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Boston Classics #3
You Spin Me
Some scars go further than skin deep…
1988 doesn’t end well for Jessica Abraham. In just one week she turns thirty, loses her day job, and loses the role of Ophelia to a younger actress. Rallying, she goes after a part at a theater outside of the city, but the director’s plan to hide her beauty behind hair, makeup and wardrobe from Cosmo’s “Don't'' column shakes her confidence to the core.
For the first time in her acting career, she won’t be able to rely on her carefully managed physical charms. Only her craft will count.
On a snowy night early in January 1989, a woman calls into DJ Callihan Alonso’s alt-rock radio show at the end of her commute. He asks her to call back the next night, and the next, just so he'll know she’s home safe. There's something about her voice that has him wanting more, but the longer they talk, the closer she gets. Compromising each and every wall he's built around his heart.
If two lonely people fall in love over late-night phone calls, will meeting face-to-face make them, or break them?
In this heartfelt, slow burn retro romcom, it may be the end of a decade, but it’s the beginning of a love story.
1988 doesn’t end well for Jessica Abraham. In just one week she turns thirty, loses her day job, and loses the role of Ophelia to a younger actress. Rallying, she goes after a part at a theater outside of the city, but the director’s plan to hide her beauty behind hair, makeup and wardrobe from Cosmo’s “Don't'' column shakes her confidence to the core.
For the first time in her acting career, she won’t be able to rely on her carefully managed physical charms. Only her craft will count.
On a snowy night early in January 1989, a woman calls into DJ Callihan Alonso’s alt-rock radio show at the end of her commute. He asks her to call back the next night, and the next, just so he'll know she’s home safe. There's something about her voice that has him wanting more, but the longer they talk, the closer she gets. Compromising each and every wall he's built around his heart.
If two lonely people fall in love over late-night phone calls, will meeting face-to-face make them, or break them?
In this heartfelt, slow burn retro romcom, it may be the end of a decade, but it’s the beginning of a love story.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 29, 2021
3 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
About the author
Karen Grey
22 books614 followersKAREN GREY is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of vintage romantic comedies with smart heroines and hunky heroes. Drawing on a long career as a performer, her retro 80's and 90's romances are populated with characters working both on- and off-stage in theater, TV and film.
She's a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she's lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.
To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.
If you are seeking content guidance for any of my books (which may include spoilers) it can be found at http://bit.ly/ContentGuidanceKarenGrey
Enjoy your trip back in time! Karen
She's a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she's lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.
To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.
If you are seeking content guidance for any of my books (which may include spoilers) it can be found at http://bit.ly/ContentGuidanceKarenGrey
Enjoy your trip back in time! Karen
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
April 28, 2021
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I had a great time with this book! This is the third book in the Boston Classics series but it would work perfectly well as a stand alone but readers of the series will enjoy checking in with the characters from earlier books. I have really enjoyed each installment in this series which is set in the 1980’s, a time period that holds a special place in my heart. Once I started reading this book, I was quickly drawn into the story and had a great time with it until the end.
Cal works as a late night DJ at a local radio station. When Jessica calls in with the answer to a trivia question, they form an instant and unusual connection. From that day on, Jessica and Cal talk every night when she calls the station during his shift. This brought back so many memories of being tethered to a wall by a phone cord for hours at a time during my younger years. It was really great the way that these two got to know each other so well just through those phone calls. But what would happen if they actually met face to face?
Cal and Jessica were both fantastic characters. They are each dealing with their own set of problems but I thought that they were really helped to lift each other up. I thought that the chemistry between these two was fantastic even before they met. I loved how much each of these characters grew over the course of the story and how each was willing to do whatever it was that the other person needed them to do. They both had some pretty big obstacles in their path and it was great to see them meet each one head-on.
I would definitely recommend this book to others. I found this to be a wonderful romance with great characters set in a fun period of time. I do wish that we had got to see just a little bit more of their future or how things worked out for them in the epilogue so I am going to cross my fingers that we get to see this pair again in future stories.
I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
Initial Thoughts
I had a good time with this book! I love Cal and Jessica. I think that it is great that this story is set in the late 80's. I was a teenager during this time period so the nostalgia was a big plus for me. Both of these characters had some big issues to work through but I felt like they really did make each other stronger. I do wish that we got to see a little bit more of their future or how things worked out in the epilogue.
I had a great time with this book! This is the third book in the Boston Classics series but it would work perfectly well as a stand alone but readers of the series will enjoy checking in with the characters from earlier books. I have really enjoyed each installment in this series which is set in the 1980’s, a time period that holds a special place in my heart. Once I started reading this book, I was quickly drawn into the story and had a great time with it until the end.
Cal works as a late night DJ at a local radio station. When Jessica calls in with the answer to a trivia question, they form an instant and unusual connection. From that day on, Jessica and Cal talk every night when she calls the station during his shift. This brought back so many memories of being tethered to a wall by a phone cord for hours at a time during my younger years. It was really great the way that these two got to know each other so well just through those phone calls. But what would happen if they actually met face to face?
Cal and Jessica were both fantastic characters. They are each dealing with their own set of problems but I thought that they were really helped to lift each other up. I thought that the chemistry between these two was fantastic even before they met. I loved how much each of these characters grew over the course of the story and how each was willing to do whatever it was that the other person needed them to do. They both had some pretty big obstacles in their path and it was great to see them meet each one head-on.
I would definitely recommend this book to others. I found this to be a wonderful romance with great characters set in a fun period of time. I do wish that we had got to see just a little bit more of their future or how things worked out for them in the epilogue so I am going to cross my fingers that we get to see this pair again in future stories.
I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
Initial Thoughts
I had a good time with this book! I love Cal and Jessica. I think that it is great that this story is set in the late 80's. I was a teenager during this time period so the nostalgia was a big plus for me. Both of these characters had some big issues to work through but I felt like they really did make each other stronger. I do wish that we got to see a little bit more of their future or how things worked out in the epilogue.
July 24, 2021
Honestly, I adored this book. You probably saw my narrator reveal earlier this month, and I can tell you how much I loved the male narrator’s voice for sure! I think if you just read the e-book or paperback though, you probably are missing out on how much fun the beginning of each chapter was with the little radio spot intros to get them started. But besides the awesomeness of the audiobook, the story itself was just so wonderfully written. The characters were so compelling. I fell in love with both of them right away. Cal’s story that starts us out, wow, just wow. And then Jess was such a sweetheart, so much about her so realistic.
The interaction between them started with the phone call, and their chemistry was off the wall. I loved how Cal told her she had to call him when she was driving so late so that he would know she had made it home safe. What’s so fun is that because this takes place in 1988, there weren’t really cell phones for people to call into the radio station while they were driving. So all of the phone conversations had to take place after they’d reached home or work or wherever. It was fun to think about that time.
When the two of them actually met face to face, that was an emotional moment. But the author wrote it so perfectly. Jess didn’t come off as too over the top accepting of Cal’s burns and scars, however her reaction and thoughts were perfect. There was one line I really loved, and I think I’m quoting it correctly, listening to the audiobook means I don’t have it in front of me to copy, but it was “My words write a laugh.” So descriptive, I love it!
The personal dilemmas each of them faced were enough but then putting them together to overcome those really made for a lot of things going on. But in a good way, it all made for such a perfectly well rounded story.
My only teeny tiny problem, well it has to do with what Jess’s big dramatic obstacle at the end is. I can’t say much without giving it away, I just feel like while we had little things sprinkled in from other characters mentioning to her things they were noticing, there didn’t seem to be much on her side of her not doing things that caused the big problem. But I wonder if that really is a better way to write it. If the person who is in denial of something like that wouldn’t be mentioning anything about it in their thoughts as they went about their day to day business. So that could have been a good or bad thing.
In the end I just have to say this was really a great story, and I definitely recommend the audiobook if you are someone who likes to listen to books. I think it probably way outdoes the others just because of the radio station aspect.
Review first posted at Lisa Loves Literature.
The interaction between them started with the phone call, and their chemistry was off the wall. I loved how Cal told her she had to call him when she was driving so late so that he would know she had made it home safe. What’s so fun is that because this takes place in 1988, there weren’t really cell phones for people to call into the radio station while they were driving. So all of the phone conversations had to take place after they’d reached home or work or wherever. It was fun to think about that time.
When the two of them actually met face to face, that was an emotional moment. But the author wrote it so perfectly. Jess didn’t come off as too over the top accepting of Cal’s burns and scars, however her reaction and thoughts were perfect. There was one line I really loved, and I think I’m quoting it correctly, listening to the audiobook means I don’t have it in front of me to copy, but it was “My words write a laugh.” So descriptive, I love it!
The personal dilemmas each of them faced were enough but then putting them together to overcome those really made for a lot of things going on. But in a good way, it all made for such a perfectly well rounded story.
My only teeny tiny problem, well it has to do with what Jess’s big dramatic obstacle at the end is. I can’t say much without giving it away, I just feel like while we had little things sprinkled in from other characters mentioning to her things they were noticing, there didn’t seem to be much on her side of her not doing things that caused the big problem. But I wonder if that really is a better way to write it. If the person who is in denial of something like that wouldn’t be mentioning anything about it in their thoughts as they went about their day to day business. So that could have been a good or bad thing.
In the end I just have to say this was really a great story, and I definitely recommend the audiobook if you are someone who likes to listen to books. I think it probably way outdoes the others just because of the radio station aspect.
Review first posted at Lisa Loves Literature.
July 19, 2021
If you want to read something unusual, fresh, original, this author’s books will please you. Not only the dive into a past decade is somewhat exotic–especially for younger people–but the characters are unconventional and interesting.
Here we’re introduced to Jess, an actress who’s starting to feel her age when she isn’t cast as an ingenue anymore, and Cal, a DJ hiding in the shadows because of burn scars. Between Beauty and the Beast and Phantom of the Opera, their story is both cute and sad. As in both classical stories, this book is about acceptance, but of oneself. Jess and Cal have a lot to learn about themselves to be able to have a relationship.
What I enjoyed the most is the world in which the love story exists. By following Cal in his work environment, we learn a lot about the behind the scene of a radio station. It isn’t just a gimmick, since his work is an important element in Cal’s growth. As for Jess, she’s an actress, so we see how casting and rehearsals work, but also what other kinds of job are out there.
I also appreciated all the details about Cal’s and Jess’s medical past. I can’t say I enjoyed it, because it was painful to read, but it gives another dimension to the story. It’s also a past they have to heal from to get together.
This book doesn’t gloss over difficult subjects, but there’s also a lot of humor, and the love story itself is great. It’s a slow burn, sure, but there’s a real and deep connection between Jess and Cal right at the beginning. Absolutely beautiful.
Quickie
- Series: Boston classics #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #80’s #phone pal #interracial relationship
- Triggers: mention of past traumatic medical treatments, eating disorder
- Main couple: Jessica Abraham & Callihan Alonso
- Hotness: 2/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + fascinating details about radio stations and theater
- – I’d have loved to have more sexy
EDIT: so I listened to the audiobook, and it was quite an experience! I’ve listened to the female narrator before, so I knew she would do a great job. The male narrator was new to me, and I enjoyed him a lot! His voice is quite pleasant, and he gave the right emotions to Cal. As usual, the author offers a unique experience in audio, this time with the short jingles and introductions the narrators do amazingly. After all, the setting is a radio station, audio is everything! And this here is a top listen.
Here we’re introduced to Jess, an actress who’s starting to feel her age when she isn’t cast as an ingenue anymore, and Cal, a DJ hiding in the shadows because of burn scars. Between Beauty and the Beast and Phantom of the Opera, their story is both cute and sad. As in both classical stories, this book is about acceptance, but of oneself. Jess and Cal have a lot to learn about themselves to be able to have a relationship.
What I enjoyed the most is the world in which the love story exists. By following Cal in his work environment, we learn a lot about the behind the scene of a radio station. It isn’t just a gimmick, since his work is an important element in Cal’s growth. As for Jess, she’s an actress, so we see how casting and rehearsals work, but also what other kinds of job are out there.
I also appreciated all the details about Cal’s and Jess’s medical past. I can’t say I enjoyed it, because it was painful to read, but it gives another dimension to the story. It’s also a past they have to heal from to get together.
This book doesn’t gloss over difficult subjects, but there’s also a lot of humor, and the love story itself is great. It’s a slow burn, sure, but there’s a real and deep connection between Jess and Cal right at the beginning. Absolutely beautiful.
Quickie
- Series: Boston classics #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #80’s #phone pal #interracial relationship
- Triggers: mention of past traumatic medical treatments, eating disorder
- Main couple: Jessica Abraham & Callihan Alonso
- Hotness: 2/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + fascinating details about radio stations and theater
- – I’d have loved to have more sexy
EDIT: so I listened to the audiobook, and it was quite an experience! I’ve listened to the female narrator before, so I knew she would do a great job. The male narrator was new to me, and I enjoyed him a lot! His voice is quite pleasant, and he gave the right emotions to Cal. As usual, the author offers a unique experience in audio, this time with the short jingles and introductions the narrators do amazingly. After all, the setting is a radio station, audio is everything! And this here is a top listen.
Read
August 18, 2021So happy to have this one out in the world. Stay tuned for Bella's book, where I promise you'll get more time with Cal and Jess.
August 2, 2021
You Spin Me is an absolute wonderful romance! Cal and Jess go from strangers to friends to lovers and more, taking time to get each step (mostly) right before moving on. Their story bursts with emotion, pulling from me so many feels. I love that the characters are flawed and relatable, and their path to HEA is messy and rough, yet absolutely beautiful.
First, kudos to Ms. Grey who must have spent hours researching treatments for burn victims and the impacts of both physical and psychological trauma. Her main characters are real and three-dimensional because she is able to get listeners in the heads of her main characters. Listeners witness Cal and Jess’s individual journeys, which are filled with difficult steps and painful memories. My heart was tugged in several directions because I cared about both Jess and Cal and needed them to get it right.
Jess and Cal are the opposite sides of the same coin. While she would be classified as beautiful, she sees her beauty as a flaw. She is tired of people, guys in particular, liking her because of her hot body (i.e. big boobs). Meanwhile, Cal is physically scarred and doesn’t believe anyone can see past the exterior. They are both scarred: they both have issues with their appearance and being judged because of how they look, but they both have deeper scars on the inside. Cal’s internal scars are so deep, it’s impossible for him to accept love from Jess, but also blinds him to her internal scars, thinking nothing could be as bad as what he’s been through.
They finally get together, and whether it’s because they grow close via phone calls before they first meet, or because they are both good, caring people, we won’t know. But they share a passion for life and for each other that is consuming. It allows each to push at their boundaries and grow as individuals, while realizing there is damage that needs to be addressed. One of my absolute favorite moments of the book is a turning point for Cal reconnecting with his past and realizing he can become whole. The entire scene is so well written and continues to stick with me after I’ve finished listening to the book.
Narration: Karen Grey, a fabulous narrator in her own right, has picked up some amazing talent for You Spin Me. The story is shared in alternating POVs with Vanessa Edwin (VE) portraying Jess’s POV and Eric Michael Summerer (EMS) performing Cal’s POV. Both are well suited for their main character, and both are equally gifted portraying the opposite gender. VE gives Jess a perkiness with an edge, but can adjust for Jess’s weariness and frustration. EMS nails Cal’s deep, DJ voice, and adjusts it flawlessly between his on-air voice and his “regular Cal” voice. Both narrators come with a vast array of character voices, making each unique and fitting. They both nail dialogue, able to create a realism of many different people all talking together. The pair works well together. Their voices and performances compliment one another. And as an added bonus, each chapter has a retro audio introduction like an ad from the radio, and even one from 80’s comedian Bobcat Goldthwait.
You Spin Me is an absolute joy to listen to. The romance is heart-felt and emotionally satisfying because the characters are relatable and three-dimensional.
My Ratings:
Story: A-
Narration: A
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by the author
First, kudos to Ms. Grey who must have spent hours researching treatments for burn victims and the impacts of both physical and psychological trauma. Her main characters are real and three-dimensional because she is able to get listeners in the heads of her main characters. Listeners witness Cal and Jess’s individual journeys, which are filled with difficult steps and painful memories. My heart was tugged in several directions because I cared about both Jess and Cal and needed them to get it right.
Jess and Cal are the opposite sides of the same coin. While she would be classified as beautiful, she sees her beauty as a flaw. She is tired of people, guys in particular, liking her because of her hot body (i.e. big boobs). Meanwhile, Cal is physically scarred and doesn’t believe anyone can see past the exterior. They are both scarred: they both have issues with their appearance and being judged because of how they look, but they both have deeper scars on the inside. Cal’s internal scars are so deep, it’s impossible for him to accept love from Jess, but also blinds him to her internal scars, thinking nothing could be as bad as what he’s been through.
They finally get together, and whether it’s because they grow close via phone calls before they first meet, or because they are both good, caring people, we won’t know. But they share a passion for life and for each other that is consuming. It allows each to push at their boundaries and grow as individuals, while realizing there is damage that needs to be addressed. One of my absolute favorite moments of the book is a turning point for Cal reconnecting with his past and realizing he can become whole. The entire scene is so well written and continues to stick with me after I’ve finished listening to the book.
Narration: Karen Grey, a fabulous narrator in her own right, has picked up some amazing talent for You Spin Me. The story is shared in alternating POVs with Vanessa Edwin (VE) portraying Jess’s POV and Eric Michael Summerer (EMS) performing Cal’s POV. Both are well suited for their main character, and both are equally gifted portraying the opposite gender. VE gives Jess a perkiness with an edge, but can adjust for Jess’s weariness and frustration. EMS nails Cal’s deep, DJ voice, and adjusts it flawlessly between his on-air voice and his “regular Cal” voice. Both narrators come with a vast array of character voices, making each unique and fitting. They both nail dialogue, able to create a realism of many different people all talking together. The pair works well together. Their voices and performances compliment one another. And as an added bonus, each chapter has a retro audio introduction like an ad from the radio, and even one from 80’s comedian Bobcat Goldthwait.
You Spin Me is an absolute joy to listen to. The romance is heart-felt and emotionally satisfying because the characters are relatable and three-dimensional.
My Ratings:
Story: A-
Narration: A
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by the author
December 3, 2021
This Man.
This Woman.
This Book.
When I read the blurb to this 80's retro-story, You Spin Me, my instincts shouted out that I needed to check this book out, and my instincts were right. Did it take me back to my life in the late 80's? YES! So many things about this story called to me, and YES, I found the Dead Or Alive song "You Spin Me Around (like a record) stuck in my head. I was reminded of the hours of late night radio shows I would record (on a cassette), just so I could have recommendations for my crowd of new wave friends. But it's Linda Grey's characters, Jess and Cal, that enamored themselves to me and made this one of my favorite books this year. It was hard to put this book down and so easy to jump back into.
When the story opens, we meet actress Jessica Abraham on her thirtieth birthday. She's feeling the effects of her age as she believes it's impacting her ability to get the parts she's typically won. As we're propelled into her life we quickly have a sense of who Jess is. She recognizes her shortfalls but doesn't let that stop her. Her self-effacing nature is all too relatable and the journey she's on
is certain to be fulfilling. When she makes a late night call to a radio station for a contest, she "meets" Cal, the "sexy-sounding DJ" who is about to change her life. And it's not the winnings from the contest.
This man.
So easy to fall for.
Cal, the late night DJ, strikes up a deal with Jess and their nightly conversations quickly turn from friendship to tentative feelings of something more. Cal is the sensitive type, caring and altruistic, and meeting Jess in person makes him nervous. But they are fated and when a conversation accidently plays on air, he can no longer avoid her. As they begin sharing their lives with each other, becoming something more, they both must face down insecurities and open themselves up for greatness.
There's so much to love about this story. I love the character details that Grey shares, how she builds upon traits, and I LOVE being in both of their heads. The start of Cal and Jess is built on flirty banter and as they come to know each other, the dialogue is heartwarming, allowing them to tear down each others' walls and allow themselves to just be in love. You Spin Me made Karen Grey a one-click author and I can't wait to read more from the Boston Classics series. 5 ++ Stars and my recommendation.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
This Woman.
This Book.
When I read the blurb to this 80's retro-story, You Spin Me, my instincts shouted out that I needed to check this book out, and my instincts were right. Did it take me back to my life in the late 80's? YES! So many things about this story called to me, and YES, I found the Dead Or Alive song "You Spin Me Around (like a record) stuck in my head. I was reminded of the hours of late night radio shows I would record (on a cassette), just so I could have recommendations for my crowd of new wave friends. But it's Linda Grey's characters, Jess and Cal, that enamored themselves to me and made this one of my favorite books this year. It was hard to put this book down and so easy to jump back into.
When the story opens, we meet actress Jessica Abraham on her thirtieth birthday. She's feeling the effects of her age as she believes it's impacting her ability to get the parts she's typically won. As we're propelled into her life we quickly have a sense of who Jess is. She recognizes her shortfalls but doesn't let that stop her. Her self-effacing nature is all too relatable and the journey she's on
is certain to be fulfilling. When she makes a late night call to a radio station for a contest, she "meets" Cal, the "sexy-sounding DJ" who is about to change her life. And it's not the winnings from the contest.
This man.
So easy to fall for.
Cal, the late night DJ, strikes up a deal with Jess and their nightly conversations quickly turn from friendship to tentative feelings of something more. Cal is the sensitive type, caring and altruistic, and meeting Jess in person makes him nervous. But they are fated and when a conversation accidently plays on air, he can no longer avoid her. As they begin sharing their lives with each other, becoming something more, they both must face down insecurities and open themselves up for greatness.
There's so much to love about this story. I love the character details that Grey shares, how she builds upon traits, and I LOVE being in both of their heads. The start of Cal and Jess is built on flirty banter and as they come to know each other, the dialogue is heartwarming, allowing them to tear down each others' walls and allow themselves to just be in love. You Spin Me made Karen Grey a one-click author and I can't wait to read more from the Boston Classics series. 5 ++ Stars and my recommendation.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
February 25, 2022
2/24/2022 - 99¢ audio on chirp!
7/14/2021 - NARRATOR REVEAL DAY!!!! Vanessa Edwin & Eric Michael Summerer!
Karen Grey continues to deliver my favorite aspects of romance in You Spin Me. Authentic and fully developed characters, laughs, tears, sexy scenes, and a wonderful HEA. While the story stands on it’s own – there’s references to events and characters from previous books, the Boston Classics series is best enjoyed in order. (pssst… at the time of this review you can grab the audio for book 1, What I’m Looking For, from Chirp for $1.99)
I loved the contrast of Cal & Jess both being concerned about how people react to their looks versus the person inside but for opposite reasons. Much of Cal’s body was burned in a fire when he was a young child and he’s come to expect strangers horrified or pitying reactions. Jess was “blessed” with amazing genetics which gives her a body many admire but then make assumptions about her based on that.
By calling in to the radio station where Cal is a DJ, they get to know each other and build an amazing friendship that is developing into something more. But both are afraid of what happens next. With the story taking place over several months, I love that Grey gives us a lot of time to get to know them as individuals and as a couple. While it is a difficult road for this couple and there are a few misunderstandings – I appreciated that nothing drags out too long.
I like the way that Grey had Cal & Jess understand, accept, and deal with the challenges that each of them brings to the relationship. Overall a fabulous and enjoyable listen.
Narration:
I loved the book, but the narration is amazing. Vanessa Edwin and Eric Michael Summerer are absolutely perfect as Jess & Cal. They both do a fantastic job with voices, emotions, and accents. Summerer’s DJ voices are particularly spot on and the impersonation of Bobcat Goldthwaite had me rolling. I was completely immersed in the world Grey has created and I want her to write another book for Cal & Jess just so I can hear more of them by Edwin & Summerer.
While I borrowed the ebook through Kindle Unlimited, I received a free advanced copy of the audiobook from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
7/11/2021 - I absolutely LOVED this audio!!! Narrator reveal & review will go live on 7/14.
6/22/2021 - Snagged an ALC of the audio. I’m super excited but no deets until 7/14…. 🤐
5/2021 - Waiting for audio. Because ... audio! 😉
7/14/2021 - NARRATOR REVEAL DAY!!!! Vanessa Edwin & Eric Michael Summerer!
Karen Grey continues to deliver my favorite aspects of romance in You Spin Me. Authentic and fully developed characters, laughs, tears, sexy scenes, and a wonderful HEA. While the story stands on it’s own – there’s references to events and characters from previous books, the Boston Classics series is best enjoyed in order. (pssst… at the time of this review you can grab the audio for book 1, What I’m Looking For, from Chirp for $1.99)
I loved the contrast of Cal & Jess both being concerned about how people react to their looks versus the person inside but for opposite reasons. Much of Cal’s body was burned in a fire when he was a young child and he’s come to expect strangers horrified or pitying reactions. Jess was “blessed” with amazing genetics which gives her a body many admire but then make assumptions about her based on that.
By calling in to the radio station where Cal is a DJ, they get to know each other and build an amazing friendship that is developing into something more. But both are afraid of what happens next. With the story taking place over several months, I love that Grey gives us a lot of time to get to know them as individuals and as a couple. While it is a difficult road for this couple and there are a few misunderstandings – I appreciated that nothing drags out too long.
I like the way that Grey had Cal & Jess understand, accept, and deal with the challenges that each of them brings to the relationship. Overall a fabulous and enjoyable listen.
Narration:
I loved the book, but the narration is amazing. Vanessa Edwin and Eric Michael Summerer are absolutely perfect as Jess & Cal. They both do a fantastic job with voices, emotions, and accents. Summerer’s DJ voices are particularly spot on and the impersonation of Bobcat Goldthwaite had me rolling. I was completely immersed in the world Grey has created and I want her to write another book for Cal & Jess just so I can hear more of them by Edwin & Summerer.
While I borrowed the ebook through Kindle Unlimited, I received a free advanced copy of the audiobook from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
7/11/2021 - I absolutely LOVED this audio!!! Narrator reveal & review will go live on 7/14.
6/22/2021 - Snagged an ALC of the audio. I’m super excited but no deets until 7/14…. 🤐
5/2021 - Waiting for audio. Because ... audio! 😉
Read
August 18, 2021If you have narrator suggestions for Bella or her partner - a TV producer from NC - let me know! Her book will be out by the end of the year, followed by the audio in early 2022.
April 13, 2021
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
The story is about two very creative and full-of-potential protagonists finding their way into life during the mid-80s/90s.
Jessica Abraham is a struggling actress, dancer. She recently got go from working as a school dance instructor, so she can be seen scampering auditions and looking for work options at the start of the book.
Cal Alonso is a music station disk jockey (DJ), driven to give his listeners the best music mix for his time slot with his steady listenership. On the other side, he is a kind and good man trying to rescue "others" in how he can, even in the "shadows" of anonymity.
This book may be my first time to read the author's work, but it is a highly anticipated one since the Boston Classics started. I was fortunate to be granted access to this book, which piqued my interest based on the author and her storylines. Mind you that I will be backreading the rest of the series soon, but for now, readers can start anywhere in the series because it's a standalone book. It focuses on the main characters' situations but has past series' characters help these two lovebirds out.
I love too many things in this book but let me sum it up...
1) Relatable era with witty writing.
Written in the first-person duality - Cal and Jess' POV, the story is very relatable and pulls in many of the elements that make the 90s a unique time. The book cover gives an excellent start with its back to 80s/90s vibe with its song choices, LP/vinyl records, leg warmers, and retro wall-phones (not mobile phones) with limited cord lengths that only on eBay would have now. I found the introduction paragraph to each of the chapters as a wonderful segway that set up the chapter well.
2) Rivetting and profound characters.
The author made sure that her characters have different yet similar flaws. Cal and Jess have inner demons within them that hindered them from finding their full potential. Both characters refuse to be vulnerable and try their best to hide their respective sides from the other.
Cal's past is a sad one. The author gave us a hint in the prologue, but how was much trauma Cal went through discussed only halfway through the book. Cal was very young when things went badly for him. I cried buckets because no one could foresee the grueling long, and heartbreaking road to recovery. Although some mistakes placed Cal in the situation, no one deserves what he went through. At a young age, the pain and prejudices made him build a "wall" between him and the rest of the world - to protect his heart. He accepted his limitations as truths that he lived in the shadows and away from the world.
In Jess' case, readers may think they know Jess' back-story but be prepared for a truckload of issues that no one will see it coming. There side suggestions, but it was wrong. Jess' façade was perfectly placed for everyone that no one saw it festered into a colossal mess in Jess' head and health until it was too late. Readers will witness Jess see herself far different from what the real world saw. It is not her fault but how society projected what is "supposedly right" in her head. I appreciate the author pulling in topics that go beyond time and an era. Mental health and a particular disorder (and disease), rarely discussed in romance books, are brought to light in a brutally honest and scientific way that is thought-provoking enough to make you think and reassess your own lives. The author did enough research (see author's acknowledgments) on the disorder's issues and disclosed possible symptoms as a takeaway for readers.
3) Social and political situation of the era discusses.
Although the author brings in the era's fun and unique times, she also brings in the socio-economic, racial, and sexual disparities and discrimination climate plaguing it. The plot weaves the duality of living in the era of love, family, and immense options ("American Dream") with uncertainty, abandonment, and human cruelty are front and center. Fear of retaliation is at the forefront of the other characters in the book. Many relevant topics are hinted, explored, and taken up will have readers rethink, reassess and re-examine these issues based on our current time. Things may change, but there are, to an extent, new spin-off versions of these injustices.
NOTE: The author's character representation - heritage, socio-economic status, etc. all add to the impact of the situation and story.
4.) Plot build-up and twists were reminiscent of the times
The plot centers on connections in the traditional sense like the "meeting of the minds" or finding common ground versus two people's physical attraction.
Readers will be giddy at Jess' and Cal's conversations, wherein a lot of things were go through their heads, but the opposite comes out of their mouths. This type of "connecting" makes deeper connections. Who knew that a simple serendipitous phone call could turn into true love and forever?
That one phone call sparked something "more" for the main characters - talks that turned into "mini confessions" and possible self-improvements. All this reminded will remind us of our past (i.e., late-night chats, heating our home phone lines with random topics and "getting-to-know" our crushes, etc.) as Jess and Cal were doing the same thing! It's adorable and brings back many happy memories.
The story is not all are rainbows and butterflies between Jess and Cal. Joni Mitchell's song, Big Yellow Taxi - " Don't it always seem to go. That you don't know what you've got. Till it's gone." went through my head. After a few self-realizations and discoveries, things became more complicated! It was heartbreaking to read through that part but but but -> interestingly enough, it does a lot of wonders to Jess and Cal. Their "breaks" made them realize how much they need to work on themselves first before being there for the other. Their love pushes them to grow and be the best versions of themselves for their relationship.
In conclusion, I super, highly, and absolutely love and recommend this series! Readers who love the 80s/90s nostalgic era and maturing "broken" characters will be captivated with the characters, the plot, and the unforgettable era of the 80s/90s - the good, the bad, and even the ugly side of things.
Jess and Cal's story is an indelible ink that seeped into my subconsciousness. I felt every cheer in their triumphs and shed every tear in their disappointments. I hope the author's message will make readers remember that we are only limited to how they see themselves and that life is about "possibilities," we need to seek the change we want!
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
The story is about two very creative and full-of-potential protagonists finding their way into life during the mid-80s/90s.
Jessica Abraham is a struggling actress, dancer. She recently got go from working as a school dance instructor, so she can be seen scampering auditions and looking for work options at the start of the book.
Cal Alonso is a music station disk jockey (DJ), driven to give his listeners the best music mix for his time slot with his steady listenership. On the other side, he is a kind and good man trying to rescue "others" in how he can, even in the "shadows" of anonymity.
This book may be my first time to read the author's work, but it is a highly anticipated one since the Boston Classics started. I was fortunate to be granted access to this book, which piqued my interest based on the author and her storylines. Mind you that I will be backreading the rest of the series soon, but for now, readers can start anywhere in the series because it's a standalone book. It focuses on the main characters' situations but has past series' characters help these two lovebirds out.
I love too many things in this book but let me sum it up...
1) Relatable era with witty writing.
Written in the first-person duality - Cal and Jess' POV, the story is very relatable and pulls in many of the elements that make the 90s a unique time. The book cover gives an excellent start with its back to 80s/90s vibe with its song choices, LP/vinyl records, leg warmers, and retro wall-phones (not mobile phones) with limited cord lengths that only on eBay would have now. I found the introduction paragraph to each of the chapters as a wonderful segway that set up the chapter well.
2) Rivetting and profound characters.
The author made sure that her characters have different yet similar flaws. Cal and Jess have inner demons within them that hindered them from finding their full potential. Both characters refuse to be vulnerable and try their best to hide their respective sides from the other.
Cal's past is a sad one. The author gave us a hint in the prologue, but how was much trauma Cal went through discussed only halfway through the book. Cal was very young when things went badly for him. I cried buckets because no one could foresee the grueling long, and heartbreaking road to recovery. Although some mistakes placed Cal in the situation, no one deserves what he went through. At a young age, the pain and prejudices made him build a "wall" between him and the rest of the world - to protect his heart. He accepted his limitations as truths that he lived in the shadows and away from the world.
In Jess' case, readers may think they know Jess' back-story but be prepared for a truckload of issues that no one will see it coming. There side suggestions, but it was wrong. Jess' façade was perfectly placed for everyone that no one saw it festered into a colossal mess in Jess' head and health until it was too late. Readers will witness Jess see herself far different from what the real world saw. It is not her fault but how society projected what is "supposedly right" in her head. I appreciate the author pulling in topics that go beyond time and an era. Mental health and a particular disorder (and disease), rarely discussed in romance books, are brought to light in a brutally honest and scientific way that is thought-provoking enough to make you think and reassess your own lives. The author did enough research (see author's acknowledgments) on the disorder's issues and disclosed possible symptoms as a takeaway for readers.
3) Social and political situation of the era discusses.
Although the author brings in the era's fun and unique times, she also brings in the socio-economic, racial, and sexual disparities and discrimination climate plaguing it. The plot weaves the duality of living in the era of love, family, and immense options ("American Dream") with uncertainty, abandonment, and human cruelty are front and center. Fear of retaliation is at the forefront of the other characters in the book. Many relevant topics are hinted, explored, and taken up will have readers rethink, reassess and re-examine these issues based on our current time. Things may change, but there are, to an extent, new spin-off versions of these injustices.
NOTE: The author's character representation - heritage, socio-economic status, etc. all add to the impact of the situation and story.
4.) Plot build-up and twists were reminiscent of the times
The plot centers on connections in the traditional sense like the "meeting of the minds" or finding common ground versus two people's physical attraction.
Readers will be giddy at Jess' and Cal's conversations, wherein a lot of things were go through their heads, but the opposite comes out of their mouths. This type of "connecting" makes deeper connections. Who knew that a simple serendipitous phone call could turn into true love and forever?
That one phone call sparked something "more" for the main characters - talks that turned into "mini confessions" and possible self-improvements. All this reminded will remind us of our past (i.e., late-night chats, heating our home phone lines with random topics and "getting-to-know" our crushes, etc.) as Jess and Cal were doing the same thing! It's adorable and brings back many happy memories.
The story is not all are rainbows and butterflies between Jess and Cal. Joni Mitchell's song, Big Yellow Taxi - " Don't it always seem to go. That you don't know what you've got. Till it's gone." went through my head. After a few self-realizations and discoveries, things became more complicated! It was heartbreaking to read through that part but but but -> interestingly enough, it does a lot of wonders to Jess and Cal. Their "breaks" made them realize how much they need to work on themselves first before being there for the other. Their love pushes them to grow and be the best versions of themselves for their relationship.
In conclusion, I super, highly, and absolutely love and recommend this series! Readers who love the 80s/90s nostalgic era and maturing "broken" characters will be captivated with the characters, the plot, and the unforgettable era of the 80s/90s - the good, the bad, and even the ugly side of things.
Jess and Cal's story is an indelible ink that seeped into my subconsciousness. I felt every cheer in their triumphs and shed every tear in their disappointments. I hope the author's message will make readers remember that we are only limited to how they see themselves and that life is about "possibilities," we need to seek the change we want!
"My letter thanks you. For breaking through the armor I'd built up. For waking me up. Shaking things up. Rocking my world and spinning it round. You spin me. In all the good ways."
-- You Spin Me, Karen Grey
April 17, 2021
Author Karen Grey’s Boston Classics are such fantastic stories. I don’t know how she comes up with these plot lines but they are amazing. Fresh, bright, original, laugh-out-loud funny yet serious and thought-provoking. And a marvelous trip down memory lane back to the 1980’s, when we had big hair and before cell phones and social media ruled our lives. You can read the books in any order and they are all perfect standalones, but do yourself a favor and start at the beginning and get to know these wonderful characters one-by-one as they are introduced and connect to one another. I am sure you will grow to love them all much as I have.
You Spin Me begins at the end of 1988 when Jessica Abraham – vain, body-obsessed, afraid-to-grow-old Jessica Abraham – turns thirty, loses her day job, and loses the role of Ophelia to a younger actress. Not a good week. And then while she’s driving home one snowy night in early 1989 she knows the answer to a quiz on DJ Callihan Alonso’s alt-rock radio show and phones in. And suddenly for the reader it’s like violins playing and fireworks exploding. It just feels like . . . sigh . . . . Over nothing really. Just a phone call to a radio DJ. But not just a phone call. That start of . . . something. He worries about her and wants to know she gets home safe every night and asks her to call in just to let him know. And this becomes the highlight of their nights. As they talk longer and longer they feel closer and closer. But closer to what? He’s just that mysterious voice, the DJ with no posters and no publicity. He’s never seen her. She’s not sure she wants to be seen and judged on her looks one more time. It sure feels like a love story, though.
But of course it’s not that simple. Can you fall in love with a voice? And surely there’s more to Jess and Cal than an aging actress and a guy who is obsessively private.
As we listen in on more and more of their late night conversations and get a peek at their “outside” lives we learn there is a lot going on with each of them, a lot of childhood trauma, a lot of adult fears, a lot of unwillingness to open themselves up to rejection. Can they ever get past those fears to trust? Are they doomed to this late-night bittersweet connection with no promise or hope for the future?
You Spin Me is, as are all the Boston Classics, a witty, funny, laugh-out-loud tale of two people who immediately seem perfect for each other. To the reader, anyway. But they have a few potentially huge obstacles to overcome and you should be prepared to shed more than one tear along the way. I was so worried about Jess and Cal I wanted to jump into the story and talk to them both. I really had no idea where author Karen Grey was going to go with the ending so I didn’t put the book down until I had read straight through. What wonderful writing, what wonderful people, what a wonderful story. And I was sorry to see it end and can’t wait for more.
Thanks to author Karen Grey and StoryOrigin for providing an advance copy of You Spin Me for my reading pleasure and honest review. It is an amazing story, light and easy and deep and rich all at the same time. It touched my heart and I won’t soon forget it. All opinions are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it and everything this author writes without hesitation.
You Spin Me begins at the end of 1988 when Jessica Abraham – vain, body-obsessed, afraid-to-grow-old Jessica Abraham – turns thirty, loses her day job, and loses the role of Ophelia to a younger actress. Not a good week. And then while she’s driving home one snowy night in early 1989 she knows the answer to a quiz on DJ Callihan Alonso’s alt-rock radio show and phones in. And suddenly for the reader it’s like violins playing and fireworks exploding. It just feels like . . . sigh . . . . Over nothing really. Just a phone call to a radio DJ. But not just a phone call. That start of . . . something. He worries about her and wants to know she gets home safe every night and asks her to call in just to let him know. And this becomes the highlight of their nights. As they talk longer and longer they feel closer and closer. But closer to what? He’s just that mysterious voice, the DJ with no posters and no publicity. He’s never seen her. She’s not sure she wants to be seen and judged on her looks one more time. It sure feels like a love story, though.
But of course it’s not that simple. Can you fall in love with a voice? And surely there’s more to Jess and Cal than an aging actress and a guy who is obsessively private.
As we listen in on more and more of their late night conversations and get a peek at their “outside” lives we learn there is a lot going on with each of them, a lot of childhood trauma, a lot of adult fears, a lot of unwillingness to open themselves up to rejection. Can they ever get past those fears to trust? Are they doomed to this late-night bittersweet connection with no promise or hope for the future?
You Spin Me is, as are all the Boston Classics, a witty, funny, laugh-out-loud tale of two people who immediately seem perfect for each other. To the reader, anyway. But they have a few potentially huge obstacles to overcome and you should be prepared to shed more than one tear along the way. I was so worried about Jess and Cal I wanted to jump into the story and talk to them both. I really had no idea where author Karen Grey was going to go with the ending so I didn’t put the book down until I had read straight through. What wonderful writing, what wonderful people, what a wonderful story. And I was sorry to see it end and can’t wait for more.
Thanks to author Karen Grey and StoryOrigin for providing an advance copy of You Spin Me for my reading pleasure and honest review. It is an amazing story, light and easy and deep and rich all at the same time. It touched my heart and I won’t soon forget it. All opinions are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it and everything this author writes without hesitation.
July 30, 2021
You Spin Me is book #3 is Karen Grey's Boston Classics Series. It is funny, emotional, sweet and beautiful. The audiobook narrated by Eric Michael Summerer and Vanessa Edwin was fantastic! The sound effects at the beginning of each chapter I loved. The narrators are masters of their craft and delivered a performance that kept me engaged and connected to the story and unable to stop listening from beginning to end.
As with every book in this series, Karen Grey creates the most unique characters. I love the way Jess and Cal 'meet' initially. Their relationship is formed on an emotional level first rather than physical which I found unique. Cal is a DJ/radio host, and Jess is an actress and dancer teacher. The development of their relationship was sweet I couldn't get enough of their flirty banter during their late night talks. Both Jess and Cal are working through insecurities regarding their physical appearance. Together and individually the support they offer each other is open and honest. It made their connection that much stronger. I loved the slow burn of their romance. They do not rush it and that made it all the more special when they come together. I love the way Karen writes in the 1980s era. It is definitely nostalgic with perfect little touches that brings me right back to my childhood.
Overall I really adored this story. It is a fun, entertaining, heartfelt and emotional. I highly recommend it!
*ALC received in exchange of an honest review.
As with every book in this series, Karen Grey creates the most unique characters. I love the way Jess and Cal 'meet' initially. Their relationship is formed on an emotional level first rather than physical which I found unique. Cal is a DJ/radio host, and Jess is an actress and dancer teacher. The development of their relationship was sweet I couldn't get enough of their flirty banter during their late night talks. Both Jess and Cal are working through insecurities regarding their physical appearance. Together and individually the support they offer each other is open and honest. It made their connection that much stronger. I loved the slow burn of their romance. They do not rush it and that made it all the more special when they come together. I love the way Karen writes in the 1980s era. It is definitely nostalgic with perfect little touches that brings me right back to my childhood.
Overall I really adored this story. It is a fun, entertaining, heartfelt and emotional. I highly recommend it!
*ALC received in exchange of an honest review.
August 19, 2021
This book was so much fun! I loved that it was so REAL as if you were really there with Cal and Jess in the year 1989.
Yet there was a touch of fantasy about them falling head over heels also.
I loved how the heat level was like a flickering candle that was lit and distinguished as the characters found their rhythm with each other.
They each had their own mental challenges that they had to overcome and yet they didn’t let it break them up it allowed them to step away to heal themselves while still desperately wanting to be together.
This was a BEAUTIFUL story of love joining two souls together who needed each other to break the brick wall down to the path of healing but they didn’t “magically heal” each other they just opened each other’s eyes to what they hadn’t been able to put a finger on for quite some time.
The disabled animals were a nice touch also.
Swoon to the narrators too! They were so perfect for this story. Eric Michael Summerer has a nice strong flow but can be so soft in his delivery.
Vanessa Edwin has this soft breathy voice that goes from strong and confident to superbly quiet when needed.
Highly recommend!
Yet there was a touch of fantasy about them falling head over heels also.
I loved how the heat level was like a flickering candle that was lit and distinguished as the characters found their rhythm with each other.
They each had their own mental challenges that they had to overcome and yet they didn’t let it break them up it allowed them to step away to heal themselves while still desperately wanting to be together.
This was a BEAUTIFUL story of love joining two souls together who needed each other to break the brick wall down to the path of healing but they didn’t “magically heal” each other they just opened each other’s eyes to what they hadn’t been able to put a finger on for quite some time.
The disabled animals were a nice touch also.
Swoon to the narrators too! They were so perfect for this story. Eric Michael Summerer has a nice strong flow but can be so soft in his delivery.
Vanessa Edwin has this soft breathy voice that goes from strong and confident to superbly quiet when needed.
Highly recommend!
July 31, 2021
What a beautiful, emotional story about two damaged souls making a connection over late night phone calls. This book was wonderful! I loved the chemistry between Cal & Jess. From the first moment they talk on the phone, you can feel the spark. It was sweet and funny with some angst thrown in to take you on an emotional rollercoaster. Cal & Jess both have their own physical, mental & emotional insecurities and scars from past trauma that keep them from accepting themselves or letting others in. Slowly through the late night calls, they learn to be vulnerable with each other. To me, this story had a beauty and the beast type of feel. Cal hiding in the shadows because he’s afraid people will reject him of how he looks and Jess’ beauty is all ever people saw.
The narration and radio sound effects made this an entertaining listen from beginning to end. I loved all the music references, some bands /songs sounded made up, and some I’ve heard of. And the fake commercials were so silly! I loved it all! I’ve never listened to Eric Michael Summerer and was surprised I enjoyed his voice so much! He was perfect match for Cal. Summerer did a wonderful job turning on and off Cal’s radio DJ voice. And Vanessa Edwin as Jess was a delight! I love how she made Jess feel real and definitely believable as an actress. They beautifully brought Cal & Jess story to life.
Overall, this story was phenomenal and the storytelling was incredible. It was nice revisiting old friends from previous books. It talked about various issues, that I’m glad Cal & Jess were able to receive the help they needed to heal, so they could be together. This book will make you want to laugh, cry and fall in love with Cal & Jess.
The narration and radio sound effects made this an entertaining listen from beginning to end. I loved all the music references, some bands /songs sounded made up, and some I’ve heard of. And the fake commercials were so silly! I loved it all! I’ve never listened to Eric Michael Summerer and was surprised I enjoyed his voice so much! He was perfect match for Cal. Summerer did a wonderful job turning on and off Cal’s radio DJ voice. And Vanessa Edwin as Jess was a delight! I love how she made Jess feel real and definitely believable as an actress. They beautifully brought Cal & Jess story to life.
Overall, this story was phenomenal and the storytelling was incredible. It was nice revisiting old friends from previous books. It talked about various issues, that I’m glad Cal & Jess were able to receive the help they needed to heal, so they could be together. This book will make you want to laugh, cry and fall in love with Cal & Jess.
April 10, 2021
Wow, just wow!
Karen blew me away with this book. A bit different than the previous Boston Classics, but no less amazing!
We get a completely different side of vain Jessica and I'm not going to lie, I cried, fell in love with her, and cheered her on.
Cal is just absolutely perfect for her and also super swoony with his huge... heart! I actually pictured several voices I love narrated his parts of this book.
I'm always happy to read Karen's books that transport me back to the 80s and 90s. I love her snippets of music, TV, current events of that time period sprinkled throughout the book for that hit of nostalgia. It's also a great reminder that we've come so far in so many aspects as a society and in the medical field.
Karen blew me away with this book. A bit different than the previous Boston Classics, but no less amazing!
We get a completely different side of vain Jessica and I'm not going to lie, I cried, fell in love with her, and cheered her on.
Cal is just absolutely perfect for her and also super swoony with his huge... heart! I actually pictured several voices I love narrated his parts of this book.
I'm always happy to read Karen's books that transport me back to the 80s and 90s. I love her snippets of music, TV, current events of that time period sprinkled throughout the book for that hit of nostalgia. It's also a great reminder that we've come so far in so many aspects as a society and in the medical field.
April 23, 2021
Both characters have big issue to work through, but I think they both make each other stronger. You Spin Me is written in dual POVs, and as the characters try to hide their “flaws” from each other, it is also key to self-improvement. I loved that they got to know each other first via telephone calls (yes in the 80’s we actually talked on the phone!). Those conversations were also mini confessions and self-discoveries. I found Cal’s story was heartbreaking and Jessica’s twist at the end was an OMG moment. Thank goodness medical diagnosis and treatment have improved over the decades. The characters grow throughout the story and become a much better version of themselves. While this one isn’t my favorite of the series, I recommend the series. The 80s/90s nostalgic era plotlines and references are a joy, the characters varied and interesting, and the writing superb.
July 17, 2021
This book ticked all the boxes and then some. With all the song references within the storyline, I couldn't help but stop to have a listen and do a little reminiscing. The narrators did an excellent job bringing the characters to life. Add this to your must read list.
August 3, 2021
I loved this book!! Karen Grey has written another sweet and emotional book! You Spin Me tugged on my heart in all the right ways. Jess and Cal were fantastic characters with such raw, deep, and challenging pasts. I loved the journey these two characters faced to reach their HEA. I was hooked from page one. The setting in the 1980s, once again made this story feel so nostalgic. Karen's description of all things 80s is amazing! She really adds in all the little details to take you back! I loved how Karen added 80s music to the mix as well, since Cal was a late night DJ. I adored how Jess and Cal both fell in love with each other's voices before they even met each other. It proves that you really can't judge a book by its cover.
Overall, You Spin Me was fantastic, heartfelt, and moving! I could not put this book down once I started. I'm looking forward to even more from this author! Karen is an amazing storyteller!
***Audiobook Review***
Eric Michael Summerer and Vanessa Edwin narrate this audio. I loved this narrator pairing! Eric was the perfect Cal, performing that rich, deep, exaggerated DJ voice. He also did a fantastic job of showing how Cal overcame all his insecurities. Vanessa Edwin’s voice is always a decadent delight. Her performance of Jess was amazing showcasing her own challenges and misperceptions she conquered to become comfortable in her own skin. The added sound effects to give off the whole 80s radio vibe was the perfect nostalgic touch!
Overall, You Spin Me was fantastic, heartfelt, and moving! I could not put this book down once I started. I'm looking forward to even more from this author! Karen is an amazing storyteller!
***Audiobook Review***
Eric Michael Summerer and Vanessa Edwin narrate this audio. I loved this narrator pairing! Eric was the perfect Cal, performing that rich, deep, exaggerated DJ voice. He also did a fantastic job of showing how Cal overcame all his insecurities. Vanessa Edwin’s voice is always a decadent delight. Her performance of Jess was amazing showcasing her own challenges and misperceptions she conquered to become comfortable in her own skin. The added sound effects to give off the whole 80s radio vibe was the perfect nostalgic touch!
November 3, 2023
Story Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 (0-5)
Audiobook Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.75/5 (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥☄️ 2.5/5 (almost closed door)
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 Perfectly cast narrators for this slow burn with so much sweetness, stubbornness, friendship, and love.
🤩 This audiobook narration made me laugh-out-loud one minute and gave me chills the next.
🤩 Nostalgic 80s romcom with radio station advertisements.
🤩 Adorable (hidden) beauty and the beast meet-cute.
🤩 Between stage actress/dance teacher Jess & radio DJ Callihan (Cal).
🤩 When a book gives you goosebumps and “oh my gosh” gasping moments.
🤩 The drunk phone call.
🤩 The coupon book gift.
🤩 Delicate and delicious descriptions of humans, heartache, phone calls, and feelings.
🤩 That first kiss—I love when a lower steam story gives me all the feels.
🤩 So much representation: multicultural, physical disabilities, and learning disabilities, eating disorders.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 I would like more physical closeness after the drama to help me believe in the HEA.
Trigger Warnings:
🔬 trauma from bullying
🔬 weight/body image issues/disorders.
Audiobook Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.75/5 (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥☄️ 2.5/5 (almost closed door)
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 Perfectly cast narrators for this slow burn with so much sweetness, stubbornness, friendship, and love.
🤩 This audiobook narration made me laugh-out-loud one minute and gave me chills the next.
🤩 Nostalgic 80s romcom with radio station advertisements.
🤩 Adorable (hidden) beauty and the beast meet-cute.
🤩 Between stage actress/dance teacher Jess & radio DJ Callihan (Cal).
🤩 When a book gives you goosebumps and “oh my gosh” gasping moments.
🤩 The drunk phone call.
🤩 The coupon book gift.
🤩 Delicate and delicious descriptions of humans, heartache, phone calls, and feelings.
🤩 That first kiss—I love when a lower steam story gives me all the feels.
🤩 So much representation: multicultural, physical disabilities, and learning disabilities, eating disorders.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 I would like more physical closeness after the drama to help me believe in the HEA.
Trigger Warnings:
🔬 trauma from bullying
🔬 weight/body image issues/disorders.
April 28, 2021
The moment I saw this book cover was a moment where I was taken back in time, a time for me of growing up and heading off to college. Seeing the two lead characters go through changes too drew me to them and kept me invested in their journey every step of the way. It was a journey that was sometimes heartbreaking, belying the cutesy book cover, as both had difficult childhoods and issues that were timely and realistic in their depictions. There's surprising depth to this rom-com, an intensity that pulled at my heartstrings while I rooted for these two through every high and low.
Callihan Alonso is a late night DJ who just wants to bring a sense of family to his listeners, make them feel like a part of something. When readers are first introduced to Cal they sense a man with a good heart, hear a captivating voice, and discover a past that helps him understand loneliness and a desire to help ease it. The depictions of his past hurt my heart and had me desperate to hug him and let him know his true worth beyond what the world sees. The pain of his past had him build a wall around his heart that has kept him separate from others and hiding still today in a job that makes hiding easy. The moment he hears Jess calling in to his radio show though is the moment everything changes for him. In their slow-burn journey to finding something deeper between them, readers will be charmed by their fun and flirty chats that sometimes veered into mini-confessions. For them, it becomes not only a romantic journey but a healing one as well when it comes to slaying the demons from their pasts. Jessica Abraham is a compelling character too and a great match to Cal, one with her own painful past that roars back late in this story to create a jaw-dropping moment. Jess is a former teacher on the cusp of 30 when this story starts. As an actress, looks are vital in her mind and it drives her fear of her future in such a shallow profession. It's a weight that's always been with her and it really consumes her here. Her late night chats with Cal are moments of light in her dark moments though, a joyful time that made me smile and that was a delightful way to start their relationship. Their interactions were sweet early on and were a nice balance to the raw reality of her medical issues, issues that were realistically depicted as the story progressed. By the end I was on the edge of my seat, not knowing where Ms. Grey would take this couple next but rooting them on wholeheartedly.
This was a well-crafted story, a story full of heart and soul as two people show themselves to be perfectly imperfect. They have a lot of emotional baggage that they need to deal with before finding HEA, and watching them grow stronger as individuals and as a couple, made for a richly rewarding story from the first page to the last. There was a strong sense of nostalgia permeating this story too and it was a captivating element. Along with the charm was gritty and emotionally intense depictions of mental and physical health that Ms. Grey presented with respect and realism. I applaud her for not sugarcoating things as it made this story even more impactful and will draw even more readers to this book in the future! On a whole, this might have been my first time reading this author but it won't be the last!
Callihan Alonso is a late night DJ who just wants to bring a sense of family to his listeners, make them feel like a part of something. When readers are first introduced to Cal they sense a man with a good heart, hear a captivating voice, and discover a past that helps him understand loneliness and a desire to help ease it. The depictions of his past hurt my heart and had me desperate to hug him and let him know his true worth beyond what the world sees. The pain of his past had him build a wall around his heart that has kept him separate from others and hiding still today in a job that makes hiding easy. The moment he hears Jess calling in to his radio show though is the moment everything changes for him. In their slow-burn journey to finding something deeper between them, readers will be charmed by their fun and flirty chats that sometimes veered into mini-confessions. For them, it becomes not only a romantic journey but a healing one as well when it comes to slaying the demons from their pasts. Jessica Abraham is a compelling character too and a great match to Cal, one with her own painful past that roars back late in this story to create a jaw-dropping moment. Jess is a former teacher on the cusp of 30 when this story starts. As an actress, looks are vital in her mind and it drives her fear of her future in such a shallow profession. It's a weight that's always been with her and it really consumes her here. Her late night chats with Cal are moments of light in her dark moments though, a joyful time that made me smile and that was a delightful way to start their relationship. Their interactions were sweet early on and were a nice balance to the raw reality of her medical issues, issues that were realistically depicted as the story progressed. By the end I was on the edge of my seat, not knowing where Ms. Grey would take this couple next but rooting them on wholeheartedly.
This was a well-crafted story, a story full of heart and soul as two people show themselves to be perfectly imperfect. They have a lot of emotional baggage that they need to deal with before finding HEA, and watching them grow stronger as individuals and as a couple, made for a richly rewarding story from the first page to the last. There was a strong sense of nostalgia permeating this story too and it was a captivating element. Along with the charm was gritty and emotionally intense depictions of mental and physical health that Ms. Grey presented with respect and realism. I applaud her for not sugarcoating things as it made this story even more impactful and will draw even more readers to this book in the future! On a whole, this might have been my first time reading this author but it won't be the last!
August 7, 2021
Outstanding Nostalgic RomCom & Listen🎧📚🎧
You Spin Me
A Nostalgic Romantic Comedy (Boston Classics, Book 3)
By: Karen Grey
Narrated by: Vanessa Edwin, Eric Michael Summerer
Karen Grey wows me with another fabulous romantic comedy set in her “Boston Classics” series. I am loving this series, each book is entertaining and contains plenty of laugh out loud moments and heartfelt ones. I highly recommend them all. There is so much to love about this series, the author nails the nostalgia theme and brings you back to the 80’s, you do not have to know the decade to enjoy the books but it is an added bonus if you do. “You Spin Me”, yes, I had that song stuck in my head ever since I saw the title, check it out, a one hit wonder by “Dead or Alive”, the other book titles did the same, I am still partying like it is 1999 from the last book. This book is Jessica Abraham and DJ Callihan “Cal” Alonso’s story and it merged two of my favorite things, music and theater. Jessica always wanted to be a dancer but since her body betrayed her, she turned to acting. She also taught dancing until budget cuts happened. Adding insult to injury she finds out she the part she wanted went to a younger actress. She does land another part in a play outside the city. One night she calls into the radio station and winds up talking to DJ. Cal, there was something about her that made Cal want to hear more from her so he had here call back. The two hit it off and it was the start of an over the phone relationship but when Jessica wants to meet in person he hesitates. He has his reasons and thinks once she sees him she would not want anything to do with him. I loved how everything played out in this book, the story is beautifully plotted with the perfect balance of drama, humor, heartfelt emotions and romance, a wonderful, slow burn romance. Karen Grey, thank you for another awesome story, the laughs and the emotional rollercoaster ride. Also loving the originality of these stories and how you keep it all real.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Vanessa Edwin and Eric Michael Summerer were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life. They have a complete understanding of the characters they are portraying, giving each a voice that is a perfect fit for that character’s persona and sounding believable that role and just as I picture the character to sound. You could hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture the character’s emotions and project them into their performance. They set the perfect tone for the story, handle the witty dialogue with ease and land the humor flawlessly. These two fabulously talented voice artists are entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this awesome listen.
You Spin Me
A Nostalgic Romantic Comedy (Boston Classics, Book 3)
By: Karen Grey
Narrated by: Vanessa Edwin, Eric Michael Summerer
Karen Grey wows me with another fabulous romantic comedy set in her “Boston Classics” series. I am loving this series, each book is entertaining and contains plenty of laugh out loud moments and heartfelt ones. I highly recommend them all. There is so much to love about this series, the author nails the nostalgia theme and brings you back to the 80’s, you do not have to know the decade to enjoy the books but it is an added bonus if you do. “You Spin Me”, yes, I had that song stuck in my head ever since I saw the title, check it out, a one hit wonder by “Dead or Alive”, the other book titles did the same, I am still partying like it is 1999 from the last book. This book is Jessica Abraham and DJ Callihan “Cal” Alonso’s story and it merged two of my favorite things, music and theater. Jessica always wanted to be a dancer but since her body betrayed her, she turned to acting. She also taught dancing until budget cuts happened. Adding insult to injury she finds out she the part she wanted went to a younger actress. She does land another part in a play outside the city. One night she calls into the radio station and winds up talking to DJ. Cal, there was something about her that made Cal want to hear more from her so he had here call back. The two hit it off and it was the start of an over the phone relationship but when Jessica wants to meet in person he hesitates. He has his reasons and thinks once she sees him she would not want anything to do with him. I loved how everything played out in this book, the story is beautifully plotted with the perfect balance of drama, humor, heartfelt emotions and romance, a wonderful, slow burn romance. Karen Grey, thank you for another awesome story, the laughs and the emotional rollercoaster ride. Also loving the originality of these stories and how you keep it all real.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Vanessa Edwin and Eric Michael Summerer were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life. They have a complete understanding of the characters they are portraying, giving each a voice that is a perfect fit for that character’s persona and sounding believable that role and just as I picture the character to sound. You could hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture the character’s emotions and project them into their performance. They set the perfect tone for the story, handle the witty dialogue with ease and land the humor flawlessly. These two fabulously talented voice artists are entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this awesome listen.
July 27, 2021
Thank you so much for the ALC, Karen! I had a copy on KU, but the audio just makes a world of difference!!!
This story is absolutely brilliant! The other books in this series are excellent, but this one is far and above the others! Karen Grey tackles some extremely difficult subjects, and does it amazingly well (in my opinion, anyway)!
Jess is a stage actress at Shakespeare Boston (like the characters in the previous books, Will in book 1, and Ben in book 2), but now that she's 30, they don't cast her in the next show, and she has to audition around to find her next role, which is quite a drive out of town. Listening to the late-night radio, DJ Cal (Callihan) is the voice that keeps her awake and alert on the drive back into the city. One night, there is a contest to call in if you knew the answer to a question about an art technique, which she knew, and it just happened to be right as she got home, so she ran inside and phoned (because... 1988, no car phones!). While chatting with the intern who answered the call and let her know she was right, she told him to thank the DJ for being great and keeping her awake on her long commute, but he said to stay on the line and thank him herself. And thus they struck up a beautiful friendship, where he wanted her to phone every day so he knew she was safe after her long drive. Aww!
They talked daily and got to know each other - like modern day internet friends, they were phone friends. They enjoyed their calls like we would now enjoy our online interactions, and they each developed crushes, without having met. Fast forward, he invites her to a club where he's spinning as a DJ organized by the station, and manages to avoid meeting face to face... since he has major burn scars from a childhood fire incident ("He has a face for radio" truly comes into play here). They each have their issues but do eventually meet with the circumstances of the plot, and it's make it or break it at that point.
While Cal isn't the only one with demons due to his childhood incident and what came from that (the long years of rehabilitation and then dealing with childhood bullying), Jess also has a number of health and mental issues from her health concern. Karen Grey beautifully handles both of the topics and the interaction of the characters and how they both come together and push each other away. Bravo Karen - I absolutely loved this and can't wait for a re-read/re-listen! The audio was incredible, I totally loved the extra bits with the radio jingles, etc.! And the narrators were so good!
This story is absolutely brilliant! The other books in this series are excellent, but this one is far and above the others! Karen Grey tackles some extremely difficult subjects, and does it amazingly well (in my opinion, anyway)!
Jess is a stage actress at Shakespeare Boston (like the characters in the previous books, Will in book 1, and Ben in book 2), but now that she's 30, they don't cast her in the next show, and she has to audition around to find her next role, which is quite a drive out of town. Listening to the late-night radio, DJ Cal (Callihan) is the voice that keeps her awake and alert on the drive back into the city. One night, there is a contest to call in if you knew the answer to a question about an art technique, which she knew, and it just happened to be right as she got home, so she ran inside and phoned (because... 1988, no car phones!). While chatting with the intern who answered the call and let her know she was right, she told him to thank the DJ for being great and keeping her awake on her long commute, but he said to stay on the line and thank him herself. And thus they struck up a beautiful friendship, where he wanted her to phone every day so he knew she was safe after her long drive. Aww!
They talked daily and got to know each other - like modern day internet friends, they were phone friends. They enjoyed their calls like we would now enjoy our online interactions, and they each developed crushes, without having met. Fast forward, he invites her to a club where he's spinning as a DJ organized by the station, and manages to avoid meeting face to face... since he has major burn scars from a childhood fire incident ("He has a face for radio" truly comes into play here). They each have their issues but do eventually meet with the circumstances of the plot, and it's make it or break it at that point.
While Cal isn't the only one with demons due to his childhood incident and what came from that (the long years of rehabilitation and then dealing with childhood bullying), Jess also has a number of health and mental issues from her health concern. Karen Grey beautifully handles both of the topics and the interaction of the characters and how they both come together and push each other away. Bravo Karen - I absolutely loved this and can't wait for a re-read/re-listen! The audio was incredible, I totally loved the extra bits with the radio jingles, etc.! And the narrators were so good!
July 30, 2021
Rating: 4.5 Stars
If you’re looking for a book that will get you to laugh with a side of romance then you may want to see what this book is about. One thing that I love about this audiobook is the sound effects. They add something to the story that I could not. When I listened to the first book in the series, I was not prepared for the effects but I’ve finally gotten used to it.
This takes place back in time but not too far back. It’s a time that I grew up in so it was funny to hear the jock mention my favorite band. There were several other things that I recognized and they brought back some fond memories. It’s a great book to reminisce with. And how could I not love that it takes place in my home state.
I was impressed with the author taking on main characters that are less than perfect. Jess has a learning disability and she has learned to adapt. She also has a secret that not many people know about. Cal’s issues are more physical. His choice of profession is one that makes him comfortable. We also get to see his strength. These two have you thinking about if they actually lived in our world, how much time has changed since then and that includes how people are treated. Holding something inside is never a good thing.
The author also shows that love can come to anyone. There’s the love a fan has for their favorite disc jockey. There’s a person’s love for their profession. Then we have the love for people that let us see what they have on the inside. Depending on what’s going on in your own life, you may be able to understand some of what our main characters were going through.
The voice actors help us listen to the characters frustrations and other emotions that need to be let out. I was impressed with how well Ms. Edwin does with male voices. She also does a great job in showing what Jess has to deal with. Mr. Summerer does a great job at bringing Cal to life. He helps us feel all the emotions that Cal is feeling. This book was a great introduction if you’ve never listened to either of them before. Both are on my to watch out for list – which has gotten a lot longer now.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
If you’re looking for a book that will get you to laugh with a side of romance then you may want to see what this book is about. One thing that I love about this audiobook is the sound effects. They add something to the story that I could not. When I listened to the first book in the series, I was not prepared for the effects but I’ve finally gotten used to it.
This takes place back in time but not too far back. It’s a time that I grew up in so it was funny to hear the jock mention my favorite band. There were several other things that I recognized and they brought back some fond memories. It’s a great book to reminisce with. And how could I not love that it takes place in my home state.
I was impressed with the author taking on main characters that are less than perfect. Jess has a learning disability and she has learned to adapt. She also has a secret that not many people know about. Cal’s issues are more physical. His choice of profession is one that makes him comfortable. We also get to see his strength. These two have you thinking about if they actually lived in our world, how much time has changed since then and that includes how people are treated. Holding something inside is never a good thing.
The author also shows that love can come to anyone. There’s the love a fan has for their favorite disc jockey. There’s a person’s love for their profession. Then we have the love for people that let us see what they have on the inside. Depending on what’s going on in your own life, you may be able to understand some of what our main characters were going through.
The voice actors help us listen to the characters frustrations and other emotions that need to be let out. I was impressed with how well Ms. Edwin does with male voices. She also does a great job in showing what Jess has to deal with. Mr. Summerer does a great job at bringing Cal to life. He helps us feel all the emotions that Cal is feeling. This book was a great introduction if you’ve never listened to either of them before. Both are on my to watch out for list – which has gotten a lot longer now.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
August 9, 2021
You Spin Me starts with a fairytale-ish prologue about a very beautiful little princess that has learned to get by by relying on her looks and a sad little prince that gets into an accident that leaves him heavily scarred. It’s a little Sleeping Beauty and The Beast, so to speak.The epilogue is also done in the same way, which is really cute and sweet.
The story is set in 1988/89 and it’s part of the Boston Classic series of books but that can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone.
Jessica Abraham is an actress that is getting to the end of 1988 in a hard place. She's turning 30, she loses the part of Ophelia in the company, and the director of the play she got a part in (contemporary theater is a now near Boston, where she lives) wants to de-beautify her. She now will have to go about this part having to rely only on her craft, which has her shaking in her boots.
One night after the long commute home, she calls the radio station she always listens to on her drive and ends up talking to Calliham Alonso, the DJ of the alt-rock program. She thanks him for helping get home safe every night and he asks her to call back the next day to let her know she got home. They do that every night and the longer they talk the closer they get.
But Cal has a secret… and Jess has her own demons. These two have broken souls… and bodies. Will find their way to each other?
This audiobook is a gem. The 1988 setting is a gem to the people who lived through those years and to the younger generation to get a taste of what they were like. Every chapter starts with little soundbites that introduce the shows or the ads in radio stations and its spot on! It’s fun walk down memory lane! The narration is done dual style. Vanessa Edwin is not a new narrator to me. She always does a great job. Eric Michael Summer is a great surprise for me! He gives Cal all the depth the character needs. It's a slow burn romance and the story takes its time, but it's a great listen!
Possible triggers (provided by author and by me):
mental illness (anxiety, depression, Body Dysmorphic Disorder), description of past trauma (eating disorder, treatment of severe burns, house fire), suicidal ideation (past), bullying (past), drinking (recreational), drug use (mentioned, recreational), smoking, suicidal thoughts (past), vomit, homophobia (against a secondary character)
The story is set in 1988/89 and it’s part of the Boston Classic series of books but that can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone.
Jessica Abraham is an actress that is getting to the end of 1988 in a hard place. She's turning 30, she loses the part of Ophelia in the company, and the director of the play she got a part in (contemporary theater is a now near Boston, where she lives) wants to de-beautify her. She now will have to go about this part having to rely only on her craft, which has her shaking in her boots.
One night after the long commute home, she calls the radio station she always listens to on her drive and ends up talking to Calliham Alonso, the DJ of the alt-rock program. She thanks him for helping get home safe every night and he asks her to call back the next day to let her know she got home. They do that every night and the longer they talk the closer they get.
But Cal has a secret… and Jess has her own demons. These two have broken souls… and bodies. Will find their way to each other?
This audiobook is a gem. The 1988 setting is a gem to the people who lived through those years and to the younger generation to get a taste of what they were like. Every chapter starts with little soundbites that introduce the shows or the ads in radio stations and its spot on! It’s fun walk down memory lane! The narration is done dual style. Vanessa Edwin is not a new narrator to me. She always does a great job. Eric Michael Summer is a great surprise for me! He gives Cal all the depth the character needs. It's a slow burn romance and the story takes its time, but it's a great listen!
Possible triggers (provided by author and by me):
mental illness (anxiety, depression, Body Dysmorphic Disorder), description of past trauma (eating disorder, treatment of severe burns, house fire), suicidal ideation (past), bullying (past), drinking (recreational), drug use (mentioned, recreational), smoking, suicidal thoughts (past), vomit, homophobia (against a secondary character)
May 4, 2021
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publicity team. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Boston Classics series are people stories, with the 80s just a fun aspect, much like the Shakespeare quotes or dogs in one of the books. We're back to a character we met in the first book, Jess, who is friends with Ben. I do really enjoy when an author further develops characters we have already met.
Jess didn't impress as a very nice person before, and also one who always got the roles easily. So now we learn her thoughts and feelings. Cal is new to us, a radio personality. Both of them have sort of body image issues. They have struggled their entire lives with guilt and grief, unhappy with the way they looked. So it is perfect they "meet" on the phone when Jess calls in with a contest answer to Cal's radio show.
Jess and Cal develop a relationship of sorts with their behind the scenes call in chats. They become friends of a sort and get to know each other, over the phone. It's an emotional and intellectual connection fulfilled with banter. There's also no worry because one can't see the other. They are both experiencing difficult changes in their careers and working to adjust to new options.
I loved these conversations as they enjoyed talking and learning. I laughed at their thoughts and teasing, and admired how they also opened up to each other and were honest. It was magical for me and continued as they actually met and started dating. I truly enjoyed how each appreciated the other person and believed in them.
Then there was the drama, which is to be expected. It brought both of them to their personal growth and recognition for a real future. They did this during time apart. I would have liked them to be able to support each other in this period, but maybe that isn't realistic. Once they came together again, You Spin Me was over. And I just wanted a little more time together at the end I guess.
Review copy was received from Publicity team. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Boston Classics series are people stories, with the 80s just a fun aspect, much like the Shakespeare quotes or dogs in one of the books. We're back to a character we met in the first book, Jess, who is friends with Ben. I do really enjoy when an author further develops characters we have already met.
Jess didn't impress as a very nice person before, and also one who always got the roles easily. So now we learn her thoughts and feelings. Cal is new to us, a radio personality. Both of them have sort of body image issues. They have struggled their entire lives with guilt and grief, unhappy with the way they looked. So it is perfect they "meet" on the phone when Jess calls in with a contest answer to Cal's radio show.
Jess and Cal develop a relationship of sorts with their behind the scenes call in chats. They become friends of a sort and get to know each other, over the phone. It's an emotional and intellectual connection fulfilled with banter. There's also no worry because one can't see the other. They are both experiencing difficult changes in their careers and working to adjust to new options.
I loved these conversations as they enjoyed talking and learning. I laughed at their thoughts and teasing, and admired how they also opened up to each other and were honest. It was magical for me and continued as they actually met and started dating. I truly enjoyed how each appreciated the other person and believed in them.
Then there was the drama, which is to be expected. It brought both of them to their personal growth and recognition for a real future. They did this during time apart. I would have liked them to be able to support each other in this period, but maybe that isn't realistic. Once they came together again, You Spin Me was over. And I just wanted a little more time together at the end I guess.
July 16, 2021
Book 3 of the Boston Classics series. Totally stands alone, but you get depth and texture from reading/listening the other 2 books.
Cal and Jessica are two beautifully damaged souls. Each has their own issues, scars (physical and emotional) and past trauma that they bring as baggage to the life they lead now. The way these two move around each other in consideration of these issues (once they get together, this is a slow burn after all) you can see that there are many ways to view another person's actions. Communication is the only way to truly know what is happening inside another person's head.
This is a book that I will read multiple times. Knowing at the end where the story went, I can see different moments with new light and just thinking about it makes me ache for these two characters who are so deserving of happiness and love.
The audio version of this story was incredible. Karen Grey has such a unique take on audiobooks and this series has been a delight for my ears. Each one has a little something special that hits perfectly with the theme of the story and the life of the characters. For Cal & Jess each chapter starts with a short radio spot. It just pulls you into the world that these two characters are living in and I loved it!
Eric Michael Summerer and Vanessa Edwin were beautifully cast as Cal & Jess.
Eric has a very versatile yet soothing voice. He was amazing as Cal the radio broadcaster but he was also able to bring to life all the other side characters and crazy personalities that live at the radio stations. The depth of his emotions in Cal's fears, joys and anguish were perfection.
Vanessa brought all the levels to Jessica and everyone around her. From rushed, breathless Jess, to panicked fearful Jess, to fun drunk Jess and emotional resolved self aware Jess, Vanessa is a brilliant performer and I hung on her every word.
Thank you so much to Karen for providing me with an advanced copy of the audiobook for honest review. I could not stop listening and it was hard to focus on anything other than Cal & Jess.
Cal and Jessica are two beautifully damaged souls. Each has their own issues, scars (physical and emotional) and past trauma that they bring as baggage to the life they lead now. The way these two move around each other in consideration of these issues (once they get together, this is a slow burn after all) you can see that there are many ways to view another person's actions. Communication is the only way to truly know what is happening inside another person's head.
This is a book that I will read multiple times. Knowing at the end where the story went, I can see different moments with new light and just thinking about it makes me ache for these two characters who are so deserving of happiness and love.
The audio version of this story was incredible. Karen Grey has such a unique take on audiobooks and this series has been a delight for my ears. Each one has a little something special that hits perfectly with the theme of the story and the life of the characters. For Cal & Jess each chapter starts with a short radio spot. It just pulls you into the world that these two characters are living in and I loved it!
Eric Michael Summerer and Vanessa Edwin were beautifully cast as Cal & Jess.
Eric has a very versatile yet soothing voice. He was amazing as Cal the radio broadcaster but he was also able to bring to life all the other side characters and crazy personalities that live at the radio stations. The depth of his emotions in Cal's fears, joys and anguish were perfection.
Vanessa brought all the levels to Jessica and everyone around her. From rushed, breathless Jess, to panicked fearful Jess, to fun drunk Jess and emotional resolved self aware Jess, Vanessa is a brilliant performer and I hung on her every word.
Thank you so much to Karen for providing me with an advanced copy of the audiobook for honest review. I could not stop listening and it was hard to focus on anything other than Cal & Jess.
November 28, 2021
You Spin Me is the third book in the Boston Classics Series and it was refreshingly original. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I started this book and ended up absolutely loving it. It was sweet, emotional, angsty and heartbreakingly good.
Jess is an actress who has always relied on her looks, but as she reaches her 30th birthday, she’s finding that younger actresses are taking her place. When she makes an impulsive call to a radio station one night, she finds a confidante in DJ Cal. He becomes a voice in the darkness that she can tell her secrets to and a source of strength.
Cal has his own demons that he struggles with and he basically hides from the world. When he was little, he was in a fire that left him badly scarred. While he longs for a normal life, he is scared to show his face and it holds him back both personally and professionally.
When these two lost souls begin talking over the phone, they create an emotional bond that goes beyond the physical and once they meet in person, they must overcome their individual biases against their appearances in order to continue their bond. Both Jess and Cal are struggling with their own issues and are afraid to trust their hearts. I loved their emotional connection and how they were able to give each other the strength to confront their individual problems to become stronger people, both together and apart.
I listened to the audio of this book and it was superb. It was literally one of the most engrossing audios that I’ve ever had the pleasure of listening to. The narrators were superb and really brought the story and the radio station to the life. I felt like I was living the story.
You Spin Me is a captivating story that has a realness to it that is both breathtaking and devastating. You could feel both characters’ emotional pain and their struggle to find happiness with their outward appearances. The character development throughout this series has been phenomenal and the stories are so much deeper than expected.
Jess is an actress who has always relied on her looks, but as she reaches her 30th birthday, she’s finding that younger actresses are taking her place. When she makes an impulsive call to a radio station one night, she finds a confidante in DJ Cal. He becomes a voice in the darkness that she can tell her secrets to and a source of strength.
Cal has his own demons that he struggles with and he basically hides from the world. When he was little, he was in a fire that left him badly scarred. While he longs for a normal life, he is scared to show his face and it holds him back both personally and professionally.
When these two lost souls begin talking over the phone, they create an emotional bond that goes beyond the physical and once they meet in person, they must overcome their individual biases against their appearances in order to continue their bond. Both Jess and Cal are struggling with their own issues and are afraid to trust their hearts. I loved their emotional connection and how they were able to give each other the strength to confront their individual problems to become stronger people, both together and apart.
I listened to the audio of this book and it was superb. It was literally one of the most engrossing audios that I’ve ever had the pleasure of listening to. The narrators were superb and really brought the story and the radio station to the life. I felt like I was living the story.
You Spin Me is a captivating story that has a realness to it that is both breathtaking and devastating. You could feel both characters’ emotional pain and their struggle to find happiness with their outward appearances. The character development throughout this series has been phenomenal and the stories are so much deeper than expected.
April 30, 2021
,Let’s back to the eighties! You Spin Me really made my head spin. A nostalgic romantic comedy from another time with a strong hint of angst and emotional times that totally melt my heart.
I was ready for Cal and Jess whirlwind romance, two souls with scars, one visible and the other not. One trying to shine, the other not, rather staying in the shadows. However these two happened, collided beautifully.
I adored how the author brought the main characters together. I wasn’t expecting something so introspective and dealing with some tough issues that totally contrasted with the funky cover and all the joyful vibe I was getting by just looking at it. I loved the complexity and in-depth, making you rooting for these two so hard.
My heart just cracked a little with Cal, a little afterwards for Jess. There was something in the air, maybe that feeling of two people falling for the other not in a conventional way, in a time when cell phones weren’t a normalcy and when you wanted to reach someone is to call at his home or a calling card. There was something so romantic about how two strangers got to meet, sharing their fears and the heavy things even really meeting first.
Don’t get one wrong this book was tons of sweet and swoony moments, moments you needed to balance certain parts of heaviness. A story like a kaleidoscope of fireworks accompanied by a background of music, reflecting the characters’ feelings throughout their journey.
This was my first book from Karen Grey and it won’t be my last for sure!
July 15, 2021
This was a nostalgic, romantic slow burn between two characters that are so deserving of love, but so afraid to reach for it. I loved it!
In You Spin Me, Karen Grey gave us to complicated leads with personal histories that make it difficult for them to reach out, connect and find love. Jessica is an aspiring actress that is always going after the part, and often losing it by a slim margin. She has a history of eating disorders as well as overworking herself. DJ Cal, the local radio DJ, bears the scares of an accident as a child, and prefers to live his life in the shadows. Everything about his existence has been built around been seen and not heard, and he as a lot of anxiety about public experiences and meeting new people.
When these two connect over the radio, and start talking on the phone every night, they both get to know each other soul-deep, and they become connected and become confidants through their conversations. They both crave the connection that they feel with each other, but they're too shy, to hesitant, to reach out and grab it because they'll need to work on themselves to truly make their relationship work.
I loved this story. It really spoke to the romantic in me, as well as the child of the 80s that I am. Emma Wilder and Eric Michael Summerer do a fantastic job with the narration. They both really bring the emotion, the conflict, the longing and the desire to connect to another person to their portrayal of the characters. I really enjoy them both as narrators in general, and for this, I feel like they were the perfect voices of Jessica and Cal. I also like the added audio intros to each chapter - it really played into the setting of the story.
In You Spin Me, Karen Grey gave us to complicated leads with personal histories that make it difficult for them to reach out, connect and find love. Jessica is an aspiring actress that is always going after the part, and often losing it by a slim margin. She has a history of eating disorders as well as overworking herself. DJ Cal, the local radio DJ, bears the scares of an accident as a child, and prefers to live his life in the shadows. Everything about his existence has been built around been seen and not heard, and he as a lot of anxiety about public experiences and meeting new people.
When these two connect over the radio, and start talking on the phone every night, they both get to know each other soul-deep, and they become connected and become confidants through their conversations. They both crave the connection that they feel with each other, but they're too shy, to hesitant, to reach out and grab it because they'll need to work on themselves to truly make their relationship work.
I loved this story. It really spoke to the romantic in me, as well as the child of the 80s that I am. Emma Wilder and Eric Michael Summerer do a fantastic job with the narration. They both really bring the emotion, the conflict, the longing and the desire to connect to another person to their portrayal of the characters. I really enjoy them both as narrators in general, and for this, I feel like they were the perfect voices of Jessica and Cal. I also like the added audio intros to each chapter - it really played into the setting of the story.
August 4, 2021
You Spin Me
Boston Classics, Book 3
By: Karen Grey
Narrated by: Vanessa Edwin, Eric Michael Summerer
So many good things in this series, I am totally hooked. This story had me from the first chapter. Yes, I am an 80's child and I am familiar with Boston, so listening to this made it all the more fun! Karen Grey masterfully hooks me into the story with a DJ clip at the beginning of each chapter. Playing on nostalgia, I get a warm feeling each time I hear one! We meet Jessica as she is turning thirty, losing her job and having difficulty finding acting jobs. That in between stage of being the catch of the day or playing the mom is niggling at her and she does not want to lose her youth. One night, she calls into the local radio station to answer a contest, and here her life is about to change. We meet Cal, the DJ and the two hit it off.Nightly phone calls for these two lonely people lead something of a relationship. But when they meet, will it all change? Both scarred in different ways will challenge their confidence, but we can only hope love will prevail. With loving family around both, and Cal's misfit pets, the story is full of love and humor with a thread of relevance that makes it very realistic. And I absolutely loved the Karen White reference in the one DJ clip! Karen Grey has another hit on her hands with this one!
Narration by Vanessa Edwin and Eric Michael Summerer is spot on! It could not have been cast better. Edwin plays Jessica with an emotional edge. She is true to the character and creates her so she is a person we can relate to. Summerer had me with his first clip. I was laughing and enjoying each one. Then he gives us Cal with the hurt and fear is laced in his voice. And the change as love took over with the two just emulates how good their performance is. This is a must listen!
Boston Classics, Book 3
By: Karen Grey
Narrated by: Vanessa Edwin, Eric Michael Summerer
So many good things in this series, I am totally hooked. This story had me from the first chapter. Yes, I am an 80's child and I am familiar with Boston, so listening to this made it all the more fun! Karen Grey masterfully hooks me into the story with a DJ clip at the beginning of each chapter. Playing on nostalgia, I get a warm feeling each time I hear one! We meet Jessica as she is turning thirty, losing her job and having difficulty finding acting jobs. That in between stage of being the catch of the day or playing the mom is niggling at her and she does not want to lose her youth. One night, she calls into the local radio station to answer a contest, and here her life is about to change. We meet Cal, the DJ and the two hit it off.Nightly phone calls for these two lonely people lead something of a relationship. But when they meet, will it all change? Both scarred in different ways will challenge their confidence, but we can only hope love will prevail. With loving family around both, and Cal's misfit pets, the story is full of love and humor with a thread of relevance that makes it very realistic. And I absolutely loved the Karen White reference in the one DJ clip! Karen Grey has another hit on her hands with this one!
Narration by Vanessa Edwin and Eric Michael Summerer is spot on! It could not have been cast better. Edwin plays Jessica with an emotional edge. She is true to the character and creates her so she is a person we can relate to. Summerer had me with his first clip. I was laughing and enjoying each one. Then he gives us Cal with the hurt and fear is laced in his voice. And the change as love took over with the two just emulates how good their performance is. This is a must listen!
August 9, 2021
This retro slow-burn romcom captured my heart and never let go. Jessica is an actress who is feeling her age when a younger actress wins the role she wanted. When she is cast in another play as a character who is frumpy and unattractive, it goes against all her hard work to be noticed in this industry. One night on her drive home, she calls into a radio show contest. Cal, the DJ, feels an instant connection to her voice, and asks her to call again. They really enjoy their talks and begin to have feelings for each other. Jessica wants to meet Cal to see if he is as alluring and sexy as her image of him from his voice, but is afraid of what he will see. Cal also has his own reasons for wanting to hide behind his microphone. They are falling hard for each other thru their calls, but will they be able to live up to their expectations in person? What happens when their hearts are so invested, but they aren't brave enough to show their true self? I love Cal and Jessica together. They are smart, and funny, and their strength to overcome their past trauma was extraordinary. This is a beautiful, emotional, and compelling story about two people who are both scarred and broken, but working hard to be whole, happy, and loved. Grey touched on some very sensitive topics with honesty and empathy, helping us to understand and care deeply for these characters.
Vanessa Edwin, and Eric Michael Summerer were so perfectly cast to narrate this fun and emotional romance. They completely captured these complex characters and made me feel all the hope, heartbreak, vulnerability, love, and passion they possessed. I was completely mesmerized by their storytelling making this romance even more captivating.
Vanessa Edwin, and Eric Michael Summerer were so perfectly cast to narrate this fun and emotional romance. They completely captured these complex characters and made me feel all the hope, heartbreak, vulnerability, love, and passion they possessed. I was completely mesmerized by their storytelling making this romance even more captivating.
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