You Really Got Me

Kelly kicks off the Rock Star Romance series with a curious tale about musicians and music industry professionals who care little for music. Emmie Valencia is the personal assistant to powerful record company executive Irwin Ledger. Her ambition to become an executive is hampered by his poor opinion of her, so she sets out to help her brother’s band into the big time. Her efforts are complicated by her feelings for the band’s lead singer, Slater Vaughn. Kelly’s writing has repetitious composition, weak characterization, and poor development. Supporting characters are never fleshed out. The band’s musical style is barely defined, though much attention is paid to hair styles and fashion choices. At one point Emmie admits that she doesn’t care about music, has barely developed her personal taste, and is more interested in the people than the art. These choices seem odd considering the series theme. After a few vague and uninspired sex scenes, the narrative concludes on a happy note, if not an earned and satisfying resolution. (Jan.)