Challenge Corner discussion

An electrifying rom com of rivalry and redemption, perfect for fans of Emily Henry and Daisy Jones and the Six, from New York Times bestselling author Emma Lord.

Once the most notorious rivals in the music scene, pop princess Mackenzie Waters and punk rockstar Sam Blaze electrified audiences as their bands clashed on stage. But behind the scenes, their simmering tension grew into something more — until suddenly both bands fell apart, and the idea of Mackenzie and Sam did, too.

Two years later, Sam has traded the rockstar lifestyle for a quiet life raising the son he didn’t know about. Meanwhile, Mackenzie is dealing with a postoperative change in her voice by only singing under a pseudonym. The only way to revive their public careers? A joint comeback album.

With fans over the moon and their futures on the line, Sam and Mackenzie face their biggest challenge yet: giving up the old rivalry and learning to work together. But as old sparks fly and new secrets emerge, they set off a chain reaction neither of them could have anticipated — one that proves that sometimes, the greatest hits are the ones yet to be written.

Starting soon!

Same, I relate to your name, also on the struggle bus.

Jessica wrote: "Same, I relate to your name, also on the struggle bus."

OMG, I'm not sure what happened this summer, but I feel like I am chasing my tail!

To 18%: I had completely forgotten this is a 2nd-chance Romance, which I love. I'm not too far in, still just meeting our two main characters and learning a bit about their lives. So far, so good. (view spoiler)[I like that Sam has a son and seems to have a solid co-parenting arrangement. The section meeting them all at the bakery was cute! (hide spoiler)]

To Ch 10, or 36%: Wow, Serena is (view spoiler)[being a real twat. How about communicating if there's a problem!? What is she, 12? Also, loving Sam coming to Mackenzie's rescue at the fashion show 🙌 (hide spoiler)]

To Ch 12: I am starting to really love these two! Appreciating that we're getting both perspectives!

To Ch 24, or 84%: Well, though neither situation is perfect, I am glad both (view spoiler)[Mackenzie and Sam are going to get a little closure. Him with his Dad and her with Serena, but their relationship path seems to easy...what will the 3rd act conflict bring? (hide spoiler)]

Done! This was cute! I wouldn't say it was particularly memorable long-term, certainly not a new favorite Emma Lord, but I did enjoy it along the way. I could have used a bit more drama, but I loved following musicians and the (view spoiler)[Taylor Swift feel of it all. (hide spoiler)]