This was a satisfying rockstar romance with a spoonful of suspense mixed right in.

When her cheating rockstar fiance dies in a car crash of his own doing, budding artist Phoebe finds herself the centre of a mediastorm... and a vengeful stalker intent on blaming her for his death. As caring, charming & tattooed drummer, Axel, steps in to keep her safe, she can't help but start to fall for the man behind the bad-boy image.

This was an easy read, with our favourite tropes and more, but it felt a little lacking to me. Having said that, it could just be because of the ease of Phoebe and Axel's deepening relationship in the midst of danger.

Newly successful artist Phoebe and her rockstar fiancé Cillian are involved in an automobile accident that results in his death. Phoebe is immediately faced with extreme backlash from devoted fans and is forced to move in with the band for protection. I had trouble buying the relationships between the characters even though I really wanted to like this.

Going through a reading slump, book-buying ban and super lazy-girl-era, I found an early-copy of this book in my inbox from Kate, I had low hopes, as I always have a very rare good experience with romance, but this book, everyone, had me raise my hopes. With my fav tropes including suspense and mystery, with a whole heart-wrenching "dating my ex's best friend" touch to it with a "music weds art" vibe, I could not "not carry it with me everywhere". Honestly, I did not want to be dissappointed by this book and *literally screaming*, this book by kate callaghan did not do that, at all. I loved a whole load of quotes from the book. Referring to the other side, I may have not loved a repetitive touch of Alex and Pheobe's convos at some points, I loved that Kate kept me guessing the culprit till the end, even though I could guess some of the twists. But the real twist, I bet you, only very few would be able to guess. Thankyou Kate for this early copy and believing in me for reading and reviewing your book. XOXO. Happy release week in advance. all the love your way.

Who doesn’t love a protective bad boy who plays drums. The moment Axel showed on the page, I knew I was going to love him.
The story starts with the FMC making a shocking discovery that ends in a tragic accident. Leading her to deal with the fall out.
If you’re looking for romance but also with some mystery, this is for you.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kate Callaghan for a complimentary e-arc copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Phoebe is an aspiring artist who's rock star fiancé dies after a tragic car accident after she finds out he was cheating on her. She finds solace in his hot best friend Axel, who is the drummer in the band and also her brother's . As they mourn loss of their bandmate Phoebe and Axel become closer and start falling for each while trying to move on. Then Phoebe finds out someone is trying to ruin her life and career. Lot's of twist and turns in this book and many secrets are revealed.

I really liked this book. I liked the passion between these two characters and how caring and supportive Axel was towards Phoebe and how strong she became after everything she had to overcome. It had a slow start but I kept going because I had to know how it ended. I can't wait for the next book.

Tropes:

Drummer x Artist
Ex's best friend
Brother’s Best Friend
He Falls First
Stalking
rock band/living with band
Slow burn
a little bit of spice

I’m not gonna lie: what I expected from reading the synopsis and what I actually read were DRASTICALLY different. Probs just a me thing, but I read the synopsis thinking this was going to be a story about a young artist trying to get her life back on track after her beloved fiancé died in a tragic accident and in her grieving, she bonds with one of his band mates due to shared trauma. What I did NOT expect was the toxicity that was Cillian embracing the stereotypical rockstar image of being distant and inattentive toward his fiancée whom he’s been with for over a decade, Phoebe discovering he’s cheating and the band all knowing, and then the accident involving both of them because Cillian is spiraling from losing her that he risks both of their lives to prove a point and fatally crashes the car they’re both in. Of course, reading further, I know there’s a bit more to it than that but OOF definitely different than what I’d expected.

The upside to this story: Axel had feelings for Phoebe for a long while but had given her space out of respect for the long term relationship she’d been in. But when she needed him, he definitely stepped up to be her knight in drummer gear. He was the definition of “he fell first” and seeing him stick by Phoebe’s side and be her protector on top of being a big emotional support for her was rather sweet. The distance and circumstances surrounding her final moments with Phoebe’s fiancé also helped in allowing leeway for her and Axel’s relationship to move forward so I guess that was a bright side to the chaos.

Grief, betrayal, secrets coming to light, a budding new romance, obsessive (and sometimes dangerous) fans, and moving forward. This book was filled with everything you might think a rockstar romance to be.

My brain thinking this story was going to be one thing and then having it flip into something totally different from what I’d expected definitely put a wrench in my reading experience. Totally on me though. For all I know, it could actually be a really really good story; my brain just couldn’t get past my initial misunderstanding and dulled my ability to connect with what I was reading. If you like rockstar romances, I’d say check this out to see if it’s your cup of tea.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for a chance to read an early copy of this romance. All thoughts are my own.

This was a very fun book with some twists, action, betrayal, and just overall a lot of drama. I got more than I bargained for as I was not expecting this book to be... so much. I loved it though, the author did a wonderful job.

Living the life of a rock band and those connected to it, with passion, ambition, drive and edginess. The characters in this story are irresistibly compelling, seducing you into their lifestyle and circumstances. Be ready for a roller coaster starting with a bang at the beginning and continuing throughout with some heady romance thrown in for great measure. Loved this from cover to cover.

The banter and the spice is just what one expects from a Katie Callaghan romance novel and Not Another Rockstar does not disappoint. The characters are fun and the story will have you all over the place emotionally. This one is sometimes a little predictable but also has twists that catch you off guard. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the ARC ebook I read and reviewed. All opinions are my own.

Not Another Rockstar by Kate Callaghan is perfect book for a thriller steamy band romance.

Axel
✅ drummer
✅ band member
✅ had a long time crush with Phoebe

Phoebe
✅ artist/ painter
✅ stalking cases
✅ best friend’s little sister


✅ second chance
✅ forbidden love
✅ stalking
✅ trigger warning: cheating, murder
✅ grieving
✅ tear jerker ( my heart broke for Phoebe)
✅ angst
✅ suspense
✅ thriller
✅ action
✅ betrayal
✅ high sexual tension ( there’s a lot of stolen kisses scenes)
✅ plenty of spicy scenes: explicit and intense 🔥🔥🔥

This book is such a page turner with all the drama and plot twists. Secrets by secrets are unfold to reveal the truth with gives the suspense. Every incidents that happened to Phoebe makes me wonder who is the culprit behind Phoebe’s stalking.

I’ll definitely need to read the next book by Kate Callaghan and hopely it is about Nick or August.

I was initially drawn in by the synopsis :
"After her rockstar fiancé's tragic accident, Phoebe Fletcher is hit with false accusations and relentless media spotlight once the video of the car crash is released. Thrust into the spotlight, the budding artist becomes the focus of obsessive fans, putting both her life and aspirations in jeopardy.

To ensure her safety, Phoebe seeks refuge with her ex's band, the Brothers of Anarchy, where she forms a bond with the brooding drummer, Axel Adler. Despite the forbidden nature of their growing attraction, Axel's unwavering care and encouragement sparks a fiery connection between them.

In the midst of fame, betrayal, and illicit love, Phoebe and Axel must navigate a web of lies and treachery, or risk losing all they hold dear. "

The only spoiler that I will give is that there is cheating in the first few chapters of this story and it is referenced throughout as it is significant to the plot.

I enjoyed the development of Phoebe and Axels relationship, while I could understand people saying she moved on too quick, I think its important to remember that she had found out that her ex had been having an affair for a significant amount of time and looking back at his behaviour and actions she could see that their relationship was over long before the accident, whereas Axel wasn't "just there" and convenient, he was There For Her, him silently and loudly supporting her is what made them fit together.

I worked out the twist very early on, although briefly I was torn between three people because one friend seemed slightly suspicious 🤔 but it wasn't long before they were off my suspect list. The final reveal was intense, I was actually holding my breath whilst I was reading.

I would say that there is mild to moderate spice, there isn't a lot but it packs a punch without being overwhelming.

I have to say, I was left with more questions when I finished, I want to know why Cillian started the affair in the first place, why Axel was so drawn to Phoebe from the moment he saw her (aside from the pink hair, red dress and paint on her hands).

This is the first time I have actually read anything by Kate Callaghan (although I do have one of her books on my tbr) and I have to say I really enjoyed it. As someone with chronic pain and disabilities I love how she wrote it into the novel in such a natural way. I will definitely be checking out more of Kates books in the future.

Kate Callaghan’s Not Another Rockstar is a compelling blend of romance and suspense that takes readers on an emotional journey through love, loss, and resilience. The story centers on Phoebe Fletcher, a burgeoning artist whose life is upended when she discovers her rockstar fiancé, Cillian, in a compromising situation. Before they can reconcile, a tragic car accident claims Cillian’s life, leaving Phoebe grappling with grief and public scrutiny.

In the aftermath, Phoebe finds solace in Axel Adler, the drummer of Cillian’s band and her brother’s best friend. Axel has harbored feelings for Phoebe for years, and as he supports her through her turmoil, their connection deepens. However, their budding relationship faces challenges as Phoebe becomes the target of a mysterious stalker, threatening her safety and career.

Callaghan skillfully intertwines themes of forbidden romance, personal healing, and suspense. The chemistry between Phoebe and Axel is palpable, with their relationship evolving naturally amidst the chaos surrounding them. The narrative also delves into the darker side of fame, exploring how public perception can be both invasive and damaging.

While some readers may find certain plot twists predictable, the overall storytelling remains engaging. The portrayal of Phoebe’s journey through grief and her emergence as a stronger individual is both heartfelt and inspiring. Axel’s unwavering support and the dynamics within the band add depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of loyalty and redemption.

Not Another Rockstar is a testament to finding love and strength in unexpected places, making it a worthwhile read for fans of romantic suspense.

Not Another Rockstar by Kate Callaghan was a quaint rock star romance that was full of drama, slow burning love story..... the cover is so beautiful.

Was so excited about this one, but it was just ok. Rockstar in Europe, romantic suspense, brother’s bandmate. There was a lot going on and I just didn’t connect with the characters or the story. Maybe the dual POV in the 3rd person wasn’t for me?

Thanks to NetGalley for this advanced copy. Publishes 2/22.

This took so long to get into. If not for Netgalley review commitment, it would have been a DNF. Just didn't care about the characters or what happened. Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book

📘Not Another Rockstar-a standalone

✍🏾By ~ Kate Callaghan-I read Potions and Proposals & gave it 5⭐

Rating ~ 5/5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Genre ~ romantic suspense, mystery, romance

🌍Setting ~ Munich to Dublin

📅 Publication date ~ February 21, 2025 | Read ~ February 12, 2025

Est Page Count ~ 344

POV ~ dual, 3rd person

⚠️TW ~ cheating-h cheated on, car accident, death, stalking

Featuring ~ex's BFF/brother's best friend, he falls first, living w/ the band, forbidden romance

Summary ~Phoebe catches her rockstar boyfriend Cillian cheating. When they try to talk about it they get into an accident. The aftermath threatens to ruin Phoebe's career, the rest of the band, and her 2nd chance at love.

🎭Characters
👩🏾Phoebe Fletcher~26, an artist dates Cillian since she was 14
👨🏾Cillian Hunt- front man of The Brothers of Anarchy/BOA, Phoebe's boyfriend
👨🏾Axel Adler~the drummer of BOA
Nick Fletcher~ 29, Phoebe's older brother and Cillian's BFF
August~ the guitarist
Lena~Phoebe's BFF and agent
Anita~BOA's agent


🤔My Thoughts ~I had a problem with Nick's attitude towards Phoebe in the beginning. Her brother and the rest of the band didn't tell her about Cillian(brother/sister agreed to stay out of each other's love lives) and forbade her from dating another rockstar. I'm glad Phoebe found a protector in Axel. He helped her heal from betrayal and gave her a comfortable place to land after all the trauma. I hope Nick and August get their own stories.

🙏🏽Thanks to NetGalley, BooksGoSocial, and Kate Callaghan for this ARC🎸! I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

I love this author and rockstar romance so this was a win win. The characters are either love, or, love to hate. There's A LOT of angst. Things played out in an interesting pace. I kept reading, even when I wanted to throw my kindle.

2.75 🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rockstar, brother’s bandmate, grumpy sunshine romance.

👍🏻: I loved seeing characters from the author’s previous book. The romance was cute. MMC was super sweet. Acts of service was definitely one of his love languages.

❌: This whole story felt very chaotic and choppy. Lots of telling us what happened instead of the scene playing out. The FMCs actions didn’t match the personality we were told she had. So it was very confusing when she would suddenly go off the rails.

Phoebe appears to have the perfect life—a rising art career and a famous rockstar fiancé. But everything changes when she tries to surprise him with a visit, only to be met with a shocking twist. Before she can even process the situation, tragedy strikes as he dies in a car accident, leaving Phoebe badly injured and possibly unable to paint again. Amid the chaos, Axel, the band's drummer, steps in to protect and care for her, and soon, they both realize their bond may be deeper than just friendship.

Overall, this book was an enjoyable read, though I found some parts to be fairly predictable. I was hoping for more mystery in the plot outside of the romance because, let’s be honest, Phoebe and Axel were always going to end up together. The romance itself felt a bit rushed at times compared to similar novels, but it didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment. It’s a quick read that will satisfy any romance fan.

A special thank you to NetGalley and author Kate Callaghan for the advanced reader copy in exchange for honest feedback.

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
Phoebe and Axel’s story is heartbreaking yet inspiring.
One delayed flight and everything is Phoebe’s life changes forever.
After arriving late to her Rockstar boyfriends concert, Phoebe learns of secrets that have been hidden from her. Within 24 hours everything she knows is different.
The story takes you on her journey to heal, defend herself from internet trolls.
Once those “trolls” start showing up and destroying things in her life, Axel and Phoebe are racing against time and fans to find out who is after Phoebe.

I really enjoyed this book. The timelines get fuzzy sometimes but nothing too dramatic that it takes away from the story. The relationship between Phoebe and the other band members is easy even when she has every right to be furious with them for keeping secrets.

Tropes:
- drummer & artist
- ex’s frienemy
- brother’s bandmate
- slow burn
- he falls first
- stalking
- disabled artist