SONGS IN URSA MAJOR

Songs In Ursa Major, a love letter to 1970’s music, follows the rocky affair between Jane, a Joni Mitchell-esque young singer songwriter, and Jesse, the quasi-James Taylor rock star who helps her rise to fame. As Jane’s star ascends, so does her attraction to Jesse, but dark secrets from their past lives threaten to sever their deep connection to their music, fans, and each other.

This new and Netflix-ready novel is a study in the tension between creativity and commercial success, love and attraction, independence and support. It has a wide base of fans and plenty to enjoy for many readers, but unfortunately I wasn’t one of them. I felt the writing was a bit uneven, especially as significant plot points were either glossed over or overblown to make the story work. I also struggled to connect with or root for the main characters, who I found lacking in depth despite their undeniable chemistry. That said, readers who adore the artists who inspired this story may love finding hints of their music and lives in the book. I also recommend this one for anyone who really digs the poetry of original lyrics, which are interspersed throughout and add texture to the novel. I think many readers would enjoy this one, it just wasn’t a fit for me right now!

Once in a while, when there isn’t much food in a book, I get inspired by the cover art - and this is one of the prettiest covers I’ve seen in a while. It reminds me of a still from A Star Is Born where Gaga is leaning on Brad, and the sun lights them up just so. I thought these lovely orange tones would be beautiful paired with a seasonal recipe I saw on Half Baked Harvest: brown butter pumpkin tortellini a la vodka. YUM. This is an easy recipe that is perfect for people like me whose next level love of pumpkin goes beyond desserts.