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Heavy Metal Symphony
Ava Tomei seems to have it all: she’s the lead singer of Buffalo-based metal band Handel’s Messiah and is in a committed relationship with the band’s keyboard player and brilliant composer Killian Sterling. But as the band hits the studio to record their fifth album, Ava and Killian can no longer hide the cracks in their relationship from their bandmates—or from themselves.
What started as an artistic collaboration between Ava and Killian six years before quickly bloomed into a passionate romance. Then, when the lead singer of Handel’s Messiah—and Killian’s ex girlfriend—leaves the band right in the middle of the band’s world tour, Killian calls on Ava to step in. Ava is plunged into the pressures of stepping in to front one of metal’s biggest rising bands amidst fan disappointment, skepticism from her new band mates, the physical demands of a world tour, and sexism in the metal scene. But she also has the chance to fulfill her wildest dreams. Still, as Ava’s desire to express her creativity comes to a head with Killian’s artistic dominance, they are forced to confront whether what they have can be repaired—and what will happen to the band if not.
What started as an artistic collaboration between Ava and Killian six years before quickly bloomed into a passionate romance. Then, when the lead singer of Handel’s Messiah—and Killian’s ex girlfriend—leaves the band right in the middle of the band’s world tour, Killian calls on Ava to step in. Ava is plunged into the pressures of stepping in to front one of metal’s biggest rising bands amidst fan disappointment, skepticism from her new band mates, the physical demands of a world tour, and sexism in the metal scene. But she also has the chance to fulfill her wildest dreams. Still, as Ava’s desire to express her creativity comes to a head with Killian’s artistic dominance, they are forced to confront whether what they have can be repaired—and what will happen to the band if not.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
348 pages, Paperback
Published October 19, 2021
About the author
Alyssa Palombo
5 books486 followersMy name is Alyssa Palombo, and I am a writer living and working in Buffalo, NY. I attended Canisius College in Buffalo, where I majored in English and creative writing with a minor in music. I’m a classically trained mezzo-soprano who also dabbles in playing piano. When not writing, I can usually be found reading, hanging out and laughing way too hard at nonsensical inside jokes with friends, traveling (or dreaming of my next travel destination), at a concert, or planning for next Halloween. I’m a metalhead and a self-proclaimed French fry connoisseur. I also own way too many hoodies, pairs of sunglasses, and pajamas, but never enough books.
I am the author of four historical novels, The Violinist of Venice, The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence, The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel, and The Borgia Confessions, all from St. Martin’s Griffin, as well as the contemporary novel Heavy Metal Symphony under the name A.K. Palombo. My next novel, The Assassin of Venice, is forthcoming in 2024 from Crooked Lane Books. I am represented by Sam Farkas of Jill Grinberg Literary Management.
You can find me on Twitter and Instagram at @AlyssInWnderlnd.
I am the author of four historical novels, The Violinist of Venice, The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence, The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel, and The Borgia Confessions, all from St. Martin’s Griffin, as well as the contemporary novel Heavy Metal Symphony under the name A.K. Palombo. My next novel, The Assassin of Venice, is forthcoming in 2024 from Crooked Lane Books. I am represented by Sam Farkas of Jill Grinberg Literary Management.
You can find me on Twitter and Instagram at @AlyssInWnderlnd.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 20, 2021
This is my fifth novel, my first contemporary novel, and is absolutely one of my very favorite things I've ever written. This book is a love letter to music generally, to heavy metal specifically, and also to my hometown of Buffalo, New York. Ava's story has been a part of me for a very long time now, and I'm SO thrilled that you all will finally get to read it. HEAVY METAL SYMPHONY is very much a book of my heart, and I can't wait for her to find her readers <3
June 13, 2023
HEAVY METAL SYMPHONY is a harmonious fusion of music and heartfelt romance that evokes a symphony of emotions. The characters, oh, they sing! They practically leap off the page and straight into your heart.
Real, raw, and emotionally resounding, Ava and Killian's turbulent love story plays out like an unforgettable ballad. Ava, our classically trained vocalist turned heavy metal goddess, is a testament to the powerful women who fight for their voice in the music world. Killian, the charismatic and complex frontman, is the embodiment of the turbulence that accompanies creativity and fame. Their chemistry is like a visceral guitar riff that leaves you yearning for more.
Palombo masterfully orchestrates the story, guiding us through the highs and lows of Handel's Messiah's journey. The inclusion of original song lyrics and the depiction of the band's behind-the-scenes dynamics offer a fascinating, immersive experience and a touch of authenticity and fun. You’ll yearn for the day you can find Handel’s Messiah on Spotify!
The emotional resonance of the narrative and the authenticity of the world-building are a testament to Palombo's love for music and her hometown of Buffalo, New York. The novel strikes a chord, reminding us of the power and passion that comes from finding and owning one's voice. If you love metal and you love a good romance, then you really need to pick up this five-star, standing-ovation read that will leave you begging for an encore.
Real, raw, and emotionally resounding, Ava and Killian's turbulent love story plays out like an unforgettable ballad. Ava, our classically trained vocalist turned heavy metal goddess, is a testament to the powerful women who fight for their voice in the music world. Killian, the charismatic and complex frontman, is the embodiment of the turbulence that accompanies creativity and fame. Their chemistry is like a visceral guitar riff that leaves you yearning for more.
Palombo masterfully orchestrates the story, guiding us through the highs and lows of Handel's Messiah's journey. The inclusion of original song lyrics and the depiction of the band's behind-the-scenes dynamics offer a fascinating, immersive experience and a touch of authenticity and fun. You’ll yearn for the day you can find Handel’s Messiah on Spotify!
The emotional resonance of the narrative and the authenticity of the world-building are a testament to Palombo's love for music and her hometown of Buffalo, New York. The novel strikes a chord, reminding us of the power and passion that comes from finding and owning one's voice. If you love metal and you love a good romance, then you really need to pick up this five-star, standing-ovation read that will leave you begging for an encore.
October 6, 2021
Wow! I was blown away by this novel.
It's hard to believe that Ava, Killian, and Handel's Messiah are all fictional. I LOVED the rehearsal and concert scenes, and I especially loved reading the lyrics to their songs. Another one of my favorite components was the parts where they put their CDs together: composing, practicing, mixing... It was really fun getting a "behind the scenes" look at that process before they went touring and performed all of those songs.
The scenes of Ava and Killian's fights and arguments and uncertainties are all so realistic. They definitely come across as "real" people. As do the rest of their band, Ava's friend, Viv, the infamous Celeste, and of course all the other characters.
This book ruined all other books for me while I was reading. I fell asleep reading. When I woke up later and couldn't go back to sleep, I immediately picked up where I left off. I didn't want to set this book down. It's been my obsession these past few days. And that's the mark of a great story!
Many, many thanks to the author, Alyssa Palombo, for my advance copy!
It's hard to believe that Ava, Killian, and Handel's Messiah are all fictional. I LOVED the rehearsal and concert scenes, and I especially loved reading the lyrics to their songs. Another one of my favorite components was the parts where they put their CDs together: composing, practicing, mixing... It was really fun getting a "behind the scenes" look at that process before they went touring and performed all of those songs.
The scenes of Ava and Killian's fights and arguments and uncertainties are all so realistic. They definitely come across as "real" people. As do the rest of their band, Ava's friend, Viv, the infamous Celeste, and of course all the other characters.
This book ruined all other books for me while I was reading. I fell asleep reading. When I woke up later and couldn't go back to sleep, I immediately picked up where I left off. I didn't want to set this book down. It's been my obsession these past few days. And that's the mark of a great story!
Many, many thanks to the author, Alyssa Palombo, for my advance copy!
November 12, 2021
I have read all of Alyssa Palombo’s novels so when this one came up for review, it was a no brainer. Although that’s not to say that I had reservations. Palombo generally writes historical fiction and this one was clearly not. I mean the title alone says it all right there and then I read the description—metal band romance. I literally wasn’t sure about this one.
I am not a fan of metal bands or even rock bands. Music isn’t really in my blood in the way that it is for a lot of other people. It’s something that I enjoy but not something essential. For example I can workout or run in complete silence—doesn’t phase me. So I had concerns that I was going to be the wrong reader for this book but at the same time I have adores all of Palombo’s books over the years so I thought—-why not just give it a shot and see how it goes.
It takes guts to try something new and Palombo went out on a limb here by breaking out of her usual genre. It is a contempo novel and Palombo herself has been very vocal about how this is the novel of her heart which is ultimately what made me want to read this one and say yes. The fact that the other novels haven’t been ‘the book of my heart’ and they were still amazing made me excited to see how the ‘book of my heart’ stacked up.
The thing that rang true in this book was the love of music as well as Buffalo, New York. It is evident that Palombo has a deep affection for her hometown as well as the music that inspired this book. For me personally, I have a hard time reading song lyrics as I am not a musician and without the actual music to guide me—I struggle. That is across every book I’ve read and also spans to poetry. I always struggle with both of those in books. Now that said, the lyrics in this story were meaningful and enjoyable to read even if I couldn’t quite ‘hear’ them, I still felt them and found meaning in them.
I love how Palombo captured the music, lyrics, and touring feel in this one. All the little details were evident and clearly this was the work of her heart. I especially loved some of the album cover art in the book. It added a lot of fun to the story and I thought it was a nice touch! I could feel it in all the pages and in the characters. She spent a lot of time developing the characters and creating a realistic representation of the music world and what it was like to be on tour. Even if you are not a fan of metal music, you will find a good story and interesting characters in this book. I love stories about artists and the behind the scenes and what goes on off stage when the concert ends. For example, I am not a Queen fan but I absolutely loved the film Bohemian Rhapsody. That’s what this book does, while not every reader will love the music, there is still an interesting story waiting to be told and that’s what took me by surprise with this one. I was expecting an interesting story but not such a richly mined one here.
This book is more about characters than music. It has interesting characters and I especially enjoyed the character development and chemistry between Killian and Ava. It was intense and well developed. If you love character driven stories and are looking for something a little different than some of the more mainstream ‘safe’ novels this is your read! This book was bold, interesting, well researched and obviously well loved. I was not expecting to love this one as much as I did but it was wonderful and fresh. I have loved all of Palombo’s historical fiction books but this book was clearly at the top of my favorites by her. A wonderful story with so much to love. Pick this one up today!
See my full review here
I am not a fan of metal bands or even rock bands. Music isn’t really in my blood in the way that it is for a lot of other people. It’s something that I enjoy but not something essential. For example I can workout or run in complete silence—doesn’t phase me. So I had concerns that I was going to be the wrong reader for this book but at the same time I have adores all of Palombo’s books over the years so I thought—-why not just give it a shot and see how it goes.
It takes guts to try something new and Palombo went out on a limb here by breaking out of her usual genre. It is a contempo novel and Palombo herself has been very vocal about how this is the novel of her heart which is ultimately what made me want to read this one and say yes. The fact that the other novels haven’t been ‘the book of my heart’ and they were still amazing made me excited to see how the ‘book of my heart’ stacked up.
The thing that rang true in this book was the love of music as well as Buffalo, New York. It is evident that Palombo has a deep affection for her hometown as well as the music that inspired this book. For me personally, I have a hard time reading song lyrics as I am not a musician and without the actual music to guide me—I struggle. That is across every book I’ve read and also spans to poetry. I always struggle with both of those in books. Now that said, the lyrics in this story were meaningful and enjoyable to read even if I couldn’t quite ‘hear’ them, I still felt them and found meaning in them.
I love how Palombo captured the music, lyrics, and touring feel in this one. All the little details were evident and clearly this was the work of her heart. I especially loved some of the album cover art in the book. It added a lot of fun to the story and I thought it was a nice touch! I could feel it in all the pages and in the characters. She spent a lot of time developing the characters and creating a realistic representation of the music world and what it was like to be on tour. Even if you are not a fan of metal music, you will find a good story and interesting characters in this book. I love stories about artists and the behind the scenes and what goes on off stage when the concert ends. For example, I am not a Queen fan but I absolutely loved the film Bohemian Rhapsody. That’s what this book does, while not every reader will love the music, there is still an interesting story waiting to be told and that’s what took me by surprise with this one. I was expecting an interesting story but not such a richly mined one here.
This book is more about characters than music. It has interesting characters and I especially enjoyed the character development and chemistry between Killian and Ava. It was intense and well developed. If you love character driven stories and are looking for something a little different than some of the more mainstream ‘safe’ novels this is your read! This book was bold, interesting, well researched and obviously well loved. I was not expecting to love this one as much as I did but it was wonderful and fresh. I have loved all of Palombo’s historical fiction books but this book was clearly at the top of my favorites by her. A wonderful story with so much to love. Pick this one up today!
See my full review here
November 14, 2021
Emotional and addictive, HEAVY METAL SYMPHONY is a love letter to finding your voice and to the women of symphonic metal who've had to fight to be heard. Alyssa offers a sharp look into the world of music and the turmoil that can come from being in a band, and introduces readers to a stellar cast of characters who jump off the page. Fans of Nightwish and Daisy Jones and the Six will devour this novel, and be left wishing they could see Handel's Messiah in concert.
August 15, 2023
How did I not know I needed a contemporary romance novel centered around a female-fronted metal band? Heavy Metal Symphony is a truly incredible story about the heavy metal music scene. It is as much a love story to the music as it is a love story between two musicians.
I received a digital ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a digital ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2021
I loved this book so much! Palombo does an excellent job with character development and narrative arc. I recommend this book to anyone, even if Heavy Metal is not your go-to music genre. You will not be disappointed.
April 19, 2022
As a huge music lover, this book had so many great elements. Songwriting, concerts, behind the scenes of touring, recording, and the collaboration of a band. Add to that a great love story and a strong female protagonist. Bonus points for all the Buffalo references 👍🏻
February 19, 2022
The writing and characters just didn't work for me...
June 1, 2023
Thank you to A.K. Palombo, NetGalley, and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Man, I was super excited for this one based on the cover and title alone. As a heavy metal FAN, and a romance fan, finding a book that mixed them had me salivating. I started and was immediately ready for my heart shatter, and it did, but for reasons external to the plot too.
The things I liked were numerous! I loved the author's way to indicate past and present by using the band's albums. It was such a fun way to take us as the reader back and forth between the timelines. I also loved the songs that Palombo wrote for this book. I kept catching myself wanting to turn to Spotify to listen to Handel's Messiah's songs before remembering they are fictional.
I also really liked the Ava and Killian of the past. They were super cute together and I loved their scenes together.
As for what I didn't like, well, there are numerous things here too.
The biggest one, for me, was the end. This is what cemented this book as a 3 star read for me.
Another thing I didn't like, was Ava. At least the present day Ava. It irked me that she took no responsibility for her role in their destruction together. Everything was Killian's fault and I just don't agree.
For the majority of the book, I was at a solid 3.5 possibly rounded up to 4 stars, but the ending dropped it to a solid 3 stars for me.
Man, I was super excited for this one based on the cover and title alone. As a heavy metal FAN, and a romance fan, finding a book that mixed them had me salivating. I started and was immediately ready for my heart shatter, and it did, but for reasons external to the plot too.
The things I liked were numerous! I loved the author's way to indicate past and present by using the band's albums. It was such a fun way to take us as the reader back and forth between the timelines. I also loved the songs that Palombo wrote for this book. I kept catching myself wanting to turn to Spotify to listen to Handel's Messiah's songs before remembering they are fictional.
I also really liked the Ava and Killian of the past. They were super cute together and I loved their scenes together.
As for what I didn't like, well, there are numerous things here too.
The biggest one, for me, was the end. This is what cemented this book as a 3 star read for me.
Another thing I didn't like, was Ava. At least the present day Ava. It irked me that she took no responsibility for her role in their destruction together. Everything was Killian's fault and I just don't agree.
For the majority of the book, I was at a solid 3.5 possibly rounded up to 4 stars, but the ending dropped it to a solid 3 stars for me.
August 15, 2023
A. K. Palombo's HEAVY METAL SYMPHONY is a thoroughly enjoyable saga of a classically trained vocalist's rise to international renown as the front person for famed heavy metal band Handel's Messiah—and the bittersweet love affair that propels her up that ladder and, finally, into finding her own voice. Set in Buffalo, New York, this contemporary novel with romantic elements reminded me of "Daisy Jones and the Six" crossed with "A Star is Born" in all the best ways: the clash of ambition, art, and love; the intense competition (and jealousy) between band mates; the tension between muse and artist; the lovingly detailed band discography and song lyrics.
Most of all, what I appreciated about HEAVY METAL SYMPHONY was the deeply immersive worldbuilding that brought to life to a musical genre I know very little about outside of the radio. It's here that Palombo's love for her subject matter really shines brightest and most convincingly. To add to the veritas, there's even a selection of very convincing album cover art that serve as chapter headers throughout. (Someone has got to make a Handel's Messiah album using album art, song titles, and lyrics!) While this is Palombo's first contemporary novel—she's written four critically acclaimed historical novels as Alyssa Palombo—she excels at taking the reader by the hand and orienting them in whatever world she chooses, whether it be fifteenth-century Florence or 21st-century Buffalo.
Most of all, what I appreciated about HEAVY METAL SYMPHONY was the deeply immersive worldbuilding that brought to life to a musical genre I know very little about outside of the radio. It's here that Palombo's love for her subject matter really shines brightest and most convincingly. To add to the veritas, there's even a selection of very convincing album cover art that serve as chapter headers throughout. (Someone has got to make a Handel's Messiah album using album art, song titles, and lyrics!) While this is Palombo's first contemporary novel—she's written four critically acclaimed historical novels as Alyssa Palombo—she excels at taking the reader by the hand and orienting them in whatever world she chooses, whether it be fifteenth-century Florence or 21st-century Buffalo.
July 17, 2023
I loved this book! It's not a cookie cutter romance. I love that although the relationship is between Killian and Ava, the ultimate love story is between Ava and the band/music/herself.
Killian is such a horrible MMC, and not even in the morally grey kind of way. It’s hard to like him. Even during the good times he comes off as manipulative and disingenuous. Does he actually love her or only what she does for his music and his ego? It’s difficult to pinpoint what’s reality with him and I guess that’s the whole crux of the book.
I hate that he takes out his anger with Ava by criticizing her performances. It’s such a petty version of attempting to control her. I’m glad Ava ultimately chose herself and the band. As much as an open ended resolution leaves me frustrated, I’m proud of Ava. And I hope Killian can rise up to the challenge and grow up and meet her where she is instead of trying to drag her down to his level.
I love books with multiple timelines. I love the slow reveal of all the turmoil that got the characters to present-day before the final resolution. There is something so heartbreaking about seeing the happy start and early progression of the relationship while at the same time seeing it fall apart.
I felt this was really original and sucked you right into the rockstar world. The lyrics throughout were fantastic and made me wish the band was real so I could listen to the music!
Just like praise for Ava’s voice, this story is “strong, intimate, beautiful, and brutal all at once.”
Killian is such a horrible MMC, and not even in the morally grey kind of way. It’s hard to like him. Even during the good times he comes off as manipulative and disingenuous. Does he actually love her or only what she does for his music and his ego? It’s difficult to pinpoint what’s reality with him and I guess that’s the whole crux of the book.
I hate that he takes out his anger with Ava by criticizing her performances. It’s such a petty version of attempting to control her. I’m glad Ava ultimately chose herself and the band. As much as an open ended resolution leaves me frustrated, I’m proud of Ava. And I hope Killian can rise up to the challenge and grow up and meet her where she is instead of trying to drag her down to his level.
I love books with multiple timelines. I love the slow reveal of all the turmoil that got the characters to present-day before the final resolution. There is something so heartbreaking about seeing the happy start and early progression of the relationship while at the same time seeing it fall apart.
I felt this was really original and sucked you right into the rockstar world. The lyrics throughout were fantastic and made me wish the band was real so I could listen to the music!
Just like praise for Ava’s voice, this story is “strong, intimate, beautiful, and brutal all at once.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2023
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
It all started as an artistic collaboration between Ava Tomei and Killian, lead singer of the Buffalo-based symphonic metal band Handel’s Messiah. When the original lead singer of Handel’s Messiah—and Killian’s ex-girlfriend—leaves the band right in the middle of the band’s world tour, Killian calls on Ava to fill in. Not only is she riding out the highs - living her dream life, and in a relationship with Killian, but also the lowest of the lows - the brutal reviews comparing her to her predecessor, and the frequent clash of wills when Ava’s desire to express her creativity comes to a head with Killian’s artistic dominance.
This book is told in alternating storylines that show Ava and Killian’s seemingly fairytale past and their fraught present. It is a novel centering around rock stars, heavy metal, ambition, creative control, and finding your voice. I have read almost all of this author's previous novels, - this was her first contemporary one, and I have to admit I prefer the historical fiction novels better, but this was still good. After a time, the fighting - making up - fighting again, seemed to get repetitious and grating and I did not care for Killian at all. I thought I would like him at first, but then it seemed like the longer they were together, the more sullen and manipulative he became. Their relationship truly turned out to be a toxic one. Overall I give this a 3.5 rounded up to a 4.
It all started as an artistic collaboration between Ava Tomei and Killian, lead singer of the Buffalo-based symphonic metal band Handel’s Messiah. When the original lead singer of Handel’s Messiah—and Killian’s ex-girlfriend—leaves the band right in the middle of the band’s world tour, Killian calls on Ava to fill in. Not only is she riding out the highs - living her dream life, and in a relationship with Killian, but also the lowest of the lows - the brutal reviews comparing her to her predecessor, and the frequent clash of wills when Ava’s desire to express her creativity comes to a head with Killian’s artistic dominance.
This book is told in alternating storylines that show Ava and Killian’s seemingly fairytale past and their fraught present. It is a novel centering around rock stars, heavy metal, ambition, creative control, and finding your voice. I have read almost all of this author's previous novels, - this was her first contemporary one, and I have to admit I prefer the historical fiction novels better, but this was still good. After a time, the fighting - making up - fighting again, seemed to get repetitious and grating and I did not care for Killian at all. I thought I would like him at first, but then it seemed like the longer they were together, the more sullen and manipulative he became. Their relationship truly turned out to be a toxic one. Overall I give this a 3.5 rounded up to a 4.
July 20, 2023
This book was frustrating. I'll try to avoid spoilers in this review.
It starts with a great premise: what if we have a romance book that starts when the relationship gets difficult, rather than being two strangers getting together and then a fade out at the end. Great premise.
It's structured in two timelines - the "now into the future" and "then - getting together and developing the problems" arc. For me the issue was that they covered a lot of the same ground and were quite repetitive. Concerts and set lists, rehearsals and looking at each other, making weye contact. Not making eye contact. I found the second half dragged.
A bigger problem is I didn't like Ava and Killian as a couple. When they get together she is a 22 year old call-centre worker who wants to be a performer and he is a 30 year old with the power launch her. Eww. Then he controls and gaslights her. When they discuss the future they have very different visions and never resolve that, they just kick it under the carpet. Communication is missing between them- but he buys her roses, so that's OK. Selling abuse as romance is something that happens a lot, and it always makes me sad. Ava should not be debating whether Killian is the love of her life, she should be reading about coercive control.
I received an e-Arc from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my opinions.
It starts with a great premise: what if we have a romance book that starts when the relationship gets difficult, rather than being two strangers getting together and then a fade out at the end. Great premise.
It's structured in two timelines - the "now into the future" and "then - getting together and developing the problems" arc. For me the issue was that they covered a lot of the same ground and were quite repetitive. Concerts and set lists, rehearsals and looking at each other, making weye contact. Not making eye contact. I found the second half dragged.
A bigger problem is I didn't like Ava and Killian as a couple. When they get together she is a 22 year old call-centre worker who wants to be a performer and he is a 30 year old with the power launch her. Eww. Then he controls and gaslights her. When they discuss the future they have very different visions and never resolve that, they just kick it under the carpet. Communication is missing between them- but he buys her roses, so that's OK. Selling abuse as romance is something that happens a lot, and it always makes me sad. Ava should not be debating whether Killian is the love of her life, she should be reading about coercive control.
I received an e-Arc from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my opinions.
October 12, 2023
Heavy Metal Symphony is the story of Killian and Ava, whose love of music brought them together. Now frustration and misunderstanding threatens to tear them apart, but maybe it will be music that could bring them back together again.
If you enjoyed Daisy Jone and the Six, I think you’ll enjoy this book. I felt that Alyssa Palombo did a good job of representing the struggle of female lead singers in heavily male spheres as well as the challenges of dating someone you work with. I also thought the songs featured in this book were phenomenal. At times Heavy Metal Symphony felt like an emotional roller coaster with quite a few ups and downs for Ava and Killian and I was all for it. I do wish that Ava and Killian’s band mates were more fleshed out, but ultimately this was Ava and Killian’s story and overall that didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book
If you enjoyed Daisy Jone and the Six, I think you’ll enjoy this book. I felt that Alyssa Palombo did a good job of representing the struggle of female lead singers in heavily male spheres as well as the challenges of dating someone you work with. I also thought the songs featured in this book were phenomenal. At times Heavy Metal Symphony felt like an emotional roller coaster with quite a few ups and downs for Ava and Killian and I was all for it. I do wish that Ava and Killian’s band mates were more fleshed out, but ultimately this was Ava and Killian’s story and overall that didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book
July 27, 2023
This book is a love letter to musicians and those who love music, especially classical and heavy metal, which share a lot of common ground. I found so much personal resonance in Ava’s story—her passion for self-expression and her ambition, and also how she’s led by her heart—sometimes to her own detriment.
I enjoyed experiencing Ava’s evolution throughout the story and felt that the dual timelines were the perfect way to demonstrate Ava’s growing independence, agency, and confidence. She goes from a talented but insecure young singer to staking her artistic claim as a songwriter and composer holding her own in the predominantly-male band she fronts. The way in which Palombo portrays the complex, passionately competitive romance between Ava and Killian is both subtle and realistically raw. Fans of Daisy Jones and the Six and A Star is Born will love this novel. Don’t miss it!
I enjoyed experiencing Ava’s evolution throughout the story and felt that the dual timelines were the perfect way to demonstrate Ava’s growing independence, agency, and confidence. She goes from a talented but insecure young singer to staking her artistic claim as a songwriter and composer holding her own in the predominantly-male band she fronts. The way in which Palombo portrays the complex, passionately competitive romance between Ava and Killian is both subtle and realistically raw. Fans of Daisy Jones and the Six and A Star is Born will love this novel. Don’t miss it!
November 24, 2023
Alyssa Palombo can do no wrong. I was an instant fan with The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel, and I couldn't wait for this baby to come out. I love when books outdo your expectations, and that's what happened with this book. When the writing is this good, you can imagine a playlist for the storyline, and Heavy Metal Symphony gave me that experience. I'll wait again, for as long as it takes, for Alyssa's next book and in the meantime, this one is going to be in my holiday party grab bag gifts.
March 9, 2026
This novel enticed me because it has roots in my hometown of Buffalo NY. This novel is actually a good read. Another very amazing fact is that the author is my neighbor!!
August 6, 2023
HEAVY METAL SYMPHONY is a harmonious fusion of heavy metal and heartfelt romance that evokes a symphony of emotions. The characters, oh, they sing! They practically leap off the page and straight into your heart.
Ava and Killian – they’re the kind of characters that stay with you. Real, raw, and emotionally resounding, their turbulent love story plays out like an unforgettable ballad. Ava, our classically trained vocalist turned heavy metal goddess, is a testament to the powerful women who fight for their voice in the music world. Killian, the charismatic and complex frontman, is the embodiment of the turbulence that accompanies creativity and fame. Their chemistry is like a visceral guitar riff that leaves you yearning for more.
Palombo masterfully orchestrates the story, guiding us through the highs and lows of Handel's Messiah's journey. The inclusion of original song lyrics and the depiction of the band's behind-the-scenes dynamics offer a fascinating, immersive experience and a touch of authenticity and fun. You’ll yearn for the day you can find Handel’s Messiah on Spotify!
The emotional resonance of the narrative and the authenticity of the world-building are a testament to Palombo's love for music and her hometown of Buffalo, New York. The novel strikes a chord, reminding us of the power and passion that comes from finding and owning one's voice. It’s not just a book about music, but a testament to the artistry of life itself. If you love metal and you love a good romance, then you really need to pick up this five-star, standing-ovation read that will leave you begging for an encore.
Ava and Killian – they’re the kind of characters that stay with you. Real, raw, and emotionally resounding, their turbulent love story plays out like an unforgettable ballad. Ava, our classically trained vocalist turned heavy metal goddess, is a testament to the powerful women who fight for their voice in the music world. Killian, the charismatic and complex frontman, is the embodiment of the turbulence that accompanies creativity and fame. Their chemistry is like a visceral guitar riff that leaves you yearning for more.
Palombo masterfully orchestrates the story, guiding us through the highs and lows of Handel's Messiah's journey. The inclusion of original song lyrics and the depiction of the band's behind-the-scenes dynamics offer a fascinating, immersive experience and a touch of authenticity and fun. You’ll yearn for the day you can find Handel’s Messiah on Spotify!
The emotional resonance of the narrative and the authenticity of the world-building are a testament to Palombo's love for music and her hometown of Buffalo, New York. The novel strikes a chord, reminding us of the power and passion that comes from finding and owning one's voice. It’s not just a book about music, but a testament to the artistry of life itself. If you love metal and you love a good romance, then you really need to pick up this five-star, standing-ovation read that will leave you begging for an encore.
March 17, 2024
Musical fiction
This is my genre. I write musical fiction and love to read it when I can find the books. I loved this book at the start.
Then, the constant use of em dashes for information and phrases that weren't needed really started to jar. I'm amazed an editor didn't pick up on that.
This is still a decent read in a setting we don't see often enough.
This is my genre. I write musical fiction and love to read it when I can find the books. I loved this book at the start.
Then, the constant use of em dashes for information and phrases that weren't needed really started to jar. I'm amazed an editor didn't pick up on that.
This is still a decent read in a setting we don't see often enough.
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