Realtor Ariana Chamberlain just won the hottest ticket in Chicago to see Cruise Control, the most famous rock band on the planet. The problem? She’d rather be anywhere else. Her ex is Gabriel Knight, the charismatic, sexy front man with a rabid fan base of screaming girls, all of them desperate for what she gave up. Even worse? The coworker she took along to the concert with her is one of those love-struck fangirls. As Ariana is forced to sit through the band’s music, she reflects on her relationship with Gabe—and realizes that she might not be over him after all. But is it too late?
THE ALBUM is a sweet entry in the ever-popular genre of rock star romances. What makes the novel stand out from others, though, is its unique narrative structure. The album that propelled Cruise Control into superstardom just so happens to be inspired by Ariana and Gabe’s whirlwind romance. Each song pairs with a development in their relationship—from its sweet beginnings, passionate nights, and tumultuous drama. While Gabe explores their romance through the band’s music, Ariana recollects their relationship from her point of view. It’s a fantastic way to frame the novel, and blends the power of songwriting with traditional storytelling.
The prose feels a little mechanical and distant—it sometimes comes across like an outline of events without the detail that could’ve enhanced the compelling narrative. However, Ariana and Gabe’s chemistry makes up for it tenfold. Ariana is a sympathetic protagonist who’s thrown into a world of glitz, glamour, and gossip that she’s not entirely ready for. But what woman wouldn’t want to be the muse for a rock star? Their romance is equally sweet and sexy, and it’s refreshing to see that they both handle their issues by actually communicating them. It’s an honest portrayal; all of the mess, the painful heartbreak, the imperfections. Gabe is a charming lead, willing to listen and protect Ariana as much as he can from the chaos of fame. By the time the band plays through THE ALBUM, it’s easy to root for the two of them to kiss again and make things work.
THE ALBUM is a sweet, light read that blends the power of songwriting with romance—proving that love can be just as loud, exciting, and complicated as music.
~Jessica Thomas for IndieReader