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The Bad Luck Nickel
When Blair Matthews, teen celeb and son of rock legend, The Blade, shows up at a high school in Montreal amidst rumors of a drug-fueled sex scandal, it’s the most excitement the students at Trudeau High have seen in years.
And when Marco and his twin sister Julianna become fast friends with Blair, it seems like a dream. For Marco, Blair lifts him out of his post-breakup funk, and joins his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, instantly making it one of the hottest groups in town. And for Jules, Blair is her celebrity crush come to life in her living room.
But can Blair leave his past behind and start fresh at Trudeau High? Or will his infamy follow him from LA to MTL?
And when Marco and his twin sister Julianna become fast friends with Blair, it seems like a dream. For Marco, Blair lifts him out of his post-breakup funk, and joins his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, instantly making it one of the hottest groups in town. And for Jules, Blair is her celebrity crush come to life in her living room.
But can Blair leave his past behind and start fresh at Trudeau High? Or will his infamy follow him from LA to MTL?
- GenresContemporary
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2024
6 people are currently reading
3522 people want to read
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November 5, 2024With the synopsis focused on Blair’s arrival to Trudeau High I had expected The Bad Luck Nickel to be a more conventional story. Instead we’re thrown into the middle of conflict, Blair not only already in the band but the other members blowing off a show to get back at him. It’s an interesting place to start. The beginning took me a moment to orient myself but I do appreciate the choice. The book’s greatest strength lies with its characters’ relationships – a tangled and delicate web wrought with all the turmoil and overwhelm of teenagerdom.
Even so, I do find myself disappointed that Marco’s complexity isn’t reflected in his sister. Not long after her introduction she says another girl ‘has nothing of substance’ which only served to highlight her own lack. And that isn’t confined to her. Vicky’s characterisation is also boy and addiction focused. Done well, in my opinon, but overall more simplistic than the boys. I would unfortunately say the same for Bianca, and especially Rainbow. But it was also disappointing when this was the case for its antagonists who were very flat and one dimensional and that difference was stark and ill-fitting in the face of its complicated and complex cast.
There’s a willingness to deal with complicated subjects to varying degrees of success. Parental abandonment is handled well. Grief. Girls who date grown men not so much. And even less Blair’s relationship with Rainbow. At least there’s some aspersion cast on the grown men. The fire storm that falls on Blair was conspicuously missing mention of that. While not always tense, however, I really liked its portrayal of addiction. The weakening of the effectiveness and subsequent need to increase the dose to maintain its effectiveness. Both the reckoning with the effects and the support extended to the girls. I do feel it wrapped up too neatly though.
In the narrative there were moments which were skipped over and then related back. These were some of the tenser moments and this undercut them. But mostly I enjoyed the shape of the story. Sprinkling interviews through it kept focus without pulling too far from its main cast and provided intrigue. It also contributed to the fantastic and fascinating representation of Blair as both focus and outsider.
Thanks to iRead Book Tours and Matthew Leslie. I leave this review voluntarily.
Even so, I do find myself disappointed that Marco’s complexity isn’t reflected in his sister. Not long after her introduction she says another girl ‘has nothing of substance’ which only served to highlight her own lack. And that isn’t confined to her. Vicky’s characterisation is also boy and addiction focused. Done well, in my opinon, but overall more simplistic than the boys. I would unfortunately say the same for Bianca, and especially Rainbow. But it was also disappointing when this was the case for its antagonists who were very flat and one dimensional and that difference was stark and ill-fitting in the face of its complicated and complex cast.
There’s a willingness to deal with complicated subjects to varying degrees of success. Parental abandonment is handled well. Grief. Girls who date grown men not so much. And even less Blair’s relationship with Rainbow. At least there’s some aspersion cast on the grown men. The fire storm that falls on Blair was conspicuously missing mention of that. While not always tense, however, I really liked its portrayal of addiction. The weakening of the effectiveness and subsequent need to increase the dose to maintain its effectiveness. Both the reckoning with the effects and the support extended to the girls. I do feel it wrapped up too neatly though.
In the narrative there were moments which were skipped over and then related back. These were some of the tenser moments and this undercut them. But mostly I enjoyed the shape of the story. Sprinkling interviews through it kept focus without pulling too far from its main cast and provided intrigue. It also contributed to the fantastic and fascinating representation of Blair as both focus and outsider.
Thanks to iRead Book Tours and Matthew Leslie. I leave this review voluntarily.
November 12, 2024
The Bad Luck Nickel is a gripping YA novel about a high school rock band. When Blair Matthews, a teen celebrity and son of rock legend The Blade, drops into Trudeau High in Montreal amid rumors of a scandal, it’s the most excitement the school has had in years. Blair quickly befriends Marco and his twin sister Julianna, changing their lives in ways they didn’t expect.
For Marco, Blair helps pull him out of a post-breakup funk and even joins his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, making them a local sensation. For Julianna, Blair is the celebrity crush of her dreams come to life. But as Blair tries to escape his troubled past, the question is: can he truly start fresh, or will his reputation follow him everywhere?
The novel doesn’t shy away from the darker side of adolescence. It honestly tackles themes like addiction, mental health, and the pressure of fame without feeling over the top. The author has handled these difficult subjects with sensitivity. It’s a story about friendship, growing up, and facing the tough parts of life, with music as a backdrop that makes everything feel even more real and the characters feel genuine.
Despite the heavy themes, there's a sense of lightness in the banter between the characters, the additional interviews in the book are cherry on the top. I enjoyed this one!
For Marco, Blair helps pull him out of a post-breakup funk and even joins his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, making them a local sensation. For Julianna, Blair is the celebrity crush of her dreams come to life. But as Blair tries to escape his troubled past, the question is: can he truly start fresh, or will his reputation follow him everywhere?
The novel doesn’t shy away from the darker side of adolescence. It honestly tackles themes like addiction, mental health, and the pressure of fame without feeling over the top. The author has handled these difficult subjects with sensitivity. It’s a story about friendship, growing up, and facing the tough parts of life, with music as a backdrop that makes everything feel even more real and the characters feel genuine.
Despite the heavy themes, there's a sense of lightness in the banter between the characters, the additional interviews in the book are cherry on the top. I enjoyed this one!
October 9, 2024
Much better than I expected!
To be honest, this book really didn’t fit into my normal genre of sci-fi fantasy books, so I didn’t know what to expect. I won this book as a giveaway on Goodreads, and I felt like I owed it to the author to give his book a shot, so I read it.
And I’m so glad I did! From the very first page I was hooked. It’s been literal decades since I’ve read a book that I just couldn’t put down, but I read this book start to finish in less than two days! What did it for me was that this book was ENTERTAINING! I became invested in the characters of this story and wanted to BE with them. I wanted to be a part of their group.
So I don’t regret one minute that I spent with this book! It was fun, it was entertaining, and I just couldn’t put it down! Bravo! I sincerely hope this author continues on with this style of writing, and I would be really stoked if he turns this into a series!
To be honest, this book really didn’t fit into my normal genre of sci-fi fantasy books, so I didn’t know what to expect. I won this book as a giveaway on Goodreads, and I felt like I owed it to the author to give his book a shot, so I read it.
And I’m so glad I did! From the very first page I was hooked. It’s been literal decades since I’ve read a book that I just couldn’t put down, but I read this book start to finish in less than two days! What did it for me was that this book was ENTERTAINING! I became invested in the characters of this story and wanted to BE with them. I wanted to be a part of their group.
So I don’t regret one minute that I spent with this book! It was fun, it was entertaining, and I just couldn’t put it down! Bravo! I sincerely hope this author continues on with this style of writing, and I would be really stoked if he turns this into a series!
October 19, 2024
a coming of age story that took me back to my own friend group in high school. as an observer mostly watching to make sure nobody gets into too much trouble, i remember a lot of fond memories, but i digress. this book spans across a lot of years, but is mainly focused on those particular days that changed our main characters lives and threw them into a whirlwind.
there was a tender nostalgia to this one, and the little quirks and dynamics between characters that have known eachother all their life, along with new forming of bonds and dynamics with people they meet in real time, was a absolute delight. an absolute encompassion of all those things that form a critical part of our informative years with heartbreak, friendship, moving on and growing up to find new heights, the bad luck nickel is a perfect book to relive all those years. it sometimes got too real and i had to take a few breaks but i digress!
the pacing was a bit off now and then, but nothing too bothering that it'll disrupt your involvement in the book and the characters journey. i wish some characters ending was more elaborated on but you can tell the author took great care in interwining the lives of all these characters.
there was a tender nostalgia to this one, and the little quirks and dynamics between characters that have known eachother all their life, along with new forming of bonds and dynamics with people they meet in real time, was a absolute delight. an absolute encompassion of all those things that form a critical part of our informative years with heartbreak, friendship, moving on and growing up to find new heights, the bad luck nickel is a perfect book to relive all those years. it sometimes got too real and i had to take a few breaks but i digress!
the pacing was a bit off now and then, but nothing too bothering that it'll disrupt your involvement in the book and the characters journey. i wish some characters ending was more elaborated on but you can tell the author took great care in interwining the lives of all these characters.
October 14, 2024
A big THANK YOU to Matthew Leslie for entrusting me with his book in exchange for an honest review.
Throughout this book I could feel just how much care the author took in developing characters with layers. I felt extremely invested in all nuances of each teenager.
This brought me back to my teenage years in seeing friends form bands and the relationships within that muddy the waters.
Great story of coming-of-age, breakups, heartaches, friendships and all the teenage drama that is a big deal to that age group.
Go into this book with the time to thoroughly delve into it... Not a fast read by any means but stick with it cuz the payout is worth it.
Throughout this book I could feel just how much care the author took in developing characters with layers. I felt extremely invested in all nuances of each teenager.
This brought me back to my teenage years in seeing friends form bands and the relationships within that muddy the waters.
Great story of coming-of-age, breakups, heartaches, friendships and all the teenage drama that is a big deal to that age group.
Go into this book with the time to thoroughly delve into it... Not a fast read by any means but stick with it cuz the payout is worth it.
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October 8, 2024A story of how a whirlwind of a person can come through and upend your life in such a short amount of time. How the choices you make have consequences, but it’s how you deal with them that count. And like Maisie Peters once said, ‘goddamn not another rockstar.’
The story takes place over a longer period of time, but really centres on these two pivotal days in our characters lives where everything changes.
Perfect for those who love a darker contemporary YA. The teens are going through very teenage things, but deal with very adult consequences.
Thank you ireadbooktours for the copy!
The story takes place over a longer period of time, but really centres on these two pivotal days in our characters lives where everything changes.
Perfect for those who love a darker contemporary YA. The teens are going through very teenage things, but deal with very adult consequences.
Thank you ireadbooktours for the copy!
November 18, 2024
✓ Love Triangle
✓Redemption Arc
✓YA
𝑴𝒚 𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔: - The Bad Luck Nickel is a fast-paced YA rock 'n' roll ride that’s equal parts drama, heart, and headbanging fun. Blair Matthews, teen heartthrob and son of rock legend The Blade, shakes up Trudeau High. Marco, recovering from a breakup, invites him to join his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, catapulting them to fame. Meanwhile, Marco's twin sister, Julianna, falls for Blair, but his troubled past threatens to tear everything apart.
The author nails the balance between tackling serious issues like addiction and mental health and keeping the vibe light with sharp humour and relatable characters. The banter between Marco, Julianna, and Blair is quick and fun, making the heavier moments more digestible. But, let’s be real: Blair’s “rock star with a troubled past” arc is *so* familiar it might feel like déjà vu if you’ve read other music-themed YA. Plus, the whole “band goes from zero to hero” thing can be a little predictable.
While Blair’s the obvious star, Marco and Julianna’s development feels secondary at times, which can make their storylines feel underdeveloped. And while the book does a decent job with Blair’s issues, there’s always the risk that it could romanticize addiction or make it seem like an easy fix.
Overall, The Bad Luck Nickel is a fun, messy ride with relatable characters, catchy music vibes, and a few predictable twists. It’s perfect for fans of rock bands, drama, and finding yourself in the chaos of growing up. Just don’t expect a groundbreaking plot, but you’ll have fun along the way.
✓Redemption Arc
✓YA
𝑴𝒚 𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔: - The Bad Luck Nickel is a fast-paced YA rock 'n' roll ride that’s equal parts drama, heart, and headbanging fun. Blair Matthews, teen heartthrob and son of rock legend The Blade, shakes up Trudeau High. Marco, recovering from a breakup, invites him to join his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, catapulting them to fame. Meanwhile, Marco's twin sister, Julianna, falls for Blair, but his troubled past threatens to tear everything apart.
The author nails the balance between tackling serious issues like addiction and mental health and keeping the vibe light with sharp humour and relatable characters. The banter between Marco, Julianna, and Blair is quick and fun, making the heavier moments more digestible. But, let’s be real: Blair’s “rock star with a troubled past” arc is *so* familiar it might feel like déjà vu if you’ve read other music-themed YA. Plus, the whole “band goes from zero to hero” thing can be a little predictable.
While Blair’s the obvious star, Marco and Julianna’s development feels secondary at times, which can make their storylines feel underdeveloped. And while the book does a decent job with Blair’s issues, there’s always the risk that it could romanticize addiction or make it seem like an easy fix.
Overall, The Bad Luck Nickel is a fun, messy ride with relatable characters, catchy music vibes, and a few predictable twists. It’s perfect for fans of rock bands, drama, and finding yourself in the chaos of growing up. Just don’t expect a groundbreaking plot, but you’ll have fun along the way.
February 13, 2025
Brought me back to my wilder days… very fun read! Loved hearing the male voice as well, different from so many YA novels I have read. Marco, Tank, Blair… great characters that I really fell for. I stayed up past my bedtime to finish this one!
October 22, 2024
Imagine The Enlightenment Club as a cocktail of philosophy, punk rock, and existential angst, served with a twist of 1970s London grit!
Chris West hands us this quirky coming of age tale that feels like you've mixed “The Catcher in the Rye” with a shot of Nietzsche and a loud blast of The Sex Pistols.
Stella Tranter, our bright yet restless FMC, is like every teenager who’s ever stared out of a classroom window, bored to tears by the mundane while dreaming of deep conversations with intellectual giants. Her ticket out? The enigmatic, cult like "Enlightenment Club," led by the almost-too-perfectly named Dr. Stanislas Licht. (Cue ominous foreshadowing music.)
Of course, intellectual escapism comes with a side of chaos. Thrown out of college (standard), Stella heads to London and becomes the most unlikely roadie for her punk rock sister’s band, The Vomit Dolls (yep, you read that right). She’s not exactly cut out for lugging amps, but it’s the 70s, and honestly, who is?
West captures Stella’s yearning for something deeper with an irresistible combination of grit and wit. You can’t help but root for her as she stumbles through love, philosophy, and the perils of being too earnest in a world that thrives on irony.
Her “quiet life” with Bobby, the safe but snooze inducing boyfriend, is almost as unsatisfying as a soggy biscuit, and you just know she’s destined for more.
Enter Alex: a brooding, experimental composer who’s as magnetic as he is tragic. Suddenly, it’s all chaos again, and Stella is thrown into the deep end of passion, creativity, and some very questionable life choices. But hey, when your soul’s on fire, what’s a little heartache?
Ultimately, The Enlightenment Club is about chasing dreams, those big, unwieldy, electrifying dreams that sometimes lead to the abyss.
It’s about the danger of idealising genius and art, and about how the pursuit of meaning can take you to unexpected (and occasionally regrettable) places.
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if punk, philosophy, and youthful yearning had a wild night out, this book is your answer. A quirky, thought provoking ride through the messy process of figuring out who you really are and the cost of being that person.
Chris West hands us this quirky coming of age tale that feels like you've mixed “The Catcher in the Rye” with a shot of Nietzsche and a loud blast of The Sex Pistols.
Stella Tranter, our bright yet restless FMC, is like every teenager who’s ever stared out of a classroom window, bored to tears by the mundane while dreaming of deep conversations with intellectual giants. Her ticket out? The enigmatic, cult like "Enlightenment Club," led by the almost-too-perfectly named Dr. Stanislas Licht. (Cue ominous foreshadowing music.)
Of course, intellectual escapism comes with a side of chaos. Thrown out of college (standard), Stella heads to London and becomes the most unlikely roadie for her punk rock sister’s band, The Vomit Dolls (yep, you read that right). She’s not exactly cut out for lugging amps, but it’s the 70s, and honestly, who is?
West captures Stella’s yearning for something deeper with an irresistible combination of grit and wit. You can’t help but root for her as she stumbles through love, philosophy, and the perils of being too earnest in a world that thrives on irony.
Her “quiet life” with Bobby, the safe but snooze inducing boyfriend, is almost as unsatisfying as a soggy biscuit, and you just know she’s destined for more.
Enter Alex: a brooding, experimental composer who’s as magnetic as he is tragic. Suddenly, it’s all chaos again, and Stella is thrown into the deep end of passion, creativity, and some very questionable life choices. But hey, when your soul’s on fire, what’s a little heartache?
Ultimately, The Enlightenment Club is about chasing dreams, those big, unwieldy, electrifying dreams that sometimes lead to the abyss.
It’s about the danger of idealising genius and art, and about how the pursuit of meaning can take you to unexpected (and occasionally regrettable) places.
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if punk, philosophy, and youthful yearning had a wild night out, this book is your answer. A quirky, thought provoking ride through the messy process of figuring out who you really are and the cost of being that person.
October 31, 2024
✨BOOK REVIEW✨
✨THE BAD LUCK NICKEL BY MATTHEW LESLIE✨
The Bad Luck Nickel by Matthew Leslie is a vibrant coming-of-age story set in the snowy streets of Montreal. Following the lives of Marco, Julianna, and their friends, the novel captures the raw, unfiltered experiences of teenage life, music, friendship, and the struggles of identity.
✨
So the plot is like - When Blair Matthews, the teenage son of rock star The Blade, arrives at a Montreal high school amidst rumors of a scandal, excitement erupts at Trudeau High. Marco and his twin sister Julianna quickly befriend Blair, transforming Marco's post-breakup blues and elevating his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, to local fame. For Julianna, Blair is her celebrity crush made real. However, can Blair escape his troubled past and start anew, or will his notoriety shadow him from LA to Montreal?
✨
Marco, the lead protagonist, is part of a band called *The Bad Luck Nickel*. Through his perspective, we see the challenges of keeping the group together while navigating personal issues, broken instruments, and the pressures of adolescence. Leslie masterfully uses music as a backdrop to reflect the characters’ emotional states, making their journey both relatable and poignant.The book shines with its witty dialogue and engaging character dynamics. Each character, from the fearless Tank to the spirited Randy, is well-drawn, and their interactions feel authentic, providing both humor and heart. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the bittersweet moments of growing up.
✨
Leslie’s writing flows seamlessly, making it an enjoyable read for fans of both young adult fiction and stories centered on friendship and self-discovery. With its rich setting and memorable characters, *The Bad Luck Nickel* is a story about the magic and chaos of teenage life, leaving readers with a deep sense of nostalgia and warmth.
@mmmmlele @ireadbooktours
#teenagebooks
#bookishrecommendations
#bookishrecommendations #bookstoread #indianbookstagrammer #bookblog #bookreviewer #bookreview #yafantasy #yafantasybooks #teenagedream #teenagelove #teenagedrama #teenagestories #yaauthor #yaauthorsofinstagram #BadLuckNickel #iReadBookTours
✨THE BAD LUCK NICKEL BY MATTHEW LESLIE✨
The Bad Luck Nickel by Matthew Leslie is a vibrant coming-of-age story set in the snowy streets of Montreal. Following the lives of Marco, Julianna, and their friends, the novel captures the raw, unfiltered experiences of teenage life, music, friendship, and the struggles of identity.
✨
So the plot is like - When Blair Matthews, the teenage son of rock star The Blade, arrives at a Montreal high school amidst rumors of a scandal, excitement erupts at Trudeau High. Marco and his twin sister Julianna quickly befriend Blair, transforming Marco's post-breakup blues and elevating his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, to local fame. For Julianna, Blair is her celebrity crush made real. However, can Blair escape his troubled past and start anew, or will his notoriety shadow him from LA to Montreal?
✨
Marco, the lead protagonist, is part of a band called *The Bad Luck Nickel*. Through his perspective, we see the challenges of keeping the group together while navigating personal issues, broken instruments, and the pressures of adolescence. Leslie masterfully uses music as a backdrop to reflect the characters’ emotional states, making their journey both relatable and poignant.The book shines with its witty dialogue and engaging character dynamics. Each character, from the fearless Tank to the spirited Randy, is well-drawn, and their interactions feel authentic, providing both humor and heart. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the bittersweet moments of growing up.
✨
Leslie’s writing flows seamlessly, making it an enjoyable read for fans of both young adult fiction and stories centered on friendship and self-discovery. With its rich setting and memorable characters, *The Bad Luck Nickel* is a story about the magic and chaos of teenage life, leaving readers with a deep sense of nostalgia and warmth.
@mmmmlele @ireadbooktours
#teenagebooks
#bookishrecommendations
#bookishrecommendations #bookstoread #indianbookstagrammer #bookblog #bookreviewer #bookreview #yafantasy #yafantasybooks #teenagedream #teenagelove #teenagedrama #teenagestories #yaauthor #yaauthorsofinstagram #BadLuckNickel #iReadBookTours
November 13, 2024
Matthew Leslie’s *The Bad Luck Nickel* is a refreshing YA novel that dives into high school life, friendships, and the messiness of fame with surprising depth and heart. If you’re a fan of contemporary YA that balances fun with real-life issues, this one is a great pick.
What I Liked
I really enjoyed the characters—each one felt authentic, and their flaws made them so relatable. Blair was a standout for me; his struggle to escape his dad’s shadow and avoid repeating his own past mistakes added a lot of depth. Marco and Julianna bring a fun dynamic too: Marco's friendship with Blair helps him through a tough breakup, and Julianna’s crush on Blair brings a dose of realism (what teen wouldn’t crush on a rock star’s kid?).
The story handles mature topics like addiction, mental health, and self-identity sensitively, making it relevant for today’s readers without being overwhelming. The themes of friendship, self-discovery, and redemption are strong but not heavy-handed, giving the book a nice balance of drama and hope.
What I Didn’t Like
The pacing felt a little slow at times, especially in the middle. Some sections felt like they were rehashing the same ideas, and I found myself wanting the plot to move forward a bit faster. I also felt there could have been more exploration of Blair’s music and his dad’s rock-star life—it felt like a missed opportunity to dive into what that world was really like.
Overall, *The Bad Luck Nickel* is an engaging YA novel that offers a thoughtful look at fame, high school friendships, and personal growth. Despite a few slow parts, it’s a worthwhile read for anyone looking for a story that mixes fun high school drama with deeper, real-life themes. Thank you to the author for the book and my honest review.
What I Liked
I really enjoyed the characters—each one felt authentic, and their flaws made them so relatable. Blair was a standout for me; his struggle to escape his dad’s shadow and avoid repeating his own past mistakes added a lot of depth. Marco and Julianna bring a fun dynamic too: Marco's friendship with Blair helps him through a tough breakup, and Julianna’s crush on Blair brings a dose of realism (what teen wouldn’t crush on a rock star’s kid?).
The story handles mature topics like addiction, mental health, and self-identity sensitively, making it relevant for today’s readers without being overwhelming. The themes of friendship, self-discovery, and redemption are strong but not heavy-handed, giving the book a nice balance of drama and hope.
What I Didn’t Like
The pacing felt a little slow at times, especially in the middle. Some sections felt like they were rehashing the same ideas, and I found myself wanting the plot to move forward a bit faster. I also felt there could have been more exploration of Blair’s music and his dad’s rock-star life—it felt like a missed opportunity to dive into what that world was really like.
Overall, *The Bad Luck Nickel* is an engaging YA novel that offers a thoughtful look at fame, high school friendships, and personal growth. Despite a few slow parts, it’s a worthwhile read for anyone looking for a story that mixes fun high school drama with deeper, real-life themes. Thank you to the author for the book and my honest review.
November 10, 2024
*Plot:"
When troubled teen celebrity Blair Matthews enrolls at Trudeau High in Montreal, rumors of a scandalous past follow. As the son of rock legend, The Blade, Blair's arrival sparks excitement and curiosity among students.
Marco and his twin sister Julianna are thrilled to befriend Blair. For Marco, Blair's charisma revitalizes his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, making it an overnight sensation. Jules is smitten, having her celebrity crush come to life in her living room.
However, Blair's past threatens to upend his newfound friendships and fresh start. Can he overcome his infamy and start anew, or will his LA reputation haunt him in Montreal?
*Themes:*
- Fame and identity
- Friendship and loyalty
- Second chances and redemption
- Self-discovery and growth
*Target Audience:* Young Adult readers
*Key Plot Points:*
1. Blair's arrival at Trudeau High and rumors surrounding his past.
2. Marco and Jules befriending Blair and joining his band.
3. Blair's struggle to leave his past behind.
4. The consequences of Blair's infamy on his relationships.
✷ It transported me back to my teenage years, reminiscing about friends forming bands and navigating complex relationships. This captivating novel masterfully explores coming-of-age struggles, breakups, heartaches, friendships, and teenage drama.
Set aside time to delve into this story, and you'll find the payout well worth it.
When troubled teen celebrity Blair Matthews enrolls at Trudeau High in Montreal, rumors of a scandalous past follow. As the son of rock legend, The Blade, Blair's arrival sparks excitement and curiosity among students.
Marco and his twin sister Julianna are thrilled to befriend Blair. For Marco, Blair's charisma revitalizes his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, making it an overnight sensation. Jules is smitten, having her celebrity crush come to life in her living room.
However, Blair's past threatens to upend his newfound friendships and fresh start. Can he overcome his infamy and start anew, or will his LA reputation haunt him in Montreal?
*Themes:*
- Fame and identity
- Friendship and loyalty
- Second chances and redemption
- Self-discovery and growth
*Target Audience:* Young Adult readers
*Key Plot Points:*
1. Blair's arrival at Trudeau High and rumors surrounding his past.
2. Marco and Jules befriending Blair and joining his band.
3. Blair's struggle to leave his past behind.
4. The consequences of Blair's infamy on his relationships.
✷ It transported me back to my teenage years, reminiscing about friends forming bands and navigating complex relationships. This captivating novel masterfully explores coming-of-age struggles, breakups, heartaches, friendships, and teenage drama.
Set aside time to delve into this story, and you'll find the payout well worth it.
October 7, 2024
The author does an excellent job of creating relatable and multi-dimensional characters. Blair’s struggle to escape his past and start fresh is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Marco and Julianna, the twins who befriend Blair, add depth to the narrative with their own personal challenges and growth. The plot is engaging and keeps you hooked from start to finish. The dynamics between the characters are well-developed, and the high school setting is vividly portrayed, making it easy to get lost in the story. The themes of redemption, loyalty, and the impact of fame are thoughtfully explored, adding layers to the narrative. While the book is a fantastic read, there were moments where the pacing felt a bit uneven, and some plot points could have been fleshed out more. However, these minor issues do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.
This is a must-read for fans of young adult fiction. It’s a story that resonates with the struggles and triumphs of your teenage years, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
This is a must-read for fans of young adult fiction. It’s a story that resonates with the struggles and triumphs of your teenage years, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
January 5, 2025
The Bad Luck Nickel by Matthew Leslie is a high school drama that mixes rock-star energy with the highs and lows of teenage friendship and fame.
When Blair Matthews, teen celebrity and son of a rock legend, arrives at Montreal’s Trudeau High, he brings a buzz of excitement and mystery that quickly draws in siblings Marco and Julianna. For Marco, Blair’s friendship offers a fresh start and a chance to revive his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, turning it into the hottest act in town. For Julianna, Blair is a dream come true—her celebrity crush is now part of her daily life.
Leslie captures the excitement and challenges of high school life with a mix of authenticity and fun, exploring whether Blair can truly shake off his wild past or if his reputation will follow him. This story is ideal for readers who love coming-of-age tales with a blend of romance, music, and the intrigue of second chances.
This tale should appeal to a wide variety of readers, regardless of age, because who didn’t want to be in a rock band in High School?
I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
When Blair Matthews, teen celebrity and son of a rock legend, arrives at Montreal’s Trudeau High, he brings a buzz of excitement and mystery that quickly draws in siblings Marco and Julianna. For Marco, Blair’s friendship offers a fresh start and a chance to revive his band, The Bad Luck Nickel, turning it into the hottest act in town. For Julianna, Blair is a dream come true—her celebrity crush is now part of her daily life.
Leslie captures the excitement and challenges of high school life with a mix of authenticity and fun, exploring whether Blair can truly shake off his wild past or if his reputation will follow him. This story is ideal for readers who love coming-of-age tales with a blend of romance, music, and the intrigue of second chances.
This tale should appeal to a wide variety of readers, regardless of age, because who didn’t want to be in a rock band in High School?
I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
October 29, 2024
I found that Matthew Leslie's debut, The Bad Luck Nickel, to be a pretty good novel. I was quickly immersed in this tale of friendships, finding your dreams, and discovering yourself. I liked getting to know the main characters that I thought were relatable and easy to connect with. The author perfectly portrayed what it is like for teenagers in high school while facing the daily struggles of life. It was a fun and exciting journey for me to take. It great way to escape the chaos of every day of life. It was sometimes quirky, sometimes emotional, and sometimes thought provoking. It was not one that I could predict what would happen from scene to scene. I had to keep turning the pages until I had completely read the whole book. At less than three hundred pages, it was simple for have it all finished in no time at all.
I will be going to give The Bad Luck Nickel four and a half stars. I believe teenagers who are thirteen to seventeen years of age and are fans of young adult fiction will want to give a read. I would be interested in getting my hands on more books from Matthew Leslie. I believe this one should not be missed and worth reading.
I received a paperback copy of Matthew Leslie's The Bad Luck Nickel from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I will be going to give The Bad Luck Nickel four and a half stars. I believe teenagers who are thirteen to seventeen years of age and are fans of young adult fiction will want to give a read. I would be interested in getting my hands on more books from Matthew Leslie. I believe this one should not be missed and worth reading.
I received a paperback copy of Matthew Leslie's The Bad Luck Nickel from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
December 29, 2024
Blair Matthews causes a lot of excitement when he moves to Montreal. He’s a teen heartthrob and the son of a famous rock star. He joins Marco’s band, The Bad Luck Nickel, and they finally start booking shows. Blair also starts dating Marco’s twin sister Julianna. However, the scandal that sent Blair to Montreal threatens to come back and ruin his life, bringing his new friends down with him.
This was such a fast paced story. I couldn’t put it down. It started with a bang, with the boys finding a man passed out in the snow and having to give him CPR. The story was so intense. The characters were drinking, doing drugs, and getting into dangerous situations. It was such a page turner.
The Bad Luck Nickel is a fast paced story about teenage drama!
Thank you iRead Book Tours for providing a copy of this book as part of a paid campaign.
Content warnings: drugs, alcohol use, addiction, rape (off page), abortion (mentions), overdose, heart attack
This was such a fast paced story. I couldn’t put it down. It started with a bang, with the boys finding a man passed out in the snow and having to give him CPR. The story was so intense. The characters were drinking, doing drugs, and getting into dangerous situations. It was such a page turner.
The Bad Luck Nickel is a fast paced story about teenage drama!
Thank you iRead Book Tours for providing a copy of this book as part of a paid campaign.
Content warnings: drugs, alcohol use, addiction, rape (off page), abortion (mentions), overdose, heart attack
September 11, 2024
For all of us that survived our teenage years and the struggles and heartbreaks that go hand in hand with that age, this book is a great read. After reading Part 1 of the book I took a break and went to bed. I actually found myself dreaming about the main characters and I awoke in a bit of a frenzy wondering what was going to happen to them. Needless to say I had to continue reading this book in the middle of the night to see how things turned out for my new friends. So, if you want to relive those critical and informative years of sexual anxiety, rock and roll, heartbreak and first loves, this is your kind of book. (even if those years may be long ago for some of us).This book is very well written and a definite page turner..Kudos to Matthew Leslie on his first novel. Looking forward to the next one.
P.D. Alan
P.D. Alan
October 27, 2024
The Bad Luck Nickel is a young adult coming of age story filled with friendship, teenage mishaps, love, fitting in and growing up. I was entertained all the way through as it takes you on a fun adventure. The characters are typical teens who are trying to be grown up but sometimes it can be dangerous. The plot is full of twists that I couldn't predict and filled with heartstopping moments that had me gasping for air. I really would appreciate if it is turned into a series as I really enjoyed reading about the characters and I need more! A epic y/a book.
September 22, 2024
And odd little story
The characters in this book are very well done. The way the band The Hard Lucky Nickel evolved, was an amazing sight. I loved how all the buddies partied on top of the rooftop in the very last chapter.
I didn't like how the end of Blair's story ended. It seemed to me there wasn't enough said about that.
The characters in this book are very well done. The way the band The Hard Lucky Nickel evolved, was an amazing sight. I loved how all the buddies partied on top of the rooftop in the very last chapter.
I didn't like how the end of Blair's story ended. It seemed to me there wasn't enough said about that.
October 22, 2024
This book was a wild ride! While it definitely felt more like a YA read, it was exciting and entertaining, and the story sucks you in and you (me, that is) get really invested in what’s going to happen next. The characters feel alive, and although the book was not a very lengthy one (under 300 pages), you get to know characters really well and find ones to like more than others.
May 15, 2025
really enjoyed! I think the best audience for this book would be early/mid highschool. exciting plot and great character development
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