jera, she pissed me off something fierce in this book, near the end. I won't say anything because of spoilers, but if you've read the book then you know to what I am referring. The story may have ended in a happily-for-now for Jax and Ava, but Jera seems to have gotten off scot-free, which isn't fair considering she used someone's past against them and she has yet to apologize for it. I know there's a 3.5 coming out as a sequel to this story, and I'm sure everyone will be all buddy-buddy in the end of that, but I want someone to actually shake some sense into Jera and tell her that what she did was wrong, and I hope that happens in Christmas with the Band.
All in all, I really did enjoy this story, I just wanted a bit more backstory for Jax, so I'm hoping that in what I'm assuming is a novella sequel coming out later this year, I hope we do get more of that backstory because I feel like Jax has a lot to say, and this book only seems to scratch the surface. I love Ava and Jax together as couple, but I just wish he was already in at least his second sober year before things started getting serious. But that's just my hangup.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
This was probably the story that I've been waiting for the most, out of all of them. Ever since the first book, A Cruel Kind of Beautiful, and then the two subsequent sequels after that (Playing the Pauses, Tie Me Down), there's just been something about Jackson Sterling in those previous three books that really had me feeling sympathetic for him because I just knew that there was a story there, for why he was living the stereotypical rock star lifestyle with the sex and the drugs.
To be honest, while there is a story there, personally, I would have liked there to be a bit more into Jax's background. I mean, with Insatiable, this is really just his story after he's been out of rehab for almost a year, and the struggles of an addict trying to find his place in the world without his drug of choice, as well as trying to love himself and learning how to love others, whether it's his band mates and family Danny, Jera, and Kate, or his new budding relationship with rock superstar AVA. The latter, as much as I enjoyed their journey to falling in love, I was a lot skeptical of how long it could possibly last because with addiction and getting sober, it's usually suggested that the recovering addict in question refrain from getting into relationships in their first year. I think at the time this story starts, Jax is roughly four months clean and obviously struggling.
Now, that's not to say that a newly recovering addict can't find love in his first sober year. I'm sure it happens more than we know, but considering how unready Jax seemed throughout most of the book, I think I would have preferred a longer separation until Jax was able to get his shit together, not just for Ava or Jera or Danny or Kate, but for himself too.
As for Jera, she pissed me off something fierce in this book, near the end. I won't say anything because of spoilers, but if you've read the book then you know to what I am referring. The story may have ended in a happily-for-now for Jax and Ava, but Jera seems to have gotten off scot-free, which isn't fair considering she used someone's past against them and she has yet to apologize for it. I know there's a 3.5 coming out as a sequel to this story, and I'm sure everyone will be all buddy-buddy in the end of that, but I want someone to actually shake some sense into Jera and tell her that what she did was wrong, and I hope that happens in Christmas with the Band.
All in all, I really did enjoy this story, I just wanted a bit more backstory for Jax, so I'm hoping that in what I'm assuming is a novella sequel coming out later this year, I hope we do get more of that backstory because I feel like Jax has a lot to say, and this book only seems to scratch the surface. I love Ava and Jax together as couple, but I just wish he was already in at least his second sober year before things started getting serious. But that's just my hangup.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
May 25, 2018
This Jax’s story. I would recommend reading the previous books the Sex, Love, and Rock and Roll series so that Insatiable makes more sense. The previous books have shown us that Jax, the lead singer and guitarists of The Red Letters, suffers from a drug addiction. In Insatiable, he is 4 months sober and is going on a long tour with his bandmates and their significant others as well as the famous AVA (who we were briefly introduced to in Tie Me Down (bk 2.5).
I have always had a soft spot for Jax. While he was in the other books, I didn’t feel like I knew that much about him, but I knew that he had a soft heart and was struggling. He is an interesting character. His bandmate, Danny, is atypically acting out and Jax is fighting an attraction to AVA. Both are things that are really messing with his mind and challenging him in his dedication to stay clean. He is a strong character with a big heart. He loves his bandmates and hurts when they hurt. He wants AVA desperately, but he has multiple reasons for acting on his feelings and desire for her.
Danny is going through some serious issues. At times, I really want to shake him for handling his situation the way he was for a huge chunk of the book. There are secrets, secrets, and secrets, all of which threw me for a loop once reveal. I really enjoyed the story, experiencing Jax and Ava’s HEA, and getting so see more of our favorite characters from the earlier books. The end was bittersweet - all my characters had HEAs, but I was sad the series was over - until I read the Author’s note. Look out because Book 3.5 is out in September!
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have always had a soft spot for Jax. While he was in the other books, I didn’t feel like I knew that much about him, but I knew that he had a soft heart and was struggling. He is an interesting character. His bandmate, Danny, is atypically acting out and Jax is fighting an attraction to AVA. Both are things that are really messing with his mind and challenging him in his dedication to stay clean. He is a strong character with a big heart. He loves his bandmates and hurts when they hurt. He wants AVA desperately, but he has multiple reasons for acting on his feelings and desire for her.
Danny is going through some serious issues. At times, I really want to shake him for handling his situation the way he was for a huge chunk of the book. There are secrets, secrets, and secrets, all of which threw me for a loop once reveal. I really enjoyed the story, experiencing Jax and Ava’s HEA, and getting so see more of our favorite characters from the earlier books. The end was bittersweet - all my characters had HEAs, but I was sad the series was over - until I read the Author’s note. Look out because Book 3.5 is out in September!
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2018
Jax is running late and doesn’t want his band mates to think he’s relapsed and wants them to trust him, they have a huge meeting with AVA, Ava was famous at thirteen, and now Jax has to see her without thinking about how she makes him feel.
After getting to know Ava with their first meeting not going as planned, he realises that she shows the public what they want to see not the real her.
Although Jax has always wanted Ava, he realises that he will never be able to offer her what she wants, commitment, he will never be good enough for her as he’s like his father and he battles his addictions.
After Ava lets Jax know that he can’t tell her what see feels, when they kiss Jax feels his whole body, tingle and know that something that feels that good he can’t trust.
Their band manager see how Jax looks at Ava and says that he could make it happen, after thinking about it Jax says he’s going to need a lot of help, Jax feels along with his other addictions he’s a sex addict.
Jax battles his addictions every day and when he’s world comes crumbling down for Jax, and how he battles to fight his addiction again only this time he not only has the bands support but Ava’s as well. Loved the story and although think reading the previous in the series would have given more back ground.
After getting to know Ava with their first meeting not going as planned, he realises that she shows the public what they want to see not the real her.
Although Jax has always wanted Ava, he realises that he will never be able to offer her what she wants, commitment, he will never be good enough for her as he’s like his father and he battles his addictions.
After Ava lets Jax know that he can’t tell her what see feels, when they kiss Jax feels his whole body, tingle and know that something that feels that good he can’t trust.
Their band manager see how Jax looks at Ava and says that he could make it happen, after thinking about it Jax says he’s going to need a lot of help, Jax feels along with his other addictions he’s a sex addict.
Jax battles his addictions every day and when he’s world comes crumbling down for Jax, and how he battles to fight his addiction again only this time he not only has the bands support but Ava’s as well. Loved the story and although think reading the previous in the series would have given more back ground.
June 28, 2018
Another great book in this series. Each can be read as a stand alone, and features a different couple, though at least one member of each couple is part of a band, so you'll see the same characters in each book. This book features Jax, the frontman for the band, who happens to have substance abuse issues. There's a lot of turmoil as he struggles to stay clean while things are thrown at him that threaten his sobriety. He also is smitten with the person they are touring with, so of course that even makes him more a loose cannon, because he doesn't want to do anything to ruin the tour or his relationship with his bandmates, be he has discovered being around her actually helps him. It's well written and there is a lot of heart in the pages. There is quite a bit of sexual content (and not just in the acts, but talk as well.) The characters are well developed and are complex. There are several topics that may be triggers for some people. There are a couple major life changing events happening to the band members that bring an even more powerful story... and leave you wanting to see more of each of them.
*I volunteered to review an ARC of this book.
*I volunteered to review an ARC of this book.
July 9, 2018
Jax is the true tortured soul musician, who struggles mightily with battling his demons. His pain throughout this story seeped out of my kindle, until it surrounded me completely like it was my own. See, not only is his pain palpable, but the self-doubt he constantly feels is crippling, and it bogs down his beautiful soul. And it was all of this with his addictions that made it feel very realistic. Then, Ava really pops into his life, and all of a sudden he has some light shining down on him, which he needed because he was still feeling so left out of his band. She gave him a new friendship, then the feelings followed as they bonded over their own fears, which has been basically holding them both back. Not to mention, the band dynamic is more in depth, as they play the part of the secondaries, but also learn to grow more throughout this story. The extremely talented Michelle Hazen really hit me in the feels with Insatiable, and my emotions are raw after reading such a powerful story. I know that I didn't get into in depth detail, but I was petrified that I would give something away. So, with all of that being said, I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
July 5, 2018
I've been looking forward to Jax's story since I started this series, and wow, it blew me away.
Jax is newly sober and out of rehab, just trying to find his place in the world, in his band, when he meets Ava, awesome fellow rockstar and all around awesome woman. I really felt the connection between these two. Jax was looking for belonging, and Ava gave that to him. She gave him love, she gave him acceptance and she gave him stability. Their journey is one of a lot of struggle, lots of pain, but healing and lots of love, too. Be sure to have a box or two of tissues with you when you start Insatiable. You're gonna need them!
I felt so badly for Jax, it was obvious he just wanted to be loved and to feel like he was as important to his band as they were to him. Yeah, he messed up with the drugs and the booze, but he deserved the same love that he gave them. Honestly, I got a tad angry at his band for their treatment of him. No, they were not to blame for his demons, but they didn't treat him like the good guy he really was. Thank God for Ava and the friendship then the love she brought to his life.
I'm going to miss this series but Insatiable was a great way to end it.
I received an ARC via Hidden Gem Books for an honest review.
Jax is newly sober and out of rehab, just trying to find his place in the world, in his band, when he meets Ava, awesome fellow rockstar and all around awesome woman. I really felt the connection between these two. Jax was looking for belonging, and Ava gave that to him. She gave him love, she gave him acceptance and she gave him stability. Their journey is one of a lot of struggle, lots of pain, but healing and lots of love, too. Be sure to have a box or two of tissues with you when you start Insatiable. You're gonna need them!
I felt so badly for Jax, it was obvious he just wanted to be loved and to feel like he was as important to his band as they were to him. Yeah, he messed up with the drugs and the booze, but he deserved the same love that he gave them. Honestly, I got a tad angry at his band for their treatment of him. No, they were not to blame for his demons, but they didn't treat him like the good guy he really was. Thank God for Ava and the friendship then the love she brought to his life.
I'm going to miss this series but Insatiable was a great way to end it.
I received an ARC via Hidden Gem Books for an honest review.
July 10, 2018
I absolutely loved this conclusion to the Sex, Love and Rock & Roll series! It’s a well written rollercoaster of emotions; at times heart-warming while also heart breaking and gut-wrenching at others. Jax is struggling to keep his hard-earned sobriety while coming to terms with his addictions and past antics and their impact on his bandmates and their future. Ava is a seasoned performer who’s struggling with career burnout and demons of her own. Their attraction is immediate and intense, especially as Jax has been fanboying on Ava since he was seventeen. When Jax reveals his deepest, darkest secret, will it send Ava into a tailspin or will this be the catalyst that moves their relationship forward? Jera, Jacob, Danny and Kate feature prominently in this story also, but they too have major life issues to be resolved that will ultimately test everyone.
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 16, 2018
I can’t tell you how happy I am to see Jax get his happily ever after. If anyone deserved one, he did. It was apparent in the previous books for his band mates that he had some deep rooted pain he was silently dealing with, and once the band began their climb to fame, that pain inevitably got drowned out with boos and drugs. So seeing him get sober and struggle to be better for his better friends and their band, was a true delight. And on top of that, he found the person to fill that void he was filling with his addictions.
I will admit that I expected this to be much more emotional than it was. I hoped there would be some resolution to the cause of his pain, but I was pleased with the end result. Also, though the other issues that affected the rest of the band were worrisome, I felt that it took away from Jax and Ava; however, in the end and overall it was a good read.
I will admit that I expected this to be much more emotional than it was. I hoped there would be some resolution to the cause of his pain, but I was pleased with the end result. Also, though the other issues that affected the rest of the band were worrisome, I felt that it took away from Jax and Ava; however, in the end and overall it was a good read.
July 2, 2018
I absolutely loved this conclusion to the Sex, Love and Rock & Roll series! It’s a well written rollercoaster of emotions; at times heart-warming while also heart breaking and gut-wrenching at others. Jax is struggling to keep his hard-earned sobriety while coming to terms with his addictions and past antics and their impact on his bandmates and their future. Ava is a seasoned performer who’s struggling with career burnout and demons of her own. Their attraction is immediate and intense, especially as Jax has been fanboying on Ava since he was seventeen. When Jax reveals his deepest, darkest secret, will it send Ava into a tailspin or will this be the catalyst that moves their relationship forward? Jera, Jacob, Danny and Kate feature prominently in this story also, but they too have major life issues to be resolved that will ultimately test everyone. I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2018
This book is hard to rate for me. I've read the other 2 books in this series, and I was so excited to read Jax's story. The writing flowed well, but the story itself was not for me. I put it down and came back several times, but I haven't finished it yet. I'm not sure I'll be able too. The social commentary in it is not what I read a romance for. Early on Ava and Danny have an argument, and I will say that Danny is mad at the world about something, and it's affecting him. But, never once in that argument did he call Ava a slut. It is repeated several times, and talks about how that makes Ava feel. I even reread that scene just to make sure. She says it, but he NEVER calls her that. I'm hoping I can pick it back up, I really want to see Jax get his HEA.
I voluntarliy reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
I voluntarliy reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
July 8, 2018
I liked the romance between Jax and Ava, despite it's slow pace but Jax's endless ruminations had my attention wandering during at least the first half of the book. Don't get me wrong, I loved Jax, I just wished he would get out of his own head. The second half of the story finally kicked into a higher gear with drama and heart-wrenching emotion. Have some tissues handy, I'm just saying...
This is a great series, well-written, with characters I love. Although Insatiable started off slow it really delivered in the last half and has a great happy ending. I highly recommend this series but in my opinion, you should read all four books because the band is like a family and each book is just one part of their overall story.
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance reader copy of this book.
This is a great series, well-written, with characters I love. Although Insatiable started off slow it really delivered in the last half and has a great happy ending. I highly recommend this series but in my opinion, you should read all four books because the band is like a family and each book is just one part of their overall story.
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance reader copy of this book.
July 9, 2018
Rip-Roaring Series Ender With Shocking Secrets
This is a rockstar story with twists an secrets that keep tightening like a tourniquet around your throat. What else could possibly go wrong (or right?) in the band’s past, present and future?
In a perpetual recovery from drug addiction, relying on sex addiction to cover up his pain and impulses, the final member of the band gives up his secrets. And nasty, shameful secret it is, that I would never have guessed. This is one troubled soul, and his match is equally troubled. They’re hot together.
Meanwhile, there’s extra torsion; a certain guitarist has his own secrets he refuses to divulge and his fears are mountain high, his head in sand a mile deep. And the drummer, well, life happens when you least expect it.
A rip-roaring end to this series.
This is a rockstar story with twists an secrets that keep tightening like a tourniquet around your throat. What else could possibly go wrong (or right?) in the band’s past, present and future?
In a perpetual recovery from drug addiction, relying on sex addiction to cover up his pain and impulses, the final member of the band gives up his secrets. And nasty, shameful secret it is, that I would never have guessed. This is one troubled soul, and his match is equally troubled. They’re hot together.
Meanwhile, there’s extra torsion; a certain guitarist has his own secrets he refuses to divulge and his fears are mountain high, his head in sand a mile deep. And the drummer, well, life happens when you least expect it.
A rip-roaring end to this series.
July 3, 2018
I have read all the books in this series and I just love the characters. There is SO much to this story - Jax's story - it made me laugh, it made me cry...there was substance pertaining to all the beloved characters, and then added in the dynamics of Ava, who has her own set of issues. This one kept me reading well into the night because I did NOT want to put the book down. I really hope this isn't the end of the series because I've really enjoyed these characters and would love to find out what's next for all of them... This story may not be for everyone as it deals with addictions, cancer and abortions, but in my opinion is was well written and heartfelt. Looking forward to reading more by Michelle Hazen.
October 22, 2021
Oh my! Hold on tight! This book is an emotional freight train on full throttle and it does not let off the gas. I laughed, I cried, and I loved every gut wrenching, absolving, emotional moment! It was the only possible ending for this band and this trilogy, and Michelle Hazen told it beautifully. Not just for Jax and Ava, but for all of The Red Letters - Jera and Jacob, and Danny and Kate. It takes skill as a writer to test the main character of a story in a consistent and believable way throughout the course of one book, and it takes incredible skill to do that across the course of three books that all focus on different characters, and then to tie them all together at the end with one great big giant knot. Love this series! Do yourself a favor and READ IT!!!
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