Note: I received a free eBook copy of Chasing Eveline by Pen Name Publishing, in exchange for a review before I started working for them. The content of the review is 100% my own personal opinion.
Music fans— this one’s for you!
Have you ever found an amazing band that you just adore, and you know other people would like it too if they just gave it a chance? Yep. That was me with K-pop back in high school. No matter what I did, or how many times I tried to get my friends to listen, they just wouldn’t accept it. I felt like they were missing out on something magical, and that’s kind of how 16-year-old Ivy feels, from Leslie Hauser’s debut novel Chasing Eveline.
For Ivy, Chasing Eveline is more than just a band. It’s a lifeline— connecting her to her mom, who walked out on her. Their music helps her to sort through her kaleidoscope of emotions. She’s a tad bit obsessed, and she can’t understand why no one else feels it too. It’s not easy being that weird music geek— or any kind of geek, for that matter. Especially not when you’re already dealing with issues at home.
But then, when she’s given the opportunity to go see Chasing Eveline play again after years of being broken up, she simply can’t resist. Except Ivy has to overcome a few obstacles on her journey getting there…
What I Liked
I loved how well done the characters were. It felt like I’d been teleported back into high school, and I could remember thinking and feeling the way that Ivy did throughout the book. Characterisation? Leslie Hauser nailed it!
I also loved the way music was discussed in the book. It’s very hard to accurately describe music— especially made up music— without your readers being able to hear it. But the descriptions were so vivid and well done, that I could picture exactly the kind of music it was, in a way that was more engaging than reading straight song lyrics.
My favourite part was the very end, but I don’t want to spoil anything!
What I Disliked
I’ve been out of high school for a few years now, so my reading tastes are changing as I grow. I would have enjoyed this book a whole lot more if I were still in school, and though I still found it very relatable and engaging, it’s probably not the kind of book I’d have picked up on my own accord. But you know what? It’s good to try new things, and I’m glad I read it!
The Characters
The characters were all so individual and loveable. Though Ivy’s dad was giving me anxiety the entire time— take your meds, damn it! I really loved Matt, personally.
Final Thoughts
After reading it, I 100% believe this book would really appeal to people between the ages of 13 – 17. I also think it would really thrive in school libraries, because I really think we need more books that have good, platonic friendships in YA Literature. It’s a great book for anyone who loves relatable stories that touch on a lot of real life issues and emotions. I gave it 4 stars on Goodreads.
Tea Rating
White Tea | This book is a relaxing, light and fun read!
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