FLIP THE BEAT is a standalone contemporary romance by Roxanne D. Howard. Molly Ivers is an intelligent young woman but when it comes to romance, she's torn between what she thinks she should want and what she craves. Professor Sullivan is the kind of well-mannered intellectual she's always wanted, and musician Evan Castle is the kind of guy Molly finds so dangerous because he's such a wildcard for her. After some advice from her best friend, and a life coach, Molly eventually allows herself to have want she wants most.

I think this is the first book I've read in which the impossibly sexy rock star is the underdog. Throughout FLIP THE BEAT Evan keeps trying to prove his worth as boyfriend material to Molly. This story is told strictly from Molly's perspective, so the reader is left to wonder along with Molly if Evan is worth the risk. Evan seduces Molly with his sexual prowess, as well as his many thoughtful gestures. You can't help but root for Evan as he woos and tries to persuade Molly without coming on too aggressive. Evan is often underestimated by Molly, but his sweet persistence is endearing.

Molly is an introspective and sympathetic character. She tries not to send mixed signals to the men in her life but is aware that she needs the life coach's advice as an impartial third party. As the story progresses, Molly gains confidence which helps her make some of the big decisions in her life. Molly's friend Nell is a great sounding board for her, and their friendship gives FLIP THE BEAT a little comic relief. I enjoyed the secondary romance involving Nell and her sizzling salsa teacher.

FLIP THE BEAT is a perfect combination of chick lit and red-hot romance. Roxanne D. Howard creates some fabulous and realistic characters to fall in love with. This book has made me desperate to read Roxanne D. Howard's next book.