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Grace Unplugged
Grace Trey is an eighteen-year-old singer as passionate about her Christian faith as she is her phenomenal, God-given musical talent. Both traits come from her father, one-hit wonder Johnny Tray who found Jesus after losing his chart success two decades ago.
When Grace encounters her own music break of a lifetime, the sudden dive into the "real world" puts her deeper beliefs to the test. Pop superstardom is just within reach but appears to require some spiritual compromise. Will Grace reject her faith, or will she own it?
Grace Unplugged is based on the motion picture of the same name starring AJ Michalka (Super 8) and Kevin Pollak (A Few Good Men).
When Grace encounters her own music break of a lifetime, the sudden dive into the "real world" puts her deeper beliefs to the test. Pop superstardom is just within reach but appears to require some spiritual compromise. Will Grace reject her faith, or will she own it?
Grace Unplugged is based on the motion picture of the same name starring AJ Michalka (Super 8) and Kevin Pollak (A Few Good Men).
304 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2013
25 people are currently reading
782 people want to read
About the author
Melody Carlson
430 books3,259 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
February 7, 2025
3.5 stars
Grace Unplugged was an easy read that was enjoyable. Grace is sometimes frustrating, but her story is a coming-of-age one involving much growth. I see that this book is based on a film, so I’m curious to see how it compares to that.
Grace Unplugged was an easy read that was enjoyable. Grace is sometimes frustrating, but her story is a coming-of-age one involving much growth. I see that this book is based on a film, so I’m curious to see how it compares to that.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrator: Nora Hunter
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary
Length: 6h 50m
November 21, 2021
I have never read Melody Carlson's other books, I've always been hooked on her Christmas novels, but Grace Unplugged was so good!! The cover is what really caught my attention, but Melody Carlson has been on my author radar for a while now, and will continue to be one of my many favorite authors. I wasn't really sure how I was going to feel about this novel, but once I started reading I couldn't put it down because I wanted to see Grace's music career take off, I wanted her to shine bright like the gem she is. I feel that Grace can truly be an inspiration to so many young ladies.
"Sometimes, chasing your dreams leads you right to where you belong".
Grace Trey is an 18 year old singer as passionate about her Christian faith, Grace is also a phenomenal God-given musician. Grace is determined to pursue her music career, but when her dad, Johnny Tray who found Jesus after losing his chart success two decades ago doesn't want Grace to pursue her music career the way she wants, Grace is determined to prove to her parents that she is capable of doing so, whether her parents approve or don't. Grace runs away from home to pursue her music career in LA to be just like the one and only Renae Taylor.
Will Grace reject her faith, or will she own it?
"Sometimes, chasing your dreams leads you right to where you belong".
Grace Trey is an 18 year old singer as passionate about her Christian faith, Grace is also a phenomenal God-given musician. Grace is determined to pursue her music career, but when her dad, Johnny Tray who found Jesus after losing his chart success two decades ago doesn't want Grace to pursue her music career the way she wants, Grace is determined to prove to her parents that she is capable of doing so, whether her parents approve or don't. Grace runs away from home to pursue her music career in LA to be just like the one and only Renae Taylor.
Will Grace reject her faith, or will she own it?
May 25, 2019
This is a mini ‘Books For Christian Girls’ review. It is not a full content review and will not receive one. These mini-reviews are years old and just for clarity on the rating the book received on Goodreads.
3/6/2014-
“Compared to the typically movie based on book, "Grace Unplugged" is a book based on the movie's script. Therefore, they are very similar.”
*Main Content-
Grace drinks & gets hangover quite a few times; Grace has a bratty attitude for a large part of this book (thinking she knows best); Minor cussing (crap, heck).
Grace's dad gives her a purity ring; Kendra gives Grace a set of lingerie and says that a guy will love it; Grace gets told that she looks hot and should use her body since sexy sells; Minor cussing (hot, sexy, sleazy, and skanky).
3/6/2014-
“Compared to the typically movie based on book, "Grace Unplugged" is a book based on the movie's script. Therefore, they are very similar.”
*Main Content-
Grace drinks & gets hangover quite a few times; Grace has a bratty attitude for a large part of this book (thinking she knows best); Minor cussing (crap, heck).
Grace's dad gives her a purity ring; Kendra gives Grace a set of lingerie and says that a guy will love it; Grace gets told that she looks hot and should use her body since sexy sells; Minor cussing (hot, sexy, sleazy, and skanky).
June 5, 2023
Grace Unplugged is a book I've had on my shelf for years and finally got around to reading. Even though I watched the movie a long time ago, I could still picture some of it while reading this book - which was fun.
The characters were fine. The main character went through a lot of growth, but she did make some choices along the way that were frustrating to read.
All in all, Grace Unplugged was an easy read and one I'm glad I finally read.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
The characters were fine. The main character went through a lot of growth, but she did make some choices along the way that were frustrating to read.
All in all, Grace Unplugged was an easy read and one I'm glad I finally read.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
February 8, 2025
3.5 stars
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Nora Hunter
Length: 6h 50m
May 23, 2021
I am torn on this book. It makes it sound like all secular music is bad, and that more rock-type songs don't belong in church. I COMPLETELY disagree with that. One: The issue was Grace's "all about me" attitude, not the music she was wanting to play at church, in my opinion. Two: As a girl that is a Christian and happily listens to both Christian and secular music, I was a bit offended at the 'secular music is bad' feel, honestly. Maybe I am reading too much into it, but...I don't know. Just sharing what I got from it. It annoyed me. Also, there are tons of rock and metal bands that are, *snark mode warning* GUESS WHAT, CHRISTIAN. Yeah! Skillet, Petra, Theocracy, Narnia, Extol...You get my point.
Why couldn't we have had Grace do TWO songs at church near the end of the book? A softer one AND a more 'rock' style one? Then I would have been happy.
Another thing. Grace is quite frankly a little turd and is really stupid during a lot of the story. Like REALLY stupid. And annoying. She made it difficult to like her. I'm sorry, drinking underage is dumb. Really dumb. What did she expect going out to L.A.? She wants her (also annoying) dad to treat her like a grownup, but considering what she did once on her own out in California, well. Maybe his overprotective annoyingness had a point? And I get that that's the point of the story, that we, as the readers, are SUPPOSED to see that, but as I did not care for Grace's dad's 'tude in the first place, it made it hard to be on any character's "side". I liked her mom. She seemed more reasonably levelheaded in my opinion. I did like Grace more by the end of the book, so at least she became likable eventually, which maybe was the point. Also Jay is a jerk and Quentin is nice. Enough said.
I realize I sound really negative, but I didn't HATE the book. It was engaging, and I actually like that we don't have an oh-so-perfect MC. Nice change. But, she was just stupid for so long that I wanted to facepalm.:P I have seen the Grace Unplugged movie, but it was quite awhile ago and I vaguely remember thinking similar opinions to the ones I have on the book. It does have a nice overall message about letting God be in charge and family coming first. I'd recommend this book for ages 12+, but I would be very sure to mention some clean secular music artists/bands and some rock/metal Christian artists/bands along with the book.:)
I'm giving the book 3 stars because of my own personal opinions about the characters, but mostly because of the music thing.
Why couldn't we have had Grace do TWO songs at church near the end of the book? A softer one AND a more 'rock' style one? Then I would have been happy.
Another thing. Grace is quite frankly a little turd and is really stupid during a lot of the story. Like REALLY stupid. And annoying. She made it difficult to like her. I'm sorry, drinking underage is dumb. Really dumb. What did she expect going out to L.A.? She wants her (also annoying) dad to treat her like a grownup, but considering what she did once on her own out in California, well. Maybe his overprotective annoyingness had a point? And I get that that's the point of the story, that we, as the readers, are SUPPOSED to see that, but as I did not care for Grace's dad's 'tude in the first place, it made it hard to be on any character's "side". I liked her mom. She seemed more reasonably levelheaded in my opinion. I did like Grace more by the end of the book, so at least she became likable eventually, which maybe was the point. Also Jay is a jerk and Quentin is nice. Enough said.
I realize I sound really negative, but I didn't HATE the book. It was engaging, and I actually like that we don't have an oh-so-perfect MC. Nice change. But, she was just stupid for so long that I wanted to facepalm.:P I have seen the Grace Unplugged movie, but it was quite awhile ago and I vaguely remember thinking similar opinions to the ones I have on the book. It does have a nice overall message about letting God be in charge and family coming first. I'd recommend this book for ages 12+, but I would be very sure to mention some clean secular music artists/bands and some rock/metal Christian artists/bands along with the book.:)
I'm giving the book 3 stars because of my own personal opinions about the characters, but mostly because of the music thing.
January 6, 2014
Grace Unplugged , not only a new movie release but first it was a novel written by one of my favourite authors Melody Carlson. When it comes to Christian novels that every teen should read - Melody Carlson is the go-to Author and this book was no different. Grace Unplugged stars Grace Trey , 18yr old daughter of former one hit wonder Johnny Trey now turned Worship leader of their church. All Grace has ever wanted to do is play music and her way, but everytime she gets close -her parents especially her father shuts her down. When an amazing opportunity arises for Grace to get her name out there by remixing her dad's song Misunderstood , she jumps at the chance and is soon chucked headfirst into the world of music - fame and stardom . Is Grace cut out for this life or will she find herself on the outside especially when parts will start to make her question her faith and morals and the way she was brought up. Soon Grace will find in her hands a copy of the book which in the novel -her Pastor Tim wrote it called "Own It" but in reality , the book was written by the amazing Hayley and Michael DiMarco and is a book about owning your faith in all situations.
This book was an amazing read and looks at the contrasts between the christian world and the hollywood world where exploiting yourself for the name of money and selling records is A-OK. After reading the book , I now can't wait to see the movie and what's even more awesome is the fact that if you are a music person -then like me, you can hop onto Itunes and download the Movie's soundtrack .
This is one book that should be on all teen's reading list and would make a good study group book as teens start to cross into the adult line and choices arise and many second guess what they have been brought up to believe.
October 20, 2013
Although not many young adults leave home in search of fame, the underlying theme of this book reflects their quest to fulfill dreams and find significance. This story is also a good reminder of the importance of having solid friends who offer Godly advice. Grace's parents need to lean on their friends, a couple who happened to be their pastor and his wife, and Grace, too, finds timely support from a caring friend.
As the mother of two teenage girls, I identify with Grace's parents. The confusion of knowing what to do as their daughter slipped into a dangerous lifestyle leads them to push her further away, alienating her not only from the support of her parents but also her church. Grace questions her upbringing and spiritual foundation as she ventures into a world with different values. How far will she go until she remembers where to find help? Can her parents ride out this storm and maintain the sort of relationship with Grace that makes her want to turn to them?
I listened to the audio version, so a word about the narrator--Nora Hunter does an excellent job, with believable voice changes and a sweet tone that echoes what I imagine Grace's voice to sound like.
PARENTAL RATING: PG. I think this is a wonderful book for young people as well as parents of teens and young adults, but be aware that there are some (mild) references to alcohol and sex. That said, this is a definite must-add for my daughters' bookshelf.
**I received a copy of this book as part of the christianaudio Reviewers Program.
As the mother of two teenage girls, I identify with Grace's parents. The confusion of knowing what to do as their daughter slipped into a dangerous lifestyle leads them to push her further away, alienating her not only from the support of her parents but also her church. Grace questions her upbringing and spiritual foundation as she ventures into a world with different values. How far will she go until she remembers where to find help? Can her parents ride out this storm and maintain the sort of relationship with Grace that makes her want to turn to them?
I listened to the audio version, so a word about the narrator--Nora Hunter does an excellent job, with believable voice changes and a sweet tone that echoes what I imagine Grace's voice to sound like.
PARENTAL RATING: PG. I think this is a wonderful book for young people as well as parents of teens and young adults, but be aware that there are some (mild) references to alcohol and sex. That said, this is a definite must-add for my daughters' bookshelf.
**I received a copy of this book as part of the christianaudio Reviewers Program.
April 24, 2018
Actual Rating: 4.45
This was an enjoyable read. I really enjoyed the story. I watched the movie a while back and I loved it. The story represented in book form is the same, but I thought the book lacked a bit of the magic I felt in the movie. Also, I really thought the themes in this book were very beautiful. The story was about finding who you are. It was also about the knowledge that once you find out who you are, let God take control and lead you to your potential. It is beautiful to see the transformation within Grace's character as she went from being a rebel who wanted to defy her parents wishes to a true believe in Christ. I found Grace to be a very relatable character as she experiences the same thing that most people experiences, which is to find out who they are and where they belong. I loved Quentin. I wish I could find a guy like him. He is my total ideal book boyfriend. He is understanding, and knows the struggles that Grace is going through. I am happy that they found their way to each other. Also, I am really happy that she figured out where she truly belonged. The ending was great. I am happy with the way the book turned out. Overall, a great read.
This was an enjoyable read. I really enjoyed the story. I watched the movie a while back and I loved it. The story represented in book form is the same, but I thought the book lacked a bit of the magic I felt in the movie. Also, I really thought the themes in this book were very beautiful. The story was about finding who you are. It was also about the knowledge that once you find out who you are, let God take control and lead you to your potential. It is beautiful to see the transformation within Grace's character as she went from being a rebel who wanted to defy her parents wishes to a true believe in Christ. I found Grace to be a very relatable character as she experiences the same thing that most people experiences, which is to find out who they are and where they belong. I loved Quentin. I wish I could find a guy like him. He is my total ideal book boyfriend. He is understanding, and knows the struggles that Grace is going through. I am happy that they found their way to each other. Also, I am really happy that she figured out where she truly belonged. The ending was great. I am happy with the way the book turned out. Overall, a great read.
April 23, 2017
It is very rare for me to rate a book 1 star. However, I could not make it halfway through this book before giving up.
First, I messed up when I heard about the movie then saw there was a book. I thought I should read the book first, ASSUMING the movie was based on the book, not the other way around. I was wrong. This book is based on the movie. That bugs me. And I really hope the movie isn't as bad as this book because I do plan on watching it at some point.
Second, it is so boring. I can't get past the writing style and the choppy flow. It felt like this was the author's first published novel, so I was surprised when I saw she has several published novels. And there were so many typos/errors in the edition I was reading, it was driving me crazy.
And lastly, none of the characters were likeable. I couldn't relate to any of them. I found most of them annoying and I couldn't keep reading. I tried. Oh well.
First, I messed up when I heard about the movie then saw there was a book. I thought I should read the book first, ASSUMING the movie was based on the book, not the other way around. I was wrong. This book is based on the movie. That bugs me. And I really hope the movie isn't as bad as this book because I do plan on watching it at some point.
Second, it is so boring. I can't get past the writing style and the choppy flow. It felt like this was the author's first published novel, so I was surprised when I saw she has several published novels. And there were so many typos/errors in the edition I was reading, it was driving me crazy.
And lastly, none of the characters were likeable. I couldn't relate to any of them. I found most of them annoying and I couldn't keep reading. I tried. Oh well.
June 3, 2015
I didn't completely finish this, because it was getting a little frustrating for me, so I decided to just watch the movie. I know that is unusual for me, as I prefer books, but I felt that the decision would be better that way. :)
I didn't care for how rebellious Grace was, nor how her parents handled the situation, or her friend, Rachel, for that matter.
I also didn't like that Grace's parents wanted her to go to college - even if just for a 'fall-back plan'. With God, you don't need a 'fall-back-plan'.
The movie wasn't better, and the whole story just...well, I wasn't pleased with it. This story just wansn't for me.
I didn't care for how rebellious Grace was, nor how her parents handled the situation, or her friend, Rachel, for that matter.
I also didn't like that Grace's parents wanted her to go to college - even if just for a 'fall-back plan'. With God, you don't need a 'fall-back-plan'.
The movie wasn't better, and the whole story just...well, I wasn't pleased with it. This story just wansn't for me.
October 6, 2024
A beautiful story of a retelling of the prodigal son. In this case it’s Grace and her running off to become a famous singer leaving behind her parents who love her and wants what best for her. Will she see God’s love for her and return back home to those who love her. It’s a wonderful story full of love and learning. I read this story last year and had to reread this again. I highly recommend this story for all!! 5 stars!!
September 17, 2014
This book by Melody Carlson is amazing! It is one on my new favorite books! During this book it shows how tough if can be for someone to be in the world but not living in the world. The main character Grace struggles to keep her faith as she becomes a popular singer in Hollywood. Many can relate to this book because at one point we all struggle in this world while we keep our beliefs.
August 31, 2013
I have read other books by Melody Carlson but this is the first time I read one that was written for Young Adults or the New Adult. The story is timeless--small town girl goes to Hollywood- or at least Los Angeles to become a singing star.
What sets Grace Unplugged apart is the great writing and deftly drawn characters. Also I liked the realistic situations that Gracie Trey, daughter of the one hit wonder, Johnnie Trey, finds herself in.
The book has been made into a movie which debuts October 4, 2013.
I'd recommend this book to any young person and their parents. It would provide a great jumping off point for parents and teens to discuss their conflict over the teen preparing to sail off into the adult world.
In my own series "The Women of Ivy Manor," (four generations amid the tapestry of the 20th century) I found that every mother tried to prepare her daughter to save her from the struggles the mother had. But in each case, the mother couldn't protect her child from life.
We all wish to wrap our children in cotton and keep them safe, but that's not letting them become who they were meant to be and to face the challenges God has prepared to shape them.
What sets Grace Unplugged apart is the great writing and deftly drawn characters. Also I liked the realistic situations that Gracie Trey, daughter of the one hit wonder, Johnnie Trey, finds herself in.
The book has been made into a movie which debuts October 4, 2013.
I'd recommend this book to any young person and their parents. It would provide a great jumping off point for parents and teens to discuss their conflict over the teen preparing to sail off into the adult world.
In my own series "The Women of Ivy Manor," (four generations amid the tapestry of the 20th century) I found that every mother tried to prepare her daughter to save her from the struggles the mother had. But in each case, the mother couldn't protect her child from life.
We all wish to wrap our children in cotton and keep them safe, but that's not letting them become who they were meant to be and to face the challenges God has prepared to shape them.
June 19, 2019
Grace Unplugged by Melody Carlson is a fairly good book, identical to the movie of the same name (the movie came first, I believe). It is predictable, but well told. Carlson again shows her ability to accurately show the world through the eyes of a ten girl, this time one who is determined to become a rock star despite her parents' apprehensions. Grace runs from her overprotective father towards what she thinks she wants: life in the spotlight. But, like many coming-of-age novels involving Christian musicians, she must decide if she is willing to pay the dues the industry leaders are demanding of her. In the end, she must decide which is more important to her: music and a career she has become uncertain about, or her faith and family.
It was hard for me to give this 4 stars because it got really boring at some points, especially since I have seen the movie and it follows exactly the same series of events, but it is a really good book. Realistically, it is right on the line between 3 and 4 stars in my opinion. I recommend this book to Christians wanting a solid, easy to read, coming-of-age story.
It was hard for me to give this 4 stars because it got really boring at some points, especially since I have seen the movie and it follows exactly the same series of events, but it is a really good book. Realistically, it is right on the line between 3 and 4 stars in my opinion. I recommend this book to Christians wanting a solid, easy to read, coming-of-age story.
July 22, 2016
I was excited to read this book because I had seen a preview of the movie on-line and it looked interesting.
All in all the story wasn't what I was expecting, but I wasn't disappointed, so that was good. The story was enjoyable, not overly detailed (although possibly more than I would have liked - and enough so that I wouldn't necessarily recommend it) when it came to the unsavory parts of life, and moved along at a good clip.
Grace is a disrespectful eighteen-year-old who is sure she's old enough to make her own decisions and balks at her parents involvement in her life. Grace and her dad grew up being close, but by the time the book starts they are butting heads and have different views of life. They are both musicians and Grace wants to go with her own style and feels stifled by her dad forcing her to play the way he wants her to.
Throughout the book Grace's transformation is slow, but pretty believable, so yay.
I'm giving the book 3 out of 5 stars, 6 out of 10.
All in all the story wasn't what I was expecting, but I wasn't disappointed, so that was good. The story was enjoyable, not overly detailed (although possibly more than I would have liked - and enough so that I wouldn't necessarily recommend it) when it came to the unsavory parts of life, and moved along at a good clip.
Grace is a disrespectful eighteen-year-old who is sure she's old enough to make her own decisions and balks at her parents involvement in her life. Grace and her dad grew up being close, but by the time the book starts they are butting heads and have different views of life. They are both musicians and Grace wants to go with her own style and feels stifled by her dad forcing her to play the way he wants her to.
Throughout the book Grace's transformation is slow, but pretty believable, so yay.
I'm giving the book 3 out of 5 stars, 6 out of 10.
August 3, 2014
Nice story about a young girl following her dream to be a big singer who discovers that what she left behind is exactly what she needed to be true to herself.
November 9, 2018
“This is how it is when you finally get here” would be my blurb for Grace Unplugged. It’s a story about a Christian artist, by a Christian artist, for Christian artists—who all want to make a name in the secular scene.
The morale, however, applicable to all artists. It questions the artist’s purpose, identity, and values. When he finally achieves his dreams, he’ll doubt if it was really what he wanted. The setting is in Hollywood, but it reflects the rest of the entertainment industry—i.e., so many “necessary” evils because people are just doing their jobs.
The over-arching conflict is great because the individual conflicts are balance. The tension is consistent, as each page gives dilemma on which character is right and wrong, because they all have points and flaws.
Like the majority, I first knew about Grace Unplugged because of the film. But following the general rule that books are greater than their films, I read the book first. The synopsis of the story intrigues me as I myself am a Christian artist who wants to make a name in the secular scene. So I knew I had to read it.
I’m quite disappointed with the book, however, not because it’s not good, but because it is. The beginning is good, the middle is even better, so I was expecting for great ending. But it was flat. I love brevity; so majority of the novels I love are pithy. Even so, I find this novel quite short—or at least its ending. The resolution was wrapped up quite too soon. Plus it got cheesy and preachy—adjectives that do not describe the first three quarters of the book.
Nothing special about the writing, but it is well-written. I commend that than stories which might have an intriguing uniqueness, but is not well-written overall. What’s even more disappointing is knowing that with Melody Carlson’s professionalism, she could’ve written a better ending—a satisfying one. The overall novel was worthwhile. I had so many realizations; and the lessons impacted me. It’s just the ending that I didn’t like. Again, not because the story is not good, but because it is—that I had high expectations.
The morale, however, applicable to all artists. It questions the artist’s purpose, identity, and values. When he finally achieves his dreams, he’ll doubt if it was really what he wanted. The setting is in Hollywood, but it reflects the rest of the entertainment industry—i.e., so many “necessary” evils because people are just doing their jobs.
The over-arching conflict is great because the individual conflicts are balance. The tension is consistent, as each page gives dilemma on which character is right and wrong, because they all have points and flaws.
Like the majority, I first knew about Grace Unplugged because of the film. But following the general rule that books are greater than their films, I read the book first. The synopsis of the story intrigues me as I myself am a Christian artist who wants to make a name in the secular scene. So I knew I had to read it.
I’m quite disappointed with the book, however, not because it’s not good, but because it is. The beginning is good, the middle is even better, so I was expecting for great ending. But it was flat. I love brevity; so majority of the novels I love are pithy. Even so, I find this novel quite short—or at least its ending. The resolution was wrapped up quite too soon. Plus it got cheesy and preachy—adjectives that do not describe the first three quarters of the book.
Nothing special about the writing, but it is well-written. I commend that than stories which might have an intriguing uniqueness, but is not well-written overall. What’s even more disappointing is knowing that with Melody Carlson’s professionalism, she could’ve written a better ending—a satisfying one. The overall novel was worthwhile. I had so many realizations; and the lessons impacted me. It’s just the ending that I didn’t like. Again, not because the story is not good, but because it is—that I had high expectations.
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September 23, 2020Grace Trey just wants to do music. Her dad was a one hit wonder before he became a christian, so she thought he of people would understand her desire to be famous doing what she loves but instead he digs in his heels and refuses to let her follow her dreams. She's 18 but he seems to treat her like she's still 8. When she meets his former manager and convinces him to sign her, she runs away from home to make her dreams come true. Instead of instant success she finds herself in a rundown apartment and playing at clubs where people are more interested in finding someone to take home than to listen to her. She is of course paying her dues, as Mossy her manager keeps telling her, but it's hard to remember that when people have no interest in listening to her perform. And she has to write her first song and nothing seems to inspire her, not even the alcohol that she's started drinking to fit in with those around her. Can Grace find her way without compromising her values, or will she become just another washed diva?
This book wasn't quite as free flowing as her books usually are. Parts of it felt almost forced or scripted, although that may just be because i know it was made into a movie and was trying to picture what the movie would be like. I do want to watch the movie still, and I did still like the book, it's just not my favourite book Melody Carlson has written
This book wasn't quite as free flowing as her books usually are. Parts of it felt almost forced or scripted, although that may just be because i know it was made into a movie and was trying to picture what the movie would be like. I do want to watch the movie still, and I did still like the book, it's just not my favourite book Melody Carlson has written
August 1, 2019
This book was about Grace, an 18-year old girl with overprotective parents. She has always loved music and in her dad's eyes she can never get anything perfect, especially in church, with the worship team. This is hard because her dad was really big and had one really great hit one time and now the song is coming back. His old manager, Mossy comes by to their house one day with an offer for a contract with Sapphire music, and her dad says no. after this, Grace sends Mossy a video of her playing her dad's song on guitar. She ends up going to LA one night without her parents knowing and she stays there while her career grows by playing this one song. In doing this, she gets farther and farther from God, and nothing can make her feel complete anymore. She starts drinking even though she is under-aged. A friendly helper at Sapphire music recognized her and her dad, because her dad had spoken at his church one day and really changed him. Through Quentin, Grace starts to realize she is missing God in her life and goes back home to her parents and at the end of the book she gets just what she needs.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2023
It had been awhile since I saw this movie, but the book is pretty close with just a few added scenes to make it reader friendly. Grace is your typical, rebellious teen who is tired of being "held back" by her parents, particularly her Dad. She sings with her Dad for their church, but really wants to have her own music career. When her Dad's old manager shows up (her Dad was a one hit wonder earlier in his life) and her Dad turns down an opportunity to do an album, Grace goes behind his back and records her Dad's own song. The manager loves it and agrees to help Grace get started on her own music career. Only fame isn't quite as wonderful as she had hoped.
This was a fun read about a girl's journey to God. A bit like a prodical son story. Inspiring and heartwarming. My only issues were that there were quite a few typos (very annoying) and that the Dad is super strict. I get that he doesn't want his little girl to go down the same path he did, and in the end he does realize that she has talent. But at first he really won't even listen to her point of view. All in all, I enjoyed reading this.
This was a fun read about a girl's journey to God. A bit like a prodical son story. Inspiring and heartwarming. My only issues were that there were quite a few typos (very annoying) and that the Dad is super strict. I get that he doesn't want his little girl to go down the same path he did, and in the end he does realize that she has talent. But at first he really won't even listen to her point of view. All in all, I enjoyed reading this.
February 20, 2018
Grace Unplugged took me to a place that I didn't think was possible. This book had everything from God, Grace, Faith, and daily life. Melody Carlson knows exactly what to put into a story to make you feel every emotion as if you were the one who was in the book. Grace Unplugged is about a girl, Grace, who sings with her father, and old singer legend, at church every Sunday. Grace wanted more things that just singing in a church every Sunday, and decided she wanted to be a pop-star singer. Read this amazing book to be able to jump in and feel the emotion.
June 16, 2024
For its genre it was a great read. However it's not a genre I usually read so it took me a while to fully enjoy it (I'm more of mystery western romance adventure reader).
Grace definitely had attitude problems
But all the characters felt real, even witg Grace's at times cringy attitude. It felt like slice of life stories. Not picture perfect families but a family trying to live their faith through difficult issues. Though this isn't my genre of choice, I believe I will be trying another book by Melody.
Grace definitely had attitude problems
But all the characters felt real, even witg Grace's at times cringy attitude. It felt like slice of life stories. Not picture perfect families but a family trying to live their faith through difficult issues. Though this isn't my genre of choice, I believe I will be trying another book by Melody.
July 3, 2023
A bratty, know it all teen heads out to LA to become rich and famous.
What she becomes is somewhat of a lush and a grade A whiner.
She lies, she complains, she gets drunk, and she learns about life the hard way.
None of the characters are likeable and I'm happy to be done with this book.
Thank you, Goodreads, for providing me with a free copy to review.
What she becomes is somewhat of a lush and a grade A whiner.
She lies, she complains, she gets drunk, and she learns about life the hard way.
None of the characters are likeable and I'm happy to be done with this book.
Thank you, Goodreads, for providing me with a free copy to review.
May 20, 2024
Full disclosure: I read this book because I noticed the movie by the same title :)
And I'm SO GLAD I read this book first! A beautiful portrayal of reaching your dreams ... while honoring God! Also, a great look at how to pray for our teenagers -- to encourage, to seek God's favor, and also His mercy.
Also, with the touch of romance that is common to Melody Carson :)
And I'm SO GLAD I read this book first! A beautiful portrayal of reaching your dreams ... while honoring God! Also, a great look at how to pray for our teenagers -- to encourage, to seek God's favor, and also His mercy.
Also, with the touch of romance that is common to Melody Carson :)
December 11, 2018
Grace Unplugged a book for all ages
We all need to come home. Grace Unplugged is a great reminder that the world can lead us astray but God is always there waiting for us. I highly recommend it.
We all need to come home. Grace Unplugged is a great reminder that the world can lead us astray but God is always there waiting for us. I highly recommend it.
March 27, 2019
Great book on the life of a star - followed in her father's footsteps even though he had given it up - Hard lessons about life - family - romance - Christian - well written and fast moving book that you want to know how it ends.
December 25, 2021
This book kept me intrigued the entire time. It had a wonderful message and lesson to remember your entire life:
“God never let go. Despite all her mistakes and confusion and floundering, He had never let go of her. And she never wanted to let go of Him again either.”
I truly enjoyed this book!
“God never let go. Despite all her mistakes and confusion and floundering, He had never let go of her. And she never wanted to let go of Him again either.”
I truly enjoyed this book!
May 6, 2024
Melody Carlson has a well written book with vey believable characters.
Sometimes one has to leave home and discover “real life,” before they can appreciate what they have and where they came from. This is true for Grace Trey when she feels like her dad is stifling her dreams of a music career.
Sometimes one has to leave home and discover “real life,” before they can appreciate what they have and where they came from. This is true for Grace Trey when she feels like her dad is stifling her dreams of a music career.
January 21, 2019
Very trite.
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