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Keep the Beat
Sophia Reston has never been bothered by the term band geek. The definition of geek is an enthusiast or expert in a particular field or activity. She loves marching band with all her heart, so the term is appropriate. Of course, one of the lesser known definitions of a geek is a carnival performer who is often billed as a wild man and whose act typically includes biting the head off a live chicken or snake. This definition also seems accurate since there is one snake Sophia fantasizes about maiming in the most deliciously torturous ways—her archnemesis, James Fossoway.
He has a stupid nickname, stupidly attractive muscles, a reputation for sleeping around, and he is a fellow band geek. Unfortunately for Sophia, he’s also an enthusiast of pushing all her buttons—and not in a good way.
When their rivalry leads to one final showdown during the competition for head drum major, the entire band is invested in the outcome. And James has some new tricks up his sleeve to win the last battle they’ll ever wage against each other.
Because, after years of pranks, James isn’t out for revenge. He wants Sophia’s heart.
Or maybe it’s just another dumb challenge.
He has a stupid nickname, stupidly attractive muscles, a reputation for sleeping around, and he is a fellow band geek. Unfortunately for Sophia, he’s also an enthusiast of pushing all her buttons—and not in a good way.
When their rivalry leads to one final showdown during the competition for head drum major, the entire band is invested in the outcome. And James has some new tricks up his sleeve to win the last battle they’ll ever wage against each other.
Because, after years of pranks, James isn’t out for revenge. He wants Sophia’s heart.
Or maybe it’s just another dumb challenge.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2020
11 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
Kata Čuić
21 books471 followersKata Čuić lives in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and writes romance stories with a dash of humor, a dollop of spice, and a heaping helping of heart. With a background in Linguistics and a minor in Religious Studies, her writing style marries lit fic with delicious tropes. He falls first and harder, anyone?
From angst-filled new adult series to standalone rom-coms, and even a touch of paranormal, Kata's diverse storytelling offers something for every romance reader palate. Because she gets bored writing the same things all the time, okay?
When she's not writing, Kata emotionally eats to cope with the endless news cycle, binge reads series because sleep is for the weak, and probably drinks too much whiskey.
Subscribe to Kata's newsletter for a free second-chance, HS reunion novella ➜ https://www.subscribepage.com/katacui...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 3, 2020
*** I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book. ***
5 stars!
This is exactly what my heart needed. It's funny, genuine, and simply brilliant! This is a great enemies to lovers, new adult book with lots of band hijinks. Yes I said "band hijinks," that alone should make you curious, lol! I loved this. It was so refreshing and witty. And as an added bonus, some of my favorites from MTC make cameos. I adore Kata and can't wait for more.
5 stars!
This is exactly what my heart needed. It's funny, genuine, and simply brilliant! This is a great enemies to lovers, new adult book with lots of band hijinks. Yes I said "band hijinks," that alone should make you curious, lol! I loved this. It was so refreshing and witty. And as an added bonus, some of my favorites from MTC make cameos. I adore Kata and can't wait for more.
February 28, 2020
Emerald Book Reviews
“Keep the Beat” by Kata Cuic
‘His eyes scream at me.
Compete with me.
Answer the call.
Keep the beat.
Because I never back down from his challenges, I slide my hands up his chest to frame his neck. And squeeze a little.
He smirks. “Dancing like this is the same as hating someone. You put all your energy into it, all your passion. Doesn’t matter what brought you together with the other body, you give in to it. You let it consume you. And you don’t ever want it to end.”’
You know that old adage “good things come to those who wait”? Keep the Beat by author Kata Cuic is the very definition of that saying. What makes this book in particular, so utterly amazing, is the fact that this is Kata’s first foray into the romantic-comedy side of writing and it is by far, one of the best rom-com novels I have ever read. Not just this year, but ever. Generally, a lot of other rom-coms tend to fall back on the same old overused templates- miscommunication, misdirection, overblown, exaggerated gestures and mishaps. In "Keep the Beat" we are treated to an exceptionally well thought out and executed plot, one that is original, witty, sparkling and exciting. In fact the whole book, from start to finish is one of brilliant comedic timing and sweet and arousing, romance.
This is the part where I’m going to throw my hands up and admit, that in the beginning I thought I was so damn clever, thinking I had the whole story mapped out, I knew where it was going, I predicted the ensuing chaos and drama and hilarity and eventually the outcome. I will also happily admit that I got it all wrong. Because author Kata Cuic has managed to write the most uproarious, spit-my-tea-out, one of a kind, swoon-worthy love fest. There are so many hidden dips and curves within this story, that it elevates it from a mere ‘enemies to lovers’ kind of NA romance story, to something pristine, entirely unique and unequivocally dazzling. There’s just no way, you can come away from this story and not feel good and happy inside. It's not possible.
Even though the book is told entirely from our heroine Sophia’s point of view, I never once felt like I couldn’t get a peg on Jimbo, our hero. Yes, he was sexy, cocky, aggravating, ridiculously funny, provocative and really good at baiting poor Sophia, but through his dialogue and actions, I felt like we were afforded a good, long, hard look at him. And as the story progressed, I understood that underneath the bravado and swagger, he was way more profound than we were first led to believe, due in part to our flawed take on everything, coming from Sophia’s perspective. Jimbo's character slowly revealed himself to be this sweet, deep and wonderful hero.
Sophia had layers too. She was fantastic. Intelligent, sharp, ambitious and dedicated. And when she and Jimbo locked horns, you could tell there was this amazing passion and enthusiasm inside her. Her emotions were carefully guarded. Her true feelings barricaded behind a surly and indifferent front. But when she and our hero sparked off one another, they caused some serious sexual tension, which did indeed light up the pages. There's nothing I love more than the build up, the heady anticipation and near miss kisses.
It was such a fun, engaging and comical adventure within the band. The rivalry, competitions, banter, games and camaraderie brought forth some of the best comedic moments (that party bathroom scene with Sophia had me doubled over laughing. I’m not even exaggerating here. I couldn’t read anything for ten minutes after, because the tears blurred my vision). More than that, there was an overwhelming sense of love and loyalty that lay within the band, the friendships and relationships, the hookups and the past lovers. It was just one huge melting pot of hilarity, sexual tension, drama and a few twists and turns set to the beat of the marching band.
“Keep the Beat” will go down as one of my favourite books this year. It’s just another beautiful showcase of how talented writer Kata Cuic is. She’s ditched the angst and heartbreak for something that is just as equally profound and endearing, but she’s added some absolutely terrific dialogue and banter, hysterical situations and of course some truly wonderful and beautifully scripted romance.
‘“Let go,” he whispers. “You can fall. I’ll catch you this time, I promise.”
“Keep the Beat” by Kata Cuic
‘His eyes scream at me.
Compete with me.
Answer the call.
Keep the beat.
Because I never back down from his challenges, I slide my hands up his chest to frame his neck. And squeeze a little.
He smirks. “Dancing like this is the same as hating someone. You put all your energy into it, all your passion. Doesn’t matter what brought you together with the other body, you give in to it. You let it consume you. And you don’t ever want it to end.”’
You know that old adage “good things come to those who wait”? Keep the Beat by author Kata Cuic is the very definition of that saying. What makes this book in particular, so utterly amazing, is the fact that this is Kata’s first foray into the romantic-comedy side of writing and it is by far, one of the best rom-com novels I have ever read. Not just this year, but ever. Generally, a lot of other rom-coms tend to fall back on the same old overused templates- miscommunication, misdirection, overblown, exaggerated gestures and mishaps. In "Keep the Beat" we are treated to an exceptionally well thought out and executed plot, one that is original, witty, sparkling and exciting. In fact the whole book, from start to finish is one of brilliant comedic timing and sweet and arousing, romance.
This is the part where I’m going to throw my hands up and admit, that in the beginning I thought I was so damn clever, thinking I had the whole story mapped out, I knew where it was going, I predicted the ensuing chaos and drama and hilarity and eventually the outcome. I will also happily admit that I got it all wrong. Because author Kata Cuic has managed to write the most uproarious, spit-my-tea-out, one of a kind, swoon-worthy love fest. There are so many hidden dips and curves within this story, that it elevates it from a mere ‘enemies to lovers’ kind of NA romance story, to something pristine, entirely unique and unequivocally dazzling. There’s just no way, you can come away from this story and not feel good and happy inside. It's not possible.
Even though the book is told entirely from our heroine Sophia’s point of view, I never once felt like I couldn’t get a peg on Jimbo, our hero. Yes, he was sexy, cocky, aggravating, ridiculously funny, provocative and really good at baiting poor Sophia, but through his dialogue and actions, I felt like we were afforded a good, long, hard look at him. And as the story progressed, I understood that underneath the bravado and swagger, he was way more profound than we were first led to believe, due in part to our flawed take on everything, coming from Sophia’s perspective. Jimbo's character slowly revealed himself to be this sweet, deep and wonderful hero.
Sophia had layers too. She was fantastic. Intelligent, sharp, ambitious and dedicated. And when she and Jimbo locked horns, you could tell there was this amazing passion and enthusiasm inside her. Her emotions were carefully guarded. Her true feelings barricaded behind a surly and indifferent front. But when she and our hero sparked off one another, they caused some serious sexual tension, which did indeed light up the pages. There's nothing I love more than the build up, the heady anticipation and near miss kisses.
It was such a fun, engaging and comical adventure within the band. The rivalry, competitions, banter, games and camaraderie brought forth some of the best comedic moments (that party bathroom scene with Sophia had me doubled over laughing. I’m not even exaggerating here. I couldn’t read anything for ten minutes after, because the tears blurred my vision). More than that, there was an overwhelming sense of love and loyalty that lay within the band, the friendships and relationships, the hookups and the past lovers. It was just one huge melting pot of hilarity, sexual tension, drama and a few twists and turns set to the beat of the marching band.
“Keep the Beat” will go down as one of my favourite books this year. It’s just another beautiful showcase of how talented writer Kata Cuic is. She’s ditched the angst and heartbreak for something that is just as equally profound and endearing, but she’s added some absolutely terrific dialogue and banter, hysterical situations and of course some truly wonderful and beautifully scripted romance.
‘“Let go,” he whispers. “You can fall. I’ll catch you this time, I promise.”
April 25, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Keep the Beat is a rom com where we meet Jim and Sophia who share a very personal intimate moment in high school, only for Jim to completely ghost and ignore Sophia when they get to college. 3 years later and they are still locked in a feud as arch enemies. The two have hilarious interactions where the line between hate and love is blurred. I really enjoyed the witty banter, Jim and Sophia’s explosive chemistry and the secondary characters who played a huge part in making this novel entertaining and amusing.
I have mixed emotions towards Keep The Beat. The first half of the book, not going to lie dragged a little for me. I’m not too sure if it was my mood or life stressors but I had to take a break and come back. The book did pick up in the second half and I did grow to really enjoy the story and characters a lot more.
Keep the Beat is my first read of Kata’s and it definitely won’t be the last. Her writing flowed effortlessly, and she sure can get you laughing and smiling with her humour. I really look forward to reading more of her work.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Keep the Beat is a rom com where we meet Jim and Sophia who share a very personal intimate moment in high school, only for Jim to completely ghost and ignore Sophia when they get to college. 3 years later and they are still locked in a feud as arch enemies. The two have hilarious interactions where the line between hate and love is blurred. I really enjoyed the witty banter, Jim and Sophia’s explosive chemistry and the secondary characters who played a huge part in making this novel entertaining and amusing.
I have mixed emotions towards Keep The Beat. The first half of the book, not going to lie dragged a little for me. I’m not too sure if it was my mood or life stressors but I had to take a break and come back. The book did pick up in the second half and I did grow to really enjoy the story and characters a lot more.
Keep the Beat is my first read of Kata’s and it definitely won’t be the last. Her writing flowed effortlessly, and she sure can get you laughing and smiling with her humour. I really look forward to reading more of her work.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2020
Jimbo, James, Jim, yes all the same guy, Sophia refers to him with those different names depending on his moods. Yes, they know each other, or have become well enough enemies of each other. These two have a past, but what the aftermath didn't turn out the way she pictured it, so they have been poking and prodding each other for years. Trying over the top, outdoing each other, and now its their last year, they want the highest spot in the college band, Drum Major.
These two are so ridiculously hot for each other but they love the fighting. It is quite funny. This was my first Kata read and it was quite entertaining.
These two are so ridiculously hot for each other but they love the fighting. It is quite funny. This was my first Kata read and it was quite entertaining.
April 20, 2020
*** ARC kindly provided in exchange of an honest review. ***
Keep The Beat was an hilarious and wild band comedy, colorful characters with no filter, passionate geeks about music and sizeable dose of emotion . I loved it!
But what I loved the most was the main characters' well developed personalities, adding so much to this great storyline brilliantly carried out.
My heart's still beating like a drum to this wonderful beat, the beat of their hearts as their primary source of rhythm.
Sophia and James are totally not in love but in hate of each other, competitive as hell and when in their senior year for the head drum major would be elected, well all bets were off.
All is fair in love and band.
I laughed so hard, totally in love with all their bickering and delightful back and forth.
Sophia is a strong and independent woman who had two passions: the band and giving hell to the sexy and cocky arch-nemesis, James. Making him sweat was also a too tempting and dangerous activity that would lead to confused feelings and bring their smoking hot chemistry to another level. Sophia was one stubborn to the core, building that tough exterior keeping people at bay and somehow unreachable.
After three years of resentment, lust turned into hate and pranks, well, things were going to change… for better or worse. You pick.
James is a complex character, on the outside being the life of the party, popular at school, a reputation with the ladies that preceded him. He was definitely more like he seemed to be, intended to make the show for sure and still he won me over with the other sides of his personality, with that strong hint of swoon and sexiness.
I had to admit that I was a bit wary about this story because I know the author’s ability to push the readers’ limit and I was afraid that at some point I would like to strangle any characters.
But I didn’t. Well, they frustrated the hell out of me a lot but in a good way. I was rooting for these two because they were alike in many ways.
Adding in the mix an audience of supportive characters who were living vicariously through their little war, especially Sophia and James’ moods would influence the band’s life as well.
I adored the banter and craziness in the air and how the author managed to bring such emotions into the characters’ history. Scratching the surface, underneath the reputation and good looks, enhancing the substance of their relationship. Some readers could somehow relate to the main characters’ issues and experience through life.
Characters are more matured and also acting like their age, but facing different experiences.
I was thriving for these moments when they show some vulnerability and put aside their weird relationship they’ve built through the years, which was their normality.
When all the walls and pretending stopped, it took an interesting turn, a beautiful story nonetheless still funny. It just got all I loved in a romantic comedy.
Kata Ĉuić kept the beat until the end and did it with brio, with smooth efficiency and mostly with unawaring and energetic enthusiasm.
High five, girl!
Keep The Beat was an hilarious and wild band comedy, colorful characters with no filter, passionate geeks about music and sizeable dose of emotion . I loved it!
But what I loved the most was the main characters' well developed personalities, adding so much to this great storyline brilliantly carried out.
My heart's still beating like a drum to this wonderful beat, the beat of their hearts as their primary source of rhythm.
Sophia and James are totally not in love but in hate of each other, competitive as hell and when in their senior year for the head drum major would be elected, well all bets were off.
All is fair in love and band.
I laughed so hard, totally in love with all their bickering and delightful back and forth.
Sophia is a strong and independent woman who had two passions: the band and giving hell to the sexy and cocky arch-nemesis, James. Making him sweat was also a too tempting and dangerous activity that would lead to confused feelings and bring their smoking hot chemistry to another level. Sophia was one stubborn to the core, building that tough exterior keeping people at bay and somehow unreachable.
After three years of resentment, lust turned into hate and pranks, well, things were going to change… for better or worse. You pick.
James is a complex character, on the outside being the life of the party, popular at school, a reputation with the ladies that preceded him. He was definitely more like he seemed to be, intended to make the show for sure and still he won me over with the other sides of his personality, with that strong hint of swoon and sexiness.
I had to admit that I was a bit wary about this story because I know the author’s ability to push the readers’ limit and I was afraid that at some point I would like to strangle any characters.
But I didn’t. Well, they frustrated the hell out of me a lot but in a good way. I was rooting for these two because they were alike in many ways.
Adding in the mix an audience of supportive characters who were living vicariously through their little war, especially Sophia and James’ moods would influence the band’s life as well.
I adored the banter and craziness in the air and how the author managed to bring such emotions into the characters’ history. Scratching the surface, underneath the reputation and good looks, enhancing the substance of their relationship. Some readers could somehow relate to the main characters’ issues and experience through life.
Characters are more matured and also acting like their age, but facing different experiences.
I was thriving for these moments when they show some vulnerability and put aside their weird relationship they’ve built through the years, which was their normality.
When all the walls and pretending stopped, it took an interesting turn, a beautiful story nonetheless still funny. It just got all I loved in a romantic comedy.
Kata Ĉuić kept the beat until the end and did it with brio, with smooth efficiency and mostly with unawaring and energetic enthusiasm.
High five, girl!
April 21, 2020
Sophia is strong, determined and once she sets her mind to a goal she will allow nothing or anyone to stand in her way and that goes double for her rival James. There is so much more to James than the easy going, carefree persona that he shows as underneath the humor there is a man who will do anything for those he cares about.
When they find out they are competing for the same position within the band all bets are off, and the battle begins. Their attempts to ensure that they will emerge the winner will have you laughing out loud and it becomes much more than a battle of the band it is about to become a battle of the hearts.
What a fun and different story this turned out to be. Their antics are humorous, the interactions between them are humorous, the sparks between them fly off the pages and the characters are unlike any you have seen.
When they find out they are competing for the same position within the band all bets are off, and the battle begins. Their attempts to ensure that they will emerge the winner will have you laughing out loud and it becomes much more than a battle of the band it is about to become a battle of the hearts.
What a fun and different story this turned out to be. Their antics are humorous, the interactions between them are humorous, the sparks between them fly off the pages and the characters are unlike any you have seen.
May 7, 2020
Reviewed for Saucy Reviews On Kinky Corner
This book was brilliant. It's my first book by this author and as the pages were turning and I became engrossed, I wondered why that was the case. And the truth is, I have no idea. This story is light, fun and a beautiful love story. I don't usually read college books but I made the exception and I am glad to say, I am so pleased I did.
Sophia/Sophie and James/Jimbo/Jim. Yes they go by all those names in this book. Provide a great Enemies to Lovers storyline and the relationships that run throughout this book involving all characters are brilliant, touching and fun. This story is about so much more than you first think and it was great finding out the ins and outs of it all.
I won't give the secrets, lies or truths away. You'll have to read it and make your own opinions in that respect but I know you won't be disappointed at all. This book is s total recommend from me. I enjoyed it so much I am gonna go back and read the books that this one is a spin off from.
This book was brilliant. It's my first book by this author and as the pages were turning and I became engrossed, I wondered why that was the case. And the truth is, I have no idea. This story is light, fun and a beautiful love story. I don't usually read college books but I made the exception and I am glad to say, I am so pleased I did.
Sophia/Sophie and James/Jimbo/Jim. Yes they go by all those names in this book. Provide a great Enemies to Lovers storyline and the relationships that run throughout this book involving all characters are brilliant, touching and fun. This story is about so much more than you first think and it was great finding out the ins and outs of it all.
I won't give the secrets, lies or truths away. You'll have to read it and make your own opinions in that respect but I know you won't be disappointed at all. This book is s total recommend from me. I enjoyed it so much I am gonna go back and read the books that this one is a spin off from.
May 6, 2020
A little while ago I was approached to read and review an ARC of ‘Keep The Beat’ by Kata Cuic. Since I love romance novels, this book sounded like a lot of fun and I signed up.
In ‘Keep The Beat’ we meet Sophia and James. Sophia and James are both in the marching band and are competing for head drum major. Not only are they rivals now, they have been for the last three years. They’ve been pranking each other a lot, sometimes with tricks more complex than others.
Unfortunately it became clear to me early on in this read, that this book was not for me. It started with the whole band geek, college talk and hierarchy I just couldn’t follow. There are a lot of different names like head drum major, and I just simple couldn’t really get what was going on and who was who.
The romance between Sophia and James was also something I couldn’t really get into. I just didn’t really believe their connection, and I couldn’t feel their chemistry. Things also seem to move pretty fast. One moment they are archnemesis, and the next they are in some kind of relationship?! I just couldn’t really follow.
To be honest I don’t really know why this book didn’t work for me. When you check out the ratings on Goodreads and Amazon, this book gets high rates. So maybe it’s just me? I just really didn’t feel this book and now a view days later, I can’t even remember everything. Which is unusual for me.
In ‘Keep The Beat’ we meet Sophia and James. Sophia and James are both in the marching band and are competing for head drum major. Not only are they rivals now, they have been for the last three years. They’ve been pranking each other a lot, sometimes with tricks more complex than others.
Unfortunately it became clear to me early on in this read, that this book was not for me. It started with the whole band geek, college talk and hierarchy I just couldn’t follow. There are a lot of different names like head drum major, and I just simple couldn’t really get what was going on and who was who.
The romance between Sophia and James was also something I couldn’t really get into. I just didn’t really believe their connection, and I couldn’t feel their chemistry. Things also seem to move pretty fast. One moment they are archnemesis, and the next they are in some kind of relationship?! I just couldn’t really follow.
To be honest I don’t really know why this book didn’t work for me. When you check out the ratings on Goodreads and Amazon, this book gets high rates. So maybe it’s just me? I just really didn’t feel this book and now a view days later, I can’t even remember everything. Which is unusual for me.
April 21, 2020
Two band geeks are fighting to become Head Drum Major for their senior year, in Kata Čuić 's newest band com, "Keep the Beat". These characters are awesome, "we don't fit in everywhere, but we fit in with eachother." But two of these band geeks, Sophia and James, have been fighting against eachother in every way, for years, rather than trying to fit together. But funny, neither call eachother by their names, using Sophie and Jimmy or Jimbo because "the names don't matter nearly asnearly much as the people who wear them.
"You might have felt like freaks and geeks as the band nerds wherever you came from, but here, at this level, we work our asses off because we're not satisfied with mediocrity."
And Sophia and James are not mediocre in their battle to be the greatest either. They take their coach's words to heart and push themselves as well as push all their underclassman to be the best.
Kata works her writing magic to create wonderful characters as well as side characters that the reader would want supporting them, even bringing a few moments with characters from her "Moving the Chains" series. One is Shannon, who pushes Sophia with her words of wisdom, like "every woman wears a crown. Sometimes, they're a little crooked, but that's why we have friends. To help us straighten up when we need it."
But through all the battles for top spot as well as just trying to prove herself, Sophia has to face that the line between hate and love truly isn't that far apart. Especially when Jimbo asks her questions like, "Could you ever love me more than you hate me, Sophie?"...Sophia has to try to face that for years she'd been "cloaking love with hatred."
Kata creates a world surrounding these characters that are so real in her fictional world that as a band geek mom, I can definitely understand when my daughter discusses her feelings after reading them within these characters. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this band com, new adult romance as I would any of the books that Kata Čuić has written or will write. She is a definite Must Add to TBR!
"Most of the time, we don't know the important moments in our lives are happening, so we don't stop to savor everything about them."...but we might remember a scent or the feelings and "the names might change in the retelling because we didn't care as much about the people so much as the way they made us feel"...and maybe I'll forget these characters names, but I won't forget the emotions that Kata grabs from deep within as I read her beautiful stories.
"You might have felt like freaks and geeks as the band nerds wherever you came from, but here, at this level, we work our asses off because we're not satisfied with mediocrity."
And Sophia and James are not mediocre in their battle to be the greatest either. They take their coach's words to heart and push themselves as well as push all their underclassman to be the best.
Kata works her writing magic to create wonderful characters as well as side characters that the reader would want supporting them, even bringing a few moments with characters from her "Moving the Chains" series. One is Shannon, who pushes Sophia with her words of wisdom, like "every woman wears a crown. Sometimes, they're a little crooked, but that's why we have friends. To help us straighten up when we need it."
But through all the battles for top spot as well as just trying to prove herself, Sophia has to face that the line between hate and love truly isn't that far apart. Especially when Jimbo asks her questions like, "Could you ever love me more than you hate me, Sophie?"...Sophia has to try to face that for years she'd been "cloaking love with hatred."
Kata creates a world surrounding these characters that are so real in her fictional world that as a band geek mom, I can definitely understand when my daughter discusses her feelings after reading them within these characters. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this band com, new adult romance as I would any of the books that Kata Čuić has written or will write. She is a definite Must Add to TBR!
"Most of the time, we don't know the important moments in our lives are happening, so we don't stop to savor everything about them."...but we might remember a scent or the feelings and "the names might change in the retelling because we didn't care as much about the people so much as the way they made us feel"...and maybe I'll forget these characters names, but I won't forget the emotions that Kata grabs from deep within as I read her beautiful stories.
April 26, 2020
A one night stand at a band event in highschool should have been the end of their story. But, when they end up at the same college and in the same marching band, it leads to a relationship based on challenges and one upping one another both on the field and in their classes. And now, with the title of head drum major on the line, it’s all out war.
But, is that really the play? There is a fine line between love and hate, and Jimbo has been playing the long game for the past 3 years just hoping to get Sophia to see him as more than her competitor and enemy . . . a whole lot more.
Keep the Beat was super unique. I was in love with this entire concept as, I have to admit, I was a bit of a music geek myself in college (although it was choir and not band).
Both of the main characters had such huge chips on their shoulders. Sophia feels she has so much to prove for herself and for her sister and family. She feels the need to experience every moment that she knows her sister can’t. And Jim wants to be known for his own accomplishment , not for who his brother is. Their rivalry pushes them both to be better and I loved the subtle manipulations since no one was hurt.
I adored the other drum majors as well as Shannon and the rest of the bandies. I loved how they all worked together and how they all had each other's backs. I also have to say that this story was much hotter than expected. When Sophia and Jimbo finally decided to go all in, there were not just sparks, but full on flames!
I loved Jimbo and Sophia’s story. It was unique and different and felt fresh and fun. It wasn’t your typical college romance, because not many authors are tackling romance in the marching band. But, it totally worked because band geeks can party too! 5 stars!
But, is that really the play? There is a fine line between love and hate, and Jimbo has been playing the long game for the past 3 years just hoping to get Sophia to see him as more than her competitor and enemy . . . a whole lot more.
Keep the Beat was super unique. I was in love with this entire concept as, I have to admit, I was a bit of a music geek myself in college (although it was choir and not band).
Both of the main characters had such huge chips on their shoulders. Sophia feels she has so much to prove for herself and for her sister and family. She feels the need to experience every moment that she knows her sister can’t. And Jim wants to be known for his own accomplishment , not for who his brother is. Their rivalry pushes them both to be better and I loved the subtle manipulations since no one was hurt.
I adored the other drum majors as well as Shannon and the rest of the bandies. I loved how they all worked together and how they all had each other's backs. I also have to say that this story was much hotter than expected. When Sophia and Jimbo finally decided to go all in, there were not just sparks, but full on flames!
I loved Jimbo and Sophia’s story. It was unique and different and felt fresh and fun. It wasn’t your typical college romance, because not many authors are tackling romance in the marching band. But, it totally worked because band geeks can party too! 5 stars!
April 22, 2020
This book was brilliant. It's my first book by this author and as the pages were turning and I became engrossed, I wondered why that was the case. And the truth is, I have no idea. This story is light, fun and a beautiful love story. I don't usually read college books but I made the exception and I am glad to say, I am so pleased I did.
Sophia/Sophie and James/Jimbo/Jim. Yes, they go by all those names in this book, provide great Enemies to Lovers storyline and the relationships that run throughout this book involving all characters are brilliant, touching and fun. This story is about so much more than you first think and it was great finding out the ins and outs of it all.
I won't give the secrets, lies or truths away. You'll have to read it and make your own opinions in that respect but I know you won't be disappointed at all. This book is s total recommendation from me. I enjoyed it so much I am gonna go back and read the books that this one is a spin-off from.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
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Sophia/Sophie and James/Jimbo/Jim. Yes, they go by all those names in this book, provide great Enemies to Lovers storyline and the relationships that run throughout this book involving all characters are brilliant, touching and fun. This story is about so much more than you first think and it was great finding out the ins and outs of it all.
I won't give the secrets, lies or truths away. You'll have to read it and make your own opinions in that respect but I know you won't be disappointed at all. This book is s total recommendation from me. I enjoyed it so much I am gonna go back and read the books that this one is a spin-off from.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest |
April 26, 2020
Once you start this book you won't be able to put it down.
I loved band books, and there aren't nearly enough of them. This one had me laughing out loud. An enemies to lovers romance. Sophie loves being a band geek, and as much as she loves that she despises Jim. But of course nothing is that simple. When you have a past with someone you never do know what they are thinking.
Sophie and Jim are both competing to be head drum major at their university. And it will be a hard fought battle. But I felt bad at times for them and I laughed out loud at many parts throughout.
This author writes with so much passion that you are completely submerged in this world with them. You transport yourself to being a character watching this all unfold, and you feel lost when the book ends because you don't know what to do next. Dual POV storytelling adds another layer as well.
I loved band books, and there aren't nearly enough of them. This one had me laughing out loud. An enemies to lovers romance. Sophie loves being a band geek, and as much as she loves that she despises Jim. But of course nothing is that simple. When you have a past with someone you never do know what they are thinking.
Sophie and Jim are both competing to be head drum major at their university. And it will be a hard fought battle. But I felt bad at times for them and I laughed out loud at many parts throughout.
This author writes with so much passion that you are completely submerged in this world with them. You transport yourself to being a character watching this all unfold, and you feel lost when the book ends because you don't know what to do next. Dual POV storytelling adds another layer as well.
April 20, 2020
This was a quick and funny read about former lovers/enemies to lovers book. I'll be honest and say I did roll my eyes a few times whole reading because I can not believe some of the things Jim did to stay on her radar. But then I remembered how old they are a things (kinda) made sense.
Sophie was such a great character. I liked her spunk and her personality. I loved that she hated (and had good reason to do so) as much as she loved him. Together they were perfect with bring out the best and sometimes the worst out of each other.
Kata Čujić's writing is unique and I can't wait to read her next book.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Sophie was such a great character. I liked her spunk and her personality. I loved that she hated (and had good reason to do so) as much as she loved him. Together they were perfect with bring out the best and sometimes the worst out of each other.
Kata Čujić's writing is unique and I can't wait to read her next book.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
April 15, 2020
Honestly, this might be the most adorable romcom I’ve ever read in my life. If you’ve ever had any lingering questions about how the band geeks are living, the answers are inside.
James is a giant dummy. I mean, just really. The boy is up to some pretty creative shenanigans.
And Sophia. I wonder if she’s even more blind than some non named blind musicians we all know and love. The girl literally can’t see the forest for the trees.
I giggled, I snorted, I outright cackled. But I also felt. The good, the bad, the happy and the sad. The family bonds with blood and chosen. The battle of the sexes. The girl power.
I loved every inch of this one.
“Who run the world?”
“GIRLS!”
James is a giant dummy. I mean, just really. The boy is up to some pretty creative shenanigans.
And Sophia. I wonder if she’s even more blind than some non named blind musicians we all know and love. The girl literally can’t see the forest for the trees.
I giggled, I snorted, I outright cackled. But I also felt. The good, the bad, the happy and the sad. The family bonds with blood and chosen. The battle of the sexes. The girl power.
I loved every inch of this one.
“Who run the world?”
“GIRLS!”
April 23, 2020
This was my first Kata Cuic read, but it won't be my last. Keep The Beat is such a fun, funny book that kept me reading and laughing and happy the whole way through.
Sophia and James are competitive and all heck, and they are arch nemesis in the drum line. They have such hilarious interactions, and they're both really well-developed characters in their own rights. Their banter and bickering was top notch, and their chemistry was off the charts.
This novel is well written, with a perfect blend of humor and emotion. And we get to learn that there is so much more to Sophia and James than their band geek and jock personalities.
Sophia and James are competitive and all heck, and they are arch nemesis in the drum line. They have such hilarious interactions, and they're both really well-developed characters in their own rights. Their banter and bickering was top notch, and their chemistry was off the charts.
This novel is well written, with a perfect blend of humor and emotion. And we get to learn that there is so much more to Sophia and James than their band geek and jock personalities.
April 26, 2020
Band Geeks collide. These two are arch enemies with a slow burn to reconciling their differences. They had a ‘moment’ three years ago, but when they got to college he ghosted her for greener pastures.
There are light moments, not particularly funny. This is an extremely slow burn with diverse secondary characters.
I could not connect with the central characters and their incessant need to compete and outmanoeuvre each other. Too juvenile.
Told entirely from Sophia’s POV, we finally hear James’s POV in the Epilogue.
There are light moments, not particularly funny. This is an extremely slow burn with diverse secondary characters.
I could not connect with the central characters and their incessant need to compete and outmanoeuvre each other. Too juvenile.
Told entirely from Sophia’s POV, we finally hear James’s POV in the Epilogue.
September 29, 2022
The protagonists of this story are Sophie and Jim, the little brother of my dear Alex.
After sleeping at band camp one night in high school, Jim completely ignores Sophie when they both start at the same college and only drive each other crazy.
Until now, when it comes time to decide who is going to be head drum major and the competition begins between them.
The truth is that I didn't like the competition part as much as the moment of confessing everything they had done to each other over the years, that was😂
After sleeping at band camp one night in high school, Jim completely ignores Sophie when they both start at the same college and only drive each other crazy.
Until now, when it comes time to decide who is going to be head drum major and the competition begins between them.
The truth is that I didn't like the competition part as much as the moment of confessing everything they had done to each other over the years, that was😂
March 17, 2020
This hilarious, somewhat enemies to lovers, young adult college age novel will definitely keep the readers entertained. Sophie and James dished up snarky banter and antics while trying to ignore that electic chemistry they both felt towards each other. I really enjoyed the storyline. I've not read one like this before. I also loved the cameo appearances of some of the characters from Moving the Chains series.
March 26, 2020
The main characters in this book will have you laughing so much your sides hurt! Love the storyline and you will have a really hard time putting it down. Brings you a good laugh, a little emotion, a good helping on enemies with the potential for more, and a good side of oh so sexy. Every wonder what it’s like to be a behind the scenes of a marching band and want to be a Drum Major? This one is definitely the answer to your questions.
April 15, 2020
Absolutely fantastic! I couldn’t put it down. Both the main and supporting characters are endearing, witty, and realistic! Kata’s writing was amazing and the story flew together perfectly. There wasn’t a single moment where the story slowed or paused. I also thoroughly loved the hat tip to the Moving the Chains series (not necessary to read before Keep the Beat). Thank you, Kata!! This was excellent!
April 21, 2020
5 stars for this funny, clever and witty rom-com. It is full of warmth, great banter, not only between Sophie/a and Jim/Jimbo/James, but from other members of the cast. Special shout out for Shannon here! This book is the absolute perfect tonic, bringing laughter and happiness, not just because of the crazy shenanigans, but because of the genuinely well written adventure of going from enemies to lovers. Kata Cuic has a winning combination of the skill in writing free flowing comedy, but also writing with such flair. Fabulous! 💖💖💖💖💖
April 21, 2020
Otay y'all this book was fun to read. Spohie and James aka Jimbo or Jim also they have a real enemies relationship. You can tell right away that they have chemistry and they are fighting it. There moods swing and flip so often it will give you whiplash. Them competing for Drum Major is a hot mess and it definitely keeps you guessing and on your toes. I really feel like I can't say much or ill give the book away but it's definitely a page turner check it out!
September 3, 2020
Planning his agonizing demise...but falling head over heels.
A Second Chance, New Adult, Enemies to Lovers Romance between two college seniors who find sneaky ways to trick each other in various competitions when in fact they are head over heels for one another. Can they get past all the immaturity of their past and see what they really feel for each other? 4 Competitive Stars for "Keep the Beat"... and allowing your true feelings prevail.
A Second Chance, New Adult, Enemies to Lovers Romance between two college seniors who find sneaky ways to trick each other in various competitions when in fact they are head over heels for one another. Can they get past all the immaturity of their past and see what they really feel for each other? 4 Competitive Stars for "Keep the Beat"... and allowing your true feelings prevail.
March 27, 2020
I was lucky to get a arc of this book and I am glad I got to read it
I love to read a book that makes you laugh out loud
And also one that has me wondering what is Going to happen next this did that
At a time in the world when things are not so happy it was great to escape into the book world for a little while with fun and laughter
Definitely would recommend this to everyone
I love to read a book that makes you laugh out loud
And also one that has me wondering what is Going to happen next this did that
At a time in the world when things are not so happy it was great to escape into the book world for a little while with fun and laughter
Definitely would recommend this to everyone
February 25, 2020
Was lucky enough to get an arc for this book. I loved it, it is so great to get a story that hasn't been done a thousand times great characters, funny and fantastic banter. Definitely worth a read. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#KeepTheBeat
Kata Claire Cuic
#KeepTheBeat
Kata Claire Cuic
March 20, 2020
I give this book 5 stars because it is a great book!!! It’s not just because of who the author is. It’s because she always puts everything her book needs to be great!! I hope you will get sucked into the book just like I did! Sofie and Jimbo are a great couple who always have to out do each other!
April 26, 2020
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Great Book
This book was definitely worth the read. I was hooked on this book from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down.
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Great Book
This book was definitely worth the read. I was hooked on this book from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down.
August 15, 2020
While I won't even pretend to understand what's going on in Sophia's and Jimbo's heads a lot of the time - the whole "love/hate/wait, what now?" gave me occasional mental whiplash - I enjoyed their banter/pranks/full-on war.
July 12, 2022
If I had known that college marching band was like this, I would have stick with it!!
September 25, 2022
dnf @ 75%,,, yeah,,, no esp the second half oh brother
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