**Blogger 'Duel' Review ~ Rock Chick Chat on Rock Chick Regret ~ Kristen Ashley**

FYI - still the best bet I ever lost. :) Also FYI, Robyn and I are continuing the *tradition* of betting on football and we'll be reading another book of my choice, since the Broncos LOST once again to the Seahawks. Oh, and we will absolutely be reading and chatting about other KA series.

***

Rock Chick Regret
Rock Chick #7
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Release Date:
Source: I purchased an ecopy from Amazon
Rating: 5 Bookworms

Synopsis
Sadie Townsend is known by all as The Ice Princess and she's worked hard to earn her reputation. Her father, a now-incarcerated Drug Lord, has kept her under his thumb her whole life and she's learned enough from living in his world to give everyone the cold shoulder. But one inebriated night, she shows the Real Sadie to the undercover agent she knows is investigating her father, the handsome Hector Chavez, and he knows he'll stop at nothing to have her.

Hector makes one (huge) mistake; he waits for Sadie to come to him. Tragedy strikes and Sadie's got a choice, she can retreat behind her Ice Fortress or she can embrace the Rock Chick/Hot Bunch World. Guided by Hector, the Rock Chicks, the Hot Bunch and her new gay roommates, Buddy and Ralphie, Sadie negotiates a life out from under her father's thumb, a life that includes poison, arson and learning how to make s'mores.

***

Man, I thought Mace & Stella's story had a different feel. I've spent so much time crying over Hector & Sadie's and I'm only on chapter 4.

Okay, one thing that's standing out the most to me is Sadie. She's not the typical Rock Chick. It's very interesting that KA created a Rock Chick that's...well, she's not weak. She's actually a smart and touch chick but she seems so much more fragile. Is that a good word for her? It fits with her looking like a fairy princess, I suppose. Does she seem fragile to you? Fragile and yet she'll jump in with both feet to send her drug dealing daddy to prison. Hmm...

Hector...ay, Dios mio! Yes, I speak some Spanish and Hector Chavez is mm-mmm. (by the way, that sentiment is the same in both Spanish and English) I can't imagine the regret he feels over the actions he took. But he's so tender with Sadie. He knows he has to handle her with kid gloves and he's managing. He's a hot-headed hottie. But he's completely different from his brother. And although I like Eddie, I like Hector's brand of machismo better. I love that he's determined to bring out the 'real' Sadie - the one he seems to see even if Sadie isn't that acquainted with her.

Okay, back to Hector....

***

My goodness do I like Sadie. And for completely different reasons than I've liked any of the other Rock Chicks. I'm loving the comparison to a fairy princess, because that whole dream she had which she remembered when she walked into Hector's house? Awesome!

I was really, really happy that KA dealt with the after-affects of rape. I was kinda worrying that things would just move forward so I was relieved when bumps on the road were hit. (bad analogy?)

Hector...seriously in the running for #1 Hot Bunch. That he's so compassionate, gentle, patient with Sadie is winning me over. I know he's a hot-headed guy but he's not being pushy with Sadie at all. Oh and that tattoo??? **SWOON** 

Ralphie and Buddy make me smile. And Shirleen planning the menu for an art opening was classic! Pigs in a blanket...made with croissants because that's classier. OMG! I haven't seen the other cast members all that much and Tex *still* steals his scenes! And that they're ALL so accepting of Sadie - even though she thinks she is undeserving and doesn't belong - is heartening.

*cocks head* Oh, Hector's calling... ;)

This one does have a totally different vibe. Sadie isn't immediately endearing like the rest of the girls. She's so good being cold when threatened, she goes cold at the slightest hiccup. I think Sadie is more vulnerable, at least the sweet side of her is because her sweet side is like a fledgling with no armor. 

Oh Hector. Man, that guy. I love how different he is from Eddie. They're both Alpha bossy males, but Eddie would have pushed Sadie back to her icy mountaintop forever. I think of all the males we've read about so far, Hector carries and uses his guilt differently. He didn't wallow once or push Sadie away. He's a thinker first. All the other guys were charge in and throw shit kind of men. Perfect for Sadie who is also a thinker. She's so much of a dang thinker she divided up her personalities. She's nutty!

I was trying to think of standout characters for this one, but everyone showed up and bedazzled me. Duke. Tex. Marcus! I was so happy to have some scenes with Daisy's husband. Buddy and Ralphie, they are so freaking awesome. I love them.

***

Yep, Hector is edging out Hank. No worries. I have enough book girlfriend love for all of them. It's so neat that she looks like a fairy princess and has premeditated personality shifts, not always, but she goes into things with a plan who she's going to be. The need to discover who she is has to be one of my favorite things about her. How can you not root for her? Of course I love the Veronica Mars tie-in. I love how Buddy and Ralphie gave her so much love and helped her climb out of that terrible dark place she had to have been in. KA did a great job handling the rape storyline, I just wasn't so sure about how often Sadie said the word rape out loud. That seemed...not realistic. Then again, Sadie doesn't mince words. She's a straight shooter.

Tex always steals the show. I love his whole "VIP!" mixed in with yelling and swearing to clear the line at Fortnums. He does it with every Rock Chick. Duke, I'm telling you, he knows how to pick his freaking moments. I want him to have a chat with me and straighten me out. I felt terrible for Lee for a while, even more than Hector. What a beginning, huh? Heavy. 

I just realized one thing for sure that's different about this one, there was not competing Hot Bunch guy. Right? KA ran out I think. Say it ain't so! I love how welcoming Blanca is to Sadie. I just love it. And I love when Sadie has moments when she's not thinking how she'll react. She just does and that's Hector's Sadie that he usually messes up telling her. Have you noticed he's not a "sorry" man? He's a "this is me" guy. Sadie's the best one for him. 

Aww, she didn't endear herself to you immediately? Getting the inner monologue made me understand her actions right off so I liked her from the start. She is definitely good at being the Ice Princess...until she isn't. But you're right about the sweet side of her being like a fledgling without armor. That's a really good comparison. 

I'm in love with Hector. True. I can't think of the exact moment it happened right now - it might have been the "I'm not fucking around anymore" speech. But LOVE.HIM. He is a gentle alpha, much like Hank. The difference is that Hector says so much with his actions where Hank's good with his words. Of course, Hector has good words too...like the point where he tells Sadie all her Sadies make up her. He just melts me into a puddle of goo.

Yes, there aren't any standout characters this time...they ALL are! I loved getting some good Marcus, too. Ralphie and Buddy made me love them. And Jack made a big impact even if he's only present a very little while. I want Duke to set you and me both straight! He does know just what to say and when to say it, doesn't he? He's awesome. I can hear his voice so clearly and even feel his hugs. They ALL make me comfy, warm, safe. I sooo get it now. I get the message that we can do anything with our friends by our sides.

***

*haha* Yeah, I have enough love for them all too but Hector is definitely edging out all the other Hot Bunch hotties. 

I like that you mentioned Sadie's need to discover who she is because I was thinking that this book, more than any of the others, has been a journey of personal discovery for our Rock Chick. And watching that journey is one of my most favorite things. It broke my heart to think that Sadie hadn't ever experienced some things we take for granted....like smores. Or having girlfriends to have coffee with.  

I really am pleased with how KA handled Sadie's recovery from the rape. And I didn't think anything about her use of the word. I guess because, like you said, she's a straight-shooter and doesn't mince words. Especially once she's thought about things, gotten mad, or clicked a certain Sadie into place. So while it might not be realistic for some, it seemed to fit with Sadie.

Hector is a "this is me" kinda guy and you can take him or leave him, he doesn't care. It's ironic that he doesn't say he's sorry and Sadie is constantly apologizing for things she has no control over. Yep, they're perfect for one another.

Hmm, it didn't occur to me that we hadn't had a rivalry for Sadie in this one. But you're right. And she's been with other Hot Bunch hotties... Ren sure didn't make Hector happy when he touched Sadie but he didn't make any moves. And, well, we know how that one works out. Maybe there wasn't a rivalry because of all the Rock Chicks, Sadie's the one least likely to accept any advances?? 

It made me exceptionally warm and gooey feeling that everyone so quickly accepted Sadie...but especially Hector's family. Blanca accepted her more readily that Jet, don't you think? And that one was fast too. I also love Sadie's reactions to all the hugs, kisses, and acceptance she's been given. I've giggled over her painting, sanding, etc. at Hector's house. And I cried...boo-hooed! - over what she said to her dad about what living a good life was, in her opinion. True, that.

I finished reading Rock Chick Regret. Holy cow I loved this one so much!!! Hector is plain awesome. His brand of alpha is the most appealing to me. He's not physically controlling. He has fits and mood swings which just make him more real. He handles Sadie with such care and patience. Sadie won me over instantly because we had the inside track, but that first scene with Indy and Shirleen and the complete freeze out, it's the first time one of the Rock Chicks didn't think the upcoming Rock Chick was badass. 

I cracked up at how much Sadie loved fixing up Hector's house. When she had paint all over her, I could see this woman who showed the world a perfect Sadie and then she got to be a kid. Her dad is sure a complex character, that's for sure. You know what would be kind of fun, the old guys getting stuck on some winter retreat, cops and sort of and not sort of bad guys and they all have to solve some mystery together. Cliche maybe, but how fun would it be to see Duke and Tex there too? That's another fanfic I vote for us writing. 

I couldn't get over Jerry...that he felt so entitled to Sadie that he'd do whatever he felt like in order to get what he felt was his due. Ugh! What a creep! And Marcus got to be a good guy again! Yay!!

That scene between Sadie and her dad was fan-freaking-tastic! I was so proud of Sadie...the real Sadie for standing up to him and asking for what she deserved...her dad.

That last 'talk' Hector and Sadie had - I was so thrilled that she held her ground and told him, just as he'd told her, how it was going to be. I love the real Sadie.

The epilogue...loved that. Hector's explanation of Ally and Ren was great. And that Christmas morning scene...god I love Hector. And Sadie sure does too! 

Can I say that I think it's kinda amusing (like I'm fighting a grin) that we just might end up being in love with the same Hot Bunch hottie?!? Hector is firmly in first place in my heart.

***

Oh yeah, you're right. The Rock Chicks were definitely NOT on the Sadie bandwagon. And that's the first time we've seen them be really kinda catty, huh? I mean, they were nicer to those gals that were 'friends' of Indy's...well, until that bar brawl anyway. :)

I love that fanfic idea! It would be so much fun to see all those males together. :)

Sorry I've slacked on our RC chat! Jerry was something that's for sure. Of course I hated him from the start, but still, he racked up more hate points as the story went on. There was still kidnapping in this one, but totally different than the other ones. Sadie was so badass and not because she kicked ass, but because like Hector always says, she has an iron will. Oh, Hector. Of course we'd fall for the same Hot Bunch Hottie. Luke has the weird mustache thing. Seriously, that drives me crazy and not in a good way. Eddie does all that physical pushing around. Lee was made for one girl. But Hector, oh man. He pushes the right buttons. Christmas day rocked. 

I can't wait to read Ren and Ally's story, but then again, procrastinating sounds like a great plan. I'm not ready to close out the series. We do have a good consolation plan...writing a bit of fanfic, but still! It's been such a fun ride, Brandee!!

Yeah I loved how Hector kept repeating 'will of iron'. He totally makes me swoon. And of course we'd both fall for the same Hot Bunch hottie. 

I am not minding the idea of procrastinating on Ally and Ren's story. I hate for this ride to be over. But you're right, we do have some fun on tap. And lots more KA to read. ;) Ooh, and the fanfic...that's intimidating. *haha*

My final thoughts...

I'm so impressed at KA's ability to keep this series fresh and entertaining. This latest installment, there's plenty of drama, action, and intrigue to go along with the romance. But I felt this story was, more than any of it's predecessors, a story of self-discovery for Sadie. And although it was more than a little difficult at times, that journey was a pleasure to witness. It really drove home KA's message that if you have friends, you're never alone.

All with the added bonus of one Hector Chavez, who is now the reigning Hot Bunch Hottie in my heart. He is the perfect blend of alpha and gentleman. There isn't a more perfect man for Sadie, that's for sure.

Add in the entire RC cast, along with a few newbies, and the story has heart, depth, and it's a lot of fun. This just might be my favorite RC yet!

**Blogger 'Duel' Review ~ Rock Chick Reckoning ~ Kristen Ashley**

I know I've said this before but BEST.BET.EVER!! Robyn and I have had so much fun with our Rock Chick Chats - which were the result of my losing a bet on the Super Bowl.  I can't believe this crazy ride is almost over. Good thing there's plenty more football to bet on and Kristen Ashley to read! ;)  

 So anyway, here's our Rock Chick Chat on Rock Chick Reckoning. :)

***

Rock Chick Reckoning by Kristen Ashley

Rock Chick #6

Release Date: November 13, 2011

Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance

Synopsis
Stella's the lead singer and lead guitarist of The Blue Moon Gypsies and Stella used to be Mace's girl. Mace broke up with her, though, and the loss of him rocked her world. But Stella gets a call, late at night (again) from one of the members of her crazy band. She has to go play clean up (again) and runs into Mace and a shed load of police, and ends up getting shot.

Mace finds he doesn't like it much that his ex-girlfriend got shot right in front of him but it's worse. A very bad man has thrown down the gauntlet and all the Rock Chicks are in the firing line. Stella doesn't want Mace to be the one to keep her alive, but she has no choice. Mainly because Mace isn't giving her one.

***Rock Chick Reckoning Chat***

I'm having trouble swallowing for the lump in my throat. Mace...Robyn he may just knock Luke and Hank out. This man - I can't even say right now what it is about him. But he has me melting all over the place. And I'm loving the changing of POVs...are you? I like getting Mace's POV a lot. And I adore Stella. ADORE.HER! Yes, thank goodness for Rock Chick. I'm lucky too, girlie! Meeting you was serendipitous! Rock Chick is the bonus!! ;) And I'm sooo glad we have more KA to move on to.

Okay, I'll email more thoughts on Mace & Stella in the morning. I have the need...the need to read! ;) <-- like my spin on a movie quote?!? I'm a dork...I know! ;)

I laughed at the movie quote, plus you picked the best movie to quote!! I can quote Top Gun until you want to hit me with something. I am LOVING the dual POVs! The first change up I stopped three paragraphs in and started over. "What, can't be. Really? I love you Kristen Ashley!" Mace is a total sweet spot hottie. First off, he messed up with Stella. That makes him not quite the underdog, but something...he has to prove himself to Stella. And I love her too! I love how much she cared/cares about Mace. And I just know you are all about Juno! What an opener, right? So good. 

Okay, I have to put the oldest to bed so I can stay up too late reading. No movie quote for me because I'm lame.

Wow! I so enjoy that KA gave us story arcs over the entirety of the series. (well, thus far) Not only do we get the Rock Chick/Hot Bunch madness, and whatever issues each Rock Chick is carrying around at the moment said madness begins, but we also have the arc of bad Sid. Bad, crazy Sid.

The action in this one has been different - no bar brawls (yet) - and that's one thing that gives it a different feel. I love KA for giving us all the different POVs so we're getting a chance to catch up with the other couples in a more intimate (not that kind of intimate ;) way. The feel in this one is also different because Mace did fuck up with Stella - he admitted it - and he does have to win her back. But she has to work at it too. AND that Mace's life/past is affecting Stella is different too. A life/past she doesn't know too much about. I was with Eric in that I couldn't believe Mace & Stella had been so into each other and not known so many things about the other.

I LOVE Floyd!! Stella has a father-figure in him and that's good because she needs a parent to tell her to get her shit together. I'm also so impressed with the fact that KA can introduce new characters in each book, expanding an already fantastic cast, seamlessly. Getting The Gypsies, Eric, Mace's dad, even the dude that owns the Palladium added in makes the overall story so robust.

Oh and Stella's description of Evergreen and The Little Bear was so spot on. The fight scene in front of The Little Bear was so 'real' - I could see it all happening in my mind with her accurate description of the wood sidewalk and railing and twisty mountain road. :) We are sooo hanging out there next year when you're here! ;)

I don't know how far you are - I've been up since 5 reading! *ha* But...after Brody's interesting diatribe on all the 'links' he found on Mace's dad, I admired the calm that came over Mace. We don't know what's going on in his head (yet) but he's just so cool, calm and collected about it. What do you think about the info reveal about Mace's dad??

Stella was pissing me off - I don't understand - yet - why she is the way she is with the exception of what Mace did to her. And wow, I was fist-pumping over her speech to Mace when that all came out. But anyway, she was pissing me off. Like Shirleen said, is it really so hard to just give in to a Hot Bunch guy?? And then after Stella met with Mace's dad? What did you think about that? That jackass! And what Stella did to Mace after that? Shee-it!!

Oh, I just had a thought...dare I say, an epiphany? Stella and Mace's problems all stem from a lack of communication, no? As we've seen so far, Stella communicates through her music. So maybe she was always communicating - maybe not all the stuff (read: family history) that needed to be said - but her feelings anyway. And maybe Mace just wasn't listening??

Sorry this is mostly me rambling over my thoughts...what are you thinking???

***

Oh, oh!!

What did you think of the scene at Fortnum's between the Rock Chicks? If you're not there yet, you'll know it when you get there...

And how much did you love the scene between Roxie and Hank??? *swoon* Again, if you're not there yet, you'll know it when you get there...

***

Oh, oh, oh...and yes, I adore Juno. :) It's great that she's so accepting of Mace in her home...just like he belongs there. ;)

You know I can't wait to hit The Little Bear with you! And I'm with Shirleen too, what's so bad about a Hot Bunch guy being into you? Grrh. But I know we both love each Rock Chick enough to care about whatever is keeping her from accepting fate. You are so right about how amazing Kristen Ashley is at creating characters. Look at Smithie, grumpy strip club owner and I get giddy every time he appears because he's so much fun! 

This one has a totally different vibe. There's a lot more relationship tension with Mace messing up. Stella messing up. Outside factors/assholes (Mace's dad) messing them up. Mace is also such a different Hot Bunch guy. He's an Alpha for sure, but he doesn't have the smooth control of the other alphas. He loses his temper and makes mistakes with Stella. She does the same thing back. This is the least composed couple of all time! And I love it. 

Stella's "meet" with Mace's dad was so messed up. I hate him. He's a bad guy and I don't see me ever warming up to him, but KA has a way of softening the edges of her bad guys so she can play mind games with us. Look at Darius and Hector. Mmm, Hector and whatever rich woman who threw him to the side. I want to see Hector's slashed insides before all the mending.

I haven't laughed as much or cried as much, but I'm still just as addicted to the read. I want Mace and Stella to work it out and I don't want anyone hurt. I don't want KA to rip out my heart with someone dying either! 

What do you think about the songs this time around now that we have a Rock Chick who actually plays music?

***

I freaking loved the scene at Fortnum's because all that bickering was so much fun. They are not the troop from Strawberry Shortcake (John makes me read the books over and over). They call each other out. I just loved Ally throwing a fit! That was so good! I loved Tod throwing a fit too. And Daisy in the beginning with the donuts. She was so put out and she's hard to ruffle unless you make her car explode.

Swoon is the word for anything Hank-related. That was just right for the two of them. 

***

I finished the book! Let me know if you have/when you have. I stopped midway through the epilogue because what the heck! I like a glimpse into the future at the end of a series, not when there are 2 more books. I've decided to return to it after the last book, which I guess will be Ally's book. 

Smithie is awesome! I love the scene where he comes in and scares a certain someone into dropping their agenda. That was righteous, as Ally would say. And Duke works his way further and further into my heart with each book. Geez, what he did for Stella... She thinks she has 'shitty bad luck' but she's managed to gather quite a few men (Duke and Floyd in particular) that are much, much better fathers to her than her biological one. And Tex...he STILL steals the scene whenever he's present. Talk about grumpy. I LOVE him!!

This one does has a different vibe with all the messing up both Mace and Stella do. I like how you said they're the least 'composed' couple so far. That's so true. That scene where Mace is feeling badly for not controlling it - I smiled at Stella throwing his words back at him..."you said you needed to learn to handle me with care. Well, I need to learn the same thing." That was some awesome. These two both have some pretty big demons and maybe Mace didn't officially declare a war on Stella's like she did his, but they're both doing a fine job battling each other's demons. 

Nope, I'm never gonna like Preston Mason either. No way. No how. Not gonna happen. ;) 

Hector...yeah, I'm warming to him alright. *ha* He's funny. I could tell he was feeling it for Stella but he's not like the other Hot Bunch guys. He may have been saying something with his eyes and body language but he never moved in on Stella. I'm quite looking forward to meeting the woman who would toss him. Crazy woman, I say!

I haven't laughed or cried as much with this one either. Although I have kept a lump in my throat. :) KA is simply amazing. I've said it before but I'm always impressed how she can give a different vibe, a different feel with each book. Oh, and she did a tremendous job of keeping all the characters true in this one. With the switch in POV, I was impressed with how she kept their voice the same. <--not the right word, but you understand, right?

And the music....oh the freaking music!! I love having a Rock Chick who is actually a musician. And how she uses her music to communicate her feelings is fabulous! I mean, we also listen to music to suit our moods, right? Stella does too - and she plays it that was as well. I've gone around singing LOTS of Journey. ;) And I think I can hear her voice too. Man, I hope there's a really good band playing at The Little Bear when you're here next year. :) Are you liking the music? I love every single one of the bands/songs that Stella has played. And it's adorable that she believes she and Mace are meant to be together because they listen to the same music. ;)

***

I loved watching Ally have her fit, too. Yep, it's gonna be so much fun seeing her fall. And seeing her friends tell her 'I told you so.' And Daisy getting flustered over getting to serve breakfast was hilarious. Yep, you don't take away a Southern woman's right to serve a big Southern breakfast! *haha*

Yeah, Hank still makes me swoon, too. *sigh*

***

​Did you melt over the keys? That was a swoon-worthy moment when Mace came home. *sigh* 

I'm thrilled both Mace & Stella are putting everything out there. It says a lot about the depth of feelings they have for one another. Stella talks about seeing Mace's walls in his eyes...but he's not the only one who has  protective walls. 

Omigosh! Did you love the scene where Stella has had it with being walked all over? The things she said to George (he's a douche, and I hate that word) and to Preston. I was fist pumping and cheering her on! That was fan-freakin-tastic! By the way, Stella's parents could win 'Worst Parents Ever' but Mace's dad​ would give them a run for their money. 

I'm right there with you about Duke. Every book he roots himself deeper and deeper into my heart. Normally I don't enjoy stories where the main couple can't get it together and we have to watch all the drama of them breaking up, making up, and breaking up again, but I fell in love with Mace and Stella so when they pissed me off (equally), I just kept rooting for them to get over themselves. For me this installment is the relationship story. The others had a good mix of mystery, action, and humor, but this one was all about two people who would live the rest of their lives as closed off entities without each other. I loved it when Floyd told her how it was and it took her some time to see the truth for herself and then the mission she went on! You're right, I think Mace had his own mission because he started asking her questions and then he told her he would be there when she called her A-hole mother. What a piece of work! And Preston. When they had that first chat, I was furious. I hate to be called stupid. It seriously pisses me off. I took it personally when he called her that. 

Was there a standout side character for you in this installment? I loved Ally's fit and Hector's presence, but Duke won the show and Tex was just so awesome being Tex. 

Did you read the epilogue? I'm curious what you thought of it. I stopped because it was messing with my vision of the series. Simone Elkeles' Perfect Chemistry series did epilogues that took the reader years into the future even though the next story would happen right after the previous story. I liked that, but KA's made me feel like the series was over, which depressed me. I didn't want a sum up about all the couples. No! I want another mafia mix up and car bomb and kidnapping...uh, you know what I mean. 

Two more, Brandee. And the football season is going to start here pretty soon. We'll have to make another wager or two. Did you see that one of our players got ejected from the preseason game for hitting one of your players? My sister got all giddy and started clapping because I was staring at the TV instead of my Kindle. She thought I was watching the game. I had to break it to her I was imaging the player losing his chance at the lineup, going home, developing a drinking habit, losing his girl...I was in story land. My poor sister. I'm a terrible football fan.

***

I loved Rock Chick Reckoning. I had to give it 5 stars because I couldn't stop reading it. Seriously, I would put it down for the night after counting how many hours of sleep I could still get only to pick it right back up with a shrug that was so full of it. I knew I'd be a very hostile zombie the next day and I still kept on reading. At the same time, I had a couple issues with this one. I didn't get the whole Sid angle. He was a shadowy figure the entire novel. Couldn't he personally come out of hiding and kidnap someone? That would have made his actions more personal. I've become a bit of a danger addict when it comes to the Rock Chicks. Do you find yourself looking forward to everything going wrong and the Hot Bunch being handed their asses? My other issue was of course the epilogue. Even though I'm a major epilogue girl, can an author give us too much of a good thing? Even with these two itty bitty things, I just freaking adored the story because Mace and Stella were equally terrible at relationships. Oh my goodness, I know you were frustrated with both of them. Did you go back and forth scolding them, or were you able to lay the blame on them equally. Me? I was a tennis match of blame and scoldings. 

What do you want to see most in the last 2 stories? I still want to see a striptease tutorial for the Rock Chicks and I love your earlier request for a Hot Bunch showdown. I wouldn't mind a Hot Bunch guy getting kidnapped and the girls having to charge to his rescue. That would rock the planet. 

That's all I got for now...Hank is still the one. Mace is the shit though. I love that he's an emotional bees' nest. Roxie is still my girl, but Stella's ability to go on a tirade at a moment's notice is a girl after my own heart.

Rock Chick is definitely worth being a hostile zombie! ;)

I agree with you about Sid but I also think that his actions are realistic considering the type person he is. (Like I know so much about was a criminal's behavior would be ;) I'm totally a danger addict thanks to Rock Chick. So I thought the ending kicked ass! Oh, and I still didn't change my mind about Preston. Nope. He did a good deed but it didn't redeem him in my eyes.

I finished the epilogue because...well, I just couldn't help myself. I thought it was interesting placement, myself. It was a little spoilery in my opinion. I discussed this with Sky and she told me there may be a reason for the epilogue that will be revealed in the next two books. Smartie pants! Anyway, I liked it but...

I alternated my scoldings as well. But you know, despite them being equally bad at the relationship thing, I still believe Stella was always talking to Mace through her music. And they'd both made it their mission to heal the other. 

That concert at the wedding...ROCKED! I was crying over Stella singing Still the One to Lee and Indy. It was the perfect song even if it is mushy. And I also noticed - before it was pointed out - that the set list was a happy one. :)

Hmm, what I want to see most in the last 2...let me sleep on that one. I do agree that something happening to one of the Hot Bunch and the girls saving him would be awesome. Tex, of course, had to save himself! We're still doing the tutorial and the showdown, right??? ;)

I was thinking about Eric. We didn't talk about him. I felt kinda bad for him. I know Stella was his job but he really did fall for her. I'd like to see him get a HEA. (I'm a sap, I know)

Oh, you know what'd be cool to see? Shirleen get herself a HOT one! That would make me smile.

You know, I've been giving some serious thought to the Hot Bunch. And I'm thinking Hank, Luke, and Mace all take #1 for me. And all for different reasons. Hank - he really does just make me swoon. So I'm going to withhold stating who my Hot Bunch guy is until we've finished the series. Because I thought Luke knocked Hank out, but I don't know. And then Mace...I think he was so realistic in how he handled Stella and his life in general considering what he'd been through. I adored that he remembered how his mom could heal...... Anyway, I am reserving my final say on the guys until the end. 

But Ava's still my Rock Chick, for sure. There are things about them all that I admire or relate to but she's most like me.

I'm actually a little in love with Eric. Yep. What a guy! He's an honorary Hot Bunch for sure. I cracked up about you talking to Sky about it and her little talk with you. I think KA just got a little epilogue happy and got carried away. I still love her. 

Of course we're still doing our fanfic at the end of the series. How else can we pay homage to the series and feed the hungry book girl beast inside us? I love your idea for Shirleen. Did you ever watch Waiting to Exhale? Total chick flick. I'm thinking Gregory Hines for Shirleen. I think Hector and Ren are going to knock us on our butts. I mean, Hector was undercover. That's intense. And Ren is a bad guy! 

Man, I wish we knew these people! I want to be in line waiting for my fancy coffee as Tex yells at the dumb guy in front of me.

***SPOILER CHAT***

I was so pissed at Mace when he whistled for Juno to say goodbye to the dog at the end of that insanely frustrating break up. I was so confused if they were even broken up, and then he said the thing about coming back to get his bags and I wanted to call him a ... rhymes with wussy. AND then he rubs the dog down for his final farewell! Oh man. I know Stella was devastated, and I might have been crying because break ups make me angry and teary, but watching it all from the cheap seats was so frustrating. I totally get Ally flipping out!

I was pissed too. That was a slap in the face plus a gut kick. And you're right, he absolutely was wussin' out. And it was frustrating. I was mad at Mace but I was mad at Stella too. Ugh. I don't know which one I was maddest at. They both screwed up. I was definitely crying at this moment.

What did you think of Jane, the invisible? I thought that was an interesting thing to toss in. And I gotta be honest, I never thought of her. She is invisible. :/

I knew it was her because none of the guys gossip in this series. They're too busy chasing Rock Chicks. And May is too smart to be tricked into sharing every single detail. The gay boys would not put up with someone betraying their confidence. They would call an emergency meeting at Indy's to plot revenge. Plus, Jane is a closet romance writer. I loved the spirit behind all the info sharing. And it was so cool that she had favorite couples for the day. I did think for a minute it was the bitch secretary that moved over to Ren's business.

***

My final thoughts...Kristen Ashley did it again. Rock Chick Reckoning had a different feel to it than its predecessors - Robyn said it best when she said this one was more relationship-centered. Stella and Mace had a hard time getting it right - how to treat one another. Despite flying bullets being the reason they're back together - the action sort of took a back seat to Stella and Mace. Also, these two were by far the most broken of any of the previous couples. It was a pleasure watching them heal each other - eventually. The other different element was that Stella is a true Rock Chick - and I adored the role her music played in the story.

**Blogger 'Duel' Review ~ Rock Chick Revenge ~ Kristen Ashley**

I cannot believe that I'm 5 books deep into this series. It's been an amazing ride so far and I'm sad there's only 3 left. :( But as Robyn and I have had so much reading this series - because of that bet I lost - we're going to move on to other KA series once we've finished with this one. :) Anywho, here's what we had to say about Rock Chick Revenge. :)

***

Rock Chick Revenge by Kristen Ashley

Rock Chick #5

Release Date: April 24, 2011

Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

Ava hates men, she has reason and she's vowed not only never to get involved with another one again but also to exact vengeance on her best friend's, lying, cheating husband. Since Luke, Ava's childhood crush, is now a private investigator, she thinks to enlist him but changes her mind at the last second.

Too late, Luke knows she's up to something and he's already seen many a Rock Chick try to fight her own battles without the Hot Bunch stepping in. He's having none of it. She's having none of him. The clash of the Rock Chick and Hot Guy begins but Luke's got the advantage. He has handcuffs and he's not afraid to use them.

***Rock Chick Revenge Chat***

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

No time to read at all today! Grrh. Okay, that's not entirely true. I read this bumper sticker that I think counts as reading Rock Chick..."If you're going to ride my ass, you better be pulling my hair." hehehehe

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

LUKE WON! 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Did you just melt at the fireman hold???

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***SPOILER CHAT***

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

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

***
My final thoughts...I found my Rock Chick and my Hot Bunch guy. I so totally relate to Ava, it's weird. And Luke...I guess he proved to be what I was hoping he would be. He protected Ava and her heart. What I find so incredible about Kristen Ashley is that she gives us a story and new feel every time. It's essentially the same characters and similar situations but each Rock Chick is unique. And although I've enjoyed the hell out of these books, I'm also so sad there's only 3 left. This is a series I'll definitely be re-reading. :)

**Blogger 'Duel' Review ~ Rock Chick Renegade ~ Kristen Ashley**

I'm not normally a betting person. But I'm so happy to have made a bet on the Super Bowl...even though I lost! ;) Because getting to read Rock Chick with my pal Robyn Jones (@RobGirlBooks) has been a highlight of 2014 so far! 

Okay, on with the review...

***

Rock Chick Renegade by Kristen Ashley
Rock Chick #4
Release Date: March 11, 2011
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased ebook
Rating: 5 Bookworms

Synopsis

Jules has got a score to settle against the drug dealers of Denver. Vance has made it his mission that Jules won't get dead while dishing out vigilante justice. Jules doesn't have time for romance, she's too busy saving the world and she enlists Zip (the gunstore owner), Heavy (an ex-PI), and Frank (a mysterious recluse) to help.

The Rock Chicks of Fortnum's Bookstore get involved to provide romantic advice and guidance, none of which Jules accepts at first. The Hot Bunch of Nightingale Investigations adopt Jules as one of their own. Even though Jules tries to hang on to her inner Head Crackin' Mamma Jamma, the Rock Chicks; Hot Bunch; Jules' long-suffering Uncle Nick; Jules' friend, the rotund, African-American, Jackie-O wannabe, May; and especially Vance will stop at nothing to wear her down.

But Jules makes some bad guys pretty angry and one of dedicated to taking her out. Vance and the Hot Bunch have to pull out all the stops to keep her alive. At the same time, Jules and Vance learn the true meaning of home but once they find this precious entity they've been searching for all their lives, will Jules' enemies tear it away?

**********

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

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

*edit* It's that Vance compromises, I think. He doesn't set out to change Jules' mind every time...I think that's what is different. What do you think?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I vote for you fangirl scene. That may be the only thing missing so far, a brawl between the Rock Boys. Luke and Vance should have had a tussle where shirts were ripped off and they got all sweaty. Okay, I got sidetracked. I agree with your choice. And mine, a Daisy stripping tutorial is a must. We'll have to partner up on a Mad Libs type fanfic if we don't get our fangirl scenes by the end of the series. That would be so fun! 

Roxxie and Hank's book spoiled us with Tex and music, so I missed that. I loved the way those two used lines from songs to say what they wanted to say. Jules' protective wall would never let her get so artsy with her feelings. One of my favorite aspects of this story was Jules' coming out of her shell and pursuing friendships. That was just cool. 

Ava is going to rock because Jules liked her on the spot. And I'm with you on more Hector. More all of them! Reading this series with you is so much fun, I'm telling you!

I already have 5 waiting, just sitting there with all of Luke's mysteries ready to be unraveled. You tell me.