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Songs and Sonatas #1
Double Exposition
A former boyband star gets a little musical education from a sexy violinist. Will they stay in different keys or find a way to play in tune?
The first time I saw her I knew I wanted her. And when she talked music with me? I didn’t stand a chance.
When she found out my secret past—that I used to be a famous pop star—I expected her to fangirl all over me. Because even though it’s been years since people cared about us, a ton of girls who grew up with our music still go nuts when they find out who I am.
Not Gabby. She was more interested in our future than my past.
I tried to stay away at first. She’s so young, eighteen to my twenty-two. Just starting out in college while I’m getting ready to leave.
But I couldn’t leave her alone. Her passion, her drive, her intoxicating combination of innocence and audacity. And that sexy little Texas twang. Damn. I was sunk from the start.
With her help, I started writing better songs than ever. And when a video of me playing a new song landed on YouTube and went viral, my life exploded in a return to fame I never thought I wanted.
How can I pass up this chance now that it’s being offered to me again? But if I take it, will Gabby and I be able to survive?
If you like rock star romances and sexy musicians, or you’ve ever been curious about what happens to a one hit wonder after the fame fades, don’t miss the first installment in this fresh take on a familiar trope. Full of sizzling chemistry and heartfelt emotion, grab this new adult pop star romance now!
The first time I saw her I knew I wanted her. And when she talked music with me? I didn’t stand a chance.
When she found out my secret past—that I used to be a famous pop star—I expected her to fangirl all over me. Because even though it’s been years since people cared about us, a ton of girls who grew up with our music still go nuts when they find out who I am.
Not Gabby. She was more interested in our future than my past.
I tried to stay away at first. She’s so young, eighteen to my twenty-two. Just starting out in college while I’m getting ready to leave.
But I couldn’t leave her alone. Her passion, her drive, her intoxicating combination of innocence and audacity. And that sexy little Texas twang. Damn. I was sunk from the start.
With her help, I started writing better songs than ever. And when a video of me playing a new song landed on YouTube and went viral, my life exploded in a return to fame I never thought I wanted.
How can I pass up this chance now that it’s being offered to me again? But if I take it, will Gabby and I be able to survive?
If you like rock star romances and sexy musicians, or you’ve ever been curious about what happens to a one hit wonder after the fame fades, don’t miss the first installment in this fresh take on a familiar trope. Full of sizzling chemistry and heartfelt emotion, grab this new adult pop star romance now!
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2017
468 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Jerica MacMillan
54 books541 followersJerica MacMillan has been reading romance since she stumbled into the paperback section of the library as a middle schooler. And it's been an ongoing love affair ever since!
You can frequently find her sipping coffee out of snarky mugs while dreaming up stories and trying to bring them to life on the page. Join her Book Club at www.jericamacmillan.com/book-club and get a free book!
You can frequently find her sipping coffee out of snarky mugs while dreaming up stories and trying to bring them to life on the page. Join her Book Club at www.jericamacmillan.com/book-club and get a free book!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
January 30, 2018
(Copy provided by author in exchange for review.)
If you like rock star romances and sexy musicians, or you’ve ever been curious about what happens to a one hit wonder after the fame fades, don’t miss the first installment in this fresh take on a familiar trope. Full of sizzling chemistry and heartfelt emotion, grab this new adult pop star romance now!
REVIEW
First book for me by Jerica MacMillan. A college romance that in some ways outshines a lot of others I’ve read. Substance is front and center – at first. And both main characters stole my heart. Both had real goals they were focused on, and they stood strong in their journey towards reaching those goals -- until sex hijacked the storyline. Other than some typical parental intervention, there’s not a ton of over-the-top angst and deplorables involved. There’s humor, some confusion, a love story and some very sizzling and sexy times. You’ll find it all wrapped up in a catchy little tune.
Music is the clencher for making a harmonizing connection between Gabby and Jonathan. This musical romance theme follows Jonathan and Gabby as they connect through their love for music. At first it felt like there would be a slow build, but the fire flamed quickly and then turned into an inferno.
The story is strongly character-driven with the music playing a character as well. And it might surprise you to find relatively few secondary characters. There are a few, but with the setting, I actually expected a large number.
Once upon a time there was a teenage boy and his two brothers who formed a boy band – think Hanson Brothers – and overnight they became the wallpaper on every young girl’s bedroom wall and the focal point of their dreams. But with the wink of an eye (and one hit album), their music career hit the skids. Really, their younger brother aged a bit and his voice changed an octave or two.
Now a college senior majoring in English, hiding behind sunglasses and dodging those hangers-on who still remember the Boy Wonder’s rise to stardom, Boy Wonder a/k/a Jonathan meets a girl from Texas, who has a twang in her voice, but doesn’t play a guitar nor is she wearing cowgirl boots. Nope, she’s a classical violinist and wears flip-flops. She’s a freshman music major and she doesn’t seem impressed with him or recognize him. She’s on her own path to a career in music. But Jonathan isn’t the type to give up. It doesn’t take long before the girl a/k/a Gabby starts to warm up to this cute guy who is far more than she first thought. Soon they are making beautiful music together on and off the musical scale.
Readers will find quite a lot of detailed discussions revolving around the violin and musical theory. I enjoyed it, but it may be a little too much for some. I’ll admit that the story slowed down dramatically at these junctions.
As you may have noticed from my remarks above, sex overruled much of the storyline. Don’t throw rotten apples when I say this – but, yes, too much repetitive page after page sex. It was of the cut and paste variety. It ruined so much of this story for me. Believe me, I like a good hot love story as much as the next romance reader, but I want it to have meaning and not just act as page filler. So, there is that issue.
Another being that I felt the story could have been told in one strong solid standalone – especially if you cut out 2/3 of the repetitiveness mentioned above. I became disenchanted and frankly quite bored. I’m not criticizing the writing because the first few encounters were perfectly written and meaningful as well as heartwarming, but after that, it was non-plus and a tool to keep things going, I guess. Anyway, I’m disappointed that the author chose to tread that path.
Jonathan and Gabby are easy to like. The support they lend each other is strong and mutual. They made an adorable couple. And the basic storyline is one that was fun to read. My attention was snagged from the first page – until the above-related problems started occurring and I started skimming. I DO NOT LIKE SKIMMING PAGES!
And yes – there’s somewhat of a happy-for-now cliffhanger at the end – but never fear, there’s much more in store for Gabby and Jonathan in the next two books which are available now. I downloaded and read the next two books to finish out this series. After reading the entire series, I’m sad to say that it continued in the same vein and I was sorely saddened.
Overall, I gave the series a 3-star rating because the writing was good, and the story and characters charmed me.
“Songs & Sonatas Series”
#1 – Double Exposition 11/6/17
#2 – Development 12/4/17
#3 – Recapitulation 1/23/18
If you like rock star romances and sexy musicians, or you’ve ever been curious about what happens to a one hit wonder after the fame fades, don’t miss the first installment in this fresh take on a familiar trope. Full of sizzling chemistry and heartfelt emotion, grab this new adult pop star romance now!
REVIEW
First book for me by Jerica MacMillan. A college romance that in some ways outshines a lot of others I’ve read. Substance is front and center – at first. And both main characters stole my heart. Both had real goals they were focused on, and they stood strong in their journey towards reaching those goals -- until sex hijacked the storyline. Other than some typical parental intervention, there’s not a ton of over-the-top angst and deplorables involved. There’s humor, some confusion, a love story and some very sizzling and sexy times. You’ll find it all wrapped up in a catchy little tune.
Music is the clencher for making a harmonizing connection between Gabby and Jonathan. This musical romance theme follows Jonathan and Gabby as they connect through their love for music. At first it felt like there would be a slow build, but the fire flamed quickly and then turned into an inferno.
The story is strongly character-driven with the music playing a character as well. And it might surprise you to find relatively few secondary characters. There are a few, but with the setting, I actually expected a large number.
Once upon a time there was a teenage boy and his two brothers who formed a boy band – think Hanson Brothers – and overnight they became the wallpaper on every young girl’s bedroom wall and the focal point of their dreams. But with the wink of an eye (and one hit album), their music career hit the skids. Really, their younger brother aged a bit and his voice changed an octave or two.
Now a college senior majoring in English, hiding behind sunglasses and dodging those hangers-on who still remember the Boy Wonder’s rise to stardom, Boy Wonder a/k/a Jonathan meets a girl from Texas, who has a twang in her voice, but doesn’t play a guitar nor is she wearing cowgirl boots. Nope, she’s a classical violinist and wears flip-flops. She’s a freshman music major and she doesn’t seem impressed with him or recognize him. She’s on her own path to a career in music. But Jonathan isn’t the type to give up. It doesn’t take long before the girl a/k/a Gabby starts to warm up to this cute guy who is far more than she first thought. Soon they are making beautiful music together on and off the musical scale.
Readers will find quite a lot of detailed discussions revolving around the violin and musical theory. I enjoyed it, but it may be a little too much for some. I’ll admit that the story slowed down dramatically at these junctions.
As you may have noticed from my remarks above, sex overruled much of the storyline. Don’t throw rotten apples when I say this – but, yes, too much repetitive page after page sex. It was of the cut and paste variety. It ruined so much of this story for me. Believe me, I like a good hot love story as much as the next romance reader, but I want it to have meaning and not just act as page filler. So, there is that issue.
Another being that I felt the story could have been told in one strong solid standalone – especially if you cut out 2/3 of the repetitiveness mentioned above. I became disenchanted and frankly quite bored. I’m not criticizing the writing because the first few encounters were perfectly written and meaningful as well as heartwarming, but after that, it was non-plus and a tool to keep things going, I guess. Anyway, I’m disappointed that the author chose to tread that path.
Jonathan and Gabby are easy to like. The support they lend each other is strong and mutual. They made an adorable couple. And the basic storyline is one that was fun to read. My attention was snagged from the first page – until the above-related problems started occurring and I started skimming. I DO NOT LIKE SKIMMING PAGES!
And yes – there’s somewhat of a happy-for-now cliffhanger at the end – but never fear, there’s much more in store for Gabby and Jonathan in the next two books which are available now. I downloaded and read the next two books to finish out this series. After reading the entire series, I’m sad to say that it continued in the same vein and I was sorely saddened.
Overall, I gave the series a 3-star rating because the writing was good, and the story and characters charmed me.
“Songs & Sonatas Series”
#1 – Double Exposition 11/6/17
#2 – Development 12/4/17
#3 – Recapitulation 1/23/18
October 23, 2017
Refreshing, creative, and smartly-written, Double Exposition is so much more than your average rock star romance! Jerica MacMillan’s writing sparkles in book one of Songs and Sonatas, a spinoff of her Players of Marycliff University series, which I absolutely adore.
Rock and Classical fall head over heels for each other when former boyband star, Jonathan, meets fresh-faced music major, Gabby, at Marycliff. She’s a freshman focusing on a career as a traditional violinist. He’s a senior, and just might have his foot in the pop music door for a second chance. But the heart wants what the heart wants. And these two not only want each other, they’re perfect for each other. The chemistry is instantaneous, the flame is a slow burn to inferno, and it works perfectly.
Every boyfriend should be like Jonathan! The love, respect, and admiration he feels for Gabby is truly awesome. Add in his intense sexuality and, whoo boy!
Gabby’s wide-eyed appreciation for life and music is so adorably charming. She’s fun, witty, and super intelligent. And best of all, she’s not a ditzy drama queen.
Double Exposition is the first stanza of Jonathan and Gabby’s journey, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Five melt-your-heart, perfectly in tune stars to this beautifully written start to a new series!
Rock and Classical fall head over heels for each other when former boyband star, Jonathan, meets fresh-faced music major, Gabby, at Marycliff. She’s a freshman focusing on a career as a traditional violinist. He’s a senior, and just might have his foot in the pop music door for a second chance. But the heart wants what the heart wants. And these two not only want each other, they’re perfect for each other. The chemistry is instantaneous, the flame is a slow burn to inferno, and it works perfectly.
Every boyfriend should be like Jonathan! The love, respect, and admiration he feels for Gabby is truly awesome. Add in his intense sexuality and, whoo boy!
Gabby’s wide-eyed appreciation for life and music is so adorably charming. She’s fun, witty, and super intelligent. And best of all, she’s not a ditzy drama queen.
Double Exposition is the first stanza of Jonathan and Gabby’s journey, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Five melt-your-heart, perfectly in tune stars to this beautifully written start to a new series!
Want to read
September 23, 2022💝FREE on Amazon today (8/7/2018)!💝
Blurb:
A former boyband star gets a little musical education from a sexy violinist. Will they stay in different keys or find a way to play in tune?
The first time I saw her I knew I wanted her. And when she talked music with me? I didn’t stand a chance.
When she found out my secret past—that I used to be a famous pop star—I expected her to fangirl all over me. Because even though it’s been years since people cared about us, a ton of girls who grew up with our music still go nuts when they find out who I am.
Not Gabby. She was more interested in our future than my past.
I tried to stay away at first. She’s so young, eighteen to my twenty-two. Just starting out in college while I’m getting ready to leave.
But I couldn’t leave her alone. Her passion, her drive, her intoxicating combination of innocence and audacity. And that sexy little Texas twang. Damn. I was sunk from the start.
With her help, I started writing better songs than ever. And when a video of me playing a new song landed on YouTube and went viral, my life exploded in a return to fame I never thought I wanted.
How can I pass up this chance now that it’s being offered to me again? But if I take it, will Gabby and I be able to survive?
Blurb:
A former boyband star gets a little musical education from a sexy violinist. Will they stay in different keys or find a way to play in tune?
The first time I saw her I knew I wanted her. And when she talked music with me? I didn’t stand a chance.
When she found out my secret past—that I used to be a famous pop star—I expected her to fangirl all over me. Because even though it’s been years since people cared about us, a ton of girls who grew up with our music still go nuts when they find out who I am.
Not Gabby. She was more interested in our future than my past.
I tried to stay away at first. She’s so young, eighteen to my twenty-two. Just starting out in college while I’m getting ready to leave.
But I couldn’t leave her alone. Her passion, her drive, her intoxicating combination of innocence and audacity. And that sexy little Texas twang. Damn. I was sunk from the start.
With her help, I started writing better songs than ever. And when a video of me playing a new song landed on YouTube and went viral, my life exploded in a return to fame I never thought I wanted.
How can I pass up this chance now that it’s being offered to me again? But if I take it, will Gabby and I be able to survive?
November 7, 2017
I received this book and voluntarily left an honest review.
Having read all of the Players of Marycliff University series and falling madly in love with all the football player hotties and their heroines, I couldn't wait to get back to Marycliff and experience a beginning to a new series starting with Lance's little sister Gabby. It wasn't long before Jerica had me falling equally as hard for these string stroking characters and their crescendo of passion for one another in Double Exposition! Jonathan and Gabby rocked all my emotions and left me craving so much to experience the rest!
Gabby is a budding musician that is in her first year at college, majoring in music as a violinist and needing to spend every spare moment on her one and only true love... music! What she doesn't expect is to encounter the man who used to take up residence in poster form in her teenage bedroom and fall hopelessly for the man behind the voice and pretty face. Gabby kept me guessing what she was going to do next throughout her whole story. I loved her spunk, love for music, and her innocence that made such an intriguing combination that I couldn't help but remain fascinated from beginning to end.
Jonathan is four years older than Gabby, in his senior year at Marycliff, and the musical heartthrob that she grew up listening to and fantasizing about as a teenager. After meeting the much younger Gabby and them making beautiful music together, in more than one way, now not only does he have a chance at love but also another chance at fame and a new music career. Jerica had me falling head over heels for this fictional hero with his boy-band past and his gorgeous matured looks and charm.
Jerica MacMillan delivers a heart touching and hot beginning to the Songs and Sonatas series that will leave you waiting impatiently for the rest of their sweet tune to play out. I highly recommend Double Exposition for a romance that has the perfect harmonious blend of emotions, sexiness, and heart to keep fans raving for more!
Having read all of the Players of Marycliff University series and falling madly in love with all the football player hotties and their heroines, I couldn't wait to get back to Marycliff and experience a beginning to a new series starting with Lance's little sister Gabby. It wasn't long before Jerica had me falling equally as hard for these string stroking characters and their crescendo of passion for one another in Double Exposition! Jonathan and Gabby rocked all my emotions and left me craving so much to experience the rest!
Gabby is a budding musician that is in her first year at college, majoring in music as a violinist and needing to spend every spare moment on her one and only true love... music! What she doesn't expect is to encounter the man who used to take up residence in poster form in her teenage bedroom and fall hopelessly for the man behind the voice and pretty face. Gabby kept me guessing what she was going to do next throughout her whole story. I loved her spunk, love for music, and her innocence that made such an intriguing combination that I couldn't help but remain fascinated from beginning to end.
Jonathan is four years older than Gabby, in his senior year at Marycliff, and the musical heartthrob that she grew up listening to and fantasizing about as a teenager. After meeting the much younger Gabby and them making beautiful music together, in more than one way, now not only does he have a chance at love but also another chance at fame and a new music career. Jerica had me falling head over heels for this fictional hero with his boy-band past and his gorgeous matured looks and charm.
Jerica MacMillan delivers a heart touching and hot beginning to the Songs and Sonatas series that will leave you waiting impatiently for the rest of their sweet tune to play out. I highly recommend Double Exposition for a romance that has the perfect harmonious blend of emotions, sexiness, and heart to keep fans raving for more!
November 4, 2017
This start to a new series was a beginning and yet a coming home for fans of Jerica MacMillan's Players of Marycliff University series. The leading lady Gabby was first introduced in the previous series and is now getting her own book. Jonathan was brand new but so very swoon worthy.
I liked so many elements about this story. The ex child/teen pop star who is now living life as college student. The new to life on her own and freshman in college who's a musician of a completely different sort to the pop star. The fact that she used to follow him when he was performing and part of his pop band before. How their relationship develops completely entangled and entwined with music. It all made for a really good read.
This book was easy to get wrapped up in and just sit back and enjoy. All the elements of a good romance are there. And I'm so happy that Jerica decided to take the series in a different direction with giving Gabby and Jonathan not one but three books. I really liked the happy for now ending and the fact that I get to look forward to continuing their journey in the next book with them front and center and not just hearing about them as secondary characters in someone else's story.
December won't get here fast enough when I will get to see what comes next for these two.
November 5, 2017
This is so far my favorite book of Jerica’s. I love all of her books but this one is simply amazing! I love the insightful, intelligent writing from the perspective of an up and coming musician starting her first year of college. You can really feel the grueling schedule and pressure that a music major endures and the difficulties in balancing school, practice, and a social life. Having a musical background myself, I could really appreciate the attention to detail here.
Gabby and Jonathan meet at a inconvenient time in their lives. Gabby is just starting college and needs to take her academics and music seriously. Jonathan is about to graduate and go out into the world and needs to figure out what comes next for him. All that aside, concerns about their age difference are a small issue compared to Jonathan’s past fame coming back to revisit him for another opportunity he can’t pass up. Will this come between them or bring them closer together? This is a must read! Love their relationship and I’m anxious to see what comes next for them in book 2.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Gabby and Jonathan meet at a inconvenient time in their lives. Gabby is just starting college and needs to take her academics and music seriously. Jonathan is about to graduate and go out into the world and needs to figure out what comes next for him. All that aside, concerns about their age difference are a small issue compared to Jonathan’s past fame coming back to revisit him for another opportunity he can’t pass up. Will this come between them or bring them closer together? This is a must read! Love their relationship and I’m anxious to see what comes next for them in book 2.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
November 20, 2017
This is the first book I have read from this author and wow she blew me away. I love reading romance novels but this author made me fall in love with young love again. This is the first book of the Songs and Sonatas series. I fell in love with the storyline right from the start. This book is the perfect start to an amazing series to come. I could not put this book down. I devoured this beautiful love story in one full day.
Jonathan is trying to move on with his life. He was in a famous band when he was younger but now he just wants a normal life. Jonathan tries to keep to himself so he doesn’t get noticed. One day he goes to the school coffee shop and notices there’s no seats. Jonathan then spots this beautiful young woman sitting by herself. He asks her if he can join her and that is where it all starts. Jonathan gets to know Gabby and he falls for her fast. They both have one thing in common, music. He feels a connection to Gabby that he can’t explain. Jonathan ends up getting another big break but will he risk the only relationship that has been true to perform again?
Gabby is studying to be a violinist. She has always wanted to play ever since she was a little girl. Gabby goes to the school coffee shop to study for some classes when she sees this gorgeous guy. He comes up to her and asks if he can sit with her. Gabby starts talking to him and she feels like they have known each other for years. She feels like she knows this guy from somewhere but she can’t place him. She then leaves with her friends to get to class when she realizes that he used to be plastered all over her walls. Gabby finds out that she has true feelings for Jonathan. She doesn’t care about his past she only wants the future but Jonathan gets an offer he can’t refuse. Will Gabby be able to handle the famous life or will she crash and burn?
I absolutely loved this story. This book is funny, heartfelt, and romantic. You will fall in love with these characters instantly. Gabby is a sweetheart that loves music. She is also very smart and knows what she wants in life. Jonathan is not your average rockstar. He has a heart of gold. I love how he treats Gabby. These characters have some steamy scenes that will make your toes curl. I love that this talented author wrote this book in both of the characters points of views. This makes you feel more of a personal connection to the characters. You will feel their pain and happiness like you are the one going through it. These characters together are the perfect concerto. I can’t wait and see what is next for these two amazing characters.
Jonathan is trying to move on with his life. He was in a famous band when he was younger but now he just wants a normal life. Jonathan tries to keep to himself so he doesn’t get noticed. One day he goes to the school coffee shop and notices there’s no seats. Jonathan then spots this beautiful young woman sitting by herself. He asks her if he can join her and that is where it all starts. Jonathan gets to know Gabby and he falls for her fast. They both have one thing in common, music. He feels a connection to Gabby that he can’t explain. Jonathan ends up getting another big break but will he risk the only relationship that has been true to perform again?
Gabby is studying to be a violinist. She has always wanted to play ever since she was a little girl. Gabby goes to the school coffee shop to study for some classes when she sees this gorgeous guy. He comes up to her and asks if he can sit with her. Gabby starts talking to him and she feels like they have known each other for years. She feels like she knows this guy from somewhere but she can’t place him. She then leaves with her friends to get to class when she realizes that he used to be plastered all over her walls. Gabby finds out that she has true feelings for Jonathan. She doesn’t care about his past she only wants the future but Jonathan gets an offer he can’t refuse. Will Gabby be able to handle the famous life or will she crash and burn?
I absolutely loved this story. This book is funny, heartfelt, and romantic. You will fall in love with these characters instantly. Gabby is a sweetheart that loves music. She is also very smart and knows what she wants in life. Jonathan is not your average rockstar. He has a heart of gold. I love how he treats Gabby. These characters have some steamy scenes that will make your toes curl. I love that this talented author wrote this book in both of the characters points of views. This makes you feel more of a personal connection to the characters. You will feel their pain and happiness like you are the one going through it. These characters together are the perfect concerto. I can’t wait and see what is next for these two amazing characters.
August 19, 2018
I found this book on a sponsored FB ad and was really attracted to the quote. I love a college romance - if done well. It is unfortunately an easy genre to write badly. This was done beautifully. I had no idea that this was the start of a trilogy, nor that it was going to turn into a 'rockstar' romance.
Gabby is represented really well through the stories - her growth from uncertain and naive 18 year old starting at college through to her career and personal choices that she has to make are all doing perfectly. That struggle between leaving home but still very much thinking like a child is such a confusing in-between stage in your life is actually convincingly portrayed here.
This first book concentrates on the early romance of these two and their upheavals. The pace was set well, but I would have liked to have seen more sweet moments between these two outside of the bedroom. Their chemistry is great, the sex scenes are too, but I needed a little more from those moments where they were just being together, having fun. It would have helped the emotional reaction to the video and the subsequent change to their relationship.
I liked this. I liked the trilogy. There is however one massive flaw in this series, and this is obvs my personal opinion and my own taste and blah blah blah, but as a trilogy based on the intricacies of song-writing and how those songs helped shape decisions and emotions, how words combine with music to tell a story - it was severely lacking in LYRICS. Yes. Jonathon sings to Gabby on several occasions to tell him how he is feeling. And those words, those lyrics, those moments that change Gabby's mind and opinion are most noticeably missing and either para-phrased or glossed over entirely. And this leaves a gaping hole in the narrative for a book of this genre. I got over it but it kind of left me feeling short-changed.
On the whole this is a good series if you are in the mood to read something easy and engaging.
Gabby is represented really well through the stories - her growth from uncertain and naive 18 year old starting at college through to her career and personal choices that she has to make are all doing perfectly. That struggle between leaving home but still very much thinking like a child is such a confusing in-between stage in your life is actually convincingly portrayed here.
This first book concentrates on the early romance of these two and their upheavals. The pace was set well, but I would have liked to have seen more sweet moments between these two outside of the bedroom. Their chemistry is great, the sex scenes are too, but I needed a little more from those moments where they were just being together, having fun. It would have helped the emotional reaction to the video and the subsequent change to their relationship.
I liked this. I liked the trilogy. There is however one massive flaw in this series, and this is obvs my personal opinion and my own taste and blah blah blah, but as a trilogy based on the intricacies of song-writing and how those songs helped shape decisions and emotions, how words combine with music to tell a story - it was severely lacking in LYRICS. Yes. Jonathon sings to Gabby on several occasions to tell him how he is feeling. And those words, those lyrics, those moments that change Gabby's mind and opinion are most noticeably missing and either para-phrased or glossed over entirely. And this leaves a gaping hole in the narrative for a book of this genre. I got over it but it kind of left me feeling short-changed.
On the whole this is a good series if you are in the mood to read something easy and engaging.
November 21, 2017
Double Exposition – Songs and Sonatas Book 1 by Jerica MacMillan – 4 stars
Jonathan was a one hit wonder - teen sensation with his brothers (I pictured The Hanson Brothers) and he has moved on from the fame and is now a student at Marycliff University where he meets Gabby who is an aspiring concert violinist, music major. He is a senior and she is a freshman. He is about to finish school and go on to becoming a grownup. She is just beginning her new adventure.
I really enjoyed the introduction to this new series. Double Exposition is book 1 of 3 in the series and I’m so glad the author lets us know that other characters in the book will get their own stories also. I am looking forward to seeing how everything ties together and resolves itself. The characters of Jonathan and Gabby are quickly developed, the story moves along at a good speed and it kept my attention from beginning to end.
I “played” the violin as my school instrument for a few years, yet I’ve never really thought about how music is composed. This was a really cool insight into the making of a song. I am tone deaf and make up my own words to songs and I am so glad that there was a playlist that accompanied the book. I always enjoy listening to music referenced in a story.
I look forward to the next installment to this series to see where Jonathan and Gabby land.
Jonathan was a one hit wonder - teen sensation with his brothers (I pictured The Hanson Brothers) and he has moved on from the fame and is now a student at Marycliff University where he meets Gabby who is an aspiring concert violinist, music major. He is a senior and she is a freshman. He is about to finish school and go on to becoming a grownup. She is just beginning her new adventure.
I really enjoyed the introduction to this new series. Double Exposition is book 1 of 3 in the series and I’m so glad the author lets us know that other characters in the book will get their own stories also. I am looking forward to seeing how everything ties together and resolves itself. The characters of Jonathan and Gabby are quickly developed, the story moves along at a good speed and it kept my attention from beginning to end.
I “played” the violin as my school instrument for a few years, yet I’ve never really thought about how music is composed. This was a really cool insight into the making of a song. I am tone deaf and make up my own words to songs and I am so glad that there was a playlist that accompanied the book. I always enjoy listening to music referenced in a story.
I look forward to the next installment to this series to see where Jonathan and Gabby land.
November 17, 2017
Double Exposition by Jerica MacMillan a five-star read you will fangirl all over. This is the first book in the Songs and Sonatas series, and promises to be a great series. If you like the rock-star romance genre you will love this book, and even if you just like a romance with a great storyline about music you will love this book. I knew I was going to read this story as soon as I saw who the author was as I have been reading my way through the Players of Marycliff University series and I loved the link to that story, we met female lead Gabby’s brother in the series, she is someone who although young has a passion to her that you will love. Johnathon is older and more jaded by life, but he still has a spark in him, will the spark be re-ignited by Jenna and what happens when something major tries to douse the fire? They both have a passion for music that is infectious and I couldn’t help but keep thinking and playing music when I was reading this book. Well don’t Jenna MacMillan on the start to a great series.
February 7, 2018
This was Beautiful!!! This is the first book I have read from this author and I was so happy with it!It's not your typical rock star/music romance! I Fell in love with Jonathan instantly! He is so Perfect! literally he's everything you could possibly want in a book boyfriend. Gabby is just as great! I love their first encounter together and couldn't get enough of how she had a fan girl crush on him when she was a teen! The author really draws you into their lives, everything is so realistic. The music classes, song writing, paparazzi, it was all really detailed which was interesting to me and made me feel really connected to the characters. Double Exposition was a Beautifully Sweet, Sensual, First Love story that will soften you up and leave you completely melted in a puddle. It does leave you in a cliff-hanger and that made me want to pull my hair! Ready to read book two! I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2017
I've turned into a big fan of Jerica and this book is just another reason why. This is the start to a new series featuring Gabby, who was first introduced in the previous series (Players of Marycliff University) and is finally getting a book of her own. Jonathan is a brand new character and quite dreamy. How their relationship develops completely entangled and entwined with music made for a really good story. Especially since he was a teen idol and she was a big fan. Their story is translatable to real life and I thoroughly enjoyed that. I really liked the happy for now ending and am looking forward to continuing their journey in the next two books.
April 15, 2019
The violinist and the popstar
Gabby is just starting college as a music major and boys aren't even a thought. She knows that all her time needs to be in her studies or the practice room if she wants to keep improving.
Jonathan is a former popstar that spent his teens in a boy band with his brothers. He is now a senior at Marycliff University and struggling to figure out what his plans are after graduation.
It's a chance meeting in a coffee shop that brings Gabby and Jonathan together. They start talking music and soon Gabby is helping Jonathan with his music. A video goes viral and now Jonathan is being given the chance to get back into the music business as a solo artist. But will it be the music or Gabby?
Gabby is just starting college as a music major and boys aren't even a thought. She knows that all her time needs to be in her studies or the practice room if she wants to keep improving.
Jonathan is a former popstar that spent his teens in a boy band with his brothers. He is now a senior at Marycliff University and struggling to figure out what his plans are after graduation.
It's a chance meeting in a coffee shop that brings Gabby and Jonathan together. They start talking music and soon Gabby is helping Jonathan with his music. A video goes viral and now Jonathan is being given the chance to get back into the music business as a solo artist. But will it be the music or Gabby?
November 6, 2017
Must Read. Gabby a Freshman in college loves classical music and playing the violin. Jonathan a ex pop star.They meet in a coffee shop. There is an immediate attraction because of they love of music. She does not know about his past. It is a romantic, sexy journey about young love and the troubles it entales. Will they survive his past when she finds out. This is my first read from this author. The way she writes sucks you in right from the start and keeps getting better. I could not put it down till I was finished.
November 17, 2017
Well I learned way more about music than I ever wanted too. However, even with the new music knowledge the story is still intriguing and beautiful. The connection between Gabby and Jonathan is just off the charts. Their love happens fast and intense. But will it last or endure through the challenge that's thrown at them? I'd like to think so, but I guess we'll see.
August 17, 2018
I need the next book!!
So, I actually started this book a while ago, but our it down. Not because I didn't like it, but because I needed to get some other books read.
Jonathan and Gabby were so cute from start to finish. I'm a HUGE, avid reader of rockstar romances. It was almost instantaneous that they fell together, but I enjoyed it very much. I want to know more. I need the next book!
So, I actually started this book a while ago, but our it down. Not because I didn't like it, but because I needed to get some other books read.
Jonathan and Gabby were so cute from start to finish. I'm a HUGE, avid reader of rockstar romances. It was almost instantaneous that they fell together, but I enjoyed it very much. I want to know more. I need the next book!
November 18, 2017
This is a sweet love story with an HEA. Jonathan and Gabby are such wonderful characters that need to be read. Great book which I voluntarily read for my honest review
January 25, 2018
I gave this book 3 stars. It felt a bit flat honestly. I didn’t even have to finish the book to know exactly how I felt about it and the ending didn’t change that feeling at all.
I can’t help but be a little disappointed with this book. I had some really high hopes going into this book, it just sounded so entertaining. It ended up only being okay. I didn’t have a terrible time getting through it and I liked the characters, I just don’t think I will be picking up the rest of the series. There are so many other books I want to read and I can’t justify reading books in a series that I’m not loving or at least think will get better. I just don’t think multiple books in this series are actually worth it.
I can’t help but be a little disappointed with this book. I had some really high hopes going into this book, it just sounded so entertaining. It ended up only being okay. I didn’t have a terrible time getting through it and I liked the characters, I just don’t think I will be picking up the rest of the series. There are so many other books I want to read and I can’t justify reading books in a series that I’m not loving or at least think will get better. I just don’t think multiple books in this series are actually worth it.
January 29, 2018
5 Stars
Double Exposition is the first book in the Songs and Sonatas series by Jerica MacMillan. This story is a little different from the other books of Ms. MacMillan’s that I have read, as they were all college/sports romances, whereas this book/series is college/rock star romances. The story is still set at Marycliff University, and we still get all the wonderful attention to detail, and captivating storyline that we have come to expect from this talented author.
Gabrielle Kane (Gabby) is a freshman at the university, having recently enrolled into the music program. The eighteen-year-old is a very talented violinist and is passionate about her music. Gabby is Lance Kane’s little sister, who we met in Summer Fling: Player’s of Marycliff University series #1. Gabby is still adjusting to university life and is focused on her music and getting her degree. She is in the school café drinking coffee and studying, when a really cute guy asks if he can sit at her table. She is a little surprised, but can’t say no. He seems familiar, but she can’t quite place where she’s seen him before. She thinks he will ignore her and they will both just study, but he proves to be quite charming and friendly, engaging her in a fun conversation about music. As she is leaving for her next class, it finally hits her as to why he seemed so familiar…. she is blown away, but is determined not to show how awestruck she is.
Jonathan Brasher is a former member of the popular boy-band “Brash”- along with his two brothers Brendan and Colt. They had a worldwide smash hit, touring numerous countries and dealing with all the publicity and trappings of fame. But his star burned out a few years ago, and he is now in his final year of University- but isn’t sure what he wants to do with himself when he’s finished. A trip to the coffee shop where he finds the only available seat is at an occupied table. Normally at that point, he would just take his coffee to go, but he finds himself drawn to the beautiful girl studying at the table. He can’t help but ask to sit in her spare chair, and so this fantastic story begins…..
He discovers that Gabby isn’t like any of the other girls he’s ever met, and despite his reservations about their age gap (4 years) and the fact he will be finishing his studies soon, their chemistry and passion for music connects them in a way that neither ever expected. But, things aren’t completely smooth sailing for these two love birds, their connection and commitment is tested along the way. And when a video of Jonathan goes viral, he goes from has-been to the latest sensation in a matter of hours. How will they cope with his new-found fame? Can they make their blossoming relationship work, or will all the attention and media frenzy destroy any chance they may have had for a future together?
This story was an incredibly great way to begin a new series- it seemed quite apparent from the writing and musical information contained in the story that Ms. MacMillan was very familiar with and very passionate about music. I was pulled into her story, completely fascinated by what I was reading. And, when I got to the end and discovered that the author is also a violinist, I then understood how the story got that little extra spark, that research alone could not have imparted.
As with all her stories, this book is beautifully detailed with wonderful ‘shape’, tone and substance. It is romantic, emotional and fun. It flows well, and is told from a duel POV. The story is set to continue in book two, which I dove right into and finished before I even thought of writing this review.
I look forward to seeing what Ms. MacMillan does next.
Thank you, Ms. MacMillan!
Double Exposition is the first book in the Songs and Sonatas series by Jerica MacMillan. This story is a little different from the other books of Ms. MacMillan’s that I have read, as they were all college/sports romances, whereas this book/series is college/rock star romances. The story is still set at Marycliff University, and we still get all the wonderful attention to detail, and captivating storyline that we have come to expect from this talented author.
Gabrielle Kane (Gabby) is a freshman at the university, having recently enrolled into the music program. The eighteen-year-old is a very talented violinist and is passionate about her music. Gabby is Lance Kane’s little sister, who we met in Summer Fling: Player’s of Marycliff University series #1. Gabby is still adjusting to university life and is focused on her music and getting her degree. She is in the school café drinking coffee and studying, when a really cute guy asks if he can sit at her table. She is a little surprised, but can’t say no. He seems familiar, but she can’t quite place where she’s seen him before. She thinks he will ignore her and they will both just study, but he proves to be quite charming and friendly, engaging her in a fun conversation about music. As she is leaving for her next class, it finally hits her as to why he seemed so familiar…. she is blown away, but is determined not to show how awestruck she is.
Jonathan Brasher is a former member of the popular boy-band “Brash”- along with his two brothers Brendan and Colt. They had a worldwide smash hit, touring numerous countries and dealing with all the publicity and trappings of fame. But his star burned out a few years ago, and he is now in his final year of University- but isn’t sure what he wants to do with himself when he’s finished. A trip to the coffee shop where he finds the only available seat is at an occupied table. Normally at that point, he would just take his coffee to go, but he finds himself drawn to the beautiful girl studying at the table. He can’t help but ask to sit in her spare chair, and so this fantastic story begins…..
He discovers that Gabby isn’t like any of the other girls he’s ever met, and despite his reservations about their age gap (4 years) and the fact he will be finishing his studies soon, their chemistry and passion for music connects them in a way that neither ever expected. But, things aren’t completely smooth sailing for these two love birds, their connection and commitment is tested along the way. And when a video of Jonathan goes viral, he goes from has-been to the latest sensation in a matter of hours. How will they cope with his new-found fame? Can they make their blossoming relationship work, or will all the attention and media frenzy destroy any chance they may have had for a future together?
This story was an incredibly great way to begin a new series- it seemed quite apparent from the writing and musical information contained in the story that Ms. MacMillan was very familiar with and very passionate about music. I was pulled into her story, completely fascinated by what I was reading. And, when I got to the end and discovered that the author is also a violinist, I then understood how the story got that little extra spark, that research alone could not have imparted.
As with all her stories, this book is beautifully detailed with wonderful ‘shape’, tone and substance. It is romantic, emotional and fun. It flows well, and is told from a duel POV. The story is set to continue in book two, which I dove right into and finished before I even thought of writing this review.
I look forward to seeing what Ms. MacMillan does next.
Thank you, Ms. MacMillan!
November 6, 2017
Double Exposition (Songs and Sonatas Book 1) by Jerica MacMillan is her first book in her Songs an Sonatas series. This is a rock star romance that will pull you in from the very beginning and keep you engaged until the end. This is not my first story by this author but it is a little different then the sports romance I am use to reading of hers. Her great writing skills has been a constant in every book I have read of hers. She continues to bring us characters that are connectable, lovable and true to life. These characters will take you on a journey through the music world of second chances. They will make you angry at times and pull at your heart strings in others. I had a hard time putting their story down. This is the story of two people who have music in common and maybe even some attraction. Gabby is a music major at Marycliff University. He is a senior and a former boy band star, he could be looking at his second chance in music. They meet in a chance meeting in the school cafe one day. Their attraction and chemistry is off the charts. What will happen when she finds out that he is her boy band crush growing up? His problem is that he just wants to move past from his past. The more time they start spending together the more feelings grow stronger. He can't seem to get her out of his head but this may not be all that band when he uses that to create new music. Then at a blink of an eye, things get turned upside down for them. Will they survive the life struggles life is throwing at them? Are they strong enough to come out on the other end or will they realize that not being together is what is best? Opportunities are presenting themselves but you will have to read this story to see what happens. I loved both of these characters. Gabby is really smart, witty and just fun. She is just herself with no influences. She has such appreciation for life and music. He is everyone females dream boyfriend. The love and respect that he has for Gabby is just amazing. It really shows his character and how he is. Together they are so great, I found myself really hoping they find their HEA at the end. They will make you feel what they do and wait to you feel their music! I can't wait to see what the next book in this series brings. I highly recommend this book as I know you will want to see what kind of music these two make together!
November 6, 2017
Double-Exposition (Songs and Sonatas Book 1)
By: Jerica MacMillan
5 out of 5 stars
The story Double Exposition (Songs and Sonatas Book 1) by Jerica MacMillan is a coming of age/romance book. It is a wonderful story about two people who both have a love of music and a fast-growing attraction to each other. It is a story that hooked me in from the very beginning and I didn’t want to put down until the final page. It is a story that has some very steamy love scenes that will make you reach for a large glass of ice water. This is an author who creates characters that not only are amazing, you feel the emotions that they are going through. You feel when they are in pain or trying to make a hard decision as well as when they are happy. This book had my emotions going up and down all the time and always wanting this couple to find happiness together. While their relationship starts out as friends these two soon find the chemistry between them is strong and they find themselves in a physical one. They push forward with their relationship even with him getting ready to graduate and her just starting school. Then there comes a time when he is given a second chance to have the fame that he once did. Will he take it? This chance would also mean that these two would have a long-distance relationship and things may become complicated. He is so sure of their love that he is positive that they will survive what is to come. Does she have that same confidence? What does the future hold for this couple? Will all the changes that are happening and are to come put an end to their relationship? I have read many stories by this author and have never been disappointed by any of them. This book just continues my love for the way she writes and the characters that she creates. There are a couple of other characters introduced in this story that I loved reading about. They are the friends and roommates of this couple and offer their opinion of situations that occur. This is a story well worth the time reading. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. This book does include some very steamy love scenes and I would recommend for those 18 years of age or older.
By: Jerica MacMillan
5 out of 5 stars
The story Double Exposition (Songs and Sonatas Book 1) by Jerica MacMillan is a coming of age/romance book. It is a wonderful story about two people who both have a love of music and a fast-growing attraction to each other. It is a story that hooked me in from the very beginning and I didn’t want to put down until the final page. It is a story that has some very steamy love scenes that will make you reach for a large glass of ice water. This is an author who creates characters that not only are amazing, you feel the emotions that they are going through. You feel when they are in pain or trying to make a hard decision as well as when they are happy. This book had my emotions going up and down all the time and always wanting this couple to find happiness together. While their relationship starts out as friends these two soon find the chemistry between them is strong and they find themselves in a physical one. They push forward with their relationship even with him getting ready to graduate and her just starting school. Then there comes a time when he is given a second chance to have the fame that he once did. Will he take it? This chance would also mean that these two would have a long-distance relationship and things may become complicated. He is so sure of their love that he is positive that they will survive what is to come. Does she have that same confidence? What does the future hold for this couple? Will all the changes that are happening and are to come put an end to their relationship? I have read many stories by this author and have never been disappointed by any of them. This book just continues my love for the way she writes and the characters that she creates. There are a couple of other characters introduced in this story that I loved reading about. They are the friends and roommates of this couple and offer their opinion of situations that occur. This is a story well worth the time reading. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. This book does include some very steamy love scenes and I would recommend for those 18 years of age or older.
November 7, 2017
I didn't realize this was a trilogy when I started reading the book until the end. I'm glad there will be more to read about Jonathan and Gabby but I didn't want to wait though!
This is a story about a former boy band guitarist who is now in his senior year of college who meets Gabby, a freshman violinist and falls for her. Jonathan and his brothers were an up and coming pop group over 5 years ago. They were unfortunately known as a one hit wonder when his younger brother, the singer of the group, started going through puberty and his voice started changing. Even though it has been years since Jonathan was part of the band, some people still recognize him and fangirl over him.
Gabby is a freshman violinist who is very passionate about music and pursuing her music career. When she first meets Jonathan, she didn't know that he was the teen pop star that she fantasized about when she was a teen and had a big crush on.
When Jonathan finds out that Gabby is only a freshman, he tries to stay away from her since he realizes that she just started her college career while he is finishing up his. However, he can't seem to stay away from her and when she helps him with a song that he was working on, he realizes how much they have in common. They start a relationship and fall for each other. However, when a new opportunity arises for Jonathan that will take him further away from Gabby and her life in college, Gabby can't handle the possible distance and breaks off the relationship.
However, Jonathan and Gabby can't survive without each other and work through their issues and continue their relationship. But as Jonathan's graduation arrives, Gabby is still worry about how Jonathan's new career will impact their relationship and how they can work through the various issues.
I can't wait for the next book in this series to find out what happens next for Jonathan and Gabby as Jonathan pursues his new career, will Gabby continue with her college pursuits, and what comes next for these 2 people and their love for each other.
This is a story about a former boy band guitarist who is now in his senior year of college who meets Gabby, a freshman violinist and falls for her. Jonathan and his brothers were an up and coming pop group over 5 years ago. They were unfortunately known as a one hit wonder when his younger brother, the singer of the group, started going through puberty and his voice started changing. Even though it has been years since Jonathan was part of the band, some people still recognize him and fangirl over him.
Gabby is a freshman violinist who is very passionate about music and pursuing her music career. When she first meets Jonathan, she didn't know that he was the teen pop star that she fantasized about when she was a teen and had a big crush on.
When Jonathan finds out that Gabby is only a freshman, he tries to stay away from her since he realizes that she just started her college career while he is finishing up his. However, he can't seem to stay away from her and when she helps him with a song that he was working on, he realizes how much they have in common. They start a relationship and fall for each other. However, when a new opportunity arises for Jonathan that will take him further away from Gabby and her life in college, Gabby can't handle the possible distance and breaks off the relationship.
However, Jonathan and Gabby can't survive without each other and work through their issues and continue their relationship. But as Jonathan's graduation arrives, Gabby is still worry about how Jonathan's new career will impact their relationship and how they can work through the various issues.
I can't wait for the next book in this series to find out what happens next for Jonathan and Gabby as Jonathan pursues his new career, will Gabby continue with her college pursuits, and what comes next for these 2 people and their love for each other.
November 26, 2017
Double Exposition is the first novel in the Songs and Sonata series by Jerica MacMillan. This is my first novel by this author.
Jonathan goes to a off campus coffee shop to study for his 90 minute break but all the tables are taken. He sees a girl at a table all along who has papers and book spread out and asks if she minds if he sits there. He finds out her name is Gabby. The two talk about music as she is violinist and he was once a guitarist.
When two of Gabby friends come to walk to the next class, they say that Jonathan is from boy band that Gabby use to like when she was twelve. Which explains why Gabby felt like she knew him, she had his poster on her wall years ago.
“My love affair with Brash started when I was twelve. They were my favorite band for longer than they were really around. I got their CD for my birthday and played it so much it started skipping. My brother, Lance, took pity on me and bought me the album on iTunes and gave me his old iPod so I could still listen to them as much as I wanted.”
Although Jonathan likes Gabby, he tries to stay away from her because he is senior who will be graduating in a few months while she is a freshman and worries about getting too attached. But the more time they spend together, the more their attraction grows.
Words can not describe how much I enjoyed this book. I wish I knew it was part of a series when I started cause I was not expecting the cliffhanger.
I love Jonathan. He was a good boyfriend even though he did make mistakes at times. He was able to learn from it. Same thing with Gabby. I enjoyed the progression of their relationship as well as how they grew as individuals. This is a college romance but it felt real to me.
I need to know what else this couple will go through. I need to continue reading their journey.
While I haven't read the author's other series, Players of Marycliff University, this is set in the same place and features characters from that series.
The next book needs to hurry up and be released.
Jonathan goes to a off campus coffee shop to study for his 90 minute break but all the tables are taken. He sees a girl at a table all along who has papers and book spread out and asks if she minds if he sits there. He finds out her name is Gabby. The two talk about music as she is violinist and he was once a guitarist.
When two of Gabby friends come to walk to the next class, they say that Jonathan is from boy band that Gabby use to like when she was twelve. Which explains why Gabby felt like she knew him, she had his poster on her wall years ago.
“My love affair with Brash started when I was twelve. They were my favorite band for longer than they were really around. I got their CD for my birthday and played it so much it started skipping. My brother, Lance, took pity on me and bought me the album on iTunes and gave me his old iPod so I could still listen to them as much as I wanted.”
Although Jonathan likes Gabby, he tries to stay away from her because he is senior who will be graduating in a few months while she is a freshman and worries about getting too attached. But the more time they spend together, the more their attraction grows.
Words can not describe how much I enjoyed this book. I wish I knew it was part of a series when I started cause I was not expecting the cliffhanger.
I love Jonathan. He was a good boyfriend even though he did make mistakes at times. He was able to learn from it. Same thing with Gabby. I enjoyed the progression of their relationship as well as how they grew as individuals. This is a college romance but it felt real to me.
I need to know what else this couple will go through. I need to continue reading their journey.
While I haven't read the author's other series, Players of Marycliff University, this is set in the same place and features characters from that series.
The next book needs to hurry up and be released.
February 1, 2018
I've been reading and writing boyband fan fiction since I was twelve (without really realising it until I was a lot older and was doing it constantly). And my first real music love was Hanson, who have stayed that way for twenty one years. So reading this, I was thrown back to being a ten year old and knowing exactly how Gabby felt when she discovered who Jonathan was.
In saying that, I read this story because of the whole former boyband star and because I have a few Jerica MacMillan books in my TBR, as well as having the opportunity to sign up for a free copy of the book for NABC for a review.
While I loved the premise of this story and also enjoyed Gabby and Jonathan, somewhere the story fell flat. While reading, I kept waiting for some huge revelation to come out, something to really amp up the story, but while I waited, nothing happened except that Gabby decided that she would rather break up with Jonathan before they got even more attached, just because he was going to sign a deal and move back to LA, which was the whole point of Jonathan not pursuing her in the beginning of the story.
Eventually of course, they get back together and it's a HFN ending, but I could leave it there and not pick up the rest of the series and not be intrigued and curious as to what happened to these characters. I love my HEA, I mean who doesn't, so I guess that's why I feel like it's finished even though it's not. I don't know.
I did enjoy the story and it was well written and the sexy times were hot. Gabby and Jonathan are well written and Lauren is a great sidekick. I guess I just wish there was more...punch. Gabby just sort of seemed to take everything in her stride and didn't seem to care that this was happening to Jonathan, who didn't want it. UGH. IDK I'm so frustrated because I liked this book, but didn't in the same way. Which is why I gave it 4 stars because I did enjoy it.
In saying that, I read this story because of the whole former boyband star and because I have a few Jerica MacMillan books in my TBR, as well as having the opportunity to sign up for a free copy of the book for NABC for a review.
While I loved the premise of this story and also enjoyed Gabby and Jonathan, somewhere the story fell flat. While reading, I kept waiting for some huge revelation to come out, something to really amp up the story, but while I waited, nothing happened except that Gabby decided that she would rather break up with Jonathan before they got even more attached, just because he was going to sign a deal and move back to LA, which was the whole point of Jonathan not pursuing her in the beginning of the story.
Eventually of course, they get back together and it's a HFN ending, but I could leave it there and not pick up the rest of the series and not be intrigued and curious as to what happened to these characters. I love my HEA, I mean who doesn't, so I guess that's why I feel like it's finished even though it's not. I don't know.
I did enjoy the story and it was well written and the sexy times were hot. Gabby and Jonathan are well written and Lauren is a great sidekick. I guess I just wish there was more...punch. Gabby just sort of seemed to take everything in her stride and didn't seem to care that this was happening to Jonathan, who didn't want it. UGH. IDK I'm so frustrated because I liked this book, but didn't in the same way. Which is why I gave it 4 stars because I did enjoy it.
November 20, 2017
5 Star
Double Exposition (Songs and Sonatas Book 1) By Jerica MacMillan
Double Exposition ( Songs and Sonatas Book 1 ) by Jerica MacMillan is the first in her Songs and Sonatas series.I freaking love a romance book about a rock star.Jerica nailed it with book.Holy Cow I loved it. I've read other series by this author and this us definitely different than her last series which was a sports romance. I was sucked in from the beginning and was anxious to get to the end to see what happens. We definitely get taken on a journey through the music world of second chances. These characters had my emotions all over the place, I was angry one minute and my heart was breaking the next minute.These two have music in common and there's even a little attraction going on. Get ready for a roller-coaster ride while getting to know Gabby and Jonathan. Gabby is a music major at Marycliff University. Jonathan is a senior and a former boy band star,who could get a second chance in music. These two meet in a chance meeting in the school cafe one day.These have major attraction and their chemistry is off the charts. .What happens when Gabby finds out Jonathan is her boy band crush growing up? All Jonathan wants is to move forward from his past.They start spending more and more time together and their feelings for each other start to grow. Jonathan can't seem to get her put of his head but it might not be all so bad when he starts to create new music Then boom in a blink of an eye things get turned upside-down. Can these two survive the life struggles being thrown at them?Can these two get past this little bump or will they realize that not being together is what's best.?Can these two have their HEA?You must read to find out.I highly recommend this book and I can't wait to read more from this author.
Double Exposition (Songs and Sonatas Book 1) By Jerica MacMillan
Double Exposition ( Songs and Sonatas Book 1 ) by Jerica MacMillan is the first in her Songs and Sonatas series.I freaking love a romance book about a rock star.Jerica nailed it with book.Holy Cow I loved it. I've read other series by this author and this us definitely different than her last series which was a sports romance. I was sucked in from the beginning and was anxious to get to the end to see what happens. We definitely get taken on a journey through the music world of second chances. These characters had my emotions all over the place, I was angry one minute and my heart was breaking the next minute.These two have music in common and there's even a little attraction going on. Get ready for a roller-coaster ride while getting to know Gabby and Jonathan. Gabby is a music major at Marycliff University. Jonathan is a senior and a former boy band star,who could get a second chance in music. These two meet in a chance meeting in the school cafe one day.These have major attraction and their chemistry is off the charts. .What happens when Gabby finds out Jonathan is her boy band crush growing up? All Jonathan wants is to move forward from his past.They start spending more and more time together and their feelings for each other start to grow. Jonathan can't seem to get her put of his head but it might not be all so bad when he starts to create new music Then boom in a blink of an eye things get turned upside-down. Can these two survive the life struggles being thrown at them?Can these two get past this little bump or will they realize that not being together is what's best.?Can these two have their HEA?You must read to find out.I highly recommend this book and I can't wait to read more from this author.
November 29, 2017
“I thought you hated the fame thing?”
This is the first in a new series by Jerica MacMillan but does have some of the same scenes that are in her other series The Players of Marycliff University. It takes place at the same university only this time instead of the hunky football alpha males, we get to follow the sweet melodies of the music world. At least the worlds of Gabby and Jonathan. Gabby is in her first year of college studying to become a violin performer. She is determined to master her art and her one true love of music. Things seem pretty simple till she starts to fall for the boy that she used to lust over in poster form in high school. Especially when she doesn’t realize at first who she is falling for. Jonathan is just looking to finish his last year of college and try to find a place in the world after his boy band fame has died down. He is ready to move forward with his plan b, never fully intending to perform publicly again. Their shared love for music is what draws them together but will it also be what tears them apart?
“In a concerto, the melody is usually introduced by the orchestra first, and then taken up by the soloist. This is known as a double exposition.”
I thought this was a unique twist on the college love, coming of age, romance type novel that you usually see. I enjoy music as much as I do reading and find that the two go hand in hand for me so when I first started reading this I was hooked by the educational factor of it as well as the entertainment factor of the literature. It was really neat to see the music through the eyes of both Gabby and Jonathan. It did end in a cliffhanger for those who like the warning but, I felt like that was somewhat hinted at in the very beginning. I can’t wait to see what is to come next for these two and where the music will take them. I am sure it will all ‘fall into place’.
This is the first in a new series by Jerica MacMillan but does have some of the same scenes that are in her other series The Players of Marycliff University. It takes place at the same university only this time instead of the hunky football alpha males, we get to follow the sweet melodies of the music world. At least the worlds of Gabby and Jonathan. Gabby is in her first year of college studying to become a violin performer. She is determined to master her art and her one true love of music. Things seem pretty simple till she starts to fall for the boy that she used to lust over in poster form in high school. Especially when she doesn’t realize at first who she is falling for. Jonathan is just looking to finish his last year of college and try to find a place in the world after his boy band fame has died down. He is ready to move forward with his plan b, never fully intending to perform publicly again. Their shared love for music is what draws them together but will it also be what tears them apart?
“In a concerto, the melody is usually introduced by the orchestra first, and then taken up by the soloist. This is known as a double exposition.”
I thought this was a unique twist on the college love, coming of age, romance type novel that you usually see. I enjoy music as much as I do reading and find that the two go hand in hand for me so when I first started reading this I was hooked by the educational factor of it as well as the entertainment factor of the literature. It was really neat to see the music through the eyes of both Gabby and Jonathan. It did end in a cliffhanger for those who like the warning but, I felt like that was somewhat hinted at in the very beginning. I can’t wait to see what is to come next for these two and where the music will take them. I am sure it will all ‘fall into place’.
November 17, 2017
Double Exposition is the first in Jerica MacMillan’s Songs and Sonatas series. I was drawn to it as I studied music at university and liked the idea of a romance featuring a music student. It was fantastic. Reading about Gabby’s experiences in her first year brought back so many memories for me. In particular, her struggles with aural skills are painfully relatable! For me the setting was so vivid and familiar that it drew me right into the story.
Jonathan seems to be an almost cliché former boyband member struggling with writer’s block and difficulties coping with residual fame. But the alternating perspectives in the story, which is told in first person switching between Jonathan and Gabby, gives his character a little more depth and complexity.
The intimacy is well written and adds to the portrayal of a predominantly healthy relationship, although occasional communication difficulties lead to some misunderstandings. Music allows the characters to collaborate which adds a fun dimension to the relationship, with Jonathan’s creativity and Gabby’s technical knowledge complimenting each other in the composition process. Having Gabby teaching Jonathan a bit of music theory helps to balance the power in the relationship, especially with him already having had a successful performance career.
For me, this book gets five out of five stars and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series! I loved the detail and accuracy in the depiction of the life of a music student, and would recommend this to any music students who want a really relatable setting. It would also be perfect for anyone who pined after boyband stars in their teens, and I imagine for any former boyband stars struggling with writer’s block.
Jonathan seems to be an almost cliché former boyband member struggling with writer’s block and difficulties coping with residual fame. But the alternating perspectives in the story, which is told in first person switching between Jonathan and Gabby, gives his character a little more depth and complexity.
The intimacy is well written and adds to the portrayal of a predominantly healthy relationship, although occasional communication difficulties lead to some misunderstandings. Music allows the characters to collaborate which adds a fun dimension to the relationship, with Jonathan’s creativity and Gabby’s technical knowledge complimenting each other in the composition process. Having Gabby teaching Jonathan a bit of music theory helps to balance the power in the relationship, especially with him already having had a successful performance career.
For me, this book gets five out of five stars and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series! I loved the detail and accuracy in the depiction of the life of a music student, and would recommend this to any music students who want a really relatable setting. It would also be perfect for anyone who pined after boyband stars in their teens, and I imagine for any former boyband stars struggling with writer’s block.
November 7, 2017
Getting coffee at the campus coffee shop, Jonathan turns around and sees there are no tables available for him to sit down and study during the 90 minute hole in his schedule. Then he spots a girl alone at a table, papers all over the tabletop. All he needs is a small spot to sit and study in companionable silence. So he walks over to ask if he can join her.
Gabby told him she was a music major, which peaked his interest right away. Jonathan played guitar in a once popular boy-band but he didn’t randomly share that information with everyone, choosing instead to be just a regular guy. Gabby told him she was into classical music as a violinist. He kept her talking because he enjoyed getting to know her better and he loved music. But then her friends stopped by to walk with her to class and spotted Jonathan. They knew who he was and Gabby suddenly realized why she kept feeling like she knew him! His poster had been plastered on her bedroom wall!
The two of them eventually begin a relationship. There is good chemistry between them and everything is moving along when an opportunity for Jonathan to get a second chance at musical fame comes along. Will he grab on to that chance – even if Gabby and he will have to deal with a long-distance relationship? Will he risk everything?
This was a really good book that I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters were wonderful together. The story line felt real and moved at a perfect pace. I look forward to the rest of the books in this series. This was an emotional but worthwhile reading experience!
Gabby told him she was a music major, which peaked his interest right away. Jonathan played guitar in a once popular boy-band but he didn’t randomly share that information with everyone, choosing instead to be just a regular guy. Gabby told him she was into classical music as a violinist. He kept her talking because he enjoyed getting to know her better and he loved music. But then her friends stopped by to walk with her to class and spotted Jonathan. They knew who he was and Gabby suddenly realized why she kept feeling like she knew him! His poster had been plastered on her bedroom wall!
The two of them eventually begin a relationship. There is good chemistry between them and everything is moving along when an opportunity for Jonathan to get a second chance at musical fame comes along. Will he grab on to that chance – even if Gabby and he will have to deal with a long-distance relationship? Will he risk everything?
This was a really good book that I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters were wonderful together. The story line felt real and moved at a perfect pace. I look forward to the rest of the books in this series. This was an emotional but worthwhile reading experience!
November 28, 2017
Double Exposition is the first book in the Songs and Sonatas series by Jerica MacMillan. I’m familiar with the Players of Marycliff University series by this author so I was eager to start this series. I was not disappointed. Because music is the focus of this story made it even more appealing to me.
Gabby and Jonathan have a common love of music and form a bond because of it. They are drawn to each other despite their age difference and other obstacles that stand to get in the way of their budding relationship. Both of them have some legitimate reservations and there are a lot of things that could stifle their relationship in this coming of age story. The characters are well written and I really liked the sense of humor that Gabby’s character possesses. The story is told from an alternating point of view which is helpful to get a good understanding of where each one is coming from.
The story is emotional and humorous with relatable characters. Gabby and Jonathan have a steamy, passionate relationship. Both of the main characters were both endearing and romantic but could turn on the sizzle. We are also introduced to supporting characters who are equalling amusing. I’m looking forward to reading more about them in upcoming books in the series. All in all I thought Double Exposition was a perfect start to the Songs and Sonatas series. While it didn’t end on a cliffhanger, the open ending leaves me very curious and filled with anticipation for the next book in the series. I loved this book and I highly recommend it.
Gabby and Jonathan have a common love of music and form a bond because of it. They are drawn to each other despite their age difference and other obstacles that stand to get in the way of their budding relationship. Both of them have some legitimate reservations and there are a lot of things that could stifle their relationship in this coming of age story. The characters are well written and I really liked the sense of humor that Gabby’s character possesses. The story is told from an alternating point of view which is helpful to get a good understanding of where each one is coming from.
The story is emotional and humorous with relatable characters. Gabby and Jonathan have a steamy, passionate relationship. Both of the main characters were both endearing and romantic but could turn on the sizzle. We are also introduced to supporting characters who are equalling amusing. I’m looking forward to reading more about them in upcoming books in the series. All in all I thought Double Exposition was a perfect start to the Songs and Sonatas series. While it didn’t end on a cliffhanger, the open ending leaves me very curious and filled with anticipation for the next book in the series. I loved this book and I highly recommend it.
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