Chasing Sevens

by Liberty Lane

Good-natured yet naïve Tobi Stone has always been dealt an unfair hand.

Tobi dreams of becoming a successful musician but finds creative spirits are silenced in forgotten "fly-over" towns. When his closest friend goes missing, a streak of luck leads him on a journey to find her.

Losing love and innocence in the chaos of the music industry, Tobi finds himself.

A heartfelt coming-of-age tale, Chasing Sevens follows Tobi as he grapples with the harsh realization that not everyone desires to be saved.

"Following an aspiring musician from a broken home, CHASING SEVENS by Liberty Lane evokes a wealth of emotions with its well-developed characters and detailed descriptions of their heartfelt struggles." - IndieReader

354 pages, Hardcover

Published October 30, 2023

About the author

Bringing refreshment and charm to the literary fiction world, Liberty specializes in character development—highlighting strong voices in forgotten worlds. As a singer/songwriter, Liberty’s main goal is to evoke emotion in her readers. She aims to craft characters and worlds that are realistic, tangible, thought-provoking, and sometimes controversial. Taking readers on a journey of love and loss, she explores gray areas of the modern world that typically fly under the radar.

Check out my Instagram page for all things literature, art, music, and poetry: @libertylanecreative.

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Never underestimate a small town, especially this one. Definitely not your usually YA read, because someone does not want saved. You really feel for everything Tobi goes through, the author pulls you along the journey.

I received this ARC for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are my own!

[A Look Inside: Reviews and Interviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Chasing Sevens" by Liberty Lane is a remarkable and poignant coming-of-age tale that beautifully captures the essence of youthful dreams, self-discovery, and the harsh realities of the music industry. With its engaging narrative and well-drawn characters, this novel offers readers a heartfelt and thought-provoking journey.

The story revolves around Tobi Stone, a good-natured and naive young man whose life takes a dramatic turn when his closest friend mysteriously disappears. Tobi's dream of becoming a successful musician seems distant in the forgotten "fly-over" towns where creative spirits are often silenced. However, as fate would have it, a stroke of luck propels him on a journey to find his missing friend. This journey becomes the catalyst for his transformation and self-discovery.

Liberty Lane's writing is nothing short of extraordinary. She crafts a vivid and immersive world that allows readers to step into Tobi's shoes and experience his trials and tribulations firsthand. The prose is lyrical, evoking a sense of nostalgia and melancholy that underscores Tobi's journey. Lane's ability to breathe life into her characters makes them relatable and endearing, and readers will undoubtedly find themselves emotionally invested in Tobi's quest.

What sets "Chasing Sevens" apart is its exploration of the music industry's harsh realities, where Tobi loses not only his innocence but also his understanding of the world. The novel delves deep into the cutthroat nature of the industry, the sacrifices one must make, and the toll it takes on the human spirit. Tobi's transformation from a dreamer to a survivor is portrayed with honesty and authenticity, making his character arc all the more compelling.

At its core, "Chasing Sevens" is a story about growing up, facing the inevitable loss of innocence, and realizing that not everyone desires to be saved. It explores the bittersweet reality that sometimes, the very pursuit of our dreams can change us in ways we never anticipated.

In conclusion, Liberty Lane's "Chasing Sevens" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you reflecting on the complexities of life's journey. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted coming-of-age story that transcends the ordinary and touches the soul. Lane's storytelling prowess is undeniable, and her exploration of themes such as dreams, friendship, and self-discovery is both profound and unforgettable. "Chasing Sevens" is a literary gem that deserves a place on every bookshelf.

[Throat_of_gods · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC. My review is honest and unbiased.

Chasing Sevens is a great book. The protagonist (Toby) is a sweetheart, and I have empathised with him a lot throughout the story. The book was very easy to read, and once I got into the story, I really wanted to see how the story ended. I recommend this book to all readers who are interested in a coming of age/new adult read with a story that sucks you in.

[Alethea Rayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn’t my usual genre, but I found that I really enjoyed it. Liberty has a particular strength for character development which really draws readers in and takes them along for the journey. There is a great deal of believability and relatability in this coming of age story. The plot is good and I really enjoyed the unexpected turn (can’t reveal too much) it took with the love interest – it’s great to see different takes on the typical storyline. I also enjoyed the representation of accent, dialect and vernacular. As a northerner in the UK, it’s something I value in literature. Great debut!

[Paige Wuerdemann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book isn’t usually something I gravitate towards, but I was given the opportunity by Liberty Lane to do an ARC review. I found myself enjoying the story that Liberty Lane managed to weave.

The journey that Tobi has to go through to grow as a person is a harrowing one. She captures the essence of youthful dreams and allows us to step into Toni’s shoes and experience through this self-growth.

Definitely worth the read!

[Michelle Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow
This is not my usual read but received an ARC read and this is solely my honest review. Tobi follows his heart to catch the girl he loves He’s too nice and naive for his own gud. The author draws u in and u can’t help but want the best for him The storyline is gud and it was hard to put this book down for bed lol xxx definitely recommend xxx

[Courtney Kuni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Liberty for allowing me and opportunity to read Tobi's story. I love a book where you are connecting to the characters. I loved Tobi and loved him even more with Meg.
Great read, definitely a book I would recommend.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story follows Tobi, a naive 21 hear old. He's had a rough start to life and dreams of making it big as a drummer. Alas, he's a barista in a small town without so much as a high school diploma or two pennies to squeeze together.

After his father abandons them, it becomes Tobi's responsibility to take care of his mother and sister. But when his best friend, Seven, disappears after an unfortunate incident, Tobi is distraught and will do everything in his power to find her. A stroke of luck allows him to go forth on his journey finding Seven.

This is a coming of age, young adult novel. There are a few cuss words sprinkled in, with mention of drugs, alcohol, and other adult content. It is not a spicy book.

Chasing Seven starts out at a grueling pace, it's slow. As you get to the end though, you realize that you do need Tobi's whole story. Tobi is naive, just like all of us at 21, and makes some pretty ignorant decisions. But he's loyal to a fault, is extremely sweet, and an all around good guy. I will say that I did not like Seven from the start. Don't ask me why, just read it 😂

[Sudeshna Banerjee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like tо extend my gratitude tо the author for graciously providing me with an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) оf this book. The title alone piqued my curiosity, compelling me tо uncover the essence оf its content.

The author's writing prowess іs nothing short оf impeccable, managing tо captivate my attention effortlessly. This literary masterpiece proved tо be utterly enthralling, as I found myself irresistibly engrossed іn its pages, only relinquishing my grasp after indulging іn a mere two sittings.

The narrative revolves around Tobi Stone, a kind-hearted and unsuspecting young man whose existence takes a dramatic twist when his closest confidant inexplicably vanishes. Tobi's aspirations оf attaining musical success appear exceedingly remote within the confines оf overlooked "fly-over" communities where artistic spirits are frequently stifled. However, fate intervenes and bestows upon him a stroke оf luck, precipitating a profound quest tо reunite with his absent companion. This arduous journey serves as the catalyst for Tobi's metamorphosis and personal enlightenment.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly relished this literary gem and unreservedly recommend іt tо all. Waste nо time іn acquiring your copy, for іt guarantees an enthralling voyage, free from monotony.

[Lilah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written small town vibe.

I'll start by saying I really want to shake Seven a bit. Her character annoyed and angered me. You know she is hurting and had trauma to deal with, but the way she took Tobi for granted and left him hanging by a thread was nauseating. She knew exactly what to say or do to keep him coming back to be used again and again.

Tobi...sweet Tobi. Small town boy with a heart too big for his own good. A real good guy that just wants to take care of everyone and know they are safe. Even when he gets the crappy end of it all. He has ambition and desire. He has a heart of gold and a love for music. Just takes life one day at a time and tries to be the best person he can be.

So glad he got his HEA. He deserved it.

Liberty Lane. Nice job. A very well written story. You never left us too long somewhere. The story flowed and turned and twined appropriately. Your descriptions made this so easy to visualize and follow. You made the characters come to life and made sure we as readers didn't have a hard time connecting with your characters or the story. Phenomenal.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can tell you that when I first received this book, I felt like it was something I had to read and not what I wanted to read, but I was so pleasantly surprised with this book. It was an easy flow of words that told a story of tough to no love, addiction, sex, and poverty.

Tobi is a young man who has been dealt with a tough hand of life. He had to grow up fast, feels undeserving of love, and puts the needs of others before his own. He's a true bleeding heart and a strong character. Seven is his female neighbor, who I feel takes advantage of Tobi's bleeding heart and is cruel about it. She also has grown up with a tough childhood, but her coping and lifestyle choices differ from Tobi.

There was so much emotion written on these pages. Even though the subject matter wasn't pretty at all, it became this beautiful story of realizing you can't save those who don't want to be saved and it's ok to put yourself and your dreams first.

Thank you to @libertylanecreative and @tbw_booktours for this free ebook. This review is 100% my own and honest opinion.

[Jenny Mcvey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely love the start of this book. It sets the bar high. Literally this high school boy is working and this man has a great read and he encourages him to publish. Such an amazing start to it. Then he stares at this girl in class and it’s his crush. She actually is his neighbor and pushed him to do good. Literally is just an amazing read! Go read it that’s just the start. Like I said it’ll pull you in. Just the trauma and the encouragement this book gives off. Wow! Wonderfully written. Thank you.

[Zoey Holbrook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book wasn't my usual type of book but when given the chance to read it, I jumped on it. I think I geeked out and cried more reading this book than any other book in years. Seeing the actual realistic struggles that everyone was going through, seeing how their actions effected others, seeing them be actual people you could see day to day was so provoking and moving. Knowing that Tobi grew into a person so strong and worked hard despite everything he had been put through, was inspiring. Definitely a coming of age/ young adult book. I loved it all.

[Tayla Megan Muller · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would give this book 3.8 stars. I enjoyed the story and the plot, the characters were well developed and the story flowed really well. The only thing I found difficult was the writing, I realise that the characters had an accent and it was portrayed really well it just made it difficult for me to read. This isn’t my kind of genre but I would definitely recommend it to a friend or family member who I know would love it as I could appreciate the storyline, plot and sub-plots. Job well done

[Stephanie King · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book but it was slow and difficult in the beginning. Getting to the end, I realized that it needed the whole story of Tobi to understand the end.
I’d definitely say it’s a book for all ages- mature scenes but not detailed; few curse words, but we’ve all said worse.
I feel LL done an excellent job with this book.

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this story! The character build, the story structure, and the plot were perfectly balanced. There was enjoyment throughout the entire story. My emotions were carried along with the story so well it felt like you were apart of the story. I’d definitely recommend it!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kenisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love this book. It pulls you in while reading the book. I finish this book in one day, because I didn't want put it down.

You can see yourself in the book and I like how realistic it is and you can relate to the story or you may someone related to it if is not you.

Tobi and Seven friendships is toxic.
He always want help everyone, but he doesn't take care of himself like he should. His worries carries weight on his shoulders from his parents relationship to his sister and his friendship with Seven.

Mitch and Tobi is friends and have good relationship.

Candace love her family and close to her Brother Tobi. She smart and lovely young woman and she love Theatre.

Tobi mom is depressed and have mental illness. Will Tobi and Candace mother get better or not?

When Tobi left home to find himself and look for Seven in big city. He found an AD for roommate and fill out.

Will Tobi found himself or lost it chasing Seven?

Will Tobi ever let Seven go or not?


He meet new friends along the way and will they help him found his way to first love of music. Will he found love or will Seven drag him down and make you made you throw the book out the window?

Will he find love or not?

It good to find the positive in people, but it toxic when it drag you down where you can't see yourself anymore.

Love is different from infatuation and I hope Tobi will found true love and not infatuation with Seven.

Will life get better with everyone?
Will Seven always be toxic or will she final open up and heal.

Read the book to see where Tobi life will go will life end up in toxic tragedy or healthy relationships and music by his side. Are ready get on this rollcoster or merrier go a round in life.

I really hope she make a 2nd book.

[Myriah Barbee · Rating 4 out of 5]

“When night arrives, the darkness drowns out the light for a time, but it doesn’t mean the sunshine’s gone forever, does it? When you cling to the things that bring you light, the darkness of your past doesn’t seem to hold as much power.”

Chasing Sevens is a book that is a little out of my comfort zone when it comes to books, but with that being said, I thought it was an amazing story. I feel like it is a story that so many people would be able to relate to. Everyone has a dream to chase. Not everyone has a charmed life. Toby’s story dives into having the weight of the world on your shoulders, trying to care for and protect the people you love. Of losing people important to you, and finding people that can fill that hole you thought would always be empty. It was great to follow along on his journey, of him making choices that put himself first after so long, chasing his dreams and getting the happy ending we all hope to see one day. I’m usually a fantasy, romance, high action book kind of girl but I think Chasing Sevens is going to hold a special place in my heart. It may be small in comparison to the actions in this book, but I stepped out of my comfort zone to read it, and I don’t regret it for a second. And, I believe that’s one thing this book teaches. I highly recommend this book, and think if you get the chance you should absolutely give it a try! 💜

[Mc Chanster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, this was a really, really good read and way more heart-wrenching than I expected.

Chasing Sevens follows Tobi Stone, a main character who is forced to be strong due the circumstances of his life. He loves music, his family and his best friend, Seven, but it seems all those come with stipulations. When Seven disappears, Tobi doesn’t hesitate to chase after her once he gains a clue of where she’s gone. He is desperate to get her back, but in the process of finding her, he finds himself instead, and he realizes there is more to life than just being the strong one.

I really enjoyed this book. Was it best thing I’ve ever read? No. Was it a little bit predictable? Yes, but the emotion in it was more than enough to keep me glued to the pages because wow, I hurt for Tobi. I loved the strength of his character – he goes through so much and he continues to be positive despite being disappointed time and time again. His ability to move forward while also coming to terms with the harshness and truth of reality is something I think every reading could connect with, particularly ones who are just coming into adulthood. Overall, a great read and highly recommended!

Thank you Voracious Readers and Liberty Lane for my copy. I received and ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All above thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing Sevens is a remarkable coming of age story of a small town boy who wants nothing more than to save his best friend from seemingly, herself and the past they grew up in. As the story rolls on it becomes clear that Seven, Tobi's love interest and neighbor from the trailer park they grew up in, doesn't want to be saved.
Tobi gives everything to everyone else and saves little for himself. Wanting to get out of the trailer park and making something of himself and his music, when he comes across some money gifted to him, he takes advantage of the chance. He makes sure his mom and sister are taken care of and he chases after Seven while trying to follow his dreams as well.
Does he find her? Well yes, but he also finds other friends along the way who don't want him to be manipulated because of his kindness.
This was a beautifully written, raw example of what growing up in a small town looks like. Where there's minimal opportunities, but chances of a lifetime if you're lucky. It all depends on how you view things.

This is definitely a recommendable YA, coming of age romance. If you have abuse, drugs, depression, among a few other triggers, please take the authors trigger warnings to heart.

[Al · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story drew me in with characters that I cared about and wanted to see how things turned out for them. Some readers might see the obvious flaws that Tobi, the protagonist, has and think poorly of him. However, as you get to know him better you come to realize that all things considered he is doing pretty good and that in those areas where he falls short (school work being the obvious one) it might be due to factors that cause that to be a lower priority. Tobi also has some dreams. This story of Tobi reaching for his dreams, learning and adapting his goals as he learns from life, is a good coming-of-age story with lessons to be learned for all of us buried in there.

**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **

[S. Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a really heart felt book! Talking about the burdens and issues those face and the hardship they have to go through.

Tobi is a young man who is always taking care of everyone else. Weighed down by responsibility for his mum and sister, making sure they don’t lose the roof over their heads. He also lost himself, and a sense of what love truly is. He thought he had it with Seven, until one day he is given the opportunity to leave Moonview and chase her. But what he doesn’t realise is his world is going to turn upside down him.

I felt the pull with Tobi, wanting him to have something better. And in the end I am so glad he did! This book was a page turner and I couldn’t put it down.

[Alexandra Davila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liberty Lane has created a character who feels so real it is as if I know him. Tobi is kind, honest, and caring, and perhaps even a little shy and naive. At first glance he may seem unfamiliar, but there are so many teenage boys like Tobi out there, just looking to be seen and loved! Tobi is raised in unfortunate circumstances and like so many others in his position, has to grow up too soon. In the process of chasing Seven, a friend in similarly unfortunate circumstances, he really chases himself, his dreams, and his future. This is a YA novel for anyone who has ever felt misunderstood, unseen, or unheard and just wants to make the best of a bad situation. We can all learn a little from Tobi’s positivity!

[TJ | TheEclecticBookFairy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was different from my normal reads, lots of story building and back story throughout.

Small town vibes with lots of real life issues covered for the main character.
In love with a girl who has someone else and only sees him as a friend. The mmc takes over the role as head of the house struggling with work, school and home balance while everyone looks down on him.

It's definitely a Slow read.

With the good guy mindset.

Single POV from the male main character .

Family trauma is heavy throughout.

Would recommend to be cautious if you have a traumatic family background incase this triggers you.

[eliza · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I initially thought the book was slow to start, Liberty’s attention to detail and dedication to exposition and scene-setting drew me in and kept me in grips of this small town turned big city story. Just when you feel like you know what’s going to happen, Liberty throws a curveball that keeps you reading just a bit longer. I quite literally could not put this book down and devoured it so quickly. I look forward to reading more from this author! The characters were relatable, three dimensional, and everything about Chasing Sevens was crafted with the kind of love and dedication you can feel through the pages.

[Felony Rose PA · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not my Normal Genre at all but the book was very enjoyable. Definitely not your usual YA read, the ones I have read someone is always wanting to be saved and in this one no one wants to be saved. this book will definitely have you all up in your feelings and you feel what Tobi goes through, Liberty really pulls you along for the journey.

I was lucky enough to be giving a ARC of this book for my Honest review

[Fefa · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️3.6⭐️


It is a lovely story about a boy from a small town and his dream of becoming a musician. Tobi goes through many struggles, and we can see how innocence leaves him as he experiences the harsh reality of the industry. The story is well written, but it is a little slow for my taste. I will definitely recommend this book to friends who also enjoy this genre.

[Sarah Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG I wanted to scream!! Tobi and Seven were literally making me want to scream more times than not! This book was pulling me through the ringer! This is such a great book but my gosh close to the end I kept stopping, pinching my nose and thinking don't do it Tobi DON'T DO IT! But my gosh this was such a great book! Read it! And I mean read it!!!

[Debbie Pyette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well witten, highly emotional story. The characters are so well developed it was almost painful to read parts of the trials and difficult decision making the main character Tobi had to go through. It was well worth the emotions. Well done.

[Somer Kemble · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very honest and relatable read! Tobi and Seven were very easy characters to see yourself in their role which made it that much more enjoyable to read! Liberty Lane is a promising new author and i look forward to seeing what she comes out with in the future! This is a very memorable read!