[Book Review] Taking the Lead

Taking the Lead (Secrets of a Rock Star) / Cecilia Tan

Ricki Hamilton is celebrity royalty, heiress to a billion-dollar legacy between her grandfather's mansion and his media company... and to running the private dungeon in the family home.  Fortunately she has her sister to help her face the challenges that arise, as they transition from being an associates grandchildren to being the ones in charge.  They're no stranger to paparazzi and media sensationalism, between their family's media productions, their wealth, her grandfather's parties, the death of Ricki & Gwen's mother, and their father's alcoholism, there is more than enough for the news hounds.  Ricki believes the only way to counter it is present herself to the world as an "ice queen," with any hint of passion or sexuality that could be used to discredit her.  Then a rock star with a bad-boy/playboy stage image tumbles into her life and (literally) carries her off.  Axel Hawke can't get Ricki out of his head or the memory of how she feels off his skin, but with Ricki terrified of meaningful intimacy and the surrendering to Axel that she desires so much, the two have their work cut out for them.


Honestly, the premise of Taking the Lead is a little ridiculous, but Tan takes it and runs with it.  She wrote a hot erotic romance that has more to the story than just sex.  There are interwoven story lines, including sexism in the film industry, personal and family growth, and some really good friendships.

Advance Reader Copy courtesy of Forever (Hachette) in exchange for an honest review; changes may exist between galley and the final edition.

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