Books to Borrow Martinsburg Public Library Recommends

AnnieLee Keyes wants nothing more than to make it big as a singer-songwriter in Nashville. She arrives with a backpack and a big dream, but not even a guitar to her name. Her spunk gets her some stage time at the Cat’s Paw Saloon, where she catches the attention of many people, none of whom are more important than Ethan Blake. Little does she know this man she tries so hard to avoid at the beginning will be the catalyst to her dreams coming true.

Ethan, a studio musician and former Army captain, tells his boss Ruthanna Ryder about AnnieLee. Ruthanna, the former queen of county music, shows no interest in the girl, but Ethan won’t let up. Ruthanna finally gives in, and she is instantly blown away by this young talent. After a few bumps in the road, she finally convinces AnnieLee to let her take her under her wing. Soon AnnieLee’s song is on the radio, and the country music world can’t get enough of her. It seems that all of AnnieLee’s dreams are about to come true.

But the pasts of all three of these characters haunt them, and none looms larger than AnnieLee’s, which threatens to throw her entire newfound world, and her newfound friendships, upside down. When it comes down to it, can AnnieLee save herself, or will she finally let those closest to her help her out?

This book, in true James Patterson fashion, has mystery/thriller elements that keep the reader engaged. The storyline gives the reader a good look at the Nashville music business and its ups and downs, obvious insight from Dolly Parton’s own experiences. The combination is a great read.