Year of books!

I listened to my first audiobook in January and fell in love! Listening to books while driving all over town made traffic a non-issue (unless I was hungry or stressed or late, okay traffic is always an issue).

I started with Storm Front by Jim Butcher read by the best narrator ever! James Marsters was Harry Dresdren all the way. There is no one like Harry. He's good to the core except for his arrogance that can run amuck and his bad attitude that often quadruples his enemy tally every time he hunts bad guys.

Darynda Jones' Charlie Davidson also starred in my audiobook addiction this year. Narrator Lorelei King rocks the planet. She can do any voice in any genre. Despite the steam factor in this series, and oh boy, the best of the best has to be the friendship between Charlie and Cookie. I love those girls.

There was a bit of indie author love with Jana Aston, Katie Mettner, Michelle Mankin, and Dannika Dark. I reconnected with forever favorites, Kristen Ashley, team Ilona Andrews, Katie McGarry, and Patricia Briggs. And found a new favorite, Julie Garwood (historical romance with awesomely hilarious heroines). 

There were a couple nonfiction reads in there to add a little legitimacy to my book fervor. I loved loved loved Stephen King's On Writing memoir. He narrates the audio version and it feels like a weekend long seminar on writing, life, passion, you name it. Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing made the favorites list because the woman made me laugh about grammar.

Here are a few top favorites:

More Kristen Ashley Love! Buddy read time with Fire Inside!

Fire Inside by Kristen Ashley rocked. Laney Heron decides it’s time to start living again, at least the hot steamy sex part of living, and chooses Hop Kincaid to volley her into this new world. Hop’s never touched class like Laney. She’s always been this untouchable beauty and then he touches her (and more). He’s upfront with her. She’s explosive with him. Honesty and drama. It’s an addictive combination once you throw in a motorcycle club and romance. Bookworm Brandee and I buddy read it, which means we ignored our family, holed up and went on a reading bender, and then tore ourselves away from the book long enough to gush about it with each other. Here’s our chat.



(Brandee) I've been waiting for you to start this conversation but I thought I throw a few of my thoughts your way. :)

Can you believe how Lanie just propositioned Hop? This woman...she has cajones. And she definitely bit off more than she thought she could chew. I liked that Hop really had to consider the ramifications of what would happen if they got together. I'm still waiting for the shit to hit the fan.

I don't remember how far I was into or what exactly Hop was saying, but I thought that I love how simplistically he looks at things. Not like everything is simple but that in his world, things are this way or they're not. I like his way of looking at the world and his place in it.

I adore Lanie's inner monologues. Getting to know her history, what went down that was alluded to in Own the Wind, I can see why she was fighting Hop. And I could see why her brain was "fucked up", as Hop said. So getting to hear her thoughts on how she saw herself and why she thought she had nothing to give...yeah, that was some good stuff.

Hop's kids are AWESOME! Sometimes when authors put kids in a story, it feels wrong or like it's a plot device. But seeing Hop with Molly and Cody, seeing how they all interact, seeing Lanie with them...it feels right. And it shows this whole other level to Hop. One that I like A. LOT. And I agreed with Lanie when she told him, "You're a good man, Hopper Kincaid."

I'm really liking that although Hop and Lanie come from different worlds, and kinda live in different ones, they just work. I know it's because they both don't give a shit what people think - and that's an attitude I'd love to adopt - but don't you think it's something that a badass biker, who's obviously all Alpha, can deal with the fact that his woman is a corporate success? That she can provide things for herself? Most men would be intimidated by that. But Hop is all "Anything you need, lady, I'm there for you one way or another."

Which reminds me about when he first started using "lady". I didn't quite know what to think and was thinking it was kinda derogatory. When he explained, I melted. MELTED.

Lanie has a backbone, which I really like. Her standing up to her Dad? That was excellent!

Oh, and getting Hop's life story was also excellent. I melted some more when he told Lanie he didn't learn from his parents...he'd learned from doing. But he *did* learn and knew what he wanted to keep forever. *swoon*

Okay, I don't want to go on and on...I hope you're enjoying this as much as me. I have a good feeling that you are. You're so right...KA just does *not* disappoint.
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Two more things....

The mustache...you know I'm not a huge fan of facial hair. And I have to say that I didn't imagine Hop looking like he does after meeting him in OtW, but he's sex on a stick, even with the 'tache.

Aaand, he's my new book boyfriend. Because... "Music is poetry, babe. Each note is a word that's uniquely crafted to go with the next note. For me, the only way it gets better is if you put that to lyrics." Yep. Gotta love a man like that. ;)


(Rob) Oh, KA, I love you so much. Okay, now that the fangirling is out of the way...I could not believe Lanie's boldness when she walked up to Hop and propositioned him. And then the no strings attached bit was so convincing I was taking it one day at a time with them. Hop's reaction, his respect for her and ability to see trouble walking won me over immediately. When he walked through her place and told himself he didn't get to have a look around and get to know her that way, the gesture was generous in a way I wasn't expecting. He wasn't going to take what wasn't given to him. Book girl crush time.

It's a strange layout again with this one where we get bits and pieces of this big drama in Lanie's past but it worked even better in book two. The bits we were given we needed to understand the push and pull she was doing with Hop (and herself). Didn't you just love Hop's role as shield? He wasn't down with her losing all that beauty and life to the "monster." He was all about being part of a team in whatever way he could support her. And you are so right that her money didn't seem to play a factor with him just as much as him being a biker and member of an MC didn't bother her.

What about Hop's honesty? I was so shocked the first time he brought up a previous hookup and than even more shocked at her ultra grown up reaction. Do you think she could be like that because he made it so clear she's a lady to him and nothing less and he's never had anything but less? I'm thinking I'd tell the guy not to tell me about a bathroom stall bang. There is the age factor. He's 40, she's 38. Gotta say, that rocked! Plus he's a dad. You don't get that very often and the kids were awesome. There wasn't a forced parent makeover for a few pages in the book whenever Hop had his kids around.

Oh, the freaking tache! I'm so annoyed that KA has finally done it. I actually find it hot that Hop has a tache. Ugh! But he is so hot and man. I hated it on Luke and pretended to miss all facial hair references. Man!

Okay, I'm off to read more. Love being back with Chaos!
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I finished! It feels like I went on a reading bender and read it in a single day, maybe it's just that the story is right there, taking over my thoughts.

The music is poetry business was huge! Epic! In book one I wasn't impressed with the tidbits we learned about Hop, which was through Shy's and Tabby's eyes. I remember Tabby hoping the best for Lanie and it's so cool at the same time Lanie was thinking the same thing. That's one of the neat things about KA and always has been, girl solidarity. I loved the part early on with Lanie doing that stupid thing going to that rough neck bar and being sold out by a fellow girl. She was mostly pissed about that. And then how Lanie didn't like Hop's early descriptions of Mitzy. What a piece of work that one. Even Lanie's mom who has a long way to go to redeem herself never lost her girls' support when she needed it. KA also gives men credit too, not just with the brotherhood, but she lets them be deep and shallow at the same time and she lets them be so over the top alpha they get what they want, but boy do they work/pay for it.

Did you catch the part about the song doesn't have to be eternal, but if you have a rhyme to share, a story to tell, it's worth it? That had to come out of the heart of an indie writer. Well, and Debbie Macomber because she says the same thing.

For whatever reason I got a Rock Chick Revolution vibe, Ally and Ren's story, not the action, but the push and pull of the relationship maybe. Not sure, but now I want to re-read that one.


(Brandee) So, I had to wait until you were done because there were things I wanted to say but I couldn't remember where these things were in the timeline and I didn't want to spoil anything. :)

I believed Lanie when she said 'one night' too. But that admission she makes towards the end. Damn! That and all the things Hop had to say had me tied up in knots. Oh, and the "I don't get this" that they both felt - I broke my heart, honestly, because we could see how much they both wanted all those things they didn't feel they 'got' because they didn't have *that* kind of relationship. Even though they totally did.

The layout was similar but I didn't get lost in the timeline this time. I think it was because it was usually 1 week or 2 weeks later. I did like how KA presented the backstory in bits and pieces. I liked that those bits were usually given when Lanie and Hop were sharing honest moments and were laying it all out. It was interesting that they both had monsters that needed slaying - and that they were both able to help one another slay those monsters...they gave each other that.

So I was wrong about Lanie's job not being mentioned because it did end up being mentioned but that they each accepted one another, respected one another, just how they came was something. I think we *all* look for that in our friendships and relationships. Those two could definitely jump into the deep end over words, but I admit to being irritated when Hop told Lanie she should know what kind of man he is. Yes, that's true and she did, in her heart. But her monster would of course raise it's head over the information she'd learned because of her history. And yes, she pulled a drama over it - but Hop knew her and her reactions, so even though her words were awful, it shouldn't have surprised him.

Hop and Lanie were very intense...and although they kept certain things from each other, at least initially, they were nothing if not honest. No, I wouldn't want all his honesty if it were me. But I like that you said Lanie reacted in a grown up way. Because she absolutely did. I'm not sure I could be that mature. *ha* His words about how he'd never do her in a stall because a lady shouldn't be treated that way...crude but sooo swoonworthy!

And I was absolutely tickled about their ages being so close to ours. It's nice to read hot romances with couples who are 'mature'. *winks* I loved watching both Hop and Lanie with his kids. And you're right - he was always just Hop whether he had his kids or not. I admired that about him. But with Hop, you got what you saw.

So KA won you over to the dark side, huh? I admit I kinda thought Luke rocked the stache but Hop...H.O.T. I have such a vivid image of him in my mind and he rocks a 'tache like no one else. Mm-mmm!! (not that I want my man to grow one!)
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I'm still thinking about Lanie and Hop too and I've had to move on! But I gotta say I have a heckavu book hangover. KA always does that to me...

I'm glad you enjoyed the music element as well. I had to youtube You'll Accompany Me because I didn't recognize the title. And it must be said that after listening to the lyrics, it made that scene all the more poignant. I'd have been standing up in my chair yelling to Hop that he's the shit too! Man!! KA knows how to incorporate good music, doesn't she? It meant to much that Lanie was spending every night drinking wine and listening to Bob Seger when she and Hop were apart. Seger's lyrics really speak volumes about those two.

I have to tell you something...when I finished and I told my kindle to 'go to' the beginning, I realized that my copy of Fire Inside was an ARC from Netgalley. So those extra things you talked about with what Hop said about music? They weren't in my copy. And I'm thinking I'm going to have to buy a copy just so I can read it again - and see what changed. (yeah, that's totally the only reason why *winks*)

KA does have a way of conveying the importance of sisterhood - how did you say it? Oh, girl solidarity. Yeah. I do like how all her heroines have their girls at their backs. It is important. And girls should always back their girls - whether they know each other or not. You're right that she does the same for her Alphas. She stresses the loyalty factor between them and they do all have each others' backs...maybe more so than the girls, at times. I've not experienced a 'family' of friends having my back but I like the idea. And chickie, I've ALWAYS got YOUR back, distance be damned.

I didn't get the Rock Chick Revolution vibe while reading but I can see where it would have come from. There was a lot of push and pull between Lanie and Hop, just like with Ally and Ren, if for different reasons. I liked the push and pull between Lanie and Hop better because it wasn't just a matter of a misunderstanding or just being plain ornery. (sorry, Ally!) Lanie and Hop had been through a lot of shit. They had their monsters to contend with. But they had something special and I was so glad they fought for it. Although, I had my doubts a few times.

I'm thinking the second week of August for the next Chaos book. What do you think? My kids have band camp that week and it'll be a nice to lose myself in the Chaos world and not have to think about the fact that my kids will be scarce for the next 2 months. :)

(Rob) So you thought Luke rocked the tache? Luke. Mmm. Okay, back to Hop. When he went up on stage, weren't you right there with Lanie saying What? What? How could you add rock star to the already long list of awesomeness? I had to youtube the song too. You're right about KA knowing her music. She always seems to incorporate music into her books and in different ways.

One thing I'm still missing is the zaniness. I want some crazy and not just Lanie's brand of crazy that makes her break up with Hop a million times. But I get it, this is a motorcycle club and they can't all have a thing for fancy coffees and old bookstores. We did get a RC world cameo. Teeny cameo and it still made me grin.

Now we have book 3 calling out to us and this massive book hangover that is still hanging. So mid-August and we'll see who these two new characters are since they are both a mystery to us. Lexxie gave it 5 stars though. Oh, last thought, isn't it always a surprise how many pages KA's books are because we read them like they're novellas?

More KA. More buddy reads. I hope we get more of the Beneto storyline because I'd like to see his ass severely kicked. He is not nice.


(Brandee) I did think Luke rocked his 'stache. Man, he's all kinds of yum. Yet still not my favorite Hot Bunch guy. ;) I'm thinking Hop is my favorite Chaos guy though. But it is a close race because Shy...that is all. But Hop has so much going for him - his age, his kids, his honesty, his former rock star status, his knight in leather armor status...see what I mean? Totally my newest book boyfriend. :)

The zaniness is not there - I don't count Lanie's behavior - and I do miss it. I think KA tried to inject some of it with Elvira but since she's seen so little, it's not much zaniness. But I also like that there's a little more seriousness in this series. The Chaos brothers set a different tone than the Hot Bunch. They don't have a Tex or a Duke. But I'm thinking that's okay. I do really, really like that KA gives us glimpses of those characters though. ;)

Mid-August baby. We'll hit #3. I admit I'm kinda nervous since it's new characters but hey, I was nervous to start this series and it's been an amazing ride so far. I was glad to see Lexxie gave it 5-Stars because that means KA is *still* rocking. I don't know how I'll feel if she ever disappoints me. I don't even want to think about it, honestly. Oh, and yes I am always shocked at how long her books are. Because they absolutely do *not* feel long. I inhale and devour them and I know you do too. She's just that good. And I'm looking forward to a good ass kicking of Benito. He is not a good guy...

When life's kicking your butt, how about a theme song? [15] The perfect song for that book!

March is here. Impossible! My oldest starts up Special Olympics swimming this month and my youngest will continue with his art classes. My list is filled with author girl goals and find my spirit goals and hopefully wake up early and workout goals. What's your March look like? Whether you're just going to sit back and enjoy the cherry trees blossoming or you plan to kick your butt into action, how about doing all that to music? This month we're tapping books for inspiration.

Into the Mystic drops me into the book Slammed by Colleen Hoover. There's a part of the song where I can see the main characters dancing together, not giving into the temptation of crossing the line, but unable to resist having this one moment that says everything. Great freaking song.

Give Into Me from the movie Country Strong is so the book The Gamble by Kristen Ashley. I don't want to say anything about the book because I'm buddy reading it with Brandee only I accidentally read it before her. I'm a bad buddy, but awesome book and song, right?

Fangirl time! Bookworm Brandee and robgirlbooks duel review Rock Chick Revenge by Kristen Ashley!

5 STARS!! The second you meet Luke you want more and Rock Chick Revenge gives us so much Luke, I'm drunk on him. He teased us with Roxie and nearly made me faint (if I were the fainting kind) with Jules, but once you meet Ave you know she's the only one for him. Bookworm Brandee and I have been buddy-reading Kristen Ashley's Rock Chick series since we made a Superbowl bet and she lost (well, the Broncos lost-us blogger girls, we won). I found my Rock Chick in Roxie and now finally Brandee has found hers in Ava.

With all the criticism Ava grew up with from her mom and two sisters, she shouldn't have been able to remain a sweet and caring person. With all that Luke has seen and done in his life, he should be too much of a hard ass to want something as precious as the girl across the street when he was a kid. When the two meet up for the first time in years, the fireworks and attitude are off the charts. Keeping up with tradition, here's my chat with Branee about Rock Chick Revenge!

(Brandee) Okay, here are my initial thoughts and comments...

What was your reaction to Ava's visit to Nightingale Investigations? I was laughing at everyone being in on the joke and Shirleen telling Ava to just go with it!

I also laughed at Luke's entrance - and his comment 'too late again' but then I wanted to smack him with his seemingly unfeeling question to Ava!

So what do your Good and Bad Robyns wear? I'm thinking my G&B Brandees need a new wardrobe! ;)

How'd you feel about Luke's use of handcuffs right off the bat? Oh, and his Neanderthal'ing at the office?? Is he too pushy for you? Nah, me neither! I'm rather digging it! LOL

You know, I always wished I had a sister. But after how Ava's treated her - and seeing as how my little brother was such a schmuck, I'm thinking I'm glad I didn't.

I'm identifying quite a bit with Ava - being called fatty and four eyes. Although I didn't have a Luke to rescue me. I like that she chose to develop her sense of humor to cope rather than turning shy and quiet. 

Luke...well, I withhold judgement until I'm a little farther in. ;)

(Robyn) Okay, I'm typing this without my glasses on because I'm worried that if I'm wearing them I'll start reading more Rock Chick Revenge. And I need to sleep, but I also had to write back. 

Ava's good and bad angels rock the planet. Mine need a new wardrobe for sure. If I was honest they're probably in clothes circa 1985 since I haven't listened to them since I was a kid. 

Luke and the cuffs. I have no idea why Eddie's physical pushiness bothered me but Luke's makes me smile in a drunk way. Maybe because of the history between Luke and Ava and because we know he needs Ava to stay safe. Or maybe he's just really into cuffs. Yeah. I'm drunk smiling again. 

So you finally have your Rock Chick. I hate that you were teased like that. You didn't have Luke to save you because you saved your own dang self. 

You are not withholding judgement on Luke. You're mad about him in an Ava way. So go on and yell at your new book boyfriend and then swoon.

It took everything I had not to email you early, early this morning about Rock Chick. (or tweet at you) I have no idea where you are in the book - and I'll send a detailed email separately but I have to say that I have indeed found my Rock Chick. And Luke.............*sigh* The most surprising thing is that I've spent a great deal of time crying while reading this one. That's also how I know I've found my Rock Chick. Oh, and I'm not done yet. :)

No Rock Chick at all yet. And it's at a really good part (they're all really good parts)! Yay! You've found your Rock Chick. Roxie made me cry so much during her story so I get your tears. 

I cannot believe Ren. Holy goodness. Want. I cannot believe that Kristen Ashley spun everything on its head and put a bad guy in the mix. I know she's been playing with fire with Hector and Darius, but Ren is probably up for taking over his uncle's business. Right? And Ally wants him. She was yelling at him and wiping away his blood at the same time. And what about Mace? His story is set up. He lost track of the person he was guarding. Bad horny job. Man. 

I just love Good and Bad Ava's. They crack me up constantly. And the girl/girl wrestling scene had me laughing my butt off at the pool while the boys were taking their lessons. I had to put the Kindle down and laugh. 

I love the addition of Shirleen. I miss Indy and Tex and their brand of crazy, but Shrileen is almost an Indy/Tex combo but with Days of Our Lives in the mix.

Have you noticed that each Mr. Tough Guy Hottie throws around the word bitch? I don't like it and I want to hose each of them down with a fire hose whenever they use that word. One quick fire shot will do I think.

Is Luke taking over top spot for favorite Alpha or does Hank still hold the honors? Vance is still my number one, but I sure love how much he wants Ava.

Okay, that's my quick, not so quick Rock Chick check in. When are children able to fend for themselves? I need more reading time!

Sorry our Rock Chick convo is in separate emails. And I'm sorry I haven't sent many thoughts but I didn't want to ruin anything for you and I was reading a bit faster. BUT I wrote it all down...you KNOW I did!

Shit - I can't remember where I left off, so I'm going with

LUKE WON! 

Okay, I totally yelled at him a few (read: many) times. ;) But then, just like Ava, my knees went wobbly and I swooned. Yeah, I'm completely mad for him. And I don't like a 'tache but I'm totally digging on Luke.

You know who's super-fly? Luke Stark is super-fly!! I can't believe how much this man says with 'babe'. And when he does speak, the things that come out of his mouth...My knees are wobbly again. :)

How'd you feel about getting to see Mrs. Stark? Again, I love that the Hot Bunch, for the most part, come from decent families. Luke and his dad may not have gotten along but he was close to his Ma. 

What did you think when Ava said "Men suck,"..."They take everything. Everything." I thought it was a profound observation. But I love how Luke - well, especially Luke, but a few other men as well, showed her not ALL men suck.

So, at about 75% I think, Luke hadn't entirely won me over. I was waiting on him to say one thing...and then he totally said it. *swoon* And the confrontation with Ava's sisters...holy wow! I wanted to clap and I was totally balling my eyes out and jumping for you at the same time. 

I know we both love a strong heroine and Ava is strong. "Solid" as Luke said. But she just couldn't stand up to her mom and sisters. And I totally get that. So I didn't think less of her for that, at all. Because let's face it, she was pretty super-fly! That car chase scene when she's telling Noah off....anyway. So all the things that Luke said and did and standing up for her...but particularly standing up for her...that's how he won me over and I adored Ava for letting him 'save' her. Loved that scene afterwards (after the confrontation) too. ;)

Did you just melt at the fireman hold???

Ren...yeah, I kinda have a mini-crush. Yeah, I am delighted that KA worked a 'bad' boy into the mix. And it'd be fitting for him to win Ally. I hope we haven't seen the last of him. (I know who the next book is about but I haven't looked farther ahead than that)

I enjoyed the wrestling scene too - but I missed the bar brawl!! We could have at least had a throw-down with Ava's bitchy sisters. That would have been righteous! ;) 

How do you feel about throwing Olivia into the mix? And the bets on who's next?!? Laughing over that. Even Det. Marker getting in on it. 

SHIRLEEN!! Damn, I'd love her to be my Rock Chick mentor. She rocks! She has almost as much personality as Daisy - without the sparkle. *ha*  

I had a really sad realization, Robyn...there are only 3 books left. ONLY THREE!! This is a series I'm definitely going to re-read. But it's one that I'd really like to be able to read for the first time again. *sigh*

Oh, the Hot Bunch's use of 'bitch...are you talking about Luke telling Ava she's being bitchy?

Oh my gosh, your email is jam packed with good stuff. I fell completely for Luke when Ava's lies started amusing him. At first it pissed him off that she kept lying, then he just went with it. If he could do that and take her the way she is, a scared runner with a fiery temper, then WOW! 

The 'tache' was too much for me! I tried to accept Luke, but my mind made up a shaving session with him and Ava where she did away with it. But he did say some really good stuff. I loved how he studied her and waited for what he's been waiting for from her. Even though he was more trigger happy with the cuffs than the other hotties, he seemed the least pushy. Or was I just lost in some Luke Crush Fog?

You are so right about Ava being a strong heroine. First off, she loses her head and starts yelling even when she tells herself to calm down, then she commits to being pissed. I like that. She keeps it together She's an amazing bestest best friend. I love the lengths she went through to protect Sissy.

There was a lot of swooning going on for me in this one (in all of them). I wanted to have a chat with the mom and sisters, but never would I have been as awesome Luke. Holy cow! I thought it was realistic for Ava to be powerless when it came to her family. You either have to become unfeeling or uncaring or mean right back, and none of those things are Ava. 

For me the best thing about this story is the past Ava and Luke shared. It gave the story a slow build feel.

I loved the 'Moms' in this one. And Olivia being added was hilarious. I did not expect that. Actually, Rock Chick Revenge had the most surprises. I loved that. No bar brawl, you're right. Not much Indy or Daisy either. But Shirleen, I want to know her and give her puppy dog eyes (not that I'm capable of pulling that off) until she takes me under her wing. 

Oh, the bitch usage. I just remember a boyfriend once calling me that and it didn't go over well. Do guys really freely calls girls bitchy and bitch to their faces like that in real life and get away with it? I'd have a total bitchy fit.

Our Superbowl wager has been the best bet ever! This has been so much fun. I was sad this weekend that I already finished the book. And I've already been wracking my brain for other series for us to tackle.

SPOILER CHAT!

At the end with the wedding, did you think it was Indy's wedding? I did and I was totally put out that not all the Rock Chicks were invited and really hurt for Daisy. I should have guessed whose wedding it would be but I was too busy making exasperated sounds.

LOL It was amusing when Luke found Ava amusing. ;) I think maybe it took a few days for him to remember that about her?? I was falling for Luke for sure. But it wasn't until he said those things to her - those things I'd been waiting for him to say about how he'd always felt about her - that I really fell for him. Like I said before, Luke's not very verbose but when he decides he needs to be, the things that came out of his mouth made me melt. (and maybe my panties melt too ;) *sigh* Those Luke Lip Fogs...*swoon* And I'm not a 'tache girl myself. Well, let me restate...I actually find facial hair HOT!!! Soooo hot! I just don't like kissing it. *haha* So Luke's 'tache worked for me. 

Ava truly is the bestest best friend. I loved her internal dialogs - especially when Good and Bad Ava were involved. And I giggled when she'd be waiting on their input and they were nowhere to be heard.

I love what you said about how there's no way Ava could be anything other than powerless against her Mom and sisters. Too true - she Ava is far from uncaring, unfeeling or mean. I know I'm biased though, since Ava's MY Rock Chick! ;) Luke's handling of her family though...yeah, awesome! I was laughing hard when he asked if they'd visit often and if he had to be nice to them! And the history between Luke and Ava did give them the slow burn...and they burned so good. I actually love the trope of friends to lovers, so Rock Chick Revenge was made for me all around. 

You're right that this one did have the most surprises. I enjoyed Luke's Mom - Super Mom Stark. I wouldn't mind her adopting me, for sure. And that she'd picked up on the bond between Luke and Ava all along...that made me love her all the more. 

Yep, no bar brawls but it didn't lack for action, I didn't feel. That's one thing KA seems good at - varying the type of action. Shirleen added a whole nother level. I'd like her to mentor me too. And she wouldn't try to put me in sparkles and give me big hair! *ha* Olivia - I was kinda scared and thinking we were gonna get a brawl when she showed up. I liked Ava telling her like it is. 

I have no idea whether or not men really call us bitches like the Hot Bunch do...or the baddies...but I can see where you're coming from. I don't know that I've been called a bitch by anyone other than my brother, in a mean way. But a certain author we both know and love, refers to all us women who stick together as 'bitches'! *ha*

Yes indeed, this is one wager I'm happy to have lost. I am very sad we're almost finished with the series. BUT I'm thinking maybe we start in on another of KA's series. What do you think?

SPOILER CHAT

LOL Hell yeah, I thought it was Indy's wedding. And I was like WTF??? And why is Indy wearing that color dress? But when it was revealed, yeah, that was sweet. And it made complete and total sense. And it is weird that I feel like all these people are my friends and I couldn't be happier for Vance and Jules??? And that convo between Luke and Ava there??? *sigh*

I'm so happy you found your Rock Chick. Life demanded I read this one slower and when it was over and I didn't have bits of Rock Chick to sneak in while cooking or during the brief moments when the boys weren't talking my ear off I was plain sad. Yes to moving on to another KA series! Of course crazy lady. I cracked up when you mentioned one of our favorite authors and her favorite word. I think I heard her say "bitches" a dozen times at the Emerald City Author Event. Now, I love that use of bitch. I guess I'd just like to know what hot button word do guys not like that is equal to bitch. They could tell me. Your brother better have grown out of his name calling phase. I mean it. The sisters, I kept thinking Cinderella and the step sisters, but Ava has more fire in her (and lust). I have a feeling the next installment is going to be grittier. Or angstier. 

Luke and Ava. I'm all dreamy about them. Super Mom Stark was the best. I wanted to give her a hug and have breakfast with her. I freaking loved that last breakfast date in the movie. That was so funny. I wonder if KA laughs her ass off while she writes. She rocks the planet. So when are we going to start lusting after Mace and his rock band girl?

I took more time with Luke & Ava too - it was nice to savor their story. And you're right in the Cinderella comparison and about Ava having more fire. Yep, I think Mace & Stella's story will be grittier. It's gonna have to wait until the week of July 21 though. ;) Oh, and which KA series do you want to do next? Oh, I guess we have time to think about it. :)

My brother did get over his name-calling phase...probably about the time he got married! *ha* I'll ask James if there's a word boys dislike being called. That should be an interesting conversation. *ha*

Rock Chick Renegade Fangirl Time! Duel Review with Brandee Bookworm!!

5 STARS!! It's Rock Chick time. I thought I was a goner with Hank in the last story. Heck, I even crushed on Roxie. But Kristen Ashley wrote Rock Chick Renegade staring gritty and slightly broken Vance and closed off, balls-to-the-wall Jules. Holy crap! These two are so lost in the world. Vance has turned his life around but nothing has challenged him to believe he could have something more than a place to sleep at night and bad guys to track down. Jules has always been passionate fighting other peoples' battles, but when it comes to fighting for something for herself, the girl locks it down tight. She takes this fighting trend too far and messes with the wrong people. Insert protective Alpha Vance bossing around kick ass Jules and you have another great buddy read with my awesome friend Brandee Bookworm. As is tradition, we fangirled via email and here's our fun chat.

(rob) I'm loving Jules and Vance.

(Brandee) I have to go get kids up in a few but here are my thoughts so far on Vance & Jules...

I can't believe Vance managed to find the perfect woman for him!! I love Jules so much. I can see some of a younger me in her. She's tough and idealistic - it's probably the idealism that I relate to. :) And she has no idea of her appeal. I think her personality and not knowing she's a looker make a great combination.

Vance - he's just as much alpha as the rest of the boys but there's something different about him. There's something that makes his alpha-ness seem understated. Do you feel that way? It's weird because he's super bossy and all but I don't know...I think I'd let him tell me what do to, too. His Vance tractor-beam works outside the book, at least on me. I'm drawn to him and don't want to put him down. 

(rob) I don't relate to Jules almost at all which makes me love her even more than Roxie! I love her relationship with Nick and the guys who train her for the streets. I have cracked up so much in this book! I love Nick's morgue face. I love the hideaway bed. I can just see her making her whole place just right. And she does the stone cold face. I telegraph every single thing I'm thinking and feeling! I hate that. Enough Jules love. 

VANCE! He's dreamy for sure, but you're so right about his alpha-ness feeling understated. He's a thinker. And to me he's more vulnerable than the previous alphas. He wants Jules so much but he doesn't want to hold on so tight he crushes her. It's funny, but it's the fastest relationship in the series so far and yet it feels like such a slow build between them. I'm totally loving Renege even though I miss the music references and Tex and mom interfering, but there is a lot of Daisy and May rocks. I loved the whole bit about the cake. 

Is Hank still your favorite? Because Luke is available and flirty!

Another thing about Vance that's different...he's the first of the Hot Boy Brigade that is broken. He didn't live a 'charmed' life with a loving family. None of the other alphas, so far, have had a past like his. And this pulls Jules that much more towards him.

Oh, I'm loving Nick too. When he walked into Jules' house and found her and Vance? Classic. Also, that talk he had with her about not jacking with Vance. Also classic. I can't imagine a dad having a conversation like that but I love the relationship between Jules and Nick.

I want to be a head-crackin' mamma jamma! *ha* That cracks me up. Only a head-crackin' mamma jamma could be with a badass mother like Vance!

Denver men are men, indeed. What IS it with these guys hitting on their friends' women?!? Not that I'd be oppposed to Luke flirting with me. *fans self* I laughed...laughed over the kiss and how it felt pretty good but not Vance good. Sheesh! The guys have skills...MAD SKILLS! Next year Robyn, we're going on the hunt for a Denver man for YOU!

"Are you a badass motherfucker?" Oh my gosh!! That scene in Fortnum's had me crying I was laughing so hard! Tex is a riot! And I love him. He may not have been as present in this one (so far) but he steals every scene he's in.

Okay, I have a theory - which you kinda blew with your comment about not identifying with Jules - but I want to run it by you anyway. I think the universal appeal of Rock Chick is that there is something in every one of these chicks that we identify with...something we are, something we do, something we wish we did. I mean, I'm not like Indy AT ALL but there are certain things about her that I admire and wish were a part of me. What do you think? I think the same kinda goes for the men. There are things about each one of them that resonates...some more strongly than others. 

I adore Vance! I'm still a Hank girl but there's just something about Vance...

Oh, and I loved Duke's comment about Luke finding a woman one day and lord help us all! That was hysterical!

So, something you didn't know about me...before I began my illustrious career as a technical writer, I was going to go to grad school for a masters in social work. When I first started college, I wanted to go to law school and specialize in family law. That's where I identify with Jules. :) 

*Back to Rock Chick!*

Can I just say HOLY SHIT! Luke may be a man of few words but when he does speak...holy shit!!

Yep! Luke makes me dizzy and not Hank dizzy either. I have no idea what Luke is going to do or say. His book is going to be exhausting! You're right about Vance being the first broken Hot Boy Brigade (I was going to say Rock Boy). 

I do want to be like Indy, Jet, Daisy, Roxxie, and Jules. I admire them for different reasons. They are just such neat women. And the hot boys, heck, I love their code. Eddie was a little too physically pushy for me, but Jet liked him that way. Lee was a little too arrogant for me even though they're all arrogant, but Indy needs cocky. hehe. It's a math formula, a really hot and funny formula! 

I'm so there about finding me a Denver man! I laughed so hard at that. But I'm not sure I'm cut out for riding on the back of a motorcycle. I have 2 embarrassing tales. I still wince when I think about one of them, the other one makes me shriek and shake my head.

Hey, if you haven't bought all the Rock Chicks yet...most of them are on sale right now on Amazon!!

I'm finished...let me know when you are so we can discuss... :) I don't want to spoil anything for you.

I finished today too! I freaking loved it so much! I can't wait for Luke and Ava. I'm madly in love with Jules. I just love how tough she always is no matter what is going on in her head. I love that Vance can see her wheels spinning. Do you have a favorite scene? I'm partial to the date with Vance when Jules beat up the bitchy former lay and then the strip club scene. I think Shirleen (sp?) and Luke were the standout side characters this book. 

Did you miss the music in this one? I did a little, but the action was so great it was a good trade-off.

Me too. LOVED it!! It was a little grittier than the previous ones, didn't you think? I mean, I know Roxie was roughed up but...damn. Maybe it was because we were actually witness to Vance's reaction? Where we didn't see how Hank reacted? I don't know but I was tense and teary, I tell ya!

Jules really is a head-crackin' mamma jamma!! And I adore her! She's incredibly selfless...and just so dang perfect for Vance. *sigh* Yeah, Vance really did have her number, didn't he? 

Hmm, favorite scene...I'll have to think about that but I certainly did like the scene at dinner with Jules and Vance. And the strip club scene was even better! Smithie's reaction was awesome! *snickers* I still really like the scene at Fortnum's on Jules' birthday when Tex was letting her and Vance cut in line. Luke and Shirleen were DEFINITE standouts. Holy... But I have to say I did fall a little bit in love with Duke in this one, too.

Oh and BOO!!! I keep meaning to talk about Boo! Why am I such a sucker for animals?!? I loved that Jules was so close with her cat. *ha* Their conversations are hilarious and Jules translating what Boo's saying to her and to Vance...yeah, good thing Vance didn't speak 'kitty'. I really liked that Boo was a clumsy cat...that cracked me up!

Woohoo for the witch being...well, not dead but no longer employed at Nightingale Investigations. I hope we get a peek at that video sometime. I'm not gonna miss Dawn one bit.

Okay, I know I have more to say but I'm exhausted. So I'll sleep on it and we'll talk more tomorrow. Robyn - I'm SO FREAKING HAPPY we're doing this buddy read.

I've been a zombie since we started this one! Every Rock Chick turns me into a night owl even though I make all these declarations that I'm going to bed early, turning a new leaf, working on my bad attitude that I believe more sleep will magically cure. 

Duke was a standout too. Each book he contributes in these small-huge ways. I laughed a lot in this one. I also got teary. I mean, I'm rooting for Vance to have this wonderful love that Jules can share with him, but she has all these walls up and he doesn't knock them down. He waits for her. 

This one was grittier for sure. The runaway kids added a whole different element, a sort of detached love. Jules had their number like Vance had hers. She didn't pass out affection and big smiles. She was tough and always there. I loved how she never quit telling them to stop swearing. I missed Hank. We got a dose of Lee and a lot of Luke, but Hank was barely there. 

You're a sucker for pets in stories. That makes me smile. I loved that Boo was clumsy because I tell you what when a cat misses a landing I completely lose it. Just typing this makes me laugh at the possible falls. I'm mean like that. 

I think all the Rock Chicks should have a strip class at Smithies and Daisy should arrange it and then all the guys find out belatedly. What fangirl scene would you like to see thrown in? 

Oh, I am so freaking happy that we're buddy reading this series too!

Okay - my favorite scene...if I were going to go for funny, I think I'd choose the scene at Smithie's where Jules handles one bitchy skank OR Fortnum's on Jules' birthday. BUT I'm feeling sappy (I'll blame it on hormones) so I'm going to choose the scene between Vance and Jules - the moonlight conversation where Vance tells her what it takes for him...what makes him happy. *sigh*

As for a fangirl scene...I'd LOVE to see your scene with Daisy teaching the girls how to strip. But since you took that one ;) I'm gonna say I'd like to see (ooh, this is gonna sound mean) but I'd like to see one of the guys react, in person, to one of the other guys putting moves on their girl. Does that make me mean?? *ha*

I'm looking forward to Luke's story but I'm gonna just put this out there...Ava better be one incredible woman because Luke deserves no less.

My final thoughts: I adored Jules and Vance's story. This one really did have a different feel because Jules is one head-crackin' mamma jamma. She DOES know how to take care of herself and can get herself through most situations. And Vance, our first 'broken' alpha, melted my heart. (and panties) I'm still a Hank girl but Vance, for now, is my #2 guy. I enjoyed getting time with some of my favorite side characters though, even if I would have loved more time, especially with Tex. And I did miss the music...there were some references, but music didn't have as big a role in this one. Oh, and I'm looking forward to learning more about Hector. ;)

So, when is Rock Chick #5 up???

Rock Chick Time! Duel Review of Rock Chick Redemption with Brandee Bookworm!

5 STARS!! My love for all things Rock Chick began with a simple Superbowl wager bookgirl-style. The Seahawks won and I won a book that takes place in Colorado. Yay! I fell in love with Indy's story in the first Rock Chick. Jet was all kinds of nutty and sweet in Rock Chick Rescue, but I've been waiting for the girl I can relate to and the guy I can't stop thinking about and that book is Rock Chick Redemption! I'm nutty for Roxie. She's a fiery hot mess. She dresses to the nines (I do not relate to that particular trait). In the face of fear she raises her chin. And she makes the worst plans ever. But Hank, oh my goodness, Hank stole my heart! He's dreamy and bossy in the best way. He's smart and loyal and hot. And from the moment he sees Roxie he has to have her. Good stuff! Brandee Bookworm and I are continuing our tradition of fangirling over the book as we read it. Here are our chats!

(rob) First off, are we setting daily reading limits? It's way past my bedtime and I've been mostly good with going to sleep early-ish. But all I want to do is stay up and read the whole damn book! I love it.

The vibe is different, maybe because I do actually get Roxie more than Jet or Indie, except for the high maintenance girly stuff. I just love her, and Hank is my kind of Alpha. Oh man, my favorite so far. I love Tex! I'm curious about Eddie's instant reaction to Roxie. Was it just because of her appearance, or did she give off some girlfriend of a criminal vibe? And Vance, if this story didn't rock so much I'd be demanding his story right now! But I can wait.

I bet you love that Daisy made an appearance early on. How about that speed walking (or running?) to the burger joint? Ha! That's my kind of hangover remedy. Have you been to any of the places they mentioned? I've been on the light rail...hehe. Yes I have.

Look at how late it is, but I'm stopping. I have to. I didn't even do any work. None! Kristen Ashley, look at what you have done! (that's a Will quote)

(Brandee) Oh shit! If we're doing daily limits, I'm screwed. I can't put this book down! I've been diligently trying to take notes so I'd know what I wanted to talk about though. :) Does that count?!? How far are you? I'm at 56% and I was about to go outside to read more. ;)

Yes, the vibe is totally different. And I KNEW there was some of you in Roxie. I love her too, I gotta say. Of course, i don't get the girly stuff either, but I still love her. I think she's more sure of herself and wants to do right by everyone. And Hank...yeah, he's my favorite so far too. (go ahead, call me a slut! ;) I think I like Hank's brand of Alpha because he's such a gentleman...he says 'please' when he's commanding something. *ha*

I'm enjoying all the Springsteen references too. I like that this book has more music in it - I liked that about #1 as well. What did you think about "She's the One"?

Daisy - I adore this chick!! That she's ingratiated herself into 'the clan' is just fantastic! Yes, I loved the power-walk to the burger joint. That was hysterical even if it did defeat the purpose of a power-walk. And the outfit she wore for the Haunted House/maze??? Omigosh!

Tex being such a prominent figure in this books adds so much! He's such a hoot! And a total softie inside that Paul Bunyan body of his. ;)

OH, I had written a note about Eddie's initial reaction to Roxie too. I don't know what was up with that. Maybe it'll be explained...but maybe it was just a 'shit, she's trouble' vibe he felt.

I'd also made note of Vance's interactions with Roxie and what you thought of them...personally, I think he was kinda screwing with Hank but yeah, I hope he gets a book! AND we finally meet Luke! Andrea (The Bookish Babe) says he's her fav. 

What did you think of the conversation between Malcolm and Roxie at the police station?? I think I love Hank's dad!! 

AND I love Shamus!! I love that Hank has a dog and the he obviously adores Roxie just as much as Hank does. I think this may be another reason Hank is my fav - there's just something about a man who owns an animal and takes such good care of it.

I want your opinion of that lightning strike when Hank and Roxie first see each other, Ms. Love-at-First-Sight. It kinda rocked! ;)

The visit to the Haunted House/Corn Maze (yeah, I lived in Thornton for the first 13 years here) was hysterical...well, except for the whole Billy situation...that stun guns and body guards are standard issue on a night out with these girls is too funny!!

SO, I know I still don't know all the guys really well, but Hank is my fav so far. See, I made a choice. Although I reserve the right to change my mind. We sluts are allowed that right! *ha*

(rob) You know my opinion of the lightning strike between Hank and Roxie. I so believe in it. There is this sweeping rush through your whole body. that goes way beyond plain attraction because that's what fun crushes are for. Love at first sight is all about sudden courage, insanity, and freaking hormones! I love that Hank likes all of Roxie, her stubborn uppity side, her high maintenance side, her warm sweet side. He's just so in to her and she's crazy about him. Okay, I'm totally nutty for Hank. I love him like I love Adam from Mercy Thompson's world. He'd be a great werewolf. I can see these guys all furry and fangy, Can't you? 

I love Roxie's reaction to the secretary! I was waiting for it and I wasn't disappointed. I want to meet her just so I can mutter bitch under my breath like the rest of the Rock Chicks. 

You're so right about the music! I love the music references. I missed that in Jet's book. The sports talk is pretty cool too. And it really got me that they both see the other in a song.

What do you think about Roxie's mental battle with herself? Jet was all about thinking she was too dull to hold Eddie's interest, which was hard for me to understand. He liked her, so she wasn't boring for him. But Roxie's has this undeserving dirty girl bit going on and I just want to hug her. That's the downside to love at first sight. You make big calls for your life based on pure romanticism. Sometimes the guy is total shit like Billy.

Oh, oh, I love Hank's dad too! Jet's book was heavy on the moms, but this book is heavy on the guys from the hotties to Tex. What did you think of the Diablo playing? Did you remember that Anna and Cody from my books played Diablo II? I think Kristen Ashley is a gamer.

I'm addicted too! I put the book down at midnight and somehow I had my Kindle in my hand at 2am wide awake and wanting more!

(Brandee) *sigh* Yeah, I so believe in that lightning strike too. And that one between Hank & Roxie was a doozy! ;) It's fabulous that he loves every single thing that makes her Roxie. And he so totally does. Especially the stubborn part since that leads to the convincing. ;)

Yep, I'm a total Hank fangirl! I still reserve the right to change my mind but he's my favorite from the Hot Boy Brigade. :) And yes, he would make a great werewolf ALPHA! Each of them would be great having fur or fangs. Truly!

Roxie's reaction to Dawn was hysterical. I was laughing out loud. That girl is one class A bitch! To give Roxie a once over and then smirk! Whatever!

Roxie's mental battle had me shedding a tear or two - definitely wanted to hug her. I think the saying "you can't help who you fall in love with" applies here. And she couldn't help that she opened her heart to the wrong guy. BUT she 'started living' the day she met Hank. ;)

This book really does have a different feel to it - I still can't quite put my finger on it. But it's really my favorite so far. Maybe it's because of the focus on the guys - all the dads getting their two-cents in. Even Marcus showing his 'good' side. Do you think that's it?

Oh Diablo...that cracked me up. "better known as losing 5 hours of my life" or something like that. I knew the game sounded familiar but of course, I couldn't remember where I'd heard of it until you asked. YES! I totally remember Anna and Cody playing it. :) Oh, and Brody really makes me giggle...he soooo doesn't belong with the Hot Boys. *ha*

(rob) I just read the chapter heading, Denver Men are Men. hahaha That's what I think too! Not that I've sampled Denver men. I've spectated. I laughed so hard at the huanted house corn field place. Oh my goodness, to pair Indy and Roxie together. It was so funny. I want to read it again.

(Brandee) Yep, Denver Men are Men! I laughed over that one. I really dig the chapter headings in these books...I don't always pay attention to chapter headings in books, but these ROCK...naturally! The corn maze was awesome. I could just see Indy and Roxie running and bumping into things and screaming their heads off. It was the modified brawl. *haha*

(rob) I finished it! 

I think this is my favorite one even though the first book is also my favorite. I love Roxie's mix of attitude and kindness. I'm not sure about all this gray they talk about in the book, good people doing bad things. What do you think about this? I love Daisy and appreciate Marcus and the rest of the lovable bad guys, but drug runners and possible murderers are mixing with cops and cop girlfriends. Do you think that story line is going to get serious?

What about Luke? So far he's my favorite unexplored side character. I want him bad. hehe. I'm happy to jump into the land of Vance though. Who was the standout side character for you? Kristen Ashley really knows how to create characters. And she knows how to make me laugh. My favorite funny scene had to be the haunted house/cornfield.  

I really rooted for Hank and Roxie, even more than Lee and Indy and Jet and Eddie. What did you love most?

(Brandee) I was hoping you'd finish today! I finished too! How could I not... I couldn't put it down! Seriously, I didn't want to take the kids to school. *ha* This is totally my favorite even though they're all my favorites. *ha*  Roxie is one awesome chick! Hank was right on when he told Roxie she knew Indy because they're so much alike. And they are - but then different. I like the gray story line because I believe there are people who see the world in black and white - right and wrong. And there are sooo totally shades of gray. Good people do sometimes make bad decisions...doesn't make them bad people. Just human. Roxie, I'm not so sure she's gray. I don't think Daisy is either. Now Marcus...he's gray, right? He's a good, kind and caring person when it comes to Daisy. He was even kind towards Roxie. Yes he does do bad things...but does that make him ALL bad? I don't know. See? Gray. *haha* I'm intrigued to see where all this goes.

Yeah, Luke is definitely swoon-worthy. I can't wait for his story. What kind of girl is going to tame this man of so few words? I love that Roxie hugged him. Honestly, I'd say I'd be hugging them all but then again, I'd probably just stand, stare and blush like mad! I don't know who the ONE standout is for me...I loved Luke. I enjoyed Vance screwing with Hank. I adore Daisy. Annette was pretty dang funny too. Tex was magnificent. Malcolm stole his one major scene. And Roxie's parents sent me into fits of laughter. 

I think my favorite scene is the one in the castle...you know the one. It was tense but had moments of humor and swoon - if I can say that Roxie's words were swoon-worthy?? I really, really rooted for Roxie and Hank too. Maybe it was that lightning strike. ;) 

So I think I figured out why I like Hank's brand of Alpha so much - he's a sweet-talking Alpha. He's telling Roxie what to do in such a way it doesn't seem like he's being bossy - well, sometimes.

(rob) Sweet-talking, yeah. Here's why I like Hank's brand of Alpha, he's a giver. hahahehehoho.

If this book were a movie, I wouldn't be able to stay in my seat in the castle scene.

I don't know if Marcus is gray. Eddie doesn't think so, right? Hank sees his world differently after falling for Roxie. Darius would say there wasn't a gray thing about his life since he took over for his criminal father. It's all a mess! 

Roxie's parents! Crazy town for sure. They are just like Tex. Annette is hilarious. I love that she wants to be a stripper and will let Daisy do her hair. 

(Brandee) Yeah, he's a giver alright...hehe He does a lot of giving in his convincing. ;)

So you think Roxie changed Hank's world view? Hmm...maybe. I think Darius muddies the waters. Oh, and Lee too. Both Eddie and Hank know Lee doesn't always play by the rules and they use his 'skills' when they need them...

You know you said that I probably had lots of Eddie quotes when we were reading RCR...Hank blew him away! Completely...the things that come out of Hank's mouth make me melt and my toes curl. Seriously! *sigh*