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The Singalong Society for Singletons
‘Quirky, cute and utterly romantic’ – Bestselling author Rebecca Raisin
Monique and Issy are teachers, housemates and lovers of musicals! Their Friday night routine consists of snacks, wine and the Frozen DVD. So when Monique’s boyfriend moves to America for a year and her sister Hope moves in because of her own relationship woes, Friday nights get a new name… ‘The Singalong Society for Singletons’!
It’s a chance to get together, sing along to their favourite tracks from the best-loved West End shows, and forget the worries of work, relationships and love (or lack of it). But when Issy shares the details of their little group further afield, they get some unexpected new members who might just change their opinions on singledom for good….
Monique and Issy are teachers, housemates and lovers of musicals! Their Friday night routine consists of snacks, wine and the Frozen DVD. So when Monique’s boyfriend moves to America for a year and her sister Hope moves in because of her own relationship woes, Friday nights get a new name… ‘The Singalong Society for Singletons’!
It’s a chance to get together, sing along to their favourite tracks from the best-loved West End shows, and forget the worries of work, relationships and love (or lack of it). But when Issy shares the details of their little group further afield, they get some unexpected new members who might just change their opinions on singledom for good….
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
December 20, 2016
Mon has to get through a whole year without her boyfriend Justin. They're even on a break and she hasn't heard from him in months. After ten years this hurts her more than she can say. Fortunately there are musicals to cheer her up. She and her housemate Issy love them. When Mon's sister Hope is on her own as well because of trouble with her girlfriend they decide to have a regular Friday night musical celebration and they call it The Singalong Society for Singletons. Good food, fizzy drinks and singing and dancing is exactly what they need. Mon invites her friend Connie and Issy brings Ray and Liam, two guys who love musicals more than life itself. Their society is now complete and it's time for the fun to begin and the heartbreak to be over.
The Singalong Society for Singletons has several really great main characters. Mon is a sweetheart. She worries incessantly, but some things can't be planned, they just have to happen. She learns a lot about herself during her merry Friday nights and I loved that. Issy is pretty and she always seems to be so together, but she's carrying quite a secret around with her. Connie is ready to spread her wings and needs that final push in the right direction. Holly is outspoken and brave. She's going through a difficult time and has to figure out what to do with her future. Ray is a ray of sunshine, he's always happy and knows a lot about musicals. Liam is a sweet guy who seems to be flirty and flighty, but there's a lot more to him than that. They're all fascinating to read about and that's what makes this story so wonderful.
Katey Lovell has written a novel that's mostly set in just one living room and it works. I admire her for the audacity to do this and she completely pulls it off. Her colorful descriptions of the main characters are fabulous. Everything that happens to them has a natural flow to it that makes the story completely believable. Even though there's sadness, especially about relationships, the merriment of the musical songs always wins. I loved the coziness and cheerfulness of The Singalong Society for Singletons. It's a cute and charming story that will for sure bring joy to every single musical loving reader out there.
The Singalong Society for Singletons has several really great main characters. Mon is a sweetheart. She worries incessantly, but some things can't be planned, they just have to happen. She learns a lot about herself during her merry Friday nights and I loved that. Issy is pretty and she always seems to be so together, but she's carrying quite a secret around with her. Connie is ready to spread her wings and needs that final push in the right direction. Holly is outspoken and brave. She's going through a difficult time and has to figure out what to do with her future. Ray is a ray of sunshine, he's always happy and knows a lot about musicals. Liam is a sweet guy who seems to be flirty and flighty, but there's a lot more to him than that. They're all fascinating to read about and that's what makes this story so wonderful.
Katey Lovell has written a novel that's mostly set in just one living room and it works. I admire her for the audacity to do this and she completely pulls it off. Her colorful descriptions of the main characters are fabulous. Everything that happens to them has a natural flow to it that makes the story completely believable. Even though there's sadness, especially about relationships, the merriment of the musical songs always wins. I loved the coziness and cheerfulness of The Singalong Society for Singletons. It's a cute and charming story that will for sure bring joy to every single musical loving reader out there.
October 12, 2016
Originally posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
The Singalong Society for Singletons by Katey Lovell is one of my most anticipated autumn releases. I haven't had the chance to read any of Katey's novellas in The Meet Cute series, and was so excited when I was approved to read her new full length novel by her publishers.
Although I'm not single and I hardly even remember how singledom feels like, this cute novel refreshed my memory and made me think of those years. What immediately caught my eye were the gorgeous cover and super fun blurb. I'm a big sucker for a beautiful cover and books on friendship.
The Singalong Society for Singletons tells the story of few friends, all single who spend every Friday night devouring musicals and Disneys animated movies. Friday is the day when anything is possible, to cry about your life taking the wrong turn, laugh like crazy while singing to LET IT GO for the millionth time and even have a break through moments while chatting and deciding to take up a new career. You see, for Monique, Issy, Hope and Connie the singalong society is not just just a way to vent, but a place where you can share anything and not be judged. Monique has just been through a hard break with a man she was with since 11th grade. Justin leaves for a year and even though original plans are to make their relationship work even long distance, it seems Justin wants to focus on his career more. Mon is practically left without a say and finds herself single. Single but not alone, as she has her friends who will not only cheer her up but also change her life for the better. Issy's having her own problems, trying to figure out how to help her 17 year old pregnant sister. Connie is helping out her dad and seems she's settled for so little. She feels like her life is not what she wanted and that she forgot her dreams. But thank god for the singalong society and her friends who make her realise she needs to chase her dreams. Hope is Mon's sister and has just been dumped by her girlfriend. But all their troubles seem to vanish when they hear the tunes of their favourite musicals. When Ray and Liam join the group, things get a lot more interesting and fun.
The Singalong Society for Singletons is a cute, undemanding book. It's easy to read and perfect after a hard working day. However, it felt too light a read for my taste. The girls are an interesting bunch and despite going through a rough period, they are optimists (I love these type of characters in my chick lits), but I didn't feel them on a deeper level so I could make a decent connection with them.
I'm not the biggest fan of musicals but I do believe music heals. I've been there, singing Let it Go from the top of my lungs trying to forget how some person mistreated me. I was not familiar with some of the songs or musicals mentioned, but that didn't stop me from reading.
The thing I liked the most was the girls' friendship. The girls have this amazing bond between them and it made me think about friendships and how much one true friend means more than million 'so-called-friends'. But I expected more romance, especially at the beginning of the book when Mon and Justin break up. I wanted to feel a bit more of her grief, rage, whatever. I wanted her to persuade me she loved Justin so much in deeds, not just words. I couldn't help but think a crucial part of their story is missing, and this definitely affected my perception on Monique later on.
However, it's a super fast read and I think it took me less than 3 hours to finish it. If you're looking for a light chick lit to take your mind off your problems, this is the book for you. Who knows, you might even sing along to some songs or put that Frozen DVD on to watch for the millionth time. :)
August 26, 2016
I can't even put into words how much I loved this! Review to follow closer to publication!
July 29, 2016
The Singalong Society for Singletons is a terrific idea for a novel, and beautifully executed by Katey Lovell, author of The Boy in The.. series of short stories. I was really impressed by how assured the writing for this, her first novel, is. She effortlessly glides through multiple plot lines, complex character development and remembering a great many lines from musicals! I was particularly delighted that she does not shy away from darker moments as this novel progresses. There is real depth and heart to this book which hooks you in and makes you root for her characters to the very end.
The story is narrated by Mon, a young woman whose childhood sweetheart, Justin, has declared a self imposed relationship break, by taking a job in the States and leaving Mon behind. Supported by her house-mates, Mon attempts to move through her heartache, and find peace and purpose of her own in the most unorthodox of ways. She becomes part of a group who meet every week to watch and celebrate the power of musical theatre to inspire, cheer and change lives.
There is a shameless celebration of sheer kitsch here that lifts the book, and yet the dark heart of what Mon and the other characters go through, anchors this firmly in reality and makes this a book of welcome contrasts and real emotional journeys for both the characters and the readers. I loved it.
The story is narrated by Mon, a young woman whose childhood sweetheart, Justin, has declared a self imposed relationship break, by taking a job in the States and leaving Mon behind. Supported by her house-mates, Mon attempts to move through her heartache, and find peace and purpose of her own in the most unorthodox of ways. She becomes part of a group who meet every week to watch and celebrate the power of musical theatre to inspire, cheer and change lives.
There is a shameless celebration of sheer kitsch here that lifts the book, and yet the dark heart of what Mon and the other characters go through, anchors this firmly in reality and makes this a book of welcome contrasts and real emotional journeys for both the characters and the readers. I loved it.
December 17, 2016
A nice, undemanding read which draws you in. Good to see a lgbtq character. Shame my favourite musical wasn't in there but they can't all be!
September 19, 2016
The Singalong Society for Singletons is the feel-good book of the year. I couldn't stop smiling from cover to cover, especially after seeing the list of musicals right at the start that were going to be featured. So many favourites of mine.
If you are a fan of musicals, then you will without a doubt adore this book, if you aren't then don't worry as you aren't expected to know the shows inside out, and there is a fantastic story of friendship and romances within the singalong society.
The only slightly small niggle I had with the book was the amount of times I had to stop reading to double check I had a sound track on my ipod, or in the case of one DVD mentioned, rushing to Amazon to check it really existed - sorry didn't realise the Shrek Musical had, had a DVD release...may have to add that to my collection, since I love the show and soundtrack!
The only other slight problem you may have with this wonderful book is if you are like me, you will end up with various songs running through your head as you read the story. For me its so refreshing for me to know the majority of what would be the soundtrack to a book. In fact I loved how occasionally the lyrics from some of the films would just make their way into the regular descriptions and dialogue - very clever by the author!
The overwhelming feeling I had while reading this book was just how much Katey Lovell must have enjoyed researching this book, everything about it is spot on, and I loved the night out at Rocky Horror, which is one of my all time favourite shows to see live. The cult atmosphere of the show was summed up perfectly, complete with the dressing up...with the exception of Monique , I loved all the other's costumes, especially Liam.
But what is a Singalong Society for Singletons you may be wondering at this point? Well after Monique, Issy and Hope were watching Frozen and belting out Let I t Go, they realised just how much better they felt just by singing along. They decide to meet each Friday evening and to watch musicals, catch up as friends and generally have a good time with the songs. They invite their other close friend Connie to join in and since they were all single at the time the society was born.
Within a couple of weeks Ray and Liam are added to the group, and they provide a massive burst of energy to the rest of the book. Two straight guys with a love of musical theatre, and both appearing to have more to them than meets the eyes, and they are both single too, so fitted in brilliantly.
The story is told as a series of weekly Friday meetings, and we catch up with what everyone has been up to during the week, as well as their chatter while they watch the chosen musical of the week. Always loads of snacks are available, and early on there are some fantastic conversations during The Lion King, sparking all manner of changes with one of the Singletons.
I honestly didn't want this book to finish ever, there were so many more musicals that could have been incorporated but on the whole I think the majority of people will recognise a large amount of these shows, they are generally classics whether you have seen them on stage or screen.
All that is left for me to say is that this book proves what I thought earlier in the year when reading other shorter works by the author, and that is Katey Lovell is a rising talent, and is one to watch in the upcoming years as she produces more hopefully wonderful escapist stories.
Thank you so much to Katey Lovell for the opportunity to have an early review copy. This was my honest opinion.
If you are a fan of musicals, then you will without a doubt adore this book, if you aren't then don't worry as you aren't expected to know the shows inside out, and there is a fantastic story of friendship and romances within the singalong society.
The only slightly small niggle I had with the book was the amount of times I had to stop reading to double check I had a sound track on my ipod, or in the case of one DVD mentioned, rushing to Amazon to check it really existed - sorry didn't realise the Shrek Musical had, had a DVD release...may have to add that to my collection, since I love the show and soundtrack!
The only other slight problem you may have with this wonderful book is if you are like me, you will end up with various songs running through your head as you read the story. For me its so refreshing for me to know the majority of what would be the soundtrack to a book. In fact I loved how occasionally the lyrics from some of the films would just make their way into the regular descriptions and dialogue - very clever by the author!
The overwhelming feeling I had while reading this book was just how much Katey Lovell must have enjoyed researching this book, everything about it is spot on, and I loved the night out at Rocky Horror, which is one of my all time favourite shows to see live. The cult atmosphere of the show was summed up perfectly, complete with the dressing up...with the exception of Monique , I loved all the other's costumes, especially Liam.
But what is a Singalong Society for Singletons you may be wondering at this point? Well after Monique, Issy and Hope were watching Frozen and belting out Let I t Go, they realised just how much better they felt just by singing along. They decide to meet each Friday evening and to watch musicals, catch up as friends and generally have a good time with the songs. They invite their other close friend Connie to join in and since they were all single at the time the society was born.
Within a couple of weeks Ray and Liam are added to the group, and they provide a massive burst of energy to the rest of the book. Two straight guys with a love of musical theatre, and both appearing to have more to them than meets the eyes, and they are both single too, so fitted in brilliantly.
The story is told as a series of weekly Friday meetings, and we catch up with what everyone has been up to during the week, as well as their chatter while they watch the chosen musical of the week. Always loads of snacks are available, and early on there are some fantastic conversations during The Lion King, sparking all manner of changes with one of the Singletons.
I honestly didn't want this book to finish ever, there were so many more musicals that could have been incorporated but on the whole I think the majority of people will recognise a large amount of these shows, they are generally classics whether you have seen them on stage or screen.
All that is left for me to say is that this book proves what I thought earlier in the year when reading other shorter works by the author, and that is Katey Lovell is a rising talent, and is one to watch in the upcoming years as she produces more hopefully wonderful escapist stories.
Thank you so much to Katey Lovell for the opportunity to have an early review copy. This was my honest opinion.
September 21, 2016
*Book provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
The main characters are teachers and the book is all about musicals, the perfect combination for me. I got really excited when I first heard about Katey’s book, because I’m a huge musical fan!
Mon and Issy are teachers and what they love most is musicals! Their Friday night consist of watching one and having fun. Things change about when they are joined by Mon’s sister Grace and Mon’s boyfriend leaves for a America for a year. “The Singalong Society for Singletons” is born. Every Friday night is dedicated to another show and so is every chapter. The idea of this is very clever and fab! Every time someone else picks the musical and it was always very interesting, to see what they would pick.
After a while they are joined by some unexpected strangers, who quickly become part of the singalong party. They have a lot of fun together and I just loved all the musical theatre talk. It’s a book I’ve been waiting for! Musicals are included and the characters love them as much as I do.
Things change with these new arrivals, for Issy, but also for Mon, who still has a boyfriend in the States. However, she starts questioning her relationship with Justin.
Even though the whole story is based on these musicals, the characters still get their story to tell and it’s actually a great mix and change between the scenes. This book is great, because Katey has a real talent for developing a storyline, creating relatable characters and still including so much about all these musicals.
Some musicals covered are Lis Mis, Oliver!, Wicked, Grease and many more. It was very exciting to see the characters interact while watching them and then also overcoming hurdles and other things.
This is definitely a feel good read, with emotions, fun and lots of excitement. I was actually sad, when I had to say goodbye to the characters and that’s always a good sign ;).
4.5/5
The main characters are teachers and the book is all about musicals, the perfect combination for me. I got really excited when I first heard about Katey’s book, because I’m a huge musical fan!
Mon and Issy are teachers and what they love most is musicals! Their Friday night consist of watching one and having fun. Things change about when they are joined by Mon’s sister Grace and Mon’s boyfriend leaves for a America for a year. “The Singalong Society for Singletons” is born. Every Friday night is dedicated to another show and so is every chapter. The idea of this is very clever and fab! Every time someone else picks the musical and it was always very interesting, to see what they would pick.
After a while they are joined by some unexpected strangers, who quickly become part of the singalong party. They have a lot of fun together and I just loved all the musical theatre talk. It’s a book I’ve been waiting for! Musicals are included and the characters love them as much as I do.
Things change with these new arrivals, for Issy, but also for Mon, who still has a boyfriend in the States. However, she starts questioning her relationship with Justin.
Even though the whole story is based on these musicals, the characters still get their story to tell and it’s actually a great mix and change between the scenes. This book is great, because Katey has a real talent for developing a storyline, creating relatable characters and still including so much about all these musicals.
Some musicals covered are Lis Mis, Oliver!, Wicked, Grease and many more. It was very exciting to see the characters interact while watching them and then also overcoming hurdles and other things.
This is definitely a feel good read, with emotions, fun and lots of excitement. I was actually sad, when I had to say goodbye to the characters and that’s always a good sign ;).
4.5/5
October 27, 2016
Oh I have so much love for this book. I adore the premise for this book and simply need to start a singalong society of my own.
Let me tell you a little secret I love musicals. Oh wait it's not a secret at all everyone knows it. My lovely and wonderful mum got me into musicals from a really early age. I'm talking probably before I was born. But I do remember proper musicals always being on the tv when I was growing up. This had led to me loving nothing more than going to the theatre to watch my favourite musicals. With my mum of course.
One of my other not so secret loves are Disney movies. I absolutely love Disney and was over the moon excited by the many references and Disney movies referenced in the book. Eeeekkkk.
I grew up on Disney and musicals and it's not a surprise that I could quote you the dialog and sing the songs at the drip of a hat. Hell I don't even need a drop of the hat I just do it anyway.
So this book was right up my street from the beginning. Throw in a great storyline, some amazing characters that I would just love to be friends with. Throw in pretty much every emotion that you can think of and hay presto you have a book that is made for me.
This book is perfection and I really really want it to be a series. I really ant to visit these characters again in the future and I really really can't wait to read more books by Katey Lovell.
Please please go to your bookshops in the 15th of December when this amazing book hits the stores. Or even better if you have a kindle you can download it now for just £2.99 it's a steal at half the price.
I love this book. Thank you Katey Lovell.
Let me tell you a little secret I love musicals. Oh wait it's not a secret at all everyone knows it. My lovely and wonderful mum got me into musicals from a really early age. I'm talking probably before I was born. But I do remember proper musicals always being on the tv when I was growing up. This had led to me loving nothing more than going to the theatre to watch my favourite musicals. With my mum of course.
One of my other not so secret loves are Disney movies. I absolutely love Disney and was over the moon excited by the many references and Disney movies referenced in the book. Eeeekkkk.
I grew up on Disney and musicals and it's not a surprise that I could quote you the dialog and sing the songs at the drip of a hat. Hell I don't even need a drop of the hat I just do it anyway.
So this book was right up my street from the beginning. Throw in a great storyline, some amazing characters that I would just love to be friends with. Throw in pretty much every emotion that you can think of and hay presto you have a book that is made for me.
This book is perfection and I really really want it to be a series. I really ant to visit these characters again in the future and I really really can't wait to read more books by Katey Lovell.
Please please go to your bookshops in the 15th of December when this amazing book hits the stores. Or even better if you have a kindle you can download it now for just £2.99 it's a steal at half the price.
I love this book. Thank you Katey Lovell.
September 1, 2016
I LOVE musicals. I LOVE Katey Lovell's Meet Cute series. And I LOVE THIS BOOK!
Can you fall in love whilst you're singing your heart out? Katey Lovell's homage to the old-school charm of musicals is a wonderfully fresh, quirky and romantic read!
Not that it's all jazz hands and romance - Katey isn't afraid to show the good and the bad, and presents a cast of very real characters, who have felt like old friends every time I dipped back in to read. THE SINGALONG SOCIETY FOR SINGLETONS is this year's most charming romance... it will make your heart sing!
Can you fall in love whilst you're singing your heart out? Katey Lovell's homage to the old-school charm of musicals is a wonderfully fresh, quirky and romantic read!
Not that it's all jazz hands and romance - Katey isn't afraid to show the good and the bad, and presents a cast of very real characters, who have felt like old friends every time I dipped back in to read. THE SINGALONG SOCIETY FOR SINGLETONS is this year's most charming romance... it will make your heart sing!
October 10, 2016
Review: I loved this novel so much! It was seriously so much fun. The fact that this book features a couple of teachers (including a year 6 teacher) and a teaching assistant, as well as a long distance relationship and a ton of fabulous musicals means that it is right up my street. But if you're not into any of those things, or can't relate to any of those things, don't worry, this novel is about so much more too. There is moments of identiy crisis, moments that deal with unrequited love, moments where first aid needs to come into play and so many more issues facing us today in society.
I really related to all of the characters in this book. I loved Monique and the situation she is in in her life. Although she is a little younger than me, I can relate to her on so many levels. I don't think anyone could not love Mon, she has so much going on but is such a positive and compassionate person who clearly loves her friends and family to the moon and back. Roommate Issy is equally as loveable and I know you will all be able to feel her need for a glass of red bigger than her head on a Friday night, especially given that she is a year 6 teacher with Ofsted and Sats looming! Connie and Hope make up the rest of the cast of girls, and if you forget who's who, there's a cast list at the beginning of the book to keep you'd straight (something which I love!)
The storyline centres around the four girls and their singalong society for singletons. We meet them having just set up the society when Issy invites actors Ray and Liam to join them....you know this makes for some interesting moments! I love the fact that no issue is left untackled here including revealing a same-sex relationship to overly conservative parents. This is the only moment in the book where I wanted just a little bit more than this author gave. I felt there could have been more made of the scene where this May or may not happen (no spoilers) but I still loved this couple all the same! I really liked the long-distance relationship aspect of the book because I can completely empathise with that and of course, all the attention to the detail when it came to the teachers. This author clearly knows her stuff when it comes to working in a primary school and I love her for getting it so right!
I need to mention the structure of this book as well. Each chapter takes place on Friday night when the group watch and singalong to each musical. You get to know which miss it is and who chose it. I defy anyone not to sing a number or two as they are reading this when their favourite musical comes along. And fear not! If you aren't that into musical, each chapter also has some details abotj the film/show and it's biggest numbers. I found this quite helpful as I totally couldn't Rememebr what songs came from a certain Rogers and Hammerstein film that the cast watched-fabulous. It also sparked an idea in my mind for watching all of this shows mentioned-I need to do it now!
This book is about so much more than the musicals though, but I've rambled on enough. I urge you to pick up this feel-good bouncy book and discover the joy for yourself, I'm going to go and watch Rocky Horror!
I really related to all of the characters in this book. I loved Monique and the situation she is in in her life. Although she is a little younger than me, I can relate to her on so many levels. I don't think anyone could not love Mon, she has so much going on but is such a positive and compassionate person who clearly loves her friends and family to the moon and back. Roommate Issy is equally as loveable and I know you will all be able to feel her need for a glass of red bigger than her head on a Friday night, especially given that she is a year 6 teacher with Ofsted and Sats looming! Connie and Hope make up the rest of the cast of girls, and if you forget who's who, there's a cast list at the beginning of the book to keep you'd straight (something which I love!)
The storyline centres around the four girls and their singalong society for singletons. We meet them having just set up the society when Issy invites actors Ray and Liam to join them....you know this makes for some interesting moments! I love the fact that no issue is left untackled here including revealing a same-sex relationship to overly conservative parents. This is the only moment in the book where I wanted just a little bit more than this author gave. I felt there could have been more made of the scene where this May or may not happen (no spoilers) but I still loved this couple all the same! I really liked the long-distance relationship aspect of the book because I can completely empathise with that and of course, all the attention to the detail when it came to the teachers. This author clearly knows her stuff when it comes to working in a primary school and I love her for getting it so right!
I need to mention the structure of this book as well. Each chapter takes place on Friday night when the group watch and singalong to each musical. You get to know which miss it is and who chose it. I defy anyone not to sing a number or two as they are reading this when their favourite musical comes along. And fear not! If you aren't that into musical, each chapter also has some details abotj the film/show and it's biggest numbers. I found this quite helpful as I totally couldn't Rememebr what songs came from a certain Rogers and Hammerstein film that the cast watched-fabulous. It also sparked an idea in my mind for watching all of this shows mentioned-I need to do it now!
This book is about so much more than the musicals though, but I've rambled on enough. I urge you to pick up this feel-good bouncy book and discover the joy for yourself, I'm going to go and watch Rocky Horror!
October 8, 2016
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
I LOVE the title of this book! As soon as I saw it I just knew that it had to be fun. I mean, who doesn’t like having a sing-song? No, I don’t mean a ‘I’m a Barbie girl, in a Barbie world. Life in plastic, it’s fantastic’ type of sing song. Don’t be hiding your face, I know you’ve done it! I’m talking about musical singalongs, and all that jazz, you know, the ones that taught ‘Frozen’ how to do it properly! Although, I’m sure ‘Frozen’ is ‘through with playing by the rules of someone else’s game’, wouldn’t you agree?
I wasn’t quite sure where the storyline was heading at first as I couldn’t connect the circumstance to the bare necessities of the book. However, I stopped rouging my knees and learnt a little patience because sure enough, the penny dropped and the curtain lifted for the magical, musical moments.
You know, this is going to sound quite daft, I wished that I was part of the singalong society because of the fun and acceptance that oozed from the group. The characters were such a mixed bunch, each one having a different personality trait to the others in the group, yet they were such good friends. It was lovely to read about a group of people who wanted to be around each other without worrying about their own insecurities. Their Friday night idea was absolutely genius, no doubt all of the group members felt honoured that they were all in this together. You might even find yourself singing along to a few of the best-loved musical numbers that are featured in the book! I know I did!
The overall storyline wasn’t a strenuous one to read in terms of drama and heartbreak, but I am quite glad that it wasn’t like that as it felt as though I was reading about a whole new world. I don’t think it would have fit with the theme of the book. There were a couple of times when situations took me by surprise as they were totally unexpected. In all honesty, it gave a few of the characters an edge to them in a good way.
I adored how Katey’s writing made me feel like I was 16 going on 17! I became rather eager to see which musical the gang were going to watch and sing along to, it gave me such a buzz. The Singalong Society for Singletons is definitely my sort of book, as it has the feel good factor down to a T, I didn’t want anyone to rain on my parade whilst I was reading it. The storyline grabbed my attention with both hands, and I was absolutely mesmorised by the musical energy that came from Katey’s words. That lady definitely knows how to write!
Such a fun, feel good and energetic book, I most certainly had the time of my life reading it! I am positive that this tale could be as old as time if loved by the readers! The only thing I have left to say is ‘please sir, can I have some more?’. Brilliant read!
I received a complimentary copy of the book in return for my honest opinion.
I LOVE the title of this book! As soon as I saw it I just knew that it had to be fun. I mean, who doesn’t like having a sing-song? No, I don’t mean a ‘I’m a Barbie girl, in a Barbie world. Life in plastic, it’s fantastic’ type of sing song. Don’t be hiding your face, I know you’ve done it! I’m talking about musical singalongs, and all that jazz, you know, the ones that taught ‘Frozen’ how to do it properly! Although, I’m sure ‘Frozen’ is ‘through with playing by the rules of someone else’s game’, wouldn’t you agree?
I wasn’t quite sure where the storyline was heading at first as I couldn’t connect the circumstance to the bare necessities of the book. However, I stopped rouging my knees and learnt a little patience because sure enough, the penny dropped and the curtain lifted for the magical, musical moments.
You know, this is going to sound quite daft, I wished that I was part of the singalong society because of the fun and acceptance that oozed from the group. The characters were such a mixed bunch, each one having a different personality trait to the others in the group, yet they were such good friends. It was lovely to read about a group of people who wanted to be around each other without worrying about their own insecurities. Their Friday night idea was absolutely genius, no doubt all of the group members felt honoured that they were all in this together. You might even find yourself singing along to a few of the best-loved musical numbers that are featured in the book! I know I did!
The overall storyline wasn’t a strenuous one to read in terms of drama and heartbreak, but I am quite glad that it wasn’t like that as it felt as though I was reading about a whole new world. I don’t think it would have fit with the theme of the book. There were a couple of times when situations took me by surprise as they were totally unexpected. In all honesty, it gave a few of the characters an edge to them in a good way.
I adored how Katey’s writing made me feel like I was 16 going on 17! I became rather eager to see which musical the gang were going to watch and sing along to, it gave me such a buzz. The Singalong Society for Singletons is definitely my sort of book, as it has the feel good factor down to a T, I didn’t want anyone to rain on my parade whilst I was reading it. The storyline grabbed my attention with both hands, and I was absolutely mesmorised by the musical energy that came from Katey’s words. That lady definitely knows how to write!
Such a fun, feel good and energetic book, I most certainly had the time of my life reading it! I am positive that this tale could be as old as time if loved by the readers! The only thing I have left to say is ‘please sir, can I have some more?’. Brilliant read!
I received a complimentary copy of the book in return for my honest opinion.
September 15, 2016
The Singalong Society for Singletons should come with the following warning: "Seriously addictive read likely to induce uncontrolled tune humming, toe-tapping and an irrational need for pizza at 10am." Bravo Katey Lovell on this darling debut that really does deliver everything you'd ever want from a musical but in book form; heartbreak, longing, camaraderie, tragedy, energy, bravery and hope delivered in weekly chapter updates from Mon, our heroine of the tale.
Mon joined by her sister Hope, along with their friends Issy and Connie, set up the Singalong Society for weekly Friday night musical indulgence. They are soon joined by Liam and Ray and the fun really begins as the society members each reveal their secrets and dare to dream of what could be possible.
I began this book thinking I wasn't really a particular fan of musicals, having last been to a theatre showing of one when I was about 15, only to realise I knew most of those mentioned and found myself recalling my favourite scenes and tunes along with the characters. If musicals really aren't your bag though have no fear, there's enough humour, grit and intrigue to pull you in and keep you hooked.
The characters are a wonderful display of different but loveable personalities that fill you with admiration and attachment to each story and I think that stays with you after you finish the book. The difficult balances of romantic, platonic and familial relationships are explored in various perspectives, and it was particularly refreshing to read a very tender account of a gay couple, not as a dramatic shock occurrence or for comedy value as other books tend to feature, but as a sincere, authentic love story, hurrah! I have a feeling every reader will have their own personal favourite character from this book (mine is Liam, if you're asking) because of how each one is tenderly crafted and woven in to your psyche so that by the end of the novel you feel you know, and care for, them as real friends.
Many thanks to the publisher for this review copy via Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Mon joined by her sister Hope, along with their friends Issy and Connie, set up the Singalong Society for weekly Friday night musical indulgence. They are soon joined by Liam and Ray and the fun really begins as the society members each reveal their secrets and dare to dream of what could be possible.
I began this book thinking I wasn't really a particular fan of musicals, having last been to a theatre showing of one when I was about 15, only to realise I knew most of those mentioned and found myself recalling my favourite scenes and tunes along with the characters. If musicals really aren't your bag though have no fear, there's enough humour, grit and intrigue to pull you in and keep you hooked.
The characters are a wonderful display of different but loveable personalities that fill you with admiration and attachment to each story and I think that stays with you after you finish the book. The difficult balances of romantic, platonic and familial relationships are explored in various perspectives, and it was particularly refreshing to read a very tender account of a gay couple, not as a dramatic shock occurrence or for comedy value as other books tend to feature, but as a sincere, authentic love story, hurrah! I have a feeling every reader will have their own personal favourite character from this book (mine is Liam, if you're asking) because of how each one is tenderly crafted and woven in to your psyche so that by the end of the novel you feel you know, and care for, them as real friends.
Many thanks to the publisher for this review copy via Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 12, 2016
I’ve wanted to read The Singalong Society for Singletons for a long time, when I first heard about it I thought that it sounded like a fun feel good read and I was not disappointed! With this books focus on musicals it brings something new and different to women’s fiction. This warm cosy story is the perfect book to stay inside and snuggle down with this autumn.
The book follows Mon, Issy, Hope, and Connie, four friends who are utterly fed up of the dating scene. As the weather turns colder, the women decide to ditch their Friday nights out on the town in favour of snuggling inside with their favourite musicals, snacks, and wine whilst they sing along to the soundtracks Bridget-Jones-style. For once the drama is playing out onscreen instead of in their love lives and that’s just fine by them – thank you very much. But when Issy invites two handsome men to join their Friday night get togethers, the singalong society for singletons starts to become not-so-single anymore. Can good music and good friends really mend a broken heart? These singletons are about to find out.
I had such a good time reading this book! I loved the friendships between Mon, Issy, Hope, and Connie, their Friday nights in sounded like so much fun and was something really fresh to read about. I’m a big fan of musicals and loved seeing what the singletons would choose to watch from week to week. There’s a fantastic selection of musicals featured in this book each with a great soundtrack that I would find myself humming along to after I put the book down. This book does a great job of capturing the joy of musicals and made me want to rummage through my DVD collection and pull out all of my old favourites to re-watch.
Like the musicals that the characters in this book are so fond of, The Singalong Society for Singletons was uplifting, celebratory and jovial making it an absolute delight to read. With a likeable cast, a touch of drama, and a will-they-wont-they romance, The Singalong Society for Singletons gets a standing ovation from me.
The book follows Mon, Issy, Hope, and Connie, four friends who are utterly fed up of the dating scene. As the weather turns colder, the women decide to ditch their Friday nights out on the town in favour of snuggling inside with their favourite musicals, snacks, and wine whilst they sing along to the soundtracks Bridget-Jones-style. For once the drama is playing out onscreen instead of in their love lives and that’s just fine by them – thank you very much. But when Issy invites two handsome men to join their Friday night get togethers, the singalong society for singletons starts to become not-so-single anymore. Can good music and good friends really mend a broken heart? These singletons are about to find out.
I had such a good time reading this book! I loved the friendships between Mon, Issy, Hope, and Connie, their Friday nights in sounded like so much fun and was something really fresh to read about. I’m a big fan of musicals and loved seeing what the singletons would choose to watch from week to week. There’s a fantastic selection of musicals featured in this book each with a great soundtrack that I would find myself humming along to after I put the book down. This book does a great job of capturing the joy of musicals and made me want to rummage through my DVD collection and pull out all of my old favourites to re-watch.
Like the musicals that the characters in this book are so fond of, The Singalong Society for Singletons was uplifting, celebratory and jovial making it an absolute delight to read. With a likeable cast, a touch of drama, and a will-they-wont-they romance, The Singalong Society for Singletons gets a standing ovation from me.
December 20, 2016
Each chapter in the novel, includes under the chapter heading, the musical that is chosen by the different characters. I actually loved this as being a big fan of musicals, I found myself humming away to my favourite songs from the shows. So every get together brings a different musical to life, loved it!
The story line for me is very much about friendships and bonds that have formed between the characters. They all have something different going on in their lives and with each chapter it was like catching up with your old friends.
There is a great mixture of characters in the story. Mon (Monique) being the main one stands out more but the rest of the gang also very much play their part and helps bring the story very much to live.
The main thread in the story is Mon’s love life. She loves Justin her boyfriend, but having him go to America to work for a year starts to take it’s toll on their relationship and it leaves Mon very confused to how she actually feels for him. Though there is definitely some romance going on in the book, I actually love that it isn’t to heavy on the romance and it’s more about the friendships and keeps it very much fun and light hearted.
The Singalong Society for Singletons is a great read for the musical lovers among us that enjoy story lines of friendships with a sprinkling of romance in them. Even though it can be enjoyed at any time of the year, as this is the festive season where we tend to sit and watch lots of musical on the television, I think it is even more so perfect for this time of year.
Highly enjoyable and entertaining.
My thanks to Harper Impulse for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The story line for me is very much about friendships and bonds that have formed between the characters. They all have something different going on in their lives and with each chapter it was like catching up with your old friends.
There is a great mixture of characters in the story. Mon (Monique) being the main one stands out more but the rest of the gang also very much play their part and helps bring the story very much to live.
The main thread in the story is Mon’s love life. She loves Justin her boyfriend, but having him go to America to work for a year starts to take it’s toll on their relationship and it leaves Mon very confused to how she actually feels for him. Though there is definitely some romance going on in the book, I actually love that it isn’t to heavy on the romance and it’s more about the friendships and keeps it very much fun and light hearted.
The Singalong Society for Singletons is a great read for the musical lovers among us that enjoy story lines of friendships with a sprinkling of romance in them. Even though it can be enjoyed at any time of the year, as this is the festive season where we tend to sit and watch lots of musical on the television, I think it is even more so perfect for this time of year.
Highly enjoyable and entertaining.
My thanks to Harper Impulse for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
January 1, 2017
A small group of single friends begin a Friday night ritual of snacks and singing along with musicals on DVD. Variously the group consists of: Connie, who spends her time looking after her father; Issy, whose teenage sister has announced she is pregnant; Monica, whose long-term boyfriend has moved to America for a year to work; Monica's sister Hope, who has just broken up with her live-in girlfriend and has temporarily moved in with Monica and Issy; Liam and Ray, two actors that Issy taught in a class.
Each week one of the group chooses a musical and they sing along with the DVD. As the weeks and months progress each of the group learns something about themselves and starts a new chapter of their lives.
Katey Lovell clearly has a great knowledge of popular musicals: from Les Mis to Mamma Mia, Mary Poppins to Oliver, The Rocky Horror Picture Show to The Lion King. Be warned, if you don't like musicals there is a lot of discussion of the songs, stars and lyrics of various musicals in this novel.
I liked it but I didn't love it. I didn't really identify with any of the characters and I found Monica's love interest a bit meh. Also I found that Monica's 'voice' was like an old lady at times.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
Each week one of the group chooses a musical and they sing along with the DVD. As the weeks and months progress each of the group learns something about themselves and starts a new chapter of their lives.
Katey Lovell clearly has a great knowledge of popular musicals: from Les Mis to Mamma Mia, Mary Poppins to Oliver, The Rocky Horror Picture Show to The Lion King. Be warned, if you don't like musicals there is a lot of discussion of the songs, stars and lyrics of various musicals in this novel.
I liked it but I didn't love it. I didn't really identify with any of the characters and I found Monica's love interest a bit meh. Also I found that Monica's 'voice' was like an old lady at times.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
September 28, 2016
My thoughts:
First of all if you love musicals then this book is definitely for you! There were a few mentioned that I haven't seen yet. So it was interesting to learn about them from the characters point of view.
The characters were all well written and I got attached to each and every one of them. I loved the friendships that they all shared. Liam has to be my favourite, as the story progresses we get to know his character really well. First impressions aren't always true.
Before I knew it I was halfway through, my attention was well and truly captured. This story deals with some deeper issues but is also packed full of fun to balance things out. There is also a lovely heart warming feel to it. I especially enjoyed the Rocky Horror reference. I saw it at the Lyceum with my husband a few years ago and it really is worth going to see!
Overall:
The Singalong Society for Singletons has a wonderful selection of characters and a very entertaining story!
Five stars from me!
Thank you to Katey Lovell for kindly sending me a copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
September 29, 2016
A delicious, heart warming, musical love fest of a book!! If you love musicals, then you’ll love this!
Monique has been with her boyfriend Justin since school when he suddenly decides to up and leave for New York and she decides to stay. As Mon and her girlfriends gather on a Friday night for wine, a DVD and a sing a long, Issy (her bestie) decides to extend the invitation to a few others and then The Singalong Society for Singletons is born!
It was a great premise for a story and very well executed. Being a lover of musicals myself I could picture them all singing along to the songs as I read it! The supporting cast were superb and I read it with a dopey smile on my face from pretty much beginning to end. It wasn’t all sweetness and light all the way through, there were a few twists and turns that added a deeper dimension to the story and Liam turned out to be my favourite character.
I just wish there was an extra chapter at the end, I could have done with reading a bit more!!
***ARC provided by Netgalley in return for an honest review***
Monique has been with her boyfriend Justin since school when he suddenly decides to up and leave for New York and she decides to stay. As Mon and her girlfriends gather on a Friday night for wine, a DVD and a sing a long, Issy (her bestie) decides to extend the invitation to a few others and then The Singalong Society for Singletons is born!
It was a great premise for a story and very well executed. Being a lover of musicals myself I could picture them all singing along to the songs as I read it! The supporting cast were superb and I read it with a dopey smile on my face from pretty much beginning to end. It wasn’t all sweetness and light all the way through, there were a few twists and turns that added a deeper dimension to the story and Liam turned out to be my favourite character.
I just wish there was an extra chapter at the end, I could have done with reading a bit more!!
***ARC provided by Netgalley in return for an honest review***
June 5, 2019
Perfect 'chick-lit', right up my alley
February 19, 2019
This book is amazing! I loved every second of it. It is about a group of friends who start out to be single and decide to create this 'club' between them where they see a musical every Friday. It's about love, friendships, the meaning of relationships and unity. It really brings out the importance of true friendships and the importance of sharing your time with those significant to you, and not just a partner in a romantic relationship but also friends. It also shows the meaning of sharing and being there for each other, the power of listening and holding each other. Loved it!
January 23, 2017
Liked the concept, but I am so far removed from the main characters in their 20s, that I just couldn't make a personal connection. I am even a teacher like Mon and Issy. I love the weekly musicals chosen, but the story didn't always relate to the theme of the musicals. It did remind me of when a group of my girl buds would have a weekly 90210/Melrose Place dinner night MANY years ago.
October 25, 2019
book. It really has got inside my head and do you know something, I think I like it
December 20, 2017
A good read.
October 7, 2016
The Singalong Society for Singletons is the début full length novel from Katey Lovell. Previously she had written a series of short stories called 'The Meet Cute' which I hadn't read so this new book was a chance to discover the writing of Katey. Months ago when I saw this cover pop up on Twitter I knew I had to read this book as I thought the colours and pictures were just magnificent and really you couldn't find a better, snappy title. The title is so apt for the actual plot of the book and those who read this story may find themselves forming a similar society considering the magic of musicals that works so well on the girls. OK so musicals mightn't be the correct focus for everyone but there is plenty of inspiration and food for thought to be found between the pages of this very enjoyable book.
Right from the beginning I completely identified with the main characters who work in a school as I am a teacher myself and I found all their moans and groans and happiness at times regarding their jobs completely justified. I found myself nodding along in agreement and relishing the fact even though the may have been fictional characters that they knew just how tough the job of a teacher can be but also how exhilarating. Katey had obviously had done such in-depth research and she nailed this aspect of the novel to a t. Yes being teachers was not the sole focus of the book yet I feel it warrants a mention because for once I genuinely understood what the characters were going through. The main characters bar Hope and Connie who are not teachers were people who I felt I could call friends and best mates. Putting this aside the book focuses on a sort of a club if you wish to call it that or a society as mentioned in the title. A love of musicals combined with dire relationship statuses force the girls to come together and bond and maybe find their ever lasting happiness.
The book opens with a prologue as Monique (who will eventually become the driving force behind the society) believes now is the time to propose to long term boyfriend Justin. Her anticipation and hopes are at fever pitch as she feels the time is right after so long to move the relationship up a gear. 'He was my other half, the love of my life, and that's why I steeled myself up to pop the vital question. I couldn't envisage a future in which we weren't together'. But then her dreams of a blissful future come crashing to a halt as after seeing the musical Wicked Justin announces he is off on a year long work trip to America. Monique is devastated and can't see a way forward. How can she survive a year without the man she loves? Will he not be tempted by American beauties? Realistically she has no other choice but to suck it up but what the brain says the heart finds very challenging to do. Monique begins to wallow in her misery and the house she shares with Issy a teacher in the school where Monique works as a teaching assistant becomes the place where she can retreat from the world and gorge on takeaways, wine and all the bad stuff that one needs on a Friday night after a long working week.
The reader could tell from the outset that Monique and Issy had a unique bond and they would be there for each other all the time. They would revel in the good times and wallow and comfort in the bad. 'That's the great thing about our friendship we tease each other mercilessly, but we can switch to drying each others tears in a matter of seconds if needs be'. By January Justin believes a long term break might be the answer which just sees Monique wonder even more how will she get through the year? But Issy and her fellow friend Connie and sister Hope will be there and although not everyone is happy at first soon The Singalong Society for Singletons is born and surely musicals bring out the best in everyone. There's nothing like singing along to a good song to brighten anyone's mood.
The remainder of the book follows the months as the girls navigate the year through a series of musicals with two men Liam and Ray even joining. Yes the society was formed to cheer the women up but some males do add a bit of spice and flavour to the story. The beginning of each chapter brings us to the girls house on a Friday night as we catch up on their week and what stages they are at in their personal lives. It really is a chance to let to go of all their worries and problems and let some other people listen to what anyone may need to get off their chests.
Truthfully I did find it slightly repetitive that most of the book was set in the girls house bar a trip to see the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Yes within the chapters we were filled in on what had been ongoing during the week but it just became a bit mundane to know each chapter was set in the same place but I had to push that to one side and focus on the story at hand. Also I was worried that there would be far too many mentions and focus on musicals. I can't say I am a fan and wondered would I recognise any of them but surprisingly I didn’t mind it in the slightest. Frozen, The Lion King,Fame, Grease and Les Miserables are just a few I recognised. There were probably references scattered throughout the book to the musical the girls were watching that week but as I wouldn't know them that in depth they passed me by but I'm sure die hard fans will find them and enjoy them for what they are.
I'm glad the book didn't focus entirely on Monique as I felt if this had been the case the book could have fallen quite flat. Issy as well as being a firm friend and support to Monique had her own problems. I could sense something had happened in her past and events in the present were bringing this all back to the forefront of her mind. She seemed a very closed book in some senses. She was there for Monique when needed but kept some of her own personal stuff quite close to her chest. But maybe there might be someone there who could help her through what she was attempting to confront after so long and the happiness she deserved could be just around the corner.
Hope - Monique's sister was a character that I was so glad was included in this book, tere needs to be more characters like her in books and thank you Katey for having her as part of the society. Hope is a woman who knows who she is and is never afraid to show it, she is proud of the person she has grown to be. The only problem is her partner Amara can't accept that it's not right to hide behind closed doors and keep true love a secret. Her parents should be told. I accept Amara found herself in a very tricky situation but I felt more for Hope as she knew there was nothing wrong with the love they felt for each other and she only wanted to share it with the world. Being kicked out of the flat they share wasn't the answer. Staying with Issy and Monique and reluctantly at first engaging in the Singalong Society may help her to see where her life's path should go.
Connie perhaps was the most reserved of all, she was a health freak and I would have loved her to just relax and let go and gorge on all the junk and enjoy the musicals. She worked in an office in a repetitive job and her home situation was trying and draining. I sincerely hoped that the girls could work a little magic and maybe she would find the independence and happiness she so desperately craved and needed.
There was a good solid storyline here even at times I did find Monique very frustrating. I wanted to shake her and say come on just get over Justin- a year is an incredibly long time and a lot can happen. At the same time I never really felt even from just reading the prologue when we meet Justin briefly that they had such a deep and ever lasting love. I felt there was someone better out there for Monique and she needed to be more assertive and believe and I am glad over the course of the year she attempted to do this particularly in relation to her career. Monique slowly began to realise we can't just wander along in life hoping the one or the fulfilment we need will just magically appear. We need to go out out there and actively look for ourselves and with a little help from her friends in the society maybe Monique had that little bit of a push and a support that she needed.
Fans of musicals will absolutely devour The Singalong Society for Singletons but those that don't will also find something here for them to soak up and relish. Despite loving the cover and title I'll admit I was apprehensive would I like this book? I thought it would all be too much with endless talk of musicals etc and yes that was here but I looked deeper and found a story of women and two men who came together through a shared passion (for most of them anyway) for musicals. The Singalong Society for Singletons was an enjoyable read with a cast of characters you are instantly rooting for and can identify with. I spent a nice few hours in their company and look forward to what Katey Lovell will write next.
Right from the beginning I completely identified with the main characters who work in a school as I am a teacher myself and I found all their moans and groans and happiness at times regarding their jobs completely justified. I found myself nodding along in agreement and relishing the fact even though the may have been fictional characters that they knew just how tough the job of a teacher can be but also how exhilarating. Katey had obviously had done such in-depth research and she nailed this aspect of the novel to a t. Yes being teachers was not the sole focus of the book yet I feel it warrants a mention because for once I genuinely understood what the characters were going through. The main characters bar Hope and Connie who are not teachers were people who I felt I could call friends and best mates. Putting this aside the book focuses on a sort of a club if you wish to call it that or a society as mentioned in the title. A love of musicals combined with dire relationship statuses force the girls to come together and bond and maybe find their ever lasting happiness.
The book opens with a prologue as Monique (who will eventually become the driving force behind the society) believes now is the time to propose to long term boyfriend Justin. Her anticipation and hopes are at fever pitch as she feels the time is right after so long to move the relationship up a gear. 'He was my other half, the love of my life, and that's why I steeled myself up to pop the vital question. I couldn't envisage a future in which we weren't together'. But then her dreams of a blissful future come crashing to a halt as after seeing the musical Wicked Justin announces he is off on a year long work trip to America. Monique is devastated and can't see a way forward. How can she survive a year without the man she loves? Will he not be tempted by American beauties? Realistically she has no other choice but to suck it up but what the brain says the heart finds very challenging to do. Monique begins to wallow in her misery and the house she shares with Issy a teacher in the school where Monique works as a teaching assistant becomes the place where she can retreat from the world and gorge on takeaways, wine and all the bad stuff that one needs on a Friday night after a long working week.
The reader could tell from the outset that Monique and Issy had a unique bond and they would be there for each other all the time. They would revel in the good times and wallow and comfort in the bad. 'That's the great thing about our friendship we tease each other mercilessly, but we can switch to drying each others tears in a matter of seconds if needs be'. By January Justin believes a long term break might be the answer which just sees Monique wonder even more how will she get through the year? But Issy and her fellow friend Connie and sister Hope will be there and although not everyone is happy at first soon The Singalong Society for Singletons is born and surely musicals bring out the best in everyone. There's nothing like singing along to a good song to brighten anyone's mood.
The remainder of the book follows the months as the girls navigate the year through a series of musicals with two men Liam and Ray even joining. Yes the society was formed to cheer the women up but some males do add a bit of spice and flavour to the story. The beginning of each chapter brings us to the girls house on a Friday night as we catch up on their week and what stages they are at in their personal lives. It really is a chance to let to go of all their worries and problems and let some other people listen to what anyone may need to get off their chests.
Truthfully I did find it slightly repetitive that most of the book was set in the girls house bar a trip to see the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Yes within the chapters we were filled in on what had been ongoing during the week but it just became a bit mundane to know each chapter was set in the same place but I had to push that to one side and focus on the story at hand. Also I was worried that there would be far too many mentions and focus on musicals. I can't say I am a fan and wondered would I recognise any of them but surprisingly I didn’t mind it in the slightest. Frozen, The Lion King,Fame, Grease and Les Miserables are just a few I recognised. There were probably references scattered throughout the book to the musical the girls were watching that week but as I wouldn't know them that in depth they passed me by but I'm sure die hard fans will find them and enjoy them for what they are.
I'm glad the book didn't focus entirely on Monique as I felt if this had been the case the book could have fallen quite flat. Issy as well as being a firm friend and support to Monique had her own problems. I could sense something had happened in her past and events in the present were bringing this all back to the forefront of her mind. She seemed a very closed book in some senses. She was there for Monique when needed but kept some of her own personal stuff quite close to her chest. But maybe there might be someone there who could help her through what she was attempting to confront after so long and the happiness she deserved could be just around the corner.
Hope - Monique's sister was a character that I was so glad was included in this book, tere needs to be more characters like her in books and thank you Katey for having her as part of the society. Hope is a woman who knows who she is and is never afraid to show it, she is proud of the person she has grown to be. The only problem is her partner Amara can't accept that it's not right to hide behind closed doors and keep true love a secret. Her parents should be told. I accept Amara found herself in a very tricky situation but I felt more for Hope as she knew there was nothing wrong with the love they felt for each other and she only wanted to share it with the world. Being kicked out of the flat they share wasn't the answer. Staying with Issy and Monique and reluctantly at first engaging in the Singalong Society may help her to see where her life's path should go.
Connie perhaps was the most reserved of all, she was a health freak and I would have loved her to just relax and let go and gorge on all the junk and enjoy the musicals. She worked in an office in a repetitive job and her home situation was trying and draining. I sincerely hoped that the girls could work a little magic and maybe she would find the independence and happiness she so desperately craved and needed.
There was a good solid storyline here even at times I did find Monique very frustrating. I wanted to shake her and say come on just get over Justin- a year is an incredibly long time and a lot can happen. At the same time I never really felt even from just reading the prologue when we meet Justin briefly that they had such a deep and ever lasting love. I felt there was someone better out there for Monique and she needed to be more assertive and believe and I am glad over the course of the year she attempted to do this particularly in relation to her career. Monique slowly began to realise we can't just wander along in life hoping the one or the fulfilment we need will just magically appear. We need to go out out there and actively look for ourselves and with a little help from her friends in the society maybe Monique had that little bit of a push and a support that she needed.
Fans of musicals will absolutely devour The Singalong Society for Singletons but those that don't will also find something here for them to soak up and relish. Despite loving the cover and title I'll admit I was apprehensive would I like this book? I thought it would all be too much with endless talk of musicals etc and yes that was here but I looked deeper and found a story of women and two men who came together through a shared passion (for most of them anyway) for musicals. The Singalong Society for Singletons was an enjoyable read with a cast of characters you are instantly rooting for and can identify with. I spent a nice few hours in their company and look forward to what Katey Lovell will write next.
March 5, 2020
I chose ths book because I thought it would be a fun read to mix in with all the more serious stuff I had been reading lately. I've always loved musicals, and the idea of a story told by watching different musicals and singing along every Friday night seemed like a good one. The whole story was also told by the events that transpired on Friday night. Never any other day. However, I really didn't enjoy the book as much as I hoped I would.
First of all it was very predictable. The songs and musicals didn's add much to the story, and I pretty much knew what would happen from the first chapter. It was so bad that it nearly put me in a reading slump. I was very close to not finishing the book because I just wasn't excited about reading it.
Secondly, there were quite a few spelling and grammatical errors in the book, and this was not an ARC. I've read ARCs that were much better than this book, and that was truly disappointing. Didn't anyone read it before it was published? And how can you possibly misspell Zac Efron (Ephron, according to the book) in a book about musicals? Somehow (maybe because I'm an English teacher and I correct people's language for a living) I couldn't get over this.
As I'm writing this review I'm considering editing my rating to 2 stars, but I think I'll leave it at three for now. There were some nice bits after all, so I don't think it quite deserves that, but it's close.
First of all it was very predictable. The songs and musicals didn's add much to the story, and I pretty much knew what would happen from the first chapter. It was so bad that it nearly put me in a reading slump. I was very close to not finishing the book because I just wasn't excited about reading it.
Secondly, there were quite a few spelling and grammatical errors in the book, and this was not an ARC. I've read ARCs that were much better than this book, and that was truly disappointing. Didn't anyone read it before it was published? And how can you possibly misspell Zac Efron (Ephron, according to the book) in a book about musicals? Somehow (maybe because I'm an English teacher and I correct people's language for a living) I couldn't get over this.
As I'm writing this review I'm considering editing my rating to 2 stars, but I think I'll leave it at three for now. There were some nice bits after all, so I don't think it quite deserves that, but it's close.
December 22, 2016
Just look at that gorgeous cover! I am a 'cover lover' and this one ticks every single box for me, it's creative and eye-catching and perfectly encapsulates everything that this gorgeous story is about. Ten out of ten to the cover designer of this one!
And so, to the story inside. Curl up in your comfiest armchair, light the fire, grab a cup of tea, or a glass of fizz, make sure you have chocolate and immerse yourself, you won't come up for air, I promise! As you read, the wicked world events will melt away a little bit, this really is the ultimate in feel-good story, with characters who feel like your mates and music and singing, all set in the wonderful Steel City of Sheffield.
When Mon's boyfriend of ten years announces that he's been offered the chance to work in Chicago for twelve months, her world shatters. Everything she dreamt of, the ring, the big wedding, the cosy flat, just crumbles away and she is faced with continuing to share the draughty back-street terrace in Sheffield with her friend Izzy. Mon is worn out by her job as a teaching assistant, and on top of everything, her sister Hope has split up with her partner Amara and is moving in with her and Izzy.
The only thing that brightens their lives is their regular Friday night event. A coffee table full of nibbles, a musical in the DVD player and joined by Mon's childhood friend Connie; the Singalong Society for Singletons is born. Singing along to Frozen, and Wicked and even an attempt at Les Mis, for a couple of hours they can forget their hum-drum lives and sing their hearts out.
The Society expands when Izzy invites Ray and Liam to join them. Not only do the group numbers increase, but the dynamics alter too, and it isn't long before all of the girls are evaluating what they have, and what they want.
On the face of it, this story sounds like a sweet, happy tale, and yes, it is. However, Katy Lovell also deals with some serious issues within her story, incorporating grief, loss, family dynamics and work tensions into her story. This author doesn't lecture, she shares. She's woven in the serious themes alongside the song and the dance and has created a multi-layered story populated by great characters.
The Singalong Society for Singletons is not my usual genre by any means, but oh how I loved it, every page of it. It's fun and musical and warm and romantic. This is a little gem, and Katey Lovell is a fine fine writer.
http://randomthingsthroughmyletterbox...
And so, to the story inside. Curl up in your comfiest armchair, light the fire, grab a cup of tea, or a glass of fizz, make sure you have chocolate and immerse yourself, you won't come up for air, I promise! As you read, the wicked world events will melt away a little bit, this really is the ultimate in feel-good story, with characters who feel like your mates and music and singing, all set in the wonderful Steel City of Sheffield.
When Mon's boyfriend of ten years announces that he's been offered the chance to work in Chicago for twelve months, her world shatters. Everything she dreamt of, the ring, the big wedding, the cosy flat, just crumbles away and she is faced with continuing to share the draughty back-street terrace in Sheffield with her friend Izzy. Mon is worn out by her job as a teaching assistant, and on top of everything, her sister Hope has split up with her partner Amara and is moving in with her and Izzy.
The only thing that brightens their lives is their regular Friday night event. A coffee table full of nibbles, a musical in the DVD player and joined by Mon's childhood friend Connie; the Singalong Society for Singletons is born. Singing along to Frozen, and Wicked and even an attempt at Les Mis, for a couple of hours they can forget their hum-drum lives and sing their hearts out.
The Society expands when Izzy invites Ray and Liam to join them. Not only do the group numbers increase, but the dynamics alter too, and it isn't long before all of the girls are evaluating what they have, and what they want.
On the face of it, this story sounds like a sweet, happy tale, and yes, it is. However, Katy Lovell also deals with some serious issues within her story, incorporating grief, loss, family dynamics and work tensions into her story. This author doesn't lecture, she shares. She's woven in the serious themes alongside the song and the dance and has created a multi-layered story populated by great characters.
The Singalong Society for Singletons is not my usual genre by any means, but oh how I loved it, every page of it. It's fun and musical and warm and romantic. This is a little gem, and Katey Lovell is a fine fine writer.
http://randomthingsthroughmyletterbox...
October 8, 2016
3.5 stars.
At it’s heart this is a warm, feel-good tale about friendships and romance and daring to dream, all accompanied by a musical soundtrack that will have you humming throughout. It’s easy and enjoyable and even has a sprinkling of Christmas spirit.
However, it’s told entirely from Monique’s first person pov in weekly installments as everyone gathers for their latest musical fix. At first this is quirky and cute, but towards the end when there was so much else going on beyond Friday nights, I did feel a little frustrated by the restricted format.
Also, of all the members of the Singalong Society, Mon is the most boring. While interesting things happen to everyone else, Mon is basically marking time until her boyfriend comes home. Mostly she mopes about how her life is going nowhere and worries about her conflicted feelings, while clinging to her friends and trying not to feel jealous when things go right for them. Then just when things might be getting interesting in her life… everything jumps forward a load of months and, well, it all ends. I hate it when that happens.
I did, however, love the rest of the cast: badly-named, big sister Hope, pouring unconvincing scorn on so many things; house-mate Issy who doesn’t hold back when she has something to say; Connie with her big dreams and tricky responsibilities; musical expert Ray and his acting ambitions; and Liam the player with a few hidden sides of his own. They’re a great bunch who more than made up for Mon’s lacklustre life.
In all this is a great idea, written in a fun way, which mostly worked well. I wish I’d been able to connect with Mon a bit more and that there had been maybe one extra chapter to wrap everything up, but if you love a good musical and are looking for something easy with a few emotional tweaks here and there, then give this a go. It certainly left a smile on my face – and too many songs in my head to count.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
At it’s heart this is a warm, feel-good tale about friendships and romance and daring to dream, all accompanied by a musical soundtrack that will have you humming throughout. It’s easy and enjoyable and even has a sprinkling of Christmas spirit.
However, it’s told entirely from Monique’s first person pov in weekly installments as everyone gathers for their latest musical fix. At first this is quirky and cute, but towards the end when there was so much else going on beyond Friday nights, I did feel a little frustrated by the restricted format.
Also, of all the members of the Singalong Society, Mon is the most boring. While interesting things happen to everyone else, Mon is basically marking time until her boyfriend comes home. Mostly she mopes about how her life is going nowhere and worries about her conflicted feelings, while clinging to her friends and trying not to feel jealous when things go right for them. Then just when things might be getting interesting in her life… everything jumps forward a load of months and, well, it all ends. I hate it when that happens.
I did, however, love the rest of the cast: badly-named, big sister Hope, pouring unconvincing scorn on so many things; house-mate Issy who doesn’t hold back when she has something to say; Connie with her big dreams and tricky responsibilities; musical expert Ray and his acting ambitions; and Liam the player with a few hidden sides of his own. They’re a great bunch who more than made up for Mon’s lacklustre life.
In all this is a great idea, written in a fun way, which mostly worked well. I wish I’d been able to connect with Mon a bit more and that there had been maybe one extra chapter to wrap everything up, but if you love a good musical and are looking for something easy with a few emotional tweaks here and there, then give this a go. It certainly left a smile on my face – and too many songs in my head to count.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
October 16, 2016
Originally posted on: http://www.albainbookland.com/2016/10...
When I first heard about The Singalong Society for Singletons, I immediately thought that it was a really fun idea to mix musicals with a love story and after reading it, I can say that it was indeed a great idea. The story focuses on Mon, who after breaking up (or actually still being on a break, even she doesn't really understand what is going on) with her 10-year boyfriend, creates this society for her friends to meet every Friday to watch a musical and sing along and dance until they have forgotten about all their problems.
Thanks to Mon's idea, this group of friends soon becomes a close unit that support each other and share their fears and doubts. I loved how well the dynamics of the group worked and how every character had their own story and moment in the spotlight. I really enjoyed reading about them and I ended up caring for them all too. I also felt like we really got to know them and their situations sounded real and possible on real life.
Then, there was the musical aspect the story. Each chapter focused on a musical (mainly movies but some live shows too) and I think Katey Lovell made a great job of "matching" musicals with what was going on with the characters. Also, being quite a musical lover myself, I really enjoyed all the references to some of my favourite shows and with every new chapter, I kept adding movies I had to watch again.
As I said, I think the concept for this story was original and fun and really well executed. The only thing that bothered me a bit was Mon's story per se. I was never sure what she really wanted, especially at the beginning. -But it's true though that as the story progressed we started seeing a better version of herself and I started liking her more and more. I think that the ending was the perfect decision as it fitted with the story and the evolution of all the characters involved.
All in all, a fantastic debut novel from Katey Lovell. I'm sure we'll soon get more fun and feel good stories from her.
When I first heard about The Singalong Society for Singletons, I immediately thought that it was a really fun idea to mix musicals with a love story and after reading it, I can say that it was indeed a great idea. The story focuses on Mon, who after breaking up (or actually still being on a break, even she doesn't really understand what is going on) with her 10-year boyfriend, creates this society for her friends to meet every Friday to watch a musical and sing along and dance until they have forgotten about all their problems.
Thanks to Mon's idea, this group of friends soon becomes a close unit that support each other and share their fears and doubts. I loved how well the dynamics of the group worked and how every character had their own story and moment in the spotlight. I really enjoyed reading about them and I ended up caring for them all too. I also felt like we really got to know them and their situations sounded real and possible on real life.
Then, there was the musical aspect the story. Each chapter focused on a musical (mainly movies but some live shows too) and I think Katey Lovell made a great job of "matching" musicals with what was going on with the characters. Also, being quite a musical lover myself, I really enjoyed all the references to some of my favourite shows and with every new chapter, I kept adding movies I had to watch again.
As I said, I think the concept for this story was original and fun and really well executed. The only thing that bothered me a bit was Mon's story per se. I was never sure what she really wanted, especially at the beginning. -But it's true though that as the story progressed we started seeing a better version of herself and I started liking her more and more. I think that the ending was the perfect decision as it fitted with the story and the evolution of all the characters involved.
All in all, a fantastic debut novel from Katey Lovell. I'm sure we'll soon get more fun and feel good stories from her.
February 12, 2017
I loved this book for its originality (a group of people who meet every Friday to watch musicals on DVD and sing along to them) and the urban setting (an ordinary terraced house in Sheffield).
It is told in first person point of view by Monique Brown (Mon) who is informed by her long-term boyfriend, Justin, that he is spending a year in America, on the night that she plans to propose to him. He isn’t ending the relationship, but they are ‘on a break’. Mon spends a great deal of the book wondering what Justin is up to, especially with the blonde in his Facebook photos.
It is after watching the film “Frozen” with her housemate, Issy, and her sister, Hope, that Mon comes up with the idea of the Singalong Society for Singletons. Three other people join the group – Connie, a long-term friend of Mon’s, and Ray and Liam who are actors.
Each chapter consists of a Friday night and a different musical. I hadn’t realized I was such a big fan of musicals myself until I discovered I knew nearly all the ones in the book and most of the songs as well. And there’s an impressive list! They did actually leave the comfort of the living-room for the theatre when they went to see the Rocky Horror Picture Show. I loved this chapter as I went to see the show myself last year. The descriptions are spot-on.
It’s during these Friday nights, complete with food and drink, that we get to know the characters and watch as the dynamics of the group changes from six individuals to deeper relationships. As it’s told from Mon’s point of view, we only get her thoughts and feelings, but all the characters have a part to play in the story as their lives interweave and overlap.
I found this an easy book to read. It is fun and light-hearted in parts, but emotional and meaningful in others. The writing is controlled and adept with touches of humour and quirky observations of life in general and love in particular. It moves at a good pace and holds the reader’s interest throughout.
A delightful read.
It is told in first person point of view by Monique Brown (Mon) who is informed by her long-term boyfriend, Justin, that he is spending a year in America, on the night that she plans to propose to him. He isn’t ending the relationship, but they are ‘on a break’. Mon spends a great deal of the book wondering what Justin is up to, especially with the blonde in his Facebook photos.
It is after watching the film “Frozen” with her housemate, Issy, and her sister, Hope, that Mon comes up with the idea of the Singalong Society for Singletons. Three other people join the group – Connie, a long-term friend of Mon’s, and Ray and Liam who are actors.
Each chapter consists of a Friday night and a different musical. I hadn’t realized I was such a big fan of musicals myself until I discovered I knew nearly all the ones in the book and most of the songs as well. And there’s an impressive list! They did actually leave the comfort of the living-room for the theatre when they went to see the Rocky Horror Picture Show. I loved this chapter as I went to see the show myself last year. The descriptions are spot-on.
It’s during these Friday nights, complete with food and drink, that we get to know the characters and watch as the dynamics of the group changes from six individuals to deeper relationships. As it’s told from Mon’s point of view, we only get her thoughts and feelings, but all the characters have a part to play in the story as their lives interweave and overlap.
I found this an easy book to read. It is fun and light-hearted in parts, but emotional and meaningful in others. The writing is controlled and adept with touches of humour and quirky observations of life in general and love in particular. It moves at a good pace and holds the reader’s interest throughout.
A delightful read.
October 14, 2016
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What stands out most about this delightful story is its originality. Not a cottage, tea room or coastal location in sight yet the quirky society draws you in and keeps you turning the pages. The setting is urban and the characters refreshingly ordinary and realistic. Many of us choose dance, music or movies to escape the humdrum or emotional pain of everyday life. In this story, the girls chill out and singalong to a selection of well know musicals both modern and vintage and manage to find out what’s most important in their real lives too.
Monique and Issy house share, Hope joins them when her relationship reaches an impasse and Connie a lifelong friend of Monique’s, is a regular Friday night visitor to the little terraced house somewhere in Sheffield. The characters are unremarkable but memorable and easy to like because they are familiar to all of us. Their interactions and thoughts provide plenty of humour and there are also undeniable sparks of romance, for all members of the Singalong Society.
This is a story about realising your dreams, finding out what and who is important to you and not settling for second best. A lovely, uplifting read.
I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Katey Lovell
February 27, 2017
When Justin heads off to America to work, girlfriend Monique (Mon) is left to start a mini-club where single friends can sing out their woes to a Friday night musical DVD.
I have to confess that I had wondered if The Singalong Society for Singletons would be rather saccharine, but not a bit of it, as it’s a charming story of hopes, fears, friendship and making the most opportunities.
Aside from a well-plotted narrative that revolves around the films that are watched, there are some intense themes explored in an enlightening and fresh way. Linking the films with the lives of the Cast (as they are presented at the start of the book), Katey Lovell provides a supportive and interesting commentary on relationships in many forms from sibling bonds and parental influence to lesbian love and heterosexual desire. The need to make the most of life is sensitively woven into the story so that the reader feels they have learnt a life lesson. I felt quite inspired and uplifted by reading The Singalong Society for Singletons. Whilst I think the reader will gain more from the story if they are familiar with the films too, The Singalong Society for Singletons works, without such knowledge, as a romantic and entertaining read.
Katey Lovell’s makes very good use of the senses in her descriptions so that I could easily picture the scenes, especially those in the flat. Indeed I have a criticism of The Singalong Society for Singletons arising from the quality of Katey Lovell’s prose – it made me very hungry! I also really enjoyed Mon’s first person perspective. It made me feel as if I also belonged to the Friday night activities as it was as if I was being spoken to directly. It’s good too that the characters aren’t perfect, but have their human flaws making them realistic.
The Singalong Society for Singletons is a smashing read and if you’re a film lover, all the better!
https://lindasbookbag.com/2017/02/27/...
I have to confess that I had wondered if The Singalong Society for Singletons would be rather saccharine, but not a bit of it, as it’s a charming story of hopes, fears, friendship and making the most opportunities.
Aside from a well-plotted narrative that revolves around the films that are watched, there are some intense themes explored in an enlightening and fresh way. Linking the films with the lives of the Cast (as they are presented at the start of the book), Katey Lovell provides a supportive and interesting commentary on relationships in many forms from sibling bonds and parental influence to lesbian love and heterosexual desire. The need to make the most of life is sensitively woven into the story so that the reader feels they have learnt a life lesson. I felt quite inspired and uplifted by reading The Singalong Society for Singletons. Whilst I think the reader will gain more from the story if they are familiar with the films too, The Singalong Society for Singletons works, without such knowledge, as a romantic and entertaining read.
Katey Lovell’s makes very good use of the senses in her descriptions so that I could easily picture the scenes, especially those in the flat. Indeed I have a criticism of The Singalong Society for Singletons arising from the quality of Katey Lovell’s prose – it made me very hungry! I also really enjoyed Mon’s first person perspective. It made me feel as if I also belonged to the Friday night activities as it was as if I was being spoken to directly. It’s good too that the characters aren’t perfect, but have their human flaws making them realistic.
The Singalong Society for Singletons is a smashing read and if you’re a film lover, all the better!
https://lindasbookbag.com/2017/02/27/...
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