Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read this eARC!

It was okay, pretty basic though. I liked the characters and the unlikely romance aspect of it. Honestly, there wasn't that much that was unique about it but it was a quick and fun read.

Charm City Rocks is delightful! It is the story of an unlikely romance and self-(re)discovery starring two lovable leads and the city of Baltimore.

Margot is one of the most talented drummers of all time but has been living a low-key life out of the spotlight for a couple of decades. When a new documentary features her former band for a couple of minutes, the public’s interest in Margot is renewed and they are wondering what happened to her. Billy is a friendly music teacher with a kid about to head to college. He’s living in his favorite city above a record store in an apartment he adores. All is well. But is it really?

Brought together by a scheming teenager, Billy and Margot meet much to Billy’s astonishment as he has had an intense celebrity crush on Margot for half his life. Soon, they feel a pull toward one another, and are nudged by their respective children (and the Internet after a video of them goes viral) to pursue their relationship.

I enjoyed reading this, my first novel by this author. There were many humorous moments, the supporting characters are likable, and it is easy to root for Margot and Billy to be together. Margot was an awesome character. Billy was sweet and kind though his deep infatuation with a woman he does not know is slightly creepy. Still, who can resist a charming rom-com set in “Charm City”? Not this reader. Recommended to anyone looking for a fun, light, improbable romance with some Notting Hill and Nick Hornby vibes. 4.5 stars.

Thank you very much to Random House Ballantine and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy.