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Red Door #5

Drummer Boy

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Bo Robertson. The drummer. 34. Leo.

Everybody loves him, yet no one’s ever chosen him to love.

He wants to be someone’s everything, and for that someone to be his.


Ava Liane Harris. The babysitter. 21. Aries.

The beautiful girl who hides behind her glasses.

She knows better than to look for love, yet love finds her anyway.


A six-week concert tour. An epic adventure. A summer of possibilities.

But nothing lasts forever, right? Everything comes to an end.

The memories, though. Those could last a lifetime.


Drummer Boy, book 5 in the Red Door series, contains subject matter which may be sensitive or triggering to some and is intended for mature audiences.  While you don't need to read the previous books in the series, as this is a standalone novel featuring a unique romance, it is highly recommended. Red Door is a series of interconnected standalone novels.  All of the main characters reappear and some storylines connect throughout each book.  For the best experience, read the series in order.

354 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 21, 2022

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About the author

Dyan Layne

11 books514 followers

Dyan Layne is a nurse boss by day and the writer of edgy sensual tales by night—and on weekends. She's never without her Kindle, and can usually be found tapping away at her keyboard with a hot latte and a cold Dasani Lime--and sometimes champagne. She can't sing a note, but often answers in song because isn't there a song for just about everything? Born and raised a Chicago girl, she currently lives in Tampa, Florida, and is the mother of four handsome sons and a beautiful daughter, who are all grown up now, but can still make her crazy--and she loves it that way! Because normal is just so boring.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Crystal (Crystalreads2) .
886 reviews829 followers
August 27, 2022


I love the Red Door series, and since the announcement of Drummer Boy, I was stoked and couldn't wait to read Bo’s story. I love Bo Robertson. Shh, don't tell the others he is my favorite out of the group, and well, I have a thing for drummers.

Bo wants someone to choose him, to love him. When he meets his Angel, Ava, he is instantly drawn to and loves her. But this time around so much more is at stake. Ava is a sweet open-minded woman with insecurities of her own.

Bo is the perfect book boyfriend. When he loves, he loves deep within his soul. He is very open opened and judgment-free. Bo is very carefree, thoughtful, and caring of his loved ones.

Honestly, I am at a loss for words with this book. What I mean is words alone cannot articulate how much I love these two and this book. The author takes you on a raw, emotional, and steamy journey. Of course, the author did it again, and my heart was ripped open. Then again, it wouldn’t be a phenomenal book if it didn’t.

One thing I know going into this series is the spice. When they enter the club, it’s all about desires and each other pleasures. These two did not disappoint. I felt like I needed a cigarette.

Overall it's a fantastic read, and the series is a must-read. Not to patiently wait for Son Of A Preacher Man
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
1,976 reviews148 followers
August 29, 2022
Bo Robertson is my favorite character in this Red Door series. He is always the one joking and laughing, everyone's friend, and keeps looking for his someone to love and who will love him back.
Ava enters as the baby sitter for Emery, she will go on the road with Venery on their tour to take care of Bo's daughter, and the attraction is intense and off the charts. This couple connected in a way that Bo has never felt before, because she gets him.
Not only did he find his someone, when he found Ava, he found his dimension.
True happiness.
A life worth living

Dyan, you are an extraordinary author. You have a gift to draw your reader into the depths of your stories, demanding emotion from them, and leaving them satisfied with your awesome characters. Even when you make me cry.
6 beautiful stars!
Profile Image for ForewordPR.
64 reviews197 followers
Read
June 28, 2022


Foreword PR is elated to be working with Dyan Layne with the release of Drummer Boy! Drummer Boy is a soul-gripping & uber passionate, contemporary romance standalone and book five in her interconnected Red Door series. Visit here to find out how you can read early: Drummer Boy
Profile Image for Brittany (happy.ending.always).
1,001 reviews40 followers
September 5, 2022
100 out of 10 stars! This is everything I wanted, everything I needed and so much more from our favorite Drummer Boy, Bo! I knew he would fall hard! And let me tell you, this story is incredible! It is hot, it is emotionally, yes I cried like a blubbering baby at least six times!! Bo’s story is perfection. Every book in this series has blown me away. This book did that and so much more.

Bo has been a favorite of mine since Serenity. His heart was full of so much love from the start in book one and I knew he needed someone to rival and challenge that love. Enter Ava, a beautiful, smart, caring and so incredibly lovable character. She is perfect in every way. And though these two have such heart eyes for each other and their is a huge crush,, their is also a huge catch, Ava is the Nanny to Bo’s daughter, Emmy. And because of that, Bo and Ava know they can’t mess this professional relationship up! What will they do? Bo needs his happy ending (physically too, Bo is hot and that hotness all comes out in thus book)!!!

It was so fun to have the entire gang back together for Bo’s book! It wouldn’t be the same without them. Seeing them all happy and put together in their own lives, made me smile ear to ear while reading, knowing they are all ok. I love this series so much. And when you really fall hard for characters you love, you want to see what they are up to after their stories have ended, along with making sure they are all right. Between The Other Brother, which emotionally wrecked me, and Drummer Boy, which had me on the edge of me seat of will they get together? I needed this story so badly. Dyan wrote it perfectly too. She brings out emotions that pull hard at your heartstrings. In the best way possible. This book is everything. It is spicy, it is fun and it us absolutely beautiful!!!

Profile Image for Michelle Mastandrea.
341 reviews8 followers
September 21, 2022
Gahhhhh....I fell in absolute LOVE with book!
Bo and Ava's story is a beautiful journey that touches the heart and sears the soul. Taking you to a place of longing, hope, desire, and the dream of finding love with that special someone with whom you mean everything too.....

"Doesn’t everyone just want someone to love? Someone who loves every fucked-up part of them. Exactly as they are.".....

Bo Robertson is the type of man you want to hold close and never let go. He's sweet, caring, kinda goofy, thoughtful, and has a cinnamon roll heart of pure gold.Completely open, uninhibited, and sexy as hell....this man should be every woman's dream ideal and yet, Bo has never been someone’s choice to love. Although it's always been the one thing that he longs for most. ....


When Ava Liane Harris accepts the job to become Bo's nanny while his band is on tour, she never imagined her ordinary life would turn into something that rivals any one of her favorite romance novels. Like she could fall in love with a rock bands sexy as sin drummer boy and live happily ever after. Picturing herself as a family with Bo and his sweet daughter Emery is a foolish dream and this is real life....one where she's just the babysitter to a famous rockstar. Foolish wishes can only lead to heartache and Ava knows better than to look for love. Only, just this once.... she’d like nothing more than to become Bo's everything.....


Emotionally driven and wonderfully moving, this is by far Dyan's most heartfelt book to date. It's utterly impossible not to fall in absolute LOVE with Bo, Ava, and sweet little Emery. Every sweet, sensual, and raw honest moment that they share is just devine. There's a soul deep pull and connection between them that goes beyond the physical. Leaving you to watch with hearts in your eyes as their relationship blooms. I never wanted so desperately to see a couple find their happily ever after! I was filled with so much joy when they finally did! It seriously makes me want to hug you Dyan for writing such a beautiful story! Bo and Ava are definitely a couple who will remain forever in my heart!...


This was another gorgeous read from Dyan and such a beautiful addition to her Red Door Series. There's so much to love about this story and I can’t recommend it enough! Get this Drummer Boy on your TBR NOW! Trust me, you're gonna love him! 😘❤️


*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own *
Profile Image for Joy  Avery.
1,271 reviews119 followers
September 26, 2022
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆    Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶

Angst: 💣💣💣     Plot: 📚📚📚📚📚

Cliffhanger? ❌️

Do I recommend? ✅️! 

Tropes: Contemporary rockstar romance, age-gap 

Bo Robertson is the sexy as hell yet loveable drummer for the rock band, Venery. His tastes are many and oh so hot. Even though everyone loves him, he desires someone to choose him and for them to be each other's everything. Enter Ava Liane Harris. She’s come on board to be the nanny for his daughter, Emery. The attraction is immediate between the two. She'll babysit for their six week concert tour. A summer that will change everything. Yet nothing lasts forever as an end must come or does it?

Dyan Layne is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. I love her Red Door world! The aspect of found family along with intricate plot lines. I shed a few tears, got a little too hot and became even more addicted to this series. I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given. 
Profile Image for Jennifer.
807 reviews22 followers
September 21, 2022
Drummer for the band Venery, Bo Robertson had been a constant intriguing presence in the Red Door series from the start, with Ms. Layne giving teasing glimpses of him without full disclosure making it hard to accurately define him. Once Bo's facade was removed what was revealed was better than any assumptions that readers could come up with. Brutally honest and in touch with who he was, this character owned his story. Brave, kind and accepting, Bo was the kind of person who was easy to take for granted as he was always there to support his friends and family selflessly, honing in on what an exceptional human he was. What many might see as sacrifices Bo did without hesitation or resentment.

Quiet, dependable and caring Ava Harris offered a subtle strength. Unassuming she was able to see more than most people were aware of so it was no surprise she was able to focus on who Bo truly was and see past his public persona. Like Bo there was a giving quality to Ava that surpassed her outer beauty and allowed her inner beauty to shine. The confidence Ava found in loving Bo was great to watch play out and provided a touching love story.

Bo and Ava were two characters that ultimately brought out the best in each other finding the acceptance they craved in their love. As each took precedence in each other's lives and became each other's "person" they flourished. As this pair encountered obstacles and miscommunications their relationship proved that it was strong enough to weather them and grow their love exponentially. Bo and Ava's attraction was as sweet as it was primal and hot leaving no room for modesty.

Dyan Layne's works are deep and emotional. Her stories are abundant in feelings that translate effortlessly to her readers. This writer knows how to unleash tears in her audience for some profoundly moving moments. With sensitivity and grace her stories are pitted with scars and tragedies that show her portrayals grit and resilience as they find their paths to happiness. Drummer Boy adds a wonderful new dimension to a series rich in remarkable stories.

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone, but for an overall enhanced reading experience reading the previous books in this series is suggested.*
Profile Image for Issa Marie.
Author 10 books209 followers
September 20, 2022
Dyan has a way of making the world she has created feel so real! Her writing is so amazing (for lack of a better word) Bo has a special place in my heart right now! The beginning of this had me like 😳🔥🥵 so good! Can't wait for book 6!
Profile Image for Violet.
398 reviews67 followers
August 29, 2022
While the author states you do not have to read the other books in the series before this one, I highly recommend it. Falling in love with each of these characters a little at a time is half the adventure. It builds suspense and mystery around each one and allows you to get to know their personalities. Trust me; the journey is worth it!

Bo has been a beloved character since Serenity (book 1), and I only love him more now after reading his story. You can't help but adore him. He's a man who loves indiscriminately, and he loves fiercely. He's flirty, full of fun, spreads affection easily, is loyal to the bone, and his heart is pure gold. He is absolutely a teddy bear hero if ever there was one!

Drummer Boy was heartwrenching at times and uplifting at others. Beauty, sadness, heartbreak, and hope all weaved together to create a masterpiece. I laughed, cried more than once, and celebrated with them during the perfect moments. But, in the end, I craved more of this series and more of these characters.

And the surprises! I would never have expected how this story unfolded, especially in the beginning, but it set the stage for a fantastic journey and showed just how big Bo's heart truly is.

I love the familial feel of this series. The characters chose their family not just by blood but by loyalty, devotion, and friendship. They've built a support group, a life, and a lasting bond with each that is forged in blood, sweat, and tears.

Each book in this series is full of substance, heart, and sizzling heat, unlike any you will read elsewhere. These stories are not cookie-cutter. Instead, they inflame the senses, engage the heart, and have you begging for more before you finish the book. And the sex scenes are some of the hottest I've read! So if you love spicy with substance, this series is definitely one to read!
Profile Image for Kindle Crack Book Reviews Cheri .
1,260 reviews1,069 followers
September 21, 2022
4.5 - 5.0 - Drummer Boy (Red Door #5) by Dyan Layne was fantastic. This spicy and heartfelt romance is the latest addition to the Red Door series of interconnected standalones. This book a going to make your heart skip a beat! Drummer Boy focuses on Bo, Venery’s drummer, and his emotion-packed journey to find love. I love this smoking hot rock romance series.
Profile Image for Laura Fabian.
473 reviews44 followers
September 8, 2022
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honesta review

Red Door is another of the series that I will NEVER stop recommending, the writing of Dyan Layne has that something that ALWAYS manages to catch me and that makes me really enjoy all of her books, regardless of the fact that sometimes they make me suffer a lot too, besides, these characters have completely stolen my heart like no other and I'm totally in love with each and every one of them, so it's always very nice for me to return to this world, and of course Drummer Boy was no exception: it's the sweetest book Dyan has written so far and reading Bo was a trip full of things that I didn't expect, of a lot of love and also of moments with which I did not expect to cry again, but that moved me a lot and made me love this series even more, if possible.

I didn't know what to expect from Bo because Dyan already showed us very well his loving, adorable, flirtatious personality and her big heart since Serenity , and I think it's fair to say that, as Ava mentions over and over again in this book, he's full of surprises: that feeling he has that nobody chooses him to love was something I didn't expect and it broke my heart a lot, but I loved seeing how, despite that, Bo is able to show the people who are important to him how much he loves them, is a man who always says what he feels, what he wants and what he thinks, and although he experiences some moments of confusion and doubt during Drummer Bouy, he always knows how to get what he wants. I really liked his plot with Shelley because, although it broke my heart to read how much it affected Bo not knowing about Emmy and everything Shelley goes through, I loved reading them creating a bond, getting to know each other better and Bo supporting her, understanding her and giving her the peace she needed, plus I fell much more in love with him when I read him getting to work with Emery from minute 1, being the sweetest, most tender, adorable, loving and committed. And I can only say that I NEED a Bo in my life.

Ava was a character that we have seen a bit in The Other Brother, but who until now was practically unknown, she is a girl who has her life planned, she's about to become a teacher, is beautiful inside and out, understanding, kind and with a heart as beautiful as Bo's, and what I loved most about her was her ability to integrate with the Venery boys and the rest of the crew, especially the way her relationship with Bo begins and how she accepts him as he is, but Ava also has her own struggles and insecurities that make her life falters a little when she agrees to be Emery's nanny, however, she is always able to show her strength, courage, admit her mistakes and fight for the new family that has found her.

Something I really enjoyed about the Bo & Ava's story was Katie playing cupid for these two, though I don't know if that was really Dyan's goal, I thought it was really nice of her to suggest her friend as the new babysitter for Emery for the Venery tour. Something else that I loved was the way the author developed the story of these two: how the attraction between them is there from the first moment they see each other, but Bo does things totally unexpected with and, for Ava, despite his feelings, I really liked that their chemistry is not only sexual or physical attraction, that was easy for both of them to be with each other, to live in the caravana and to take care of Emmy, who is as sweet as Bo and she manages to steal Ava's heart immediately, plus together they gave me many of the most beautiful moments that this book has and I think they are one of the stories that I have enjoyed the most in this series.

As always with the Red Door books, I loved rereading Linnea, Kyan, Dillon, Chloe, Taylor, Jessie, Kodiak, Matt, Kit & Sloan again, especially the latter and the friendship that seems to blossom between him and Ava at times, and of which I hope to read more, although I have to admit that the last epilogue has me very worried about Kit, and I have the feeling that there is going to be some heartbreak in the following books, but still I can't wait to continue reading this series that has completely stolen my heart.

🥁Bo: 5/5
🥁Ava: 5/5
🥁Plot: 5/5
🥁Love Storyr: 5/5
🥁Secondary characters: 5/5
🥁Universo: 5/5
🥁Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 4/5


🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada a cambio de una reseña honesta

Red Door es otra de las series que JAMÁS voy a dejar de recomendar, la escritura de Dyan Layne tiene ese algo que SIEMPRE logra atraparme y que me hace disfrutar mucho de todos sus libros, sin importar que a veces me haga sufrir también, además, estos personajes se han robado por completo mi corazón como ningunos otros y estoy totalmente enamorada de todos y cada uno, así que siempre es muy bonito para mi volver a este mundo, y por supuesto que Drummer Boy no fue la excepción, es el libro más dulces que Dyan ha escrito ha esta ahora y leer a Bo fue un viaje lleno de sorpresas que no esperaba, de mucho amor y también de momentos con los que tampoco esperaba volver a llorar, pero que me emocionaron muchísimo y me hicieron amar aún más, si es posible, esta serie.

No sabía que esperar de Bo porque Dyan ya nos mostró muy bien su personalidad amorosa, adorable, coqueta y su gran corazón desde Serenity, y creo que es justo decir que, como Ava lo menciona una y otra vez en este libro, él esta lleno de sorpresas: ese sentimiento que tiene de que nadie lo elige para amar fue algo que no me esperaba y que rompió mucho el corazón leer, pero me encantó ver como, a pesar de eso, Bo es capaz de demostrarle a las personas que son importantes para él lo mucho que las ama, es un hombre que siempre dice lo que siente, lo que quiere y lo que piensa, y aunque experimenta algunos momentos de confusión y duda durante Drummer Bouy, siempre sabe como conseguir lo que quiere. Su trama con Shelley me gustó mucho porque aunque me rompió el corazón leer lo mucho que a Bo le afectó no saber sobre Emmy y todo por lo que Shelley pasa, amé leerlos crear un vinculo, conocerse mejor y a Bo apoyarla, comprenderla y darle la paz que necesitaba, además de que me enamoré mucho más de él al leerlo poniendo manos a la obra con Emery desde el minuto 1, siendo el más dulce, tierno, adorable, amoroso y comprometido. Y creo que con todo lo que me hizo sentir en este libro solo puedo decir que NECESITO un Bo en mi vida.

Ava fue un personaje que hemos visto un poco en The Other Brother, pero que hasta ahora era prácticamente desconocido, es una chica que tiene su vida planeada, está a punto de convertirse en maestra, es hermosa por dentro y por fuera, comprensiva, amable y con un corazón tan hermoso como el de Bo, y lo que más amé de ella fue su capacidad para integrarse con los chicos de Venery y con el resto del crew, especialmente la manera en la que su relación con Bo comienza y como lo acepta tal y como es, pero Ava también tiene sus propias luchas e inseguridades que hacen que su vida se tambalee un poco cuando acepta ser la niñera de Emery, sin embargo, siempre es capaz de demostrar su fortaleza, valentía, de reconocer sus errores y luchar por la nueva familia que la ha encontrado.

Algo que disfruté mucho de la historia de Bo & Ava fue a Katie haciendo de cupido para estos dos, aunque no sé si ese era realmente el objetivo de Dyan, a mi me pareció muy lindo de su parte sugerir a su amiga como la nueva niñera de Emery para la gira de Venery. Algo más que me encantó fue la forma en la que la autora desarrollo la historia de estos dos: como la atracción entre ambos está ahí desde el primer momento en que se ven, pero Bo hace cosas totalmente inesperadas con y por Ava a pesar de sus sentimientos, me gustó mucho que su química no sea solo sexual o atracción física, que sea fácil para ambos estar con el otro, convivir en la caravana y cuidar de Emmy, quien es tan dulce como Bo y logra robarse el corazón de Ava de inmediato, además de que juntos me dieron muchos de los momentos más hermosos que este libro tiene y creo que son una da las historias que más he disfrutado de esta serie.

Como siempre con los libros de Red Door, amé volver a leer a Linnea, Kyan, Dillon, Chloe, Taylor, Jessie, Kodiak, Matt, Kit & Sloan, especialmente a este ultimo y la amistad que parece florecer entre él y Ava en algunos momentos, y de la cual espero poder leer más, aunque tengo que admitir que el ultimo epilogo me tiene muy preocupada por Kit, y tengo la sensación de que va a haber alguno que otro corazón roto en los siguientes libro, pero aún así no puedo esperar a seguir leyendo esta serie que se a robado por completo mi corazón.

🥁Bo: 5/5
🥁Ava: 5/5
🥁Trama: 5/5
🥁Historia de amor: 5/5
🥁Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🥁Universo: 5/5
🥁Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 4/5
Profile Image for Kristie Wyatt.
68 reviews1 follower
August 26, 2022
She’s done it again! Got me absolutely addicted to a character and made me cry more than once.
Bo, what a guy. Honestly, probably the sweetest, giving and most loving character I have ever read. He made me feel all soft and loved right from the very start. The instant love he felt with Emery was beautiful. The instant connection he felt with Ava, amazing. It was amazing as always to have the whole “family” linked into the story. Kodiak is coming next and I am so looking forward to his story.
Profile Image for Bookslover09.
642 reviews37 followers
August 27, 2022
Drummer Boy is a beautiful story you can’t pass. Bo is the sweetest guy and so easy to love!! I always loved Dyan's writing; It is just phenomenal. This story begins with a lie that ends with the best thing that can happen to Bo (Emeril). You need this book, I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for CherryRed’s Reads.
973 reviews8 followers
September 20, 2022
Author Dyan Layne broke me good!

Was she in my head when she wrote this book because the emotions and feels that Bo and Ava go through felt soo real!

Bo's journey to finding love was breathtaking. He loves hard, fast, and unconditionally no matter what. He also has no boundaries in who he loves. I loved that. Bo sees people as people, no labels and his heart is fully vested into you.

Your heart will skip a beat reading this book!


When Bo meets Ava, he is instantly attracted to her and she to him.

Ava feels she is not worthy of him because of her secret which had me turning the pages non stop on finding out what her secret was.
When it is revealed... My Heart! I totally was able to relate and understand why she held back from telling Bo!

Bo & Ava feel they will never find love and feel unwanted but...


when Bo & Ava stop fighting their feelings for each other, it is explosive!

Hot, sexy, some real eye opening moments that had me blushing then googling can that be really happen?

It can!

I loved that we get to see the Red Door series family of characters from the other books in the series which I highly recommend to read.

They all love hard and want Bo to find his own love.

Be ready for love, hard emotions, sexy times that burn the pages and falling hard in love with Bo & Ava and a a cutie pie you won't be able to resist!

Go One Click this Top 2022 Must Read!

5 🍒🍒🍒🍒🍒popped!

**ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review***
Profile Image for Lissete.
522 reviews3 followers
September 18, 2022
This is the story of Drummer Boy, Bo Robertson, and his Angel, Ava Harris. Bo is the drummer of Venier, a rock metal band and he’s wild! He’s been with one too many people, but it’s just s*x… he’s dreaming of a real connection. The band is about to embark on a 6 week tour when he learns he has a 2 year old daughter and the mom is ill. He becomes a dad and his life changes forever. Who would have thought that the nanny was not only his daughter’s Angel, but also his?
This is such an emotional story! I felt in love with Bo from the very beginning. He is goodness personified. He’s a gentle soul looking for love, and oh boy does he find it! Ava is such a ray of sunshine! I never thought two bright people could work but they do. Bo and Ava are perfection. There’s a pull between them that goes beyond physical. They become a family quickly and it’s just so lovely to see them go through their journey. This doesn’t mean that’s all pure and PG… there’s plenty of action and self discovery in their journey.
It was an amazing book and now I’m hooked and can’t wait for our next rockstar to fall in love!
Profile Image for Nagma (Take A Look At My Bookshelf).
1,379 reviews93 followers
October 1, 2022
I loved this single dad, age gap, boss/nanny, rockstar romance! I haven’t read any of the other Red Door books, but I was able to enjoy this book immensely. Bo is literally the perfect book boyfriend with a whole lot of love in his heart. This book is emotional, raw, steamy, and it left me with a lot of feels! Dyan was able to break my heart and then put it back together in this spicy, captivating read.

Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Katslovesbooks.
822 reviews21 followers
September 10, 2022

PERFECTION IN EVERY PAGE!!

I can say with all honesty that Dyan Layne knows how to deliver stories with so much heart and I'm in awe of her talent.

Drummer Boy is the fifth instalment of the Red Door Series and this is Bo's story. From the beginning of this book I knew this was going to be an emotional ride, specially because we see events that occurred in The Other Brother (book 4) and while this book can be read as a standalone I recommend reading the books in order to capture more of these fabulous stories and amazing characters.

Bo is a free spirit, loving and caring character. He is loyal to those who he considers family and has always being one of my favorites characters because he is a total charmer but in this book we see deeply into his soul and the struggles he has gone through. Now as a single dad of the most adorable little girl Emery, he decides he wants more of life. He wants to love and be love in return, a love that is pure, passionate and all consuming.

Ava is a beautiful person inside and out who enters Bo and Emery's life in the right time. She becomes Emery's nanny while Bo and his band go touring. Their attraction is instant from the very first time they see each other but Bo life's style is not the same as before now he has a daughter to think off and a future he desires, a family, a home and to be chosen and while Ava feels like that missing puzzle piece there are secrets and people that are threading this relationship.

Bo and Ava's journey is one you don't want to miss reading.
Profile Image for Michelle The Outgoing Bookworm .
1,044 reviews15 followers
September 17, 2022
The author once again delivers a story that will take you on an emotional journey.

Bo was a standout character from the other books. He was funny and sexy. I couldn’t help but love him right off the bat. But he always came in second so to speak.

His past comes back in a huge way when he discovers he has a daughter. He steps up to be her father. Enter Ava who becomes the nanny while they travel with his band.

The steam level was nuclear. These two were fun to watch fall in love. He deserved a woman like her - one is open and honest because he does have some interesting “hobbies”..

As one suspects, the author makes you need the tissues. The one scene I was prepared for since this book intersects with events in book four. But Bo has is own moments that will make you laugh and cry.

* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tammy - .
925 reviews125 followers
September 1, 2022
Drummer Boy is the fifth book in the Red Door series by Dyan Layne, and while you could read this as a stand-alone novel, it is recommended that you read the series in order for the full experience. Now, I'm infamous for reading series out of order and I actually started this one with book 4, The Other Brother (and I still haven't made my way through all of the books yet). If you haven't read the other books either, I would recommend at least reading The Other Brother before this one, because otherwise there will be a major spoiler for you.

Drummer Boy is Bo's story. Coming into this book, I honestly wasn't sure how I felt about Bo, but it sure didn't take long for me to adore this man. Bo is a bit of a wild child, but he has such a good heart and all that he really wants is to be loved. Sure, he's loved by millions as part of a famous rock band, but he wants someone to CHOOSE him and only him. He wants to be someone's everything. Enter Ava, the babysitter. Bo is 34, Ava is 21. She's smart enough to know that she's not going to find love on a tour bus, but maybe love will find her. It's a six-week tour. Anything could happen.

I loved the connection between Bo and Ava, and although this is an age-gap romance, it never really felt like it. I appreciated that it wasn't the age difference that was the struggle in this relationship.

As with all of the books in this series, the emphasis here is that love is love, and it doesn't necessarily need labels. There are a few scenes that may make some readers uncomfortable (or not), and there is plenty of Kindle-melting steam within these pages. There are also scenes that will make you cry, make you laugh, and make you want to toss your Kindle (melted or not). I felt so many emotions while reading this book, and one scene in particular had me near sobbing.

If you're new to this series, it can be a lot to take in at first. There are a lot of different characters and pairings, and all of the characters in these books have a unique relationship with each other that goes beyond the realm of family and friends. Their stories, their lives, are so intertwined that I sometimes forget who is paired with whom. I love all of them though and I can't wait for book six (and to go back and catch up on the books that I've missed.)
Profile Image for Camille (bookish.cami).
608 reviews36 followers
September 15, 2022
The Red Door Series is one of my favorites! I enjoyed each and every one of them so much, but I must admit I think our sweet/funny/cuddly drummer boy may have stolen my heart! He just looks for love in all the wrong places, but when he finally feels something deep for Ava the sitter, he hires for his daughter never did he expect to feel what he does.

Bo just wants the all-consuming love like some of his band mates have found and his insta connection to Ava may seem a little scare to not only him but her as well, but the chemistry is so undeniable and when Bo loves he loves hard. Bo is the perfect book boyfriend for sure. I took my time reading this one because Bo is just the sweetest and I didn't want his story to be over. I must admit I have read it Twice now.
There is so many many good things that I can say about this story but I must admit you really need to not only experience this book for yourself but the whole series Dyan has become one of my favorite one click authors and I absolutely love every one of her books.
this book even had me with teary eyes. Ladies I'm seriously not over this book! and if i could rate it more than 5 stars i definitely would!

Profile Image for Di Elliott.
26 reviews1 follower
September 18, 2022
Bo, I love Bo. Who doesn't love a drummer. And what a journey he goes on. Suddenly his life is turned upside down and he's a daddy. And his daughter is the cutest little girl. The only trouble is he's about to go in tour with his band and doesn't want to leave her behind so he needs a nanny to come on tour with him. And that's when Avery comes into his life. And the fun begins.
This book is a great read. Love Bo and Avery and little Emery. The journey they go on is beautiful, a slow burn, that's really enjoyable. There are some tears but lots of hot and sexy times. Enjoy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sue Harbers.
1,075 reviews11 followers
September 20, 2022
This book will pull at every heart string you own! Bo is such a wonderful and dynamic and sweet character, I love him to pieces. Ava is equally as sweet and an unlikely yet perfect match for Bo. The chemistry between these two jumps off of the pages and takes on a life of its own! The Red Door series never disappoints, nor does Dyan.
Profile Image for Jennifer Bishop.
1,293 reviews35 followers
September 6, 2022
This is one of those incredible books, that once you start reading, you are powerless to stop.

Bo is an absolute God among men! He is sexy as hell, loves a good cuddle, has a sensitive soul, and a huge heart. He is a fierce lover, and goes above and beyond for those he cares about. It is truly heartwarming to see the length he goes to for his daughter. And lest I forget to mention the major baggage he is packing between those sexy thighs of his!

But, Bo definitely has his insecurities, especially when it comes to someone choosing him, loving him. He has never had someone to choose him, it’s always someone else.

Ava is awe inspiring as well, and I simply loved everything about her, her kindness, her warm and loving heart, and the fact that everything about her is perfect for Bo, just as she is for him. “This man. He spoke to her soul.” The development of Bo and Ava’s relationship is done in such a spectacular way, it was destined by the stars.

The writing, as always with this author, is stunning, as are the characters, character development, and world building. The way she weaves and tells her stories is nothing short of phenomenal.

One of the things that I absolutely love about this series is the message of sex positivity, and this book really embraces that message. Bo is bisexual and I love the way that Ava goes about greeting, understanding, and welcoming that part of him. “You get me. You’re the only one who really does.”

If you have not started this series, I urge you to give it a go, you won’t regret it! I highly recommend this book and series and personally consider it a Must Read. I will be excitedly awaiting the next book in this fantastic series.
1,663 reviews71 followers
September 18, 2022
Inhaled this book!!!! The perfect rock star romance - with a twist. You’ll love this sweet, soulful man who finally finds his hea. Thoroughly enjoyed this!!!
Profile Image for Melinda  Parker.
1,202 reviews20 followers
September 5, 2022
Dyan Layne will absolutely own your book soul with this story. Be prepared to fall in love, cry, feel protective, and secretly pray for Bo to finally get what he so justly deserves. 

What happens when you’ve always been looking for a love of your own but you never seem to find it. Then BOOM, no warning, it finds you, and in the most incredible and unbelievable way. This tiny piece of happiness was finally his.  But he was going to need help, just a bit more than his family could offer. And that help arrives in another beautiful package that seems unattainable but so desirable.  Ava, his babysitter, his weakness, his possibility. 

Ava was about to embark on the adventure of her short life. She was more than capable, invested even.  But she never expected to fall so hard, so fast. But was she enough?  Could she make this new identity, new world work out?

Bo has been a favorite character of mine from Book 1 of the Red Door Series.  He is unapologetically who he is. I love how he is simply Bo. He gives freely, loves unconditionally, and is always there.  This is shown in the unbelievable way he comes to terms with His new role in life. His loyalty and love of family is soul deep. His story was so worth the wait.  And having his family along for this journey was everything we needed as well.  Bravo Dyan Layne, another exceptional story. 
Profile Image for caffe.and.books (Aimee).
526 reviews49 followers
September 10, 2022
Oh Drummer boy you’ve got a piece of my heart….


To say I’m thrilled to back behind the red door is an understatement, Bo has been on my radar since I started this series and this author did not disappoint in giving me exactly what I needed from him.

This book had me flipping the pages, I didn’t want to put it down, Bo is book boyfriend extraordinaire- he is fun, open minded and loves fiercely. I adore his relationship with his family and his Emmy girl. Insert Ava and he’s even more perfect. Ava was such an amazing character, she was hesitant and unsure but when she was in she was all in and I loved it.


Like all of the books in this series I was all in my feels, this author had me crying, laughing, smiling and oh so hot! I couldn’t have asked for a better HEA for my drummer boy! I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
September 20, 2022
I have spent over two weeks trying to gather the perfect words to express my feelings and do this brilliant book justice but realised the best I can do is recommend you jump straight into this series now. But warning the book hangover is real with Drummer Boy as Dyan Layne’s writing leaves your emotionally spent but joyous at the end and I honestly believe that all of her books should be sold with tissues as a bonus extra. I’m not sure if it is the deep, rich characters that elevate Drummer Boy beyond a simple ‘rockstar and the nanny’ romance or the beautifully written and complex storyline but either way this books character’s leave their mark on your heart.

Drummer Boy is the fifth book in the connected Red Door series so we have grown to love Bo by this point and I have been itching to get my hands on his book. Bo is the drummer for Venery and is such a beautiful soul, full of love and kindness. I loved how the author wove together elements from past books to form the basis from this one, giving Bo his daughter Emery. Ava steps in to help Bo look after Emery while he is on tour and while their connection and chemistry is instant and electric it is their journey to happiness that makes this book so memorable. This is a beautiful novel about love in all its forms with a storyline that touches your heart. While this book can be read as a standalone there are spoilers for the other books and I recommend you start at book one as they are all amazing and 100% bingeable.

Drummer Boy is about a rockstar but it is so much more than that with Bo’s sweet, loving nature capturing the reader’s attention almost from the first page. This book was an amazing romance filled with steamy chemistry but also showcased love in so many other relationships. In three words – Beautiful, Extraordinary, Perfect
Profile Image for Sara Jacobs.
177 reviews
August 28, 2022
Oh Bo. You truly are amazing. I have been waiting for this book for so long and reading his story was so much better than I ever could have dreamed.
How do you write a review for a book that makes you speechless. No review can prepare you for this amazing, pure love and soul binding story.
Bo always wanted someone to choose him first and Ava was that person who finally did. The sadness from other characters is brought back into Bo’s story, but it’s what makes him, him.
I could not put this book down, so I had to wait so the only thing I could do was have all my attention on this book.
Bo Robertson loves with his entire being and I’m so happy he got his happily ever after.
He will forever be one of my favorites. Granted I do love every single one of the characters in every story for so many reasons, but Bo grabs your soul.
Profile Image for Court Small.
609 reviews33 followers
August 29, 2022
He took her hand, and placing it on his bare chest, her tears began to spill. “Feel that?” He pressed his hand on top of hers. Boom-boom. “That’s the beat. Now listen to the fill. I choose you, Ava. Out of however many billions of people there are on this planet, I choose you.”

He might be known as the resident bad boy but rocker Bo Robertson just wants someone to love and for them to love him back.
I absolutely adore this series, it is 100% character driven and I love all of them. Considering the number of them there are it is a testament to Dyan’s writing that they are are all unique and this book was sweeter then I thought it would be.
Cannot wait for what comes next
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