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Poet Of The Wrong Generation
“It’s not that I don’t love you, and my tears are yet to dry. But you can’t go back and forth forever and we’ve already said goodbye.”
Through these words, a young poet unearths his musical soul while severing ties with the woman he loves after her stunning betrayal. Unknowingly, in writing this ballad of liberation, he will soon evolve as one of the fastest rising stars on the pop music landscape.
The year is 1991; the place, New York City. Here we meet Johnny Elias, a college student from Brooklyn with boundless adoration for two things in life: timeless popular music, and the heart of a sweet, complicated young woman who is clearly out of his league.
Megan Price not only is the object of Johnny’s affection, but also the only daughter of New York’s most powerful PR woman: the indomitable Katherine Price.
Projecting that her daughter’s boyfriend will never live up to the family standard, Katherine cleverly perpetrates a series of duplicitous schemes to rid Johnny from her high-class world. But in her callous disregard, she inadvertently sets him on a determined course to his improbable musical destiny - while sending her own daughter spiraling down a path of devastation.
Poet of the Wrong Generation tells the symmetrical story of a lovable underdog and his meteoric rise to stardom, his humiliating downfall and his unprecedented attempt to reclaim his place as the unlikely musical spokesman for his generation. At the heart of Poet is a tale of star-crossed lovers and their struggle with unforeseen success and disillusionment, in an attempt to rediscover lasting harmony.
Uniquely integrating a variety of original song compositions, Poet projects the epic clash between true contentment and the fable of stardom’s rewards; a nostalgic journey through the major events of the 1990s, with a cherished cast of characters and a stunningly unpredictable conclusion.
Through these words, a young poet unearths his musical soul while severing ties with the woman he loves after her stunning betrayal. Unknowingly, in writing this ballad of liberation, he will soon evolve as one of the fastest rising stars on the pop music landscape.
The year is 1991; the place, New York City. Here we meet Johnny Elias, a college student from Brooklyn with boundless adoration for two things in life: timeless popular music, and the heart of a sweet, complicated young woman who is clearly out of his league.
Megan Price not only is the object of Johnny’s affection, but also the only daughter of New York’s most powerful PR woman: the indomitable Katherine Price.
Projecting that her daughter’s boyfriend will never live up to the family standard, Katherine cleverly perpetrates a series of duplicitous schemes to rid Johnny from her high-class world. But in her callous disregard, she inadvertently sets him on a determined course to his improbable musical destiny - while sending her own daughter spiraling down a path of devastation.
Poet of the Wrong Generation tells the symmetrical story of a lovable underdog and his meteoric rise to stardom, his humiliating downfall and his unprecedented attempt to reclaim his place as the unlikely musical spokesman for his generation. At the heart of Poet is a tale of star-crossed lovers and their struggle with unforeseen success and disillusionment, in an attempt to rediscover lasting harmony.
Uniquely integrating a variety of original song compositions, Poet projects the epic clash between true contentment and the fable of stardom’s rewards; a nostalgic journey through the major events of the 1990s, with a cherished cast of characters and a stunningly unpredictable conclusion.
470 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2016
50 people are currently reading
726 people want to read
About the author
Lonnie Ostrow
1 book24 followersLonnie Ostrow has been an innovator, storyteller, promoter and celebrity-insider for more than two decades. With Poet Of The Wrong Generation, he combines all his unique experiences to bring you a novel of love & betrayal, music & fanfare, downfall & redemption -- a fable of stardom's rewards, set in New York City during the 1990s.
Since 2001, Mr. Ostrow has been the publicity/marketing director & researcher for the iconic best-selling novelist Barbara T. Bradford. He also serves as an editorial and marketing consultant for a collection of first-time authors through The Editorial Department. Previously he served as a PR executive, promoting an assortment of first-time celebrity authors including Ray Manzarek of The Doors.
From 1995 - 2001, Mr. Ostrow was widely credited with inventing the "living celebrity postal phenomenon." In all, he worked with more than 40 legendary personalities from Bob Dylan to the Bee Gees, Sylvester Stallone to Jackie Chan, creating high-profile media events to celebrate their postal recognition by an assortment of foreign nations.
Since 2001, Mr. Ostrow has been the publicity/marketing director & researcher for the iconic best-selling novelist Barbara T. Bradford. He also serves as an editorial and marketing consultant for a collection of first-time authors through The Editorial Department. Previously he served as a PR executive, promoting an assortment of first-time celebrity authors including Ray Manzarek of The Doors.
From 1995 - 2001, Mr. Ostrow was widely credited with inventing the "living celebrity postal phenomenon." In all, he worked with more than 40 legendary personalities from Bob Dylan to the Bee Gees, Sylvester Stallone to Jackie Chan, creating high-profile media events to celebrate their postal recognition by an assortment of foreign nations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 448 reviews
October 18, 2016
5-Stars! Poet of the Wrong Generation by Lonnie Ostrow is a true gift. It's one of those books that you fall in love with and treasure. Poet is to be savored. I never wanted to put it down, but I forced myself not to rush through it. I do that with all the books I truly love.
Johnny Elias is the essence of stardom and its rewards and drawbacks. The takeaway for me was found through Johnny's words: "Perfection is a myth. It just doesn't exist, unless we accept each other for who we are and what we've been through. Love and understanding, it's the closest we'll come to reaching it."
The writing is truly poetic, the song lyrics (poems) are incredible. And, the unexpected ending will blow you away. This novel should be made into a movie.
Grab this book as quickly as you can. You won't regret it.
Johnny Elias is the essence of stardom and its rewards and drawbacks. The takeaway for me was found through Johnny's words: "Perfection is a myth. It just doesn't exist, unless we accept each other for who we are and what we've been through. Love and understanding, it's the closest we'll come to reaching it."
The writing is truly poetic, the song lyrics (poems) are incredible. And, the unexpected ending will blow you away. This novel should be made into a movie.
Grab this book as quickly as you can. You won't regret it.
November 9, 2016
5 stars
RELEASE DATE: November 10, 2016
“It’s not that I don’t love you, and my tears are yet to dry. But you can’t go back and forth forever and we’ve already said goodbye.”
Through these words, a young poet unearths his musical soul while severing ties with the woman he loves after her stunning betrayal. Unknowingly, in writing this ballad of liberation, he will soon evolve as one of the fastest rising stars on the pop music landscape.
The year is 1991; the place, New York City. Here we meet Johnny Elias, a college student from Brooklyn with boundless adoration for two things in life: timeless popular music, and the heart of a sweet, complicated young woman who is clearly out of his league.
Megan Price not only is the object of Johnny’s affection, but also the only daughter of New York’s most powerful PR woman: the indomitable Katherine Price.
Projecting that her daughter’s boyfriend will never live up to the family standard, Katherine cleverly perpetrates a series of duplicitous schemes to rid Johnny from her high-class world. But in her callous disregard, she inadvertently sets him on a determined course to his improbable musical destiny - while sending her own daughter spiraling down a path of devastation.
Poet of the Wrong Generation tells the symmetrical story of a lovable underdog and his meteoric rise to stardom, his humiliating downfall and his unprecedented attempt to reclaim his place as the unlikely musical spokesman for his generation. At the heart of Poet is a tale of star-crossed lovers and their struggle with unforeseen success and disillusionment, in an attempt to rediscover lasting harmony.
Uniquely integrating a variety of original song compositions, Poet projects the epic clash between true contentment and the fable of stardom’s rewards; a nostalgic journey through the major events of the 1990s, with a cherished cast of characters and a stunningly unpredictable conclusion.
•••••
REVIEW: POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION by Lonnie Ostrow is an amazing and cleverly written, contemporary romance story of fiction following musician Johnny Elias, and the woman he loves Megan Price.
Told from several third person points of view, POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION covers approximately six years in the life, beginning in 1991, of contemporary singer/song writer and poet Johnny Elias –from his early days in college to his meteoric rise to fame and fortune, and the eventual downfall, not of his making. The reader is front and center as twenty one year old Johnny Elias enters into the world of an upstart musician working his way to the top. Before Johnny’s life begins its quick ascent he will lose the one person who keeps his heart beating and his soul alive. Megan’s rejection of the boy that she loves is the perfect muse for our story line hero, and with it comes the fame and notoriety of celebrity status and the fortunes of success…but jealousy, revenge and betrayal are accomplices to Johnny’s fall from grace- a fall that is triggered by someone from his past.
POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION is an astonishing and profound story; a unique look at one man’s climb to the top only to be destroyed by someone else’s greed, ambition, and need for retribution and revenge; a story of forbidden love between two people whose lives will be destroyed by resentment, the hunger for power, and a need to control. Lonnie Ostrow’s POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION is a masterpiece of literary fiction for today’s generation and the next. Make POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION your next go-to read and enjoy!
Copy supplied by the publisher for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
RELEASE DATE: November 10, 2016
“It’s not that I don’t love you, and my tears are yet to dry. But you can’t go back and forth forever and we’ve already said goodbye.”
Through these words, a young poet unearths his musical soul while severing ties with the woman he loves after her stunning betrayal. Unknowingly, in writing this ballad of liberation, he will soon evolve as one of the fastest rising stars on the pop music landscape.
The year is 1991; the place, New York City. Here we meet Johnny Elias, a college student from Brooklyn with boundless adoration for two things in life: timeless popular music, and the heart of a sweet, complicated young woman who is clearly out of his league.
Megan Price not only is the object of Johnny’s affection, but also the only daughter of New York’s most powerful PR woman: the indomitable Katherine Price.
Projecting that her daughter’s boyfriend will never live up to the family standard, Katherine cleverly perpetrates a series of duplicitous schemes to rid Johnny from her high-class world. But in her callous disregard, she inadvertently sets him on a determined course to his improbable musical destiny - while sending her own daughter spiraling down a path of devastation.
Poet of the Wrong Generation tells the symmetrical story of a lovable underdog and his meteoric rise to stardom, his humiliating downfall and his unprecedented attempt to reclaim his place as the unlikely musical spokesman for his generation. At the heart of Poet is a tale of star-crossed lovers and their struggle with unforeseen success and disillusionment, in an attempt to rediscover lasting harmony.
Uniquely integrating a variety of original song compositions, Poet projects the epic clash between true contentment and the fable of stardom’s rewards; a nostalgic journey through the major events of the 1990s, with a cherished cast of characters and a stunningly unpredictable conclusion.
•••••
REVIEW: POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION by Lonnie Ostrow is an amazing and cleverly written, contemporary romance story of fiction following musician Johnny Elias, and the woman he loves Megan Price.
Told from several third person points of view, POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION covers approximately six years in the life, beginning in 1991, of contemporary singer/song writer and poet Johnny Elias –from his early days in college to his meteoric rise to fame and fortune, and the eventual downfall, not of his making. The reader is front and center as twenty one year old Johnny Elias enters into the world of an upstart musician working his way to the top. Before Johnny’s life begins its quick ascent he will lose the one person who keeps his heart beating and his soul alive. Megan’s rejection of the boy that she loves is the perfect muse for our story line hero, and with it comes the fame and notoriety of celebrity status and the fortunes of success…but jealousy, revenge and betrayal are accomplices to Johnny’s fall from grace- a fall that is triggered by someone from his past.
POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION is an astonishing and profound story; a unique look at one man’s climb to the top only to be destroyed by someone else’s greed, ambition, and need for retribution and revenge; a story of forbidden love between two people whose lives will be destroyed by resentment, the hunger for power, and a need to control. Lonnie Ostrow’s POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION is a masterpiece of literary fiction for today’s generation and the next. Make POET OF THE WRONG GENERATION your next go-to read and enjoy!
Copy supplied by the publisher for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
November 8, 2016
Where can I buy the movie-rights?
Poet of the wrong generation has something for everyone. Ultimately, it’s a love story. The love of rock-n-roll; the love of poetry and music; and the love between a man a woman, a father and his estranged son, a controlling mother and her vulnerable daughter. Lonnie has created characters that are well-thought out, complex, and with whom we can identify. We grow to love Johnny Elias, the talented poet and musician, despite his all too human flaws, and we root for his return to Meghan, the love of his life, despite the mistakes she is pushed into making. Katherine Price, is the consummate nemesis, in the vein of Katharine Parker (Working Girl) and Miranda Priestly (the Devil Wears Prada), a powerful business woman who will stop at nothing to ensure the future she believes is best for her daughter. The compelling narrative is interspersed with poetic, though-provoking musical lyrics, heightening the experience of the reader.
Mr. Ostrow, time to start working on the sequel, as readers will come away wanting to know more of the ballad of Johnny and Megan.
Poet of the wrong generation has something for everyone. Ultimately, it’s a love story. The love of rock-n-roll; the love of poetry and music; and the love between a man a woman, a father and his estranged son, a controlling mother and her vulnerable daughter. Lonnie has created characters that are well-thought out, complex, and with whom we can identify. We grow to love Johnny Elias, the talented poet and musician, despite his all too human flaws, and we root for his return to Meghan, the love of his life, despite the mistakes she is pushed into making. Katherine Price, is the consummate nemesis, in the vein of Katharine Parker (Working Girl) and Miranda Priestly (the Devil Wears Prada), a powerful business woman who will stop at nothing to ensure the future she believes is best for her daughter. The compelling narrative is interspersed with poetic, though-provoking musical lyrics, heightening the experience of the reader.
Mr. Ostrow, time to start working on the sequel, as readers will come away wanting to know more of the ballad of Johnny and Megan.
November 4, 2016
4.5 stars
“No one can rationalize why something so positively beautiful comes from the depths of our pain. I guess that’s what classifies art and artists among life’s ironies…..there would never be a love song if folks were always happy.”
What a soulful emotional and beautiful story! Music themed romances are one of our favourites, though all too often we find the focus weighs heavily on the sex and romance factor of the story, missing the all-important music ‘feel‘ we crave from this theme. As much as we love the romance, we equally hunger the musical aspect; we want to live in the moment, breathe in the enthusiasm and experience the inspiration and the atmosphere behind the scenes.
And on that note, we can declare Lonnie Ostrow’s Poet of a Wrong Generation, a fictional love story between a rock star and the woman who would always claim his heart, set in New York and peppered with real events that shaped our lives delivered with a musical landscape that spoke to our hearts and it was everything we could possibly desire. A real, raw, compelling and heartbreakingly emotional story that at times read like a memoir.
“Perfection is a myth. It just doesn’t exist, unless we accept each other for who we are and what we’ve been through. Love and understanding, it’s the closest we’ll come to reaching it.”
If you’ve ever been inspired by a love song, if a songwriters words have ever spoken directly to you, if you’ve ever felt so overcome with emotion watching your favourite singer/band bringing their words to life in concert, then THIS story is for you. Lonnie Ostrow has spectacularly, truthfully, intensely and vividly captured the heart and soul of a musician with his beautiful words and stunning writing.
‘For one breathtaking moment, two tortured, wandering souls had rediscovered a common spiritual bond.’
If you’re looking for a sex, drugs and rock and roll romance with a self-destructive hero you won’t find it here but what you will experience is a soulful story of a love that refused to die, of a sensitive, talented man whose meteoric rise to fame was inspired by pain, heartbreak and lost love and for whom, fame would come at a price.
It’s August 1991 when we meet 22 year old Johnny Elias; a sensitive, poetic young man whose sole existence revolves around his girlfriend Megan. Johnny, together with Megan, his best friend Andy and Andy’s girlfriend, Jacqui, are enjoying the Paul Simons free concert in Central Park. They have a life full of endless possibilities before them, yet neither could foresee the twist their lives would take after that day, both good and bad.
“Remember: life isn’t calculated in years and days. It’s measured in moments.”
After being hurt and betrayed by Megan following a miscommunication, theirs would be a break up which would see Johnny pen some of the most beautifully evocative, relevant and wistful songs that would launch his career into stratospheric proportions, with critics declaring him the ‘Dylan of his generation.’ In a market swamped with techno and nonsense pop songs, Johnny struck a chord with his meaningful lyrics. Having been signed by Highpeak records, Johnny quickly rose to fame until a bitter cruel manipulation saw him fighting for survival in the fickle music scene.
“The boy you walked away from – the one scribbling in a poetry notebook – he’s become a man with this crazy career.”
Poet of the Wrong Generation at its heart is Johnny’s story. Despite having everything he could want materially, all Johnny craved was stability, love and someone to share in his success. It’s a story of strength, friendship loyalty and love, of a man who never lost sight of who he was, who retained his dignity in the face of continual betrayal. One betrayal would see him rise above and pour his heart out in lyrics, another would shatter his confidence, his world and his heart.
“You were my support system. My reason to believe that life could actually mean something besides endless transition…”
We did find Megan irritating at first and wanted to shake some sense into her, though we knew her actions were not out malice, but merely a young girl still trying to find herself and assert her independence against her strong willed, manipulative and cruel mother.
We devoured this book and everything about it felt so real… until the last 10% when sadly the story took a turn that just didn’t work for us. Whilst we can understand why the author introduced this drama, we felt it was delivered too late and was rather unnecessary. This turn of events felt like overkill, leaving us feeling a little flat in an otherwise honest, gut wrenching and beautifully outstanding story.
The author has indicated he may pen a sequel and if that’s the case, we’ll be all over it because for 90% of this book we were completely swept up in this wistful, potent, captivating, hypnotic fictional memoir, loving every minute and expecting it to be a perfect 5 star read. Had it not been for the drama in the very last part of the book, it most definitely would have been because this book is very special. Now, this is our opinion and the events we alluded to probably won’t bother other readers as it did us.
Poet of the Wrong Generation releases 10th November - Can be Pre Ordered Below
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December 4, 2016
Wow! I have been reading this book for a while and I got it as an ARC from the publishing company that represents Mr. Ostrow. Poet of the Wrong Generation by Lonnie Ostrow is truly an inspiring read. This book started off as a college assignment and now I feel like for Mr. Ostrow that it’s going to be a bestseller. In this review, I am going to be trying something different like identify who the protagonist, the main secondary character, and the antagonist are in the books.
The main character of Poet of the Wrong Generation by Lonnie Ostrow is, of course, Johnny Elias as he goes through the motions of everything that happens to him in this book. We start out with Johnny Elias looking at his stuff as he is packing up to move somewhere when he uncovers a picture taken back in 1991. He goes through the heartbreak of losing his first love with Megan Price, starts his musical career, ends his musical career because of Katherine Price, lives in solitude for a long time, starts creating new music, restarted his musical career, and tries to get back to living with Megan Price. What I liked about Johnny Elias is that he is an interesting character who is easy to relate to. He was in the foster care system and didn’t get out until he was an adult. I also like his strength as he was able to get through his heartbreak no matter how tough it was for him. He worked hard and continued until he got where he wanted to be. What I didn’t like about Johnny Elias is that when his career was going down the tube, he didn’t try to take down the one person that he knew was behind it all. Instead of facing this person he took it and hid away. I like to think of myself a good person, but I really wanted him to at least tell her off. I guess now after I am done reading the book, I get why Johnny did it because everything was happening way too fast for him, he wasn’t getting a break to actually work on writing the songs. Then there was the fact that his record company wanted out of him. Johnny is a very interesting and confusing character. Johnny ended up becoming a really good guy at the very end and proving it to everyone.
In Poet of the Wrong Generation by Lonnie Ostrow, there are a lot of secondary characters that are very important in both Johnny’s life and Megan’s life. The second character that I deem would be very appropriate for this is Katherine Price. Katherine Price is the secondary character for both Johnny and Megan in the ways that she is the one that wanted the best for her daughter while pushing Johnny to achieve things that weren’t really in his grasp. Katherine is a very complicated secondary character. What I liked about her is that she cares about her family even though she goes about it in a very unrespectful way. Katherine was really the one that was the motivating shove, pushing her daughter into dating other people while still dating Johnny. If she hadn't done this, he probably would have never written the songs for his first album and her daughter might not have had another very important person in her life. What I really didn’t like about Kathrine was that she was stuck up about not wanting her daughter to be with Johnny because she didn’t want her high-class daughter to be with low-class Johnny.
The antagonist is Megan Price. She does want to be with Johnny Elias but she let her mom set her up with many guys and ended up with one that turned out to be a bad choice for her. Megan is the oldest of Katherine’s two children and is the one that Katherine wants to have the best out of life. That includes a great love life that will propel her into life. Except Megan found love in the worst possible person in her mother’s eyes and when Megan tried to keep it going with Johnny her mother went into full battle mode. I started to like when she finally tried being her own person, by being there for Johnny to show him that she loved him. However, sadly she had to lose Johnny and be put in a horrible position, to become strong enough to stop trying to please her mom. What I didn’t like about Megan was that she couldn’t stand up to her mother about anything in the beginning. She continued to please her mom even when it made her and Johnny miserable.
The thing that moves me about the story is that here is this sweet guy living in Brooklyn, New York and he is dating a high-class girl like Megan, they are both in love with each other. Yet they have this one huge problem and that is Megan’s inability to tell her mother no. Which makes it hard on Johnny who wants to spend time with Megan but can’t because her mom keeps getting in the way of their relationship. Despite the hardships that they faced they ended up living good lives away from each other but can’t help to feel that they left their relationship without finishing it and they finally get that chance after many years have passed for them both.
The setting of the story first started off in New York, then moves around as Johnny is on tour, then some time later it was mixed between New York and Connecticut and then we end the book in New York once again. I believe that Mr. Ostrow did a wonderful job and conveyed enough information to make it seem real.
My favorite supporting characters are Andy Raymer and Jacqui Raymer. The reason I like them is despite everything Andy has stayed with Johnny. If it weren’t for Johnny he probably wouldn’t have gotten Jacqui back. These two are very special in Johnny’s life as they helped him throughout everything including keeping track of his fan base after he stopped singing and kept it going even though his management company wasn’t “managing Johnny Elias” anymore. Andy was and is Johnny’s manager, while Jacqui was the one that did his artwork for his albums and singles as well. If it wasn’t for the two of them he probably wouldn’t have got as good a contract as he did at the recording company. These two helped Johnny through everything in his life be it his professional or just his daily life, Johnny always went to the two of them to get their opinion
The most memorable thing in the book for me was probably Johnny’s musical career going off the way it did. Just wow, there he is, and then plummeting down to nothing through all the rumors. Then people still remembering Johnny after he took time away from the limelight for a bit. People still knew who he was and wanted to hear more of his music.
Poet of the Wrong Generation by Lonnie Ostrow is an awesome writer and this book is amazing. It had me talking about it every single time I would put it down to return to my reality. In the end, this book is a five star rating and I am happy to read and give an honest review for ARC of this book. I know that Mr. Ostrow has a bestseller on his hands and that I hope everyone will enjoy this book as much as I did.
Anyways until the next time enjoy this book review brought to you by
Baroness’ Book Trove
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PUBLISHER ASKED ME TO READ AND GIVE AN HONEST REVIEW FOR THIS BOOK!
To read other reviews like this one please go to my blog: baronessbooktrove.com
The main character of Poet of the Wrong Generation by Lonnie Ostrow is, of course, Johnny Elias as he goes through the motions of everything that happens to him in this book. We start out with Johnny Elias looking at his stuff as he is packing up to move somewhere when he uncovers a picture taken back in 1991. He goes through the heartbreak of losing his first love with Megan Price, starts his musical career, ends his musical career because of Katherine Price, lives in solitude for a long time, starts creating new music, restarted his musical career, and tries to get back to living with Megan Price. What I liked about Johnny Elias is that he is an interesting character who is easy to relate to. He was in the foster care system and didn’t get out until he was an adult. I also like his strength as he was able to get through his heartbreak no matter how tough it was for him. He worked hard and continued until he got where he wanted to be. What I didn’t like about Johnny Elias is that when his career was going down the tube, he didn’t try to take down the one person that he knew was behind it all. Instead of facing this person he took it and hid away. I like to think of myself a good person, but I really wanted him to at least tell her off. I guess now after I am done reading the book, I get why Johnny did it because everything was happening way too fast for him, he wasn’t getting a break to actually work on writing the songs. Then there was the fact that his record company wanted out of him. Johnny is a very interesting and confusing character. Johnny ended up becoming a really good guy at the very end and proving it to everyone.
In Poet of the Wrong Generation by Lonnie Ostrow, there are a lot of secondary characters that are very important in both Johnny’s life and Megan’s life. The second character that I deem would be very appropriate for this is Katherine Price. Katherine Price is the secondary character for both Johnny and Megan in the ways that she is the one that wanted the best for her daughter while pushing Johnny to achieve things that weren’t really in his grasp. Katherine is a very complicated secondary character. What I liked about her is that she cares about her family even though she goes about it in a very unrespectful way. Katherine was really the one that was the motivating shove, pushing her daughter into dating other people while still dating Johnny. If she hadn't done this, he probably would have never written the songs for his first album and her daughter might not have had another very important person in her life. What I really didn’t like about Kathrine was that she was stuck up about not wanting her daughter to be with Johnny because she didn’t want her high-class daughter to be with low-class Johnny.
The antagonist is Megan Price. She does want to be with Johnny Elias but she let her mom set her up with many guys and ended up with one that turned out to be a bad choice for her. Megan is the oldest of Katherine’s two children and is the one that Katherine wants to have the best out of life. That includes a great love life that will propel her into life. Except Megan found love in the worst possible person in her mother’s eyes and when Megan tried to keep it going with Johnny her mother went into full battle mode. I started to like when she finally tried being her own person, by being there for Johnny to show him that she loved him. However, sadly she had to lose Johnny and be put in a horrible position, to become strong enough to stop trying to please her mom. What I didn’t like about Megan was that she couldn’t stand up to her mother about anything in the beginning. She continued to please her mom even when it made her and Johnny miserable.
The thing that moves me about the story is that here is this sweet guy living in Brooklyn, New York and he is dating a high-class girl like Megan, they are both in love with each other. Yet they have this one huge problem and that is Megan’s inability to tell her mother no. Which makes it hard on Johnny who wants to spend time with Megan but can’t because her mom keeps getting in the way of their relationship. Despite the hardships that they faced they ended up living good lives away from each other but can’t help to feel that they left their relationship without finishing it and they finally get that chance after many years have passed for them both.
The setting of the story first started off in New York, then moves around as Johnny is on tour, then some time later it was mixed between New York and Connecticut and then we end the book in New York once again. I believe that Mr. Ostrow did a wonderful job and conveyed enough information to make it seem real.
My favorite supporting characters are Andy Raymer and Jacqui Raymer. The reason I like them is despite everything Andy has stayed with Johnny. If it weren’t for Johnny he probably wouldn’t have gotten Jacqui back. These two are very special in Johnny’s life as they helped him throughout everything including keeping track of his fan base after he stopped singing and kept it going even though his management company wasn’t “managing Johnny Elias” anymore. Andy was and is Johnny’s manager, while Jacqui was the one that did his artwork for his albums and singles as well. If it wasn’t for the two of them he probably wouldn’t have got as good a contract as he did at the recording company. These two helped Johnny through everything in his life be it his professional or just his daily life, Johnny always went to the two of them to get their opinion
The most memorable thing in the book for me was probably Johnny’s musical career going off the way it did. Just wow, there he is, and then plummeting down to nothing through all the rumors. Then people still remembering Johnny after he took time away from the limelight for a bit. People still knew who he was and wanted to hear more of his music.
Poet of the Wrong Generation by Lonnie Ostrow is an awesome writer and this book is amazing. It had me talking about it every single time I would put it down to return to my reality. In the end, this book is a five star rating and I am happy to read and give an honest review for ARC of this book. I know that Mr. Ostrow has a bestseller on his hands and that I hope everyone will enjoy this book as much as I did.
Anyways until the next time enjoy this book review brought to you by
Baroness’ Book Trove
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PUBLISHER ASKED ME TO READ AND GIVE AN HONEST REVIEW FOR THIS BOOK!
To read other reviews like this one please go to my blog: baronessbooktrove.com
October 31, 2016
Captivating. A book not just to be read, but experienced.
This book takes off in the 90's during a free concert in Central Park with Johnny and his girl Megan, and friend Andy. As Andy wanders off in search of those bootleg t-shirts he comes back with a lovely Brit in tow Jacqui. Johnny is a writer/poet. Even at the concert his notebook and pen in hand taking in all he sees around him and puts it on paper. You know from the start that Megan and Johnny are meant to be.
Megan is from money, her mother Katherine (dare I call her that) a heavy hitting self made PR woman; manipulative and cunning this woman takes no prisoners. There's no love lost between she and Johnny and she does what she does best. Drives a wedge between her daughter and the boy. His betrayal so raw he sits and pens a song about what has happened. He's in college as is his friend Andy, Jacqui is here attending school as well when she gets called home because of her father. When he passes, she remains in England. Andy is devastated. Johnny writes a song.
While in school Johnny meets and older song writer who has returned to school determined to get his degree so he can teach. Howard sees something in Johnny, he helps him along. Helps fine tune his gift meanwhile taking his music to a friend at a music label. Pulling together some old friends, Howard gives Johnny a little studio band and the label falls in love with him. Singer-songwriters in the 90's are long gone. Johnny is one of the rare treasures that don't come along often. At the same time Megan's life changes dramatically as well.
His career takes off in a huge way. A tour. Social obligations. And then there is Megan's mother Katherine, ready to cut this boy off at the knees. For no other reason than because she can. Without defense Johnny retreats to Connecticut where he lives alone, goes back to school learns to play guitar and basically removes himself from life for 5 years.
There are some things that transpire leading Johnny back into the music arena. Jacqui and Andy are married. His friends are firmly rooted in their lives. With the help of a couple of old friends he makes his re-entry into music in a huge way and also with Megan.
There aren't enough good things to say about this book. It's moving, emotional, captivating, the music and songs accompany the book (they'll wreck you) and I couldn't put this one down. Lonny Ostrow is a gifted writer. This book with it's twists and turns, magic and emotion will take you on one of the most wonder filled and painful journeys in life. Honestly I hope this makes the NY Times list. It's uncomplicated simplicity is as complex as one of Johnny's songs. He is the Poet of the Wrong Generation.
**arc from NetGalley and Publisher** in exchange for an honest review.
This book takes off in the 90's during a free concert in Central Park with Johnny and his girl Megan, and friend Andy. As Andy wanders off in search of those bootleg t-shirts he comes back with a lovely Brit in tow Jacqui. Johnny is a writer/poet. Even at the concert his notebook and pen in hand taking in all he sees around him and puts it on paper. You know from the start that Megan and Johnny are meant to be.
Megan is from money, her mother Katherine (dare I call her that) a heavy hitting self made PR woman; manipulative and cunning this woman takes no prisoners. There's no love lost between she and Johnny and she does what she does best. Drives a wedge between her daughter and the boy. His betrayal so raw he sits and pens a song about what has happened. He's in college as is his friend Andy, Jacqui is here attending school as well when she gets called home because of her father. When he passes, she remains in England. Andy is devastated. Johnny writes a song.
While in school Johnny meets and older song writer who has returned to school determined to get his degree so he can teach. Howard sees something in Johnny, he helps him along. Helps fine tune his gift meanwhile taking his music to a friend at a music label. Pulling together some old friends, Howard gives Johnny a little studio band and the label falls in love with him. Singer-songwriters in the 90's are long gone. Johnny is one of the rare treasures that don't come along often. At the same time Megan's life changes dramatically as well.
His career takes off in a huge way. A tour. Social obligations. And then there is Megan's mother Katherine, ready to cut this boy off at the knees. For no other reason than because she can. Without defense Johnny retreats to Connecticut where he lives alone, goes back to school learns to play guitar and basically removes himself from life for 5 years.
There are some things that transpire leading Johnny back into the music arena. Jacqui and Andy are married. His friends are firmly rooted in their lives. With the help of a couple of old friends he makes his re-entry into music in a huge way and also with Megan.
There aren't enough good things to say about this book. It's moving, emotional, captivating, the music and songs accompany the book (they'll wreck you) and I couldn't put this one down. Lonny Ostrow is a gifted writer. This book with it's twists and turns, magic and emotion will take you on one of the most wonder filled and painful journeys in life. Honestly I hope this makes the NY Times list. It's uncomplicated simplicity is as complex as one of Johnny's songs. He is the Poet of the Wrong Generation.
**arc from NetGalley and Publisher** in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2016
Curl up in a comfortable chair and settle in for a highly entertaining read. Poet of the Wrong Generation opens with "poet" Johnny Elias reminiscing about a simpler times he shared with his former love, Megan Price. With youth, optimism and the promise of a future together Johnny and Megan close out their summer together with friends, new and old at a monumental concert in New York's Central Park. The simplicity and innocence of their love is soon shattered by Megan's interfering mother. Manipulated and betrayed, Johnny pours his heartbreak into his poetry which in turn he turns into music. Success and fame follow, but is it satisfying? Is it hollow? The book is definitely a journey worth taking. Set in 1990s New York, Ostrow weaves Johnny and Megan's story as well as the stories of the supporting characters with love and charm and an insiders view to the music industry. But if that wasn't enough, "Johnny's" music literally comes to life in Ostrow's hands. Check out lonnieostrow.com to hear the original music created, by Ostrow for the novel....yes, a book with an original soundtrack!!
February 10, 2017
I'm truly delighted to receive so many thoughtful and glowing reviews for my debut novel, Poet Of The Wrong Generation. This is extraordinarily flattering to be met with such encouraging feedback after working tirelessly on this novel for more than a decade. Thank you to each and every one of you who have taken this journey with me back to the 1990s with my pop star protagonist, Johnny Elias and his wide array of companions. I look forward to your continued feedback as many more of you finish reading my musical story of love and betrayal, fame and redemption.
May 23, 2017
There’s really no other book that I can compare this one to. And I write this in a good way. Fiction and romance have never really used rock stardom as the vehicle before. But here comes Johnny Elias, a likeable young man from Brooklyn who grew up in foster homes, dreaming of rock stardom. And then incredibly (and through great personal pain) he actually becomes one. Only the idea of stardom is not nearly as glamorous as his daydreams promised it to be. Instead of finding stability and happiness, he is under constant pressure to top each success with the next tour, album, appearance, etc. And his love life is a mess. The girl whose betrayal inspired his music is nearly destroyed by Johnny’s success. And finding a “normal” relationship when you’ve become an overnight superstar proves a great challenge. Johnny sees his career crash and burn almost as quickly as it evolved. But time and distance give our protagonist a renewed appreciation for all the things he left behind. But is it too late for him to win back the girl of his dreams and reignite his stalled career? You won’t actually know these answers until the very final page… if then.
Disclosure: I was supplied with a reading copy by the publisher.
Disclosure: I was supplied with a reading copy by the publisher.
December 25, 2016
So touching and original. This story will break your heart and uplift your soul. It's wonderfully nostalgic for those of us who grew up in the 1990s. So many musical references are packed into this story that celebrates the great singer-songwriters, including the main character, Johnny Elias, who rises to become the unlikely poet of his generation with beautifully written songs of love, mistrust and current events in his time. Highly recommended. Beautifully written.
September 8, 2016
Yes, Poet Of The Wrong Generation is about a fictional rock star and the girl who broke his heart. But even more intriguing is Katherine Price, the villain pulling the strings throughout. She may initially have her own daughter’s best interests at heart. Then she just loses it and uses all her PR and political connections to destroy the young man who her daughter never stopped loving. If you love a great antihero, Katherine Price will make your skin crawl in the most satisfying way.
Harmony River Press sent me a reading copy ahead of publication.
Harmony River Press sent me a reading copy ahead of publication.
April 16, 2017
Poetic perfection of word artistry, with a tale heartwarmingly priceless in its authenticity. I loved every detail this inspiring author created in my mind and the precious memories which came flooding back to me which I related to in this excellent story.
March 14, 2017
This is not the only rages to riches, super cool rock star romance I've ever read, but it's the best one out there.
Meet, Johnny Elias, a guy in love with beautiful Megan Price.
They both share their love but like Romeo and Juliet--family gets involved. And so, family crushes Johnny's hopes and dreams. Crushes...like...
Destroyed and left with nothing, Johnny pours everything in the songs he writes. Hate, love, despair, agony. Everything. And these songs are all written for Megan.
Now, you won't find me spoiling the rest, I only have pure respect for the story that made me stay up all night, hoping for our two lovers success while watching how stardom and fame is still a job. An exciting job, but there's compelling background to the world of records and songs this story boldly and beautifully tells.
If you want entertainment and a worthy telling of a rock star story that's really how it is, this amazing, clean love story is for you!
Heck, this story is for everyone.
Meet, Johnny Elias, a guy in love with beautiful Megan Price.
They both share their love but like Romeo and Juliet--family gets involved. And so, family crushes Johnny's hopes and dreams. Crushes...like...
Destroyed and left with nothing, Johnny pours everything in the songs he writes. Hate, love, despair, agony. Everything. And these songs are all written for Megan.
Now, you won't find me spoiling the rest, I only have pure respect for the story that made me stay up all night, hoping for our two lovers success while watching how stardom and fame is still a job. An exciting job, but there's compelling background to the world of records and songs this story boldly and beautifully tells.
If you want entertainment and a worthy telling of a rock star story that's really how it is, this amazing, clean love story is for you!
Heck, this story is for everyone.
November 4, 2016
4.5 stars
“No one can rationalize why something so positively beautiful comes from the depths of our pain. I guess that’s what classifies art and artists among life’s ironies…..there would never be a love song if folks were always happy.”
Poet of the Wrong Generation at its heart is Johnny’s story. Despite having everything he could want materially, all Johnny craved was stability, love and someone to share in his success. It’s a story of strength, friendship loyalty and love, of a man who never lost sight of who he was, who retained his dignity in the face of continual betrayal. One betrayal would see him rise above and pour his heart out in lyrics, another would shatter his confidence, his world and his heart.
We devoured this book and everything about it felt so real… See more of this Review at TotallyBookedBlog
Poet of the Wrong Generation releases 10th November - Can be Pre Ordered Below
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May 16, 2017
When this was first offered to me for review, I turned it down. The pitch email didn't really impress me mainly because I was enjoying reading my recently bought books. You know that feeling of a book blogger having new books bought in bulk lol so anyway the author sent me some marketing materials and saw the music video. Wow! It was really good, made me admit to the author I was wrong about saying no to him. The book also turned out sooo good, loved it so much!
I have so many good things to say about the book but I'll make this brief to avoid giving out spoilers. Poet of the Wrong Generation is an inspirational read about love, friendship and the ups and downs of life. I fell in love with the characters especially the main one, Johnny. He was just a simple guy who is into music and poems, happy and contented with his life. He never thought a nasty break-up would lead to his success in the music industry. The story is pretty well written and I liked that the dialogue felt authentic.
As for Megan, I can relate to her. Doing things she doesn't like/does not approve of, just to make other people happy. My heart ache for her, so heartbroken thinking about the choices she made that led to her unhappiness.
I highly recommend this book, without a doubt, you'll enjoy reading this too!
I have so many good things to say about the book but I'll make this brief to avoid giving out spoilers. Poet of the Wrong Generation is an inspirational read about love, friendship and the ups and downs of life. I fell in love with the characters especially the main one, Johnny. He was just a simple guy who is into music and poems, happy and contented with his life. He never thought a nasty break-up would lead to his success in the music industry. The story is pretty well written and I liked that the dialogue felt authentic.
As for Megan, I can relate to her. Doing things she doesn't like/does not approve of, just to make other people happy. My heart ache for her, so heartbroken thinking about the choices she made that led to her unhappiness.
I highly recommend this book, without a doubt, you'll enjoy reading this too!
April 26, 2017
Loved this book!
Admittedly I am not a fan of novels or fiction.
But after picking up this book, it was impossible to put down.
The author draws you in with the story of underdog musician Johnny Elias and his rise to fame. The struggles he faces regarding finding and holding onto true love are quite intense! Loved experiencing the main character's journey.
I highly recommend this fantastic book.
Admittedly I am not a fan of novels or fiction.
But after picking up this book, it was impossible to put down.
The author draws you in with the story of underdog musician Johnny Elias and his rise to fame. The struggles he faces regarding finding and holding onto true love are quite intense! Loved experiencing the main character's journey.
I highly recommend this fantastic book.
March 26, 2017
Poet of the Wrong Generation succeeds on many levels. It’s about love and friendship, the workings of the music industry, and a warning on the perils of success. But what I gained most from the book was the statement it made about how our arts reflect the current state of our culture (and vice versa), using the music popular at time of the story as the example. It’s always special when a book not only entertains you, but gets you to see things in a way you haven’t before, spawning new concepts and ideas. Thank you, Mr. Ostrow, for your insightful creation.
May 5, 2017
There’s never been a book quite like Poet Of The Wrong Generation. Here is a novel about a singer/songwriter who is inspired to write a series of songs when his longtime love breaks his heart. But we don’t just get the gist of his songs. We get the real thing. These are some remarkably beautiful songs (which you can hear on YouTube, or the author’s website). A book with a soundtrack… and a memorable story of love, fame, destruction and redemption. The conclusion is something you will never forget. An attempt to “steal” one last free concert in Central Park and win back a fan base after years of seclusion. It also leaves you guessing to the end about whether Johnny and Megan will finally find lasting happiness. I won’t ruin the ending for you, but go and download your copy today. You’ll thank me later.
Harmony River Press supplied a review copy ahead of publication.
Harmony River Press supplied a review copy ahead of publication.
October 25, 2017
Reviewed by Julie on www.whisperingstories.com
Clearly no stranger to the literary world, American author Lonnie Ostrow gives us; ‘Poet of the Wrong Generation’. The helpful prologue sets the framework for what is to come and we can make sense of the title from the beginning of the book, which is always a bonus. The cover design is colourful and eye-catching and will definitely attract the attention of the casual browser.
The chapters are evenly spaced and quite short which provide helpful natural breaks if reading time is limited to a few minutes. We join the story in August 1991 and the action is then spread over the following years. It is written in the third person, usually from Johnny’s perspective but occasionally from that of one of his supporting cast. We get a smattering of backstory and know from early on that Johnny hasn’t had the most fortunate of starts in life.
The author has clearly played to his own strengths when constructing the plot and I admire the innovative use of original song lyrics. Johnny has some strong foils, in particular college chums, Andy and Jacqui as well as his girlfriend, Megan. Ostrow also throws in a few famous names to add a bit of authenticity to the idea that Johnny is a new face among an illustrious contemporary crowd.
This is in essence a love story with the inevitable hurdles one expects from an engaging novel.
It is testimony to the skill of the author that the reader actually cares so much about Johnny and what happens to him. We watch in horror as the boy from Brooklyn and the girl from Fifth Avenue are wrenched apart by the machinations of Megan’s manipulative mother.
Katherine Price is the epitome of the influential business woman and all round social snob and is by far the most colourful character in the book. It would be a truly delicious role to play, should this book ever make it to the silver screen. Her crass attempt to reunite her daughter with her first love once he becomes a successful artist is clumsy in the extreme and completely transparent as she tells Megan she is; ‘allowing this parasite peasant to reclaim his cherished soul mate …’
Like many musical careers before and since, it only takes a few malicious rumours for the fickle world of glitter and glamour to turn its back on Johnny, leaving him at his lowest ebb. However, his multi-faceted personality dictates that he will not to be bowed by a downturn in circumstances as he sets about rebuilding his life, drawing on qualities of loyalty, altruism, determination and ultimately, generosity of spirit.
This is a sophisticated read which doesn’t rely on padding or superfluous sex scenes to fill its pages. The pace never falters and if you enjoy a love story with soul-searching, self-discovery and a bit of heart-ache along the way, then this book is for you. I congratulate Lonnie Ostrow on a well-constructed story and award ‘Poet of the Wrong Generation’ five stars.
Clearly no stranger to the literary world, American author Lonnie Ostrow gives us; ‘Poet of the Wrong Generation’. The helpful prologue sets the framework for what is to come and we can make sense of the title from the beginning of the book, which is always a bonus. The cover design is colourful and eye-catching and will definitely attract the attention of the casual browser.
The chapters are evenly spaced and quite short which provide helpful natural breaks if reading time is limited to a few minutes. We join the story in August 1991 and the action is then spread over the following years. It is written in the third person, usually from Johnny’s perspective but occasionally from that of one of his supporting cast. We get a smattering of backstory and know from early on that Johnny hasn’t had the most fortunate of starts in life.
The author has clearly played to his own strengths when constructing the plot and I admire the innovative use of original song lyrics. Johnny has some strong foils, in particular college chums, Andy and Jacqui as well as his girlfriend, Megan. Ostrow also throws in a few famous names to add a bit of authenticity to the idea that Johnny is a new face among an illustrious contemporary crowd.
This is in essence a love story with the inevitable hurdles one expects from an engaging novel.
It is testimony to the skill of the author that the reader actually cares so much about Johnny and what happens to him. We watch in horror as the boy from Brooklyn and the girl from Fifth Avenue are wrenched apart by the machinations of Megan’s manipulative mother.
Katherine Price is the epitome of the influential business woman and all round social snob and is by far the most colourful character in the book. It would be a truly delicious role to play, should this book ever make it to the silver screen. Her crass attempt to reunite her daughter with her first love once he becomes a successful artist is clumsy in the extreme and completely transparent as she tells Megan she is; ‘allowing this parasite peasant to reclaim his cherished soul mate …’
Like many musical careers before and since, it only takes a few malicious rumours for the fickle world of glitter and glamour to turn its back on Johnny, leaving him at his lowest ebb. However, his multi-faceted personality dictates that he will not to be bowed by a downturn in circumstances as he sets about rebuilding his life, drawing on qualities of loyalty, altruism, determination and ultimately, generosity of spirit.
This is a sophisticated read which doesn’t rely on padding or superfluous sex scenes to fill its pages. The pace never falters and if you enjoy a love story with soul-searching, self-discovery and a bit of heart-ache along the way, then this book is for you. I congratulate Lonnie Ostrow on a well-constructed story and award ‘Poet of the Wrong Generation’ five stars.
August 20, 2017
Some stories have the power to stay with you long after they have been read. This story is one of them. It reminded me of Hugh Grant's Movie Music and Lyrics.
The story revolves around the life of a poet and musician, his meteoric rise, his downfall and the subsequent tryst with grappling with his loss and thereafter rising like a Phoenix.
Lonnie's lyrical narration is what forms the heart and soul of this story. Kudos to the author for amazing writing. Loved the choice of words. They had the power to touch the reader's soul and stir up every emotion that exists within. This story needs to be converted into a movie because it has all the elements to be a successful blockbuster. Reading the story evoked not just imageries but also every emotion in me. The storyline made me laugh, cry, empathise, fall in love and hate all at once.
I loved to love the protagonist and loved to hate the antagonist. I literally emoted along with the protagonist. Every character had a key role to play in ensuring that the poet of the wrong generation finally emerged the victor after becoming a vanquished.
To sum up, this story is one of those that I return to when I feel low. So yes, I would be reading them again and again and again. Loved the end and the twists throughout. An absolutely amazing and excellent story. A definite must read.
P.S - Thank you Elton from Harmony River Press for introducing me to an amazing writer. This review is my honest opinion after reading the book.
The story revolves around the life of a poet and musician, his meteoric rise, his downfall and the subsequent tryst with grappling with his loss and thereafter rising like a Phoenix.
Lonnie's lyrical narration is what forms the heart and soul of this story. Kudos to the author for amazing writing. Loved the choice of words. They had the power to touch the reader's soul and stir up every emotion that exists within. This story needs to be converted into a movie because it has all the elements to be a successful blockbuster. Reading the story evoked not just imageries but also every emotion in me. The storyline made me laugh, cry, empathise, fall in love and hate all at once.
I loved to love the protagonist and loved to hate the antagonist. I literally emoted along with the protagonist. Every character had a key role to play in ensuring that the poet of the wrong generation finally emerged the victor after becoming a vanquished.
To sum up, this story is one of those that I return to when I feel low. So yes, I would be reading them again and again and again. Loved the end and the twists throughout. An absolutely amazing and excellent story. A definite must read.
P.S - Thank you Elton from Harmony River Press for introducing me to an amazing writer. This review is my honest opinion after reading the book.
September 15, 2017
I don't know when exactly it happened, but by page 100 I was hooked. I know this because I was commuting, and when my stop came, I wanted to keep reading and not leave my seat! Johnny's rise to fame seemed so real, like Ostrow had lived the journey himself, and I wondered if he was really a rock star himself. I felt like I knew the characters and that at various points, I could turn to a friend, and say, "Isn't it awful about Megan and Johnny, the way they seem to keep missing chances to be together?" I teared up several times, and I think the songs that were included in the book added to the poignancy and heightened the emotional impact. I forgot that the 90s was a time before the internet and that everything was still done by telephone, not email. However, Katharine used it to her advantage, and in a strange way, I enjoyed how her actions grew out of her misguided love. I would absolutely recommend this book to classic rock fans, who would get an additional level of enjoyment out of Johnny's story. A compelling read, from start to finish.
September 7, 2016
As a lifelong New Yorker, this book was a joy to read. It takes me back to Central Park in the 1990s at Paul Simon’s epic free concert. Then onto the Crown Heights riots, the first World Trade Center bombing, and the Dinkins/Guliani Mayoral race. There’s really so much nostalgia in here, wrapped around an epic love story between a fictional rock star and the woman who inspired his heartbreaking hits.
My review is based on the advance reading copy sent by the publisher.
My review is based on the advance reading copy sent by the publisher.
September 6, 2016
A stunning and beautifully written novel about the heartbreak behind a fictional rockstar and the tortured young woman who inspired his music. It’s one of those novels that you remember long after you put it down. Packed with 90s nostalgia and hundreds of popular music references through the decades. Highly recommended.
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance reading copy from the publisher. This book goes on sale on November 10.
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance reading copy from the publisher. This book goes on sale on November 10.
February 6, 2017
A tale of musical melancholy featuring the heart and mind of a young poet/student who turns the pain of his breakup into songwriting gold. His improbable rise to overnight stardom leads to a world of massive lonesome emptiness. Throughout it all, he never loses sight of what matters most to him: the love of the young woman who inspired it all. I was sucked in from the opening scene in Central Park and it held my interest to the final climatic scene. For a book of this size, it was rather a quick and engrossing read. Great for music fans from the era when lyrics were as important as the melodies.
September 7, 2016
A story that is sure to move you to tears on more than one occasion. If ever you wanted to understand the inspiration behind a great love song, this novel is up to the task. It’s got memorable characters, a rollercoaster of a story, and a star-crossed relationship for the ages. Poet Of The Wrong Generation is easily my favorite book of this year. A must read.
I read an early reading copy edition.
I read an early reading copy edition.
December 28, 2016
The writing is beautiful. The story is compelling. And the lyrical poetry will amaze. This isn't "just a novel." Poet Of The Wrong Generation is a book to be experienced. This is the memorable story of a young songwriter who has his life turned upside-down: first by the girl he loves dearly, and later by the song that he writes for her when he uncovers her betrayal. The song becomes a hit and sends him (Johnny Elias) to a remarkable career as a pop star. It also has consequences for Megan, the young woman who inspired it. Other songs and successes follow, but not necessarily happiness, which eventually leads Johnny back to Megan's door. Will true love prevail? Or will Megan's powerful and manipulative mother, Katherine Price (the publicity queen of NYC) find yet another clever way to force them apart? The story will keep you captive and in guessing mode through to the very last word.
May 30, 2017
Truly one of the most touching and insightful novels ever written on the subject of music, songwriting and the lives of those who inspire it.
Being a lifelong musician, I was sent an advance reading copy this summer. I jumped in to the novel on a Friday and finished it before the weekend was out. Such a compelling read with wonderfully realistic characters and a storyline that will leave you wondering until the very last page. Will Johnny Elias recapture his once remarkable musical career? Will he and Megan (his muse and star-crossed love) manage to finally reconnect after years of disillusionment?
If you ever were inspired by a lovesong, or left wondering as to the inspiration behind it, this wonderfully written novel will be sure to grab you by the heartstrings and keep you captive through the stunning final chapter.
Being a lifelong musician, I was sent an advance reading copy this summer. I jumped in to the novel on a Friday and finished it before the weekend was out. Such a compelling read with wonderfully realistic characters and a storyline that will leave you wondering until the very last page. Will Johnny Elias recapture his once remarkable musical career? Will he and Megan (his muse and star-crossed love) manage to finally reconnect after years of disillusionment?
If you ever were inspired by a lovesong, or left wondering as to the inspiration behind it, this wonderfully written novel will be sure to grab you by the heartstrings and keep you captive through the stunning final chapter.
September 6, 2016
One of those novels that you wish could go on and on. I fell in love with Johnny Elias and his musical soul right from the beginning. This isn’t just the story of musical success and failure. It also gives us the insight into the heart and mind of a songwriter whose lyrics are as essential as any words written throughout the story. You find yourself rooting for Johnny and Megan to finally find happiness. And that ending… never saw that coming!
I read a review copy sent by the publisher, Harmony River Press.
I read a review copy sent by the publisher, Harmony River Press.
March 31, 2017
Don't be fooled into thinking that this is a romance novel just because it has a great love story. What it is... well, it's a book about fascinating relationships.
Relationships between:
- Star-crossed lovers
- Best Friends
- Mentors and pupils
- A daughter and her ever controlling mother
- A young man and his music
- A pop star and his fan base
- A celebrity and the media
Poet Of The Wrong Generation takes us back to the 1990s, when pop music was mostly lousy and all the songwriting legends grew too old for radio recognition. Johnny Elias is our pop-star, fueled by heartbreak and finding acceptance by a generation who has been deprived of musical excellence. Relationships are tested and in some cases shattered. Ultimately, it's about trying to pick up the pieces of what once was and discovering the true meaning of happiness. Hint: it's not fame and fortune.
Relationships between:
- Star-crossed lovers
- Best Friends
- Mentors and pupils
- A daughter and her ever controlling mother
- A young man and his music
- A pop star and his fan base
- A celebrity and the media
Poet Of The Wrong Generation takes us back to the 1990s, when pop music was mostly lousy and all the songwriting legends grew too old for radio recognition. Johnny Elias is our pop-star, fueled by heartbreak and finding acceptance by a generation who has been deprived of musical excellence. Relationships are tested and in some cases shattered. Ultimately, it's about trying to pick up the pieces of what once was and discovering the true meaning of happiness. Hint: it's not fame and fortune.
November 15, 2016
Hmm. Such is the author's ability in bringing to life the characters of this novel that I couldn't help but wonder if it was in any way autobiographical ... or at least inspired by someone well known to him.
The story of relationships: one of them sweet yet poignantly painful, one of them menacingly manipulative, of star-crossed lovers, of an adolescent, a poet, on the verge of manhood, his (or is she?) girlfriend, his girlfriend's mom and the friend that is to become his mentor, all interlaced with some truly hauntingly evocative poems/song lyrics which can be found on the author's website, LonnieOstrow.com .... not something I'd necessarily have thought to have liked but it worked surprisingly well, adding a whole new dimension to the book overall.
Looking forward to a sequel. There will be a sequel Mr Ostrow, right?
Copyright: Tracy Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer: Read and reviewed on behalf of Harmony River Press, no financial compensation was asked for nor given
The story of relationships: one of them sweet yet poignantly painful, one of them menacingly manipulative, of star-crossed lovers, of an adolescent, a poet, on the verge of manhood, his (or is she?) girlfriend, his girlfriend's mom and the friend that is to become his mentor, all interlaced with some truly hauntingly evocative poems/song lyrics which can be found on the author's website, LonnieOstrow.com .... not something I'd necessarily have thought to have liked but it worked surprisingly well, adding a whole new dimension to the book overall.
Looking forward to a sequel. There will be a sequel Mr Ostrow, right?
Copyright: Tracy Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer: Read and reviewed on behalf of Harmony River Press, no financial compensation was asked for nor given
Displaying 1 - 30 of 448 reviews