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Boy Band #1
Boy Band
*Young Adult Fiction*
Sam Morneau is Melissa Parker’s best friend. He’s also a member of The Kind of September, basically the hottest boy band on the planet.
After two and a half years, Mel is all too familiar with the day-to-day occurrences that come with being a member of the band’s inner circle, including hectic schedules, passionate fans, and gossip-mongering celebrity girlfriends.
Now, with the release of the group’s third album just weeks away, their lives have never been crazier and Mel is doing everything she can to keep up, all the while trying to cope with the ridiculous rumors that follow the band everywhere they go and pretending that she isn’t harboring a secret and hopeless crush on Sam.
It’s weird enough being in love with your best friend. It’s even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too.
Sam Morneau is Melissa Parker’s best friend. He’s also a member of The Kind of September, basically the hottest boy band on the planet.
After two and a half years, Mel is all too familiar with the day-to-day occurrences that come with being a member of the band’s inner circle, including hectic schedules, passionate fans, and gossip-mongering celebrity girlfriends.
Now, with the release of the group’s third album just weeks away, their lives have never been crazier and Mel is doing everything she can to keep up, all the while trying to cope with the ridiculous rumors that follow the band everywhere they go and pretending that she isn’t harboring a secret and hopeless crush on Sam.
It’s weird enough being in love with your best friend. It’s even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too.
196 pages, Paperback
First published March 26, 2015
29 people are currently reading
1098 people want to read
About the author
Jacqueline E. Smith
44 books309 followersI Love books, cats, and BTS.
https://linktr.ee/jacquelie
https://linktr.ee/jacquelie
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
April 24, 2015
I had to rate my own book in order to add it to Listopia. I do give it five stars though. Because I wrote it.
June 21, 2018
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I wasn’t expecting much from this, but it was really good.
So first off, I just loved that the band was from the Bay Area because that’s where I’m from.
From the moment I started reading this, I was hooked on the writing style. There was just something about it that was so easy. It felt like Melissa was talking to me. It was very conversational.
I also loved the inclusion of the song lyrics that the author wrote for this book. It gave you a good sense of what the boy band sang about. I have to applaud the author for writing some pretty good lyrics because I could never do that in a million years.
Character wise, I loved Melissa. I related a lot to her, especially when it came to young adult fiction. Like her, I love to read YA books and have read my fair share of Meg Cabot books. At one point Melissa states, “The others like to make fun of my young adult literature addiction, but hey, at least I read” (49). We also both pick Ringo as our favorite Beatle because of his personality.
The rest of the characters were great as well, especially Joni and Oliver. I loved Joni because she was so fierce and protective of the boys. Oliver was so lovable because he’s British (enough said). The other bandmates were cool as well, and as a whole, they reminded me of One Direction (which is totally a good thing because 1D is one of my favorite boy bands).
The ending was quite the cliffhanger and definitely makes you want to read the next book.
Overall, if you are looking for fun and fast YA read that will tide you over until One Direction inevitably gets back together, then consider picking up this book.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I wasn’t expecting much from this, but it was really good.
So first off, I just loved that the band was from the Bay Area because that’s where I’m from.
From the moment I started reading this, I was hooked on the writing style. There was just something about it that was so easy. It felt like Melissa was talking to me. It was very conversational.
I also loved the inclusion of the song lyrics that the author wrote for this book. It gave you a good sense of what the boy band sang about. I have to applaud the author for writing some pretty good lyrics because I could never do that in a million years.
Character wise, I loved Melissa. I related a lot to her, especially when it came to young adult fiction. Like her, I love to read YA books and have read my fair share of Meg Cabot books. At one point Melissa states, “The others like to make fun of my young adult literature addiction, but hey, at least I read” (49). We also both pick Ringo as our favorite Beatle because of his personality.
The rest of the characters were great as well, especially Joni and Oliver. I loved Joni because she was so fierce and protective of the boys. Oliver was so lovable because he’s British (enough said). The other bandmates were cool as well, and as a whole, they reminded me of One Direction (which is totally a good thing because 1D is one of my favorite boy bands).
The ending was quite the cliffhanger and definitely makes you want to read the next book.
Overall, if you are looking for fun and fast YA read that will tide you over until One Direction inevitably gets back together, then consider picking up this book.
August 22, 2018
Thank you Jacqueline for allowing me to read your book in exchange for my honest opinion. And that opinion was...this was so much fun! A cute, quick read. I loved everyone in the group and especially the friends to lover storyline. Tara is awful. It had all the necessary parts to a great book. I hope to read the others soon!
October 2, 2015
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
4.5/5 stars
This was a really cute story. I really liked Melissa because I could relate to her in so many ways. Sam was a giant sweetheart and I can see why people love him. I kind of knew where the story was going from the beginning, which I didn't mind. I just wish there was more at the end. I really loved the story overall.
I think everyone should read Jacqueline's work! She is freaking amazingly talented!
4.5/5 stars
This was a really cute story. I really liked Melissa because I could relate to her in so many ways. Sam was a giant sweetheart and I can see why people love him. I kind of knew where the story was going from the beginning, which I didn't mind. I just wish there was more at the end. I really loved the story overall.
I think everyone should read Jacqueline's work! She is freaking amazingly talented!
July 9, 2016
Thank you to the author, Jacqueline E. Smith, for sending me a copy of Boy Band to review. This in no way swayed my opinions of this book.
Blurb:
Sam Morneau is Melissa Parker’s best friend. He’s also a member of The Kind of September, basically the hottest boy band on the planet.
After two and a half years, Mel is all too familiar with the day-to-day occurrences that come with being a member of the band’s inner circle, including hectic schedules, passionate fans, and gossip-mongering celebrity girlfriends.
Now, with the release of the group’s third album just weeks away, their lives have never been crazier and Mel is doing everything she can to keep up, all the while trying to cope with the ridiculous rumors that follow the band everywhere they go and pretending that she isn’t harboring a secret and hopeless crush on Sam.
It’s weird enough being in love with your best friend. It’s even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too.
My review:
I have fallen in love with fictional boys before, but never a fictional band!
This was such a fun short read! I don't read many books like this, so it was refreshing to just have fun with it & not worry too much of the world building & things that come with longer books.
I love how much I loved & related to Mel. I was rooting for her the whole time! Mel also has me wishing I knew a boyband.
I can't say anything negative about this book because I was having so much fun reading it. One of my favorite things about this book was learning about the personalities of each of the boys. Throughout the book I kept debating on which The Kind of September boy I would like. At this point I can't decide between Oilver, Sam, and Josh!
Overall, I was engaged the whole time throughout the book. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is obsessed with boybands, kind of like me, or is looking for a fun short read.
I can't wait to dive into Backstage, especially since there was a cliff hanger on the last page!
Sincerely The Kind of September's biggest fan,
Maddie Morneau/Berkley/Scott
Blurb:
Sam Morneau is Melissa Parker’s best friend. He’s also a member of The Kind of September, basically the hottest boy band on the planet.
After two and a half years, Mel is all too familiar with the day-to-day occurrences that come with being a member of the band’s inner circle, including hectic schedules, passionate fans, and gossip-mongering celebrity girlfriends.
Now, with the release of the group’s third album just weeks away, their lives have never been crazier and Mel is doing everything she can to keep up, all the while trying to cope with the ridiculous rumors that follow the band everywhere they go and pretending that she isn’t harboring a secret and hopeless crush on Sam.
It’s weird enough being in love with your best friend. It’s even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too.
My review:
I have fallen in love with fictional boys before, but never a fictional band!
This was such a fun short read! I don't read many books like this, so it was refreshing to just have fun with it & not worry too much of the world building & things that come with longer books.
I love how much I loved & related to Mel. I was rooting for her the whole time! Mel also has me wishing I knew a boyband.
I can't say anything negative about this book because I was having so much fun reading it. One of my favorite things about this book was learning about the personalities of each of the boys. Throughout the book I kept debating on which The Kind of September boy I would like. At this point I can't decide between Oilver, Sam, and Josh!
Overall, I was engaged the whole time throughout the book. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is obsessed with boybands, kind of like me, or is looking for a fun short read.
I can't wait to dive into Backstage, especially since there was a cliff hanger on the last page!
Sincerely The Kind of September's biggest fan,
Maddie Morneau/Berkley/Scott
December 17, 2015
This book was a good idea executed kind of poorly. It came off as if I was reading a book based on a documentary. There was a lot of "we went here" and "we did this" and "they love the fans" and "they're so great and good looking," but not a whole lot of plot. Things happen and you get that this is supposed to be a romance, but the author does way too much telling and not enough showing. We are told constantly how great of friends everyone is through Mel's inner monologue, but never shown through any kind of narrative. There's also never any real conflict in the book. Nothing really happens. I was mildly entertained, but only because I'm a sucker for a road trip book and a book about rock stars. This book is both. I almost DNF'd so many times, but ended up finishing because it was so short .
So much meh.
In summary: this book is toast. It's fine. You eat it when it comes with your meal because its there, but it's not something you love or order on its own. Toast.
So much meh.
In summary: this book is toast. It's fine. You eat it when it comes with your meal because its there, but it's not something you love or order on its own. Toast.
December 31, 2017
It was easy, light, but the last few sentences was just disappointing. It's just to used path to take for author. However, I will write a longer review asap.
November 3, 2015
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
"... It's weird being in love with your best friend. It's even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too."
Jacqueline is AMAZING!!!!! This is my third book from her and I just keep loving her writing even more. I am so amazed by her talent. She juggles different genres and pulls them off marvelously!
I fell in love from the first line. Not even five ages in and I was crying from laughing so hard. My laughter was uncontrollable and I blame the characters. They are unique and their humor made me giddy. It was like that for the entire book. It's so hysterical, I have never laughed so much with any book before it.
Sam and Mel are so adorable and perfect! I love best friend stories like these, and now I love them even more! I kept grinning like a school girl with every page and I was completely immersed with the drama. Too much for my own good let me tell you, because... HOLY. MOTHER-OF-CLIFFHANGER!!!!! This book did NOT just end like that!(It did) I refuse, man I need the next book asap! I freaked out for a good couple minutes.
This book is incredible in so many ways but the aspect that built a solid connection to me were the lyrics in it (especially the ones on page 138.) I used to write lyrics and wanted the tour life. It was the best of experiences to have read about it and been able to go on the touring journey with these incredible characters. I loved every single one of them, I wish I could hang out with them as much as Mel!
It's safe to say, I couldn't put this book down to save my life. I read this in one sitting and I am not ashamed. Who needs sleep when you have a novel by Jacqueline?
I know I don't! I am addicted to Jacqueline's writing and I need my next fix soon!
"... It's weird being in love with your best friend. It's even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too."
Jacqueline is AMAZING!!!!! This is my third book from her and I just keep loving her writing even more. I am so amazed by her talent. She juggles different genres and pulls them off marvelously!
I fell in love from the first line. Not even five ages in and I was crying from laughing so hard. My laughter was uncontrollable and I blame the characters. They are unique and their humor made me giddy. It was like that for the entire book. It's so hysterical, I have never laughed so much with any book before it.
Sam and Mel are so adorable and perfect! I love best friend stories like these, and now I love them even more! I kept grinning like a school girl with every page and I was completely immersed with the drama. Too much for my own good let me tell you, because... HOLY. MOTHER-OF-CLIFFHANGER!!!!! This book did NOT just end like that!(It did) I refuse, man I need the next book asap! I freaked out for a good couple minutes.
This book is incredible in so many ways but the aspect that built a solid connection to me were the lyrics in it (especially the ones on page 138.) I used to write lyrics and wanted the tour life. It was the best of experiences to have read about it and been able to go on the touring journey with these incredible characters. I loved every single one of them, I wish I could hang out with them as much as Mel!
It's safe to say, I couldn't put this book down to save my life. I read this in one sitting and I am not ashamed. Who needs sleep when you have a novel by Jacqueline?
I know I don't! I am addicted to Jacqueline's writing and I need my next fix soon!
May 5, 2016
“He’s the guy didn’t want to fall in love with because you know if he ever figured it out, things might not ever be the same between you, and you love the way things are.”
This book was so fun and adorable, I went through it in one sitting!
And guess what, I have a new soft spot for boybands now.
These characters were so real written, I felt like I was reading a documentary about a real life boy band. Jacqueline made the characters develop in front of our eyes, and that pretty much sold me to it.
Now I LOVED Melissa, her character was not annoying or whiny or whatever. She was down to earth and a total sweetheart which I liked. Just like all the members of the band. I loved all the boys equally and it was just the perfect group. Can I have them all please?
I loved how she incorporated all these different elements that come with the fame. The fans, the attention seekers and the true tests of friendships and family. All these elements fell together so smoothly, I just kept turning pages not wanting to put this down.
I could image everything perfectly, and I just love when and author can make me do that.
And that cliffhanger though, OHMYGOOOOD!
Diving into Backstage right away, because I’m HOOKED to these characters!
Short, fun, page turner and adorable.
Jacqueline, you got a new fan!
This book was so fun and adorable, I went through it in one sitting!
And guess what, I have a new soft spot for boybands now.
These characters were so real written, I felt like I was reading a documentary about a real life boy band. Jacqueline made the characters develop in front of our eyes, and that pretty much sold me to it.
Now I LOVED Melissa, her character was not annoying or whiny or whatever. She was down to earth and a total sweetheart which I liked. Just like all the members of the band. I loved all the boys equally and it was just the perfect group. Can I have them all please?
I loved how she incorporated all these different elements that come with the fame. The fans, the attention seekers and the true tests of friendships and family. All these elements fell together so smoothly, I just kept turning pages not wanting to put this down.
I could image everything perfectly, and I just love when and author can make me do that.
And that cliffhanger though, OHMYGOOOOD!
Diving into Backstage right away, because I’m HOOKED to these characters!
Short, fun, page turner and adorable.
Jacqueline, you got a new fan!
November 4, 2016
*I received a paperback copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*.
That book reminds me so much of One Direction for some reason, no surprise there.
It’s more like a cute fan fiction where the heroine falls in love and a happily ever after sets in, with complications here and there.
It was a cute, light read that I’d recommend for someone looking for a cliche light story to loosen up a little bit. I like Mel’s character and I love how she handled everything and was always there for Sam through everything right from the start. Their friendship was so adorable and it’s absolute goals.
“I tell you, sometimes I think life would be so much easier if I’d just fallen in love with an accountant.”
The book highlights how hard it is to be in love with someone who’s famous, and it emphasises the reminder that celebrities are humans too and rumors that spread aren’t always true.
For my full review, check my blog post here: https://lebookworm7.wordpress.com/201...
That book reminds me so much of One Direction for some reason, no surprise there.
It’s more like a cute fan fiction where the heroine falls in love and a happily ever after sets in, with complications here and there.
It was a cute, light read that I’d recommend for someone looking for a cliche light story to loosen up a little bit. I like Mel’s character and I love how she handled everything and was always there for Sam through everything right from the start. Their friendship was so adorable and it’s absolute goals.
“I tell you, sometimes I think life would be so much easier if I’d just fallen in love with an accountant.”
The book highlights how hard it is to be in love with someone who’s famous, and it emphasises the reminder that celebrities are humans too and rumors that spread aren’t always true.
For my full review, check my blog post here: https://lebookworm7.wordpress.com/201...
May 3, 2018
Melissa is on tour with The Kind of September. She has been best friends with some of the guys most of her life. Instead of going to a traditional college, she is talking online classes and touring around the world taking pictures/videos of the band. She loves her job and being with her friends, but some days are harder than others. Interviews, shows, video shoots, etc can be draining, as well as, secretly being in love with one of the band members, Sam. Rumors are constantly being spread about everyone on tour. Will Melissa be able to keep her secret, or will she realize it was much of a secret after all?
This book is a YA novel based around a band and their group of friends. Even though the book is told from Melissa’s POV, it gives plenty of insight into all the characters’ lives.
I really enjoyed this story and all the lyrics that begin each chapter. The whole time I was trying to figure out if they have a bigger meaning, and if they were a clue to what the characters felt about each other. I’m going to need to finish the series to find out.
I also thought that this book read differently than other novels. It was very refreshing and unique. You basically get the day to day happenings of all the amazing characters as though you are watching a behind the scenes documentary with a side of young love and friendship.
I cannot wait to see how this story ends. There are several characters that I am unhappy with right now after that ending. I just hope they get the karma they deserve.
-An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.-
This book is a YA novel based around a band and their group of friends. Even though the book is told from Melissa’s POV, it gives plenty of insight into all the characters’ lives.
I really enjoyed this story and all the lyrics that begin each chapter. The whole time I was trying to figure out if they have a bigger meaning, and if they were a clue to what the characters felt about each other. I’m going to need to finish the series to find out.
I also thought that this book read differently than other novels. It was very refreshing and unique. You basically get the day to day happenings of all the amazing characters as though you are watching a behind the scenes documentary with a side of young love and friendship.
I cannot wait to see how this story ends. There are several characters that I am unhappy with right now after that ending. I just hope they get the karma they deserve.
-An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.-
May 20, 2016
*The author of this book sent me this paperback copy in exchange for an honest review, so don’t expect anything less than that. I will always give an honest review, be it a positive one or a negative one.*
This book is so freaking cute!
You guys know I typically despise romance in YA novels, but the relationship and the characters in this book were SO CUTE and so well done that I couldn’t do anything but love them.
Really unique main character, and the ending was sort of open which I felt worked really well with how the story went. I have book 2 thank God! Which I will read as soon as possible.
This story is full of heart and feels. It also moved so quickly once things really got started. I loved the writing and how I was able to connect with the story. Boy Band is a sweet story with lots of feels and I loved how I couldn’t put down the last half.
“It’s so easy to be around people when everything is… well… easy. But the people who’ve been with you through thick and thin, who’ve seen you at your absolute worst, and who still want to hang out with you at the end of the day? If that isn’t family, I don’t know what is.”
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking to pick up a contemporary novel, this is a great one!
This book is so freaking cute!
You guys know I typically despise romance in YA novels, but the relationship and the characters in this book were SO CUTE and so well done that I couldn’t do anything but love them.
Really unique main character, and the ending was sort of open which I felt worked really well with how the story went. I have book 2 thank God! Which I will read as soon as possible.
This story is full of heart and feels. It also moved so quickly once things really got started. I loved the writing and how I was able to connect with the story. Boy Band is a sweet story with lots of feels and I loved how I couldn’t put down the last half.
“It’s so easy to be around people when everything is… well… easy. But the people who’ve been with you through thick and thin, who’ve seen you at your absolute worst, and who still want to hang out with you at the end of the day? If that isn’t family, I don’t know what is.”
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking to pick up a contemporary novel, this is a great one!
May 6, 2024
Review originally posted on The Book Adventures of Annelise Lestrange :)
I received this copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Let's go :D
The Story
Melissa Parker and Sam Morneau have been best friends forever. The kind of friends that have sleepovers, share food, drinks, their families… Whatever the other part needs or wants. No matter how big is their circle of friends, Mel and Sam always end up glued to each other and everybody is used to their twin deal and bizarre relationship.
Unfortunately, Mel’s tale has some glitches: first, Sam is one of the five guys that form The Kind of September, a. k. a. the world’s current greatest boy band. It’s been two and a half years of song recording, shows, tours, interviews and loving fans. SO. MANY. FANS. While Mel isn’t on the spotlight – she is just the band’s photographer, after all – she has been following the guys around since they started the band and witnesses all the wonders and craziness of the VIP world.
If you still think Mel’s life is a paradise, here’s glitch number two: Mel has been in love with Sam since always. How do you confess to someone who can have anyone he wishes? How to show Sam that her feelings were there even before the fame?
How to live without her other half if Sam doesn’t loves her back?
The Analysis
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
Jacqueline currently has two published book series: Boy Band and The Cemetery Tours. Both series are totally and completely different in EVERYTHING and I, after reading all available books so far in both, it’s with some degree of security that I can say this: Jacqueline E. Smith can write whatever she wants AND IT WILL BE FUCKING AMAZING, OK? BECAUSE SHE IS THAT GOOD! Boy Band had all the potential elements to make me run away screaming: first person narrative from the point of view of a teenager girl, secret crush on the popular boy, several young males, lyrics for the band’s songs… And you know what? I did run away screaming TOWARDS the next book because OMG WHAT WAS THAT END?! And that brilliant writing style? And all the fun even when the drama got heavy?! My first rating for the book was four stars, but I’m officially raising it now to FIVE BIG BEAUTIFUL stars!
I’ll try to be constructive and short on this review, as I feel I have been writing too much lately, haha!
The narrative style was first person from Mel’s point of view. Thank all gods and entities that we have hit it off, haha! While I do tend to have bigger issues with this kind of narrative, Jacqueline knew her business enough to mix Mel’s storytelling with her thoughts and randomness, making the book much funnier and lighter to read <3
The plot was FULL AND INFESTED with twists and I’m proud to say I couldn’t see any of them coming, haha! But, to be honest, I kind of didn’t know what to expect from anything on the book, as it was my first time reading about a band’s daily life. I have read about models, about solo singers and actors, but never a whole band and omg, the experience was amazing.
The characters are incredibly kick ass. Mel is somewhat shy and awkward at times, but she does everything for the guys and her loved ones to be happy. Mel is the observant kind of narrator and this is vital in a series with so many main characters – despite the one sided POV, we get to know everyone in the boat [haha] like Mel and we pay more attention to the small things. Honestly, I can’t say how much I loved this book, haha!
Now, to the complaintsbecause they are always there, even in 5 stars books: sometimes, the book gets too carried away trying to pass the image of how the perfect band acts in all times regarding public appearances and public treatment. I feel like there is too much assuring of how The Kind of September loves their fans and too little on them actually showing it, you know? Also, it was fantastic that Jacqueline took the time to write SO MANY lyrics for the opening chapters, but I have to admit it was a work lost on me =( I was more interest on what was coming next than on the lyrics – and yes, while the lyrics hint at what will happen on the chapter, I do prefer to just start it asap, haha! Sorry, Jackie =( You are a wonderful song writer, tho!
To wrap this review, I’ll leave here some awesome quotes from Boy Band that will show you just why you have to read it RIGHT NOW:
Mel’s wisdom
And those winning dialogues:
If you like Young Adult, Contemporary Romance, Music, Boy Bands and AWESOME writing, just pick up this series and come back to fangirl with me later <3
Thank you for reading and, once again, thanks to Jackie for my review copy!
I received this copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Let's go :D
The Story
Melissa Parker and Sam Morneau have been best friends forever. The kind of friends that have sleepovers, share food, drinks, their families… Whatever the other part needs or wants. No matter how big is their circle of friends, Mel and Sam always end up glued to each other and everybody is used to their twin deal and bizarre relationship.
Unfortunately, Mel’s tale has some glitches: first, Sam is one of the five guys that form The Kind of September, a. k. a. the world’s current greatest boy band. It’s been two and a half years of song recording, shows, tours, interviews and loving fans. SO. MANY. FANS. While Mel isn’t on the spotlight – she is just the band’s photographer, after all – she has been following the guys around since they started the band and witnesses all the wonders and craziness of the VIP world.
If you still think Mel’s life is a paradise, here’s glitch number two: Mel has been in love with Sam since always. How do you confess to someone who can have anyone he wishes? How to show Sam that her feelings were there even before the fame?
How to live without her other half if Sam doesn’t loves her back?
The Analysis
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
Jacqueline currently has two published book series: Boy Band and The Cemetery Tours. Both series are totally and completely different in EVERYTHING and I, after reading all available books so far in both, it’s with some degree of security that I can say this: Jacqueline E. Smith can write whatever she wants AND IT WILL BE FUCKING AMAZING, OK? BECAUSE SHE IS THAT GOOD! Boy Band had all the potential elements to make me run away screaming: first person narrative from the point of view of a teenager girl, secret crush on the popular boy, several young males, lyrics for the band’s songs… And you know what? I did run away screaming TOWARDS the next book because OMG WHAT WAS THAT END?! And that brilliant writing style? And all the fun even when the drama got heavy?! My first rating for the book was four stars, but I’m officially raising it now to FIVE BIG BEAUTIFUL stars!
I’ll try to be constructive and short on this review, as I feel I have been writing too much lately, haha!
The narrative style was first person from Mel’s point of view. Thank all gods and entities that we have hit it off, haha! While I do tend to have bigger issues with this kind of narrative, Jacqueline knew her business enough to mix Mel’s storytelling with her thoughts and randomness, making the book much funnier and lighter to read <3
The plot was FULL AND INFESTED with twists and I’m proud to say I couldn’t see any of them coming, haha! But, to be honest, I kind of didn’t know what to expect from anything on the book, as it was my first time reading about a band’s daily life. I have read about models, about solo singers and actors, but never a whole band and omg, the experience was amazing.
The characters are incredibly kick ass. Mel is somewhat shy and awkward at times, but she does everything for the guys and her loved ones to be happy. Mel is the observant kind of narrator and this is vital in a series with so many main characters – despite the one sided POV, we get to know everyone in the boat [haha] like Mel and we pay more attention to the small things. Honestly, I can’t say how much I loved this book, haha!
Now, to the complaints
To wrap this review, I’ll leave here some awesome quotes from Boy Band that will show you just why you have to read it RIGHT NOW:
Mel’s wisdom
“I try to act like I don’t care. Which I don’t. Not really. You know, in an alternative universe.”
“I mean, that’s the number one quality you look for in a guy, right? Being able to correctly identify your favorite Beatles?”
“I have no idea how you ‘accidentally’ see a movie, but clearly, it was a traumatic experience.”
“Unfortunately, I think infatuation is the most socially acceptable form of insanity.”
“I’ve got to be honest with you, while I don’t like being yelled at, I’m kind of impressed that she knows the word prepubescent.”
And those winning dialogues:
Sam: I’ll have you know that the last girl I dated was very smart.
Joni: That’s because you were in Kindergarten and she got a gold star for drawing a pony.
Sam: She set the bar pretty high.
Mel: Why are you so gross?
Sam: Would you want me any other way?
Mel: I’m actually pretty open to the idea.
Sam: Hey, as long as we’re set for life, you’re set for life. Unless you do something crazy, like rob a bank or kill a person.
Mel: Oh, darn. You just ruined all my holiday plans.
If you like Young Adult, Contemporary Romance, Music, Boy Bands and AWESOME writing, just pick up this series and come back to fangirl with me later <3
Thank you for reading and, once again, thanks to Jackie for my review copy!
June 7, 2021
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An e-copy of the book has been provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I believe to have come into an age where young adult novels do not perform as well as it did when I was younger. Of course, like many of my reading list, I read this novel with no idea what it is about aside from its given title. With that in mind, I assumed that the story will follow a group that will eventually reach stardom.
‘Boy Band’ is a story of a girl [Mel] as she struggles to maintain a healthy life with working as a backstage member of a band, being an online student, and hiding her long-time crush with her best friend/workmate.
The novel falls down a rabbit hole of tropes and clichés that I ended up getting so lost in all of it. It felt like a maze where you hope to eventually get through everything. But hoping is not even close to actually getting through these tropes and clichés.
I love the characters of this book—especially the band members. I think they are interesting and I can see that there is a layer in their personality that realizes them into something more than just the stereotype they’ve been given. Granted, they each want to be of different projection with one another so the stereotyping worked for them.
The main character, I am not so much a fan of. The entirety of the book seems to be a documentary series of her life; rather, her feelings for Sam. Her too strong of a love for him made the book too repetitive. And by that I mean she repeatedly articulates her love. (Yes, girl! We know you like him already!)
Moreover, it was a struggle for me to grasp whether the book is character driven, plot driven, none, or both. I saw no difference with the character from beginning to end. And aside from the endless reiteration of feelings of love, it felt plotless.
Concept-wise, it could have been executed better. Given that this is a series, it would have worked perfectly to begin with the characters with less achievements than they already have. It gives way for more character development and better structure for the plot. Additionally, the conflicts of the story felt less a conflict but more of a shroom that accidentally popped right out and tripped the characters. It has no flavour and the projection was weak and conceivably irrelevant.
To conclude, there is a strong potential in this novel—provided with a stronger foundation, slower pacing, and more character building. The concept is interesting on its own. However, the execution did not work well for me.
An e-copy of the book has been provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I believe to have come into an age where young adult novels do not perform as well as it did when I was younger. Of course, like many of my reading list, I read this novel with no idea what it is about aside from its given title. With that in mind, I assumed that the story will follow a group that will eventually reach stardom.
‘Boy Band’ is a story of a girl [Mel] as she struggles to maintain a healthy life with working as a backstage member of a band, being an online student, and hiding her long-time crush with her best friend/workmate.
The novel falls down a rabbit hole of tropes and clichés that I ended up getting so lost in all of it. It felt like a maze where you hope to eventually get through everything. But hoping is not even close to actually getting through these tropes and clichés.
I love the characters of this book—especially the band members. I think they are interesting and I can see that there is a layer in their personality that realizes them into something more than just the stereotype they’ve been given. Granted, they each want to be of different projection with one another so the stereotyping worked for them.
The main character, I am not so much a fan of. The entirety of the book seems to be a documentary series of her life; rather, her feelings for Sam. Her too strong of a love for him made the book too repetitive. And by that I mean she repeatedly articulates her love. (Yes, girl! We know you like him already!)
Moreover, it was a struggle for me to grasp whether the book is character driven, plot driven, none, or both. I saw no difference with the character from beginning to end. And aside from the endless reiteration of feelings of love, it felt plotless.
Concept-wise, it could have been executed better. Given that this is a series, it would have worked perfectly to begin with the characters with less achievements than they already have. It gives way for more character development and better structure for the plot. Additionally, the conflicts of the story felt less a conflict but more of a shroom that accidentally popped right out and tripped the characters. It has no flavour and the projection was weak and conceivably irrelevant.
To conclude, there is a strong potential in this novel—provided with a stronger foundation, slower pacing, and more character building. The concept is interesting on its own. However, the execution did not work well for me.
December 9, 2015
What's It About?
“He’s the guy you didn’t want to fall in love with because you know that if he ever figured it out, things might not be the same between you, and you love the way things are.”
The Kind Of September is an extremely popular boy band, consisting of members Josh, Cory, Oliver, Jesse and last but not least, Sam. Melissa Parker is their unofficial design intern and has been along for the ride since the beginning. Mostly, they have all been friends since elementary school.
Mel is in love with her best friend, Sam, of The Kind Of September, but is afraid to cross that line with him. What if it changes their relationship? What if he doesn’t feel the same?
She follows the guys across the country for major appearances, concerts, interviews, and album release parties, all while keeping her secret crush to herself.
“It’s like saying goodbye to a dream that was never mine in the first place. Love is the worst.”
My Thoughts
While not a fan of boy bands or pop music in general, I really, really enjoyed the characters of the band, The Kind Of September, and the people who surrounded them. My favorite character was Mel Parker and I’m glad the point of view was through her because she had some really funny thoughts inside her head! I loved her deadpan sense of humor!
I also really enjoyed the dialogue between the characters, especially between the band members. They were hysterical! I liked them all the better because even though they were wildly popular and successful, they were still down to earth and acted like regular guys.
Every chapter began with song lyrics which I thought was a nice touch. My favorite song was “Snowlight”. I read it over and over again. I love how the author incorporated song lyrics into the book!
And I am so glad that I finished book 1 on book 2’s release day because it ended with one mega cliff-hanger! I cannot wait to start book 2, Backstage, to find out what happens next!!
Even though the characters are very early 20’s, the book has a young-adult feel to it and can be enjoyed by fans of both young adult and new adult books. I think young girls would really enjoy this novel, as well as adults who enjoy YA! I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful novel and I’m giving it 5 stars!
In the interest of full disclosure, I received a copy of Boy Band by the author in exchange for a fair, honest, and thoughtful book review. This in no way swayed my opinion or rating.
FULL BOOK REVIEW: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...-
“He’s the guy you didn’t want to fall in love with because you know that if he ever figured it out, things might not be the same between you, and you love the way things are.”
The Kind Of September is an extremely popular boy band, consisting of members Josh, Cory, Oliver, Jesse and last but not least, Sam. Melissa Parker is their unofficial design intern and has been along for the ride since the beginning. Mostly, they have all been friends since elementary school.
Mel is in love with her best friend, Sam, of The Kind Of September, but is afraid to cross that line with him. What if it changes their relationship? What if he doesn’t feel the same?
She follows the guys across the country for major appearances, concerts, interviews, and album release parties, all while keeping her secret crush to herself.
“It’s like saying goodbye to a dream that was never mine in the first place. Love is the worst.”
My Thoughts
While not a fan of boy bands or pop music in general, I really, really enjoyed the characters of the band, The Kind Of September, and the people who surrounded them. My favorite character was Mel Parker and I’m glad the point of view was through her because she had some really funny thoughts inside her head! I loved her deadpan sense of humor!
I also really enjoyed the dialogue between the characters, especially between the band members. They were hysterical! I liked them all the better because even though they were wildly popular and successful, they were still down to earth and acted like regular guys.
Every chapter began with song lyrics which I thought was a nice touch. My favorite song was “Snowlight”. I read it over and over again. I love how the author incorporated song lyrics into the book!
And I am so glad that I finished book 1 on book 2’s release day because it ended with one mega cliff-hanger! I cannot wait to start book 2, Backstage, to find out what happens next!!
Even though the characters are very early 20’s, the book has a young-adult feel to it and can be enjoyed by fans of both young adult and new adult books. I think young girls would really enjoy this novel, as well as adults who enjoy YA! I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful novel and I’m giving it 5 stars!
In the interest of full disclosure, I received a copy of Boy Band by the author in exchange for a fair, honest, and thoughtful book review. This in no way swayed my opinion or rating.
FULL BOOK REVIEW: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...-
November 4, 2017
"For some reason, the smell brings tears to my eyes. I almost feel like I'm saying goodbye to him, which is ridiculous because I'm seeing him again in just a few hours. It's like saying goodbye to a dream that was never mine in the first place. Love is the worst."
~Jacqueline E. Smith, Boy Band
Melissa Park is in love with her bestfriend, Sam Morneau, who is also a member of the hottest boy band in earth.
There are lot of things i love about this book! First of all, i love the members! All five of them, but of course my favorite is Sam, and maybe Oliver?
I like how the author was able to introduce all the 5 members very well. They are like the One Direction, and Sam maybe is Zayn? (I'm not an expert on all things 1D but that's what i thought while reading it)
I also love Mel's character, at first I don't know what to feel about her because I can't figure out what her personality is, but as I go with my reading, I ended up loving Mel's personality. There are times that i felt hurt for Melissa. I have connected with her character. She loves all the boys, she's kind and passive at times but she knows how to stand her ground and put up a fight if needed.
My most favorite about this book are the songs! Oh my gosh I am in love, I am very obsessed with the lyrics (especially the Snowlight) every chapter has a few stanzas of their song and there are like 3 or 4 full song lyrics in the book.
"And she walks like winter across the room
And I can smell her sweet perfume
Snowlight dancing, frozen blue
Winter's dress looks good on you
The Northern Lights, they shine for you
This winter night was made for two..."
~Snowlight, The Kibd Of September
Since this is a trilogy, the story end up with a shocking cliff hanger which gave me insight about how would the next book will go. But i am hoping that i'll get more of Sam and Melissa's moments. I really love their history and chemistry (and all the other academic subjects combined) hope the second book will focus more on their relationship.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this book. I can't wait to read the book 2 which is BACKSTAGE. This is a fast read book. If you love music, dreamy guys, and a feel-good story, I highly recommend this. Rated it 4 STARS.
~Jacqueline E. Smith, Boy Band
Melissa Park is in love with her bestfriend, Sam Morneau, who is also a member of the hottest boy band in earth.
There are lot of things i love about this book! First of all, i love the members! All five of them, but of course my favorite is Sam, and maybe Oliver?
I like how the author was able to introduce all the 5 members very well. They are like the One Direction, and Sam maybe is Zayn? (I'm not an expert on all things 1D but that's what i thought while reading it)
I also love Mel's character, at first I don't know what to feel about her because I can't figure out what her personality is, but as I go with my reading, I ended up loving Mel's personality. There are times that i felt hurt for Melissa. I have connected with her character. She loves all the boys, she's kind and passive at times but she knows how to stand her ground and put up a fight if needed.
My most favorite about this book are the songs! Oh my gosh I am in love, I am very obsessed with the lyrics (especially the Snowlight) every chapter has a few stanzas of their song and there are like 3 or 4 full song lyrics in the book.
"And she walks like winter across the room
And I can smell her sweet perfume
Snowlight dancing, frozen blue
Winter's dress looks good on you
The Northern Lights, they shine for you
This winter night was made for two..."
~Snowlight, The Kibd Of September
Since this is a trilogy, the story end up with a shocking cliff hanger which gave me insight about how would the next book will go. But i am hoping that i'll get more of Sam and Melissa's moments. I really love their history and chemistry (and all the other academic subjects combined) hope the second book will focus more on their relationship.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this book. I can't wait to read the book 2 which is BACKSTAGE. This is a fast read book. If you love music, dreamy guys, and a feel-good story, I highly recommend this. Rated it 4 STARS.
August 18, 2017
Original review posted here: http://thepaige-turner.com/uncategori...
If I could sum this book up in one word it would be: cute. This was just a really cute story through and through and reminded me a lot of the stuff I used to read in high school/middle school. Angsty protagonists? Check. Those same protagonists living famous lives? Check. Cute boys? Check.
I’m glad I read this during the springtime, because it’s one of those books that just puts you in a feel good mood and transports you from the real world for awhile and make you wish that you were in the story with Mel living it up behind the scenes with a famous band.
I like the way that Mel’s voice comes across on the page too, because it doesn’t seem superficial. She’s very down to earth and connects with readers with her quirky ways of interacting with the boys in the band all while dealing with issues that I’m sure all of us have dealt with (like falling in love with your best friend. Obvs).
Since I’ve been on the hunt for a lot of books surrounding bands and music lately (for obvious reasons. My Beatle obsession ceases to exist, and as I write this I’m probably annoying my neighbors by blasting one of their records too loudly). Anyway, this was the perfect book to settle that itch, and was something that left me smiling and saying “aww” throughout. A solid 4/5 stars from me!
If I could sum this book up in one word it would be: cute. This was just a really cute story through and through and reminded me a lot of the stuff I used to read in high school/middle school. Angsty protagonists? Check. Those same protagonists living famous lives? Check. Cute boys? Check.
I’m glad I read this during the springtime, because it’s one of those books that just puts you in a feel good mood and transports you from the real world for awhile and make you wish that you were in the story with Mel living it up behind the scenes with a famous band.
I like the way that Mel’s voice comes across on the page too, because it doesn’t seem superficial. She’s very down to earth and connects with readers with her quirky ways of interacting with the boys in the band all while dealing with issues that I’m sure all of us have dealt with (like falling in love with your best friend. Obvs).
Since I’ve been on the hunt for a lot of books surrounding bands and music lately (for obvious reasons. My Beatle obsession ceases to exist, and as I write this I’m probably annoying my neighbors by blasting one of their records too loudly). Anyway, this was the perfect book to settle that itch, and was something that left me smiling and saying “aww” throughout. A solid 4/5 stars from me!
April 26, 2015
Boy Band surprised me. I wasn’t sure going in if I would connect with the characters of a modern boy band. Author Jacqueline Smith however is a tremendous writer with a gift for storytelling. Her characters are rich, successful, influential, but still relatable. There’s something very human in their struggle for acceptance and love. And I never knew how lonely or lost people at the top could feel. Add to this the relationships: oh, god, the relationships! They were a rollercoaster ride but I won’t give anything away. My favorite part of Boy Band was that though there was a degree of humor and YA silliness, the author was not afraid to get serious: whether it was the crushing double-edged sword of success or the pitfalls and ramifications of normal breakups. There are also several other observations on life that I found interesting. Whether you’re a girl, a guy, young, or old I think you will find something to enjoy in this book. It’s fascinating to look behind the music and be a part of the band.
May 31, 2022
Really good this band in the book reminds me so much of big time rush.
June 3, 2019
I received a free copy of this book from the author via voracious readers only. I found this book to be a quick and easy read. It had a fun and light storyline whilst still developing strong main characters. The storyline of best friends possibly developing into more whilst overcoming a few obstacles here and there has a different spin when Sam is a member of a very popular boy band and Mel sees herself as the insignificant best friend. A great read I read in one sitting
October 21, 2020
I was into boybands once...
This wasn't a bad book. The writing is naive and amateurish, with more errors than I would like to see. The boys in the band were also annoyingly perfect - at least up until the end.
Still, a cute story.
This wasn't a bad book. The writing is naive and amateurish, with more errors than I would like to see. The boys in the band were also annoyingly perfect - at least up until the end.
Still, a cute story.
April 25, 2018
3.5 Stars ... probably will end up reading the series.
June 26, 2015
There's two of these in GoodReads, so I decided I would post my review on both. Why not?
The Kind of September is the hottest boy band and Melissa Parker is best friends with one of its founding members, Sam Morneau. She travels with the band as an intern and is smack dab in the midst of all the drama surrounding the band. Not to mention, she’d secretly in love with Sam. Trying to hide her feeling from him gets harder by the day and rumors keep circulating about different members of the band.
I absolutely loved this book! I could not put it down. In being friends with the author, I got a peek at this book when Jackie was still writing it. From the glimpses I got, I just wanted more.
This book didn’t feel like an indie book at all. All the characters were amazing and there was so much angsty drama that kept me completely entertained throughout it. With having so many characters, it can sometimes be difficult to keep up with all the different relationship, personalities, and dynamics, but Jackie did a great job. Everyone’s personality came through clearly and they were all so unique.
Jackie even wrote out some of the song lyrics for The Kind of September’s songs that accompanied each chapter. Typically in books, I grow bored by this kind of thing, but I didn’t with Boy Band. The lyrics flowed so nicely and I believed they could actually be songs that would be sung today.
Overall, this book was so great and exceeded my expectations (which were fairly high since I had gotten one of the first glimpses at the book when it was being written). I literally read it in one sitting and couldn’t put it down.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves the drama and angst with teen romance, without the dreaded love triangle. It was witty and fun – a great ride for anyone who wants to sit back and be thoroughly entertained for a few hours.
Oh, and quickly, the ending just makes me want more!
Merged review:
The Kind of September is the hottest boy band and Melissa Parker is best friends with one of its founding members, Sam Morneau. She travels with the band as an intern and is smack dab in the midst of all the drama surrounding the band. Not to mention, she’d secretly in love with Sam. Trying to hide her feeling from him gets harder by the day and rumors keep circulating about different members of the band.
I absolutely loved this book! I could not put it down. In being friends with the author, I got a peek at this book when Jackie was still writing it. From the glimpses I got, I just wanted more.
This book didn’t feel like an indie book at all. All the characters were amazing and there was so much angsty drama that kept me completely entertained throughout it. With having so many characters, it can sometimes be difficult to keep up with all the different relationship, personalities, and dynamics, but Jackie did a great job. Everyone’s personality came through clearly and they were all so unique.
Jackie even wrote out some of the song lyrics for The Kind of September’s songs that accompanied each chapter. Typically in books, I grow bored by this kind of thing, but I didn’t with Boy Band. The lyrics flowed so nicely and I believed they could actually be songs that would be sung today.
Overall, this book was so great and exceeded my expectations (which were fairly high since I had gotten one of the first glimpses at the book when it was being written). I literally read it in one sitting and couldn’t put it down.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves the drama and angst with teen romance, without the dreaded love triangle. It was witty and fun – a great ride for anyone who wants to sit back and be thoroughly entertained for a few hours.
Oh, and quickly, the ending just makes me want more!
The Kind of September is the hottest boy band and Melissa Parker is best friends with one of its founding members, Sam Morneau. She travels with the band as an intern and is smack dab in the midst of all the drama surrounding the band. Not to mention, she’d secretly in love with Sam. Trying to hide her feeling from him gets harder by the day and rumors keep circulating about different members of the band.
I absolutely loved this book! I could not put it down. In being friends with the author, I got a peek at this book when Jackie was still writing it. From the glimpses I got, I just wanted more.
This book didn’t feel like an indie book at all. All the characters were amazing and there was so much angsty drama that kept me completely entertained throughout it. With having so many characters, it can sometimes be difficult to keep up with all the different relationship, personalities, and dynamics, but Jackie did a great job. Everyone’s personality came through clearly and they were all so unique.
Jackie even wrote out some of the song lyrics for The Kind of September’s songs that accompanied each chapter. Typically in books, I grow bored by this kind of thing, but I didn’t with Boy Band. The lyrics flowed so nicely and I believed they could actually be songs that would be sung today.
Overall, this book was so great and exceeded my expectations (which were fairly high since I had gotten one of the first glimpses at the book when it was being written). I literally read it in one sitting and couldn’t put it down.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves the drama and angst with teen romance, without the dreaded love triangle. It was witty and fun – a great ride for anyone who wants to sit back and be thoroughly entertained for a few hours.
Oh, and quickly, the ending just makes me want more!
Merged review:
The Kind of September is the hottest boy band and Melissa Parker is best friends with one of its founding members, Sam Morneau. She travels with the band as an intern and is smack dab in the midst of all the drama surrounding the band. Not to mention, she’d secretly in love with Sam. Trying to hide her feeling from him gets harder by the day and rumors keep circulating about different members of the band.
I absolutely loved this book! I could not put it down. In being friends with the author, I got a peek at this book when Jackie was still writing it. From the glimpses I got, I just wanted more.
This book didn’t feel like an indie book at all. All the characters were amazing and there was so much angsty drama that kept me completely entertained throughout it. With having so many characters, it can sometimes be difficult to keep up with all the different relationship, personalities, and dynamics, but Jackie did a great job. Everyone’s personality came through clearly and they were all so unique.
Jackie even wrote out some of the song lyrics for The Kind of September’s songs that accompanied each chapter. Typically in books, I grow bored by this kind of thing, but I didn’t with Boy Band. The lyrics flowed so nicely and I believed they could actually be songs that would be sung today.
Overall, this book was so great and exceeded my expectations (which were fairly high since I had gotten one of the first glimpses at the book when it was being written). I literally read it in one sitting and couldn’t put it down.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves the drama and angst with teen romance, without the dreaded love triangle. It was witty and fun – a great ride for anyone who wants to sit back and be thoroughly entertained for a few hours.
Oh, and quickly, the ending just makes me want more!
September 27, 2016
* First of all, I must thank the author for sending me a copy for review. *
I got completely hooked with this book and I read it in two days (I just didn't read it in less because I had school)!
The story might sound a bit of a cliché, but it definitely is something I've never read or similar.
The love story alongside with the daily life of a number one boy band is absolutely a wonderful mix! ❤️
I got completely hooked with this book and I read it in two days (I just didn't read it in less because I had school)!
The story might sound a bit of a cliché, but it definitely is something I've never read or similar.
The love story alongside with the daily life of a number one boy band is absolutely a wonderful mix! ❤️
July 22, 2016
Boy Band is a novel that surrounds a juvenile concept, but pulls it off for an older audience. When I first began reading this novel I was afraid that it would be directed towards the lower end of the young adult spectrum, but I was happy to find that it was fit for my age range - those in their 20s. Jacqueline E. Smith took the concept of "bandoms" to the next level by having a girl, Mel, as the best friend of one of the band members, Sam, before they became famous. In this way she humanized celebrities, and I found myself forgetting that the boys involved were indeed superstars.
Mel was a highly relatable character. She was awkward, and always tried to stay hidden even though she was a big part of the band's life. The story follows her as she struggles to hide her feelings about her best friend, Sam, whom she has been in love with for years. I could relate to her struggles with her intense feelings, and I was rooting for her in the beginning, but as the novel went on I became irritated with her inner dialogue.
Since the novel is told from her perspective, the reader was prone to hearing her lash out at certain characters, and then apologize profusely to the reader for how she acted. To go along with this, she also tried to convince us that she is not usually like that. She frequently found herself thinking about Sam as a lover, and then backtracked all over herself saying how she would never confess to Sam how she felt. Her humbleness was endearing in the beginning, but over time I just wanted her to stop apologizing and get on with her story. I also wasn't fond of the ending as I always see cliff hangers as a cheap trick, but it did work and I will be going onto the sequel immediately.
Apart from that, I loved Smith's raw writing style and how beautifully she captured older young adults today. I felt many times as though she were speaking from herself, instead of as Mel, and this added realness to her story. She incorporated all the characters beautifully, and none of them seemed to be lost in the cast. Even though I didn't feel that Josh and Jesse had that big of a part in the story, she still gave them full personalities and I felt that they were jumping off of the page. Smith did a fantastic job of introducing the term"bandom" to those like me who never knew what it was, while also maturing the situation into a heated romance, and a drama filled fiction. Smith's writing is everything that I wanted it to be, and so much more. I highly recommend this novel to women in their 20s, and I am positive that I will not be able to get this novel out of my mind for quite some time.
Mel was a highly relatable character. She was awkward, and always tried to stay hidden even though she was a big part of the band's life. The story follows her as she struggles to hide her feelings about her best friend, Sam, whom she has been in love with for years. I could relate to her struggles with her intense feelings, and I was rooting for her in the beginning, but as the novel went on I became irritated with her inner dialogue.
Since the novel is told from her perspective, the reader was prone to hearing her lash out at certain characters, and then apologize profusely to the reader for how she acted. To go along with this, she also tried to convince us that she is not usually like that. She frequently found herself thinking about Sam as a lover, and then backtracked all over herself saying how she would never confess to Sam how she felt. Her humbleness was endearing in the beginning, but over time I just wanted her to stop apologizing and get on with her story. I also wasn't fond of the ending as I always see cliff hangers as a cheap trick, but it did work and I will be going onto the sequel immediately.
Apart from that, I loved Smith's raw writing style and how beautifully she captured older young adults today. I felt many times as though she were speaking from herself, instead of as Mel, and this added realness to her story. She incorporated all the characters beautifully, and none of them seemed to be lost in the cast. Even though I didn't feel that Josh and Jesse had that big of a part in the story, she still gave them full personalities and I felt that they were jumping off of the page. Smith did a fantastic job of introducing the term"bandom" to those like me who never knew what it was, while also maturing the situation into a heated romance, and a drama filled fiction. Smith's writing is everything that I wanted it to be, and so much more. I highly recommend this novel to women in their 20s, and I am positive that I will not be able to get this novel out of my mind for quite some time.
July 13, 2017
WISH FULFILLMENT! Who hasn't had a crush on a band? The kind where you think "He's my favorite," and then, when someone asks you if you had to pick just one guy from the band to go out with...and you blurt out the drummer, when your major crush has always been the lead guitarist! BOY BAND lets you travel and rehearse and fret over the next performance with a lovable band and the girls who support them. A couple are girls you love to hate, but mostly the girls are the band's safety net and stabilizers.
The characters, setting and snappy dialogue (plus very cool song lyrics), made me feel like I was there -- comfortable in a place I've never been, with people I wanted as friends.
The characters, setting and snappy dialogue (plus very cool song lyrics), made me feel like I was there -- comfortable in a place I've never been, with people I wanted as friends.
June 5, 2016
Title: Boy Band
By Jacqueline E. Smith
Genre: Romance
Age category: Young Adults
Blurb:
Sam Morneau is Melissa Parker’s best friend. He’s also a member of The Kind of September, basically the hottest boy band on the planet.
After two and a half years, Mel is all too familiar with the day-to-day occurrences that come with being a member of the band’s inner circle, including hectic schedules, passionate fans, and gossip-mongering celebrity girlfriends.
Now, with the release of the group’s third album just weeks away, their lives have never been crazier and Mel is doing everything she can to keep up, all the while trying to cope with the ridiculous rumors that follow the band everywhere they go and pretending that she isn’t harboring a secret and hopeless crush on Sam.
It’s weird enough being in love with your best friend. It’s even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too.
Characters:
The characters was amazing described. I loved Mel! You could easily relate to her situation. She has an amazing personality. She is fun to be around and always supporting.The guys all have their own personality and they’re so cute!!! My favorite band member must be Oliver! I loved how Smith described Tara, I was really angry with her She was just trying to destroy the guys friendship.
My though:
I hated that the book ended with a cliff hanger, so at 4 am I was reading the second book. I thought the story was really cute and just the perfect book for me. I really enjoyed the lyrics in the beginning of each chapter. It made the story more real. You felt like The Kind Of September was a real band, I actually really want to meet them! Sadly they are fictional…
Buy or not to buy: GO AND GET YOURSELF A COPY ALREADY!
“It’s so easy to be around people when everything is… well… easy. But the people who’ve been with you through thick and thin, who’ve seen you at your absolute worst, and who still want to hang out with you at the end of the day?
If that isn’t family, I don’t know what is.”
“Like I said, it’s weird being in love with your best friend.
It’s even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too.”
Lee, x
By Jacqueline E. Smith
Genre: Romance
Age category: Young Adults
Blurb:
Sam Morneau is Melissa Parker’s best friend. He’s also a member of The Kind of September, basically the hottest boy band on the planet.
After two and a half years, Mel is all too familiar with the day-to-day occurrences that come with being a member of the band’s inner circle, including hectic schedules, passionate fans, and gossip-mongering celebrity girlfriends.
Now, with the release of the group’s third album just weeks away, their lives have never been crazier and Mel is doing everything she can to keep up, all the while trying to cope with the ridiculous rumors that follow the band everywhere they go and pretending that she isn’t harboring a secret and hopeless crush on Sam.
It’s weird enough being in love with your best friend. It’s even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too.
Characters:
The characters was amazing described. I loved Mel! You could easily relate to her situation. She has an amazing personality. She is fun to be around and always supporting.The guys all have their own personality and they’re so cute!!! My favorite band member must be Oliver! I loved how Smith described Tara, I was really angry with her She was just trying to destroy the guys friendship.
My though:
I hated that the book ended with a cliff hanger, so at 4 am I was reading the second book. I thought the story was really cute and just the perfect book for me. I really enjoyed the lyrics in the beginning of each chapter. It made the story more real. You felt like The Kind Of September was a real band, I actually really want to meet them! Sadly they are fictional…
Buy or not to buy: GO AND GET YOURSELF A COPY ALREADY!
“It’s so easy to be around people when everything is… well… easy. But the people who’ve been with you through thick and thin, who’ve seen you at your absolute worst, and who still want to hang out with you at the end of the day?
If that isn’t family, I don’t know what is.”
“Like I said, it’s weird being in love with your best friend.
It’s even weirder when the rest of the world is in love with him, too.”
Lee, x
June 24, 2016
I received this book in exchange for my honest thoughts, review and opinion. Thanks so much to Jacqueline, for send me her books to review.
I DNF this book! I feel bad for not finishing this book, but I'll try my hardest to say more positive things about it. It was a good read, but unfortunately it wasn't for me. I liked it at first then it started going down hill for me. This book has 196 pages, still have few more pages left. I would like to continue this book, but like I said I can't seem to go through this book. From what I've read, I give this book a 3 out of 5 stars. Don't get me wrong this book wasn't bad, it's just not for me.
SUMMARY:
Boy Band is about this main character named, Melissa Parker, known as Mel. Mel who travels with a superstar boy band. The Kind Of September, basically the hottest boy band on the planet, consisting of members Josh, Cory, Oliver, Jesse and Sam. Mel is secretly in love with her best friend, Sam who is in the band. Hiding her feelings from him gets harder, the media is constantly spreading rumors about Sam's love life, and Mel isn't totally sure which rumors are true.
CHARACTERS:
Mel: She's a good character, but can sometimes be frustrating.
Boys in the Band: They're also good, if I were to choose a favorite, it would have to be Sam.
This book was good, but like I said it wasn't for me. I don't really seem to connect with the characters, but its good enough. If I were to choose a favorite I think it'll be Sam. I still recommend this book to anyone who likes contemporaries.
Thanks again to Jacqueline E. Smith for sending me this book. Its sad that I (DNF) this book. She even sent me book 2. Hopefully in the future i'll still give it try, and see if i'll like it.
I DNF this book! I feel bad for not finishing this book, but I'll try my hardest to say more positive things about it. It was a good read, but unfortunately it wasn't for me. I liked it at first then it started going down hill for me. This book has 196 pages, still have few more pages left. I would like to continue this book, but like I said I can't seem to go through this book. From what I've read, I give this book a 3 out of 5 stars. Don't get me wrong this book wasn't bad, it's just not for me.
SUMMARY:
Boy Band is about this main character named, Melissa Parker, known as Mel. Mel who travels with a superstar boy band. The Kind Of September, basically the hottest boy band on the planet, consisting of members Josh, Cory, Oliver, Jesse and Sam. Mel is secretly in love with her best friend, Sam who is in the band. Hiding her feelings from him gets harder, the media is constantly spreading rumors about Sam's love life, and Mel isn't totally sure which rumors are true.
CHARACTERS:
Mel: She's a good character, but can sometimes be frustrating.
Boys in the Band: They're also good, if I were to choose a favorite, it would have to be Sam.
This book was good, but like I said it wasn't for me. I don't really seem to connect with the characters, but its good enough. If I were to choose a favorite I think it'll be Sam. I still recommend this book to anyone who likes contemporaries.
Thanks again to Jacqueline E. Smith for sending me this book. Its sad that I (DNF) this book. She even sent me book 2. Hopefully in the future i'll still give it try, and see if i'll like it.
January 9, 2016
Original Review @ http://sandrathebookworm.blogspot.com...
I was sent a copy of this novel by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Where do I even start?! This book hooked me from the first chapter, once I began reading it I just couldn’t put it down! I finished it in one sitting, literally I sat down to read it at nine pm and finished it around two in the morning. Sam and Melissa are best-friends the only difference about this friendship is that Sam is a member of The Kind of September which also happens to be one of the hottest bands out there, when they blew up Melissa decided to join her friends in this amazing new journey, but seeing the person you love being adored by millions and be hit on a daily basis isn't always the easiest thing to watch.
I absolutely adored this book! I couldn't get enough, I wish I had the next book in my possession just to continue reading about these amazing charters I have fallen head over heels in love for. Jacqueline's writing is amazing! It flows so well and you just can’t get enough of it. I loved reading about a band and how hectic their lives are out of the public eye and what the boys do with their free time. The ending had me in an emotional roller-coaster one minute I was crying the next I was smiling from ear to ear and then she hit me with a twist that had me rereading just to make sure I had read it right. If you have ever wanted to read about how it’s like to live and tour with one of the hottest boy bands, look no further this book is it.
-SandraTheBookWorm
I was sent a copy of this novel by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Where do I even start?! This book hooked me from the first chapter, once I began reading it I just couldn’t put it down! I finished it in one sitting, literally I sat down to read it at nine pm and finished it around two in the morning. Sam and Melissa are best-friends the only difference about this friendship is that Sam is a member of The Kind of September which also happens to be one of the hottest bands out there, when they blew up Melissa decided to join her friends in this amazing new journey, but seeing the person you love being adored by millions and be hit on a daily basis isn't always the easiest thing to watch.
I absolutely adored this book! I couldn't get enough, I wish I had the next book in my possession just to continue reading about these amazing charters I have fallen head over heels in love for. Jacqueline's writing is amazing! It flows so well and you just can’t get enough of it. I loved reading about a band and how hectic their lives are out of the public eye and what the boys do with their free time. The ending had me in an emotional roller-coaster one minute I was crying the next I was smiling from ear to ear and then she hit me with a twist that had me rereading just to make sure I had read it right. If you have ever wanted to read about how it’s like to live and tour with one of the hottest boy bands, look no further this book is it.
-SandraTheBookWorm
April 30, 2016
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this book! The story was sweet, adorable and funny; I loved it! It got me hooked from the moment I started reading it. The characters were great and I loved every single one of them. The characters' dialogue also felt natural and they were hilarious as well; I burst out laughing a couple of times while reading this! I also loved ALL THE LYRICS written in this book like seriously, the author could definitely make them to actual songs.
The author's writing style was amazing! This book was so addictive and I flew through its pages so fast! I also liked reading from Mel's point of view and how she copes with Sam being a part of the world's most popular boy band and being a 'supposedly' womanizer. The angst and drama in this book was also ON POINT.
Sam and Mel's relationship was so cute. I loved how caring and sweet they are to each other and how comfortable they seemed to one another. I also really loved Sam and Oliver!! I mean if they were an actual real boy band, I would definitely fangirl over them.
I recommend this book to EVERYONE. If you haven't read this book, you should definitely PICK THIS BOOK UP because it was definitely amazing. I already started reading its sequel while I'm typing this because I NEED MORE SAM MORNEAU.
I really enjoyed reading this book! The story was sweet, adorable and funny; I loved it! It got me hooked from the moment I started reading it. The characters were great and I loved every single one of them. The characters' dialogue also felt natural and they were hilarious as well; I burst out laughing a couple of times while reading this! I also loved ALL THE LYRICS written in this book like seriously, the author could definitely make them to actual songs.
The author's writing style was amazing! This book was so addictive and I flew through its pages so fast! I also liked reading from Mel's point of view and how she copes with Sam being a part of the world's most popular boy band and being a 'supposedly' womanizer. The angst and drama in this book was also ON POINT.
Sam and Mel's relationship was so cute. I loved how caring and sweet they are to each other and how comfortable they seemed to one another. I also really loved Sam and Oliver!! I mean if they were an actual real boy band, I would definitely fangirl over them.
I recommend this book to EVERYONE. If you haven't read this book, you should definitely PICK THIS BOOK UP because it was definitely amazing. I already started reading its sequel while I'm typing this because I NEED MORE SAM MORNEAU.
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