Everything is Just Beginning by Erin Bartels

 

Everything Is Just Beginning by Erin Bartels

A book about guitars and lyrics? Yes, please!

Let's begin with the summary:

Michael Sullivan is a talented lyricist and a decent guitarist, but since he was kicked out of his band (and his apartment), he’s not sure he’ll ever get a record deal. Living with his loser uncle in a beat-up trailer and working a dead-end job, Michael has little reason to hope for a better future. Until the invitation for a swanky New Year's Eve party shows up in the mailbox. It’s for his uncle, with whom he shares his name, but his uncle is going out of town . . .

On the effervescent night of December 31, 1989—as the Berlin Wall is coming down, the Soviet Union is inching toward democracy, and anything seems possible—Michael will cross paths with the accomplished and enigmatic young heir to a fading musical dynasty, forever altering both of their futures.

And now, my review:

In this story we get to revisit the past—1989 and the early ’90s. We're in Michigan, complete with Vernors. Yum. We’re also immersed in a musician’s world. Such a treat! The author does an excellent job of writing profound prose, skillfully penning realistic male POV, and granting us access to the musical elite via the female MC’s well-connected family.

We are treated to intimate, profound lyrics as our protagonist is an excellent lyricist. I loved this aspect. Clearly the author is gifted at more than novel writing.

I enjoyed the time setting, mentions of the Indigo Girls harmonies. The TV series of the late ’80s early ’90s. The self-reflection of the male protag reminded me that whichever gender, we have the same types of existential questions and concerns, especially as we’re finding our way and discovering ourselves. Stay in the “world” we grew up in? Or intentionally change, find a new “world,” and grow into a new life. Will we drag old bitterness with us into the new life we're striving for? These elements will resonate with readers of any age.

We have several themes, and here are some that stood out to me: kindness, unconditional care but with boundaries, calling friends to a higher level, overcoming lies we believe about ourselves. Even when life stops proving the lies we believe, we stay stuck. Even when circumstances improve, we can’t embrace the newness with positivity. So relatable—the strongest theme, I think.

Our heroine sees what the male MC can’t. I liked how strong she is, how well-adjusted. All her life she has missed people’s disapproving gaze. How insightful of the author to pinpoint an area that can be disabling for so many, especially those whose security depended on avoiding that disapproving gaze no matter what self-betrayal they must do. No matter what they must cooperate with—even the lies of their elders. 

As I wrote this review, revisiting the profound themes of this enjoyable story, I realized—I need more of this author’s books!

Highly recommended!