Stolen Songs

Stolen Songs #1

by Samantha Armstrong

Maddison is a survivor. An unstable childhood has taught her to depend on no one but herself, which is exactly how she’s gotten to where she is today. With a scholarship to one of the most prestigious schools in the country, she’s finally able to settle into one location until she graduates. But with foster parents hooked on drugs, Maddison is forced to steal to make ends meet, not only for herself but her foster siblings.

Kingsley is filthy rich. An only child, he lives with a mother who is dependent on alcohol, a father who doesn’t talk to him, and his chef, the only real family he has. His life changes when he overhears Maddison playing the cello. She’s snappy, hot, and wants nothing to do with him, and he’s obsessed. As they spend time together, she begins to lower her guard. She’s everything he needs, everything he wants, and for the first time, he’s able to tell someone about his past. Everything is perfect. Until he ruins it.

STOLEN SONGS is a heartfelt and heartbreaking story of letting go of your past when it means taking hold of your future, finding strength in your mistakes, and giving everything you’ve got to heal the ones you’ve broken.

*CONTENT WARNING: Contains profanity, sex, and drug abuse. This book does end on a cliffhanger, and the sequel has not yet been released.

Genres: Romance, Young Adult, New Adult, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Music, Abuse

390 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 8, 2017

About the author

Mummy, wife, Kiwi.
Though I have a particular love for writing romance, I write in multiple genres including children's.


LATEST RELEASES-CHILDREN'S BOOKS:

My Very Hungry Happy Tummy
My Super Speedy Long Legs
My Big Beautiful Cheeky Smile
My Super Sleepy Wonderful Body


Connect with me!


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Email: samantha@samantharmstrong.com

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Instagram: @samantharmstrong

Website: https://www.samantharmstrong.com/

Reviews

[Greta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tenete bene a mente una cosa prima di iniziare questo libro. E' un debutto, ed è stato bellissimo.

Samantha è una ragazza giovane ma ha scritto una storia sensibile, bella ma anche triste. Uno stile elegante, che non ti aspetteresti mai da una scrittrice al suo primo lavoro, eppure ora voglio di più.

Conosciamo Maddison e Kingsley, loro si conoscono per caso, lui catturato dalla musica del violoncello di Maddy, perchè Maddy per sfuggire da tutti i suoi problemi, suona. Lei abita in una casa famiglia, con altri bambini, perchè è stata abbandonata. Deve mantenerli e quindi il suo "lavoro" principale è quello di entrare in casa delle persone e derubarle per poi vendere il tutto e mettere il cibo a tavola. Niente è facile nella vita di questa ragazza dark, ma poi arriverà Kingley con il suo sorriso e le cose andranno bene... ma solo per un po'.

Non sapevo ci fosse un seguito quando sono arrivata alla fine di Stolen Songs e posso dire di essere sollevata. Un seguito è in lavorazione. Me felicissima, perchè ho bisogno di sapere cosa provano, ho bisogno di sapere che si toccheranno di nuovo, che suoneranno di nuovo insieme, che saranno di nuovo felici dopo tutta l'oscurità che li ha seguiti durante la loro vita.

Maddison e Kingley per me sono stati questo. Una luce nell'oscurità.

A copy was provided by author in exchange of an honest review.
Also, thanks to New Adult Book Club!

[NAT.orious reads ☾ · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5 stolen ★✬✩✩✩

This book is for you if… you want to torture yourself with a detached writing style, repetitive sexy scenes and the missed out opportunity of putting drug dealing and consumption in a qualitative perspective. Just don't.

⇝Overall.
I’ve started writing this review when I was 70% done and still didn’t know the point of the book. Reading this story feels like following a meandering river delta surrounded by fog. You have no idea where this is going and frankly lose the patience to keep up with it. I am honestly shocked I am so bored by this book because it has almost no bad reviews at all, neither on NetGalley nor on here, which only adds to my confusion. I am honestly wondering if previous readers have read a different version of this book altogether.

⇝The story itself feels pointless.
You know it’s about a foster kid who steals to make ends meet and tries to get into Julliard with her cello skills. She is “discovered” by a rich kid with no ambitions and a tragic past and they find sense in each other. I know this sounds like a hit but it didn’t touch me at all. The main characters Maddy and Hamish seem to be aimlessly strolling through the story even though that’s not true. He is a millionaire’s drug-dealing kid, she’s a foster kid having to care for several siblings and a highly addicted best friend. It’s just told in such a bland way it leaves me entirely cold. Also, the tale of the rich/poor romance feels so exploited by now, I just don't know why people even bother.

⇝The writing skills of the author lack diversity.
Mainly, I feel like all the intimate scenes are just copy and paste. I fail to find the passion in both their sexy scenes and the writing in general. In the end, I downright dreaded picking up this book again just for the sake of finishing it because I somehow still wanted to know how it ended.

⇝The dynamics of drugs is not illustrated properly.
This book had an amazing chance at illustrating how complicated, paradox and dark dealing and consuming drugs is and how contradictory it feels. Instead, I experienced it more like a glorified instrument attempting to make the story tragic in a Gossip Girl kind of way.

The only reason I am not giving this 1* is that I didn’t hate it entirely and still hat enough strive to get through it.
________________
Writing Quality + ease of reading = 1.5*

pace = 1*

plot development = 1.5*

characters = 2* (There was a lot of potential, that's for sure)

enjoyability = 1.5*

insightfulness = 2* (Don't do drugs of any kind, kids, it's deadly)
________________
This eArc was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Sentranced Jem · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: Romance, New Adult

The first word in the book says it all- Fuck!
This is the debut novel by Samantha Armstrong and I really enjoyed this book. After I was done reading ..all I could do was savour all the emotions that went through me.

When you first read the synopsis, it sounds like a typical YA poor girl-rich guy relationship but Maddison and Kingsley's relationship has a certain aspect that feels different yet familiar, something that sort of lingers with you even as you finish reading it.
Maddy and Hamish aka Kingsley's relationship has it all:
→ A hot captain of the lacrosse team -  ✔
→ A hardheaded/stubborn, beautiful/talented girl-  ✔
→ A romance thats sweet, tender yet rough around the edges- ✔
→ A relationship where past events haunts the present- ✔

I can't wait for 'stolen songs #2'! I look forward to Maddy and Kingsley's journey.

Special Note-
Tilly ( Maddy's foster sister)
I feel like I found my soul sister. Besisdes her love of The Harry Potter book Series or her favourite HP book (Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix); Tilly is just 9 years old but acts like a 20 year old. she's mature, independent, responsible and stubborn (something both sisters have-stubbornness).
I loved Tilly's character and if the author ever decides to write a book on her,I'd be the first to order it.

Nick ( Kingsley's chef but is more like a brother/father)
I love characters that are a strong support system for people and Nick is one of those people. He's quite yet strong and selfless.



https://sentrancedjem.wordpress.com

[Andie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[T.L. Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Songs is a lovely debut. I've always held a soft spot for contemporary romance, and Maddison & Kingsley's story did not disappoint. It was raw and tender, with just enough roughness around the edges, and I was rooting for them all the way through. I love how the author gave me more than just a tale of romance, managing to bring to light each character's strengths as individuals as well. And Kingsley? Yes, please <3 He's so emotional and loving, yet hurt, and I just wanted to give him a giant bear hug. Looking forward to seeing what tales Samantha Armstrong weaves next.
*This is part of a series, so expect to be left wanting book 2 ;)

[Katrin Schäfer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stolen Songs
von Samantha Armstrong
Koru House Press
Cover:
simple but special and jumping in the eye
Review:
„STOLEN SONGS is a heartfelt and heartbreaking story of letting go of your past when it means taking hold of your future, finding strength in your mistakes, and giving everything you’ve got to heal the ones you’ve broken. *CONTENT WARNING: Contains profanity, sex, and drug abuse.“
Keep one thing in mind before starting this book. It's a debut, and it was beautiful. Samantha is a young girl but has written a sensitive story, beautiful but also sad. An elegant style, which you would never expect from a writer at her first job, but now I want more. We know Maddison and Kingsley, they know each other by chance, he is captured by the music of Maddy's cello, because Maddy to escape from all her problems, plays. She lives in a family home, with other children, because she has been abandoned. It must keep them and therefore its main "job" is to enter people's home and rob them and then sell everything and put food at the table. Nothing is easy in the life of this dark girl, but then Kingley will arrive with his smile and things will be fine ... but only for a while. I did not know there was a following when I got to the end of Stolen Songs and I can say I'm relieved. A continuation is in progress. I am very happy, because I need to know how they feel, I need to know that they will touch again, that they will play together again, that they will be happy again after all the darkness that has followed them during their life.
Maddison and Kingley for me were this. A light in the darkness. 4/5 Stars
Thanks to Netgalley for the review copy of the book.

[Alkisti · Rating 2 out of 5]

** I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. **

Well, yes, it starts with a cliché.

Maddison is a teenage, foster child, living in a poor problematic family. Despite her struggles, she carries the responsibility of looking after her siblings, so she has to be the strong one. She's mad with the world, angsty, and has created a keen bad-girl image for herself, the one that doesn't need anyone's help and manages to take care of herself. Behind that, there's of course another aspect of her, the more caring, innocent one and on top of this she's a talented cello player. Why do they always need to play with their eyes closed?!

Kinglsey is your typical rich kid, with his softer, warm-hearted side predictably disguised behind a bad-boy mask to begin with, due to his own hidden demons and past griefs.

And it continues with more...

It comes as no surprise, that they meet and fall madly and hopelessly in love with each other, developing a love story that holds emotions they're both experiencing for the first time.
There were quite a few parts that made me cringe "So I guess I'm the thief now, huh?"
"And why's that?"
"Because I'm about to steal your virginity."
...
I mean, seriously????

and most of the plot didn't hold any major surprises. At times, I did feel that there were scenes I've already read like numerous times before in different books. Nevertheless, I did like the way the two of them worked with each other. They did compliment one another nicely as characters; they were flawed but also made an effort to improve themselves. But all in all, I didn't feel like there's something new I can take from them or their story.

I'm surprised to see that no reviews so far mention Tilly which to me was the most interesting character in the book. (I actually did appreciate a lot more the secondary characters and I felt they were very well developed!). She's only 9 years old but she manages to steal the show whenever she comes to stage. I really ended up wishing the best for her and wanting her to have a break in life because you could tell that if someone had the potential to get out of that decadent environment, it was her. Only I wish that her mind, and mature character were not accentuated by description so much. I'd rather let her actions and voice speak for themselves, because they clearly could, instead of having everyone else always commenting about her.

A few things about the writing...
I felt like the action dragged quite a few times and that I was reading page after page without anything new happening. For example, the first sex scene I think unfolded over 6 or so pages which was a lot!
The very short length of some chapters, especially when this got repetitive (at some point there were more than 14 pages with 1-3 paragraph chapters) got rather distracting and disturbing as usually it went back in time to describe the same scene from a different perspective but I didn't feel this added much to the narration. Some of the scenes were also very similarly illustrated When reading about Kinglsey finding Maddy lying on the floor at Teddy's house, I actually went back to the scene when Maddy finds Cynth lying motionless on the floor because I remembered her using the exact same words as Kinglsey, and I was not mistaken and this added to the lingering impression of repetition.
There are a few grammatical/syntactical/formatting problems here and there so I wish the editing and proofreading process had been more thorough.

I read this in 2 days which goes to show that it does flow quite effortlessly and it's easy to go through but unfortunately, it was more my personal desire to finish it during these days, than actually the book itself making me unable to put it down.

I hold the opinion that the writer has potential and seeing as this is only a debut novel, I would be curious to see how she develops and I'm hoping that her writing will become better, more mature and more confident with time. I would like to see what she does with less repeated themes and more original stories.

[Sophie's Reading Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review to come :)

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

No matter what, life is short. Love whoever loves you, hold onto that love, cherish that love, and don’t give up on that person no matter what. Because every second with them is precious.

Samantha Armstrong put young love on the table and exposed it for all to see when she wrote Stolen Songs…and it is amazing! Pain and comfort. Good and evil. Right and wrong. Heartache and forgiveness. But above all: love. Maddison and Kingsley’s story knocked me down and lifted me up repeatedly as I got to know these amazing characters and their struggles.

Maddison, an orphan and outcast, is alone except for the foster siblings she shares a home with and her best friend Cynth, a depressed drug-addict and outcast herself. Having given up hope on her own situation, Maddison fights for the future of the children who depend on her. A thief who steals to survive by night, Maddison is also a cello prodigy who uses music to escape her reality. Her goal: protect the kids and get into Julliard.

Until he enters her life.

Kingsley, the rich-kid lacrosse player, does and deals drugs to pass the time and escape his reality. Harboring a secret that’s eaten him alive for years, Kingsley is detached from all emotion filling his time with parties and drugs. With an emotionally absent mom, and a rage filled father, popular boy Kingsley is all alone. His goal: forget everything.

Until she enters his life.

Together, they find out that they have a lot more in common than they originally thought: music and family heartache. What’s more is that they find out that sometimes in life two people, from different walks of life, find one another and create a beautiful masterpiece together.

Want one word to describe the story? Let’s just say that Kingsley said it best…three times.

[Antonella · Rating 2 out of 5]

beautiful cover but the writing was too choppy
dnf @11%

[Katyslibrary · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 out of 5 stars!  Thank you Koru House Press for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.

From page one I was sucked into this world of drugs, parties, reckless parents and music.  As the story unfolds I found myself becoming more and more attached to Maddison and her siblings and her future with the cello.  I finished this story in a day and adored so much of it.  There were a few things I wasn't big on, but in general for a debut novel this was such an enjoyable read!

This starts off cliche, poor foster girl meets rich boy, but it gets so much deeper than that.  The attraction started out a bit quickly to me yet I found that to not bother me as I watched Maddy and Kingsley grow.  There were many times I thought the use of drugs or alcohol were excessive and I wondered where any parents were and were any kids a bit more moral? Yet, I think all the pain and hardships in this book speak to how much the characters go through and the strengths they have to overcome this way of life.

The music theme in this really intrigued me.  I simply just liked this story line and I almost wish there was a tiny bit more focus on the music.  Tilly had to be my favorite side character.  The references to Harry Potter alone made my heart melt and I think I almost liked Maddison's home life story more than the main story.  I wanted to see her siblings and get to know them more and find out what happened to them.  I got so connected to them and I loved how strong Maddy was for them.

Things I did not like, the over use of profanity.  I swear.  I am a swearer.  But I don't use it so often that it gives me a headache.  I thought it was a little excessive and while its true to teenagers these days, I do think it could have been toned down a bit and the book would have still had the same out come.  I liked Maddy and Kingsley a lot, but I didn't connect with them all that much and like I said I almost liked the side stories more than the love story.  

This book made me feel an array of emotions and I was definitely surprised by some of the events that took place in this book.  I would love if there was a sequel and we got to find out what happens next for Maddy and Kingsley!  I think this was a great debut novel for this author and I am excited to see what she writes next!

[jocelyn (abookbelle)]

I received an advanced reader's copy of this book from the publisher Koru House Press for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

28/6/2017:
so.... I just got contacted for my very first ARC and this is the book!! i'm really intrigued by the plot and I can't wait to read more.

[Claudia Torkan · Rating 5 out of 5]

„Love whoever loves you, hold onto that love, cherish that love, and do not give up on that person no mater what. Because every second with them is precious.“

**ARC kindly provided by the author**

Stolen Songs is a story full of raw emotions that make you think about your life and how privileged you are in comparison to others. It shows you how important it's to fight even when you feel like quitting, because it's easy to let go. But then, when you want to get back up, you have a mess that you have to clean up, which is not that simple.


Writing
I fell in love with writing style of this novel. Thanks to different POV I got to see two different lives that took my heart. It was so easy to get lost in the story and everything felt real that at the end I sobbed and smiled at the same time.

Characters
Maddison, the main character of the story, is such a complex character that I can relate to in many ways. She tries to be her best for her siblings and would sacrifice everything for them. However, somewhere deep inside she wants to be cared for by someone.

„Just because someone hurts you does not mean you can simply stop loving them.“

Kingsley, on the other hand, doesn't have to care for anything. He has money and friends, but that's not what he wants. Not really.
I had so much fun with those two and I like the fact that it wasn't an insta-love thing. Instead, they fell for each other slowly and so deep, that I kept grinning on my kindle like a Chesire cat.


Plot
At first, I though that it was going to be something about two people falling in love, but after reading it... gosh, I was so wrong! When I finished it, I went straight on goodreads to find out if there's going to be a sequel, because that ending.... OMG, that is how I imagine a good book to end.
Soooo... to summarize everything up, I'd like to take a quote from the book:

„I didn't ever think I could feel like this. That my heart could beat so fast, that I could be lost in someone, entranced by... everything.“

SK recenzia na blogu: http://perlasworldofstories.blog.cz/1...

[Charity B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was completely blown away with the fact that this was a debut novel. The writing is beautiful and the story is incredibly sweet. This is the first book in a two part series (as far as I know) and I loved the cliffhanger ending as those happen to be my favorite. It is told in first person POV (which is my favorite also) from our hero and heroine.
Maddison is a foster child living with her foster siblings and terrible foster parents. We meet her as she is breaking into a home on the richer side of town so she can rob them and sell the goods for food. Life hasn’t given her much, but what it has given her, is a talent for music. She plays the cello so beautifully, she was able to get into a prestigious high school and her music teacher and mentor is able to get her an audition to Julliard. Getting into Julliard could change her future and the future of her siblings. Music is all she has besides her siblings and her best friend Cynthia. I loved the music aspect of this book. That was probably one of my favorite things about it. The way Maddison described the way music made her feel was wonderful.


                I always wonder if my parents were musicians—if they were placed on a pedestal and tested too.

Whatever the reason, I know it was meant to be.

The first time I played the cello, I fell in love. As soon as I heard the cry of the string, it sounded like a voice – my voice.

                Music expresses what I can’t put into words, what I can’t keep silent. It’s something that I know connects me to them, because deep down, I can hear them crying too.”


She is practicing one day and is startled to find she is being watched by none other than Kingsley. He’s not only the most popular and richest boy in school, along with being the lacrosse captain, but he’s also gorgeous. She hates the fact that she is taken by him and tries her hardest to blow him off. 
He is a party boy and in a relationship he is forced to be in for the benefit of his father. He is drawn to Maddison before he even sees her. It was her music that pulled him to her. He keeps showing up in the music room while she’s practicing, and as hard as she tries she can’t seem to shake him. She knows they come from completely different worlds. What she doesn’t know is that his life is nowhere near as perfect as it seems.
I really liked Kingsley. Even though he is a little sweeter than I like my book boyfriends, I do feel like he is a wonderful compliment to Maddison. Their stubborn personalities were really cute together.


                “I’m not leaving you. I’ll follow you all the way if I have to.”

                She laughs. “What so you can fight off the big baddies?”

                “If I have to.”

                She stops, and crosses her arms over her chest, rolling her eyes. “I’ve done it before.”

                I step in towards her. “Oh, I don’t doubt that.”

                She narrows her eyes, and shakes her head, but doesn’t say anything.

                “And I don’t want you to have to do it again.”

                Her head jolts back, and she’s glaring at me. “Why do you even care?”

                I’ve been asking myself that question ever since I met you. I smile. “I can’t let anything happen to the next music prodigy. Where will I get my claim to fame?”

                The corners of her mouth tug back into a small smile, and she looks away. My heart can’t take it, and I almost trip. “Don’t turn away when you smile.” I touch her chin and pull it back to me.


Much to Maddison’s surprise, she learns that Kingsley in incredible at the piano and the sound they make together is magical. Her music teacher hears them and insists that they play together for her audition. That means practice time together and as hard as she tries to hate him, more time together is not what she wants.
Kingsley tries to take control of his own life which has consequences of their own. Being around Maddison has made him want to make a difference in his life. Over time, she begins to let him in and as she learns more about him, she knows she had him all wrong. His back story is so sad. I really felt bad for the kid. Even though things aren’t easy they find a way to work through it for each other. Things are perfect for just a little while.


                She laughs, and I take it in. The sound sends my heartrate soaring. She’s beautiful.

                I watch her chest rise, and fall deeply. “I’m going to ask you one last time, Maddison. Are you sure you want to do this?” I don’t know how my voice comes out so sure, but it’s holding onto the thinning strings of whatever dignity is left over.

                She pulls my head down to hers, and as she kisses me she says, “I’m positive.”

                I smile against her kisses and hike her close. Her body is so warm, and smooth. Her breasts press against my chest and it feels so damn good.

                “I trust you,” she whispers.


When things begin to spiral out of control and the truth comes out, their relationship is threatened more than ever before. They are both struggling with their own personal issues and what happened between them. Sometimes though, love isn’t always enough.


                As I look up, the memory if her fooling around in the water, of me holding her close, plays in front of my eyes. I hear the sound of her voice. Her laugh. Her songs. The songs that I stole.


 There are a few drug triggers in this book, but other than that it’s fairly mild. I am definitely reading the second installment of this because I have to see what happens. I’m not super familiar with new adult and contemporary romance as I tend to lean toward dark romance, but I had a wonderful time with this. I am so excited to see what else this author has in store.


Genre: New Adult Romance


               

[book_girlfriend · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟4.5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Huge thanks for giving me an ARC!

A story of music, love, drugs, and death. Of how music brings inspiration to one's life. Of how love is just the way it is: without any judgements and standards. Of how people turn to drugs to pretend that it will make them fine. And of how death affects a person's present and future. Surely this will give you tears: happy and sad.

..each and every person you know will one day be gone, whether they go at their own time, or they are taken far too early. No matter what, life is short. Love whoever loves you, hold onto that love, cherish that love, and don’t give up on that person no matter what. Because every second with them is precious.





Reflections:

Stolen Songs is about a foster child Maddison who dreams of entering Julliard to pursue her future by playing cello through the help of her teacher. She is a loner student, no friend to turn into except the dropout Cynthia. There are times that they sneak into people's houses to steal jewelries and other things that are worth enough to exchange money for the living of her foster siblings. One day Maddy met the guy who changed her life. Kingsley, the popular-rich guy in the school was instantly drawn into her music while she was practicing in Mr. Barner's room. Soon enough, they became closer through their interests in music instruments. Maddy with her ciello, and Kingsley with his piano. Together, they played with a brighter hope leaving all the ugly pasts they had.

This novel brought me back the feelings of my love to YA which undoubtedly my forever favorite. What I like the most in the story was how the evidence of love was depicted between Maddy and Kingsley despite their differences in status. Also the sincerity, love and care in the whole story. To Maddy's love to her foster siblings and how Nick cares so much to Kingsley. It only shows that it is not always about blood being thicker than water. Sometimes you can receive more love from the ones who's not even your family.

[Jilianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

"What about you, Kingsley? What are your dreams?"
He shrugs his shoulders. "I'm still in the process."
"Of what?"
"Dreaming."

For a debut, this book is stunning. When the author approached me and asked if I would like to read her NA romance book, I immediately said yes after reading the synopsis. I'm a complete sucker for contemporary romance so this book was right up my ally. I didn't expect a lot in the beginning since I've never read any of her works before but now, Armstrong's works will be under my radar(:

This book was raw, emotional, and it had the right mix of drama and humor in my opinion. Some things were a bit cliche but it was the good kind. The main characters, Kingsley and Maddie, complemented each other really well. They both came from broken backgrounds but that's what makes their dynamic work so well because they understand each other's pain even though they come from differing social classes.

Maddie and Kingsley come from completely different worlds. Maddie is an orphan, poor, and has to take care of her younger foster siblings. Kingsley on the other hand is a privileged kid who has a complicated relationship with this parents and demons of his own. They are brought together by their mutual love for music. Their relationship was complex. It took a lot of patience and trust before they finally opened up for one another. One little thing that I really loved was the fact that everyone called Kingsley by his last name but later in their relationship, Maddie starts calling him by his first name and I thought it was really sweet.

From what you've read in my review so far, I bet you're thinking that this is a book with little conflicts. Nope with a capital "N". It's far from that. The conflict of the story is heart-wrenching. Have you ever felt that little tug in your heart when your "heart drops" because of the events that took place? That happened to me in this book. You know the author is a great writer when he/she is able to make that impact and make you feel what their characters are feeling.

The synopsis of this book completely captures the essence of this book which you don't often find. I'm a sucker for characters who come from complex and emotional backgrounds, like who doesn't need a good cry from time to time? The writing style was great, it was easy to read and follow through with the story. The only two reasons I gave it four stars was because there were some scenes I felt were a bit rushed and gaps that I wanted to be filled, but I'm guessing that's what the second book is for. :) But overall, those things were trivial so I still loved this book.

[Clare · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Sometimes I wonder if I was put in this situation as a test to see if I am strong enough to persevere. To see if I can push past all that anxiety, grief, and pain. To see if I can crawl out from that heavy blanket suffocating me."

4/5 stars
(Spoiler-free review)
In my opinion, this is a raw and emotional book. What I was impressed about was how it made me think, "Oh, it's one of those rich boy meets not-so-privileged girl novel". It did have that context, but the plot was deeper than I initially expected.
This deals about a darker issue that I haven't read about from other novels (as far as I'm concerned). Also, music plays a vital role and brings the storyline to life.
Writing style? I would call it bold and straight-forward. I must tell you that there is quite a number of cursing in this book, but it kinda makes it more honest. Like, I would do the exact same thing if I go through what the characters experienced.
Speaking of characters, the main ones in this novel evokes your emotions; you get their charm, fear, and hope.
I rooted for Maddison a lot. Her passion for music, and the way she faced her struggles just to achieve her dream was my favorite thing about this book.
All in all, I was impressed by this debut novel. I'm not usually a contemporary novel reader, but this one stands out for me.

[s.shadereads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

I am at a complete loss for words right now. This book was amazing, plain and simple. And for this book to be a debut, again lost for words. I will most definitely be following this author from here on out and can not wait to see what she comes up with next.

Maddison and Kingsley were both such great characters.

Maddy was an orphan, a child of the system. For her and her siblings their home lives were horrible and she had to step up and be the one everyone relied on. Resorting to stealing just to put food on the table.

Then you have Kingsley, pretty rich boy who you think would have it all. Just looking at him you would never know that he has demons of his own he's battling with. He hides behind his truths with drugs and alcohol. Until one day he hears Maddy playing her cello in the music room and his life changes forever.

"I realize we are similar in more ways than one. Before finding each other, we were both alone."

They find that they have more in common than they would have ever believed. And together they deal with family issues, loss and heartache, and most of all love and forgiveness.

[anareadlover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun easy read. Great characters. Kept me intrigued throughout. Love the Maddison character, she is a strong, believable character that kept me hooked on each word, thought, thrill, and emotion... and that she is very loyal to her sibblings. I cannot imagine going through everything she has had to deal with and still find the strength to be so strong. I really felt for her and Kingsley... I also love Kingsley of course even though he is conflicted through most of the book but really you have to love him. I wish I could say that I felt disappointed when the book ended - but it was only because I wanted to keep reading. You won't want to miss this book!

[Tui · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book by the author.

I fell in love with this book right from the start. Maddison & Kingsley really grow on you. They made me feel every emotion under the sun and I felt so shattered but in the best possible way, I didn't want the book to end. I hope there will be another book as I need to know what happens with Maddison & Kingsley.

[Farah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply amazing! Can't wait for the next book! (Review coming soon)

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I may have overhyped this book for myself because of the synopsis but nevertheless it was pretty sweet. And that ending though 👌

[Nicole Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hurt. I love Samantha Armstrong's writing style and character development, and I really felt for Maddy and Kingsley and rooted for them. If you're in the mood for something that deals in heavy themes and a lot of heartbreak- this is your story.

[Nat Hensley · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's something to be said for needing a good romance with a bit of humor to relax to. It's kind of a mashup of your classic school-based romance and the charm of the TV Shameless. Maddison is trying to make the best of a terrible home life to both try to reach her goals, while taking care of her siblings.

Kingsley is not what she wants, until she does. He's charming, rich and definitely spoiled, but he has a good heart. Seeing the little vulnerable moments that makes him who he is, and watching Maddison break down his walls as much as he does hers is lovely. He and Maddison, although pushing away from each other at the beginning, do have really good chemistry, and it feels right for them to be together. Having them work together on Maddison's musical project is kind of a Step Up/Cinderella Story vibe, and the conflict is heart-wrenching.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maddison and Kingsley had me enchanted from the beginning. This new adult novel is full of everything that makes for a good read, love, suspense, heartbreak, the drive to escape from privation and the devastation of blame and guilt. Their journey is one that I can’t wait to see develop and will definitely be reading the next book in this series.

[Edina Memić · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh woow, I really enjoyed this book. it has some mistakes (he is 18, his sister died 11 years ago but he was 5 years old...) but I overlooked that

[Nada Hosny · Rating 5 out of 5]

” I close my eyes, letting the calm wash over me, and putting my bow against the cello’s strings, I play.”

Paperback Arc received from the publisher in Exchange of an honest review

Before reviewing the content of the book, can we just take a moment to appreciate how good this book was printed? it’s one of the most precious books i own! Honestly Koru House Press, you guys did an amazing job! the papers are so smooth and they have this off-white/creamy color, you know? i keep touching the pages like a freak. and i can’t get enough


Summary:

Maddison, a foster kid, fighting through her whole life. and damn she’s a fighter! she now has a scholarship on a pretty good school, and a golden chance to enter Julliard. But with no help from her druggie foster parents, she steals to feed herself and her foster kids.
Kinglsey, the king of school, with his cheerleader girlfriend, he couldn’t be more of a cliche! But when he listens to Maddison playing the Cello. He become obsessed! he doesn’t seem to know how to stop thinking about her. But Maddison, couldn’t be more difficult

I never thought this book would be as good as it turned out to be! I LOVEDD it.
I cried a hell lot of tears😂. But also I smiled, laughed and loved. Samantha, how can you be that good with words?🎵

Maddison, made me fall in love with Music. not just listening to music, but making them.

“The voice of the instruments integrate harmoniously. An echo of a creation. The sound transport me to an invisible world and I am at peace.”

She talked about her Cello as if was her savior, and actually it was, it was her only escape. when her bestie turned to drugs to escape, Maddi turned to her cello. and GOD SHE WAS TALENTED!!

Also, reading about Foster kids, and what they go through, was more like an eye opening to me. I felt like i take everything for granted in my life! This book made me rethink about how i feel about everything about me. And for that, i’m grateful.

The book’s title is actually brilliant, I love it as much as I love the cover! I guess that makes it everything?😂 YES!



Maddison and Kingsley relationship was so overwhelming, i didn’t want their chapters together to end! they wear literally the best couple, ive read about in a while.

And when they play together! OH MY GOD KSJDDCKCIUEUCIERCCIURFH, I got goosebumps

“After a few minutes, the lull of the piano joins in, and we play together. It’s the most magical thing I’ve ever experienced”


The story was from Maddi and Kingsley perspectives. So hearing both sides of the story, was definitely a bonus.

Samantha, the Author, writing was so smooth,yet intense when it needs to be!so basically it was really easy to keep up with it.

I loved everything about this book and I can’t wait for the next book to come out!
Samantha keep going because you are way too good!😍🌸

” the deep rich notes of the cello pick up on a solo and quickly catch my attention. Each note tugs at my insides, drawing me closer and closer.”

[Carissa (Colorado Cozy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This books was really good! One of the best books I've read this year! I couldn't put it down, literally read it in one sitting. There were so many things that happened in this book that just kept me on the edge of my seat, barley able to breath. The writing was perfect, never a dull or slow moment, and it made my heart pitter patter! Highly recommend this to anyone and everyone! click here for the full review: http://www.coloradocozy.org/2017/08/s...

[Lorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 - 4.5 STARS

WOW!!!! Just... Wow!!!

I more than loved it. This is a GEM! An utterly well crafted and well written YA/NA story. It ranks up there with some of my other favorites in this genre including Penelope Douglas's Bully, Tell Me Three Things from Julie Buxbaum, Deep by Robin York, and The Sea of Tranquility. While the story may not be the same, Stolen Songs gave me that indescribable feeling these other great stories did.

And, it's hard to believe this is a debut offering.

2 pieces of advice when you pick this up:

1. Savor it because the feeling and vibe this book brings is truly hard to come by.

2. BEWARE. It's not really a standalone. There is a book 2. When? I have no idea. Is it a cliffhanger? Sort of, maybe, not really. While the story closes without a major WTF or I-can't-believe-she-left-it-like-this, the reader is left wanting to know "what now?". I really can't wait for the next book. I just hope it isn't too long.

[Aron · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.

Maddison refuses to be defined by the foster home she lives in, by her foster parents' neglect and drug problems, or by her poverty. She has one goal only, to get into Julliard and make a better life for herself and her siblings. But until then, she sees no other way to put food on the table other than stealing from rich people.

Haunted by a tragic past, Kingsley is not happy despite his wealth and popularity.

Worlds apart, even though they go to the same school, Maddison and Kingsley have nothing in common except for their love for music. So when Kingsley hears Maddison practice her cello, he is immediately hooked.

Stolen Songs goes beyond the usual romance between two people who come from different social backgrounds. It deals with raw emotions of love, loss, and struggling with a heavier burden than one can bear.

The relationship (especially on Kingsley's side) gets too angsty at times, but I feel like that correctly depicted how most eighteen year olds, who fall in love, would act.