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Somebody That I Used to Know
In this fresh, addictive novel from the author of Tiffany Sly Lives Here Now , an aspiring musician is forced to reunite with her ex–best friend―who just happens to be the world’s biggest teen star. Dylan Woods hasn’t seen her best friend, Langston, in years. After he moved to Los Angeles, he ghosted her. Then he became Legendary, the biggest teen R&B artist on the planet. For the most part, Dylan has moved on, with her sights set on Juilliard. But when her parents announce that Langston is coming for a short stay with them, the entire family is thrilled. Except for Dylan. The idea of sharing a house with music’s biggest bad boy makes her stomach churn. But maybe Langston hasn’t changed as much as Dylan thought―he’s kept the bucket list they made together years ago. As they start checking off items on the list, Dylan starts to remember old times, her previous self, and their shared love of music. And there’s something else. As Dylan considers giving Langston another chance, she starts to realize that maybe her feelings for him go beyond friendship. Maybe, just maybe, she’s falling for her ex–best friend.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 18, 2022
184 people are currently reading
3750 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
October 24, 2022
i feel like i might be deep in my YA book era because lately i can’t but to gravitate toward them.
this book made me realize why i love YA books so much. it’s because often times they validate feelings i had growing up that i was never able to voice out loud. feelings i deemed unimportant or not a big deal. things i thought only i experienced.
dylan was so relatable. she plays the violin and her biggest dream is the attend juilliard. she’s put all her hopes and dream into getting into that school. the thing i loved most about dylan was she took up space black girls are often made to feel like they don’t belong in. she never conceded. she never gave up and even when given the chance she didn’t allow others to make her feel like she needed to shrink herself. she had her moments of insecurity but she’s a teenager. hell, i’m 31 and i still experience some of the things she felt.
then there’s legend. when i tell y’all he’s so damn dreamy. so much so that he got his own tab so i can highlight all the beautiful things he had to say about dylan. i love that we got to see a young black man be vulnerable. there were moments where he got to be soft and God, i loved that for him. that boy was crazy about dylan. he desperately wanted to right a wrong and get his best friend back.
the end of this book was the cutest thing i’ve read all year. a lot of times the end of a book is the difference between a four and five star read for me. this one, whew! knocked it right out the part. i loved it sooooo much.
this book made me realize why i love YA books so much. it’s because often times they validate feelings i had growing up that i was never able to voice out loud. feelings i deemed unimportant or not a big deal. things i thought only i experienced.
dylan was so relatable. she plays the violin and her biggest dream is the attend juilliard. she’s put all her hopes and dream into getting into that school. the thing i loved most about dylan was she took up space black girls are often made to feel like they don’t belong in. she never conceded. she never gave up and even when given the chance she didn’t allow others to make her feel like she needed to shrink herself. she had her moments of insecurity but she’s a teenager. hell, i’m 31 and i still experience some of the things she felt.
then there’s legend. when i tell y’all he’s so damn dreamy. so much so that he got his own tab so i can highlight all the beautiful things he had to say about dylan. i love that we got to see a young black man be vulnerable. there were moments where he got to be soft and God, i loved that for him. that boy was crazy about dylan. he desperately wanted to right a wrong and get his best friend back.
the end of this book was the cutest thing i’ve read all year. a lot of times the end of a book is the difference between a four and five star read for me. this one, whew! knocked it right out the part. i loved it sooooo much.
November 7, 2022
Dylan has big dreams of getting into Julliard and moving to New York. Those dreams don't include a visit from her childhood best friend turned R&B sensation, Legendary. After some reckless behavior that ended in a bad accident Legendary has been placed under a conservatorship. He needs to convince his mom he's still the same old him and what better way to do that than linking up with an old friend?
This book was slow-burn but evenly paced which is where many contemporary writers struggle. It never sagged for me in the middle and I found myself eager to continue each chapter. These felt like real teens and Dana L. Davis does a great job with transracial adoptee Dylan who feels like she doesn't quite fit into her small town and her white family. The way she handles dealing with her appearance especially as she compares herself to the Instagram models Legendary is used to was very well done. She also does a great job with Dylan and Legendary's reunion as they rekindle their friendship. The chemistry is there without being too forced and without jumping back in too fast.
This book was slow-burn but evenly paced which is where many contemporary writers struggle. It never sagged for me in the middle and I found myself eager to continue each chapter. These felt like real teens and Dana L. Davis does a great job with transracial adoptee Dylan who feels like she doesn't quite fit into her small town and her white family. The way she handles dealing with her appearance especially as she compares herself to the Instagram models Legendary is used to was very well done. She also does a great job with Dylan and Legendary's reunion as they rekindle their friendship. The chemistry is there without being too forced and without jumping back in too fast.
August 28, 2023
Mi aspettavo uno YA dolce e tenero, ma non ho sentito grandi emozioni 😕
November 9, 2022
I downloaded this kind of on a whim, but I had such a good time reading this! It has a lot of my favourite tropes: celebrity romance, childhood friends to lovers, forced proximity. But of course a book can hold all of your favourite tropes and still not work for you. They worked really well here, though! It's such a fun, often hilarious read, but also with a lot of meaningful and heartfelt moments. One of my favourite scenes was the one where Dylan takes Legend to play D&D with her friends, it was so much fun.
June 17, 2022
2.5/5 stars (rounded up to 3)
CW: conservatorship, racial microaggressions (focused on hair), car accident (mentioned)
I would like to thank NetGalley and Skyscape for providing me with a free e-ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
All Dylan Woods wants to do is practice and get ready for the biggest audition of her life for a spot at Julliard. However, Dylan gets a flashback to the past after her family finds out that the world famous R & B artist and Dylan’s former best friend, Langston (Legendary), is staying with them for a couple of weeks. But Langston, who brings up the bucket list he and Dylan created before he left for Los Angeles, Dylan considers if it’s worth giving him another chance.
From when I was reading the book description for Somebody That I Used to Know, I was fascinated to read this book. However, after reading this title, I didn’t really meet my expectations for what this book could be and I was only able to read a little over 50% before skimming the rest of the book.
When I first read this book, I didn’t feel sucked in. It kind of felt like I was just there watching in the background and not like I was with them (if that makes any sense). Additionally, reading into the plot more, it almost sounded like something I read before but they changed the circumstances around the characters’ backstories and the book’s plot. Yes, I know that it’s part of how tropes work, but there wasn’t anything new added to it. I just wished that there was something in the book that would make it more original and not so trope-y or cookie cutter.
I also didn’t like how Dylan’s parents were portrayed in the book. They seemed so weirdly obsessed with Legendary, even though they knew him for years before he got big, and wanted the entire family to spend time with him while he was living with them. Even if it meant making Dylan compromise her dreams of meeting world-famous violinists who could help her get into Juilliard. That being said, it was definitely something that irked me about the book.
Don’t get me wrong, there are some parts that I liked about this book. I loved having Dylan as a main character for this book. It was comfortable getting to know her and reading her perspective as you go throughout the book. I also felt some of the side characters were good and helped balance out the cast of characters for Somebody That I Used to Know.
I just don’t think that this was the book for me. Maybe if you’re an avid classical musician who likes to go on adventures you might like this book, but it’s not something I would recommend and there are probably other reviewers who have much better insights about the book than me.
CW: conservatorship, racial microaggressions (focused on hair), car accident (mentioned)
I would like to thank NetGalley and Skyscape for providing me with a free e-ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
All Dylan Woods wants to do is practice and get ready for the biggest audition of her life for a spot at Julliard. However, Dylan gets a flashback to the past after her family finds out that the world famous R & B artist and Dylan’s former best friend, Langston (Legendary), is staying with them for a couple of weeks. But Langston, who brings up the bucket list he and Dylan created before he left for Los Angeles, Dylan considers if it’s worth giving him another chance.
From when I was reading the book description for Somebody That I Used to Know, I was fascinated to read this book. However, after reading this title, I didn’t really meet my expectations for what this book could be and I was only able to read a little over 50% before skimming the rest of the book.
When I first read this book, I didn’t feel sucked in. It kind of felt like I was just there watching in the background and not like I was with them (if that makes any sense). Additionally, reading into the plot more, it almost sounded like something I read before but they changed the circumstances around the characters’ backstories and the book’s plot. Yes, I know that it’s part of how tropes work, but there wasn’t anything new added to it. I just wished that there was something in the book that would make it more original and not so trope-y or cookie cutter.
I also didn’t like how Dylan’s parents were portrayed in the book. They seemed so weirdly obsessed with Legendary, even though they knew him for years before he got big, and wanted the entire family to spend time with him while he was living with them. Even if it meant making Dylan compromise her dreams of meeting world-famous violinists who could help her get into Juilliard. That being said, it was definitely something that irked me about the book.
Don’t get me wrong, there are some parts that I liked about this book. I loved having Dylan as a main character for this book. It was comfortable getting to know her and reading her perspective as you go throughout the book. I also felt some of the side characters were good and helped balance out the cast of characters for Somebody That I Used to Know.
I just don’t think that this was the book for me. Maybe if you’re an avid classical musician who likes to go on adventures you might like this book, but it’s not something I would recommend and there are probably other reviewers who have much better insights about the book than me.
June 9, 2023
Somebody That I Used to Know is a rekindled friendship story that features Legend and Dylan. Legend is a superstar singer and Dylan is in her senior year of high school. The two were close as kids but lost touch when Legend became a household name. I loved Dylan’s story; she is very headstrong and competitive by nature. She was adopted and her family is everything! I loved that the author touched on the challenges Dylan endured with having a family of a different race. She talks about code switching and Dylan feeling that she has to wear her hair a certain way or eye contacts to fit in. She goes through stages of not feeling pretty enough- it was raw and well written. I loved that Legend was really down to earth; he was a bit quiet in the beginning but it was clear that he missed Dylan’s friendship and being a normal teen. I loved their bucket list and the way they were able to open up to each other. The author did a great job including musical education, showing and telling all that Dylan went through to be the best violinist, and what dedication looks like. I really enjoyed this story!
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley, Skyscape, and Dana L. Davis for providing me with a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
A nice YA romance!
It’s been a little while since I last read one of these but this book reminded me why I enjoy them so much.
We read about Dylan, a violinist hoping to get accepted to Juilliard however that is the only school she applied to. All she wants to do is practice for her audition in peace in the months leading up to it, but her plans get upended when her ex best friend, and teen star, Legendary, is coming to stay at her place for short while. What ensues is a number of small adventures that help Dylan step out of her comfort zone as sparks fly.
Dylan and Legend, the two main characters, are a cute couple!
Both struggling with their own problems, they choose to open up to another and find comfort in the other person.
Their flaws made them out to be much more relatable characters which was great to read about
What I really liked reading about was Dylan’s interactions with her friends and her whimsical family. All characters are so unique and interesting to read about.
My only negatives are that I was not super invested in the plot and did not have a care as to what would happen next.
The other point is that I do think this novel is targeted for readers on the younger side of the YA age range scale and was definitely something I had to keep in mind as I kept reading.
While the book had many positive components, overall I felt pretty “meh” about it, especially considering my 2 points stated above.
I still think it made for an entertaining read and would recommend it to anyone looking for a music infused, YA romance that touches on lot of important coming of age topics
A nice YA romance!
It’s been a little while since I last read one of these but this book reminded me why I enjoy them so much.
We read about Dylan, a violinist hoping to get accepted to Juilliard however that is the only school she applied to. All she wants to do is practice for her audition in peace in the months leading up to it, but her plans get upended when her ex best friend, and teen star, Legendary, is coming to stay at her place for short while. What ensues is a number of small adventures that help Dylan step out of her comfort zone as sparks fly.
Dylan and Legend, the two main characters, are a cute couple!
Both struggling with their own problems, they choose to open up to another and find comfort in the other person.
Their flaws made them out to be much more relatable characters which was great to read about
What I really liked reading about was Dylan’s interactions with her friends and her whimsical family. All characters are so unique and interesting to read about.
My only negatives are that I was not super invested in the plot and did not have a care as to what would happen next.
The other point is that I do think this novel is targeted for readers on the younger side of the YA age range scale and was definitely something I had to keep in mind as I kept reading.
While the book had many positive components, overall I felt pretty “meh” about it, especially considering my 2 points stated above.
I still think it made for an entertaining read and would recommend it to anyone looking for a music infused, YA romance that touches on lot of important coming of age topics
January 12, 2023
Exceptional book, by Dana L. Davis. Beautifully written YA novel. Two talented individuals found themselves then one another.
November 22, 2022
Thanks to Skyscape Publishing for gifting me a galley of this novel in exchange for my honest feedback.
⠀
𝘚𝘺𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘴𝘪𝘴:
Dylan Woods, a violin prodigy is in her senior year of high school and preparing for the audition of her life, Juilliard. As Dylan focuses on her big day, an ex-best friend shows up unexpectedly.
⠀
Legendary, who grew up in Iowa with Dylan is now “the world’s most famous” R&B artist. And he has come to stay with Dylan and her family for a short time. While everyone in Dylan’s family is ecstatic about his sudden visit, Dylan is not. Angry that Legendary cut off all communication with her during his rise to the top, Dylan is not ready to face the superstar. But once she does, she soon realize that her and Legend have more in common than she expected.
⠀
𝘔𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴
After reading the synopsis for this book I was excited. It appeared to be my kind of novel. But unfortunately, it just didn’t do it for me. Although the plot was somewhat engaging, I didn’t find it believable which presented a big issue for me.
⠀
Interestingly, I pictured R&B singer Chris Brown as the inspiration for the character Legendary. Thinking of Chris Brown waking up one day and choosing to stay in the basement of his ex-best friend from elementary school, seemed too far fetched. Legendary had enough money to stay anywhere on the planet, yet he goes back to the basement of a girl he hasn’t spoken to in years. It just didn’t make sense.
⠀
With that said, there were some pleasurable moments. The fact that this novel did not make its way to my DNF pile is confirmation that there were some engaging components. For example, I enjoyed the passion Dylan displayed for playing the violin. She put all her eggs in one basket because she believed in her dream. I was rooting for her. I relished in the unfolding of her journey.
⠀
Overall, although this novel was not my cup of tea, I think it’s a charming story for the target audience. Teens!
⠀
Thanks again to Skyscape via Netgalley for the eARC. I appreciate the journey..
⠀
𝘚𝘺𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘴𝘪𝘴:
Dylan Woods, a violin prodigy is in her senior year of high school and preparing for the audition of her life, Juilliard. As Dylan focuses on her big day, an ex-best friend shows up unexpectedly.
⠀
Legendary, who grew up in Iowa with Dylan is now “the world’s most famous” R&B artist. And he has come to stay with Dylan and her family for a short time. While everyone in Dylan’s family is ecstatic about his sudden visit, Dylan is not. Angry that Legendary cut off all communication with her during his rise to the top, Dylan is not ready to face the superstar. But once she does, she soon realize that her and Legend have more in common than she expected.
⠀
𝘔𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴
After reading the synopsis for this book I was excited. It appeared to be my kind of novel. But unfortunately, it just didn’t do it for me. Although the plot was somewhat engaging, I didn’t find it believable which presented a big issue for me.
⠀
Interestingly, I pictured R&B singer Chris Brown as the inspiration for the character Legendary. Thinking of Chris Brown waking up one day and choosing to stay in the basement of his ex-best friend from elementary school, seemed too far fetched. Legendary had enough money to stay anywhere on the planet, yet he goes back to the basement of a girl he hasn’t spoken to in years. It just didn’t make sense.
⠀
With that said, there were some pleasurable moments. The fact that this novel did not make its way to my DNF pile is confirmation that there were some engaging components. For example, I enjoyed the passion Dylan displayed for playing the violin. She put all her eggs in one basket because she believed in her dream. I was rooting for her. I relished in the unfolding of her journey.
⠀
Overall, although this novel was not my cup of tea, I think it’s a charming story for the target audience. Teens!
⠀
Thanks again to Skyscape via Netgalley for the eARC. I appreciate the journey..
October 2, 2022
I read this on June 29th but it was under a different version of this book with no other ratings
CW: racial microaggressions, racism
If you like Young Adult Contemporary, this is the book for you!!
I think this book has some really good things to say about the value of friendship and the value of yourself. As someone who overworked themselves all the time in the arts, I was glad to see that in the end they didn't reward that kind of behavior (she learned to take breaks) because it sets a bad precedent for kids in the arts.
There were some references that I didn't understand, but if you are a classical music fan, you will love this.
I wasn't a huge fan of the dialogue, it felt kind of forced and there were lots of times where I was like "do teenagers really talk like that?" Which made me feel so old. I'm 25.
I really enjoyed it, but I don't think YA contemporary is for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. This title will be released October 18, 2022
CW: racial microaggressions, racism
If you like Young Adult Contemporary, this is the book for you!!
I think this book has some really good things to say about the value of friendship and the value of yourself. As someone who overworked themselves all the time in the arts, I was glad to see that in the end they didn't reward that kind of behavior (she learned to take breaks) because it sets a bad precedent for kids in the arts.
There were some references that I didn't understand, but if you are a classical music fan, you will love this.
I wasn't a huge fan of the dialogue, it felt kind of forced and there were lots of times where I was like "do teenagers really talk like that?" Which made me feel so old. I'm 25.
I really enjoyed it, but I don't think YA contemporary is for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. This title will be released October 18, 2022
November 21, 2022
Dana L. Davis is a genius when it comes to making her readers feel emotions. I went through intense anger and frustration, intense sympathy and sadness, and intense periods of happiness and positivity for the characters. The book was addictive and I couldn't put it down.
When I said I wanted a funny book with a realistic main character, great side characters, and a solid romance, this book was the perfect fit. Thank you so much to Dana L. Davis and to Skyscape for the eARC! It really made my week.
I liked the message in this book and I loved the main character. Her best friend was also fantastic. I loved all the scenes and the humour embedded within the book and I really hope more people are encouraged to pick this up because it was a fantastic read! I can't wait to check out more by Dana L. Devis, especially Roman and Jewel (which has been on my tbr for ages!!).
This book had everything I wanted. The only reason it wasn't a 5 star was because I got so mad at Langston so I couldn't quite forgive him at the end.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great time with relatable characters and fantastic humour with hilarious side characters.
When I said I wanted a funny book with a realistic main character, great side characters, and a solid romance, this book was the perfect fit. Thank you so much to Dana L. Davis and to Skyscape for the eARC! It really made my week.
I liked the message in this book and I loved the main character. Her best friend was also fantastic. I loved all the scenes and the humour embedded within the book and I really hope more people are encouraged to pick this up because it was a fantastic read! I can't wait to check out more by Dana L. Devis, especially Roman and Jewel (which has been on my tbr for ages!!).
This book had everything I wanted. The only reason it wasn't a 5 star was because I got so mad at Langston so I couldn't quite forgive him at the end.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great time with relatable characters and fantastic humour with hilarious side characters.
July 25, 2022
Thank you so much Skyscape and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
TW: racial microaggressions (focused on hair), car accident (mentioned)
Omigosh, if I could I would have read this book in one sitting (instead it took me 3 days)! As an amateur pianist, I loved every music reference, the book hitting just the right spots. Now all I want to do is just play piano ALL. THE. TIME.
Dylan Woods, a violinist whose main goal in her teenage life is to get to Juilliard, spends every free second practicing her instrument to make her dream come true. All this is disrupted by the arrival of Dylan’s ex-friend from her childhood. Six years ago Langston left for Los Angeles, where he became one of the most famous music stars and… never contacted Dylan again. And now he is back with their childhood commandment list, bringing up in Dylan all the nostalgia and emotions connected to the ex-friendship’s sudden end.
WHAT I LOVED:
- As I already mentioned, I loved EVERY music reference. All Dylan’s practice, contests mentions and stuff just made me chills and brought up memories of me playing contests and exams during my time in music school.
- The representation of Black people, including Black female violinist!
- Rainy Day Cafe – I wish I could visit there! Sounds like a perfect cafe.
- Pop culture references, especially Dungeon & Dragons! It made me want to play D&D right away!
- Dylan’s parent as an example of interracial adoption. They do not pretend that they know everything, but do research and seek mentors to actually support their daughter.
- I love how Dylan’s relationship with herself changed throughout the story, her hero journey. And that is thanks to Langston.
- Aunt Edith. Just Aunt Edith.
- Kiyoshi and some Japanese phrases embedded in dialogues.
WHAT DID NOT WORK FOR ME:
- This whole Dylan-Langston relationship. I mean, okay, not all of it – I loved the chemistry between them, they were really great together. However, him being silent for SIX YEARS and then his “apologies” that were not really apologies was what made me think he did not really care for her. It all felt disingenuous.
- Dylan’s parents being SO EXCITED about Langston living in their house. I mean, they knew Langston for years when he was a kid, so why were they so obsessed with him?
TW: racial microaggressions (focused on hair), car accident (mentioned)
Omigosh, if I could I would have read this book in one sitting (instead it took me 3 days)! As an amateur pianist, I loved every music reference, the book hitting just the right spots. Now all I want to do is just play piano ALL. THE. TIME.
Dylan Woods, a violinist whose main goal in her teenage life is to get to Juilliard, spends every free second practicing her instrument to make her dream come true. All this is disrupted by the arrival of Dylan’s ex-friend from her childhood. Six years ago Langston left for Los Angeles, where he became one of the most famous music stars and… never contacted Dylan again. And now he is back with their childhood commandment list, bringing up in Dylan all the nostalgia and emotions connected to the ex-friendship’s sudden end.
WHAT I LOVED:
- As I already mentioned, I loved EVERY music reference. All Dylan’s practice, contests mentions and stuff just made me chills and brought up memories of me playing contests and exams during my time in music school.
- The representation of Black people, including Black female violinist!
- Rainy Day Cafe – I wish I could visit there! Sounds like a perfect cafe.
- Pop culture references, especially Dungeon & Dragons! It made me want to play D&D right away!
- Dylan’s parent as an example of interracial adoption. They do not pretend that they know everything, but do research and seek mentors to actually support their daughter.
- I love how Dylan’s relationship with herself changed throughout the story, her hero journey. And that is thanks to Langston.
- Aunt Edith. Just Aunt Edith.
- Kiyoshi and some Japanese phrases embedded in dialogues.
WHAT DID NOT WORK FOR ME:
- This whole Dylan-Langston relationship. I mean, okay, not all of it – I loved the chemistry between them, they were really great together. However, him being silent for SIX YEARS and then his “apologies” that were not really apologies was what made me think he did not really care for her. It all felt disingenuous.
- Dylan’s parents being SO EXCITED about Langston living in their house. I mean, they knew Langston for years when he was a kid, so why were they so obsessed with him?
January 30, 2023
Legendary!
I hope I can share how important and satisfying it is to read about a young Black woman who BECOMES. Transracial adoption is not often written about in open context and I appreciate that it was front and center here.
The love story of friends who become…is refreshing and innocent and beautiful.
I thought Legend’s reason for dropping their friendship could have been something more but in the scheme of things it wasn’t too relevant. I love that Dylan knows who she is and refuses to just give up for anyone! Not for Abigail, for Legend, for another school.
Excellent writing and I would love a Part 2 as a catch-up!
I hope I can share how important and satisfying it is to read about a young Black woman who BECOMES. Transracial adoption is not often written about in open context and I appreciate that it was front and center here.
The love story of friends who become…is refreshing and innocent and beautiful.
I thought Legend’s reason for dropping their friendship could have been something more but in the scheme of things it wasn’t too relevant. I love that Dylan knows who she is and refuses to just give up for anyone! Not for Abigail, for Legend, for another school.
Excellent writing and I would love a Part 2 as a catch-up!
January 23, 2023
Somebody That I Used to Know by Dana L. Davis is a perfect execution of my favorite romance trope, Friends to Lovers! Dana L. Davis wrote these characters beautifully and made me fall in love with both of them as their estranged friendship grew into a complex and wonderful relationship. Dylan is such a confident and talented young woman and watching her come in to her own with her music and plans for the future was very satisfying. I loved her group of nerdy friends and how supportive her friends and family were of her dreams. Legendary was a great character with such a big heart. He seemed wiser than his age and was always rooting for Dylan and thinking about her, even when she didn't realize it. He is such a cool character because his fame and talent doesn't take away from his down to earth personality and how much he tries to take care of the people that he loves. I raced through this book and finished it in one day because it pulled me in and made me root for the characters individually and as a couple. If you're looking for an inspiring, fun YA romance with a musical twist, this book is perfect for you!
January 2, 2023
This book was a good read. I do feel like Dylan was a strongly developed character but her love interest Legendary was not as strongly developed. The plot was good but it was slow at times. I also took issue with the challenge for the chair in the orchestra in High School. Being a band geek whenever there was a challenge for a chair, it was done blindly. The instructor didn't know who was playing. It took me a bit out of the book just because I have done chair challenges in High School and they were done differently. Overall though, I enjoyed the book but I also felt like it didn't really have that great of an ending and that's why I'm giving it four stars.
May 17, 2023
4 of 5 stars: One thing Davis does so, so well is write real(istic) characters. Granted, I've read 2 of her books I think which were both centered around older high schoolers who are talented in some way. And lately, I've been picking up and loving books involving music. Either the MC has been a gifted instrument player or there's been a song or whole genre at the heart of the story. I like both and also books about dancers. Anyway, this is a review.
At no point did I feel like the teenagers in the story were acting like anything other than teenagers for better or worse. The adults and parents were present in real ways whether I liked them or not. Then the pacing was nice. I just didn't fall in love with any new characters or ways of telling a story. So I can't give this 5 stars. But I highly recommend picking this up if you like YA romances involving music or instrument players!
At no point did I feel like the teenagers in the story were acting like anything other than teenagers for better or worse. The adults and parents were present in real ways whether I liked them or not. Then the pacing was nice. I just didn't fall in love with any new characters or ways of telling a story. So I can't give this 5 stars. But I highly recommend picking this up if you like YA romances involving music or instrument players!
December 23, 2023
Loved It!
This was such a cute story. One of the things I loved in this book was how Dylan refreshingly shared her feelings. A lot of times in YA Romance, the FMC tend to live in their heads which often causes unnecessary problems in their relationships (including familial and platonic relationships). It was a quick light read that I enjoyed in one sitting. Definitely looking forward to more from this author.
This was such a cute story. One of the things I loved in this book was how Dylan refreshingly shared her feelings. A lot of times in YA Romance, the FMC tend to live in their heads which often causes unnecessary problems in their relationships (including familial and platonic relationships). It was a quick light read that I enjoyed in one sitting. Definitely looking forward to more from this author.
February 22, 2024
4.5 rounded up
This is a great example of giving authors another chance. In 2021, I read Tiffany Sly Lives Here Now and was not a huge fan. I saw some people online post about this book and when I found it on KU, I decided to give it a try. This book was so sweet and by the end had me in tears of joy for the main characters Dylan and Legendary. I definitely recommend reading this book.
This is a great example of giving authors another chance. In 2021, I read Tiffany Sly Lives Here Now and was not a huge fan. I saw some people online post about this book and when I found it on KU, I decided to give it a try. This book was so sweet and by the end had me in tears of joy for the main characters Dylan and Legendary. I definitely recommend reading this book.
May 25, 2024
Very cute!
I love how Dylan learned how to appreciate herself as well as culture as I went through the book. As an adopted child, her support system was spectacular. Having Legendary’s mom help her with her hair but also developing a relationship with her, was beautiful. It gave her a sense of community through my eyes. Her parents are truly supportive and loving, when her mom asked if there was anything she could do better as a parent. That made me elated, but as children, it’s good when our parents sees us for who we are and not by who they want us to be. The bucket list was amazing as well, overall a great read!
I love how Dylan learned how to appreciate herself as well as culture as I went through the book. As an adopted child, her support system was spectacular. Having Legendary’s mom help her with her hair but also developing a relationship with her, was beautiful. It gave her a sense of community through my eyes. Her parents are truly supportive and loving, when her mom asked if there was anything she could do better as a parent. That made me elated, but as children, it’s good when our parents sees us for who we are and not by who they want us to be. The bucket list was amazing as well, overall a great read!
March 27, 2024
awww ok c'était cute mais je ne pense vraiment pas qu'ils vont rester ensemble 😭
May 11, 2023
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February 5, 2024
Written in 1st person POV, Somebody That I Used to Know by Dana L. Davis focuses on childhood best friends Dylan Woods and Langston, who lost touch a decade ago after Langston moved to LA, became a worldwide renowned teen R&B artist named Legendary—then ghosted her—unexpectedly reunite when he comes to stay with her family years later.
I love how the novel starts with Davis’s beautiful writing and storytelling on full display. Her use of language is gorgeous and lyrical. Davis’s authentic, natural-sounding, and colorful dialogue suits her characters, story, and theme and gives her characters distinct voices. Her writing and storytelling combine detailed descriptions that use all five senses and vividly detailed descriptions to create visual images in your mind, lush world-building, imaginative storytelling, and excellently developed complex, relatable, likable, and fallible characters that draw me into her character’s lives and kept me glued to her captivating multilayered story. I love the diversity in race and personality types of her characters. Davis explores issues of racial identity with nuance and subtlety—especially—within the context of adoption throughout the novel.
Dylan’s goal is acceptance into Juilliard. She doesn’t think about Langston much these days and how he left her behind and never contacted her again—even though they were once best friends. She avoids listening to his music or talking about him at all. But feelings of hurt resurface when her parents reveal he’s coming to stay with them for a short while. The rest of her family is thrilled. Dylan—not so much. However, after spending time with him again and discovering he still has the bucket list they created together, Dylan wonders if Langston isn’t as different as she feared.
Gifted, arrogant, and entitled, Langston asks for Dylan’s help to complete the bucket list during his visit. As they clear items off the list, Dylan remembers their past, how good things were between them, their shared love of music, and who she used to be when they were inseparable best friends in those days. Dylan’s feelings for Langston slowly shift from friendship to something deeper without her realizing it. Could she be falling for her ex-best friend?
Brilliant, talented, spunky, kind, nerdy, and competitive, Dylan is a Black teenager totally focused on music, improving her skills, and practicing her violin to get into Juilliard—something she has chosen for herself. Adopted at age four by white parents, Dylan is only one of two Black students at her high school. She’s been prepping for the in-person audition behind her parents’ backs.
Langston lost himself in stardom and his Legendary persona, so it’s refreshing and healing to be home with his best friend—who knows and appreciates the real him. It allows him to be himself once again and let down his guard. Plus, he needs time away from the spotlight for personal reasons.
Dylan and Langston reconnect and relearn each other with the differences that time and maturity have made to their personalities. Dylan has become less fun and silly and doesn’t take time to enjoy life, while Langston is all about living and freedom of self-expression. Their personalities balance one another, and Dylan and Langston give each other a safe space to be themselves without having to pretend or use facades. During his short stay, Dylan learns to relax and have fun again, and Langston exposes her to new music, which can only help her with her audition. Langston learns to show more restraint and responsibility and how to make sacrifices for the people he loves.
Davis nicely explores Dylan’s relationships with her family members (her parents, aunt, and three siblings) and friends in the novel, which reveals and furthers Dylan’s development.
I love Dylan’s relationship and interactions with her Japanese BFF, Kiyoshi, who tries to keep her from spending all her time practicing and studying. Dylan and her best friend talk about race openly and honestly. I love that she has that.
Sweet, funny, emotional, angsty, and introspective, Somebody That I Used to Know is a beautifully written and entrancing YA/ teen romance read/listen exploring themes of self-discovery, self-identity, racial identity, adoption, music, friendship, falling in love, and friends-to-lovers.
Note: For readers who listen to audiobooks: The audiobook narrated by Kimberly Woods is gorgeous. I highly recommend listening.
Advanced review copy provided by Skyscape via Netgalley for review.
I love how the novel starts with Davis’s beautiful writing and storytelling on full display. Her use of language is gorgeous and lyrical. Davis’s authentic, natural-sounding, and colorful dialogue suits her characters, story, and theme and gives her characters distinct voices. Her writing and storytelling combine detailed descriptions that use all five senses and vividly detailed descriptions to create visual images in your mind, lush world-building, imaginative storytelling, and excellently developed complex, relatable, likable, and fallible characters that draw me into her character’s lives and kept me glued to her captivating multilayered story. I love the diversity in race and personality types of her characters. Davis explores issues of racial identity with nuance and subtlety—especially—within the context of adoption throughout the novel.
Dylan’s goal is acceptance into Juilliard. She doesn’t think about Langston much these days and how he left her behind and never contacted her again—even though they were once best friends. She avoids listening to his music or talking about him at all. But feelings of hurt resurface when her parents reveal he’s coming to stay with them for a short while. The rest of her family is thrilled. Dylan—not so much. However, after spending time with him again and discovering he still has the bucket list they created together, Dylan wonders if Langston isn’t as different as she feared.
Gifted, arrogant, and entitled, Langston asks for Dylan’s help to complete the bucket list during his visit. As they clear items off the list, Dylan remembers their past, how good things were between them, their shared love of music, and who she used to be when they were inseparable best friends in those days. Dylan’s feelings for Langston slowly shift from friendship to something deeper without her realizing it. Could she be falling for her ex-best friend?
Brilliant, talented, spunky, kind, nerdy, and competitive, Dylan is a Black teenager totally focused on music, improving her skills, and practicing her violin to get into Juilliard—something she has chosen for herself. Adopted at age four by white parents, Dylan is only one of two Black students at her high school. She’s been prepping for the in-person audition behind her parents’ backs.
Langston lost himself in stardom and his Legendary persona, so it’s refreshing and healing to be home with his best friend—who knows and appreciates the real him. It allows him to be himself once again and let down his guard. Plus, he needs time away from the spotlight for personal reasons.
Dylan and Langston reconnect and relearn each other with the differences that time and maturity have made to their personalities. Dylan has become less fun and silly and doesn’t take time to enjoy life, while Langston is all about living and freedom of self-expression. Their personalities balance one another, and Dylan and Langston give each other a safe space to be themselves without having to pretend or use facades. During his short stay, Dylan learns to relax and have fun again, and Langston exposes her to new music, which can only help her with her audition. Langston learns to show more restraint and responsibility and how to make sacrifices for the people he loves.
Davis nicely explores Dylan’s relationships with her family members (her parents, aunt, and three siblings) and friends in the novel, which reveals and furthers Dylan’s development.
I love Dylan’s relationship and interactions with her Japanese BFF, Kiyoshi, who tries to keep her from spending all her time practicing and studying. Dylan and her best friend talk about race openly and honestly. I love that she has that.
Sweet, funny, emotional, angsty, and introspective, Somebody That I Used to Know is a beautifully written and entrancing YA/ teen romance read/listen exploring themes of self-discovery, self-identity, racial identity, adoption, music, friendship, falling in love, and friends-to-lovers.
Note: For readers who listen to audiobooks: The audiobook narrated by Kimberly Woods is gorgeous. I highly recommend listening.
Advanced review copy provided by Skyscape via Netgalley for review.
February 23, 2023
Loved it!!!
December 26, 2022
Full Review on The Candid Cover
3.5 Stars
Somebody That I Used to Know by Dana Davis is a heartfelt read about second chances. Following ex-best friends who reunite, this one contains a childhood bucket list, plenty of descriptions of music, and two main characters who transform throughout the story. While I thought that some of the dialogue feels a bit outdated, this is still an entertaining read, and fans of realistic contemporaries with complex relationships will enjoy this one.
After Dylan’s best friend moved to Los Angeles to become a successful R&B artist, she hasn’t heard from him since. Years later, she has moved on with big dreams of going to Juilliard, but when she learns that Langston will be coming to stay with her family, Dylan is less than thrilled. However, as the two start to reconnect and check off items from their childhood bucket list, Dylan starts to realize that Langston might not be as different as she once believed, and she might even be falling for him.
❀ INTERESTING CHARACTERS
Dylan and Langston are interesting characters, and they both grow throughout the book. Dylan is a talented violinist, and she is extremely dedicated to her practice in hopes of getting in to Juilliard. I loved the way her relationship with music is explored and I enjoyed the way the author delves into her feelings of being forced to change or hide certain parts of herself in order to fit in. Langston focuses on a different style of music as an R&B artist, and I liked the way his character complements Dylan’s. They are both able to learn from each other, and it is satisfying to see how their relationship evolves throughout the book.
❀ FEELS OUTDATED
The one aspect of this book that I had some trouble with is the fact that some of it feels outdated. As I was reading the descriptions of certain characters’ outfits or the conversations between Dylan and some of her classmates using phrases like “totes,” it felt more like 2010. I couldn’t tell if this was intentional, and I found that it took away from the realism for me as other details in the book position it in the present.
❀ A HEARTFELT STORY
Somebody That I Used to Know by Dana Davis is a heartfelt story about second chances and chasing your dreams. I enjoyed the idea of ex-best friends mending their relationship, and the main characters complement each other well. While I had some issues with the outdated dialogue, I enjoyed this one and would recommend it to music fans.
3.5 Stars
Somebody That I Used to Know by Dana Davis is a heartfelt read about second chances. Following ex-best friends who reunite, this one contains a childhood bucket list, plenty of descriptions of music, and two main characters who transform throughout the story. While I thought that some of the dialogue feels a bit outdated, this is still an entertaining read, and fans of realistic contemporaries with complex relationships will enjoy this one.
After Dylan’s best friend moved to Los Angeles to become a successful R&B artist, she hasn’t heard from him since. Years later, she has moved on with big dreams of going to Juilliard, but when she learns that Langston will be coming to stay with her family, Dylan is less than thrilled. However, as the two start to reconnect and check off items from their childhood bucket list, Dylan starts to realize that Langston might not be as different as she once believed, and she might even be falling for him.
❀ INTERESTING CHARACTERS
Dylan and Langston are interesting characters, and they both grow throughout the book. Dylan is a talented violinist, and she is extremely dedicated to her practice in hopes of getting in to Juilliard. I loved the way her relationship with music is explored and I enjoyed the way the author delves into her feelings of being forced to change or hide certain parts of herself in order to fit in. Langston focuses on a different style of music as an R&B artist, and I liked the way his character complements Dylan’s. They are both able to learn from each other, and it is satisfying to see how their relationship evolves throughout the book.
❀ FEELS OUTDATED
The one aspect of this book that I had some trouble with is the fact that some of it feels outdated. As I was reading the descriptions of certain characters’ outfits or the conversations between Dylan and some of her classmates using phrases like “totes,” it felt more like 2010. I couldn’t tell if this was intentional, and I found that it took away from the realism for me as other details in the book position it in the present.
❀ A HEARTFELT STORY
Somebody That I Used to Know by Dana Davis is a heartfelt story about second chances and chasing your dreams. I enjoyed the idea of ex-best friends mending their relationship, and the main characters complement each other well. While I had some issues with the outdated dialogue, I enjoyed this one and would recommend it to music fans.
September 22, 2022
One of the most heart-warming and sweet stories I have ever read.
First off, wow. Just wow. I am applauding how much I loved reading this book. What an amazing opportunity, so thank you for allowing me to read this.
Now, this book was truly something else. The writing is so cute, reading it truly made me feel inside Dylan's head and her thoughts are so expressive, I just love when a writer does that. The storyline is absolutely beautiful and fun, with moments of sadness and laugh-out-louds and awws-and-oohhs (pretty sure the last two adjectives don't exist, but whatever). The characters were so easy to love (Aunt Edith is my spirit animal) and some just made me cringe at how they behaved and acted, I mean...ew.
I truly think the author did something really amazing with this book. The way racism is presented in ways that some would not even think is racism (like Dylan not looking like her mother and people making weird or surprised faces), the way some characters dealt with it really did an impact on the story, in my opinion. I also thought it was absolutely impressive how Dylan, as a black young woman, dealt with some issues like that throughout the storyline; I believe those were some of my favourite moments to read, from the way they were written and they way they just made the story more compelling. And also, Dylan knew she could be the best violinist and she never let that blind her, she kept pushing forward with practising and experimenting and learning all that she could to strive for her dream. I love reading characters with that drive and that love for something clearly important in their lives. She fought for what she loved, and she didn't let other people or the colour of her skin or the fact that she wasn't like most people in her small town get that away from her.
Lastly, the relationship between characters was something I loved exploring as a reader. The way Aunt Edith and Dylan have their chess games or the late night talks; Legend and Dylan with their bucket list and all their experiences and moments; or even Dylan's parents and their children. For me, relationships in a story work as one of the foundations for a good story; and Dana L. Davis really did an amazing job with how the relationships shift in the book.
I honestly just really loved reading this book and I cannot fathom the fact that I will never experience it for the first time.
Signing off,
B.
First off, wow. Just wow. I am applauding how much I loved reading this book. What an amazing opportunity, so thank you for allowing me to read this.
Now, this book was truly something else. The writing is so cute, reading it truly made me feel inside Dylan's head and her thoughts are so expressive, I just love when a writer does that. The storyline is absolutely beautiful and fun, with moments of sadness and laugh-out-louds and awws-and-oohhs (pretty sure the last two adjectives don't exist, but whatever). The characters were so easy to love (Aunt Edith is my spirit animal) and some just made me cringe at how they behaved and acted, I mean...ew.
I truly think the author did something really amazing with this book. The way racism is presented in ways that some would not even think is racism (like Dylan not looking like her mother and people making weird or surprised faces), the way some characters dealt with it really did an impact on the story, in my opinion. I also thought it was absolutely impressive how Dylan, as a black young woman, dealt with some issues like that throughout the storyline; I believe those were some of my favourite moments to read, from the way they were written and they way they just made the story more compelling. And also, Dylan knew she could be the best violinist and she never let that blind her, she kept pushing forward with practising and experimenting and learning all that she could to strive for her dream. I love reading characters with that drive and that love for something clearly important in their lives. She fought for what she loved, and she didn't let other people or the colour of her skin or the fact that she wasn't like most people in her small town get that away from her.
Lastly, the relationship between characters was something I loved exploring as a reader. The way Aunt Edith and Dylan have their chess games or the late night talks; Legend and Dylan with their bucket list and all their experiences and moments; or even Dylan's parents and their children. For me, relationships in a story work as one of the foundations for a good story; and Dana L. Davis really did an amazing job with how the relationships shift in the book.
I honestly just really loved reading this book and I cannot fathom the fact that I will never experience it for the first time.
Signing off,
B.
October 5, 2022
Thank you to Skyscape and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. This story is a slow burn but once Dylan and Legend really start hanging out I couldn’t put my kindle down until I finished it.
Dylan Woods is a super focused 18 year old girl who plays the violin with dreams of getting into Julliard. She spends all of her time practicing unlike other kids she is not on social media. Although she is really talented she does have some insecurities about feeling her talent is enough to get her to where she wants to be.
Legendary (Langston) is the biggest young R&B artist in the world right now and ex-best friend of Dylan. He’s lived in LA for the last 6 years while being on the fast track to stardom. He returns to his hometown to try to fix his and Dylan’s relationship by completing the bucket list they made when they were children.
When Legend comes for a stay with Dylan and her adopted family she learns of the reasons their relationship became strained and with time their friendship falls back in stride. They spend time together more and more completing items from their bucket list in which awakens feeling unforeseen by both.
What I loved
I loved that Dylan was focused on her dreams and she only applied to Julliard because second place is still losing as she says. She knew that’s where she wanted to go and anything besides that wouldn’t bring her the same joy.
I also loved Dylan’s relationships with Kiyoshi her other friends. She didn’t try to shy away from who they were or what they enjoyed doing just because Legend was home.
What I didn’t like
I wanted to have Legend’s point of view. While it was great having Dylan’s POV I think it would’ve taken it to the next level to hear the story through his eyes.
I didn’t like how Dylan’s family (mom, dad, and siblings) reacted to Legend because it didn’t quite match the story. Why act differently when he grew up with your family until 6 years ago. They were all just a little too star struck for me.
I really enjoyed this book. This story is a slow burn but once Dylan and Legend really start hanging out I couldn’t put my kindle down until I finished it.
Dylan Woods is a super focused 18 year old girl who plays the violin with dreams of getting into Julliard. She spends all of her time practicing unlike other kids she is not on social media. Although she is really talented she does have some insecurities about feeling her talent is enough to get her to where she wants to be.
Legendary (Langston) is the biggest young R&B artist in the world right now and ex-best friend of Dylan. He’s lived in LA for the last 6 years while being on the fast track to stardom. He returns to his hometown to try to fix his and Dylan’s relationship by completing the bucket list they made when they were children.
When Legend comes for a stay with Dylan and her adopted family she learns of the reasons their relationship became strained and with time their friendship falls back in stride. They spend time together more and more completing items from their bucket list in which awakens feeling unforeseen by both.
What I loved
I loved that Dylan was focused on her dreams and she only applied to Julliard because second place is still losing as she says. She knew that’s where she wanted to go and anything besides that wouldn’t bring her the same joy.
I also loved Dylan’s relationships with Kiyoshi her other friends. She didn’t try to shy away from who they were or what they enjoyed doing just because Legend was home.
What I didn’t like
I wanted to have Legend’s point of view. While it was great having Dylan’s POV I think it would’ve taken it to the next level to hear the story through his eyes.
I didn’t like how Dylan’s family (mom, dad, and siblings) reacted to Legend because it didn’t quite match the story. Why act differently when he grew up with your family until 6 years ago. They were all just a little too star struck for me.
October 14, 2022
First of all, thank you Netgalley and publisher for giving my first chance to write feedback for free books.
Good thing happen in this book is I realized my books mostly has white main character and I've widen my read books by reading this. This book has so much to learn about black culture and the hardships (I'm asian living in asian countries). By reading this, I knew how the way they keep striving the culture even though they are living with non-black. I also love how the main character named Dylan coming to be proud of her own body, as I think it's normal if you are insecure about it at teens. We all are.
The music references, the description about violins and other instrument makes me learn a lot. But this is not something you can't enjoy, the explanation is in between story. By this book, I think I decide I should read more book like this, to understand more point of view in life.
Sadly, bad things here is I think in certain situation few characters were being rude. I mean, chatting with a friend slashed a crush while you had dinner with a date is very rude. Also, how special Legend are until the parents decided that Dylan shouldn't go to her seminar... but I've come to realize is it because this books more like plot-driven? So the characters just accidently have this rude or weird behavior to make this certain scene....
Dylan is strong character here while Legend is not. So, whenever Dylan think about Legend, I just.... meh. And I hope the ending stop at last chapter because in the epilogue, I think there's no conclusion how Legend try to be better, or in the end, Dylan would accept the fact that Legend is a celeb and eventually would give 50% her time to think why Legend haven't read her text?
Over all, it was hard reading as some parts makes me frustrated....
Good thing happen in this book is I realized my books mostly has white main character and I've widen my read books by reading this. This book has so much to learn about black culture and the hardships (I'm asian living in asian countries). By reading this, I knew how the way they keep striving the culture even though they are living with non-black. I also love how the main character named Dylan coming to be proud of her own body, as I think it's normal if you are insecure about it at teens. We all are.
The music references, the description about violins and other instrument makes me learn a lot. But this is not something you can't enjoy, the explanation is in between story. By this book, I think I decide I should read more book like this, to understand more point of view in life.
Sadly, bad things here is I think in certain situation few characters were being rude. I mean, chatting with a friend slashed a crush while you had dinner with a date is very rude. Also, how special Legend are until the parents decided that Dylan shouldn't go to her seminar... but I've come to realize is it because this books more like plot-driven? So the characters just accidently have this rude or weird behavior to make this certain scene....
Dylan is strong character here while Legend is not. So, whenever Dylan think about Legend, I just.... meh. And I hope the ending stop at last chapter because in the epilogue, I think there's no conclusion how Legend try to be better, or in the end, Dylan would accept the fact that Legend is a celeb and eventually would give 50% her time to think why Legend haven't read her text?
Over all, it was hard reading as some parts makes me frustrated....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2022
Special thanks to the author, publisher, and netgalley for my advanced readers copy.
I looooooved everything about this book!!! Who doesn’t love a story about friends finally confessing their love for each other. This was like a modern day Cinderella story centered around music and a rekindled friendship.
I don’t even know where to begin. The character development was great I loved them all. Aunt Edith was funny, her foster parents were very supportive. Her friends were awesome and very diverse. Dylan and Legend were my favorite of course. Both now from different worlds with him being a famous R&B artist and her just a normal hometown girl. This wasn’t your typical YA love story. Everything about their relationship and interactions were so authentic.
Legend’s presence took Dylan out of this safe shell she created for herself. But she also showed him what it was like to really enjoy the simpler things in life.
Favorite Quote: “Never settle for less than what you deserve.”
Funny Moment: pg.169 Dylan’s family attending a black church for the first time.
The epilogue was the perfect ending to such a magical love story. It had me all emotional. Their fairytale moment was just so cuuuuute and sweet.
I recommend this book and I’m 100% sure you won’t regret reading it either. Look at me becoming a YA fan though. I definitely plan on reading more by this author.
I looooooved everything about this book!!! Who doesn’t love a story about friends finally confessing their love for each other. This was like a modern day Cinderella story centered around music and a rekindled friendship.
I don’t even know where to begin. The character development was great I loved them all. Aunt Edith was funny, her foster parents were very supportive. Her friends were awesome and very diverse. Dylan and Legend were my favorite of course. Both now from different worlds with him being a famous R&B artist and her just a normal hometown girl. This wasn’t your typical YA love story. Everything about their relationship and interactions were so authentic.
Legend’s presence took Dylan out of this safe shell she created for herself. But she also showed him what it was like to really enjoy the simpler things in life.
Favorite Quote: “Never settle for less than what you deserve.”
Funny Moment: pg.169 Dylan’s family attending a black church for the first time.
The epilogue was the perfect ending to such a magical love story. It had me all emotional. Their fairytale moment was just so cuuuuute and sweet.
I recommend this book and I’m 100% sure you won’t regret reading it either. Look at me becoming a YA fan though. I definitely plan on reading more by this author.
June 27, 2023
I recieved an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book dealt with a lot of heavy things without being heavy itself, which was a breath of fresh air. Adoption, chronic pain, harassment and addiction were brought up with the respect they deserve, but without wanting to drown the reader in them. This way, the story kept being on the lighter side without feeling superficial.
The characters were fine, they carried the story well enough. It's always interesting to me how non-famous authors (although I SCREAMED when I reached the biography and realized Dana is Lonnie from shera) tell stories about famous people, and I don't think this was bad at all in that regard.
The ending did kinda ruin it for me, but that's how it is with romances usually. The decisions Dylan made didn't make any sense to me, there were like three chapters where we kept having time-skips and I think the book ending with the first one would've been okay. The last one made me want to scratch my eyes out because we see her being put in a situation that we had been told she hated (all eyes on her, being in a public place, surrounded by rich people etc) and she still didn't react with nothing but joy. She could've changed in between time-skips, I just wish we had been shown that.
This book dealt with a lot of heavy things without being heavy itself, which was a breath of fresh air. Adoption, chronic pain, harassment and addiction were brought up with the respect they deserve, but without wanting to drown the reader in them. This way, the story kept being on the lighter side without feeling superficial.
The characters were fine, they carried the story well enough. It's always interesting to me how non-famous authors (although I SCREAMED when I reached the biography and realized Dana is Lonnie from shera) tell stories about famous people, and I don't think this was bad at all in that regard.
The ending did kinda ruin it for me, but that's how it is with romances usually. The decisions Dylan made didn't make any sense to me, there were like three chapters where we kept having time-skips and I think the book ending with the first one would've been okay. The last one made me want to scratch my eyes out because we see her being put in a situation that we had been told she hated (all eyes on her, being in a public place, surrounded by rich people etc) and she still didn't react with nothing but joy. She could've changed in between time-skips, I just wish we had been shown that.
June 20, 2022
Thank you Netgalley for an opportunity to read this book
OMG THIS BOOK IS LEGENDARY (no pun intended). This book is beautifully written and nicely paced. As a music lover and an amateur violin player (I'm so amature that I'm not even gonna say "violinist"), this book hit me at just the right spots. Dylan and Legend's love story arch with its constant ups and downs had me on the edge and made me finish this book in a week. I loved how the book even detailed the side character stories. Even Dylan's past story and her drive was captured with such delicacy. Though I have to admit that my favourite character was kooky Aunt Edith. Everyone needs aunt Edith in their life. This book is amazing and a must read.
Reasons to read this book
1. Music lovers where you at
2. Diverse characters with a few tragic back stories
3. Best friends to half hearted enemies to something complicated to lovers pitch
4. Crazy best friends, aunt, teacher and family!
This book is an absolute must read so grab your green tea with ginger (i know it sounds gross but it's Legend's drink so i tried and it's ok) with Mushroom burger (another gross thing but hey try for legend) and dive in the book!
OMG THIS BOOK IS LEGENDARY (no pun intended). This book is beautifully written and nicely paced. As a music lover and an amateur violin player (I'm so amature that I'm not even gonna say "violinist"), this book hit me at just the right spots. Dylan and Legend's love story arch with its constant ups and downs had me on the edge and made me finish this book in a week. I loved how the book even detailed the side character stories. Even Dylan's past story and her drive was captured with such delicacy. Though I have to admit that my favourite character was kooky Aunt Edith. Everyone needs aunt Edith in their life. This book is amazing and a must read.
Reasons to read this book
1. Music lovers where you at
2. Diverse characters with a few tragic back stories
3. Best friends to half hearted enemies to something complicated to lovers pitch
4. Crazy best friends, aunt, teacher and family!
This book is an absolute must read so grab your green tea with ginger (i know it sounds gross but it's Legend's drink so i tried and it's ok) with Mushroom burger (another gross thing but hey try for legend) and dive in the book!
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