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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Perfect Cadence by Tamar Anolic is an engaging story about ambition, loyalty, and the uncertain journey toward artistic success. Set in the late 1970s, the novel follows Gunnar Erickson and his best friend, Shep Townsend, as they leave Nebraska for Los Angeles, carrying only their talent, hopes, and a determination to pursue music careers. The opening chapters clearly show their hardships: Gunnar loses his dishwashing job when the restaurant suddenly closes, and both young men rush to find work and establish themselves in the city. The initial scenes, including the restaurant shutdown and the long bus ride from home, are shown through flashbacks, grounding the story. As the plot unfolds, the story highlights the close relationship between Gunnar and Shep. Their shared humor, minor disagreements, and unwavering dedication to their musical partnership create a strong emotional core.
Tamar Anolic develops Gunnar with particular depth. His insecurities, especially about his height and appearance, contrast with his remarkable talent as a vocalist. Passages where he sings, such as the kitchen scene when coworkers pause to listen, bring the character to life and show how effortlessly the story combines everyday moments with the excitement of musical potential. These scenes highlight the unpredictable nature of early success and the delicate balance between fear and breakthrough. The writing style closely resembles that of Nicholas Sparks, with its clear, heartfelt storytelling and emphasis on personal relationships. It also mirrors Stephen King’s early-life realism from The Body, especially in its honest depiction of friendship and leaving home. Perfect Cadence is both a character-driven novel and a portrait of young artists learning who they are.
