Stuart Jason

Disclaimer: I received this book as a NetGalley ARC. No compensation was received other than the chance to read the work.

Jukebox Hero is the first in the Rock N' Roll Fable series.

Overall this was a pleasant read. The story was well-thought out, the characters were given some depth, and this book makes a good case to be the introduction into the series.

The first Episode was a bit rough-feeling. In that episode, there was a feeling of the narration voice wobbling a bit, and there were a fair amount of British terms used (think buggered and scarpered) used for a story that was supposed to take place in Louisiana in the 1980s. This chapter also tended to hit the reader over the head with references to classic 80s films such as the Breakfast Club, Pretty in Pink, etc.

Once the reader gets past this first Episode though, the book really smooths out, and becomes a solid read. The 80s references are still there throughout the book, and are more nuanced, making them a contribution rather than a distraction. The story's pacing, while slightly uneven, does give the story that 80s classic feel. Given the chance, the story is worth the read and a re-read.

I would recommend this book for readers that enjoyed titles such as Snowcrash and Ready Player One.… (mer)