The First Riff: A Novel of Music, Love, and Finding Your Voice

by Jessy Cheng, Elaina Bedio (Editor)

339 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 9, 2026

Reviews

[Shelby Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jasmine starts as a producer and her talent is sought out by Eric an established music artist and she becomes an artist in her own right. A friendship begins that leads into a romance between the pair. A problem with drug abuse tears them apart and a journey of self recovery and healing begins.

A book about finding your voice, self recovery and healing, whilst in the musician world.

Kareem is a very likeable character!

If you’re a fan of Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow - Gabrielle Zevin and A Star is Born (the film) then this book is definitely for you!
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Jamie Merritt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story gave me A Star Is Born vibes. If you loved that movie, you’ll enjoy this book. Jasmine, a music producer with dreams of becoming a singer-songwriter, is held back by her own insecurities. When she’s assigned to work with rock legend Eric Tanner, he pushes her out of her comfort zone and into the spotlight she’s always wanted. Soon she has a hit record and a true romance with Eric until fame took it all away. Addiction, sexual assault, losing Eric, and being dropped by her label leads to rock bottom. This is a story of strength, redemption, and self‑discovery. Jasmine’s journey is messy and raw. Watching her fight her way back is powerful. Looking forward to Jasmine's next chapter.

[Sherry Lu · Rating 5 out of 5]

The First Riff is an impressive debut. If I hadn't known this was Jessy's first novel, I never would have guessed, it doesn't have that "first-time author" feel at all. The story moves at a great pace, the plot is tightly woven, and the characters are relatable and easy to connect with. Jessy does a wonderful job keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end. I'm already looking forward to seeing what she writes next.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing

I couldn’t put it down once I started, the characters were brilliant and the storyline was beautifully written. I was hooked from the beginning and I’m looking forward to reading more of her journey. Thank you it’s was magnificent.

[Mary Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Found her voice

This was one of those books I kept wanting to see what would happen "if?"
Engaging and a great story. I hope there is a sequel!