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The Keswick Chronicles #1
Fake It: The Keswick Chronicles Book 1
Jack Daveyson grew up with a guitar in his hands and his head full of melodies. Ten years after writing his first riff, he knows exactly what he wants to do with his life - graduate high school, escape Wayville and hit the road with his band, Forever Fading Echoes.
But it's a bit hard to launch a band without a singer. Enter JJ Keswick.
JJ is everything Jack isn't: rich, confident and popular. He also happens to be one of the best singers Jack has ever heard.
Jack reluctantly lets JJ into his band and into his life. The spark between them in the practice studio grows into something neither of them were expecting - a love that threatens to tear their lives apart.
Pack your guitar, pull on your band tee shirt and turn up the volume - it's time to meet your new favorite band.
But it's a bit hard to launch a band without a singer. Enter JJ Keswick.
JJ is everything Jack isn't: rich, confident and popular. He also happens to be one of the best singers Jack has ever heard.
Jack reluctantly lets JJ into his band and into his life. The spark between them in the practice studio grows into something neither of them were expecting - a love that threatens to tear their lives apart.
Pack your guitar, pull on your band tee shirt and turn up the volume - it's time to meet your new favorite band.
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 23, 2016
17 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Kinnaird
23 books100 followersVictoria Kinnaird is the pen name of Scottish writer Vicki Scott. She lives in Glasgow with her family and her three dogs. She graduated from the University of Strathclyde in 2009 with a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Journalism, Creative Writing and English Lit. Victoria has been writing since she was 15 years old. She loves rock music, and most of her tattoos are related to bands that she loves!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 3, 2022
Gah, I loved this. Slow burn at its finest.
I went into it not actually fully reading the summary and you should maybe do the same but if you love music and you love two boys slowly finding their way to each other through shared love of music, this is for you. Authors way with description is pretty with some edge. See highlights.
Steam content: kissing
Some of the bands referenced for my fellow music nerds:
Fall Out Boy
The Used
My Chemical Romance
Dashboard Confessional
AFI
Nirvana
Taking Back Sunday
I went into it not actually fully reading the summary and you should maybe do the same but if you love music and you love two boys slowly finding their way to each other through shared love of music, this is for you. Authors way with description is pretty with some edge. See highlights.
Steam content: kissing
Some of the bands referenced for my fellow music nerds:
Fall Out Boy
The Used
My Chemical Romance
Dashboard Confessional
AFI
Nirvana
Taking Back Sunday
February 1, 2020
Jack lusted over JJ for years. JJ recognizes the looks and waits his time.
When Jack, Dylan, Ash, and Jessica start a band the only thing is missing is a lead singer.
There is where JJ steps in. With a beautiful voice, he conquered Jack all over again.
Both quite lonely boys, no mother, fathers on the road they are drawn to each other.
Opposite they are, JJ is rich and confident, Jack not. There is more than just exterior.
“Rich enough to make sure they can completely lose touch with reality,”
The band is doing well, Jack gets mesmerized and obsessed by JJ more and more.
Everything going well, they love each other... until everything goes down.
Things have to go down before getting them up.
A story about young adults, growing up, making music, fall in love, fail and retry.
It isn’t a through and through romance, yet, while at times it’s quite romantic. It’s about friendship, losing friends, lovers, family. Be abandoned by others, finding the best people to be around. And a spark of... compassion and deeper feelings.
The story is told from a few different perspectives. For me, this didn’t work all the time and I found it even a bit confusing. But hack, overall it was an awesomely enjoyable story.
When Jack, Dylan, Ash, and Jessica start a band the only thing is missing is a lead singer.
There is where JJ steps in. With a beautiful voice, he conquered Jack all over again.
Both quite lonely boys, no mother, fathers on the road they are drawn to each other.
Opposite they are, JJ is rich and confident, Jack not. There is more than just exterior.
“Rich enough to make sure they can completely lose touch with reality,”
The band is doing well, Jack gets mesmerized and obsessed by JJ more and more.
Everything going well, they love each other... until everything goes down.
Things have to go down before getting them up.
A story about young adults, growing up, making music, fall in love, fail and retry.
It isn’t a through and through romance, yet, while at times it’s quite romantic. It’s about friendship, losing friends, lovers, family. Be abandoned by others, finding the best people to be around. And a spark of... compassion and deeper feelings.
The story is told from a few different perspectives. For me, this didn’t work all the time and I found it even a bit confusing. But hack, overall it was an awesomely enjoyable story.
November 24, 2016
A sweet, smooth-reading, slow-burn YA romance between Jack, a guitar-playing, gay, high-school senior, and JJ, the rich boy everyone wants to know, behind his shiny life, dented past, and mirror shades.
Jack, the first-person narrator, is a young man on the verge of life. His mom died several years earlier, and his loving dad is away a lot, managing bands on tour. His aunt is his adult support, and together they run the music store that was his mom's before she died. Jack has a few good friends, with whom he's had an on-and-off band going. He writes songs, but never shares them. He misses his mother, but keeps his problems buttoned down so his dad won't feel guilty or held back. He's sometimes harassed at school, but not badly bullied. Still, college on the horizon is looking like more of the same daily drag. When he and his friends decide to reactivate the band and see if they can make it go somewhere, his true love of music reminds him what counts in life.
And then JJ Keswick - top of the school glitterati, athlete, bad boy, drinker - walks into their audition for a new lead singer, and blows them away. But how can a guy with JJ's careless money and lack of stability fit into a band scrabbling to get a first break? How will he get along with their tight-knit group? And why does he want to?
JJ is in some ways a contrast to Jack, an opposites-attract. In other ways, they both wear a mask of doing fine, when underneath there is some definite not-fine. Both guys have layers and flaws, and it was fun to watch them learn about each other.
There are occasional snippets of other POVs than Jack's, something I often dislike, but in this case they were short little bursts of flavor, and the story moved well. A few things got just a bit short-changed, most notably JJ's drinking. It's pretty clear he's an alcoholic, but although the booze occasionally hampers things, the serious issues are let slide. Perhaps they will see more play in a sequel. I also thought that the ending chose to sidestep or minimize some emotional moments I'd have liked to have seen on page. The result was less gritty and less emotional in feel than I'd hoped for, given the real qualities of the two boys.
Still a fun ride, and a recommended YA coming of age story.
Jack, the first-person narrator, is a young man on the verge of life. His mom died several years earlier, and his loving dad is away a lot, managing bands on tour. His aunt is his adult support, and together they run the music store that was his mom's before she died. Jack has a few good friends, with whom he's had an on-and-off band going. He writes songs, but never shares them. He misses his mother, but keeps his problems buttoned down so his dad won't feel guilty or held back. He's sometimes harassed at school, but not badly bullied. Still, college on the horizon is looking like more of the same daily drag. When he and his friends decide to reactivate the band and see if they can make it go somewhere, his true love of music reminds him what counts in life.
And then JJ Keswick - top of the school glitterati, athlete, bad boy, drinker - walks into their audition for a new lead singer, and blows them away. But how can a guy with JJ's careless money and lack of stability fit into a band scrabbling to get a first break? How will he get along with their tight-knit group? And why does he want to?
JJ is in some ways a contrast to Jack, an opposites-attract. In other ways, they both wear a mask of doing fine, when underneath there is some definite not-fine. Both guys have layers and flaws, and it was fun to watch them learn about each other.
There are occasional snippets of other POVs than Jack's, something I often dislike, but in this case they were short little bursts of flavor, and the story moved well. A few things got just a bit short-changed, most notably JJ's drinking. It's pretty clear he's an alcoholic, but although the booze occasionally hampers things, the serious issues are let slide. Perhaps they will see more play in a sequel. I also thought that the ending chose to sidestep or minimize some emotional moments I'd have liked to have seen on page. The result was less gritty and less emotional in feel than I'd hoped for, given the real qualities of the two boys.
Still a fun ride, and a recommended YA coming of age story.
November 13, 2016
2016 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Fake It by Victoria Kinnaird
Fake it was an interesting surprise for me. The author manages to take some character types that are almost cliché – the gay kid that gets bullied, the rich and popular jock that’s secretly sensitive and talented, the silent, huge kid in the background, and the female best friends – and turn them into something fresh and engaging. The main characters and those around them have clear arcs and you can see them all grow, adapt, change as the story goes. They stumble, fall, start again. Jack and JJ’s love story develops slowly and keeps building up until they reach a point of no return. What I loved most about this was that the story managed to avoid the “my life is over, nothing interest me” trope when, inevitably, they hit a road block. Nor does this new found love completely changes either of them. It helps them grow and discover themselves, but they are not completely different people overnight. Beyond that, Fake it is an inspiring story about small town kids working their asses off to make it bg. It explores their relationships with themselves, their friends, their more or less absent parental figures, and the environment around them. It’s not overly optimistic, and it’s not dark either. It’s a feel good story with enough substance to make it worthwhile.
Fake it was an interesting surprise for me. The author manages to take some character types that are almost cliché – the gay kid that gets bullied, the rich and popular jock that’s secretly sensitive and talented, the silent, huge kid in the background, and the female best friends – and turn them into something fresh and engaging. The main characters and those around them have clear arcs and you can see them all grow, adapt, change as the story goes. They stumble, fall, start again. Jack and JJ’s love story develops slowly and keeps building up until they reach a point of no return. What I loved most about this was that the story managed to avoid the “my life is over, nothing interest me” trope when, inevitably, they hit a road block. Nor does this new found love completely changes either of them. It helps them grow and discover themselves, but they are not completely different people overnight. Beyond that, Fake it is an inspiring story about small town kids working their asses off to make it bg. It explores their relationships with themselves, their friends, their more or less absent parental figures, and the environment around them. It’s not overly optimistic, and it’s not dark either. It’s a feel good story with enough substance to make it worthwhile.
January 26, 2016
Sometimes we grow up faster than the rest of the world is ready for. In Jack & JJ’s case that’s what happened to them.
Everyone loves JJ. Everyone wants to be with JJ. He’s that guy when you were in high school that you hoped everyday would just notice you once. You hoped he would finally see you and then, like lightening, would be struck with an epiphany that you were made for him. Yeah, so everyone wished that of JJ.
Jack is a creative, lanky, musical genius with the greatest friends in the whole world. He too loves JJ, but Jack falls in love with the other JJ… to understand what I mean you have to read the book.
This is more than a high school romance. It’s about building a future, deciding who’s going to be a part of it, and owning that. It’s realizing that sometimes we need to walk away from the comfort, and brave the brash world. The unknown is terrifying, but sometimes when your hand is clutching someone you love, it’s not as crippling. Sometimes, it gives you wings and you get to fly over all the broken parts.
This is a gorgeous tale. I love how it made me feel when it ended. I love how I know I’ll never forget it.
Everyone loves JJ. Everyone wants to be with JJ. He’s that guy when you were in high school that you hoped everyday would just notice you once. You hoped he would finally see you and then, like lightening, would be struck with an epiphany that you were made for him. Yeah, so everyone wished that of JJ.
Jack is a creative, lanky, musical genius with the greatest friends in the whole world. He too loves JJ, but Jack falls in love with the other JJ… to understand what I mean you have to read the book.
This is more than a high school romance. It’s about building a future, deciding who’s going to be a part of it, and owning that. It’s realizing that sometimes we need to walk away from the comfort, and brave the brash world. The unknown is terrifying, but sometimes when your hand is clutching someone you love, it’s not as crippling. Sometimes, it gives you wings and you get to fly over all the broken parts.
This is a gorgeous tale. I love how it made me feel when it ended. I love how I know I’ll never forget it.
July 27, 2022
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy of Fake It. I've been dying to read it ever since I finished The Red Sun Rises trilogy and heard this was Victoria's next book. I love her character's so much and JJ, Jack and the rest of the gang are no exception. Though Fake It is completely different to Victoria's last series, I loved it just as much.
I felt such a kinship with JJ. Sometimes someone who looks and acts like they're having the time of their life, don't really feel that way on the inside and only wear a mask to make other people feel better. He's such a flawed person, but I think he's someone most of us can relate to in some way. I can't wait to read more of JJ & Jack's journey and see the band progress.
June 7, 2017
I gotta start out by simply saying I LOVED this book. The characters are so well defined, drawn so clearly, and so likable. The characters really draw you in to the senior year high school challenges faced by Jack, who dreams of being a musician and of having a boyfriend. In comes JJ Keswick, who is a deliciously irresistible character. Flawless looks, popular, star jock, wealthy beyond imagination, but with challenges of his own. The ending of this book is great, and it sets up book two, Take It, very nicely. Fake It is billed as book one in the Keswick Chronicles. Book two comes out summer 2017. And I can hardly wait.
January 31, 2021
Rock songs head each chapter in this well-praised novel about the last days of high school for five "Kids Who Aren't Alright".
With predictable arcs, the plot is a road oft taken. But there's a playlist to foreshadow the angst and the rush of young love and big dreams. And in the driver's seat of Fake It are the characters . . . especially the band's frontmen, the shorter, experienced J.J. and the taller, virginal Jack.
The kids, it turns out, (with a little help from Fallout Boy & others), will be fine.
With predictable arcs, the plot is a road oft taken. But there's a playlist to foreshadow the angst and the rush of young love and big dreams. And in the driver's seat of Fake It are the characters . . . especially the band's frontmen, the shorter, experienced J.J. and the taller, virginal Jack.
The kids, it turns out, (with a little help from Fallout Boy & others), will be fine.
February 3, 2020
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
Fake It (The Keswick Chronicles, Book 1) by Victoria Kinnaird
★★★★★
189 Pages
POV: 3rd and 1st person POV
Content Warning: depression, teen drinking, loss of parents to cancer, loss of best friend in car crash
The Pitch Perfect emo kids never knew they needed.
“Everyone remembers the moment they fell in love with JJ Keswick.”
Me? Page one.
When did I fall in love with Jude?
“You know I'm in love with you, right?”
Fake It is a love letter to emo and indie rock. Each page bleeds 90s nostalgia, teen romance, and a love of all things rock that sits in your soul for years and decades to come.
~
I don't remember the last time a book told the story in both 1st and 3rd person, but it worked. The 1st person POV is for Jack, who is our central character, giving us about 90% of the storyline. Then we get snippets of JJ, Ash, Jess, and Daniel's POV's in 3rd person. While it seemed a strange decision, I'll admit it took me about a page of reading the new 3rd person to even notice. That's how seamlessly it worked. And it clearly defined the POV changes.
I'm a sucker for a bad boy with swagger and JJ didn't disappoint. From page one – the Prologue – we get to see multiple sides of JJ from 3rd person POV's. We see a litany of moments when various minor characters fell in love with him – the rich kid to be adored; the wounded boy grieving a best friend; the sports star; and the cocky teenager with a love of music and a wealth of secrets locked behind blue eyes. This is the moment when we see the multifaceted faces behind the label that is JJ Keswick. Because, as the story progresses, we discover that “JJ Keswick” isn't a person. It's a label. A stamp. An attitude. And a mask.
“I never fell in love with JJ Keswick. I fell in love with the boy behind the reputation.”
As the main character, I couldn't have loved Jack more. He reminded me of my best friend from high school – also a guitarist and lead singer of his own band – and everything about him made me nostalgic for those days. Laid back, humble, striving for that perfect sound, battling against dreams and expectations. Jack was the perfect frontman for this book.
Add in a host of secondary characters – Ash, the supermodel looks with a heart of steel, who reminded me of Taylor Momsen; Jess, the snarky bookworm with an academic brain and a biting tongue; and Dylan, the I-don't-speak all-round musician who had just as much personality through saying nothing as anyone else did with a page of dialogue – and you have a winning cast. Aunt Rose was a peach, and hilarious at times. Dad, Daniel, was absent but present at the right times, tough but fair, and knew when to be a parent and when to be the best friend and manager, just in the nick of time.
“You're dripping sarcasm everywhere,” I replied as I fiddled with the padlock on my locker door. “They really should put up a caution sign, someone's going to slip.”
The concept of song titles slipped anonymously into Jack's locker completely stole my heart. I'm a sucker for anonymous notes. And that moment Jack discovered who had sent them...perfect!
For me, the best part about the book has to be the growth. There are so many ways that the characters, and the plot, grow throughout the book and the events that take place. Jack gaining confidence to be himself, to be honest with his dad, to push his boundaries and go for his dreams. JJ learning that a mask can't protect him forever, and that all the alcohol in the world won't solve his problems. Together, their relationship blossoms from tentative strangers at school to band mates, to friends and then to something much more profound. All while Jack tries to help JJ deal with his personal demons and fight for a future he craves with every fibre of his soul.
This is a definite slow burn. The relationship doesn't begin in earnest until after 60%, but everything that comes before that is beautiful and meaningful, and it has purpose. Unlike some books that rush towards the relationship, this one takes its time, lets you get to know Jack and JJ individually, then as friends and finally as an item. And it's not all smooth sailing, but unlike a lot of MM romance books, when there is a miscommunication, they don't just pack up and walk away because of a simple misunderstanding. Despite being teenagers, Jack and JJ are mature enough to stop, listen, talk it out, and say “Look, I know you made a mistake. I know you didn't mean it to end like this, but we have some problems and we need to figure out where we're going from here.” No, they don't act perfectly. No, it's not all blown over in a split second. But these are teenagers with big dreams and even bigger hearts, and baggage from years of abandonment and loneliness. It was never going to be easy. But they don't throw a tantrum about it and swear never to see each other again, either. Because they're smarter than that, and what binds them together is more than just teen angst.
Fake It is a journey through 90s alternative music, where Jack shows us how the facade of JJ Keswick slowly fades and morphs from the public image of a rich, drunken frat boy to the reality of a scared, lonely kid who just wants to be loved. All the pills, all the booze, and all the one-night-stands in the world can't solve JJ's problems...but maybe one doe-eyed guitarist with determination can.
I can't wait to listen to the soundtrack, buy the paperback, and read the rest of the series. This is one series that will stay with you.
~
Oh, and as if that wasn't enough, we were treated to a short Prequel story “The One and Only” where we got to see just a smidge more of JJ, Jack and Jess, that gave a bit more insight into their complex relationship, before the events of the novel.
~
Favourite Quotes
“I was warm all over, the roar of the small crowd still echoing in my ears, drowning out his knowing laugh.
He kissed me as if no one was watching, calloused fingers gripping my arms hard enough to make my head spin. I was breathless, speechless, couldn't care less, for just a split second. He tasted like the whiskey we'd downed in the back alley, the skin on his ribs slick with sweat when I reached for him. The small laugh he pressed to my mouth was wrecked. I had thought he'd sung his heart out on the stage, but I could feel it, hammering against my own.”
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
~
Fake It (The Keswick Chronicles, Book 1) by Victoria Kinnaird
★★★★★
189 Pages
POV: 3rd and 1st person POV
Content Warning: depression, teen drinking, loss of parents to cancer, loss of best friend in car crash
The Pitch Perfect emo kids never knew they needed.
“Everyone remembers the moment they fell in love with JJ Keswick.”
Me? Page one.
When did I fall in love with Jude?
“You know I'm in love with you, right?”
Fake It is a love letter to emo and indie rock. Each page bleeds 90s nostalgia, teen romance, and a love of all things rock that sits in your soul for years and decades to come.
~
I don't remember the last time a book told the story in both 1st and 3rd person, but it worked. The 1st person POV is for Jack, who is our central character, giving us about 90% of the storyline. Then we get snippets of JJ, Ash, Jess, and Daniel's POV's in 3rd person. While it seemed a strange decision, I'll admit it took me about a page of reading the new 3rd person to even notice. That's how seamlessly it worked. And it clearly defined the POV changes.
I'm a sucker for a bad boy with swagger and JJ didn't disappoint. From page one – the Prologue – we get to see multiple sides of JJ from 3rd person POV's. We see a litany of moments when various minor characters fell in love with him – the rich kid to be adored; the wounded boy grieving a best friend; the sports star; and the cocky teenager with a love of music and a wealth of secrets locked behind blue eyes. This is the moment when we see the multifaceted faces behind the label that is JJ Keswick. Because, as the story progresses, we discover that “JJ Keswick” isn't a person. It's a label. A stamp. An attitude. And a mask.
“I never fell in love with JJ Keswick. I fell in love with the boy behind the reputation.”
As the main character, I couldn't have loved Jack more. He reminded me of my best friend from high school – also a guitarist and lead singer of his own band – and everything about him made me nostalgic for those days. Laid back, humble, striving for that perfect sound, battling against dreams and expectations. Jack was the perfect frontman for this book.
Add in a host of secondary characters – Ash, the supermodel looks with a heart of steel, who reminded me of Taylor Momsen; Jess, the snarky bookworm with an academic brain and a biting tongue; and Dylan, the I-don't-speak all-round musician who had just as much personality through saying nothing as anyone else did with a page of dialogue – and you have a winning cast. Aunt Rose was a peach, and hilarious at times. Dad, Daniel, was absent but present at the right times, tough but fair, and knew when to be a parent and when to be the best friend and manager, just in the nick of time.
“You're dripping sarcasm everywhere,” I replied as I fiddled with the padlock on my locker door. “They really should put up a caution sign, someone's going to slip.”
The concept of song titles slipped anonymously into Jack's locker completely stole my heart. I'm a sucker for anonymous notes. And that moment Jack discovered who had sent them...perfect!
For me, the best part about the book has to be the growth. There are so many ways that the characters, and the plot, grow throughout the book and the events that take place. Jack gaining confidence to be himself, to be honest with his dad, to push his boundaries and go for his dreams. JJ learning that a mask can't protect him forever, and that all the alcohol in the world won't solve his problems. Together, their relationship blossoms from tentative strangers at school to band mates, to friends and then to something much more profound. All while Jack tries to help JJ deal with his personal demons and fight for a future he craves with every fibre of his soul.
This is a definite slow burn. The relationship doesn't begin in earnest until after 60%, but everything that comes before that is beautiful and meaningful, and it has purpose. Unlike some books that rush towards the relationship, this one takes its time, lets you get to know Jack and JJ individually, then as friends and finally as an item. And it's not all smooth sailing, but unlike a lot of MM romance books, when there is a miscommunication, they don't just pack up and walk away because of a simple misunderstanding. Despite being teenagers, Jack and JJ are mature enough to stop, listen, talk it out, and say “Look, I know you made a mistake. I know you didn't mean it to end like this, but we have some problems and we need to figure out where we're going from here.” No, they don't act perfectly. No, it's not all blown over in a split second. But these are teenagers with big dreams and even bigger hearts, and baggage from years of abandonment and loneliness. It was never going to be easy. But they don't throw a tantrum about it and swear never to see each other again, either. Because they're smarter than that, and what binds them together is more than just teen angst.
Fake It is a journey through 90s alternative music, where Jack shows us how the facade of JJ Keswick slowly fades and morphs from the public image of a rich, drunken frat boy to the reality of a scared, lonely kid who just wants to be loved. All the pills, all the booze, and all the one-night-stands in the world can't solve JJ's problems...but maybe one doe-eyed guitarist with determination can.
I can't wait to listen to the soundtrack, buy the paperback, and read the rest of the series. This is one series that will stay with you.
~
Oh, and as if that wasn't enough, we were treated to a short Prequel story “The One and Only” where we got to see just a smidge more of JJ, Jack and Jess, that gave a bit more insight into their complex relationship, before the events of the novel.
~
Favourite Quotes
“I was warm all over, the roar of the small crowd still echoing in my ears, drowning out his knowing laugh.
He kissed me as if no one was watching, calloused fingers gripping my arms hard enough to make my head spin. I was breathless, speechless, couldn't care less, for just a split second. He tasted like the whiskey we'd downed in the back alley, the skin on his ribs slick with sweat when I reached for him. The small laugh he pressed to my mouth was wrecked. I had thought he'd sung his heart out on the stage, but I could feel it, hammering against my own.”
December 13, 2017
I enjoyed this book. It is very well written and the story held my intention even knowing YA is not my regular genre. The characters were written with depth and believability that I felt a part of their world. The author also has great love and knowledge of rock n roll that you feel. If this is your genre it is definitely a must read. I will continue to read this series. Thank you for the copy of this book.
October 11, 2017
I really liked this book. It was such a good read. If I would have had the time I would have finished it the first 3 days of reading it. But with a one year old it took a little longer. I recommend this book to my sister to read as well. excited to see where it goes in book two! Can't wait!
April 2, 2017
A beautifully crafted coming of age novel that got me listening to the music alongside it. It is great to have a young adult novel dealing with lgbt issues without being to weighty. Looking forward to the next installment.
September 4, 2017
3.75 STARS.
Really nice story.
Really nice story.
January 23, 2016
Honestly, I'm struggling for words,and those that know me, know I'm always saying something, good or bad. This book is SO much more then I expected, and way more then we deserve. This book is a high five to anyone who's ever had a dream bigger then their home town, or stood outside and looked into parts of their life. This book is a prayer to those dreams, and those bands that gave you the courage to rise up and do something bigger with your life, dream a little louder, and shine just a bit brighter (even if you're wearing all black).
Ms. Kinnaird is a powerhouse. I first became enthralled in her style with "Red Sun Rises" a book that breaks all kinds of rules, but still ranks among your all time favorite books because of the heart and soul she poured into every single page. Fake It is no different, and I can't say it's better, because they are both such different and amazing pieces of fiction. There's blood, sweat, tears and a passion for music so strong that it grips you and pulls you along in this novel. You know this novel is raw and honest because the author has been there, she's lived it, and poured it all into her characters. She built them from the ground up, so real that they remind you of people you know. They could be people a town over from you, and when the book ends you missed them, just like you miss your best friend, or your favorite album. It's a masterpiece that will resonate with people for years to come because the base themes of love, acceptance, being alone, and being broken never go away.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Very few times is there a book that mentions one of my favorite songs, but to have a book with a playlist that lights your soul on fire, and a cast of characters so memorable you would think you were right there, standing on the sidelines and this story was your story, as well as everyone else's. This book is for everyone, because anyone can relate to something in this story, and to anyone who would avoid it for the romance between Jack & JJ, you're an idiot. There love to beautiful, and it's what we all dream of. They make this book shine bright, and they make it an instant favorite. I apologize for being so wordy, but I would hate for anyone to judge this book without reading it, missing what truly leaves you speechless at the end. Thank you Ms. Kinnaird, from someone who has been on the outside, who has cried when her favorite band broke up, and who has lived so much brighter for what music brings into your life. You captured it in this book, and I cannot wait to see what's next!
Ms. Kinnaird is a powerhouse. I first became enthralled in her style with "Red Sun Rises" a book that breaks all kinds of rules, but still ranks among your all time favorite books because of the heart and soul she poured into every single page. Fake It is no different, and I can't say it's better, because they are both such different and amazing pieces of fiction. There's blood, sweat, tears and a passion for music so strong that it grips you and pulls you along in this novel. You know this novel is raw and honest because the author has been there, she's lived it, and poured it all into her characters. She built them from the ground up, so real that they remind you of people you know. They could be people a town over from you, and when the book ends you missed them, just like you miss your best friend, or your favorite album. It's a masterpiece that will resonate with people for years to come because the base themes of love, acceptance, being alone, and being broken never go away.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Very few times is there a book that mentions one of my favorite songs, but to have a book with a playlist that lights your soul on fire, and a cast of characters so memorable you would think you were right there, standing on the sidelines and this story was your story, as well as everyone else's. This book is for everyone, because anyone can relate to something in this story, and to anyone who would avoid it for the romance between Jack & JJ, you're an idiot. There love to beautiful, and it's what we all dream of. They make this book shine bright, and they make it an instant favorite. I apologize for being so wordy, but I would hate for anyone to judge this book without reading it, missing what truly leaves you speechless at the end. Thank you Ms. Kinnaird, from someone who has been on the outside, who has cried when her favorite band broke up, and who has lived so much brighter for what music brings into your life. You captured it in this book, and I cannot wait to see what's next!
June 28, 2016
I loved this story! This is a YA novel featuring Jack, who is openly gay and a bit of a loner besides his couple of close friends and bandmates, and JJ who is the town's richest kid who is known for partying and sleeping around. Only there's a lot more to JJ than he wants people to think.
I really relate to Jack as a teen who was bullied and is happy when considered invisible, since that's better than the alternative. Then once I read this, I was like WOW that's accurate! <3
Music has an integral role in this book. If you like some of the music included, it'll add value to the story. If you don't, I don't think it really matters, I don't think it takes anything away from it. If you're not into music at all, I suppose that could make the story feel a little boring, I'm not sure... but I don't know if I can understand how someone can not care about music, so...
This is a really enjoyable and sweet story about looking beyond the exterior and getting to know who people really are, and I loved it. By the last half of the book I was totally hooked and yearning for my next opportunity to keep reading. I stayed up too late to finish it... oops! :)
I do mainly read adult m/m and LGBT fiction, but also enjoy YA. I did want to note that if you're an adult reader as well, this book is very G-rated. OK, maybe PG at the most. There's some smooching and that's about it. And the smooches aren't even described in detail. There are plenty of YA novels that have a LOT more sexuality in them than this book. Just a heads-up! I don't think that affects the book in anyway though, other than making it that much more accessible to kids, straight and otherwise. (Do I want there to be an adult version? Yes, Yes I do! I guess that's what imagination is for... or fanfiction. HAHA.)
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.**
I really relate to Jack as a teen who was bullied and is happy when considered invisible, since that's better than the alternative. Then once I read this, I was like WOW that's accurate! <3
"I moved some potatoes around on my plate, feeling awkward and a little bit ashamed. I tried not to judge people—I had been on the receiving end of other people’s misconceptions long enough to know it wasn’t a pleasant experience. I just couldn’t get my head around the fact that JJ Keswick had some sort of talent beyond looking good in ridiculous blazers and sleeping with girls."
-"Fake It" by Victoria Kininaird
Music has an integral role in this book. If you like some of the music included, it'll add value to the story. If you don't, I don't think it really matters, I don't think it takes anything away from it. If you're not into music at all, I suppose that could make the story feel a little boring, I'm not sure... but I don't know if I can understand how someone can not care about music, so...
This is a really enjoyable and sweet story about looking beyond the exterior and getting to know who people really are, and I loved it. By the last half of the book I was totally hooked and yearning for my next opportunity to keep reading. I stayed up too late to finish it... oops! :)
I do mainly read adult m/m and LGBT fiction, but also enjoy YA. I did want to note that if you're an adult reader as well, this book is very G-rated. OK, maybe PG at the most. There's some smooching and that's about it. And the smooches aren't even described in detail. There are plenty of YA novels that have a LOT more sexuality in them than this book. Just a heads-up! I don't think that affects the book in anyway though, other than making it that much more accessible to kids, straight and otherwise. (Do I want there to be an adult version? Yes, Yes I do! I guess that's what imagination is for... or fanfiction. HAHA.)
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.**
March 20, 2016
Read my full review on http://blackwords-whitepagesteenya.bl...
#WENEEDDIVERSITY
As everybody knows by now, my favorite genre is YA Paranormal, but from time to time, you can find me jumping out of my comfort zone and trying other genres.
I usually have the right words when reviewing each individual book, whether it be good or bad....But I just can't bring out the words I want to express. This is a different read compared to all the other books I have read so far this year. I was captivated from the first chapter and I loved how the author started the story off. It was intriguing and beautifully well written.
Jack.
What can I say....He is shy, quiet, keeps to himself, and his loyal to the friends he has. He is constantly picked on for being gay, but he has this incredible way of making music with his guitar. I found that I was drawn to this character right away. I could feel how he felt just flowing off the pages as I read his story. He is a phenomenal character and I loved him.
JJ.
Well, JJ is the popular, rich, parties, sleeps with every girl, and the all around bad boy. At first, I was made to hate this character, but as I kept reading on in the story, I found that he has some deep, dark secrets that I didn't see coming. He is also a great musician and I loved the relationship between Jack and JJ in the end. They really made an awesome couple.
To tie up my review, this story was by far my favorite M/M and the best LBGT story of 2016 that I have read as of yet. This book gets my five book approval and more. I give this author a standing ovation for hitting on such a difficult topic for teens and young adults.
The author provided me with a digital ARC copy of the book for review purposes only. No remuneration was exchanged.
#WENEEDDIVERSITY
As everybody knows by now, my favorite genre is YA Paranormal, but from time to time, you can find me jumping out of my comfort zone and trying other genres.
I usually have the right words when reviewing each individual book, whether it be good or bad....But I just can't bring out the words I want to express. This is a different read compared to all the other books I have read so far this year. I was captivated from the first chapter and I loved how the author started the story off. It was intriguing and beautifully well written.
Jack.
What can I say....He is shy, quiet, keeps to himself, and his loyal to the friends he has. He is constantly picked on for being gay, but he has this incredible way of making music with his guitar. I found that I was drawn to this character right away. I could feel how he felt just flowing off the pages as I read his story. He is a phenomenal character and I loved him.
JJ.
Well, JJ is the popular, rich, parties, sleeps with every girl, and the all around bad boy. At first, I was made to hate this character, but as I kept reading on in the story, I found that he has some deep, dark secrets that I didn't see coming. He is also a great musician and I loved the relationship between Jack and JJ in the end. They really made an awesome couple.
To tie up my review, this story was by far my favorite M/M and the best LBGT story of 2016 that I have read as of yet. This book gets my five book approval and more. I give this author a standing ovation for hitting on such a difficult topic for teens and young adults.
The author provided me with a digital ARC copy of the book for review purposes only. No remuneration was exchanged.
June 18, 2016
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Fake It was such a good book, I found the story of Jack and JJ engaging from the first words on the page and the story kept me right there the entire way. At face value it is a coming of age story, set in the boys’ senior year of high school. Jack is an outsider, hanging with a small group of friends, and counting the days until he graduates and can make a go at a career in music with his band. JJ is a stereotypical rich kid, drinking too much, not taking anything seriously. The two connect through music when JJ becomes the lead singer in Jack’s band and the relationship develops slowly, building trust, forming a true friendship and eventually a romance.
I can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed this book. I loved Jack and JJ together. The fact that they are gay leads to the little bit of angst and drama in the story but for the most part the two are just a couple if that makes sense, which is so refreshing. The secondary characters are wonderful, the band members, Jack’s father & aunt are all important to the story. I can’t wait for the next book to be released so I can see how the story continues!
Fake It was such a good book, I found the story of Jack and JJ engaging from the first words on the page and the story kept me right there the entire way. At face value it is a coming of age story, set in the boys’ senior year of high school. Jack is an outsider, hanging with a small group of friends, and counting the days until he graduates and can make a go at a career in music with his band. JJ is a stereotypical rich kid, drinking too much, not taking anything seriously. The two connect through music when JJ becomes the lead singer in Jack’s band and the relationship develops slowly, building trust, forming a true friendship and eventually a romance.
I can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed this book. I loved Jack and JJ together. The fact that they are gay leads to the little bit of angst and drama in the story but for the most part the two are just a couple if that makes sense, which is so refreshing. The secondary characters are wonderful, the band members, Jack’s father & aunt are all important to the story. I can’t wait for the next book to be released so I can see how the story continues!
January 23, 2016
This was my first LGBT YA book, and my second book ever by this author. I can honestly say that, despite YA romance not being a genre I typically read, this is one of my favorite books. From the different characters to the music referenced throughout the book, there was so much here to enjoy.
First of all, this has a wonderful plot, but it isn't the story I stuck around for, it was the characters. Jack and JJ especially are two truly disparate and lovable people. The secondary characters around them enhance the story, making you feel like you're a part of their group.
Fake It is a wonderful coming-of-age story, but it is more than that. It is a story about passion, drive, love, acceptance, and so much more. It is brimming with a myriad of emotions. You will laugh, cry, and definitely sigh.
Kinnaird doesn't make a big deal out of the fact that the main characters are gay: it just is. I really love that, because it shows a tolerance that you really only can find in this kind of music scene. Being LGBT myself, and a big part of the same music scene depicted in this story, I felt especially close with Jack and JJ.
All I can say is I want more!
First of all, this has a wonderful plot, but it isn't the story I stuck around for, it was the characters. Jack and JJ especially are two truly disparate and lovable people. The secondary characters around them enhance the story, making you feel like you're a part of their group.
Fake It is a wonderful coming-of-age story, but it is more than that. It is a story about passion, drive, love, acceptance, and so much more. It is brimming with a myriad of emotions. You will laugh, cry, and definitely sigh.
Kinnaird doesn't make a big deal out of the fact that the main characters are gay: it just is. I really love that, because it shows a tolerance that you really only can find in this kind of music scene. Being LGBT myself, and a big part of the same music scene depicted in this story, I felt especially close with Jack and JJ.
All I can say is I want more!
May 4, 2016
I knew when I was asked to review this book that I would love it, not only because of the blurb, but because of who the author is! I love Vicki Kinnaird's work and this book is no exception!
I fell in love with Jack at the start of this book, and this character will make you love him too! He is a sweet, talented guy who just wants to make music with his band and forget about the slurs and taunts he gets for being gay. When his band auditions for a singer, little does Jack know his world will change forever!
I will have to admit that when we first meet JJ, I was a bit put off, he was spoiled, slept around with every girl who was willing, and was used to getting what he wants. As the book goes on though, you see the real JJ that was hidden, maybe even from JJ himself, and it is a beautiful thing!
Jack and JJ develop a close bond that grows into more, but they have no idea the trials they will have to face as a couple, will it be too much for them? You will want to go along for the ride with these two to see what happens!
I love all the characters in this book and can't wait for book 2! Thanks Victoria, for a start to a series that is sure to be an epic one!
I fell in love with Jack at the start of this book, and this character will make you love him too! He is a sweet, talented guy who just wants to make music with his band and forget about the slurs and taunts he gets for being gay. When his band auditions for a singer, little does Jack know his world will change forever!
I will have to admit that when we first meet JJ, I was a bit put off, he was spoiled, slept around with every girl who was willing, and was used to getting what he wants. As the book goes on though, you see the real JJ that was hidden, maybe even from JJ himself, and it is a beautiful thing!
Jack and JJ develop a close bond that grows into more, but they have no idea the trials they will have to face as a couple, will it be too much for them? You will want to go along for the ride with these two to see what happens!
I love all the characters in this book and can't wait for book 2! Thanks Victoria, for a start to a series that is sure to be an epic one!
January 13, 2016
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jack has not had an easy childhood and is raised by his aunt while his dad is on the road. He does know he wants to graduate high school and travel with his band, Forever Fading Echoes. Jack played guitar and wrote music since he was young and his band is good. They just need a singer. JJ auditions at the end of the day and the band is blown away by how good he is. The only problem, JJ is rich, spoiled, and constantly drunk. Jack does not know if they can trust him to be responsible to the band. The Forever Fading Echoes are friends first and band mates second. Unexpectedly, a deep love grows between JJ and Jack that may rip apart their band and dreams.
This is a fun YA rock'n'roll story, as well as a coming of age for JJ and Jack. JJ keeps his true emotions hidden and always acts like he is performing. He must trust Jack enough to open up to him. Jack must decide if a hidden relationship is what he wants because JJ feels he cannot come out and destroy his careful cover of popular, playboy jock.
Jack has not had an easy childhood and is raised by his aunt while his dad is on the road. He does know he wants to graduate high school and travel with his band, Forever Fading Echoes. Jack played guitar and wrote music since he was young and his band is good. They just need a singer. JJ auditions at the end of the day and the band is blown away by how good he is. The only problem, JJ is rich, spoiled, and constantly drunk. Jack does not know if they can trust him to be responsible to the band. The Forever Fading Echoes are friends first and band mates second. Unexpectedly, a deep love grows between JJ and Jack that may rip apart their band and dreams.
This is a fun YA rock'n'roll story, as well as a coming of age for JJ and Jack. JJ keeps his true emotions hidden and always acts like he is performing. He must trust Jack enough to open up to him. Jack must decide if a hidden relationship is what he wants because JJ feels he cannot come out and destroy his careful cover of popular, playboy jock.
February 29, 2020
These books blew me away. I worry I won’t be able to do them justice with my reviews, honestly. If you love rock music, you will love these books. I'll never forget them or how they made me feel.
Jack, the main character, bleeds music and you can tell the author does too. I love all of the characters but Jack is my favorite and it is his point of view that the reader experiences the most, in first person. This story is about the formation of a teenage rock band, and about young love, friendship, and family. It’s about chasing your dreams and being true to who you really are. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review in exchange for a copy. I eagerly await book 3 of this series.
Jack, the main character, bleeds music and you can tell the author does too. I love all of the characters but Jack is my favorite and it is his point of view that the reader experiences the most, in first person. This story is about the formation of a teenage rock band, and about young love, friendship, and family. It’s about chasing your dreams and being true to who you really are. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review in exchange for a copy. I eagerly await book 3 of this series.
January 22, 2016
I’m not a big romance reader without a paranormal element but I am so glad I read this book. With characters most people will be able to relate to in some way, a story that teens can put themselves in, and masterful writing; this rock and roll romance series is destined to become a bestseller! The story itself is so beautiful. I think Victoria Kinnaird did such an amazing job weaving all the elements of these characters, with their differences, into one of the most memorable groups of kids. Fake It is the new Breakfast Club and I can’t wait to see what is in store for the group next.
March 10, 2016
OMG, I love Jack and JJ.!!!!! Fantastic book!!!
What can I say about this book...it was freakin awesome!!! All the characters meshed perfectly. I have now read it twice and am on my third time. Yes, that's how much I love this book. I am kind of nervous about book 2. Sounds silly, but I'm not sure if I can read it. I don't want anything to get in the way of the love and perceptiveness between Jack and JJ. I realize there has to be some angst and misunderstanding, but please don't make it too much. Love, love, love this book!!!!!
What can I say about this book...it was freakin awesome!!! All the characters meshed perfectly. I have now read it twice and am on my third time. Yes, that's how much I love this book. I am kind of nervous about book 2. Sounds silly, but I'm not sure if I can read it. I don't want anything to get in the way of the love and perceptiveness between Jack and JJ. I realize there has to be some angst and misunderstanding, but please don't make it too much. Love, love, love this book!!!!!
February 21, 2016
This was the first book I've read by this author, but I really enjoyed it. Without giving the story away, this book consists of a group of 16-18 year olds that have a love of rock music. They make a band and work hard to make it a success... Jack and JJ are band members and they are both gay. JJ is in the closet about being gay, even though he loves Jack.
This was a great Y/A novel, because many kids go through this and it was good to read something completely different.
This was a great Y/A novel, because many kids go through this and it was good to read something completely different.
January 25, 2016
Great book, I really enjoyed it, through my tears & all. Senior Year of High school, putting the band together & looking for lead singer & young love! How can you not resist a book like that ;) An enjoyable read with a few tears along the way, so good!
February 25, 2016
Amazing coming of age YA book. Jack is openly gay while JJ has a reputation to uphold. They fall in love but it's not as easy as it should be. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend you give it a try. Love the music references and look forward to part 2.
April 28, 2016
What a great book. Love Jack and J.J! I could not put this one down. Had me from start to finish. The music in this book is just awesome. Can't wait for the next book in this series!
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
December 1, 2016
This is a fantastic story. I can't wait to read book 2.
January 7, 2018
Fake It by Victoria Kinnaird is a YA book that encompasses everything I love about the YA genre with the LGBTQ appeal as the cherry on top. I’m not a fan of teenagers getting into alcohol as much as JJ did (it’s a personal thing and I live in New Orleans so I know kids can party) but it wasn’t overly done. Jack laid down the law on JJ showing up under the influence to band practices and gigs. Having someone put that rule down, made me go, okay, I’m going to keep reading.
In the beginning there was a lot of play on the typical character types and makes them into something more. Jack isn’t just the gay kid who gets bullied and JJ is not just a rich-kid throwaway. There were times where I could pinpoint that certain characters were just like my friends back in high school. It felt like I was part of that world while I was reading.
The imagery of each setting, the record store, JJ’s house, Jack’s house, I could see these places in my mind.
The struggle Jack faces, deciding on college or pursuing his dream of having a legitimate band and skipping college that hit home. I know how hard it was for him to make that decision, to tell his dad what he chose and he was going to do it no matter how hard it was. I didn’t go that route and now I have a useless degree, work in retail and follow my dream on the side. I wish I could have been as brace as Jack was.
Absolutely loved this and can’t wait to read the next in the series!
December 19, 2017
3.5 stars.
The coming-of-age aspect of the books is very real - determining your future and deciding whether to take a risk (the music business) or the safe option (college). The members of Jack's band are great characters, and are friends that you would be lucky to have. JJ was a mystery that I very much wanted to solve, and just like Jack, I desperately wanted to know his real name!
This is more about forming a band and trying to make it in the music business than it is about love. While JJ and Jack do fall in love throughout the story, I don't feel like it was focused upon very much, which was a little dissapointing given the blurb really set up the romance. I would have liked to fall in love with JJ the same way that Jack did, but I don't really feel I got the chance because most romantic scenes were brushed over quickly and/or faded to black, but there were definitely some cute moments there.
Once I realized what the book was really going to focus on, it was an enjoyable and relatable read, and I look forward to reading the next installment in the series and see how where the band ends up.
Review copy provided in exchange for my honest review
The coming-of-age aspect of the books is very real - determining your future and deciding whether to take a risk (the music business) or the safe option (college). The members of Jack's band are great characters, and are friends that you would be lucky to have. JJ was a mystery that I very much wanted to solve, and just like Jack, I desperately wanted to know his real name!
This is more about forming a band and trying to make it in the music business than it is about love. While JJ and Jack do fall in love throughout the story, I don't feel like it was focused upon very much, which was a little dissapointing given the blurb really set up the romance. I would have liked to fall in love with JJ the same way that Jack did, but I don't really feel I got the chance because most romantic scenes were brushed over quickly and/or faded to black, but there were definitely some cute moments there.
Once I realized what the book was really going to focus on, it was an enjoyable and relatable read, and I look forward to reading the next installment in the series and see how where the band ends up.
Review copy provided in exchange for my honest review
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