In "Dead Rockstar," Lillah Lawson stitches together elements of the supernatural, romance, and dark humor into a contemporary gothic tapestry that captivates from the first chord. Published in 2020, this novel embarks on a thrilling journey with protagonist Stormy Spooner, who, in a drunken haze, inadvertently resurrects her favorite dead rockstar, Phillip Deville, using a magical spell gleaned from the internet. What unfolds is a story marked by both its audacity and its strikingly tender examination of love, fame, and the interstices where the two collide.

Lawson’s narrative style brims with an energy that suits its premise. The prose is crisp, punctuated by snappy dialogue and vivid descriptions that immerse readers into the novel’s slightly off-kilter reality. Stormy, our heroine, is wonderfully fleshed out: a mix of wise-cracking tenacity and vulnerable introspection. Her life, filled with the monotony of small-town existence and a job at a vintage record store, is sharply contrasted against the larger-than-life persona of Phillip, whose revival complicates her life in ways she never anticipated. The resurrection scene is a high point of the novel, combining comic absurdity with a sense of awe at the powers she unwittingly unleashes.

Philip Deville, when alive, was a quintessential rock god of the 90s, complete with tumultuous relationships and a mysterious death, aspects that Lawson utilizes to craft a multi-dimensional character rather than a mere nostalgic relic. The dynamics between him and Stormy evolve beautifully – from idol and fan to genuine, albeit unconventional, companions. Their relationship allows Lawson to explore themes of identity and authenticity. Phillip's struggle with his return to the world - the paradox of being both dead and undeniably alive - shows him grappling with both past regrets and a second chance at life’s elusive joys. It’s a testament to Lawson's writing that these moments don't feel clichéd but rather essential, adding depth to the novel’s eerie, whimsical tone.

Supporting characters, including Stormy’s best friend Janice and her ex-boyfriend Kyle, add richness to the narrative, providing comedic relief and poignant moments of friendship and betrayal. Lawson is adept at crafting dialogues that feel real and carry the emotional weight of the scenes, which is particularly evident in interactions involving these secondary characters. Janice, with her fearless attitude and unwavering support for Stormy, is more than just a sidekick; she is an anchor in the tumultuous sea that is Stormy's life post-Phillip’s resurrection.

However, "Dead Rockstar" is not without its flaws. At times, the pacing feels uneven, particularly in the middle section where the initial thrill of Phillip’s return gives way to a somewhat cluttered exploration of his past. While these backstories are crucial for character development, they occasionally stall the narrative's momentum. Moreover, the novel’s climax, involving a battle of sorts against those who want to exploit Phillip’s return, though thrilling, verges on being over-the-top compared to the novel's otherwise grounded handling of its supernatural elements.

Thematically, the book does not shy away from commenting on the obsessive nature of fandom and the dehumanization of celebrities. Through Stormy’s and Phillip’s interactions, Lawson poses poignant questions about the ownership of public figures and the often parasitic relationship between star and admirer. As the plot unfolds, the romantic undercurrent becomes a powerful narrative force that questions the boundaries of love, asking whether it can transcend the most impossible barriers, like death and time.

Lawson also cleverly integrates music and pop culture references throughout the novel, which not only situates the narrative in a particular era but also enriches the atmospheric quality of the storytelling. Each chapter’s title being a song name is a delightful nod to the story’s musical foundations and serves as a subtle thematic underpinning to the events of the chapter.

In conclusion, "Dead Rockstar" by Lillah Lawson proves to be a compelling read that deftly balances dark, gothic elements with bursts of levity and warmth. While it flirts with the excesses of its genre, it remains anchored by its well-drawn characters and the poignant questions it raises about life, death, and the immortal echoes of music. This novel will resonate with those who have ever felt moved by the power of an old song or who have pondered the complex legacies we leave behind. Its bold blend of the fantastical with the deeply human makes it a noteworthy addition to the genre of supernatural romance.