Strings of the Muse

by Kristi Ayers

After rescuing a fellow college student from threatening weather, Max, a singer for a campus rock band, finds he wants to know more about the girl, whose haunting beauty and sad demeanor appear to be hiding secrets. Losing his father destroyed Adam, causing him to drink to numb his pain, until one day he sees his high school crush at the campus coffee shop, making him wonder if second chances were fatefully possible. Holland wants to focus solely on her violin and college courses, but playing one song in front of two best friends opens more than just a door; it opens two hearts and a tidal wave of emotions. Can three college students learn the power of letting go and allowing the strings of life to guide them in the right direction? Find out in Strings of the Muse.

243 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 26, 2019

About the author

Kristi Ayers is the author of One Petal Flower, Nev, Irresistible (a novella), Strings of the Muse, and Falling in the Blue Hour. She lives in Oklahoma with her husband, kids, and pets. When she isn't writing she is working as a Registered Nurse in the NICU or traveling.

Reviews

[Coco.V]

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[Anna Theurer (Anna's Bookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strings of the Muse is a well written NA college romance that will draw you in immediately from the first page. The author has created three beautifully flawed characters who have all been hurt due to major life events and while each enlist different coping mechanisms, the one thing they all have in common is the music is running through their veins.

I love how Holland was such a kindhearted heroine and I could feel how conflicted she felt at times. Max’s rocker vibe and his steadfast loyalty towards his friends were endearing. Adam pulled at my heartstrings as he struggled to conquer his own demons. I enjoyed watching how all three characters matured and evolved as the story progressed. There was a moment where I wasn’t sure if I liked the direction the story was going in, but the author took the Max, Adam, and Holland on such an amazing journey and the ending was positively perfect.

This book is a relatively quick read that moved at a good pace, had just the right amount of angst, and wonderfully incorporated music into the backdrop of the story. This is my book by this author and I am looking forward to reading more of her works.

[Mandy Reads Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

STRINGS OF THE MUSE tugged at the strings of my heart in all the right ways. What I loved most about the story, was something I wasn’t too sure of at first. You see, there was 3 POVs. And with the way the story was starting out, I was sure I would hate reading 3 different takes. But honestly, it had me loving the story even more. We got 3 different stories and it absolutely made the book extra special and the characters even more so. In the end, I was happy to see a certain character got his happily ever after too. 5 Stars!

[Natalie Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I used to read alot of YA romance but never enjoyed any. This book changed that for me.

I majorly enjoyed this story. It's a YA romance set in college and it involves three main characters. Max Adam and Holland.

The way it's written is amazing and you can feel what the characters are feeling.

Highly recommend

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good read. I thought it had a good story and I liked how the characters developed throughout it.

[Sharing My Book Boyfriends · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much! I loved the connection between Max, Holland, and Adam. Adam and Holland both had problems they struggled with, especially Adam. Max is a loyal friend to Adam. Holland knew the old Adam, and is beginning to reconnect with him again, and is also bonding with her new friend, Max. Holland is conflicted about her feelings for both Max and Adam, but who is she meant to be with? I look forward to hopefully reading more about these characters.

[Sharon Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me back to college and I was able to place myself directly into the setting and immerse myself into the story as it unfolded. First and foremost, this book had wonderfully inspiring character growth and was beautifully written. I had to know what happened next for each character. They each had a past that shaped them into who they are today, and one in particular, Adam, displayed the most character development, which I love to read in books and see in movies. In short (but not to give anything away), Adam fell for Holland back in high school when they both were in Orchestra. She shows up on the college campus he currently attends, her major being in Music. He hadn't seen her since he moved away after sophomore year because something tragic had happened in his family. His feelings come back full force when he sees her again, feelings she had no idea he even had in high school. After getting reacquainted with Adam, Holland is over at his place when the rest of his campus rock band gets there. She meets Max and Douglas and is invited to stay for their practice session. Max notices immediately that the beautiful girl in Adam's house is the very one he helped out one day when she appeared scared and frozen under a tree as a big storm was about to hit the campus. He hadn't stopped thinking about her since. And he was wondering exactly how Adam knew her. (Max and Adam have been friends since Adam started attending his high school. Douglas was part of the friend trio and I must also mention how loveable Douglas was as a supporting character.) Two best friends, one girl, and a common love of music. What drama could possibly happen? A lot apparently! A definite must read.

[Christy Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was thrilled to have an advance copy of Strings of the Muse, the latest novel by author Kristi Ayers. I was a huge fan of her first book (and still my fave) One Petal Flower. However, her latest story is just as captivating; a college romance mixed with plenty of angst. Once again, the author focuses on complex young adult emotions and weaves a tale of love, loss, and drama, which results in an ending that doesn’t disappoint.

Strings of the Muse revolves around three college kids, each with baggage that they still need to come to terms with. Holland is the main female character— a positive vibe in the story and no pushover, which I really liked. She is a talented violinist with a heart of gold. Max is a great guy, loyal and sweet. He’s also devoted to his music yet he’s totally falling for Holland. He’s not the kind of guy to take his feelings lightly, but his insecure nature when it comes to Holland holds him back. Lastly, we have Adam, the moody alcoholic, who is the opposite of Max. Adam realizes he still carries a torch for Holland that dates all the way back to their high school days. For me personally, the author does a good job of making me dislike Adam’s player attitude and his wishy-washy feelings. I understand that Adam has a troubled past, so I tried to cut him some slack and sympathize. On the other hand, he does have a humorous side to him that provides some funny moments! Ultimately, I really enjoyed the Max character the most. He grabbed my interest right away and I was constantly rooting for him.

With modern depictions of campus life, entertaining secondary characters and the right doses of romance and conflict, Strings of the Muse is an awesome read that I recommend to all YA and NA fans!

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not everything is as it appears.

Holland is now at college to study music. What she didn't bargain for was meeting Max and Douglas. Or running into a ghost from her past - Adam. She clicks with them all because of their band. Max and Holland develope a quick friendship, that inches towards romance. What about her past with Adam or lack thereof. He's posturing and letting her know, he wants her. Is Holland mature enough to realize the red flags? Or will she fall under his spell of lies and destruction?

Adam looks at Holland as a memory of his past, when things were okay. Before the rug was torn out from underneath him. He has to have her. At any cost. Not even his friendship with Max can keep her away. Not realizing how messed up he is, he goes hard. Will he rise to the occasion or will he crash and burn?

Max watches from afar, pining away. He is to shy to make a move on Holland. He wants too, but he won't. Yet, he'll be there to pick up any pieces that Adam creates. It's always been that way, even in high school. Doesn't Max know, good guys, finish last?

What I liked about the book, the dynamic with the love triangle. Doug was the only smart one in the book. He played video games and focused on it.

what I didn't care for - Adam annoyed me, so did Holland. The first guy to show her any attention she is ready to bed. C'mon. Max was a pushover. There is NO way I would have waited around until Adam screwed up. Nope. Not my MO.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good, fast paced story which is a N/A college romance. This story revolves around 3 characters, which are Max; Holland, and Adam, as each of them are flawed. My heart broke for Adam as he struggled to conquer his demons. This is a well written story which had me intrigued and hooked throughout, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Holland, a music major, reunites with Adam (a previous schoolmate) when she arrives on campus for her junior year of college. He isn’t anything like she remembered him and invites her to his band’s practice session. Adam’s best friend Max takes a shine to Holland, and things pick up from there. Max’s kind heart wooed me, and Adam annoyed the hell out of me... but read it and you can decide for yourself.

[Joleen Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story jumps right in. It’s a little hard to follow in the first part but soon draws you in with the drama of the triangle. I didn’t know who I wanted Holland with. The author pulls you back and forth in a good way. It was fast paced enough to keep you into it but not too fast to where you felt rushed.

[AmyLynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great YA read. It has a great story line that kept me turning the pages and wanted to know what happened next. Great Character development throughout the book. I enjoyed this book very much.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good fast paced college romance that revolves around 3 main characters Holland, Max and Adam. The story is full of drama, angst and struggles, particularly for Adam. This was an intriguing story and well written and developed. The plot was excellent and highly enjoyable and very entertaining.

[Lisa Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great fast paced story were we hear from 3 characters that are flawed and have their own struggles to overcome and some of it is heartbreaking.This was a great story full of drama, angst that keeps you involved in the story and called Your attention to see what's next.

[Chasity Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adam and Holland went to high school together, Adam had a crush on Holland.
Holland is a college student and plays violin. Adam is in a band and grieving his dad's death. Max and Douglas are in the band as well. Holland and Max click really but Adam is wanting a chance with Holland. Alot of conflict, drama and a love triangle. Who will end up together? Will the band be torn apart because of Holland?

[Lizzi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A first read for me from this author. Written from 3 points of view, this story keeps you on your toes. Set in college with wonderful deep characters this story has everything you could possibly want in a YA novel!! A fantastic read!!

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read..twists I didnt see coming..good characters

[evieo17 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first read from this author and I enjoyed very much.

[Leah Blanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what a power story I loved it so much and can't wait for more to come

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book totally blind. I didnt read the blurb and I had no idea who the author was. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I truly enjoyed this story and the characters.
There is so much in this book, from one extreme to the next. Happiness, heartbreak, love and friendships lost. Each part makes you fall in love with the story and book a little bit more until your fully enthralled in every little thing.
Adam, Max and Holland are all tied to each other,past for some, present for others. Their friendship is tested at all levels in this crazy, intense, sweet book.
While away at school, they all meet. Holland and Adam had met previously in high school. And Max, a member of a band with Adam.
While this isn't your typical rockstar romance, it does have some of that in there as well. It truly has a bit of something for everyone. I really wished this book had a few more chapters. It was sooooo good. I'm glad I took the chance on this one. It's been such a great book to read. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
5/5. Dont miss out on it.

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing book to read i couldn't put it down
i highly recommended it
its a really good book to read

[Jacqui Norris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first read from Kristi Ayers and it won't be my last. The author brought to life a story about finding out who you are and what is important. It follows Adam, Max, and Holland. Max and Adam are bandmates and Holland is the crush Adam had in high school. The story was well written and not full of angsty college brooding. It showed friends loyal to each despite their love for the same girl. The ending surprised me but also made me wish it hadn't ended. This is a must read.

[Bookish · Rating 3 out of 5]

Entertaining and interesting. This is an opposites attract read that doesn't disappoint.

[Jenna]

Rtc will be posted on the blogs profile

[Natalie Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading a book from author Kristi Ayers , but after reading this, it definitely WON'T be my last!!
What a great story about the lives of three souls who are all a little broken. All three are are musicians and attending college, but all is not what it seems!
This story will have you second guessing everything, and falling in love with them all!!!

[Lisa Marie Barrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! STRINGS OF THE MUSE by Kristi Ayers Blew Me Away!! And she is a New Author for me!!
Three college students find themselves in a Tumble Weed of Sorts and never a Dull moment page after page.
Max a singer in a band, finds himself intrigued by a young girl lost her thoughts and unaware of her surrounding. And more determined to figure out her Story.
Holland struggling the life of a college student who her love of her violin has her questioning whether or not pursuing music is the right direction. Then bumping into a old high school student Adam which surprisingly she does not recognize.
Adam whose had his fair share of unfortunate events in his life time growing up, finds light at the end of the tunnel when he is so excited to see Holland sitting in a coffee shop when he walks in.

These three characters all meet together in the unexpected way which takes you into their world. Their banter between the three characters keeps you on your toes and wanna know what was going to happen next. Then you throw in a four member into their group Douglas and you WILL NOT want to put THIS BOOK Down!!
STRINGS OF THE MUSE is Beautifully Written and such a Rollercoaster ride of TWISTS AND TURNS INTO the UNKNOWN! And times I wanted to Throw my Tablet across the room for the characters mindsets especially Adam with his selfish ways but I am Not Going to Spoil anything for you since it is so Captivating from the Start and heartbreaking drama.
Definitely Must Read Book with its Dark and Entertaining secrets!! 🎻🎻🎻🎻🎻
CANNOT WAIT TO read more into Her WORLD of WORDS!!

[Susan Homan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strings of the Muse

This is my first read by Kristi Ayers, and I will be reading more of her work. I went into this with no expectactions, and I have to say I was blown away by the story line. The characters and plot drew me in from the beginning and had me captivated so that I kept reading. It is told from multiple POV's and I think that helps you get a feel for the characters and what is happening. They are all in college. Holland is studying music and plays the violin. She does not like storms due to something tragic that happened in her life. Max finds her paralyzed under a tree, and he is able to walk her to her dorm (his dorm as well). He is at once drawn to her, and wants to know more about her. Adam is in a band with Max and Douglas, but knows Holland from his first high school. He invites her to watch his band, and Max is surprised to see his mystery girl there. From the start, you can tell that Adam and Max are both wanting this girl. This book deals with many things and how you are affected by them - death, alcoholism to name a few. Also you see how one person is giving and forgiving and another only thinks of themselves. I really enjoyed the book, and the whole dynamic. I loved all of the characters and would love another book that focuses on different ones or what happens several years from now. The ending really tied everything together.

[Lisa Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I took a chance on this book not knowing this author. I love music so that peaked my curiosity. I'm glad it did. There's so much going on in this story that it keeps you reading. About young college kids learning how to overcome past experiences in their life. Holland, Adam, Max and Doug all have music in common. Adam and Holland already knew of each other in the past but never connected until a chance run in at college. One of them is selfish, one is tired of being used, one is devoted while one is blind sided. Friendships are tested, love and heartache is happening. It's a great story and you hear about this stuff all the time actually. I really enjoyed this book.

[Shelly Wygant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three people who have a passion for music. One who wants to focus on her music, one who see the girl for who she is and one who is running from his past. Three very different people are drawn together.

This was an emotional read. Each person is facing their own demons. As each of the three try to help each other it causes each other heartache and happiness.

This is a read that will have your emotions on high alert. As the story unfolds I was praying for one thins but when it didn't happen it was heartbreaking. It certainly keeps you on the edge of your seat. Each character has flaws that will leaving you feeling for them.