Laurence

William and Ruby met in Senior year of High School and became best friends immediately. After graduation, they move from their small town to New York. The story is mainly focused on the rise to fame of Ruby has a singer told through the perspective of Will. You witness the good and the bad of fame through the years as Ruby tries to come to terms with her past.

For the most part, I enjoyed this debut novel. It was something I've never read about before, and it was not predictable. It really took me by surprise! At the beginning, things were moving very fast, and I wish we could see more of Will and Ruby's relationship in high school and when they first move to New York. But, at the halfway mark, I felt that the events were better paced and more elaborated. Since things were happening fast, I wasn't bored reading this book. The characters and the friendship were well developed. The friendship between Will, Ruby, John and Keysha is one I really like. I also feel that the events that take place during this book are a good representation of the reality as an upcoming star in the music industry and the things you got to do to be at the top. I also love Will's development! For me, he started as only the narrator of Ruby's story, but as the story goes on, he started to have his own story and ambitions. And the plot twist at the end was so unexpected, but good! I loved the writing style, especially in the moments full of emotions where it shined and made me feel things.

I would have loved to have some chapters from Ruby's POV since it's her story to fame. I think it would have been interesting to know more about what she was thinking, especially as her fame become to grow. This book took place in a period of ten years. I wish there would have been a better time reference, because it's difficult to know how much time has passed since the beginning after some time.

Thanks to the author for sending me an e-copy of his book in exchange of a review!