Showing posts sorted by relevance for query book. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query book. Sort by date Show all posts
Sunday, 11 July 2021
Hamilton and Me, Giles Terera | Book Review
Hamilton and Me by Giles Terera
Published: 1st July 2021 by Nick Hern Book
★★★★While working to bring the smash hit musical Hamilton to the West End stage, Giles Terera kept a journal which chronicled the journey and now provides a wonderfully moving insight into the process that so few get to be part of. However, instead of just being a diary which looks at the day to day process of putting on a show, this book is an honest and academic look at what it takes physically and mentally.
Throughout the rehearsal period, Terera takes a methodical approach to playing the role of Aaron Burr; he looks at what made Burr do the things he did, as well as comparing his own journey and life experiences to the character. It's quite amazing to see just how much mental work goes into making Burr as well-rounded as he comes across in the musical.
What is also striking about this book is how humble Terera seems. The way he openly discusses his fears, weaknesses and struggles comes across very genuinely and as an outsider, it's particularly interesting to see how he overcomes his struggles and pushes through the intense process without breaking down. His rawness clearly comes across in his portrayal of Burr and it's no surprise that he received rave reviews and praise when the show opened in London.
Hamilton and Me: An Actor's Journal serves as a snapshot of time and masterfully takes readers on a journey they would rarely get to go on, of even really understand. Terera offers an exhilarating look at a musical stripped down to its simple roots and lets us be both in the room where it happens as well as watching the room be formed. This is a real treat of a book and a must-read for theatre lovers and aspiring performers.
{AD PR Product- book gifted in exchange for honest review}
Monday, 21 February 2022
Carrie Hope Fletcher Announces Debut UK Tour
Actress, author, vlogger and award-winning West End sensation Carrie Hope Fletcher is heading out on her first ever UK tour.
Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book will see the musical theatre star play a series of unmissable theatre shows in May and June 2023.
Performing songs from her incredible career expect fan favourites including hits from Heathers, Les Miserables, The Addams Family and many more interspersed with chat about Carrie’s fascinating life and career.
Tickets go on sale at 10am Friday and are available from www.cuffeandtaylor.com
Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book 202318-May Bradford, St George's Hall21-May Southampton, Mayflower Theatre22-May Norwich, Theatre Royal25-May London, The London Palladium27-May Llandudno, Venue Cymru28-May Salford, The Lowry29-May Birmingham, Symphony Hall31-May Sheffield, City Hall02-Jun Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall03-Jun Newcastle, O2 City Hall04-Jun Edinburgh, Festival Theatre
Speaking about Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book, Carrie said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be taking on my first ever UK tour.
“This is something I have wanted to do for some time and next year presents the perfect opportunity.
I absolutely adore being on stage and am fortunate to have performed across the West End and overseas, but there’s something very special about theatres around the UK so I can’t wait to get out on the road and visit these absolutely fantastic and beautiful venues.”
Currently wowing West End audiences in the title role of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella, Carrie - who has an impressive three WhatsOnStage Awards - has enjoyed a breath-taking career since her West End debut at the age of nine playing Young Éponine in Les Misérables. Since then Carrie’s theatre credits include Fantine in Les Miserables: The Concert, Veronica in Heathers, Wednesday in The Addams Family, Eponine in Les Misérables, both Truly Scrumptious and Jemima in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Beth in Jeff Wayne’s War of the Worlds and Jane Banks in Mary Poppins.
And when she’s not treading the boards of the West End’s biggest stages Carrie is also a best-selling novelist, Top 20 recording artist and respected vlogger with her popular self-titled music and vlog channel attracting more than a million views a month.
Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book is presented by Lambert Jackson, Live Nation and Cuffe and Taylor.
Jamie Lambert, of Lambert Jackson, said: “Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book presents an opportunity to take one of the West End’s most celebrated and successful leading stars to theatres across the UK.
“Not only will audiences be wowed by the stunning voice of Carrie, they will also get an insight into her incredible career and that is not to be missed.”
Cuffe and Taylor Director of Theatre Touring Ben Hatton added: “We are very excited to be presenting Carrie’s debut UK tour.
“She is the most wonderful musical theatre talent and so much more. Audiences will absolutely love this show.”
For more information about Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book and to secure tickets head to www.cuffeandtaylor.com
photo credit: Michael Wharley
Thursday, 3 June 2021
Becoming Mila by Estelle Maskame Book Review
Becoming Mila by Estelle Maskame
Published: 3rd June 2021 by Ink Road
★★★★
Estelle Maskame is a writing fiend, having had her first book published at age seventeen, she has gone onto publish a further five books, all of which received critical acclaim and huge love and support from her fanbase. Becoming Mila is the latest offering and the first instalment in a new trilogy about a teenage girl who is sent back to her off the grid Tennessee place of birth, so she doesn't show her film star father up close to the premiere of his new movie.
This is a great coming of age story as well as a romance and like Estelle's other books, it reads incredibly well and has you hooked from the get go. Estelle is brilliant at getting the angst and tension of new relationships on the page and from the first encounter between love interests Blake and Mila, there is a frisson of energy that starts and never lets up. The romance itself is very cute and I love how developed the characters are not only as a pair, but individually too. A lot of layers are added even to the side characters and there's so much scope for the subsequent books in the series.
I did however, find a slight disconnect at times between the writing and the characters. Mila and Blake sometimes come across much more mature than sixteen year olds whilst, the writing feels aimed at younger teens. This had no negative impact on the story but I do think it would be really interesting and exciting to read a more grown up, New Adult style book from Estelle. I'm sure it's only a matter of time!
As lead characters, Blake and Mila are extremely likeable. Mila is multi-faceted and really sure of her own mind, she faces problems head on and it's really refreshing to see a couple who communicate so well. Blake is a semi-bad-boy who you can't help but fall for. A lover of country music, he's pretty swoon worthy from the moment he nicknames Mila. The friendships are also incredibly sweet (I have a suspicious things may be not quite as they seem as the series continues) with Savannah playing a big role. There are also some lovely familial aspects, especially between Mila, her aunt and her grandpa- very wholesome.
Becoming Mila is a treat of a book though and the carefree, contemporary vibes are perfect for a quick beach read. Sizzling levels of angst, musical interludes and a couple you really root for make it a surefire summer hit... just be ready to need the second book as soon as you finish.
{AD PR product- book gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday, 28 May 2024
How to Plot a Payback by Melissa Ferguson book review: a hilarious and heartfelt tale of revenge, unexpected love, and personal growth.
How to Plot a Payback by Melissa Ferguson
Published: 2nd April 2024 by Thomas Nelson
Melissa Ferguson's How To Plot a Payback is a delightful rom-com that combines humour, heart, and just the right amount of drama. The story centres around Finn Masters who is ecstatic to secure his dream job as a writer for the hit sitcom Neighbors. His excitement, however, takes a nosedive when he learns that he will be working alongside Lavender Rhodes, the actress he has blamed for his troubles since their teenage years. Intent on getting his revenge, Finn devises several schemes to undermine Lavender. Yet, as his plans comically unravel, Finn starts to question his feelings and realises that Lavender is not who he thought she was. The narrative unfolds through a series of humorous misadventures and touching moments, ultimately leading to an unexpected romance. To sum it up, the book is a hilarious and heartfelt tale of revenge, unexpected love, and personal growth.
A few years ago I was lucky enough to receive an arc of Melissa Ferguson's Meet Me in the Margins, which I fell in love with, so when I saw she was releasing a new book, I knew I had to get my hands on it and I'm glad I did because it was just the dose of romance and joy that I needed. Melissa's writing is not only strawberry sweet, it's also addictive and gripping. I found myself swooning at a lot of Finn's thoughts about Lavender and was really rooting for the duo as a couple but also individually.
One of the book's real strengths is how well the characters are developed. Finn is incredibly relatable; his grudges and insecurities make him both lovable and occasionally exasperating. Lavender starts off as the supposed villain but gradually reveals her own layers, showing her struggles and strengths. The chemistry between them is electric, keeping readers invested as they navigate the chaotic world of Hollywood and their evolving relationship. Their journey is full of ups and downs, making it a compelling read from start to finish and making their unexpected happy ever after even sweeter.
As I say, the dynamic between Finn and Lavender is great, filled with witty banter and comedic misadventures. Finn's attempts at revenge often backfire, leading to laugh-out-loud moments and surprising twists. I did find Finn's revenge plots a bit ridiculous and they sort of took away from the realism of the story at times but there was also a good balance of sincerity which toned things down.
Also, while the story is highly entertaining, some elements might feel a bit predictable, and the pacing can occasionally slow things down. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise charming and engaging read that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend.
The side characters and jobs of the two leads add to the charm of the story. Set against the backdrop of Neighbors (I was picturing the Australian show but i don't know if that's truly the vibe haha) we get a look at the inner workings of a writers room, and meet a host of lovable and hateable characters, all of whom add to the story and world.
How To Plot a Payback is a fun, feel-good romantic comedy that will leave you smiling. It's perfect for fans of lighthearted, character-driven stories with a touch of Hollywood glamour. If you're in the mood for a book that balances comedy with genuine emotion, give this one a try.
Thursday, 26 July 2018
Theatrical, Maggie Harcourt (Book) | Things I Read Whilst Writing
A bit of a different post for you today, as you know I love theatre and books so when I heard about Maggie Harcourt's newest book release, Theatrical which is all about the stage, I was very excited to get my hands on it!
Maggie did a huge amount of research for this book, not only on shows but also a lot about what goes on behind the scenes as our lead character, Hope, is working as an intern backstage. This book is all things adorable and you can read my full review here, but without further ado lets set the stage for Maggie Harcourt's deep-dive into the DNA of Theatrical...
Maggie Harcourt: One of the best things about writing Theatrical was getting the chance to spend time completely immersed in the theatre world: not just writing about it but thinking about it, reading about it – and, of course, visiting it!
Here’s my deep-dive list of everything that went on behind the scenes. Not everything is obviously part of the world of the finished book, but it’s still part of the story…
Things I read:
- All About Theatre: the National Theatre
- Unseen London (especially the ‘backstage’ section): Mark Daly and Peter Dazeley
- London Theatres: Michael Coveney, Peter Dazeley and Mark Rylance
- Stage Management – The Essential Handbook: Gail Pallin
- Stage Management and Theatre Administration: Pauline Menear, Amanda Saunders and Terry Hawkins
- Untold Stories: Alan Bennett
- Simon Stephens – A Working Diary: Simon Stephens
- The Oberon Glossary of Theatrical Terms: Colin Winslow
- Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (black cover) souvenir brochure, which is full of detail about putting a big show together.
I also read a lot of plays: not only for research, but because I was also taking a theatre writing class, and because I just enjoy reading them. Here’s a few of my favourites, which I know I was reading at the same time as writing the book. A couple of them make cameo appearances in Theatrical as Luke’s scripts or as things Hope has seen…
- Rope: Patrick Hamilton
- The History Boys: Alan Bennett
- And Then Come the Nightjars: Bea Roberts
- The Ferryman: Jez Butterworth
- Misterman: Enda Walsh
- The Hairy Ape: Eugene O’Neill
- The Dazzle: Richard Greenberg
- Sea Wall: Simon Stephens
- The Habit of Art: Alan Bennett
- Ink: James Graham
- Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: JK Rowling, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne
Like Hope, I also read The Stage, which is the weekly theatre trade paper– especially the technical columns, and particularly Jess Gow’s stage management columns. And Usborne’s Slot Together Theatre was an invaluable tool for helping me picture the Earl’s Theatre!
I hope you enjoyed this amazing peek at all the research Maggie did for Theatrical, I know I'll definitely be picking up some of the books to fulfil my thirst for all things stagey. Theatrical is out now, more information can be found here and my full review can be read here.
This review for Theatrical is a part of the official blog tour, be sure to check out the other blog stops for more reviews, personal stories and guest posts from Maggie.
Post by Editor, Olivia Mitchell
I hope you enjoyed this amazing peek at all the research Maggie did for Theatrical, I know I'll definitely be picking up some of the books to fulfil my thirst for all things stagey. Theatrical is out now, more information can be found here and my full review can be read here.
This review for Theatrical is a part of the official blog tour, be sure to check out the other blog stops for more reviews, personal stories and guest posts from Maggie.
Post by Editor, Olivia Mitchell
Monday, 20 April 2020
A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson Book Review
A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson
Published: 2nd May 2019 by Electric Monkey
★★★★★For no particular reason, I've never really been into crime YA. I love me a true crime podcast and YouTube video but I'd never transferred that love to books. This is why it's taken a lockdown to make me read A Good Girl's Guide to Murder! I was very kindly sent a proof copy back before the release but it had never spiked my interest (and I was also being a lame book blogger) but good lord I'm glad I finally picked it up; it's fast paced, multi-layered excellence that just delivers in every way.
Pippa Fitz-Amobi is a true crime loving teen who aspires to study English and become a journalist one day. So, she decides to begin honing her journalistic abilities early by focussing her sixth form EPQ on the big unsolved murder that took over her town five years ago, that of Andie Bell. What starts as a simple idea, soon becomes a full-scale investigation full of twists and turns, as well as beautifully done character studies. Teaming up with the alleged murderer's brother, the duo go on a journey of obsession and danger that could lead them many ways.
This debut is exceptionally written, with multimedia formatting that is engaging from page one. The book allows the reader to feel like they are investigating alongside the characters with police transcripts, maps, diary entries and more, truly immersing us into the world of Andie Bell.
Not only is this a truly captivating mystery, but it also features a diverse cast with discussions about racial injustice, corruption and the importance of friends and family, be those natural or found. Ravi and Pip's friendship is touching and it's amazing how strong both these characters are. Back when I was at sixth form, I wrote my EPQ on the importance of strong female leads in YA fiction and I would certainly add the brilliant, dedicated, powerful Pippa to the ranks.
I can't recommend this book highly enough, the characters are superbly defined and the structure is so well thought out, that you are hit with information in a way that never feels overwhelming or confusing. This is just a great edge of your seat read, that is sure to be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
(ps. in the proof copy I received, the last pages were ripped out. I thought these were just for effect and that the story really did end on a complete cliffhanger but I WAS WRONG. The final chapters of this book are a complete roller coaster and I can't believe I almost missed them! What a spectacular read!)
(ps. in the proof copy I received, the last pages were ripped out. I thought these were just for effect and that the story really did end on a complete cliffhanger but I WAS WRONG. The final chapters of this book are a complete roller coaster and I can't believe I almost missed them! What a spectacular read!)
{AD PR product- book gifted in exchange for honest review}
Monday, 31 October 2022
New dates added to Carrie Hope Fletcher's debut tour
More dates have been added to award-winning stage sensation Carrie Hope Fletcher’s debut solo tour due to phenomenal demand.
Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book will see the musical theatre star, author and vlogger play a series of unmissable theatre shows in May and June 2023, with new shows added in Oxford, Liverpool, Leicester, Milton Keynes, Southend, Bath and Glasgow.
Performing songs from her incredible West End and touring career, fans can look forward to hits from Heathers, Les Misérables, The Addams Family and many more, interspersed with chat about Carrie’s fascinating life and career.
Tickets for the new dates are on general sale from 10am, on Friday, November 4 from www.cuffeandtaylor.com
Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book 2023
18-May Bradford, St George’s Hall
19-May Oxford, New Theatre
21-May Southampton, Mayflower Theatre
22-May Norwich, Theatre Royal
25-May London, The London Palladium
27-May Llandudno, Venue Cymru
28-May Salford, The Lowry
29-May Birmingham, Symphony Hall
21-May Sheffield, City Hall
01-June Liverpool, Empire Theatre
02-June Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall
03-June Newcastle, O2 City Hall
04-June Edinburgh, Festival Theatre
06-June Leicester, De Montfort Hall
07-June Milton Keynes, Milton Keynes Theatre
09-June Southend, Cliffs Pavilion
10-June Bath, The Forum
11-June Glasgow, Theatre Royal
Speaking about Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book, Carrie said:
“I am so excited to be preparing for my first ever solo tour – and to be adding new dates is absolutely fantastic.
“A solo concert tour is something I have wanted to do for some time, and it’s great to be able to visit even more places and meet even more fans.
“I adore being on stage and am fortunate to have performed in so many theatres, but there’s something very special about being able to get out on the road and visit some beautiful theatres around the UK.”
Earlier this year, Carrie was named best performer in a female identifying role in a musical as the title role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella. Most recently, she has wowed critics in a new revival of Brecht’s The Caucasian Chalk Circle and is now preparing for her pantomime debut as the villain Carabosse in Sleeping Beauty at The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury.
Carrie, who has an impressive three WhatsOnStage Awards to her name, has enjoyed a breath-taking career since her West End debut at the age of nine playing Young Éponine in Les Misérables.
Since then, Carrie’s theatre credits include Fantine in Les Misérables: The Concert, Veronica in Heathers, Wednesday in The Addams Family, Éponine in Les Misérables, both Truly Scrumptious and Jemima in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Beth in Jeff Wayne’s War of the Worlds and Jane Banks in Mary Poppins.
When she’s not treading the boards of the West End’s biggest stages, Carrie is also a best-selling novelist, Top 20 recording artist and respected vlogger with her popular self-titled music and vlog channel attracting more than a million views a month.
Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book is presented by Lambert Jackson, Live Nation and Cuffe and Taylor.
Jamie Lambert, of Lambert Jackson, said:
“Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book presents an opportunity to take one of the West End’s most celebrated and successful leading stars to theatres across the UK.
“There has been a phenomenal demand for the tour so we are delighted to be adding extra dates so even more people will be wowed by the stunning voice of Carrie, while also getting an insight into her incredible career.”
Cuffe and Taylor Director of Theatre Touring Ben Hatton added:
“We are very excited to be presenting Carrie’s debut UK tour, and it is testament to her great popularity that we’re adding these dates. Carrie is the most wonderful musical theatre talent and audiences will absolutely love this show.”
For more information about Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book and to secure tickets head to www.cuffeandtaylor.com
Monday, 4 June 2018
When The Curtain Falls (Book), Carrie Hope Fletcher | Review
When the Curtain Falls by Carrie Hope Fletcher
Published: 12th July 2018 by Little Brown Books
★★★★★
The latest edition in Carrie Hope Fletcher's book empire, When The Curtain Falls (the same title as her debut album) is all about theatre and romance, aka, my dream. The book follows two young lovers, Oscar Bright and Olive Green as they meet backstage whilst performing in a revival of a show in which tragedy struck 50 years earlier. Through a series of flashbacks and memories, we discover what happened to the original lovers, Fawn Burrows and Walter Brown, and whether tragedy is set to strike again. With heartache, tragedy, theatre and a little bit of magic, When The Curtain Falls is the perfect read to wrap you up and transport you to the glittering lights of the West End.
Carrie's writing is lyrical but easy to read. Reading her books feel as though you're listening to a friend talk; When The Curtain Falls especially, has a relaxed feel about it.
In a previous review of All That She Can See I wrote that Carrie's writing has a theatrical feel, this is obviously even more evident in this story which is all about the stage, performing and backstage antics. There are a whole host of stagey references which any avid theatre fan will love spotting. I especially loved the fact that the first musical Olive saw was Beauty and the Beast, which was my first too and that she lives in Turnham Green- West London represent!
The section at the start where Olive is talking about being in the 'theatre world' and the 'real world' is just one very interesting and relatable moment. When you go to shows a lot and are part of the theatre scene it feels like it's the only thing that exists and that everyone knows everyone, but once you go back to the 'real world' very few people have the same connections. It’s the same with theatre stars, at their theatre they are famous, signing autographs and standing for photos but once they turn the corner they blend into the crowd and normal people wouldn't bat an eyelid seeing them. This ramble has very little relevance to this review, other than saying that it's very clever how Carrie has worked tidbits of the musical theatre world into the story without making it overbearing or factual. The entire story flows with the ease of watching a really good show.
The romance between the lead couple is extremely sweet, if at times cringey. You can almost see the way the pair look at one another and at times it feels like we're invading a private moment whilst we read. The mirrors between the 1952 relationship and the current one are well written and interesting to see. All the characters are well developed and I couldn't help but wonder if anyone, especially Tamara, is based on anyone Carrie has come across in her career! With Moulin Rouge vibes, I can so see this story as a swooping romance film.
When The Curtain Falls is a theatre fans dream. With stagy references, a beautiful romance and some unexpected plot twists, there's not much more you could ask for in a book. This is certainly my favourite of Carrie's novels and I hope she continues to include theatre in her work. I also hope that the magic of this book will welcome new people to the theatre so they can experience whatbthe stars of the story do (perhaps with less drama though!)
It's clear how much passion and love Carrie has for the stage and it really comes across in her heartfelt writing. I urge you to pick up When The Curtain Falls and to escape into a beautiful world for a few hours.
Review by Editor, Olivia Mitchell
{AD PR Product- book gifted in exchange for honest review}
Sunday, 20 February 2022
All Our Hidden Gifts by Caroline O'Donoghue Book Review
All Our Hidden Gifts by Caroline O'Donoghue
Published: 1st July 2021 by Walker Books
★★★★★
I read this gem of a YA debut release as part of the Tandem Collective read along for the release of this book and the second in the series All The Gifts That Bind Us and I'm so glad it pushed me to pick it up. It's such a well written book that's full of magic and coming of age discoveries.
Maeve Chambers doesn't have much going for her. Not only does she feel like the sole idiot in a family of geniuses, she managed to drive away her best friend Lily a year ago. But when she finds a pack of dusty old tarot cards at school, and begins to give scarily accurate readings to the girls in her class, she realises she's found her gift at last. Things are looking up – until she discovers a strange card in the deck that definitely shouldn't be there. And two days after she convinces her ex-best friend to have a reading, Lily disappears.
Can Maeve, her new friend Fiona and Lily's brother Roe find her? And will their special talents be enough to bring Lily back, before she's gone for good?
This book feels like it's come at a perfect time given how popular crystals and the magical arts are. With the resurgence showing all over social media and providing a focus and outlet for many young people. What lovely about this book is how author Caroline O'Donoghue writes about it really respectfully as well as bringing to light the history and importance of these traditions. I think it really shines a light on how helpful they can be for young people to feel strong and empowered.
Despite this being a story about magic, what really drew me into it was O'Donoghue's wonderful portrayal of teens, with Maeve, Fiona, Roe and Lily all feeling honest and alive. They not only have a great chemistry with one another but are so diverse in their passions and personalities, they feel truly representative of the world we live in today and the friendship groups which exist. Nothing about it feels like a box ticking exercise, it's natural and genuine. I also love that each character feels incredibly important. Although Maeve is technically the lead, all the characters are very well developed, with their issues and lives brought to the forefront for moments to really let them shine.
The narrative itself is engaging, with the mystery of Lily's disappearance and Maeve's discovery of her powers and the social issues addressed make it more than just a fluffy, quick read. It discusses Ireland's social history and raises important conversations such as LGBTQ+ rights, gender politics and ingrained familial pressures.
All Our Hidden Gifts is a brilliant YA novel that I'd highly recommend reading and am sure the rest of the series will be just a good.
{AD PR product- book gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday, 28 November 2023
He Sang to Me by Casey Tyler book review: A Delightfully Cheesy Ode to Broadway Romance
Self Published: 3rd October 2023 by Truelove Publishing
Casey Tyler's debut novel, He Sang to Me is a book that unabashedly caters to the delulu girlies, and as a self-proclaimed member of that tribe, I found myself both cringing and grinning through its pages. This 320 page tale, is reminiscent of a sweet and charming fanfic; intertwining the enchanting worlds of Broadway and romance – two of this reader's, favourite things.
The narrative unfolds amidst the hustle and bustle of New York City, and the author's vivid descriptions and location name drops skilfully bring the city to life. As well as this the pages are dotted with stagey references that act like hidden treasures for theatre enthusiasts like myself. The book really evokes the frenetic energy of the theatre district and certainly sparked my desire to hop on a flight back to New York to explore every corner of the city.
He Sang to Me follows Sunday Truelove, an aspiring actress who moves to New York to pursue her dreams. Within moments she wins tickets to the hottest show on Broadway and whilst she's there has a magical encounter with the leading man and famous British actor, Tyler Axel. From here the two enter a fairytale romance and discover whether they're truly meant to be.
Honestly, it's as cheesy as it sounds and I kind of loved it. There are all the classic tropes, from being spotted by paparazzi to caring for the sick partner and in a way it's pretty iconic. On the other hand, it's pretty basic. The characters aren't particularly developed, Sunday has extreme 'not like other girls' energy which is a little grating and the book, at times, tips into self-indulgence and lacks a grounded narrative. Despite the characters being in their late twenties and thirties, their personalities and emotional journeys comes across quite immature and lean towards a younger audience. It's clear that a bit more editing and development could add a layer of realism to their characterisations. Some of the British aspects were also inaccurate and took me out of the world a little but these are definitely things that could be tweaked and edited for future prints. Nevertheless, the book shines in capturing the essence swooping romance and is a sweet stagey story, with some charming moments.
There are elements of the characters that I truly enjoyed such as Sunday's bright eyed optimism and Tyler's love for his family and his craft. I know I would fall for an ex-Fiyero with a killer voice, although in my experience they're never quite as unproblematic as Tyler!
The rest of the characters, while somewhat idealised, form a found family that's lovely to discover. The friendships and relationships are sprinkled with relatable moments, creating a sense of nostalgia for those who have ever dreamt of having a dreamy friend group.
The musical theatre aspects of the story are really fun but I do think it would be interesting to include more of the backstage aspect of Broadway. With both of the leads being so heavily ingrained in the world, it would be easy to explore but a lot of the plot points surrounding it are quite surface level and because of the idealised world they are living in, the challenging realities of the Broadway business don't get a light shone on them. I definitely think this is a story that could benefit from a sprinkle of grit to elevate it to the next level.
Casey clearly has a love and talent for writing and whilst I found the initial chapters a bit heavy-handed with unnecessary descriptions, the writing blooms and improves throughout and it's quite wonderful that she's has taken the plunge to write and self publish the story, I'll certainly be keeping an eye our for future (hopefully stagey) treats.
In a nutshell, He Sang to Me offers a quick and enjoyable escape for fans of theatre, celebrity/normal dating dynamics, and the allure of found family tropes. While it may not be a polished piece of literature, its endearing charm, lively New York setting, and relatable theatrical moments make it a worthwhile indulgence for those in need of a cosy break from reality.
Reviewed by Olivia
Follow Casey to keep up with her writing journey
{AD PR product- book gifted by author}
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