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Run Rose Run
From America’s most beloved superstar and its greatest storyteller—a thriller about a young singer/songwriter on the rise and on the run, and determined to do whatever it takes to survive.
Every song tells a story.
She’s a star on the rise, singing about the hard life behind her.
She’s also on the run. Find a future, lose a past.
Nashville is where she’s come to claim her destiny. It’s also where the darkness she’s fled might find her. And destroy her.
Run, Rose, Run is a novel glittering with danger and desire—a story that only America’s #1 most beloved entertainer and its #1 bestselling author could have created.
Every song tells a story.
She’s a star on the rise, singing about the hard life behind her.
She’s also on the run. Find a future, lose a past.
Nashville is where she’s come to claim her destiny. It’s also where the darkness she’s fled might find her. And destroy her.
Run, Rose, Run is a novel glittering with danger and desire—a story that only America’s #1 most beloved entertainer and its #1 bestselling author could have created.
Audiobook
First published March 7, 2022
About the author
Dolly Parton
107 books1,603 followersDolly Rebecca Parton is a Grammy Award-winning country music singer/songwriter, author, actress and philanthropist. To date, she remains one of the most successful country artists, with 25 number-one singles (a record for a female performer) and 42 top-10 country albums (more than anyone else).
She is known for her distinctive mountain soprano, sometimes bawdy humor, flamboyant dress sense, and her voluptuous figure.
She is known for her distinctive mountain soprano, sometimes bawdy humor, flamboyant dress sense, and her voluptuous figure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 12,294 reviews
January 6, 2022
“The truth—whatever that may look like—doesn’t really matter. There’s only what you tell us, and what you’ll have us believe.”
2 1/2 stars. Okay, I'm going to preface this review by saying I unequivocally, unapologetically adore Dolly Parton. I have tried to read only one other Patterson book and couldn't get into it, but, despite my reservations, I needed to read this for Dolly.
And I would say I get the impression Dolly had a lot of input in this, or else Patterson is just channelling her sparkle well. It's a bit like reading a novelization of Nashville, with a couple of darker twists to it-- a young woman comes to Nashville completely broke, sleeping rough, and uses her angelic voice and no small amount of grit to get by.
I read it easily and I look forward to hearing Dolly's recordings of the songs in the book-- which are, not surprisingly, quite good. But I do think the novel is lacking in a few areas and, if I'm being honest, I'm not sure how forgiving non-fans will be.
The story is 95% "musician making it in Nashville" story and 5% thriller. The problem is that the main storyline does lack a certain urgency and oomph , necessitating a bit of something else to add excitement, and yet the thriller parts are super cliche and a bit wacky. They almost felt like an afterthought added in quickly to ramp up the thrills.
I also didn't completely buy AnnieLee as a character. I thought some of the "brave" decisions she made were unrealistic and presented a rose-tinted (or dollar-padded) view of how the music industry works. She sometimes acted more like a country music star with several decades and millions of dollars under her belt (ahem). And I couldn't understand one of the ridiculously reckless decisions she made at all. It made no sense and it clearly only happened to drive the plot in a certain direction.
But I still enjoyed reading it, especially in the earlier chapters. There were some interesting criticisms of the music industry and the media, and I also liked the journey through Nashville's honky tonks. I think I would have liked it more if AnnieLee had been a more complex character and hadn't been so damn amazing at everything, or, at least, experienced more of a struggle.
Now, my three most underrated Dolly songs:
• Eagle When She Flies
• Wildflowers
• Just Because I'm a Woman
What's yours?
March 11, 2022
I hate it when you look forward to a book and then it disappoints. I literally lost count of how many times I rolled my eyes
April 8, 2022
"Big dreams and faded jeans
Just my ol' guitar and me
Out to find my destiny
Nashville is the place to be
For big dreams and faded jeans"
Audio Performance 5⭐
Story 3.5⭐
That's pretty much the premise, not very exciting huh? That's what I thought too. But AnnieLee Keyes is somewhat mysterious. Readers are kept in the dark for the most part about her past. This won't be revealed until much later, but even not knowing I empathize with her and I really want her to make it; get a gig at a local bar, or become a famous singer-songwriter. The suspense builds...
"The demons we both know
Let’s slay them and move on
We don’t have to fight them alone"
There's a tiny romance part, but mostly drama/suspense. The story eventually sucks you in and I really want to know who and what AnnieLee is escaping from. I especially like secondary characters like Ruthanna, a retired Queen of Country Music, and Ethan Blake, a former army captain, part-time bartender, and musician. However, I think the credit goes to the audiobook. It is superb!!! I couldn't stop listening to this book! I don't think I've enjoyed any recent James Patterson book as much as I did this one. I for sure haven't finished anything as quickly as I did this book. You must get the audio! Yes, Dolly Parton narrates one of the characters (she's fabulous!), Kelsea Ballerini as AnnieLee, the rest of the cast (9 more!) is a diverse bunch, they're all terrific. Again, loved it!! 💖🎧💥
This is my first book with a soundtrack, not included but you can listen to 12 songs on Spotify. The quotes are lyrics from "Big Dreams and Faded Jeans" and "Demons" by Dolly Parton.
March 2, 2022
Freedom
Run Rose Run is a wonderfully entertaining story of a young, promising, talented singer-songwriter trying to escape an abusive past and make it in Nashville. This is a perfect read for lovers of the Nashville TV drama series, with a beautiful diminutive singer catching a break when the retired 'Queen of Country' takes her under her wing. The ladder to success in the music industry has many difficult rungs, with setbacks, rejections, predators, greedy agents, manipulative record labels, and overwhelming competition to deal with, never mind the threat of someone wanting you dead. Each author's influence is evident, with the rags to riches story of a country singer tied to a menacing past that threatens her life.
AnnieLee Keyes arrives in Nashville, penniless, friendless, and sleeping rough in a local park. Driven and sassy, she enters the Cat's Paw bar and pushes for a chance to perform on-stage. Winning over the barman, AnnieLee borrows a guitar and sings her own songs. Before she knows it, the crowd are cheering and enjoying her set. When she announces that she has sang all her songs and can now sing requested covers, the crowd shout for her to sing her songs again. Hearing her sing that night is Ethan Blake, a musician who is a friend of Ruthanna Ryder, the retired Queen of Country and owner of the Cat's Paw. These three characters each have secrets and deep hurt in their past, and as the story progresses truths are revealed. There is a nearly-nearly love relationship between AnnieLee and Ethan, each harbouring feelings for the other but reluctant to take that first step. I felt this part was managed well, even though it is so cliché.
I love the story of the underdog battling through hardships to achieve a dream. However, there is a significant issue as it's a story that's been told so many times before and a road well-trodden. The convenience of meeting two saintly people of crucial importance in a world of dog-eat-dog felt unrealistic, especially as Ruthanna and Ethan went to incredible lengths to help AnnieLee, including putting their own lives in danger.
AnnieLee lives for her music and songwriting with verses tripping out of her head onto the page at every opportunity, which I tended to ignore. I enjoyed reading the book and the momentum of the story was very well balanced. Fans of Nashville, country music and Dolly Parton will enjoy this book, and I would recommend it with the cautions above. I want to thank Random House UK, Cornerstone and NetGalley for providing a free ARC in return for an honest review.
Run Rose Run is a wonderfully entertaining story of a young, promising, talented singer-songwriter trying to escape an abusive past and make it in Nashville. This is a perfect read for lovers of the Nashville TV drama series, with a beautiful diminutive singer catching a break when the retired 'Queen of Country' takes her under her wing. The ladder to success in the music industry has many difficult rungs, with setbacks, rejections, predators, greedy agents, manipulative record labels, and overwhelming competition to deal with, never mind the threat of someone wanting you dead. Each author's influence is evident, with the rags to riches story of a country singer tied to a menacing past that threatens her life.
AnnieLee Keyes arrives in Nashville, penniless, friendless, and sleeping rough in a local park. Driven and sassy, she enters the Cat's Paw bar and pushes for a chance to perform on-stage. Winning over the barman, AnnieLee borrows a guitar and sings her own songs. Before she knows it, the crowd are cheering and enjoying her set. When she announces that she has sang all her songs and can now sing requested covers, the crowd shout for her to sing her songs again. Hearing her sing that night is Ethan Blake, a musician who is a friend of Ruthanna Ryder, the retired Queen of Country and owner of the Cat's Paw. These three characters each have secrets and deep hurt in their past, and as the story progresses truths are revealed. There is a nearly-nearly love relationship between AnnieLee and Ethan, each harbouring feelings for the other but reluctant to take that first step. I felt this part was managed well, even though it is so cliché.
I love the story of the underdog battling through hardships to achieve a dream. However, there is a significant issue as it's a story that's been told so many times before and a road well-trodden. The convenience of meeting two saintly people of crucial importance in a world of dog-eat-dog felt unrealistic, especially as Ruthanna and Ethan went to incredible lengths to help AnnieLee, including putting their own lives in danger.
AnnieLee lives for her music and songwriting with verses tripping out of her head onto the page at every opportunity, which I tended to ignore. I enjoyed reading the book and the momentum of the story was very well balanced. Fans of Nashville, country music and Dolly Parton will enjoy this book, and I would recommend it with the cautions above. I want to thank Random House UK, Cornerstone and NetGalley for providing a free ARC in return for an honest review.
July 15, 2022
When I heard about this book I knew I needed to read it. I adore Dolly Parton and really enjoyed a previous book that I read by James Patterson.
Run Rose Run follows an up and coming young songwriter and singer. She has hitchhiked to Nashville to escape her past, but can she really get away from what is haunting her?
I absolutely loved the country singer aspect of this book, I have never read anything like it before. It had so much atmosphere and I soaked it up! You could really see Dolly’s influence, and I loved listening to the album that goes alongside this book. It adds a richness to the story that I’ve never seen before. I wish more books had accompanying albums!
I loved the super short chapters, it made me feel like I was flying through the book! I also liked some of the important yet difficult topics that were touched on with great care. I fell completely in love with Ruthanna’s character. I really saw Dolly in her, she was so vivid! I also loved the portrayal of strong females fighting for a life they want and deserve. My main gripes were that the country music aspect felt like the only thing that was original. The thriller storyline itself wasn’t anything particularly unusual. Additionally, I was much more invested in the first chunk of the book. The last section which had been built up the entire time, fell slightly short for me. Overall, this was an easy read, with great atmosphere that I really enjoyed.
I would recommend this to thriller fans who are fans of Dolly Parton or enjoy country music.
Run Rose Run follows an up and coming young songwriter and singer. She has hitchhiked to Nashville to escape her past, but can she really get away from what is haunting her?
I absolutely loved the country singer aspect of this book, I have never read anything like it before. It had so much atmosphere and I soaked it up! You could really see Dolly’s influence, and I loved listening to the album that goes alongside this book. It adds a richness to the story that I’ve never seen before. I wish more books had accompanying albums!
I loved the super short chapters, it made me feel like I was flying through the book! I also liked some of the important yet difficult topics that were touched on with great care. I fell completely in love with Ruthanna’s character. I really saw Dolly in her, she was so vivid! I also loved the portrayal of strong females fighting for a life they want and deserve. My main gripes were that the country music aspect felt like the only thing that was original. The thriller storyline itself wasn’t anything particularly unusual. Additionally, I was much more invested in the first chunk of the book. The last section which had been built up the entire time, fell slightly short for me. Overall, this was an easy read, with great atmosphere that I really enjoyed.
I would recommend this to thriller fans who are fans of Dolly Parton or enjoy country music.
May 2, 2022
As Dolly once said, "Everybody has their own way of doing things. And who am I to judge?" Well, as much as I adore you, Dolly, when it comes to your collaboration with James Patterson, I'm judging, and this book is awful.
Young, innocent-but-sassy, AnnieLee Keyes, is a singer with beautiful looks, a big voice, and an even bigger dream. She makes her way to Nashville in notable fashion to not only become a star, but also to escape her past. She arrives with a backpack and the grit to succeed no matter what it takes. The music business is not for the faint of heart though, but lucky for her, she makes an instant connection with a legendary country music star, who sees her potential. She is finally getting everything she has ever dreamed about, but the more famous she becomes, the more her secrets threaten to destroy her.
I should preface this by saying that I'm not a huge fan of James Patterson or his collaborations, but because of Dolly, I wanted to love this one. I expected a fair amount of campy predictableness, but to describe the plot as an omnishambles would be a compliment. The eye rolling started early on and continued throughout all 448 pages. I'm listing just a smattering of the most annoying things that jumped off the page to me.
1. Other than RuthAnna (whose character is no doubt based on Dolly herself), the characters are insufferable - especially AnnieLee. She's ungrateful and unlikable, and her actions just didn't make sense i.e. she's sleeping under a bridge and is starving but turns down every offer of hot french fries and milkshakes from a safe environment just to prove a point and stick to her "bad ass" character. 🙄 She is also a Mary Poppins type saint who is "practically perfect in every way - not only does she have the best voice of an angel, she is also the most beautiful, the most selfless, etc. etc. etc. 🙄 Finally, her "big secret" is odd - and why she kept it a big secret was even stranger - it seems like a little honesty with RuthAnna and Ethan would have saved her a lot of heartache.
2. The super unrealistic plot. None of it made sense. AnnieLee is being stalked by hired henchmen who want to take her back to bad guys, but when they break into her hotel room, they beat her senseless but just leave her there?? Okaaayyy. Also, the return to the hometown storyline near the end was confusing. Please tell me family members were not really left behind with no further thought to suffer the same potential fate as the protagonist?! 🙄
3. The Ethan/AnnieLee love story. It had way too much of "A Star is Born" mixed with "Yellowstone" vibe to it. From all accounts, Ethan and AnnieLee are close in age, but much is made about the fact that Ethan is a war veteran, with accounts that make him sound like a D-Day survivor - what the heck war was he in? Oh, and don't forget the casual murder reference that you're left hanging with.....
4. The overuse of the word "damn". Maybe it's a classic country music word, or maybe Patterson/Parton were trying to give the book a PG-rating, but when I first noticed its use ad nauseam, I started counting - I counted it over 65 times in about a hundred pages before I lost count. Just very overused, damn it!
5. This is not a thriller. It is barely a mystery.
I will say that there are some interesting tidbits about the Nashville music industry and the media - how radio stations used to be admonished not to play two songs sung by women in a row because audiences would not listen if the majority of songs were not predominantly sung by men. Just wow. I also enjoyed the journey through Nashville's haunts and bars, but it wasn't enough. I have read that the audiobook with Dolly Parton and Kelsea Ballerini adds some color to the book, so perhaps I would have enjoyed that more.
My recommendation is if you're interested at all, wait for the movie on this one - you're not missing anything by not reading the book. 2 stars.
Young, innocent-but-sassy, AnnieLee Keyes, is a singer with beautiful looks, a big voice, and an even bigger dream. She makes her way to Nashville in notable fashion to not only become a star, but also to escape her past. She arrives with a backpack and the grit to succeed no matter what it takes. The music business is not for the faint of heart though, but lucky for her, she makes an instant connection with a legendary country music star, who sees her potential. She is finally getting everything she has ever dreamed about, but the more famous she becomes, the more her secrets threaten to destroy her.
I should preface this by saying that I'm not a huge fan of James Patterson or his collaborations, but because of Dolly, I wanted to love this one. I expected a fair amount of campy predictableness, but to describe the plot as an omnishambles would be a compliment. The eye rolling started early on and continued throughout all 448 pages. I'm listing just a smattering of the most annoying things that jumped off the page to me.
1. Other than RuthAnna (whose character is no doubt based on Dolly herself), the characters are insufferable - especially AnnieLee. She's ungrateful and unlikable, and her actions just didn't make sense i.e. she's sleeping under a bridge and is starving but turns down every offer of hot french fries and milkshakes from a safe environment just to prove a point and stick to her "bad ass" character. 🙄 She is also a Mary Poppins type saint who is "practically perfect in every way - not only does she have the best voice of an angel, she is also the most beautiful, the most selfless, etc. etc. etc. 🙄 Finally, her "big secret" is odd - and why she kept it a big secret was even stranger - it seems like a little honesty with RuthAnna and Ethan would have saved her a lot of heartache.
2. The super unrealistic plot. None of it made sense. AnnieLee is being stalked by hired henchmen who want to take her back to bad guys, but when they break into her hotel room, they beat her senseless but just leave her there?? Okaaayyy. Also, the return to the hometown storyline near the end was confusing. Please tell me family members were not really left behind with no further thought to suffer the same potential fate as the protagonist?! 🙄
3. The Ethan/AnnieLee love story. It had way too much of "A Star is Born" mixed with "Yellowstone" vibe to it. From all accounts, Ethan and AnnieLee are close in age, but much is made about the fact that Ethan is a war veteran, with accounts that make him sound like a D-Day survivor - what the heck war was he in? Oh, and don't forget the casual murder reference that you're left hanging with.....
4. The overuse of the word "damn". Maybe it's a classic country music word, or maybe Patterson/Parton were trying to give the book a PG-rating, but when I first noticed its use ad nauseam, I started counting - I counted it over 65 times in about a hundred pages before I lost count. Just very overused, damn it!
5. This is not a thriller. It is barely a mystery.
I will say that there are some interesting tidbits about the Nashville music industry and the media - how radio stations used to be admonished not to play two songs sung by women in a row because audiences would not listen if the majority of songs were not predominantly sung by men. Just wow. I also enjoyed the journey through Nashville's haunts and bars, but it wasn't enough. I have read that the audiobook with Dolly Parton and Kelsea Ballerini adds some color to the book, so perhaps I would have enjoyed that more.
My recommendation is if you're interested at all, wait for the movie on this one - you're not missing anything by not reading the book. 2 stars.
April 12, 2022
Highly entertaining! 🤠 🎸👢
This one was so much fun to listen to! Yes, Dolly does her bit with the narration and she's fabulous as are all of the narrators!
This is a fast paced story about an up-and coming country music star. It's a rags to riches type story that has elements of a mystery with some suspenseful moments. The last 1/3 of the book really ramped up. The ending came quickly and tidied up all nicely. Kind of like a soap opera.
This one was a delight to listen to. Never a dull moment!
This one was so much fun to listen to! Yes, Dolly does her bit with the narration and she's fabulous as are all of the narrators!
This is a fast paced story about an up-and coming country music star. It's a rags to riches type story that has elements of a mystery with some suspenseful moments. The last 1/3 of the book really ramped up. The ending came quickly and tidied up all nicely. Kind of like a soap opera.
This one was a delight to listen to. Never a dull moment!
December 3, 2021
Driven, driven to be smarter
Driven to work harder
Driven to be better every day
Driven, yes you gotta be
Nothing you cannot achieve
Take the wheel and just believe
that you can change your life
-Song Lyrics Copyright @ 2021
Song-A-Billy Music
AnnieLee Keyes had "nothing and nobody; she was broke and alone...All right...I don't have nothing. I have music...Closing her eyes, she could imagine herself onstage somewhere, singing for a rapt audience...". But now, AnnieLee was standing in the rain, thumbing a ride to get the hell out of Texas. Destination: Nashville. "Home was a pawnshop sleeping bag [after pawning her beloved guitar, Maybelle] on a bare patch of ground under a tree in Cumberland Park...A metallic jangle of keys and the scrape of a boot along a sidewalk...She ran."
AnnieLee arrived at the Cat's Paw Saloon, a dive bar, asking for a chance onstage. "I'm one 'in' a million-not one 'of' a million...She sang for joy and she sang as if her life depended on it. Because, she knew it did." She was fearless and shameless!
Ethan Blake played a set onstage before her. "Perhaps he wasn't sufficiently hungry for fame and fortune." A luthier, of sorts, he had built his own guitar. He was a songwriter, always writing, but not big on playing his own songs.
Ruthanna Ryder was "one of country music's grandest queens...She had no desire to pour her heart out into a melody...bring tears to a thousand eyes." She retired. She wrote for herself. "Ruthanna was old-school...She liked all her musicians playing together rather than overdubbing for days.". Ethan Blake was one of her session players. Ethan to Ruthanna: "I saw an amazing new singer... the blunt power of AnnieLee's lyrics and the soaring ache of her voice...beautiful, talented...mean as tobacco spit."
"Run, Rose, Run", a first novel by Dolly Parton and co-written by James Patterson showcases three protagonists, each with hidden secrets defining their lives. Perhaps the truth will out. Will it spell disaster? For this reader, the tome highlights the generosity of an established Nashville singer as mentor to a newbie on the music scene. The mystery, the secrets, were not the ones expected! Upon publication, an album of twelve original songs will be simultaneously released. These songs, written in character by Annielee, Ethan and Ruthanna, can only enhance the novel with a lovely musical listening experience. Highly recommended!
Thank you Little, Brown and Company and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Driven to work harder
Driven to be better every day
Driven, yes you gotta be
Nothing you cannot achieve
Take the wheel and just believe
that you can change your life
-Song Lyrics Copyright @ 2021
Song-A-Billy Music
AnnieLee Keyes had "nothing and nobody; she was broke and alone...All right...I don't have nothing. I have music...Closing her eyes, she could imagine herself onstage somewhere, singing for a rapt audience...". But now, AnnieLee was standing in the rain, thumbing a ride to get the hell out of Texas. Destination: Nashville. "Home was a pawnshop sleeping bag [after pawning her beloved guitar, Maybelle] on a bare patch of ground under a tree in Cumberland Park...A metallic jangle of keys and the scrape of a boot along a sidewalk...She ran."
AnnieLee arrived at the Cat's Paw Saloon, a dive bar, asking for a chance onstage. "I'm one 'in' a million-not one 'of' a million...She sang for joy and she sang as if her life depended on it. Because, she knew it did." She was fearless and shameless!
Ethan Blake played a set onstage before her. "Perhaps he wasn't sufficiently hungry for fame and fortune." A luthier, of sorts, he had built his own guitar. He was a songwriter, always writing, but not big on playing his own songs.
Ruthanna Ryder was "one of country music's grandest queens...She had no desire to pour her heart out into a melody...bring tears to a thousand eyes." She retired. She wrote for herself. "Ruthanna was old-school...She liked all her musicians playing together rather than overdubbing for days.". Ethan Blake was one of her session players. Ethan to Ruthanna: "I saw an amazing new singer... the blunt power of AnnieLee's lyrics and the soaring ache of her voice...beautiful, talented...mean as tobacco spit."
"Run, Rose, Run", a first novel by Dolly Parton and co-written by James Patterson showcases three protagonists, each with hidden secrets defining their lives. Perhaps the truth will out. Will it spell disaster? For this reader, the tome highlights the generosity of an established Nashville singer as mentor to a newbie on the music scene. The mystery, the secrets, were not the ones expected! Upon publication, an album of twelve original songs will be simultaneously released. These songs, written in character by Annielee, Ethan and Ruthanna, can only enhance the novel with a lovely musical listening experience. Highly recommended!
Thank you Little, Brown and Company and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2022
Okay, I’m sorry, but big yikes! 😬 Was the ghostwriter a 5th grader? I loved reading about Rose’s rise to fame, but damn. This book was WEAK. It almost seemed like the authors didn’t want to write over a certain number of pages, so they just crammed everything into the last 5%. I don’t know, man. I was entertained but like I said… 5th grade writing. The book’s opening sucked me in, while the ending just plain sucked.
May 9, 2022
~ Quick Summary ~
We follow AnnieLee’s journey in becoming a star and making it in Nashville. But she is also running away from her past.
~ Pick this up if you enjoy/don’t mind the following ~
🧍Mostly about AnnieLee’s journey to become a star
🎭This has a side of mystery only and a sprinkle of thriller at the end
🎵 Focus on music
~ What I Enjoyed ~
I enjoyed AnnieLee’s journey and her inner thoughts, especially when she didn’t feel confident but she projected a different persona. Very relatable!
At times her past catches up to her and I'm intrigued. I want to know what she is running from.
I listened to the audio book and it was AMAZING I had to give this another star. I love it when there are multiple actors AND they have conversations with each other, rather than one person having to put on different voices. If anyone knows of any other amazing Audibles please let me know!
~ What I didn’t enjoy ~
90% of the book we follow AnnieLee’s journey to fame and then the last 10% it suddenly pivots to a thriller-ish that it gave me whiplash. I didn’t like this sudden change because the mystery/thriller component to me really felt like it was put in as an afterthought to spice it up. The past could have been anything and it would’ve fit into the story.
It felt like a silly decision was used to progress the plot and create the climax.
I wish we were given more glimpses or hints of AnnieLee’s past and that there was more build up around it. I was told not shown that she had a traumatic past. Yes there were a few scenes where the past caught up with her but afterwards they were shoved under the rug like it never happened because everyone acted normal afterwards, even AnnieLee recovered easily.
We get a one liner saying that Ethan was also holding a secret and then it was an information dump. I wish there were more hints before to create more mystery.
I didn't feel any urgency throughout the novel.
AnnieLee’s journey navigating the music industry was very smooth and a lot of it came to her. It felt too easy.
We follow AnnieLee’s journey in becoming a star and making it in Nashville. But she is also running away from her past.
~ Pick this up if you enjoy/don’t mind the following ~
🧍Mostly about AnnieLee’s journey to become a star
🎭This has a side of mystery only and a sprinkle of thriller at the end
🎵 Focus on music
~ What I Enjoyed ~
I enjoyed AnnieLee’s journey and her inner thoughts, especially when she didn’t feel confident but she projected a different persona. Very relatable!
At times her past catches up to her and I'm intrigued. I want to know what she is running from.
I listened to the audio book and it was AMAZING I had to give this another star. I love it when there are multiple actors AND they have conversations with each other, rather than one person having to put on different voices. If anyone knows of any other amazing Audibles please let me know!
~ What I didn’t enjoy ~
90% of the book we follow AnnieLee’s journey to fame and then the last 10% it suddenly pivots to a thriller-ish that it gave me whiplash. I didn’t like this sudden change because the mystery/thriller component to me really felt like it was put in as an afterthought to spice it up. The past could have been anything and it would’ve fit into the story.
It felt like a silly decision was used to progress the plot and create the climax.
I wish we were given more glimpses or hints of AnnieLee’s past and that there was more build up around it. I was told not shown that she had a traumatic past. Yes there were a few scenes where the past caught up with her but afterwards they were shoved under the rug like it never happened because everyone acted normal afterwards, even AnnieLee recovered easily.
We get a one liner saying that Ethan was also holding a secret and then it was an information dump. I wish there were more hints before to create more mystery.
I didn't feel any urgency throughout the novel.
AnnieLee’s journey navigating the music industry was very smooth and a lot of it came to her. It felt too easy.
April 10, 2022
What’s less than one dimensional? These characters. An aspiring singer with a dark past. A retired superstar with a dark past. And a rugged session musician with … wait for it … a dark past.
Each character spends the entire book refusing to divulge their secret until they do. And the secret, once revealed, changes… nothing. It's like reporting what they had for lunch. "I didn't want to tell you what I had for lunch, but here it is! I had tuna!" Shrug. Okay.
In one instance we discover a character was once charged with murder and the crime was never solved and … the whole thing is never mentioned again. It's like "I didn't want to tell you what I had for lunch, but here it is! I killed a man!" Shrug. Okay?
Also, Dolly wrote an album to go with the book and to make sure we understand how important songs are, the book quotes from them. Repeatedly. Every time one character feels down, she remembers her song lyric:
"Dark night, bright future
It's darkest just before the light"
I LOVE THE IDEA that music inspires and uplifts us. And the ONE part of the book that worked for me (hence the one star) was the little bit behind the scenes of Nashville, writing music. But "it's darkest just before the light" is, um, not a particularly ORIGINAL concept, and this same device WITH THE SAME LYRICS is used throughout the book, which circles me back around to the "one dimensional character" statement with which I opened this review.
I don't generally like to leave low-star reviews because writers work hard and sharing your work is vulnerable. But James Patterson KNOWS BETTER and this is just an UGLY CASH GRAB.
As for Dolly, I sort of suspect that her main contribution was the idea and the album. And even if she is more culpable than that, the woman has given us so many gifts (including vaccines!), I will forgive her the willingness to put her name on such silliness.
But how do I forgive myself for falling for it?!
Each character spends the entire book refusing to divulge their secret until they do. And the secret, once revealed, changes… nothing. It's like reporting what they had for lunch. "I didn't want to tell you what I had for lunch, but here it is! I had tuna!" Shrug. Okay.
In one instance we discover a character was once charged with murder and the crime was never solved and … the whole thing is never mentioned again. It's like "I didn't want to tell you what I had for lunch, but here it is! I killed a man!" Shrug. Okay?
Also, Dolly wrote an album to go with the book and to make sure we understand how important songs are, the book quotes from them. Repeatedly. Every time one character feels down, she remembers her song lyric:
"Dark night, bright future
It's darkest just before the light"
I LOVE THE IDEA that music inspires and uplifts us. And the ONE part of the book that worked for me (hence the one star) was the little bit behind the scenes of Nashville, writing music. But "it's darkest just before the light" is, um, not a particularly ORIGINAL concept, and this same device WITH THE SAME LYRICS is used throughout the book, which circles me back around to the "one dimensional character" statement with which I opened this review.
I don't generally like to leave low-star reviews because writers work hard and sharing your work is vulnerable. But James Patterson KNOWS BETTER and this is just an UGLY CASH GRAB.
As for Dolly, I sort of suspect that her main contribution was the idea and the album. And even if she is more culpable than that, the woman has given us so many gifts (including vaccines!), I will forgive her the willingness to put her name on such silliness.
But how do I forgive myself for falling for it?!
June 8, 2022
3.5*
It’s been sometime since I’ve read a James Patterson book. Though I blazed through all of them back in the day!💁🏻♀️. But after seeing a promotional T.V. interview, I learned that Dolly Parton coauthored this one. And not only was she an author but one of the narrators as well. So, obviously I had no choice what so ever. There was just no way I could pass it up! Who could say no to Dolly!
AnnieLee has made her way to Nashville with nothing but the clothes on her back. But one thing she does have is big dreams. Her singular goal is to be the next country superstar. She certainly has the talent, but desperately needs a toe in the door. Can she get her big break and climb her way to the top? Or will her past catch up to her before she has the chance?
This was a fun, light, typical James Patterson mystery. Truthfully, I’m not sure I would have picked it up if it weren’t for Dolly. But in the end I’m so glad I did. It was a delightful experience to listen to Dolly perform the narration of her character.🎧.
It’s been sometime since I’ve read a James Patterson book. Though I blazed through all of them back in the day!💁🏻♀️. But after seeing a promotional T.V. interview, I learned that Dolly Parton coauthored this one. And not only was she an author but one of the narrators as well. So, obviously I had no choice what so ever. There was just no way I could pass it up! Who could say no to Dolly!
AnnieLee has made her way to Nashville with nothing but the clothes on her back. But one thing she does have is big dreams. Her singular goal is to be the next country superstar. She certainly has the talent, but desperately needs a toe in the door. Can she get her big break and climb her way to the top? Or will her past catch up to her before she has the chance?
This was a fun, light, typical James Patterson mystery. Truthfully, I’m not sure I would have picked it up if it weren’t for Dolly. But in the end I’m so glad I did. It was a delightful experience to listen to Dolly perform the narration of her character.🎧.
December 24, 2021
3.5 rounded down
AnnieLee Keyes has been writing tunes and singing since she could talk and now she is leaving home and heading east to Nashville. She arrives at the Cats Paw saloon and asks for a chance to sing on stage. Ethan Blake, a musician who works with Ruthanna Ryder, the Queen of country music, hears AnnieLee singing and persuades Ruthanna to come and hear her. The novel focuses on these three characters whose lives become connected and entwined. Each of the main characters is carrying baggage of some description which has shaped them and made them what they are.
I think it’s fair to say that the co-author Dolly Parton shines through the book and gives it an air of authenticity especially on the ins and outs of the music business. The characters are good with AnnieLee being the most colourful (some self-portrait there maybe??! Certainly in that she’s a pint sized!!), she is very funny, smart which is seen through the dialogue, she is brave, gutsy, talented and very ambitious and oh yes, a bit of a firecracker! Cue, song! Ruthanna and Ethan are extremely likeable to and I enjoy the way they look out for AnnieLee and bend over backwards to help her.
Whilst I wouldn’t necessarily describe this as a mystery thriller, there is a decent mystery surrounding AnnieLee and this does build to a good ending. There is some tension and excitement but as for being a thriller, no, it has thriller and elements as there are some pretty dark sections but it’s not your typical thriller.
I do feel the novel follows a fairly predictable path which isn’t necessarily a bad thing but on occasions it does feel a bit cliched. I’m not entirely sure why I got irritated with some of the Songlines which kept getting repeated but some I do like as they fit in with the narrative . Perhaps it’s because you don’t hear the melody that they don’t resonate so much.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable read. It’s well paced with chapters that are short and sharp which works well.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House U.K., Cornerstone/Century for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
AnnieLee Keyes has been writing tunes and singing since she could talk and now she is leaving home and heading east to Nashville. She arrives at the Cats Paw saloon and asks for a chance to sing on stage. Ethan Blake, a musician who works with Ruthanna Ryder, the Queen of country music, hears AnnieLee singing and persuades Ruthanna to come and hear her. The novel focuses on these three characters whose lives become connected and entwined. Each of the main characters is carrying baggage of some description which has shaped them and made them what they are.
I think it’s fair to say that the co-author Dolly Parton shines through the book and gives it an air of authenticity especially on the ins and outs of the music business. The characters are good with AnnieLee being the most colourful (some self-portrait there maybe??! Certainly in that she’s a pint sized!!), she is very funny, smart which is seen through the dialogue, she is brave, gutsy, talented and very ambitious and oh yes, a bit of a firecracker! Cue, song! Ruthanna and Ethan are extremely likeable to and I enjoy the way they look out for AnnieLee and bend over backwards to help her.
Whilst I wouldn’t necessarily describe this as a mystery thriller, there is a decent mystery surrounding AnnieLee and this does build to a good ending. There is some tension and excitement but as for being a thriller, no, it has thriller and elements as there are some pretty dark sections but it’s not your typical thriller.
I do feel the novel follows a fairly predictable path which isn’t necessarily a bad thing but on occasions it does feel a bit cliched. I’m not entirely sure why I got irritated with some of the Songlines which kept getting repeated but some I do like as they fit in with the narrative . Perhaps it’s because you don’t hear the melody that they don’t resonate so much.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable read. It’s well paced with chapters that are short and sharp which works well.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House U.K., Cornerstone/Century for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Shelved as 'dnf'
April 15, 2022Update 4/15/22:
DNF @ 20%
In my haste to want to read a book written with and inspired by Dolly Parton, I neglected to account for the fact that this was still being written with James Patterson. Even Dolly narrating the part of Ruthanna wasn't enough to make me want to continue on. Sorry Dolly.
Original Pre-Review:
I am absolutely RUNNING to preorder this! A book co-written by Dolly Parton along with an album being released at the same time featuring original music that goes along with the characters/story? YES PLEASE.
Here's the info in case you're interested:
https://people.com/country/dolly-part...
DNF @ 20%
In my haste to want to read a book written with and inspired by Dolly Parton, I neglected to account for the fact that this was still being written with James Patterson. Even Dolly narrating the part of Ruthanna wasn't enough to make me want to continue on. Sorry Dolly.
Original Pre-Review:
I am absolutely RUNNING to preorder this! A book co-written by Dolly Parton along with an album being released at the same time featuring original music that goes along with the characters/story? YES PLEASE.
Here's the info in case you're interested:
https://people.com/country/dolly-part...
May 26, 2023
I like James Patterson's writing, for the most part. I've loved Dolly Parton forever. I think that's how I was able to be invested in Rose, even if her predicament seemed somewhat improbable. A bit like being able to focus on the outstanding lead singer and almost ignore the dramatic back-up singers, in all their bling.
August 25, 2022
Such a cute and inspiring story; blindly thought it had something to do with Dolly; I liked it.
April 28, 2022
This was quite the ride! I am not a Dolly fan, but she’s oh so cool here. Her voice is smooth and deep, and she sounds EXACTLY as you would expect. The audio is read by an ensemble cast, and all voices were great.
A light and fluffy read, I did not expect depth and I don’t think it was meant to be at all, but the HEA was nice, all rounding up as you would expect.
The quick-fire lyric writing was nice, and I imagine some artists to be exactly like this, able to form a story to music quickly, forming a song easily. I’ve never been able to play music, but it’s a craft and the lyrics were sweet.
AnnieLee turns up in Nashville homeless and on the run from somewhere, she seems fearless, and her rags to riches journey was fraught with danger and a few twists and turns. She was determined to do it on her own, even turning away from the famous Ruthanna Ryder (don’t you just love the names?) where she could have taken the easy way to fame.
I liked this, a little about the industry, some great lyrics and hearing Dolly’s voice. This is what probably took it to four stars for me; the writing a masterpiece it was not, but fun? Yes it was! And what’s not to love about that? I love to read and this reading experience delivered.
A light and fluffy read, I did not expect depth and I don’t think it was meant to be at all, but the HEA was nice, all rounding up as you would expect.
The quick-fire lyric writing was nice, and I imagine some artists to be exactly like this, able to form a story to music quickly, forming a song easily. I’ve never been able to play music, but it’s a craft and the lyrics were sweet.
AnnieLee turns up in Nashville homeless and on the run from somewhere, she seems fearless, and her rags to riches journey was fraught with danger and a few twists and turns. She was determined to do it on her own, even turning away from the famous Ruthanna Ryder (don’t you just love the names?) where she could have taken the easy way to fame.
I liked this, a little about the industry, some great lyrics and hearing Dolly’s voice. This is what probably took it to four stars for me; the writing a masterpiece it was not, but fun? Yes it was! And what’s not to love about that? I love to read and this reading experience delivered.
June 14, 2022
This is a fantastic audiobook production. Loved hearing Dolly the most! And her character (Ruthanna) exhibited many of the qualities we love in the real-life Dolly. I do not read much James Patterson, but when I saw this one coming up I knew it was going to be a good one. And it was. Annie Lee's rise to fame and her hidden secrets were a compelling narrative. And Ethan Blake sounds like my kind of guy. My only disappointment was that none of the songs were sung in the book. The lyrics are read, but no music. I get it. I need to invest in listening to the album. And I will! If you do pick up this book, I still recommend the audio version. It was a good choice for me. Thank you to my GR friend, Kay. Her review inspired me to wait a bit more and listen to the book instead of reading it.
March 26, 2022
James Patterson and Dolly Parton - this was one book I had to read. I may have squealed when my request was approved on Netgalley - thank you so much Random House UK, Cornerstone, Century. I have been a long time James Patterson fan and who doesn't love Dolly right. This was a lovely story, with a strong influence from Dolly. There is going to be a 12 song album of song that Dolly has written just for the book and I cannot wait to hear it when the book comes out in March.
As always with Patterson reads, I was up until very late reading until the very end. And I am not sorry about it all. This book will appeal to more than the regular James Patterson readers which makes me really happy.
Our main character is young AnnieLee Keyes, a singer with a big dream and a big voice. She arrives in Nashville to become a star, and to escape her past. She arrives with a small backpack and the determination to succeed. The music business is not for the weak and she makes some strong connections and friends with a legend of the country music scene who sees her potential. She is finally getting everything she has ever wanted, but she is tired of looking over her shoulder all the time. Her secrets are always there and are threatening to destroy her.
Bravo James and Dolly. This is one heck of a book and it deserves to be a bestseller. Released March 7th, 2022
As always with Patterson reads, I was up until very late reading until the very end. And I am not sorry about it all. This book will appeal to more than the regular James Patterson readers which makes me really happy.
Our main character is young AnnieLee Keyes, a singer with a big dream and a big voice. She arrives in Nashville to become a star, and to escape her past. She arrives with a small backpack and the determination to succeed. The music business is not for the weak and she makes some strong connections and friends with a legend of the country music scene who sees her potential. She is finally getting everything she has ever wanted, but she is tired of looking over her shoulder all the time. Her secrets are always there and are threatening to destroy her.
Bravo James and Dolly. This is one heck of a book and it deserves to be a bestseller. Released March 7th, 2022
June 19, 2022
An excellent start is followed by a long and painful portion of abuse. It's too bad because the main character is strong and does not need to be a victim to the detriment of this story. That must have been Paterson's contribution. 6 of 10 stars
August 15, 2022
OH MY GOSH!!!! I absolutely adored Run Rose Run by Dolly Parton and James Patterson! I loved every minute of this book! Country music is one of my many favorite music genres, so this book was right up my alley. While reading this story I was on the edge of my seat because I just wanted to know what was going to happen. The story was just so easy to follow. Run Rose Run had me hooked from the very first page, and was unputdownable! Although this story didn't make me cry, I felt all the emotions that went along with the story. This story is about chasing your dreams, music, love, passion, and song writing. I definitely recommend this book to anyone, it is a long book, but the chapters are super short, so that was good! It was just a mind blowing story!!! This novel deserves way more than a 5 star!!!
UPDATE: THIS BOOK IS TURNING INTO A MOVIE, I'M SO EXCITED!!!!!
"The thing is, you can be God's gift to the radio waves and it's still rare that you get something for nothing".
In Run Rose Run we follow the journey of AnnieLee Keyes, who is chasing her dreams to becoming a country music artist. This is a wonderfully entertaining story of a young, promising, talented singer-songwriter trying to escape an abusive past and make it in Nashville. AnnieLee Keyes has been writing music and singing since she could talk. AnnieLee leaves her hometown and arrives at the Nashville Cats Paw saloon because she just wants to sing on stage. While AnnieLee is performing on stage another aspiring country music artist, Ethan Blake notices her! Ethan thinks AnnieLee has a beautiful and painful voice, and so much potential, so he calls the retired queen of country music, Ruthanna Ryder. Ethan seemed like such a sweetheart, and just wanted what was best for AnnieLee.
After hearing AnnieLee, Ruthanna opens her arms and home to AnnieLee. Ruthanna is determined to help AnnieLee make her dreams come true. Every song tells a story. She's a star on the rise, singing about the hard life behind her. She's also on the run. Nashville is where AnnieLee has come to claim her destiny, but it's also where the darkness might find her. And destroy her. AnnieLee is such a firecracker, she's also extremely sassy. AnnieLee doesn't like being called little. AnnieLee had nobody and nothing at all, she's alone and broke. This novel focuses on AnnieLee, Ethan, and Ruthanna whose lives have become connected and entwined. AnnieLee has a secret that no one knows about. Each character in this story has a secret, but are they willing to share it with the others they have come so close to? I was at a loss for words at the end. I loved every character! Sometimes it felt like I was in the crowd cheering on AnnieLee as she was performing.
UPDATE: THIS BOOK IS TURNING INTO A MOVIE, I'M SO EXCITED!!!!!
"The thing is, you can be God's gift to the radio waves and it's still rare that you get something for nothing".
In Run Rose Run we follow the journey of AnnieLee Keyes, who is chasing her dreams to becoming a country music artist. This is a wonderfully entertaining story of a young, promising, talented singer-songwriter trying to escape an abusive past and make it in Nashville. AnnieLee Keyes has been writing music and singing since she could talk. AnnieLee leaves her hometown and arrives at the Nashville Cats Paw saloon because she just wants to sing on stage. While AnnieLee is performing on stage another aspiring country music artist, Ethan Blake notices her! Ethan thinks AnnieLee has a beautiful and painful voice, and so much potential, so he calls the retired queen of country music, Ruthanna Ryder. Ethan seemed like such a sweetheart, and just wanted what was best for AnnieLee.
After hearing AnnieLee, Ruthanna opens her arms and home to AnnieLee. Ruthanna is determined to help AnnieLee make her dreams come true. Every song tells a story. She's a star on the rise, singing about the hard life behind her. She's also on the run. Nashville is where AnnieLee has come to claim her destiny, but it's also where the darkness might find her. And destroy her. AnnieLee is such a firecracker, she's also extremely sassy. AnnieLee doesn't like being called little. AnnieLee had nobody and nothing at all, she's alone and broke. This novel focuses on AnnieLee, Ethan, and Ruthanna whose lives have become connected and entwined. AnnieLee has a secret that no one knows about. Each character in this story has a secret, but are they willing to share it with the others they have come so close to? I was at a loss for words at the end. I loved every character! Sometimes it felt like I was in the crowd cheering on AnnieLee as she was performing.
February 20, 2022
Every song tells a story. She's a star on the rise, singing about the hard life behind her. She's also on the run. Find a future, lose a past. Nashville is where she's come to find her destiny. It's also where the darkness she's fled might find her. And destroy her.
This story is a mixture of mystery, love and song. AnnieLee dreams of being a huge country star, but her past keeps creeping up on her. The story is mainly about making it big in the music business. It's not a twisty thriller, it's more of a fun read. The prologue promised us an action packed thriller, but it never really delivered. This is a quick and enjoyable read. Dolly Parton is releasing an album that she has written for the book to be released on the 3rd March, the same day the book is published.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #RandomHouseUk #Cornerstone and the authors #DollyParton #JamesPatterson for my ARC of #RunRoseRun in exchange for an honest review.
This story is a mixture of mystery, love and song. AnnieLee dreams of being a huge country star, but her past keeps creeping up on her. The story is mainly about making it big in the music business. It's not a twisty thriller, it's more of a fun read. The prologue promised us an action packed thriller, but it never really delivered. This is a quick and enjoyable read. Dolly Parton is releasing an album that she has written for the book to be released on the 3rd March, the same day the book is published.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #RandomHouseUk #Cornerstone and the authors #DollyParton #JamesPatterson for my ARC of #RunRoseRun in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2022
'Run, Rose, Run', coauthored by James Patterson and Dolly Parton, was a fun, fast paced listen - and nice change from the more serious books I have been reading and listening to as of late.
The narration is beyond phenomenal and I cannot recommend listening to this one if able. Dolly Parton narrates a character and gives an absolutely amazing performance. This book is worth listening to even if the content does not appeal to your tastes - it is that good.
The narration is beyond phenomenal and I cannot recommend listening to this one if able. Dolly Parton narrates a character and gives an absolutely amazing performance. This book is worth listening to even if the content does not appeal to your tastes - it is that good.
October 19, 2023
Run Rose Run by James Patterson and Dolly Parton One of the best books I have ever read. 5stars is not enough. I chose this book because Dolly Parton co-wrote it. Listened by audio. She is one of the narrators. The book is about a young girl becoming a country music star. The ending surprised me. The beginning was great. This is a book that i will read again.
October 21, 2024
If you are a Dolly Parton fan you have probably already ordered this book and added it to your collection.
And...If you did so, you were treated to an album of 12 original Dolly Parton songs from the novel that were part of the characters collection.
However...Those of us who checked this out from the library – well the CD did not come with the library book. We just got to imagine the songs as we read the lyrics – and of course, the author(s) treated us to the complete songbook words at the end of the book. That is one treat to this story. Another is the mystery.
So...Who is AnnieLee Keyes? What is she running from? Who is chasing her and wanting to hurt her? Why is she so reluctant to seek support?
And...This talented, mysterious, beautiful, tough young singer has guts and spitfire and as readers we are rooting for her.
Also...There is Ethan with his hidden secrets, and Ruthanna, an established Nashville singer willing to be her mentor who provide substance to the story.
But...It is the secrets that we want to learn about that keeps us going as readers.
Dolly Parton is a perfect storyteller for the ins and outs of the music industry. Obviously, James Patterson knows his way around a mystery.
But...It could have been better.
And...Was this really a mystery thriller – or were the authors just needing to make it one because that is what Patterson is known for?
To be honest, because it was Dolly Parton’s name attached to this book, this was the reason I picked it up and read it.
But... I probably would have preferred to listen to the book via audio-books so I could have listened to the soundtrack along with the reading of it. I think I missed out on an important part of the reading/listening experience.
So...As a library check-out, this may not be the best way to do this book!
And...If you did so, you were treated to an album of 12 original Dolly Parton songs from the novel that were part of the characters collection.
However...Those of us who checked this out from the library – well the CD did not come with the library book. We just got to imagine the songs as we read the lyrics – and of course, the author(s) treated us to the complete songbook words at the end of the book. That is one treat to this story. Another is the mystery.
So...Who is AnnieLee Keyes? What is she running from? Who is chasing her and wanting to hurt her? Why is she so reluctant to seek support?
And...This talented, mysterious, beautiful, tough young singer has guts and spitfire and as readers we are rooting for her.
Also...There is Ethan with his hidden secrets, and Ruthanna, an established Nashville singer willing to be her mentor who provide substance to the story.
But...It is the secrets that we want to learn about that keeps us going as readers.
Dolly Parton is a perfect storyteller for the ins and outs of the music industry. Obviously, James Patterson knows his way around a mystery.
But...It could have been better.
And...Was this really a mystery thriller – or were the authors just needing to make it one because that is what Patterson is known for?
To be honest, because it was Dolly Parton’s name attached to this book, this was the reason I picked it up and read it.
But... I probably would have preferred to listen to the book via audio-books so I could have listened to the soundtrack along with the reading of it. I think I missed out on an important part of the reading/listening experience.
So...As a library check-out, this may not be the best way to do this book!
April 26, 2022
This was a lot of fun. I listened to the audiobook and Dolly Parton is enchanting as always. I enjoyed the ride.
March 18, 2022
I think it's important to mention that I'm a huge Dolly fan. I love her. So I'm probably a bit biased when it comes to rating that book. But I really enjoyed it.
Is it the best book ever? No, it's not. But it's a good story with interesting characters, and enough twists and thrills thrown in to keep me engaged from start to finish.
Definitely one to read if you're a Dolly fan like me.
Is it the best book ever? No, it's not. But it's a good story with interesting characters, and enough twists and thrills thrown in to keep me engaged from start to finish.
Definitely one to read if you're a Dolly fan like me.
March 17, 2022
I want to preface this with the fact that I love Dolly Parton and most media that she puts out -- I love her energy, what she stands for, and the things she chooses to do with her fame.
That being said, this book suffers from "too much" syndrome. Or "James Patterson" syndrome. There is so much set up constantly throughout the novel, such as Rose being sex trafficked, abused, neglected, and homeless. While on the run from a group of people she was being trafficked by, she finds herself in Nashville and instantly starts up a new career as a Country singer and immediately makes it big. She meets these wonderful people, she goes on this journey...
and then the climax of the book happens, and quite literally nothing is resolved.
Let me count the ways this disappointed me.
1.) Nothing ever happens to the people who literally sold Rose. Nothing. She's saved by Ethan and then that's the end.
2.) Patterson made it a point to have one of Rose's younger sisters climb into his car to tell him where to find Rose. These younger sisters are facing the same problems that Rose herself faced--abuse, physical and mental, along with neglect from a violent father. You know what happens to them? Nothing. They are never mentioned again. (Meanwhile, Ruthanna has a mansion worthy of fitting an entire orphanage, mind you.)
3.) Nothing with Ruthanna and Jack. No development. Just a glimpse at these two people who could have been an amazing side cast.
4.) Similarly, nothing came out of the people who helped Rose record her music. Just nothing. They are never mentioned. I understand she was always supposed to be a solo singer, but leaving out the people who you spent hours making a rapport with seems incredibly shitty to me. Especially when Rose needed these kinds of friends, these kind of friendships!
5.) How old is Ethan?????? What war did he fight in??? Rose is 25. Is he like 50? Was this a fake war? He clearly wasn't in the reserves.
6.) Nobody grows. Everyone is left essentially the same as they started. There was almost no point in reading the book at all! I get that this is supposed to have me suspending my disbelief, that this is a 1-in-an-infinity chance, but WHAT? Someone achieves superstar status in the matter of a year or two and you're telling me everyone is the same exact as they started? But now Ethan and Rose have each other, so that's supposed to wrap it all up? lol. Incredibly lazy, not even sequel worth, because I never got the chance to care about anybody!
7.) The climax of the book is where it all goes downhill. Gotta wrap it up in America's Greatest Writer's Bow! Slap it on the stacks! Who cares about quality anymore, right? Just gotta pump out another bestseller. Well, congrats, James Patt, you made it, but you're a real pain in the ass for everyone else.
8.) I'm mad at James Patterson for ruining one of the things I was most excited about this year. I wanted so much to love this. I can read corny, campy shit, but not something without a semblance of effort. Find it in yourself to do better, JP.
That being said, this book suffers from "too much" syndrome. Or "James Patterson" syndrome. There is so much set up constantly throughout the novel, such as Rose being sex trafficked, abused, neglected, and homeless. While on the run from a group of people she was being trafficked by, she finds herself in Nashville and instantly starts up a new career as a Country singer and immediately makes it big. She meets these wonderful people, she goes on this journey...
and then the climax of the book happens, and quite literally nothing is resolved.
Let me count the ways this disappointed me.
1.) Nothing ever happens to the people who literally sold Rose. Nothing. She's saved by Ethan and then that's the end.
2.) Patterson made it a point to have one of Rose's younger sisters climb into his car to tell him where to find Rose. These younger sisters are facing the same problems that Rose herself faced--abuse, physical and mental, along with neglect from a violent father. You know what happens to them? Nothing. They are never mentioned again. (Meanwhile, Ruthanna has a mansion worthy of fitting an entire orphanage, mind you.)
3.) Nothing with Ruthanna and Jack. No development. Just a glimpse at these two people who could have been an amazing side cast.
4.) Similarly, nothing came out of the people who helped Rose record her music. Just nothing. They are never mentioned. I understand she was always supposed to be a solo singer, but leaving out the people who you spent hours making a rapport with seems incredibly shitty to me. Especially when Rose needed these kinds of friends, these kind of friendships!
5.) How old is Ethan?????? What war did he fight in??? Rose is 25. Is he like 50? Was this a fake war? He clearly wasn't in the reserves.
6.) Nobody grows. Everyone is left essentially the same as they started. There was almost no point in reading the book at all! I get that this is supposed to have me suspending my disbelief, that this is a 1-in-an-infinity chance, but WHAT? Someone achieves superstar status in the matter of a year or two and you're telling me everyone is the same exact as they started? But now Ethan and Rose have each other, so that's supposed to wrap it all up? lol. Incredibly lazy, not even sequel worth, because I never got the chance to care about anybody!
7.) The climax of the book is where it all goes downhill. Gotta wrap it up in America's Greatest Writer's Bow! Slap it on the stacks! Who cares about quality anymore, right? Just gotta pump out another bestseller. Well, congrats, James Patt, you made it, but you're a real pain in the ass for everyone else.
8.) I'm mad at James Patterson for ruining one of the things I was most excited about this year. I wanted so much to love this. I can read corny, campy shit, but not something without a semblance of effort. Find it in yourself to do better, JP.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2022
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
RUN ROSE RUN by Dolly Parton and James Patterson is an exciting suspenseful story of a young singer/songwriter trying to make it in Nashville with a mysterious past that she refuses to share with anyone. It has been a while since I read a book from the prolific Patterson co-author line, but I could not pass up a book co-authored with the fabulous Dolly Parton and I am so glad I didn’t.
AnnieLee Keyes has dreamed of making it Nashville. She writes and sings her own songs, is naturally beautiful and more than willing to put in the work to make it, if only someone will give her a break. She shows up broke, homeless and on the run but when a local bartender finally gives her the chance to sing, she shocks everyone with her talent including Ethan Blake who is sitting at the bar and who plays studio guitar for the bar owner and famous retired country legend Ruthanna Ryder.
Ruthanna takes the feisty and proud AnnieLee under her wing and helps her navigate the music business and Ethan helps with her protection, but AnnieLee still keeps her past a mystery even as her feelings for Ethan grow. When Ethan opens up about his painful past, AnnieLee gives him a small amount of her own past, but not everything. After another attack, AnnieLee runs away back to her hometown to settle the mystery from her past to be able to grab hold of her promising future.
I really enjoyed AnnieLee and her rise from nothing. Her character pulls you in as you follow her from running away to becoming a rising country music star. Later in the book, when you know her complete backstory, her survival is truly heartbreaking, inspirational, and realistic. Ruthanna and Ethan are both fully drawn, and you become as engaged in their personal stories as you do with AnnieLee’s. The plot moves along at a good pace as the reader follows AnnieLee’s rise in the music industry, the mystery of her past and romantic elements with Ethan all coming to a satisfying conclusion.
I really enjoyed this engaging suspense book with a memorable protagonist with a mysterious backstory and romantic elements.
RUN ROSE RUN by Dolly Parton and James Patterson is an exciting suspenseful story of a young singer/songwriter trying to make it in Nashville with a mysterious past that she refuses to share with anyone. It has been a while since I read a book from the prolific Patterson co-author line, but I could not pass up a book co-authored with the fabulous Dolly Parton and I am so glad I didn’t.
AnnieLee Keyes has dreamed of making it Nashville. She writes and sings her own songs, is naturally beautiful and more than willing to put in the work to make it, if only someone will give her a break. She shows up broke, homeless and on the run but when a local bartender finally gives her the chance to sing, she shocks everyone with her talent including Ethan Blake who is sitting at the bar and who plays studio guitar for the bar owner and famous retired country legend Ruthanna Ryder.
Ruthanna takes the feisty and proud AnnieLee under her wing and helps her navigate the music business and Ethan helps with her protection, but AnnieLee still keeps her past a mystery even as her feelings for Ethan grow. When Ethan opens up about his painful past, AnnieLee gives him a small amount of her own past, but not everything. After another attack, AnnieLee runs away back to her hometown to settle the mystery from her past to be able to grab hold of her promising future.
I really enjoyed AnnieLee and her rise from nothing. Her character pulls you in as you follow her from running away to becoming a rising country music star. Later in the book, when you know her complete backstory, her survival is truly heartbreaking, inspirational, and realistic. Ruthanna and Ethan are both fully drawn, and you become as engaged in their personal stories as you do with AnnieLee’s. The plot moves along at a good pace as the reader follows AnnieLee’s rise in the music industry, the mystery of her past and romantic elements with Ethan all coming to a satisfying conclusion.
I really enjoyed this engaging suspense book with a memorable protagonist with a mysterious backstory and romantic elements.
July 19, 2022
Man this was one hell of an audiobook I listened to. Duration time - 10 hours, 18 minutes. BolindaAudio.
I'm not going to say too much as quite alot happens and it will definitely spoil the story for you all.
We have Anna Lee Keys, (and I'm sorry if I'm butchering her name, I'm going by hearing only) that is running away from something. Wait a cotton pickin' minute here, you are saying, the title says Run, Rose, Run. Right? Well yes, but this is a hell of a mystery of how she got this name in the first place, there are plenty of scenarios we as readers can come up with in our minds, let's face it, we are readers, this is what we do!
Some will find this a bit slow to start with and it picks up three quarters of the way through, the mystery and twists and turns start there, so keep with it if you find it is not as exciting as you thought it would be, because it is worth your while.
I can see why the authors did that, they were building a convincing background of Anna Lee Keys before they hit us with the good stuff, they wanted to paint us a picture of the person she was becoming! Not who she used to be! That's the who point of the story, readers . I can see why this is a popular book, very gripping, very intense near the end. We have a kind of a romance blooming and will you figure out who it is? I did.
So yes, giving this a whole hearted 5 stars.
I'm not going to say too much as quite alot happens and it will definitely spoil the story for you all.
We have Anna Lee Keys, (and I'm sorry if I'm butchering her name, I'm going by hearing only) that is running away from something. Wait a cotton pickin' minute here, you are saying, the title says Run, Rose, Run. Right? Well yes, but this is a hell of a mystery of how she got this name in the first place, there are plenty of scenarios we as readers can come up with in our minds, let's face it, we are readers, this is what we do!
Some will find this a bit slow to start with and it picks up three quarters of the way through, the mystery and twists and turns start there, so keep with it if you find it is not as exciting as you thought it would be, because it is worth your while.
I can see why the authors did that, they were building a convincing background of Anna Lee Keys before they hit us with the good stuff, they wanted to paint us a picture of the person she was becoming! Not who she used to be! That's the who point of the story, readers . I can see why this is a popular book, very gripping, very intense near the end. We have a kind of a romance blooming and will you figure out who it is? I did.
So yes, giving this a whole hearted 5 stars.
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