Review: Stryke First by Sandrine Gasq-Dion (Rock #5)


Note: This ARC was provided by the author via Enticing Journey Book Promotions in exchange for an honest review.

Stryke First is the fifth book in the Rock series and was the last published release before the sudden passing of author Sandrine Gasq-Dion late last month. If you're familiar with the series, you'll know that the stories center around a heavy metal band by the name of Skull Blasters and the men who become involved in their lives. Book five is about bassist Rebel Stryker, who's never fallen for a man, and new band manager Stan Jackson--who isn't really named Stan. Nope, Stan is Jax Jamison, a man whose previous relationship became an abusive one, forcing him to go on the run and procuring a new identity. His love for music plus a deal with the man in charge of the band's personal security has him agreeing to become the new manager, even as Jax fears his being in a public role will draw attention that may lead his ex to find him. He enjoys spending time with Rebel's grandfather, Rebel being the guy Jax has been crushing on for years. Everyone's pushing Rebel to make a move, and the more he gets to know "Stan", the more his interest is piqued. But can a guy who doesn't believe he's meant for love take a chance?

This contemporary M/M rock star romance was a pretty good read and was very low on angst. It's even got a bit of suspense thrown into the mix, courtesy of the whole thing going on with Jax's abusive ex, although it was low-key for most of the book. While you can, more or less, read this as a standalone, because of all the appearances from the rest of the guys from Skull Blasters--including the former manager who went a bit nutty on one of the other band members--who mention bits and pieces about stuff that happened in the previous books, I'm going to recommend that you read the books in order. They're not long reads, though they aren't exactly novellas either, so maybe save a weekend for the whole series if you do decide to venture down that route. Rebel and Jax's story was interesting, though I do wish that I felt more of that romantic connection between the two men, and I also would have wanted something more definitive with regards to Rebel's grandfather's medical diagnosis. The series was enjoyable, and even though I'm sorry we won't get the rest of the stories planned for it, I'm glad I was able to experience the author's writing and I get why Gasq-Dion had a strong readership. I'm giving Stryke First four stars. ♥

Date Read: 03 November 2017

Learn more about Sandrine Gasq-Dion.

Purchase Stryke First on Amazon.

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