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Fame by Misadventure
When former reality TV star and child actor Molly Mandrie takes her own life, her co-stars, producers, and fans’ lives are all thrown into chaos. Under the thumb of the controlling Applause Network and their executive producer Guy Maker, cast members Tamara, Andrea, Fievel, and Elliot struggle to confront how their relationships contributed to Molly’s death.
Meanwhile, big-time movie star and self-proclaimed “Molly’s biggest fan” Hector Espinoza uses his industry access to ask questions. If Guy Maker was her best friend and the man who gave her a second chance at fame, why didn’t he go to her funeral?
And fifteen-year-old social media influencer Nixon Bryce, who rose to fame mimicking Molly’s drunken antics, finds her dysfunctional relationship with her mother is pulled into the fray as Applause looks to her to be their fresh new face.
In this deep-dive into the dramatic and dangerous world of reality TV, the cameras have stopped rolling and the makeup is off. Characters' stories start to intertwine as they search for the truth about Molly’s death, racing towards an emotionally crippling conclusion that will change their lives, and careers, forever.
Meanwhile, big-time movie star and self-proclaimed “Molly’s biggest fan” Hector Espinoza uses his industry access to ask questions. If Guy Maker was her best friend and the man who gave her a second chance at fame, why didn’t he go to her funeral?
And fifteen-year-old social media influencer Nixon Bryce, who rose to fame mimicking Molly’s drunken antics, finds her dysfunctional relationship with her mother is pulled into the fray as Applause looks to her to be their fresh new face.
In this deep-dive into the dramatic and dangerous world of reality TV, the cameras have stopped rolling and the makeup is off. Characters' stories start to intertwine as they search for the truth about Molly’s death, racing towards an emotionally crippling conclusion that will change their lives, and careers, forever.
- GenresFiction
320 pages, Paperback
Published March 5, 2024
5 people are currently reading
5240 people want to read
About the author
Will Sterling
1 book24 followersWill Sterling is a queer writer and actor living in Los Angeles. As a former producer and director of production for a major podcast network, he has spent his career as a fly on the wall to conversations from celebrities of all walks of life. Having had to leave a lot of confessions, rumors, humor, and hurt on the cutting room floor, he brings these emotional stories to life by shining light on the pain that often hides behind the makeup.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 18, 2025
Fame By Misadventure is one of the more interesting and thoughtful books I've ever read. While the characters seem like they would be fairly shallow, being actors and reality show personalities, Will Sterling shows us just how much turmoil can be going on behind closed doors, even when the exterior puts on a happy face. We are introduced to the characters as they go about their daily life in the aftermath of the death of their friend, a fellow TV star who was quite important to those around her. Her life was messy, but that doesn't stop Hector from doing his best to find out what happened to Molly. I was immediately taken in by the pacing, which feels a lot like an older Hollywood movie than a modern thriller - and I LOVED it. A modern Chinatown is the most apt comparison to the style and vibes. They're dark and mysterious, but the characters and conversations are all very modern and contemporary. The struggles faced by the characters are as well, from facing the difference between reality TV and reality, discovering identity, and growing up in a world that pushes you too fast. The back stories and internal monologues of the characters were each so different and interesting. This is a powerful novel about mental health and paying attention to the mental health and pressures of those you care about.
A huge thanks to Will Sterling, the author, Subplot, the publisher, and Goodreads for the immense opportunity to win a physical copy of Fame by Misadventure in a giveaway. I was so excited to win a copy, and even more excited and thrilled to receive it signed and personalized by the author, with a flash drive containing the audiobook! This extra touches were such a generous and thoughtful gift alongside already winning the giveaway. I am so grateful for everything!
A huge thanks to Will Sterling, the author, Subplot, the publisher, and Goodreads for the immense opportunity to win a physical copy of Fame by Misadventure in a giveaway. I was so excited to win a copy, and even more excited and thrilled to receive it signed and personalized by the author, with a flash drive containing the audiobook! This extra touches were such a generous and thoughtful gift alongside already winning the giveaway. I am so grateful for everything!
May 23, 2024
The author, Will Sterling, takes inspiration from his real life experiences as a Hollywood entertainment producer and actor and pours them into this surprisingly emotionally deep book that pulls you into the vapidity and superficiality of reality television.
As a retired executive life and career coach who worked a lot in the entertainment industry talent such as comedians, producers, actors, and execs reading this was cathartic for me. In a strange way, Will's stories mixing the real and the fictional released the negative emotions I felt about the lying, cheating, and abusive things I witnessed second hand from victims in the industry and from the attitudes that I tried to help my clients to not have when conducting their business affairs; because, in Hollywood, it's very tempting to take a predatious attitude in your affairs just because of the nature of the beast where "kill or be killed" is a mantra for survival.
So, it was deep for me; but this book is just as fun, hilarious, and entertaining as you want it to be. A perfect summer read or a book club read. Lots of laughable moments; My favorite scenes were Fivel and Elliot. And the mysterious producer throughout all this has a very fascinating backstory that deserves its own novel or, at least, novella.
If you want to read a juicy Hollywood gossip-style story with real inspiration from a veteran Hollywood author - read this book and be prepared for twists and turns!
As a retired executive life and career coach who worked a lot in the entertainment industry talent such as comedians, producers, actors, and execs reading this was cathartic for me. In a strange way, Will's stories mixing the real and the fictional released the negative emotions I felt about the lying, cheating, and abusive things I witnessed second hand from victims in the industry and from the attitudes that I tried to help my clients to not have when conducting their business affairs; because, in Hollywood, it's very tempting to take a predatious attitude in your affairs just because of the nature of the beast where "kill or be killed" is a mantra for survival.
So, it was deep for me; but this book is just as fun, hilarious, and entertaining as you want it to be. A perfect summer read or a book club read. Lots of laughable moments; My favorite scenes were Fivel and Elliot. And the mysterious producer throughout all this has a very fascinating backstory that deserves its own novel or, at least, novella.
If you want to read a juicy Hollywood gossip-style story with real inspiration from a veteran Hollywood author - read this book and be prepared for twists and turns!
March 18, 2024
What a delightful read! If you love mystery, gossip, or a well crafted story, you’ll love this novel. The audiobook was such a treat with a full cast and lovely music that helped tell the full picture. I’ve never been a fan of how reality tv is produced to show the worst in the people in them and Will is able to show a different side to these character that really makes you care what happens to them. Ready for the sequel!
December 1, 2024
Th book starts with reality TV star and child actor Molly Mandrie taking her own life. Everyone that has worked with her from her friends, co-stars, producers, and fans feel the turmoil and have them thinking about what they should have or could have done. What makes others start asking even more questions is that her executive producer Guy Maker, who was also supposedly one of her closest friends, doesn't even show up for her funeral.
As we meet her friends and cast mates, we see how reality TV can affect not only oneself who may be the actor/actress, but those around us and our families. The more you read about Molly, her story, friends, etc. you see how this so much relates to the actors and actresses of reality TV shows today and makes you wonder, is fame worth all of this.
As the story unfolds we find Hector Espinoza asking questions about Molly and what pushed her to this point. In addition asking and researching into Guy Maker who as mentioned above was her best friend, gave her a second chance at fame, but yet still didn't go to her funeral and doesn't seem like he wants to talk to anyone.
As the story unfolds, we are also introduce to fifteen-year-old influencer Nixon Bryce, who rose to fame on social media mimicking Molly’s drunken antics. She is also trying to navigate her relationship with her mother, which seems dysfunctional at best, as her mother only seems to be worried about keeping her daughter in the spotlight, making her more famous, even more so now that Molly has died. Nixon is starting to be groomed and promoted by the same network as Molly. As we learn more about Nixon, we can tell that this is not the life she wants to live and has been robbed of her childhood. This is all so true it seems of child actors today and in the past who are pushed into the spotlight by parents when it's not what the child really wants and we see the struggles that it can cause in the story of Molly, Nixon, and the other characters in the book.
As Hector researches and learns more about things that led up to Molly's death, we also learn more about the struggles of the others around her, betrayals, how much of a cut throat job this can be, and that things are never as they seem. This is a face paced story that pulls at your heart strings and makes you wonder how much of this is actually going on in today's society. I loved the book, the story line, and hoping that anyone struggling with the thought of suicide, reaches out for help and talks to someone. Life is hard, but no one every said it would be easy and it's hard to understand those that commit suicide but knowing we need to support them and help in anyway we can. In today's society, mental health is so important, it shouldn't be a stigma, and there's no shame in asking for help. If you or someone you know needs help, please dial 988, 1-988-273-8255 or 1-800-442-4673 which are a few National Suicide helplines.
Thank you #WillSterling #MascotBooks #SubplotPublishing #AmplifyPublishing and #GoodReadsGieveaways for this book in exchange for my honest review.
As we meet her friends and cast mates, we see how reality TV can affect not only oneself who may be the actor/actress, but those around us and our families. The more you read about Molly, her story, friends, etc. you see how this so much relates to the actors and actresses of reality TV shows today and makes you wonder, is fame worth all of this.
As the story unfolds we find Hector Espinoza asking questions about Molly and what pushed her to this point. In addition asking and researching into Guy Maker who as mentioned above was her best friend, gave her a second chance at fame, but yet still didn't go to her funeral and doesn't seem like he wants to talk to anyone.
As the story unfolds, we are also introduce to fifteen-year-old influencer Nixon Bryce, who rose to fame on social media mimicking Molly’s drunken antics. She is also trying to navigate her relationship with her mother, which seems dysfunctional at best, as her mother only seems to be worried about keeping her daughter in the spotlight, making her more famous, even more so now that Molly has died. Nixon is starting to be groomed and promoted by the same network as Molly. As we learn more about Nixon, we can tell that this is not the life she wants to live and has been robbed of her childhood. This is all so true it seems of child actors today and in the past who are pushed into the spotlight by parents when it's not what the child really wants and we see the struggles that it can cause in the story of Molly, Nixon, and the other characters in the book.
As Hector researches and learns more about things that led up to Molly's death, we also learn more about the struggles of the others around her, betrayals, how much of a cut throat job this can be, and that things are never as they seem. This is a face paced story that pulls at your heart strings and makes you wonder how much of this is actually going on in today's society. I loved the book, the story line, and hoping that anyone struggling with the thought of suicide, reaches out for help and talks to someone. Life is hard, but no one every said it would be easy and it's hard to understand those that commit suicide but knowing we need to support them and help in anyway we can. In today's society, mental health is so important, it shouldn't be a stigma, and there's no shame in asking for help. If you or someone you know needs help, please dial 988, 1-988-273-8255 or 1-800-442-4673 which are a few National Suicide helplines.
Thank you #WillSterling #MascotBooks #SubplotPublishing #AmplifyPublishing and #GoodReadsGieveaways for this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 14, 2024
So Will puts the real in "realty" with this one. Taking from his own industry experience he weaves together an amazing story about the downsides of the industry and the harrowing changes it can cause. Will put together characters that you feel you truly start to see past the persona in many cases they have been given or forced into and get to know. Throughout you learn what caused changes in them and why. The book is jam packed but feels like it goes at a good pace and is not rushed. Although a lot of tough subject matter and darker topics or items dealt with throughout the read is still left with a feeling of hope.
I was lucky enough to be exposed to this book by winning a Goodreads giveaway. Will sent the book personally including the book, a letter, a post, USB audiobook and the book announcement card. It was such a fantastic treat and further shows his attention to detail, the care and love he put into this book that he strives to make it a memorable pleasant experience even before the book was opened. I look forward to listening to the audio book at a later date. Thank you and I look forward to more books from Will in the future. I followed and added to stay up to date!
I was lucky enough to be exposed to this book by winning a Goodreads giveaway. Will sent the book personally including the book, a letter, a post, USB audiobook and the book announcement card. It was such a fantastic treat and further shows his attention to detail, the care and love he put into this book that he strives to make it a memorable pleasant experience even before the book was opened. I look forward to listening to the audio book at a later date. Thank you and I look forward to more books from Will in the future. I followed and added to stay up to date!
July 7, 2024
I won Fame By Misadventure in a giveaway and it was one of the most exciting to get! Not only was signed by Will himself, but it came with a personalized note, a postcard that fits the book, and a hard drive with the music that goes with it as well! seriously the coolest thing ever and I really wish more books would come with music or a relic that's fitting. so to say I was excited was really an understatement. I felt like Ralphe on A Christmas Story running to turn on the radio to use his decoder ring.
The story starts on June 13th which was the day I started reading it & yet another reason for me to geek out. It really goes into each character and gives such personal backgrounds for each one. You can relate to all of them in some way even though they are all very different. It really was a behind the scenes peek at Hollywood and the real person behind the act or the version of themselves they choose for us to see. It was not my normal type read but I'm glad I did. Its a good story with an ending I did not see coming!
Thanks to Will for such a fun experience he's got a book fan for life.
The story starts on June 13th which was the day I started reading it & yet another reason for me to geek out. It really goes into each character and gives such personal backgrounds for each one. You can relate to all of them in some way even though they are all very different. It really was a behind the scenes peek at Hollywood and the real person behind the act or the version of themselves they choose for us to see. It was not my normal type read but I'm glad I did. Its a good story with an ending I did not see coming!
Thanks to Will for such a fun experience he's got a book fan for life.
June 13, 2024
What a great read! You felt truly connected to each characters and were just as invested in the whydunit of Molly Mandrie’s death!
I had to slow myself down because I was reading this for a book club, but every time it came time to read I was flying through my pages and sad I had to stop! Definitely going into my list of rereads!
I had to slow myself down because I was reading this for a book club, but every time it came time to read I was flying through my pages and sad I had to stop! Definitely going into my list of rereads!
February 12, 2025
I felt like this was a slow start to the story and I had a hard time at first figuring out the difference between Tamara and Andrea. However, once the story started to kick in and things started happening, I was intrigued. By about the first 1/3, I couldn't put this down!
March 5, 2024
I loved this unique story. It was a bit of mystery mixed in with the drama of Hollywood reality stars. The character building was great. Sometimes when there’s too many characters in a story, I have a hard time following along, but the lives of the different characters were well-written and intriguing to follow.
March 4, 2024
I couldn't put it down! I'm not ready to say goodbye to some of the characters so I'm hoping there will be a second.
March 5, 2024
Will Sterling has a way with words, and now, not just the spoken word. I am thoroughly enjoying FAME by Misadventure, and it is no surprise as I have been a fan of Will’s podcasts and film work for some time.
Will has not only poured himself into the writing of this book, but every detail of the book has been painstakingly thought out and designed to ensure it engulfs you in the essence of a Hollywood tell-all. The cover, the font, and the weight of the paper are all chosen to make you feel like you have been invited into the secrets that come with FAME.
Congratulations, Will, on your first novel! I hope there are more to come.
Will has not only poured himself into the writing of this book, but every detail of the book has been painstakingly thought out and designed to ensure it engulfs you in the essence of a Hollywood tell-all. The cover, the font, and the weight of the paper are all chosen to make you feel like you have been invited into the secrets that come with FAME.
Congratulations, Will, on your first novel! I hope there are more to come.
April 6, 2024
I loved the narration from André Santana, Marisha Tapera, Crystal Lee, Emily Lawrence and Will Sterling
This book is dark, funny, mystery and full of gossip. This book has a full cast with music that helped tell the full picture. I am a fan of reality tv and boy does this book show the worst in the people in them. Also the how you different side to these character that really makes you care what happens to them
This book is dark, funny, mystery and full of gossip. This book has a full cast with music that helped tell the full picture. I am a fan of reality tv and boy does this book show the worst in the people in them. Also the how you different side to these character that really makes you care what happens to them
June 29, 2024
Goodreads giveaway win - Thank you!
As I was reading this book, I realized it was not my "cup of tea". I struggled with the beginning of the book and is the reason it took me so long to read it. The pace picked up but left me wanting at the end. I apologize for not being able to provide a better review as there seem to be many who enjoyed the book.
As I was reading this book, I realized it was not my "cup of tea". I struggled with the beginning of the book and is the reason it took me so long to read it. The pace picked up but left me wanting at the end. I apologize for not being able to provide a better review as there seem to be many who enjoyed the book.
August 1, 2025
A remarkably well crafted story of mystery, comedy, and absurdism that humanizes the TV / reality star / influencer archetype. Great characters, surprising twists and turns, and a definite fan service to any fan of reality television.
August 9, 2025
Will Sterling’s debut, Fame by Misadventure, is sharp, addictive, and tailor-made for a TV adaptation. It’s a witty, biting look at the fleeting, dangerous world of reality TV - where fame is fast, and real people become caricatures overnight. Highly recommend!
March 5, 2024
Such a juicy, captivating read! Couldn't put it down. My only disappointment is that there isn't a second book yet. More, please!!
September 11, 2025
Yeah, okay, so I wrote this book! So what?? Doesn’t mean I can’t come down here in the reviews and tell you to check it out because my editors put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into this thing, the cover and interior designers absolutely murdered it inside and out, the cast of the audiobook is f***ing phenomenal, and the music by my buddy Dillon is mf’in 🔥🔥🔥. This was a labor of love by a whole lot of people besides myself. Click that buy button and get your butt all the way to the acknowledgments section so you can celebrate their hard work! And yes, I’m very proud of it too and I do like to get into fights about the Oxford comma. LFG! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews