Rosie’s Book Review Team #RBRT Dream on by @TerryTyler4

Today’s review is from Cathy, she blogs at http://betweenthelinesbookblog.wordpress.com

Cathy chose to read and review Dream On by Terry Tyler

I’ve read several of Terry Tyler’s books and enjoyed them all. This was no exception. Filled with believable, true to life, substantial characters and a convincing storyline, Dream On follows the fortunes of Dave Bentley, an aspiring rock star and creator of the band, Thor. The band members, the banter between them and their desire for success is represented extremely convincingly. Dave is talented and basically a nice guy but the pull has always been the band and his music, and although his young son means a lot to him, Dave has to follow his dream….and Ariel.

‘He was back on track now, having meandered from his chosen path for several years; somewhere along the line, life had got in the way of his rock ’n’ roll dreams.

Life, Janice, and Harley.’

When Dave’s ex girlfriend, Ariel Swan comes back to town it spells the beginning of the end for Dave and his girlfriend, Janice. Ariel is also on the fame trail as a singer/songwriter. Her friend, Melodie, who wants to make a career out of being a celebrity, hears of Raw Talent, a TV contest to find the hottest new musical act, and persuades them all to enter. The behind the scenes look at the talent show is a revelation; despite the name talent isn’t always the deciding factor. The outcome is surprising and impacts upon them all, changing their lives in ways they never would have imagined.

The complicated relationships and characterisations are dealt with extremely well and sensitively, as is the moving story of Janice’s grandmother, who is suffering from Alzheimer’s. I enjoyed the way Janice’s story unfolds and Max is a loveable character. Dave and the band, Ariel and Melodie could be people living in any town, struggling to succeed, and living everyday lives while working and hoping for that big break. The obstacles they face and the way they’re dealt with are completely representative and authentic.

Understanding and insight, the ability to really get inside the characters’ heads and their emotions lends total realism as the story develops. Written with warmth, wit and humour and perfectly portraying modern life. From the pros and cons of social media, and how it can get out of hand, to the obsession with ‘celebrity’ and the search for stardom, it’s a story of choices, new loves, friendships, hopes and disappointments; the complications and substance of real life.

A great storyline, dialogue and perfect character development plus an unpredictable ending. Off I go to download the sequel.

Find a copy here from Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com