(4 reviews)
Playing by Ear (Country Roads #1)
by Travis Starnes
ISBN: 9781737215615
Categories: Fiction » Coming of Age
Format: EPUB
Content Rating: Older than 13
First Loves, First Loses, and Finding a Place in the World. Plus Music.
After spending his young life traveling with his musician father, Charlie Nelson has roots for the first time. Living with his mother in a small Appalachian town in western North Carolina, Charlie struggles to find his place in this new world, which isn't without challenges. Living in poverty, dealing with bullies, and having no friends, Charlie's new life is anything but a fairytale. If it were up to Charlie, he'd stay at home and do the one thing he loves, playing his guitar ... but life doesn't always give us what we want.
Review Book
Reader Reviews
Vincent Berg
Tremendous Story
Reviewed it on October 25, 2021
A tremendous story, but a lot of heart but several ounces of brutal truths to it. Part coming-of-age sage, part remaking yourself and your life (unadulterated wish-fulfillment), but the pace is consistent, the story wonderfully told, and the backstory only slipping out in small amounts. While the lead character considers the nature of his life, he's reluctant to face his issues head on, allowing the mystery to persist, even as the sun begins shinning through the cloud.
The final revelations about Kate felt real--having known many people in those situations, and the final tune actually brought tears to my eyes. I'm glad I read it, but I'm also glad the sequel isn't ready yet, as it'll take a bit before I'm ready to dive back in again.
zipeeyvl
Great Read
Reviewed it on October 3, 2021
So much more than the usual “coming of age” saga. Charlie has the added burden of his economic status and lack of social interaction to overcome. Excellent character and story development. Waiting for book #2.
gmcdonell
great
Reviewed it on August 29, 2021
enjoyed reading this story. looking foreword the second book.