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"What do I honestly know about the music industry? I’m just another idiot with a dream who is naive enough to hope that I might be the next big star."

Etta Millhouse has always had big musical ambitions to match her big voice, but she’s also got three very big problems - the addiction she won’t admit to, her godmother’s illness she can no longer ignore, and her godmother’s useless business partner (who she wishes she could ignore).

Keeping an eye on Arielle’s bad business decisions is the last thing Etta wants to do when she’s offered the chance to record a demo with a top producer. But, a promise is a promise, even if it has her reaching for another pick-me-up... And then another. And then one more.

When the secret she must keep for her godmother, Felicity, sends her drug habit spiralling out of control, can Etta battle her demons in time and make her dream happen? Or, will her music career be over before it’s even begun?

196 pages, Paperback

First published May 17, 2016

4 people are currently reading
229 people want to read

About the author

Elle Field

5 books267 followers
Elle Field writes new adult romantic comedies, and is the author of the Arielle Lockley series and Geli Voyante's Hot or Not. She grew up in Yorkshire, then moved to Scotland to study International Relations and Social Anthropology at the University of St Andrews.

Elle now lives in London with her boyfriend and their cat. She's a massive fan of sunshine, giraffes, The Killers, Audrey Hepburn movies, playing Scrabble, musicals and tea. Oh, and reading, of course!

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5 stars
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5 (15%)
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Profile Image for Laura.
358 reviews105 followers
May 18, 2016
B-Side is a spin off novel in the Kept series by Elle Field. It’s been pegged as the 2.5 book, so, the one that falls between the second and third but doesn’t continue the main story on. Instead B-Side is set over the same time period as Lost but is told from the point of view of a different character, Etta.
If you’ve never read the series before then I imagine you’d feel a little confused if you tried to read this book out of order so I would recommend reading the previous two before delving into this one!
B-Side, as mentioned above, follows Etta Millhouse’s story and her rather difficult life. Etta is Felicity’s goddaughter and is struggling with the realisation that Felicity really isn’t very well anymore and she can’t bear the thought of losing the woman who looked after her since she was small. Etta also completely hates Arielle Lockley and can’t fathom why Felicity would be helping such a spoilt brat. Perhaps her main demon though is her drug addiction and, as she tries to fufill her dream of becoming a recording artist, it seems to get worse.
Etta has some tough decisions to make. Does she follow her dream or stick around to look after Felicity?
I actually really enjoyed this deviation from the main series. I was a little worried at first that it might feel a little pointless as it didn’t progress the series but actually it was really interesting to get to know more about Etta. I have to say that I didn’t really like Etta at all and, even by the end, I wasn’t her biggest fan. Yet I could see why she behaved the way she did and I felt sympathetic after learning about her past.
Elle’s writing, as always, is engaging and involving and it’s easy to get lost in her fictional worlds. I found that I read this book in just a few sittings and the end of every chapter compelled me to keep reading, I couldn’t put it down!
I’m now looking forward to reading the final part in the series, Found which is out super soon. I think I’ll have a different view of Etta from now on and will probably feel less hatred towards her…I hope! I can’t wait to be back with Arielle too.
Profile Image for Simona.
613 reviews123 followers
June 2, 2016
*Book provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

B-Side is a spin off novel in the Kept series by Elle Field, it’s officially book 2.5, because the stpry is about another character, but it’s all still part of the series.

B-Side tells the story of Etta, who wants to be a successful singers, but several things are in her way: her godmother Felicity’s illness, Arielle (her godmother’s business partner) and her own addiction (she won’t admit to). Etta has a difficult life and had to go through a lot in her past, that’s probably also the reason for her drug addiction. It’s time for her to make a decision and basically decide between family and her career.
The story is very character driven and actually plays at the same time of Lost (book 2 in the series). It was great to get another perspective of the whole story and setting. Unfortunately, I had quite a tough time relating or even liking Etta. Believe me I tried, but it just didn’t work, I just didn’t understand why she hates Arielle so much, because I love Arielle as a character. This book is a bit deeper and maybe “darker” than Elle’s other books, but that proves that she is a great writer. Yes, I had problems relating to Etta, but Elle’s writing got me hooked anyway. It’s modern, fresh and so down to earth.

I would recommend reading the other two books of the series before reading this one. It gives you a better picture of the situation and a good overview of the characters.
This book is a great change and mixes the series up a bit. I’m now even more excited to read about Arielle again in book 3 of the series, it’s called Found! Roll on summer!!!
Profile Image for Agi.
1,676 reviews105 followers
May 19, 2016
3.5 stars.

I was expecting the third part in Arielle Lockley's series but Elle Field has surprised us with "B - Side", a novella told from Etta's point of view, which I, personally, find a great idea, as it gives us a great insight into Etta and her background and lets us to understand why she is like this, because - let's be honest - Etta didn't show her best side, right? I would only advise that you should read the previous books before starting "B - Side" - even though it doesn't continue the main story on - as there is too much history and too much background to enjoy this novel as a stand - alone.

As much as I got insight into Etta and her background, I still can't understand her dislike to Arielle. I didn't find the explanation in this story for this and this bothers me a little, because for me it's more than only your typical dislike, you know, when you look at the person and the first impression is telling you you're not going to be friends. In this (non) relationship between Etta and Arielle I can feel hate and misapprehension and I'm not sure why such strong feelings. So as much as I appreciate the fact that the author wanted to give us insight and let Etta explain herself, I am afraid that in my case she didn't succeed. Yes, I got to know Etta better and can understand why she is so bitter and unhappy, but after mentioning some scenes out of her past the story was concentrating on Etta and her addiction. Honestly, it didn't make me like her better. I might have more understanding for her now, but can't shake off the feeling that she's just made her bed so she must lie on it and everything happens at her own wish. She plays strong, but she's weak in my opinion, and she doesn't want to change. She was too childish for my liking and even the music deal that she landed didn't make her happy, and I was asking myself, what WOULD make you happy, Etta? I get it, she had so much on her plate, Etta, what with this demo opportunity, and with Felicity's health deteriorating so quickly, so maybe I just didn't get Etta herself and it's my fault that I didn't enjoy and appreciate this short story as much as I wanted to. Yes, it was painful to see how much Etta struggles, how scared she is, how she can't cope but when I was starting to sympathize with her and thinking oh, poor Etta, than she always went and did or said something that annoyed me so much and there was no more sympathy from me. Really, I find Etta one of the most complicated and difficult characters that I came across when reading books and I wanted to like her, I really wanted, but she just didn't allow me! I get her, I really get her and where she's coming from but nevertheless, I couldn't connect with her and she mostly annoyed me.

It is a character - driven novella, telling us about a short piece of time from Etta's life. It felt a little darker that Arielle's novels that are more on the light - hearted side, but I liked this darkness, and it proves that Elle Field is a great author who can write different stories. It is full of dark emotions, it touches upon some difficult and important issues such as bullying and drugs, and altogether, the whole tone of the story is darker, but still is was a great joy to read. This is a fast - paced novella making us realize that there are always two sides to every story.
And Elle's writing is brilliant. It's sharp, it's quick, it's modern and you have a feeling that this girl knows what she's writing about. Her storytelling kept me hooked to the novel and I wanted to know what's going to happen next. I would love to give this book more stars, really, as I know that Elle can write soooo good, but this time, somehow, we just didn't work together, me and the novel. However, I am full of expectations towards Elle's next book, the third in the series, "Found", that sounds really exciting!

Copy provided by the author in exchange for a review.
114 reviews2 followers
March 7, 2017
VERY GOOD BOOK

I AM SO GLAD READ THIS BOOK. I REALLY HATED ETTA..NOW I CAN SAY I FEEL SORRY FORHER,BUTTHE DRUGS ARE HER OWN FAULT AND I HOPE SHE CLEANS P IN THE NEXT BOOK...
Profile Image for Alison.
878 reviews68 followers
May 20, 2016
I absolutely adored the first two books in this series, Kept and Lost and have been eagerly anticipating the third so we can find out how Arielle’s life pans out then along comes Elle and offers us B-Side! This is classified as Book 2.5 and is indeed a welcome addition to the family.

While the other two are fairly light and fluffy this one is a lot darker with more depth and shows the variations in the writer’s skills. Personally I relished this angle and stark contrast, going as far as to say this is the best in the series yet!
It is focussed on Etta and mainly tells her story. For a bit of background, Felicity is Etta’s godmother and she has a business ‘partner’ Arielle .. whether it be jealousy or just mistrust/dislike Etta loathes Arielle and can’t understand why Felicity is so taken with her.

To get the full benefit of the story I heartily recommend you read them in order (and because I love them!) otherwise B-Side may not work too well as a standalone.

Anyway, follow Etta as she chases her dream of being a rock star .. will she get fulfilment or will Felicity’s fading health hinder her plans ? A wonderful story, I really enjoyed the edgier side and began to feel for Etta, she isn’t going to be everyone’s favourite character but for me she kept me turning the pages and holding my breath to see if she would succeed or indeed collapse into oblivion.

For my followers I must just point out a TRIGGER warning .. there are drug references and they contribute to the story in a large way. Having said that it is all dealt with sensitively and gives the visuals into Etta’s state of mind and her need for success and how she deals with it.

Huge thanks to Elle for my ARC in exchange for an honest review .. now I can’t wait for ‘Found’ the third part.
Profile Image for Zili.
790 reviews
May 31, 2016
Coz everybody loves a spin off! B-Side is a companion novella to Elle Field's Kept series. It runs parallel to certain events in the main series, but this time focusing on Etta Millhouse instead of Arielle Lockley.

To most people Etta is snarky, rude and kind of a mess. Whilst she often encompasses these things, she's also loyal, sweet and feisty. I loved her no nonsense attitude and fierce protectiveness of Felicity. A lot of her prickly attitude is merely a front and way of protecting herself from failure and grief.


Felicity is Etta's godmother and has been a strong support for Etta and her brother. Etta is understandingly worried by Felicity's increasing illness and declining health, so when she thinks somebody is taking advantage of her, she decides to help Felicity by getting rid of the threat - cue lots of hilarious ranting about Princess Arielle.

Etta is lost. In another world we could have seen her take centre stage rather than Arielle. She seems almost scared of pursuing her big dream and dealing with the past. So drugs and bad decisions are her go to coping mechanism. I kept hoping she'd be able to put aside her grievances with Arielle and focus on her career and family.

Etta slowly won me over with her dry humour and hilarious inner ranting. B-Side sets up the story nicely for the conclusion in Found. Holy cliffy batman!

4 Stars in my Sky!

I received a review copy.
Profile Image for Rachel (Rae).
701 reviews59 followers
August 4, 2016
My thoughts:

I have really enjoyed reading the Arielle Lockley book series. B-Side is book 2.5 and instead of following Arielle we get to know Etta who is the goddaughter of Felicity. I really enjoyed getting to know Etta, she is pretty messed up and to be honest not very nice at times. However her character has hidden depths and is well written.

Her past is revealed throughout the book and she has had a difficult life. Although I wouldn't use that as a reason to excuse her behaviour. I liked the fact that I didn't love all aspects of the main characters personality. It was good to find a way to appreciate her character even with her flaws. This didn't mean I couldn't enjoy B-Side in fact I think it helped me like it even more.

The story moved quickly and kept my attention. I really enjoyed how we got to see things from the point of view of Etta. I could understand at times where she was coming from and why she was so spiky with Arielle.

B-Side is different from the other books in the Arielle Lockley series. However I quite enjoyed the change in direction. The tone of the book is darker with an overall heavier and emotional theme.

Overall:

Another brilliant book from Elle Field that has a well written and complex character. I can't wait to continue reading the remaining books in the series.

B-Side is engaging, emotive with a strong character!

Five stars from me!

Thank you to Elle Field who kindly sent me a copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Profile Image for Rosie Amber.
Author 1 book82 followers
September 18, 2016
B-Side is a contemporary novella and book #2.5 in the Kept series. It takes on the character of Etta Millhouse. This book is best read in conjunction with the others in the series.

Etta is a bad-ass wannabe singer with a drug habit. The goddaughter of Felicity Farrell, she is used to doing what she wants, when she wants to, but Felicity has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and is gradually getting more forgetful.

When she asks Etta to oversee Arielle's new pop-up shop plan it is with great reluctance that Etta sets foot in Arielle's world. Meanwhile the chance of a record signing looms, Etta's big dream , but any sign of fear and Etta is snorting drugs to boost her confidence.

Will she ever admit she's addicted or can she stay clean for Felicity and her new found fame?

A fun quick read, the style is chatty and well paced.
Profile Image for Jody.
341 reviews116 followers
May 27, 2016
Review first posted on my blog 'A Spoonful of Happy Endings': http://spoonfulofhappyendings.blogspo...

It has always been Etta Millhouse's dream to become a famous singer; music is her passion and she couldn't imagine doing anything else. So when she is finally offered the chance to record an actual demo, she's over the moon. However, as with any dream, Etta has to face quite a number of challenges on the way, including the addiction she knows she has but won't admit to and the illness of her godmother whom she doesn't want to lose. Next to that, she also needs to check up on Arielle, her godmother's new business partner, which only adds to the stress and before she knows it, Etta is forced to make some pretty important decisions about her life and career...

I was quite excited when I heard Elle Field would be releasing an extra instalment of her Arielle Lockley series; book 2.5 focusing on a completely different character in the form of Etta Millhouse. I think the words 'completely different' fit quite well here, because from the first few pages of the book it already becomes clear that Etta is indeed the complete opposite of Arielle, the main character throughout this series. I would be lying if I said it was easy for me to warm to Etta, because I found her a very troubled and challenging character which I had difficulty relating to and understanding. This did make this a bit of a tricky read for me, because I just didn't really like Etta and this feeling unfortunately didn't change as the story progressed.

I definitely recommend not picking this up as a stand-alone; it's a book that's best appreciated when read as a part of the whole series, so you know the background and the different characters and their relationships. Elle's writing style is captivating and well-paced and even though Etta just isn't my type of character, the story held my attention until the end and I'm already curious to read part 3 of the series, 'Found', which will be released later this year. Overall, 'B-Side' is an interesting addition to the Arielle Lockley series; a book that is just a bit darker than the other parts of the series and even though I'm sure others will really enjoy this, I personally prefer Elle's more light-hearted work, the chick lit-esque novels that make me smile!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews

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