What is a Musical Novel?
What is a musical novel, you ask? I don’t believe there is a generally accepted definition, but essentially, in a musical novel or the genre of musical fiction music is the central theme of the story. Any genre of music can be featured, whether it’s classical, hip hop, jazz or rock. I am partial to the latter, so that’s what I usually write about. You might think you’ve never read musical fiction before, and yet, many readers might be familiar with rock star romance. There are many other musical books out there, and not all of them are romance.
Rock Star Syndrome: A New Adult Novel
Rock Star Syndrome, while it contains romantic elements, is more of a new adult or coming-of-age novel and is set in the world of music business. The main character, Shae Kinnon, is a reluctant rock star, cast into the limelight by music mogul Robert Courtenay who recognises Shae’s talent and looks and hires him as the frontman of a manufactured rock band. Shae is passionate about music, revels in the adoration of his fans and loves his band mates, but after a few years on the road, he finds himself wanting something more from life, and his attempts at finding romance and happiness and to stand on his own two feet are at the core of this story.
Writing About Music: A Personal Passion
I almost always write about music. The saying goes to write what you know, and there aren’t many topics I know more about. My other passions include writing, but I find it such a cliché when authors write about authors, and dogs, which I somehow can’t make work as a theme in a story, so music it is. Please don’t misunderstand me; I have zero musical talent, and the only thing I can do with music is listen to it. As many of my favourite bands could no doubt testify, I have exceptional skill in that area, and I am a dedicated supporter. I travel extensively to see the bands which have captured my heart. I am lucky enough to have a quirky taste in music, which means many of my favourite groups are very accessible, and I have had a chance to see inside the music business and the life in a band which more mainstream tastes would likely not allow. My favourite genres of music are rock and metal, with some of my favourite bands being Young Guns, Muse, Fearless Vampire Killers, Sick Joy, We Are Scientists and Editors.
Dive Into My Musical Fiction
If my writing and musical fiction sound like your jam, check out Rock Star Syndrome! You may also be interested in my novels Yours Remotely and Two Hearts in a Grave, both of which have strong musical themes. If you pick up any of my books, you’d be hard pushed to find one that doesn’t touch upon the topic of music at all. One of my upcoming projects is a six-book series centred around a – you guessed it – musical theme with a touch of mystery, romance and the supernatural.
When I am not writing, at a gig or listening to music, you are most likely to catch me at a dog agility event with my three Schnauzers – Dexter, Hector and Elvis. Agility is the true love of my life, and my dogs are my reason for getting up in the morning. You can find out more about me on my website at https://www.pamelaharju.com and all the important stuff at https://bio.site/pamelaharju. Rock Star Syndrome is available for purchase in hardback, paperback and e-book format at amazon.

