Olivia Cunning's Try Me, the first installment in the One Night with Sole Regret series, is a tantalizing foray into the world of rock and romance. At its core, the novella explores the dichotomy between the public personas of rock stars and their private selves, all while delivering a steamy, fast-paced narrative that is sure to captivate fans of the erotic romance genre.

The story begins with Melanie, a character who is refreshingly relatable in her initial reluctance to engage with the rock star lifestyle. Her best friend, a fervent groupie, drags her backstage to meet the band Sole Regret, setting the stage for an unexpected encounter with Gabe, the band's drummer. Melanie's character is well-crafted, embodying a blend of innocence and curiosity that makes her journey into the world of rock both believable and engaging. Her initial misjudgment of Gabe as "normal" is a clever narrative device that allows readers to explore the theme of appearances versus reality.

Gabe, on the other hand, is a character who defies the typical rock star stereotype. While he possesses the requisite tattoos and piercings, his personality is layered and intriguing. Cunning does an excellent job of peeling back these layers, revealing a man who is both confident in his sexuality and surprisingly tender. Gabe's interactions with Melanie are charged with chemistry, and their dynamic is a testament to Cunning's skill in crafting compelling romantic tension. The transformation of their relationship from strangers to lovers is both swift and believable, driven by a mutual attraction that is palpable from their first meeting.

The novella's pacing is brisk, which suits the story's premise of a whirlwind romance. At just 27,700 words, Try Me is a quick read, but it manages to pack a punch with its vivid descriptions and intense emotional beats. Cunning's writing is both explicit and tasteful, striking a balance that will appeal to readers who appreciate erotic romance without veering into gratuitousness. The sex scenes are well-written, showcasing Cunning's ability to blend passion with emotion, making them integral to the development of Melanie and Gabe's relationship.

One of the standout elements of Try Me is its exploration of identity and self-discovery. Melanie's journey is not just about her attraction to Gabe but also about her own awakening to new experiences and desires. This theme of self-exploration is a common thread in Cunning's work, and it is handled with sensitivity and depth. Gabe, too, undergoes a transformation, as his time with Melanie challenges him to confront his own preconceptions about love and intimacy.

In comparison to other works in the genre, such as those by authors like Kristen Ashley or J.R. Ward, Cunning's novella stands out for its focus on character development within a condensed narrative. While some readers might find the novella's brevity a limitation, it is also one of its strengths, allowing for a focused and intense exploration of the central relationship. The novella format also lends itself well to the episodic nature of the One Night with Sole Regret series, inviting readers to delve deeper into the lives of the other band members in subsequent installments.

Overall, Try Me is a compelling introduction to the world of Sole Regret. Olivia Cunning has crafted a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. For fans of erotic romance, this novella offers a perfect blend of heat and heart, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting series.

While the novella may not delve deeply into the complexities of long-term relationships, it excels in capturing the intensity and excitement of new love. Readers looking for a quick, satisfying read that combines rock star glamour with genuine emotional depth will find much to enjoy in Try Me. As the first taste of the One Night with Sole Regret series, it leaves readers eager to explore the stories of the other band members, each promising their own unique blend of romance and rock 'n' roll.