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Strings Attached
Ash Chambers was the boy from school who left an imprint on Calla’s heart. Little did she know, he’d always felt the same.
After five years away, Calla returns to rock Ash’s world all over again. This time, they’re no longer kids. Desires burn hot and their feelings grow deeper, but fate is not on their side.
Ash’s band, Koolum Law, is contemplating the chance of a lifetime. On offer is a record deal, a tour across America and their name echoed around some of the biggest venues in the world. But if Ash accepts, he risks leaving Calla behind.
Will Ash choose the band or fight to keep the girl who owns his heart and soul?
Calla also has hopes and dreams of her own, but chasing them could mean saying goodbye to the only boy she’s ever loved. Can she really face a future without him? Or will she give everything up to follow her Rockstar boyfriend around the globe?
Strings Attached is a sweet, slow burn but steamy new adult, second chance romance with twists, turns, and a ton of family drama.
Intended for audiences over 18 due to mature content.
After five years away, Calla returns to rock Ash’s world all over again. This time, they’re no longer kids. Desires burn hot and their feelings grow deeper, but fate is not on their side.
Ash’s band, Koolum Law, is contemplating the chance of a lifetime. On offer is a record deal, a tour across America and their name echoed around some of the biggest venues in the world. But if Ash accepts, he risks leaving Calla behind.
Will Ash choose the band or fight to keep the girl who owns his heart and soul?
Calla also has hopes and dreams of her own, but chasing them could mean saying goodbye to the only boy she’s ever loved. Can she really face a future without him? Or will she give everything up to follow her Rockstar boyfriend around the globe?
Strings Attached is a sweet, slow burn but steamy new adult, second chance romance with twists, turns, and a ton of family drama.
Intended for audiences over 18 due to mature content.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2021
About the author
Loriana Cappello
5 books512 followersBooks, travel and music are my biggest passions. Now I get to combine all three while creating contemporary stories with down to earth, real characters. From gorgeous CEOs, hot doctors or sexy rock stars, my characters are set within countries and cities I love although occasionally, the location is a combination of several.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 12, 2021
A bit of heat in a sweet and engaging story.
I loved this second chance, friends to lovers romance. A little angst, a bit of heat in a sweet and engaging story.
Ashton Chambers is an up and coming musician just on the edge of making a name for his band, Koolum Law. While busking on the streets of his hometown he spots the girl he crushed on in high school and has to come to her rescue.
Calla Bryson is a student with dreams of her own business. Both Cal and Ash have stars in their eyes and an eye to their future which seems to be veering them off in separate directions.
“...I won’t let her end what we have. I’ll fight with everything I have before that happens.”
Cal continually proves her resilience but when what starts as a summer fling quickly turns into something deeper she has to decide if she can trust her heart to survive the bumps and bruises of the road ahead.
Ashton is a swoony hero trying to balance his dreams and his responsibilities. Calla is a strong heroine who is navigating her way through so many bumps and twists.
-5 Stars!-
I loved this second chance, friends to lovers romance. A little angst, a bit of heat in a sweet and engaging story.
Ashton Chambers is an up and coming musician just on the edge of making a name for his band, Koolum Law. While busking on the streets of his hometown he spots the girl he crushed on in high school and has to come to her rescue.
Calla Bryson is a student with dreams of her own business. Both Cal and Ash have stars in their eyes and an eye to their future which seems to be veering them off in separate directions.
“...I won’t let her end what we have. I’ll fight with everything I have before that happens.”
Cal continually proves her resilience but when what starts as a summer fling quickly turns into something deeper she has to decide if she can trust her heart to survive the bumps and bruises of the road ahead.
Ashton is a swoony hero trying to balance his dreams and his responsibilities. Calla is a strong heroine who is navigating her way through so many bumps and twists.
-5 Stars!-
February 11, 2021
It has been a while since Loriana Cappello published a book (august 2019), but she’s finally back with a whole new story. Strings Attached tells the story of Calla and Ash, who know each other a long time. They where never involved romantically, but now sparks start to fly…
Ash and Calla are both in their early twenties and are living the life of normal students. Studying, part-time jobs, you know the drill. But where Calla is very serious about her studies, Ash is thinking about a whole different life as an artist. He and his band have a real talent and their dream is about to come true. Not knowing what the future will bring, Calla and Ash don’t want to make promises to each other. But it doesn’t take long before boundaries are crossed.
“Let’s not make promises we can’t keep. Let’s take what we have now and give it everything we’ve got.”
I love Calla and Ash, they’re good people who deserve to be loved. Both didn’t have the most normal childhood, but they both came out well. I love how they are with each other. Since they’ve been to the same school and had the same friends their friendship rekindles easily, but the love thing is a whole different story. They don’t want to fall in love, but of course they fail epically (in a very good way).
Like other books by Loriana Cappello, Strings Attached is about real people with feelings, insecurities and thoughts. In this book the characters are much younger then I am. My college days are long over (yippee), but I don’t mind reading about a couple in their early twenties. It reminds me of young love and a world of opportunities. Strings Attached is a sweet story with a wee bit of angst, but you know without a doubt the couple will end up together.
I love Calla and Ash, and their story. I can’t wait for future books from Ash’s band-members.
Ash and Calla are both in their early twenties and are living the life of normal students. Studying, part-time jobs, you know the drill. But where Calla is very serious about her studies, Ash is thinking about a whole different life as an artist. He and his band have a real talent and their dream is about to come true. Not knowing what the future will bring, Calla and Ash don’t want to make promises to each other. But it doesn’t take long before boundaries are crossed.
“Let’s not make promises we can’t keep. Let’s take what we have now and give it everything we’ve got.”
I love Calla and Ash, they’re good people who deserve to be loved. Both didn’t have the most normal childhood, but they both came out well. I love how they are with each other. Since they’ve been to the same school and had the same friends their friendship rekindles easily, but the love thing is a whole different story. They don’t want to fall in love, but of course they fail epically (in a very good way).
Like other books by Loriana Cappello, Strings Attached is about real people with feelings, insecurities and thoughts. In this book the characters are much younger then I am. My college days are long over (yippee), but I don’t mind reading about a couple in their early twenties. It reminds me of young love and a world of opportunities. Strings Attached is a sweet story with a wee bit of angst, but you know without a doubt the couple will end up together.
I love Calla and Ash, and their story. I can’t wait for future books from Ash’s band-members.
February 13, 2021
Strings Attached was an enjoyable book, cute second chance at love romance with some steamy scenes.
When Calla Bryson comes back to Braebeach for Summer break doesn't expect to meet her high school's unrequited love interest on her first day. Ashton Chambers plays some local gigs with his band, he doesn't expect to meet again the most beautiful girl of the school right before he signs a contract with a music company. They finally show their mutual interest and they decide to have a Summer fling. Are their feelings stronger than they expect? Are they ready to fight for their relationship? Or this Summer spent together will only be a nice memory?
I liked both the main characters and I was rooting for them. Cal and Ash are lovely, their journey towards happiness is not easy but since they start to go out together their love for each other is pretty obvious.
Loriana Cappello wrote well paced story, the characters relationships are well developed also those with the support characters. I have to tell you that there is a bit of a bully situation, not between the main characters, but it happened in the past and it is not too graphic.
Good read that I recommend to the New Adult novels lovers.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
February 10, 2021
Calla and Ashton met in High School and even when they were aware of each other, they ignored the fact of the feelings from the other and then they went of separate ways.
Years later, they meet again but Ash's life is about to have a 180 turn but this won't stop him to get his girl.
They have everything against them but they are willing to take the risk to make it worth because their love deserves a chance.
".. I seek her out, hoping to catch her beautiful smile for the Las time in a while."
Loved how passionate Ash was about his love for his career and Cal and how easy it was to fall for him and trust him.
"There was a time when the band was all I cared about, and music was my only passion, but things change."
I enjoyed not only their story but everything that was happening around them and I would love to know about some of them.
Years later, they meet again but Ash's life is about to have a 180 turn but this won't stop him to get his girl.
They have everything against them but they are willing to take the risk to make it worth because their love deserves a chance.
".. I seek her out, hoping to catch her beautiful smile for the Las time in a while."
Loved how passionate Ash was about his love for his career and Cal and how easy it was to fall for him and trust him.
"There was a time when the band was all I cared about, and music was my only passion, but things change."
I enjoyed not only their story but everything that was happening around them and I would love to know about some of them.
February 9, 2021
Sweet Second Chance Romance
Calla and Ashton are given a second chance since things seemed to get in the way the first time around. Now they have a chance again but still have some bumps in the road. This is a very sweet couple with an HEA that will melt the heart.
Calla and Ashton are given a second chance since things seemed to get in the way the first time around. Now they have a chance again but still have some bumps in the road. This is a very sweet couple with an HEA that will melt the heart.
February 12, 2021
I loved this book so much! I fell in love with the characters immediately and just couldn’t put it down.
Ash is just about to get his big break as a rockstar when he reunites with his high school crush Calla for the summer before she has to return to university. It’s obvious their summer fling has become something much more but can it survive everything else happening in both Cal and Ash’s lives?
I’m not usually drawn to new adult stories because they can be too juvenile for me but this was nothing of the sort. They were able to deal with conflict in reasonable ways that are so true to life. I could totally connect with the characters and understand what they were going through.
Such a sweet story with just the right amount of angst and just the right amount of heat ;)
I highly recommend this book!
Ash is just about to get his big break as a rockstar when he reunites with his high school crush Calla for the summer before she has to return to university. It’s obvious their summer fling has become something much more but can it survive everything else happening in both Cal and Ash’s lives?
I’m not usually drawn to new adult stories because they can be too juvenile for me but this was nothing of the sort. They were able to deal with conflict in reasonable ways that are so true to life. I could totally connect with the characters and understand what they were going through.
Such a sweet story with just the right amount of angst and just the right amount of heat ;)
I highly recommend this book!
February 12, 2021
This is a friends to lovers rockstar romance.
Ash is just starting in his career, maybe not the best time to find the love of your life but there she is. It is a sweet story with very British banter (which I love), some fantastic characters and obviously it's not all plain sailing, there are some interesting stumbling blocks along the way.
I loved watching the relationship between Calla and Ash develop, such an adorable couple. I particularly liked the epilogue giving us a sneaky look into the future.
I look forward to more stories from the Braebeach crowd. I hope that Dani in particular gets everything she deserves!
Ash is just starting in his career, maybe not the best time to find the love of your life but there she is. It is a sweet story with very British banter (which I love), some fantastic characters and obviously it's not all plain sailing, there are some interesting stumbling blocks along the way.
I loved watching the relationship between Calla and Ash develop, such an adorable couple. I particularly liked the epilogue giving us a sneaky look into the future.
I look forward to more stories from the Braebeach crowd. I hope that Dani in particular gets everything she deserves!
February 2, 2021
This book is amazing. It’s a second chance young romance with all the usual hurdles and a few others in the mix. Calla and Ashton were easy to like from the beginning and I enjoyed how they flourished and adapted to life after events from the past catch up on them. Some of the scenes were written so well I actually felt like I was there with them. Although it’s a young romance story it’s not just for younger people, it has a great story line, it’s easy to read and will have you laughing and hating some of the characters at times.
You just have to read this story to see for yourself how good it is!!
You just have to read this story to see for yourself how good it is!!
March 16, 2021
5/5 Stars
Strings Attached: A Braebeach Rock Romance by Loriana Cappello
This is the first book I've read by Cappello and I must say this is a great introduction to a new author to me. She had me hanging on the edge of my seat the entire time. It really felt like I was sitting right there watching it all happen.
Calla thought Ash didn't notice her, but she never thought that an accident could cause them to become close. After sitting there and listening to him play she realizes he's the one. The quote I chose for Calla is: “Jesus, I didn't have a clue. Like I said, one minute we were good friends, at least, I thought we were. The next he…Well, let's just say I will never understand boys for as long as I live. The stupid s**t you lot do is just strange. I swear you're all aliens.”
Ashton is the rockstar who has his eye on someone from school. When he catches her eye then he knows he can't let her go. She's the one who would stick through all the tough times with him. Ash loves her and isn't afraid to show her. The quote I chose for Ashton is: “I wanted our calls to be happy ones, not depressing, and I want this visit to be the same, so let’s move on.”
Highly recommended for Contemporary Romance lovers.
Strings Attached: A Braebeach Rock Romance by Loriana Cappello
This is the first book I've read by Cappello and I must say this is a great introduction to a new author to me. She had me hanging on the edge of my seat the entire time. It really felt like I was sitting right there watching it all happen.
Calla thought Ash didn't notice her, but she never thought that an accident could cause them to become close. After sitting there and listening to him play she realizes he's the one. The quote I chose for Calla is: “Jesus, I didn't have a clue. Like I said, one minute we were good friends, at least, I thought we were. The next he…Well, let's just say I will never understand boys for as long as I live. The stupid s**t you lot do is just strange. I swear you're all aliens.”
Ashton is the rockstar who has his eye on someone from school. When he catches her eye then he knows he can't let her go. She's the one who would stick through all the tough times with him. Ash loves her and isn't afraid to show her. The quote I chose for Ashton is: “I wanted our calls to be happy ones, not depressing, and I want this visit to be the same, so let’s move on.”
Highly recommended for Contemporary Romance lovers.
February 16, 2021
Strings attached is a NA romance that follows the lives of two child hood sweet hearts who never really got it right the first time. It is such an easy read and would be the perfect beach read because it's low angst but a really engaging story. It follows the story of Ashton Chambers, an up and coming musician waiting for his big break, and Calla Bryson who is the girl who has always been there but he never had the guts to do anything about it till now. Can their relationship survive the trials and tribulations of starting out in the music industry.... Well you will have to read the book to find out!
The characters and the story are well written and realistic although I think one or two of them got off lightly! I loved the fact that it was written about younger people as well but they were both written with a lot of maturity so the story really flowed and there were no real tantrums. I am calling dibs on Ashton as he is gorgeous and totally not egotistic and very down to earth for being in a band. Calla I enjoyed as again she was totally relatable and dealt with things in the right way.
It was such an easy read and it left you with a big sigh as you finished. I, for one will end up with a huge book hangover from this and need the next one now!
The characters and the story are well written and realistic although I think one or two of them got off lightly! I loved the fact that it was written about younger people as well but they were both written with a lot of maturity so the story really flowed and there were no real tantrums. I am calling dibs on Ashton as he is gorgeous and totally not egotistic and very down to earth for being in a band. Calla I enjoyed as again she was totally relatable and dealt with things in the right way.
It was such an easy read and it left you with a big sigh as you finished. I, for one will end up with a huge book hangover from this and need the next one now!
February 14, 2021
I'm not always a fan of new adult as it can be hard for me to really get into them since I'm getting old. However, that's not the case with Strings Attached because the story took me back to when I was college age when life was one big hope for the future before I became so jaded. Ashton & Calla met in high school, and while they had a connection, they never explored it because of bad timing. Now while they're in college, he has a record deal waiting for him if he decides to forgo his last year, and Calla has come across his path again. They decide to spend a summer together but nothing more but the best laid plans, amirite?! This story was a sweet with heat goodness of the second chance variety as fate stepped in to reunite them. There's so much hope in this story that I found myself just smiling throughout even with the angst that creeped in since both have a past that could make or break them so yeah, this is a read we all need in our lives! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
March 7, 2021
3.5 stars
Strings Attached: A Braebeach Rock Romance by Loriana Cappello is a YA contemporary romance story. It is a story of young love and the hurdles that we overcome to make it work. Loriana has given us a story of real people who are real and raw and how all their insecurities and angst when faced with being apart. These young people are just starting out and not in the normal conventional ways. The story was easy to read but flowed a little slowly to me. I nearly gave up but wanted to know how it ended. I enjoyed the story and the characters all bar one who I would shamelessly slap down and then stomp on for good measure.
Ash always had a crush on Calla and now she is back in town he is not going to let her go. But he is about to be a star but is it worth the price and is he willing to pay that price?
Calla’s one chance is standing before her and now her dreams are better than the fantasy. She is about to have her trust tested and will it break her or make her stronger? Not everything you see should be believed.
Strings Attached: A Braebeach Rock Romance by Loriana Cappello is a YA contemporary romance story. It is a story of young love and the hurdles that we overcome to make it work. Loriana has given us a story of real people who are real and raw and how all their insecurities and angst when faced with being apart. These young people are just starting out and not in the normal conventional ways. The story was easy to read but flowed a little slowly to me. I nearly gave up but wanted to know how it ended. I enjoyed the story and the characters all bar one who I would shamelessly slap down and then stomp on for good measure.
Ash always had a crush on Calla and now she is back in town he is not going to let her go. But he is about to be a star but is it worth the price and is he willing to pay that price?
Calla’s one chance is standing before her and now her dreams are better than the fantasy. She is about to have her trust tested and will it break her or make her stronger? Not everything you see should be believed.
March 9, 2021
Strings Attached: A Braebeach Rock Romance by Loriana Cappello. It is a story of second chances, love that never lost it's spark and a HEA.
Ashton is struggling with his responsibilities and trying to pave the way for his future. Calla is the girl that got away but has never lost her love for Ash and is set to win him back. Their history was fascinating and the way the author portrayed each characters was endearing, frustrating and passionate. Loriana Cappello is a new author to me, and it was a delight to read her story for the first time. The many obstacles in Ash and Calla's way was sometimes maddening, as time just never seems to be on their side. These characters were a little difficult for me to connect with at first, but overall their journey was a very enjoyable and relatable read. 4 stars.
Ashton is struggling with his responsibilities and trying to pave the way for his future. Calla is the girl that got away but has never lost her love for Ash and is set to win him back. Their history was fascinating and the way the author portrayed each characters was endearing, frustrating and passionate. Loriana Cappello is a new author to me, and it was a delight to read her story for the first time. The many obstacles in Ash and Calla's way was sometimes maddening, as time just never seems to be on their side. These characters were a little difficult for me to connect with at first, but overall their journey was a very enjoyable and relatable read. 4 stars.
February 11, 2021
Ashton and Calla met I high school, but life and bad decisions sent them on separate paths ignoring their feeling for each other. Years later Ash and Calla reconnect but there are still some challenges they needed to overcome along the way. This is a well written story which is a great 2nd chance romance story with engaging and realistic characters, witty banter, and is a sweet and amazing story. I was hooked and intrigued throughout, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
March 13, 2021
Strings Attached by Loriana Cappello a five-star read that will attach the strings of your heart. This was my first read by this author and its also the first story in the Breabeach Rock romance series and well it has simply left me wanting more, so much more. Ash and Calla will sweep you away, they have such passion for each other, but that passion is strong for more than just each other. What do you do when you love someone so much, you would allow them their wings to fly and follow their passions, would you be able to do it? This story will push so many emotional buttons, its well plotted and well written and even though the main characters are young, they are mature beyond their years. Do not miss this great author.
March 14, 2021
Strings Attached by Loriana Cappello is not your average musician romance novel. In Strings Attached, we see two people who have always had a thing for one another but have never been able to tell the other due to outside circumstances. Calla Bryson is back in town for the summer leading up to her final year of University. She’s not ruling out a summer “hook up” but isn’t looking for anything serious, but that all changes when Ashton Chambers, Ash, comes back into her life; helping her after she run headfirst into a lamp post. The two reestablish their friendship while secretly harboring feelings for each other. All the while Ash has to weigh whether he should finish up his last year of Uni or if he should sign his band, Koolum Law, with a record label that has been showing interest. Can their blossoming romance survive the trials and tribulations of everyday life as well as one of them becoming famous?
I really enjoyed this take on the musician romance trope. I liked the characters and enjoyed reading about how they were still growing up on their own, as well as how they grew as a couple. This novel does have a bunch of British/English slang that had me utilizing Google to understand what was going on. There is sexual tension between Cal and Ash, and we get a few sex scenes, but half of the time the scenes are more “fade to black” than explicit. This romance also was more of a slow burn, with the sexual and romantic tension carrying the first quarter of the book. Per Loriana’s Afterward, I look forward to reading more about the side characters in future novels, as well as what comes next for Ash and Cal.
I really enjoyed this take on the musician romance trope. I liked the characters and enjoyed reading about how they were still growing up on their own, as well as how they grew as a couple. This novel does have a bunch of British/English slang that had me utilizing Google to understand what was going on. There is sexual tension between Cal and Ash, and we get a few sex scenes, but half of the time the scenes are more “fade to black” than explicit. This romance also was more of a slow burn, with the sexual and romantic tension carrying the first quarter of the book. Per Loriana’s Afterward, I look forward to reading more about the side characters in future novels, as well as what comes next for Ash and Cal.
March 16, 2021
So, this tale had a nostalgic feel to it, one that took me back to how it felt to be falling in love for the first time, and how those feelings can stay with you. It’s a monumental thing falling in love for the first time, and I got to say that my heart broke for Ash and Calla and I wished for their happy ending.
Capello has a wonderful way of writing that is so delicate and soft handling the hearts of her characters with the care they deserve, whilst still dealing the heavy blows of reality. Ashton is at a monumental crossroads in his life, with a weighty decision before him that could make or break him. The last thing he needs is for things to get more tangled. But then it does, because Calla comes back into his life, after five years, she is just there, and she hasn’t changed. And neither have his feelings for her. Neither of them can deny that, though everything has changed for them, nothing in the way they want each other has, and over the summer they fall back in love. But if things were difficult then, they feel impossible now. Both know that the real world is waiting to sneak in and drag them back into reality, where their loyalties are pulled in different directions, away from each other.
I just thought that this was a beautiful read that literally made my heart explode with all the feels. Capello has written a wonderful tale that taps into the very heart of what it is like to fall in love all over again. I just adored every second of this and I know that anyone else reading it will too. It’s just so lovely.
Capello has a wonderful way of writing that is so delicate and soft handling the hearts of her characters with the care they deserve, whilst still dealing the heavy blows of reality. Ashton is at a monumental crossroads in his life, with a weighty decision before him that could make or break him. The last thing he needs is for things to get more tangled. But then it does, because Calla comes back into his life, after five years, she is just there, and she hasn’t changed. And neither have his feelings for her. Neither of them can deny that, though everything has changed for them, nothing in the way they want each other has, and over the summer they fall back in love. But if things were difficult then, they feel impossible now. Both know that the real world is waiting to sneak in and drag them back into reality, where their loyalties are pulled in different directions, away from each other.
I just thought that this was a beautiful read that literally made my heart explode with all the feels. Capello has written a wonderful tale that taps into the very heart of what it is like to fall in love all over again. I just adored every second of this and I know that anyone else reading it will too. It’s just so lovely.
February 13, 2021
Strings Attached is the first book in the new Braebeach series by Loriana Cappello. A new adult story about the trails and tribulations of a first love rekindled between Ashton Chambers and Calla Bryson. A second chance, friends to lovers, rockstar romance with some angst. I found it a thoroughly enjoyable sweet tale about a cute couple on an emotional journey. Brace yourselves though because Ash is adorable and an absolute sweetheart.
While busking one day Ash sees the object of his teenage desires . They last saw each other five years ago when he left school at sixteen. As fate would have it he is able to be the hero and come to her rescue. Calla has just arrived home from university for the summer, when she literally falls for Ash all over again. The sparks fly and even though they try to go slowly it is obvious the attraction and chemistry they have.
“I’ve never had someone in my life who I’ve wanted as much as I want you”
The history between the two is slowly revealed as their friendship blooms again and suddenly a summer fling becomes so much more. They know their careers are taking them in different directions but they have the summer to enjoy each other. Calla wants to finish her degree while Ash is torn between doing the same or signing a record deal. Calla knows how talented Ash is and it would be a dream come true for him to get the contract for his band Koolum Law.
"I’ve always known we would end up together. It just took you a little time to catch up,”
Ash is stuck between a wall and a hard place. His love for Calla, loyalty to his band and his family responsibilities. They work their way around having a relationship while facing up to the
outside influences and challenges thrown at them. Ash helps Calla when her past comes back with a vengeance and then their promise for the summer of no promises is put to the test.
Calla has had a hard childhood and it seems her adult life is determined to continue the trend.
Ash is determined to make it work what ever the future holds for them. He has faith in her and their relationship but is so worried she’ll forget him when they go their separate ways at the end of summer. Will they fight for each other this time? What will happen if Ash and the band become successful?
“One thing Cal. You, of all people, will never lose me. Not to the rest of the world - not to anyone.”
There is a good variety of secondary characters which gives the story a good balance and the reader a chance to choose who they like and don’t, ready for the next books. Koolum Law are an eclectic mix of lads, full of banter and enjoying the trappings that come with being in a rock band.
My favourite was Tommy and how understanding he was to what Ash was going through.
I loved how supportive Ash’s mum and Calla’s best friend Angie were, plus some of their comments really made me giggle. Going to be interesting to see who gets their story next.
Great epilogue with Ash full of confidence and so funny. I felt the problems and challenges they faced were realistic but be prepared for some shocks and surprises along the way. They say the course of true love never did run smooth !!
Merged review:
Strings Attached is the first book in the new Braebeach series by Loriana Cappello. A new adult story about the trails and tribulations of a first love rekindled between Ashton Chambers and Calla Bryson. A second chance, friends to lovers, rockstar romance with some angst. I found it a thoroughly enjoyable sweet tale about a cute couple on an emotional journey. Brace yourselves though because Ash is adorable and an absolute sweetheart.
While busking one day Ash sees the object of his teenage desires . They last saw each other five years ago when he left school at sixteen. As fate would have it he is able to be the hero and come to her rescue. Calla has just arrived home from university for the summer, when she literally falls for Ash all over again. The sparks fly and even though they try to go slowly it is obvious the attraction and chemistry they have.
“I’ve never had someone in my life who I’ve wanted as much as I want you”
The history between the two is slowly revealed as their friendship blooms again and suddenly a summer fling becomes so much more. They know their careers are taking them in different directions but they have the summer to enjoy each other. Calla wants to finish her degree while Ash is torn between doing the same or signing a record deal. Calla knows how talented Ash is and it would be a dream come true for him to get the contract for his band Koolum Law.
"I’ve always known we would end up together. It just took you a little time to catch up,”
Ash is stuck between a wall and a hard place. His love for Calla, loyalty to his band and his family responsibilities. They work their way around having a relationship while facing up to the
outside influences and challenges thrown at them. Ash helps Calla when her past comes back with a vengeance and then their promise for the summer of no promises is put to the test.
Calla has had a hard childhood and it seems her adult life is determined to continue the trend.
Ash is determined to make it work what ever the future holds for them. He has faith in her and their relationship but is so worried she’ll forget him when they go their separate ways at the end of summer. Will they fight for each other this time? What will happen if Ash and the band become successful?
“One thing Cal. You, of all people, will never lose me. Not to the rest of the world - not to anyone.”
There is a good variety of secondary characters which gives the story a good balance and the reader a chance to choose who they like and don’t, ready for the next books. Koolum Law are an eclectic mix of lads, full of banter and enjoying the trappings that come with being in a rock band.
My favourite was Tommy and how understanding he was to what Ash was going through.
I loved how supportive Ash’s mum and Calla’s best friend Angie were, plus some of their comments really made me giggle. Going to be interesting to see who gets their story next.
Great epilogue with Ash full of confidence and so funny. I felt the problems and challenges they faced were realistic but be prepared for some shocks and surprises along the way. They say the course of true love never did run smooth !!
While busking one day Ash sees the object of his teenage desires . They last saw each other five years ago when he left school at sixteen. As fate would have it he is able to be the hero and come to her rescue. Calla has just arrived home from university for the summer, when she literally falls for Ash all over again. The sparks fly and even though they try to go slowly it is obvious the attraction and chemistry they have.
“I’ve never had someone in my life who I’ve wanted as much as I want you”
The history between the two is slowly revealed as their friendship blooms again and suddenly a summer fling becomes so much more. They know their careers are taking them in different directions but they have the summer to enjoy each other. Calla wants to finish her degree while Ash is torn between doing the same or signing a record deal. Calla knows how talented Ash is and it would be a dream come true for him to get the contract for his band Koolum Law.
"I’ve always known we would end up together. It just took you a little time to catch up,”
Ash is stuck between a wall and a hard place. His love for Calla, loyalty to his band and his family responsibilities. They work their way around having a relationship while facing up to the
outside influences and challenges thrown at them. Ash helps Calla when her past comes back with a vengeance and then their promise for the summer of no promises is put to the test.
Calla has had a hard childhood and it seems her adult life is determined to continue the trend.
Ash is determined to make it work what ever the future holds for them. He has faith in her and their relationship but is so worried she’ll forget him when they go their separate ways at the end of summer. Will they fight for each other this time? What will happen if Ash and the band become successful?
“One thing Cal. You, of all people, will never lose me. Not to the rest of the world - not to anyone.”
There is a good variety of secondary characters which gives the story a good balance and the reader a chance to choose who they like and don’t, ready for the next books. Koolum Law are an eclectic mix of lads, full of banter and enjoying the trappings that come with being in a rock band.
My favourite was Tommy and how understanding he was to what Ash was going through.
I loved how supportive Ash’s mum and Calla’s best friend Angie were, plus some of their comments really made me giggle. Going to be interesting to see who gets their story next.
Great epilogue with Ash full of confidence and so funny. I felt the problems and challenges they faced were realistic but be prepared for some shocks and surprises along the way. They say the course of true love never did run smooth !!
Merged review:
Strings Attached is the first book in the new Braebeach series by Loriana Cappello. A new adult story about the trails and tribulations of a first love rekindled between Ashton Chambers and Calla Bryson. A second chance, friends to lovers, rockstar romance with some angst. I found it a thoroughly enjoyable sweet tale about a cute couple on an emotional journey. Brace yourselves though because Ash is adorable and an absolute sweetheart.
While busking one day Ash sees the object of his teenage desires . They last saw each other five years ago when he left school at sixteen. As fate would have it he is able to be the hero and come to her rescue. Calla has just arrived home from university for the summer, when she literally falls for Ash all over again. The sparks fly and even though they try to go slowly it is obvious the attraction and chemistry they have.
“I’ve never had someone in my life who I’ve wanted as much as I want you”
The history between the two is slowly revealed as their friendship blooms again and suddenly a summer fling becomes so much more. They know their careers are taking them in different directions but they have the summer to enjoy each other. Calla wants to finish her degree while Ash is torn between doing the same or signing a record deal. Calla knows how talented Ash is and it would be a dream come true for him to get the contract for his band Koolum Law.
"I’ve always known we would end up together. It just took you a little time to catch up,”
Ash is stuck between a wall and a hard place. His love for Calla, loyalty to his band and his family responsibilities. They work their way around having a relationship while facing up to the
outside influences and challenges thrown at them. Ash helps Calla when her past comes back with a vengeance and then their promise for the summer of no promises is put to the test.
Calla has had a hard childhood and it seems her adult life is determined to continue the trend.
Ash is determined to make it work what ever the future holds for them. He has faith in her and their relationship but is so worried she’ll forget him when they go their separate ways at the end of summer. Will they fight for each other this time? What will happen if Ash and the band become successful?
“One thing Cal. You, of all people, will never lose me. Not to the rest of the world - not to anyone.”
There is a good variety of secondary characters which gives the story a good balance and the reader a chance to choose who they like and don’t, ready for the next books. Koolum Law are an eclectic mix of lads, full of banter and enjoying the trappings that come with being in a rock band.
My favourite was Tommy and how understanding he was to what Ash was going through.
I loved how supportive Ash’s mum and Calla’s best friend Angie were, plus some of their comments really made me giggle. Going to be interesting to see who gets their story next.
Great epilogue with Ash full of confidence and so funny. I felt the problems and challenges they faced were realistic but be prepared for some shocks and surprises along the way. They say the course of true love never did run smooth !!
March 9, 2021
Strings Attached is a Friends to Lovers contemporary romance novel by Loriana Cappello. Before reading Strings Attached I had never read any of Loriana Cappello’s writing but I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely read more from this author.
Ashton Chambers and Calla Bryson were friends at school and both had a crush on each other but never did anything about is as Ashton’s best friend Scott made it clear that he wanted Calla. Several years on and Calla is about to start her last year at university and Ashton has to choose whether to complete his last year at university or leave and sign a record contract with his band Koolum Law. He’s finding it hard enough to make the decision without adding Calla to the mix.
I loved reading Ashton and Calla’s story. There is so much more going on than just their budding romance. There’s a LOT of family stuff going on to. I won’t go into it as it I don’t give spoilers but let me just say, it makes compelling reading. Calla and Ashton are both amazing characters. I totally fell in love with both of them and was desperate for them to have their much deserved HEA.
I would definitely recommend this book to others as it had me hooked from the very beginning and kept me captivated and entertained right up to the end.
Ashton Chambers and Calla Bryson were friends at school and both had a crush on each other but never did anything about is as Ashton’s best friend Scott made it clear that he wanted Calla. Several years on and Calla is about to start her last year at university and Ashton has to choose whether to complete his last year at university or leave and sign a record contract with his band Koolum Law. He’s finding it hard enough to make the decision without adding Calla to the mix.
I loved reading Ashton and Calla’s story. There is so much more going on than just their budding romance. There’s a LOT of family stuff going on to. I won’t go into it as it I don’t give spoilers but let me just say, it makes compelling reading. Calla and Ashton are both amazing characters. I totally fell in love with both of them and was desperate for them to have their much deserved HEA.
I would definitely recommend this book to others as it had me hooked from the very beginning and kept me captivated and entertained right up to the end.
March 15, 2021
This is a sweet friend's to lovers romance. I really enjoyed it. The characters were well written and engaging and you feel drawn in right from the beginning.
Ash is in his last year at university. He's also the lead singer of a band that has just got its big break. A record deal. If only life was simple. With a family he needs to help the decision to jump at the chance isn't an easy one and it's made even more complicated with the return of Calla.
Calla had left there home town years ago but now she is back for the summer. Ash is surprised at how strong his feelings still are for Ash. Can he take the chance he missed out on when they were younger?
With both Calla and Ash having separate lives they come together to enjoy a summer romance but that they leave it at just that? Will their feelings grow to strong to just be a summer fling? Can Calla's heart handle the bumps that will come with loving a guy like Ash or are they both setting themselves up for heartbreak.
Ash is in his last year at university. He's also the lead singer of a band that has just got its big break. A record deal. If only life was simple. With a family he needs to help the decision to jump at the chance isn't an easy one and it's made even more complicated with the return of Calla.
Calla had left there home town years ago but now she is back for the summer. Ash is surprised at how strong his feelings still are for Ash. Can he take the chance he missed out on when they were younger?
With both Calla and Ash having separate lives they come together to enjoy a summer romance but that they leave it at just that? Will their feelings grow to strong to just be a summer fling? Can Calla's heart handle the bumps that will come with loving a guy like Ash or are they both setting themselves up for heartbreak.
February 27, 2021
5 Sweet-Tastic, Music, Loving, Romantic Stars!!!
Strings Attached made me feel young again, had me reminiscing of my own childhood sweetheart who is now my husband. Our story, thankfully, was not quite as heart-breaking as Ash and Calla’s, but it did evoke all those memories of being young, in love and determined to make it work, when the odds are against you and those around you are convinced it will not work.
This is the first book of Loriana Cappello’s I have read, and what a great place to start! I was captivated from the first page, right through until the end. It is full of so many loveable characters and has the right mix of not so nice characters thrown in, giving the story that edge that has you sat on the edge of your seat, wondering what they will do next, and what their true intentions are.
This story is not just a romance story, it is a story about two characters discovering that some things had been kept hidden from them when they were at school, some things that change everything they ever knew and has them questioning their own thoughts and actions both in present day and from their past. Loriana Cappello has cleverly written twists and turns into this romance suspense, that keeps you turning the pages to read more, wanting to know what will happen next and how the story will end.
Strings Attached is a romance story I will never tire of reading; one I can happily read again and again.
Strings Attached made me feel young again, had me reminiscing of my own childhood sweetheart who is now my husband. Our story, thankfully, was not quite as heart-breaking as Ash and Calla’s, but it did evoke all those memories of being young, in love and determined to make it work, when the odds are against you and those around you are convinced it will not work.
This is the first book of Loriana Cappello’s I have read, and what a great place to start! I was captivated from the first page, right through until the end. It is full of so many loveable characters and has the right mix of not so nice characters thrown in, giving the story that edge that has you sat on the edge of your seat, wondering what they will do next, and what their true intentions are.
This story is not just a romance story, it is a story about two characters discovering that some things had been kept hidden from them when they were at school, some things that change everything they ever knew and has them questioning their own thoughts and actions both in present day and from their past. Loriana Cappello has cleverly written twists and turns into this romance suspense, that keeps you turning the pages to read more, wanting to know what will happen next and how the story will end.
Strings Attached is a romance story I will never tire of reading; one I can happily read again and again.
March 12, 2021
Strings Attached
By Loriana Cappello
5 stars
I will always pick up a rock star romance read – it’s one of my favourite genres to read about so when I saw this book and a new to me author I couldn’t wait to get started and I wasn’t disappointed at all! Strings Attached was a brilliant read – I absolutely adored Ashton!! He was completely swoon worthy and most certainly book boyfriend material (it’s been ages since one was worthy of my list!!) I loved Calla and Ash together, the way they navigated their friendship to maybe more. They both had a future that meant they were going in different direction but they had this connection that was so sweet and genuine – I was rooting for them the whole way through!
I would highly recommend this wonderful 5 star read and I look forward to reading more from this author again in the future!
By Loriana Cappello
5 stars
I will always pick up a rock star romance read – it’s one of my favourite genres to read about so when I saw this book and a new to me author I couldn’t wait to get started and I wasn’t disappointed at all! Strings Attached was a brilliant read – I absolutely adored Ashton!! He was completely swoon worthy and most certainly book boyfriend material (it’s been ages since one was worthy of my list!!) I loved Calla and Ash together, the way they navigated their friendship to maybe more. They both had a future that meant they were going in different direction but they had this connection that was so sweet and genuine – I was rooting for them the whole way through!
I would highly recommend this wonderful 5 star read and I look forward to reading more from this author again in the future!
March 16, 2021
Strings Attached: A Braebeach Rock Romance by Loriana Cappello. I love these books because I love music and what young girl hasn't dreamed of dating a rock star! This story lets you live vicariously thru Calla. Calla had left home for a few years but returned for the summer. Ash is in his last year of University and he is also the lead singer of a rock band Koolum Law. Their band has just been offered a wonderful contract deal and he's torn on what to do. He and Calla have been friends for a while and with her return he's really torn on whether or not to go on tour or stay and finish school and work on a relationship with Calla. Calla is not sure she wants to muddy the waters with Ash but Ash is shocked at how much he cares about Calla. Will Calla take a chance and go for it with Ash or will Ash decide to go on tour, the chance of a lifetime. Read Strings Attached to find out!
March 1, 2021
A lovely new read from Loriana, a NA / rockstar / second chance / friends-to-lovers sweet romance with a touch of heat, some drama and angst, all set in a quaint British seaside town resort.
Ashton and his friends are on the brink of making it big as a rock band, ready to sign their first contract, but not just there yet. He is still busking in his favourite spot when he spots a girl from his high school days who he had a crush on.
Calla is back in her hometown for the summer break when she runs into Ash, the boy she had a crush on but never made a move on her. They reconnect and talk about their high school days and their life since. Both have a thing for each other and are willing to see where their friendship will go, even though their lives are on different paths.... his a rockstar god and hers her own business.
Both Calla and Ash didn't have the best start to their lives with some difficulties in growing up, but have survived and are managing. Calla knows Ash is headed for stardom and does not want to put her heart on the line only for it to be broken. Ash is very determined to change her mind and wants her with him on his journey, but they both want different things and decisions have to be made.
They both fall hard for each other, but the British Press play their usual part in blowing something up out of all proportion and their friendship hits a huge hurdle that needs bridging if they are to continue together.
I loved their story, it was real and interesting filled with everyday struggles and strifes, showing how interpretations can often be very misleading. I'm not normally a YA/NA / rockstar fan but I did enjoy reading this and would recommend it.
Ashton and his friends are on the brink of making it big as a rock band, ready to sign their first contract, but not just there yet. He is still busking in his favourite spot when he spots a girl from his high school days who he had a crush on.
Calla is back in her hometown for the summer break when she runs into Ash, the boy she had a crush on but never made a move on her. They reconnect and talk about their high school days and their life since. Both have a thing for each other and are willing to see where their friendship will go, even though their lives are on different paths.... his a rockstar god and hers her own business.
Both Calla and Ash didn't have the best start to their lives with some difficulties in growing up, but have survived and are managing. Calla knows Ash is headed for stardom and does not want to put her heart on the line only for it to be broken. Ash is very determined to change her mind and wants her with him on his journey, but they both want different things and decisions have to be made.
They both fall hard for each other, but the British Press play their usual part in blowing something up out of all proportion and their friendship hits a huge hurdle that needs bridging if they are to continue together.
I loved their story, it was real and interesting filled with everyday struggles and strifes, showing how interpretations can often be very misleading. I'm not normally a YA/NA / rockstar fan but I did enjoy reading this and would recommend it.
March 6, 2021
Strings Attached by Loriana Cappello
4-stars
Strings Attached by Loriana Cappello is the first book in the Braebeach Rock Romance series and also my first book by this author. It’s a romance read that’s captivating, complex, intense, sweet and unexpected. A story that kept me entertained from beginning to end.
This is one of those reads that I found hard to get into at first, but the longer I read the more invested I felt in these characters and their journeys. This story was really well written and the story flowed seamlessly with plenty of drama in between. The amount of detail in this story is quite incredible, this author paints a detailed picture of everything playing out which kept me entertained the whole way through reading page after page.
I did find that at times there was almost too much descriptive detail which almost took away parts of the story for me, however, I quickly got over that as I connected with the characters. Now that I’ve gotten to know them I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
4-stars
Strings Attached by Loriana Cappello is the first book in the Braebeach Rock Romance series and also my first book by this author. It’s a romance read that’s captivating, complex, intense, sweet and unexpected. A story that kept me entertained from beginning to end.
This is one of those reads that I found hard to get into at first, but the longer I read the more invested I felt in these characters and their journeys. This story was really well written and the story flowed seamlessly with plenty of drama in between. The amount of detail in this story is quite incredible, this author paints a detailed picture of everything playing out which kept me entertained the whole way through reading page after page.
I did find that at times there was almost too much descriptive detail which almost took away parts of the story for me, however, I quickly got over that as I connected with the characters. Now that I’ve gotten to know them I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
March 9, 2021
I enjoyed this second chance romance story. This is a new author for me, I look forward to reading more from her in the future. This is a well developed story about Ashton who is faced with a major decision concerning his life. He can either finish his last year at school or go for the record deal he has always wanted. Not only is he faced with this but Calla pops back up in his life. She took his heart when he was sixteen and now she is back but will she steal his heart again? Timing has never been on their side but will it be this time? I enjoyed the chemistry and attraction between these two. I felt bad for Ashton in parts because of what he is faced with. They really made the story for me. This is a fun and easy story to read. I highly recommend this book.
March 15, 2021
Strings Attached: A Braebeach Rock Romance by Loriana Cappello is a great second chance, new adult romance. This is a sweet romance with some brilliant characters. I really enjoyed the connection the characters which I think was made stronger by the fact that they had a history. It felt effortless for them to strike up a friendship again.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed the way she came at quite a popular story premise. It felt like it was a new way to go about it instead of the same thing that has been read time and again. The writing had a great flow to it and the story held my interest. This book was a great introduction to this author and I am looking forward to discovering more from her in the future.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed the way she came at quite a popular story premise. It felt like it was a new way to go about it instead of the same thing that has been read time and again. The writing had a great flow to it and the story held my interest. This book was a great introduction to this author and I am looking forward to discovering more from her in the future.
March 16, 2021
Strings Attached by Loriana Cappello is a rockstar, second chance romance. This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I really enjoyed it!
Calla and Ash have history and now they are back in each other’s lives. Of course, the timing is not stellar as Ash has a decision to make and Calla being back in his life adds one more thing to consider. This time around they agree - no promises. Neither of them can guarantee anything and maybe if they don’t make any promises, no one gets hurt. Calla and Ash want different things but Will Ash convince Calla to take a chance?
I really enjoyed this book. It had a little bit of everything. There were sweet moments and angst. It doesn’t get much better than that!
Calla and Ash have history and now they are back in each other’s lives. Of course, the timing is not stellar as Ash has a decision to make and Calla being back in his life adds one more thing to consider. This time around they agree - no promises. Neither of them can guarantee anything and maybe if they don’t make any promises, no one gets hurt. Calla and Ash want different things but Will Ash convince Calla to take a chance?
I really enjoyed this book. It had a little bit of everything. There were sweet moments and angst. It doesn’t get much better than that!
March 17, 2021
Strings Attached: A Braebeach Rock Romance by Loriana Cappello - Review by
Gail Guerrero
Four Stars
I want all the strings attached. I want the mess and the neat. Give me all the promises to keep. I really liked this story. You have a young man with a lot of difficult choices to make. To finish school, sign his band to a record deal, his family commitment and the love of his life. This is where that saying “have your cake and eat it too” comes into play. He can’t please everyone. I loved how their relationship made no sense but was perfect. The author did an amazing job. It was well thought out and intense. Calla wasn’t what I expect but I wasn’t disappointed. Very strong lead characters. Definitely give this story a go. I will be browsing the authors page for more.
Gail Guerrero
Four Stars
I want all the strings attached. I want the mess and the neat. Give me all the promises to keep. I really liked this story. You have a young man with a lot of difficult choices to make. To finish school, sign his band to a record deal, his family commitment and the love of his life. This is where that saying “have your cake and eat it too” comes into play. He can’t please everyone. I loved how their relationship made no sense but was perfect. The author did an amazing job. It was well thought out and intense. Calla wasn’t what I expect but I wasn’t disappointed. Very strong lead characters. Definitely give this story a go. I will be browsing the authors page for more.
March 18, 2021
I was pulled in right from the beginning. While performing at the beach, Ashton comes face-to-face with a woman from his past. A woman that had his heart and broke it. He helps her after she is injured and misses an important meeting.
He is dealing with a big decision about his music career and his education. Calla is back for the summer and when attraction ignites between them they decide to have a “summer fling”.
Can they keep their hearts out of it?
I really liked the characters. Getting to read their second chance at something special was great. The author does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. This was my first read from this author, I look forward to reading more from her.
He is dealing with a big decision about his music career and his education. Calla is back for the summer and when attraction ignites between them they decide to have a “summer fling”.
Can they keep their hearts out of it?
I really liked the characters. Getting to read their second chance at something special was great. The author does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. This was my first read from this author, I look forward to reading more from her.
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