Book Review: Blue Notes by Carrie Lofty

Blue Notes
Carrie Lofty
New Adult Romance
Published: May 2014

This New Adult title hits a lot of the expected genre targets: college setting, a first person narrative, heavy on the romantic tension. If you're a fan of this genre, Blue Notes is a great example.

I have to admit for me though, New Adult is not really my thing. I keep trying out different books in this category, and I tend to like those that straddle the YA line rather than those that read more adult market contemporary romance. Though I do read some contemporary romance, but I feel like those books are structured a little differently, or a little more is going on subplot-wise in those books.




Here's what I really liked:

• The main character Keeley has a rich backstory that blends well with the current story. It's not one traumatic incident but effects of her childhood in general.
• Foster parents are shown in a positive light. Having worked in this industry, it was cool to see foster parents and "the system" not as the bad guys. Instead, Keeley has a supportive adoptive family who continues to be present in her life when she's off to college.
• Genre stereotypes are explored/bent. New Adult tends to have brooding, larger-than-life romantic interests. He's here, but that convention is picked apart a bit by the characters themselves. Keeley and her roommate feel like real people navigating these experiences.
• The guy isn't the only one who understands Keeley or can help her through things. Her foster mom and roommate play integral roles in her life.
• The setting: New Orleans and the music scene. Very cool.

If you like New Adult, Lofty is a strong writer. I will definitely check out her other books!