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The Chameleon Effect
Steel Strings
Compelled to silence, Brianna is like a cello without strings and must fight to reclaim her voice through the instruments she creates.
Brianna Jones is a nerdy biracial teen who dreams of bringing music to the world via orchestral instruments fashioned out of recycled materials. But she must keep her project secret from her half sister, whose mission in life is to destroy everything Brianna holds dear.
Marek Lakewood is one of the few guys who sees Brianna for whom she really is and has admired her from afar for years. But he’s never been a risk-taker, not since his father was killed on a black diamond ski slope.
When a physics project lands Marek in Brianna’s sphere, he finds himself taking bigger and bigger risks, and discovers Brianna’s life and aspirations are far more complicated than he ever imagined.
Steel Strings is a stand-alone contemporary romance and companion novel to the Chameleon Effect series.
Brianna Jones is a nerdy biracial teen who dreams of bringing music to the world via orchestral instruments fashioned out of recycled materials. But she must keep her project secret from her half sister, whose mission in life is to destroy everything Brianna holds dear.
Marek Lakewood is one of the few guys who sees Brianna for whom she really is and has admired her from afar for years. But he’s never been a risk-taker, not since his father was killed on a black diamond ski slope.
When a physics project lands Marek in Brianna’s sphere, he finds himself taking bigger and bigger risks, and discovers Brianna’s life and aspirations are far more complicated than he ever imagined.
Steel Strings is a stand-alone contemporary romance and companion novel to the Chameleon Effect series.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 30, 2019
16 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
Alex Hayes
13 books103 followersAlex Hayes lives in a castle. Not one of those dark, damp ones in England (or Scotland, even) where it rains all the time, but a white one with the view of a volcano where it’s sunny 364 days out of the year.
She hosts four cats. One white queen. Two black knights. And a ginger jester, famed for her impressive backflips and pirouettes.
Alex is considering turning her castle into a cat sanctuary. It all depends on whether she can find a way to pay the food bills. (If you think she should, buy her books. The cats will thank you.)
When she isn’t writing, she's thinking about what to write next, while working on her tan. (Vitamin D rules.)
She’s a vegetarian (almost vegan) who believes in love not war, feminine power, and enjoys singing (usually quite badly).
She hosts four cats. One white queen. Two black knights. And a ginger jester, famed for her impressive backflips and pirouettes.
Alex is considering turning her castle into a cat sanctuary. It all depends on whether she can find a way to pay the food bills. (If you think she should, buy her books. The cats will thank you.)
When she isn’t writing, she's thinking about what to write next, while working on her tan. (Vitamin D rules.)
She’s a vegetarian (almost vegan) who believes in love not war, feminine power, and enjoys singing (usually quite badly).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 22, 2019
Why do I like this book? It is one of my least favorite Genres. Contemporary YA Romance. I hate that combination.
Brianna has a history, so she doesn't seem flat. Marek is half in another story.
I won't say anything about the romance because I am not close to an expert, but it seemed somewhat believable and nice.
And there was no swearing.
I don't understand it, but I liked a book that I shouldn't have liked for any reason
This is an ARC BTW
Brianna has a history, so she doesn't seem flat. Marek is half in another story.
I won't say anything about the romance because I am not close to an expert, but it seemed somewhat believable and nice.
And there was no swearing.
I don't understand it, but I liked a book that I shouldn't have liked for any reason
This is an ARC BTW
December 27, 2019
Amazing story, interesting characters, both has issues to deal with. Emotional. A book I think you’ll like!
I received this arc for a honest review.
I received this arc for a honest review.
January 8, 2020
This is my third novel by Alex Hayes and it is a companion novel to the Chameleon Effect Series. Book 1 and 2 have a paranormal romance feel to then compared to Steel Strings which is more of a young adult romance and can be read as a standalone.
When a beautiful young musical genius decides to make some changes in her life like a new boyfriend and to stand up to her psycho sister, all hell breaks loose.
A smile lifts one side of my mouth because I need a physics partner for next semester. And Marek fits the bill. The slow beat of his drumstick against a cymbal stops at the exact moment my eyes meet his. I blink once, offer a glowing smile and glance away. Jeez. That was beyond totally embarrassing, Brianna.
Brianna is the beautiful homecoming queen of her school and she dates the gorgeous quarterback, but she has agreed to stay with him despite the fact she has no romantic feelings toward him. In the meantime, she needs a brainiac partner for her physics project and Marek is on her list as one of the smartest kids in school, not to mention tall and sexy.
During Christmas break when her psycho and bitchy sister, Deya, comes home from college, she terrorizes Brianna at every turn to her mother’s cold indifference, and her father’s clueless irresponsibility. When an unforgiveable incident happens resulting in Brianna being rushed to the hospital, the truth starts to unravel.
Brianna and Marek’s growing attraction is a nice start to this interesting story which turns dark pretty fast containing abuse and attempts to hide it. The idea of Brianna making instruments from recycled materials is fascinating and I give kudos to Ms. Hayes for that interesting part of Brianna’s character. I also love Marek and how he stands up for Brianna when her own family won’t.
Though this is a standalone book, Ms. Hayes has done a fine job of giving more background on Marek and Idris who appear in her first book, Silken Scales, from the Chameleon Effects Series. If you enjoy fast-paced young adult romances with strong characters and strong subject matter, give this one a try. Recommend highly!
Thank you to Ms. Hayes for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
When a beautiful young musical genius decides to make some changes in her life like a new boyfriend and to stand up to her psycho sister, all hell breaks loose.
A smile lifts one side of my mouth because I need a physics partner for next semester. And Marek fits the bill. The slow beat of his drumstick against a cymbal stops at the exact moment my eyes meet his. I blink once, offer a glowing smile and glance away. Jeez. That was beyond totally embarrassing, Brianna.
Brianna is the beautiful homecoming queen of her school and she dates the gorgeous quarterback, but she has agreed to stay with him despite the fact she has no romantic feelings toward him. In the meantime, she needs a brainiac partner for her physics project and Marek is on her list as one of the smartest kids in school, not to mention tall and sexy.
During Christmas break when her psycho and bitchy sister, Deya, comes home from college, she terrorizes Brianna at every turn to her mother’s cold indifference, and her father’s clueless irresponsibility. When an unforgiveable incident happens resulting in Brianna being rushed to the hospital, the truth starts to unravel.
Brianna and Marek’s growing attraction is a nice start to this interesting story which turns dark pretty fast containing abuse and attempts to hide it. The idea of Brianna making instruments from recycled materials is fascinating and I give kudos to Ms. Hayes for that interesting part of Brianna’s character. I also love Marek and how he stands up for Brianna when her own family won’t.
Though this is a standalone book, Ms. Hayes has done a fine job of giving more background on Marek and Idris who appear in her first book, Silken Scales, from the Chameleon Effects Series. If you enjoy fast-paced young adult romances with strong characters and strong subject matter, give this one a try. Recommend highly!
Thank you to Ms. Hayes for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
January 8, 2020
I was absolutely blown away by this novel. It grabs you right out of the gate with a horrific accident. I actually remember almost being in a similar type of situation when I was kid playing around in a car, only this goes a lot deeper than mine ever did.
Brianna is an amazing young woman. She is super smart and super talented and has this amazing goal of creating instruments out of recycled materials to help bring music to the masses. I would be honored to be her friend.
She also has a ton of problems that she manages to hide quite well. And these problems with her family are really intense when you get into them. I feel sorry for Brianna. I am annoyed with her for not doing something about it. And yet at the same time, I get it. You just hope that she finds the strength to do what she needs to do.
Marek is an amazing young man. He is also brilliant and has his own issues. They are touched on a little bit in this book, but you know there is a whole lot of history that you do not know. A part of me wished we knew more about his past.
Marek and Brianna are so good for each other. You cannot help but root for them to keep getting closer and to keep building each other up and feeding off of each other. And when push comes to shove, you just know that they're going to be there for each other.
The only thing I didn't really care for in this book was Marek alluding to something going on with his best friend Idris. It is very lightly touched upon and referred to casually, but no explanation is ever given. I think it is supposed to be part of the connection to another series by this author and perhaps a way to entice you to want to read that series. But I really felt that whatever was going on with him had absolutely nothing to really do with this particular story.
That being said, I know that this book is supposed to be a companion novel to the author's other series. But this book truly works as a standalone, especially if you focus on the stories about Brianna and Marek. There's a lot going on in this one and it is pretty intense, and sadly, quite believable. I gave it 4 1/2 stars.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with a review copy via YA Bound.
Brianna is an amazing young woman. She is super smart and super talented and has this amazing goal of creating instruments out of recycled materials to help bring music to the masses. I would be honored to be her friend.
She also has a ton of problems that she manages to hide quite well. And these problems with her family are really intense when you get into them. I feel sorry for Brianna. I am annoyed with her for not doing something about it. And yet at the same time, I get it. You just hope that she finds the strength to do what she needs to do.
Marek is an amazing young man. He is also brilliant and has his own issues. They are touched on a little bit in this book, but you know there is a whole lot of history that you do not know. A part of me wished we knew more about his past.
Marek and Brianna are so good for each other. You cannot help but root for them to keep getting closer and to keep building each other up and feeding off of each other. And when push comes to shove, you just know that they're going to be there for each other.
The only thing I didn't really care for in this book was Marek alluding to something going on with his best friend Idris. It is very lightly touched upon and referred to casually, but no explanation is ever given. I think it is supposed to be part of the connection to another series by this author and perhaps a way to entice you to want to read that series. But I really felt that whatever was going on with him had absolutely nothing to really do with this particular story.
That being said, I know that this book is supposed to be a companion novel to the author's other series. But this book truly works as a standalone, especially if you focus on the stories about Brianna and Marek. There's a lot going on in this one and it is pretty intense, and sadly, quite believable. I gave it 4 1/2 stars.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with a review copy via YA Bound.
January 6, 2020
Steel Strings follows the characters Brianna and Marek, two high school students who are both intellectual, good at physics, and play in orchestra class together. The story is mostly about Brianna; even though it is told in alternating viewpoints, it is really Brianna’s story, although we also get to see Marek’s family, his friendship with Idris, and his thoughts of his late father and how his death affected Marek.
This book has everything. It touches on so many different topics and does all of them justice. The two main plots are Brianna’s and Marek’s feelings for each other, both afraid to admit to each other, and Brianna’s project of creating templates of orchestral instruments using cheap and available materials so that these instruments can be recreated and given to kids who would otherwise not be able to afford or access musical instruments.
It was so fascinating reading about the musical instruments. You can tell from the writing that Brianna is intelligent (as is the author) and really understands what goes into making these instruments, both from a musical and scientific perspective. Yet it’s not written in a way that requires knowledge of these topics to appreciate.
Brianna is very admirable and relatable as a main character. Obviously she’s very smart and talented, but she also has a big heart (she wants to help children around the world!) and struggles with feeling unwanted by half of her family. I really felt so bad for her and furious on her behalf. The family issues definitely provided some darker and troubling conflicts to interfere with her project and her feelings for Marek.
I can’t say enough good things about this book. I really was surprised by this one. I haven’t read the first in the series and was still able to enjoy this book. However, I think I would have understood some more of the side plots with Idris (Marek’s best friend) if I had read the first book. As it was, I was a little confused and that part wasn’t fully tied up, but I understand it’s part of a series so I don’t mind.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review
This book has everything. It touches on so many different topics and does all of them justice. The two main plots are Brianna’s and Marek’s feelings for each other, both afraid to admit to each other, and Brianna’s project of creating templates of orchestral instruments using cheap and available materials so that these instruments can be recreated and given to kids who would otherwise not be able to afford or access musical instruments.
It was so fascinating reading about the musical instruments. You can tell from the writing that Brianna is intelligent (as is the author) and really understands what goes into making these instruments, both from a musical and scientific perspective. Yet it’s not written in a way that requires knowledge of these topics to appreciate.
Brianna is very admirable and relatable as a main character. Obviously she’s very smart and talented, but she also has a big heart (she wants to help children around the world!) and struggles with feeling unwanted by half of her family. I really felt so bad for her and furious on her behalf. The family issues definitely provided some darker and troubling conflicts to interfere with her project and her feelings for Marek.
I can’t say enough good things about this book. I really was surprised by this one. I haven’t read the first in the series and was still able to enjoy this book. However, I think I would have understood some more of the side plots with Idris (Marek’s best friend) if I had read the first book. As it was, I was a little confused and that part wasn’t fully tied up, but I understand it’s part of a series so I don’t mind.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review
January 8, 2020
Romance receives a shot of tension with a dash of thriller to form an exciting read with more than a couple twists and turns.
Brianna has quite a few things going for her. She's pretty, one of the smartest kids in her class and has a talent for music and instruments. But few know the secrets she harbors, ones that she avoids fairly well until her sister returns for a visit from college. Even her so-called boyfriend doesn't know the true her, but he's being held at bay anyway thanks to their strange relationship. But even that's about to change as a boy she's had an interest on for years suddenly seems to turn her way.
This book starts with a bang for an opening scene, but it's importance doesn't really become clear until later on in the book. Not that this is a problem because there are quite a few surprises in these pages. Although it's sold as a contemporary romance, the story skirts along the edge of being a suspense/thriller. Brianna's life might appear blessed, but there are some very dark shadows behind her life's perfect facade. The author keeps these nicely at bay, letting them leak little by little to make the tension rise as the story unfolds. It made the book hard to put down as I was curious what would happen next.
The characters are nicely done and for the most part, come across well. Brianna's and her father's reactions did surprise me a little, especially since both are considered intelligent and/or well situated. Otherwise, Brianna was easy to like and definitely had a situation which made her a person to root for until the very end.
The romance has a natural flow. The teen angst of approaching someone and figuring out their feelings as well as battling ones own insecurities comes across well and builds a believable setting. This isn't a 'love-at-first-sight' but a romance that builds slowly with all of the hurdles and self-made obstacles along the way. It was sweet and both sides came across believable.
Fans of teen romance, who like a bit of suspense and hint of danger along the way, are sure to enjoy this one.
I received a complimentary copy and was surprised how exciting the read was. So, I'm leaving my honest thoughts.
Brianna has quite a few things going for her. She's pretty, one of the smartest kids in her class and has a talent for music and instruments. But few know the secrets she harbors, ones that she avoids fairly well until her sister returns for a visit from college. Even her so-called boyfriend doesn't know the true her, but he's being held at bay anyway thanks to their strange relationship. But even that's about to change as a boy she's had an interest on for years suddenly seems to turn her way.
This book starts with a bang for an opening scene, but it's importance doesn't really become clear until later on in the book. Not that this is a problem because there are quite a few surprises in these pages. Although it's sold as a contemporary romance, the story skirts along the edge of being a suspense/thriller. Brianna's life might appear blessed, but there are some very dark shadows behind her life's perfect facade. The author keeps these nicely at bay, letting them leak little by little to make the tension rise as the story unfolds. It made the book hard to put down as I was curious what would happen next.
The characters are nicely done and for the most part, come across well. Brianna's and her father's reactions did surprise me a little, especially since both are considered intelligent and/or well situated. Otherwise, Brianna was easy to like and definitely had a situation which made her a person to root for until the very end.
The romance has a natural flow. The teen angst of approaching someone and figuring out their feelings as well as battling ones own insecurities comes across well and builds a believable setting. This isn't a 'love-at-first-sight' but a romance that builds slowly with all of the hurdles and self-made obstacles along the way. It was sweet and both sides came across believable.
Fans of teen romance, who like a bit of suspense and hint of danger along the way, are sure to enjoy this one.
I received a complimentary copy and was surprised how exciting the read was. So, I'm leaving my honest thoughts.
December 21, 2019
Read my full review here: https://lifesanovelty.blogspot.com/20...
Opinions: Regarding writing style, characters, themes, and plot, I feel like Steel Strings is not an improvement to the following series installments.
Writing Style: I found the writing style to be inexperienced, repetitive, and banal. Hayes has a knack for writing dozens of single-clause sentences in a row, thus losing my engagement and creating a desire to skim the entire book. I also found myself with lots of case-specific questions because nothing is described adequately. While reading, I was distracted with questions such as "Who is speaking?" "Where are they?" "I thought this character had long, brown hair?" "I thought those two were complete strangers?"
Characters: In reality, I adored the character relationships of Steel Strings. Although I was unable to relate to the characters, I loved the sibling rivalry and violence that came with it. The bickering, gossiping, and worrying between sisters caused lots of tension, excitement, and mishap all throughout the book. The characters earned this book another star!
Themes: Similar to the other books of The Chameleon Effect series, I was unable to quickly locate evidence for the themes but appreciate that they are present in the book. After reading, I was able to reflect on the sibling rivalry, parental support, and first love and learn a thing or two. Another star!
Plot: In my opinion, this prequel was unneeded. I was unable to stay engaged because the story itself was uninteresting and I didn't learn anything new that supports/foreshadows the rest of the books. Fortunately, the story was on topic and you can see the effort given to remain in context. I wasn't lost completely!
Everything stated within the "Initial Impressions" and "My Opinions (Writing Style, Characters, Themes, Plot)" and is my personal opinion. If you disagree, feel free to ignore me.
Opinions: Regarding writing style, characters, themes, and plot, I feel like Steel Strings is not an improvement to the following series installments.
Writing Style: I found the writing style to be inexperienced, repetitive, and banal. Hayes has a knack for writing dozens of single-clause sentences in a row, thus losing my engagement and creating a desire to skim the entire book. I also found myself with lots of case-specific questions because nothing is described adequately. While reading, I was distracted with questions such as "Who is speaking?" "Where are they?" "I thought this character had long, brown hair?" "I thought those two were complete strangers?"
Characters: In reality, I adored the character relationships of Steel Strings. Although I was unable to relate to the characters, I loved the sibling rivalry and violence that came with it. The bickering, gossiping, and worrying between sisters caused lots of tension, excitement, and mishap all throughout the book. The characters earned this book another star!
Themes: Similar to the other books of The Chameleon Effect series, I was unable to quickly locate evidence for the themes but appreciate that they are present in the book. After reading, I was able to reflect on the sibling rivalry, parental support, and first love and learn a thing or two. Another star!
Plot: In my opinion, this prequel was unneeded. I was unable to stay engaged because the story itself was uninteresting and I didn't learn anything new that supports/foreshadows the rest of the books. Fortunately, the story was on topic and you can see the effort given to remain in context. I wasn't lost completely!
Everything stated within the "Initial Impressions" and "My Opinions (Writing Style, Characters, Themes, Plot)" and is my personal opinion. If you disagree, feel free to ignore me.
December 12, 2019
This was an enjoyable and fast-paced book, perfect for those looking for a one-sitting read for those looking for that literary getaway. Alex Hayes does a wonderful job of bringing life to Brianna Jones and Marek Lakewood, the two protagonists, by employing switching first person point-of-view chapters.
Having not read Hayes' Chameleon Effects series, I was hoping I would be able to follow along and form the same connect with the characters one would expect from a stand-alone novel. There were some scenes of hidden significance (Easter eggs) that did little to further the plot of "Steel Strings" but, I suspect, were linked to her main series. Nevertheless, this did not rob me of any enjoyment to this novel which stood on its own two feet.
Hayes' character development shines through the dialogue and writing style, bringing out the vibes of teen romance I haven't felt in years and also the plights of the main protagonist, Brianna, who I rooted for throughout.
However, I do feel there were certain plot points that could have been explored further to create a better connect between the characters and myself, the reader. Juggling elements of music, love and family all together, some aspects were lacking in weight to another, making the read feel a little imbalanced and the ending rather rushed.
Although good, I didn't feel like it delivered the excitement and thrill indicated in the synopsis and I felt a little let-down toward the end on how the story had progressed. In this sense, the novel did not 'knock my (figurative) socks off'.
However, as a light breezy read, "Steel Strings" promises to entertain and enthral. I also believe readers of the original series would enjoy the novel a step further and encourage them to give it a read and discover the aforementioned Easter Eggs for themselves!
Having not read Hayes' Chameleon Effects series, I was hoping I would be able to follow along and form the same connect with the characters one would expect from a stand-alone novel. There were some scenes of hidden significance (Easter eggs) that did little to further the plot of "Steel Strings" but, I suspect, were linked to her main series. Nevertheless, this did not rob me of any enjoyment to this novel which stood on its own two feet.
Hayes' character development shines through the dialogue and writing style, bringing out the vibes of teen romance I haven't felt in years and also the plights of the main protagonist, Brianna, who I rooted for throughout.
However, I do feel there were certain plot points that could have been explored further to create a better connect between the characters and myself, the reader. Juggling elements of music, love and family all together, some aspects were lacking in weight to another, making the read feel a little imbalanced and the ending rather rushed.
Although good, I didn't feel like it delivered the excitement and thrill indicated in the synopsis and I felt a little let-down toward the end on how the story had progressed. In this sense, the novel did not 'knock my (figurative) socks off'.
However, as a light breezy read, "Steel Strings" promises to entertain and enthral. I also believe readers of the original series would enjoy the novel a step further and encourage them to give it a read and discover the aforementioned Easter Eggs for themselves!
January 10, 2020
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to YA Bound Book Tours and Shaking the Tree Press for this free copy. All quotes in this review are taken from the Advanced Reader Copy and may change in final publication.
I have to get this out there because it was one of the first things I thought when I was reading this novel: Brianna’s sister was mean as heck?! Like… she just left her sister in the car when she accidentally put it in drive and let her get into the accident? She didn’t even TRY to get her sister out of the moving vehicle. I mean sure, they may have been young at the time, I honestly don’t even remember how old, but like I would have NEVER left my little brother in a moving vehicle like that to have him hit a tree or whatever and then get in major trouble with our parents. There’s just no way.
Okay okay okay I’m over it I’m over it.
Well no, I’m not but you know.
So this is actually a companion novella for the Chameleon Effect, and while I haven’t read any of those books, I didn’t really feel lost about any of the characters or the story line, which totally worked out in my favor. I loved how musically inclined Brianna was, especially because it reminded me of my little brother. Even with how intelligent she was in school and how much she put into school to do her best. That part about wanting to do well in school and being intelligent reminded me of me, so I guess she had two parts about her that I really connected with her.
I personally thought it was interesting how she wanted to approach her partnership with Marek for the physics project, because it just seemed so calculating? I don’t know if I’m using the right word for it, but if you read that part in the beginning of the novel, you’ll see what I mean. But other than that, I think it was pretty interesting.
I have to get this out there because it was one of the first things I thought when I was reading this novel: Brianna’s sister was mean as heck?! Like… she just left her sister in the car when she accidentally put it in drive and let her get into the accident? She didn’t even TRY to get her sister out of the moving vehicle. I mean sure, they may have been young at the time, I honestly don’t even remember how old, but like I would have NEVER left my little brother in a moving vehicle like that to have him hit a tree or whatever and then get in major trouble with our parents. There’s just no way.
Okay okay okay I’m over it I’m over it.
Well no, I’m not but you know.
So this is actually a companion novella for the Chameleon Effect, and while I haven’t read any of those books, I didn’t really feel lost about any of the characters or the story line, which totally worked out in my favor. I loved how musically inclined Brianna was, especially because it reminded me of my little brother. Even with how intelligent she was in school and how much she put into school to do her best. That part about wanting to do well in school and being intelligent reminded me of me, so I guess she had two parts about her that I really connected with her.
I personally thought it was interesting how she wanted to approach her partnership with Marek for the physics project, because it just seemed so calculating? I don’t know if I’m using the right word for it, but if you read that part in the beginning of the novel, you’ll see what I mean. But other than that, I think it was pretty interesting.
December 31, 2019
Compelled to silence, Brianna is like a cello without strings and must fight to reclaim her voice through the instruments she creates.
Brianna Jones is a nerdy biracial teen who dreams of bringing music to the world via orchestral instruments fashioned out of recycled materials. But she must keep her project secret from her half sister, whose mission in life is to destroy everything Brianna holds dear.
Marek Lakewood is one of the few guys who sees Brianna for whom she really is and has admired her from afar for years. But he’s never been a risk-taker, not since his father was killed on a black diamond ski slope.
When a physics project lands Marek in Brianna’s sphere, he finds himself taking bigger and bigger risks, and discovers Brianna’s life and aspirations are far more complicated than he ever imagined.
Steel Strings is a stand-alone contemporary romance and companion novel to the Chameleon Effect series.
This was an absolute joy to read.
Such a well written plot and story line that had me from the start.
Wonderful well fleshed out characters that were a joy to get to know.
Great world building that added the extra depth to the novel.
Such a brilliant little ya relationship that we follow through the heartache, fears, trials of life.
Really enjoyed and looking forward to reading more!
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Brianna Jones is a nerdy biracial teen who dreams of bringing music to the world via orchestral instruments fashioned out of recycled materials. But she must keep her project secret from her half sister, whose mission in life is to destroy everything Brianna holds dear.
Marek Lakewood is one of the few guys who sees Brianna for whom she really is and has admired her from afar for years. But he’s never been a risk-taker, not since his father was killed on a black diamond ski slope.
When a physics project lands Marek in Brianna’s sphere, he finds himself taking bigger and bigger risks, and discovers Brianna’s life and aspirations are far more complicated than he ever imagined.
Steel Strings is a stand-alone contemporary romance and companion novel to the Chameleon Effect series.
This was an absolute joy to read.
Such a well written plot and story line that had me from the start.
Wonderful well fleshed out characters that were a joy to get to know.
Great world building that added the extra depth to the novel.
Such a brilliant little ya relationship that we follow through the heartache, fears, trials of life.
Really enjoyed and looking forward to reading more!
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
December 27, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book. It was nice seeing a fleshed out tale of some of the supporting characters from the Silken Scales I have read both books so I knew what was going on behind the scenes, but I feel that even if you haven't read Silken Scales, you will still enjoy this book.
Brianna Jones is an interesting person, even though the women in her family seem to hate her. She is trying to get through life without garnering any further notice of either her half sister, or her mother. She pulls good grades and a physics lab puts her into a partnership with Marek who is another of the smart people in class.
Marek has always admired Brianna, felt like he was shot down back in their freshman year. He had convinced his best friend to approach her and see if she was dating anyone. For the first two years in high school, Brianna hadn't seen anyone, mainly to keep her half-sister from interfering before she graduated. After that she started seeing the son of one of her father's business partners So Marek doesn't feel like he has a chance.
It's Christmas time and families are getting together. Will Brianna be able to keep her own project out of the spotlight? Will this couple actually become a couple? Read the book to find out more I don't want to spoil any surprises waiting in store for you.
Brianna Jones is an interesting person, even though the women in her family seem to hate her. She is trying to get through life without garnering any further notice of either her half sister, or her mother. She pulls good grades and a physics lab puts her into a partnership with Marek who is another of the smart people in class.
Marek has always admired Brianna, felt like he was shot down back in their freshman year. He had convinced his best friend to approach her and see if she was dating anyone. For the first two years in high school, Brianna hadn't seen anyone, mainly to keep her half-sister from interfering before she graduated. After that she started seeing the son of one of her father's business partners So Marek doesn't feel like he has a chance.
It's Christmas time and families are getting together. Will Brianna be able to keep her own project out of the spotlight? Will this couple actually become a couple? Read the book to find out more I don't want to spoil any surprises waiting in store for you.
December 25, 2019
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. There have been two books in the series now that have delved into the human side characters and best friends of the main characters. I love that Ms. Hayes is able to write about teens in hard situations. I feel like the way she is presenting family trauma and abuse is not glorifying it and will give others in similar situations the idea if not the strength to overcome them in healthy ways. I absolutely loved Brianna. I am really partial to her because, I too, am a music nerd with a love of CAD programs. The relationship she builds with Marek seems natural and not forced. I really enjoyed that this story filled in the blanks of what was going on with Marek during Idris' craziness in Silken Scales. Overall, I love this series and can't wait for what comes next!
December 13, 2019
This book is amazing! Brianna’s story is heartbreaking. Nothing seems to be going right for her. She has a boyfriend who is very popular, but she has no real interest in him. It’s a pretend relationship that he asked her to participate in. Her mother doesn’t take any pride in her accomplishments and only criticizes her. Her sister is a witch (spelt with a b), but her mother won’t believe a word Brianna says about her. To be just 18 and to feel so unloved is hard to take. She starts developing feeling for Marek, but doesn’t think he has any real feelings for her. You can just feel Brianna’s pain. I was so close to tears reading this book.
December 22, 2019
I loved this tale!
“Steel Strings” is an amazing fast-paced well-written tale of heartbreak and fear. The main characters are two teens, Brianna and Marek, who are attracted to each other but fear of rejection keep them from speaking of it. Brianna feels invisible in her own life and Marek does not feel worthy of Briana. The storyline is emotional and dramatic. This is a tale worth reading. I felt so invested in Briana and Marek’s life that I hated getting to the last page. I highly recommend this tale.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily
“Steel Strings” is an amazing fast-paced well-written tale of heartbreak and fear. The main characters are two teens, Brianna and Marek, who are attracted to each other but fear of rejection keep them from speaking of it. Brianna feels invisible in her own life and Marek does not feel worthy of Briana. The storyline is emotional and dramatic. This is a tale worth reading. I felt so invested in Briana and Marek’s life that I hated getting to the last page. I highly recommend this tale.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily
December 31, 2019
Loved the writing in this book, a YA contemporary romance. Brianna was a wonderful character, but plagued by issues caused by an older sister who seems to want to disrupt her life. This story is rich in relationships, as Brianna tries to understand her feelings for her current boyfriend, Jac and Marek, her physics partner. The ending stunned and saddened me, and though this is part of a series, I read it as a complete standalone.
December 31, 2019
Nicely written story with great characters and wonderful storyline. It is a short story with characters from the Silken Scales and new characters. Two teens, Marcel and Brianna who are afraid to approach each other, until a physic project brings them together. An emotional story that will grab your heart. So, make sure you have some tissues when you read this amazing story.
I received this ARC for an honest and voluntary review and I loved it!
I received this ARC for an honest and voluntary review and I loved it!
December 25, 2019
This is a great storyline with characters that are well developed and engaging and take us on a twist and turn of suspense and adventure. I loved Brianna and Marek each has there own baggage but manage to come together to take care of business.
I received this ARC for an honest and voluntary review.
I received this ARC for an honest and voluntary review.
December 31, 2019
This book expands the /Chameleon Effect/ universe in a very enjoyable way. It introduces some wonderful new characters and expands the role of some existing characters. I loved the opportunities it opens up with directions the series can go moving forward.
Merged review:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Merged review:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
December 31, 2019
This is a very interesting YA book that even adults will enjoy. The storyline portrays high schooler Brianna and he tumultuous relationship with her mother and her older sister who hates her. Brianna is strong and determined and an overall loveable character that you will root for until the ending. I received this book at no cost in exchange for my honest review.
January 2, 2020
A well written combination love story where one of the characters overcomes certain obstacles in life with a happy ending. I am thankful for having had the opportunity of reading this book to review. Will definitely read other book I have in the Chameleon Effect series. Worth a read. Available on Amazon
January 9, 2020
Received an ARC copy for an honest review
I loved this book. The visual and sounds descriptions made me feel like I was there, seeing and hearing everything.
I admire Brianna's courage and resistance. She tried and, when she couldn't anymore, she went above.
A beautiful book full of romance but also about courageous people. Totally worth.
I loved this book. The visual and sounds descriptions made me feel like I was there, seeing and hearing everything.
I admire Brianna's courage and resistance. She tried and, when she couldn't anymore, she went above.
A beautiful book full of romance but also about courageous people. Totally worth.
January 8, 2020
An intriguing coming-of-age with a side of extreme sibling rivalry, this week (including until midnight) of bedside and occasional reading for me might be read on a long weekend. I had an ARC and this voluntary review was my own opinion.
December 26, 2019
I really enjoy Alex's style! This story is well written and the characters are great I enjoyed this look into this world from another view I read silken as well and loved it!
December 26, 2019
This is a hard one to read with the abuse that the main character has to go through. It pulls at your heart strings but the ending is worth it.
December 31, 2019
Steel Strings by Alex Hayes is an awesome, multi-layered book that engrossed me from cover to cover!
Thank you for gifting me with this arc...the review is entirely of my own thoughts.
Thank you for gifting me with this arc...the review is entirely of my own thoughts.
January 2, 2020
A wonderful book that is very emotional. Loved reading it.
March 27, 2020
A brilliant teen, an evil sister and her mother, a mutually-agreed-upon relationship, and a handsome new beau are the principal characters in the YA novel, Steel Strings by Alex Hayes. Subtitled A Chameleon Effect, I did not perceive the adoption of the postures, gestures, and mannerisms of interacting partners. Except for her pretend smiles, this is more of a self-realization and acceptance story.
Brianna Jones is taunted by her older sister and has felt unwanted by mother her whole life. Brianna’s only surety is her dream of creating orchestral instruments for recycled materials.
The story vacillates between Brianna’s point of view and Marek’s, her new beau and lab partner. This tool allows for character development and a way to pace the story which unfolds over the Christmas Holiday break. The ending is revealing, though various incidents foreshadow what will happen.
If you like reading YA coming of age novels with a bit of romance, you will enjoy Steel Strings.
Brianna Jones is taunted by her older sister and has felt unwanted by mother her whole life. Brianna’s only surety is her dream of creating orchestral instruments for recycled materials.
The story vacillates between Brianna’s point of view and Marek’s, her new beau and lab partner. This tool allows for character development and a way to pace the story which unfolds over the Christmas Holiday break. The ending is revealing, though various incidents foreshadow what will happen.
If you like reading YA coming of age novels with a bit of romance, you will enjoy Steel Strings.
July 23, 2020
We are proud to announce that STEEL STRINGS by Alex Hayes is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!
January 18, 2020
Stringing along for a fine ride!
Author Alex Hayes earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English, Creative Writing from San Francisco State University, transplanted to Boston, Massachusetts to work as an IT professional in database engineering, and now enjoys her success as a writer. She has published six books to date – Ice Cracks, The Golden Thread, her series The Chameleon Effect - Silken Scales, Perfect Pitch, Siren Song - and now offers STEEL STRINGS, a companion novel to that series. Alex now lives in both Grand Junction, Colorado and Guanajuato, Mexico.
Writing Young Adult novels is a challenge for any writer: spinning tales for this astute audience of young minds calls forth the need for creating plausible and challenging concepts – a challenge Alex meets successfully. We discover in the Foreword that Alex found her inspiration for this story from her knowledge of the Recycled Orchestra of Cateura in Paraguay – a group that plays orchestral instruments constructed of recycled materials!
The quality of Alex’s fine writing is evident as she opens her story with a Prologue ten years prior to the following story – ‘If I lived in a parallel universe, maybe I wouldn’t have taken the bait. Maybe I wouldn’t have found myself behind the wheel of a car, barreling down a hill, straight for a white pine. Maybe my life would’ve been different. I wish. But this is my universe. My life. My problem.’
With this engaging opening, the story follows: ‘Brianna Jones is a nerdy biracial teen who dreams of bringing music to the world via orchestral instruments fashioned out of recycled materials. But she must keep her project secret from her half sister, whose mission in life is to destroy everything Brianna holds dear. Marek Lakewood is one of the few guys who sees Brianna for whom she really is and has admired her from afar for years. But he’s never been a risk-taker, not since his father was killed on a black diamond ski slope. When a physics project lands Marek in Brianna’s sphere, he finds himself taking bigger and bigger risks, and discovers Brianna’s life and aspirations are far more complicated than he ever imagined. Compelled to silence, Brianna is like a cello without strings. Can she find the love she needs and reclaim her voice through the instruments she creates?’
Alex knows how to engage (and retain) the interest of her readers, all the while introducing significant insights that expand the purview of her audience. She appears to have a solid future as an author! Recommended.
Author Alex Hayes earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English, Creative Writing from San Francisco State University, transplanted to Boston, Massachusetts to work as an IT professional in database engineering, and now enjoys her success as a writer. She has published six books to date – Ice Cracks, The Golden Thread, her series The Chameleon Effect - Silken Scales, Perfect Pitch, Siren Song - and now offers STEEL STRINGS, a companion novel to that series. Alex now lives in both Grand Junction, Colorado and Guanajuato, Mexico.
Writing Young Adult novels is a challenge for any writer: spinning tales for this astute audience of young minds calls forth the need for creating plausible and challenging concepts – a challenge Alex meets successfully. We discover in the Foreword that Alex found her inspiration for this story from her knowledge of the Recycled Orchestra of Cateura in Paraguay – a group that plays orchestral instruments constructed of recycled materials!
The quality of Alex’s fine writing is evident as she opens her story with a Prologue ten years prior to the following story – ‘If I lived in a parallel universe, maybe I wouldn’t have taken the bait. Maybe I wouldn’t have found myself behind the wheel of a car, barreling down a hill, straight for a white pine. Maybe my life would’ve been different. I wish. But this is my universe. My life. My problem.’
With this engaging opening, the story follows: ‘Brianna Jones is a nerdy biracial teen who dreams of bringing music to the world via orchestral instruments fashioned out of recycled materials. But she must keep her project secret from her half sister, whose mission in life is to destroy everything Brianna holds dear. Marek Lakewood is one of the few guys who sees Brianna for whom she really is and has admired her from afar for years. But he’s never been a risk-taker, not since his father was killed on a black diamond ski slope. When a physics project lands Marek in Brianna’s sphere, he finds himself taking bigger and bigger risks, and discovers Brianna’s life and aspirations are far more complicated than he ever imagined. Compelled to silence, Brianna is like a cello without strings. Can she find the love she needs and reclaim her voice through the instruments she creates?’
Alex knows how to engage (and retain) the interest of her readers, all the while introducing significant insights that expand the purview of her audience. She appears to have a solid future as an author! Recommended.
January 24, 2020
Brianna is brilliant, musically talented, beautiful, dating the school quarterback - and living with a horrifying secret.
The instruments she builds are perhaps not much to look at, built from easy to acquire scrap materials, but sound like the real thing, and in the right hands can make make beautiful music.
Nothing is as it appears on the surface in this book.
This was a book I did not want to put down. The emotions are just so raw and real. The scenes were crafted in a way that just draws you in. I would describe it more as a coming of age and a growing relationship than a romance. The issues these two are dealing with are real - not manufactured rom com nonsense. Brianna hit a pivotal point in her life and she is a survivor. And the ending! what can I say without spoilers? There was plenty of foreshadowing in the book so it was not a shock, but that didn't make it any less painful. This book had ALL the feels.
This book can be enjoyed as a stand alone. It is tangential to the Chameleon Effect books and contains a few brief allusions to those books, but the events in this book are independent. The final scene makes it seem like there might be a stronger tie in coming though.
The instruments she builds are perhaps not much to look at, built from easy to acquire scrap materials, but sound like the real thing, and in the right hands can make make beautiful music.
Nothing is as it appears on the surface in this book.
This was a book I did not want to put down. The emotions are just so raw and real. The scenes were crafted in a way that just draws you in. I would describe it more as a coming of age and a growing relationship than a romance. The issues these two are dealing with are real - not manufactured rom com nonsense. Brianna hit a pivotal point in her life and she is a survivor. And the ending! what can I say without spoilers? There was plenty of foreshadowing in the book so it was not a shock, but that didn't make it any less painful. This book had ALL the feels.
This book can be enjoyed as a stand alone. It is tangential to the Chameleon Effect books and contains a few brief allusions to those books, but the events in this book are independent. The final scene makes it seem like there might be a stronger tie in coming though.
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