A review by chwaters
Jem and the Holograms, Vol. 2: Viral by Amy Mebberson, M. Victoria Robado, Kelly Thompson, Corin Howell, Emma Vieceli

3.0

In this volume: picking up where Volume 1 left off, the Holograms continue to enjoy rising fame in spite of being disqualified from the contest with the Misfits. The Misfits, on the other hand are struggling with the bad press from their fallout with the Holograms. Jerrica is starting to crack under the pressure of trying to keep her secret identity, well, secret. It's particularly difficult since her boyfriend is an investigative reporter seeking the inside scoop on the Holograms' rise to fame. He can never seem to figure out why Jem is never around when Jerrica is. I guess it's because no one ever suspects that their girlfriend might have a holographic alter ego. Anyway, relationship drama persists for Kimber and Stormer who have a bit of a Romeo/Juliet vibe going except instead of Capulets vs. Montagues, it's Holograms vs. Misfits. As we get to know the Holograms a bit better, we also get to know the Misfits a bit better. It looks like even Pizazz has a vulnerable side. A new manager for the Misfits throws everyone for a loop. Brace yourselves for a serious cliffhanger moment at the end of the volume.
So, if you've been reading my reviews, you know that I had some issues with the first volume. I'm pleased to note that this volume kind of eases off on the whole cattiness thing between the two bands, but the rivalry remains. I'm happy to see more backstory for the various band members and hope to see them all become more developed. I'm still not completely in love with this series, but the elements that were bothering me in the first volume aren't quite as annoying this time around.