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The Jamieson Collection #3
Under the Spotlight
After an embarrassing stint on a reality-TV music competition years ago, Riley vowed never to sing again. Now she's behind the scenes, working at the prestigious Sound Sync recording studio, and life is looking up. But then Garrett Jamieson, the oldest brother in the famous Jamieson brothers band, crashes into her world.
Garrett has hit rock bottom, and he is desperate to reinvent himself. After calling in a few favors, he ends up working at Sound Sync to learn the ropes of record producing from the industry's best. And he can't believe his luck when he discovers that Riley has been keeping a secret—she is an amazing singer. By producing her album, he's sure to top the record charts again. But Garrett is forced to use every trick in his arsenal to persuade the sassy girl to record.
Riley refuses to sing—or even entertain the thought of it—and sparks fly as Garrett finally meets his match. But in the heat of the moment, one stolen kiss changes everything. Will Riley be the first person to finally rein Garrett in, or will Garrett succeed in getting Riley back under the spotlight?
Garrett has hit rock bottom, and he is desperate to reinvent himself. After calling in a few favors, he ends up working at Sound Sync to learn the ropes of record producing from the industry's best. And he can't believe his luck when he discovers that Riley has been keeping a secret—she is an amazing singer. By producing her album, he's sure to top the record charts again. But Garrett is forced to use every trick in his arsenal to persuade the sassy girl to record.
Riley refuses to sing—or even entertain the thought of it—and sparks fly as Garrett finally meets his match. But in the heat of the moment, one stolen kiss changes everything. Will Riley be the first person to finally rein Garrett in, or will Garrett succeed in getting Riley back under the spotlight?
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2015
About the author
Angie Stanton
25 books964 followersAngie Stanton is a life-long daydreamer who grew up with her hands on a book and her head in the clouds. As an adult, she’s put her talent to good use writing award winning contemporary fiction about life, love, and the adventures that follow.
Angie has a Journalism degree from the University of Wisconsin and is the best selling author of Waking in Time, If Ever, Rock and a Hard Place, Snapshot, Royally Lost, Under the Spotlight, Snowed Over, and Love ‘em or Leave ‘em.
Angie is a proud winner of a Midwest Book Award for Waking in Time.
Waking in Time is also a finalist in the National Readers Choice Awards as is her book If Ever and Love 'em or Leave 'em.
In her spare time, Angie sneaks off to New York City to enjoy the best entertainment experience on earth, Broadway. She is currently working on a series of Broadway-themed books, and is a contributing writer to BroadwayWorld.com.
Angie’s latest release is If Ever, a sexy, playful love story spanning from LA to New York and London.
For more information on Angie and her books, please visit:
www.angiestanton.com
Facebook.com/AngieStantonAuthor
Twitter: @angie_stanton
Instagram angiestanton_author.
Angie has a Journalism degree from the University of Wisconsin and is the best selling author of Waking in Time, If Ever, Rock and a Hard Place, Snapshot, Royally Lost, Under the Spotlight, Snowed Over, and Love ‘em or Leave ‘em.
Angie is a proud winner of a Midwest Book Award for Waking in Time.
Waking in Time is also a finalist in the National Readers Choice Awards as is her book If Ever and Love 'em or Leave 'em.
In her spare time, Angie sneaks off to New York City to enjoy the best entertainment experience on earth, Broadway. She is currently working on a series of Broadway-themed books, and is a contributing writer to BroadwayWorld.com.
Angie’s latest release is If Ever, a sexy, playful love story spanning from LA to New York and London.
For more information on Angie and her books, please visit:
www.angiestanton.com
Facebook.com/AngieStantonAuthor
Twitter: @angie_stanton
Instagram angiestanton_author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
January 30, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to HarperCollins and Edelweiss.)
“Have you ever thought about producing records? You like having control of things, and as a producer, you’d be calling the shots. You could select what artists to work with.”
This was a YA contemporary romance about Garrett, the third Jamieson brother.
I felt quite sorry for Riley in this story, her mother was a selfish cow who was totally unfit to be a mother. The way she treated Riley as a thing to be used and thrown away was awful, and she really did make me want to slap her.
“Miss. It’s your vehicles and your responsibility. If you had reported the vehicle stolen before the time of the crash, it would be a different situation.”
The storyline in this was about Garrett wanting to go into producing, and choosing Riley as his first victim. We also found out about the stuff going on with Riley and her mom, and we also got an unexpected death!!
“My mom took all my money.”
There wasn’t really all that much romance in here in my opinion. For most the book Riley didn’t even like Garrett.
“I’m going, but just so you know, this changes everything.”
“How’s that?” she asked.
“I’m going to produce your record.”
And he had the audacity to walk out the door.
“The hell you are!”
The ending to this was fairly happy, but I found this book, and in fact this whole series fairly disappointing.
6 out of 10
“Have you ever thought about producing records? You like having control of things, and as a producer, you’d be calling the shots. You could select what artists to work with.”
This was a YA contemporary romance about Garrett, the third Jamieson brother.
I felt quite sorry for Riley in this story, her mother was a selfish cow who was totally unfit to be a mother. The way she treated Riley as a thing to be used and thrown away was awful, and she really did make me want to slap her.
“Miss. It’s your vehicles and your responsibility. If you had reported the vehicle stolen before the time of the crash, it would be a different situation.”
The storyline in this was about Garrett wanting to go into producing, and choosing Riley as his first victim. We also found out about the stuff going on with Riley and her mom, and we also got an unexpected death!!
“My mom took all my money.”
There wasn’t really all that much romance in here in my opinion. For most the book Riley didn’t even like Garrett.
“I’m going, but just so you know, this changes everything.”
“How’s that?” she asked.
“I’m going to produce your record.”
And he had the audacity to walk out the door.
“The hell you are!”
The ending to this was fairly happy, but I found this book, and in fact this whole series fairly disappointing.
6 out of 10
July 25, 2015
I am honestly surprised at how much I didn't enjoy this book.
From the beginning, the premise made it seem like a pretty light-hearted and cute read. I assure you, cute the book was not. The dialogue is quite unrealistic and stilted, and there's a whole lot of telling and not showing. We're told how smart and funny and kind and how much sass Riley has, but her actions and dialogue give no indication to half of those traits. I really felt bad for her because she has a pretty rough life, but at the same time nothing she did was particularly smart or world-changing.
Although I enjoyed reading about Riley's hesitancy to sing because of her embarrassing experience, I feel as if it were dragged out too long and then suddenly she can get back into the game without any trouble. Pacing much? I just feel like in the music industry she would have had a lot more trouble. We're pretty much three chapters in and suddenly the guy character, Garrett, wants to produce her. I think they've known each other for a couple of days to a week? I'm not sure that business ventures work that way.
One of my main problems with the book was Garrett. He acts like a major douchebag throughout the book, and there was not enough groveling in the end to make up for it. His character overall develops a little, but he was definitely let off the hook too easily in my opinion. Garrett did a lot of shit I didn't approve of, yet Riley still pines over him. Remind me never to fall in love so I act like a dumb idiot guys.
There is a major (I guess) event towards the end that I didn't care about. Stanton tries to up play the relationship between Garrett and his father, but it just sounds like a son wanting his father's approval and doing whatever he suggests. I understand that, but it didn't endear me to either character, thus my utter neutrality when the large-ish event happens toward the end.
And the ending! Let's talk about that utter piece of shit. Somehow Garrett gets back to Riley's good graces without even saying anything, suddenly the brothers have made up (or something like it?), and Riley's own conflict with her mother was not even resolved! What happened to her poor siblings?? It's not exactly kind of her to leave them with an uncaring mother who wastes away money. Either way, there was absolutely no conclusion on that subplot.
I didn't even know this was the last book in the series until I checked it out on Goodreads! Omigoodness- if I sticked through the whole series, I would have been seriously, seriously disappointed by this lackluster and half-hearted ending. It's like at this point the author was like "Yeah uh gotta wrap all this conflict up with a hasty bow" and it ended up looking like a birthday present bought and wrapped 20 minutes before the party and in the car on the way there.
Not recommended for contemporary readers. There are dozens of better ones out there with more endearing characters, more realistic dialogue, and a more engaging plot.
Rating: 1.5
From the beginning, the premise made it seem like a pretty light-hearted and cute read. I assure you, cute the book was not. The dialogue is quite unrealistic and stilted, and there's a whole lot of telling and not showing. We're told how smart and funny and kind and how much sass Riley has, but her actions and dialogue give no indication to half of those traits. I really felt bad for her because she has a pretty rough life, but at the same time nothing she did was particularly smart or world-changing.
Although I enjoyed reading about Riley's hesitancy to sing because of her embarrassing experience, I feel as if it were dragged out too long and then suddenly she can get back into the game without any trouble. Pacing much? I just feel like in the music industry she would have had a lot more trouble. We're pretty much three chapters in and suddenly the guy character, Garrett, wants to produce her. I think they've known each other for a couple of days to a week? I'm not sure that business ventures work that way.
One of my main problems with the book was Garrett. He acts like a major douchebag throughout the book, and there was not enough groveling in the end to make up for it. His character overall develops a little, but he was definitely let off the hook too easily in my opinion. Garrett did a lot of shit I didn't approve of, yet Riley still pines over him. Remind me never to fall in love so I act like a dumb idiot guys.
There is a major (I guess) event towards the end that I didn't care about. Stanton tries to up play the relationship between Garrett and his father, but it just sounds like a son wanting his father's approval and doing whatever he suggests. I understand that, but it didn't endear me to either character, thus my utter neutrality when the large-ish event happens toward the end.
And the ending! Let's talk about that utter piece of shit. Somehow Garrett gets back to Riley's good graces without even saying anything, suddenly the brothers have made up (or something like it?), and Riley's own conflict with her mother was not even resolved! What happened to her poor siblings?? It's not exactly kind of her to leave them with an uncaring mother who wastes away money. Either way, there was absolutely no conclusion on that subplot.
I didn't even know this was the last book in the series until I checked it out on Goodreads! Omigoodness- if I sticked through the whole series, I would have been seriously, seriously disappointed by this lackluster and half-hearted ending. It's like at this point the author was like "Yeah uh gotta wrap all this conflict up with a hasty bow" and it ended up looking like a birthday present bought and wrapped 20 minutes before the party and in the car on the way there.
Not recommended for contemporary readers. There are dozens of better ones out there with more endearing characters, more realistic dialogue, and a more engaging plot.
Rating: 1.5
March 16, 2015
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
**** 4 Stars
Under the Spotlight is the third and final book in Angie Stanton's Jamieson Brothers Series. This is Garrett's story. I have to be honest, I was looking forward to this book because I wanted to see if Garrett could be redeemed.
Garrett was one of those characters that you loved to hate in books 1 & 2. I really didn't like him at all, but I knew he needed his story told. So I was thrilled when I heard Angie was writing this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, just like I have all of Angie's books. She is one of my favorite YA authors out there. I always know that when I pick up one of her books, it is going to be a fun, light and enjoyable read. Now I know that this book is labeled YA and for many reasons it is, but I could also see it classified as Mature YA, primarily because of the characters ages. Riley is 18 and Garrett is 22. This is a "clean" book. There really aren't many steamy scenes ( actually the characters only kiss a couple of times), but what made this book was the storyline, I found it held my attention all the way through.
I think my only complaint about this book was that I was hoping to see a change in Garrett sooner in the story. He was still the jerky self that we saw in the first two books. But by him being that way throughout the majority of the book it made it hard to connect to him and hard to believe the connection between him and Riley. I had hoped he would've been redeem sooner then the end of the story. I also think had he changed sooner we could've seen him with Riley more. I wanted to see them together longer than what we saw in this story. With all that said, I was extremely happy with the ending of this story. I felt it concluded the Jamieson Brother's stories well. I just have to live with the fact that Garrett isn't my favorite of the brothers.
Under the Spotlight is part of a series, but can totally be read on it's own. We do see some crossover with previous characters, but not a lot. Besides his parents, Peter probably has the biggest part in this story out of the past characters. If you choose to read this one only, you won't feel like you are missing anything. Angie fills in the blanks so no information is missing.
So if you are in the mood for a Mature YA story about a musician and his family, and want a fun, easy and enjoyable read, then this is the book for you. If you are a fan of Angie's or this series, then this is a book you don't want to miss reading.
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**** 4 Stars
Under the Spotlight is the third and final book in Angie Stanton's Jamieson Brothers Series. This is Garrett's story. I have to be honest, I was looking forward to this book because I wanted to see if Garrett could be redeemed.
Garrett was one of those characters that you loved to hate in books 1 & 2. I really didn't like him at all, but I knew he needed his story told. So I was thrilled when I heard Angie was writing this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, just like I have all of Angie's books. She is one of my favorite YA authors out there. I always know that when I pick up one of her books, it is going to be a fun, light and enjoyable read. Now I know that this book is labeled YA and for many reasons it is, but I could also see it classified as Mature YA, primarily because of the characters ages. Riley is 18 and Garrett is 22. This is a "clean" book. There really aren't many steamy scenes ( actually the characters only kiss a couple of times), but what made this book was the storyline, I found it held my attention all the way through.
I think my only complaint about this book was that I was hoping to see a change in Garrett sooner in the story. He was still the jerky self that we saw in the first two books. But by him being that way throughout the majority of the book it made it hard to connect to him and hard to believe the connection between him and Riley. I had hoped he would've been redeem sooner then the end of the story. I also think had he changed sooner we could've seen him with Riley more. I wanted to see them together longer than what we saw in this story. With all that said, I was extremely happy with the ending of this story. I felt it concluded the Jamieson Brother's stories well. I just have to live with the fact that Garrett isn't my favorite of the brothers.
Under the Spotlight is part of a series, but can totally be read on it's own. We do see some crossover with previous characters, but not a lot. Besides his parents, Peter probably has the biggest part in this story out of the past characters. If you choose to read this one only, you won't feel like you are missing anything. Angie fills in the blanks so no information is missing.
So if you are in the mood for a Mature YA story about a musician and his family, and want a fun, easy and enjoyable read, then this is the book for you. If you are a fan of Angie's or this series, then this is a book you don't want to miss reading.
Follow Us at :: Book Bitches Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Tsu
May 10, 2015
Garrett is angry with his brothers, because it's their fault the band is no longer together. He's the oldest Jamieson brother and he loved touring with the band. It was always his big dream and he's frustrated that he's no longer living it. He has to do something with his time and is now trying to become a producer. He thinks he's found the perfect candidate, but now he has to convince her to work with him...
Riley's mother is irresponsible and Riley keeps having to rush back home to take care of her brother and sister. Her mother has spent all of Riley's hard earned college money, so Riley thinks she's lucky that she has a job she likes. She's working at the Sound Sync recording studio where she has a job behind the scenes. She's stopped singing, because her appearance in a music reality television show went terribly wrong. She's still traumatized because of what happened to her.
When Garrett finds out how talented Riley is he wants to make an album with her. He's doing everything he can to make her sign. When he finally sees an opportunity he offers Riley a contract straight away. This means they have to work closely together which might be a problem, because Riley doesn't like Garrett very much. He's rude and arrogant and Riley makes it as difficult as possible for him to show him how much she dislikes working with him. Will they eventually start to be nice to each other?
Under the Spotlight is another great Jamieson Brothers book. Garrett is a lot less friendly than his two younger brothers, but deep down he's actually a sweet guy. Riley's mother makes things really difficult for her daughter and eventually Riley has to start singing again, because she doesn't have any other options. She only does it because she has to. I felt so bad for her, living with a mother like that and having such an awful experience when she was so young and vulnerable. Even though she resists it, she eventually likes singing again. Fortunately Garrett is there to support her, but they fight a lot. I kept hoping they would start to like each other more and I couldn't wait to find out if the third Jamieson brother would find love eventually. The book has an unexpected ending and I think that twist makes the story more mature. The Jamieson Brothers series is great and I highly recommend each of the books.
Riley's mother is irresponsible and Riley keeps having to rush back home to take care of her brother and sister. Her mother has spent all of Riley's hard earned college money, so Riley thinks she's lucky that she has a job she likes. She's working at the Sound Sync recording studio where she has a job behind the scenes. She's stopped singing, because her appearance in a music reality television show went terribly wrong. She's still traumatized because of what happened to her.
When Garrett finds out how talented Riley is he wants to make an album with her. He's doing everything he can to make her sign. When he finally sees an opportunity he offers Riley a contract straight away. This means they have to work closely together which might be a problem, because Riley doesn't like Garrett very much. He's rude and arrogant and Riley makes it as difficult as possible for him to show him how much she dislikes working with him. Will they eventually start to be nice to each other?
Under the Spotlight is another great Jamieson Brothers book. Garrett is a lot less friendly than his two younger brothers, but deep down he's actually a sweet guy. Riley's mother makes things really difficult for her daughter and eventually Riley has to start singing again, because she doesn't have any other options. She only does it because she has to. I felt so bad for her, living with a mother like that and having such an awful experience when she was so young and vulnerable. Even though she resists it, she eventually likes singing again. Fortunately Garrett is there to support her, but they fight a lot. I kept hoping they would start to like each other more and I couldn't wait to find out if the third Jamieson brother would find love eventually. The book has an unexpected ending and I think that twist makes the story more mature. The Jamieson Brothers series is great and I highly recommend each of the books.
February 5, 2015
I liked this book. Emotional and sweet, Under the Spotlight was a lovely YA romance and I liked it.
Riley was great, for the most part. She was resilient, staying strong in the face of her disaster of a mother. My only issue with her was that was was annoyingly stubborn about even the stupidest of things. But, other than that, I liked her.
Garrett was also good. He was very determined and clever but also sweet. Like Riley, though, I had one issue with him and it was that he could be really pushy and bossy. But, that was something he worked on and tried to fix so it wasn't a problem.
The romance was nice. Riley and Garrett had a lot of romantic tension between the as each strong personality tried to get their way. But, when they got together, they were a good couple.
The plot moved quickly and I was kept interested all the way through. The story was enjoyable and the ending was great.
Under the Spotlight was an enjoyable YA romance and I liked it overall. YA lovers, you might want to check this book out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Riley was great, for the most part. She was resilient, staying strong in the face of her disaster of a mother. My only issue with her was that was was annoyingly stubborn about even the stupidest of things. But, other than that, I liked her.
Garrett was also good. He was very determined and clever but also sweet. Like Riley, though, I had one issue with him and it was that he could be really pushy and bossy. But, that was something he worked on and tried to fix so it wasn't a problem.
The romance was nice. Riley and Garrett had a lot of romantic tension between the as each strong personality tried to get their way. But, when they got together, they were a good couple.
The plot moved quickly and I was kept interested all the way through. The story was enjoyable and the ending was great.
Under the Spotlight was an enjoyable YA romance and I liked it overall. YA lovers, you might want to check this book out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
March 15, 2015
I was waiting-impatiently-for Garrett's book, and it didn't disappoint! He was the brother you loved to hate in the other books, but I knew Angie would redeem him! A great book!
April 27, 2015
Review coming soon!
March 7, 2015
This review has also been posted on Afterwords.
Under the Spotlight is probably my favorite of this trilogy. I've been waiting for this story for over a year, always curious to see how Stanton will tackle Garrett falling in love.
Who's Garrett? Don't tell me you don't know who Effin' Garrett Jamieson is. From the band? Those boys that rocked the hearts of girls everywhere until they broke said heart by breaking up? Yes, those Jamiesons. Garrett is the oldest of the bunch... and a massive jerk. He was a jerk in Rock and a Hard Place, he was a jerk inSnapshot and he's a jerk here.
And in all honesty? I absolutely loved that. I loved the Stanton wasn't afraid to keep Garrett the character she made him in books 1 & 2 instead of backtracking and trying to change him so he'll be more likable, like some authors do.
Instead, she let us see, by keeping him a consistent jerk, that he was completely unaware of what a douche he is. That, in turn, helped make him kind of lovable. Because you could tell this controlling, crossing-the-boundaries attitude was his personality and he wasn't trying to be a jerk. And once pointed in the right direction, he was willing (after a while), to make some changes. Granted, Riley has her work set out for her, but Garrett is not un-redeemable by a long shot.
Speaking of Riley, I liked her. I liked her attitude and her spunk, I liked that she wasn't willing to let life beat her down, I liked that once she made her mind about something it was set. I liked that she didn't take Garrett's bullshit and called him out on it. Most of all, I liked that she took care of her family... though I wish she threw her good-for-nothing-mom to the curve.
They made a good couple because of how they balanced each other. Garrett pushed Riley for better, believed in her where she didn't believe in herself, and Riley took Garrett down a notch, correcting his behavior and helping him see being a control freak is not cute at all.
My only complaint is that I felt the angst, such as it was, was unnecessary.
As for things I wished we got to see? At the top of my list is interactions between Garrett and Riley's siblings. I think that could've been fantastic, and maybe we could see a fatherly side to Garrett with the younger children. I think it would've been something good for Garrett and the Parks.
July 31, 2018
I enjoyed reading this but the ending seemed a little rushed to me. I would have liked more to the ending and would have liked to see where Garrett and Riley's relationship started anew further.
August 17, 2020
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2.5 stars — Well…I guess this is one series I should NOT have finished. I should have listened to my gut that had me avoiding reading Garrett’s book, b/c this one definitely disappointed. Or maybe it’s that it lived down to my low expectations. Basically, if you’re hoping that Garrett has a huge transformation, or there is some explanation for his douchebaggery, then you might be disappointed…I was.
I honestly did NOT like Garrett in the previous two books, and I was hoping that we’d get some elaboration on why he is the way he is…but for most of the book, he was just the same old asshole I’ve grown to dislike. He was arrogant, pushy, a bully, a know-it-all…just not a lot of redeeming. He never listened to Riley, never tried to get to know why she felt the way she did. He never tried to understand his brothers’ positions. Basically he didn’t show any empathy at all. And I’d like to say I saw softer moments, but other than feeling less than his brothers, and wanting his father’s approval, that was about all I got. He wasn’t all bad, but the little bits that softened me to him were not even remotely enough to redeem him.
Riley was somewhat intriguing, I appreciated her odd childhood story. It’s amazing that all the heroine’s in this series have these HORRIBLE childhoods…I wish there’d been some resolution to all of that. Her Mom was a monster, and we didn’t get to see her cut that tie…and I couldn’t help but wonder about her siblings. I enjoyed seeing what she went through on the earlier talent show, and how that affected her…and then seeing how she worked through those fears to come back to something she loves.
But then we get to the “romance”. That was flat as a pancake. I have NO IDEA what Riley saw in Garrett other than being starstruck. She claims that she got to see a softer side, but we didn’t really as a reader, so that didn’t help me connect and want to root for them. And their romance didn’t even start until after 60% ().
I was disappointed in how the author used a certain emotional event as a catalyst for Garrett’s change…it was convenient and didn’t feel long-lasting. And the whole wrap up afterwards was super fast.
*sigh* I’m just going to stop. Needless to say I was bummed. I kept waiting for more, and I didn’t get it. I’m giving Riley an extra half star, but really I just wish I’d passed on this one…
2.5 stars — Well…I guess this is one series I should NOT have finished. I should have listened to my gut that had me avoiding reading Garrett’s book, b/c this one definitely disappointed. Or maybe it’s that it lived down to my low expectations. Basically, if you’re hoping that Garrett has a huge transformation, or there is some explanation for his douchebaggery, then you might be disappointed…I was.
I honestly did NOT like Garrett in the previous two books, and I was hoping that we’d get some elaboration on why he is the way he is…but for most of the book, he was just the same old asshole I’ve grown to dislike. He was arrogant, pushy, a bully, a know-it-all…just not a lot of redeeming. He never listened to Riley, never tried to get to know why she felt the way she did. He never tried to understand his brothers’ positions. Basically he didn’t show any empathy at all. And I’d like to say I saw softer moments, but other than feeling less than his brothers, and wanting his father’s approval, that was about all I got. He wasn’t all bad, but the little bits that softened me to him were not even remotely enough to redeem him.
Riley was somewhat intriguing, I appreciated her odd childhood story. It’s amazing that all the heroine’s in this series have these HORRIBLE childhoods…I wish there’d been some resolution to all of that. Her Mom was a monster, and we didn’t get to see her cut that tie…and I couldn’t help but wonder about her siblings. I enjoyed seeing what she went through on the earlier talent show, and how that affected her…and then seeing how she worked through those fears to come back to something she loves.
But then we get to the “romance”. That was flat as a pancake. I have NO IDEA what Riley saw in Garrett other than being starstruck. She claims that she got to see a softer side, but we didn’t really as a reader, so that didn’t help me connect and want to root for them. And their romance didn’t even start until after 60% ().
I was disappointed in how the author used a certain emotional event as a catalyst for Garrett’s change…it was convenient and didn’t feel long-lasting. And the whole wrap up afterwards was super fast.
*sigh* I’m just going to stop. Needless to say I was bummed. I kept waiting for more, and I didn’t get it. I’m giving Riley an extra half star, but really I just wish I’d passed on this one…
March 16, 2015
Garrett's book is one I've been waiting a while to read. I was worried about how I would like and relate to him when in previous books he'd been lashing out with hurt and anger. I shouldn't have been worried at all, because while Garrett isn't miraculously over the blow he's been dealt, he's learning to move on.
I was really wondering what kind of woman Garrett would fall in love with. Riley was really what he needed. He pushed her buttons and she pushed his. Their initial chemistry was from their sparring and it slowly grew into something else. My heart broke for Riley. The situation with her mother was deplorable. I really wanted Riley to take strong action against her, but she never seemed to find that fire in her to do so. I did love how hard she worked and her desire to make something of herself with the limited resources at her disposal. I understood her deep seated fear at returning to performing.
Garrett came off as a jerk in the beginning but as the story progressed, my opinion of him changed. He realized how his behavior was affecting those around him and he modified those behaviors so he stopped causing pain. I think his interactions with his brothers were the most telling. Garrett liked being in charge and on top while touring. He liked the regimented, rigorous life, and not having that after doing it for so long left him lost about what he wanted to do and could do.
Overall the story is great. I read it quickly and bonded with both Garrett and Riley. There were some really tense moments and some really emotional ones as well. I wish parts of the story would've been handled better. As in some sort of resolution between Riley and her mom, or something with Riley's siblings. I was very happy to catch up with the Jamieson brothers and I look forward to hopefully seeing them again in the future. Angie Stanton has made the long wait for this book worth it and I can't wait to see what she writes next.
I was really wondering what kind of woman Garrett would fall in love with. Riley was really what he needed. He pushed her buttons and she pushed his. Their initial chemistry was from their sparring and it slowly grew into something else. My heart broke for Riley. The situation with her mother was deplorable. I really wanted Riley to take strong action against her, but she never seemed to find that fire in her to do so. I did love how hard she worked and her desire to make something of herself with the limited resources at her disposal. I understood her deep seated fear at returning to performing.
Garrett came off as a jerk in the beginning but as the story progressed, my opinion of him changed. He realized how his behavior was affecting those around him and he modified those behaviors so he stopped causing pain. I think his interactions with his brothers were the most telling. Garrett liked being in charge and on top while touring. He liked the regimented, rigorous life, and not having that after doing it for so long left him lost about what he wanted to do and could do.
Overall the story is great. I read it quickly and bonded with both Garrett and Riley. There were some really tense moments and some really emotional ones as well. I wish parts of the story would've been handled better. As in some sort of resolution between Riley and her mom, or something with Riley's siblings. I was very happy to catch up with the Jamieson brothers and I look forward to hopefully seeing them again in the future. Angie Stanton has made the long wait for this book worth it and I can't wait to see what she writes next.
May 16, 2015
This is the first of Angie Stanton's books that I have read, so right up front that tells you I haven't read the other two books in the Jamieson brothers series. But as the author has stated, this book can stand alone...and since I haven't read the others, I went into this without any preconceived notions about Garrett's character.
Garrett comes across as cocky, pushy and almost has an elitist vibe to him. As hot as he may be, I had a hard time warming up to him due to his personality. Riley though was a mostly strong female lead who readily countered Garrett's attitude with her spunkiness. I say mostly strong as the way she dealt with her mother was frustrating--at some point you just have to cut people off (no matter what their relation) and she just didn't seem to be able to do that.
The story focused more on Riley's ever-multiplying problems and how she could find a way out from under her steadily worsening situation rather than the romance aspect. The banter between Riley and Garrett was fun, especially when she got in some great shots at him when he kept trying to push her. For me though, the romance part between them just didn't feel genuine-it just lacked that spark.
Under the Spotlight is a very clean upper YA read that I'd recommend for 16+ due to some minor language and sexual references.
Garrett comes across as cocky, pushy and almost has an elitist vibe to him. As hot as he may be, I had a hard time warming up to him due to his personality. Riley though was a mostly strong female lead who readily countered Garrett's attitude with her spunkiness. I say mostly strong as the way she dealt with her mother was frustrating--at some point you just have to cut people off (no matter what their relation) and she just didn't seem to be able to do that.
The story focused more on Riley's ever-multiplying problems and how she could find a way out from under her steadily worsening situation rather than the romance aspect. The banter between Riley and Garrett was fun, especially when she got in some great shots at him when he kept trying to push her. For me though, the romance part between them just didn't feel genuine-it just lacked that spark.
Under the Spotlight is a very clean upper YA read that I'd recommend for 16+ due to some minor language and sexual references.
May 4, 2015
Young Adult author Angie Stanton’s newest release, "Under the Spotlight", is the third installment in the Jamieson Brothers young adult romance series. The spotlight falls this time on Garrett Jamieson, the moody, broody brother of the singing sensation trio, but we start Garrett’s story after the break-up of the band, a split he is not happy about. He’s now learning the ropes of record producing, and it is at the studio where he meets Riley, a girl with huge star potential, if only she’d agree to sing. But Riley has reasons of her own for running far from the spotlight and Garrett, which confuses and intrigues him.
Fans of The Jamieson Brothers series will be thrilled with this latest novel, as they will also be reunited with favorite characters from the first two novels, plus finally get to know Garrett Jamieson and what makes him tick, explode and eventually open his heart to love. Newcomers to Ms. Stanton’s work will fall head-over-heels for this novel, and then rush to read the first two in the series and all her other amazing YA novels. Either way, fans new and old of the Jamieson Brother series are in for a thoroughly entertaining, fun and romantic read! Brava to Ms. Stanton!
Fans of The Jamieson Brothers series will be thrilled with this latest novel, as they will also be reunited with favorite characters from the first two novels, plus finally get to know Garrett Jamieson and what makes him tick, explode and eventually open his heart to love. Newcomers to Ms. Stanton’s work will fall head-over-heels for this novel, and then rush to read the first two in the series and all her other amazing YA novels. Either way, fans new and old of the Jamieson Brother series are in for a thoroughly entertaining, fun and romantic read! Brava to Ms. Stanton!
May 3, 2015
I went into this story blind. I hadn't read the first two books... But since this was considered a standalone in a series, I thought, "what the heck, it sounds good." I think maybe I should have read the first two books. Even in standalone series, there is background in each book that truly is vital to each book. I felt a little lost in this book at times...
With that being said, the story is a good story. It's told well. The tug and pull in this book kept me reading. The characters relationships are inviting and engaging.
I usually enjoy YA books, and I really did enjoy this book. However, there was something missing for me. I am not sure what it was. I felt a disconnect. Maybe it was because I hadn't read the beginning of the series. So, that is what I plan to do. I plan to read the first two books, then reread this one. I don't feel it fair to the author that I write a full review on this book until I have read the whole series.
With that being said, the story is a good story. It's told well. The tug and pull in this book kept me reading. The characters relationships are inviting and engaging.
I usually enjoy YA books, and I really did enjoy this book. However, there was something missing for me. I am not sure what it was. I felt a disconnect. Maybe it was because I hadn't read the beginning of the series. So, that is what I plan to do. I plan to read the first two books, then reread this one. I don't feel it fair to the author that I write a full review on this book until I have read the whole series.
October 20, 2014
Enjoyable long awaited conclusion to Angie Stanton's YA 'Jamieson Brothers' rock & roll trilogy. Loved heroine Riley' passion for making music and having the emotional strength to stand up to the singleminded force of charismatic boy bander, Garrett Jamieson.
July 12, 2015
4.5 stars. A fun and light-hearted read. Though not perfect, I found myself not wanting to put it down (unfortunately for me, I had to endure a 13+ hour car ride in which I couldn't read so I had too).
I recommend for anyone looking for a nice contemporary.
I recommend for anyone looking for a nice contemporary.
February 2, 2015
I read this in 1.5 days. Is it so wrong that I want another novel of these two?
Review to come. :)
Review to come. :)
November 19, 2018
Why is this the third book of The Jamieson Collection and this is my first one?
But I love it!
Wow, I'm not really into reading , but I have to say, that this book is one of the best books I ever read in my entire life! The tug and pull in this book kept me reading and the characters relationship are engaging.
I have to say that this story focused more on Riley than her romance with Garrett because of Riley's multiplying problems and how she always founded a way out from even the worst situations. But I really like the banter between Riley and Garrett, especially when she got some great shots at him when he kept tying to push her.
Also I really like the way how the book is structure. Because the chapters goes back and forth of the story of both Riley and Garrett. For example: in the first chapter it only talks about Garrett's story and then in the second chapter is only about Riley and it keeps going like that until they both meet at the Sound Sync recording studio.
I would highly recommend this book to contemporary readers or even people who are not really a fan of reading because this story will capture all your emotions and take them for a breathless spin.
But I love it!
Wow, I'm not really into reading , but I have to say, that this book is one of the best books I ever read in my entire life! The tug and pull in this book kept me reading and the characters relationship are engaging.
I have to say that this story focused more on Riley than her romance with Garrett because of Riley's multiplying problems and how she always founded a way out from even the worst situations. But I really like the banter between Riley and Garrett, especially when she got some great shots at him when he kept tying to push her.
Also I really like the way how the book is structure. Because the chapters goes back and forth of the story of both Riley and Garrett. For example: in the first chapter it only talks about Garrett's story and then in the second chapter is only about Riley and it keeps going like that until they both meet at the Sound Sync recording studio.
I would highly recommend this book to contemporary readers or even people who are not really a fan of reading because this story will capture all your emotions and take them for a breathless spin.
March 29, 2023
Intriguing Romance and “Life” Story!!
Three brothers who create a successful band - two withdraw and Garrett is the only one still chopping at the bit to continue his musical path. Now he may focus on producing and managing others.
A young woman, Riley, who at age thirteen was on a reality singing show, and cut to shreds. She has completely given up singing. Her mother is basically in name only, and in trying to assist her siblings ends up sabotaged again by her mother and in legal trouble and great debt.
Garrett has a solution… he will produce one album with her, for an amount which will bail her out of her troubles. Unfortunately her PTD is real. His lack of communication and need to control is absolute. An interesting look into the music world, a romance that seems impossible, and family and friends who have so much impact on our lives regardless of our determination to break that hold.
Three brothers who create a successful band - two withdraw and Garrett is the only one still chopping at the bit to continue his musical path. Now he may focus on producing and managing others.
A young woman, Riley, who at age thirteen was on a reality singing show, and cut to shreds. She has completely given up singing. Her mother is basically in name only, and in trying to assist her siblings ends up sabotaged again by her mother and in legal trouble and great debt.
Garrett has a solution… he will produce one album with her, for an amount which will bail her out of her troubles. Unfortunately her PTD is real. His lack of communication and need to control is absolute. An interesting look into the music world, a romance that seems impossible, and family and friends who have so much impact on our lives regardless of our determination to break that hold.
November 26, 2017
When you open a book and look up after what seems like five minutes and you're on page 120, there's no doubt it's a great read. I finished it a couple hours later and really enjoyed every page. Sure, the plot and characters aren't unique, but good ice cream in a second bowl isn't either, but you enjoy the heck out of it.
Riley and Garrett are highly likable folks and the chemistry, as well as the fear each has of romance, success and letting go, are portrayed very nicely.
Riley and Garrett are highly likable folks and the chemistry, as well as the fear each has of romance, success and letting go, are portrayed very nicely.
January 6, 2024
I don't read too much romance, but I really enjoyed this book! The ending was satisfying, but I definitely would've enjoyed hearing more about how the tour goes and/or how their relationship ends up (maybe in an epilogue). I also appreciate how it's age appropriate for highschool students!
I'd give it a 4.5 but I can't on Goodreads 😭
I'd give it a 4.5 but I can't on Goodreads 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2017
Started and finished this book in the wee hours. Sorry, not sorry. Fall break was calling for a quick fun read. The bummer is that I didn’t realize I was reading a third book in a trilogy. Dang. I hate that.
Adding the first two to my TBR now.
Adding the first two to my TBR now.
March 6, 2018
I loved this book. I'm not even going to deny that I am 100% invested in the Jamieson Brothers and their lives at this point, and having been really angry at Garrett, I now understand him a lot better. Bless! I hope Angie continues their story at some point.
March 20, 2019
I loved this book almost as I loved the first one just because garret was described as such an Ass and his book put him through a lot of crazy stuff which in my opinion he deserved. I loved the ending, and Angie Stanton is fabulous!!
September 15, 2019
One night while I was reading this book and my mom told me that it is bedtime I told her 20 minutes but it turned into I think an hour and the time was I think 11:00 or 12:00 when I finished it so I basically stayed up late to finish the book. I am kind of glad that I did that!
July 27, 2020
3.5/3.75 stars; i thought it was good, but honestly garrett annoyed me. he was bearable at the end but riley was right, for the most part he was controlling and manipulative even if i understand his reasoning; the book was cute though and the writing was good
March 26, 2023
A good story with heart
I can't say that Garrett made any points with me initially but I got to like him. I felt so bad for Riley and having the mother she had. I wish the story have gone a little further.
I can't say that Garrett made any points with me initially but I got to like him. I felt so bad for Riley and having the mother she had. I wish the story have gone a little further.
October 17, 2018
I really loved the book, but I expected much more, I was left wanting more, I expected much more from that end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 9, 2022I read this series in the wrong order lol.
but it was a really good book and I'd definatly reccomend it.
but it was a really good book and I'd definatly reccomend it.
November 10, 2022
Third book in a series. This one is about the oldest brother Garrett and a singer, Riley. He wants to produce a musical album for her but he is very bossy and he is attracted to her.
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