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Courage for Fools

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Quinn Michelson has lived her entire life on ‘what ifs’ and the hopes of leaving her mundane town in her rearview mirror. When a sudden discovery changes her perspective of existence, she decides to hit the road in search of the one thing she’s been needing all these years—herself. Ahead of her is nothing but the open road, her agenda, and a famous rockstar?
Rhett Kennedy has a silver lining heart. One that gets him in trouble more often than not. Having lost touch with his music, he doesn’t think twice about bombarding Quinn on her trip of self-discovery.
Rhett is looking for music.
Quinn is looking for herself.
Together, they’ll find laughter, heartache, a little courage and if they’re not careful, very thing that makes the world go round—— Love

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 20, 2021

2 people are currently reading
389 people want to read

About the author

Monty Jay

15 books3,801 followers
Monty Jay is a dark romance author with titles published in multiple countries. Their books are for hopeless romantics with wicked hearts looking for their next morally grey hero. They call the Appalachian mountains home, along with their two furry friends, Poe and Maeve. When they aren’t writing you can find them reading anything Stephen King, in a tattoo chair or binging a new true crime documentary. 

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for The Romantic Rush Blog.
2,472 reviews953 followers
May 20, 2021
Color me curious- I was so excited to see what Monty Jay would write next after the much beloved debut series- and I was pleasantly surprised to see her not only play with different tropes but to also see her play with a different tone and tenor. Whereas her prior works have been dark and angsty, Courage for Fools is more sentimental and sweet. This is a gentle love story- one tender and intimate, though still teeming with the emotional headedness that I’ve come to love and expect from a Monty Jay romance.

The story’s premise is one that immediately hooked me, and I found myself drawn to the motivations of both of our characters. One trapped in a life he never fully agreed to, the other stuck in a life not yet begun, both Rhett and Quinn are thirsty for that life changing jolt that catalyzes a turning point that would enable each to live more truly as themselves- and they find it in the most unexpected of places- with each other, and on Route 66.

This story has more of a poetic feel to it than Monty’s prior prose- not only because of the artful way she weaves words, but also in the way the plot is conceived. The story feels more impressionistic - small moments, concentrated emotive snapshots that when woven together are more about the feelings inspired than anything else. The pace is decidedly slower than her other stories- more immersive. Monty invests in tender and symbolic moments, a focus more deep than broad. It highlights the most compelling part of this story- the adventure of living. A narrative approach that feels particularly inspired given our story’s thematic motif- a loving and gentle push to embrace the joie de vivre, and life’s most rewarding adventure- the courage of loving.

Our heroine Quinn really captured my heart, and I appreciated a hero so unabashedly romantic in his life outlook, so much so that at times I questioned his sincerity. I would have loved to know both characters a bit more deeply- Rhett in particular still feels a bit of mystery outside of the broad strokes we have about his background. His character growth is more minimal, perhaps serving more as a backdrop for our heroine’s journey, but he was certainly a likeable and interesting leading man. I found their chemistry to be more subtle, but very sweet. Again, a departure from the more turbulent nature of our prior Monty couples- so it was fun to see her play a bit more swoony, and a lot lower angst. But, of course, still full of all the MJ feels.
Profile Image for ItaPixie.
1,249 reviews142 followers
May 23, 2021

Courage For Fools was a beautiful journey through US, Dreams and Self-Discovery.

I love road trips romance, one of my favourite books has that trope, I love to see how love can be born in the span of few days, on the roads, in the tiny confines of a car.
This story takes us on one of the most famous United States' roads, the Route 66, but it shows you some insights that makes the reader feels like a guest on that trip.

Quinn Michelson lived in a little town all her life dreaming of travel around the World but she never left, until she finds out she has cancer and she decides to go on a solo journey on Route 66 to find herself and to show to herself she is capable to do everything she wants. Rhett Kennedy is the lead singer of the famous band Lost Four, he doesn't know that his car breaking down in Everington was a blessing until he goes in a bar and he meets Quinn. Rhett is instantly enthralled by Quinn so he invites himself along her road trip. This is the start of an amazing experience where they will find themselves and maybe love.

"Even people who look like sunshine, like him, have dark spots."

I adored these main characters, I cheered for them to find their happiness. I appreciated how Rhett helped Quinn to break free of her brainiac self and how he taught her to be more spontaneous. Quinn on the other end was Rhett muse to see and appreciate what he has and to not be afraid to take some choices.
They are so different from each other but they are perfect together, they are funny, sweet and thoughtful.

Monty Jay created a wonderful story where every single character matters and stays with you for life.


Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

Profile Image for Marnie.
1,264 reviews29 followers
May 21, 2021
This book was EVERY BEAUTIFUL THING

This book was nothing short of 5-Star beautiful. I can’t even begin to say how much I loved it, and I know I’m not going to do a justice to Author Monty Jay’s gift of writing with my review. If I could just compel all those who love their Rockstar books to read Rhett and Quinn’s story, then I would be one happy camper indeed.

In ‘Courage for Fools’, Ms Jay’s writing was gentler and more introspective, where all the feels reached into my heart and became part of the life force upon which I depended. It was every bit as impassioned and tear inducing as her Chicago Fury ice hockey series, just slower burning with angst that had a very different feel to it. If this is your first read from Monty Jay, know that her debut books are a lot more raw and confrontational. They ripped my heart out, whereas this one fed my soul and nourished my heart. In the language of music, I would align her Ice Hockey series with the heavy triple bass drum beats of Alternative Metal with its growls and clean lyrics while ‘Courage for Fools’ carries the quieter strength of Melodic Metal and Power Ballads. All of this, while I reached for the tissue box more than once.

Rhett and Quinn’s story is written by someone who is passionate about music, who needs it like air to breathe, whose life needs to be infused within it. I’m no musician, but to me music is life, and maybe this is why Rock-Star romances are the way to my reading heart. The words that Monty Jay gave to Rhett about what music means to him, where he would explode if he didn’t let the music out resonated. Ms Jay might well have had a window to my soul.

I don’t want to allude to the gist of the story too much. The characters though, are a different story. Quinn Michelson has always wanted more from her life than to be stuck in her careful life of no risks and no rocking the boat. She lived a non-descript life and loved her Pawpaw Rust. If you’ve sat with your Nana and asked questions about her young life, and picked through keepsakes, then you’ll understand what drove Quinn’s need to travel Route 66.

I loved getting to know Quinn through Rhett’s eyes, and his music loving heart and soul. She saw herself as nothing special, but in his eyes, she was everything and more – she just couldn’t let herself fall in love with him. Holy cow though, when they did come together, it was so much more than super chemistry and hot moments. The depth of connection was so strong and torrential, I was almost carried away by the words I was reading. Hot and completely sexy – imagine the lyrical cadence of that Irish accent, and the hottest man to go with it, and you have Rhett Kennedy. He and his band were at the top of their game, but at the mercy of their money-grubbing label. He was lost, uninspired and frustrated. Think ‘Dirt Room’ by Blue October, and I believe this song describes their situation perfectly.

‘Courage for Fools’ was beautiful, deep and heart-warming, and I just needed to reach for those damned tissues on occasion, until she really broke my heart and I sobbed into my sleeves. It’s GOT to have a happy ending, right???

Yeah, Author Monty Jay has firmly embedded her way into my reading psyche. She’s one of my must-read authors and at the risk of repeating myself – I highly recommend this book. Damn straight it’s worth 5-Stars!!! ✮💙✮
Profile Image for christyheartsbooks.
1,147 reviews33 followers
May 15, 2021
Quinn has been hearing stories of Route 66 her entire life. Growing in a small town in Virginia she has finally found the courage to embark on a two week journey from Chicago to Santa Monica along Route 66, stopping at all the iconic spots her grandpa told her about her entire life. The day before she is set to leave, Rhett Kennedy walks into her bar looking for help because his car broke down just outside town. When Rhett finds out that Quinn is about to embark on her journey he knows he needs to go with her. After some hemming and hawing and some meddling from fate she agrees that he can go and they embark on the journey of a lifetime.

By the time I finished the second chapter I was in tears. I knew that this one was going to hit me a bit differently and destroy me. I wasn't wrong. I adored Rhett, how he wanted to give Quinn the world, how he knew exactly what she wanted and needed even if she didn't, I loved how he pushed her. I adored how Quinn knew she needed to find herself, how she needed to take this trip for her and how she took risks she never would have before because she knew she needed find herself. I adored how Rhett wasn't your typical rock star and this wasn't your typical rock star romance. While I hated it I respected how Quinn stood her ground. But mostly I loved how much these two loved each other. I could feel it pouring off the pages. I was a mess in the best way possible.
Profile Image for Jessreads3.
509 reviews6 followers
December 22, 2021
"If you play music with passion and love and honesty, then it will nourish your soul, heal your wounds and make your life worth living"

It really is no shock to me that MJ wrote another phenomenal masterpiece.
Just the way that MJ writes her books captivates you from the very first page.
The way she breaks our hearts right along with the characters.
I seriously loved Q and Rhett so much.

"Quinn is the one who sings the tune my heart makes. The one who makes me laugh without trying. The warmth of her smile brings me home, and I never want to spend days apart from her."

*chef kiss* PERFECTION

Courage-for-Fools
Profile Image for Jenifer Briggs.
1,506 reviews188 followers
Read
May 20, 2021
FIVE IMMACULATE STARS

oh my gosh, I have been screaming at the top of my lungs to anyone who would listen ever since I read MJ's debut novel last June that she is an author you can't miss out on, and she definitely stepped her game up here. This book is flawless, poetic, beautiful, charming, endearing, hopeful, honest, raw, painful.. everything in between. You think you know what's going to happen? BAM, ya don't. You think you know how things will play out? Nah girl, you have another thing coming.

I have an affinity for rockstar romances, but ya know what? This is so unlike any rockstar romance I've ever read. GET THIS; our hero, Rhett, is NOT A MANWHORE. That's right, he follows his heart and his passion so purely and beautifully, and he's not willing to let fame change or corrupt what is in his heart. He's not having coked out threesomes while screaming shallow lyrics every night, but instead is fighting the man to make sure he achieves success on HIS own terms. I love every single part of this man. And another fact that makes me swoon all over him is how quick he falls in love. Yes, HIM!! It's usually the heroine who goes around falling in love every five seconds, but this role reversal was just AMAZING. But what really sets it apart for me is that Rhett knows the difference between his past relationships and what he has with Quinn, and how it's not comparable at all. His Q is just absolutely everything.

Speaking of Quinn, she has just received some devastating news that is making her take a closer look at her life, and she realizes that she hasn't begun to truly live yet. So when a rockstar walks into the bar she works out, she sees it as a sign to follow her dream, and in this case it's to take a trip down ROUTE 66, all the while stopping at the iconic spots her grandpa loves. So on a whim, her and the rockstar jett off on parts unknown, and it changes both of them forever.

I know I've already said it, but I LOVE Rhett so much. He wanted to give Q the world, no matter what. He wanted to save her from herself, he pushed her buttons, made her want to color outside of the lines for the first time in her life, he encouraged her to spread her wings and fly, and goddammit she was absolutely beautiful. He shows her that live to the fullest no matter what, because the next day isn't guaranteed so you need to be invested in all the moments all the time, to let everything consume your heart and soul in the best of ways. Ugh, I just love them so much.

This book just mirrors so much of life itself: it's beautiful, messy, chaotic, mesmerizing, and it should not be missed. Also, Rhett's filthy fucking mouth is FIRE. Go read this now!!

**BETA READ.**
Profile Image for Amy [Book Addict Reviews].
2,596 reviews177 followers
May 16, 2021
When Quinn gets some devastating news and wants to live and do something that she has dreamed of. Take a road trip on Route 66. The day before she leaves her small town in Virginia, she runs into Rockstar Rhett and he joins her on the journey.

I loved Quinn and Rhett’s story. I loved how these two strangers formed a connection and slowly started to knock down walls and form a deeper connection. Though, Quinn does continue to hold back throughout their time together because she doesn’t know what the future holds for her and she doesn’t want to let Rhett in for fears that it could change everything.

This story is beautiful from the beginning and takes you on an emotional journey. It is easy to fall in love with Rhett and Quinn. I loved that Rhett helped Quinn bring out what was always deep inside her on their journey across the country. The strength and confidence within Quinn is inspiring.

The last few chapters of their story destroyed me, I am pretty sure I cried through a majority of them. It was perfect for these two characters and their story. This is just one of those stories you have to read for yourself, because there aren’t enough words to describe it.

If you’re looking for a Rockstar, road trip romance this is one to read!
Profile Image for Krista.
1,108 reviews65 followers
May 13, 2021
Quinn Michelson wants to live. She has stayed in her small town, only of dreaming of things. Now she is ready to explore. She has quit her job and mapped out her trip. But things take a small change when a rockstar shows up in her bar on her last shift.

Rhett’s, lead singer for Lost Four, car breaks down. Walking to the nearest place in Everington, Virginia he comes across Quinn. Somehow fates draws them together and he convinces her to let him accompany her on her trip.

Quinn has Route 66 mapped out and has no room for changes in her itinerary, but the more she gets to know Rhett, the more she opens up and lets down her walls, becoming slightly more spontaneous. But she is afraid to fall in love with because she has a secret; one that could possibly change everything.

Quinn is looking to find herself and Rhett is looking to be inspired and find music again. This endearing story has the humor, heartache, steaminess and love that I look for in a book. Definitely one-click it now.
Profile Image for Lisa.
564 reviews21 followers
May 28, 2021
This is an ARC review. All opinions are solely my own.

Courage for Fools by Monty Jay is different from her hockey romances. This book is more than a romance. This book takes the reader on a journey down Route 66 as well as the emotional journey of two people who need to find themselves.

Quinn and Rhett meet by happenstance when his car breaks down in her small town. Her small town has never seen the likes of this Irish punk rock star and neither has she. Initially, she is not impressed by him or his swagger. She's dealing with her own life changes and is ready for a 2 week trip down Route 66. He manages to invite himself along. They have great banter and fights. And their make-ups are WOW!!

I never doubted Monty Jay's ability to write a great sports romance and I'm even more sold with this book that is really more than just a romance. This book tackles some real life issues with grit and grace.
Profile Image for CRlovebooks ❤️.
482 reviews32 followers
May 30, 2021
You will love this book!
I adore this book, Rhett an Quinn❤️and their love story. The intimate moments between the two of them left me breathless and my heart aching.
They were perfect together
I am so glad I got to read this gorgeous book ❤️
Profile Image for April.
89 reviews2 followers
May 24, 2021
My heart

A book so good you want to slow time down so you can savor every single word. So while I sit here with my heart still beating fast and tears still watering my cheeks I’m thinking about when I will sit down to read this one again because one time through this one is most definitely not enough. I know I can’t start a new book just yet because I need some time to just love this one a little longer. Which for me who reads every single day and is in the middle of 3 or 4 books at a time is seriously saying something. And so I’m just going to sit here and feel this one. Absolutely LOVE. ♥️
4 reviews
May 26, 2021
100 stars

This book is impossible to put down. The author is amazing in giving the characters such depth. This is an emotional love story that you wish was your own. Highly recommend this book and ALL her others. Monty Jay is gifted!
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,446 reviews50 followers
May 24, 2021
This is definitely not your typical rock star romance. Rock star romance wouldn't have been my first pick of tropes, but I just have to read anything Monty Jay. I enjoyed this one. It is beautifully written filled with chance, laughs, love, and witty banter.
Profile Image for Amanda Farrow.
323 reviews1 follower
May 25, 2021
Omg what a read I just loved this book I didn't want it to end.
Monty Jay has hit gold with this story Quinn and Rhett's is so true and indearing, a love so pure that is worth fighting for.
Profile Image for Michele McMullen .
2,494 reviews81 followers
May 26, 2021
Monty I just love your characters and the world that they live in. Thank you for writing your words. Who would have thought that a rock star with a bit of car trouble would stumble into the most life changing town of his life.
Quinn Michelson is a young woman that has never ventured out of her tiny town. She is the local bartender to their welcoming watering hole. Rhett Kennedy is feeling a bit off course since coming off tour. He does not feel like he is behind the wheel of his own career. A bit of car trouble and a chance meeting with one of the most interesting people he has ever met has now taken his journey on a new path. Quinn is needing get out an experience the world on an epic road trip that she has only dreamed of. As we know life is too short and you never know when you time is being shortened. She decides that she is ready to take the plunge and begin the two week adventure what she didn't expect is the handsome stranger that has just offered to tag along. Who would have ever thought that these two young adults who seem to have nothing in common were about to embark on a life changing trip and monumental love story for the books. I hope that you are ready for all the feels because they are about to all come your way. Get in buckle up and enjoy that amazing road trip with Quinn and Rhett.
~~Michele McMullen ~~
Profile Image for AJ.
3,204 reviews1,066 followers
May 19, 2021
“When everything’s made to be broken, I just want you to know who I am.”
The Goo Goo Dolls

4.5 stars


This is such a beautiful read from Monty Jay. An emotional and heartfelt roadtrip story about a rock star searching to reconnect with his music, and a young woman desperate to break out of her small life and truly live. It’s a beautifully written story about friendship, following your dreams, falling in love, and finding yourself, and I loved it!

Quinn has lived her entire life in her small home town. She has dreamed of more, but has never had the courage to reach out and do all the things she’s dreamed of. But one moment changes everything, and suddenly she’s rethinking her life, and finally plans to achieve her dream of driving the entirety of Route 66, hoping to experience the wonders of her family before her, and find herself along the way.

How was I supposed to know what I liked if I had never experienced anything? Keeping myself in this bubble at the time seemed like a good idea, but it had protected me from the world. So much so that I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life.
I was hoping, praying, begging that fourteen days in my car tearing across one of the most iconic highways would help show me what it was that I was supposed to be doing.
And maybe, if I was lucky I could figure out my dreams and survive long enough to achieve them.

Rhett Kennedy is the singer for a wildly popular rock band, but the “suits” and the requirements of his label have sucked all of the joy and emotion out of music for him. He is a passionate man who craves connection and falls in love too easily, but he has lost his passion for the most important part of his world – his music - and he’s desperate to find it again.

How is it that surrounded by thousands of people who adore me, I feel so out of place?

When Quinn and Rhett unexpectedly meet, Rhett is instantly smitten, and recognising a kindred spirit in her – somebody lost and searching for something – he asks to join her on her journey, in the hope that they’ll both get something out of it.

Fourteen day road trip? With a complete stranger? A stranger with pretty eyes?
It’s everything I need to find my words. To build the perfect album. Fuck, it would write itself.
The experience. The growth.
I look at her, knowing she’s dying to break out of this small town. Knowing she needs a vice, everyone needs one, and I’m more than willing to be what she needs.
Even if it’s just for fourteen days.
Is it reckless? Absolutely.
Is it stupid? Probably.
Will I get my heart broken? For sure.
Do I still want to do it? Without a fucking doubt.

And so the two of them set off on a trip that will change their lives. As they hit the road, they visit all of the odd and quirky sights that Quinn has spent years hearing about, taking the trip that her beloved grandfather took many times before her. And by her side through it all is Rhett, encouraging her to push her limits and stretch outside of her box, and experience all that their trip has to offer – including the intensity that builds between them.

“I know what a once in a lifetime opportunity looks like. If there is any thing I’m good at its music and not questioning extraordinary things when I see them. This trip, us, you,” I emphasis as I wiggle my finger between the two of us, “It’s extraordinary.”

Their easy and natural friendship slowly becomes more. The attraction between them is there from the moment they meet, and the more they open up and get to know each other, the deeper they fall, and it’s beautiful to watch their relationship shift and change. The love story is a slow burn, and it feels so natural. The emotion between them is deep, and their passion for each other is a beautiful reflection of that, and there is this feeling that these two are truly meant to be.

I knew nothing about love before, not really.
Because none of them had been her.
The greatest love of all.
The one all the love songs would be about.

This book is so beautifully written! Monty Jay has a way with words, she writes the most beautifully intense and emotional romance, and when you add in the two very personal journeys of two very different characters, there are so many profound moments in this book, and I highlighted so much of it.

Life without love is dull. It’s lackluster and stale.
You find who you need to be, with the right person by your side.

But this beautiful love story comes to its inevitable turning point when they hit the end of the literal road and have to confront the reality of their very different lives. My heart ached, but everything that happened was understandable and relatable, and it played out how it needed to. It’s not angsty or overly dramatic, it’s right for the story and these characters, and it paves the way for an epic, swoony ending which had my heart pounding and is satisfying in all the ways. And there’s a gorgeous epilogue that provides great closure and left me with a huge smile on my face.

I loved this book. It’s a great story written with so much emotion, and a beautiful journey for these amazing characters.

I loved it – 4.5 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.



Profile Image for Jody.
2,083 reviews59 followers
May 20, 2021
From the very first page it's clear that this isn't your typical rockstar romance. The moment readers are introduced to Quinn Michaelson is the start of a captivating read of living life to the fullest, discovering more about yourself while finding a connection to another when you least expect it. The journey Quinn undertakes is one full of tears and empowerment, a journey that I quickly became invested in as Quinn is an unforgettable heroine, and with each turn of the page it pulled at my heartstrings too.

Quinn's lived in her small hometown her entire life, never wanting to go after what's beyond the edge of town...but when life hands her an unexpected bit of news she decides it's time to finally start experiencing life. With her grandfather's journal as her guide she sets off on a journey of self-discovery down Route 66. Along the way she ends up with a rockstar as her traveling companion as their journey becomes even more personal with romance starting to shine through. I adored Quinn and found much of myself in her personality. She's a likable heroine who's always had dreams, she just lacked the courage to go after those dreams. Having someone with her on her journey helps push her to continue chasing her dreams, while helping her open up about herself in a sweet and sentimental journey that has the main couple evolving from friends into something more.

Rhett Kennedy's at the top of the music world, enjoying a life of women and travel in support of his music. He's always lived life to the fullest, but lately he's feeling unfulfilled. He's feeling lost amidst all the demands placed on him by his record label and decides to take time off to again find his muse...and lucky for him he ends up being Quinn's traveling companion. Their journey sees him acting as a strong support to Quinn, gently pushing her to embrace life, while at the same time he finds himself falling for her in a slow-burn romance of friends to lovers. Rhett's a delicious hero, a sexy and drool-worthy rockstar not afraid to show his feelings. He's sweet yet more than capable of being naughty as he flirted his way into Quinn's heart while letting her take the lead throughout their journey. He's exactly what you want in a hero and he's the latest addition to my book boyfriend list.

This was a beautiful story from start to finish. It was emotional, with bits of angst and moments of charm that kept me glued to the pages. The journey itself was charming too as they went from one small town to one kitschy tourist site after another, meeting all sorts of eclectic people along the way. These two apparent opposites found much to bring them together as both were looking for something more...little did they know that what they were looking for was right beside them all along. Throughout their journey they engaged in heartfelt talks, moments of empowerment that had them fighting for what they wanted, and with time running out they had some big decisions to work through too. Theirs was ultimately a sweet and sensual connection that warmed my heart, pulled at my heartstrings, and put a smile of satisfaction on my face courtesy of its flawless epilogue. This is not your typical rockstar romance which makes it a romance readers shouldn't miss and I wholeheartedly recommend it!
Profile Image for Sandra Shipman ~ Two Book Pushers.
2,076 reviews51 followers
May 19, 2021
Courage for Fools is Monty Jay’s first complete standalone novels. Her Fury series can be read as standalone novels but they are connected. I love that series but happy she is showing us another side of her writing too!

Quinn is a twenty-two year old bartender who has never been out of her small hometown in Virginia. She grew up hearing stories of the open road and she had big dreams of getting out seeing the world. All she needed was a kick in the ass with with a realization. So, she quits her job, gets out her scrapbook and makes a plan. Two weeks of finding herself on Route 66. She was excited and nervous all at the same time. It was her last night in town and he walks into her bar. A man who doesn’t fit with the town. She knew then that he was going to be a part of her life. She didn’t even feel like she belong there either.

Rhett needed to find his music. He passion for performing his own music. He was tired of the higher-ups telling him what he could and couldn’t sing. His band was on top but all he wanted was the music that spoke to people not what was outplayed on the radio. So, he drove then broke down in a town he never heard of. Walked into a bar and saw her. A woman with indigo eyes, beauty that took his breath away, and a good heart. Turns out she was hitting the road and he wanted to tag along on her adventure. She wasn’t happy about it but his charm wins her over.

I ♥️ Rhett and Quinn!! I could feel their connection from the beginning. I loved how he made her feel. Showed her what he saw in her. And it was the other away around as well. Two unlikely souls finding each other in the middle of nowhere. An adventure I so want to go on!! Rhett is so swoon worthy with his shameless flirting, humor, sweetness, and owning his hopeless romantic side. Quinn is a shy little badass who I loved seeing open up. Together, they are everything.

P.S. Did I mention Rhett is Irish? Yum!!

Quotes:

This was the moment I’d been waiting my entire life for. This was what love songs were written about, moments like these. I wasn’t going to let it pass me by.

“You taste like rock and roll feels, Quinn. Fucking obsessive.”

“I feel like a stranger everywhere. Except right here.”
Profile Image for Kara Hildebrand (Two Book Pushers).
1,752 reviews143 followers
May 20, 2021
Courage for Fools is Monty Jay's newest emotional, touching, love story. Quinn has lived in the same town her whole life. She always wanted to get out and see the world, but she never had the courage to leave. She realizes now is the time and she plans to travel across the country on Route 66 until the end of the line. She wants to find herself and learn who she's truly meant to be. When Rhett Kennedy wonders into her bar, she has no idea he's a famous rock star. Rhett loves that she doesn't know who he is and when he finds out her plans, he wants to tag along. He's looking for new songs to write and he needs the inspiration. Quinn and her sexy eyes just calls to him. She wants to live and make this trip and Rhett wants to show her the way. Get her to open up and do things she would never do. And along the way he finds out things about himself. Quinn opens up, tries new things. Rhett shares his heart and his music and they find themselves falling for each other. It's fast, it's powerful and it's the soul mate kind of love you only hear in songs and read in books. Both Quinn and Rhett had different reasons for wanting to take the trip and at the end of the two weeks, they find themselves in the same place. But Quinn needs to get back home and Rhett needs to make music with his band. Will Quinn open up about why she wanted to take the trip? Will Rhett just walk away? This is an epic romance full of poetry, music, fun, laughs and sexiness. I felt like I was on the road trip with them. Seeing everything along the way. Feeling what they were feeling. I fell hard and fast for Rhett and Quinn. I laughed, cried big fat tears and didn't want it to end.
Profile Image for Comfy Couch Book Reviews.
633 reviews46 followers
May 21, 2021
When his car breaks down on the edge of her small town, Rhett meets Quinn and his life is changed forever. Ruled by the record label Rhett is becoming disillusioned with his career. He is unable to sing the music he writes instead his band has to perform the songs that they label prefers to make more money. Quinn has lived her whole life in Everington, Virginia with her grandfather. She has not travelled much but has always dreamed of leaving her small town life behind and following in her grandfather's footsteps exploring Route 66 to the west coast.

When Quinn gets a diagnosis of cancer, she knows that now is the time to fulfill her dream, she may never get a second chance. She always thought that she would travel alone, but suddenly she has a hot and sexy rock star as her travelling companion to relive her Grandfather's experiences and make new ones of their own.

This is not just a love story, it is a travel diary enabling us to see the sights of Route 66 through the eyes of Quinn and Rhett. Two strangers who know nothing about each other at the beginning of the journey have sunshine on their faces and love for each other in their hearts by the time they reach California.

It is a story of having the courage to make changes and the determination to succeed. Rhett decides to make a career move that may lose him his fellow band members and friends but will mean that he remains true to himself with his music.

Quinn knows that she has to face her illness head on and is determined to beat it, but she also knows that she cannot reveal her cancer to Rhett and derail his career. I love a steamy, angsty love story and Monty has certainly given us that in spades, The only time that I put this book down was to check out on Google some of the places visited on this journey.
Profile Image for Trish (Beautiful Chaos Reviews).
1,049 reviews23 followers
May 20, 2021
Courage for Fools was a whimsical ride with Rhett and Quinn down Route 66 or the Mother Road. I say whimsical because even though there is a sad undertone, Rhett's spontaneousness and the way he took a very controlled Quinn and got her to take chances screamed whimsy all during their adventure. In her controlled fashion, Quinn had been planning her trip since she was ten, and now she's decided she has to go. Two weeks to explore all the places she's been reading and dreaming about since she was a girl. Her urgency is understandable, and you cheer her on.

Serendipity has stranded Rhett in the Virginia small town where Quinn lives. Immediately Rhett is drawn to the quiet, poetry reading girl. So much so he invites himself on her adventure and gets her to agree. The story of their actual journey down the historic highway and their journey as they learn to know each other and fall in love is reading bliss. They bring out the best in each other, and it is a transformative trip no matter how you read it. Monty does not hold back on squeezing all our emotions as these two learn to handle life. Monty is quite good at having you reach for the tissues. But ultimately, she concludes this book so sweetly and perfectly that you can only sigh, smile, and be thankful Monty Jay keeps writing books.
Profile Image for Nikki  Cudnik.
839 reviews9 followers
May 20, 2021
I have to say ever since I read Love and Hockey I have devoured every book that this author has released. I absolutely love her writing style. She writes messy, imperfect, realistic characters, who you fall head over heels in love with, characters you want to meet in real life so you can hug the heck out them and tell them everything will be all right. So lets just say I was very, very excited to get the chance to read this book.

We leave the hockey world of the Fury for this rockstar romance that is really so, so, so much more ( not surprising given her past books), but this book was very different. While it still had the emotional story line that sucks you in and the incredible characters, there was something special about it, a lesson we should all take to heart, life is way too short and bad things happen, but that should never keep you from living the very best life you can, and that is what Quinn does.

This book was just so good, so unique. It is emotional and hard to read at times but has the best ending. I absolutely loved it, five stars all the way, probably one of my favorite reads of this year so far.
Profile Image for Vickie.
1,651 reviews63 followers
May 20, 2021
Quinn is from a small town and she’s always wanted something more. She’s plagued with what ifs and could i’s until something happens that helps give her the push she needs to start finding out who Quinn really is. Embarking on a road trip has been something she’s been wanting to do after hearing her grandfathers tales and nothings going to stop her from going on her own adventure. Not even rock star Rhett who unexpectedly finds himself in Quinn’s cafe and inviting himself along for the ride.

I loved these two characters so much. Quinn really grew through this book and I loved having a front seat to watching her find herself. Rhett was a surprise for me. I’m not usually a huge fan of rock star romances but Rhett changed that. He was not what I was expecting at all and I loved him from the start. He’s all kinds of sweet and sexy and way too easy to like.

I really, really enjoyed this book. It’s sweet, there’s a few emotional parts and a little bit of angst thrown in... what more could you ask for? This is another great book from Monty Jay that’s left me desperately waiting for more from her.
Profile Image for Jeraca.
2,673 reviews31 followers
May 21, 2021
I received this free eARC novel from the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions. This is my honest review.

Oh, my heart. This book starts off with a sad situation and then it goes into one of the most inspiring stories I've read for a long time. I love Quinn. I can relate to her on so many levels and I admire her bravery for taking the infamous road trip along route 66. I am so glad she got to experience that trip with none other than Rhett as well, because while those two couldn't be more opposite, they just clicked together so fast and so close!

Rhett is also an anomaly when it comes to famous rock stars. He is so deep and thoughtful and I love how open he is about everything. Seeing him open up Quinn and make her take chances, live a little, and also find his own meaning and purpose in life - this book is honestly very inspiring. I now feel like I need to do more with my life after devouring this storyline!

Monty Jay is quickly becoming a must read author of mine and I am so glad I decided to start reading her novels. This book is going to stay with me for a long time and I think many readers will also fall in love with everything this book gives!
Profile Image for Sarah (lou_reads_romance).
1,242 reviews2 followers
May 22, 2021
*Sigh*
Well that was unexpected... and I don’t mean in the quality of the writing or the character development as we already know that this author has that ability in spades... I mean the way MJ has taken a simple ‘meet cute’ road trip storyline and turned it into an epic old fashioned love story.
A story that had me quite literally swooning and smiling as we take this amazing journey with Quinn and Rhett.
But I am pleased to say it isn’t all mushy and hallmark predictable. There is a serious storyline running through this, one which the author has dealt with beautifully....
In a refreshing twist of roles it is Rhett who is the hopeless romantic and I absolutely loved him for it. He is the most fantastic character, everyone should have a Rock Star in their lives, He and Quinn together were just perfect.

This is an emotional one, but not in a blubbering mess kind of way.... more in the heartwarming ‘ I want to be them’ kind of a way. Its realistic while still being magical and it is more than worth your time.
Totally different from the hockey series, this book proves that this amazing author is here to stay and I can’t wait to read whatever she has to throw at us next.!
Profile Image for Hopelessly Addicted To Books .
3,606 reviews150 followers
May 19, 2021
This was a sweet quick read with very likeable characters. Quinn has never left her small town so when she gets important news she decides to go on a road trip inspired by tales her Pawpaw Rust told her. Rhett is the rockstar in need of a break from band life, when his car breaks down in her small town it's almost like fate placed them together.

I liked that Quinn decided to be fearless and go on this adventure and that she took a chance on cocky Rhett. As they do Route 66 we see Quinn let go of her rigid control thanks to Rhett pushing her to try new things. I adored watching their friendship grow and the reader can see them falling for each other but Quinn has a secret that can change everything. This could be classed as a coming of age story especially for Quinn as she is looking to spread her wings and discover who she is. Rhett is looking to find the inspiration that has been missing from his songwriting.

This is a story of humor and heartache of family and enduring friendships.
Profile Image for Kathryn Linke .
2,116 reviews24 followers
May 21, 2021
Courage for Fools is a standalone, opposites attract, slow burn, contemporary romance, featuring Rhett a Rockstar and Quinn a small-town girl. This title is a unique, emotional, sweet, and sentimental read that will have you feeling a gamut of emotions.
Rhett and Quinn are two strangers who form a bond because they both feel the need to escape the lives they are living, which results in a road trip down Route 66.
Rhett feels trapped by loyalty and obligations and is looking to reconnect with his love of creating music. He’s thoughtful, kind and giving, and passionate about his art, and in no way your stereotypical Rockstar hero.
Quinn feels like she’s running out of time to explore and live and has let her fears and procrastinations hold her back from experiencing life for too long. She’s quietly confident, strong, resilient, and unique.
Overall this is an endearing story of friendship, following your dreams and finding love and whilst very different to Monty Jay’s previous works, it’s just as engaging and entertaining.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
May 22, 2021
I've read a ton of books in my lifetime since it's my second happy place after football, so I can be skeptical when it comes to road trip books since it's a hit or miss for me. Courage for Fools is totally a hit for me, and I loved every minute of it, in fact, I felt like I was on Route 66 with Quinn & Rhett. Quinn is on the road to find herself, and maybe even just to prove to herself that she can achieve some of her dreams outside of her small town. Rhett is the singer of a famous band, and circumstance (or fate) put him in the path of Quinn, which ended up with him in her car on the road trip. The rest is history as they embark on a journey that benefits them both in different ways, however it's not all perfect but it is right. Monty Jay has penned a very heart warming story that everyone needs in their life so now it's your turn to experience all this goodness for yourselves! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 
Profile Image for Adanna.
879 reviews
May 19, 2021
Courage for Fools is the story of two strangers traveling together on Route 66 for a life-changing fourteen-day trip.

Quinn and Rhett are a case of opposites attracting. Quinn is sweet, innocent, and quirky. She loves Jolly Ranchers and music from the 1940s. She's been sitting on the sidelines of life, but recent development has her making the most of it. Rhett is a rockstar heartthrob wanting to rediscover his love of music. He is also a hopeless romantic with a silver linings heart. Quinn is the rule follower while Rhett is the rule-breaker; she is risk-averse, and he is a risk-taker; Quinn only knows the straight and narrow while Rhett walks on the wild side.

"Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations."

I loved Quinn and Rhett as a couple. Rhett was able to show Quinn what she perceived as her flaws were actually her strengths. Quinn encourages Rhett to seek what makes him happy, not what pleases others. Their journey to happily-ever-after isn't a smooth one but leads to a life beyond either one's wildest dreams.

Courage for Fools is an emotional and beautiful story about finding your path in this world.
Profile Image for Michelle B..
Author 9 books179 followers
June 7, 2021
This book was absolutely beautiful. Written like a seasoned author and told with so much heart it dripped across the pages. The best word to describe this book is POIGNANT! It broke my heart and made it happy all at the same time. It's about life, living, and learning and in the end finding yourself through a situation that if you let could completely destroy you.
I love both the hero and the heroine. They were so well written I felt as if I was watching my best friends take this long journey across the country.
The ending was unexpected. I loved that. We all want the HEA but life isn't always an HEA. I'm not saying this one wasn't what I am saying is you have to read it to know. It was totally original and un expected.

If I could give this book 10 stars I would. I think everyone should read this just because the storyline is so true to life.

Well Done Monty Jay. You rocked this story!
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