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Rising Star
In the first book in THE RISE AND FALL OF DANI TRUEHART series, RISING STAR, fifteen-year-old Dani Truehart is living a life that is not quite her own. Driven by her mother's desire for fame and fortune, she has spent her childhood dutifully training for a career as a pop star. On the brink of discovery, doubts begin to creep into Dani's mind as she questions her own desire for fame, and she wonders whether she can trust the motivations of the adults who are driving her forward.
Following a brilliant audition arranged by her vocal/dance coach and former '80s pop icon Martin Fox, Dani is thrown full-force into the music industry. She leaves her friends, family and scheming mother behind to move with Martin, who has become her legal guardian, into the Malibu compound of her new manager, Jenner Redman. Jenner, the former swindling manager of Martin's boy band, leverages what's left of his depleted fortune to launch Dani's career.
Isolated from her life at home and trying to stay apace with her demanding schedule, Dani struggles to keep in touch with those she loves, connect to her withholding mother and find her voice as an artist. With Martin and Jenner at odds over their rocky past and finding herself unprepared to handle the pressures of her future singing career, Dani's debut album and future stardom are at risk of falling apart.
Following a brilliant audition arranged by her vocal/dance coach and former '80s pop icon Martin Fox, Dani is thrown full-force into the music industry. She leaves her friends, family and scheming mother behind to move with Martin, who has become her legal guardian, into the Malibu compound of her new manager, Jenner Redman. Jenner, the former swindling manager of Martin's boy band, leverages what's left of his depleted fortune to launch Dani's career.
Isolated from her life at home and trying to stay apace with her demanding schedule, Dani struggles to keep in touch with those she loves, connect to her withholding mother and find her voice as an artist. With Martin and Jenner at odds over their rocky past and finding herself unprepared to handle the pressures of her future singing career, Dani's debut album and future stardom are at risk of falling apart.
268 pages, Paperback
Published October 20, 2020
1 person is currently reading
4712 people want to read
About the author
Michele Kwasniewski
3 books122 followersAfter graduating from Loyola Marymount University with a BA in Technical Theater, Michele Kwasniewski spent over fifteen years in film and television production. Starting out as a film set assistant on movies such as INDEPENDENCE DAY, FACE/OFF, PRIMAL FEAR, and EVITA. Michele eventually switched to the small screen and worked her way up the ladder to production manager, gaining experience on television shows such as BIG BROTHER, ADOPTION STORIES, EXTRA YARDAGE and MEET THE PANDAS. She is also a proud member of the Producers Guild of America. Michele's colorful experiences in the industry inspired her to write THE RISE AND FALL OF DANI TRUEHART series. Michele lives in San Clemente, California with her husband, their son, and their disobedient dachshund.
The first two books in Michele’s YA series RISING STAR and BURNING BRIGHT have won multiple awards including BEST PERFORMING ARTS BOOK for the 2022 AMERICAN WRITING AWARDS, BEST YOUNG ADULT FICTION BOOK and GENERAL FICTION BOOK for the 2022 ROYAL DRAGONFLY AWARDS and BEST YOUNG ADULT BOOK for the 2023 PENCRAFT SEASONAL BOOK AWARDS (WINTER).
The first two books in Michele’s YA series RISING STAR and BURNING BRIGHT have won multiple awards including BEST PERFORMING ARTS BOOK for the 2022 AMERICAN WRITING AWARDS, BEST YOUNG ADULT FICTION BOOK and GENERAL FICTION BOOK for the 2022 ROYAL DRAGONFLY AWARDS and BEST YOUNG ADULT BOOK for the 2023 PENCRAFT SEASONAL BOOK AWARDS (WINTER).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 24, 2021
See this review and more at my blog, The Scribe Owl!
Thank you to Rockstar Book Tours for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
4/5 stars
I honestly did not expect much from Rising Star, but it completely blew me away! I don't often read contemporary, but I'm glad I read this one. I love books and music, so a book about music is right up my alley!
Fifteen-year-old Dani Truehart is living a life that is not quite her own. Driven by her mother's desire for fame and fortune, she has spent her childhood dutifully training for a career as a pop star. After a stellar audition, Dani is thrown full-force into the music industry. She leaves her friends, family, and scheming mother behind to move into the Malibu compound of her new manager, Jenner Redman. Isolated from her life at home and trying to stay apace with her demanding schedule, Dani struggles to keep in touch with those she loves, connect to her withholding mother and find her voice as an artist.
When I opened the book, I was apprehensive. The writing was simple and everything started out a little slow. It didn't take long for everything to pick up! The plot gained speed and the writing fit the story perfectly.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was how we got to take a look into what a budding popstar's life would look like. I have no doubt that it's just as hard in real life, and I appreciate all the effort and research the author must have put into it! I would not be able to make it in a world where relationships are hard to maintain and my day is a blur of activity, so hats off to all the people that manage that!
The characters and character development were amazing. Seeing Dani's mom would run her ragged to form her into popstar material, and then unintentionally reveal that she was in it for the money all along, I was really able to appreciate how lucky I am to have the fantastic and supportive parents I do. Also, everyone give a round of applause for Dani's boyfriend, Sean, for making it work even when Dani was far away and too busy or tired to call or text. I hope everyone has a person like that in their life!
I had a great time with this book! I will definitely revisit the series when it's time for book two, Burning Bright, to come out!
Thank you to Rockstar Book Tours for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
4/5 stars
I honestly did not expect much from Rising Star, but it completely blew me away! I don't often read contemporary, but I'm glad I read this one. I love books and music, so a book about music is right up my alley!
Fifteen-year-old Dani Truehart is living a life that is not quite her own. Driven by her mother's desire for fame and fortune, she has spent her childhood dutifully training for a career as a pop star. After a stellar audition, Dani is thrown full-force into the music industry. She leaves her friends, family, and scheming mother behind to move into the Malibu compound of her new manager, Jenner Redman. Isolated from her life at home and trying to stay apace with her demanding schedule, Dani struggles to keep in touch with those she loves, connect to her withholding mother and find her voice as an artist.
When I opened the book, I was apprehensive. The writing was simple and everything started out a little slow. It didn't take long for everything to pick up! The plot gained speed and the writing fit the story perfectly.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was how we got to take a look into what a budding popstar's life would look like. I have no doubt that it's just as hard in real life, and I appreciate all the effort and research the author must have put into it! I would not be able to make it in a world where relationships are hard to maintain and my day is a blur of activity, so hats off to all the people that manage that!
The characters and character development were amazing. Seeing Dani's mom would run her ragged to form her into popstar material, and then unintentionally reveal that she was in it for the money all along, I was really able to appreciate how lucky I am to have the fantastic and supportive parents I do. Also, everyone give a round of applause for Dani's boyfriend, Sean, for making it work even when Dani was far away and too busy or tired to call or text. I hope everyone has a person like that in their life!
I had a great time with this book! I will definitely revisit the series when it's time for book two, Burning Bright, to come out!
June 1, 2021
"Sometimes you have to do things in this business that you don't want to do to get where you want to go. The tricky part is making compromises that don't alter your principles."
There's a tiny part in all of us that wonders what it would be like to be rich and famous. To be the center of attention and in the limelight. We all like the idea of being there but we never fully know what it actually takes to make it to the top. There's a lot more to it than looking beautiful and waving your money around.
This book gives us a sneak peek at what someone is willing to go through to make it to the top and all while being a teenager.
Dani is not your typical teenager. Her Mom controls her life and is trying to get her daughter to the top of the singing food chain. And her Mom will stop at nothing to make it happen. She monitors everything she eats, plans out her entire day, and hires an ex-boyband member from the '80s to help her on her journey. No cost is too expensive.
Martin knows that Dani will make it huge and she's on the cusp of finally being discovered. He makes an offer to fully take her under his wing and become her guardian when it comes to her career. With some arm twisting, the papers are signed and Martin is now in charge of her upcoming career.
Dani is excited to leave her high-stress and conniving Mom behind and move to Malibu to start recording her EP. She moves into a mansion in Malibu with her guardian and her new manager. Things are getting more stressful and demanding as her schedule gets packed with things to do to get ready for her single to release.
Being isolated from family, friends, and her boyfriend hits her hard as she has no time in her schedule to see or speak to them. Will the demands of her upcoming career swallow her whole? Or will she finally be able to juggle everything and become a success?
This was a great story and it opened my eyes to the high demands it takes to become a star. I never realized how much a person gives up to follow their dreams. They rarely see family and friends and often times make poor health choices along the way. Talk about dedication!
What hit me the hardest was the way her Mom treated her and her sister. This brought back a lot of personal memories. It made me so sad to see how terrible her Mom treated her and others to get her hands on her daughter's money. It was sickening.
Rising Star was a great book and a book that I couldn't put down. The character development was superb as Dani finds her way in life. I'm excited to travel with Dani and see how her career pans out in the next book.
There's a tiny part in all of us that wonders what it would be like to be rich and famous. To be the center of attention and in the limelight. We all like the idea of being there but we never fully know what it actually takes to make it to the top. There's a lot more to it than looking beautiful and waving your money around.
This book gives us a sneak peek at what someone is willing to go through to make it to the top and all while being a teenager.
Dani is not your typical teenager. Her Mom controls her life and is trying to get her daughter to the top of the singing food chain. And her Mom will stop at nothing to make it happen. She monitors everything she eats, plans out her entire day, and hires an ex-boyband member from the '80s to help her on her journey. No cost is too expensive.
Martin knows that Dani will make it huge and she's on the cusp of finally being discovered. He makes an offer to fully take her under his wing and become her guardian when it comes to her career. With some arm twisting, the papers are signed and Martin is now in charge of her upcoming career.
Dani is excited to leave her high-stress and conniving Mom behind and move to Malibu to start recording her EP. She moves into a mansion in Malibu with her guardian and her new manager. Things are getting more stressful and demanding as her schedule gets packed with things to do to get ready for her single to release.
Being isolated from family, friends, and her boyfriend hits her hard as she has no time in her schedule to see or speak to them. Will the demands of her upcoming career swallow her whole? Or will she finally be able to juggle everything and become a success?
This was a great story and it opened my eyes to the high demands it takes to become a star. I never realized how much a person gives up to follow their dreams. They rarely see family and friends and often times make poor health choices along the way. Talk about dedication!
What hit me the hardest was the way her Mom treated her and her sister. This brought back a lot of personal memories. It made me so sad to see how terrible her Mom treated her and others to get her hands on her daughter's money. It was sickening.
Rising Star was a great book and a book that I couldn't put down. The character development was superb as Dani finds her way in life. I'm excited to travel with Dani and see how her career pans out in the next book.
September 8, 2021
Book reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Fifteen-year-old Dani Truehart is on her way to becoming the next big singing sensation. She has been working so hard for this for the last few years, egged on by her pushy mother who sees her daughter as a money-making machine.
When her mother oversteps the mark one too many times, Dani’s dance/vocal coach offers her a solution, he wants to become her guardian and take away her mother’s right to have anything to do with her daughter’s career. He also believes he can get her a deal with a music producer.
But moving to a new state, alone, to stay with people she barely knows and thrown into the limelight is starting to take its toll on her. Is she cut out to be the next rising star?
The first book in a planned series, The Rise and Fall of Dani Truehart, is a YA tale following the music career of the protagonist. The author, Michele Kwasniewski, clearly knows this industry very well as the scenes and situations came across very realistically. However, sometimes having the knowledge means that you try to share everything with the reader and at times the plot came a little bogged down with information that didn’t add anything to the story.
Not having any connections to this kind of industry, being in the UK, and a mother of a fifteen-year-old I found myself wondering why on earth someone would sign their daughter over to another and let them take them hundreds of miles away on their own to live in the same house a fully grown man. But like I said I don’t know this world and it most likely happens a lot. This also shows I became emotionally attached to the story.
This is a book I can see YA readers devouring. It is fast-paced in sections and was easy to read. Dani is a character that I am sure teenagers will be able to connect with, it will also show them just what they will have to do if they too want this life and that it isn’t’ a career filled with just sunshine and roses.
Fifteen-year-old Dani Truehart is on her way to becoming the next big singing sensation. She has been working so hard for this for the last few years, egged on by her pushy mother who sees her daughter as a money-making machine.
When her mother oversteps the mark one too many times, Dani’s dance/vocal coach offers her a solution, he wants to become her guardian and take away her mother’s right to have anything to do with her daughter’s career. He also believes he can get her a deal with a music producer.
But moving to a new state, alone, to stay with people she barely knows and thrown into the limelight is starting to take its toll on her. Is she cut out to be the next rising star?
The first book in a planned series, The Rise and Fall of Dani Truehart, is a YA tale following the music career of the protagonist. The author, Michele Kwasniewski, clearly knows this industry very well as the scenes and situations came across very realistically. However, sometimes having the knowledge means that you try to share everything with the reader and at times the plot came a little bogged down with information that didn’t add anything to the story.
Not having any connections to this kind of industry, being in the UK, and a mother of a fifteen-year-old I found myself wondering why on earth someone would sign their daughter over to another and let them take them hundreds of miles away on their own to live in the same house a fully grown man. But like I said I don’t know this world and it most likely happens a lot. This also shows I became emotionally attached to the story.
This is a book I can see YA readers devouring. It is fast-paced in sections and was easy to read. Dani is a character that I am sure teenagers will be able to connect with, it will also show them just what they will have to do if they too want this life and that it isn’t’ a career filled with just sunshine and roses.
June 22, 2021
I was not sure what I was expecting from this story; a teenage star getting manipulated by her dear ones and losing her cool? Probably. Well, it is not that story. There is some angst for sure, but evil mamas aside, there are no surprising twists or turns in the plot (though I was waiting for one like the spectator of a scary movie).
Ever wondered how a pop star came to be or how success feels? If that is you, then this story is a must read. Dani Truehart is on her way to fame and it is a path filled with sacrifices, endless hours of hard work and . . . missing the normal life. Sure, we can't have everything and a star's life is not that bad either. There are no fights with best friends or breaking up with boyfriends which was another surprise I found in the story. I had my doubts on Sean, but the guy seems to have a strong head on his shoulders.
Hmm, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Once the star starts to burn brighter, will everything remain the same? I can't wait to see what happens next.
Ever wondered how a pop star came to be or how success feels? If that is you, then this story is a must read. Dani Truehart is on her way to fame and it is a path filled with sacrifices, endless hours of hard work and . . . missing the normal life. Sure, we can't have everything and a star's life is not that bad either. There are no fights with best friends or breaking up with boyfriends which was another surprise I found in the story. I had my doubts on Sean, but the guy seems to have a strong head on his shoulders.
Hmm, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Once the star starts to burn brighter, will everything remain the same? I can't wait to see what happens next.
June 30, 2021
Rising Star is a young adult story about a budding popstar.
Fifteen-year-old Danni has a mother who is determined to make her daughter famous. From a young age, Danni has attended dance and singing classes, while keeping fit and watching her diet. The hard work looks set to pay off as she gets a chance to move up through the entertainment industry on her way to stardom.
I understand that the author has had experience working within the pop world, so much of the detail about the hard work and daily grind needed to make it as a newly discovered star is very believable. I am hands up not the target audience for this story, so the teen anguish and troubles didn’t particularly interest me. I do think that the pacing could have been increased by cutting down on some of the daily minutiae; similarly I found that often the dialogue became long-winded and full of too many explanations, making it seem unnatural in places.
Solidly in the teen market, I would recommend this to any young people hoping to make it big in the music world; all the work behind the scenes which goes on before a pop record can become a hit is quite an eye-opener.
Fifteen-year-old Danni has a mother who is determined to make her daughter famous. From a young age, Danni has attended dance and singing classes, while keeping fit and watching her diet. The hard work looks set to pay off as she gets a chance to move up through the entertainment industry on her way to stardom.
I understand that the author has had experience working within the pop world, so much of the detail about the hard work and daily grind needed to make it as a newly discovered star is very believable. I am hands up not the target audience for this story, so the teen anguish and troubles didn’t particularly interest me. I do think that the pacing could have been increased by cutting down on some of the daily minutiae; similarly I found that often the dialogue became long-winded and full of too many explanations, making it seem unnatural in places.
Solidly in the teen market, I would recommend this to any young people hoping to make it big in the music world; all the work behind the scenes which goes on before a pop record can become a hit is quite an eye-opener.
April 13, 2021
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
Well, my first 5 star rating of the year and one I wasn't expecting.
This book was really good at portraying the life of a pop star, from the early stages of her career to her road to making it big. We live it all through the eyes of Dani our main protagonist. her struggles, her dealing with an more than oportunistic mother who just wanted money and fame vicariously through her daughter..
We see her trying hard to mantain her relationships and how it's quite a difficult task, due to long hours, tigh schedules and just simply being too tired to reach out.. It's easy to see the background and research the author had on the entertainment industry.. You can feel the effort one has to go through to reach stardom.
The character development on this book is top of the line, it only enriches the story.
It starts a little on the slow side but once it picks up you'll fly through it, it's easy to read and very engrossing which I appreciate a lot because that's what I'm looking for these days, to be taking out from my reality for a while.
Thank you to the author for gifting me with this book and I'm looking forward to reading more from her.
Well, my first 5 star rating of the year and one I wasn't expecting.
This book was really good at portraying the life of a pop star, from the early stages of her career to her road to making it big. We live it all through the eyes of Dani our main protagonist. her struggles, her dealing with an more than oportunistic mother who just wanted money and fame vicariously through her daughter..
We see her trying hard to mantain her relationships and how it's quite a difficult task, due to long hours, tigh schedules and just simply being too tired to reach out.. It's easy to see the background and research the author had on the entertainment industry.. You can feel the effort one has to go through to reach stardom.
The character development on this book is top of the line, it only enriches the story.
It starts a little on the slow side but once it picks up you'll fly through it, it's easy to read and very engrossing which I appreciate a lot because that's what I'm looking for these days, to be taking out from my reality for a while.
Thank you to the author for gifting me with this book and I'm looking forward to reading more from her.
July 16, 2022
⭐⭐⭐.5
Books about musicians appear to have been growing in popularity recently but this is the first I've read, and whilst I can't confirm how realistic it was, it felt like a great depiction of that life for a 15 year old. There was so much going on and it was easy to get lost in Dani's gruelling schedule.
I hated her mother with a passion though and she didn't feel realistic to me in the slightest. Part of me wondered if someone was going to murder her and the book was going to turn into a thriller... 🙃 And the constant telling offs for swearing were quite annoying when she was expected to be an adult the rest of the time!
This was a really easy book to dip in and out of because it was so memorable so I could come back to it whenever I wanted (which is great for a multi-reader).
Rising Star sets up Dani's career and I'm assuming in the next book, Burning Bright, we follow her stardom journey. I'm interested to see how her relationships with various people progress...
Books about musicians appear to have been growing in popularity recently but this is the first I've read, and whilst I can't confirm how realistic it was, it felt like a great depiction of that life for a 15 year old. There was so much going on and it was easy to get lost in Dani's gruelling schedule.
I hated her mother with a passion though and she didn't feel realistic to me in the slightest. Part of me wondered if someone was going to murder her and the book was going to turn into a thriller... 🙃 And the constant telling offs for swearing were quite annoying when she was expected to be an adult the rest of the time!
This was a really easy book to dip in and out of because it was so memorable so I could come back to it whenever I wanted (which is great for a multi-reader).
Rising Star sets up Dani's career and I'm assuming in the next book, Burning Bright, we follow her stardom journey. I'm interested to see how her relationships with various people progress...
June 17, 2021
I really wasn't sure what to expect from this YA novel but it was a really nice insight to what an aspiring musician may go through before we ever get to hear from them.
Dani doesn't only have to deal with normal teenage drama, school, boyfriend, annoying parents but is also dealing with being on the brink of becoming a star and all that has to entail.
Michele has written a book which I'm sure most teenage girls would love- I know Dani's life would have been my dream when I was younger. The mansion, the limos and the fame.
The portrayal of the adults around her is perfect. Her mom is probably the worst of them all. She is so determined that they will be rich and famous that she will force her children to literally do anything to get her what she wants. I was so happy when Martin and Jenner made sure that that wouldn't be the case.
I can see how this series will go and I have a pit in my stomach for the 'fall' part of the Rise and Fall of Dani Trueheart series.
Dani doesn't only have to deal with normal teenage drama, school, boyfriend, annoying parents but is also dealing with being on the brink of becoming a star and all that has to entail.
Michele has written a book which I'm sure most teenage girls would love- I know Dani's life would have been my dream when I was younger. The mansion, the limos and the fame.
The portrayal of the adults around her is perfect. Her mom is probably the worst of them all. She is so determined that they will be rich and famous that she will force her children to literally do anything to get her what she wants. I was so happy when Martin and Jenner made sure that that wouldn't be the case.
I can see how this series will go and I have a pit in my stomach for the 'fall' part of the Rise and Fall of Dani Trueheart series.
October 19, 2022
Author Michele Kwasniewski wrote “Rising Star” after more than a decade of experience working as a film set assistant, production manager and member of the Producers Guild of America. In her debut novel, “Rising Star” her firsthand experience is fully displayed as she crafts nuanced characters and dramatically realistic scenarios and relationships.
Dani Truehart may only be fifteen years old, but she’s been working toward this moment for most of her life. After landing an audition with a music agent, her life may be about to change forever. However, despite being a monumental event, Dani is plagued with controversy stemming from her mom’s anger, jealousy and hurt, and her coach, Martin’s insistence on taking the management reigns from her villainous mother.
We’ve all heard the stories of parents who live out their dreams through their children, but Kwasniewski brings this to life as she crafts an out-of-control mother, dutiful daughter, and high school friends navigating this new world Dani is about to be thrust into. After making a career for herself in movies and TV, Kwasniewski artfully uses those colorful experiences to pen a real, believable, and authentic read based on a fictional rising star, Dani Truehart.
The dialog, daily schedules, and agent’s life feel so natural and convincing for the industry. Dani’s life moves fast, and the way the author portrays her fears, exhaustion and grueling hours gives readers a physical sensation of just how hard this life can be. Kwasniewski does a fantastic job bringing this story to the page and creating a dislikeable villain (Dani’s mom) and loveable sidekick (Martin). It is everything readers hope for in a book – fast paced, exciting plot, and character attachment.
I cannot wait to jump into the second book. The author knows just how to leave readers hanging as we are left imagining what Dani’s future will bring. “Rising Star” gives readers an inside view of the music industry, the grueling life, and the relationships with friends from before. Whether you’re a Taylor Swift fan, a Lady Gaga fan, or someone else in the industry, this book will have you feeling the pressures they are under and the fast-paced lifestyles they are forced to live in order to succeed.
Dani Truehart may only be fifteen years old, but she’s been working toward this moment for most of her life. After landing an audition with a music agent, her life may be about to change forever. However, despite being a monumental event, Dani is plagued with controversy stemming from her mom’s anger, jealousy and hurt, and her coach, Martin’s insistence on taking the management reigns from her villainous mother.
We’ve all heard the stories of parents who live out their dreams through their children, but Kwasniewski brings this to life as she crafts an out-of-control mother, dutiful daughter, and high school friends navigating this new world Dani is about to be thrust into. After making a career for herself in movies and TV, Kwasniewski artfully uses those colorful experiences to pen a real, believable, and authentic read based on a fictional rising star, Dani Truehart.
The dialog, daily schedules, and agent’s life feel so natural and convincing for the industry. Dani’s life moves fast, and the way the author portrays her fears, exhaustion and grueling hours gives readers a physical sensation of just how hard this life can be. Kwasniewski does a fantastic job bringing this story to the page and creating a dislikeable villain (Dani’s mom) and loveable sidekick (Martin). It is everything readers hope for in a book – fast paced, exciting plot, and character attachment.
I cannot wait to jump into the second book. The author knows just how to leave readers hanging as we are left imagining what Dani’s future will bring. “Rising Star” gives readers an inside view of the music industry, the grueling life, and the relationships with friends from before. Whether you’re a Taylor Swift fan, a Lady Gaga fan, or someone else in the industry, this book will have you feeling the pressures they are under and the fast-paced lifestyles they are forced to live in order to succeed.
July 27, 2022
I was sent a copy of this book for review.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~.
Dani Truehart's teenage life is tightly controlled. Dani expressed an interest in becoming a singer and her pushy, fame-obsessed mother has her diet, music-based activities and daily life scheduled minutely to maximise her potential and make her famously rich. Dani is focused on her music career while her mother is hoping to cash in on Dani's talents.
Dani gets offered a chance to audition for a major music manager but her music coach Martin only agrees to set up the audition if he is made her legal guardian. He was a pop sensation in the 80s and knows the dangers of bad management and feels Dani's mother won't have her best interests at heart. This causes arguments in the family and Dani learns that money is her mother's main priority.
After Dani signs her contract she leaves her friends and family behind to go to popstar boot camp at her Manager Jenner's compound. She feels betrayed and used by her mother and let down by her father who never stood up for her. She starts to feel isolated and alone. She misses her boyfriend Sean and finds it difficult to stay in touch with him and her best friend Lauren as the demands of stardom are all-consuming and completely exhausting.
With picking new songs, recording an EP, planning outfits, learning dance routines and daily school work piling up, Dani begins to have serious doubts about whether she has what it takes to make it in the music industry while also living up to everyone's high expectations of her.
🌟🌟🌟🌟 This was an interesting journey into the life of an up-and-coming pop star and the problems and pitfalls Dani encounters. She is dealing with a lot of adult decisions and situations including the fallout with her mother, the pressures of stardom and finding time for her personal life. As a teenager, she can be a bit self-centred but considering the situation she is living in, it's hard to see how that happens. Overall it was an entertaining, emotional and intriguing story. I look forward to seeing where Dani's story goes in book 2.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~.
Dani Truehart's teenage life is tightly controlled. Dani expressed an interest in becoming a singer and her pushy, fame-obsessed mother has her diet, music-based activities and daily life scheduled minutely to maximise her potential and make her famously rich. Dani is focused on her music career while her mother is hoping to cash in on Dani's talents.
Dani gets offered a chance to audition for a major music manager but her music coach Martin only agrees to set up the audition if he is made her legal guardian. He was a pop sensation in the 80s and knows the dangers of bad management and feels Dani's mother won't have her best interests at heart. This causes arguments in the family and Dani learns that money is her mother's main priority.
After Dani signs her contract she leaves her friends and family behind to go to popstar boot camp at her Manager Jenner's compound. She feels betrayed and used by her mother and let down by her father who never stood up for her. She starts to feel isolated and alone. She misses her boyfriend Sean and finds it difficult to stay in touch with him and her best friend Lauren as the demands of stardom are all-consuming and completely exhausting.
With picking new songs, recording an EP, planning outfits, learning dance routines and daily school work piling up, Dani begins to have serious doubts about whether she has what it takes to make it in the music industry while also living up to everyone's high expectations of her.
🌟🌟🌟🌟 This was an interesting journey into the life of an up-and-coming pop star and the problems and pitfalls Dani encounters. She is dealing with a lot of adult decisions and situations including the fallout with her mother, the pressures of stardom and finding time for her personal life. As a teenager, she can be a bit self-centred but considering the situation she is living in, it's hard to see how that happens. Overall it was an entertaining, emotional and intriguing story. I look forward to seeing where Dani's story goes in book 2.
November 10, 2021
Rising Star is one of those books that pulls you in and keeps you mesmerized. Michele Kwasniewski does a brilliant job of bringing Dani to life. The entire story brought back so many memories for me. My first thought was of my Sweet Valley High books from middle school, but the nostalgia is in nearly every word.
Rising Star has a reality show vibe, but with so much more depth. We get to see how Dani’s mother pushes her and tries to live vicariously through her accomplishments. Martin sees how toxic Dani’s mother is and goes to great lengths to protect the teenager. Dani is mature and strong for a 15-year-old yet has a vulnerable spirit.
The California setting adds fuel to the reality effect. The boot camp house in Mailbu is the kind of place that everyone expects to find in the music industry. The setting feels as real as the characters, and that is an amazing feat. I adored Dani and company. I wish I could spend just a day with these characters. It would be so much fun to hang out with them all.
I award Rising Star a full 5 out of 5 stars. The way this novel sucked me in was like nothing I’ve ever experienced before, and I am excited to read the next book in the Dani Trueheart series. I recommend this book to all those teens and tweens out there who have grown up with reality tv culture. There is a lot to love for grown-ups too.
I was given a copy of this book with a request for an honest review.
Rising Star has a reality show vibe, but with so much more depth. We get to see how Dani’s mother pushes her and tries to live vicariously through her accomplishments. Martin sees how toxic Dani’s mother is and goes to great lengths to protect the teenager. Dani is mature and strong for a 15-year-old yet has a vulnerable spirit.
The California setting adds fuel to the reality effect. The boot camp house in Mailbu is the kind of place that everyone expects to find in the music industry. The setting feels as real as the characters, and that is an amazing feat. I adored Dani and company. I wish I could spend just a day with these characters. It would be so much fun to hang out with them all.
I award Rising Star a full 5 out of 5 stars. The way this novel sucked me in was like nothing I’ve ever experienced before, and I am excited to read the next book in the Dani Trueheart series. I recommend this book to all those teens and tweens out there who have grown up with reality tv culture. There is a lot to love for grown-ups too.
I was given a copy of this book with a request for an honest review.
May 18, 2021
A character I found myself investing in from the off. Maybe it was her relationship with her scheming, controlling, narcissistic mother {a not exactly nice character but one who made for great reading}, maybe it was her insecurities; the all pervading loneliness she at times felt, maybe it was that we got glimpses into the fifteen year old she actually was, there was just something about Dani that I adored.
The story of a teenager being prepared for a life lived on the world wide stage ... if all goes well ... and I'm pretty sure by the series title of 'The Rise And FALL of Dani Truehart' that it doesn't.
On the face of it, many a young person's dream come true, that in order to get there, to STAY there, we learn of the long hours spent perfecting her craft, of the isolation that she encounters, of the tiredness that she feels having spent hours at the microphone/getting every dance move down to perfection ...
Yes, Rising Star is the story of a teenager who has spent her entire childhood being prepared {some might say groomed} as the next big thing in the pop world; of the adults who vicariously seek fame and money through her, yes, its the story of a teenager struggling to stay connected with the real world when a life of stardom beckons but at its heart its a story of families, of friendships, of first love.
Engrossed from beginning to end and left wondering what life holds for Dani, I'm looking forward to continuing her journey with her in book 2, Burning Bright.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... Read and reviewed on behalf of the author, no financial compensation was asked for nor given
The story of a teenager being prepared for a life lived on the world wide stage ... if all goes well ... and I'm pretty sure by the series title of 'The Rise And FALL of Dani Truehart' that it doesn't.
On the face of it, many a young person's dream come true, that in order to get there, to STAY there, we learn of the long hours spent perfecting her craft, of the isolation that she encounters, of the tiredness that she feels having spent hours at the microphone/getting every dance move down to perfection ...
Yes, Rising Star is the story of a teenager who has spent her entire childhood being prepared {some might say groomed} as the next big thing in the pop world; of the adults who vicariously seek fame and money through her, yes, its the story of a teenager struggling to stay connected with the real world when a life of stardom beckons but at its heart its a story of families, of friendships, of first love.
Engrossed from beginning to end and left wondering what life holds for Dani, I'm looking forward to continuing her journey with her in book 2, Burning Bright.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... Read and reviewed on behalf of the author, no financial compensation was asked for nor given
September 10, 2021
Written for young adults, Rising Star is about a teenaged girl who wants to perform, has worked very hard to make it happen and has a chance to see her dream become reality. Her world has revolved around lessons, practice and rehearsals at the mercy of her relentless stage-mom mother. The book does a good job describing how the entertainment business can take advantage of under-age talent and how important it is to have an advocate—not always a family member—look out for their legal and financial concerns. First in the Dani Truehart series.
November 9, 2021
A gut-wrenching, and eye-opening depiction of a young talent and the issues she faces in her quest to be a major star. Everyone can see that fifteen year old Dani Truehart has true talent and longs to be a star, but there are so many complications to get in her way. Unpredicable parents, ruthless frenemies, jealous friends, all seem to work against her singing and dancing success. She second-guesses her choices and struggles to understand her true goals. and how to navigate her life and become who she must be. Riveting and compelling story, tackle challenging questions we love to consider along with Dani.
October 16, 2020
A great read! I can’t wait for the next one!!
May 3, 2021
If you love the music world and wonder what it takes to “make it” in the business, then Rising Star may be the book for you. Fifteen year old Dani Truehart is the main character, and in the book she describes her journey to earning a recording deal. Plenty of obstacles and drama follow her..... an overbearing stage mom, separation from her friends and family, and the pressures of her training. I found this to be an interesting story that moved at a good pace. I think the YA reader would especially enjoy it.
January 29, 2021
Such a great book! I don’t usually read YA but a friend of mine loved this book so I gave it shot and it was sooooo good!! Can’t wait for book 2!!
December 26, 2020
I loved the book, made me think I was right there watching Dani’s rise to fame from every day life!
October 25, 2020
Rising Star brings to life the joys and the struggles Dani Truehart faces while chasing her dream of becoming a rock star. Every success Dani achieves makes you smile and the difficult times tug at your heart. Michele Kwasniewski’s writing style allows you to fall into the book and experience every up and down Dani does as if you were living it yourself. Once you start reading, you won’t want to put it down!
October 27, 2020
Rising Star
I really enjoyed Dani’s story!! What a life for a fifteen year old. Looking forward to seeing her career success.
I really enjoyed Dani’s story!! What a life for a fifteen year old. Looking forward to seeing her career success.
December 2, 2020
Loved reading about Dani and her rise to stardom. Burning Bright can’t come fast enough!
October 24, 2021
I am so excited to announce that this is my first book review for an R&R Book Tour! Enjoy!
“Rising Star” was a great story. From the kind heart of Dani to her mother’s foul actions, there were so many points of character development that every turning page produced new detail. I loved that this was produced in the first-person perspective, the reader can step into the shoes next to Dani and walk alongside through her struggles with family and society.
I overall enjoyed this story because although there were not any surprising twists in the plot, it was not a predictable book. There were scenes that did convey some emotion out of me, I was always kept on edge wanting to read more, even without abrupt turn of events. It is a realistic view of life for someone rising to fame that a lot of people can connect to in different aspects such as the struggling family life, determination for recognition, passion for something, and emotional bonds and friendships.
I appreciate the raw storyline of the struggles that Dani went through because it portrays the real-life situations anyone, even in fame, can go through or does go through to get where they want in life. This relates to the very beginning of the story, where Dani wakes up from a dream. This concept fits perfectly in the story because it right from the start conveys the image that Dani has passions and aspirations for her future of singing and dancing.
Dani’s personality was heartfelt and enticing, I wanted to see her develop more and more, and that is exactly what I got. The character development was beyond great! I also loved her relationship with Greena, that sister bond was something I could relate to when they opened to one another and stood by each other’s sides. Alongside the sibling attributes, it was interesting to see Dani’s perspective on her father’s actions as a result of her mother’s. While the father proposed a much more calm and collected tone, her mother was a polar opposite full of strict and authoritative purpose.
The resilience portrayed by Dani and even her friends and sister are perfectly outlined. All the characters have their flaws, but their strengths are just as easily declared and justified throughout the book.
Another character every reader should keep on their side is Sean. Sean was so involved with Dani and helping her with the internal struggles in her life. He did so in such a classy manner, but such a teenaged realistic way as well. It is so difficult for me to put into words how raw and natural this story flowed, the plot development and setting structure was outstanding. As a reader, the visualization appeal was there the whole time, I felt in the moment with those characters. Whether it was at the studio, her house, school… I always felt like I was standing by Dani’s side.
Getting a reader involved that deeply in a story is the biggest accomplishment I personally feel an author can achieve. Author Michele Kwasniewski achieved it! I rated this novel a 4.5/5 star ratings, very well written and I recommend to anyone looking for a genuine and down to earth read.
April 4, 2022
I was contacted by the author to read this book and while it is definitely not a genre I normally read; this book is really good!
I think at one point or another we've all thought about what it would be like to be famous. The money, the clothes, the attention. But we rarely think about the tremendous amount of hard work and personal sacrifice that goes into gaining and maintaining all that fame. The author gives us a really good sneak peek into what that life is like.
Dani Trueheart is definitely not your average fifteen-year-old. She lives at home with her mom, dad and sister, Geena. Things for the most part are great, except for the fact that her mother runs her entire life. From what she wears, to her schedule, even what she eats, keeping her on a diet since she was 10. She will stop at nothing to have Dani achieve success, because the success is something she herself was never able to attain.
Danis mom has hired Martin, an ex-80's boyband member to help her along on her journey. He believes Dani will make it big, so he reaches out to his ex-business manager, Jenner and get a contract going. There's only one catch: Martin has to be given guardianship of Dani. Her parent finally relent, and Martin takes Dani on the journey of a lifetime. Starting with living at the Jenner compound in Malibu.
Happy to leave her controlling mother at home, she moves into the mansion with Martin to begin recording her EP. Every day is a whirlwind of stuff to do. From dancing lessons, to singing for hours on end and more exercise. Being isolated from her friends and more importantly her boyfriend is getting harder and harder every day. Despite wanting to make it as a star, she misses her old life. Typical teenage things creep up, can she handle the demands that are coming at her or can she manage to keep it all together so she can make her dreams come true?
I was really surprised by this book. The characters development is outstanding. It was really hard as a parent to see the way her mother treats Dani and her sister. As a mother myself, this was really hard to read. I'm sure this is not an uncommon thing among young famous people but it's still sad. To use your child to gain money or fame yourself or worse, to fulfill some fantasy you had yourself of fame. I felt the author did a really good job of conveying the feelings and craziness that encompass the road to fame. The chapters are short, and the pacing is great. The books starts off slow but has a great build up, ending with a cliffhanger! I am definitely looking forward to seeing how Danis career and life go from here.
I think at one point or another we've all thought about what it would be like to be famous. The money, the clothes, the attention. But we rarely think about the tremendous amount of hard work and personal sacrifice that goes into gaining and maintaining all that fame. The author gives us a really good sneak peek into what that life is like.
Dani Trueheart is definitely not your average fifteen-year-old. She lives at home with her mom, dad and sister, Geena. Things for the most part are great, except for the fact that her mother runs her entire life. From what she wears, to her schedule, even what she eats, keeping her on a diet since she was 10. She will stop at nothing to have Dani achieve success, because the success is something she herself was never able to attain.
Danis mom has hired Martin, an ex-80's boyband member to help her along on her journey. He believes Dani will make it big, so he reaches out to his ex-business manager, Jenner and get a contract going. There's only one catch: Martin has to be given guardianship of Dani. Her parent finally relent, and Martin takes Dani on the journey of a lifetime. Starting with living at the Jenner compound in Malibu.
Happy to leave her controlling mother at home, she moves into the mansion with Martin to begin recording her EP. Every day is a whirlwind of stuff to do. From dancing lessons, to singing for hours on end and more exercise. Being isolated from her friends and more importantly her boyfriend is getting harder and harder every day. Despite wanting to make it as a star, she misses her old life. Typical teenage things creep up, can she handle the demands that are coming at her or can she manage to keep it all together so she can make her dreams come true?
I was really surprised by this book. The characters development is outstanding. It was really hard as a parent to see the way her mother treats Dani and her sister. As a mother myself, this was really hard to read. I'm sure this is not an uncommon thing among young famous people but it's still sad. To use your child to gain money or fame yourself or worse, to fulfill some fantasy you had yourself of fame. I felt the author did a really good job of conveying the feelings and craziness that encompass the road to fame. The chapters are short, and the pacing is great. The books starts off slow but has a great build up, ending with a cliffhanger! I am definitely looking forward to seeing how Danis career and life go from here.
October 16, 2022
Author Michele Kwasniewski wrote “Rising Star” after more than a decade of experience working as a film set assistant, production manager and member of the Producers Guild of America. In her debut novel, “Rising Star” her firsthand experience is fully displayed as she crafts nuanced characters and dramatically realistic scenarios and relationships.
Dani Truehart may only be fifteen years old, but she’s been working toward this moment for most of her life. After landing an audition with a music agent, her life may be about to change forever. However, despite being a monumental event, Dani is plagued with controversy stemming from her mom’s anger, jealousy and hurt, and her coach, Martin’s insistence on taking the management reigns from her villainous mother.
We’ve all heard the stories of parents who live out their dreams through their children, but Kwasniewski brings this to life as she crafts an out-of-control mother, dutiful daughter, and high school friends navigating this new world Dani is about to be thrust into. After making a career for herself in movies and TV, Kwasniewski artfully uses those colorful experiences to pen a real, believable, and authentic read based on a fictional rising star, Dani Truehart.
The dialog, daily schedules, and agent’s life feel so natural and convincing for the industry. Dani’s life moves fast, and the way the author portrays her fears, exhaustion and grueling hours gives readers a physical sensation of just how hard this life can be. Kwasniewski does a fantastic job bringing this story to the page and creating a dislikeable villain (Dani’s mom) and loveable sidekick (Martin). It is everything readers hope for in a book – fast paced, exciting plot, and character attachment.
I cannot wait to jump into the second book. The author knows just how to leave readers hanging as we are left imagining what Dani’s future will bring. “Rising Star” gives readers an inside view of the music industry, the grueling life, and the relationships with friends from before. Whether you’re a Taylor Swift fan, a Lady Gaga fan, or someone else in the industry, this book will have you feeling the pressures they are under and the fast-paced lifestyles they are forced to live in order to succeed
Dani Truehart may only be fifteen years old, but she’s been working toward this moment for most of her life. After landing an audition with a music agent, her life may be about to change forever. However, despite being a monumental event, Dani is plagued with controversy stemming from her mom’s anger, jealousy and hurt, and her coach, Martin’s insistence on taking the management reigns from her villainous mother.
We’ve all heard the stories of parents who live out their dreams through their children, but Kwasniewski brings this to life as she crafts an out-of-control mother, dutiful daughter, and high school friends navigating this new world Dani is about to be thrust into. After making a career for herself in movies and TV, Kwasniewski artfully uses those colorful experiences to pen a real, believable, and authentic read based on a fictional rising star, Dani Truehart.
The dialog, daily schedules, and agent’s life feel so natural and convincing for the industry. Dani’s life moves fast, and the way the author portrays her fears, exhaustion and grueling hours gives readers a physical sensation of just how hard this life can be. Kwasniewski does a fantastic job bringing this story to the page and creating a dislikeable villain (Dani’s mom) and loveable sidekick (Martin). It is everything readers hope for in a book – fast paced, exciting plot, and character attachment.
I cannot wait to jump into the second book. The author knows just how to leave readers hanging as we are left imagining what Dani’s future will bring. “Rising Star” gives readers an inside view of the music industry, the grueling life, and the relationships with friends from before. Whether you’re a Taylor Swift fan, a Lady Gaga fan, or someone else in the industry, this book will have you feeling the pressures they are under and the fast-paced lifestyles they are forced to live in order to succeed
August 19, 2021
Prepare to meet Dani Truehart, a fifteen year old “Rising Star” who just wants to sing and dance and feel the music carry her to a higher place. It’s what she was meant to do. If it all just wasn’t so complicated.
Dani is a well-crafted, authentic and likable character; like all teenagers she is socially-driven and a mass of contradictory emotions and insecurities. Where Dani differs however, is in that she is supremely talented, yet at the same time, charmingly naive and intensely vulnerable.
Struggling with an overbearing, shallow and narcissistic mother; a floppily-backboned but kind and compassionate father; high school “mean-girl” enemies and rivals; and a boyfriend she would love to be able to spend more time with, Dani is a singing and dancing sensation and is on the path to achieving everything she ever dreamed of. The costs involved, though, are tremendous, and as Dani works to hone her craft and cultivate a successful stage persona, she learns she still has a long way to go towards discovering who she really is, deep inside, “when she leaves the stage at the end of the show”.
“Wondering if anything will ever feel normal again and if all these changes are worth what’s to come”, Dani faces difficult questions icnluding:
- “Who am i if I don’t have my mother making all my decisions and dominating every aspect of my day?”
- “Isn’t it dishonest to try to be something I’m not”.
- And even more alarmingly - is she truly loved and will her relationships survive a wild and potentially incredibly lucrative career as a pop star? How can she possibly hold her heart safe during her crazy climb to stardom?
The first book of a series featuring Dani Truehart, “Rising Star” is an absorbing, compelling, YA story, which isn’t afraid to dive below the surface to tackle challenging questions that will be instantly relatable to all young adults. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!
A great big thank you to the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
Dani is a well-crafted, authentic and likable character; like all teenagers she is socially-driven and a mass of contradictory emotions and insecurities. Where Dani differs however, is in that she is supremely talented, yet at the same time, charmingly naive and intensely vulnerable.
Struggling with an overbearing, shallow and narcissistic mother; a floppily-backboned but kind and compassionate father; high school “mean-girl” enemies and rivals; and a boyfriend she would love to be able to spend more time with, Dani is a singing and dancing sensation and is on the path to achieving everything she ever dreamed of. The costs involved, though, are tremendous, and as Dani works to hone her craft and cultivate a successful stage persona, she learns she still has a long way to go towards discovering who she really is, deep inside, “when she leaves the stage at the end of the show”.
“Wondering if anything will ever feel normal again and if all these changes are worth what’s to come”, Dani faces difficult questions icnluding:
- “Who am i if I don’t have my mother making all my decisions and dominating every aspect of my day?”
- “Isn’t it dishonest to try to be something I’m not”.
- And even more alarmingly - is she truly loved and will her relationships survive a wild and potentially incredibly lucrative career as a pop star? How can she possibly hold her heart safe during her crazy climb to stardom?
The first book of a series featuring Dani Truehart, “Rising Star” is an absorbing, compelling, YA story, which isn’t afraid to dive below the surface to tackle challenging questions that will be instantly relatable to all young adults. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!
A great big thank you to the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
March 31, 2024
Rising Star by Michele Kwasniewski is the first book in a series about Dani Truehart. Dani, 15, is, as the title indicates, “a rising star.” Her mother is one of those Tiger Mothers determined to make one of her daughters a star. Dani’s older sister Geena is bright, but her mother wants her to be a gymnastics star. That dream fails. While the mom is happy Geena will go far on her academic skills, she still wants a STAR. Her focus now is on Dani to become a singing and dancing sensation.
The pressure on Dani is tremendously harmful, but the mom cannot see that. At first, Dani is happy to go along with her mother’s dream. However, the relentless pressure to be thin and to practice wears on Dani. When Dani succeeds in winning attention from Jenner Redman, a music industry manager, it looks as if she is on her way to stardom. Redman was once quite successful, but he has fallen on hard times; still, he uses what’s left of his fortune and his reputation to help Dani succeed. Of course, Dani’s success also means Redman’s return to his own fame and fortune.
Living with Redman on his Malibu estate, Dani tries to maintain connections with her family and work on her career. Is this the career that Dani wants? Readers discover Dani’s fears and doubts as they follow her through auditions and performances. As she becomes more aware of the motivation of others around her, Dani questions not only herself, but those who seek to use her for their own gains.
Michele Kwasniewski writes from her experience in film and television, thus giving authenticity to the story. Kwasniewski shows readers the toughness Dani must build up to continue to seek fame. For book clubs, members will discuss Dani’s mother’s motivations, Dani’s father’s lack of intervention, and the brutal music industry. This coming-of-age story will captivate readers.
The pressure on Dani is tremendously harmful, but the mom cannot see that. At first, Dani is happy to go along with her mother’s dream. However, the relentless pressure to be thin and to practice wears on Dani. When Dani succeeds in winning attention from Jenner Redman, a music industry manager, it looks as if she is on her way to stardom. Redman was once quite successful, but he has fallen on hard times; still, he uses what’s left of his fortune and his reputation to help Dani succeed. Of course, Dani’s success also means Redman’s return to his own fame and fortune.
Living with Redman on his Malibu estate, Dani tries to maintain connections with her family and work on her career. Is this the career that Dani wants? Readers discover Dani’s fears and doubts as they follow her through auditions and performances. As she becomes more aware of the motivation of others around her, Dani questions not only herself, but those who seek to use her for their own gains.
Michele Kwasniewski writes from her experience in film and television, thus giving authenticity to the story. Kwasniewski shows readers the toughness Dani must build up to continue to seek fame. For book clubs, members will discuss Dani’s mother’s motivations, Dani’s father’s lack of intervention, and the brutal music industry. This coming-of-age story will captivate readers.
March 16, 2022
I am OBSESSED with this book, with Dani and her story.
Being a YA there were a couple of cringy conversations which I couldn’t imagine would happen between a girl and a guy at that age, but let’s be honest I haven’t been that age for a long time but aside from that I couldn’t put it down. I am just annoyed life and work got in my way and that I couldn’t just sit there and read it.
I could NOT stand Dani’s mother what a god awful, selfish and jealous person. She is vile to Dani, I understand she is jealous, yes, but woman she is your daughter!!!!! And I didn’t like Zoe, apart from a fab name, she also is not a nice girl! I LOVED everyone else from Lauren, Sean, Geena to Martin, Jenner and Terence. I have my eye on Beau too!!
Gosh so much to love about this book, not only do we have a 15-year-old trying to navigate life as a teenager she is now on the brink of stardom. I loved seeing her story, and that gruelling schedule. It was fascinating to see behind the scenes of the music industry but we are only just scratching the surface and Dani’s journey.
It is such a sweet story and has such a feel-good factor to it that you can’t help but keep turning the pages. I was hooked. I really can’t articulate my obsession with this book. I just sat and blasted the last 80 odd pages, and I was completely absorbed in the story. Just so many cute touches to it. It was also refreshing to read a non-crime/thriller book. Aah, you just need to read it! I am off to read the next book, but I am upset as I know I will have to wait a long time for the third book.
I defy anyone to not fall in love with Dani after reading it!
Being a YA there were a couple of cringy conversations which I couldn’t imagine would happen between a girl and a guy at that age, but let’s be honest I haven’t been that age for a long time but aside from that I couldn’t put it down. I am just annoyed life and work got in my way and that I couldn’t just sit there and read it.
I could NOT stand Dani’s mother what a god awful, selfish and jealous person. She is vile to Dani, I understand she is jealous, yes, but woman she is your daughter!!!!! And I didn’t like Zoe, apart from a fab name, she also is not a nice girl! I LOVED everyone else from Lauren, Sean, Geena to Martin, Jenner and Terence. I have my eye on Beau too!!
Gosh so much to love about this book, not only do we have a 15-year-old trying to navigate life as a teenager she is now on the brink of stardom. I loved seeing her story, and that gruelling schedule. It was fascinating to see behind the scenes of the music industry but we are only just scratching the surface and Dani’s journey.
It is such a sweet story and has such a feel-good factor to it that you can’t help but keep turning the pages. I was hooked. I really can’t articulate my obsession with this book. I just sat and blasted the last 80 odd pages, and I was completely absorbed in the story. Just so many cute touches to it. It was also refreshing to read a non-crime/thriller book. Aah, you just need to read it! I am off to read the next book, but I am upset as I know I will have to wait a long time for the third book.
I defy anyone to not fall in love with Dani after reading it!
July 27, 2021
Dani Trueheart has spent her whole life working to be a professional singer. For almost all of her 15 years, she has been in dance classes and singing classes, both before and after school. She has been on a diet since she was six. Dani is used to living her life for the future and what it holds. Dani’s Mom is a stereotypical stage Mom living vicariously through her daughter and longing for the millions that can be made. Her Dad loves and supports her, she even has a terrific older sister. Dani has lots of support and encouragement; she has got plenty of friends, a boyfriend, and a great manager.
Her dreams are about to come true, but can Dani do it? All she has focused on is being a singer and dancer. Other than being in some pageants, she has no experience with auditions and the costumes of a pop star are vastly different than a little girl in a pageant. Then there is the business side of things like contracts, record producers, songwriters, choreographers, and someone to manage your money if you make it big.
As Dani’s dream throws her into an adult world, she realizes there is a great deal she never considered. Sure, she can become famous and make a ton of money, but she did not realize that it meant leaving home, school, friends, and boyfriend. This is a really fun, fast-paced young adult novel that is a must-read for anyone wanting to reach for the stars.
Her dreams are about to come true, but can Dani do it? All she has focused on is being a singer and dancer. Other than being in some pageants, she has no experience with auditions and the costumes of a pop star are vastly different than a little girl in a pageant. Then there is the business side of things like contracts, record producers, songwriters, choreographers, and someone to manage your money if you make it big.
As Dani’s dream throws her into an adult world, she realizes there is a great deal she never considered. Sure, she can become famous and make a ton of money, but she did not realize that it meant leaving home, school, friends, and boyfriend. This is a really fun, fast-paced young adult novel that is a must-read for anyone wanting to reach for the stars.
April 6, 2024
I liked this book, and I definitely want to read parts 2 and 3 of the trilogy (what on earth will happen in the "fall" of Dani Trueheart?). I don't know personally what happens in the world of up and coming pop stars. Everyone experiences the teenage years, though! I can't imagine dealing with both at the same time.
The details of the hard work, the practice, the being yanked away from your friends and family, are very well-written. Your mind says "How hard can it really be for a teen singer who doesn't have to attend school, and is living in luxury while she records an album that everyone knows will be a hit?," but Kwasniewski describes just how hard it CAN be!
I found some of the tensions and arguments in the story too easily smoothed over, resolved too quickly. I would love to see Dani's mother as a more complex character as well.
That being said, the story is told from Dani's point of view, and the quick change of moods, and glossing over negativity in the face of all the wonderful things going on with the pending release of your own album is definitely believable.
Things are happening fast, and seem a little too good to be true in part 1. My guess is that Dani is going to find out exactly what her fast rise to fame really entails in the next two parts.
Thank you to Michele Kwasniewski for the insight into the rise to stardom that most people don't get to see, and for the Goodreads Giveaway copy in return for my honest feedback.
The details of the hard work, the practice, the being yanked away from your friends and family, are very well-written. Your mind says "How hard can it really be for a teen singer who doesn't have to attend school, and is living in luxury while she records an album that everyone knows will be a hit?," but Kwasniewski describes just how hard it CAN be!
I found some of the tensions and arguments in the story too easily smoothed over, resolved too quickly. I would love to see Dani's mother as a more complex character as well.
That being said, the story is told from Dani's point of view, and the quick change of moods, and glossing over negativity in the face of all the wonderful things going on with the pending release of your own album is definitely believable.
Things are happening fast, and seem a little too good to be true in part 1. My guess is that Dani is going to find out exactly what her fast rise to fame really entails in the next two parts.
Thank you to Michele Kwasniewski for the insight into the rise to stardom that most people don't get to see, and for the Goodreads Giveaway copy in return for my honest feedback.
May 18, 2025
My thirteen-year-old daughter and I read this book together. She was, of course, attracted to the idea of following a young pop star's story, as I think most girls her age would be. While that aspect of the book is juicy for sure, I really appreciate the balanced way this story is told. We see how the protagonist's entire life is shaped—distorted, actually—by her involvement in the entertainment industry: how it touches everything from her diet to her wardrobe to the hours she keeps. Almost every significant relationship she has is either founded upon or touched by the career she is pursuing at such a young age. And while she has an authentic love of music and dance, pursuing these interests at such a high level comes at a cost. My understanding is that the author used to work in the entertainment industry, and based these characters in part on people she knew. The dialogue is excellent. My daughter and I have had tons of laugh out loud moments, often in response to Dani's relationship with her sister (one of the only relationships she has that is completely pure) and her coach and manager, Martin. I won't give too much away about the closing scene, but it is thigh-slapping funny! I highly recommend this for any teenage girl, both because it is juicy and funny, but equally because it fully exposes the darker, more complex side of the fame-obsessed, beauty-oriented culture girls are growing up in nowadays. I highly recommend this.
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