(This really is me talking about myself about this book.)

Incredible. Incredible. Incredible.

I got distracted so many times while I was reading this book because I kept thinking, “I really want to go on goodreads and write a review so good that everyone will know that I mean that this book is the best fucking book ever.”

It really is.

Anyone who knows me personally knows how I have loved and admired Andy and Black Veil Brides since the dawn of time. No, really. I have been a fan since late 2010/early 2011. For many of my troubled teenage years, Andy’s lyrics were something that I gravitated towards. His message, perceived through his music or even interviews, that you’re not alone in being one of the disenfranchised, helped me through so much. Granted that I was never bullied or exactly ostracized, but it goes without saying that I have always felt isolated from those around me. Never to fit in completely. It really wasn’t until later, when I shed much of my self-centered facade of maturity that I was able to create healthier and meaningful friendships. So, I related so much to Andy’s feelings and experiences that stemmed from these feelings. I really am far from reaching the point of satisfaction with my life that Andy seems to be almost at in his life (it’s the last chapter). And anyway this isn’t about me. This is about my new favorite book.

The fact that I have been a fan for a long time means that the majority, if not all, events that Andy mentions here are events that I was present for in heart and in fandom. But to be given the opportunity to read about what was happening introspectively means that I now understand so much of why certain things happened the way they did. There are still events that I am reading of for the first time, but they are less than what I know. I have enjoyed everything Andy had to say here. I am sort of proud of being able to like someone and a band for this long.

Honestly, I am envious of Andy’s upbringing with his parents and family. And I am thankful to them for bringing up such an eloquent, passion-driven, talented, witty, charming person.

I have always wished for Andy to write a book. I mean, his lyrics are what brought me in. And when I find someone eloquent, I just have to “manifest” them writing a book. This book is my manifestation. And I am not in the least bit disappointed. I am a fan, now and forever.

I am definitely reading this again. Soon. I digested it as best as I could, but I want to learn. And this book teaches so much.

I hope that in the future Andy writes another book. I love his words, and I love his style of choosing his words. I will never bore of what he has to say.

4.25 stars

This was such an entertaining listen!

Andy has such a soothing voice I feel like he definitely should narrate more audiobooks! haha

RTC

Going to write a full review soon, but some quick thoughts:
- first memoir(ish) I’ve read of a “celebrity” who’s younger than me. Which was a rather strange experience.
- I love Biersack’s music - especially his solo albums and the last 3 BVB albums (first two are ok, but the band levelled up dramatically after those).
- it’s not the best music memoir I’ve read, but some of my favourite books are music memoirs, so maybe it’s unfair to do a direct comparison.
- I’ve not read much journalistic coverage of the band, so it was nice to get their story finally.
- Biersack had incredibly supportive parents, for which I’m jealous. He also has an incredible drive and determination that has served him extremely well.

Have lots of thoughts. Hope the final review doesn’t get too long.