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Rich and Famous Romance #1

Saved by the Rockstar

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One man won't let her fall.
Another won't let her go.


Julie is a famous author who avoids the limelight. Her only interaction with the outside world is her weekly vlog where she connects with her fans. When she raves about the rock star who has inspired her writing, he actually responds. For the first time, she considers stepping out of the safe world she’s created for herself.

Ryland loves his music and performing, but not the fake women who come along with it. When his little sister shows him the vlog of her favorite author, he’s intrigued by how genuine and warm she is. As he pursues Julie, he’s forced to evaluate the direction of his life.

Ryland wants to meet in person, but as much as Julie wants to, it forces her to face the anxiety that has held her back all these years. With as much courage as she can muster, Julie steps into the world she’s been hiding from. Unfortunately, her anxiety isn’t the only threat to their happily-ever-after.

159 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 22, 2018

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Michelle Pennington

47 books284 followers

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5 stars
308 (44%)
4 stars
212 (30%)
3 stars
137 (19%)
2 stars
31 (4%)
1 star
10 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
Profile Image for Dora  Koutsoukou.
1,874 reviews432 followers
June 7, 2019
3 🎤❤️ ✍️ 🌟s

Although short and predictable it was a cute and sweet romantic story. Ii had potential but I think it wasn’t developed enough in many aspects.
Profile Image for Mara.
1,147 reviews67 followers
October 3, 2018
Michelle Pennington is a new author to me (this is only my second read by her), but I really liked this book. Julie is a writer with big anxiety issues, but she does a weekly vlog for her fans. She's recently discovered a band, Sterling House, and she REALLY likes them.

Ryland Sterling, of the band Sterling House, has a younger sister who LOVES Julie's books. When Ryan sees Julie's vlog videos he notices she's very different than all the other women who want to meet him just because he's rich and famous. They make arrangements to meet and have a connection right away. Julie's social anxiety issues don't bother Ryan and he's very supportive when Julie has an anxiety attack while at a convention. When Julie gets back home from Atlanta she finds out she's not as safe as she thought.

I really liked this rockstar romance. The way the characters met is believable in today's world. Ryan is such a gentleman in the way he treated Julie and wanted to protect her. This is a romance but it has a little bit of suspense in the last couple of chapters.

This is a clean romance with some pretty good kisses.
Profile Image for Alison.
1,325 reviews70 followers
May 4, 2021
Stars: 4
Length: Novella
POV: Dual
Series: Rich and Famous Romance #1 (Stand alone))
Ending: HEA
Re-read? No

“I want to be your home, Julie. And I don’t want to be away from you. Please tell me you feel the same way.”

This was a cute little read. I don't know if this would be considered a YA romance or a PG/PG-13 romance but there were definitely no sexy times beyond kissing. I wasn't aware of that when I picked it up but I'm okay with it. I get enough of that lovely smut in every other thing I read. It was just a sweet story of rocker Ryland and author Julie. They start an online/long distance friendship/connection that turns into a romance when she goes to visit him. Julie has big problems with social anxiety and hates to subject Ryland to them but he could care less, he wants to be there for her. Throw in some meddling friends, an entitled rock goddess, and an online threatening troll, you have yourself a nice little story.

I don't think this will be something that I devour all at once because of the sweet slow nature of the romance but I will definitely keep the next book in the series on my list when I need a break from hardcore romance and want something a little more down to earth. I think this series is worth checking out, just don't expect hot sexy time scenes.
Profile Image for Melissa.
2,254 reviews212 followers
June 18, 2020
This felt a little Young Adult to me. I enjoyed how they just jumped into the romance on this one. These are seriously the fluff I need right now in my life. I like the way Pennington writes and have enjoyed these:} This is clean with some great kisses.
Profile Image for Christina.
705 reviews28 followers
October 18, 2018
LOVED this Book!

I kindof have a weakness for famous singer romances. Is that even a thing? Either way, I really love to read clean romances between a swoony music artist and their love interest. There’s just something about the way they transfer the passion of their music into the passion they feel for someone else that gets to me.

This book was fantastic!! I really loved our two main characters, Ryland and Julie. Ryland has the good-looking rockstar persona down, but also shows himself to be just a good guy looking to find love.

Julie is an accomplished author who has issues with panic attacks. Yet she is still fun and kind, and I loved how even with the constant fear of having a panic attack she was resilient and kept trying to do hard things- especially when it involves Ryland.

Their romance was toe-curling, yet clean. I just can’t say enough how much I enjoyed this book! Definitely one I will be re-reading soon!!!
Profile Image for Cindy Hale.
Author 47 books386 followers
August 15, 2019
Fantastic Read!

I really enjoyed this one. I liked reading about how patient Ryland was with her anxiety and panic attacks. He was an amazing character. I also liked it that he didn’t live the wild partying lifestyle that most musicians live. His home was basically like my dream house so that was really fun to read about too. I used to live in Atlanta so I could totally picture the trees and sounds. It felt totally realistic.
Profile Image for Alisa.
780 reviews37 followers
October 4, 2018
Julie is an author who doesn't do well around a lot of people. Ryland is a rockstar whose livelihood depends on being around a lot of people. I loved watching them figure things out even when things got tough.

Content: Clean
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Profile Image for Bess.
490 reviews
May 1, 2019
Definitely a cute read. I called the antagonist the minute he showed up but that's okay. Yes, the book was very predictable but it was a fun read regardless!
Profile Image for Christina Morley.
Author 3 books19 followers
October 1, 2018
A Feel-Good Story with Some Suspense

Michelle Pennington is a talented author writing clean romances across genres. Saved By the Rockstar is the first book in her new Rich and Famous Romance series. I enjoyed the story, but the writing style was a bit stilted, which isn't how I've experienced her other books. The characters are likable and there's some suspense. Ryland is a famous rockstar who is used to crowds and the paparazzi. Julie is a famous author and more of an introvert with anxiety issues. She has an internet troll who also turns out to be a stalker. Can they mesh their two worlds and be happy together? What I liked most about the story is how plausible Michelle makes the way the two meet and fall in love. This is a feel-good story that will brighten your day.

I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Whit.
3,057 reviews32 followers
November 30, 2018
What a beautiful, (and clean), romance between a rock star and a romance writer. Julie suffers from anxiety to the point of avoiding crowds at all cost. How will that work as the girlfriend of a rock star? So she gives up and runs! Now what?
726 reviews9 followers
April 24, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I’m looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
Profile Image for Dena.
4,050 reviews13 followers
September 26, 2019
Incredibly romantic

I read the other book first with the movie stars and had to read about the rockstar. This was incredibly romantic and well written. The characters were amazing and I wish they were real. I felt like I was with them every step of the way in their relationship.
Profile Image for Shana.
34 reviews1 follower
March 31, 2020
Rushed and suffering from the most unsuspenseful suspense ever, it had potential that sadly went unfulfilled.

Julie irked me from start to finish. She lives with crippling anxiety and panic attacks, which was sympathetic. What really bothered me, though, was her insistence that she was broken and incapable of a meaningful relationship without being a burden. Had she never heard of therapy? If she was in therapy, how was she not cognizant of negative thinking and doing what she could to combat it? If she wasn’t in therapy, how could she be that irresponsible? She obviously is under a doctor’s care, given her popping Prozac to make it through a flight (which is its own issue–Prozac is for prolonged use, not as-needed like Xanax or another benzodiazepine), so why isn’t that doctor making sure she has the tools needed to improve her anxiety? Obviously the story couldn’t have played out as it did were she actually addressing her anxiety, but the whole situation still made me dislike her.

Ryland was better in that he was actually a functioning human being. He was rather a romance stereotype, though: a famous rock star jaded by the world of random hook-ups who just wants to Be Loved™. He also came across as a bit juvenile sometimes, with his inability to focus whenever Julie was around.

The relationship between Julie and Ryland was basically insta-love and so rushed as to be ridiculous. They talk on the phone and are suddenly desperate to meet each other and, upon their first meeting, are tactile and codependent. Julie’s at Ryland’s home for less than 24 hours before he’s introducing her as his girlfriend, which has a minor waver of unspoken protest before being completely glossed over and continued as fact.

The supporting cast was interchangeable or too peripheral. Ryland’s mother and sister were introduced just long enough to serve their purpose before being forgotten, while others flitted in and out for no apparent reason. (Chuck, anyone?) Also: anyone who doesn’t peg Heath as Julie’s troll within three sentences of his introduction should be ashamed, as his attitude was as subtle as a blackjack to the head.

The story could easily have been at least half again as long–which is an odd thing for me to say, as I usually go in the other direction. With the extra length, though, things could have been developed more gradually, without reading like stepping stones.

There were a lot of misused homonyms–the biggest one for me was vocal chords (cords, not chords), but there are several others in my notes. In general, the writing wasn’t bad, but felt superficial with the rushed story.

The story had potential, but could’ve used a bit more elbow grease to bring it out. I would’ve loved to see the relationship between Julie and Ryland develop with more depth, but it wasn’t to be.

Find more reviews at The Black Dog Reads.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for May.
1,474 reviews14 followers
November 3, 2018
So many things I didn’t like about this book I barely know where to start. The good: I liked the premise, the story of an author who has social anxiety. The setup is good. But much of the book quite unbelievable, even for those of us who are willing to suspend disbelief for these books. Interestingly I found the most unbelievable details to be on the author characters ‘s part. Mostly I had problems when the fact that this book is very much a tell and now show. For story where the characters are supposed to be separated and fall in love, I really want to see that develop and in this story it was the equivalent of a montage. I don’t like that at all. Mostly it gets more than a 1 star because I liked the story wrap up, sure the bad guy was predictable and unoriginal but it was still satisfying.
Profile Image for Julianne Bellardo.
98 reviews23 followers
October 6, 2018
This is the first book I read from this author, and though I pretty much enjoyed the story, it wasn’t a remarkable work.

I liked how she explored the situation with internet trolls and anxiety, and how people around us can run over our self-steam till we think we don’t deserve anything.

That being said, the almost insta love between Julie and Ryland, as well as the “true villain” was s bit common place to me. A been there, done that situation.

All in all, it was a very short, sweet story, a easy read for a rainy Sunday evening maybe.
Profile Image for Nicole.
757 reviews21 followers
May 24, 2022
I really enjoyed Saved by the Rockstar by Michelle Pennington. I am a sucker for a good Protector-Hero storyline and this novella delivered. This novella is a highly engaging story that I could not put down. In fact, I read this book in one sitting. I was pulled into the storyline from page one and pages flew! I really like both Ryland and Julie’s characters. I love that Ryland is a really good guy who also happens to be a handsome rockstar. He’s not the stereotypical playboy or addict. Instead, he’s well-read, athletic, and super creative. And he also pays attention. I love how he immediately feels a need to protect Julie. I love when a guy feels that way towards a woman. I think it is SO sweet. All in all, Ryland is well-rounded and perfect for Julie. Julie is just the woman Ryland needs. She is sunshine and down to earth. She is normal. When it comes to Ryland’s world, normal is exactly what he wants. I like that Julie is famous in her own right — she is a well-published, popular author of Fantasy-Romance novels, so she is no stranger to having fans herself. I really love that Julie is not the perfect, super-model woman. She is normal. She suffers from anxiety attacks. She has confidence issues just like any other woman. Yes, Julie is a pretty woman, but what matters more is her intelligence, her courage, and her creativity. And Ryland falls for the whole package. I love that! He could have any woman he wants, but he sees how wonderful Julie is and he goes for substance rather than outside appearances. Talk about a swoony hero!

Pennington packs quite a lot into a brief story. I loved Saved by the Rockstar and definitely cannot wait to read the next novella in this series. If you are in the mood for a well-written, sweet, and clean Contemporary Romance, then you’re going to want to check out this novella.

I purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on May 14, 2021, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
701 reviews1 follower
January 8, 2021
This was a good read. Short, romantic, a little suspense thrown in. I really enjoyed the characters Julie and Ryland. At first I was a little worried about the character Julie. I was worried that she would use her panic attacks and anxiety as a crutch. She tried to on several occasions saying Ryland didn't deserve to be tied down with her anxiety but he was quick to correct that. I can also see how she had that mindset due to the emotional abuse Heath was doing to her. That guy gave me the creeps from the very beginning. Im so glad I got to experience Ryland beating the snot out of him. Sometimes with a clean romance book im missing the romance aspect. It seems they go from thought of hes such a good guy to insta love without any connection or attraction. You can be attracted to someone and still keep it clea. This book did not have that problem at all. You could feel the heat, especially from Ryland. He WANTED Julie and it wasnt just a physical thing. Man I loved his character. He wax upfront, honest, went after what he wanted and stood firmly by it.
“I don’t want to rush anything, but I have to tell you—I’m not playing any games here. This is very real and very important to me.” Ryland talking about their relationship
“I want to be your home, Julie. And I don’t want to be away from you. Please tell me you feel the same way.”
How can you not fall in love with a guy like this! The fact that he wasn't hung up on some past, damaged, a player or any of the other cliche alpha male roles was just what I needed. He knew how he felt. He wasn't afraid to say it, and he wasn't afraid to go after it.
Not to mention the suspense at the end was perfect for the story. After reading this book I will be reading ALL of them!!!
282 reviews2 followers
September 25, 2018
This was a great book that I couldn't put down. I loved that the characters had real issues and they were supportive of each other in the book. The chemistry between Ryland and Julie leapt off the page. Julie had severe anxiety and a stalker that was making her life miserable. I enjoyed watching Julie battle her demons and come out with her head held high. Ryland had a heart of gold. I love that he had been through a lot, yet he had a gentle nature. The story unfolded well and had some intrigue with the online "troll" out to get Julie. I had to keep reading to find out what happened. My only disappointment was how short it was. I didn't want to let the characters go. This was a great clean romance that was satisfying. This particular book had some more heated elements of romance, but was not detailed. I recommend to those that like quick, clean romance that cheers for timid characters.
815 reviews9 followers
October 12, 2018
Edit errors, but cute clean story

There are some errors in this story. The biggest one to me was the airport scene where the characters are getting in a car and then it changes to a truck. That needs to be fixed. Overall cute fun story. I often find overly neurotic characters annoying because authors often overdue challenges, but I really liked Julie's character. She really struggles with anxiety and she seemed very real to me. This story though is pretty unrealistic, but what can I say...I like getting lost in a story.

Content: Clean. The end does have a little innuendo after the characters are together, but I still felt it was completely clean.
Language: Clean
Religious:No

Happy reading!!
60 reviews
May 22, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. It’s not that I don’t like a good billionaire love story, but they seem to be everywhere! This story was different. Yes there was mention of limos and large houses (with guest house) on huge properties, even talking about things rich and famous people do, like meeting other rich people, avoiding paparazzi, and going to award shows. But the general feeling in this story is much more grounded and down to earth! The Julie the author and Ryland the rockstar are both “famous” in their own respects, but humble and kind, family oriented.

I had Heath pegged from the very beginning!

This was my second or possibly third book by Michelle Pennington and I liked it so well I have downloaded two more!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Deanna.
998 reviews12 followers
April 9, 2020
An enjoyable clean read

All is not as it appears.

An author with anxiety issues has her account followed by a troll which leaves her even more anxious. She mentions on one of her blogs that she gets inspiration from Sterling House a rock band, one member in particular.

The bands little sister who follows the author sees her post and tells her brother.

What starts out as just answer a blog turn into a budding friendship. When she is forced to fly to Atlanta to promote one of her books which is being turning into a movie, he is there to greet her.

Their friendship blossoms but it will undergo some trying stuff before they get their HEA.

Well worth the read
Profile Image for Tiffany.
1,161 reviews8 followers
April 15, 2022
Contains: kisses only. This is one where I read it based on the author, but perhaps I don’t like this author’s writing as much as I think I do. There was something off about the writing; it seemed clunky and told rather than showed. The pacing also wasn’t my favorite. It is a short work but I found myself skimming as the narrative style was too much for me. I wished there was more development to the relationship and that coping with her anxiety was the main plot point rather than a crazy stalker.

Also, I wondered what about working at a cafe killed Ryland’s dad. “Yeah. She supported us after my dad died by working at a cafe.” 😂
Profile Image for Maddy Matos.
812 reviews7 followers
October 22, 2022
Ryland was a rockstar, lead singer of his band. He was just happy to be headed home after a long tour, he was exhausted. Julie was a fantasy romance writer, very successful. When she discovered Ryland’s music and loved it, she had to share it in her blog. This leads Rylands little sister seeing it and Ryland posting a reply on his sister’s behalf. This leads to video chat to meet Ryland and his little sister and from there, it’s daily phone call. They talk every day and they really like each other, and she’s feeling brave enough to take a plane ride. This story is short and sweet with some surprises that explains a lot. I really loved it, giving it five stars and highly recommend it.
805 reviews
September 27, 2018
This was such a sweet escape! I loved everything about how the two mains met, fell for each other, and happily ever aftered.
No stranger to anxiety myself, I found Julie to be an authentic, lovely character who showed positive growth. Her celeb author status was icing on the cake.
Ryland fits the perfect book boyfriend mold well while still being a unique individual. I also enjoyed reading about his interactions with his loving family.
In conclusion: fun premise, great writing, relatable characters, fantastic ending. I will be reading this again and again.
Profile Image for Cori Mcgowen.
235 reviews
October 14, 2018
A very sweet story

A very sweet romance, I enjoyed the characters and Julie and Ryland as a couple. I just felt like the book was lacking in depth. We didn't learn a lot about them as people, or anything about Julie's family at all or what happened to Ryland's dad and how long ago it was, or even how Julie and Heath became friends and how long they had been friends. I know it may not seem like a big thing but to me those types of details are important in a story, I want to feel like I know these characters and their friends and family.
Profile Image for Serena Fritz.
54 reviews2 followers
October 17, 2018
I don't like giving low reviews

This book felt to rushed. Julie actually drove me crazy. She had no faith in herself and I don't think she ever got over that. She was to woe is me. I actually hated her to be honest she made me want to slap her.

Ryland made the book worth it i enjoyed his character. I enjoyed how he was a clean rock star, but there was underlining issued with one of his brothers that after the build-up was fixed in 2 statements. No just no. I don't understand how this got such high reviews
Profile Image for Anne Wingate.
504 reviews15 followers
March 22, 2019
Cryin' Over --

Well, not over you, but maybe over Ryland and Julie.
Julie writes love stories, but she doesn't want to live them. Painfully shy, she is subject to panic attacks at the least thought of crowds or flying.
Ryland sings for a living, and that means crowds and flying.
So never the twain shall meet, except that they do.
Pennington writes so well that the reader moves into the world of the stories. That's good the best way to write.Recommended for all readers of clean romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews

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