Considering the author - Mark Robertson - isn't a writer and just decided one day to pick up some scrap paper and cheap biros and write a novel, he has certainly crafted a fantastic book that could put many experienced writers to shame! "Off Key - The Greatest Story Ever Told About Love...and Jazz (in Sunderland)" is in my opinion a brilliant contemporary and humorously written book about relationships, life, death, hope and dreams. Set in and around Sunderland it tells the story of Kyle, a jazz musician struggling in the local pubs and clubs and his girlfriend Charlotte, sick and tired of him putting his saxophone and band mates before her and their relationship. The camaraderie between Kyle and his mates is priceless and I found Barry and his ledger particularly funny. The introduction of aged saxophonist Harry - an alcoholic has-been - is truly inspirational to Kyle and the band and makes the storyline really entertaining and uplifting. So many characters make this story captivating - from Dainty a true best friend who only has other people's happiness at heart to Craig an autistic boy taking lessons from Kyle trying hard to pass his music exams. It is quite emotional at times one minute you are giggling at some of the lads antics then suddenly saddened by a turn of events. Born and bred in Sunderland myself I obviously found this book extra interesting since I could relate to many of the places mentioned. The authors experience and passion for music really shines through in the story and I wonder how many of the little stories have actually happened? I could have read this book for much longer, it's a superb unique read, so true to life that I really couldn't have enjoyed more and I would so like to read about the next chapters in the characters lives- please let there be a sequel!! This book is a lovely quality printed book too, much better than the mass produced paperbacks produced these days. I think Mark has written a gem of a book that deserves to do really well and I'm so pleased I've had the opportunity to read this as it's a cracking read! A well deserved 5 stars!