Author Charles Harvey's latest novel, Xylene X Band: A Fictionalized Chapter in the History of X Band, merges psychological fiction with the raw energy of rock-and-roll to tell a story of identity, reinvention and the cost of artistic success.
The self-published book follows Joe Ecks, a celebrated guitarist whose talent and fame are rivaled only by his personal unraveling. From the very first page, readers witness Joe suffer a breakdown that leaves him convinced he is someone else: Mike Smith, a Harvard graduate with no musical background. As Joe—now identifying as Mike—struggles to make sense of his new reality, he must also keep up appearances ahead of the band’s upcoming high-stakes “Xylene” tour.
Set during a gritty, pre-digital era of rock, the novel explores the tension between public image and private turmoil. As the story unfolds, the man once revered for his musical genius grapples with a body he no longer recognizes and a life that seems borrowed. Without Joe’s skills, Mike is left to face mounting pressure from the band, the tour, and the legacy of a persona he doesn’t remember creating.
Harvey’s narrative raises deeper questions about whether identity is fixed or fluid, and whether determination can replace raw talent in a world that demands perfection. With a tone that shifts between surreal and grounded, the book navigates psychological dissonance and cultural nostalgia while offering readers a layered view of self-discovery under stress.
Through humor, tension, and sharp internal dialogue, Xylene X Band invites readers into a world where the boundary between who we are and who we become is constantly tested. The story also examines the creative process, the isolation that can come with fame, and how reinvention may be the only way forward when identity fractures under pressure.
The book has drawn praise from Amazon reviewers for its originality and emotional complexity. Jeyran, a top reviewer, described it as “a clever, offbeat dive into identity and fame,” adding that Harvey delivers “a sharp, satirical take on the music industry with heart, humor, and a surreal twist.”
Another reviewer, Nancy, remarked on the novel’s honest portrayal of creativity and the unexpected turns faced by the band: “I was unaware of the effort behind creating music. Joe and the band faced many unexpected twists. The story is a mix of humor and adventure, offering a unique look into the challenging life of a band.”
One reader noted the thoughtful evolution of the supporting characters: “One of the most interesting parts of the book is how Angie grows as a person, becoming more confident and independent. A good read for people who enjoy stories about music, personal growth, and self-discovery.”
With its blend of psychological drama and music-industry storytelling, Xylene X Band goes beyond a tale of rock stardom. It asks what happens when the genius behind the music disappears—but the spotlight remains.
About the Author:
Charles Harvey is a fiction writer whose work often explores the intersection of culture, identity, and transformation. His body of work spans poetry, short stories, and novels, and he is known for stories that probe the human condition with subtle satire and emotional depth. Based in the United States, Harvey continues to write for readers who appreciate fiction that explores ambiguity and personal change.
About Bookside Press:
Bookside Press is a self-publishing company based in Canada. The firm supports independent authors by providing end-to-end publishing and marketing services. With a mission to amplify diverse voices, Bookside Press assists writers in bringing their stories from concept to publication.
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Company Name: Bookside Press Corp.
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Country: Canada
Website: https://booksidepress.com/
