This is a novel about a young singer and songwriter, running away from her past. It is written by James Patterson and Dolly Parton, and they make a great combination. I would give the novel ten stars were it possible, but I am restricted to five. This is a highly recommended novel, and very emotional in parts. Altogether brilliant.

In what is destined to be the biggest collab of 2022, legendary Country singer Dolly Parton and the world’s biggest-selling writer James Patterson, have joined forces to write “Run Rose Run”, the emotional and gripping tale of a young singer who tries to achieve her dreams by running away from her past, only to find it catching up with her.
I’m a big fan of both Dolly (who isn’t?) and James Patterson, and while this may seem an unusual mash-up, they have come together to write a wonderful story that is both redemptive and inspiring.
The chapters are short, lending the book a page-turning pace, which is Patterson’s forte, and Dolly has created memorable characters in Rose, Ruthanna and AnnieLee. The book also includes a Songbook with the full lyrics of songs featured in the story.
This isn’t your typical James Patterson novel, but with his skill for creating excitement and tension, and Dolly having poured her heart and soul into the story and characters, “Run Rose Run” is a glorious, exciting and tearjerking triumph.

Run Rose Run, Dolly Parton, James Patterson

Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews

Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers, Romance

I love Dolly Parton's music, and of course she has such an interesting history. I've read many of James Patterson's books too, so the collaboration was one I really wanted to read.
An unlikely duo on the surface but makes for a fantastic read, with JP's talent for creating a gripping mystery and dolly's background in music shining through and giving the story a very real feel. I could imagine myself there with AnnieLee when she was playing that first time, borrowed guitar, grumbling stomach, nerves...I was so rooting for her, knowing she clearly had some dark secrets but a burning fire to escape her background by way of her music.
Ruthann was a fabulous character too. Of course her long time manager/friend Jack, helps her when she takes on AnnieLee as a protegee, and then there's Ethan. Oh Ethan, his heart was lost at first sight, though he takes a long while to realise that.
Its a great read, fabulous characters, short sharp chapters, the mystery of AnnieLee's past being very dark at times, and yet she toughs and bluffs her way through, always hiding her feelings and pushing forward with wit and a smile.

Stars: 4.5. A terrific collaboration, bringing together the best of both talents. The suspense is more mystery than JP's trademark intense thriller, the songwriting and struggle of AnnieLee to make it was pure Dolly and together it made for a fantastic read

ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers

I couldn’t resist the combination of one of my favourite singers and one of my favourite authors. I was a bit concerned that it might be a bit of a one sided effort, but no worries, Dolly’s authenticity shines through. In this tale AnnieLee is a girl with a past and a future she dreams of as a big country star. The past keeps catching up with her, and not in a nice way.

I enjoyed this book, with Dolly’s voice definitely coming through loud and clear. It had me from the first chapter, always good, and I loved AnnieLees’ character, tenacity and obvious talent. Her chemistry with both Ethan and Ruthanna is great and the story moves along at a really nice pace. At times the way the story was heading was a bit obvious, and I would have liked more detail at the end, it felt over a bit too quickly. I’d like to know what happened to AnnieLees’ sisters, but I’m sure that could be another collaboration between the co-authors. There’s obviously a film in this too, with a readymade soundtrack. Overall a really enjoyable read.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Run Rose Run follows a young dreamer, AnnieLee Keyes, on the road to country music superstardom... with a little mystery and a bit of thriller thrown in.

Beautifully written, I fell hard and fast for these characters and AnnieLee's journey. I wasn't sure the elements of thriller were entirely necessary and it felt like the ending was a bit rushed, but the story of a young girl headed to Nashville and finding her dream was a really lovely read.

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely loved this book! I could definitely tell dolly’s influence but I always enjoy a James Patterson book! Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for early access and now I will wait for my signed edition to read again!

A great writing combination of Dolly Parton and James Patterson . Dolly's influence shone through and I hope she has more books to write.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC

I really enjoyed this. Annie Lee Keyes arrives in Nashville with literally nothing but the clothes on her back and a sleeping bag. We know she's running but we don't know what/who from. She's tired, hungry alone and sleeping under a bush when she plays for free using a borrowed guitar at the Cats Paw Club - owned by famous country star Ruthann Ryder. The crowds love her - and so does Ruthann and a friendship starts and offers a chance at success. But, AnnieLee's past is creeping up on her and she can't stay hidden on the stage.

I really loved so much about this book. It feels so authentic. If there is an audio version if this book i hope Dolly Parton reads it as it's her 'voice' you hear all the way through. I'm not sure whether Ruthann or AnnieLee is modelled on Dolly - or maybe they both are at different times in her life. Ruthann is a lovely character and so is Ethan. There is a lot of hardship in here - Ethan, AnnieLee and Ruthann all have their own stories and their own songs. I can't wait to listen to the soundtrack that is being released to accompany the book. I didn't realise till I finished reading that there is a 'songbook' at the back with the full songs rather than just the few lines we get throughout the book.

So why only 4 stars?? Well, its AnnieLee. She's a difficult character to like at times - I could just about accept her because we know whatever is following her is serious and she is really troubled. But at times she is so rude and ungrateful and her confidence about her music was so at odds with her circumstances and self belief in other areas. Also the end seemed to happen very quickly and, unless I missed it, we don't find out all the details of Ethan's story. I'm not sure I'd describe this as a thriller - AnnieLee's story has elements but the majority of the book is about her journey to becoming a professional musician. However, these things were minor for me because overall I loved this book!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley with no promise of a favourable review.

Run Rose Run by Dolly Parton & James Patterson


A great book with interesting characters in AnnieLee , Ruthanna , and Nathan, I feel Dolly would have come up with the premise of these characters , and maybe there is even a little of them in her.
Not a massively complex read , as you can see some things coming but nether the less still a great story.
I can see this being picked up and made into a film , the entertaining characters and story cry out for it.

This is the story of a young woman with the voice of an angel, the "heart of a hellcat and tongue of a serpent" - and a dark past that won't let her go - seeking to fulfil her dreams in Nashville. It is also the story of the people who help and hinder her in achieving those dreams.

I loved AnnieLee, a wonderfully strong female lead, "fierce and furious," but I loved the supporting cast just as much. As we discover, they all have their own demons, but they also all have unique personalities which are expertly crafted by the author duo. I haven't read anything else by James Patterson, but it is fairly easy to see Dolly Parton's input shining through with its charm, wit and (presumably) realistic insight into the music industry. The plot was well paced and a true page-turner, and the dialogue was believable. All in all, a very enjoyable reading experience.

A big thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone, Century for the arc.

This was always going to be a winning combination for me from the outset. I am a fan of james Patterson, Dolly Parton and country music so the boom immediately held appeal, including the cover and title.

I was not disappointed when I started to read it, as James Patterson's style of writing is so easy to read, and I was drawn into the story immediately. The Prologue did leave me with the thought that there would only be one possible ending to the book, but I was happy to be proved wrong.

The main characters were both believable and likeable , and the storyline, although pretty much as expected, held my interest all the way through. It follows the journey of a young singer/writer as she arrives in Nashville seeking her fortune, with a past she would rather forget, but which eventually catches up with her. I finished the book in 2 sittings, as I didn't want to put it down.

What starts off as a country singer about to hit the big time in Nashville quickly develops into a story of someone’s past catching up with them. It’s a great fast paced storyline full of country music charm - exactly what you would expect from such a famous partnership.

This is an enthralling story about Annie Lee – a young songwriter/singer, and Ruthanna, a famous country singer. A collaboration between Dolly Parton and James Patterson, the story explores the dark side of Nashville and is enriched by Dolly Parton’s insight, who knows the area well.
Annie Lee has escaped from a dark, secretive past, hoping to make her name as a singer. Starting in clubs, she eventually gets to meet Ruthanna, who wants to help her. The book consists of short chapters, written mainly from Annie Lee or Ruthanna’s perspective, giving insight into the two womens’ character and keeping up the pace.
Though Annie Lee is running from her past it keeps catching up with her, and at times the story is brutal. But there is also courage, warmth and humour, with the feisty young singer determined to succeed.
A great Dolly Parton fan, I felt this gripping story was filled with heart and spirit, and a real page turner filled with believable, likeable characters. You wonder how much of the story relates to Ms Parton’s own background and experiences,
A real page turner, I found it difficult to put down. Highly recommended.

This was my first James Patterson book I was drawn by the collaboration with Dolly. A great book could feel dolly influence and would definitely be tempted to pick up one James’s books again. I raced through this book and throughly enjoyed it

Book provided by Netgalley

I really like James Patterson books and this was no exception. Teaming up with Dolly Parton, gave you an insight into the world of Nashville and Country singers.

AnnieLee turns up in Nashville and begged her way up on to a stage to sing, but who is this fiesty songbird, and where has she come from. Ethan Blake is the first to be entranced by her voice and convinces his boss Ruthanna Ryder (huge Retired Country star) to come to the bar to listen to her.

Ruthanna sees something in AnnieLee and wants to help her succeed, but what is AnnieLee hiding and how will her secrets affect everyone around her ?

With songs obviously written by Dolly and the fabulous twists and turns from James, made this an enjoyable read.

If you are a country music fan or Dolly Parton fan you will love this book.

Gripping at the beginning although I did find it get a little slow in the middle.

The characters were great.
A very easy read but not really a thriller

A young wannabee country singer, running from home with secrets. She is talented and makes some influential friends but this also brings her to the attention of those she left behind.
Can she escape from her past and make a music career? Enjoy the glimpses in to the business of the music industry and its dynamics.
A twist right up to the end.

The title is apt. Rose as is her real name is running from unspeakable damage done to her as a young woman. She is trying to get away from all that by launching herself into a country music career as a writer as well as a singer of songs. She has a number of lucky breaks not least being mentored by Ruthanna, a famous country music star of bygone years. Through her she meets Ethan Blake who becomes her bodyguard and helps her to sort her past. The background of country music gives the book great charm particularly when it has Dolly Parton as a co-author. The story is, as you would expect with James Patterson’s involvement, well written with the reader wondering how the problems will be resolved. The book ends with a collection of songs in the country music genre. I recommend the book.

I would like to thank Netgalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone for an advance copy of Run, Rose, Run, a stand-alone thriller set in Nashville.

AnnieLee Keyes comes to Nashville to fulfil her dream of being a country and western singer, but she’s also fleeing her past and it wants her back.

I thoroughly enjoyed Run, Rose, Run, which is an atmospheric romantic suspense novel. I wasn’t sure at the beginning as the suspense part, which is my main interest, is slow to start, but I soon found the novel hypnotic and I got so invested in AnnieLee and her friends that it wouldn’t have mattered if there was no thrill in the novel. I like the concept of a novel with an accompanying soundtrack and I wish that I had bought and played the soundtrack while reading the novel as I think it would make for the ultimate atmosphere.

Much of the novel revolves around AnnieLee’s meteoric rise to stardom. Obviously for the purposes of the novel the experience is condensed, but it doesn’t dilute the experience or dampen the atmosphere. I found it informative and eye opening, and I got the sense that Ms Parton was revisiting some of the choices she had to make in her career in a better way. AnnieLee is well able to look after herself career wise, and while she gets what she wants it doesn’t always seem likely. Of course, being mentored by one of the industry greats always helps. This mentor, Ruthanna Ryder, is small, always dressed to the nines and has a quick tongue, not that I’m drawing any inferences. I really like the characterisation as the women are strong and the wit quick. Ethan Blake, the love interest, is more of a stereotype, self effacing and gentlemanly.

The secrets and thrills are shoehorned into the end of the novel. I did feel my pulse pounding then, but it’s almost like an afterthought.

Run, Rose, Run is an easy read that I have no hesitation in recommending.

SPOILER FREE REVIEW!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Cornerstone, Random House UK, for the eARC of Run, Rose, Run by Dolly Parton and James Patterson. This was given to me in exchange for an honest review so these are my thoughts.
I live in the UK but do really enjoy Country music although I guess my tastes are for more modern country music. But I really wanted to read this book because - Dolly Parton! She’s just amazing, especially with all the ways she give back. And I like reading so this just seemed like a good idea to me.
I recognised some of the names of Country artists throughout the book but wished my knowledge was better as there were many I didn’t recognise too and I didn’t know songs mentioned. Some were possibly made up, this is fiction after all, but I just felt like my lack of knowledge perhaps held back a bit of enjoyment somehow.
I did really enjoy this book though. A little bit predictable/cheesy in places perhaps but I can forgive that. It was an easy, entertaining read.

I was drawn to this book because I love the writing of James Patterson and was intrigued about the partnership with Dolly Parton. But wow what a partnership, this is such a brilliant read that pulls you in from page one. The mystery surrounds AnnieLee who is obviously running from demons in her past. She is a great main character hungry for a better life, being prepared to sleep rough and go hungry to follow her dream of being a country singer. The retired, famous country singer Ruthanna Ryder hears her sing and realising her talent takes her under her wing but AnnieLee has difficulty trusting others especially Ethan who is determined to protect her if only he knew from what.

The combination of writing talent that we didn’t know we needed! Yes, this is really real. Dolly Parton and James Patterson have co-written a book. It’s difficult to see who wrote which bits and who was the biggest influence… but if you’re expecting Patterson’s usual style you will be disappointed. This is co-written for a reason! It’s a story that needs to be told and it needed the knowledge and experience of Dolly to combine with a writer who knows how to write. This worked well and the partnership has achieved what it needed to.

Nashville came alive in this book through the songs that the main character, AnnieLee, writes, as well as the bars and venues that she visits and the journey that she goes on. I really loved that. I fell in love with music again. Dolly Parton’s own experiences perhaps shine through more than anything else and give this an air of authenticity. Reminiscent of Britney Spears book that she co-wrote with her Mother.

I also encourage you to listen to Big Dreams and Faded Jeans by Dolly Parton - part of the inspiration/link with the book.

I wasn't sure what to expect with this book as, while I have read dozens of James Patterson books, I am not a great follower of country music. It is a slow burner and it takes a while to connect to the charactersas a result, but it is well worht the time because, as the story unfolds and the dark past of its main characters slowly emerges, it becomes increasingly gripping and the later stages race along at pace towards the satisfying ending.

Loved this Mash-up two idols come together and make a book that is just wonderful the story is gripping about a young wannabe country singer making it in the world of showbusiness but her past has a way of finding her again. I was swept away and will be reading it again alongside listening to the music it was a really cool concept and one I hope will happen again thanks so much for my copy Netgalley and for the opportunity to read this

What a refreshing change this is. A simple love story, a rags to riches, talent-will-out story, with a bit of thriller stuff thrown in( the James Patterson parts) and it really works. I would like to encounter Ethan Blake any day and Annie-lee and Ruthannie are great characters. It is a Dolly Parton song as a novel and I really enjoyed it.

I enjoyed this book, even though I only requested it because of Dolly Parton's input! It's a real page turner, with an engaging set of characters, especially the central character AnnieLee. I loved the detail of AnnieLee's (improbable but gripping) progress in the world of country music, and I would definitely recommend this book to cheer up a wintry evening.

James Patterson and Dolly Parton - this was one book I had to read. I may have squealed when my request was approved on Netgalley - thank you so much Random House UK, Cornerstone, Century. I have been a long time James Patterson fan and who doesn't love Dolly right. This was a lovely story, with a strong influence from Dolly. There is going to be a 12 song album of song that Dolly has written just for the book and I cannot wait to hear it when the book comes out in March.

As always with Patterson reads, I was up until very late reading until the very end. And I am not sorry about it all. This book will appeal to more than the regular James Patterson readers which makes me really happy.

Our main character is young AnnieLee Keyes, a singer with a big dream and a big voice. She arrives in Nashville to become a star, and to escape her past. She arrives with a small backpack and the determination to succeed. The music business is not for the weak and she makes some strong connections and friends with a legend of the country music scene who sees her potential. She is finally getting everything she has ever wanted, but she is tired of looking over her shoulder all the time. Her secrets are always there are are threatening to destroy her.

Bravo James and Dolly. This is on heck of a book and it deserves to be a bestseller. Released March 7th, 2022

I raced through this book! I totally fell into the country music world and could see, hear and feel all the emotions that AnnieLee was going through. What a brilliant character, and fully believed the relationship she built up with Ruthanna. It felt so immersive witnessing the creation of multiple songs that were woven throughout the story. That music biz insider knowledge felt just as thrilling, if not more if I'm honest, as when the action ramped up a gear and AnnieLee was put in jeopardy. I'm not the hugest fan of violence on the page but all that was here felt necessary to the story, and had a satisfying resolution. Would absolutely recommend and genuinely excited to hear the album that accompanies this!

Dolly Parton is a hugely admirable musician and philanthropist who can turn her hand to so many things… and here, she presents us a with a novel, co-written with James Patterson, that takes us right into the heart of wholesome, musical Nashville but also into the entrails of a more dangerous, deceptive Nashville that feeds itself on human desperation. The novel brings together penniless singer AnnieLee Keyes who has arrived in the city to make her fortune and retired country music star Ruthanna Ryder, who decides to mentor AnnieLee. An obvious chemistry also develops between AnnieLee and one of Ruthanna’s studio musicians, Ethan Black. But whilst he soon confides in AnnieLee, she keeps her back story firmly to herself. At times, this makes her appear a less-rounded character than the other two, exacerbated by her obvious talent for everything she turns her mind to. Although the thriller element is secondary to the characterisation and criticism of the country music scene, the novel remains enjoyable throughout and the songbook included is a wonderful bonus. Run Rose Run is recommended for all Parton, Patterson, and thriller fans. My thanks go to the publishers and NetGalley for the free ARC they provide in return for this honest and unbiased review.

As a collaboration between James Patterson and Dolly Parton this was defiantly a book I was looking forward to reading.
When Val McDermid said this book is like having Dolly in the room with you, she wasn’t wrong. This book has a strong Dolly influence with all the detailed country music business and Nashville coming alive. It has an enjoyable rags to riches story with a bit of a thriller thrown in to the mix.
This is not like Patterson’s other books, the thriller storyline is not as strong or detailed as his other novels. I had the impression the thriller part would play a bigger part. The conclusion to the thriller story came quite fast in the last chapters.
This is an enjoyable read, if you don’t like thrillers I would still recommend this book.

#RunRoseRun #NetGalley I was intrigued when I saw this collaboration. James Patterson has been one of my favourite thriller writers for many many years but I was unsure how the country theme would fit it, however as I am a huge country fan and love Dolly I was keen to give this a go. Whilst it is not a thriller in the normal sense that we have come to expect from James Patterson, there are definitely darker sides to the plot and not just a rags to riches country story. Dolly's input is plain to see with her knowledge of country music and the good and the bad of how the industry operates. Parts of the book reminded me of the hit series Nashville (which I loved) and I could certainly see this as country music film! My verdict? I ABSOLUTELY LOVED it! I could not put it down and read it in 2 days. If you are a James Patterson fan or a country music fan, I don't think you will be disappointed. A brilliant 5 stars!

A must read for any country music fan. A story with country songs woven through it. I would definitely recommend this book..Annielee’s story is so well written.

Great action packed and fast paced book. Just dark enough with the underbelly of Nashville thrown in as the backdrop. AnnieLee is running and eventually hits the jackpot when her music is heard and her voice adored. The past still haunts her though and she holds her secrets tight until they just have to burst free and we go with her to the messy past she needs to sort. The whole book is peppered with music lyrics and the songs that AnnieLee writes and the words are the backdrop to the life of the characters.

I really enjoyed this. It was exactly what I expected and it was thoroughly entertaining. A definite recommendation.
I'm a bit of a country music fan and I love that Dolly Parton has written the perfect country music story. There's great lyrics, a tenacious musician, a love story and a fantastic cast of characters. There's also a little bit of intrigue with some dark secrets and lies. Some nice insights into the Nashville music community.
When I heard this was coming I requested it straight away, so a big thank you to the publisher for letting me read it before publication.

I was delighted to have the chance to read this book as I'm a big fan of James Patterson, Dolly Parton and Country music and here we have all three rolled into one to make what was a thoroughly wonderful book! Dolly's influence was evident throughout with her knowledge of the country music scene and Nashville in particular and James Patterson's usual style of writing short chapters made it one of those 'just one more chapter' novels that soon had the pages whipping towards a conclusion. I liked the main characters of AnnieLee, a talented young singer determined to make it big in country music, Ruthanna Ryder, a top country artiste who acts as friend and mentor to the young woman and the lovely Ethan who stands by AnnieLee as she goes through some awful times. The extent of her troubled past is revealed later in the book where there are also some heart thumping scenes to crank up the tension. Overall I loved this book. It was especially enjoyable coming across so many well known names in the country music business for anyone who is into this genre of music as I most definitely am. I would love this to be made into a film and the soundtrack is already there - it was nice to read the song lyrics of titles referred to in the book at the end. My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a pre-release copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.

I was so excited to read this and I was not disappointed. It does exactly what it says on the tin, it’s cheesy in all the right ways and written in such a way that keeps you turning the pages-I had to know what was going on!

The characters are great and the snippets of country songs and lyrics sprinkled in just made it a joy to read.

For most of this book you wonder who Rose is, but all is made clear in the final chapters. This is a story of a young woman seeking fame in Nashville and meeting a childhood idol. As her future starts to look brighter her past catches up with her. Dolly Parton has produced an album of the songs described in the book, so this is a multi-media release! Fast-paced, enjoyable hokum.

Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book.

Fantastic read. I love James Patterson and have read almost everything written by him. The story is easy to read and flows well. Good characters and a great plot.

i have just finished reading Run Rose Run and am not sue what I expected just know I really like Dolly Parton.

I did enjoy the book and would recommend it to Country fans. I think I would sum it up as a "nice" and an easy read.

Many thanks to Random House UK and Netgalley for a copy of this ARC for which I have given my voluntary and unbiased review..

Run Rose Run is a great entertaining story of a young, promising, talented singer-songwriter trying to escape an abusive past and make it in Nashville. This is a perfect read for lovers of the Nashville TV drama series, with a beautiful diminutive singer catching a break when the retired ‘Queen of Country’ takes her under her wing. The ladder to success in the music industry has many difficult rungs to negotiate with setbacks, rejections, predators, greedy and manipulative agents and record labels, and over-whelming competition, never mind the threat of someone wanting you dead.

AnnieLee Keyes arrives in Nashville, penniless, friendless, and sleeping rough in a local park. Driven and sassy, she enters the Cat’s Paw bar and pushes for a chance to perform on-stage. Winning over the barman, AnnieLee borrows a guitar and sings her own songs. Before she knows it, the crowd are cheering and enjoying her set. When she announces that she has sang all her songs and can now sing covers of what they would like to hear, the crowd shout for her to sing her songs again. Hearing her sing that night is Ethan Blake, a musician who is a friend of Ruthanna Ryder, the retired Queen of Country and owner of the Cat’s Paw. These three characters each have secrets and hurt in their lives, and as the story progresses, we start to uncover the truths. There is a nearly nearly love relationship between AnnieLee and Ethan, each harbouring feelings for the other but reluctant to take that first step. I felt this part was managed well, even though it is so cliché.

I enjoyed the story as I love the underdog battling through hardships to achieve a dream. However, there is a significant issue as it’s a story that’s been told so many times before and a road well-trodden. The convenience of meeting two people of crucial importance in a world of dog-eat-dog felt unrealistic, especially as Ruthanna and Ethan went to incredible lengths to help AnnieLee, including putting their own lives in danger.

AnnieLee lives for her music and song verses in her head trip onto the page at every opportunity, which I tended to ignore. I enjoyed reading the book and the momentum of the story was very well balanced. Fans of Nashville, country music and Dolly Parton will enjoy this book, and I would recommend it with the cautions above. I want to thank Random House UK, Cornerstone and NetGalley for providing a free ARC in return for an honest review.

I enjoyed reading this book. Solid one with good plot, interesting characters and country music industry in background. Additional gem - songs lyrics, yummy 😁

What you get when you mix a successful writer with a natural storyteller is a well crafted novel with a fascinating story!
AnnieLee is hungry for a taste of fame and fortune. Her natural talent as a country singer is not in question, but her talent is tainted by secrets from her past. Arriving in Nashville, she overcomes poverty, homelessness and a strong sense of independence, to secure one singing appearance, with a borrowed guitar.
With a host of characters and a prologue that keeps the reader guessing, this is a real roller coaster read.

If you are looking for a book which gives you a real sense of the author, then I don't think you could ask for a better book than Run Rose Run by Dolly Parton. This book was a whole lot of fun and a whole lot of country. Whether you are a country music fan or not, there can't be many people on the planet who don;t know who Dolly Parton is, and I have to say that this book encapsulates the passion that she always shows towards her music, wrapped up in a book which is dripping with authenticity and a whole lot of intrigue. It's a book which had me hooked from the very dramatic and unexpected opening, right through to the heart pounding conclusion, and all the rhinestone and rhythm embellished pages in between. Parton and Patterson were always going to be an intriguing pairing but this is one book that left me with a very satisfied smile on my face.

This is the story of AnnieLee Keyes, a young women who fights her way to Nashville and who undergoes a number of undeniable challenges in order to make her dream of becoming a country music star come true. Homeless, and with a clearly troubled past, she begs her way into opportunities, catching the eye of Nashville superstar Ruthanna Ryder along the way. AnnieLee is determined, feisty and shows a whole lot of bravado that she doesn't always feel. Her story may feel like the typical rags to riches tale, a kind of Cinderella story as it were, but believe me it is much deeper and darker than Disney could have imagined. I liked AnnieLee. Wanted to see her come good. Celebrated in her successes and shook my head as some of the strange, almost seemingly self destructive decisions she made in the name of her pride. But Dolly Parton has written her in such a way that I really did get behind her, believed in her journey, even if it wasn't typical of most wannabe starlets who make their way to the city. She did fall into a whole lot of luck, but backed up by undeniable talent, something which struck a cord with Ruthanna.

Now if you were looking for that all glamour, super famous face of country type character that will put you in mind of the author herself that is Ruthanna. For all her success, all of her fortune, she is actually very down to earth, even though her lifestyle may not feel like it is. She was a very likeable character, quite sympathetic and with an emotional side that often comes to the fore. She recognises something in AnnieLee, not just her talent, but something more, and thought it takes a while to come to the fore, the story is quite emotional and made me warm to Ruthanna even more. She is surrounded by musicians and business men, even when retired as you'd expect, but there is a whole heap of respect and love there which shines through in the story.

Now this is not a straightforward thriller as you may be expecting, given James Patterson's involvement in the book. There is an element of darkness and tension in the story, largely linked to AnnieLee's past, but rather than being infused with a constant sense of threat, the story often lets us, and AnnieLee, fall into a false sense of security, where the pursuit of her music career overtakes everything and we can forget, for a while at least, that tense opening sequence. But then something will happen, something dark and full of dramatic tension and darkness which brings that undiscovered mystery, that thing which AnnieLee is at pains, literally, to conceal, right to the forefront of our minds. You can likely guess what a part of it could be, but I certainly wasn't expecting just how dark the authors would take it. It doesn't feel out of place, but it does add a stark contrast to the glamorous life AnnieLee is on the brink of achieving.

The book is oozing with all the splendour and colour of the country music scene. If you are fan you'll be delighted to hear there is a soundtrack to accompany the book. If you aren't, and I'll admit it's a genre of music that isn't entirely in my comfort zone, you'll still feel yourself pulled into the heart of Nashville. As a non follower, I can't think of a person more synonymous with modern country music than Dolly Parton, and every minute of her experience and love for music is poured into the book, giving it an overwhelming sense of place. It feels both glamourous and understated at the same time, taking us from open mike nights to full on high profile music tours. With characters I can absolutely imagine are drawn from real life, even if only in part, there isn't a part of this book I didn't enjoy.

If you want an often fun, sometimes intense, character led story that is oozing authenticity, has a touch of old fashioned romance, and a whole lot of music, then this could well be the book for you. It made me smile and it is more definitely recommended.

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book

a collaboration between dolly parton and james patterson and they dont let you down.... an up and coming country and western singer arrives to make her mark in Nashville , pennyless and broke she needs to sing for her supper and she finds a place to do just that, though she doesnt take advantage and at night she sleeps under the stars aware from any danger....


its not before long that she gets noticed and taken under the wing of another famous country and western singer but Annielee keyes past is about to catch up with her in a violent way....

its not a bad collaboration between these two but it was the 2nd half of the book that hooked me so much i couldnt put it down...fingers crossed for more from these two

A young girl is looking for a future so she can escape the past. She is taken under the wing of retired singer Ruthanna. A rags to riches story, hoping the past doesn't catch up with the future. Some interesting characters that add extra depth to the story. Looking forward to hearing the music that Dolly has written to accompany the book release.

Wow!! Just Wow!!
Gripping, addictive, touching, brilliant!! This is a book that's hard to put down, a real human story, against the backdrop of country music, and country music culture. Very American yes, but also accessible to anyone with a love of music and life!
AnnieLee Keyes has to get away from her home town fast, hitching a ride to Nashville. She is fiery, gutsy, and determined to sing. Her character is fantastic, admirable, vulnerable yet you would never want to mess with her. You'd want her as your friend for sure! Her journey is fascinating and gripping!! I felt so immersed in this book and didn't want to let go at the end, the story is still with me, and cannot rate highly enough!! This deserves way more than 5 stars!!! Looking forward to Dolly's album with all the music which is already in my head.
The writing is fantastic, with the spirit of Dolly Parton in every page, and professional writer James Patterson making it slick!
A must read for 2022!!
Loved it!! My favourite book this year!
Thank you so much NetGalley for the chance to read early. Much appreciated!

I have never read anything by James Patterson, but I am a huge Dolly Parton fan. Therefore, I decided to take a chance on this book and I’m glad I did! I enjoyed the slow build-up of the mystery of Annie Lee’s past, and I loved the lyrics sprinkled throughout the book.

Annie Lee (aka Rose) is tough, driven, and talented. She goes to Nashville to chase her dreams and make it big as a songwriter and singer. While I don’t really relate to her aspirations or her life experiences, I do admire her courage and determination.

Ruthanna had a great deal in common with the Queen of Nashville herself, including her heart for putting books in the hands of children. I fell in love with her instantly. Who doesn’t love Dolly?!?
Ethan and Jack were both endearing and sweet. I liked them both almost instantly. Ethan was a true storybook hero.

I struggled at the beginning of the book with not being able to relate to the storyline and losing my interest. That being said, it did get better, and after that, I could barely put it down. This book is a little like watching a country music special/movie, so it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. I hear Dolly is releasing an album to accompany all of the lyrics in this book, and I can’t wait!

The prologue immediately captures your interest and I was desperate to know how the protagonist had ended up in the situation described. She is immensely likeable - a grifter, talented, unafraid of hard work, but with an innate insecurity and vulnerability about her that makes it very easy to see why people are drawn to her. Some because they want to help her achieve her dreams, others because she is an easy target to exploit.
It becomes clear early on that there is something in her past that is dangerous - what that might be isn't explicitly stated, but the threat is evidently very real and this becomes a more major part of the plot as the narrative develops.

The main characters are likeable and their personal stories come to the fore as the story winds its way forwards, but the information is drip fed and perfectly paced to keep the reader engaged at all times and the back stories never distract the reader's attention from the main plot. As all good thrillers should, the pace picks up towards the end and everything is tied up neatly by the end of the book. I must confess to having galloped through the last few pages so quickly that I had to go back and re-read them to make sure I'd got everything straight in my head!

I haven't yet had a chance to listen to the songs Dolly Parton created for the book, but my advice would be to listen to the album as the songs appear in the book. Although James Patterson is more well known as an author, it seems to be Ms Parton's influence which is the driving force of the book and it felt very much like one of her songs - vulnerable, but feisty heroine at risk from those around her and determined to chart her own course in life. If you're a fan of the music, I have no doubt you'll be a fan of the book too!

Not what I’d usually choose or read but as a big Dolly Parton fan I couldn’t wait to read!
Would be amazing to read while listening to the album!

Great story with lots of tension, secrets, love and obviously country music!
Will be purchasing the book and album as presents!

🏃🏻‍♀️ A Fight For Survival 🏃🏻‍♀️

The night she needed to save herself... rewind to eleven months earlier... Following the life of AnnieLee who is on the run trying to free herself and make a better life, whilst endeavouring to make it in the world of music. On the path to potential success comes many testing times for AnnieLee.

Not your average James Patterson thriller, but a great partnership with Dolly Parton. From the beginning you get Dolly's input. Great read, look forward to reading more.

When a book starts with a young woman throwing herself out of a fourth storey hotel window you know you are in for a roller coaster ride of a read. The story begins eleven months before AnnieLee Keyes jumps from the balcony. We know she is running away, trying to escape her old life but we do not know why. Small hints and clues are hinted at which slowly build up as the story progresses adding to the suspense. AnnieLee wants to be a country singer /song writer so travels to the most obvious location - Nashville. Here sleeping rough with only pennies to here name she fights for her dream. As she makes friends with the famous Ruthanna and a guitar player - Ethan Blake her life seems to be on the up. Unfortunately her past will not stay in the past and the danger seems to only increase every time she gets closer to achieving her dream. Only at the very end do we find out why she has been running but, by then is it too late?

Thankyou for giving me the chance to read in advance. Had me enthralled from start to finish. Fast paced and a definite good read!!

James Patterson knocking it out the park again with a total new twist thanks to Dolly Parton co-writing. I fell in love with the characters right away, Its a slow burner in comparison to Pattersons other work but it works well and you become very invested in the characters.

Watching Ethan fall in love with Annie Lee as your own personal curiosity about her grows is great.

I have since seen there is an audio book version and even though I have read this, I will be buying it! JPs audiobooks are always full scale production and great entertainment.

Thanks NetGalley, Publisher & Dolly(!) for the ARC version of Run Rose Run.

I had high hopes for this book when I first saw it, I mean Dolly Parton and James Patterson teaming up to write a book sounds amazing. Both are amazing writers in their own fields and they both have had amazing success over the years.

Run Rose Run is a wonderful story about a young singer, AnnieLee Keyes. She hitches her way to a run-down bar and asks if she can sing on their small stage. A random bloke happens to be there and has a slot after AnnieLee. A chance meeting or fate, either way, is the start of something for them both.

So, who is Rose, and why is she running? That is something that you will soon discover for yourself.

The authors have mixed the goings-on of Nashville and Country music with a fabulously tense mystery. I really enjoyed the way that the older legends of country music get a mention and how the industry is explored in this novel. Yeah, there is the glamour, glitz and rhinestones. There is also the damp bars, the hitch-hiking, and being one of the thousands hoping to see their name in lights. The balance between the up and coming singer against an established legend was great.

Around the music is an underlying mystery, this starts in quite a subtle way. If you are like me and don't tend to read the synopsis for books, then the obvious title kind of hints at things. Quite how we get there though is an addictive and compelling story.

As this is Dolly, there are snippets of songs and these can be found in full at the end of the book. There is also an album that she has recorded with the same songs on, and the title is the same as the book.

This story was all I had hoped it would be. It is a mix of contemporary fiction, a journey of discovery and a mystery. If you are a fan of all things Dolly then I do think you are going to love this. It was a cracking read with some wonderful heartwarming and heartbreaking moments. At times dark and it is one I would definitely recommend.

I hope Dolly Parton and James Patterson are going to write other books together as this one was highly entertaining and gripping.
I was fascinated by the characters, the description of the country music world, and the solid mystery.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Run Rose Run is a stand-alone thriller set in Nashville.

Written by Dolly Parton and the best selling writer James Patterson, AnnieLee Keyes is in Nashville to fulfil her dream of being a country and western singer, but she’s also fleeing from her past. Much of the novel revolves around AnnieLee’s rise to stardom. She makes some strong connections and friends with a legend of the country music scene who sees her potential. The book is atmospheric, redemptive and inspiring. Riveting and eye-opening, I came away with the impression that Dolly Parton was maybe revisiting some of the choices she might have made for herself. With some very strong characterisation as well as excitement and tension, this is a truly magnificent read, an adventurous trip and a contender for my 2022 favourites.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Random House UK, Cornerstone via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.

If I could give this book 10 stars I would. Not only is the book an asset to country music, but it is beautifully written, as well as being captivating with mesmerising characters.
Run Rose Run is the new novel written by non-other than Dolly Parton herself! Well, I’d like to say ‘herself’, but it was in fact, co-authored by the one and only James Patterson!
Honestly, when I first heard that these two were co-writing a novel, I had to pinch myself several times. Even when I got approved for the ARC, I STILL couldn’t quite believe it. And to be honest, even AFTER I’ve read the book, I STILL can’t believe it.
Run Rose Run is essentially a novel about a young woman trying to make it in the country music business. But, once you’ve read it, you’ll come to realise it’s so much more than that. It’s about having the grit to keep on going, it’s about having the drive to keep pushing forward, it’s about stoking the fire inside you.
One of the reviews I’d read before reading this book myself was, “It’s like having Dolly in the room with you.” To be honest, I didn’t really believe that – how could one book bring The Dolly Parton into the room? Well, for those of you who are fans of hers, let me tell you, it does!
Also, for those of you who aren’t Parton fans, you don’t have to worry; the incredible Patterson Prose flows throughout this book, bringing the characters, and the story, to life.
For those of you who are Parton fans, you’re in even more luck. We get plenty of personality from the Queen of Country Music shining through.
I’m pretty sure I hitchhiked to Nashville along with AnnieLee Keyes while I read Run Rose Run. I could smell the dive bars, taste the grease from the bar fries, and feel the burn of the whiskey in my mouth. Not to mention, hear the soulful voices of the most-loved country stars.
At the end of the book, there’s an accompanying song sheet, where all the lines which were composed during the story are transformed into songs. I think this is just beautiful, and I can’t thank Ms. Parton enough, for reminding me not just of my love for country music, but of my appreciation of her beautiful song writing.
Anyway, if you haven’t already ordered this book, I urge you to do so, as you won’t be disappointed. Honestly, I’m excited to hear the songs from the album, which came out on the 4th March 2022. For me, my masochistic side came out, because I’m making myself wait a little longer for it to be released on vinyl (and I will reiterate, it has been pre-ordered).
Before I sign off for today, I want to say a huge thankyou to Netgalley for giving me the ARC, sorry it took me so long to read it. Turns out, book nerds get technical issues too!
Massive thanks to James Patterson and Dolly Parton. I don’t know how this co-authorship came to be, but I’ve been sending prayers of thanks to the gods of literature ever since I heard about it.

This book just grabs you from the start and keeps you coming back for more.
It's easy to imagine your in Nashville with the characters, the dive bars all a little different but familiar.

Annielee is so likeable and you just want her to succeed in the business, and for only good thing to come from the people around her.. her challenges, courage and secrets make this book my favourite read of the year so far.
I just wish i could read it in the country accent it was written in (and maybe heard the songs she writes!)

Dolly Parton and James Patterson have come together to create a highly emotional and exhilarating story about a young lady with dreams of stardom in the home of country music, Nashville.
She has left her troubles behind and starts to live her dream, but her past is never too far behind. Can Rose fulfil her destiny and be the next big country star or will her dark past destroy her life and those closest to her?
This is a beautifully written story with a great insight into what life is like behind the scenes of country music. Mix James Patterson’s ability to craft a story and Dolly Parton’s superb talent to write a song and this book could only turnout to be a massive success. I was thoroughly charmed by this story and highly recommend it.

What an absolutely fabulous read!!
I loved every minute of it and it left me with a warm fuzzy feeling. Who knew that this collaboration between Dolly Parton and James Patterson will bring us such an awesome book?! It's a 400-page book that I finished in half a day! I found the writing easy and flowing and it captured my attention from the beginning to the end. It's a story of a young girl from the bad side of town trying to make a name for herself, trying to escape all the horrors that happened to her, trying to live her dream. She is discovered by chance when she convinced a barman to give her a go at singing in a bar. This leads to her meeting her idol and suddenly fame is around the corner but at what cost? Will her past catch up with her?
I loved the feistiness of Rose (maybe some characteristics of Dolly and both are pintsize)
I also can't wait to listen to the 12 songs that Dolly wrote for this novel and having read the lyrics at the back of the book it's going to be awesome!!

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I absolutely adored this book and flew through it. I’m a big fan of Patterson and I love reading his dual novels. This one with Dolly was everything I wanted it to be: fast paced, dark and about music!
10/10 for this one. I’ll be recommending this for ages! Thank you @netgalley!

I love all things Dolly and this didn’t disappoint!

One of the best books I’ve read in a while. Dolly Parton and James Patterson have superbly written this novel about a young girl with her hidden past

The prologue shows her jumping off a hotel window but why is she jumping?!

Read on and you’ll sure find out why!

A woman with a past she wants to keep secret at all costs chases her dream of singing her songs for anyone who will listen. Making her way to Nashville with her thumb out and only a back pack to cradle her few belongings she discovers that dreams do come true when the bar where she manages to sing a few of her songs is owned by the queen of country music. The man that introduces them is besotted from the first note of her angelic voice and struggles with the secrets she keeps. Danger follows her like a bad smell and her past will not leave her alone. It's a great story, with incredible songs, a dark tragic past that haunts all three characters and a love that can heal all wounds, if they are willing to take the chance.

Well I don’t know where to start, this is a book that I’ve been so excited by, cried when it landed and devoured page after page.

I was unsure what to expect when I started this one, Patterson is an amazing author who has so many books I have loved. Dolly, is an absolute queen who I adore.

Run Rose Run is a book that has completely exceeded my expectations. I knew I was going to love it, but I have been AMAZED by this one. It has been a rollercoaster read which has been a joy. I’m gutted I cannot experience this for the first time again.

This is exciting and enthralling. You cannot tell that there are two authors because it’s flows perfectly well. The characters are mixed in this one, some you love and others you have mixed opinions of.

This is perfectly paced and leaves you intrigued and wanting more. This is unpredictable and has left me with “oh my gosh” moments on many occasions as I’ve read this one.

Dolly shines through in this one, the descriptions of Nashville, the talk of the music industry and pint sized Annie Lee. There is nothing to dislike about this book. I could ramble about all the wonderful things about this book all day- instead I’m going to say that this is a MUST FOR THE TBR!! Whether a Dolly fan or not, this is a fantastic book and one that is bound to be a bestseller.

Fabulous debut from this duo, both giants in their individual fields. Snappy prose, super tight plot, incredibly likable characters. And a week on from reading…those lyrics are still in my head. Deservedly a bestseller

Thank you to Penguin Books and Netgalley for my cooy of the book. The story is based on Rose, otherwise known as Annie Lee, and her journey to success in Nashville.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book with characters that made me care what happened to them. I rooted for Annie Lee all the way whilst learning her story and reasons for running. I thought it was great escapism into the world of Country music which I had not known much about.

Dolly's knowledges suines through and with added realism and tension from James co-writing.

All in all this was a story that flew along at pace and reminded me of the TV programme Nashville which I loved! The song lyrics at the end is a bonus and it's a nice touch to have Dolly's music to listen to alongside it.

Rose is on the run. She's always wanted to be a star so she's going to Nashville to claim her destiny. There's a darkness following her, ready to pounce and destroy what she wants to become....

I absolutely adored this book! Ms. Parton is a treasure and this book feels so authentic. You feel like you are getting an insight into what it must have been like for her to try and break into the country music industry. Although a work of fiction, Dolly's personality and sassiness comes across completely in this book and I know that Run, Rose, Run is going to be a massive hit with her fans! The combination of James Patterson and Dolly Parton is just perfection!

It's an emotional and gripping story and you will instantly fall in love with the characters (I visualised Dolly as both Ruthanna and Rose when I was reading this book). The dynamics between the characters was on point and I don't think you can help but feel protective of Rose when you get to see the darkness of her past and what it did to her (no spoilers.) Each of the characters are memorable and the story has stayed with me long after I finished reading the book which is always a sign to me of a great book.

The pace of the story is just perfect (Patterson's forte!) and there is plenty of excitement and tension throughout for the reader. I could not contain my excitement when I found out that Dolly has written a brand new album to accompany the book and I highly recommend you listening to the album when reading this glorious tear-inducing and heartwarming story.

Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for the arc. Run, Rose, Run is a 5 star read for me all day long! Terrific collaboration and a beautiful story. (Side note- I need to go visit Nashville!)