"He belonged to the whole world more than he belonged to me."
This YA story follows David (Holc), a 17 year old boy from Seattle who quit the teen rock band he started with his two best friends right before the band hit it big. Two years later, when his former band mate Eli dies, frontman Chance returns home and reconnects with Holc.
Most of the story is David coming to terms with his jealousy and anger at being left behind. The boys quickly become friends again, which leads to romantic feelings that neither expected. David makes some really bad choices and isn't always the best secret boyfriend to Chance. He has redeeming moments, like all the cute dates he plans. And their text exchanges and goofy banter are super-endearing.
Chance was by far the most mature and thoughtful of the two, and his story arc involves learning how to be himself and not people-please all the time. The rock star life has its ups and downs for him, and they both need to navigate the spotlight throughout the book.
Ramon de Ocampo narrates this audiobook, and quite frankly, is the reason I selected this ARC. He's the narrator of Red, White, and Royal Blue, which I've listened to multiple times. For Darkhearts, Ramon brings the same wonderful characterizations: just enough voice change to tell who's talking without it being cartoony or over the top.
Overall, this was a lovely story and had great character development. It's definitely a recommended read!

*****
I received this audio ARC from Netgalley @netgalley and publisher Macmillan Audio @macmillan.audio in exchange for an honest review.