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Keeping the Beat
It was supposed to be the best summer of her life. Instead, seventeen-year-old Lucy finds her best friend, Harper, shot dead in an LA swimming pool. How did things ever go so wrong? The story circles back to trace the steps that led to this disaster.
Only Harper McKenzie could have taken five girls from their school and reinvented them as Crush, the top prospect to win the international talent contest Project Next. As soon as the band finds its footing, it scores a huge win in the UK semifinal. Next stop, LA!
The girls will spend a luxurious summer in Hollywood, living as reality TV stars while they prepare for their performance in the Project Next final. With a mansion to themselves, they’re the toast of the town … living every girl’s dream come true.
It’s way too late when Lucy discovers that Harper’s heart has never been in Project Next at all. Joining the competition was just part of Harper’s elaborate ruse to reconnect with her no-good ex-boyfriend. Harper will risk anything — from her friendships to the band’s reputation — to get him back.
Meanwhile, the other members of Crush are throwing themselves headfirst into sex, drugs and rock and roll. With the band in crisis and the final approaching, Lucy must decide whether she wants to play to Harper’s beat or set the rhythm for the rest of the band.
This fast-paced story takes unexpected twists, unraveling the mystery of Harper’s murder and exploring the complicated relationships among members of the band. Writing team Marie Powell and Jeff Norton — with many years in the entertainment business between them — deliver one-part wish fulfillment and one-part cautionary tale as they go behind the scenes to reveal what no one sees on “reality” TV.
Only Harper McKenzie could have taken five girls from their school and reinvented them as Crush, the top prospect to win the international talent contest Project Next. As soon as the band finds its footing, it scores a huge win in the UK semifinal. Next stop, LA!
The girls will spend a luxurious summer in Hollywood, living as reality TV stars while they prepare for their performance in the Project Next final. With a mansion to themselves, they’re the toast of the town … living every girl’s dream come true.
It’s way too late when Lucy discovers that Harper’s heart has never been in Project Next at all. Joining the competition was just part of Harper’s elaborate ruse to reconnect with her no-good ex-boyfriend. Harper will risk anything — from her friendships to the band’s reputation — to get him back.
Meanwhile, the other members of Crush are throwing themselves headfirst into sex, drugs and rock and roll. With the band in crisis and the final approaching, Lucy must decide whether she wants to play to Harper’s beat or set the rhythm for the rest of the band.
This fast-paced story takes unexpected twists, unraveling the mystery of Harper’s murder and exploring the complicated relationships among members of the band. Writing team Marie Powell and Jeff Norton — with many years in the entertainment business between them — deliver one-part wish fulfillment and one-part cautionary tale as they go behind the scenes to reveal what no one sees on “reality” TV.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published May 1, 2013
10 people are currently reading
1558 people want to read
About the author
Bridget Tyler
4 books87 followersI grew up in Berkeley, California in a house filled with books. I started telling stories before I could read, so my mother took dictation until I learned how to turn the words in my head into words on a page. She knew I was going to be a writer when I grew up, but it took me a while to catch up.
THE PIONEER is about a young woman struggling to deal with the loss of her beloved big brother while her family fights to survive on a brand new planet. It will be published by HarperTeen in March of 2019.
These days, I live in Oregon with my husband, a Robotics professor at Oregon State University, and my daughter, a toddler who loves to sing.
THE PIONEER is about a young woman struggling to deal with the loss of her beloved big brother while her family fights to survive on a brand new planet. It will be published by HarperTeen in March of 2019.
These days, I live in Oregon with my husband, a Robotics professor at Oregon State University, and my daughter, a toddler who loves to sing.
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March 7, 2020
Full Review on The Candid Cover
Keeping the Beat is all about a girl band and the tough life on a reality TV show. Each of the girls are so different and really transform throughout the story. The big themes in the book, such as drugs and eating disorders, really add some depth and make the story more intense. I would recommend this book, as it does a good job of taking the reader behind the scenes.
This book is all about a group of girls who form a band and work their way to stardom. I loved the way that normal British girls are thrown into the world of music and must adjust to life in LA. What is interesting about Keeping the Beat is the fact that the ending is shown in the first chapter, and the book has a bit of a mystery aspect added to the girls’ life of luxury. I am a sucker for both arts and thriller novels, so I really enjoyed this combination.
There is such an amazing cast of characters in Keeping the Beat! The girls of Crush joined as (basically) strangers, and it is so interesting to watch them get to know each other and become real bandmates. Each musician has such a unique personality, and the girls are all so different from each other. My favourite character is probably Iza, as she transforms from a shy and quiet girl into such an independent individual. Female friendships are something that I always love to see, and I was thrilled to see a girl gang in this book.
There are some pretty heavy topics discussed in the book, which really made it more than just some girls living a life of luxury. Right off the bat, one of the main characters is shot and killed. Drugs, eating disorders, and body image are also incorporated and show the reader how easy it is to get caught up in all of it. I enjoyed how Keeping the Beat shows the media’s image of beauty and what can happen if you try too hard to make yourself “perfect.” The pressure on girls to look and act a certain way is really strong, and the fact that this book is able to educate a little bit about this is excellent.
Keeping the Beat is about a British girl band and contains many distinct characters. The themes in the story are pretty intense, but also educate the reader. I would recommend this book, especially to fans of the musical genre.
Keeping the Beat is all about a girl band and the tough life on a reality TV show. Each of the girls are so different and really transform throughout the story. The big themes in the book, such as drugs and eating disorders, really add some depth and make the story more intense. I would recommend this book, as it does a good job of taking the reader behind the scenes.
This book is all about a group of girls who form a band and work their way to stardom. I loved the way that normal British girls are thrown into the world of music and must adjust to life in LA. What is interesting about Keeping the Beat is the fact that the ending is shown in the first chapter, and the book has a bit of a mystery aspect added to the girls’ life of luxury. I am a sucker for both arts and thriller novels, so I really enjoyed this combination.
There is such an amazing cast of characters in Keeping the Beat! The girls of Crush joined as (basically) strangers, and it is so interesting to watch them get to know each other and become real bandmates. Each musician has such a unique personality, and the girls are all so different from each other. My favourite character is probably Iza, as she transforms from a shy and quiet girl into such an independent individual. Female friendships are something that I always love to see, and I was thrilled to see a girl gang in this book.
There are some pretty heavy topics discussed in the book, which really made it more than just some girls living a life of luxury. Right off the bat, one of the main characters is shot and killed. Drugs, eating disorders, and body image are also incorporated and show the reader how easy it is to get caught up in all of it. I enjoyed how Keeping the Beat shows the media’s image of beauty and what can happen if you try too hard to make yourself “perfect.” The pressure on girls to look and act a certain way is really strong, and the fact that this book is able to educate a little bit about this is excellent.
Keeping the Beat is about a British girl band and contains many distinct characters. The themes in the story are pretty intense, but also educate the reader. I would recommend this book, especially to fans of the musical genre.
November 11, 2016
I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This has not influenced my opinion in any way.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
Well, well, well...
Keeping the Beat is one of those books that you know won't end well for the characters, yet you feel strangely compelled to read on. It's weird, I know, but that's what this is. So it makes the reading experience stressful, in the best way possible.
So, what's it about? Basically, the story starts in medias res (a technique that I love) to when Harper, Lucy's friend, is found shot dead in a pool. And then the plot backtracks to show you the full picture of how this came to pass.
Plot-wise, it's excellent. The happenings are fleshed out, giving the reader a full panoramic view of the storyline. In that sense, it reminded me a bit of Nova Ren Suma's The Walls Around Us or perhaps Markus Zusak's The Book Thief because, again, it builds up to the finale that the reader already knows. That makes for a unique experience, that's for sure.
The writing style is magnificent. It was sufficiently descriptive without being overly flowery or excessive. It gets to the point, but has a subtle flourish to it. It's hard to describe, I know, but that's just how it is.
Ah, but the characters is where we lose a couple of stars. I felt a bit..overwhelmed. Not there are a lot of them, but it feels that way. I'd forget who some characters are, and that's.. not a good sign, to say the least.
But let me dig a little deeper. Lucy irritated me, big time. Many times, she'd fall into the rebellious-stubborn-defiant-teenager trope and would be blind to all common sense. Having to see the story from her point of view, as you can imagine, was not enjoyable at all.
Oddly, though, I found that I actually like Harper, which is... quite ironic, considering that..yeah. I'll say no more.
Buuuut the twists were on point! The big reveal at the end (who Harper's killer really is) was gasp-worthy. Gasp-worthy, I say. To say the least, I did not see that coming.
Overall? Recommended. Very. Keeping the Beat straddles the line between calm-and-realistic fiction and I-have-bitten-all-my-nails-from-the-suspense mystery. Very unique, indeed.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
Well, well, well...
Keeping the Beat is one of those books that you know won't end well for the characters, yet you feel strangely compelled to read on. It's weird, I know, but that's what this is. So it makes the reading experience stressful, in the best way possible.
So, what's it about? Basically, the story starts in medias res (a technique that I love) to when Harper, Lucy's friend, is found shot dead in a pool. And then the plot backtracks to show you the full picture of how this came to pass.
Plot-wise, it's excellent. The happenings are fleshed out, giving the reader a full panoramic view of the storyline. In that sense, it reminded me a bit of Nova Ren Suma's The Walls Around Us or perhaps Markus Zusak's The Book Thief because, again, it builds up to the finale that the reader already knows. That makes for a unique experience, that's for sure.
The writing style is magnificent. It was sufficiently descriptive without being overly flowery or excessive. It gets to the point, but has a subtle flourish to it. It's hard to describe, I know, but that's just how it is.
Ah, but the characters is where we lose a couple of stars. I felt a bit..overwhelmed. Not there are a lot of them, but it feels that way. I'd forget who some characters are, and that's.. not a good sign, to say the least.
But let me dig a little deeper. Lucy irritated me, big time. Many times, she'd fall into the rebellious-stubborn-defiant-teenager trope and would be blind to all common sense. Having to see the story from her point of view, as you can imagine, was not enjoyable at all.
Oddly, though, I found that I actually like Harper, which is... quite ironic, considering that..yeah. I'll say no more.
Buuuut the twists were on point! The big reveal at the end (who Harper's killer really is) was gasp-worthy. Gasp-worthy, I say. To say the least, I did not see that coming.
Overall? Recommended. Very. Keeping the Beat straddles the line between calm-and-realistic fiction and I-have-bitten-all-my-nails-from-the-suspense mystery. Very unique, indeed.
April 2, 2013
Drummer Girl by Bridget Tyler is a fast and frenetic coming of age novel that will appeal to many readers. It centres on a girl band Crush, who wins a competition to go to Los Angeles, with the opportunity to make it big on the music scene.
The book opens with a bang, on the aftermath of a shocking murder. It then rewinds to eight months earlier, to St Gabriel’s Sixth Form, London, where we witness a disparate group of girls come together, at the suggestion of fellow pupil, Harper McKenzie, to form a band. Their aim, in which they are successful, is to win Project Next, a television talent show with the dream prize of going to LA to win the final heat of the competition at the end of the summer and secure their rock and roll future.
It soon becomes clear however, that Harper’s main motivation for creating the band and winning Project Next, is the desire to be reunited with bad boy Rafe Jackson, who lives in LA and whose father Peter is involved in the competition. This creates a fair amount of friction from the start and plays a key role in the development of the plot. The girls face a world of limousines, designer clothes, personal stylists, parties and temptations they have never experienced before. They must also strive to ensure that their ability to make music remains at the forefront of their minds, when struggling with a host of competing issues, including drug addiction, body image, alcohol, sex and the trials of young love. There are also a number of secrets kept by some of the characters, which combine with a series of events which lead to the dire consequences at the conclusion of the book.
Lucy, the drummer in the band, is the central character, although we also get to know the trials, hopes and dreams of her four friends, Harper, the lead singer, Toni, the bass player, Robyn on guitar and Iza on piano. The personalities of the girls vary, but all have their own personal demons to battle with whilst they are on the cusp of adulthood. Lucy, the most grounded of them all, strives to keep the band together and prevent it from self-destructing in the face of the mounting pressures of making it big in Hollywood. The friendship between Lucy and Harper, which has its ups and downns is one of the main themes of the plot.
There are a number of supporting characters, such as Rafe, Harper’s love interest, and others, including Jason, the band’s manager, Alexander, the band’s music producer and Tomas, who deals drugs. A romance between one of the secondary characters, Skye and the minor character Cesar pulled at my heartstrings a great deal.
When I picked up this novel I did not expect to enjoy it as much as I did, simply because I am not a big fan of celebrity culture and TV talent shows. However, the focus is very much on the characterisations and the evolving plot; the trappings of wealth and celebrity culture serve to bring the issues facing the central characters into sharper focus. Also Bridget Tyler writes in such a way that I was quickly drawn into the world she creates. I developed a great deal of empathy for the young women and the other characters she portrays, in what I found to be an emotional and entertaining read.
The author is a screenwriter and I think this comes across in her writing in a positive way as it swiftly draws you into key scenes which highlight the world the girls find themselves in and the group dynamics at play. Every scene counts and the novel could quite easily be made into a film or TV series. Such is the richness of the tale, there is plenty of scope for the author to pen further novels, based on the characters in Drummer Girl. I do hope that she writes a follow up, if only to expand on a burgeoning romance for Lucy, which is introduced at the conclusion. Whilst I would recommend this novel primarily for teenagers or young adults, I feel that adults too would also enjoy it as it deals with universal issues that affect people of all ages in an exciting and engaging plot that keeps you guessing.
The book opens with a bang, on the aftermath of a shocking murder. It then rewinds to eight months earlier, to St Gabriel’s Sixth Form, London, where we witness a disparate group of girls come together, at the suggestion of fellow pupil, Harper McKenzie, to form a band. Their aim, in which they are successful, is to win Project Next, a television talent show with the dream prize of going to LA to win the final heat of the competition at the end of the summer and secure their rock and roll future.
It soon becomes clear however, that Harper’s main motivation for creating the band and winning Project Next, is the desire to be reunited with bad boy Rafe Jackson, who lives in LA and whose father Peter is involved in the competition. This creates a fair amount of friction from the start and plays a key role in the development of the plot. The girls face a world of limousines, designer clothes, personal stylists, parties and temptations they have never experienced before. They must also strive to ensure that their ability to make music remains at the forefront of their minds, when struggling with a host of competing issues, including drug addiction, body image, alcohol, sex and the trials of young love. There are also a number of secrets kept by some of the characters, which combine with a series of events which lead to the dire consequences at the conclusion of the book.
Lucy, the drummer in the band, is the central character, although we also get to know the trials, hopes and dreams of her four friends, Harper, the lead singer, Toni, the bass player, Robyn on guitar and Iza on piano. The personalities of the girls vary, but all have their own personal demons to battle with whilst they are on the cusp of adulthood. Lucy, the most grounded of them all, strives to keep the band together and prevent it from self-destructing in the face of the mounting pressures of making it big in Hollywood. The friendship between Lucy and Harper, which has its ups and downns is one of the main themes of the plot.
There are a number of supporting characters, such as Rafe, Harper’s love interest, and others, including Jason, the band’s manager, Alexander, the band’s music producer and Tomas, who deals drugs. A romance between one of the secondary characters, Skye and the minor character Cesar pulled at my heartstrings a great deal.
When I picked up this novel I did not expect to enjoy it as much as I did, simply because I am not a big fan of celebrity culture and TV talent shows. However, the focus is very much on the characterisations and the evolving plot; the trappings of wealth and celebrity culture serve to bring the issues facing the central characters into sharper focus. Also Bridget Tyler writes in such a way that I was quickly drawn into the world she creates. I developed a great deal of empathy for the young women and the other characters she portrays, in what I found to be an emotional and entertaining read.
The author is a screenwriter and I think this comes across in her writing in a positive way as it swiftly draws you into key scenes which highlight the world the girls find themselves in and the group dynamics at play. Every scene counts and the novel could quite easily be made into a film or TV series. Such is the richness of the tale, there is plenty of scope for the author to pen further novels, based on the characters in Drummer Girl. I do hope that she writes a follow up, if only to expand on a burgeoning romance for Lucy, which is introduced at the conclusion. Whilst I would recommend this novel primarily for teenagers or young adults, I feel that adults too would also enjoy it as it deals with universal issues that affect people of all ages in an exciting and engaging plot that keeps you guessing.
August 9, 2017
When I bought this book I thought I was picking up a lighthearted novel, and that's what I wanted. The summary does not indicate that it was a darker read. Besides that point, I do have to say I enjoyed the different characters and their progression. The plot was well thought out but I would have liked to see more of Lucy and Alexander's working relationship. The first chapter/prologue was very intriguing but I feel like it didn't need to be there, like the surprise is taken away, and I would also like to see Ash being lead to justice for being a complete and total asshat.
November 17, 2016
Review of Keeping the Beat by Marie Powell and Jeff Norton.
Rating: 3/5 stars.
Marie Powell's first novel has potential, I won't lie, but something was missing. Before I talk too much here's a little sneek peek of what to expect from this book: Lucy thought this was going to be the summer of her life. That before she found her best friend Harper shot dead in an LA pool. Only Harper McKenzie could have taken five girls from their school and reinvented them as Crush, the top prospect to win the international talent contest Project Next. As soon as the band finds its footing, it scores a huge win in the UK semifinal. Next stop, LA! From that moment on everything that shouldn't happen, happens, until the tragedy. Overall, it was an enjoyable read, but it lacked of development both of characters and most importantly, the contest itself and places. I really wanted to discover more about this Project Next thing and I wanted to know the other contestants, but that didn't happen. An important thing that I feel like sharing is that my digital copy, which was sent to me thanks to netgalley, didn't show me any of the text messages that Lucy received and along with that, some parts of the book were missing.
If these things had been better developed, my rating would have been undoubtedly higher. At least 4 stars, that because there are many (many many many) themes that are way too important and that here are handled with care and I loved that aspect. These themes are gun sense, drugs, blackmail, bulimia and the fact that way too many bartenders sell alcoholic drinks to minors. I feel really close to these problems and I think that books should deal with them more often, because girls and boys of all ages learn from them.
In the end, I liked this fast paced novel, not one of the best of the year, but, as I already said, it has potential and plus, I loved the idea of mixing a musical contest with mistery and real life problems. Recommended!
Rating: 3/5 stars.
Marie Powell's first novel has potential, I won't lie, but something was missing. Before I talk too much here's a little sneek peek of what to expect from this book: Lucy thought this was going to be the summer of her life. That before she found her best friend Harper shot dead in an LA pool. Only Harper McKenzie could have taken five girls from their school and reinvented them as Crush, the top prospect to win the international talent contest Project Next. As soon as the band finds its footing, it scores a huge win in the UK semifinal. Next stop, LA! From that moment on everything that shouldn't happen, happens, until the tragedy. Overall, it was an enjoyable read, but it lacked of development both of characters and most importantly, the contest itself and places. I really wanted to discover more about this Project Next thing and I wanted to know the other contestants, but that didn't happen. An important thing that I feel like sharing is that my digital copy, which was sent to me thanks to netgalley, didn't show me any of the text messages that Lucy received and along with that, some parts of the book were missing.
If these things had been better developed, my rating would have been undoubtedly higher. At least 4 stars, that because there are many (many many many) themes that are way too important and that here are handled with care and I loved that aspect. These themes are gun sense, drugs, blackmail, bulimia and the fact that way too many bartenders sell alcoholic drinks to minors. I feel really close to these problems and I think that books should deal with them more often, because girls and boys of all ages learn from them.
In the end, I liked this fast paced novel, not one of the best of the year, but, as I already said, it has potential and plus, I loved the idea of mixing a musical contest with mistery and real life problems. Recommended!
August 22, 2017
Sex, drugs and rock'n'roll. What else would you expect from a novel about an all girl band who is chosen to be featured on a reality tv show competition. Well, okay, maybe there isn't any sex, because this is a YA novel, but there are a few kisses and some romance thrown in for good measure.
I expected this to be an easy, "cotton candy" style read, but it wasn't. The story has a surprising amount of depth to it. As Lucy and her bandmates navigate their way around LA, most of them away from their parents for the first time, they make choices that don't just face upcoming celebrities, but almost every average teen. I was very impressed with the story over all and grateful to goodreads for allowing me the chance to read it.
I expected this to be an easy, "cotton candy" style read, but it wasn't. The story has a surprising amount of depth to it. As Lucy and her bandmates navigate their way around LA, most of them away from their parents for the first time, they make choices that don't just face upcoming celebrities, but almost every average teen. I was very impressed with the story over all and grateful to goodreads for allowing me the chance to read it.
August 30, 2017
I won this book through GoodReads giveaway.
I must say that I liked this novel more than I thought I would. It is really good read. The story is well written and different characters make the novel very interesting. Yes, there is some teenage drama, but the whole story is more than than. There are many stories inside the story. It was so interesting to see what each character thought and how each of them developed through the novel.
I must say that prologue is actually a spoiler alert for the book. It shouldn't be there at all.
But in general I really liked reading this book and learning about all the events. Even if there were some very unpleasant ones.
Synopsis:
The story evolves around girls who create a rock band. They are so different from one another, but together they created successful band called Crush.
Harper McKenzie seems to be the leader and the girl every boy dreams about. Lucy Gosling stands up to her parents to follow her dream. Than there is Robyn who struggle with her weight, and shy Iza Mazurkiewicz and Toni, who always dreamed about being famous and in spot light. They win competition and are send from London to LA for summer. There they learn about dark side of being popular, but also learn and experience amazing times. They friendship is also put to test.
I must say that I liked this novel more than I thought I would. It is really good read. The story is well written and different characters make the novel very interesting. Yes, there is some teenage drama, but the whole story is more than than. There are many stories inside the story. It was so interesting to see what each character thought and how each of them developed through the novel.
I must say that prologue is actually a spoiler alert for the book. It shouldn't be there at all.
But in general I really liked reading this book and learning about all the events. Even if there were some very unpleasant ones.
Synopsis:
The story evolves around girls who create a rock band. They are so different from one another, but together they created successful band called Crush.
Harper McKenzie seems to be the leader and the girl every boy dreams about. Lucy Gosling stands up to her parents to follow her dream. Than there is Robyn who struggle with her weight, and shy Iza Mazurkiewicz and Toni, who always dreamed about being famous and in spot light. They win competition and are send from London to LA for summer. There they learn about dark side of being popular, but also learn and experience amazing times. They friendship is also put to test.
December 22, 2024
I'm definitely not the target demography for this book because I couldn't help but roll my eyes every page. No, Lucy, it was a bad idea that you left to pursue music without your parents' approval. You could have been drugged, groomed, raped, killed (!) like your peers have. And the lesson you learned was to follow your dream regardless. I understand following dreams is important, but to sell such dreams to teenagers in a predatory way is an interesting artistic choice.
Characters are cliché, love plots are cliché. But again, not the target demography ✋😔✋
Characters are cliché, love plots are cliché. But again, not the target demography ✋😔✋
August 23, 2017
I LOVED every second of this book!
While reading Keeping the Beat, I was an emotional wreck. It was so good. Every character in the book had their own story to tell. I really enjoyed how the authors intertwined all the characters lives together, and how the characters overcame a lot of the obstacles they faced together. The journey the 5 band mates went on was a real addictive story line.
Toni, Iza, Harper, Robyn and Lucy are 5 teenagers that form a band together. This story goes in depth about a couple of issues that teenagers face today; diet pills, alcohol abuse, love, heartbreak, media and how everyone's life is under the lens now with cameras and phones, and many more issues.
One thing that surprised me thought was how Harper had died. I did not expect it to end like that, at all. I really liked how the prologue was written about Harper's death. It hooked me the moment I read it. I'm not going to lie, Harper did annoy me at times, but to be honest I felt like that made the story more compelling. My favorite character would probably be Lucy, just becasue she was the leader of the group trying to find herself and where she belonged.
Overall I really enjoyed the novel. It was paced really well, and there was balance in the book. There was a little bit of suspense, romance, crime, drama and comedy. And what I really enjoyed the most was probably that feeling when I got while reading it. I felt like I was in the novel, and on the wild learning experience with these girls. And as a reader, there's nothing else you could ask for.
While reading Keeping the Beat, I was an emotional wreck. It was so good. Every character in the book had their own story to tell. I really enjoyed how the authors intertwined all the characters lives together, and how the characters overcame a lot of the obstacles they faced together. The journey the 5 band mates went on was a real addictive story line.
Toni, Iza, Harper, Robyn and Lucy are 5 teenagers that form a band together. This story goes in depth about a couple of issues that teenagers face today; diet pills, alcohol abuse, love, heartbreak, media and how everyone's life is under the lens now with cameras and phones, and many more issues.
One thing that surprised me thought was how Harper had died. I did not expect it to end like that, at all. I really liked how the prologue was written about Harper's death. It hooked me the moment I read it. I'm not going to lie, Harper did annoy me at times, but to be honest I felt like that made the story more compelling. My favorite character would probably be Lucy, just becasue she was the leader of the group trying to find herself and where she belonged.
Overall I really enjoyed the novel. It was paced really well, and there was balance in the book. There was a little bit of suspense, romance, crime, drama and comedy. And what I really enjoyed the most was probably that feeling when I got while reading it. I felt like I was in the novel, and on the wild learning experience with these girls. And as a reader, there's nothing else you could ask for.
August 19, 2017
A book rockin with teenage exuberance, lots of drama and a surprising new direction.
June 20, 2015
So I won this on a goodreads giveaway and I'm really glad I did! This normally wouldn't have been a book I jumped up to buy, unfortunately.
However, I'm really shocked by how much I actually found myself enjoying this fast-paced, quick read! I admit because of my experience with pop-culture/talent show/fame/Hollywood books, I was already judging it. I thought it would be too sugary for my liking but oh it was dark! Not in an obvious way that makes it unenjoyable for people seeking a sweet tale, but still enough to make people like me happy.
It's about 5 girls who are form a band together and find that they're incredible and before they know it, they're off to Hollywood to live a life of fame etc. It's told mainly from the well-grounded of the group, Lucy, the drummer girl. But we get narratives from different characters too.
I liked Lucy. She was sensible and very caring. Compared to the other girls who all had major adventures with love, drugs, alcohol and men/boys, her adventure I thought was more music-based. She explored her talent with drumming whilst trying to keep the band together.
Iza would be my second favourite. She was cute and adorable and I found her innocence lovely.
Toni and Robyn were both interesting and they had much darker plots to deal with. I was terrified for them because they were flirting with something that you could easily lose control over.
Harper. I didn't really like her. I found her personality annoying because I've dealt with characters like her too much. But I understood her.
The side characters were interesting and some were vile but you have to read the book to work out why!
I'm really impressed with Bridget Tyler's characters. They came alive with each page and I found myself sympathising with them. Even when I didn't particularly like the character, I still understood them.
I liked the pacing. With a story like this, it's easy for the author to get sidetracked with too much focus on the celebrity glamour and name-dropping and I have seen it happen and that's what puts me off, but it wasn't the case here. I will say the first 80 pages or so are slow and you might be tempted to put the book away but keep reading and you'll find it hard to put it down!
I would love a sequel. I can definitely see it working out well with that ending. But hopefully if there is one, there would be less melodrama. I'm not a fan of too much teenage drama and there were some parts that wore me out and had me rolling my eyes. There was also a lot of dialogue, a little too much for me. And although I like Lucy's music-based journey, her own ending felt too rushed. I really really wanted more from her. She's the primary narrator, you would think she would get more of her own story other than being the band's caretaker!
Overall, impressive read! Thank you once again Goodreads and oh it was signed by the author! I recommend this to lovers of coming of age and YA contemporary.
However, I'm really shocked by how much I actually found myself enjoying this fast-paced, quick read! I admit because of my experience with pop-culture/talent show/fame/Hollywood books, I was already judging it. I thought it would be too sugary for my liking but oh it was dark! Not in an obvious way that makes it unenjoyable for people seeking a sweet tale, but still enough to make people like me happy.
It's about 5 girls who are form a band together and find that they're incredible and before they know it, they're off to Hollywood to live a life of fame etc. It's told mainly from the well-grounded of the group, Lucy, the drummer girl. But we get narratives from different characters too.
I liked Lucy. She was sensible and very caring. Compared to the other girls who all had major adventures with love, drugs, alcohol and men/boys, her adventure I thought was more music-based. She explored her talent with drumming whilst trying to keep the band together.
Iza would be my second favourite. She was cute and adorable and I found her innocence lovely.
Toni and Robyn were both interesting and they had much darker plots to deal with. I was terrified for them because they were flirting with something that you could easily lose control over.
Harper. I didn't really like her. I found her personality annoying because I've dealt with characters like her too much. But I understood her.
The side characters were interesting and some were vile but you have to read the book to work out why!
I'm really impressed with Bridget Tyler's characters. They came alive with each page and I found myself sympathising with them. Even when I didn't particularly like the character, I still understood them.
I liked the pacing. With a story like this, it's easy for the author to get sidetracked with too much focus on the celebrity glamour and name-dropping and I have seen it happen and that's what puts me off, but it wasn't the case here. I will say the first 80 pages or so are slow and you might be tempted to put the book away but keep reading and you'll find it hard to put it down!
I would love a sequel. I can definitely see it working out well with that ending. But hopefully if there is one, there would be less melodrama. I'm not a fan of too much teenage drama and there were some parts that wore me out and had me rolling my eyes. There was also a lot of dialogue, a little too much for me. And although I like Lucy's music-based journey, her own ending felt too rushed. I really really wanted more from her. She's the primary narrator, you would think she would get more of her own story other than being the band's caretaker!
Overall, impressive read! Thank you once again Goodreads and oh it was signed by the author! I recommend this to lovers of coming of age and YA contemporary.
July 15, 2014
When I read a YA that features a heavy dose of pop culture, I sometimes have mixed feelings - not because it's a a terrible subject to explore, not at all, in fact. More that I worry about the future. Mostly because I am a worrier in general, but also because I get all concerned about how relevant this is going to be in a few years time. But then, just as I started writing this review and waffling on about this, it dawned on me that reality telly isn't exactly a new phenomemon - how many years has The X Factor been with us? - so does that mean it's here to stay and that I am worrying about nothing? (probably). Anyway, my point in relation to Drummer Girl is that I shouldn't really be worrying at all. Because even though this book is full to the brim with pop culture and TV shenanigans, it embraces it and is all the better for that.
Saying the plot is fast-paced does not do it justice - within the space of a few chapters, friendships have been shattered and reformed, a band has been pulled together, we moved from London to LA and we haven't even begun to touch on the tales of romance, addiction, underdogs, and glamour. But what I loved about Drummer Girl the most was the girl that held it all together - friendship. Even though action was most definitely the key factor, this is a book about friends and I don't think there's enough YA books where this is the driving force behind the story. Romances are very much on the periphery and it was all the more refreshing because of that.
The one thing I wasn't too sure about was the inclusion of a certain scene right at the start of the book. I wasn't going to mention it but now I've just realised that it features in the synopsis so I'm not really spoiling anything. I still can't make up my mind whether my knowledge of Harper's fate was necessary - on the one hand, I was desperate to find out how it came about, but on the other, would I have preferred to see more a twist at the end? I'm still undecided. Anyway, the book doesn't necessarily suffer from it and it's an interesting way to structure the story. And another thing worth mentioning is the dialogue. Occasionally, when UK characters feature in US novels, they either talk like they've just stepped off the set of Mary Poppins or they sound like they're trying to channel their inner Jason Statham, but the exchanges between the girls here ring true.
This book is gloriously addictive. I was halfway through it when we were struck by a power cut and I had to turn our flat upside down looking for an industrial-sized torch because I couldn't see any of the pages by candlelight.
And I really wanted to see those pages.
This book was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Saying the plot is fast-paced does not do it justice - within the space of a few chapters, friendships have been shattered and reformed, a band has been pulled together, we moved from London to LA and we haven't even begun to touch on the tales of romance, addiction, underdogs, and glamour. But what I loved about Drummer Girl the most was the girl that held it all together - friendship. Even though action was most definitely the key factor, this is a book about friends and I don't think there's enough YA books where this is the driving force behind the story. Romances are very much on the periphery and it was all the more refreshing because of that.
The one thing I wasn't too sure about was the inclusion of a certain scene right at the start of the book. I wasn't going to mention it but now I've just realised that it features in the synopsis so I'm not really spoiling anything. I still can't make up my mind whether my knowledge of Harper's fate was necessary - on the one hand, I was desperate to find out how it came about, but on the other, would I have preferred to see more a twist at the end? I'm still undecided. Anyway, the book doesn't necessarily suffer from it and it's an interesting way to structure the story. And another thing worth mentioning is the dialogue. Occasionally, when UK characters feature in US novels, they either talk like they've just stepped off the set of Mary Poppins or they sound like they're trying to channel their inner Jason Statham, but the exchanges between the girls here ring true.
This book is gloriously addictive. I was halfway through it when we were struck by a power cut and I had to turn our flat upside down looking for an industrial-sized torch because I couldn't see any of the pages by candlelight.
And I really wanted to see those pages.
This book was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2013
I received this book through Goodreads First Read.
I really like these type of books that mixes music with things that you will usually see on reality tv.
At first, it started off with a girl lying dead floating in a pool and rewinds to the beginning when it all happened... 5 girls grouping together to form a group to compete in a tv singing competition.
Most of the time, the book was set in LA which is where finalists of the US and UK shows go and they have an amazing experience. From meeting idols to parties, it is very crazy and the reader will be in for a long, terrifying ride.
However, apart from the typical fancy stuff, love and carefree lifestyles that they seem to have... all 5 girls have problems. This book doesn't shy away from the dangers of fame, drugs, boys or men and a bit of alcohol.
One problem that I had with this book was that I didn't get a lot information from a particular character or event and it seemed quite quick and I had lots of questions in my head. For example, there is a scene when a couple kisses and it was a one time thing because of a decision but then, at the end, they suddenly get back together. I wanted more detail about the feelings they both felt etc etc...
Most of the girls get a happy ending at the end apart from the girl who is dead (obviously!) but there are still some things that need to be solved for me to be ready to put this book down and move on.
The book ends with a great ending that you would have wanted but it also has a cliffhanger-ish... Maybe the ending was hinting that there may be a sequel???
Maybe..... I mean it is not a fricking big cliffhanger but it is more of a girl threatening someone and you're like "I want to read what happens after but I can't because the book is ending...."
So yeah... I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it was probably aimed at girls my age and it is a lovely story about teenagers, music, fame, love and friendship. I urge everyone to at least give it a try and I also urge the author to write a sequel to this book, if she isn't already.
=)
I really like these type of books that mixes music with things that you will usually see on reality tv.
At first, it started off with a girl lying dead floating in a pool and rewinds to the beginning when it all happened... 5 girls grouping together to form a group to compete in a tv singing competition.
Most of the time, the book was set in LA which is where finalists of the US and UK shows go and they have an amazing experience. From meeting idols to parties, it is very crazy and the reader will be in for a long, terrifying ride.
However, apart from the typical fancy stuff, love and carefree lifestyles that they seem to have... all 5 girls have problems. This book doesn't shy away from the dangers of fame, drugs, boys or men and a bit of alcohol.
One problem that I had with this book was that I didn't get a lot information from a particular character or event and it seemed quite quick and I had lots of questions in my head. For example, there is a scene when a couple kisses and it was a one time thing because of a decision but then, at the end, they suddenly get back together. I wanted more detail about the feelings they both felt etc etc...
Most of the girls get a happy ending at the end apart from the girl who is dead (obviously!) but there are still some things that need to be solved for me to be ready to put this book down and move on.
The book ends with a great ending that you would have wanted but it also has a cliffhanger-ish... Maybe the ending was hinting that there may be a sequel???
Maybe..... I mean it is not a fricking big cliffhanger but it is more of a girl threatening someone and you're like "I want to read what happens after but I can't because the book is ending...."
So yeah... I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it was probably aimed at girls my age and it is a lovely story about teenagers, music, fame, love and friendship. I urge everyone to at least give it a try and I also urge the author to write a sequel to this book, if she isn't already.
=)
May 5, 2013
'Drummer Girl' author, Bridget Tyler, has written a fast-paced and enjoyable read about a group of girls who form a band and try to make it big in the spotlight of Los Angeles. I enjoyed it a lot more than I originally thought and the ending leaves me hope that there might be a sequel somewhere down the line.
The story opens with the shocking death of Harper McKenzie, one of the members of the band. This grabbed my attention immediately and left me guessing all the way through the book about who could have killed her. It also meant that I was suspicious of everyone - even if they did seem really nice. The action then jumps to 8 months earlier when we get to see the events leading up to her death.
The narrative is shared out between each of the girls in the band which I enjoyed because although they are on a journey to fame and fortune together, each girl has a different challenge to face and overcome. My favourite characters were Lucy and Iza. Lucy is the most central character in the book and the 'drummer girl' of the title. She tries to keep everything and everyone together while temptation is continually put in front of them. She has however disobeyed her parents by going to LA against their wishes and faces a lot of pressure from different directions. She is probably the most likable of all the girls and the most grounded but has boy problems to deal with too.
The book is about the reality of fame and fortune and shows all the behind the scenes goings-on that happen to the band. It's not all fantastic parties and free clothes and there is a price to pay for everything. It focuses on the dark underbelly of a life led in the spotlight and how this affects each of the girls. 'Drummer Girl' is perfect for fans of reality shows and the music world and I think will appeal enormously to today's generation of teens.
The story opens with the shocking death of Harper McKenzie, one of the members of the band. This grabbed my attention immediately and left me guessing all the way through the book about who could have killed her. It also meant that I was suspicious of everyone - even if they did seem really nice. The action then jumps to 8 months earlier when we get to see the events leading up to her death.
The narrative is shared out between each of the girls in the band which I enjoyed because although they are on a journey to fame and fortune together, each girl has a different challenge to face and overcome. My favourite characters were Lucy and Iza. Lucy is the most central character in the book and the 'drummer girl' of the title. She tries to keep everything and everyone together while temptation is continually put in front of them. She has however disobeyed her parents by going to LA against their wishes and faces a lot of pressure from different directions. She is probably the most likable of all the girls and the most grounded but has boy problems to deal with too.
The book is about the reality of fame and fortune and shows all the behind the scenes goings-on that happen to the band. It's not all fantastic parties and free clothes and there is a price to pay for everything. It focuses on the dark underbelly of a life led in the spotlight and how this affects each of the girls. 'Drummer Girl' is perfect for fans of reality shows and the music world and I think will appeal enormously to today's generation of teens.
November 6, 2016
This book had a very current theme - the test of relationships under the stress of a reality show band competition. I love the raw and direct style of writing - it does away with conventional rules and almost comes across like journal writing. The use of a track list formatted like a cd insert or playbill was awesome! I love the collaboration of a male and female author - it balanced out the angst in the story, and took care of all relationship angles.
Overall, wonderful tone, characterization and plot. Since I had already suspended my traditional expectations of editing from page one, I was able to free myself to be totally immersed in the story!
Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
Overall, wonderful tone, characterization and plot. Since I had already suspended my traditional expectations of editing from page one, I was able to free myself to be totally immersed in the story!
Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
February 7, 2017
Mostly following the four girls of a UK band as they form, enter a multi-national televised contest, ultimately win the UK section and are whisked off to LA for two months to live the dream as they compete in the finals.
Young and naive, these girls have no idea what this lifestyle entails, but the authors do. Told very believably and dealing with some very sensitive topics (drugs, under-aged drinking) this weaves the four girls' lives together, building them up and knocking them down, but these girls keep being there for each other.
I really can't recommend this book enough. It's one part cautionary tail, one part coming of age.
Young and naive, these girls have no idea what this lifestyle entails, but the authors do. Told very believably and dealing with some very sensitive topics (drugs, under-aged drinking) this weaves the four girls' lives together, building them up and knocking them down, but these girls keep being there for each other.
I really can't recommend this book enough. It's one part cautionary tail, one part coming of age.
June 25, 2017
This was a Goodreads giveaway win.
Though I must admit this book contained every cliche surrounding a band, the book was enthralling. I was interested through the entire book and there was always another twist that I wasn't expecting to come up. The basic plot is about a girl band who forms simply to win a television talent competition. Each girl has their own reason for joining, but new friendships are formed as the plot thickens. As I said, there were the expected cliches: drugs, sex scandals, lost loves, etc. but though they were important to the plot, they didn't take over. Keeping the Beat was definitely worth reading and I would recommend.
Though I must admit this book contained every cliche surrounding a band, the book was enthralling. I was interested through the entire book and there was always another twist that I wasn't expecting to come up. The basic plot is about a girl band who forms simply to win a television talent competition. Each girl has their own reason for joining, but new friendships are formed as the plot thickens. As I said, there were the expected cliches: drugs, sex scandals, lost loves, etc. but though they were important to the plot, they didn't take over. Keeping the Beat was definitely worth reading and I would recommend.
July 30, 2020
Avec un roman qui a comme sujet un groupe de cinq adolescentes qui forment un groupe rock et qui gagnent un concours, normalement ça devrait parler de musique, au moins un peu, non ? Ben non. Les auteurs font des sauts dans le temps pour esquiver toutes les scènes où il est question du concours, des répétitions et de l'écriture des chansons pour se concentrer sur les séances d'essayage de vêtements, les partys d'après shows et les drames que vivent chacune des filles. J'ai presque abandonné ma lecture plusieurs fois mais comme on nous avait promis un meurtre au début, je voulais savoir qui l'avait commis.
J'aurais pas dû.
J'aurais pas dû.
May 27, 2017
I received this book in exchange for a review. I loved this book. I couldn't put it down or stop talking about it. I felt like I was experiencing life with each of the characters - all of the excitement and panic, falling in love. The twists kept me drawn in and the plot twists kept me wanting more. I was on an emotional roller coaster with my heart overflowing with happiness and then my eyes beginning to tear up. This book is highly recommended.
June 19, 2017
Five girls who should have the summer of their lives, until tragedy strikes. Fame, love, friends, and the band. From reality TV to the reality of life.
I won an advanced reading copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am donating it to a senior assisted living facility.
I won an advanced reading copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am donating it to a senior assisted living facility.
March 27, 2013
A great read...would make a super TV show
June 18, 2013
A good fast paced book with plenty of characters but not too many to get confused. It hooks you from the start and makes you not want to put it down. All in all a very good read.
August 6, 2020
A good book that has a few twists but puts a little perspective on life and has an interesting story plot.
August 10, 2017
*Very grateful for winning a copy of this book in a goodreads giveaway.
If I could give 3.5 stars I would, but as it is I rounded down. If you want to be technical, I'm not in the age target range of this book, but I usually read a lot of YA books and many of my favourite books are actually YA books.
Let me start by saying that I really liked the writing style. I thought it flowed well and the dialogue was really natural. The overall plot was great; nothing was rushed and everything was fleshed out nicely, there was plenty of things going on (never a dull moment), and the plot twists were A+ (The shock of finding out who actually shot Harper though!!!) The characters are where things start to go downhill for me. First of all, the way that the different perspectives were organized kind of confused me a little (It would go from Lucy to Harper to Skye to Iza to Cesar to Robyn, etc. from one paragraph to the next). I didn't really like Harper, but I didn't want her to be shot. I wasn't a fan of how she basically did everything with the intention of getting Rafe back, even though he had a girlfriend at the time. Lucy sometimes irritated me because she seemed so naive at times and we heard from her a lot because she was somewhat of a main character/narrator.
Overall: This is a really good debut book. The writing style is great, it's engaging, the pacing is good, and the plot twists are surprising. The characters needs some work, but it's still a good book. I don't think I'd ever reread it, but I can't say I didn't like it.
If I could give 3.5 stars I would, but as it is I rounded down. If you want to be technical, I'm not in the age target range of this book, but I usually read a lot of YA books and many of my favourite books are actually YA books.
Let me start by saying that I really liked the writing style. I thought it flowed well and the dialogue was really natural. The overall plot was great; nothing was rushed and everything was fleshed out nicely, there was plenty of things going on (never a dull moment), and the plot twists were A+ (The shock of finding out who actually shot Harper though!!!) The characters are where things start to go downhill for me. First of all, the way that the different perspectives were organized kind of confused me a little (It would go from Lucy to Harper to Skye to Iza to Cesar to Robyn, etc. from one paragraph to the next). I didn't really like Harper, but I didn't want her to be shot. I wasn't a fan of how she basically did everything with the intention of getting Rafe back, even though he had a girlfriend at the time. Lucy sometimes irritated me because she seemed so naive at times and we heard from her a lot because she was somewhat of a main character/narrator.
Overall: This is a really good debut book. The writing style is great, it's engaging, the pacing is good, and the plot twists are surprising. The characters needs some work, but it's still a good book. I don't think I'd ever reread it, but I can't say I didn't like it.
June 24, 2017
Read my full review at Random Thoughts of a Book Nerd
my link text
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads Giveaways.
This book focuses on a group of teen girls that come together to form a band to compete in a reality show. If they win this show they would be able to go on an international world tour. But first, they have to go to LA to compete in the semifinals for the reality show. Their rock band ends up being a big success and as these girls encounter the fame of reality t.v. they face many obstacles. The secrets they keep and the troubles they encounter allow this book to show the reality of fame.
Lucy Gosling, the drummer of the band is the main focus of this book, but it is told in alternating points of view. While I was reading this book, it was hard to keep track of what character was talking because you weren’t given a heads-up of who was talking. Though the different points of view were confusing at times, the different views of the other characters were refreshing and insightful.
Altogether, this book didn’t seem to really flow. The alternating points of view made it hard to keep track of which band member was which and what problems they were currently. Not only that but at certain points, Lucy seemed to be too naive to be where she was.
Even though the different points of view were thoroughly confusing, I thought it was interesting to see the pressure that was placed upon the characters as they faced fame and I can definitely say that the twists in this book made it an interesting read.
my link text
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads Giveaways.
This book focuses on a group of teen girls that come together to form a band to compete in a reality show. If they win this show they would be able to go on an international world tour. But first, they have to go to LA to compete in the semifinals for the reality show. Their rock band ends up being a big success and as these girls encounter the fame of reality t.v. they face many obstacles. The secrets they keep and the troubles they encounter allow this book to show the reality of fame.
Lucy Gosling, the drummer of the band is the main focus of this book, but it is told in alternating points of view. While I was reading this book, it was hard to keep track of what character was talking because you weren’t given a heads-up of who was talking. Though the different points of view were confusing at times, the different views of the other characters were refreshing and insightful.
Altogether, this book didn’t seem to really flow. The alternating points of view made it hard to keep track of which band member was which and what problems they were currently. Not only that but at certain points, Lucy seemed to be too naive to be where she was.
Even though the different points of view were thoroughly confusing, I thought it was interesting to see the pressure that was placed upon the characters as they faced fame and I can definitely say that the twists in this book made it an interesting read.
August 10, 2017
3.5 stars
This book reminded me of that episode of Saved By the Bell where the Zack Attack band discovers fame and fortune and then it all comes crashing down. In Keeping the Beat, a group of five teenage girls form a band and within months are apparently good enough to win the Project Next reality tv contest in England and are invited to compete for the top title in the United States. While in LA, the girls start to enjoy the showbiz life a little too much and soon the band's chances of success are threatened. There's also little bit of mystery going on because within the first few pages of the novel, you find out that one of girls, Harper, will wind up dead in 8 months.
I think this book is a fun read if you don't take it too seriously. There's some ridiculous stuff going on including having to accept the fact this band is so amazingly talented despite not having much experience. And there's a few situations when you can't help but think in real life that would never happen. But if you can go with the flow and not over analyze, it's an enjoyable read. I do think though, that the book could have been improved if it eliminated the character of Toni. Her storyline was the weakest and there were already too many other characters in the book.
I received a free copy of this book from Kids Can Press but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinions.
This book reminded me of that episode of Saved By the Bell where the Zack Attack band discovers fame and fortune and then it all comes crashing down. In Keeping the Beat, a group of five teenage girls form a band and within months are apparently good enough to win the Project Next reality tv contest in England and are invited to compete for the top title in the United States. While in LA, the girls start to enjoy the showbiz life a little too much and soon the band's chances of success are threatened. There's also little bit of mystery going on because within the first few pages of the novel, you find out that one of girls, Harper, will wind up dead in 8 months.
I think this book is a fun read if you don't take it too seriously. There's some ridiculous stuff going on including having to accept the fact this band is so amazingly talented despite not having much experience. And there's a few situations when you can't help but think in real life that would never happen. But if you can go with the flow and not over analyze, it's an enjoyable read. I do think though, that the book could have been improved if it eliminated the character of Toni. Her storyline was the weakest and there were already too many other characters in the book.
I received a free copy of this book from Kids Can Press but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinions.
January 4, 2018
2.5 stars? - I received this book from a Goodreads Giveaway and I am very grateful for getting it, thanks! I thought the blurb sounded interesting and a little more on the adult side with twists and turns and talk of murder but it really isn't. The ARC says it is for 13-18 years so to be fair I am definitely not the target audience at 35. Still, we all can fall for some YA these days and some of them can be classic regardless of age. That said, this one is really for a younger audience. The story itself is ok but the characters are pretty superficial and stereotypical. I think giggling is the most commonly used word in the book. I think the book also suffers a bit from trying to throw in just too many teenager topics (drugs, sex, eating disorders, disobeying your parents, friendship trouble). It is not a bad book at all, just maybe a bit cheesy, made for tv movie type of thing. I guess it doesn't have a feeling of a story that really gets teenagers but wants to teach you lessons and talks about them from an outsider perspective. Anyway, I will put this one into the little free library by the school where it will hopefully find a more appreciative audience.
June 27, 2017
I haven't read a YA novel in a while, but kind of missed that genre so was looking forward to diving in again with this book. There's a lot going on here. The five female teens that make up the girl band at the center of the book get into all kinds of trouble teens tend to get into (i.e. drugs, bulimia, too much drinking, etc.). Overall, though, there's just too much. Lucy, the main character throughout the book, is a little too good to be true, as is her ending. There were also times where I feel like the reader missed out on things, like learning more about the reality show part of everything, or following the band right after their formation. But it was an enjoyable enough read the kept me going to find out what would happen to everyone.
December 24, 2017
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. Starting with the good. Lucy is a cute character. The story was easy to follow. Unfortunately this just wasn't my kind of read. I found all the other characters stereotypical. The idea that a rock band that amazing could form within months, all out of the same school, seemed improbable. It was a quick and easy read but I didn't get into it. Had it finished with the murder it may have been more shocking. The book was ok but it was my first time reading about rock stars so maybe I am not the best judge.
May 19, 2017
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I'm not really the target audience, but I do read a lot of YA novels, and if I'm being honest, this was definitely not a favorite. It kind of felt like a Disney Channel fanfiction with a healthy dose of Pretty Little Liars stirred in. A couple of the characters were so similar I had a hard time keeping them straight, and I had to keep flipping back to remember who was who. The story in general is interesting enough, but the writing is definitely not the strongest I've seen in the YA genre. I got through it, but I wouldn't be tempted to read it again.
I'm not really the target audience, but I do read a lot of YA novels, and if I'm being honest, this was definitely not a favorite. It kind of felt like a Disney Channel fanfiction with a healthy dose of Pretty Little Liars stirred in. A couple of the characters were so similar I had a hard time keeping them straight, and I had to keep flipping back to remember who was who. The story in general is interesting enough, but the writing is definitely not the strongest I've seen in the YA genre. I got through it, but I wouldn't be tempted to read it again.
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