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Jaded Ivory #1
Rock Me
I am not a victim.
At least that’s what I wanted to believe. What I wanted the world to see. Five years of trying to find the girl I hid from the world.
I wouldn’t let the bullies win. I couldn’t.
What was I supposed to do when he walked into the building? He’d made my high school years a living hell.
But, he doesn’t recognize me.
How do I prove he didn’t break me? Simple, take him home for a one-night stand.
At least it sounded like a good idea at the time.
At least that’s what I wanted to believe. What I wanted the world to see. Five years of trying to find the girl I hid from the world.
I wouldn’t let the bullies win. I couldn’t.
What was I supposed to do when he walked into the building? He’d made my high school years a living hell.
But, he doesn’t recognize me.
How do I prove he didn’t break me? Simple, take him home for a one-night stand.
At least it sounded like a good idea at the time.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2017
About the author
Rebecca Brooke
35 books506 followers
Rebecca Brooke is the author of the Traded Series, as well as other contemporary and paranormal books. She grew up in the shore towns of South Jersey. She loves to hit the beach, but always with her kindle on hand. She is married to the most wonderful man, who puts up with all of her craziness. Together they have two beautiful children who keep her on her toes. When she isn’t writing or reading (which is very rarely) she loves to bake and watch episodes of This is Us and Game of Thrones.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
December 10, 2017
The blurb made this book sound like a good idea when I first read it (see what I did here?), but I didn't exactly love it. I was all in for seeing Mari get revenge on the person who bullied her and then having her see how much Cole has changed and end up falling in love with him. I wasn't all in for her stupid reaction to that leaked video. Before that I liked Mari. She seemed strong and she had a good head on her shoulders. Then she jumped to stupid conclusions about that video and I just lost any warm feelings I had about her. Her reasoning made zero sense. It was a damn shame. I even forgave her for jumping so soon into a relationship with her former bully and getting a bird for him. Why would she do that so soon after being with him? Anyway, I was able to forgive Cole for been a bully in high school for two reasons. A) He wasn't truly a mean person, he was just hanging around the bad crowd and b) he has become a great man who actually tries to stop the bullies. He has learned from his mistakes and I liked that about him. He is a good person.
The book is the first in a new series and the rest of the books are going to be about the other members of Jaded Ivory. I want to read the next books and I hope to see a better-paced book. This one had some bumps and for me, it needed some work, but overall it was good.
The book is the first in a new series and the rest of the books are going to be about the other members of Jaded Ivory. I want to read the next books and I hope to see a better-paced book. This one had some bumps and for me, it needed some work, but overall it was good.
September 23, 2017
5 Stars!
Well fuck me. Rebecca Brooke just wrecked me in the best way possible. I could tell from that blurb that this book was going to be pretty amazing but what I just finished reading was so fucking epic y'all....like rip you your heart out then slowly piece it back better than ever before.
Rock Me was a sexy, emotional, addicting, and captivating romance that hooked me before I even started. I'm not sure what I expected when I began this journey but what I got was unforgettable . My feels were all over the place and Rebecca tugged at a deep deep part in my heart.
Redemption is the key to their forever.
When he enters her life again, he's going to shake up her world and prove he's not the man from their past. Mari and Cole are going to find a second chance and maybe, just maybe, if they open their hearts, their everything.
The chemistry..the banter..the emotions..their past.. whew it was a roller coaster ride of complications, healing, and redemption but every moment was worth it. Watching Mari and Cole was breathtaking...every single piece of their journey was absolutely beautiful.
Rebecca Brooke never disappoints when I read her books and that's why I come back, time after time.
I highly recommend this book.
Review Post >> https://reneeentress.blogspot.com/201...
Well fuck me. Rebecca Brooke just wrecked me in the best way possible. I could tell from that blurb that this book was going to be pretty amazing but what I just finished reading was so fucking epic y'all....like rip you your heart out then slowly piece it back better than ever before.
Rock Me was a sexy, emotional, addicting, and captivating romance that hooked me before I even started. I'm not sure what I expected when I began this journey but what I got was unforgettable . My feels were all over the place and Rebecca tugged at a deep deep part in my heart.
Redemption is the key to their forever.
When he enters her life again, he's going to shake up her world and prove he's not the man from their past. Mari and Cole are going to find a second chance and maybe, just maybe, if they open their hearts, their everything.
The chemistry..the banter..the emotions..their past.. whew it was a roller coaster ride of complications, healing, and redemption but every moment was worth it. Watching Mari and Cole was breathtaking...every single piece of their journey was absolutely beautiful.
Rebecca Brooke never disappoints when I read her books and that's why I come back, time after time.
I highly recommend this book.
Review Post >> https://reneeentress.blogspot.com/201...
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June 2, 2021I dnfed this at %68 after 3 years? I just don’t see myself finishing it and i’m not giving any stars since I really enjoyed it but i’m not sure how many stars that %68 deserves (yeah i was almost at the end lol)
September 21, 2017
“Our lips reconnected; the same as before, yet different. This time there weas a promise. A promise of more.”
“Cole was different. It was like an inferno was racing through me, burning nerve endings along the way. I felt sexy and desirable.”
I thought this book was an ok read. I thought the idea of the story was unique and it definitely intrigued me. I thought the author did an amazing job with how she portrayed Mari’s past and the bullying that she endured. Fast forward to the future, Mari is not the same shy person she was in high school, she has totally reinvented herself. And Cole….Well, I’m not gonna lie, it took me a while to warm up to him. At first, I thought that Mari was just a conquest to him; that he had to get with the unattainable girl. But, once I learned about Mari and Cole’s past….let’s just say I was not a fan. I was pleased to see that Cole has matured a lot since high school and I do think that he was genuinely sorry for his past mistakes. I liked that he had to work for Mari’s forgiveness and really prove himself to her.
The only real issue I had with the story was the actual relationship with Cole and Mari. Personally, I feel that these two would have been better off as friends. I won’t deny that they had amazing sexual chemistry, because they totally did. I mean off the charts hot chemistry. And I can even get behind the idea of Mari having a revenge f@%k with him, but to have an actual relationship with him, just felt awkward to me. Cole was a total jerk and made Mari’s life a living hell in high school. And I totally get that Cole is sorry and has grown since high school, but I just had the hardest time wrapping my mind around forgiving him and pursuing a romantic relationship. And maybe that’s just me, but that aspect just didn’t work for me.
So, overall, this book was an ok read. Rock Me is definitely a book that you can finish in just one sitting. I thought it was written well and it does deal with some heavy hitting and real issues. But, there was just some things that didn’t work out for me. Even though this wasn’t a 100% hit for me, I’m still glad I picked it up and gave it a chance. I would be open to reading more from this author in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
“Cole was different. It was like an inferno was racing through me, burning nerve endings along the way. I felt sexy and desirable.”
I thought this book was an ok read. I thought the idea of the story was unique and it definitely intrigued me. I thought the author did an amazing job with how she portrayed Mari’s past and the bullying that she endured. Fast forward to the future, Mari is not the same shy person she was in high school, she has totally reinvented herself. And Cole….Well, I’m not gonna lie, it took me a while to warm up to him. At first, I thought that Mari was just a conquest to him; that he had to get with the unattainable girl. But, once I learned about Mari and Cole’s past….let’s just say I was not a fan. I was pleased to see that Cole has matured a lot since high school and I do think that he was genuinely sorry for his past mistakes. I liked that he had to work for Mari’s forgiveness and really prove himself to her.
The only real issue I had with the story was the actual relationship with Cole and Mari. Personally, I feel that these two would have been better off as friends. I won’t deny that they had amazing sexual chemistry, because they totally did. I mean off the charts hot chemistry. And I can even get behind the idea of Mari having a revenge f@%k with him, but to have an actual relationship with him, just felt awkward to me. Cole was a total jerk and made Mari’s life a living hell in high school. And I totally get that Cole is sorry and has grown since high school, but I just had the hardest time wrapping my mind around forgiving him and pursuing a romantic relationship. And maybe that’s just me, but that aspect just didn’t work for me.
So, overall, this book was an ok read. Rock Me is definitely a book that you can finish in just one sitting. I thought it was written well and it does deal with some heavy hitting and real issues. But, there was just some things that didn’t work out for me. Even though this wasn’t a 100% hit for me, I’m still glad I picked it up and gave it a chance. I would be open to reading more from this author in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
October 1, 2017
3.5 Stars
I'm not really sure what to say about this story. Definitely unique. Up and coming rockstar heroine, Mari, just ran into Cole, who just happens to be one of her tormentors from high school. Cole not recognizing Mari is captivated by her after seeing one of her shows. With the veil of anonymity on her side she decides to sleep with him to show him & herself that she's no longer that freak from high school. Which makes things even more complicated especially when he finds out who Mari really is and her plan backfires.
Parts of the story were difficult to read, especially Mari's flashbacks of high school. OMG. The things she went through...horrid. Though Cole wasn't the ringleader, he definitely didn't do anything to help her. High school Cole was a flat-out jerk. No wonder Mari had issues with him. Grown up Cole is far different from the jerk he was in high school.
There were some scenes where he came off as stalkerish, but I easily let it slide since he came off as nothing but sincere in his pursuit of Mari.
I'm not really sure what to say about this story. Definitely unique. Up and coming rockstar heroine, Mari, just ran into Cole, who just happens to be one of her tormentors from high school. Cole not recognizing Mari is captivated by her after seeing one of her shows. With the veil of anonymity on her side she decides to sleep with him to show him & herself that she's no longer that freak from high school. Which makes things even more complicated especially when he finds out who Mari really is and her plan backfires.
Parts of the story were difficult to read, especially Mari's flashbacks of high school. OMG. The things she went through...horrid. Though Cole wasn't the ringleader, he definitely didn't do anything to help her. High school Cole was a flat-out jerk. No wonder Mari had issues with him. Grown up Cole is far different from the jerk he was in high school.
There were some scenes where he came off as stalkerish, but I easily let it slide since he came off as nothing but sincere in his pursuit of Mari.
September 6, 2017
I Voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book
WoW... This was a sad, happy, angst, angry, romantic book. And just so much feels that I can't even describe it
Mari Cosmann is a singer. But until she started singing in her best friend's band, she wasn't too keen on being the center of attention. But after singing with her friends Sawyer's band she quickly find out that that is exactly what she wanted to do, she found her passion.
Cole Wallace was a NFL superstar, until an unfortunate accident changed his career path and now he is a teacher and teaching high school football. His life is not what he pictured it would be but he is fine with where he is at now.
Until his friend takes him out on a night of drinking and relaxing and he hears Mari sings. He knows that he wants her and he will do anything to have her.
So imagine his surprise when she is not so eager to be with him, because he is certainly not that bad looking. Until he finds out why she doesn't want anything to do with him.
Cole Wallace and his friends was Mari's bullies in high school. A fact that Cole is not to happy to look back on. But he can't believe how he treated her in high school, and now she is the one that he can't forget. How will he show her that he is not that person anymore. That he has changed. And even though he knows that she might feel something for him, will he be able to convince her that they are meant to be together or will the hurt that he inflicted on her be too much for her to overcome.
This is a story filled with so much hurt, so much pain, so much heartbreak. There were times I actually felt like my heart was breaking for Mari, but then I was rooting for poor Cole. You could see that he was not the same person and that he was a changed person.
A awesome story with great lead characters and I have to say that I loved the side characters as well. And can't wait to read their stories
Reviewed on behalf of
WoW... This was a sad, happy, angst, angry, romantic book. And just so much feels that I can't even describe it
Mari Cosmann is a singer. But until she started singing in her best friend's band, she wasn't too keen on being the center of attention. But after singing with her friends Sawyer's band she quickly find out that that is exactly what she wanted to do, she found her passion.
Cole Wallace was a NFL superstar, until an unfortunate accident changed his career path and now he is a teacher and teaching high school football. His life is not what he pictured it would be but he is fine with where he is at now.
Until his friend takes him out on a night of drinking and relaxing and he hears Mari sings. He knows that he wants her and he will do anything to have her.
So imagine his surprise when she is not so eager to be with him, because he is certainly not that bad looking. Until he finds out why she doesn't want anything to do with him.
Cole Wallace and his friends was Mari's bullies in high school. A fact that Cole is not to happy to look back on. But he can't believe how he treated her in high school, and now she is the one that he can't forget. How will he show her that he is not that person anymore. That he has changed. And even though he knows that she might feel something for him, will he be able to convince her that they are meant to be together or will the hurt that he inflicted on her be too much for her to overcome.
This is a story filled with so much hurt, so much pain, so much heartbreak. There were times I actually felt like my heart was breaking for Mari, but then I was rooting for poor Cole. You could see that he was not the same person and that he was a changed person.
A awesome story with great lead characters and I have to say that I loved the side characters as well. And can't wait to read their stories
Reviewed on behalf of
September 20, 2017
I'm a little conflicted about this book. I've never read this author before, so I'm always happy when I find one that can capture my attention from the beginning. The writing flows well, and the characters are developed nicely. Here is where my conflict comes in. My main complaint was with Mari. I was not a popular kid in high school, but once I left high school, that's where that stuff stayed. Mari is 23 and still letting all the crap from then rule her life. I understand that it sucks, but you're an adult now, YOU have the choice whether to let it bother you or not. *SPOILER AHEAD* The video that gets leaked sucks, majorly, but she lived through it! How can she all of a sudden get mad and cut off all contact from something that she has already been through?! I could understand if it was a new video of him bullying someone now, but it's not! It makes absolutely no sense to me. With all that being said, I was happy to see Cole and Mari get their HEA. I thought they were good together when they let the past stay in the past. I would like to see what happens with the rest of the band members.
September 21, 2017
Arc received to review honesty.
I am in complete awe of Mari and Cole's story! holy shit that was a hell of a ride!
Rock Me is the first novel in the jaded ivory series. This series is based on a rock band with the leading lady Mari staring.
Mari is on the edge of having all of her dreams come true. What started as filling in for a night turned I to het becoming the lead singer of the band! Mari had overcome all of her fears and obstacles that threatened to hold her back. After being horribly bullied in high school she reinvents herself and creates a brand new rock goddess persona with the help from her best friend Sawyer.
that is until she gets a blast from the past and Cole (one of the bullies) walks back unknowingly into her life.
Mari and Cole's story was painful to read at times. I an so glad Cole had a chance to redeem himself.
I loved the strength that Mari showed. Given her and Cole's horrible history I was glad to see that she didn't let him off easily for his past mistakes. I was also glad to see the changes in Cole.
This was a great novel.
I cannot wait to continue with the Jaded Ivory series!
.
I am in complete awe of Mari and Cole's story! holy shit that was a hell of a ride!
Rock Me is the first novel in the jaded ivory series. This series is based on a rock band with the leading lady Mari staring.
Mari is on the edge of having all of her dreams come true. What started as filling in for a night turned I to het becoming the lead singer of the band! Mari had overcome all of her fears and obstacles that threatened to hold her back. After being horribly bullied in high school she reinvents herself and creates a brand new rock goddess persona with the help from her best friend Sawyer.
that is until she gets a blast from the past and Cole (one of the bullies) walks back unknowingly into her life.
Mari and Cole's story was painful to read at times. I an so glad Cole had a chance to redeem himself.
I loved the strength that Mari showed. Given her and Cole's horrible history I was glad to see that she didn't let him off easily for his past mistakes. I was also glad to see the changes in Cole.
This was a great novel.
I cannot wait to continue with the Jaded Ivory series!
.
September 16, 2017
Rebecca Brooke has once again given me a book I was unable to walk away from. I read an early copy of this story and could not believe this was her first jump into the rocker lifestyle. Rock Me is a second chance romance that was never supposed to happen. Mari reunites with Cole years after her ugly duckling, being bullied days of high school. Only now that she has reinvented herself he doesn't recognize her. He becomes enamored and she is torn for falling for who Cole is now and the boy who hurt her all those years ago.
Second Chance romances are always the ones that give me the most feels. The thought of all those years lost hurts but the idea that nothing is ever lost forever is exciting. I love Rebecca's story telling and this was another hot for me. I fell for these two and loved their struggle. Rock Me is an exciting, fun, sexy, and heart-warming story wrapped up in the rock and roll lifestyle!
~miranda
Second Chance romances are always the ones that give me the most feels. The thought of all those years lost hurts but the idea that nothing is ever lost forever is exciting. I love Rebecca's story telling and this was another hot for me. I fell for these two and loved their struggle. Rock Me is an exciting, fun, sexy, and heart-warming story wrapped up in the rock and roll lifestyle!
~miranda
October 2, 2017
We have all had that moment when we think back and wonder what we would say to our younger selves. What we would say to our tormentors that tortured us through school. Yeah High school reunions are the perfect venue for those scenarios, but what about the ones your afraid to face. The ones that left scars you had to climb out of. What if they now saw something different? This, beautiful and romantic story touches on all of those topics. A second chance at love, both romantic and the self love that we all struggle with.
A second chance to make right what had been a horrible wrong. Mari and Cole, they had a chance to make something beautiful out of the ugly that scarred they younger selves. For the tortured and the torturer this is an amazing love that will have you crying and cheering at the same time.
A second chance to make right what had been a horrible wrong. Mari and Cole, they had a chance to make something beautiful out of the ugly that scarred they younger selves. For the tortured and the torturer this is an amazing love that will have you crying and cheering at the same time.
December 8, 2017
♡♡Reviewed for CherryOBlossoms Promotions ♡ ♡
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
This was my first book from Ms. Brooke and it definitely will not be my last. I love how the storyline was written and the realism to the story. As someone who grew up being bullied this hit home for me. I wasn't bullied to the point that Mari was but I did find that I can relate to her and the situation. I truly believe that people can change and that Cole proved himself to her, her band mates and to the world that he has.
I fell in love with main and secondary characters and I can't wait to read their stories. I'm excited to see who comes out next and where the band will go from here.
I know I have found me another one click author.
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
This was my first book from Ms. Brooke and it definitely will not be my last. I love how the storyline was written and the realism to the story. As someone who grew up being bullied this hit home for me. I wasn't bullied to the point that Mari was but I did find that I can relate to her and the situation. I truly believe that people can change and that Cole proved himself to her, her band mates and to the world that he has.
I fell in love with main and secondary characters and I can't wait to read their stories. I'm excited to see who comes out next and where the band will go from here.
I know I have found me another one click author.
September 6, 2019
I keep teetering between a 2⭐️ and a 3 ⭐️ read with this. It’s a 3 star read for me because I loved the heroine. She rose above the shit storm she went thru in high school. Sure she had moments of insecurity but after what she experienced during school I can understand and sympathize with her. I like the Cole of now. He recognized what he did was wrong and tried to make it right. The 2 ⭐️ comes into play with me just not liking certain parts of the story such as the revenge sex. It didn’t sit right with me. And as much as I liked Cole, I still don’t know if I really liked them together in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2017
FLAVIA'S REVIEW
5 STARS
WoW... This was a sad, happy, angst, angry, romantic book. And just so much feels that I can't even describe it
Mari Cosmann is a singer. But until she started singing in her best friend's band, she wasn't too keen on being the center of attention. But after singing with her friends Sawyer's band she quickly find out that that is exactly what she wanted to do, she found her passion.
Cole Wallace was a NFL superstar, until an unfortunate accident changed his career path and now he is a teacher and teaching high school football. His life is not what he pictured it would be but he is fine with where he is at now.
Until his friend takes him out on a night of drinking and relaxing and he hears Mari sings. He knows that he wants her and he will do anything to have her.
So imagine his surprise when she is not so eager to be with him, because he is certainly not that bad looking. Until he finds out why she doesn't want anything to do with him.
Cole Wallace and his friends was Mari's bullies in high school. A fact that Cole is not to happy to look back on. But he can't believe how he treated her in high school, and now she is the one that he can't forget. How will he show her that he is not that person anymore. That he has changed. And even though he knows that she might feel something for him, will he be able to convince her that they are meant to be together or will the hurt that he inflicted on her be too much for her to overcome.
This is a story filled with so much hurt, so much pain, so much heartbreak. There were times I actually felt like my heart was breaking for Mari, but then I was rooting for poor Cole. You could see that he was not the same person and that he was a changed person.
A awesome story with great lead characters and I have to say that I loved the side characters as well. And can't wait to read their stories
5 STARS
WoW... This was a sad, happy, angst, angry, romantic book. And just so much feels that I can't even describe it
Mari Cosmann is a singer. But until she started singing in her best friend's band, she wasn't too keen on being the center of attention. But after singing with her friends Sawyer's band she quickly find out that that is exactly what she wanted to do, she found her passion.
Cole Wallace was a NFL superstar, until an unfortunate accident changed his career path and now he is a teacher and teaching high school football. His life is not what he pictured it would be but he is fine with where he is at now.
Until his friend takes him out on a night of drinking and relaxing and he hears Mari sings. He knows that he wants her and he will do anything to have her.
So imagine his surprise when she is not so eager to be with him, because he is certainly not that bad looking. Until he finds out why she doesn't want anything to do with him.
Cole Wallace and his friends was Mari's bullies in high school. A fact that Cole is not to happy to look back on. But he can't believe how he treated her in high school, and now she is the one that he can't forget. How will he show her that he is not that person anymore. That he has changed. And even though he knows that she might feel something for him, will he be able to convince her that they are meant to be together or will the hurt that he inflicted on her be too much for her to overcome.
This is a story filled with so much hurt, so much pain, so much heartbreak. There were times I actually felt like my heart was breaking for Mari, but then I was rooting for poor Cole. You could see that he was not the same person and that he was a changed person.
A awesome story with great lead characters and I have to say that I loved the side characters as well. And can't wait to read their stories
September 21, 2017
5 Crazy Ass Must Read Stars!!!!!
I knew as soon as I read the blurb, I just knew I had to sign up to review this book. So heart wrenching, so heart breaking. This book hit so close to home having been a victim of bullying. While my circumstances were more of the racial type of bullying, Mari’s were no less devastating. Bullying is is just despicable in any form.
I loved seeing how Mari was able to build herself up with the help of her friend Sawyer and her band mates. Her strength to overcome her insecurities was admirable.
Cole totally won me over. He totally redeemed himself.
My chest is so tight after reading this. I m left with the best feeling though. I’ve had a smile on my face for the last couple hours thinking back on how the story played out.
I knew as soon as I read the blurb, I just knew I had to sign up to review this book. So heart wrenching, so heart breaking. This book hit so close to home having been a victim of bullying. While my circumstances were more of the racial type of bullying, Mari’s were no less devastating. Bullying is is just despicable in any form.
I loved seeing how Mari was able to build herself up with the help of her friend Sawyer and her band mates. Her strength to overcome her insecurities was admirable.
Cole totally won me over. He totally redeemed himself.
My chest is so tight after reading this. I m left with the best feeling though. I’ve had a smile on my face for the last couple hours thinking back on how the story played out.
December 7, 2017
My Thoughts:
This was my first book by Rebecca Brooke and it did not disappoint! People who love music romances and people who fight to stand up for themselves will love this story. I already can't wait for the next books in this series!
The Story. I felt it was very well written and had a great flow to it. It also had a fantastic set of characters (Sawyer and Heath I am looking at you), which made this books and out even more. For anyone who has ever been bullied in high school, this is also a book for you because that is one of the big topics addressed in this book. I loved the stress on how people can change given the highs and lows that they experience in their life. I know I am certainly not the same person I was in high school. It's all about growing up and going through life, and this book had a lot of it.
Mari. Mari is the lead singer of a band called Jaded Ivory, but she has had a long road to make it to this point. She was severely bullied in high school and had to learn to love herself again. However, she was not prepared to find one of her tormentors at a club she was performing at. She was even more unprepared for him to not even recognize her. I loved Mari's strength and vulnerability she showed in this book, and how she didn't just instantly forget the past never happened. Mari showed the power of giving someone a chance to prove they are not the same person they were in high school, which is an important lesson (as hard as it is) for everyone to learn. Just because she was giving Cole a change, does not mean she let him get it without her spitfire attitude. Despite this, at the first sign of their past rearing its ugly head, Mari has to decide if she is going to believe the man she knows now or the man she knew in high school.
Cole. We find Cole working as a P.E. teacher and football coach for a high school after a career ending football injury destroyed his shot at the NFL. Cole is still devastated by this loss, but he is excited to see where his coaching career might go. The first time he tries to talk to Mari, he ends up getting a drink thrown in his face, and he has no idea why. He is determined to get to know her though so he ends up going to her shows week after week. It doesn't make sense until a situation at school causes a memory of him and his friends bullying Mariella. It suddenly all makes sense why Mari won't give him the time of day. The way he treated Mari in high school makes Cole sick and he is determined to make it up to her however he can. I loved Cole. I felt he genuinely regretted his actions in high school, and wanted the chance to prove to Mari that he is not that same guy. He wanted her to know the real story.
The Relationship. I loved Mari and Cole's relationship. It definitely has some major ups and downs, but it was all about giving people a chance to show who they are now. I felt they were very supportive of each other and I loved getting to read about their journey. I want more of them!
I recommend this book to those who love: music romance, people changing, fighting the bullies, sweet, persistent heroes, and strong, sassy heroines.
Overall Rating: ★★★★/★★★★★
Blog: www.radbabesread.com
This was my first book by Rebecca Brooke and it did not disappoint! People who love music romances and people who fight to stand up for themselves will love this story. I already can't wait for the next books in this series!
The Story. I felt it was very well written and had a great flow to it. It also had a fantastic set of characters (Sawyer and Heath I am looking at you), which made this books and out even more. For anyone who has ever been bullied in high school, this is also a book for you because that is one of the big topics addressed in this book. I loved the stress on how people can change given the highs and lows that they experience in their life. I know I am certainly not the same person I was in high school. It's all about growing up and going through life, and this book had a lot of it.
Mari. Mari is the lead singer of a band called Jaded Ivory, but she has had a long road to make it to this point. She was severely bullied in high school and had to learn to love herself again. However, she was not prepared to find one of her tormentors at a club she was performing at. She was even more unprepared for him to not even recognize her. I loved Mari's strength and vulnerability she showed in this book, and how she didn't just instantly forget the past never happened. Mari showed the power of giving someone a chance to prove they are not the same person they were in high school, which is an important lesson (as hard as it is) for everyone to learn. Just because she was giving Cole a change, does not mean she let him get it without her spitfire attitude. Despite this, at the first sign of their past rearing its ugly head, Mari has to decide if she is going to believe the man she knows now or the man she knew in high school.
Cole. We find Cole working as a P.E. teacher and football coach for a high school after a career ending football injury destroyed his shot at the NFL. Cole is still devastated by this loss, but he is excited to see where his coaching career might go. The first time he tries to talk to Mari, he ends up getting a drink thrown in his face, and he has no idea why. He is determined to get to know her though so he ends up going to her shows week after week. It doesn't make sense until a situation at school causes a memory of him and his friends bullying Mariella. It suddenly all makes sense why Mari won't give him the time of day. The way he treated Mari in high school makes Cole sick and he is determined to make it up to her however he can. I loved Cole. I felt he genuinely regretted his actions in high school, and wanted the chance to prove to Mari that he is not that same guy. He wanted her to know the real story.
The Relationship. I loved Mari and Cole's relationship. It definitely has some major ups and downs, but it was all about giving people a chance to show who they are now. I felt they were very supportive of each other and I loved getting to read about their journey. I want more of them!
I recommend this book to those who love: music romance, people changing, fighting the bullies, sweet, persistent heroes, and strong, sassy heroines.
Overall Rating: ★★★★/★★★★★
Blog: www.radbabesread.com
September 23, 2017
The author is looking for an honest review.
3.5 stars
Can a person really change? Can they be a person that they should have been when they are younger? Are they able to overcome what they have done in the past? Then you can ask these questions. If you have been beaten down so many times in your past, can you get up and make it better? Can you become that better person. This book takes an ugly topic and makes it something pretty amazing. Learning to forgive and move on is the biggest thing in life. Life throws you curves that you don't see coming and that is what makes life so great. As I tell you this can you remember your childhood? Was there someone that bullied you and bullied you and you didn't know why? Or if you weren't in the right group. You weren't popular or what they expected, they went out of there way to single you out.? This story puts that type of story out. It isn't right, but it tells a story that many people will know.
Mari had a rough high school life. She wasn't popular and because of her love of music she was singled out. The group of jocks thought they were cool and noone would stand up to the biggest bully. Mari has put that all behind her and now has a music career, but on night it blows up in her face. She is confronted by one of the boys that did the hurting in high school, not only that he is hitting on her. Mari is still a little raw and that is what made her so real in this book. She shows her feelings and what all that was done to her did to her. It is amazing what a great woman she turned out to be and even more when she gets to confront someone that has done her wrong. Cole, oh he was a jerk in school., Maybe not the ring leader but he was still part of something that should never happened. When his friend Ryan takes him out after work to see a band, he can't seem to get the lead singers voice out of his head. He hits on her and well lets just say that doesn't go so well. Cole has come a long way in this book. You can really hate the boy he was, and I did, and you can really love the man he became. Cole has to figure out how to get Mari to forgive him for what he has done to her. Mari has to learn to forgive the past. These two have a long road ahead of them and it's not for sure that they will make it. The other band members help the story along, because they see what this has done to Mari and all they want is the best for her. One in particular, Sawyer, has been with her a very long time and they have become attached to each other, almost inseparable. This will come into play partially in the book. The story comes alive and shows the affects of what happens in high school.
I just want to say, no one really realizes what impact people have on you. Everyone does things, good and bad, the bad seems to follow you more than the good. When you can make the bad, good that is when you know you have become the person you want to be. It is a shame that young people don't realize that and don't realize
3.5 stars
Can a person really change? Can they be a person that they should have been when they are younger? Are they able to overcome what they have done in the past? Then you can ask these questions. If you have been beaten down so many times in your past, can you get up and make it better? Can you become that better person. This book takes an ugly topic and makes it something pretty amazing. Learning to forgive and move on is the biggest thing in life. Life throws you curves that you don't see coming and that is what makes life so great. As I tell you this can you remember your childhood? Was there someone that bullied you and bullied you and you didn't know why? Or if you weren't in the right group. You weren't popular or what they expected, they went out of there way to single you out.? This story puts that type of story out. It isn't right, but it tells a story that many people will know.
Mari had a rough high school life. She wasn't popular and because of her love of music she was singled out. The group of jocks thought they were cool and noone would stand up to the biggest bully. Mari has put that all behind her and now has a music career, but on night it blows up in her face. She is confronted by one of the boys that did the hurting in high school, not only that he is hitting on her. Mari is still a little raw and that is what made her so real in this book. She shows her feelings and what all that was done to her did to her. It is amazing what a great woman she turned out to be and even more when she gets to confront someone that has done her wrong. Cole, oh he was a jerk in school., Maybe not the ring leader but he was still part of something that should never happened. When his friend Ryan takes him out after work to see a band, he can't seem to get the lead singers voice out of his head. He hits on her and well lets just say that doesn't go so well. Cole has come a long way in this book. You can really hate the boy he was, and I did, and you can really love the man he became. Cole has to figure out how to get Mari to forgive him for what he has done to her. Mari has to learn to forgive the past. These two have a long road ahead of them and it's not for sure that they will make it. The other band members help the story along, because they see what this has done to Mari and all they want is the best for her. One in particular, Sawyer, has been with her a very long time and they have become attached to each other, almost inseparable. This will come into play partially in the book. The story comes alive and shows the affects of what happens in high school.
I just want to say, no one really realizes what impact people have on you. Everyone does things, good and bad, the bad seems to follow you more than the good. When you can make the bad, good that is when you know you have become the person you want to be. It is a shame that young people don't realize that and don't realize
October 3, 2017
http://rpmbt-blog.com/rpmbt/review-ro...
Rebecca Brooke has written a beautiful story of overcoming bullying, finding yourself, strength and forgiveness. Rock Me is an amazing read, that once I picked up, I was unable to put down!
Mari has spent years trying to overcome everything she went through in high school and forgetting the girl she used to be. Learning from what she went through and becoming stronger every day. Now a member of the up and coming band Jaded Ivory, she’s on the way to making it, and nothing can hold her down. She still has insecurities, but with the help of Monty, Jackson, Heath, and Sawyer, her band-mates, she works through them, and is happy with her life. Everything is going fine, until Cole steps into her life again, and has no clue who she is. You’d think after throwing a drink in his face, he’s give up, but Cole is relentless and so Mari doesn’t know how to handle it when he refuses to give up.
I won’t go into everything that’s happened to Cole since high school, but I will say he’s changed, a lot, but trying to get Mari to see that is a completely different story. At first I didn’t want her to give him a shot, especially after hearing everything he put her through, but as we got to know the Cole that he is now, I really started to root for him and really wanted him and Mari together. Both of them are not the same people that they were in high school and both of them learned from the things that they went through. Mari never deserved the things she was put through, and it definitely shaped her life, and her giving Cole a shot really showed the type of person she was. I loved watching her and Cole work through getting to know one another again, and some of the guys scheming to get her to talk to him.
The dynamic of Cole and Mari is unique as it feels like a second chance romance, but it really isn’t since there definitely was not any romance when they knew each other previously, but there is a second chance at them getting their relationship right this time around. Seeing the “jock” and the “musicians” dynamic in this book was definitely interesting. Sawyer and Cole definitely had a bit of a hard time hitting it off since Mari was closest to them both, so I was definitely interested to see how this dynamic was going to play out as the book went on, and I loved how it all worked out!
Cole and Mari definitely had their struggles both past and present, and I enjoyed every single moment of this book. They both had to learn to trust, forgive, and learn from the past so they didn’t repeat it again. Seeing Cole learning from his mistakes and trying to help others was amazing, and seeing how strong Mari was awesome. I loved meeting the members of the band and can’t wait to get their stories as well! If you’re looking for a unique twist on romance, that has music, sex, a hot male lead you won’t want to love at first, but can’t help it, and a stronger by the chapter female lead, then I can’t recommend Rock Me by Rebecca Brooke enough!
Rebecca Brooke has written a beautiful story of overcoming bullying, finding yourself, strength and forgiveness. Rock Me is an amazing read, that once I picked up, I was unable to put down!
Mari has spent years trying to overcome everything she went through in high school and forgetting the girl she used to be. Learning from what she went through and becoming stronger every day. Now a member of the up and coming band Jaded Ivory, she’s on the way to making it, and nothing can hold her down. She still has insecurities, but with the help of Monty, Jackson, Heath, and Sawyer, her band-mates, she works through them, and is happy with her life. Everything is going fine, until Cole steps into her life again, and has no clue who she is. You’d think after throwing a drink in his face, he’s give up, but Cole is relentless and so Mari doesn’t know how to handle it when he refuses to give up.
I won’t go into everything that’s happened to Cole since high school, but I will say he’s changed, a lot, but trying to get Mari to see that is a completely different story. At first I didn’t want her to give him a shot, especially after hearing everything he put her through, but as we got to know the Cole that he is now, I really started to root for him and really wanted him and Mari together. Both of them are not the same people that they were in high school and both of them learned from the things that they went through. Mari never deserved the things she was put through, and it definitely shaped her life, and her giving Cole a shot really showed the type of person she was. I loved watching her and Cole work through getting to know one another again, and some of the guys scheming to get her to talk to him.
The dynamic of Cole and Mari is unique as it feels like a second chance romance, but it really isn’t since there definitely was not any romance when they knew each other previously, but there is a second chance at them getting their relationship right this time around. Seeing the “jock” and the “musicians” dynamic in this book was definitely interesting. Sawyer and Cole definitely had a bit of a hard time hitting it off since Mari was closest to them both, so I was definitely interested to see how this dynamic was going to play out as the book went on, and I loved how it all worked out!
Cole and Mari definitely had their struggles both past and present, and I enjoyed every single moment of this book. They both had to learn to trust, forgive, and learn from the past so they didn’t repeat it again. Seeing Cole learning from his mistakes and trying to help others was amazing, and seeing how strong Mari was awesome. I loved meeting the members of the band and can’t wait to get their stories as well! If you’re looking for a unique twist on romance, that has music, sex, a hot male lead you won’t want to love at first, but can’t help it, and a stronger by the chapter female lead, then I can’t recommend Rock Me by Rebecca Brooke enough!
September 20, 2017
Genre: Romance - rockstar, second-chance, redemption
Stand-Alone: Yes
Part of a Series: Yes - Book 1 of the Jaded Ivory series
POV: Mari, Cole
Steam Level: Warm
4.5/5
Rock Me is a layered, emotional and intense romance about love, redemption, and friendship. The topic of bullying was dealt with well on so many levels - from in person to sexual to cyber. The main starting off point of this story is that Cole participated in bullying Mari in high school. She recognizes him but he doesn't recognize her so prove to him (although he doesn't know this) and to herself that he no longer controls her, she sleeps with him and then ignores him. But revenge sex isn't that satisfying if the other person doesn't know it's revenge sex. I was pleasantly surprised with this story. The emotions of past and present are intense and the guys in Mari's band are supportive and protective of her. Mari was portrayed as sensitive but not fragile, independent and strong but also learning to open up to her friends and let others in. Rebecca Brooke made Mari human, not a victim.
Cole, now a teacher who stops bullying, realizes the errors of his ways and wants to make amends with Mari. Cole was persistent, sincerely sorry for his actions and is smart enough to realize that this may not be enough for Mari's forgiveness.
What I love about this book:
1. It depicts real consequences from bullying - both for the bullies (lost opportunities/law involvement) and the bullied (thoughts/actions)
2. It took time for Cole to earn Mari's trust - it wasn't all sunshine and roses once he apologized for his prior actions.
What bugged me about this book:
1. The jock vs geek bullying stereotype is a bit cliche. Yes it happens cliches are cliches for a reason but it feels like this one is overdone.
2. The big reveal about Sawyer and Mari's friendship. Although I didn't have an issue with it, others may. It just made me want to read Sawyer's book (which is hopefully the next Jaded Ivory.
Overall, this is definitely a book that should be read by anyone dealing with adolescents. It has a strong message about rising above your past and not letting it define you or get in your way. And it has an equally strong message about knowing the consequences of you actions and being able to recognize and admit your mistakes. It also reminds the reader the power of friends - both as a negative and a positive influence. This is definitely a must read.
I received an advanced copy of this book for free from the author. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Stand-Alone: Yes
Part of a Series: Yes - Book 1 of the Jaded Ivory series
POV: Mari, Cole
Steam Level: Warm
4.5/5
Rock Me is a layered, emotional and intense romance about love, redemption, and friendship. The topic of bullying was dealt with well on so many levels - from in person to sexual to cyber. The main starting off point of this story is that Cole participated in bullying Mari in high school. She recognizes him but he doesn't recognize her so prove to him (although he doesn't know this) and to herself that he no longer controls her, she sleeps with him and then ignores him. But revenge sex isn't that satisfying if the other person doesn't know it's revenge sex. I was pleasantly surprised with this story. The emotions of past and present are intense and the guys in Mari's band are supportive and protective of her. Mari was portrayed as sensitive but not fragile, independent and strong but also learning to open up to her friends and let others in. Rebecca Brooke made Mari human, not a victim.
Cole, now a teacher who stops bullying, realizes the errors of his ways and wants to make amends with Mari. Cole was persistent, sincerely sorry for his actions and is smart enough to realize that this may not be enough for Mari's forgiveness.
What I love about this book:
1. It depicts real consequences from bullying - both for the bullies (lost opportunities/law involvement) and the bullied (thoughts/actions)
2. It took time for Cole to earn Mari's trust - it wasn't all sunshine and roses once he apologized for his prior actions.
What bugged me about this book:
1. The jock vs geek bullying stereotype is a bit cliche. Yes it happens cliches are cliches for a reason but it feels like this one is overdone.
2. The big reveal about Sawyer and Mari's friendship. Although I didn't have an issue with it, others may. It just made me want to read Sawyer's book (which is hopefully the next Jaded Ivory.
Overall, this is definitely a book that should be read by anyone dealing with adolescents. It has a strong message about rising above your past and not letting it define you or get in your way. And it has an equally strong message about knowing the consequences of you actions and being able to recognize and admit your mistakes. It also reminds the reader the power of friends - both as a negative and a positive influence. This is definitely a must read.
I received an advanced copy of this book for free from the author. This is my honest and voluntary review.
September 21, 2017
I would like to give thanks to this author for the fact that she gave this character a story that will resonate with so many women and girls. She gave us the opportunity to journey with her as that past not only resurfaces but also pitches her back to where she doesn’t want to be.
Bullying played a major part in Mari’s high school years and despite having worked her way through all of the pressures and heartaches that come with experience, all it takes is just one of her tormentors to enter her life again and it all comes rushing back…but can she handle it this time?
A chance meeting, on a night out with friends has teacher Cole trying his luck, with no recollection of who she is or what he did, it came as a surprise when she was less than gracious as he attempted to strike up a conversation…just how long would it take him to remember?
Cole was the typical high school jock, full of self-importance and heading out of town and straight into the NFL but his life turned a different corner when he was injured and he had to rethink his career path, and eventually returned to school but this time as a teacher.
I sort of found the fact that he was so persistent at first a little selfish, he wanted to explain and he almost pursued her until he got what he wanted, an opportunity to tell her he was sorry and that he had changed but that didn’t take away what she had been through and I understood her reluctance to engage with a man that had hurt her so profoundly.
Mari owns the stage each and every time that she and her band Jaded Ivory are performing but she has to learn to own the events that are occurring in the other aspects of her life, and to do that she has to meet it head on and with Cole refusing to back down she eventually garners the strength to get the closure she needs and agrees to meet him.
I wanted Cole to be a man that she could forgive, but I really understood that she had to give her heart the opportunity to really heal first. The longer they spent together the more I could see that happening and I was ready to whoop!
I felt the pain that they both felt and whilst that might seems strange to say but Cole really was sorry and Mari’s pain was tangible for most of the story but I was slightly miffed that she hid away when everything was made public, I wanted more from her but then again, I suppose that was her prerogative, so who am I to criticise.
Overall a super second chance romance that dealt with a modern day issue and gave dealing with it the opportunity to show its teeth!
Bullying played a major part in Mari’s high school years and despite having worked her way through all of the pressures and heartaches that come with experience, all it takes is just one of her tormentors to enter her life again and it all comes rushing back…but can she handle it this time?
A chance meeting, on a night out with friends has teacher Cole trying his luck, with no recollection of who she is or what he did, it came as a surprise when she was less than gracious as he attempted to strike up a conversation…just how long would it take him to remember?
Cole was the typical high school jock, full of self-importance and heading out of town and straight into the NFL but his life turned a different corner when he was injured and he had to rethink his career path, and eventually returned to school but this time as a teacher.
I sort of found the fact that he was so persistent at first a little selfish, he wanted to explain and he almost pursued her until he got what he wanted, an opportunity to tell her he was sorry and that he had changed but that didn’t take away what she had been through and I understood her reluctance to engage with a man that had hurt her so profoundly.
Mari owns the stage each and every time that she and her band Jaded Ivory are performing but she has to learn to own the events that are occurring in the other aspects of her life, and to do that she has to meet it head on and with Cole refusing to back down she eventually garners the strength to get the closure she needs and agrees to meet him.
I wanted Cole to be a man that she could forgive, but I really understood that she had to give her heart the opportunity to really heal first. The longer they spent together the more I could see that happening and I was ready to whoop!
I felt the pain that they both felt and whilst that might seems strange to say but Cole really was sorry and Mari’s pain was tangible for most of the story but I was slightly miffed that she hid away when everything was made public, I wanted more from her but then again, I suppose that was her prerogative, so who am I to criticise.
Overall a super second chance romance that dealt with a modern day issue and gave dealing with it the opportunity to show its teeth!
September 20, 2017
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
Second chance romances always bring out the best and worst emotions in us as a reader, because within those words we all find something we can relate to, or dream of finding ourselves. Rebecca Brooke’s Rock Me indeed induced a few emotions I believed I had suppressed, but every one of us at one particular time has had to deal with the issue of bullying.
Being the odd one out, the least popular in high school put Mari in direct line of some unforgiving bullying that she had spent many years trying to overcome. Being targeted in such an unfavorable manner left Mari with many insecurities that had her struggling to find her place in the world until the opportunity arose to sing in her best friend’s band. Finally believing she had found her predilection, she relishes in the passion singing brings to her until a blast from her past resurfaces.
Cole was a NFL superstar until injury sidelines him permanently. Although life is no longer moving in the direction he envisioned he finds himself at ease with his new career choice – a teacher of high school football. A night of what is supposed to be relaxation puts Cole in Mari’s path. For reasons unbeknownst to him at the time Mari rejects his advances, but he doesn’t give up that easily. When he realizes who she is and the damage caused by his, and his friends actions, he sets out to prove to Mari that he is not the boy he once was.
There is the right kind of angst within these pages to make you feel the emotions that Mari is battling with. Her heartbreak is evident and it saddens you to watch the struggle she fights against to heal her broken soul. Trusting someone who is the very reason you are the person you are today is not something that happens overnight, and it takes more than just words. What highlighted this Rock star / second chance romance by Rebecca for me, was the skillful way she wrote about someone dealing with the effects of bullying and the hope that redemption can be achieved.
Rock Me is a story many readers will fall in love with and deserves the five stars I am rating it with.
Second chance romances always bring out the best and worst emotions in us as a reader, because within those words we all find something we can relate to, or dream of finding ourselves. Rebecca Brooke’s Rock Me indeed induced a few emotions I believed I had suppressed, but every one of us at one particular time has had to deal with the issue of bullying.
Being the odd one out, the least popular in high school put Mari in direct line of some unforgiving bullying that she had spent many years trying to overcome. Being targeted in such an unfavorable manner left Mari with many insecurities that had her struggling to find her place in the world until the opportunity arose to sing in her best friend’s band. Finally believing she had found her predilection, she relishes in the passion singing brings to her until a blast from her past resurfaces.
Cole was a NFL superstar until injury sidelines him permanently. Although life is no longer moving in the direction he envisioned he finds himself at ease with his new career choice – a teacher of high school football. A night of what is supposed to be relaxation puts Cole in Mari’s path. For reasons unbeknownst to him at the time Mari rejects his advances, but he doesn’t give up that easily. When he realizes who she is and the damage caused by his, and his friends actions, he sets out to prove to Mari that he is not the boy he once was.
There is the right kind of angst within these pages to make you feel the emotions that Mari is battling with. Her heartbreak is evident and it saddens you to watch the struggle she fights against to heal her broken soul. Trusting someone who is the very reason you are the person you are today is not something that happens overnight, and it takes more than just words. What highlighted this Rock star / second chance romance by Rebecca for me, was the skillful way she wrote about someone dealing with the effects of bullying and the hope that redemption can be achieved.
Rock Me is a story many readers will fall in love with and deserves the five stars I am rating it with.
September 21, 2017
I have got a new favorite book by Rebecca Brooke. God, ROCK ME, the first book in her new Jaded Ivory series is everything! It’s beautiful and compelling and I never wanted it to end. I am not sure why, but I have a thing for bully / ‘geek’ stories. How the bully sees what he was doing is wrong and is willing to move heaven and earth to prove he is not that awful person anymore… Second chance romance in general is one of my favorites – and this one took that sub-genre – combined with the rock star feeling – to a whole new level. Swoon!
And Cole … wow, he is persistent in his quest to seek forgiveness and redemption, never giving up, not caring about how ever long the road ahead of him to achieve his goal – if ever – might be.
Seeing him change was refreshing and beautiful to watch – I wish this would happen much more in real life too.
Then there is Mari, the poor girl on the receiving end of those bullies that made her four years in high school a living hell. My heart broke for her countless times. The efforts it took to mend her fractured soul and reinvent herself completely – with lots of help from her incredible bestie Sawyer (ooohh, how I love him!) – were immense. Now, she is no longer the ‘music geek’, but slowly yet surely becoming the face of the up and coming band Jaded Ivory.
That’s when her and her bully’s paths collide again and things are about to get messy. Not only takes it Cole long to realize who the girl is he is pursuing, maybe even secretly crushing on, but also, how is Mari supposed to trust this man who hurt her so badly in the past?
The storytelling is simply stunning – the intense emotion, the angst and the rawness of it all…
A multidimensional and unique story that I could not help but devour.
Now I seriously hope we will get Sawyer’s story next – because I just might have developed a tiny crush on him… Sigh. The intensely close and real friendship he shares with Mari, how devoted he was, how much he cared about her … everything I got to know about him just made me adore him more. And that was before that big revelation at the end of the book. But now… now I want his story more than ever – like yesterday!
And Cole … wow, he is persistent in his quest to seek forgiveness and redemption, never giving up, not caring about how ever long the road ahead of him to achieve his goal – if ever – might be.
Seeing him change was refreshing and beautiful to watch – I wish this would happen much more in real life too.
Then there is Mari, the poor girl on the receiving end of those bullies that made her four years in high school a living hell. My heart broke for her countless times. The efforts it took to mend her fractured soul and reinvent herself completely – with lots of help from her incredible bestie Sawyer (ooohh, how I love him!) – were immense. Now, she is no longer the ‘music geek’, but slowly yet surely becoming the face of the up and coming band Jaded Ivory.
That’s when her and her bully’s paths collide again and things are about to get messy. Not only takes it Cole long to realize who the girl is he is pursuing, maybe even secretly crushing on, but also, how is Mari supposed to trust this man who hurt her so badly in the past?
The storytelling is simply stunning – the intense emotion, the angst and the rawness of it all…
A multidimensional and unique story that I could not help but devour.
Now I seriously hope we will get Sawyer’s story next – because I just might have developed a tiny crush on him… Sigh. The intensely close and real friendship he shares with Mari, how devoted he was, how much he cared about her … everything I got to know about him just made me adore him more. And that was before that big revelation at the end of the book. But now… now I want his story more than ever – like yesterday!
September 23, 2017
Wow, what an emotional journey. This book was much more than I expected, and I expected a lot knowing the author and her writing style. This book touched on many different issues, bullying being the main one. Bullying is something that affects everyone in some way, maybe not directly but everyone knows someone who has been bullied or who was the bully. Bullying isn’t the only topic covered in this book.
I loved every word of this book. The writing was so well done, the author created characters that were real. Her characters had real emotions, reactions, issues. She handled everything with the delicate balance needed.
Mari’s character just amazed me. She was so strong, resilient, someone I could admire. She handled things with so much strength but at the same time was so vulnerable. She was willing to give seconds chances when she didn’t have to. She was willing to look past history when a weaker person would have lived in the past. She put herself out there for the world to see but yet kept herself back also. Her reactions were real, they were to me not overly dramatic but yet not dramatic enough sometimes. She is a person full of contradictions but that is what made her so genuine. I really loved her character so much.
Cole is someone I could have known in high school. The jock, the bully, the person who thought they were everything. The person who gets knocked down s few pegs once they left high school. The fact that Cole took what happened to him and turned it into something to help others just amazed me. I can understand why Mari was willing to give him a chance to prove himself. I didn’t like Cole in high school and what he participated in but I loved Cole as an adult who had matured and learned from his mistakes.
I loved all the characters in this book and I really cannot wait for their books, especially Sawyer. This is a book everyone should read.
I loved every word of this book. The writing was so well done, the author created characters that were real. Her characters had real emotions, reactions, issues. She handled everything with the delicate balance needed.
Mari’s character just amazed me. She was so strong, resilient, someone I could admire. She handled things with so much strength but at the same time was so vulnerable. She was willing to give seconds chances when she didn’t have to. She was willing to look past history when a weaker person would have lived in the past. She put herself out there for the world to see but yet kept herself back also. Her reactions were real, they were to me not overly dramatic but yet not dramatic enough sometimes. She is a person full of contradictions but that is what made her so genuine. I really loved her character so much.
Cole is someone I could have known in high school. The jock, the bully, the person who thought they were everything. The person who gets knocked down s few pegs once they left high school. The fact that Cole took what happened to him and turned it into something to help others just amazed me. I can understand why Mari was willing to give him a chance to prove himself. I didn’t like Cole in high school and what he participated in but I loved Cole as an adult who had matured and learned from his mistakes.
I loved all the characters in this book and I really cannot wait for their books, especially Sawyer. This is a book everyone should read.
September 23, 2017
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
WOW Just WOW this story is one I will remember for a while to come. Mari was the "music geek" in school and Cole was the "jock" need I say more. Throughout this book we see how Mari was treated and picked on in high school. However, Mari is strong and with the help of her best friend she is able to be herself despite her insecurities.
Mari had things going her way she was the lead singer of a band and they were rising fast. But one night her past was sitting next to her at the bar. How does one deal with the past especially one that caused you so much pain?
Cole was on his way to the NFL when an injury changed his path. Now he is a coach and a very good one at the high school in town. Now having to face his past mistakes and dealing with the high school kids issues he can see things in a new light.
I admire Mari not everyone could forgive but over time she was able to and dropped her walls. Mari learns quickly that dropping walls will expose your heart. Can Mari and Cole get over the past and make things work or will the past end them?
I loved the relationship that Mari and the band members have. Their protective nature over her was heartwarming especially her BFF Sawyer. Cole was so sweet with the way he tried to win Mari over. This series has me hooked and I cannot wait for more.
A few of my favorites from the book:
I bent my head and devoured her lips like I needed her to survive.
I peeked over my shoulder at the man who'd captured my heart with a guitar and a sweet smile.
For a brief period in my life, I'd thought losing my change in the NFL was the end of the world. How wrong was I? I'd had no idea that losing the woman in front of me would hurt a hundred times more. There would never be another Mari.
WOW Just WOW this story is one I will remember for a while to come. Mari was the "music geek" in school and Cole was the "jock" need I say more. Throughout this book we see how Mari was treated and picked on in high school. However, Mari is strong and with the help of her best friend she is able to be herself despite her insecurities.
Mari had things going her way she was the lead singer of a band and they were rising fast. But one night her past was sitting next to her at the bar. How does one deal with the past especially one that caused you so much pain?
Cole was on his way to the NFL when an injury changed his path. Now he is a coach and a very good one at the high school in town. Now having to face his past mistakes and dealing with the high school kids issues he can see things in a new light.
I admire Mari not everyone could forgive but over time she was able to and dropped her walls. Mari learns quickly that dropping walls will expose your heart. Can Mari and Cole get over the past and make things work or will the past end them?
I loved the relationship that Mari and the band members have. Their protective nature over her was heartwarming especially her BFF Sawyer. Cole was so sweet with the way he tried to win Mari over. This series has me hooked and I cannot wait for more.
A few of my favorites from the book:
I bent my head and devoured her lips like I needed her to survive.
I peeked over my shoulder at the man who'd captured my heart with a guitar and a sweet smile.
For a brief period in my life, I'd thought losing my change in the NFL was the end of the world. How wrong was I? I'd had no idea that losing the woman in front of me would hurt a hundred times more. There would never be another Mari.
September 18, 2017
I'm not sure how to start this review. This story will stay with me for quite some time I think with its content.
While reading it I felt sick with everything that Mari went through high school with all the bulling. I never really understood why some of us need to put some else down in order to feel good?!?!
Mari has gone through hell and with the help of her BF Sawyer she is finally whole or so she thinks until one of her bullies is thrown back in to her life.
Cole was supposed to go big in NFL but an injury has put a stop to that dream and he became a teacher(oooo the irony) . He sees Mari on stage one night when his friends finally drag him out to party with them.
When he tries to pick her up she through a drink in his face, because of course she remembers him as one of the main reasons her high school years were hell. He can't seem to understand what is going on and why she won't give him a time of day. He starts showing up to every show she and her band Jaded Ivory are playing. Then he remembers who she is.
He is more than determent to seek forgiveness and to prove to her that he is not the same person he was when they were teens.
She is persuaded that she needs closure and they begging spending time together. The more time they spent together, the feelings start to grove and soon they're falling in love.
You can't help but want that Cole proves that he's changed. His sadness of what he and his so-called friends made Mari go through is felt with each page you turn.
My only problem with this book was how Mari reacted when evidence of her abuse was made public; she choose to let the bullies win in my opinion with her hiding from the world (not giving any statement for the public). I feel that with the fame she had she should have taken a stand and help someone with her story.
I really recommend this book – you’re gonna love it I’m sure.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
While reading it I felt sick with everything that Mari went through high school with all the bulling. I never really understood why some of us need to put some else down in order to feel good?!?!
Mari has gone through hell and with the help of her BF Sawyer she is finally whole or so she thinks until one of her bullies is thrown back in to her life.
Cole was supposed to go big in NFL but an injury has put a stop to that dream and he became a teacher(oooo the irony) . He sees Mari on stage one night when his friends finally drag him out to party with them.
When he tries to pick her up she through a drink in his face, because of course she remembers him as one of the main reasons her high school years were hell. He can't seem to understand what is going on and why she won't give him a time of day. He starts showing up to every show she and her band Jaded Ivory are playing. Then he remembers who she is.
He is more than determent to seek forgiveness and to prove to her that he is not the same person he was when they were teens.
She is persuaded that she needs closure and they begging spending time together. The more time they spent together, the feelings start to grove and soon they're falling in love.
You can't help but want that Cole proves that he's changed. His sadness of what he and his so-called friends made Mari go through is felt with each page you turn.
My only problem with this book was how Mari reacted when evidence of her abuse was made public; she choose to let the bullies win in my opinion with her hiding from the world (not giving any statement for the public). I feel that with the fame she had she should have taken a stand and help someone with her story.
I really recommend this book – you’re gonna love it I’m sure.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
September 22, 2017
This story was fairly unusual in that it doesn’t really fit in with any major tropes. It’s not an enemies to lovers romance like some people are touting it as, because Cole and Mariella weren’t enemies. Cole and his friends bullied Mariella all through high school from freshman year to senior. Mariella believed she was weak, but to have put up with what they did only showed how strong a personality she actually had.
A chance encounter brings them back together years later, when Mari’s band are playing in a bar that Cole’s best friend drags him to. He still doesn’t remember her, but lead singer, Mari as she now calls herself, recognizes him.
So, that’s not truly a second chance as they never went out before, although I guess after a light bulb moment for Cole, who is now a high school sports teacher, it could be when he asks for a chance to apologize and make it up to her.
Cole truly is sorry, especially after seeing his actions being perpetrated by kids he’s teaching. He’s riddled with guilt and remorse, as he should be. If only all bullies could see their actions from the other side there would be a lot less of it.
I loved how strong Mari was on stage, but she kinda lost it when faced with her past. It takes her some time to come to grips with what Cole is trying to do.
Will she give him that chance?
Can Cole be the man she needs… at long last?
Find out when you 1-Click Rock Me today.
A chance encounter brings them back together years later, when Mari’s band are playing in a bar that Cole’s best friend drags him to. He still doesn’t remember her, but lead singer, Mari as she now calls herself, recognizes him.
So, that’s not truly a second chance as they never went out before, although I guess after a light bulb moment for Cole, who is now a high school sports teacher, it could be when he asks for a chance to apologize and make it up to her.
Cole truly is sorry, especially after seeing his actions being perpetrated by kids he’s teaching. He’s riddled with guilt and remorse, as he should be. If only all bullies could see their actions from the other side there would be a lot less of it.
I loved how strong Mari was on stage, but she kinda lost it when faced with her past. It takes her some time to come to grips with what Cole is trying to do.
Will she give him that chance?
Can Cole be the man she needs… at long last?
Find out when you 1-Click Rock Me today.
December 7, 2017
*Received an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review*
I enjoyed how this book had a female musician rather than a male. It made the story more interesting for me considering that the majority of romance novels have a male lead who can't keep it in his pants who changes for that one special girl. I really liked Mari because she wasn't like the typical musician character. She had been beaten down in the past but grew stronger and knew what she wanted out of life. I related a lot to her character because of the her being a vocalist but also because of being bullied myself. I loved not only her resilience but also her willingness to forgive others. I also appreciated Cole as a character. He wasn't what I expected. He was the opposite of what I thought that he would be and it made me like him more.
I thought that the conflict that the author put in the story between the two of them was good in that it made sense and didn't feel as forced as I have seen in other stories like this. There were moments in the book that I did feel were a bit forced or randomly put it at the last minute. Some of the reveals felt off to me since they were at the end of the story and I don't feel like they needed to be added in at all. I also felt like the author skipped over some things when it came to the confrontation that happened towards the end of the book. There were points when I wasn't sure how they got from point A to point B.
https://fictionedtodeath.blogspot.com...
I enjoyed how this book had a female musician rather than a male. It made the story more interesting for me considering that the majority of romance novels have a male lead who can't keep it in his pants who changes for that one special girl. I really liked Mari because she wasn't like the typical musician character. She had been beaten down in the past but grew stronger and knew what she wanted out of life. I related a lot to her character because of the her being a vocalist but also because of being bullied myself. I loved not only her resilience but also her willingness to forgive others. I also appreciated Cole as a character. He wasn't what I expected. He was the opposite of what I thought that he would be and it made me like him more.
I thought that the conflict that the author put in the story between the two of them was good in that it made sense and didn't feel as forced as I have seen in other stories like this. There were moments in the book that I did feel were a bit forced or randomly put it at the last minute. Some of the reveals felt off to me since they were at the end of the story and I don't feel like they needed to be added in at all. I also felt like the author skipped over some things when it came to the confrontation that happened towards the end of the book. There were points when I wasn't sure how they got from point A to point B.
https://fictionedtodeath.blogspot.com...
August 10, 2021
I have a love/hate relationship with rock star stories. It’s so hard to find an authentic one without the formulaic manwh*re/Madonna trope.
I love that this story has a woman rock star! Mari is going on stage for the first time to cover lead vocals for her best friend. I really enjoyed the relationship Mari had with the other male band members. They treated each other like siblings, lots of hugs, talking, teasing, and being there for each other. Mari’s relationship with Sawyer is especially beautiful.
The book is told in flash backs, high school and current time. Those high school bully moments are really tough to read, they are brutal and unrelenting. It’s the jocks picking on the band geeks. With Sawyer’s help, Mari has pulled herself out of the dark. Everything is moving alone perfectly, until her high school bully asks her out.
Cole is completely taken with Mari when he first sees her singing. Using his football jock charm, he thinks she will succumb to him like all the other women do. Instead she says no, over and over again. It was a beautiful thing to read. I really liked the character growth in this story. They both go through so many changes!
There is some OTT drama that’s completely unrealistic towards the end. Why do authors feel there is a need for this? Overall, a decent enemies to lovers, rock star romance.
I love that this story has a woman rock star! Mari is going on stage for the first time to cover lead vocals for her best friend. I really enjoyed the relationship Mari had with the other male band members. They treated each other like siblings, lots of hugs, talking, teasing, and being there for each other. Mari’s relationship with Sawyer is especially beautiful.
The book is told in flash backs, high school and current time. Those high school bully moments are really tough to read, they are brutal and unrelenting. It’s the jocks picking on the band geeks. With Sawyer’s help, Mari has pulled herself out of the dark. Everything is moving alone perfectly, until her high school bully asks her out.
Cole is completely taken with Mari when he first sees her singing. Using his football jock charm, he thinks she will succumb to him like all the other women do. Instead she says no, over and over again. It was a beautiful thing to read. I really liked the character growth in this story. They both go through so many changes!
There is some OTT drama that’s completely unrealistic towards the end. Why do authors feel there is a need for this? Overall, a decent enemies to lovers, rock star romance.
August 22, 2021
Rock me
Mari had been bullied in high school but now she was the lead singer of Jaded Ivory and on the cusp of fame and fortune. She’d come a long way from that frumpy girl the guys on the football team bullied. Cole had been a star football player in high school but an injury had cost his the NFL dream. Still he stayed close to the game by being a coach at the high school and life went on. At least everything was fine until his friend dragged him to a club to see a show. The goddess who stood there singing had his full attention.
When he tried to speak to her at the bar she tossed her drink at him and walked away. He’d been rejected before but he’d done nothing to her to warrant this type of reaction. And so it begins with these two. I’m totally hooked by what’s going on with these two people. I love the way the author lets us read what went on in high school and back to the present. I know Cole was a jerk in high school but I like him in the present. Mari and Cole have more then history, they have chemistry. Mari with Sawyer’s help became through the years became a better stronger woman but with Cole she opened up and became magnificent. This story was awesome and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m giving it five stars and highly recommending it. Now I’m going to read the next book.
Mari had been bullied in high school but now she was the lead singer of Jaded Ivory and on the cusp of fame and fortune. She’d come a long way from that frumpy girl the guys on the football team bullied. Cole had been a star football player in high school but an injury had cost his the NFL dream. Still he stayed close to the game by being a coach at the high school and life went on. At least everything was fine until his friend dragged him to a club to see a show. The goddess who stood there singing had his full attention.
When he tried to speak to her at the bar she tossed her drink at him and walked away. He’d been rejected before but he’d done nothing to her to warrant this type of reaction. And so it begins with these two. I’m totally hooked by what’s going on with these two people. I love the way the author lets us read what went on in high school and back to the present. I know Cole was a jerk in high school but I like him in the present. Mari and Cole have more then history, they have chemistry. Mari with Sawyer’s help became through the years became a better stronger woman but with Cole she opened up and became magnificent. This story was awesome and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m giving it five stars and highly recommending it. Now I’m going to read the next book.
September 22, 2017
Amount of sex 2.5 / 5
How explicit 2.5 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Rock Me is an emotional standalone story from author Rebecca Brooke. It is told from both Mari and Cole’s point of view with flashes of events from the past. The story is written very smoothly and I quickly became attached to Mari and Cole as he grew older and wiser.
Rock Me begins with Mari, in the present day, getting ready to go on stage with her band, Jaded Ivory. She has anxiety and emotional issues as a result of her painful high school years. It has left lasting mental scars that often cripples Mari.
Cole is currently an assistant coach for a high school football team. He notices two kids on his football team bulling a girl and it brings back memories of when he was in high school. Cole begins to contemplate his life and he regrets a lot of his behaviors.
One evening Cole and his roommate go out for a couple of drinks. Cole is taken with the lead singer of the band playing and goes over to talk to her. What will happen when Mari sees Cole, her bully from high school, walking towards her after her show? What will happen between Mari and Cole?
Rock Me is absolutely fabulous and I highly recommend it!
*Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy*
How explicit 2.5 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Rock Me is an emotional standalone story from author Rebecca Brooke. It is told from both Mari and Cole’s point of view with flashes of events from the past. The story is written very smoothly and I quickly became attached to Mari and Cole as he grew older and wiser.
Rock Me begins with Mari, in the present day, getting ready to go on stage with her band, Jaded Ivory. She has anxiety and emotional issues as a result of her painful high school years. It has left lasting mental scars that often cripples Mari.
Cole is currently an assistant coach for a high school football team. He notices two kids on his football team bulling a girl and it brings back memories of when he was in high school. Cole begins to contemplate his life and he regrets a lot of his behaviors.
One evening Cole and his roommate go out for a couple of drinks. Cole is taken with the lead singer of the band playing and goes over to talk to her. What will happen when Mari sees Cole, her bully from high school, walking towards her after her show? What will happen between Mari and Cole?
Rock Me is absolutely fabulous and I highly recommend it!
*Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy*
December 18, 2017
This is the first book I’ve read by Rebecca Brooke and it won’t be the last. This book was about a girl who had a really tough time at school because of bullies. It follows the story of Mari Cosmann, who is a singer and she helps out her best friend Sawyer by being the lead singer in his band. She’s not overly keen on being the centre of attention, but finds she really enjoys this job. We meet Cole Wallace, he was going to be an NFL Star until an injury put that dream out of reach and he became a School Teacher. Cole is happy and content with his life and one night a mate takes him out and they see a band play. Cole hears the lead singers voice and he’s totally taken with her, he want to get to know her, wants to spend time with her, she’s everything he wants. Cole cannot understand why Mari isn’t too keen, he is after all a very good looking bloke. It turns out that Cole and his mates were the reason why Mari’s life at high school was such a total nightmare. Mari know’s who he is….. Cole hasn’t worked out who she is……. What happens when he does???? Will Mari give him a chance???? There is lots of love, heartbreak, drama and sadness in this book. I’m a fan of rockstar books and I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
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