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Fallin' for the Fame
It started with a DM. It might end with her heart.
Samara Allen loves her boyfriend, Justin. He’s steady, dependable, and has been by her side since forever. But when you’ve been secretly DMing Legend Blake—yes, the R&B superstar Legend Blake—every day for three years, things start to get complicated.
So when Legend finally slides into her real life with the job opportunity of a lifetime, Sam knows she should walk away. But the money’s too good, Hollywood’s too tempting, and Legend? He’s got that voice, that smile, and that dangerous what if she’s been trying to ignore for years.
Now she’s tangled in a web of secrets, chasing something she’s not sure she can handle. The longer she plays the game, the harder it gets to remember the rules… or if she ever really wanted to follow them in the first place.
And no matter how it looks? Everyone’s got secrets. Even in the spotlight.
If you live for contemporary Black romance, celebrity temptation, and that slow-burn heartache that hits way too close to home, you’re gonna feel this one.
Samara Allen loves her boyfriend, Justin. He’s steady, dependable, and has been by her side since forever. But when you’ve been secretly DMing Legend Blake—yes, the R&B superstar Legend Blake—every day for three years, things start to get complicated.
So when Legend finally slides into her real life with the job opportunity of a lifetime, Sam knows she should walk away. But the money’s too good, Hollywood’s too tempting, and Legend? He’s got that voice, that smile, and that dangerous what if she’s been trying to ignore for years.
Now she’s tangled in a web of secrets, chasing something she’s not sure she can handle. The longer she plays the game, the harder it gets to remember the rules… or if she ever really wanted to follow them in the first place.
And no matter how it looks? Everyone’s got secrets. Even in the spotlight.
If you live for contemporary Black romance, celebrity temptation, and that slow-burn heartache that hits way too close to home, you’re gonna feel this one.
- GenresRomance
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 20, 2026
7 people are currently reading
1236 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly R. Vargas
2 books32 followersKimberly R. Vargas writes heartfelt stories about love, heartbreak, and the women who find their way back to themselves.
She’s the creator of The Next Chapter, an audio newsletter and storytelling space for readers who believe in second chances and soft landings. Her work celebrates women of color, emotional healing, and the kind of romance that sees you clearly.
As an indie author with big dreams and a soft spot for complicated love, Kim handles everything from writing to recording her own audio fiction. When she’s not knee-deep in edits or planning her next book release, she’s belting out a Mariah Carey high note or dancing in the basement like it’s 1999.
She lives in Michigan with her husband, two kids, and a very spoiled puppy.
She’s the creator of The Next Chapter, an audio newsletter and storytelling space for readers who believe in second chances and soft landings. Her work celebrates women of color, emotional healing, and the kind of romance that sees you clearly.
As an indie author with big dreams and a soft spot for complicated love, Kim handles everything from writing to recording her own audio fiction. When she’s not knee-deep in edits or planning her next book release, she’s belting out a Mariah Carey high note or dancing in the basement like it’s 1999.
She lives in Michigan with her husband, two kids, and a very spoiled puppy.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 31, 2025
Fallin’ for the Fame by Kimberly R. Vargas is messy, emotional, and very real in the way it explores obsession, comfort, and the temptation of what looks shinier from the outside. Samara’s fixation on Legend starts off funny and relatable in a celebrity crush kind of way, but it slowly reveals something deeper about her need for escape and validation. At the same time, her long history with Justin represents safety, familiarity, and a life she already understands. That push and pull between fantasy and reality drives the entire story and had me constantly questioning Samara’s choices.
What really stood out was how quickly everything in Samara’s world shifts. She is hit with change from every direction and instead of grounding herself, she starts chasing possibilities that feel exciting but unstable. Vargas does a great job showing how overwhelming transitions can cloud judgment, especially when emotions, ambition, and admiration are all tangled together. The entertainment industry backdrop adds another layer of tension and highlights how ruthless fame can be, particularly for women trying to survive it without losing themselves.
This book frustrated me in the best way. Samara had me yelling at the pages because she is clearly intelligent and capable, yet keeps putting herself in situations that chip away at her self worth. The story digs into themes of loyalty, boundaries, and the danger of shrinking yourself to be close to someone who was never meant to choose you. By the end, the growth felt earned and the resolution was satisfying without feeling rushed. Fallin’ for the Fame is a cautionary tale wrapped in drama, heart, and hard lessons, and it definitely kept me locked in from start to finish.
What really stood out was how quickly everything in Samara’s world shifts. She is hit with change from every direction and instead of grounding herself, she starts chasing possibilities that feel exciting but unstable. Vargas does a great job showing how overwhelming transitions can cloud judgment, especially when emotions, ambition, and admiration are all tangled together. The entertainment industry backdrop adds another layer of tension and highlights how ruthless fame can be, particularly for women trying to survive it without losing themselves.
This book frustrated me in the best way. Samara had me yelling at the pages because she is clearly intelligent and capable, yet keeps putting herself in situations that chip away at her self worth. The story digs into themes of loyalty, boundaries, and the danger of shrinking yourself to be close to someone who was never meant to choose you. By the end, the growth felt earned and the resolution was satisfying without feeling rushed. Fallin’ for the Fame is a cautionary tale wrapped in drama, heart, and hard lessons, and it definitely kept me locked in from start to finish.
January 17, 2026
I received an advance copy and I’m doing this review completely on my own.
Listen Sam frustrated me so much in this book but the way her story wrapped up in the end really showed how love can be messy and you still get your happy ending.
All the characters in this book had their own stories and quirks that made me fall in love with them. Even Indigo surprisingly grew on me in the end
This was definitely a book I couldn’t put down. I loved it. Very small town girl meets the big city kind of vibe.
Listen Sam frustrated me so much in this book but the way her story wrapped up in the end really showed how love can be messy and you still get your happy ending.
All the characters in this book had their own stories and quirks that made me fall in love with them. Even Indigo surprisingly grew on me in the end
This was definitely a book I couldn’t put down. I loved it. Very small town girl meets the big city kind of vibe.
January 29, 2026
Although this is an "interesting" story, I wasn't crazy about how Samara let Indigo walk all over her. Legend did not feel the same way about Samara as she did about him.
Both Indigo and Legend used Sam in a totally disrespectful way! In addition, Justin was a really good guy and Sam deeply hurt him as well!
January 28, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is a seductive reminder that fame doesn’t just come with flashing lights and red carpets—it comes with secrets, temptation, and impossible choices. At the center of Fallin’ for the Hollywood Fame is a woman caught between desire and discretion, pulled into a love triangle where every glance feels dangerous and every choice could cost her everything. One love represents safety, image, and the life the world expects her to want. The other? Forbidden, intoxicating, and wrapped in secrets that refuse to stay buried.
My thoughts: Sam was wrong for how she did Justin. That man really loved her and she allowed her delusional crush for Legend cloud her judgement. I get that she has been crushing on that man since high school. But still she was wrong. When he decided that he wanted to meet her. She went into it thinking this was her chance to her man. But he wanted her help to get his woman back. That should have been her queue that he didn’t I feel the same way. But nope, she helps him and then regrets it. Things happen they end up getting close but she had to be a secret. Again, that should have her queue to leave him alone. But nope, she still stuck with him. I was happy that she finally realized that she wasn’t who Legend needed to be with. I am also glad that Justin never stopped loving her.
This story is a seductive reminder that fame doesn’t just come with flashing lights and red carpets—it comes with secrets, temptation, and impossible choices. At the center of Fallin’ for the Hollywood Fame is a woman caught between desire and discretion, pulled into a love triangle where every glance feels dangerous and every choice could cost her everything. One love represents safety, image, and the life the world expects her to want. The other? Forbidden, intoxicating, and wrapped in secrets that refuse to stay buried.
My thoughts: Sam was wrong for how she did Justin. That man really loved her and she allowed her delusional crush for Legend cloud her judgement. I get that she has been crushing on that man since high school. But still she was wrong. When he decided that he wanted to meet her. She went into it thinking this was her chance to her man. But he wanted her help to get his woman back. That should have been her queue that he didn’t I feel the same way. But nope, she helps him and then regrets it. Things happen they end up getting close but she had to be a secret. Again, that should have her queue to leave him alone. But nope, she still stuck with him. I was happy that she finally realized that she wasn’t who Legend needed to be with. I am also glad that Justin never stopped loving her.
January 23, 2026
What would you do if you DM your celebrity crush and they respond and for the last 3 1/2 years you’ve been secretly DMing and talking to your celebrity crush you formed a friendship a relationship. I really told anybody about now in your real life. you have a relationship you have a family of friends, but you want a little bit more. You are bored in the life and all you can picture is a life with your celebrity crush.
Your celebrity crush finally invite you out to LA so you guys can meet and all you can think about is like yes this is my opportunity. It is finally happening, but he tells you what he actually needs is for you to help him with his ex back. how much are you willing to give up? How far far are are you willing to go? Would you leave everything behind for this dream of being with your celebrity crush?
There’s times in this book that you’re gonna like girl what are you doing but there’s a love story in here. There is a HEA after in here it is mostly plot driven so not a lot of like spice or romance, but there is some lessons to be learned at the end of it, like as I’m reading it, I was like how far is she willing to go to to get this dream, the grass greener on the other side how much are you willing to lose to gain this ever after there was some scheming there was some manipulation there was a lot of secrets but when I got done, I was like you know what there was some lessons to be learned when to let go went to hang on.
If you like a Hollywood celebrity type story definitely check this out and signing everything from Samara’s point of view the writing was well written and I can’t wait to see what else Kimberly Vargas writes.
Your celebrity crush finally invite you out to LA so you guys can meet and all you can think about is like yes this is my opportunity. It is finally happening, but he tells you what he actually needs is for you to help him with his ex back. how much are you willing to give up? How far far are are you willing to go? Would you leave everything behind for this dream of being with your celebrity crush?
There’s times in this book that you’re gonna like girl what are you doing but there’s a love story in here. There is a HEA after in here it is mostly plot driven so not a lot of like spice or romance, but there is some lessons to be learned at the end of it, like as I’m reading it, I was like how far is she willing to go to to get this dream, the grass greener on the other side how much are you willing to lose to gain this ever after there was some scheming there was some manipulation there was a lot of secrets but when I got done, I was like you know what there was some lessons to be learned when to let go went to hang on.
If you like a Hollywood celebrity type story definitely check this out and signing everything from Samara’s point of view the writing was well written and I can’t wait to see what else Kimberly Vargas writes.
January 20, 2026
Fallin’ for the Fame
Kimberly R. Vargas
Samara has placed herself in quite a conundrum. From the start, she reveals her unhealthy infatuation with the star Legend Blake. While she prefers the security of monotony, she does desire more… with him.
At more than first glance, she literally has her life exactly how she wants it. The only issue is her current partner, Justin wants more. He wants to further his commitment to her. He wants to live more freely. This is outside of Samara’s depth. At least when it comes to fulfilling those desires with Justin. She definitely did him dirty. He is unfortunately collateral damage for the destruction of her pickmesha spirit.
Anyway, her infatuation with Legend clouded her judgement greatly. He uses her naïveté for his own personal gain. Instead of seeing how outrageous the situation is, Samara is forced to learn a few very hard lessons.
In spite of herself, she ends up exactly where she belonged from the start. She willingly starts to appreciate what she didn’t notice before.
#readandtellwithshantel #KimberlyRVargas #ARC #Fallinforthefame
Kimberly R. Vargas
Samara has placed herself in quite a conundrum. From the start, she reveals her unhealthy infatuation with the star Legend Blake. While she prefers the security of monotony, she does desire more… with him.
At more than first glance, she literally has her life exactly how she wants it. The only issue is her current partner, Justin wants more. He wants to further his commitment to her. He wants to live more freely. This is outside of Samara’s depth. At least when it comes to fulfilling those desires with Justin. She definitely did him dirty. He is unfortunately collateral damage for the destruction of her pickmesha spirit.
Anyway, her infatuation with Legend clouded her judgement greatly. He uses her naïveté for his own personal gain. Instead of seeing how outrageous the situation is, Samara is forced to learn a few very hard lessons.
In spite of herself, she ends up exactly where she belonged from the start. She willingly starts to appreciate what she didn’t notice before.
#readandtellwithshantel #KimberlyRVargas #ARC #Fallinforthefame
January 25, 2026
This story follows Samara “Sam” who has been secretly having a DM friendship with her favorite musical artist Legend Blake. Why is it done secretly? Because she’s ina very committed long term relationship.
Sam is used to her routine and is not big on change. However life has other plans for her when first the professor she has been TAing for decides to move back to the UK, then her boyfriend proposing and reveals he has a job in another state.
So when her dm bestie asks her to move to California to help him out she “obviously” says yes. Sam thinks this is the start of their beautiful life together but Legend is looking for someone to help him get intel on his ex girlfriend movie star and singer Indigo and he enlists Sam to help.
Now Indigo has a certain rep for being “difficult” so Sam thinks she’ll help Legend see how horrible Indigo is and then he can be with her.
If only things were that simple.
This book took my for a ride. I was rooting for Sam and Legend, then I didn’t want them together but baby the last 15 to 20 percent of this book had me on edge because while I suspected something was off about one of the characters I wasn’t expected what we got.
I enjoyed the book though at times it did feel like it could have moved a bit faster; the ending was definitely worth it. Four out of five stars.
Sam is used to her routine and is not big on change. However life has other plans for her when first the professor she has been TAing for decides to move back to the UK, then her boyfriend proposing and reveals he has a job in another state.
So when her dm bestie asks her to move to California to help him out she “obviously” says yes. Sam thinks this is the start of their beautiful life together but Legend is looking for someone to help him get intel on his ex girlfriend movie star and singer Indigo and he enlists Sam to help.
Now Indigo has a certain rep for being “difficult” so Sam thinks she’ll help Legend see how horrible Indigo is and then he can be with her.
If only things were that simple.
This book took my for a ride. I was rooting for Sam and Legend, then I didn’t want them together but baby the last 15 to 20 percent of this book had me on edge because while I suspected something was off about one of the characters I wasn’t expected what we got.
I enjoyed the book though at times it did feel like it could have moved a bit faster; the ending was definitely worth it. Four out of five stars.
January 29, 2026
Actually rating this 3.75⭐️. For most of the book it was a 3 or 3.5 rating. The ending tossed it to almost 4⭐️.
Sam has been with Justin since they were in elementary school. He’s her rock, safe, unchanging. But secretly she’s had a DM relationship with Legend Blake. Legend went to high school with her and has become a well-known R&B star.
As she’s graduating with her Masters degree, she becomes unmoored, making some choices that take her far from the life she’s been leading. I understand this is a journey of self-discovery for her but Sam is annoying for a lot of the book. She’s trying to be and do things that’s not really her.
She moves to Hollywood to help Legend win back Indigo. Her time in Hollywood teaches her who she is, who she loves, and where she really wants to be. It also shows her a very dark side of Hollywood and fame that’s romanticized and hidden away.
The story kept me involved and I would read more from this budding author. Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited.
Sam has been with Justin since they were in elementary school. He’s her rock, safe, unchanging. But secretly she’s had a DM relationship with Legend Blake. Legend went to high school with her and has become a well-known R&B star.
As she’s graduating with her Masters degree, she becomes unmoored, making some choices that take her far from the life she’s been leading. I understand this is a journey of self-discovery for her but Sam is annoying for a lot of the book. She’s trying to be and do things that’s not really her.
She moves to Hollywood to help Legend win back Indigo. Her time in Hollywood teaches her who she is, who she loves, and where she really wants to be. It also shows her a very dark side of Hollywood and fame that’s romanticized and hidden away.
The story kept me involved and I would read more from this budding author. Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited.
January 4, 2026
Thank you to Kimberly R. Vargas for the gifted eARC. These are my honest and personal thoughts.
Summary: We follow Samara who lives a normal, and what some would call “boring life” with her family and long term boyfriend Justin. For years she has been keeping up with and crushing on famous R&B star Legend Blake. When an opportunity presents itself for Samara to get closer to Legend, will she choose the Hollywood life or what she knows to be home?
Thoughts: Sooooo much mess! The situation just continued to get more messy with each page. When I say these characters stressed me out for 90% of the book but I enjoyed every second! I was wanting to have some serious conversations with my girl Samara and say get it together girl. I was so glad to see the growth in them all by the end. I truly enjoyed this read!
Summary: We follow Samara who lives a normal, and what some would call “boring life” with her family and long term boyfriend Justin. For years she has been keeping up with and crushing on famous R&B star Legend Blake. When an opportunity presents itself for Samara to get closer to Legend, will she choose the Hollywood life or what she knows to be home?
Thoughts: Sooooo much mess! The situation just continued to get more messy with each page. When I say these characters stressed me out for 90% of the book but I enjoyed every second! I was wanting to have some serious conversations with my girl Samara and say get it together girl. I was so glad to see the growth in them all by the end. I truly enjoyed this read!
January 5, 2026
Fallin for the Fame by Kimberly R. Vargas was very entertaining. I really loved the three main characters in the book, but Samara—the main female character—worked my nerves at times. The way she was so infatuated with Legend was honestly sad because she didn’t see her own worth. She literally shrunk herself at times just to be in his presence.
One major takeaway I got from this book is that sometimes what we’re searching for is already right in front of us. Instead of always chasing a dream, we may need to appreciate the present and love the people who truly love us. We shouldn’t take for granted the life we already have while chasing a version of life we think we want, especially when our reality can be better than the dream we imagine.
This was a great first book for me by Kimberly R. Vargas, and it definitely won’t be my last. I’m looking forward to reading more from her in the future.
One major takeaway I got from this book is that sometimes what we’re searching for is already right in front of us. Instead of always chasing a dream, we may need to appreciate the present and love the people who truly love us. We shouldn’t take for granted the life we already have while chasing a version of life we think we want, especially when our reality can be better than the dream we imagine.
This was a great first book for me by Kimberly R. Vargas, and it definitely won’t be my last. I’m looking forward to reading more from her in the future.
January 22, 2026
Samara Allen definitely experienced what it was like when they say the grass is not greener on the other side. I often found myself annoyed with Samara but I had to keep reading because I really just had to see how it all played out. I will say Indigo was that girl where the world revolves around her! Legend I really don’t know what to say about him. Victoria, now that was a surprise. Overall, Fallin’ for the Fame is a roller coaster of obsession, losing out no matter how much it cost, reconnecting, healing, and staying true to yourself! The book was also another level of second chance romance, but I will say Justin is my guy! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 17, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Listen. This book was messy!!!!! Sam and Teddy have been together since middle school, and she risked it all for a celebrity crush. Bffr Sam!!!!! Lying. Scheming. DRAMA!!! The last few chapters had me locked in because the twist had me shooketh!!!! Like girl did this just turn into a thriller?
Giving this a 4/5 because at one point I felt like we were dragging it out. I would definitely recommend this if you’re a fan of forbidden love and love triangles 🤭.
Thank you to Kimberly R. Vargas and team for the ARC.
Listen. This book was messy!!!!! Sam and Teddy have been together since middle school, and she risked it all for a celebrity crush. Bffr Sam!!!!! Lying. Scheming. DRAMA!!! The last few chapters had me locked in because the twist had me shooketh!!!! Like girl did this just turn into a thriller?
Giving this a 4/5 because at one point I felt like we were dragging it out. I would definitely recommend this if you’re a fan of forbidden love and love triangles 🤭.
Thank you to Kimberly R. Vargas and team for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you like a slow burn, this is right up your alley. A little too slow for me but I enjoyed the story line. Indeed a messy love triangle! Sam started to get on my nerves though. Girl make up your mind on what you want! That started to irk my soul... uugghhh!
January 30, 2026
It really reminded me of an early 2000’s Rom-Com movie!
These characters wore me OUT 😂but I had such a good time reading this! The drama and redemption ARCs kept me locked in and the plot twist had me screaming at the kindle!
These characters wore me OUT 😂but I had such a good time reading this! The drama and redemption ARCs kept me locked in and the plot twist had me screaming at the kindle!
January 8, 2026
Fallin’ for the Fame is a slow burn celebrity romance built on temptation, poor choices, and secrecy. What starts as a long-standing crush and 3 years of DMs slowly unravels into something messier and more complicated when Samara, already in a committed relationship, risks everything for the possibility of being with the man she’s fantasized about.
The star of this story lies in its emotional tension, where every decision carries consequences, every secret lingers dangerously, and a slow build that pays off.
If you love contemporary celebrity romance filled with drama, moral gray areas, and love that forces you to question what you’re willing to risk, this one is guaranteed to leave an impression!
The star of this story lies in its emotional tension, where every decision carries consequences, every secret lingers dangerously, and a slow build that pays off.
If you love contemporary celebrity romance filled with drama, moral gray areas, and love that forces you to question what you’re willing to risk, this one is guaranteed to leave an impression!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was blessed to be apat of the review
The price of Fame !!!
This is 1st book by Kimberly and it took me some time to bunker down and dig in. I ended up crying, I am a sucker for the underdog. This book was a slow burn and definitely had me upset. Alot of broken
In the end it was a very good book and I feel in love with their stories.
The price of Fame !!!
This is 1st book by Kimberly and it took me some time to bunker down and dig in. I ended up crying, I am a sucker for the underdog. This book was a slow burn and definitely had me upset. Alot of broken
In the end it was a very good book and I feel in love with their stories.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, there are so many thoughts that I could say about this book, but I really do not want to spoil it. lol This, for me, was definitely one that I could easily see as a movie or TV show. I mean, the premise is amazing. Our main character Sam is something else. Sam is tired of the day-to-day of her life and wants to try something new and take a risk, but the thing is, when the opportunity comes for something new with her boyfriend, that is the time she turns him down and is given, honestly, an opportunity of a lifetime by her celebrity crush and friend, R&B singer Legend.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, and it started off as me reading a preview of it to see if I wanted to get the ARC and ended up with me being locked in, wanting to know what was gonna happen next, if they would get found out or if she would get the guy. And I don’t care what anyone says, but y’all could never make me hate Legend. At first, I thought that he was going to be a sketchy character. One thing I will say that doesn’t spoil anything too much is that at least when it comes to this love triangle that we get, the intentions of some of them are super clear.
I must say that personally, myself, I was irritated with Sam a lot, but had to remind myself that she is in her early 20s. she was 22 or 23 so she’s young still and very much learning. What we see is a cautionary tale that everything that glimmers isn’t always gold.
This is a perfect story for anyone who loves celebrity gossip or reality TV shows. Some of the tropes include friends to lovers, workplace, as well as second chance. Because this is in Hollywood, we get some interesting side characters some you will love and some you’ll definitely hate. With how the book ended, I do wish that we could’ve gotten a couple more chapters of how certain relationships were repaired by the main characters. We get this big plot twist and climax in the story, but then it’s like we’re moving on, and I would’ve liked that more flushed out.I do wish as well that since this story is only told from the perspective of Sam that we would’ve gotten POVs from Legend, Indigo, and Justin as well.
Thank you to Kimberly R. Vargas and Booksprout for providing this ARC.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, and it started off as me reading a preview of it to see if I wanted to get the ARC and ended up with me being locked in, wanting to know what was gonna happen next, if they would get found out or if she would get the guy. And I don’t care what anyone says, but y’all could never make me hate Legend. At first, I thought that he was going to be a sketchy character. One thing I will say that doesn’t spoil anything too much is that at least when it comes to this love triangle that we get, the intentions of some of them are super clear.
I must say that personally, myself, I was irritated with Sam a lot, but had to remind myself that she is in her early 20s. she was 22 or 23 so she’s young still and very much learning. What we see is a cautionary tale that everything that glimmers isn’t always gold.
This is a perfect story for anyone who loves celebrity gossip or reality TV shows. Some of the tropes include friends to lovers, workplace, as well as second chance. Because this is in Hollywood, we get some interesting side characters some you will love and some you’ll definitely hate. With how the book ended, I do wish that we could’ve gotten a couple more chapters of how certain relationships were repaired by the main characters. We get this big plot twist and climax in the story, but then it’s like we’re moving on, and I would’ve liked that more flushed out.I do wish as well that since this story is only told from the perspective of Sam that we would’ve gotten POVs from Legend, Indigo, and Justin as well.
Thank you to Kimberly R. Vargas and Booksprout for providing this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An advance copy of this book was provided to me for free by the author.
“Even the messiest paths can lead you right where you’re meant to be.”
Samara embodies this notion when she decides to implode her boring life, and long term relationship, after her 3 year virtual relationship with her high school crush turned R&B star, Legend Blake, turns into the possibility for a real life connection. Legend asks her to move to LA and act as the assistant for his infamous ex-girlfriend, Indigo, to help him figure out ways to win her back. As Samara is caught in the middle of Legend and Indigo’s relationship and the whirlwind of Hollywood, she grapples with if her new life is actually a dream come true or a tragedy of her own making.
What I loved most was watching Samara’s growth as she begins to question her long-held fantasies and reckon with what she truly wants out of life. She’s forced to reconcile the dream of finally being with Legend with the reality of who he is, and who she is becoming in the process. As the dynamic between Samara, Legend, and Indigo grows messier and more emotionally charged, the tension builds in ways that keep you turning pages, bracing for the fallout. Vargas makes Samara’s flawed choices feel deeply human, inviting empathy even as you hope she’ll see the truth before it’s too late.
✨ If you are looking for an adult coming of age story filled with messy growth and some celebrity drama, Fallin’ for the Fame should be in your reading list!
“Even the messiest paths can lead you right where you’re meant to be.”
Samara embodies this notion when she decides to implode her boring life, and long term relationship, after her 3 year virtual relationship with her high school crush turned R&B star, Legend Blake, turns into the possibility for a real life connection. Legend asks her to move to LA and act as the assistant for his infamous ex-girlfriend, Indigo, to help him figure out ways to win her back. As Samara is caught in the middle of Legend and Indigo’s relationship and the whirlwind of Hollywood, she grapples with if her new life is actually a dream come true or a tragedy of her own making.
What I loved most was watching Samara’s growth as she begins to question her long-held fantasies and reckon with what she truly wants out of life. She’s forced to reconcile the dream of finally being with Legend with the reality of who he is, and who she is becoming in the process. As the dynamic between Samara, Legend, and Indigo grows messier and more emotionally charged, the tension builds in ways that keep you turning pages, bracing for the fallout. Vargas makes Samara’s flawed choices feel deeply human, inviting empathy even as you hope she’ll see the truth before it’s too late.
✨ If you are looking for an adult coming of age story filled with messy growth and some celebrity drama, Fallin’ for the Fame should be in your reading list!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 ⭐️’s
Thank you for the advanced reader copy of Fallin’ for the Fame!
Samara (Sam) is a smart, beautiful, seemingly cautious 20 something year old. We find Sam, in a long-term relationship of double digit years with Justin, her childhood bestie. But for 3 of those years she has been having an emotional affair with a celebrity through DMs on a social media platform.
The man. The myth. The Legend. Oh how I wanted to hate this man just based off of the premise, but he was genuinely…nice. He seemed able to reach Samara mentally in a way Justin was no longer able to. Legend is caring, charming, and a bit manipulative! He fairly easily convinces Samara to join him in Hollywood. The awkwardness of some of these situations would make anyone cringe. Nonetheless, Samara is eager to please. As frustrating as it was to watch, thinking back to a younger me, I could see why she made “some” of the decisions she did.
Dig into how these characters handle tragedy, grief and various wrongdoings on a messy, angsty emotional rollercoaster ride of self exploration. Will Samara find herself in Hollywood or continue to be a passenger in her own life?
Oh and Simone is a hoot. I really enjoyed her chaotic nature. Enjoy!
Thank you for the advanced reader copy of Fallin’ for the Fame!
Samara (Sam) is a smart, beautiful, seemingly cautious 20 something year old. We find Sam, in a long-term relationship of double digit years with Justin, her childhood bestie. But for 3 of those years she has been having an emotional affair with a celebrity through DMs on a social media platform.
The man. The myth. The Legend. Oh how I wanted to hate this man just based off of the premise, but he was genuinely…nice. He seemed able to reach Samara mentally in a way Justin was no longer able to. Legend is caring, charming, and a bit manipulative! He fairly easily convinces Samara to join him in Hollywood. The awkwardness of some of these situations would make anyone cringe. Nonetheless, Samara is eager to please. As frustrating as it was to watch, thinking back to a younger me, I could see why she made “some” of the decisions she did.
Dig into how these characters handle tragedy, grief and various wrongdoings on a messy, angsty emotional rollercoaster ride of self exploration. Will Samara find herself in Hollywood or continue to be a passenger in her own life?
Oh and Simone is a hoot. I really enjoyed her chaotic nature. Enjoy!
January 18, 2026
ARC Review
📚 Book Title: Fallin’ for the Fame
✍🏽Author: Kimberly R. Vargas
📕 Format: 📱
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶 Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
🕑Quick Take:
Samara Allen leads a predictable, safe life with her boyfriend of several years, but she harbors a secret: she has been in a secret online friendship with R&B superstar and Hollywood heartthrob Legend Blake. Major changes and a special request from Legend could tempt her to risk everything!
✨ Tropes:
- Celebrity Crush/Obsession
- Secret Relationship
- Friends to Lovers
- Self-Discovery
💭Final Thoughts:
This contemporary romance was messy! It reminded me of rom-coms where the FMC has a secret obsession with a goal or pursuit. However, once the desire is achieved, it’s not what's expected. Samara tries to manipulate her way into the life she thinks she wants, but it turns out to be different from her expectations. I loved that the “chaotic ended up giving all of us the clarity” needed. Overall, this was an enjoyable and good read.
Thanks Kimberly R. Vargas for the ARC!
📚 Book Title: Fallin’ for the Fame
✍🏽Author: Kimberly R. Vargas
📕 Format: 📱
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶 Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
🕑Quick Take:
Samara Allen leads a predictable, safe life with her boyfriend of several years, but she harbors a secret: she has been in a secret online friendship with R&B superstar and Hollywood heartthrob Legend Blake. Major changes and a special request from Legend could tempt her to risk everything!
✨ Tropes:
- Celebrity Crush/Obsession
- Secret Relationship
- Friends to Lovers
- Self-Discovery
💭Final Thoughts:
This contemporary romance was messy! It reminded me of rom-coms where the FMC has a secret obsession with a goal or pursuit. However, once the desire is achieved, it’s not what's expected. Samara tries to manipulate her way into the life she thinks she wants, but it turns out to be different from her expectations. I loved that the “chaotic ended up giving all of us the clarity” needed. Overall, this was an enjoyable and good read.
Thanks Kimberly R. Vargas for the ARC!
January 24, 2026
Many thanks to Kimberly Vargas and her team for the ARC!!!
"Fallin' for the Flame" was so fun and full of drama! If anyone ever fantasized about what would happen if that sexy, dream celebrity answered your DM's and CONTINUED answering your DM's, you need to read this book! I got to live through Samara as she works up the courage to change her life and take big risks by meeting Legend Blake, the sultry singer she's been messaging with for 3 years, and moving to Hollywood. You get a peek at the flashy side and the dark side of the celebrity life, and what happens when you meet the party-girl-diva popstar ex of the guy you moved there for, per his request, no less!
Sam is flawed and you definitely have moments of screaming at the page "GIRL, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?!?", but that's what makes her human and makes the journey interesting. She makes mistakes but she learns and grows from them, and it makes you feel for her in so many moments. I give this 4.5 stars just because I wished it was longer! I can't wait to read more from Kimberly and definitely think you should add to your TBR! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
"Fallin' for the Flame" was so fun and full of drama! If anyone ever fantasized about what would happen if that sexy, dream celebrity answered your DM's and CONTINUED answering your DM's, you need to read this book! I got to live through Samara as she works up the courage to change her life and take big risks by meeting Legend Blake, the sultry singer she's been messaging with for 3 years, and moving to Hollywood. You get a peek at the flashy side and the dark side of the celebrity life, and what happens when you meet the party-girl-diva popstar ex of the guy you moved there for, per his request, no less!
Sam is flawed and you definitely have moments of screaming at the page "GIRL, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?!?", but that's what makes her human and makes the journey interesting. She makes mistakes but she learns and grows from them, and it makes you feel for her in so many moments. I give this 4.5 stars just because I wished it was longer! I can't wait to read more from Kimberly and definitely think you should add to your TBR! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Review of advance copy
Sam is with her boyfriend Justin together almost 15 years since they met at second grade first as friends and then they became couple . From when she was a teenager she had a crush on a boy from the same high school who know is one of the best R&B singers Legend Blake . The last three years they message each other daily . When Justin gets an job offer and he proposes she tells him no and they break up because she does not want to go to Silicon Valley but when Legend asks her to go to LA she travels there . Legend asks her to help him win back Indigo Taylor his ex while she will working as her assistant . Sam will do everything for him even if it hurts her . But when a chance to be with him appears which guy will she choose ? Legend her dream man or Justin the man who truly loves her ?
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book gave me all the feels 😍. Fallin’ for the Fame is the perfect mix of swoony romance, emotional depth, and the glamorous (but messy) world of fame. The chemistry between the main characters is so natural, and watching their relationship grow while dealing with pressure, spotlight, and self-doubt made everything feel real and relatable.
I loved how this story showed that being famous doesn’t make life easier—if anything, it makes love harder. There were sweet moments, angsty moments, and plenty of scenes that had me rooting hard for these two 🥹
If you love celebrity romance with heart, tension, and just the right amount of drama, this one is for you.
✨ Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review ✨
I loved how this story showed that being famous doesn’t make life easier—if anything, it makes love harder. There were sweet moments, angsty moments, and plenty of scenes that had me rooting hard for these two 🥹
If you love celebrity romance with heart, tension, and just the right amount of drama, this one is for you.
✨ Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review ✨
Review of advance copy
this was a beautifully done romance novel, it had that element that I was looking for from the description. The characters were everything that I was looking for and enjoyed how good the plot was used. I enjoyed the use of celebrities and how it was used during this plot, it was everything that I wanted from the description. Kimberly R. Vargas wrote this so well and am excited for more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 27, 2026
🚨ARC REVIEW‼️Fallin’ for the Fame by Kimberly Vargas. I was surprised by how much this book took me through it. The FMC very quickly had me so heated I was yelling at my Kindle. 🙄😮💨 Samara Allen (FMC) is running from her issues by obsessing over a celebrity crush. His world seems like a dream come true but is the grass greener or will she find that it’s not even grass and it’s actually spray painted? 😳😆🤔
Thank you Kimberly Vargas for the ARC!
February 5, 2026
The characters are bad people. Except for Justin.
January 5, 2026
This was very interesting concept. What happens when you actually get a chance with your celebrity crush? I'm not sure if I would've made any of the same decisions that Sam did but this is definitely a case of what if.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Messy
This book definitely pulled out strong emotions for me. Samara was a frustrating character and her lack of communication and indecision caused pain for multiple people, especially someone who showed up for her consistently for years. Some of her choices were hard to understand and felt self sabotaging.
The author does a great job showing how unresolved issues and emotional confusion can lead to messy situations. While parts of the book were stressful, it was well written and I wanted to see how it would end. (ARC Review)
This book definitely pulled out strong emotions for me. Samara was a frustrating character and her lack of communication and indecision caused pain for multiple people, especially someone who showed up for her consistently for years. Some of her choices were hard to understand and felt self sabotaging.
The author does a great job showing how unresolved issues and emotional confusion can lead to messy situations. While parts of the book were stressful, it was well written and I wanted to see how it would end. (ARC Review)
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