IDOL is Book 1 in Kristen Callihan's VIP rock star-
themed romance series. I love rock star themed romances
and I love Kristen Callihan's writing, so I'm happy to
have both in one book. Killian James and Liberty "Libby"
Bell have a very inauspicious beginning since they first
meet when a drunken Killian crashes onto Libby's lawn.
For me, IDOL is divided into two sections -- the first
half involves the time that Killian and Libby spend
getting to know each other while living in Libby's small
town, and the second half takes place after Killian's
rock star identity is revealed and he and Libby are in
the whirl of the music business. Both sections are
compelling and make IDOL such a great story.
When Killian first makes his appearance as a seemingly
drunken lout on Libby's lawn, I wasn't sure I would like
him. These early chapters are my favorite because I adore
the small-scale and intimate quality they have. Kristen
Callihan balances the more serious and quiet moments with
the humorous ones. The dialogue and a few other elements
in these early chapters remind of the same qualities I
adore so much in FRANNY AND ZOOEY by J.D. Salinger -- the
magic is in the two people having an extended
conversation. As Killian, aka "Lawn Bum", and Libby get
to know each other better the sexual tension increases
until they finally and gloriously give in to the passion
they feel.
After Killian and Libby are forced to leave their cocoon
and resume contact with the outside world, IDOL becomes
not just a love story between two people, but a story
about the perils of fame and the family dynamics in a
band. When Killian and Libby hook up with his band Kill
John, I'm especially glad to have this story told from
both of their perspectives. For various good, though
arguably misguided, intentions Libby wants to keep her
special relationship with Killian a secret temporarily.
This is understandable, yet highly frustrating for
Killian and for me as a reader. I love that Killian wants
to be honest and shout his love for Libby from the
rooftops. The conflict over whether or not to go public
with their relationship adds drama to this romance. I
like that Kristen Callihan gives some insight into
Killian's perception of himself and whether he is a
musician or rock celebrity. I enjoyed getting glimpses of
the other band members -- their personalities, and how
they interact with each other. Several supporting
characters sparked my interest and I look forward to
reading more about them in future books.
IDOL is a book with sharp dialogue, fresh characters, and
an unforgettable romance. Kristen Callihan delivers a
fascinating, thoughtful and slightly different approach
to writing a romance with a rock star hero. I hope to
read more about the hidden depths of characters like
Scottie and Brenna in future books. I look forward to
Kristen Callihan's next book.
I found Killian drunk and sprawled out on my lawn like
some lost prince. With the face of a god and the
arrogance to match, the pest won’t leave. Sexy, charming,
and just a little bit dirty, he’s slowly wearing me down,
making me crave more.
He could be mine if I dare to claim him. Problem is, the
world thinks he’s theirs. How do you keep an idol when
everyone is intent on taking him away?
Killian
As lead singer for the biggest rock band in the world, I
lived a life of dreams. It all fell apart with one
fateful decision. Now everything is in shambles.
Until Liberty. She’s grouchy, a recluse —and kind of
cute. Scratch that. When I get my hands on her, she is
scorching hot and more addictive than all the fans who’ve
screamed my name.
The world is clamoring for me to get back on stage, but
I’m not willing to leave her. I’ve got to find a way to
coax the hermit from her shell and keep her with me.
Because, with Libby, everything has changed. Everything.