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NOLA's Own #3
The Song Remains the Same
Phil
“Kenna stood strong, taking my grief into herself. In that moment, if the world had truly threatened to fall, I had no doubt my Baby Girl would hold it up.”
A pillar of strength, Kenna only grows stronger as time passes. I’ve known from the beginning that I was the weak link between us. Always, she’s risen above and beyond the darkness of the unknown that threatens to suck me down. This time…I’ll have to crawl out of that darkness on my own.
Kenna
“What we have—the kind of love we share—comes at a price. The universe demands it. It’s not free, and it shouldn’t be.”
So many souls make up the fabric of the music. Thousands upon thousands of years, millions of eyes and ears, hands and hearts have seen, heard, created and felt it. There’s only one who sings to me, and in the face of the unknown, I watch him lose the language of the soul. The pain and loss for Phil is so great, I have no way to bring the symphony back into his being, as he has done for me so many times.
Within me for now, for always…The Song Remains the Same.
“Kenna stood strong, taking my grief into herself. In that moment, if the world had truly threatened to fall, I had no doubt my Baby Girl would hold it up.”
A pillar of strength, Kenna only grows stronger as time passes. I’ve known from the beginning that I was the weak link between us. Always, she’s risen above and beyond the darkness of the unknown that threatens to suck me down. This time…I’ll have to crawl out of that darkness on my own.
Kenna
“What we have—the kind of love we share—comes at a price. The universe demands it. It’s not free, and it shouldn’t be.”
So many souls make up the fabric of the music. Thousands upon thousands of years, millions of eyes and ears, hands and hearts have seen, heard, created and felt it. There’s only one who sings to me, and in the face of the unknown, I watch him lose the language of the soul. The pain and loss for Phil is so great, I have no way to bring the symphony back into his being, as he has done for me so many times.
Within me for now, for always…The Song Remains the Same.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 4, 2015
8 people are currently reading
293 people want to read
About the author
Kelli Jean
14 books312 followersBorn and raised in Miami, Kelli Jean traded the tropical heat for the arctic. Now she deals with twenty-four hour daylight in the summer, zero sunlight in the winter, and believes the Northern Lights make up for the mind-boggling amount of ice and snow she has to put up with for seven months out of the year. She’s surrounded by mountains and ocean and sheep, and claims her bizarre sense of humor is what keeps her sane.
The insane don’t know they’re insane.
Kelli uses her imagination to create worlds she can escape to from the mundane tasks of everyday life, such as washing the damn dishes and vacuuming up Legos off the floor—and don’t get her started on the mad amount of cat hair on the end of the couch. She gave up on that a long time ago. When the household goes to sleep at night, she writes down everything that happened in her head while doing such tedious chores. But she enjoys living in her own head, so that’s pretty cool.
The insane don’t know they’re insane.
Kelli uses her imagination to create worlds she can escape to from the mundane tasks of everyday life, such as washing the damn dishes and vacuuming up Legos off the floor—and don’t get her started on the mad amount of cat hair on the end of the couch. She gave up on that a long time ago. When the household goes to sleep at night, she writes down everything that happened in her head while doing such tedious chores. But she enjoys living in her own head, so that’s pretty cool.
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October 20, 2015
5+ Nola’s Own Stars
We’ll come full circle, she and I…once more to begin anew”
Kelli Jean has taken the love story of Phil Deveraux and Kenna MacGregor on the most epic journey beyond the norm. From the initial meeting to the fast forever, they have been soul bound. They breathe and live in one another in complete harmony expanding the realm they exist…but no great love is without struggle.
This final book has no shortage of struggle. From page one devotion is tested, patience is pushed, and lives are forever changed. Tears will be shed as Nola’s Junk takes on the world forcing Phil and Kenna battle the elements to survive. Deadly explosions, raging exes, the wrath of Mother Nature, the hard rock life style…nothing will be easy for this Mystic Love to overcome.
I have a deep love and respect for the young, fiery, Kenna. She has always been a survivor…a healer…a greater being. Her connection to Phil is like nothing ever experienced. At such a young age she single handedly grounded and tamed the beast of a man. She gives as good as she gets with both a young energy and old soul. Her love and belief alone has always been enough until her very own soul shatters.
Tragedy and heartbreak are forefront. Now faced with great loss and overwhelming pain, Phil will have to find a way through his own hell to heal the heart of Nola’s very own.
I have no way of writing a review that could adequately depict the amazing works Kelli Jean created. From book 1 she captivated my attention. Phil and Kenna are unlike any book couple I have ever experienced. This is not the typical bad boy/good girl romance. It is so ethereal and deep. Their words are lyrical prose and their connection of body while stunningly hot, is complete intimacy perfection.
At the end of this book…the close of the series, I found myself uncharacteristically emotional. It has been a long time since I got “caught up” in a story. Perhaps it was the spiritual essence of Kenna and Phil’s love or the belief that a love can exist deeper than the mind can know. Kelli Jean did not take the easy path to forever. This author stayed true to her characters and never let their connection falter, she pushed and bent the hell out of it, but she never let the reader lose faith.
It was an absolute pleasure to experience Phil, Kenna and all of Nola’s Junk. Just as books 1 and 2 were…Unique…Sexy…Emotional…Profound…for me, THE SONG REMAINS THE SAME!
**please note quotes used may differ from published work**
We’ll come full circle, she and I…once more to begin anew”
Kelli Jean has taken the love story of Phil Deveraux and Kenna MacGregor on the most epic journey beyond the norm. From the initial meeting to the fast forever, they have been soul bound. They breathe and live in one another in complete harmony expanding the realm they exist…but no great love is without struggle.
This final book has no shortage of struggle. From page one devotion is tested, patience is pushed, and lives are forever changed. Tears will be shed as Nola’s Junk takes on the world forcing Phil and Kenna battle the elements to survive. Deadly explosions, raging exes, the wrath of Mother Nature, the hard rock life style…nothing will be easy for this Mystic Love to overcome.
I have a deep love and respect for the young, fiery, Kenna. She has always been a survivor…a healer…a greater being. Her connection to Phil is like nothing ever experienced. At such a young age she single handedly grounded and tamed the beast of a man. She gives as good as she gets with both a young energy and old soul. Her love and belief alone has always been enough until her very own soul shatters.
Tragedy and heartbreak are forefront. Now faced with great loss and overwhelming pain, Phil will have to find a way through his own hell to heal the heart of Nola’s very own.
I have no way of writing a review that could adequately depict the amazing works Kelli Jean created. From book 1 she captivated my attention. Phil and Kenna are unlike any book couple I have ever experienced. This is not the typical bad boy/good girl romance. It is so ethereal and deep. Their words are lyrical prose and their connection of body while stunningly hot, is complete intimacy perfection.
At the end of this book…the close of the series, I found myself uncharacteristically emotional. It has been a long time since I got “caught up” in a story. Perhaps it was the spiritual essence of Kenna and Phil’s love or the belief that a love can exist deeper than the mind can know. Kelli Jean did not take the easy path to forever. This author stayed true to her characters and never let their connection falter, she pushed and bent the hell out of it, but she never let the reader lose faith.
It was an absolute pleasure to experience Phil, Kenna and all of Nola’s Junk. Just as books 1 and 2 were…Unique…Sexy…Emotional…Profound…for me, THE SONG REMAINS THE SAME!
**please note quotes used may differ from published work**
October 20, 2015
Phil and Kenna have a big challenge ahead of them and unfortunately that's not the only thing to test their relationship. They've come so far, they just need to hold on and be true to themselves...and each other.
And boy...do they have challenges! I thought they had already been through enough but that was nothing compared to what goes on in this book. I have to give them credit...they are both handling things fairly well until the last one and that's a humdinger.
What I like about KJ is that she's not afraid to go there. It's also what I don't like and I like emotional, angsty books!
The Problem(s) Remains The Same...and that's that there is just too much going on. Too many dramas, too many heartbreaks and basically not enough happy times. I was wrung out!
But...it was worth it. Like I've said before, this couple's connection is the be-all, end-all...it's that good. And it's not only them but their family and friends that add so much to the story.
And thank goodness for that amazing epilogue!! I'm sooo happy with the way things ended and I loved what they did to Phil...perfect!
Now, can we just get a story for Alys, Lili, Connor and Devon? That would make me even happier!
Favorite quote:
♥ “You feel like heaven,” he whispered. “Like home.”
And boy...do they have challenges! I thought they had already been through enough but that was nothing compared to what goes on in this book. I have to give them credit...they are both handling things fairly well until the last one and that's a humdinger.
What I like about KJ is that she's not afraid to go there. It's also what I don't like and I like emotional, angsty books!
The Problem(s) Remains The Same...and that's that there is just too much going on. Too many dramas, too many heartbreaks and basically not enough happy times. I was wrung out!
But...it was worth it. Like I've said before, this couple's connection is the be-all, end-all...it's that good. And it's not only them but their family and friends that add so much to the story.
And thank goodness for that amazing epilogue!! I'm sooo happy with the way things ended and I loved what they did to Phil...perfect!
Now, can we just get a story for Alys, Lili, Connor and Devon? That would make me even happier!
Favorite quote:
♥ “You feel like heaven,” he whispered. “Like home.”
October 5, 2015
I NEED MORE STARS! **********
IT'S LIVE!!!
Amazon
Spoiler Free Review.....
I will start off by saying when I finished the last page of this book, I was overwhelmed with happiness.. but at the same time so sad.. Sad that this was the final book for Phil and Kenna. This couple has come to mean so much to me.... this is that book couple that you will always remember. Their love was overwhelming and true.. their chemistry was beyond elemental.. .. it was to their very core. They were , in every sense, each other's other half...
My Baby Girl was the epitome of all that was beautiful in my life
Ok, I know there are so many people that have not read this series ( what the ever lovin hell are you waiting on??!!!) So I'm going to review this one without giving anything away. This book picks up were book two ended. Kenna has gone through something very traumatizing and Phil is scared out of his mind of what this means for his baby girl...
This is a major part of their story.. but there is much more in the road ahead for them. Phil and Kenna went through an awful lot in this time around and my heart was on overdrive and just ached for them. But one thing you never EVER doubt about Phil and Kenna, no matter what happens.. is there love for one another. Love runs no deeper than it does for the madman and his baby girl.
"“Without you, I’d be a hot mess. I’d be lost. You’ve given me everythin’ I’ve ever dreamed of. You’ve shown me who I really am, who I want to be. So, whatever I can do to give you everythin’ you’ve ever wanted, I’m more than happy to give it.”
Although the main focus of these 3 books has been Phil and Kenna, the secondary characters are almost as much a part of the story as they are.. Kenna's best friends Alys and Lili are more that just her friends..they are her sisters; and the guys in Phil's band are just as tight with him and they all mesh so awesome together. I swear it is like one big family and I've grown to care so so much about each and every single character. They've each touched by heart..
Kelli has managed to create a rock star world that I just got lost in.. each story is so intense yet hilarious; smokin' hot yet romantic; it was soulful. I do not exaggerate at all when I say that I love all of these characters. If there was a book world I could jump into.. it would be the world that Kelli has created in this series. It's more that just a Rock romance.. so so much more. This series is about love and friendship... what it means to truly love people and be there for them... to fight with them and for them.
If you've not read this series.. you should. You have no idea the amazing story you are missing out on.... You will be swept away into the world of NOLA's Own and you'll be happier for it.
" My other half.." "My whole life..."
ARC provided by the fabulous Kelli Jean
IT'S LIVE!!!
Amazon
Spoiler Free Review.....
I will start off by saying when I finished the last page of this book, I was overwhelmed with happiness.. but at the same time so sad.. Sad that this was the final book for Phil and Kenna. This couple has come to mean so much to me.... this is that book couple that you will always remember. Their love was overwhelming and true.. their chemistry was beyond elemental.. .. it was to their very core. They were , in every sense, each other's other half...
My Baby Girl was the epitome of all that was beautiful in my life
Ok, I know there are so many people that have not read this series ( what the ever lovin hell are you waiting on??!!!) So I'm going to review this one without giving anything away. This book picks up were book two ended. Kenna has gone through something very traumatizing and Phil is scared out of his mind of what this means for his baby girl...
This is a major part of their story.. but there is much more in the road ahead for them. Phil and Kenna went through an awful lot in this time around and my heart was on overdrive and just ached for them. But one thing you never EVER doubt about Phil and Kenna, no matter what happens.. is there love for one another. Love runs no deeper than it does for the madman and his baby girl.
"“Without you, I’d be a hot mess. I’d be lost. You’ve given me everythin’ I’ve ever dreamed of. You’ve shown me who I really am, who I want to be. So, whatever I can do to give you everythin’ you’ve ever wanted, I’m more than happy to give it.”
Although the main focus of these 3 books has been Phil and Kenna, the secondary characters are almost as much a part of the story as they are.. Kenna's best friends Alys and Lili are more that just her friends..they are her sisters; and the guys in Phil's band are just as tight with him and they all mesh so awesome together. I swear it is like one big family and I've grown to care so so much about each and every single character. They've each touched by heart..
Kelli has managed to create a rock star world that I just got lost in.. each story is so intense yet hilarious; smokin' hot yet romantic; it was soulful. I do not exaggerate at all when I say that I love all of these characters. If there was a book world I could jump into.. it would be the world that Kelli has created in this series. It's more that just a Rock romance.. so so much more. This series is about love and friendship... what it means to truly love people and be there for them... to fight with them and for them.
If you've not read this series.. you should. You have no idea the amazing story you are missing out on.... You will be swept away into the world of NOLA's Own and you'll be happier for it.
" My other half.." "My whole life..."
ARC provided by the fabulous Kelli Jean
December 14, 2015
”What do you see in me?"
WOW, what a ride! This book was phenomenal. From the first sentence to the last, I was enraptured by these mesmerizing characters. The Song Remains the Same is my favorite book out of the NOLA’s Own series and I absolutely loved them all, so that is saying a lot.
I’m sad for Phil and Kenna’s story to be over, they have come to mean so much to me. I feel like I’ve lived a whole lifetime with them and their journey has been crazy-beautiful.
""My other half,” I whispered against her mouth. “My whole life,” she replied."
This author has a way with words that just makes your soul sing. I love soaking up her lyrical prowess. I’m not sure that I have ever highlighted books as much as I have with this series. Just one quote from this story and I will be filled with immense emotion and covered in chills. NOLA’s Own is truly something special. It’s set apart, not your average, everyday read. It is something that will speak to you and stay with you. I love the shocks and surprises in this book. You will stay on your toes while reading this; there is never a dull moment.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book from this world. All of these characters are amazing in their own way. I especially love Devon. I desperately need more from him. He is highly intriguing and beyond sexy.
NOLA’s Own is a journey that I will always remember. This series was not only addicting and entertaining, but it also taught me valuable life lessons that has changed me as a person. Kelli Jean is an author that I will always read. Her voice is unlike any author I know. I can’t recommend this book or this series highly enough. Read it, experience it for yourself. You will be glad you did.
"We ain't over. We ain't ever gonna be over."
”Everythin’.”
WOW, what a ride! This book was phenomenal. From the first sentence to the last, I was enraptured by these mesmerizing characters. The Song Remains the Same is my favorite book out of the NOLA’s Own series and I absolutely loved them all, so that is saying a lot.
I’m sad for Phil and Kenna’s story to be over, they have come to mean so much to me. I feel like I’ve lived a whole lifetime with them and their journey has been crazy-beautiful.
""My other half,” I whispered against her mouth. “My whole life,” she replied."
This author has a way with words that just makes your soul sing. I love soaking up her lyrical prowess. I’m not sure that I have ever highlighted books as much as I have with this series. Just one quote from this story and I will be filled with immense emotion and covered in chills. NOLA’s Own is truly something special. It’s set apart, not your average, everyday read. It is something that will speak to you and stay with you. I love the shocks and surprises in this book. You will stay on your toes while reading this; there is never a dull moment.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book from this world. All of these characters are amazing in their own way. I especially love Devon. I desperately need more from him. He is highly intriguing and beyond sexy.
NOLA’s Own is a journey that I will always remember. This series was not only addicting and entertaining, but it also taught me valuable life lessons that has changed me as a person. Kelli Jean is an author that I will always read. Her voice is unlike any author I know. I can’t recommend this book or this series highly enough. Read it, experience it for yourself. You will be glad you did.
"We ain't over. We ain't ever gonna be over."
February 25, 2016
The Song Remains the Same is book 3 in the NOLA's OWN series and it's also my favorite. This story picks up where No Quarter left off and if you thought Phil and Kenna's struggle was over, you were wrong. There's still a whole rollercoaster of emotion waiting for you in this book.
I can't say enough about Kelli Jean's writing. Her words suck you into this world and you find yourself feeling everything. The highs, the lows, the excitement, the love... all of it. I feel like I've had my heart broken and healed and broken again throughout this series. It's been amazing to experience the CRAZY, BEAUTIFUL, ALL-ENCOMPASSING, love between Kenna and Phil. Their story is one I'll always remember.
One of my MOST FAVORITE things about these books is their authenticity. This isn't a fantasy land where the girl meets the hot rocker and they fight over groupies before finally falling head over heels and riding off into the sunset. No way. This is so much more than that. This is a story with REAL heart and soul.
It's a realistic portrayal of an irrational love and it's AMAZING!
I HIGHLY, HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend this series!!
MY PHIL... *sigh*
I can't say enough about Kelli Jean's writing. Her words suck you into this world and you find yourself feeling everything. The highs, the lows, the excitement, the love... all of it. I feel like I've had my heart broken and healed and broken again throughout this series. It's been amazing to experience the CRAZY, BEAUTIFUL, ALL-ENCOMPASSING, love between Kenna and Phil. Their story is one I'll always remember.
One of my MOST FAVORITE things about these books is their authenticity. This isn't a fantasy land where the girl meets the hot rocker and they fight over groupies before finally falling head over heels and riding off into the sunset. No way. This is so much more than that. This is a story with REAL heart and soul.
It's a realistic portrayal of an irrational love and it's AMAZING!
I HIGHLY, HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend this series!!
MY PHIL... *sigh*
May 16, 2016
+++ 6 "TOO FUCKIN' RIGHT" STARS! +++
Kelli Jean has once again managed to steal my soul and make me fall in love with Phil and Kenna all over again. For their love story was rough around the edges, but it was the purest and realest love of all, expanding beyond the realm of reality.
The beauty of Kelli's writing is that she makes you feel with every turn of the page. It isn't always happiness. There's struggle and with that comes tears. Nothing in life is easy and it's an exhausting journey for our beloved couple, but NOLA's Own wouldn't be a family if it wasn't for their perseverance and their unity.
Kenna MacGregor is humble, beautiful, fierce, sassy, intelligent, loyal and strong beyond words. She's put through the ringer, faced with tragedy, loss and unimaginable pain. Phil must be her balm to get through the storm.
Phil Deveraux continues to surprise me throughout each book. He's a beast of a man and a beautiful enigma. I love him with all my heart. He's done a lot of growing up and his love for his Baby Girl never dies.
This book was everything. It ended with a BANG and I couldn't have asked for a better conclusion for Phil and Kenna. Their connection to one another is otherworldly. It's mind, body, and soul with intense intimacy and passion. If you haven't started this series then I strongly recommend you do so now. Trust me you won't be sorry.
NOLA's Own has become a part of me and though my heart is heavy as it's the last book in Phil and Kenna's journey, I'm immensely happy and humbled to have been apart of this series. I remember first reading Over the Hills and Far Away and having my mind completely blown. I was captivated and these characters soon became special. I know I'm not saying goodbye but see you soon. Thank you so much Kelli Jean. I love your face!
"NOLA's Own,"
"That's who we really are. We aren't junk. We're a clan. A tribe."
*An ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
"My Baby Girl was the epitome of all that was beautiful in my life."
Kelli Jean has once again managed to steal my soul and make me fall in love with Phil and Kenna all over again. For their love story was rough around the edges, but it was the purest and realest love of all, expanding beyond the realm of reality.
The beauty of Kelli's writing is that she makes you feel with every turn of the page. It isn't always happiness. There's struggle and with that comes tears. Nothing in life is easy and it's an exhausting journey for our beloved couple, but NOLA's Own wouldn't be a family if it wasn't for their perseverance and their unity.
Kenna MacGregor is humble, beautiful, fierce, sassy, intelligent, loyal and strong beyond words. She's put through the ringer, faced with tragedy, loss and unimaginable pain. Phil must be her balm to get through the storm.
Phil Deveraux continues to surprise me throughout each book. He's a beast of a man and a beautiful enigma. I love him with all my heart. He's done a lot of growing up and his love for his Baby Girl never dies.
This book was everything. It ended with a BANG and I couldn't have asked for a better conclusion for Phil and Kenna. Their connection to one another is otherworldly. It's mind, body, and soul with intense intimacy and passion. If you haven't started this series then I strongly recommend you do so now. Trust me you won't be sorry.
NOLA's Own has become a part of me and though my heart is heavy as it's the last book in Phil and Kenna's journey, I'm immensely happy and humbled to have been apart of this series. I remember first reading Over the Hills and Far Away and having my mind completely blown. I was captivated and these characters soon became special. I know I'm not saying goodbye but see you soon. Thank you so much Kelli Jean. I love your face!
"NOLA's Own,"
"That's who we really are. We aren't junk. We're a clan. A tribe."
*An ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
October 8, 2015
What a FABULOUS finish to the series! Full review to come with my tour date of 10/6...
**FULL REVIEW**
“What do you see in me?” she asked. “Everythin’,” I replied, even though she couldn’t hear me. Lying down so that we were face-to-face, I said, “I see strength and love…so much love. Baby Girl. A steady stream of it, flowin’ out of you and cleansin’ the ones who are lucky enough to step foot in it. I see hurt and struggle, acceptance…forgiveness. Oh, Baby…” Leaning forward, I pressed my lips to hers, drowning in her scent, her taste. “I see my future, our future,” I said, my lips moving over hers. “And it’s so f* huge, so amazing’. It’s all love and love and more love.”
I admit, I read this book directly after finishing No Quarter. Which I had read immediately after I read Over the Hills and Far Away. Now, with reviewing, it only seems that fair to address the Series first and foremost. I have to say…it was like nothing I’ve experienced. And yes, I say experience because that’s exactly what it felt like. I didn’t just read these books, I lived them. I laughed and cried with these people, I felt their words, their emotions, their lives. I can’t remember how many times goosebumps covered my skin, water leaked from my eyes, or heat stirred low in my belly.
Kelli Jean does a fabulous job of seamlessly weaving one story into the next. Her words are polished and precise in each book (which I greatly appreciate) to play off her characters’ strengths. I felt a part of this misfit family she brought together under various circumstances, like they were my family, my friends. I felt like I experienced every trial, every triumph, every single meditated second. And I loved it.
“As two halves of one soul must do.” With his free hand, he turned my face toward his. His lips were against my own, his breath filling me. “We’ll come full circle, you and me.”
So, I can’t give you a detailed review about just The Song Remains the Same because in my mind, all three books blend so well that I couldn’t pinpoint events…all I know is that each conflict presented throughout the series flows; it breaks you and puts you back together again, it makes you see a connection between a man a woman so strong—wait—not just Kenna and Phil, but each couple. Each family member, each friend. There is a connection. One that will straight up flip you out if you aren’t careful. It’s on a whole different plane…and it’s magical. The whole story is magical, and one that will forever live in my heart.
**For the Love of NOLA, Stars**
**FULL REVIEW**
“What do you see in me?” she asked. “Everythin’,” I replied, even though she couldn’t hear me. Lying down so that we were face-to-face, I said, “I see strength and love…so much love. Baby Girl. A steady stream of it, flowin’ out of you and cleansin’ the ones who are lucky enough to step foot in it. I see hurt and struggle, acceptance…forgiveness. Oh, Baby…” Leaning forward, I pressed my lips to hers, drowning in her scent, her taste. “I see my future, our future,” I said, my lips moving over hers. “And it’s so f* huge, so amazing’. It’s all love and love and more love.”
I admit, I read this book directly after finishing No Quarter. Which I had read immediately after I read Over the Hills and Far Away. Now, with reviewing, it only seems that fair to address the Series first and foremost. I have to say…it was like nothing I’ve experienced. And yes, I say experience because that’s exactly what it felt like. I didn’t just read these books, I lived them. I laughed and cried with these people, I felt their words, their emotions, their lives. I can’t remember how many times goosebumps covered my skin, water leaked from my eyes, or heat stirred low in my belly.
Kelli Jean does a fabulous job of seamlessly weaving one story into the next. Her words are polished and precise in each book (which I greatly appreciate) to play off her characters’ strengths. I felt a part of this misfit family she brought together under various circumstances, like they were my family, my friends. I felt like I experienced every trial, every triumph, every single meditated second. And I loved it.
“As two halves of one soul must do.” With his free hand, he turned my face toward his. His lips were against my own, his breath filling me. “We’ll come full circle, you and me.”
So, I can’t give you a detailed review about just The Song Remains the Same because in my mind, all three books blend so well that I couldn’t pinpoint events…all I know is that each conflict presented throughout the series flows; it breaks you and puts you back together again, it makes you see a connection between a man a woman so strong—wait—not just Kenna and Phil, but each couple. Each family member, each friend. There is a connection. One that will straight up flip you out if you aren’t careful. It’s on a whole different plane…and it’s magical. The whole story is magical, and one that will forever live in my heart.
**For the Love of NOLA, Stars**
October 7, 2015
I enjoyed the series but a few things bugged me like the fact that he cared for Brigid I know he didn't love her but it still bugged me.i couldn't get passed him sleeping around and having a relationship with with her for 7 months and our heroine waited around for six years untill finally having a short lived relationship with Brian. I liked the heroine but wish she wasn't such a goody goody!
July 5, 2016
It's taken me almost a week to calm down enough to review this book because... shit... it fucked me up.
As silly as this sounds, I'm an emotional empath. I can't help but vividly feel the emotions and moods of people around me as if they're my own. It's significantly worse with books because I can read the thoughts of characters. So if a character is happy, I'm beyond happy! As I was with the first two books, I felt like I was genuinely in love over the moon giddy! Then we got to this book...
I guess Kelli Jean felt the need to make this a long trilogy but to start off - this book was unnecessary. I could have lived my whole life without this book. I wish she had neatly tied up the last book and left it at that. BUT she didn't so I was left with...
THE MOST FUCKING DRAMA I'VE EVER EXPERIENCED IN MY WHOLE LIFE! Wow I was so fucked up after reading this and I told the plot to my sister and she said "the fuck were you reading? General Hospital?? Who needs that much going on?!". Yes, my dear sister, you are too fuckin right! Who needs that much action?? Certainly not me!
This book was an emotional fucking knock out fight. No rollercoaster here, because at some point a rollercoaster stops or evens out and also you have fun, this book was just an ass whooping.
Huge event after huge event after huge event, FUCK! It was exhausting. And not only was the action itself exhausting, but the author was insistent on dragging the two characters through the mud of the worst emotions possible. This books synopsis should be "I took two perfectly happy characters and fucked up their whole lives and they're going to be fucked up forever because of it. Happy reading!" Honestly, how much do two people have to go through in one book!!!
There were so many fucked up moments amidst the hurricane of ridiculous action . God I'm so tired lmao you could not pay me to recommend this book to someone or read it again.
Horribly dissapointing end to a great trilogy.
As silly as this sounds, I'm an emotional empath. I can't help but vividly feel the emotions and moods of people around me as if they're my own. It's significantly worse with books because I can read the thoughts of characters. So if a character is happy, I'm beyond happy! As I was with the first two books, I felt like I was genuinely in love over the moon giddy! Then we got to this book...
I guess Kelli Jean felt the need to make this a long trilogy but to start off - this book was unnecessary. I could have lived my whole life without this book. I wish she had neatly tied up the last book and left it at that. BUT she didn't so I was left with...
THE MOST FUCKING DRAMA I'VE EVER EXPERIENCED IN MY WHOLE LIFE! Wow I was so fucked up after reading this and I told the plot to my sister and she said "the fuck were you reading? General Hospital?? Who needs that much going on?!". Yes, my dear sister, you are too fuckin right! Who needs that much action?? Certainly not me!
This book was an emotional fucking knock out fight. No rollercoaster here, because at some point a rollercoaster stops or evens out and also you have fun, this book was just an ass whooping.
Huge event after huge event after huge event, FUCK! It was exhausting. And not only was the action itself exhausting, but the author was insistent on dragging the two characters through the mud of the worst emotions possible. This books synopsis should be "I took two perfectly happy characters and fucked up their whole lives and they're going to be fucked up forever because of it. Happy reading!" Honestly, how much do two people have to go through in one book!!!
There were so many fucked up moments amidst the hurricane of ridiculous action . God I'm so tired lmao you could not pay me to recommend this book to someone or read it again.
Horribly dissapointing end to a great trilogy.
December 9, 2016
FUCK THIS BOOK! I've been brought to cursing. I'm so livid. I don't know if I've ever been SO DISAPPOINTED OR PISSED OFF IN MY LIFE! WTF HAPPENED! I would never recommend this series, based off this book. What the hell was that?? I neverrrrr write scalding reviews, because I think it's rude to really judge an author's "art".. But this was TERRIBLE! I absolutely LOVED books one and two!! Even re read them MULTIPLE TIMES. I don't even think I can write one nice thing about this. Everything about this story was terrible. Soooo angry!
October 6, 2015
And its another home run for Kelli Jean. Again Kelli Jean hits it out of the park with the newest addition to NOLA’s Own.
These books really affected me. I finished this book in a matter of hours and ended up sitting in my reading chair at the end of it, thinking, “What the hell am I going to do now?”
For full review see my original post: https://heavenisabookshop.wordpress.c...
These books really affected me. I finished this book in a matter of hours and ended up sitting in my reading chair at the end of it, thinking, “What the hell am I going to do now?”
For full review see my original post: https://heavenisabookshop.wordpress.c...
September 6, 2019
All good things must come to an end is the saying. I wish it wasn’t so! This final book in Phil and Kenna’s trilogy was incredible and I enjoyed it immensely. The stark realities of love and death are depicted in the series realistically and explicitly. You can feel the pain in the characters. You can also feel the joy. Throughout the series we are subjected to the most amazing friendship between three women who bonded in grade school. That they came together in their sorrows was almost surreal. The men came together too and helped Phil find himself again. Brothers forever!
Loved this whole experience of this series’ storyline! I highly recommend!
Loved this whole experience of this series’ storyline! I highly recommend!
October 11, 2015
When I reviewed Over the Hills and Far Away, I saw something in Kenna which spoke to me, made me think of Diana Gabaldon's Brianna Randall Fraser MacKenzie, daughter of Claire and Jamie Fraser. Her strength of character, her convictions, her stubbornness, her appearance, all of those things reminded me of Bree. I mentioned then that I'd always loved Bree, but that I knew many devoted readers had issues with her - she wasn't 'enough' for them. By the time I'd read only 25% of The Song Remains the Same, I was struck by how easily this story could be mistaken for a (well-executed) fanfiction from a Gabaldon devotee who'd wanted a better version of Bree. What I knew that most people don't, (because I'd asked her about it when the blog review book 1), is that Kelli had never read Outlander or any of its sequels before she wrote this series. That she captured so much of the same essence, not just of Bree, but of the love between her and Roger, their own epic story within Gabaldon's cannon, is uncanny.
Maybe it's my own love of epic tales, of the saga in its best form, that has me seeing a parallel to Gabaldon. Or maybe it's just that Kelli is also a truly talented writer. No, this series is not a sci-fi/romance/fantasy/historical hybrid. It is contemporary (though, as you will see in The Song Remains the Same, maybe not quite so much as you are lead to believe for much of the series), it does not involve wars or time travel, it focuses on the music business, and it is more overtly sexual. But you would expect that of a rock star story. What you would be surprised to find is that Kelli brings a depth to that genre few can truly claim. The only music-focused story I've read that digs so deep is Laurie Breton's Coming Home (and the subsequent Danny/Casey/Rob-focused books in her Jackson Falls series), but you won't find the same immersion in the rock star life (including the level of debauchery). I think that's maybe a reflection of the writer's generation more than anything. If you can stomach the sex, drugs, and language, like contemporary stories, and are a fan of either Gabaldon or Breton (or both, like me) and their storytelling, you will enjoy this series.
Be prepared for tears. Many of them. Even ones when you wouldn't expect to cry. Also expect smiles and laughs. This is an epic conclusion to the saga, after all.
In the end, I changed my mind a bit. When I read Over the Hills and Far Away, I wanted a crazy series of stories to explore all the secondary characters. And while I wouldn't mind a love story for Brian or Devon to come along at some point, I won't be as disappointed as I thought I would be in the beginning if the series does not continue. One of the best parts of this series, and why I think it's more a saga than just an epic love story about soulmates, is that this is also the story of the band. Each member gets their own side story, and we live that through the eyes of Kenna and Phil, who are childhood friends of the secondary characters. There is enough detail in this series that I don't desperately need to hear more about Lili and Lewis, Alys and X (and Connor), Jason and Sher Bear. Their stories conclude enough that you will not feel as if you're left hanging.
But if Kelli wrote those stories, I would read them. I can't wait to read whatever she writes next. I know it will be amazing. What a privilege to have jumped on this ride at the beginning.
This book was given to In Patti's Imagination in exchange for an honest review. The review appears on the blog as well as at Amazon. As stated in the review of No Quarter, we would have begged to review or have gladly paid for this series, it's that good.
Maybe it's my own love of epic tales, of the saga in its best form, that has me seeing a parallel to Gabaldon. Or maybe it's just that Kelli is also a truly talented writer. No, this series is not a sci-fi/romance/fantasy/historical hybrid. It is contemporary (though, as you will see in The Song Remains the Same, maybe not quite so much as you are lead to believe for much of the series), it does not involve wars or time travel, it focuses on the music business, and it is more overtly sexual. But you would expect that of a rock star story. What you would be surprised to find is that Kelli brings a depth to that genre few can truly claim. The only music-focused story I've read that digs so deep is Laurie Breton's Coming Home (and the subsequent Danny/Casey/Rob-focused books in her Jackson Falls series), but you won't find the same immersion in the rock star life (including the level of debauchery). I think that's maybe a reflection of the writer's generation more than anything. If you can stomach the sex, drugs, and language, like contemporary stories, and are a fan of either Gabaldon or Breton (or both, like me) and their storytelling, you will enjoy this series.
Be prepared for tears. Many of them. Even ones when you wouldn't expect to cry. Also expect smiles and laughs. This is an epic conclusion to the saga, after all.
In the end, I changed my mind a bit. When I read Over the Hills and Far Away, I wanted a crazy series of stories to explore all the secondary characters. And while I wouldn't mind a love story for Brian or Devon to come along at some point, I won't be as disappointed as I thought I would be in the beginning if the series does not continue. One of the best parts of this series, and why I think it's more a saga than just an epic love story about soulmates, is that this is also the story of the band. Each member gets their own side story, and we live that through the eyes of Kenna and Phil, who are childhood friends of the secondary characters. There is enough detail in this series that I don't desperately need to hear more about Lili and Lewis, Alys and X (and Connor), Jason and Sher Bear. Their stories conclude enough that you will not feel as if you're left hanging.
But if Kelli wrote those stories, I would read them. I can't wait to read whatever she writes next. I know it will be amazing. What a privilege to have jumped on this ride at the beginning.
This book was given to In Patti's Imagination in exchange for an honest review. The review appears on the blog as well as at Amazon. As stated in the review of No Quarter, we would have begged to review or have gladly paid for this series, it's that good.
December 17, 2015
4.5 Stars ....
Phil and Kenna LOVE so hard and sometimes they can fight just as HARD...it's such a DEEP connection ....they are each other's everything ...and with that comes great responsibility...
~~My sweet woman, give me your pain. Let me take it from you.~~
There is some heavy stuff in this...the third installment of the NOLAs Own series ...it took me places I wasn't expecting at all...Life can turn so quickly ..can change when you least expect it ...
This whole "clan"...is FAMILY ...they are always there for each other ..I love their dynamic as a group and their characters individually are just as powerful ...
~~ “NOLA’s Own,” he repeated. “That’s who we really are. We aren’t junk. We’re a clan. A tribe.”~~
This whole series is such a great read ...I LOVE all these book...
there's a lot of back and forth in this one between Phil and His Baby Girl...but they really "come full circle"....and learn to love themselves first so they can truly...wholly love each other ...
do your self a favor and read this series ...Recommended Reads!! #NOLAsOWN
Phil and Kenna LOVE so hard and sometimes they can fight just as HARD...it's such a DEEP connection ....they are each other's everything ...and with that comes great responsibility...
~~My sweet woman, give me your pain. Let me take it from you.~~
There is some heavy stuff in this...the third installment of the NOLAs Own series ...it took me places I wasn't expecting at all...Life can turn so quickly ..can change when you least expect it ...
This whole "clan"...is FAMILY ...they are always there for each other ..I love their dynamic as a group and their characters individually are just as powerful ...
~~ “NOLA’s Own,” he repeated. “That’s who we really are. We aren’t junk. We’re a clan. A tribe.”~~
This whole series is such a great read ...I LOVE all these book...
there's a lot of back and forth in this one between Phil and His Baby Girl...but they really "come full circle"....and learn to love themselves first so they can truly...wholly love each other ...
do your self a favor and read this series ...Recommended Reads!! #NOLAsOWN
October 5, 2015
If I could give this book more than 5*s I would. If you haven't read the first two books then what are you waiting for Kelli Jean will transform your reading pleasure and you won't know what has hit you ....
Oh well how do I start this... As you know we are following the fantastic relationship of Phil and Kenna and all the best buddies and band mates of NOLAS Junk, the whole family unit unit you just wished you were part of.
Well in this book there's a shake up and if you are as devoted to the characters as I am you will be guaranteed to laugh, but you will most definitely shed ugly tears as I have but you will shout the questions WHY ???? Kelli Jean WHY ????
Absolutely fantastic read and a absolute pleasure to read I love Phil and Kenna and there relationship but I think the other characters shine through more in this book and I can't wait to read more loved it .....
Oh well how do I start this... As you know we are following the fantastic relationship of Phil and Kenna and all the best buddies and band mates of NOLAS Junk, the whole family unit unit you just wished you were part of.
Well in this book there's a shake up and if you are as devoted to the characters as I am you will be guaranteed to laugh, but you will most definitely shed ugly tears as I have but you will shout the questions WHY ???? Kelli Jean WHY ????
Absolutely fantastic read and a absolute pleasure to read I love Phil and Kenna and there relationship but I think the other characters shine through more in this book and I can't wait to read more loved it .....
March 23, 2016
Kelli Jean you own me lady! What a treat this was for me. I have read hundreds of books but nothing and I mean nothing has ever had this effect on me. I will read anything with your name on it. As a friend said every word in this book was necessary... Phil and Kenna and their merry band of misfits has found a place in my heart forever. Epic love story! The writing is out of this world.. From the first sentence to the last in book held my attention. I could read this trilogy again and again!!! I just might have left a piece of my heart with Phil and Kenna.
A must read for all you romance readers out there!!!
A must read for all you romance readers out there!!!
October 7, 2015
5 Dirty Hippie Soulless Ginger stars :)
Well I can't help but be just a tad bit weepy as this love story comes to a close! Phil and Kenna can't seem to catch a break I mean literally it seems like there is always something trying to tear them apart, but love like that it transcends heartache, and tragedy! This book is by far my favorite in the series and while some parts had me screaming I loved every second of it. I love Kelli Jean and can't wait to see what else is in store :)
September 24, 2015
So gutted that this is the last book in the Nolas own series. I have read many books but Nolas own will always be the series that stands out for me and be my favourite. I have loved each book but book 3 is my favourite and is not to be read without tissues. I have loved Phil & Kennas journey and the journeys of those around them.
A truly unique and mesmerizing series.
A truly unique and mesmerizing series.
March 3, 2016
Sigh!!!!
I could read this over and over again
Although I'm sad to say goodbye to Kenna and Phil this was an amazing book.
There was so much packed into this book that I never stopped reading
Between alys X, Conner and lilie and the whole gang it was just so fantastic
Love them all.
But will always miss Kenna and Phil the most
Nanmaste :-)
I could read this over and over again
Although I'm sad to say goodbye to Kenna and Phil this was an amazing book.
There was so much packed into this book that I never stopped reading
Between alys X, Conner and lilie and the whole gang it was just so fantastic
Love them all.
But will always miss Kenna and Phil the most
Nanmaste :-)
February 3, 2017
5 stars!!
The last book in NOLA's Own series was fuckin' phenomenal.
The storyline was epically evolved to full circle. Every up and down in this book made the end that much sweeter.
I URGE you to read this book. Please!!
The last book in NOLA's Own series was fuckin' phenomenal.
The storyline was epically evolved to full circle. Every up and down in this book made the end that much sweeter.
I URGE you to read this book. Please!!
September 29, 2017
Oh WOW how intense can this book had been as the last of NOLA own series. I never read a book where so much shit happened from the beginning to the end. Talk about a book that had a little of everything that could possibly happen. I have loved reading about Phil and Kenna since book 1 and how they came about to be happy in love but damn the struggles and tests that they went through was a little too much. Their over the crazy kinky sex that they had sometimes to me was a little too much but whatever it is what it is. The drama with Brigid was unbelievable of a woman being so ugly in every way. The loss that Kenna has at the beginning was hard but nothing will compare to the loss that Phil and the band experienced which made me so freaking mad because he was one of my favorite characters throughout the 3 books and preferred him over the other one (no names mentioned but you all know who I'm talking about). What I seriously love throughout the 3 books was the feelings that you actually felt between Kenna and Phil and when Kenna did her meditations and was able to speak to her mom and granny on the other side. That was so spiritually intense that I sometimes felt like I was feeling it too myself. It touched deep. Overall I loved all 3 books, I wish there was more in the end after the wedding like if Kenna and Phil had some gigantic babies or not but one of my favorites rock star books/series.
October 31, 2017
Best part for me was the can-do heroine and her best friends, as well as the close tie to music. Worth listening to Led Zeppelin's Houses of the Holy album while reading all the book in the series- you will appreciate the book titles much more, as well as some of the plot beats and the lyric's of NOLA's Junk songs.
Was nice to come full circle, after sticking it out through three books, to see Phil and Kenna get their selves straight so that they can get their relationship straight. I liked how the plot with X was handled, Phil's struggles in that aftermath.
Don't recommend the 4th book- Since I've Been Loving You. Ugh, the first half of that book just retells the events of the first three books in trilogy from X, Alys, and Conner's perspectives, with less detail and more confusion- what even was the point? It managed to make me like all 3 characters LESS, as we see what they were thinking when making the decisions Allys informs us of in this book. Ruined it, so keep don't bother and keep you impressions from this story.
Was nice to come full circle, after sticking it out through three books, to see Phil and Kenna get their selves straight so that they can get their relationship straight. I liked how the plot with X was handled, Phil's struggles in that aftermath.
Don't recommend the 4th book- Since I've Been Loving You. Ugh, the first half of that book just retells the events of the first three books in trilogy from X, Alys, and Conner's perspectives, with less detail and more confusion- what even was the point? It managed to make me like all 3 characters LESS, as we see what they were thinking when making the decisions Allys informs us of in this book. Ruined it, so keep don't bother and keep you impressions from this story.
March 23, 2017
This series was just absolutely breathtakingly beautiful
It was devastating and emotional and just amazing!!
This series brought back the love and beauty of reading for me.
I honestly want to cry because baby girl and phils story's over!!!! This series will forever be a favorite and I love it so much.
THIS IS A MUSSSSST READ!
Please please read this series and fall deeply in love with it like I did
It was devastating and emotional and just amazing!!
This series brought back the love and beauty of reading for me.
I honestly want to cry because baby girl and phils story's over!!!! This series will forever be a favorite and I love it so much.
THIS IS A MUSSSSST READ!
Please please read this series and fall deeply in love with it like I did
May 9, 2017
I Loved it so very much.
May 21, 2017
The song remains the same was an epic emotional roller coaster and i loved every minute of it.
October 22, 2019
this series had a good storyline.
it had everything good characters.
enjoyable read.
it had everything good characters.
enjoyable read.
April 18, 2022
Book 3 in the series and it wraps up Kenna & Phil’s long over due HEA. But before they reach it, there’s more obstacles to overcome. If anyone deserves a HEA, it’s these two.
November 5, 2016
I shed a few tears
March 7, 2017
A great series!!
This was a huge surprise. Not really sure how I ended up with book 1 but needed something to read last week, After a few pages I was hooked. Plowed through all 3 books over the weekend. Wonderful characters, very vivid descriptions of places, love the music theme and just the right amount of angst. My only criticism would be the sex scenes got a little tedious. Every orgasm was the best. But easy to overlook as the story was so compelling!!!!
This was a huge surprise. Not really sure how I ended up with book 1 but needed something to read last week, After a few pages I was hooked. Plowed through all 3 books over the weekend. Wonderful characters, very vivid descriptions of places, love the music theme and just the right amount of angst. My only criticism would be the sex scenes got a little tedious. Every orgasm was the best. But easy to overlook as the story was so compelling!!!!
February 27, 2017
This book almost killed me.
I think I cried more while reading this book than any other book. Ever. Even the ugly cries.
Even the books I had to put down becasue I couldn't see the words due to the tears.
I have never cried so long or so hard before.
I also have never laughed so much before.
I have never loved so much before.
If I thought No Quarter was the book that took my words away, then there is absolutely nothing I can say with this book.
I can't do this book justice. I can't do Kelli Jean justice.
I don't know how she did it. I don't know how she took all the words in her heart and put them on the page to share with the world.
Music, love, heartbreak, family.
That's what you will find in the pages of this book.
So much love that your heart will explode.
So much music that you wish someone would record NOLA'S Junk so you can listen over and over.
So much family you wish you had them.
So much heartbreak you just want to curl up in the nearest corner and die.
I experienced it all.
This book is not an easy journey. I didn't expect it to be.
I knew that the worst was yet to come.
I just didn't expect it to happen the way it did.
The problem is. It's beautiful.
This book will stress you out with all the pain.
It will make you scream, it will make you cry.
But you will love it.
You will see what Kelli Jean did with this book.
You will see that she poured every last ounce of her into this book. And you will respect that, you will cherish it.
I know I do.
I can't tell you how much this book touched me.
I can't tell you how much I felt this book.
This is a story that will stick with me forever, simply because it is beautiful. Simply because it is real. Simply because I will never be the same.
I think I cried more while reading this book than any other book. Ever. Even the ugly cries.
Even the books I had to put down becasue I couldn't see the words due to the tears.
I have never cried so long or so hard before.
I also have never laughed so much before.
I have never loved so much before.
If I thought No Quarter was the book that took my words away, then there is absolutely nothing I can say with this book.
I can't do this book justice. I can't do Kelli Jean justice.
I don't know how she did it. I don't know how she took all the words in her heart and put them on the page to share with the world.
Music, love, heartbreak, family.
That's what you will find in the pages of this book.
So much love that your heart will explode.
So much music that you wish someone would record NOLA'S Junk so you can listen over and over.
So much family you wish you had them.
So much heartbreak you just want to curl up in the nearest corner and die.
I experienced it all.
This book is not an easy journey. I didn't expect it to be.
I knew that the worst was yet to come.
I just didn't expect it to happen the way it did.
The problem is. It's beautiful.
This book will stress you out with all the pain.
It will make you scream, it will make you cry.
But you will love it.
You will see what Kelli Jean did with this book.
You will see that she poured every last ounce of her into this book. And you will respect that, you will cherish it.
I know I do.
I can't tell you how much this book touched me.
I can't tell you how much I felt this book.
This is a story that will stick with me forever, simply because it is beautiful. Simply because it is real. Simply because I will never be the same.
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