I was lucky enough to receive as an ARC 🥰

Not Another Rockstar by Kate Callaghan is an intense and emotional ride, where love, betrayal, and the weight of fame collide in a whirlwind romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Phoebe Fletcher's life has been shattered by the tragic accident of her rockstar fiancé, and when she's falsely accused and bombarded by media frenzy, her dreams as an artist are put in jeopardy. Seeking solace and protection, Phoebe retreats to the one place she feels she might find some peace—the Brothers of Anarchy, the band of her ex. But in this new chapter, she finds herself drawn to Axel Adler, the brooding and enigmatic drummer, in a relationship that feels as forbidden as it does irresistible.

Axel and Phoebe’s growing connection is electric, fueled by their mutual understanding of pain, loss, and the weight of living in the spotlight. Despite the tension that their forbidden attraction creates—both due to Axel being her ex's bandmate and the complicated emotional baggage they each carry—the chemistry between them is undeniable. Axel’s care and encouragement draw Phoebe closer, sparking a fiery bond that threatens to consume them both. But with their growing feelings comes a dangerous web of lies and deception, with stalking, betrayal, and even murder looming in the background.

The tension in Not Another Rockstar is high, and the story is laced with plenty of "f*ck it" moments, witty banter, and heated exchanges that keep things fresh and fast-paced. The themes of betrayal and illicit love are explored with real emotional depth, showing just how far both characters are willing to go to protect each other and their own futures. The inclusion of suspense and mystery, along with the threat of obsessive fans, makes for an engaging and unpredictable read.

The romance is a slow burn that will have you rooting for Phoebe and Axel despite the odds against them. The tension between their undeniable attraction and the dangers that surround them is perfectly balanced, making the stakes feel even higher. If you're looking for a spicy, dramatic, and thrilling read full of twists, Not Another Rockstar will not disappoint.

The blend of steamy romance, suspense, and real emotional stakes makes this a must-read for fans of forbidden love, artists, and rockstars. It's a love story that pushes boundaries, tests loyalty, and shows that sometimes, the most intense relationships are born from the most difficult circumstances.

I love a mix of romance & suspense! Phoebe & Axel star in this rockstar romantic suspense. They work through their grief together, forming a bond unlike any other in this awesome read.

Thank you, Kate Callaghan, Booksgosocial & netgalley, for my early gifted copy! All opinions are my own.

This book should not have been written. I am so sorry I have to say this but what in the world is this author thinking?

It's like she wrote a book after Liam Payne died and made it full of grief, trauma, and sex with the bandmate's best friend. Also, this book is very much immature and naughty, there should be lots of trigger warnings before anyone reads this.

The plot reminds me of something Anna Todd or Colleen Hoover would do. Something happens to the bad boy, two people fall in love, and nothing goes as planned, trauma, kisses, secrets, and sex—the same old story.

I'm very triggered by this book after having finished it and can't even think of a summary. It's like this author hates boybands and music.

Thanks for the arc, I tried my best to read this and see something good from it. :(

I enjoyed it however ‘Not another rockstar’ appeared to have numerous tropes shoved into one book. Suprisingly it works better than I thought it would

Not Another Rockstar had all the makings of a gripping romance with angst, betrayal, a brooding drummer, and a forbidden connection, but the parts never came together as well as I'd hoped. Phoebe and Axel had undeniable chemistry, and I loved how he was always there for her, proving time and again that he truly cared. The "he falls first" trope was a highlight, and Axel’s quiet devotion was definitely swoon-worthy. But the pacing? That’s where things got a little shaky. The beginning dragged, making it hard to get fully invested, and by the time things picked up, some plot points felt drawn out or predictable. The suspense element added intrigue, but the big reveal at the end was underwhelming. I was hoping for more of a jaw-dropping twist, but it felt like something I saw coming. Also, Phoebe keeping her songwriting a secret for so long? Frustrating.

Overall, this was an okay read with some solid romance and a touch of mystery. If you love rockstar romances with a slow-burn connection, a protective hero, and a dash of danger, it may be a book for you.

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