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Life Song
Overview: Mavis was born to be a songbird. Her parents named her after one, a bird with a distinctive song worthy of poetry. With her wings clipped by circumstance, Mavis spent six years of her life grounded and her dream of soaring flight almost forgotten. Unexpectedly, Mavis discovers she has a choice: accept a life that is ordinary or be among the one percent that shine. It is a long way to the top in the Australian music industry and more than a name needs to change in order to succeed. It is a gruelling challenge with exhausting demands and subtle traps for the uninitiated. Can Mavis make it? Can she build a better life for herself and her son? Can she have it all? Readership (ages 16+): Every generation that has faced life's challenges and who has tried to find the balance between career, parenthood, and having it all. The themes are discovery, triumphing against the odds, reinvention, disparate families, parenting, friendship, and the nature of love; themes that resonate with all ages. Editorial Review: Christine M Knight's second novel LIFE SONG is a joyfully triumphant confection that resonates with layers of interest. The core of this novel centres on Mavis Mills' resolve to be in charge of her life and captain of her creativity. It is a story that celebrates the power of belief in oneself and of friends and supporters. In terms of its chick-lit appeal, LIFE SONG ticks all the boxes. It is a blend of wry humour and vivid storytelling and the outcome is satisfying without being cloying. There is sizzle but no awkward sex scenes to navigate. Relationships are deftly drawn and realistically portrayed reflecting the passion with which people live life. The story draws from three generations of women who learn to make their own brave, sometimes foolish, sometimes late-applied choices to achieve a better life. Male characters are as diverse and complex as the female characters. LIFE SONG is a story which can be read as an adventure with a wonderfully funny, distinctly visual narrating style. It can also be reflected on as a snapshot of Australian lifestyle and culture in the 1990s. The author has some great insights about the emergence of women who lead their own bands. This is the sort of novel that delights on a day when the sofa calls. Its appeal is universal. To paraphrase Ian 'Molly' Meldrum - readers should do themselves a favour and go out and buy it. This is a winner for booksellers.
338 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
803 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 25, 2013
I just loved 'Life Song'. It is very easy to read, full of vivid and elegantly written scenes, endearing characters. It has a compelling story line that is also subtly very deep. I felt like the characters were my friends by the end of the novel. It is a very satisfying end. I read the last sentence regretfully, sad such a wonderful story had ended.
'Life Song' is a very moving and realistic portrait of Mavis Mills' journey to finding an identity beyond motherhood while making sure she is building a better life for her son, Dan. (He is such a great little boy. Dan and Zoey - a fourteen old girl in the story - steal your heart.) This is not a story about a single mum's anguish and hardship. 'Life Song' is an inspiring story about the value of believing in yourself and not giving up. It is also a story about reconciliation.
'Life Song' also features strongly the story of Kate and Gary, two friends who remained in Keimera. Their subplot provides some interesting contrasts and parallels to the main story line.
Dan and Mavis, Mavis and her mother, Kate and her father, Zoey and Susie represent explorations of parent and child relationships from differing perspectives.
Cassie (from 'In and Out of Step') is a minor character but an important trusted friend to Mavis. Readers learn about what has happened in Cassie's life in the scenes where she returns home; I liked the way Knight did this without slowing down the plot of 'Life Song'. I was satisfied - my questions about Cassie were answered.
I just love the way Knight set up the central conflict of the novel in the opening scene, a-tug-of-war. This novel looks at the subtle conflicts women face in the modern world while trying to have it all.
The use of metaphor as the backbone to the story seems to be part of Knight's style as a writer. In her first novel, 'In and Out of Step' Knight used a dance metaphor. 'Life Song' has the tug-of-war metaphor for the nature of the conflict but also uses song as a metaphor for life as well.
I like the way the story is anchored in the social context of the times, the insight into the music industry, and the sense of community often found in towns in contrast to city life.
Knight is an authentic voice in women’s fiction. I can’t wait for the third novel which is promised for 2014.
If you are new to Knight as a writer, you don't need to read 'In and Out of Step' before you read this one. I just loved the artful way Knight built in the back-story, drawing on information readers needed from 'In and Out of Step'.
Also thank you to my friend who pre-ordered 'Life Song' for me through Amazon. Thank you to Amazon for the advance copy. I was surprised to get it early because I had been watching the author's website for the release date.
'Life Song' is a very moving and realistic portrait of Mavis Mills' journey to finding an identity beyond motherhood while making sure she is building a better life for her son, Dan. (He is such a great little boy. Dan and Zoey - a fourteen old girl in the story - steal your heart.) This is not a story about a single mum's anguish and hardship. 'Life Song' is an inspiring story about the value of believing in yourself and not giving up. It is also a story about reconciliation.
'Life Song' also features strongly the story of Kate and Gary, two friends who remained in Keimera. Their subplot provides some interesting contrasts and parallels to the main story line.
Dan and Mavis, Mavis and her mother, Kate and her father, Zoey and Susie represent explorations of parent and child relationships from differing perspectives.
Cassie (from 'In and Out of Step') is a minor character but an important trusted friend to Mavis. Readers learn about what has happened in Cassie's life in the scenes where she returns home; I liked the way Knight did this without slowing down the plot of 'Life Song'. I was satisfied - my questions about Cassie were answered.
I just love the way Knight set up the central conflict of the novel in the opening scene, a-tug-of-war. This novel looks at the subtle conflicts women face in the modern world while trying to have it all.
The use of metaphor as the backbone to the story seems to be part of Knight's style as a writer. In her first novel, 'In and Out of Step' Knight used a dance metaphor. 'Life Song' has the tug-of-war metaphor for the nature of the conflict but also uses song as a metaphor for life as well.
I like the way the story is anchored in the social context of the times, the insight into the music industry, and the sense of community often found in towns in contrast to city life.
Knight is an authentic voice in women’s fiction. I can’t wait for the third novel which is promised for 2014.
If you are new to Knight as a writer, you don't need to read 'In and Out of Step' before you read this one. I just loved the artful way Knight built in the back-story, drawing on information readers needed from 'In and Out of Step'.
Also thank you to my friend who pre-ordered 'Life Song' for me through Amazon. Thank you to Amazon for the advance copy. I was surprised to get it early because I had been watching the author's website for the release date.
January 3, 2014
Best book that I've read in a long time and the only novel I've thought worthy of the time it takes to write a review. My time is valuable.
This novel has it all: quality characterisation, an original and interesting plot with unpredictable but logical twists, humour as well as pathos, wonderful descriptions that don't slow the story down, and insight into human behaviour. It's a story that will resonate with men and women alike.
'Life Song' is a very easy read . The plot not only involves you as a reader, it moves you as well. It is heart-warming and uplifting. The end was satisfying without being predicable. It is a logical end though when you think about it.
If you love quality story telling that goes beyond a superfical story line and sketchy characterisation, then 'Life Song' is for you. It is a story for men and women. Portrayals of men and women reflect the diversity of life in modern Australia.
The central issues are:
* a women's right to an identity and a career that takes her away from her child
* a man's right to a choice and input when a woman accidentally falls pregnant - does he have a say about termiantion
* short cuts to career advancement versus earning it.
The central issues provokes thought and I am sure they will cause debate similar to that associated with 'The Slap'. ‘Life Song’ is a much richer, more realistic portrayal of men and women today, and much more enjoyable read though.
It'd be a great movie.
I cannot wait for the next novel promised for Spring 2014 and want to urge the publisher to please release it earlier.
This novel has it all: quality characterisation, an original and interesting plot with unpredictable but logical twists, humour as well as pathos, wonderful descriptions that don't slow the story down, and insight into human behaviour. It's a story that will resonate with men and women alike.
'Life Song' is a very easy read . The plot not only involves you as a reader, it moves you as well. It is heart-warming and uplifting. The end was satisfying without being predicable. It is a logical end though when you think about it.
If you love quality story telling that goes beyond a superfical story line and sketchy characterisation, then 'Life Song' is for you. It is a story for men and women. Portrayals of men and women reflect the diversity of life in modern Australia.
The central issues are:
* a women's right to an identity and a career that takes her away from her child
* a man's right to a choice and input when a woman accidentally falls pregnant - does he have a say about termiantion
* short cuts to career advancement versus earning it.
The central issues provokes thought and I am sure they will cause debate similar to that associated with 'The Slap'. ‘Life Song’ is a much richer, more realistic portrayal of men and women today, and much more enjoyable read though.
It'd be a great movie.
I cannot wait for the next novel promised for Spring 2014 and want to urge the publisher to please release it earlier.
October 3, 2013
Wow, such a great read. 'Life Song' is an uplifting novel anchored in a real world and not some sugar-coated version of it. The novel is easy to read, compelling, and has depth. I fell in love with the characters.
I have read both 'In and Out of Step' and this second novel. I love the way the author uses metaphor as backbone to her novels. I also love the way Knight's novels give a partial picture of life in Australia as a backdrop to the main story line.
Knight has that rare ability to actually position the reader as a silent bystander living in the story. This helped me to understand and empathise with Cassie and other characters in 'In and Out of Step' and with Mavis and other characters in 'Life Song'. I found both novels inspiring but for different reasons.
From this reader's view, 'Life Song' works as an independent novel. Of course, readers get so much more from it if they have read 'In and Out of Step' and understand Mavis' back story.
If you like quality women's fiction, then you'll love 'Life Song'. I actually read this novel twice before coming back to Goodreads for the review.
I'd like to thank Amazon for the advance copy.
I have read both 'In and Out of Step' and this second novel. I love the way the author uses metaphor as backbone to her novels. I also love the way Knight's novels give a partial picture of life in Australia as a backdrop to the main story line.
Knight has that rare ability to actually position the reader as a silent bystander living in the story. This helped me to understand and empathise with Cassie and other characters in 'In and Out of Step' and with Mavis and other characters in 'Life Song'. I found both novels inspiring but for different reasons.
From this reader's view, 'Life Song' works as an independent novel. Of course, readers get so much more from it if they have read 'In and Out of Step' and understand Mavis' back story.
If you like quality women's fiction, then you'll love 'Life Song'. I actually read this novel twice before coming back to Goodreads for the review.
I'd like to thank Amazon for the advance copy.
January 8, 2014
I was given this book for Christmas, and it has proven to be the best novel given as a Christmas gift, and I've have received some really good reads as gifts in the past. Thanks again, Mac, for this one!
'Life Song' lives up to the hype! I haven't read a book for ages that kept me so enthralled and excited; I couldn't put it down. I so wanted Mavis to succeed. The twists and turns kept me guessing until the very end. The question - What constitutes success in life? -is a thought-provoking one as is the question about a woman's right to identity beyond the role of mother.
Christine M Knight built characters I fell in love with. I know all books are supposed to appear as real worlds but there are lot of books out there that don't create a virtual reality. 'Life Song' does - you feel like you are there too, living Mavis' journey with her. I also really enjoyed the images of community and insight into different lifestyles in Australian. I learnt so much about the Australian music scene and coastal life. I felt so sad that the story ended. I can't wait until the next book promised for 2014.
This is a 'feel good' book that has set the benchmark for my future reading.
'Life Song' lives up to the hype! I haven't read a book for ages that kept me so enthralled and excited; I couldn't put it down. I so wanted Mavis to succeed. The twists and turns kept me guessing until the very end. The question - What constitutes success in life? -is a thought-provoking one as is the question about a woman's right to identity beyond the role of mother.
Christine M Knight built characters I fell in love with. I know all books are supposed to appear as real worlds but there are lot of books out there that don't create a virtual reality. 'Life Song' does - you feel like you are there too, living Mavis' journey with her. I also really enjoyed the images of community and insight into different lifestyles in Australian. I learnt so much about the Australian music scene and coastal life. I felt so sad that the story ended. I can't wait until the next book promised for 2014.
This is a 'feel good' book that has set the benchmark for my future reading.
December 6, 2013
Without a doubt 'Life Song' is a five star novel. It is the story of a single parent who chooses the path less travelled. She wants a better life for herself and son and to experience a degree of career satisfaction. For me, this novel was an adventure. I got to experience worlds different from the one I live in. I laughed heaps. I was emotionally involved throughout the story.
The central character and key secondary characters are beautifully developed. The cameo characters not only have depth but represent how diverse men and women are today. I particularly loved the way Lyle the roadie developed.
I could see and hear the landscape.
I had such a good time while I was immersed in the world of 'Life Song'. I didn't want the novel to end. Now I am hanging out for the next novel promised to us for 2014.
I'd like to thank the author for creating such an uplifting and wholesome story.
The central character and key secondary characters are beautifully developed. The cameo characters not only have depth but represent how diverse men and women are today. I particularly loved the way Lyle the roadie developed.
I could see and hear the landscape.
I had such a good time while I was immersed in the world of 'Life Song'. I didn't want the novel to end. Now I am hanging out for the next novel promised to us for 2014.
I'd like to thank the author for creating such an uplifting and wholesome story.
January 10, 2014
A truly charming, uplifting story. Characters who are as real as your friends. You care about and want them to succeed at their respective goals. There isn’t anything predictable about this plot; it is full of logical twists and turns that make reading enjoyable. Really good plot action.
Knight conveyed the world of 'Life Song' with immediate and satisfying authenticity. So real you could taste Mrs Mills cooking and hear the wind through the Norfolk Pines. Rich in entertaining insights into Australian life. Beautiful prose simply expressed. Nothing purple about this novel.
Knight conveyed the world of 'Life Song' with immediate and satisfying authenticity. So real you could taste Mrs Mills cooking and hear the wind through the Norfolk Pines. Rich in entertaining insights into Australian life. Beautiful prose simply expressed. Nothing purple about this novel.
December 5, 2013
A thoroughly enjoyable read. This novel made me feel good- something I haven’t experienced as a reader for a long time.
January 9, 2014
Just great. It inspired me. I felt so empowered as a result of reading it. Not a predictable plot. Others have already commented on the likeability of the characters.
January 10, 2014
A read adventure and road story, packed with incident and deatials of life in Australia in 1990s, the music scene, and family life. The writing is lyrical at times and fits the title.
January 13, 2014
Most reviewers agree this novel is GREAT. I add my voice to that assessment.
LIFE SONG is an original and compelling adventure story about a woman trying to achieve her dream and earn a living as a singer. She also wants to provide a better life for her son. Success and achievement come in many forms as this novel proves as does discovery that leads to understanding and growth.
I loved the characters as well as their development, the world the story is set in, and the story telling as a whole.
If you loved The Voice or X-Factor then you’ll adore this novel. It is so much more than those shows.
If you love character driven layered stories then you’ll find this novel a satisfying and illuminating read.
What a wonderful movie this novel would make!
LIFE SONG is an original and compelling adventure story about a woman trying to achieve her dream and earn a living as a singer. She also wants to provide a better life for her son. Success and achievement come in many forms as this novel proves as does discovery that leads to understanding and growth.
I loved the characters as well as their development, the world the story is set in, and the story telling as a whole.
If you loved The Voice or X-Factor then you’ll adore this novel. It is so much more than those shows.
If you love character driven layered stories then you’ll find this novel a satisfying and illuminating read.
What a wonderful movie this novel would make!
October 20, 2014
I loved the book "Life Song" and without a doubt this book is one of the best book I have read this year.
The characters built by the writer are mature and interesting."Life Song" is beautifully written and is an engrossing and enjoyable read and it made me feel good about life.
The book has it all real characters,vivid scenes and a good plot with an uplifting story which will leave readers empowered and thus a good read.
And yes I received this book through Goodreads First read scheme in exchange of a review and I'm thankful for receiving this book.
The characters built by the writer are mature and interesting."Life Song" is beautifully written and is an engrossing and enjoyable read and it made me feel good about life.
The book has it all real characters,vivid scenes and a good plot with an uplifting story which will leave readers empowered and thus a good read.
And yes I received this book through Goodreads First read scheme in exchange of a review and I'm thankful for receiving this book.
September 4, 2015
The title intrigued me as did the review of it in Foreword Reviews so I bought the eBook.
A musician myself, the lead into that review snagged my interest: 'Poetic prose underscores the central plot line of a musician attempting to make it big'. I agree; the prose is lyrical throughout the novel.
'Life Song' is a unique tale and very different from the typical chick musician on the road trying to make it big stories that so often feature on film. It reads as an authentic account of one woman's efforts to carve out a niche in the industry while trying to provide a better life for herself and son. It does not sugarcoat the huge challenges musicians face and positions readers to appreciate the hard slog we face not only on the road but in trying to get our original songs accepted by the public.
Major characters are complex and well developed. I particularly liked the way Knight presented Dan, Mavis' six year old son. Knight understood that a six to eight year old child is not a fully fledged character. Readers learn about Dan not so much from what he says but how he behaves. I'm a single parent myself and have a son of a similar age. Dan's characterization rang true to what I know of six year olds.
The story's conflicts are subtle and not the over-the-top melodrama that many American scriptwriters resort to when scripting for movies about a musician's journey. The title and opening paragraph set up the two central conflicts in the novel. The tug-of-war image establishes that this novel deals with a subtle form of conflict. The other centers on the lens through which Mavis viewed and interpreted the world around her - music.
'Life Song' is a character driven novel. It was riveting read for me because it was so real. One of the subplots - a man's right to have a say - when it comes to unwanted pregnancy - struck a chord in me.
A lot happens in the human drama of 'Life Song', making it a rich story about real people and the challenges they face. 'Life Song' is a novel for discerning and intelligent readers. It is a must read for anyone with dreams of making it big. The novel is about the hard yards of a musician's life and the value of perseverance and retaining your integrity.
Overseas readers can work out the meaning of Aussie slang from the context of the sentence and paragraph.
A musician myself, the lead into that review snagged my interest: 'Poetic prose underscores the central plot line of a musician attempting to make it big'. I agree; the prose is lyrical throughout the novel.
'Life Song' is a unique tale and very different from the typical chick musician on the road trying to make it big stories that so often feature on film. It reads as an authentic account of one woman's efforts to carve out a niche in the industry while trying to provide a better life for herself and son. It does not sugarcoat the huge challenges musicians face and positions readers to appreciate the hard slog we face not only on the road but in trying to get our original songs accepted by the public.
Major characters are complex and well developed. I particularly liked the way Knight presented Dan, Mavis' six year old son. Knight understood that a six to eight year old child is not a fully fledged character. Readers learn about Dan not so much from what he says but how he behaves. I'm a single parent myself and have a son of a similar age. Dan's characterization rang true to what I know of six year olds.
The story's conflicts are subtle and not the over-the-top melodrama that many American scriptwriters resort to when scripting for movies about a musician's journey. The title and opening paragraph set up the two central conflicts in the novel. The tug-of-war image establishes that this novel deals with a subtle form of conflict. The other centers on the lens through which Mavis viewed and interpreted the world around her - music.
'Life Song' is a character driven novel. It was riveting read for me because it was so real. One of the subplots - a man's right to have a say - when it comes to unwanted pregnancy - struck a chord in me.
A lot happens in the human drama of 'Life Song', making it a rich story about real people and the challenges they face. 'Life Song' is a novel for discerning and intelligent readers. It is a must read for anyone with dreams of making it big. The novel is about the hard yards of a musician's life and the value of perseverance and retaining your integrity.
Overseas readers can work out the meaning of Aussie slang from the context of the sentence and paragraph.
April 26, 2014
First up, I really enjoyed this novel and had difficulty putting it down. In fact, I began reading on a Monday night and had it finished by Wednesday evening and did not miss work to do it. I've delayed writing the review because I wanted to do the novel justice.
I agree with other reviewers. 'Life Song' is an uplifting story that makes the reader feel empowered. A friend directed me to the YouTube music video created to promote the novel. The way that video makes you feel is the same as the impact of the novel. Of course, the music video is a prelude to the actual novel.
The novel can be categorised under general fiction and women's fiction. The latter only because the central character is a woman. Who said men are only interested in reading novels with a male protagonist? Maybe that was true for my father's generation, but I don't think it applies to men of my generation. This novel is for men and women.
The strength in the story telling comes from the authenticity and power of the characterisation, the vivid details of the world they live in, the relevance to readers' own lives. I could actually hear the music - amazing as this was not an audio book. I believed in the characters and the world. I think I'm in love Mavis (aka Nikki).
The plot is original for sure. The narrative is skilfully structured and easy to read. It's beautifully layered. Subplot works well to highlight and contrast the themes.
It would be a fantastic movie!
Note: "Life Song' is very different from 'In and Out of Step' and demonstrates the author's skill as a writer. 'In and Out of Step' is confronting at times like 'Game of Thrones' but unlike 'Game of Thrones' set in our world which makes the corruption, harassment, and power games all the more disturbing.
I agree with other reviewers. 'Life Song' is an uplifting story that makes the reader feel empowered. A friend directed me to the YouTube music video created to promote the novel. The way that video makes you feel is the same as the impact of the novel. Of course, the music video is a prelude to the actual novel.
The novel can be categorised under general fiction and women's fiction. The latter only because the central character is a woman. Who said men are only interested in reading novels with a male protagonist? Maybe that was true for my father's generation, but I don't think it applies to men of my generation. This novel is for men and women.
The strength in the story telling comes from the authenticity and power of the characterisation, the vivid details of the world they live in, the relevance to readers' own lives. I could actually hear the music - amazing as this was not an audio book. I believed in the characters and the world. I think I'm in love Mavis (aka Nikki).
The plot is original for sure. The narrative is skilfully structured and easy to read. It's beautifully layered. Subplot works well to highlight and contrast the themes.
It would be a fantastic movie!
Note: "Life Song' is very different from 'In and Out of Step' and demonstrates the author's skill as a writer. 'In and Out of Step' is confronting at times like 'Game of Thrones' but unlike 'Game of Thrones' set in our world which makes the corruption, harassment, and power games all the more disturbing.
May 7, 2015
I am currently reading the Keimera series. Life Song is the second book. Life Song is lighter than the dark edged In and Out of Step. Life Song picks up the story 6 years later. Although Mavis is survivor of domestic violence (readers experience her suffering in the subplot in book 1), it continues to affect her as she works to build a better life for herself and son.
Life Song is a lovely story built around the tug of wars in Mavis Mills life - something I could relate to - and it deals with the complicated nature of love. Mavis is an admirable character - very strong. I can't for the life of me comprehend how anyone could describe her as whiny or whingey. I agree with the majority of reviewers that the language is lyrical and the story telling artful.
Reading Life Song, I felt empowered - that life has its hassles but that perseverance gets you there in the end. I was pulled into Mavis' world and loved every minute of the journey with her.
If you are fascinated by people and interested in stories about them, then this book is for you. If you are looking for a sensational plot full of melodrama and gratuitous sex,this story is not for you.
Having read another recent review and being puzzled by it, I can only conjecture on that person's odd comment about Life Song getting good marketing. How very odd of the reviewer!
Life Song is a lovely story built around the tug of wars in Mavis Mills life - something I could relate to - and it deals with the complicated nature of love. Mavis is an admirable character - very strong. I can't for the life of me comprehend how anyone could describe her as whiny or whingey. I agree with the majority of reviewers that the language is lyrical and the story telling artful.
Reading Life Song, I felt empowered - that life has its hassles but that perseverance gets you there in the end. I was pulled into Mavis' world and loved every minute of the journey with her.
If you are fascinated by people and interested in stories about them, then this book is for you. If you are looking for a sensational plot full of melodrama and gratuitous sex,this story is not for you.
Having read another recent review and being puzzled by it, I can only conjecture on that person's odd comment about Life Song getting good marketing. How very odd of the reviewer!
September 5, 2014
With original non-genre characters and plot, this women's fiction novel explores the struggle of single parent, Mavis Mills, to make it in the Australian music industry.
I warmed to Mavis immediately but thought her name would work against her success. So too did her second band which led to her becoming Nikki Mills.
This novel is built around the subtle but significant conflicts that many mothers and women face when pursuing an atypical career. The major characters are complex and likable (so refreshing not to have villains and romance genre men). The novel also explores the complexity of love without it sliding into the romance genre.
I loved this book. It was a refreshing to read about a woman who didn't fall into the arms of attractive men just because they showed interest in her. Even more interesting to read about a woman who put her child and career before getting a man. I also liked the very positive gender role models in this novel.
Overall, this novel healed me after I had read some disturbing novels before I came across 'Life Song'. This novel is a main course story and not just a dessert. It has taste, texture, and substance. It is on a higher plane than other books that I've read (classics excepted) but incredibly easy to read.
April 27, 2014
My girlfriend recommended this novel because I like the TV series 'Nashville' and shows like The Voice and X-factor.
I agree with other reviewers that 'Life Song' is a great read. It is uplifting and about empowerment and the bonds people forge when working toward a common goal. I really enjoyed every moment spent with the characters and the time spent in that world.
The story line is original. The unfolding story develops logically but is not predictable. The characters are amazingly real. If you've ever worked under stress and tried to reach for 'the impossible dream', you'll connect to these characters. Again the ending is not predictable, but it is very satisfying.
The world of this story is vivid and gives a good insight into life in that part of Australia. I could actually hear the music; I read the paperback version not an audio file. I would have liked to taste Mrs Mills cooking. I want to visit Keimera.
The depth of characterisation is one of the many strengths of this novel. I understood the men and enjoyed their scenes, really liked the kids, and admired Mavis, Susie, and Kate.
This is a novel for men and women.
I agree with other reviewers that 'Life Song' is a great read. It is uplifting and about empowerment and the bonds people forge when working toward a common goal. I really enjoyed every moment spent with the characters and the time spent in that world.
The story line is original. The unfolding story develops logically but is not predictable. The characters are amazingly real. If you've ever worked under stress and tried to reach for 'the impossible dream', you'll connect to these characters. Again the ending is not predictable, but it is very satisfying.
The world of this story is vivid and gives a good insight into life in that part of Australia. I could actually hear the music; I read the paperback version not an audio file. I would have liked to taste Mrs Mills cooking. I want to visit Keimera.
The depth of characterisation is one of the many strengths of this novel. I understood the men and enjoyed their scenes, really liked the kids, and admired Mavis, Susie, and Kate.
This is a novel for men and women.
February 20, 2014
'Life Song' is an engrossing and enjoyable read that leaves you feeling good about the possibility life unexpectedly holds for us.
It features a moving story line, quality characterization, vivid scenes so real you can smell the ocean and hear the Norfolk pines, and genuine insight into the subject matter. There aren't any corrupt characters in this novel - just people wanting different things from life that bring them into conflict. Readers will care about these characters.
I love the way Knight anchors her stories in the period and in the landscape; in this case: 1996-1998, the Australian landscape, and the music scene. Knight is also skilled at embedding sustained metaphors to highlight her themes.
'Life Song' is an uplifting tale with interesting twists. While the novel is very easy to read, it features beautiful language that subtly adds to the story telling rather than draws attention away from it.
'Life Song' is a novel for everyone.
NOTE TO GOOD READS LIBRARIAN - this title is listed twice. One of the listings doesn't have any reviews.
It features a moving story line, quality characterization, vivid scenes so real you can smell the ocean and hear the Norfolk pines, and genuine insight into the subject matter. There aren't any corrupt characters in this novel - just people wanting different things from life that bring them into conflict. Readers will care about these characters.
I love the way Knight anchors her stories in the period and in the landscape; in this case: 1996-1998, the Australian landscape, and the music scene. Knight is also skilled at embedding sustained metaphors to highlight her themes.
'Life Song' is an uplifting tale with interesting twists. While the novel is very easy to read, it features beautiful language that subtly adds to the story telling rather than draws attention away from it.
'Life Song' is a novel for everyone.
NOTE TO GOOD READS LIBRARIAN - this title is listed twice. One of the listings doesn't have any reviews.
October 5, 2014
This review is also available on my tumblr.
I got this book from the First Reads scheme. Thank You for giving me this opportunity.
This book was a conflicting read for me. The pacing was off but i've read worse. However the thing that really struck me was the lack of emotional core. For a book that centres around a woman making difficult emotional choices the book is clinical. Almost heartless, the same can be said about Mavis. She is self centred and at times almost comical.
The book fails to captivate during the scenes where i feel i should be but at other moments has you enraptured. Plot twists are lost in a sea of uncaring and Mavis seems to have very little time for anything other than her dream. The other band members make this book.
Will i re-read this? maybe
Will i get the sequel? probably not
2.5/5 so i'll give it 3
I got this book from the First Reads scheme. Thank You for giving me this opportunity.
This book was a conflicting read for me. The pacing was off but i've read worse. However the thing that really struck me was the lack of emotional core. For a book that centres around a woman making difficult emotional choices the book is clinical. Almost heartless, the same can be said about Mavis. She is self centred and at times almost comical.
The book fails to captivate during the scenes where i feel i should be but at other moments has you enraptured. Plot twists are lost in a sea of uncaring and Mavis seems to have very little time for anything other than her dream. The other band members make this book.
Will i re-read this? maybe
Will i get the sequel? probably not
2.5/5 so i'll give it 3
October 19, 2014
I got this through the "Firstreads" giveaway and I sincerely thank the author and the publisher for my copy.
This is a sweet book. The characters are real, and so are the situations they find themselves in and the problems that confront them. The descriptions are vivid. The last few chapters fill the reader with a lot of hope, optimism and warmth. Though this is not the kind of book I prefer to read, I felt good reading it.
On the flip side, there are a few places where the dialogues seem disjointed. Also, a few descriptions feel repetitive...
In short, I would recommend it to those who are looking for a feel-good read.
This is a sweet book. The characters are real, and so are the situations they find themselves in and the problems that confront them. The descriptions are vivid. The last few chapters fill the reader with a lot of hope, optimism and warmth. Though this is not the kind of book I prefer to read, I felt good reading it.
On the flip side, there are a few places where the dialogues seem disjointed. Also, a few descriptions feel repetitive...
In short, I would recommend it to those who are looking for a feel-good read.
May 22, 2014
This novel has it all: quality characterization, people and a world I loved, a layered story line with interesting conflict, strong emotional appeal, and an ironic sense of humor at times.
'Life Song' is an original, beautifully written story about a single parent and her attempt to build a better life for herself and her son. I felt good reading the story and believed in the possibility of life after it.
'Life Song' is an original, beautifully written story about a single parent and her attempt to build a better life for herself and her son. I felt good reading the story and believed in the possibility of life after it.
September 13, 2015
A beautiful story with wonderfully constructed characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the careful development of plot and the addressing of the dilemmas of the "modern woman". A feel good read this text operates in such a way that it restores faith in the capabilities of "regular people" and the ability everyone has to reach their dreams, given adequate effort and determination. I am defiantly seeking out the sequel!
June 6, 2015
Life Song is about Mavis Mills’ transformation into Nikki Mills. The novel is not a romanticised view of a musician’s life but provides genuine insight instead. It was interesting how Knight set up the plot so you felt her journey. The novel also explores love, discovery, and relationships. I genuinely cared about the characters. Although I wanted Life Song to continue, I understand why it had to end at that point. I had a doh! moment on the last page. I was pleased the sequel was available.
June 10, 2014
Very different from other 'chic musicians on the road' stories. A unique plot line in fact and amazingly real characters. A well-crafted novel. Can’t wait for the next book 'Song Bird'. I'm going to read 'In and Out of Step' now, the author's first novel.
February 20, 2014
A charming story - an original plot, vivid descriptions, interesting characters I grew to care about, very easy to read. Like other readers, I found it uplifting.
To sum up - highly enjoyable.
To sum up - highly enjoyable.
October 7, 2014
Any discerning reader interested in real people would enjoy this book. I loved it. It made me feel so good. It is original and beautifully written.
October 29, 2014
I bought 'Life Song' and am glad I did. I will be keeping it. It is a character driven story in the same way that Jane Austen novels are character driven. I like the insight into the characters' reactions and into thoughts of the principle characters.
I agree with other reviewers that this novel is a great read. It is anchored in the recent past(1996-1998) reflects the times, and has depth. It is beautifully written, and I'd go one step further to say it is finely crafted. There isn't any problem with time in this novel. The story uses flashback sequences and cues readers effectively - the perceptive and not so perceptive. Of course, poor readers may get confused but the use of non-chronological dates to sequence a flashback and return to current time but that is not a reflection on the novel but on the reader.
The plot has twists and turns that make it interesting to read. It doesn't have erotica and it doesn't fall into the cliché of a woman falling into a man's arms. Mavis Mills is very true of women I know who have been betrayed and hurt by love and want to secure their own futures before taking a risk with a man again. Mavis knows what matters in her life. She isn't desperate to have a man, and she doesn't define herself by having a man.
Having read some other reviews for this novel, I want to say that I disagree with one recent reviewer who criticized 'Life Song' because Mavis Mills had to count every penny. I am a single parent who is good at money management, and yet I've experienced (as Mavis does) the financial stress imposed by friends impulsively buying something for me because it was a good buy without wondering if I could afford it. I can confirm that Mavis’ financial issues are representative of many single parents who don't have child maintenance.
That other reviewer also criticized the Evans Theatre at Penrith Leagues Club. For people outside Sydney, The Evans Theatre at Panthers Leagues Club and the Enmore Theatre at Newtown both have top musicians regularly on the bill. The author doesn't say either place is the pinnacle of success as the other reviewer claimed but more a significant step on the way to it. I come from Penrith and say to other reviewers: Don't knock my town or my leagues club!!!
I agree with other reviewers that this novel is a great read. It is anchored in the recent past(1996-1998) reflects the times, and has depth. It is beautifully written, and I'd go one step further to say it is finely crafted. There isn't any problem with time in this novel. The story uses flashback sequences and cues readers effectively - the perceptive and not so perceptive. Of course, poor readers may get confused but the use of non-chronological dates to sequence a flashback and return to current time but that is not a reflection on the novel but on the reader.
The plot has twists and turns that make it interesting to read. It doesn't have erotica and it doesn't fall into the cliché of a woman falling into a man's arms. Mavis Mills is very true of women I know who have been betrayed and hurt by love and want to secure their own futures before taking a risk with a man again. Mavis knows what matters in her life. She isn't desperate to have a man, and she doesn't define herself by having a man.
Having read some other reviews for this novel, I want to say that I disagree with one recent reviewer who criticized 'Life Song' because Mavis Mills had to count every penny. I am a single parent who is good at money management, and yet I've experienced (as Mavis does) the financial stress imposed by friends impulsively buying something for me because it was a good buy without wondering if I could afford it. I can confirm that Mavis’ financial issues are representative of many single parents who don't have child maintenance.
That other reviewer also criticized the Evans Theatre at Penrith Leagues Club. For people outside Sydney, The Evans Theatre at Panthers Leagues Club and the Enmore Theatre at Newtown both have top musicians regularly on the bill. The author doesn't say either place is the pinnacle of success as the other reviewer claimed but more a significant step on the way to it. I come from Penrith and say to other reviewers: Don't knock my town or my leagues club!!!
June 5, 2015
I agree with the majority of reviewers. This is a beautifully constructed novel that explores the complex face of love in its varied forms. It does not belong to the romance genre and is a light year away from books like 50 Shades of Grey.
I laughed out loud in the scene from Life Song that debunks the rip off the clothing, knock down the furniture, stand-up sex misrepresentations of lust as love. Knight knows and explores intimacy. I think her understanding is mostly lost in other contemporary writers which made this novel the more enjoyable.
There aren't any bad guys or villains in this novel. Instead there are real people dealing with the tugs of war in life.
Overall, this book is one for readers interested in characters, life, and relationships. The writing is as others say - lyrical.
I laughed out loud in the scene from Life Song that debunks the rip off the clothing, knock down the furniture, stand-up sex misrepresentations of lust as love. Knight knows and explores intimacy. I think her understanding is mostly lost in other contemporary writers which made this novel the more enjoyable.
There aren't any bad guys or villains in this novel. Instead there are real people dealing with the tugs of war in life.
Overall, this book is one for readers interested in characters, life, and relationships. The writing is as others say - lyrical.
August 4, 2015
What's not to love about this book. Loved it from the moment I opened it. Couldn't put it down. I loved the characters and how their individual personalities differed so greatly to one another. It really portrayed true life friendships. The main character was just that perfect combination of self doubt and disbelief she could really succeed but was swept along and worked really hard for her goals. I will read this again.
February 20, 2014
Loved this Aussie story. It's a keeper.
February 25, 2014
Not what I expected but very enjoyable. In a word - GREAT.
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