Review: Sweet Romance
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 06 22, 2014
M.J. Schiller knocks it out of the park with her latest edition to the Rocking Romance Series. Rock Me, Gently is a sweet romantic story with likable, well-developed characters and delicious chemistry between the two leads. The story starts in Vegas, where rock star Josh Dunningham meets the innocent Cassie McCallister who sends him reeling with just a look. Josh is a love ‘em and leave ‘em kind of guy and admittedly enjoys the sexual benefits of being a rock star. Cassie has had her heart-broken in the past and consider herself damaged goods. Both are vulnerable and searching for love, which becomes clear as soon as they meet.There is so much to like about this book. Schiller has a knack for detail, using her words to effortlessly lead the reader right where she wants them. Her descriptions of everything, from the Josh’s reaction upon laying eyes on Cassie to his perception of her as a hummingbird, darting from one thing to another or just the simple color of the light pouring out from the kitchen windows is almost poetic in its delivery.Both Cassie and Josh have a past that leaves both hesitant to trust the growing passion and affection between them. Despite their desire to protect themselves from heartbreak and commitment, they find themselves falling in love while battling their demons to find their happily ever after. The chemistry between the two is off the charts and in this day and age when so many authors are going for the “in your face, TMI” approach to loves scenes, Schiller takes the reader through scenes of sensuality where a subtle caress or an inexperienced but seductive removal of clothing leaves the reader breathless.The secondary characters of Rock Me, Gently are fairly typical, but likable nonetheless. In addition to falling in love, Josh and Cassie also find themselves embroiled in a plot designed to break them up that takes a dangerous turn, but one that, in the end, only brings them closer. And, in the midst of love and suspense, there’s an understated story of the importance of family, whether it be biological or chosen. If there was one negative that I could point to, it would be the lack of background that led to Josh becoming a rock star. There’s not much passion in Josh’s approach to music other than a song that he writes midway through the book about Cassie, leaving the rock and roll plot to fall flat. Regardless, I’d recommend Rock Me, Gently to anyone who enjoys a good romance.*I received this book in exchange for an honest review*