This book was a all-around fun read. Exactly what one would expect having a metal-rockstar narrating- without ever being boring or cliche. Trevor Wolff is a delightfully feisty character who doesn't allow himself to get dragged down no matter what happens- his best friend and bandmate doing the unthinkable and getting married, or his tits trying to kill him. And while Trevor himself could easily sell this story, it just isn't complete without the people around him who are all just as interesting- whether it's his drama-queen groupie or the hot- and off-limits - wife of his best friend. There's so much to love about this book that I could go on and on... and I will later in the review. Suffice it to say that Trevor rocks- both the stage and as a character in this book.

What's not to love about snarky rock stars? Trevor Wolff is everything you'd expect of a rock star- thinks too highly of himself, sarcastic, and self-entitled since, after all, he did "pay his dues"... and yet, he's human- and it shows. He faces real problems, and yet still remains his rock-star self. I've not read the Demo Tapes, but I'm thinking if I ever finish my to-be-read list I'll have to look into it. I cannot get enough of Trevor and the gang! Wonderful, excellent book and definitely a must-read if your tastes are at all similar to my own.

Also, I have to say that far too many authors (myself included) get into a groove of writing in a pattern. One very common pattern is to have two characters narrate the story, with alternating-chapters. I, for one, loved that Gottfried didn't do this- but instead randomly switched between Trevor and Kerri narrating. It made the reading much more anticipatory.


I was given this book for my honest opinion, no other compensation was received. This review only reflects my personal opinion. ( )

Susan Helen Gottfried has given the readers of Trevor's Song an all access backstage pass into the scenes of a touring rock star band and the complex life of a man on the edge. Trevor Wolff is on the edge of super stardom, the edge of self destruction, the edge of life and death. As the man who brought together the band, Shapeshifters, it is a matter of pride that the popular heavy rock band is soaring to super stardom status. Trevor may not be a talented bassist but he is enjoying the benefits of the band lifestyle, women, money, status and well, more women. His childhood friend, Mitchell, is the front man with the looks and talent. Mitchell's family helped Trevor to survive his abusive childhood, and though the scars remain Trevor is mostly content. Then Mitchell meets Kerri and Trevor struggles with the changes that brings to his relationships. Gottfried explores Trevor's internal conflicts, with humour and honesty. He is happy for, but deeply envious of, the new couples happiness. He wants to hate Kerri but instead is in half in love her. He would never betray his friendship with Mitchell, and Kerri isn't interested, so Trevor finds himself having to negotiate this new situation. It's not an easy thing to do for a man whose idea of love is transient at best. However the newlywed's show Trevor a possibility he hadn't really considered before, love and commitment that makes each half of the relationship a better person. It's both intriguing and fun to watch Trevor essentially discover maturity by observing Mitchell and Kerri. Trevor is such an unique character and it is to the authors credit that the author is able to reconcile his complicated personality and emotions in a way that is genuine and sympathetic. Having witnessed Trevor's growth during the course of the novel, his medical crisis is a threat to a character that is only just starting to find his way.Gottfried's experience in the music scene shows in the details. It's a unique setting in that Shapeshifter's doesn't have the glamour that is usually exploited as a celebrity lifestyle. Tour buses are cramped and without privacy no matter how expensive they are, and concerts are not just about the music but high pressure situations that demand all the band members can give every time.Gottfried has a natural style of writing and dialogue that suits her story and characters. There is some language and explicit sexual encounters though they are not gratuitous. I felt that perhaps the pace could have been a smoother, a lot of time in the first half is set on establishing the characters but there isn't enough happening . Seeds of the events that happen in the second half could have planted earlier to hint at the things to come. I also felt that too much of the first half is Mitchell's story to tell rather than Trevor's. Though the relationship between Mitchell and Kerri is an essential part of Trevor's character growth, I think the approach could have been skewed a bit more to ensure that Trevor's perspective stayed central. Trevor's Song is Trevor's story, he is a complex individual that Susan Helen Gottfried brings to life with cheeky humour and emotional depth. This novel is a well written, contemporary story with unique and appealing characters. Gottfried is currently working on a sequel and so Trevor's refrain will continue. ( )

When I first started Trevor's Song, I could not stand Trevor. I really liked Kerri, though, although I never really understood why we also got her side of the story. However, as the book went on, I became less enamored of Kerri and began liking Trevor more and more, so much so that the ending left me going, "What? I need to know!" ( )

I read this novel in three days and couldn't put it down. It's so original, about the members of a famous rock band, and gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse into their personal lives. If you've ever wished that just once, you could be a fly on the wall to observe what your favorite celebs are like in person, you'll appreciate this book, a blend of serious situations with light moments. I liked the complex characters and their interactions. By the end of the book, you'll consider the characters friends and wish for more - luckily the author has provided more with her Demo Tapes collections, short stories and outtakes showing the characters at different points in their lives. A great read. I wish this band was real so I could hear their music. ( )

I have to admit, I didn't much like Trevor at the start of this book. He took great pleasure in annoying his friends and altered between a spoiled, narcissistic brat and a clingy, scared child. I did like his best friend, Mitchell, and had to wonder why he put up with Trevor's antics.

Despite my annoyance with Trevor, Gottfried's writing style made the story fun. Her familiarity with the music world brought vivid detail to the band's life. The dialogue and characters felt like I could have been reading the journal of a real-life young band.

About midway through the book, the story really got going. Trevor's challenges forced him to make difficult decisions that tamed his self-involved immaturity. In the end, Gottfried leaves the perfect opening for a sequel. I had a sense that all would be well and that Trevor had grown, though we might have to wait to know that for sure. ( )