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The Drummer's Heart
Don’t say her name.
That was the one rule my bandmates followed, because they knew how much it messed me up to think about her, especially on tour.
My ex, Nicole.
The one who got away and the woman who still owned every piece of my heart.
After our divorce, I threw myself into the rock scene, trying to forget my heartbreak.
Three years after we split, a phone call from Nicole changed everything.
She told me her grandmother wasn’t doing well.
Mimi was still family to me, and she apparently had one wish before dying: to spend time with us—Nicole and me.
With Mimi’s caretaker away on vacation, it would be the ideal time for us to move in with her for a couple of weeks.
Of course, I couldn’t refuse.
But there was a catch.
Nicole apparently never told her that we’d gotten a divorce.
She hadn’t believed Mimi could handle it, because her grandmother loved me so much.
So, not only would I have to see Nicole again, but I’d be pretending to still be her husband.
Two weeks in a tiny house in a small town with the woman who broke my heart. Or was it me who broke hers?
It was complicated.
And it was about to be a heck of a lot more complicated sharing one bed in the guest room with a woman who wasn’t mine anymore.
That was the one rule my bandmates followed, because they knew how much it messed me up to think about her, especially on tour.
My ex, Nicole.
The one who got away and the woman who still owned every piece of my heart.
After our divorce, I threw myself into the rock scene, trying to forget my heartbreak.
Three years after we split, a phone call from Nicole changed everything.
She told me her grandmother wasn’t doing well.
Mimi was still family to me, and she apparently had one wish before dying: to spend time with us—Nicole and me.
With Mimi’s caretaker away on vacation, it would be the ideal time for us to move in with her for a couple of weeks.
Of course, I couldn’t refuse.
But there was a catch.
Nicole apparently never told her that we’d gotten a divorce.
She hadn’t believed Mimi could handle it, because her grandmother loved me so much.
So, not only would I have to see Nicole again, but I’d be pretending to still be her husband.
Two weeks in a tiny house in a small town with the woman who broke my heart. Or was it me who broke hers?
It was complicated.
And it was about to be a heck of a lot more complicated sharing one bed in the guest room with a woman who wasn’t mine anymore.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 23, 2025
991 people are currently reading
19.3k people want to read
About the author
Penelope Ward
101 books25.4k followersPenelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary romance.
She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.
With millions of books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over forty novels.
In 2014, Penelope’s fourth book, Stepbrother Dearest, became the #1 bestselling independently published Kindle ebook of the year on Amazon.com and was credited with igniting an entirely new subgenre of romance. Her 2016 smash hit RoomHate debuted at #2 on The New York Times Bestseller list. Penelope is an Audie Award Winner and three-time Goodreads Choice Romance of the Year Nominee. Her books have been featured in Entertainment Weekly and Publisher’s Weekly (Starred Review).
Penelope’s novels have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.
She can often be found chatting live with her readers in her private Facebook group, Penelope’s Peeps.
She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.
With millions of books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over forty novels.
In 2014, Penelope’s fourth book, Stepbrother Dearest, became the #1 bestselling independently published Kindle ebook of the year on Amazon.com and was credited with igniting an entirely new subgenre of romance. Her 2016 smash hit RoomHate debuted at #2 on The New York Times Bestseller list. Penelope is an Audie Award Winner and three-time Goodreads Choice Romance of the Year Nominee. Her books have been featured in Entertainment Weekly and Publisher’s Weekly (Starred Review).
Penelope’s novels have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.
She can often be found chatting live with her readers in her private Facebook group, Penelope’s Peeps.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 314 reviews
March 5, 2025
Ok I was really enjoying this book until the big reveal at 65%…
I feel this needs to be flagged as it’s a MASSIVE trope and had I known I wouldn’t have read the book as it’s a no go for me - he has a kid with some groupie and you don’t find out until 65% in.
THAT is why they aren’t together anymore. It happened right after the divorce when him and Nicole were trying to work things out. He basically told her that she needed to be ok with it or they couldn’t be together and that was the same case in the current timeline. SHE HAD TO BE OK WITH A KID HE DOESN’T EVEN REMEMBER CONCEIVING BECAUSE HE WAS SO DRUNK AND HIGH.
This changed the whole book for me. He had the audacity to be pissed and “heartbroken” about her dating his former friend ergo he needed to become a manwh*re trash panda, BUT HE HAD A CHILD WITH SOMEONE ELSE! He should have locked his dick up and moved heaven and earth if he wanted to be with her. And he did NONE of that. Even in the present he doesn’t do enough AT ALL in context to that.
Nicole couldn’t accept it 3 years ago and walked away! Atticus had NO FUCKING RIGHT to be hurt and upset. He blew them up.
There was no coming back from that. I wanted to trash the kindle. And then in the end it ended up this weird arse family where them and the baby mama and her man ended up as “one big happy family”. BULLSHIT!
It would be like if Ross had a kid with the girl from the copy place…
Atticus turned out to be one big ZERO!
I feel this needs to be flagged as it’s a MASSIVE trope and had I known I wouldn’t have read the book as it’s a no go for me - he has a kid with some groupie and you don’t find out until 65% in.
THAT is why they aren’t together anymore. It happened right after the divorce when him and Nicole were trying to work things out. He basically told her that she needed to be ok with it or they couldn’t be together and that was the same case in the current timeline. SHE HAD TO BE OK WITH A KID HE DOESN’T EVEN REMEMBER CONCEIVING BECAUSE HE WAS SO DRUNK AND HIGH.
This changed the whole book for me. He had the audacity to be pissed and “heartbroken” about her dating his former friend ergo he needed to become a manwh*re trash panda, BUT HE HAD A CHILD WITH SOMEONE ELSE! He should have locked his dick up and moved heaven and earth if he wanted to be with her. And he did NONE of that. Even in the present he doesn’t do enough AT ALL in context to that.
Nicole couldn’t accept it 3 years ago and walked away! Atticus had NO FUCKING RIGHT to be hurt and upset. He blew them up.
There was no coming back from that. I wanted to trash the kindle. And then in the end it ended up this weird arse family where them and the baby mama and her man ended up as “one big happy family”. BULLSHIT!
It would be like if Ross had a kid with the girl from the copy place…
Atticus turned out to be one big ZERO!
Read
February 23, 2025★ LIVE IN ALL FORMATS! ★
The Drummer’s Heart is LIVE and FREE to Read in Kindle Unlimited. It’s also on special release price of $3.99 for a few days only.
What You Can Expect:
• ROCKSTAR HERO
• “MY WIFE”
• SMALL TOWN
• CLOSE PROXIMITY
• SLOW BURN
• ONE BED
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DC4MHQ2M/
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Drummers-Hea...
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/Drummers-Heart-...
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/Drummers-He...
AUDIO:
https://www.audible.com/pd/B0DTVNNXFN/
Special Edition Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/Drummers-Heart...
(Model Paperback and Hardcovers also available!)
SYNOPSIS:
From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward comes a new, STANDALONE novel…
Don’t say her name.
That was the one rule my bandmates followed, because they knew how much it messed me up to think about her, especially on tour.
My ex, Nicole.
The one who got away and the woman who still owned every piece of my heart.
After our divorce, I threw myself into the rock scene, trying to forget my heartbreak.
Three years after we split, a phone call from Nicole changed everything.
She told me her grandmother wasn’t doing well.
Mimi was still family to me, and she apparently had one wish before dying: to spend time with us—Nicole and me.
With Mimi’s caretaker away on vacation, it would be the ideal time for us to move in with her for a couple of weeks.
Of course, I couldn’t refuse.
But there was a catch.
Nicole apparently never told her that we’d gotten a divorce.
She hadn’t believed Mimi could handle it, because her grandmother loved me so much.
So, not only would I have to see Nicole again, but I’d be pretending to still be her husband.
Two weeks in a tiny house in a small town with the woman who broke my heart. Or was it me who broke hers?
It was complicated.
And it was about to be a heck of a lot more complicated sharing one bed in the guest room with a woman who wasn’t mine anymore.
The Drummer’s Heart is LIVE and FREE to Read in Kindle Unlimited. It’s also on special release price of $3.99 for a few days only.
What You Can Expect:
• ROCKSTAR HERO
• “MY WIFE”
• SMALL TOWN
• CLOSE PROXIMITY
• SLOW BURN
• ONE BED
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DC4MHQ2M/
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Drummers-Hea...
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/Drummers-Heart-...
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/Drummers-He...
AUDIO:
https://www.audible.com/pd/B0DTVNNXFN/
Special Edition Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/Drummers-Heart...
(Model Paperback and Hardcovers also available!)
SYNOPSIS:
From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward comes a new, STANDALONE novel…
Don’t say her name.
That was the one rule my bandmates followed, because they knew how much it messed me up to think about her, especially on tour.
My ex, Nicole.
The one who got away and the woman who still owned every piece of my heart.
After our divorce, I threw myself into the rock scene, trying to forget my heartbreak.
Three years after we split, a phone call from Nicole changed everything.
She told me her grandmother wasn’t doing well.
Mimi was still family to me, and she apparently had one wish before dying: to spend time with us—Nicole and me.
With Mimi’s caretaker away on vacation, it would be the ideal time for us to move in with her for a couple of weeks.
Of course, I couldn’t refuse.
But there was a catch.
Nicole apparently never told her that we’d gotten a divorce.
She hadn’t believed Mimi could handle it, because her grandmother loved me so much.
So, not only would I have to see Nicole again, but I’d be pretending to still be her husband.
Two weeks in a tiny house in a small town with the woman who broke my heart. Or was it me who broke hers?
It was complicated.
And it was about to be a heck of a lot more complicated sharing one bed in the guest room with a woman who wasn’t mine anymore.
March 5, 2025
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Atticus Marchetti is the drummer for the band Delirious Jones. To the world he’s single, and living up to his bad boy image, but personally he felt miserable and alone after losing the love of his life three years ago. When his music career took off, his marriage didn’t survive his sudden stardom. He’s good at pretending to enjoy the rockstar lifestyle, and has strict rules nobody around him is to even mention his ex’s name. Then the source of his heartbreak calls to ask him for a huge favor. Nicole’s grandmother is ill, and her caretaker is on vacation. Mimi doesn’t know they are divorced, and has requested Nicole and Atticus care for her. Since Mimi is family to him, he couldn’t say no. With his band on break, he has the time to return to his hometown of Monksville, New Jersey. It will be difficult to face his past and play house for two weeks. Acting like he’s still married to Nicole is going to be hard, but sharing a room will be pure torture. They’d practically been strangers the last few years, but no time apart could change how he felt about her. She would always be the one. Everything between them is still so complicated, but could there still be a chance for them to fix what’s broken, and finally get their happily ever after?
The Drummer’s Heart by Penelope Ward is a small town, slow burn, forced proximity, one bed, fake marriage, rockstar romance about true love and second chances. It’s full of humor, emotion, fantastic banter, delicious tension, explosive chemistry and plenty of swoon. It’s a beautiful story that will hit you in all the feels. <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DC4MHQ2M/...
(ARC provided by author)
Atticus Marchetti is the drummer for the band Delirious Jones. To the world he’s single, and living up to his bad boy image, but personally he felt miserable and alone after losing the love of his life three years ago. When his music career took off, his marriage didn’t survive his sudden stardom. He’s good at pretending to enjoy the rockstar lifestyle, and has strict rules nobody around him is to even mention his ex’s name. Then the source of his heartbreak calls to ask him for a huge favor. Nicole’s grandmother is ill, and her caretaker is on vacation. Mimi doesn’t know they are divorced, and has requested Nicole and Atticus care for her. Since Mimi is family to him, he couldn’t say no. With his band on break, he has the time to return to his hometown of Monksville, New Jersey. It will be difficult to face his past and play house for two weeks. Acting like he’s still married to Nicole is going to be hard, but sharing a room will be pure torture. They’d practically been strangers the last few years, but no time apart could change how he felt about her. She would always be the one. Everything between them is still so complicated, but could there still be a chance for them to fix what’s broken, and finally get their happily ever after?
The Drummer’s Heart by Penelope Ward is a small town, slow burn, forced proximity, one bed, fake marriage, rockstar romance about true love and second chances. It’s full of humor, emotion, fantastic banter, delicious tension, explosive chemistry and plenty of swoon. It’s a beautiful story that will hit you in all the feels. <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DC4MHQ2M/...
Shelved as 'cheating-ass-wipe-disgusting'
February 24, 2025Not buying it.
Zero loved her SO MUCH that he had to fuck anything that moves during separation instead of going after zeroine?
Why all the 5 stars? Is the same sexist trope over and over again.
Zero loved her SO MUCH that he had to fuck anything that moves during separation instead of going after zeroine?
Why all the 5 stars? Is the same sexist trope over and over again.
February 25, 2025
"But even if we're not physically together, I'm yours. That's never changed. I'll always be yours, Nicole. Whether you like it or not." After he slept with another woman . Yep not for me
March 8, 2025
This story follows Atticus and Nicole, who have been divorced for a while but are drawn back together to care for a family member who still believes they’re married. Forced to confront their past and reveal the truth, can they find their way back to love?
This was a good read, and the audiobook was fantastic! I loved the exes-to-lovers element and how both characters struggled with feelings that never truly faded. Atticus has a hard time moving on and doesn’t want to lose Nicole again, while she hides her emotions behind a protective barrier. The emotional depth and character dynamics were great.
That said, this is my least favorite Penelope book so far. I struggled with the pregnancy and child storyline—I wasn’t shocked by the revelations, and the emotional weight of their past didn’t fully land for me. I felt like too much time was lost between the lines, which made it harder to connect with their relationship.
Regardless, I’ll always keep reading Penelope’s work because I love her writing and the stories she creates, but this one just didn’t leave a lasting impression on me.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 8hrs 16mins
Narrators: Sebastian York and Angelina Rocca - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Tropes or Themes: Seconds Chance, Ex’s To Lovers (Divorced), One Bed, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, Past and Present, Jealousy, It’s Always Been You, My Wife, Grand Gesture, Pregnancy, Grief, Death, Sexual Content and Dirty Talk.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
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This was a good read, and the audiobook was fantastic! I loved the exes-to-lovers element and how both characters struggled with feelings that never truly faded. Atticus has a hard time moving on and doesn’t want to lose Nicole again, while she hides her emotions behind a protective barrier. The emotional depth and character dynamics were great.
That said, this is my least favorite Penelope book so far. I struggled with the pregnancy and child storyline—I wasn’t shocked by the revelations, and the emotional weight of their past didn’t fully land for me. I felt like too much time was lost between the lines, which made it harder to connect with their relationship.
Regardless, I’ll always keep reading Penelope’s work because I love her writing and the stories she creates, but this one just didn’t leave a lasting impression on me.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 8hrs 16mins
Narrators: Sebastian York and Angelina Rocca - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Tropes or Themes: Seconds Chance, Ex’s To Lovers (Divorced), One Bed, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, Past and Present, Jealousy, It’s Always Been You, My Wife, Grand Gesture, Pregnancy, Grief, Death, Sexual Content and Dirty Talk.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
February 20, 2025
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person-Dual
Rating:
4.25 Stars
For the past three years, Atticus Marchetti has drowned himself in the excesses of rockstar life, trying to survive the demise of his marriage.
When his ex-wife, Nicole, called for a family favor, he agreed to it knowing that being close to her could either heal him or completely ruin him.
I’ve been intrigued by Atticus’ story since the previous book, and I’m glad to finally meet the elusive Nicole. I appreciated how both characters had their flaws, made mistakes, and had to learn to live with the consequences.
The story had a good balance of angst and heart. Mimi was amusing, and I loved how she became the bridge that brought them back together.
The Drummer’s Heart is a story of forgiveness and reclaiming one’s life. It would appeal to readers who enjoy second-chance rockstar romance.
💗🥁💗. . . (F)BR with Loyda . . .💗🥁💗
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March 6, 2025
3.5 ⭐️'s
This was an intriguing second chance romance between the drummer of Delirious Jones, Atticus, and Nicole.
I enjoyed hearing their back story but I HATED being kept in the dark for so long!
The saving grace was how in love with Nicole Atticus was. I always love that.
Wonder if there's going to be a book for Ronan? Things were definitely set up for it.
This was an intriguing second chance romance between the drummer of Delirious Jones, Atticus, and Nicole.
I enjoyed hearing their back story but I HATED being kept in the dark for so long!
The saving grace was how in love with Nicole Atticus was. I always love that.
Wonder if there's going to be a book for Ronan? Things were definitely set up for it.
February 28, 2025
I'm freeee! Worst experience of my life
Shelved as 'dnr-2nd-chance'
February 24, 2025Not safe, mmc is with other women after the fmc
March 6, 2025
The writing was cheesy and I think the narrators felt the same way too. I love second-chance romances, and this was one of the worst I've read in a while. We never really get to understand why the couple broke up in first place. Atticus' (what a name) all torn up over having caused the demise of his marriage to Nicole. But it turns out that
The plot was terrible - poor grammy was treated like a plot device. For being the catalyst of the couple's reunion, she was discarded in the second half of the book and . Then, the surprise everyone's annoyed about. The pacing of the story was awkward and lazy, with all the convenient time skips ahead just to move things along.
And the ending could win an award for having the cheesiest grand gesture. I cringed and skimmed through the end.
Save yourselves time and skip this.
The plot was terrible - poor grammy was treated like a plot device. For being the catalyst of the couple's reunion, she was discarded in the second half of the book and . Then, the surprise everyone's annoyed about. The pacing of the story was awkward and lazy, with all the convenient time skips ahead just to move things along.
And the ending could win an award for having the cheesiest grand gesture. I cringed and skimmed through the end.
Save yourselves time and skip this.
March 8, 2025
3.5 stars
A second-chance rockstar romance with drama and feels, this is an emotional love story with a gorgeously swoony hero, and I really enjoyed this read.
This is the second book featuring the band members of Delirious Jones, after The Rocker's Muse. There is a lot of character crossover, but you could read this as a standalone – but don’t miss the first book, because it’s awesome!
Atticus is the drummer for Delirious Jones, and though he may live a rockstar life, he secretly mourns for the love of his life – his ex-wife Nicole, with whom he is still very much in love. So when Nicole contacts him out of the blue and asks him to stay with her to take care of her beloved dying grandmother, he jumps at the chance. The twist is that Grandma Mimi doesn’t know they divorced. Atticus and Nicole were an important part of her life, and they didn’t believe she could handle the truth of their separation, so while they’re back in their old home town caring for her, they’re living under the same roof and pretending they’re still married. Fun times!
(I have to admit, it’s a pretty week reason for them coming together, but I’m a second-chance junkie, and I was here for it. Plus, it shows how desperate Atticus is to spend any time he can with Nicole, and I do love a desperately-in-love hero.)
From the moment they are back together, the chemistry between Atticus and Nicole is sizzling. Though they have both been with other people while they’re divorced (a trigger warning for some, I think it’s realistic), you can tell they still love each other deeply, yet something tore them apart and has kept them that way. The truth of what happened between them is revealed slowly throughout the story and it takes quite a while to get to the truth of their past. But in the meantime, we’re treated to meaningful touches and longing looks, and the two former lovers slowly opening up to each other. Though the feelings are there, it feels like a slow burn, and when the sexual tension inevitably proves to be irresistible, the floodgates are opened, and everything changes.
But coming together again is just the beginning of their journey, as they still have to unpack the drama of their past, and it’s plenty dramatic! It’s all unveiled as a twist in the story that I certainly never saw coming (weird that they managed to spend all of that time together without mentioning the elephant in the room), but thankfully they’ve declared their love and are committed to giving their relationship a second chance, and I enjoyed watching them work through it all and find their way forward.
I enjoyed this book. Atticus is a man so very deeply in love, and I love that he doesn’t hold anything back from Nicole. He was all in for a reunion from the moment they were reunited, and I loved how open he was with her about everything. These two definitely have some big issues to overcome, but they do it honestly and functionally, and I loved seeing them find their way back to each other.
The boys from Delirious Jones are a big part of the series, and I enjoyed seeing Tristan and Emily from the first book, again. There could have easily been a book for the third member of the band, hilarious manwhore, Ronin, but Ward has announced this will be the final book in this series. Instead, Ronin gets a storyline that is shoved in at the end to give him his own happy ending. I was happy to see him find love and a happy ending, but I would have loved to experience it as a full book.
I enjoyed this book. I liked Atticus and Nicole, and I thought their emotional reunion was beautifully written.
3.5 stars.
I listened to this as an audiobook, narrated by Sebastian York and Angelina Rocca, and it’s a good one to listen to.
A second-chance rockstar romance with drama and feels, this is an emotional love story with a gorgeously swoony hero, and I really enjoyed this read.
This is the second book featuring the band members of Delirious Jones, after The Rocker's Muse. There is a lot of character crossover, but you could read this as a standalone – but don’t miss the first book, because it’s awesome!
Atticus is the drummer for Delirious Jones, and though he may live a rockstar life, he secretly mourns for the love of his life – his ex-wife Nicole, with whom he is still very much in love. So when Nicole contacts him out of the blue and asks him to stay with her to take care of her beloved dying grandmother, he jumps at the chance. The twist is that Grandma Mimi doesn’t know they divorced. Atticus and Nicole were an important part of her life, and they didn’t believe she could handle the truth of their separation, so while they’re back in their old home town caring for her, they’re living under the same roof and pretending they’re still married. Fun times!
(I have to admit, it’s a pretty week reason for them coming together, but I’m a second-chance junkie, and I was here for it. Plus, it shows how desperate Atticus is to spend any time he can with Nicole, and I do love a desperately-in-love hero.)
From the moment they are back together, the chemistry between Atticus and Nicole is sizzling. Though they have both been with other people while they’re divorced (a trigger warning for some, I think it’s realistic), you can tell they still love each other deeply, yet something tore them apart and has kept them that way. The truth of what happened between them is revealed slowly throughout the story and it takes quite a while to get to the truth of their past. But in the meantime, we’re treated to meaningful touches and longing looks, and the two former lovers slowly opening up to each other. Though the feelings are there, it feels like a slow burn, and when the sexual tension inevitably proves to be irresistible, the floodgates are opened, and everything changes.
“Even if we’re not physically together, I’m yours. That’s never changed. I’ll always be yours, Nicole. Whether you like it or not.”
But coming together again is just the beginning of their journey, as they still have to unpack the drama of their past, and it’s plenty dramatic! It’s all unveiled as a twist in the story that I certainly never saw coming (weird that they managed to spend all of that time together without mentioning the elephant in the room), but thankfully they’ve declared their love and are committed to giving their relationship a second chance, and I enjoyed watching them work through it all and find their way forward.
I enjoyed this book. Atticus is a man so very deeply in love, and I love that he doesn’t hold anything back from Nicole. He was all in for a reunion from the moment they were reunited, and I loved how open he was with her about everything. These two definitely have some big issues to overcome, but they do it honestly and functionally, and I loved seeing them find their way back to each other.
The boys from Delirious Jones are a big part of the series, and I enjoyed seeing Tristan and Emily from the first book, again. There could have easily been a book for the third member of the band, hilarious manwhore, Ronin, but Ward has announced this will be the final book in this series. Instead, Ronin gets a storyline that is shoved in at the end to give him his own happy ending. I was happy to see him find love and a happy ending, but I would have loved to experience it as a full book.
I enjoyed this book. I liked Atticus and Nicole, and I thought their emotional reunion was beautifully written.
3.5 stars.
I listened to this as an audiobook, narrated by Sebastian York and Angelina Rocca, and it’s a good one to listen to.
February 25, 2025
Oh my heart! This one tugged at every heartstring I have.
When Penelope announced she was writing a story for Atticus, I knew it was going to bring the tears. And boy did it ever!
"But even if we're not physically together, I'm yours. That's never changed. I'll always be yours, Nicole. Whether you like it or not." OMG! The swoon, y'all! Atticus might be one of the most romantic MMCs I've ever read. That beautifully broken man loved with his whole heart. And he took responsibility for his part of their break up immediately. And Nicole. My poor heart absolutely broke for her. It was obvious she never fell out of love either. Their problems just became bigger than them, and they decented into choas. Both made mistakes, but this goes to show that love in all forms is stronger than any problem. As long as you face it together. That sneaky Mimi! She knew that Atticus and Nicole needed a push, and she was just the person to nudge. I thought The Drummer's Heart wrapped up the Delerious Jones duology perfectly. We even got an extra HEA in there. Thank you, P, for giving us these tragically beautiful stories.
When Penelope announced she was writing a story for Atticus, I knew it was going to bring the tears. And boy did it ever!
"But even if we're not physically together, I'm yours. That's never changed. I'll always be yours, Nicole. Whether you like it or not." OMG! The swoon, y'all! Atticus might be one of the most romantic MMCs I've ever read. That beautifully broken man loved with his whole heart. And he took responsibility for his part of their break up immediately. And Nicole. My poor heart absolutely broke for her. It was obvious she never fell out of love either. Their problems just became bigger than them, and they decented into choas. Both made mistakes, but this goes to show that love in all forms is stronger than any problem. As long as you face it together. That sneaky Mimi! She knew that Atticus and Nicole needed a push, and she was just the person to nudge. I thought The Drummer's Heart wrapped up the Delerious Jones duology perfectly. We even got an extra HEA in there. Thank you, P, for giving us these tragically beautiful stories.
March 1, 2025
I loved it!
I started another book before this by a favourite author of mine, but I couldn't get into it, so I decided to give this book a try, and I'm glad I did!
Atticus and Nicole were married, but unfortunately, the marriage ended, and Atticus truly shows how much he never stopped loving her and she him. But when hearts are hurting, it's pain and regret that take control. I didn't like his manwhoring but you see why as the book continues.
Tropes are: small town, slow burn, forced proximity, one bed, fake marriage, rockstar romance about true love and second chances. It's full of humour, emotion, fantastic banter, delicious tension, explosive chemistry, and plenty of swoon. It's a beautiful
story that will hit you in all the feels.
I started another book before this by a favourite author of mine, but I couldn't get into it, so I decided to give this book a try, and I'm glad I did!
Atticus and Nicole were married, but unfortunately, the marriage ended, and Atticus truly shows how much he never stopped loving her and she him. But when hearts are hurting, it's pain and regret that take control. I didn't like his manwhoring but you see why as the book continues.
Tropes are: small town, slow burn, forced proximity, one bed, fake marriage, rockstar romance about true love and second chances. It's full of humour, emotion, fantastic banter, delicious tension, explosive chemistry, and plenty of swoon. It's a beautiful
story that will hit you in all the feels.
February 26, 2025
3.5 Stars ⭐️
March 11, 2025
loved this
Atticus has shot to the top of my BBF. He was so thoughtful, sweet and sexy, he is the full package! Nicole was a great heroine as well. I loved the way this story played out and how much family and friends were involved. Looking forward to reading more.
Atticus has shot to the top of my BBF. He was so thoughtful, sweet and sexy, he is the full package! Nicole was a great heroine as well. I loved the way this story played out and how much family and friends were involved. Looking forward to reading more.
February 28, 2025
The third part of this book had me crashing out at 1am
I feel sick to my stomach even tho I suspected it
This went from a 4 star to 2 star read quickly after that
The “heartbroken” to manwhore stories need to stop
I feel sick to my stomach even tho I suspected it
This went from a 4 star to 2 star read quickly after that
The “heartbroken” to manwhore stories need to stop
February 23, 2025
A superb and massively emotional second chance - this is “The Drummer’s Heart” by Penelope Ward.
I could not wait for Atticus and Nicole’s story, and it did not disappoint. For me, I feel like as much as it was about a never-ending love, forgiveness was also at the core of this story. Both had been through so much, that doubt for any reconciliation crept in and, at times, felt improbable.
On a personal note, I absolutely LOVE Mimi, Nicole’s grandmother. She is an adorably sweet lady that plays a significant role in Atticus and Nicole’s reunion. Her wisdom and hope permeate this story; and, it really offers a warmth that is profound and so appreciated. She is a character that I am very fond of.
This love story is soul-stirring and affecting. Penelope Ward really takes you through a roller coaster of emotions. My heart dropped, tears were shed, frustration erupted and elation was had. The Drummer’s Tale is a true heart-grabber. You’re sure to grow fond of various characters and become enamored with Atticus and Nicole.
Listening to The Drummer’s Heart truly brings this story to life in such a next-level manner! Sebastian York as Atticus and Angelina Rocca as Nicole were amazing. Emotion exuded as Sebastian’s fierceness and Angelina’s vulnerability came in waves. The narration couldn’t have been better. They really unravel this story like no others.
I could not wait for Atticus and Nicole’s story, and it did not disappoint. For me, I feel like as much as it was about a never-ending love, forgiveness was also at the core of this story. Both had been through so much, that doubt for any reconciliation crept in and, at times, felt improbable.
On a personal note, I absolutely LOVE Mimi, Nicole’s grandmother. She is an adorably sweet lady that plays a significant role in Atticus and Nicole’s reunion. Her wisdom and hope permeate this story; and, it really offers a warmth that is profound and so appreciated. She is a character that I am very fond of.
This love story is soul-stirring and affecting. Penelope Ward really takes you through a roller coaster of emotions. My heart dropped, tears were shed, frustration erupted and elation was had. The Drummer’s Tale is a true heart-grabber. You’re sure to grow fond of various characters and become enamored with Atticus and Nicole.
Listening to The Drummer’s Heart truly brings this story to life in such a next-level manner! Sebastian York as Atticus and Angelina Rocca as Nicole were amazing. Emotion exuded as Sebastian’s fierceness and Angelina’s vulnerability came in waves. The narration couldn’t have been better. They really unravel this story like no others.
March 7, 2025
I will always be a second chance liver with everything in me and this book just entered my beloved list!
Firstly, I was so curious about the past events that lead to their divorce and I was so immersed in this read that I couldn’t stop listening to the audio - the Sebastian York’s performer and Angelina Rocca’s were one of the biggest reasons for my obsession. If you know anything about me, it is that I am a HUGE Angelina’s fan and this performance and her role as Nicole was not an exception!
Atticus' love and affection for Nicole and his obsession through his “wife” were brought to live perfectly by Sebastian and I was completely on my knees for this man - he nailed the man obsessed with his ex in the best way.
Nicole was one of these characters that, firstly, it was difficult to get her and I was waiting for the moment that everything will become clear and I will start to love her and I LOVED WHEN IT HAPPENED.
Their banter and chemistry was off the charts and I was just waiting for them to finally be back together and to finally see how perfect they were together.
Long story short: I devoured this one. So entertaining. The characters were so enjoyable and the story plot was definitely engaging.
Firstly, I was so curious about the past events that lead to their divorce and I was so immersed in this read that I couldn’t stop listening to the audio - the Sebastian York’s performer and Angelina Rocca’s were one of the biggest reasons for my obsession. If you know anything about me, it is that I am a HUGE Angelina’s fan and this performance and her role as Nicole was not an exception!
Atticus' love and affection for Nicole and his obsession through his “wife” were brought to live perfectly by Sebastian and I was completely on my knees for this man - he nailed the man obsessed with his ex in the best way.
Nicole was one of these characters that, firstly, it was difficult to get her and I was waiting for the moment that everything will become clear and I will start to love her and I LOVED WHEN IT HAPPENED.
Their banter and chemistry was off the charts and I was just waiting for them to finally be back together and to finally see how perfect they were together.
Long story short: I devoured this one. So entertaining. The characters were so enjoyable and the story plot was definitely engaging.
February 26, 2025
The Drummer’s Heart
Thank you Must Love Audio for the #gifted alc.
This interconnected standalone is book 2 in the series but can be read on its own (I did! But I will be going back to listen to book 1 soon). Sebastian York and Angelina Rocca smashed the dual narration of this book. I absolutely flew through it.
Expect 👉🏼 Rockstar Romance, Second Chance, Small Town, Forced Proximity, Only One Bed, Fake Marriage, “My Wife”
Atticus and Nicole have been divorced for two years but they have been careful to keep that information from her Mimi who is in poor health. When she asks them to come spend two weeks with her so her caretaker can go on vacation, neither is willing to say no. Even if they cannot think about one another without it tearing open old wounds.
Told through past and present timelines we get a story of how they met, how they loved, how they fell apart and where they are now. The tension between these two was high from the very first moment. Though more of a slow burn, the spice was absolutely there.
All the, “my wife,” moments 🫠 Atticus is a man obsessed and I loved it.
This book is available now 🎧📱📘
Thank you Must Love Audio for the #gifted alc.
This interconnected standalone is book 2 in the series but can be read on its own (I did! But I will be going back to listen to book 1 soon). Sebastian York and Angelina Rocca smashed the dual narration of this book. I absolutely flew through it.
Expect 👉🏼 Rockstar Romance, Second Chance, Small Town, Forced Proximity, Only One Bed, Fake Marriage, “My Wife”
Atticus and Nicole have been divorced for two years but they have been careful to keep that information from her Mimi who is in poor health. When she asks them to come spend two weeks with her so her caretaker can go on vacation, neither is willing to say no. Even if they cannot think about one another without it tearing open old wounds.
Told through past and present timelines we get a story of how they met, how they loved, how they fell apart and where they are now. The tension between these two was high from the very first moment. Though more of a slow burn, the spice was absolutely there.
All the, “my wife,” moments 🫠 Atticus is a man obsessed and I loved it.
This book is available now 🎧📱📘
February 28, 2025
The Rocker’s Muse was one of my favorite reads in 2024, and I could not wait for the story of Atticus and Nicole. I’ve always loved a good second chance story, and The Drummer’s Heart did not disappoint. More than just another rockstar romance, this book tells a heart wrenching story of forgiveness and reclaiming one’s life. Taking you on a roller coaster of emotions, Penelope Ward once again delivers a book that’s both emotional and full of twists and turns you won’t see coming. She has a way of breaking your heart then carefully picking up the pieces and putting it back together.
The Drummer’s Heart is filled with heavy themes about never-ending love, soul mates, and also forgiveness – both of one’s self and others. With the perfect balance of angst, banter, tension and heart, this story will hit you in all the feels. Atticus and Nicole have explosive chemistry that radiates from the page and has you rooting for them the whole way through.
I also absolutely loved Mimi! Meddling family members can make such a fun addition to a storyline, and this sharp-witted grandma is no exception. I don’t want to give too much away, but she’s definitely one of my favorite side characters!
While Tristan and Emily from The Rocker’s Muse make many appearances throughout this book, it doesn’t reveal spoilers about what happened with them, therefore either can be read as a standalone and enjoyed. I still recommend you read them both and in order to get the full experience though!
The Drummer’s Heart is filled with heavy themes about never-ending love, soul mates, and also forgiveness – both of one’s self and others. With the perfect balance of angst, banter, tension and heart, this story will hit you in all the feels. Atticus and Nicole have explosive chemistry that radiates from the page and has you rooting for them the whole way through.
I also absolutely loved Mimi! Meddling family members can make such a fun addition to a storyline, and this sharp-witted grandma is no exception. I don’t want to give too much away, but she’s definitely one of my favorite side characters!
While Tristan and Emily from The Rocker’s Muse make many appearances throughout this book, it doesn’t reveal spoilers about what happened with them, therefore either can be read as a standalone and enjoyed. I still recommend you read them both and in order to get the full experience though!
March 11, 2025
This was something new and different for me compared to my usual type of romances (all things mafia LOL) but I’m a sucker for a good 2nd chance love story….and this one was *chefs kiss TOP NOTCH! The way they had to overcome so much within themselves and actually work for their personal growth was so awesome to see as they progressed and then the ending was just a great reward! I had tears of joy🥰🥹🥲 I loved this and glad it was a suggestion from one of my groups I follow! Def will be reading more books by this author❤️
March 2, 2025
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
This book has angst, I live for angst but the events I wanted to read the most happened off page or told by the hero.
I get that after three years one can kinda come to terms with what was deemed impossible when it happened and this is the point of a second-chance romance, but I wanted more verbal fights, accusations, screams, pain and tears because I'm a drama queen. In the end I wanted the story to be set 3 years prior.
I felt the angst was too bland sometimes.
Toward the end the subplot about Ronnie and Kenzie made me think the author didn't want to write other books in this series and quickly gave the other bandmate Ronnie his happy ending with Kenzie to not leave him being the only one without a book.
In conclusion it's been an enjoyable read, I shed few tears and got the great love they had for one other.
This book has angst, I live for angst but the events I wanted to read the most happened off page or told by the hero.
I get that after three years one can kinda come to terms with what was deemed impossible when it happened and this is the point of a second-chance romance, but I wanted more verbal fights, accusations, screams, pain and tears because I'm a drama queen. In the end I wanted the story to be set 3 years prior.
I felt the angst was too bland sometimes.
Toward the end the subplot about Ronnie and Kenzie made me think the author didn't want to write other books in this series and quickly gave the other bandmate Ronnie his happy ending with Kenzie to not leave him being the only one without a book.
In conclusion it's been an enjoyable read, I shed few tears and got the great love they had for one other.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2025
4 stars
March 4, 2025
1.5, iba a darle un perfecto 4.5, y ese giro argumental que lanzo al 65% -70% hizo que todo fuese 🫠.
Odie.
Odie.
February 18, 2025
I’m a sucker for second chances and this one does not disappoint. Add in a forced proximity/fake relationship storyline and you’ll be hooked. The chemistry between Atticus and Nicole is palpable and scorching hot. Definitely worth the read
February 27, 2025
If I could rate this lower I would.
Spoilers incoming…..
This is the whole Ross and Rachel on a break crap again. Only this time the H knocks someone up and expects the h to be peachy keen about it.
So the mains were divorced but trying to work it out, the H declares that he is sooo in love with her but then he has sex with some random, unprotected, and waa laa here’s Johnny, or Christian.
The H has the nerve to get all upset because she moves on. Really dude?
Her granny brings them back together to care for her. She doesn’t know they got divorced or that he’s a scumbag. They act married for her, cue the hey maybe we should be together again.
They hook up at a wedding, and the h is stupid enough to be with him unprotected when she knows we has been a huge manwhore.
But hey that gives the author the opportunity to insert a surprise baby! Because that’s always a good way to save a relationship. /s
This book was such a huge disappointment.
Spoilers incoming…..
This is the whole Ross and Rachel on a break crap again. Only this time the H knocks someone up and expects the h to be peachy keen about it.
So the mains were divorced but trying to work it out, the H declares that he is sooo in love with her but then he has sex with some random, unprotected, and waa laa here’s Johnny, or Christian.
The H has the nerve to get all upset because she moves on. Really dude?
Her granny brings them back together to care for her. She doesn’t know they got divorced or that he’s a scumbag. They act married for her, cue the hey maybe we should be together again.
They hook up at a wedding, and the h is stupid enough to be with him unprotected when she knows we has been a huge manwhore.
But hey that gives the author the opportunity to insert a surprise baby! Because that’s always a good way to save a relationship. /s
This book was such a huge disappointment.
Read
February 23, 2025Dnf
February 26, 2025
I was really enjoying the story but after the BIG REVEAL around 65-70% I lost the interest in the story. From a 5 star read the book quickly turned into a 3 star one. Also the ending was so rushed. It felt like the author really wanted to end the series. She crammed up the third band mate's story in the last 5 or so chapters.
Also I don't know how suddenly Nicole was fine with her issues. She forgave Atticus very quickly for his fuck ups without him ever grovelling or even being a little apologetic about it. I don't know why Atticus blamed Nicole for anything when he destroyed the relationship they were building after their divorce. Technically it's not a second chance romance but a third one.
I hated how he was heartbroken and saying 'she was love of his life' while fucking everything with a pulse at the time of their separation (break-up after their divorce when they were trying to rekindle their relationship). The audacity of the man to be upset regarding she dating someone while she was single.
Also I don't know how suddenly Nicole was fine with her issues. She forgave Atticus very quickly for his fuck ups without him ever grovelling or even being a little apologetic about it. I don't know why Atticus blamed Nicole for anything when he destroyed the relationship they were building after their divorce. Technically it's not a second chance romance but a third one.
I hated how he was heartbroken and saying 'she was love of his life' while fucking everything with a pulse at the time of their separation (break-up after their divorce when they were trying to rekindle their relationship). The audacity of the man to be upset regarding she dating someone while she was single.
February 23, 2025
⋆˚✿˖°♡ 𝗡 𝗘 𝗪 𝗥 𝗘 𝗟 𝗘 𝗔 𝗦 𝗘 & 𝗥 𝗘 𝗩 𝗜 𝗘 𝗪 ♡˖°✿˚⋆
🎧 𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 🎧
✽ 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀: Sebastian York & Angelina Rocca
You’ll love this book if you like these tropes… ♡
ꕤ 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀 ꕤ
♡ Slow Burn
♡ Second Chance
♡ Grumpy/Moody MMC
♡ Drummer MMC
♡ Forced Proximity
♡ Unresolved Tension
♡ Undeniable Attraction
♡ Explosive Chemistry
♡ Top Tier Witty Banter
♡ Reconnecting Ex-Husband & Wife
♡ One Bed
♡ “My Wife”
♡ Bad Boy Rockstar
♡ Fake Marriage
♡ Small Town
I’ve been a fan of Penelope Ward for a long time now and it’s at the point that I don’t even need to read the blurb or look at reviews before hitting that One-Click button on any of the books she writes. I just automatically know I’m going to love the book and this book was no exception. It was absolute perfection!
Atticus is the hot talented drummer in a band called Delirious Jones. He’s broody and extremely irresistible to most women, with a panty-dropping smile and in the fact that he’s the lead drummer of a band, women go weak at the knees for him. It’s pretty hard not to! (Penelope writes the BEST alpha males 🔥)
Nicole is Atticus’s ex-wife. She’s the s one that got away. However, it doesn’t matter how much time goes by she will always have Atticus’s heart. He still struggles with the break up with Nicole and people know not to bring her name up. He still hurts for her, the wound is still too fresh for him and every time someone mentions her name it’s like a gut punch to his heart. After the breakup, it’s as though he into a completely different person. He went
from this kind, compassionate and happy guy to a typical rockstar jerk. He stopped caring about everything and everyone and tried to numb the pain of the break-up by putting up this asshole act. To his surprise, Nicole calls him out of the blue asking for a massive favour and Atticus still extremely in love with her, drops everything and agrees to help her.
The chemistry between these two was insanely intense and undeniable. When they reunite after she asks him for this huge favor they have to fight their feelings for each other which seems to be impossible, especially with the fact that they are stuck spending all day, every day together and they even end up having to share a bed in a small house... It doesn’t take them long to realise that there are both still have some deep and strong feelings for each other. However, things aren’t that easy… Nicole has a lot of pain, hurt and trauma that she’s yet to deal with and is unsure if she can move past and let go of…
I’m not going to dive in any deeper… I feel like I’ve given too much away as is. One thing you need to know is this is quite an emotional story. The author drops a few plot twists that I did not see coming. It’s a slow burn and it will tug at your heartstrings and have you falling in love not just with the main characters but with the secondary characters too! The angst level is 100 and it drove me crazy in the best way possible.
Overall, I was completely and utterly consumed by this story from beginning to end. It was captivating and such a fun yet emotionally rewarding read.
Highly recommend reading/listening to this book! You won’t be disappointed.
FIVE STARS
✰✰✰✰✰
🎧 𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 🎧
✽ 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀: Sebastian York & Angelina Rocca
You’ll love this book if you like these tropes… ♡
ꕤ 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀 ꕤ
♡ Slow Burn
♡ Second Chance
♡ Grumpy/Moody MMC
♡ Drummer MMC
♡ Forced Proximity
♡ Unresolved Tension
♡ Undeniable Attraction
♡ Explosive Chemistry
♡ Top Tier Witty Banter
♡ Reconnecting Ex-Husband & Wife
♡ One Bed
♡ “My Wife”
♡ Bad Boy Rockstar
♡ Fake Marriage
♡ Small Town
I’ve been a fan of Penelope Ward for a long time now and it’s at the point that I don’t even need to read the blurb or look at reviews before hitting that One-Click button on any of the books she writes. I just automatically know I’m going to love the book and this book was no exception. It was absolute perfection!
Atticus is the hot talented drummer in a band called Delirious Jones. He’s broody and extremely irresistible to most women, with a panty-dropping smile and in the fact that he’s the lead drummer of a band, women go weak at the knees for him. It’s pretty hard not to! (Penelope writes the BEST alpha males 🔥)
Nicole is Atticus’s ex-wife. She’s the s one that got away. However, it doesn’t matter how much time goes by she will always have Atticus’s heart. He still struggles with the break up with Nicole and people know not to bring her name up. He still hurts for her, the wound is still too fresh for him and every time someone mentions her name it’s like a gut punch to his heart. After the breakup, it’s as though he into a completely different person. He went
from this kind, compassionate and happy guy to a typical rockstar jerk. He stopped caring about everything and everyone and tried to numb the pain of the break-up by putting up this asshole act. To his surprise, Nicole calls him out of the blue asking for a massive favour and Atticus still extremely in love with her, drops everything and agrees to help her.
The chemistry between these two was insanely intense and undeniable. When they reunite after she asks him for this huge favor they have to fight their feelings for each other which seems to be impossible, especially with the fact that they are stuck spending all day, every day together and they even end up having to share a bed in a small house... It doesn’t take them long to realise that there are both still have some deep and strong feelings for each other. However, things aren’t that easy… Nicole has a lot of pain, hurt and trauma that she’s yet to deal with and is unsure if she can move past and let go of…
I’m not going to dive in any deeper… I feel like I’ve given too much away as is. One thing you need to know is this is quite an emotional story. The author drops a few plot twists that I did not see coming. It’s a slow burn and it will tug at your heartstrings and have you falling in love not just with the main characters but with the secondary characters too! The angst level is 100 and it drove me crazy in the best way possible.
Overall, I was completely and utterly consumed by this story from beginning to end. It was captivating and such a fun yet emotionally rewarding read.
Highly recommend reading/listening to this book! You won’t be disappointed.
FIVE STARS
✰✰✰✰✰
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