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Playing Along
Two Lives. Two Continents. One Song…
Then: George Bryce was an awkward, English schoolboy fantasizing about being in a band.
Now: George is frontman of Thesis, an overnight indie scene sensation. Intense, creative and self-deprecating, his childhood dreams have all been fulfilled – so why does George still feel so lost?
Then: Lexi Jacobs was a confident Californian high school cheerleader, planning her future marriage and a meaningful career.
Now: Lexi is searching for substance in a life full of mishaps. Cautious, bemused and rapidly losing the control she used to rely on, none of her teenage dreams have delivered and she’s left wondering, “What next?”
Follow George and Lexi as they navigate their days thousands of miles apart. Fly with them from London to LA and back again, as George copes with the dynamics of his tight knit band and loose knit family, while Lexi juggles her eccentric new boss, bored best friend and smother mother.
Even though there’s an ocean between them and their worlds couldn’t be further apart, George and Lexi are pulled together through music, and their paths appear determined to cross.
The question is – when?
Then: George Bryce was an awkward, English schoolboy fantasizing about being in a band.
Now: George is frontman of Thesis, an overnight indie scene sensation. Intense, creative and self-deprecating, his childhood dreams have all been fulfilled – so why does George still feel so lost?
Then: Lexi Jacobs was a confident Californian high school cheerleader, planning her future marriage and a meaningful career.
Now: Lexi is searching for substance in a life full of mishaps. Cautious, bemused and rapidly losing the control she used to rely on, none of her teenage dreams have delivered and she’s left wondering, “What next?”
Follow George and Lexi as they navigate their days thousands of miles apart. Fly with them from London to LA and back again, as George copes with the dynamics of his tight knit band and loose knit family, while Lexi juggles her eccentric new boss, bored best friend and smother mother.
Even though there’s an ocean between them and their worlds couldn’t be further apart, George and Lexi are pulled together through music, and their paths appear determined to cross.
The question is – when?
291 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 20, 2012
11 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Rory Samantha Green
1 book23 followersRory Samantha Green is a published author, trained psychotherapist and creator of Write To Be You, Reflective Writing Workshops. She openly admits to being a recovered band crushaholic. Her book, ‘Charlie’s Checklist’, was selected by Oprah Winfrey’s children’s bookclub.
‘Playing Along’ is her first novel for adults and explores how relationships can play out in imaginations as well as in real life.
She is currently hard at work on the sequel and begs you not to scream at her when you reach the last page of Playing Along. There is more to come!
Rory has lived in both London and Los Angeles and is tired of talking about the weather.
You can read her blog at www.writetobeyou.com or visit her on her on Facebook www.facebook.com/RorySamanthaGreen or Twitter @WriteToBeYou
‘Playing Along’ is her first novel for adults and explores how relationships can play out in imaginations as well as in real life.
She is currently hard at work on the sequel and begs you not to scream at her when you reach the last page of Playing Along. There is more to come!
Rory has lived in both London and Los Angeles and is tired of talking about the weather.
You can read her blog at www.writetobeyou.com or visit her on her on Facebook www.facebook.com/RorySamanthaGreen or Twitter @WriteToBeYou
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 12, 2019
This is one of those books that don't dwell too much on the lead girl/boy interaction. The story flows more of a real time, from one day to the next, without much seeming to happen. I'm used to reading romance novels with plenty of dialogue between the two leads and plenty of situations where they are thrown in together for the relationship to evolve, so why do I love this book so much?? Let me count thy reasons:
(1) It's not lame. I've read a couple of books that tried to portray similar things like rock stars and bands and people supposed to be really "into" music, but they're not believable. They had me rolling my eyes and muttering "WTF?!" and just plain being disgusted because posers are well represented in books, after all! But not George and the band. I smiled on the first page alone because really, Bowie, Portishead, and New Order as his influences? He had me with that. And as the story progressed and the author was describing Thesis and the life of the band, it was believable and seemed well researched and as aforementioned, not lame. Not lame is very important.
(2) Lexi. She's my kind of girl. She reacts to things and situations like I would, I guess, like following her heart and going for George even though common sense is against it. She's not the annoying kind that played hard to get or resisted too long only to fall in the end. She knows what she wants and goes for it.
(3) All the Brit talk. Seriously, it was sexy.
(4) I loved all the other characters in this book as well. They were fun, real, and quirky! Russell was adorable in a weird kind of way and Fanny was "hilarious" (wink, wink). Even the parents weren't boring at all.
(5) I also liked all the music references (a lot that I also listen to) and all those mention of sushi! Yum!
It was just a real sweet and funny book. I shed many giggles and felt giddy at times, like I too was developing a crush on George. I wanted more at the last page, so hopefully Ms. Green considers a sequel?
(1) It's not lame. I've read a couple of books that tried to portray similar things like rock stars and bands and people supposed to be really "into" music, but they're not believable. They had me rolling my eyes and muttering "WTF?!" and just plain being disgusted because posers are well represented in books, after all! But not George and the band. I smiled on the first page alone because really, Bowie, Portishead, and New Order as his influences? He had me with that. And as the story progressed and the author was describing Thesis and the life of the band, it was believable and seemed well researched and as aforementioned, not lame. Not lame is very important.
(2) Lexi. She's my kind of girl. She reacts to things and situations like I would, I guess, like following her heart and going for George even though common sense is against it. She's not the annoying kind that played hard to get or resisted too long only to fall in the end. She knows what she wants and goes for it.
(3) All the Brit talk. Seriously, it was sexy.
(4) I loved all the other characters in this book as well. They were fun, real, and quirky! Russell was adorable in a weird kind of way and Fanny was "hilarious" (wink, wink). Even the parents weren't boring at all.
(5) I also liked all the music references (a lot that I also listen to) and all those mention of sushi! Yum!
It was just a real sweet and funny book. I shed many giggles and felt giddy at times, like I too was developing a crush on George. I wanted more at the last page, so hopefully Ms. Green considers a sequel?
January 28, 2013
If you’re looking for a feel good read, then I would definitely recommend ‘Playing Along’. It’s a whimsical, quirky, and romantic story about two lost souls navigating life.
What makes this book great is two equally strong lead characters. George is adorably emo; he’s a once-geeky man who has turned into a famous rockstar who all the ladies want. You would think this would make George egotistical, but instead he’s quietly humble when it comes to his music, and still inadequate feeling when it comes to women. Lexi’s teen years were the exact opposite, as she was the golden girl of high school, but it’s been all downhill from there, both in romance and career. Lexi’s luck might be changing, however, as a sudden job opportunity throws her into the path of George.
‘Playing Along’ is a really sweet and romantic story, but it's not a romance in the traditional sense. The book is largely about the main characters individually as they find their way to one another. A lot of the scenes are missed connections between the two of them, but this actually made me love the actual scenes with George and Lexi together that much more.
I liked this book from the beginning, but part way through I fell in love with George and Lexi and began to enjoy the book even more. It made me giddy to see how these two great characters felt about each other. ‘Playing Along’ features very unique storytelling that kept me reading and hoping that George and Lexi would find love, and a happily ever after, together.
What makes this book great is two equally strong lead characters. George is adorably emo; he’s a once-geeky man who has turned into a famous rockstar who all the ladies want. You would think this would make George egotistical, but instead he’s quietly humble when it comes to his music, and still inadequate feeling when it comes to women. Lexi’s teen years were the exact opposite, as she was the golden girl of high school, but it’s been all downhill from there, both in romance and career. Lexi’s luck might be changing, however, as a sudden job opportunity throws her into the path of George.
‘Playing Along’ is a really sweet and romantic story, but it's not a romance in the traditional sense. The book is largely about the main characters individually as they find their way to one another. A lot of the scenes are missed connections between the two of them, but this actually made me love the actual scenes with George and Lexi together that much more.
I liked this book from the beginning, but part way through I fell in love with George and Lexi and began to enjoy the book even more. It made me giddy to see how these two great characters felt about each other. ‘Playing Along’ features very unique storytelling that kept me reading and hoping that George and Lexi would find love, and a happily ever after, together.
March 20, 2015
This book might be one of the most interesting books I have ever read. The way the whole story is laid out took a bit to get used to us, but once I got into the story, I couldn't wait to finish it. Lexi and George are great characters. Lots of thought went into a book this complex. I wish there was a bit more, but it ended in just the right way. If there is ever a sequel, I will want to read that!!
might-read-freebie
March 21, 2013Free on Amazon 03.20.13
February 26, 2019
I can't say enough about how very much I LOVED this book! I am a hopeless romantic and the story of George and Lexi left me wanting more, more, more! What a fabulous book - Rory is such a beautiful writer and so funny too! When they finally come together it is worth the wait. I want them to make this book into a movie so I can see Lexi and George on their brilliant journey again and again.
February 4, 2018
Had to end it at 11%, I just was not connecting.
January 27, 2013
Wow!!! As I type this review I am feeling like my belief in love at first sight has been restored! Playing Along by Rory Samantha Green is a very refreshing take on the rock star boyfriends stories that are hitting shelves everywhere! I give this book 4 stars easily and recommend anyone who loves romance, love at first sight, and happy endings definitely put this book on their to be read list!!
Playing Along is the story of George, lead singer of Britain's top rock band Thesis, and Lexi a former high school prom queen whose life has taken unexpected twists and turns. George is a rock star, but he has retained his down to Earth, boy next door, straight laced attitude, and has not let fame take him down the path of sex, drugs, and rock and roll. I fell in love with George instantly. He grew up in a family that didn't appreciate his "beat to his own drum" personality and he was treated as the "other" child.
"George has been unpacking heartache from his sensitive soul since the age of ten."
This quote broke my heart, I could easily imagine a young George having his dreams crushed by those that meant the most to him... His family. His sister, Polly, made me want to jump in the book and punch her in the face! She was a self centered brat, even as an adult, that wanted all eyes on her and she didn't care how she got said attention.
Then we have Lexi. Lexi was prom queen, ring leader of the popular girls in high school, apple of her parents' eyes, and was envied by everyone. She had a good looking, athletic boyfriend who was her equal in being envied. Every girl wanted to be her, and every boy wanted to be with her. Her life changed when she learned her "perfect"high school boyfriend was gay and she just may have tapped out at 17. As a young girl she was taught to rely on her looks and the support of a good man.
"Her parents only introduced her when she was young as “our beautiful Lexi,” and she came to rely on the label, like it was part of her name,"
This love story sucked me in from the very beginning! I love how the author took the time to allow readers to connect with each character before jumping into the relationship of them. By the time George and Lexi ever crossed paths in the book, I was already committed to the story and was rooting for both of them to get a happy ending... Even if it wasn't with each other. I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat wondering,when the heck will these two ever meet and see the fireworks. They had several chance encounters before I got my wish.
"A woman runs towards him halfway down a residential street. His heart is beating in time to the song. As they pass each other, they both look up, and even though her face is in his eye line for the briefest second, he could swear he sees tears in her eyes."
Of course, life has a funny way of intervening in dreams and plans. George and Lexi's lives absolutely had a way of postponing my dreams of their first kiss. After that running encounter, it took several twists and turns before they ever even met! They eventually had another encounter at one of his concerts..
"He’s singing “A Suitable Dawn” and he’s looking directly at her. Or at least she feels like he’s looking directly at her. She holds his gaze for a number of seconds, feeling, bizarrely, like she is the only person in the room."
It became increasingly obvious that George and Lexi were meant to be and it would be fireworks when and if it ever happened. I for one was patiently waiting... Well not really patiently... For their first kiss! Of course, I was teased a few times into thinking it would finally happen. Their first meeting, was just that... a meeting!!
"He’s watching her lips as they meet the edge of the glass and imagining the faint imprint they will leave behind. It doesn’t really matter anymore what she is saying, he is way past needing to be convinced"
When George and Lexi let destiny take the drivers seat it was exactly how I thought it would be!! I found myself so deeply rooted into the lives of these characters and could not put this book down until I read it all!! I could continue on and let all of the secrets and spoilers out, but I want other readers to be in as much suspense over wondering if George and Lexi ever take the plunge as much as I was. A MUST read for romance lovers and those who need a break from the bad boy rock stars, but still want a smidgen of bad boy there. ;))
Playing Along is the story of George, lead singer of Britain's top rock band Thesis, and Lexi a former high school prom queen whose life has taken unexpected twists and turns. George is a rock star, but he has retained his down to Earth, boy next door, straight laced attitude, and has not let fame take him down the path of sex, drugs, and rock and roll. I fell in love with George instantly. He grew up in a family that didn't appreciate his "beat to his own drum" personality and he was treated as the "other" child.
"George has been unpacking heartache from his sensitive soul since the age of ten."
This quote broke my heart, I could easily imagine a young George having his dreams crushed by those that meant the most to him... His family. His sister, Polly, made me want to jump in the book and punch her in the face! She was a self centered brat, even as an adult, that wanted all eyes on her and she didn't care how she got said attention.
Then we have Lexi. Lexi was prom queen, ring leader of the popular girls in high school, apple of her parents' eyes, and was envied by everyone. She had a good looking, athletic boyfriend who was her equal in being envied. Every girl wanted to be her, and every boy wanted to be with her. Her life changed when she learned her "perfect"high school boyfriend was gay and she just may have tapped out at 17. As a young girl she was taught to rely on her looks and the support of a good man.
"Her parents only introduced her when she was young as “our beautiful Lexi,” and she came to rely on the label, like it was part of her name,"
This love story sucked me in from the very beginning! I love how the author took the time to allow readers to connect with each character before jumping into the relationship of them. By the time George and Lexi ever crossed paths in the book, I was already committed to the story and was rooting for both of them to get a happy ending... Even if it wasn't with each other. I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat wondering,when the heck will these two ever meet and see the fireworks. They had several chance encounters before I got my wish.
"A woman runs towards him halfway down a residential street. His heart is beating in time to the song. As they pass each other, they both look up, and even though her face is in his eye line for the briefest second, he could swear he sees tears in her eyes."
Of course, life has a funny way of intervening in dreams and plans. George and Lexi's lives absolutely had a way of postponing my dreams of their first kiss. After that running encounter, it took several twists and turns before they ever even met! They eventually had another encounter at one of his concerts..
"He’s singing “A Suitable Dawn” and he’s looking directly at her. Or at least she feels like he’s looking directly at her. She holds his gaze for a number of seconds, feeling, bizarrely, like she is the only person in the room."
It became increasingly obvious that George and Lexi were meant to be and it would be fireworks when and if it ever happened. I for one was patiently waiting... Well not really patiently... For their first kiss! Of course, I was teased a few times into thinking it would finally happen. Their first meeting, was just that... a meeting!!
"He’s watching her lips as they meet the edge of the glass and imagining the faint imprint they will leave behind. It doesn’t really matter anymore what she is saying, he is way past needing to be convinced"
When George and Lexi let destiny take the drivers seat it was exactly how I thought it would be!! I found myself so deeply rooted into the lives of these characters and could not put this book down until I read it all!! I could continue on and let all of the secrets and spoilers out, but I want other readers to be in as much suspense over wondering if George and Lexi ever take the plunge as much as I was. A MUST read for romance lovers and those who need a break from the bad boy rock stars, but still want a smidgen of bad boy there. ;))
Read
April 3, 2013I took a while to write this post because I wanted to think about the book before I wrote a review. This book has characters that are extremely well written. The author is gifted in writing characters that you feel like could be actual people that you know. I really enjoyed the process of getting to know them too.
Where I struggled is in the type of story that this is. This is a contemporary fiction with the potential of romance. As readers we are rooting for George and Lexi as a couple but I would have to remind myself that I didn't really know if they would be good together. There are a lot of obstacles in the way too. We follow their lives that for much of the book are separate. When there is a connection it is very tentative and separated by an ocean and a heap of other challenges. Because I was rooting for them as a couple, when other people come into their life it makes me potentially uncomfortable because they are a challenge to my desired outcome. I had to remind myself that it isn't really cheating if these people aren't together what so ever. There is only the vaguest potential for something, if that. It made it a different sort of read.
Even when we get to the end we don't really know how George and Lexi would be together as a couple. Just like in real life when we think someone would be perfect for us, that doesn't mean they really would be. There is a lot of anticipation for the desired outcome but the book is much more about the buildup. That makes it very realistic but also a little tense. This is not a complaint, it just made it different from what I was expecting. I think the story succeeds in what it set out to do.
I am split about what would make this story end in the most satisfying way without compromising the type of story that it is. An epilogue giving us what we want (which for me is seeing this couple together and happy) might feel tacked on and probably wouldn't flow well. A second story about the couple would mean throwing a lot of angst at this couple that went through a lot to even get together in the first place. I guess a companion novel that featured them as secondary characters would ultimately be the most satisfying for me. It would show them dealing with the normal challenges of a relationship compounded by their unique circumstances and give us an idea of what they are like as a couple without having to make their story the main driving force of conflict generating angst. I am not sure what the author has planned but for me that would ideal. Because as the story ends, their is a huge build up without the feeling of total satisfying resolution
Where I struggled is in the type of story that this is. This is a contemporary fiction with the potential of romance. As readers we are rooting for George and Lexi as a couple but I would have to remind myself that I didn't really know if they would be good together. There are a lot of obstacles in the way too. We follow their lives that for much of the book are separate. When there is a connection it is very tentative and separated by an ocean and a heap of other challenges. Because I was rooting for them as a couple, when other people come into their life it makes me potentially uncomfortable because they are a challenge to my desired outcome. I had to remind myself that it isn't really cheating if these people aren't together what so ever. There is only the vaguest potential for something, if that. It made it a different sort of read.
Even when we get to the end we don't really know how George and Lexi would be together as a couple. Just like in real life when we think someone would be perfect for us, that doesn't mean they really would be. There is a lot of anticipation for the desired outcome but the book is much more about the buildup. That makes it very realistic but also a little tense. This is not a complaint, it just made it different from what I was expecting. I think the story succeeds in what it set out to do.
I am split about what would make this story end in the most satisfying way without compromising the type of story that it is. An epilogue giving us what we want (which for me is seeing this couple together and happy) might feel tacked on and probably wouldn't flow well. A second story about the couple would mean throwing a lot of angst at this couple that went through a lot to even get together in the first place. I guess a companion novel that featured them as secondary characters would ultimately be the most satisfying for me. It would show them dealing with the normal challenges of a relationship compounded by their unique circumstances and give us an idea of what they are like as a couple without having to make their story the main driving force of conflict generating angst. I am not sure what the author has planned but for me that would ideal. Because as the story ends, their is a huge build up without the feeling of total satisfying resolution
November 7, 2013
This is a debut novel by Rory Samantha Green so I have not previously read any of her work but the blurb attracted me with its tag line of “Two Lives. Two Continents. One Song.”and had no idea what to expect.
Playing Along is a story told from alternative viewpoints of the two main characters. Lexi Jacobs was an All-American High School cheerleader, with great grades and a High School sweetheart and her path in life looks reassuringly safe and predictable. George Bryce lives in England and is a typical teenage boy with all his angst and nervousness around girls and it seems highly unlikely that George will be a success in life or with girls.
However, fast forward about 10 years later and Lexi is rudderless with no boyfriend, no permanent job and unable to decide what she wants to do with her life. George Bryce is now an international pop star with a string of successful albums and many adoring female fans throwing themselves at him.
Through a series of coincidences and near misses, Lexi and George seem destined to be together but have to navigate various obstacles in order to find each other.
This is an absolutely wonderful book with well-drawn and lovable main characters and a whole cast of funny, weird and fabulous supporting characters. The dual narrative allows the reader to see both Lexi’s and George’s point of view of the same events and allows the reader to really empathise with Lexi and George. I was willing them to find each other and their happy ending.
I went through a whole host of emotions through this book and stayed up until the early hours of the morning to finish it as it really caught my heart and imagination. The writing is warm and profound without being overly sentimental. I had a book hangover after finishing this book as I wanted to stay in Lexi’s and George’s world. I understand the author is working on her second novel and I will be waiting impatiently to read it as I adore the worlds she has created.
I would highly recommend this book, there’s love, romance, humour, sadness and wonderful music lyrics and I think it would make a fantastic film. Read this book now- it’s fabulous!!
Playing Along is a story told from alternative viewpoints of the two main characters. Lexi Jacobs was an All-American High School cheerleader, with great grades and a High School sweetheart and her path in life looks reassuringly safe and predictable. George Bryce lives in England and is a typical teenage boy with all his angst and nervousness around girls and it seems highly unlikely that George will be a success in life or with girls.
However, fast forward about 10 years later and Lexi is rudderless with no boyfriend, no permanent job and unable to decide what she wants to do with her life. George Bryce is now an international pop star with a string of successful albums and many adoring female fans throwing themselves at him.
Through a series of coincidences and near misses, Lexi and George seem destined to be together but have to navigate various obstacles in order to find each other.
This is an absolutely wonderful book with well-drawn and lovable main characters and a whole cast of funny, weird and fabulous supporting characters. The dual narrative allows the reader to see both Lexi’s and George’s point of view of the same events and allows the reader to really empathise with Lexi and George. I was willing them to find each other and their happy ending.
I went through a whole host of emotions through this book and stayed up until the early hours of the morning to finish it as it really caught my heart and imagination. The writing is warm and profound without being overly sentimental. I had a book hangover after finishing this book as I wanted to stay in Lexi’s and George’s world. I understand the author is working on her second novel and I will be waiting impatiently to read it as I adore the worlds she has created.
I would highly recommend this book, there’s love, romance, humour, sadness and wonderful music lyrics and I think it would make a fantastic film. Read this book now- it’s fabulous!!
August 7, 2013
Playing Along has one of my favourite covers, I love the colours and the general feel I got from looking at it, just from the cover it seemed as though I was in for an enjoyable read! I also really love musicians and bands and given on the cover there is a guy with a guitar, I was certain that this was going to be a hit with me.
Oh my…Wow was literally all I could say after I had turned the last page – what a book! I genuinely cannot describe my sheer love for this novel! It is BEAUTIFULLY written, I loved every single word and this is a book that I could not put down! I actually read it in a whole sitting, I became so engrossed in the worlds of Lexi and George and I enjoyed every moment that I spent with them.
The characters are brilliant. I really liked Lexi from the beginning, she is so easy to warm to and I felt like I had known her my whole life. George…well he is very handsome, funny and charming! I fell in love with him straight away, and I always looked forward to his parts. The romance was perfectly written, like me you’ll be rooting for them all the way, I NEEDED them to be together! I was positively delighted as their paths crossed, I could feel the sparks between them and I was giddy with excitement for them!
I especially loved the musical element to the novel, I loved the song-writing, the concerts, I almost felt as though I was there watching the scenes play out in front of me. I cannot describe how amazing this book is, it is genuinely such a joy to read!
Playing Along is a truly stunning book – it is everything I could want in a novel. There is music, romance, humour and characters you can really get behind and cheer on! This really is a special book and I can not wait to hear more from Rory Samantha Green!
Oh my…Wow was literally all I could say after I had turned the last page – what a book! I genuinely cannot describe my sheer love for this novel! It is BEAUTIFULLY written, I loved every single word and this is a book that I could not put down! I actually read it in a whole sitting, I became so engrossed in the worlds of Lexi and George and I enjoyed every moment that I spent with them.
The characters are brilliant. I really liked Lexi from the beginning, she is so easy to warm to and I felt like I had known her my whole life. George…well he is very handsome, funny and charming! I fell in love with him straight away, and I always looked forward to his parts. The romance was perfectly written, like me you’ll be rooting for them all the way, I NEEDED them to be together! I was positively delighted as their paths crossed, I could feel the sparks between them and I was giddy with excitement for them!
I especially loved the musical element to the novel, I loved the song-writing, the concerts, I almost felt as though I was there watching the scenes play out in front of me. I cannot describe how amazing this book is, it is genuinely such a joy to read!
Playing Along is a truly stunning book – it is everything I could want in a novel. There is music, romance, humour and characters you can really get behind and cheer on! This really is a special book and I can not wait to hear more from Rory Samantha Green!
May 14, 2013
I am a sucker for romantic comedies. Any story with a sense of humor and a couple who may or may not know that they are meant to be together is right up my alley, which is probably why I loved Playing Along by Rory Samantha Green.
George is the lead singer of the popular British band Thesis. Even though he’s made it big and his name is adored by women around the world, his sweet and sensitive demeanor makes it hard for him to form lasting relationships with anyone. Lexi is a born and raised Californian. She’s always had a plan of how she wanted her life to go – marry her high school sweetheart, have a few babies, get a dog, and hold a meaningful part-time job that leaves her enough time to care for her kids – but her life has no intention of following that plan. A twist of fate brings the two together in what is probably one of the cutest love stories I’ve ever read.
Reading this book felt like sitting and gossiping with an old friend. Lexi and George’s lives are so realistic and so ordinary (even though one lives in LA and the other’s a rock star) that it didn’t take long before I felt like I knew them. The story alternates between their perspectives, so you get an inside look at what they are thinking and feeling.
The characters are genuine and adorable and hilarious. George is a dreamboat: a sweet, sensitive British musician. I’m pretty sure that’s a combination that is impossible to resist. Lexi is really fun and totally relatable. She’s got an attitude that can go from sweet to sarcastic with the flip of a switch.
Read the full review at The Daily Quirk!
George is the lead singer of the popular British band Thesis. Even though he’s made it big and his name is adored by women around the world, his sweet and sensitive demeanor makes it hard for him to form lasting relationships with anyone. Lexi is a born and raised Californian. She’s always had a plan of how she wanted her life to go – marry her high school sweetheart, have a few babies, get a dog, and hold a meaningful part-time job that leaves her enough time to care for her kids – but her life has no intention of following that plan. A twist of fate brings the two together in what is probably one of the cutest love stories I’ve ever read.
Reading this book felt like sitting and gossiping with an old friend. Lexi and George’s lives are so realistic and so ordinary (even though one lives in LA and the other’s a rock star) that it didn’t take long before I felt like I knew them. The story alternates between their perspectives, so you get an inside look at what they are thinking and feeling.
The characters are genuine and adorable and hilarious. George is a dreamboat: a sweet, sensitive British musician. I’m pretty sure that’s a combination that is impossible to resist. Lexi is really fun and totally relatable. She’s got an attitude that can go from sweet to sarcastic with the flip of a switch.
Read the full review at The Daily Quirk!
January 28, 2013
3.5 Stars
Playing Along is a really cute story about love at first sight and the soundtrack that plays in the background.
George Bryce is the frontman of the British band 'Thesis'. George has all the success he has ever wanted and millions of adoring fans, but he still feels like the awkward teen he was in high school. He feels like something is missing from his life.
Lexi Jacobs, who lives in L. A., was the popular girl in school with her whole life planned. Fast forward a few years: she is single, and starting a brand new job. Her life has not turned out the way she planned.
Lexi ends up going to an acoustic concert of Thesis in L.A. With her best friend. Lexi is captivated by George and his music, and for a moment in time their eyes meet and George knows she is the one for him. She is what he is missing.
They have a lot of ups and down throughout, but true love wins in the end.
I didn't like that it took so long for the MCs to get together. Almost the whole book went by and I was a little worried that it wouldn't happen. Also at times it dragged on for me. I wanted a little more interaction between George and Lexi.
Overall a cute story that keeps the dream of "love at first sight" alive.
Playing Along is a really cute story about love at first sight and the soundtrack that plays in the background.
George Bryce is the frontman of the British band 'Thesis'. George has all the success he has ever wanted and millions of adoring fans, but he still feels like the awkward teen he was in high school. He feels like something is missing from his life.
Lexi Jacobs, who lives in L. A., was the popular girl in school with her whole life planned. Fast forward a few years: she is single, and starting a brand new job. Her life has not turned out the way she planned.
Lexi ends up going to an acoustic concert of Thesis in L.A. With her best friend. Lexi is captivated by George and his music, and for a moment in time their eyes meet and George knows she is the one for him. She is what he is missing.
They have a lot of ups and down throughout, but true love wins in the end.
I didn't like that it took so long for the MCs to get together. Almost the whole book went by and I was a little worried that it wouldn't happen. Also at times it dragged on for me. I wanted a little more interaction between George and Lexi.
Overall a cute story that keeps the dream of "love at first sight" alive.
March 28, 2013
3.5 Stars
Playing Along is a really cute story about love at first sight and the soundtrack that plays in the background.
George Bryce is the frontman of the British band 'Thesis'. George has all the success he has ever wanted and millions of adoring fans, but he still feels like the awkward teen he was in high school. He feels like something is missing from his life.
Lexi Jacobs, who lives in L. A., was the popular girl in school with her whole life planned. Fast forward a few years: she is single, and starting a brand new job. Her life has not turned out the way she planned.
Lexi ends up going to an acoustic concert of Thesis in L.A. With her best friend. Lexi is captivated by George and his music, and for a moment in time their eyes meet and George knows she is the one for him. She is what he is missing.
They have a lot of ups and down throughout, but true love wins in the end.
I didn't like that it took so long for the MCs to get together. Almost the whole book went by and I was a little worried that it wouldn't happen. Also at times it dragged on for me. I wanted a little more interaction between George and Lexi.
Overall a cute story that keeps the dream of "love at first sight" alive.
*Review by Karinna*
Playing Along is a really cute story about love at first sight and the soundtrack that plays in the background.
George Bryce is the frontman of the British band 'Thesis'. George has all the success he has ever wanted and millions of adoring fans, but he still feels like the awkward teen he was in high school. He feels like something is missing from his life.
Lexi Jacobs, who lives in L. A., was the popular girl in school with her whole life planned. Fast forward a few years: she is single, and starting a brand new job. Her life has not turned out the way she planned.
Lexi ends up going to an acoustic concert of Thesis in L.A. With her best friend. Lexi is captivated by George and his music, and for a moment in time their eyes meet and George knows she is the one for him. She is what he is missing.
They have a lot of ups and down throughout, but true love wins in the end.
I didn't like that it took so long for the MCs to get together. Almost the whole book went by and I was a little worried that it wouldn't happen. Also at times it dragged on for me. I wanted a little more interaction between George and Lexi.
Overall a cute story that keeps the dream of "love at first sight" alive.
*Review by Karinna*
Read
January 26, 2014Playing along is a book you won't want to put down. The book has a dual narrative. So you can see what's happening to Lexi and George at the same moments in time. This book will take you London and LA. When we first meet Lexi and George as teenagers they are both very different. Lexi is a popular self assured teenager who has her life mapped out.While George is very tortured in a way. Lacking in confidence ,with a cruel older sister. Fast forward to when they are adults. And things are very different. Lexi is still single, when as a teenager she expected to be married to her high school sweetheart. Jobless, life is not how she expected it to work out. She finds a job with an eccentric Eco warrior. And his cat. George now is the lead singer of a very successful band Thesis. Still wracked with self doubt that he isn't good enough. Playing along is a book you will be wanting to read more. Then finding yourself sad when the book ends. I look forward to finding out what happens to Lexi and George.
January 15, 2013
I have just finished this book and I feel lost without it. It was one of those books that I started reading and was thinking it was ok then ten pages in I was hooked. everywhere I went I wanted to just fit one more page in because I just needed to know what was going to happen. I think it is this that makes it a great read, on every page you just want to know what's going to happen, there is no padding out and over describing characters that aren't really that important to the story. The set up of it was clever too, not long chapters on one character but short perfectly written chapters that made the book flow so well. I just want to pass it on to everyone I know so we can discuss how gorgeous George is! Brilliant book and am desperate for the next one that she writes....very excited!
February 5, 2013
A love story of serendipitous proportions. If you saw that movie Serendipity (2001 John Cusack Kate Beckinsale) and you LOVED it, this book is FOR YOU!
Style of writing (multiple narrators) is great. Story is interesting. But, I wanted a little more out of the ending.
It felt like I was invited to a huge party...of epic size, style and fun. I counted down the days...and then when the day of the party arrived I got to the door and they allowed me to peek inside the party and then sent me home.
Enjoyed the story...wanted a little more of the party and a little less of the build up. BUT, I definitely suggest this as a read.
Some of the scenes are given such great depth and detail.
Enjoy.
Style of writing (multiple narrators) is great. Story is interesting. But, I wanted a little more out of the ending.
It felt like I was invited to a huge party...of epic size, style and fun. I counted down the days...and then when the day of the party arrived I got to the door and they allowed me to peek inside the party and then sent me home.
Enjoyed the story...wanted a little more of the party and a little less of the build up. BUT, I definitely suggest this as a read.
Some of the scenes are given such great depth and detail.
Enjoy.
September 15, 2013
Had never heard of Rory Samantha Green until asked to review this book and I have to say I am so pleased I was asked. This is a book which is brilliantly written, superb story and an under-story of family, friends and daily life that could be so close to most peoples lives.
The characters are wonderfully sculptured that they could be your next door neighbors. The fame element is played in the right context without ever being over the top and the whole story is a love story without being a Mills & Boon contestant. Pure genius writing and just when you feel that glow of finishing a book and missing the characters, you find out that you can re-visit them very soon in the sequel. Simply perfect!
The characters are wonderfully sculptured that they could be your next door neighbors. The fame element is played in the right context without ever being over the top and the whole story is a love story without being a Mills & Boon contestant. Pure genius writing and just when you feel that glow of finishing a book and missing the characters, you find out that you can re-visit them very soon in the sequel. Simply perfect!
May 30, 2013
I loved this little book! Ms. Green has written the story that I wish I'd lived - the one where the shy indie rock star sees me in the 3rd row and is instantly inspired to meet me, to see if the tug he feels could be real. And just like in my life, everything that can go wrong with this potential romance does. I kept finding myself gritting my teeth and thinking, "No! Oh, he/she/that will ruin everything!!!" and everything was ruined ... up until the very end of the book. I was never sure they'd get their HEA. I recommend this book highly!
March 23, 2014
I have to admit this book was S-L-O-W moving until about half way through. I almost put it aside, but the characters kept me going, and I'm so glad I did. The build up in the beginning was necessary for the play out of the story, which I enjoyed in the end. I couldn't put it down after that 50% mark. If you like chance encounters, then you'll like this book. Enchanting characters and a simultaneously alternating point of view keep you aware of the thoughts and feelings of both main characters. Hoping for a sequel!!!
March 16, 2013
NOTE: I RECEIVED THIS BOOK FROM GOODREADS FIRST READS IN RETURN FOR A HONEST REVIEW
I loved this book from start to finish. It had me wanting to read more from the first page. The 2 main characters George and Lexi was a great story about the one song bringing them together. The story is well descripted and leaves nothing for the imagination but there is no need to. I would love to see a 2nd book that looks into the band members of Thesis and Russell and Let The Green Times Roll.
I loved this book from start to finish. It had me wanting to read more from the first page. The 2 main characters George and Lexi was a great story about the one song bringing them together. The story is well descripted and leaves nothing for the imagination but there is no need to. I would love to see a 2nd book that looks into the band members of Thesis and Russell and Let The Green Times Roll.
March 28, 2013
This book annoyed me. it was a wonderful read and the characters all played a perfect part in the story but my problem was that it took so long to get into the story and then it ran away so fast.
George is beautiful a true sweet heart and Lexi is a smart woman still finding her way, i just wish they had found it sooner.
Im glad i stayed till the end, but i could have put thus book down many many times and not been bothered.
George is beautiful a true sweet heart and Lexi is a smart woman still finding her way, i just wish they had found it sooner.
Im glad i stayed till the end, but i could have put thus book down many many times and not been bothered.
April 28, 2013
I really like the way this book was written. It was witty, insightful, sometimes a bit dark. My only criticism is that I know more about Simons sandwiches than the fate of Lexi and George. I want more, you gave me milk I wanted cream. Perhaps there will be a sequel or some follow up on her blog. I think it's time I wrap up this review and investigate. In a nut shell, wonderful writing, excellent character development, not too angstey, all around enjoyable.
January 13, 2013
Well it's been about three days since I finished up Playing Along and it's still vividly playing in my mind:)
I LOVE this book - I couldn't put this book down. You'll fall in love with George and Lexi...All the characters are so clearly defined and alive. I love the references to music and the time it takes place. It's hard to find books that will pull you in like PLAYING ALONG.
I LOVE this book - I couldn't put this book down. You'll fall in love with George and Lexi...All the characters are so clearly defined and alive. I love the references to music and the time it takes place. It's hard to find books that will pull you in like PLAYING ALONG.
March 30, 2013
I loved this book. I couldn't put it down. I liked that it wasn't aimed from one of the characters point of view but both of two main characters. There were many twist and turns in this story.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes modern romance.
The story was left open, I would like to see a sequel
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes modern romance.
The story was left open, I would like to see a sequel
April 4, 2013
A good read, but I would have given it 4stars if it had more interaction between the two main characters. I felt like it left me wanting to read more and not satisfied in the end, as we spend the whole book waiting for them to be together and then we barely see it. I would have liked to see them getting to know one another, properly.
January 19, 2013
I really liked this book. It's very sweet and romantic and I now have a little crush on George Bryce, who doesn't actually exist! Ahh well. It only took me a couple of days to finish it as I was taken in and swept away by this very charming story.
March 5, 2013
I loved both Lexi and George...they were fantastic characters! I also really enjoyed the musical elements of the book, and could definitely imagine Thesis as a real band...and I would totally be a fan! :D
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
May 27, 2016
I loved this book! I read it in two days without even trying. Rory incorporates music along with the storyline. If you're a music fan looking for a great romantic comedy, this is the novel for you!
I received this book from the Goodreads Giveaway.
I received this book from the Goodreads Giveaway.
April 6, 2013
** 3.5 Stars
This was a cute and quick read. The suspense of will they/won't they was a little too drawn out, but it was well executed. I enjoyed the characters and the story. There was a bit too much showing instead of telling and the constant POV switches were a little much.
This was a cute and quick read. The suspense of will they/won't they was a little too drawn out, but it was well executed. I enjoyed the characters and the story. There was a bit too much showing instead of telling and the constant POV switches were a little much.
April 19, 2013
Was a bit slow to start off with but from halfway through it started picking up, with a really cute ending. Overall just a good cruisey read. Love how the two paths met and it wasn't just another "rockstar falls for the average girl" story.
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