Next Stop, Boston

by Iris Dorbian

*****2024 Firebird Book Award Winner in Coming of Age Category and Best Plot Twist
*****Literary Titan Gold Book Award Winner: Fiction
*****Spring 2024 Readers' Choice Book Award Finalist in Best Adult Book Category
*****2024 Storytrade Book Awards Finalist in Contemporary Fiction Category

Sixteen-year-old Geri Randall's life is turned upside down when her late sister's fiance, Dez Deacon, a washed-up rock star, is named her guardian. Whisked away from the only life she knew and taken on a rock and roll tour, Geri is initially desperate to win Dez's approval. That desire hits a sour note when Dez's treatment of her becomes too much to bear. What ensues is a battle of wills between her and her temperamental guardian, a collision course that will push Geri to do the unthinkable to get what she wants.

“This is a very entertaining novel, with effortless writing, naturalistic dialogue, and a good dose of humor. On the surface, it’s a tale set in the glittering, frantic world of a touring musical act. Dig deeper, however, and you’ll find a story about flawed, damaged characters searching for the light that will lead them out of the darkness that has been created for, or by, themselves.” -- Wendy Lee, author of The Art of Confidence, Across a Green Ocean and Happy Family (Booklist Top Ten First Novels of 2008)

From Reedsy Discovery:
"Next Stop, Boston was super enjoyable and well-written. It's an addictive read that, despite being a relatively quiet novel, has a narrative flow that propels the story forward. The honesty and passion in the writing is what truly makes this story shine—no sugar coating to be found here. This is complimented with Dorbian's meticulous research: referencing famous musicians, models, photographers and real hotels along the tour locations. Dorbian even includes a mini-tutorial on how to properly clean a guitar. It's great!."

From Midwest Book Review:
"Beyond the entertainment value, Next Stop, Boston also explores a wide range of emotions, from love and hope to despair and regret. This emotionally charged novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted story that is engaging and thought-provoking.

"Iris Dorbian has written a captivating work showcasing her immense writing talent. From start to finish, this book delivers a compelling narrative that will stay with readers long after they've turned the final page. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, Dorbian has crafted a masterpiece that will resonate with anyone who appreciates excellent literature."

From Jill Alikas St Thomas, author of The Stephanie Beroe Chronicles and former lead singer for The Waterlillies:
"This book was a page-turner! I couldn't put it down. Who doesn't love to root for the downtrodden? "Next Stop, Boston" was an Oliver TWIST on contemporary society with a microscope on the monsters created by the music industry. As a former Warner Brothers musician, I state that without any remorse. Iris Dorbian made me contemplate, security, love, narcissism, grooming, the innocence of adolescence, and the dark side of privilege. A must-take on an airplane, weekend trip, or a night to yourself. You will want to know how this ends!"

From IndieReader:
"Iris Dorbian's Next Stop, Boston offers a poignant exploration of the human experience, skillfully balancing emotional depth and authenticity. The novel promises a captivating read for those seeking a narrative that delves into the intricacies of life, love, and personal growth."

206 pages, Paperback

First published September 30, 2023

About the author

Iris Dorbian is a former actress turned arts and business journalist and award-winning novelist. Her articles have appeared in a wide number of outlets that include the Wall Street Journal, Forbes.com, Thomson Reuters, Crain's NY Business, Business Insider, PE Hub, Venture Capital Journal, Buyouts, Investopedia.com, DMNews, CFO.com, Playbill, Backstage, Theatermania, Dance Magazine, Live Design, Media Industry Newsletter and PR News. From 1999 to 2007, Iris was the editor-in-chief of Stage Directions. She is the author of “Great Producers: Visionaries of the American Theater," (Allworth Press); "An Epiphany in Lilacs: In the Aftermath of the Camps" (third edition, Sunbury Press/Milford House Press); "Sentenced to Shakespeare" (Sunbury Press/Milford House Press) and "Next Stop, Boston" (Black Pawn Press). "Next Stop Boston" is a 2024 Firebird Book Award winner in the coming of age and best plot twist categories, a Literary Titan Gold Book Award winner in fiction, a finalist in the Spring 2024 Readers' Choice Book Awards in the best adult book category and a 2024 Storytrade Book Awards finalist in the contemporary fiction category.

"An Epiphany in Lilacs" is a 2026 PenCraft Book Award winner in realistic fiction; a 2025 Firebird Book Award winner in the Holocaust and friendship categories; a 2025 Readers' Choice Book Award recipient in the adult fiction category; and a 2025 Literary Global Award finalist in the historical fiction category and cover design (fiction). The book also was the recipient of Outstanding Creator Awards – Fall & Winter 2025
• 1st Place – Jewish Literature
• 2nd Place – Historical Fiction
• 3rd Place – Multicultural / Multilingual / Bilingual Fiction
• 3rd Place – Motivational / Inspirational Books

Her personal essays have been featured in HBO's "Inspiration Room," Blue Lyra Review, B O D Y, Embodied Effigies, Jewish Literary Journal, Skirt! Diverse Voices Quarterly and Gothesque Magazine. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University.

Reviews

[Literary Titan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Next Stop, Boston is a riveting tale that delves into the depths of love, tragedy, and personal transformation within the backdrop of the rock music scene and familial relationships. Iris Dorbian masterfully crafts a narrative that revolves around Geri, a young woman grappling with the aftermath of her sister Michelle’s tragic death, and Dez, a troubled rock star who unexpectedly becomes her guardian. Set against the electric atmosphere of backstage concerts, their complex relationship unfolds, driven by a shared history of loss and a bond forged in the fires of dysfunction.

From the outset, Dorbian captivates readers with Geri's journey, from her humble beginnings to her immersion in the tumultuous world of rock and roll alongside Dez. The authenticity of their dynamic, fraught with tension yet laced with moments of unexpected connection, propels the narrative forward, ensnaring readers in its grip. The rich tapestry of characters, each intricately drawn with flaws and vulnerabilities that render them achingly human makes them relatable. Geri's quest for self-discovery amidst the chaos of fame and personal tragedy, mirrored by Dez's own inner turmoil, unfolds with a rawness that resonates deeply. Dorbian deftly navigates their emotional landscapes, presenting a nuanced exploration of grief, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships.

The rock music scene serves not merely as a backdrop but as a pulsating, vibrant force that infuses the narrative with energy and authenticity. Dorbian's vivid descriptions of concerts and musical performances leap off the page, immersing readers in Geri and Dez's world with palpable intensity. Through this lens, she explores themes of identity, belonging, and the pursuit of artistic expression, inviting readers to experience the transformative power of music alongside her characters.

Next Stop, Boston is a testament to Dorbian’s skill as a storyteller and her insightful exploration of the human condition. As the final pages are turned, readers are left with a lingering sense of both satisfaction and longing—a testament to the enduring impact of Geri and Dez's journey. Dorbian’s novel is a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the redemptive power of love, making it a must-read for fans of literary fiction and music enthusiasts alike.

[Justin Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a very heartwarming and touching coming-of-age story about a teenage girl who finds herself on tour with her washed-up rock star guardian. Due to a tragic accident where her sister dies in a car accident, 16-year-old Geri finds herself in the custody of her sister's fiancé, Dez. She finds herself going on tour with him and initially has the teenage angst and need to win him over, but it becomes quickly apparent that Dez is not a good guy. What follows is a story about Geri, as well as several others connected around her in her travels to find themselves and face harsh realities during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. I like the way the author goes back and forth from different times, focusing each chapter from the perspective of a character to really lay the groundwork for their development and give you a better understanding of everyone involved. Iris Dorbian's book is well-written and engaging, with realistic characters that feel like people you know, or can even be similar to yourself. Dorbian does a great job of capturing the atmosphere of a rock and roll tour, and the characters are all complex and relatable. Geri is a particularly well-developed character, and it is easy to root for her as she navigates her new life and tries to figure out who she is and how to get out of a bad situation. One of the things I loved most about this book is the message of self-acceptance. Geri learns that she doesn't need Dez's approval to be happy and that she is worthy of love and respect just the way she is, or rather who she ultimately wants to be. This is an important message for readers of all ages, but especially for teenagers who are still trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in. This book is a great read for anyone who enjoys coming-of-age stories, rock and roll, or simply a good story. It is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

[Abhinav Bhatnagar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harmony Unleashed

"Next Stop, Boston" by Iris Dorbian takes readers on a riveting journey through the tumultuous world of a rock and roll tour, where the clash of personalities between sixteen-year-old Geri Randall and her washed-up rock star guardian, Dez Deacon, creates a symphony of emotions and revelations.
Dorbian's prose is a musical composition, with effortless writing that hits all the right notes. The narrative flows like a melodic tune, weaving through the glittering and frantic backdrop of the music industry. The author's keen eye for detail, evident in references to real musicians, models, and tour locations, adds an authentic touch to the story.
The novel's strength lies in its exploration of flawed, damaged characters yearning for light amid self-created darkness. Geri thrust into an unexpected life with Dez after her sister's tragic demise, battles not only the external chaos of the rock and roll world but also an internal struggle for self-acceptance.
Dorbian's character development is a masterclass, drawing readers into the poignant moments of Geri's journey. The alternating perspectives of Dez and Geri provide a rich tapestry of emotions, revealing the clash of wills and the gradual transformation of their relationship.
Amid the entertaining chaos of a rock tour, "Next Stop, Boston" touches on universal themes—love, hope, despair, and regret. The story's emotional depth, coupled with Dorbian's storytelling prowess, makes it a compelling coming-of-age narrative. As Geri confronts the harsh realities of her newfound life, readers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, rooting for her resilience and self-discovery.
In a world where the music industry's dark side collides with the innocence of adolescence, Dorbian crafts a powerful tale that resonates long after the final chord is struck. "Next Stop, Boston" is not just a novel; it's a lyrical exploration of strength, determination, and the transformative power of self-acceptance.

[Karen Siddall · Rating 5 out of 5]

So compelling, I couldn’t put this book down!

Next Stop, Boston by Iris Dorbian is the compelling story of sixteen-year-old Geri Randall, whose older sister and guardian, supermodel Michelle, is killed in a car accident while on a photoshoot in Italy. In her will, Michelle leaves her assets and the guardianship of her sister to her fiancé, the fading rock star Dez Deacon, a man completely unprepared and unsuitable for the role. The story of Geri’s and Dez’s tumultuous relationship over the ensuing months was unputdownable!

The main character, Geri, is good-hearted, naïve, and innocent, having been sheltered all her life in special schools to support her dyslexia. The story of her being hauled out of school and dragged along on Dez’s concert tour was interesting on its own; she’s a fish out of water, making the best of a horribly confusing situation. But the volatile, hot mess that is Dez Deacon made it traumatic and emotional. While both are grieving Michelle’s death, their relationship is adversarial rather than mutually comforting. This situation is on Dez as he’s unable or unwilling to pull himself together and be the man he needs to be. It was heartbreaking watching his mercurial shifts in temperament and verbal abuse and Geri’s life always walking on eggshells around him. Told from multiple points of view, the added perspectives make this story even more robust. The situation continued to deteriorate with surprising twists in the plot that made it impossible for me to put the book down.

I recommend NEXT STOP, BOSTON to readers of contemporary fiction who like unique plot twists and stories related to rock music concert tours.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Goddess Fish Promotions Book Tours.

[Meghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, after reading Next Stop, Boston by Iris Dorban, I am blown away by the strength and determination shown by Geri as she copes with Dez and achieves her dream. When Geri’s sister Michelle meets Dez their relationship blossoms into their engagement. After the fact, their engagement is off and Michelle dies. Having no other family, Geri falls into temporary custody of Dez determined to win his approval, but the harsh, crass treatment of Dez leaves Geri determined to do the unthinkable to achieve her dreams into the life she is destined for,

Reading this book brought back difficult memories. I for one know how it’s like to go above and beyond desperate to win someone’s approval for survival or else they’ll beat you. I immediately felt Geri’s pain, and immediately became a member of Geri’s team. Reading how sudden the death of Michelle was, I could resonate with Geri in coping with her loss and surviving the wrath of Dez. Despite all the pain and sorrow I felt for Geri, the story was so captivating and powerful that I could not help but to be fully invested from beginning to end.

Even though the print on the ebook was small, the story was easy to follow, comprehend, and relatable. The language use, sentence structure, and vocabulary choices were executed well. However, even though some of the content was graphic, all of it connected with the story to paint the picture of Geri’s life of resilience and determination. The book was stellar in writing and exceptionally well-edited. There is no reason not to award this book a rating of five stars.

[Monica UpstateBookB*tch · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Book Review: Next Stop Boston**

I received "Next Stop Boston" through a Goodreads giveaway, and in exchange, here is my unbiased and unsolicited review.

"Next Stop Boston" is a compelling read that takes you on an emotional journey with Geri and her newly appointed guardian, Dez, as they navigate the turbulent world of a concert tour. The author skillfully crafts a narrative that dives deep into the darker side of the music industry, particularly focusing on addiction and its often hidden consequences.

The characters are fascinating and well-developed. Geri, in particular, is a character you can't help but empathize with. Her struggles and growth throughout the book are both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Dez, as her guardian, adds an intriguing dynamic to the story, balancing his own battles while “trying” to guide Geri through hers.

One of the book's strengths is its depiction of the realities of the music industry, shedding light on the aspects that the average person seldom sees. This raw portrayal adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative, making it more than just a story about a tour.

The ending took me by surprise and left me feeling satisfied. I didn’t see that coming but was so glad it did. It tied up the story well while still leaving room for reflection.

Overall, "Next Stop Boston" is a thought-provoking and engaging read that I would recommend to anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes world of music and the personal struggles that often accompany it.

**Rating: 4/5 stars**

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Next Stop, Boston is the story of two people who love someone dearly only to suddenly find themselves struggling on how to survive after that person who brought them together is gone, and now, 16 year old Geri now has to live with her older sister's rock star fiancé Dez Deacon.

This coming-of-age story is told through various character's point of views, most important of all is Geri's. Her grief and frustration and desperate desire for love and acceptance is all too real, especially when she is either reminded of her sister/family situation or her learning disability which she is not able to get the help she needs for. And then there's her relationship with Dez. The alternating POVs work really well here. In Geri's chapters, it is so easy to hate him. To put bluntly, he's pretty terrible. And then you reach Dez's chapters and see why he acts the way he does and see his thought process.

Each chapter also starts off with the month and year it takes place. At first, I thought it was just a nice, helpful way to keep track of the timeline. After all, we jump around in time quiet a bit. And then we reached 2020, and there was a whole new factor to deal with.

All in all, Next Stop, Boston is a hard-to-put down story with tons of complex, complicated characters.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

NEXT STOP, BOSTON is a coming-of-age story with a highly entertaining backdrop: a rock and roll tour. When rock star Dez Deacon becomes 16-year-old Geri’s new guardian, Geri must go on tour with him, admiration for her parental proxy quickly turning to annoyance when she realizes he will not be as easygoing as she expects. The author does a great job of conveying teenage angst and the struggles that come with a major life change like the one Geri experiences. From the start, Dorbian effortlessly weaves in information to provide details about the characters and contextualize the conflict they will face across the book as Dez and Geri come to terms with what life will look like now that he is her guardian. This is helped especially by the alternating POVs of Dez and Geri, which provide insight into their perspectives and how they clash. Since the book contains both characters’ POVs, I think this would make a great read for teens and adults alike. Dorbian has a compelling writing style that made me want to keep reading. The setting of a rock tour is also undoubtedly fun and adds some extra stress to an already stressful change in both Dez and Geri’s lives.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book couches a coming-of-age story amidst the captivating world of rock and roll. The story follows the tumultuous life of sixteen-year-old Geri Randall, whose existence takes a dramatic turn when her late sister's fiancé, the washed-up rock star Dez Deacon, becomes her guardian. It is an intense dynamic that makes for a captivating read, especially when Geri is whisked away from her familiar life into the dazzling yet chaotic realm of a rock and roll tour. While no one wants the tumult from Geri’s life, one cannot deny the appeal of getting plucked from a mundane life and taken on tour!

Aside from the glamour of a musician’s lifestyle, the heart of the story lies in the dynamics between Geri and Dez. Their relationship is definitely a battle of wills at times, but Dorbian successfully uses the tension to drive the story. The narrative is filled with emotional depth, exposing the vulnerabilities of the characters and creating an authentic and relatable experience for the reader. I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a story focused on the universal themes of self-discovery and the lengths one may go to pursue their desires.

[C. Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

When model Michelle Randall suddenly died in a car accident in Milan, her sixteen-year-old sister, Geri Randall, was left in the care of Dez Deacon, a rock star and Michelle’s fiancé. Both of their lives were turned upside down after Michelle’s passing. As they both adjusted to this new setup, circumstances arose that challenged their emotional strength, forcing them to confront grief, navigate complex relationships, and redefine their identities.

Next Stop, Boston is a beautifully written story that will captivate readers, drawing them into the lives of the characters. The narrative is engaging, and the characters are well developed, making it a compelling read. Geri's strength in the story, despite being dyslexic, and her ability to endure Dez's mood swings, are truly admirable. The book is narrated from each character’s perspective, making it easy for readers to follow and understand the story.

Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating and well-crafted story.

[DBK Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Next Stop, Boston is well created story involving a family dynamic of over caregiving of a young girl who has lost everything she has known. The author makes us peer into each character’s lives through their point of view. Which becomes easier and quicker to read in this type of style of story. And also get to know the characters as the well creative world unfolds before our eyes. The author play with real world problems like ( dyslexics, death, grief, etc.) to make the characters more believable or realistic and to pull at our heartstrings. Growing up with dyslexia, I could feel for the character, who shows us this trait. Making her situation more comparable to anyone who suffers with it. The author has a well constructed narrative story, with realistic written characters, making this a page- turning adventure.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who love family base fiction stories.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a peek inside the minds of two people, connected only by the person they lost, as they try to find a way to a new normal. I’m glad we got to see both POVs - Geri and Dez. Dorbian did a great job of bringing them to life, and really embodying them during their chapters. There’s a big attitude and tone change between their chapters, and it was interesting to see how they view each other, and their lives. Dez isn’t my favorite character ever, but it’s because he’s so well-written. He’s hurting, and has a lot of trauma, and that comes out in his character, but I hate the way he treats Geri. (I know some of it comes from a place of ignorance). Geri is about what you’d expect from a neurodivergent teen who has lost the only family that they’ve had since they were young. My heart absolutely broke for her, but when her rebellious spirit emerged, I was rooting for her. If you enjoy character-driven fiction you’re going to enjoy this!

[Sabrina Guerrero · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a heartwarming story about a teenage girl named Geri. She goes on tour with her sister's fiancé, Dez, who used to be a famous rock star. Unfortunately, her sister dies in a tragic accident, and Geri ends up in Dez's care. At first, Geri tries to win Dez's approval, but she soon realizes that he is not a good person. The story follows Geri and others as they navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and search for their true selves. The author skillfully develops the characters and captures the atmosphere of a rock and roll tour. Geri is a well-rounded character who learns the importance of self-acceptance and realizes that she doesn't need Dez's validation to be happy. Fans of coming-of-age stories and rock and roll will definitely enjoy this book. It will leave a lasting impression on readers. I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.

[Shawnae Aiu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Next Stop, Boston by Iris Dorbian is a well-written story that draws in the reader right away. The characters are heartwarming and pull you right into their read. This
book deals with the death of the mother of a teenage girl who is left in the care of her mother's rock star boyfriend. You will be facing their grief, how they handle their
new life arrangements, and redefining themselves as individuals. Dorbian takes the readers through many feelings and life's ups & downs with her excellent writing
talent. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves exceptional writing that brings you into the story.

[Christine Woinich · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a complex read. Geri was a young orphan who lost her sister and was made the ward of her sister's fiance. Most of the story revolved her mistreatment in the world of rock stardom. Near the end of the story, Geri found a new life but more secrets, and once again, set out on her own. Geri was a scared, lonely, minor who did what she felt necessary to survive and be safe. By the end, she developed into a more confident and independent young woman. There were some very dark scenes throughout the book.

I received a copy through Goddess Fish Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.

[Laura VanPelt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellently written story. Gripping till the end. A recommended read!!

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sixteen-year-old Geri Randall’s sister dies in a car accident leaving Geri all alone and without a guardian. Geri’s sister names her fiancé Dez Deacon as her guardian. Geri’s world is changed forever when Dez becomes her guardian.

Dez is a washed-up rock star. Dez does not want to give up his lifestyle or his life on the road so he talks Geri into quitting school to go on tour with him and his band. Geri soon figures out that this is not a smart move.

Dez starts taking advantage of Geri having her do all his errands for him probably just to get her out of the way as there are things that he likes to do that are not suitable for the eyes of a sixteen-year-old. It is not long before Dez starts to take advantage of Geri in more private ways.

Next Stop, Boston is a sad and heart-wrenching story. The characters all have their own problems that they are dealing with. The band or at least one of the band members Val tries to help Geri. Val knows what goes on between Geri and Dez behind closed doors or at least he has a good idea of what is happening.

Next Stop, Boston as well as all the characters will grab your heart from the first page and have you hanging on every word as you can’t turn the pages fast enough to get to the end to see how Geri’s story will turn out. It will have you pulling for Geri from beginning to end.

I would recommend Next Stop, Boston to anyone who likes reading coming-of-age stories. I do give a warning as there are a few things that go on that could or would be triggering for some. If you think that Next Stop, Boston is something you would like to read then I invite you to grab a copy today!

[Iris Dorbian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, I'm starting this off. Thank you for your support. Very loosely inspired by the Fellini film classic "La Strada,” Next Stop, Boston is a story that merges my lifelong passion for rock and roll, particularly the tales of excesses and dissolute behavior as immortalized in countless rock star biographies and memoirs, with my keen interest in Hollywood gossip, fanfiction and soap operas. Writing the story at the height of the COVID pandemic was a fun escape from the unrelenting grimness of that period but also hugely therapeutic. By drawing upon elements that had given me so much enjoyment throughout my life, I was emboldened to engage with the reality of that tragic time rather than shy away from it. I am glad I did as I experienced a cathartic exhilaration that I hope readers will feel as well.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teenage Geri has found herself living a rockstar dream, but is it a dream or a nightmare? Geri’s parents were tragically killed and her older sister, Michelle, became her guardian. Michelle was a model that was engaged to rockstar Dez. Dez had agreed to the package deal that Geri would be part of their family when he and Michelle were married. Unfortunately, Michelle died in a car accident before the marriage could take place, leaving Geri under the care of Dez. Now both Dez and Geri are facing challenges adjusting to this new life of theirs.

I chose this book to review because I have a love for music, and am always fascinated with stories involving the lives of rock stars. The author has done a great job telling the story from both Geri and Dez perspective. This is a book that adults and teens would enjoy reading.

My rating: 5 out of 5

I was provided a copy of this book for the purpose of review as part of a book tour. The thoughts and opinions of this review are one hundred percent mine and not influenced by any author, publisher, or tour group.